Professional Documents
Culture Documents
BEAR COUNTRY!
2009-2010
University of Central Arkansas
Orientation &
Registration Handbook
Welcome to UCA! By now, you’ve heard that Welcome to the University of Central Arkansas! You
many times, but it is no less sincere. We are about to begin an exciting personal journey that
genuinely—and enthusiastically—welcome will forever change your life. Whether you are a fresh-
you to the UCA community. You are about to man, transfer or non-traditional student, the Office of
begin the best year of your life. Socially, Orientation is here to assist you with your transition to
emotionally, culturally, and intellectually, you college and help prepare you for the road ahead.
will experience more in the months ahead More than 13,000 fellow UCA students are waiting to
than you ever have before. meet you, along with a dedicated faculty and staff
who are eager to help.
We are happy to be part of that adventure.
UCA is a wonderful place to live, to learn, and As the newest member of our community, we want
to work. Take advantage of every opportu- you to have the opportunity to explore all that UCA
nity—every possibility—you encounter. The has to offer. Countless opportunities for leadership
more engaged you are, the more you will through the over 100 Registered Student Organiza-
benefit. And be sure to let us know when we tions are at your disposal. Not to mention we are
can help. The Academic Advising Center is equipped with a wireless campus and state-of-the art
committed to your academic success. technology that sets us above other institutions in the
nation. Our tradition of academic excellence is seen
Again, welcome. We hope the time you through the 100 major fields of study, a student to
spend at UCA will prove to be both pleasant faculty ratio of 19:1 and classrooms that provide per-
and profitable for you. sonal attention.
Lindsay Grifford
Director of New Student Programs
TABLE OF CONTENTS
JUST CHECKING
INFORMATION FOR NEW STUDENTS 2
CPT/ FYFS 1320 3
LEARNING COMMUNITIES 4
TOP 10 REASONS APPLY FOR RESIDENTIAL COLLEGES 6
SAM COMMUTER SERVICES 7
TRANSFERRING CREDIT 8
THINGS TO DO TODAY
REGISTRATION PROCESS CHECKLIST 10
NOTIFICATION OF ARKANSAS COURSE TRANSFER SYSTEM 11
GUARANTEED EIGHT-SEMESTER DEGREE COMPLETION PROGRAM 12
PROGRAM COMPLETION PLAN CONTRACT 13
MASTER SCHEDULE 14
GENERAL EDUCATION CHECKSHEET 15
UCA STUDENTS ENROLLING IN TRANSITIONAL COURSES 16
GENERAL EDUCATION PROGRAM 17
GENERAL EDUCATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS 18
URSA 24
ACCESSING STUDENT INFORMATION IN URSA 26
WHAT IS A COURSE SYLLABUS ACADEMIC ADVISING CENTER SYLLABUS
/ 27
ACADEMIC YEAR ADVISING CALENDAR 28
COUNTDOWN
ACADEMIC INFORMATION 30
ACT SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION 32
HOW DO I KEEP MY SCHOLARSHIP 33
THE FACTS ON GETTING A DEGREE 34
PROGRAMS OF STUDY AT UCA 35
DECLARING YOUR MAJOR/ MINOR 36
LOCAL BANKS/ LAUNDRY SERVICES 37
SUGGESTIONS FOR WHAT TO BRING 38
NOW THAT YOU’RE HERE-ACADEMIC SURVIVAL SKILLS
WHAT IS ACADEMIC ADVISING 40
HELPFUL NUMBERS AT UCA 41
UCA COLLEGES AND DEPARTMENTS CONTACT INFORMATION 42
CAMPUS MAP/ BUILDINGS AND ABBREVIATIONS 44
ACADEMIC CALENDAR 46
HOW TO MAKE AN ADVISING APPOINTMENT 48
BEEN THERE SHOULDA DONE THAT 49
TIPS FOR SUCCESS 50
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE 54
FIRST YEAR SURVIVAL TIPS 56
STUDY TIPS 4 SERIOUS STUDENTS 57
TOP 10 TEST TAKING TIPS 58
CLASSROOM DO’S & DON’TS 59
POINTERS FROM PROFESSORS 60
CHOICES OF SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS 61
GENERAL POINTERS FOR TAKING CLASS NOTES 62
UCA TERMINOLOGY 87
HOMEWORK 89
REGISTRATION CANCELLATION 91
UCA archivist Dr. Jimmy Bryant (who generously provided the UCA history facts for "Did you know?"), recently
earned the title of Certified Archivist (CA) from the Academy of Certified Archivists, making him the first certified
archivist in the history of UCA. Dr. Bryant first qualified to take the Academy's certification exam and then passed it
in Baton Rouge.
There are very few certified archivists in Arkansas, and Dr. Bryant's accomplishment makes UCA one of only two
four-year universities in the state with a certified archivist as its archive director.
JUST CHECKING...
2 INFORMATION FOR NEW STUDENTS
Admissions will send an acceptance letter once a student has been admitted to UCA or University Col-
lege.
Health Services will need proof of immunization records. Students can print an immunization form and
take it to their doctor for verification of immunization. The form can be found on the Student Health Ser-
vices website at: http://www.uca.edu/divisions/student/studenthealth/Required%20immun.doc
Students who do not have ACT or SAT Scores will be required to take the Computerized Place-
ment Test (CPT). The CPT is also available for any student who scores below 19 on the English, Math,
or Reading area of the ACT as an opportunity to test out of transitional classes such as Intermediate Al-
gebra, Transitional Reading or Transitional Writing. CPT tests cannot be taken after the registration ap-
pointment. A photo ID is required.
Transfer credit, AP and CLEP credit must be provided on an official COLLEGE transcripts and official
AP/CLEP score reports. All students (with the exception of Honors College students who will take HONC
1310) are required to take WRTG 1310 their first semester and will be registered for it unless documen-
tation, such as a transcript or an AP/CLEP score, is provided at the time of the registration appoint-
ment. Official documentation must be provided on an official COLLEGE transcript or official AP/CLEP
score reports. The Arkansas Course Transfer System website is a resource for students transferring
courses and the website is: http://acts.adhe.edu/
An online Placement Exam is required before a student can register for a foreign language if that stu-
dent has had previous instruction in that language. This exam MUST be taken PRIOR to the registration
appointment. The Placement Exam website is: http://www.uca.edu/divisions/academic/lingua/
Placement/placement_examinations.htm
Required classes for majors and the four year degree completion plans can be viewed at the Degree
Program Completion Plans (http://www.uca.edu/model/). Students who plan on taking CHEM 1450: Col-
lege Chemistry I in the Fall semester because of their PCP and major requirement should view the list of
chemistry skills (http://chemistry.uca.edu/faculty/desrochers/chem1450/1450skills.pdf) expected of stu-
dents entering CHEM 1450 to verify their readiness for the course. BIOL 1440: Principles of Biology re-
quires these same chemistry skills, as well. Some students may need to take CHEM 1301: Fundamen-
tals of Chemistry before CHEM 1450 and BIOL 1440.
The General Education Program is required of all majors. Summer and Fall 2009 classes can be found
in the Schedule of Classes. Course descriptions are
available in the Undergraduate Bulletin.
