Academic Standards

Academic Standards

The following is a synopsis of important academic standards. For more information, contact the Dean of Student Services Office.

NEC expects all registered students to abide by all the academic policies of the college and of the program of studies in which they are enrolled. The following academic performance standards apply to all NEC students.

Grading System

 
Attendance

Students in all program areas are expected to attend all instructional activities. They must have legitimate reasons for absences, such as illness (in some programs, medical notes may be required). Students are responsible for contacting the instructor(s) and informing them of their reasons for non-attendance. Students are expected to complete the required course assignments regardless of their absence.

A student will be considered withdrawn from fulltime studies if:

• The student does not maintain a course load of 60% (40% for students with permanent disabilities) for the entire length of their study period, as determined by the school.
• The student is absent for 10 consecutive days, where the school is open for instruction. A student is not considered withdrawn if the absence is less than 10 consecutive days, unless the student is unable to complete the program of studies.

The student is absent for more than 20% of the prescribed attendance.  For example, if a student must attend 1000 hours to complete their program, they are considered withdrawn if absent more than 200 hours (1000 hours x 20%= 200 hours).
 

Academic Standards

Continuation in a program is based on academic standing. A student who is unable to complete a course due to low academic performance  may be withdrawn from the program. It is usually better to withdraw from a course or program than to receive a failing grade which remains permanently on your student record.

Incomplete Grades - Incomplete grades are used only in cases in which:

• Previous work in the course was at a satisfactory level; and,
• An emergency situation such as illness or accident has prevented the student from completing one or more of the course requirments. 

Most students are expected to complete their (I) grades within two to four weeks to minimize interference with their education. 

A temporary grade of (I) will only be granted when accompanied with an Incomplete Contract. The contract must be signed by the student, the Instructor and the Program Coordinator and will specify the work to be completed, the date the work will be completed, the current standing in the course and the evaluation plan for outstanding assignments. A grade of (I) will automatically revert to the previous grade assigned if the work is not completed within the time specified on the contract. 

A student with more than one incomplete course will not be eligible to undertake a workplace practicum. Under no circumstances will a student with an incomplete grade be eligible to graduate.

Dispute Resolution Policy

NEC maintains a dispute resolution policy available to all students. Students having disputes regarding decisions in the following areas may use this policy:

• Academics
• Administration;
• Admissions;
• Student Records;
• Financial Aid;
• Counselling

The following steps should be followed to seek the resolution of a dispute.

•  If possible the student should approach the person with whom they have a dispute with and try to resolve the issue.
• Upon receipt of a written request, the Dean of Student Services or designate will request written submissions from all parties involved in the dispute within 3 working/school days.
• The reviewer will consider all written submissions and other relevant material and information in the course of the investigation.
• A written decision will be provided to all parties within 7 working/school days of receiving notice. The written decisionwill review the evidence upon which the decision was made and will state the reasons for the decision.
• The NEC Native Education College President will make the final decision on the resolution of the dispute.

Academic Appeal Policy

A student has the right to appeal an academic decision s/he feels is not warranted. If a situation arises whereby the student feels /he has a legitimate complaint regarding an academic decision, the following process is to be followed. If the student and Instructor cannot resolve the concern, the student may follow the formal appeal process as outlined.

• The student presents a formal letter of appeal to the relevant Program Coordinator. The letter, signed by the student, must outline both the situation and the specific reasons why the decision should be changed.
• The Coordinator may interview the student, the Instructor and may review any relevant materials. The Coordinator will provide a written decision regarding the legitimacy of the appeal. If the appeal is supported, the Coordinator will award a new grade or take other corrective actions. 
• If the appeal is rejected, the student may appeal to the Academic Dean in writing. The letter must outline the additional reasons why he feels the decision of the Coordinator was not acceptable. 

The Academic Dean will hold a meeting with the student and the Instructor to review the course outline and the Instructor’s evaluation of the student. The Academic Dean will notify the student, Instructor and Coordinator of the final decision.

Student Conduct Policy

In this policy, “student” is defined as including prospective students as well as those currently registered in any college-related program or activity.

The College will act toward our students with a spirit of dignity and respect and will expect the students to treat each other and other members of the NEC Native Education community with dignity and respect. 

Dignity and respect is defined as acting in a manner that will contribute to a safe, positive and constructive learning environment. Conduct that does not uphold these values of dignity and respect and does not contribute to a safe, positive and constructive learning environment will be considered unacceptable and will not be tolerated by the College.  Students who  demonstrate unacceptable conduct will be subject to disciplinary action where deemed appropriate. Disciplinary action may include suspension. In some instances, the appropriate action may include theinvolvement of authorities outside the College.

NEC maintains a zero tolerance policy  regarding the use of alcohol and drugs. We are a “Drug/Alcohol Free” zone that extends to the College’s boundaries as well s to any college activity.

Official Documents

The release of confidential student information shall only be through the Registrar, with written authorization of the student involved. The College protects theinformation provided by the student and any other information placed in the students’ records, and uses such information only in compliance with the limited exceptions provided within the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (even if a specific waiver has not been included).

Transcripts and Mark StatementsGrade reports shall be issue are issued to each student at the end of each term listing the grades in each of the courses taken during the term.

A transcript is an official cumulative grade report, bearing the College seal and the signature of the Registrar (or delegate), of credit coursework undertaken at the College. Transcripts are prepared with the Diplomas and Certificates and are available 6 weeks after program completions. Additional transcripts can be requested and will be supplied for a fee.

Certificates and Diplomas

Certificates and/or Diplomas are available from the Student Admissions Office 6 weeks after successful program completion.