Will my child know how s/he is doing academically before the end of the semester?
It is the responsibility of all students to remain in contact with their instructors regarding progress in enrolled courses. If a student decides to drop a class, s/he must do so through CampusConnection. Failing to officially drop a class will result in a failing grade.
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How will students know which classes to register for?
All students are assigned an academic advisor. In most cases the advisor will be an instructor in the course of study which the student has chosen. In addition to general advising on education and career plans, advisors assist the student with the registration process. It is the student's responsibility to schedule advisor appointments during the semester to determine the appropriate classes for the next semester. Working with an advisor is essential for graduating on time.
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My son/daughter has not picked an academic program, and doesn't know what s/he wants to do.
Counseling and Career services offers free counseling for students who are uncertain about their academic goals. The office is located in the lower level of the Student Union, next to the bookstore. A variety of assessment tests and occupational information are available. The student should begin career planning early in the school year.
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Can I find out how my son or daughter is doing in his/her classes?
Yes… by asking them. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act guarantees privacy for all students. Educational records contained in student records will not be otherwise released without written consent from the student. For student records purposes, the college assumes that all students are independent. Students who would like to release educational records to a 3rd party must complete the NDUS FERPA Release Form. The completed form must be submitted to the Students Records office for processing. The release remains in effect unless the student revokes such consent in writing.
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Will my son's or daughter's tuition statement be mailed to my home?
No. Students have access to their accounts 24/7 through CampusConnection. Students are responsible for knowing due dates and having tuition paid within the appropriate time frame, normally seven days after the semester begins. Bills can be paid by phone, mail, online, or at the Business Office in Schafer Hall. Due to FERPA regulations we are unable to release information to parents or any third party without written consent from the student.
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Will BSC credits transfer?
Transfer of credits from BSC is normally a smooth process for students who have followed suggested curricular guidelines of BSC and the institution to which they will transfer. However, if at any time students encounter a problem with transfer of BSC credits to another institution, they are encouraged to contact the BSC Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs. Questions about GERTA courses should be referred to the BSC Registrar.
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What social activities are available for my son/daughter?
Intramural sports are very popular with BSC students. Sports offered include: basketball, volleyball, softball, tennis, pool tournaments, table tennis, softball, and flag football. Students who get involved in BSC's many student organizations will find social and leadership opportunities. Clubs include Board of Governors (student government), Phi theta Kappa honor society, and clubs related to their major, such as Agribusiness Club and Hospitality Club. In addition, there are music and drama groups, the Mystician newspaper, and varsity sports.
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Is tutoring available? Are study skills taught at BSC?
The Sykes Student Success Center is a place where all Bismarck State College students can receive assistance in achieving their academic goals. Tutorial services are provided free of charge on a drop-in basis for many, but not all, courses. As students adjust to the transition of campus life, we support them through our academic success studies workshops. Various topics are offered, such as learning styles, note taking, and exam preparation.
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My son lives on campus and has a medical condition; what should he do?
Students with any medical condition should alert their Resident Advisor as soon as they move into campus housing. If a student has a medical emergency, a Resident Advisor and Resident Supervisor can offer better assistance if they are aware of a student's medical history.
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What is a typical course load for a freshman?
An "average" course load for a full-time student is usually 14-16 credits or 5 courses per semester. If a student has a weak academic background, or is working part time for 15-20 hours a week, or is involved in time consuming extra-curricular activities, they will be advised to take a reduced load. A student taking a full load should expect to spend at least 45-50 hours a week for class time and studying. To be considered full time, a student must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours.
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Should a freshman have a car at college?
Many parents have heard or read that a freshman shouldn't have a car the first year. Some colleges don't allow freshmen to have a car on campus. Since BSC is located on the edge of the city and there is limited public transportation, a car is a necessity to get around Bismarck. A basic, dependable vehicle is probably going to be needed.
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If a student lives off campus can they still eat at the school cafeteria?
Yes. A student interested in a food contract should contact the Director of Student Life in the Student Union. They can purchase a one, or two meals per day contract. Students should contact the Housing Office in the Student Union. The BSC Snack bar serves food a la carte from 7:30-3:00 Monday through Friday.
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My daughter has been a very good student in the past but didn't apply for an academic scholarship. Are scholarships available for sophomores?
Yes! Students achieving high academic success their first year should definitely apply to the BSC Foundation for an academic scholarship their sophomore year. Through the support of many generous benefactors, the BSC Foundation is able to budget more than $200,000 in scholarship awards to over 200 students. The application deadline is March 1.
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What are your policies on alcohol and tobacco use on campus?
BSC is an alcohol and tobacco free campus. Students violating these policies are subject to disciplinary action.
The College recognizes the reality of chemical dependency and is aware of its occasional presence in the College community. As a safeguard against this dependency, numerous campus organizations provide prevention programs to the Bismarck State College community.
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What do we do if the financial aid does not cover all of the education related expenses?
- The student can borrow a private alternative loan to cover the remaining expenses. This loan is not guaranteed by the federal government, so the student will need a co-signor on the loan application.
- The student and/or parent can sign up for a tuition payment plan through the college. The cost is $50 per year and the program is an alternative to borrowing the amount that is needed to cover the remaining expenses. The student or parent would make four equal monthly payments to cover the amount owed.
- The parent can borrow a Federal Parent Loan (PLUS) to cover the amount needed for the remaining expenses. The parent borrows a loan on the student's behalf to cover expense.
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I would like to see the campus. Are campus tours provided?
Yes! BSC sits on a beautiful campus overlooking the Missouri river. Tours are provided daily. To schedule a tour, please call a few days in advance: 701-224-2475. Students can also visit with an instructor to learn more about their specific academic interests.
This Virtual Tour of BSC will take you around campus without leaving home!
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