FYFS 1320
First-Year Experience: An Introduction to Higher Education (FYFS 1320) is an
introduction to the aims and activities of higher education. This course advances
knowledge. You will grow in your intellectual skills and think seriously about atti-
tudes and values. Overall, this course helps first-year students find their place at
UCA and in an increasingly global society, as it prepares UCA students for success
as life-long learners. Throughout this course, students will have the opportunity to:
• Critically examine their own values and cultures, world views, assumptions and biases about
the institution of higher education and ultimately society, both local and global;
• Cultivate a sensitive and affirming community environment that espouses an awareness and
appreciation of one’s self and others;
• Determine and apply personal learning styles and personality types to life-long learning ex-
periences;
• Achieve and apply informational and technological literacy and gain an appreciation of their
cultural significances;
• Practice the power of voice through critical thinking, speaking, reading, and writing;
ü enroll a common cohort of students (translation: you take two or more classes with the
same group of people…sometimes even people who live down the hall!)
ü seek to build community around the process of engaged learning (translation: you learn
AND you have fun doing it!)
ü restructure the curriculum so that learning is an activity that occurs both in and beyond the
classroom (translation: learning happens everywhere!)
ü emphasize collaborative efforts between faculty and students (translation: professors learn
as well as teach, because students teach as well as learn!)
ü improve both student performance and student success (translation: average GPAs are
higher in learning communities and you are more likely to graduate!)
Learning Communities come in a variety of shapes and sizes to meet the unique needs of differ-
ent students. 100% of first-year students are enrolled in a learning community—find your niche!
UCA offers entering students the opportunity to be a part of the following learning communities:
« Residential Colleges
« Honors College
« University College
« Traditional Learning Communities (clusters & linked classes)
« First-Year Experience Seminar
Thousands of UCA students have enjoyed the benefits of "clustered" or “linked” courses -- and so can
you! Clusters consist of 2 or 3 courses that are connected -- the classes are taught by different profes-
sors but the same students enroll in both courses. This creates a ready-made group of study partners
and friends, and has been a proven means of raising student satisfaction, performance, and persistence
toward graduation. Any first-year student may enroll and several are specifically designed for pre-med,
nursing, athletes, UC and undeclared students.
"The fact that we are all in the same [classes] all makes it
easier to help each other with work."
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE
University College (UC) offers transitional courses and freshman - and sophomore-level general educa-
tion courses for under-prepared students with the goal of admitting them into a baccalaureate degree
program at UCA.
UC meets this goal by providing students with access to faculty, tutors and advising staff who
specialize in working with students with developmental needs.
HONORS COLLEGE
Established in 1982, the Honors College at UCA emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach to learning
and offers a curriculum based on small, discussion-oriented classes.
“The Honors College is a community of learners practicing the art of inquiry, conversation, col-
laboration, and communication.”
The Honors Center and Honors residence halls build a sense of community among Honors students,
while study abroad opportunities expand students’ horizons. The program is open to students with an
ACT score of 28 or higher and a high school GPA of at least 3.5.
RESIDENTIAL COLLEGES
HUGHES, STATE, AND SHORT/DENNEY
Residential Colleges are more than just places to stay. They are
learning communities that provide their members with opportunities
to develop every aspect of Student Life— academic, CIVIL, & social! If
you are looking for the total collegiate experience, you need to
check out Residential Colleges. APPLY NOW, before all the places are
filled!!!!
10. Increase Your Chances of Academic 5. Residential Colleges offer you a chance to
Success. Residential College (RC) study abroad. Spend two weeks in May
students earn higher grades and are visiting other countries! It will be an
more likely to graduate. enriching experience, plus you’ll earn
academic credit!
9. Get to know your fellow Residential
College Students while completing
4. Only Hughes, State, & Short\Denney have
general education classes (all first-year
Mentors. Mentors are older students who
students take 3 RC classes in the fall
continue to participate in the Residential
semester and 2 in the spring)….makes
Colleges by assisting freshmen with
studying a breeze.
everything from moving in to getting
8. Get involved in Campus Activities involved and making friends. Many mentors
and Civic Organizations. Residential are computer savvy students who are
College students are involved in many available to help residents with computer
campus activities. All Colleges questions and on-line networks.
participate in service-learning
opportunities such as Heifer Project 3. Enjoy Additional Activities that Enrich
International, Habitat for Humanity your Collegiate Experience. The Residential
and the local women and homeless Colleges offer a wide variety of activities and
shelters. social events, including field trips, camping,
canoeing, caving, and intramural sports.
7. Get to know your professors. The
Residential Colleges give you
2. Make a Smooth Transition to UCA. Being
something no other residence hall
part of Hughes, State, or Short/Denney allows
offers…a full-time UCA faculty
you to take classes with others who live in
member living in the hall. These
your residence hall. You will make friends,
“Resident Masters” help to create an
form study groups, and feel at home quickly.
extended family atmosphere within the
college (plus they’re really cool).
Also, smaller class size in the
Residential Colleges allows for more And the #1 Reason to join a
interaction with your professors.
Residential College….
6. Take Advantage of our study
groups. Hughes, State, &
Short/Denney have upper class 1. Come to Class in Your PJ’s! Since many of
mentors who organize study groups the Residential College classes are held in
for difficult classes. Earn those A’s! Hughes, State, & Short/Denney classrooms,
students can attend class right out of bed!
SaM COMMUTER SERVICES 7
The Division of Undergraduate Studies is pleased to introduce UCA’s new support program for com-
muter freshmen, Satellite Minton (SaM). SaM provides academic, social and civic participation op-
portunities to encourage closer interaction between commuting freshmen and other students/offices
around campus.
SaM utilizes aspects of UCA’s successful Residential College program, applying some of the most
effective practices that we have established over the last 10 years since the Residential College pro-
gram began. Most notably, SaM provides a Learning Community environment where students in the
SaM program have access to certain General Education courses that are open only to them. This
allows for more closely targeted study group organization, and it also encourages the students to
meet other commuters and get involved with the campus community as a whole.
Until UCA adopted the Bear mascot in 1920, sports writers would refer to student athletes as the Tutors,
the Teachers, the Normal Eleven (in football) the Normal Gridmen (also in football) and the Pea-Pickers
(because UCA's campus included a 240-acre farm).
8 TRANSFERRING CREDIT
TRANSFERRING CREDIT
If you have attended another college or university, it is your responsibility to have that institution mail
an official transcript to UCA before classes begin.
If you have received concurrent credit through your high school, you must request an official transcript
from the college which awarded the credit. Having a course listed on your high school transcript is not
sufficient to receive college credit. Again, UCA should receive this transcript before you begin classes.
If you have taken an Advance Placement (AP) test or College Level Examination Program (CLEP) test,
it is your responsibility to have an official score report sent to the Academic Advising Center before
you begin classes at UCA.
If you intend to take the CLEP or have already taken it and are awaiting your scores, it is your respon-
sibility to report those scores to the Academic Advising Center before you begin classes at UCA.
IMPORTANT NOTE: You cannot enroll in any course for which you have—or expect to
have—transfer credit or credit by examination. When you meet with an academic advisor to
schedule classes, it is your responsibility to make the advisor aware of any such credits.
Please be reminded that you must register for a writing course. Unless you have already
tested for WRTG 1310 and/or WRTG 1320 when you enroll in the university, you cannot
earn examination credit for writing. (Bulletin, www.uca.edu/ubulletin/02 /205.html [8.1].)
REMEMBER TO:
Request OFFICIAL transcript (s) showing final grades from colleges and universities where you
have earned credit be sent to:
UCA Undergraduate Admissions
Bernard Hall 101
University of Central Arkansas
201 Donaghey Avenue
Conway AR 72035
Request OFFICIAL score reports for CLEP or AP Exams be sent to:
Academic Advising Center
Harrin Hall 100
University of Central Arkansas
201 Donaghey Avenue
Conway AR 72035
Fax: 501.450.3208
AND
After you have confirmed that UCA has received your transfer credit/test scores it will be your
responsibility to e-mail the Advising Center at AdvisingCenter@uca.edu to make schedule revi-
sions using your URSA/cub e-mail. The deadline to submit schedule changes via e-mail will be
the week before classes start. After that date you must come to the Advising Center with your
documentation in order to change your schedule. You may call 450.5149 for questions.
NOTE: CLASS SCHEDULES WILL ONLY BE CHANGED WHEN YOU PROVIDE OFFICIAL
DOCUMENTATION OF COMPLETED COURSEWORK. (ie. AP/CLEP/IB score reports, official
transcripts from the college/university awarding credit, etc.)
THINGS TO DO TODAY
10 REGISTRATION PROCESS CHECKLIST
Hello! Welcome to UCA and SUMMER ADVANCE REGISTRATION. We hope you find this booklet a
valuable source of information not only for today, but for your entire UCA career as well. This page will
help you with the process you will be going through today.
As part of the academic advising process, Arkansas law (Act 472 of 2007) requires that we notify
you of the following matters:
1. A very important part of beginning your college career is academic advising. Your advisor, the
advising center, and the university desire to provide as much information to you as possible concerning
courses and other matters related to your academic endeavors.
2. The Arkansas Department of Higher Education, in conjunction with the public colleges and
universities in the state, has developed the Arkansas Course Transfer System (ACTS). This is a post-
secondary education resource service that provides comparable course information to facilitate student
transfer within Arkansas public colleges and universities. The ACTS database contains faculty-generated
comparable course information for a number of courses offered at public institutions in Arkansas. Com-
parable courses within ACTS are guaranteed to transfer for full credit to any Arkansas public institution.
ACTS provides information regarding guaranteed transfer of courses between Arkansas public
institutions. ACTS is beneficial for students, parents, and academic advisors because it provides accu-
rate, up-to-date comparable course information for educational planning and informed decision-making.
To use ACTS visit the Arkansas Department of Higher Education website at:
http://www.arkansashighered.com/ or call the academic advising center at UCA for more information on
how to use ACTS.
Please sign below to indicate that you have received this notice about the Arkansas Course
Transfer System.
Signature: _______________________
By: _____________________________
Title: ___________________________
12 GUARANTEED EIGHT-SEMESTER DEGREE COMPLETION PROGRAM
The University of Central Arkansas is please to announce its Guaranteed Eight-Semester Degree
Completion Program
UCA now offers entering first-time students assistance in completing many of our undergraduate degrees
in eight semesters. A list of the undergraduate degree programs that offer “Eight-Semester Program
Completion Plans” can be found on our website at: http://www.uca.edu/model/.
How do I enroll?
During your summer registration appointment, your advisor will ask if you want to participate in one of
these degree plans. Your participation simply means that UCA will ensure class availability, as outlined
in the plan, in order to keep you on track for graduation as long as you continue to meet the conditions
for participation.
∗ Have your course schedule approved by your official advisor each semester and enroll during your
designated registration period.
∗ Accept any available section of a required course that can be accommodated in your class schedule.
∗ Remain in your declared major, and successfully complete all courses and degree requirements as
scheduled.
PROGRAM COMPLETION CONTRACT 13
Pursuant to Act 1014 of 2005, qualified first-time freshmen may elect to participate in a guaranteed 8-
semester degree completion program for most bachelor’s degree programs. The list of degree majors
that are included in the 8-semester degree completion program is published on the institutional
website and in the undergraduate bulletin. A student must accept or waive participation in the
guaranteed 8-semester degree completion program.
When choosing to participate in the guaranteed 8-semester degree completion program, a student
accepts responsibility for monitoring his/her progress toward a degree and for making choices that
will lead to graduation in four years.
Please check one of the following options:
ACCEPTANCE: As a first-time freshman, I have declared a major in
_______________________ at the University of Central Arkansas and wish to participate
in the guaranteed 8-semester degree completion program.
I acknowledge that: (1) I must follow exactly the 8-semester degree plan for my major; (2) I
must make satisfactory academic progress and maintain a grade point average of 2.00 or
greater; (3) I must complete, generally, 30–36 semester credit hours of appropriate course
work each academic year as outlined in my degree plan; (4) I must have my class schedule
approved by my official advisor and register for classes each semester during my
designated registration period; (5) I must accept any available course section that can be
accommodated in my class schedule; and (6) if I change my major, the guaranteed 8-
semester degree plan is voided.
Other events based on my actions that may void the guarantee includefailure to complete
all degree and program requirements (including a minor, if required), dropping or failing a
course, withdrawing from the university, failing to pay fees, and disciplinary actions.
3:00p - 3:50p 2:40p - 3:55p 3:00p - 3:50p 2:40p - 3:55p 3:00p - 3:50p
Humanities—Choose 1
___ ENGL 1350 (Introduction to Literature) NOTE:
___ ENGL 1355 (Film and Literature)
___ ENGL 2370 (Introduction to Fiction) Ÿ If the ACT subject score is below 19 in reading, writing, or alge-
___ ENGL 2380 (Introduction to Poetry) bra, remediation is required.
___ ENGL 2390 (Introduction to Drama) Ÿ Some majors require specific general education courses.
___ FREN 2320 OR GERM 2320 OR SPAN 2320 Ÿ Courses may be used only once to satisfy the general education
(Conversation-Composition II)* requirements.
___ FYFS 1301 (First Year Seminar: Studies in Humanities) Ÿ A minimum grade of C is required in some general education
___ PHIL 1301 (Philosophy for Living) courses.
___ PHIL 2305 (Critical Thinking) Ÿ For additional information, consult your academic advisor or
___ PHIL 2325 (Contemporary Moral Problems) the undergraduate bulletin.
___ PHIL 2360 (Gender, Race, and Class)
___ RELG 1330 (Exploring Religion) *This course has prerequisites: Check the Undergraduate
___ WLAN 2315 (Cultural Studies) Bulletin for details.
___ WLAN 2325 (Issues of Cultural Identity in Francophone **HONC courses may be taken only with consent of the Honors
Africa and the Caribbean) College.
___ HONC 1310 (Honors Core I)**
___ HONC 2310 (Honors Core III)**
Revised 3/2009
16 GENERAL EDUCATION PROGRAM
You only have three attempts to complete required transitional courses in any one area. This includes
Transitional Writing (UNIV 1300), Transitional Reading (UNIV 1301), and Beginning Algebra (UNIV
1330)/Intermediate Algebra (UNIV 1340). An attempt is any time you make a “D” or “F”, or are withdrawn
with a “W”, “WP” or “WF”. Note: you may not withdraw yourself from these courses but you will be
dropped with a “WF for non-attendance.
If you receive a grade of “D” or “F” in Beginning or Intermediate Algebra, or are withdrawn with a
“W”, “WP” or “WF”, you must take the course again during the next semester. Please be aware
that you only have three attempts in total to complete your math requirement (in other words, to
pass your required transitional math classes). All attempts at Beginning Algebra or Intermediate
Algebra are counted toward your three allowed attempts in this area.
Students taking Transitional Writing (UNIV 1300) and Transitional Reading (UNIV 1301) and Intro
to College Writing (WRTG 1310)
After three failed attempts in any one area, you will not be
readmitted to the university until you complete the appro-
priate transitional course(s) with a grade of “C” or higher
at another accredited institution of higher education and
provide UCA with a transcript prior to registration.
3/2009
GENERAL EDUCATION PROGRAM 17
Introduction to WRTG 1310 Required of all students during the first semester they are eligible to enroll. This course introduces
College Writing students to the writing process, focusing on audience, invention, and arrangement, and will be con-
ducted as a workshop.
Academic Writing WRTG 1320 Part of the general education program and required of all students during the first semester they are
and Research eligible to enroll. The course introduces students to academic argument based on substantiating,
evaluating, and proposing claims. Research strategies are central to the course, which will be con-
ducted as a workshop. Prerequisite. WRTG 1310 with a grade of C or higher.
Honors Core I: HONC 1310 A reflexive study of a variety of views on the nature of human beings drawn from differing disciplines
The Search for and historical periods. Team-taught. Emphasis on writing skills and insightful thinking. By consent
Self. only. Fall. (Honors Core I fulfills general education requirements for WRTG 1310 or humanities elec-
tive.)
Honors Core II: HONC 1320 A reflexive study of a variety of views on the nature and problems of society drawn from various disci-
The Search for plines. Team-taught. Emphasis on writing skills and insightful thinking. By consent only. Spring.
Community (Honors Core II fulfills general education requirements for WRTG 1320 or behavioral and social sci-
ences elective.)
Concepts of H ED/KPED A required general education health studies course designed to help students adopt and maintain the
Lifetime Health 1320 behaviors associated with an active and healthy lifestyle. The course uses a team-teaching approach
and Fitness between the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education and the Department of Health Sci-
ences. Primary methods of instruction include lecture/discussion, interactive video, and student par-
ticipation in a health-risk appraisal, a behavior-change project, journal writing, fitness-assessment
laboratories, a fitness prescription and implementation, and required participation in a variety of
physical activities. Students with disabilities limiting or excluding participation in physical activities
should contact the Office of Disability Support Services and enroll in KPED 1191 and HED 2200 un-
der the guidance of their advisor. To earn a passing grade for this course, students must earn a pass-
ing grade in both the health and fitness sections.
Basic Oral SPCH 1300 Study, application, and evaluation of principles of organization, evidence, reasoning, critical thinking,
Communication verbal and nonverbal behavior, interpersonal communication, public speaking, and small group inter-
action in the oral communication setting. The emphasis will be on meeting the individual needs of
students through individualized instruction using communication experiences.
American Nation I HIST 2301 Provides an understanding of the development of the American people beginning with the age of
exploration and culminating with the Civil War/Reconstruction period.
American Nation II HIST 2302 This course provides an understanding of the development of the United States since the Civil War/
Reconstruction period.
US Government & PSCI 1330 An introduction to the principles and problems of American government, governing institutions, and
Politics political processes.
Anthropology ANTH 1302 A requirement for all ethnic studies concentration majors, and an elective for other majors and mi-
nors. An introduction to the field of anthropology with an emphasis on basic anthropological princi-
ples, the nature of culture and social organization, and the biological beginnings of Homo sapiens.
Modern Political ECON 1310 Human social order from the economic perspective. Roles and institutions developed in the Western
Economy world to deal with problems of scarcity, alternatives, and choice. Major tools of economic analysis
and application to diverse social and political problems, both contemporary and historic.
GENERAL EDUCATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
19
Global ECON 2310 Examination of the various economic, institutional, and cultural practices that guide international
Environment of trade and commerce in the modern world. Includes international institutions, exchange rates, and
Business commercial policy. Required for all business majors.
Principles of GEOG 1305 An introduction to the basic conceptual and methodological principles of geography as an academic
Geography discipline for understanding the patterns of human societies and physical environments on the sur-
face of the earth.
Geography of GEOG 1300 In this course students will come to better understand the rapidly changing world through analyzing
World Regions cultural and physical regions using traditional Western as well as non-Western and the evolving
Developing World's theories. The course uses primarily electronic sources for current data gather-
ing and various types of geographic analysis, supported by lecture and discussion. This course may
be taken to satisfy three hours of the behavioral and social science General Education requirement,
but it may not count toward the 36-hour geography major or the 24-hour geography minor.
Introduction to PSCI 1300 A survey of the discipline of political science designed to introduce students to important theories,
Political Science concepts, issues, in the study of political behavior, phenomena, and processes. The course will
cover the major subfields of political science, including political theory, research methods, American
government, comparative politics, public administration, public policy, and international relations.
US Government & PSCI 1330 An introduction to the principles and problems of American government, governing institutions, and
Politics political processes.
International PSCI 2300 The course examines the concepts and principles that define the conduct of relations between na-
Relations tion-states and other actors. Fall
General PSYC 1300 An introductory course in psychology to acquaint the student with psychology as a behavioral sci-
Psychology ence. A required course for majors and minors.
Principles of SOC 1300 A requirement for all majors, and a prerequisite for most sociology courses. An introduction to the
Sociology basic conceptual, theoretical, and methodological principles of sociology as an academic discipline
for understanding the structure and patterns of human social life.
Honors Core II: HONC 1320 A reflexive study of a variety of views on the nature and problems of society drawn from various
The Search for disciplines. Team-taught. Emphasis on writing skills and insightful thinking. By consent only. Spring.
Community (Honors Core II fulfills general education requirements for WRTG 1320 or behavioral and social
sciences elective.)
Fine Arts-Choose 1
Art Appreciation ART 2300 Significant styles and achievements in the visual arts with study directed toward trends and influ-
ences on contemporary society. May not be credited toward a major or minor in art.
Film Appreciation FILM 2300 Promotes understanding and appreciation of the art of cinema through study of film style, film his-
tory, film genres, and the cultural impact of films. Examines both the theory and practice of filmmak-
ing.
Music MUS 2300 Introduces students to music, its origin and development through recorded and live instrumental
Appreciation and vocal music. Relates to other arts, cultures, literature, and the social sciences. Methods of in-
struction are lecture and listening to music. Fall, spring, summer.
Theater THEA 2300 Awareness and appreciation of theatre art and its place in contemporary human culture. Incorpo-
Appreciation rates study of theatrical styles, history, theory, and practice using live and recorded performances.
May not be credited toward a major or minor in theatre.
Honors Core IV: HONC 2320 An interdisciplinary study of the arts, including aesthetic theories, art, music, or theater studies,
The Art of the media, film, or human affairs. Emphasis on seminar skills. By consent only. Spring. (Honors Core IV
Search fulfills general education requirements for ART 2300 or MUS 2300 or THEA [formerly SPTA] 2300.)
20 GENERAL EDUCATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Humanities-Choose 1
Introduction to ENGL 1350 A writing-intensive course exposing students to the college-level study of literature. Exposes stu-
Literature dents to the development, forms, and techniques of poetry, fiction, and drama. Attention is paid to
the writing of analytical, interpretive, and research papers.
Film and ENGL 1355 Satisfies the humanities requirement in the general education program. This course is intended to
Literature give students access to literature through a medium-film-with which they are more familiar and com-
fortable. This course will compare written and cinematic narrative forms by considering classic and
modern literary texts through the medium of film.
Introduction to ENGL 2370 The purpose of Introduction to Fiction is to introduce students to the art and significance of short
Fiction fiction: usually, short stories, novellas, and, sometimes, short novels. Students will learn to read
stories carefully and analytically and be encouraged to see the way stories both reflect and enhance
our understanding of life.
Introduction to ENGL 2380 Exposes the student to the development, forms, and techniques of poetry. Some attention is paid to
Poetry prosodical, musical, and metrical effects.
Introduction to ENGL 2390 The course is a historical overview of the development of drama from Greek tragedy and comedy to
Drama the flowering of Renaissance drama with Shakespeare. Students will study dramas of the eight-
eenth through the twentieth centuries as well. This course views drama as a genre: an evolving art
form dependent on audience and social environment for interpretation.
Cultural Studies WLAN 2315 Examination of one or more foreign cultures, their individual and group values, and their ways of life
as reflected in literature (i.e., short stories, essays, novels) and film. May be repeated for credit
under different topics. May not be presented as part of the foreign language requirement for the BA
degree.
Issues in WLAN 2325 Satisfies the 3-hour humanities requirement of the general education program and fulfills elective
Cultural Identity credit in the African/African-American studies minor. An introduction to the rhetoric of cultural iden-
tity in the post-colonial Francophone world. Examination of French-speaking cultures of Africa and
the Caribbean, as reflected in literature (e.g., short stories, essays, novels) and film. May not be
presented as part of the foreign language requirement for the BA degree.
Conversation- FREN 2320 Further review with special emphasis on reading and writing. Also fulfills humanities area elective in
Composition II OR GERM general education. Discussion/lecture. Prerequisite: sequence 2310 of selected foreign language or
2320 OR appropriate placement examination score and consent of chair.
SPAN 2320
Philosophy for PHIL 1301 A general education elective satisfying the humanities requirement. Develops basic skills in critical
Living thinking, emphasizing clarification of personal values, major views of human nature, and issues in
philosophical thought. Combines lecture and discussion methods.
Critical Thinking PHIL 2305 Designed to improve a person's ability to reason clearly and correctly and to make rational deci-
sions based on understanding decision strategies, knowing how to use information, and being able
to avoid erroneous thinking.
Contemporary PHIL 2325 A general education elective satisfying the humanities requirement. Introduction to the major moral
Moral Problems and ethical problems that confront individuals of the 21st century, such as abortion, euthanasia,
animal rights, and world hunger. Combines lecture and discussion methods
Gender, Race, PHIL 2360 An introduction to philosophical issues concerning gender, race, and class with an emphasis on
and Class how these issues affect our identities and our conception of ourselves and others. Combines lecture
and discussion methods.
GENERAL EDUCATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS 21
Exploring Religion RELG 1330 This course explores religion and the meaning of religion in its various forms as an expression of
human culture. Students will be introduced to basic themes concerning the nature and function of
religion and how religion expresses and relates to matters of ultimate concern for human beings.
Honors Core III: HONC 2310 An interdisciplinary study of a non-Western culture through a critical study of its art, economics,
The Diversity of history, geography, religion, or a study of cultural pluralism in some form. Emphasis on research
the Search skills. By consent only. Fall. (Honors Core III fulfills general education requirements for behavioral
and social sciences elective or humanities elective or the third course in the three-course world
cultural traditions sequence.)
Mathematics-Choose 1
Mathematics in MATH 1360 Upon completion of the course, students will be able to apply principles of mathematics to real-
Society world situations, create mathematical and statistical models of the situations, and utilize the models
to solve problems.
College Algebra MATH 1390 This course provides a solid foundation of algebraic concepts. It includes the study of functions,
relations, graphing, and problem solving, and provides knowledge of how to apply these concepts to
real problem situations.
Plane MATH 1392 Coupled with College Algebra (MATH 1390), this course satisfies the prerequisites for Calculus I
Trigonometry (MATH 1591) as an alternative to MATH 1580. Topics include angles and triangles and their meas-
ure, graphs and applications of trigonometric functions, and inverse trigonometric functions, vectors,
polar coordinates, and complex numbers. Lecture/demonstration format. Prerequisite: MATH 1390
or equivalent
Business MATH 1395 As a component of the business foundation, this course is a requirement for all majors in the Col-
Calculus lege of Business Administration. The course is an introduction to calculus involving algebraic, expo-
nential, and logarithmic functions including quantitative methods and applications used in business,
finance, and economics. Calculus topics include limits, derivatives, optimization, and marginal
analysis in business and economics. Problem solving and calculator technology will be emphasized.
Prerequisite: MATH 1390 or equivalent
Calculus for the MATH 1491 This course is a brief introduction to calculus and includes differentiation and integration of polyno-
Life Sciences mial, exponential, and logarithmic functions, solutions of basic differential equations, and the appli-
cation of these techniques to solve physical problems particularly in the life sciences such as biol-
ogy. Prerequisite: MATH 1390 or equivalent.
Algebra and MATH 1580 Designed for students who plan to study calculus, this course may be used to meet the general
Trigonometry education requirement in mathematics and includes the study of concepts of algebra and trigo-
nometry essential to the study of calculus. Technology such as the graphics calculator is used ex-
tensively. Meets five days a week. Lecture/Activity Format. Not open to students who already have
credit for MATH 1390 or MATH 1392.
Calculus I MATH 1591 As a prerequisite for nearly all upper-division mathematics, this course is a requirement for majors
and minors in mathematics and other majors in the natural sciences and engineering. The content
includes the study of limits, continuity, derivatives, integrals, and their applications. Lecture and
problem solving activities. Prerequisites: C or better in MATH 1390 and C or better in MATH 1392,
or C or better in MATH 1580, or equivalent.
Biological Science-Choose 1
General Biology BIOL 1400 This course introduces students to the structure and function of cells, organisms, and communities.
Lecture and laboratory
22 GENERAL EDUCATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Principles of BIOL 1440 This course introduces students to the molecular and cellular basis of structure and function of or-
Biology I ganisms. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: high school chemistry or CHEM 1301 or above.
Physical Science-Choose 1
Chemistry in CHEM 1400 Study of chemistry for general education with emphasis of learning chemical principles on a need-to
Society -know basis to address societal-technological issues such as environmental problems, energy uses,
drugs, polymers, nutrition, and genetic engineering. Small-group work, laboratory instruction, and
the worldwide web are all used. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are emphasized. Three
hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week. CHEM 1400 does not count towards a major or
minor in chemistry, a minor in physical science, a major in general science, or a minor in physical
science. No prerequisite.
Physical Science PHYS 1400 Introduces the student to the principles of elementary physics, chemistry, and astronomy. Lecture
for Gen. Ed. and laboratory.
Descriptive PHYS 1401 An introduction to the changing appearance of the night sky, to the solar system, and to the stars.
Astronomy Lecture and laboratory.
Physiological CHEM 1402 A required course for BS in Nursing and other allied-health baccalaureate degrees. General chem-
Chemistry I istry topics related to physiology and other health-related sciences. Lecture, small-group work, and
laboratory instruction are used. Three hours of lecture and 2 hours of laboratory per week. Prerequi-
site: grade of C or better in high school chemistry or CHEM 1301.
College CHEM 1450 A required course for chemistry and biology majors, the biological and chemical physics tracks, and
Chemistry pre-pharmacy, pre-medicine, pre-dental, and pre-veterinarian study. Recommended for pre-physical
therapy. Principles of general chemistry with emphasis on their theoretical and quantitative aspects
and applications. Lecture, small-group work, and laboratory instruction are used. Three hours of
lecture and 3 hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite: C grade or better in high school chemistry
(full-year course or equivalent) and 2 units of high school algebra, or C grade or better in CHEM
1301.
Applied Physics PHYS 1405 For health science students. Introduces the student to forces, energy, fluids, sound, heat, light,
electricity, and radioactivity, with applications to the health sciences. (Not open to students who
have completed PHYS 1410 or 1441 unless specifically required for major. May not be applied
toward a major or minor together with PHYS 1410, 1420, 1441, or 1442.) Lecture and Laboratory.
Prerequisite: High school or college algebra.
College Physics I PHYS 1410 Forms a two-semester sequence with College Physics 2. Introduces the student to mechanics
(kinematics, force, work, energy, momentum, rotational motion, elasticity, fluids), heat, and thermo-
dynamics.
University PHYS 1441 Part of the major core. Forms a three-semester calculus-based survey of physics sequence with
Physics I University Physics 2 and 3. Introduction to mechanics. Integrated lecture, discussion, workshop,
laboratory format. Pre- or co requisite: MATH 1591.
History-Choose 1
World History I HIST 1310 Students examine major contributions to the advancement of global civilizations from ancient times
to the early modern period (circa 1600).
GENERAL EDUCATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS 23
World History II HIST 1320 Students examine development of modern industrial and urban society from its European base in
the seventeenth century to its worldwide impact in the twentieth century.
Literature-Choose 1
World Literature I ENGL 2305 The purpose of World Literature I is to introduce the student to a variety of literary texts, which have
greatly influenced culture around the world. Readings are chosen from the epic, dramatic, poetic,
and speculative traditions of several nations and cultures from ancient times up to the Renaissance.
World Literature II ENGL 2306 The purpose of World Literature II is to introduce the student to some of the literary works, which
embody and consider the values, ideas, and beliefs that have helped make the modern world.
Readings are chosen from several national traditions of the seventeenth through the twentieth cen-
turies.
Introduction to ENGL 1330 This course is a requirement for students majoring or minoring in African/African American studies,
African/African and will introduce them to the study of African and African American literature and culture from an
American Studies interdisciplinary perspective.
World Literature I ENGL 2305 The purpose of World Literature I is to introduce the student to a variety of literary texts, which have
greatly influenced culture around the world. Readings are chosen from the epic, dramatic, poetic,
and speculative traditions of several nations and cultures from ancient times up to the Renaissance.
World Literature II ENGL 2306 The purpose of World Literature II is to introduce the student to some of the literary works, which
embody and consider the values, ideas, and beliefs that have helped make the modern world.
Readings are chosen from several national traditions of the seventeenth through the twentieth cen-
turies.
First Year FYFS 1310 Fulfills 3 hours of the 9-hour requirement in world cultural traditions.
Seminar: Studies
in World Cultural
Traditions
World History I HIST 1310 Students examine major contributions to the advancement of global civilizations from ancient times
to the early modern period (circa 1600).
World History II HIST 1320 Students examine development of modern industrial and urban society from its European base in
the seventeenth century to its worldwide impact in the twentieth century.
World Religions RELG 1320 Encouraged for all students majoring or minoring in the religious studies program. This course intro-
duces students to the study of great religions of the world--Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism,
Christianity, and others--by examining their history, beliefs, moral teachings, rituals, and practices.
World PHIL 1330 Develops basic skills in critical thinking. Emphasizes the global nature of philosophizing and the
Philosophies clarification of personal and social values through cross-cultural understanding.
World Languages WRTG/ An Introduction to world languages from geographical, historical, social, and psychological perspec-
WLAN 2350 tives. Emphasis on the diversity in the world's verbal communication systems as well as the univer-
sal aspects underlying all human symbolic behavior. Basic introduction to language structure, pho-
netics/phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics.
Honors Core III: HONC 2310 An interdisciplinary study of a non-Western culture through a critical study of its art, economics,
The Diversity of history, geography, religion, or a study of cultural pluralism in some form. Emphasis on research
the Search skills. By consent only. Fall. (Honors Core III fulfills general education requirements for behavioral
and social sciences elective or humanities elective or the third course in the three-course world
cultural traditions sequence.)
24 URSA
URSA
How do we log in? You will use your network ID for username and PIN for your password
which was included in your admission letter. If you have lost or have not received this
information you will need to take your photo ID and go to the Information Technology
Help Desk in BBA 107.
Tabs: After logging in you will see TABS - All students will have the same TABS: HOME,
LIBRARY, RESOURCE, and MY TAB.
What Features does the system provide? This was designed to help you interact more ef-
fectively with your institution or with colleagues at your institutions, such as e-mail, calen-
dar, course tools, and more.
ü E-Mail - The system provides a Web-based e-mail application that you can use to
send and receive messages and maintain an address book of online contacts.
ü Calendar - The system provides a Web-based calendar application that you can use
to create and manage personal calendars, access course calendars to view informa-
tion added by course instructors, and access calendars for any online groups that
you have joined. To access the calendar, click the calendar icon that appears in the
application toolbar.
ü Group Studio - The system provides an application that allows individuals at your
institution to request the creation of online groups and maintain homepages for these
groups containing resources like photo albums, Internet links, news articles, and ap-
plications like message boards, chat rooms, and calendars. Similar homepages are
supported for courses taught at your institution.
ü Message Boards - The system provides a message board for each class in which
you are enrolled. Depending on the privileges allocated to a group, message boards
may also be available to groups for which you are a member. To access course
message boards, use the My Courses channel.
ü Chat - The system provides a chat room for each class in which you are enrolled.
Depending on the privileges allocated to a group, chat rooms may also be available
to groups for which you are a member.
ü Administrative Services - Depending on the way your institution has implemented
the system, you may be able to access administrative services to do things like
check grades, register for classes, change the personal information that your institu-
tion maintains about you.
What are channels? The campus portal displays content through channels, which are
topic-specific areas that provide convenient access to information, applications, or
other Web resources you may want to access.
URSA 25
Can I customize my layout? The system provides great flexibility for you to customize the tabs and
channels that you have in your layout. In general the system allows you to:
Do I get support? Yes, there is a tutorial available under your "My Tab" button and the Information Tech-
nology help desk is available for help. They are located in BBA 107 and their phone number is 450-
3107.
1. Log into your URSA account. Click on: the “Self-Service” tab—Student & Financial Aid—”Student
Records”— View Student Information.
2. List 3 other items you can view under “Student Records” menu.
4. What channel on the “My UCA” tab allows you to check tuition & fees and make a payment?
_______________________________
5. The Academic Advising Center Channel is located under which tab? _______________
6. List 3 resources you can access through the Academic Advising Center Channel on the “My UCA”
tab.
7. In the “Self-Service” tab, click on Student and Financial Aid, Go to “Student Records”, View/Print
Schedule, then select the current term. Next, click on “File” in the toolbar, change your page
setting to “landscape” and then click “OK”. Then, click on “File in the toolbar and click “Print”.
Return to the front desk to receive a copy of your class schedule.
https://ursa.uca.edu/
Enter your Network ID and PIN-Password (if lost/unknown, take a photo ID to the Help Desk, BBA 106)
A course syllabus is defined as an outline of a course of study. The primary purpose of a course sylla-
bus is to communicate to students what the course is about, why the course is taught, and what will be
required of the students for them to complete the course with a passing grade. The syllabus also con-
tains instructor’s contact information as well as other university policies. The syllabus is usually distrib-
uted and discussed during the first class session.
Note: It is a good idea to use the student handbook and daily planner (provided by the University) to re-
cord important deadlines and exam dates as soon as you receive your class syllabi.
Note: Assignments/Readings, etc. should be completed and ready for discussion before the scheduled
date listed in syllabi.
Mission Statement: The Academic Advising Center is a team of professionals dedicated primarily to
assisting first year students in defining and achieving their academic goals. In addition, we provide cen-
tralized academic advising services for the UCA Community.
What is Academic Advising? Academic advising is an educational process that by intention and de-
sign, facilitates student’s understanding of the meaning and purpose of higher education and fosters their
intellectual and personal development toward academic success and lifelong learning (National Aca-
demic Advising Association, 2004).
Ÿ Students should know how to drop a course and define what the resulting grade (W, WF, WP)
means.
Ÿ Students should know how to employ technology for registering, degree information, checking
holds, contacting their advisor and finding campus resources.
Ÿ Students will gain knowledge and awareness of the various resources located on campus and
where they are located.
First Week of Classes Go to every class and get a syllabus; meet with
your advisor if you need to make any schedule
changes.
September/February Weeks 2-5 Make an appointment to meet with your advisor to
discuss any questions you have about classes or
UCA with your advisor.
Mid October/Mid Midterm Grades Meet individually with your professors to discuss
March your progress in the courses. Meet with you advi-
sor to discuss your grades and any options you
may have.
Advance Registration Meet with your advisor to discuss course options
Appointment and potential major requirements. Remember, this
meeting is mandatory! Things to consider before
registering for classes:
-How many hours will I take?
-What courses will allow me a good balance in
workload?
-What time do I want to take classes?
-Do I have any holds?
-Review the registration process in the Bear
Book.
End of October/ Last day to drop a class Meet with your advisor to determine if you need to
End of March with a W drop a course.
Middle of November/ Advance Registration After meeting with your advisor to discuss course
Middle of April Begins options for the spring, register for classes online
through URSA on your day to register.
December/May Final Grades come out Check your grades through URSA and make any
necessary changes in your schedule for the up-
coming semester due to the grades.
COUNTDOWN
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GET TO UCA
30 ACADEMIC INFORMATION
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
All academic requirements, policies, procedures, etc. are listed in the Undergraduate Bulletin. The Un-
dergraduate Bulletin is available online at www.uca.edu/ubulletin. Become familiar with the contents of
the Undergraduate Bulletin.
The Student Handbook is an all-inclusive guide for student rights and responsibilities. It contains the
academic calendar and information about academic policies, general rules and regulations, university
records, student appeals processes, etc. You will be held accountable for the information in the hand-
book. You must become familiar with this information. The Student Handbook is published each year and
is available at the beginning of the fall term at the Student Information Counter in the Student Center. It
is also available on line at www.uca.edu/divisions/student/handbook.
If you need to alter your class schedule after classes begin, you can do so by adding and/or dropping
classes. Deadlines apply to both processes. The deadline for adding classes is very brief. If you decide
to add a class, you must act quickly. See the Academic Calendar for add/drop deadlines. You can find
the Academic Calendar at www.uca.edu/schedule. To add or to drop a class, see your academic ad-
visor.
You will be given a class syllabus in each of your classes. The syllabus will outline all of the require-
ments for that course: attendance policy, special requirements, test dates, due dates for homework, ma-
jor papers, etc. Be sure that you receive your syllabus for each class.
Go to class! Instructors have the right to drop you from class for non-attendance. If you are dropped for
non-attendance, the instructor has the right to give you a “Withdraw Failing” (WF) grade. WF’s are
treated like F’s and are computed in your grade point as an F.
If you are in grade trouble or are having problems in a class or classes, see your academic advisor as
soon as possible.
The University of Central Arkansas has created an e-mail account for all students . University
officials will not recognize any other e-mail address. This account must be used for official UCA
correspondence. Once classes start, your academic e-mail account will be activated. Check your ac-
count frequently for vital information from the university.
UNIVERSITY RECORDS
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect
to their educational records. For the complete Act please refer to the website:
http://www.uca.edu/divisions/general/gencounsel/ferpa/.
Record Inspection-Students have the right to inspect and review their education records.
Challenge to Educational Record-In the event it is believed education records contain inaccurate or
misleading information, or are otherwise in violation of a student’s privacy, a request for amendment may
be made. Refer to the UCA Student Handbook & Daily Planner for complete information. The handbook
can be located on the web at http://www.uca.edu/divisions/student/handbook/.
RECORD DISCLOSURE
In general, the University does not disclose personally identifiable information contained in a student’s
education record unless the student provides written permission for disclosure.
ACADEMIC INFORMATION 31
DIRECTORY INFORMATION
The University may disclose, without consent, “directory’ information as defined in the student hand-
book. However, please note that doing so will prevent inclusion of a student on award lists such as
the Dean's and Presidential Scholar's Lists, unless a student contacts the Office of Undergraduate
Studies prior to the end of each semester to request inclusion for the following semester.
Students who do not wish the University to disclose “directory” information about them should notify
the Office of the Registrar in writing. Students may request the non-release of “directory” information
at anytime.
REGISTRATION CANCELLATION
In the event that you are unable to attend UCA after you have been enrolled in classes, the Registra-
tion Cancellation Form is required for you to notify the University that you will not be attending. The
form can be found on the last page of this book. Please note that this form has a deadline date by
which the University must receive notice of your registration cancellation.
STUDENT INFORMATION
The university does not mail grades. Rather, grade information is made available to students from a
secure site that can be accessed using the Internet. The Student Identification Number and PIN are
required to access grade information.
The university certifies a student’s status at the institution—full or part-time enrollment, academic
standing, advance registration for a future term, etc. The Office of the Registrar front counter in
McCastlain Hall is the contact point for this service and has forms students can complete to provide
the written request that is normally required. Certification of a student’s status is a free service. The
normal time to process a certification of student status request is four (4) working days.
The federal government requires that certain information be provided to incoming current University
students, prospective students, parents, and current and prospective employees for the University.
This information which comes under the Student Right to Know Act can be found at a central location
on the UCA’s website. Individuals can go to the UCA website at www.uca.edu, click on “Current Stu-
dents,” scroll down to “Student Resources,” and then click on “Student Right to Know Act.” Students
can access the website information from their personal computer or from any computer lab on cam-
pus. Students can receive a paper copy of any information, or visit the Dean of Students Office lo-
cated in the Student Health Center. Information available on the UCA website under the “Student
Right to Know” includes:
ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS
FOR 2009-2010 ENTERING FRESHMEN
2009-2010 ACT ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION
The University of Central Arkansas awards academic scholarships to entering freshmen based on high
school GPA, ACT/SAT scores, and other relevant factors.
TRUSTEE SCHOLARSHIP
Up to $5,250 per semester
Eligibility requirements: 31-36 ACT/1360-1600 recentered SAT and 3.25 cumulative high school GPA.
PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Up to $4,500 per semester
Eligibility requirements: 29-30 ACT/1290-1350 recentered SAT and 3.25 cumulative high school GPA.
DEAN’S SCHOLARSHIP
Up to $3,000 per semester
Eligibility requirements: 27-28 ACT/1210-1280 recentered SAT and a 3.25 cumulative high school GPA
or class rank of valedictorian or salutatorian.
UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIP
Up to $1,500 per semester
Eligibility requirements: 25-26 ACT/1130-1200 recentered SAT and 3.25 cumulative high school GPA.
**Fees included in the scholarship are limited to those assessed to all general students.
Each year through endowed funds, the Foundation provides thousands of dollars in scholarships to UCA
students. Scholarships and awards are made possible by private gifts and vary considerably in dollar
value and criteria, reflecting the donors' gifts and interests. For more information, please contact the UCA
Foundation office in Buffalo Alumni Hall for more information.
3.25 x____ number hours enrolled=_________quality points needed to keep your scholarship.
If you take 15 hours, you must earn at least 49 quality points to keep your scholarship. Below is a work-
sheet to help you calculate your quality points and GPA. More information can be found in the “Tips for
Success” section of this book.
The first degree you will receive from UCA will be either an Associate or a Baccalaureate (your Bache-
lor’s degree). The University offers two Associate and six Baccalaureate degrees, all of which have their
own specific requirements along with the general education requirements. For a complete listing of all
degree requirements you can look on the web at www.uca.edu/entry/academic/acad_dept.htm and select
the major you’re interested in. It is your responsibility to know the requirements for your degree,
and we urge you to follow the Program Completion Plan (PCP) for your program. To assist you in
keeping up with what classes you need to take, check-sheets for each program are available at http://
www.uca.edu/model/.
MAJOR REQUIREMENTS
Most people think of college as four or more years
concentrating on one specific area called your major.
In reality you spend only about one in every three
classes in your major department. These courses are
very specific and you should consult your major de-
partment office, academic advisor, or the web site for
further information on what exactly needs to be taken
and in what order. There may also be prerequisites
for courses that are required for your major. These
are listed in the degree requirements for your major.
You can always check with your major department
office or your advisor for any updated information.
Some majors also require a minor. A minor is a second area of specialization requiring fewer courses
than a major. Minors usually require a minimum of six courses and there may be further requirements as
to which courses must be taken. It is best to acquire that information from the minor department’s office
or your advisor.
Special Degree requirements: All majors may have special degree requirements which are defined in
the Undergraduate Bulletin.
Your final requirement is elective courses. The number of elective courses required will vary by degree
plan. Again, become familiar with your degree requirements. There are some restrictions on courses and
the best way to know those restrictions is to refer to the Undergraduate Bulletin is to know where to find
them. A good rule to live by is, if in doubt, check with your academic advisor.
Need more information? Check with your advisor, department web site, or the UCA Undergraduate Bulle-
tin on the web at http://www.uca.edu/ubulletin/toc.html.
All undeclared students are advised in the Advising Center along with all incoming freshmen ex-
cept students who have declared a major in the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences. Up-
perclassmen with declared majors and all students who have a declared major in the College of
Health and Behavioral Sciences will have an assigned advisor in their department.
To find out who your academic advisor is log into URSA using your network ID and password.
Click on the Self-Service tab and then click on: Student and Financial Aid, Student Records, then
View Student Info.
If you do not have a major or if you wish to declare or change a major or minor, you will need to
complete an electronic major change form on the Academic Advising Center’s channel under the
“My UCA” tab in your URSA account.
LOCAL BANKING/ LAUNDRY SERVICES 37
ARVEST BANK
Customer Service (501) 379-7700 CENTENNIAL BANK
2850 College Ave., (501) 513-4510 Main Office: 620 Chestnut, (501) 328-4663
West Branch: 945 Salem, (501) 328-4620
BANK OF AMERICA Downtown Branch: 1208 Oak, (501) 328-4691
1-800-432-1000 North Branch: 2690 Donaghey, (501) 328-4664
LAUNDRY SERVICES
Every Residence Hall on campus has laundry facilities available.
FUN WASH
1065 Clayton, (501) 329-9274
LAUNDRY CITY
1430 Old Morrilton Hwy, (501) 932-7624
MODEL CLEANERS
163 Farris Rd (501) 327-0555
1805 E. Oak, (501)327-2627
717 Parkway Ave., (501)329-3221
GENERAL
o Umbrella
o Laundry bag/basket FOR AROUND THE ROOM
(Check with your roommate; you may FOR THE BATHROOM
o Power strips (max of two, 10 only need one of some of these between
the two/three of you!)
o Soap
outlets each)
o Comforter/blanket o Shampoo/conditioner
o Extension cords o Toothbrush & toothpaste
(three-prong & o DVD player
grounded!) o Sheets (size: twin) o Deodorant
o An ethernet cord o TV o Shaving supplies
o A coaxial television cable o Pillows & pillowcases o Brush/comb
o A can opener o CDs o Hair dryer
o Cleaning supplies o Alarm clock – a loud one! o Contact lens supplies/
o Air freshener spare pair of glasses
o Walkman/IPOD/MP3 player/ o Shower bucket – got to get it
o Trash cans/trash bags Stereo
from your room to the
o A small sewing kit o Answering machine/cell shower easily!
phone
o Flashlight o Towels
o Removable hooks for the wall o Full length mirror (back of the o First aid supplies
door)
o Under the bed containers o Decorations: posters, plants,
o Laundry detergent knick knacks, memory
albums
o Lamp THINGS TO LEAVE AT HOME
o Fan
FOR THE CLOSET Ó Candles
o Casual, comfy clothing
FOR YOUR DESK Ó Animals
o Socks
o Address book
o Underwear Ó Toaster
o Computer
(if you are planning on o Shoes
having one) o Bathrobe Ó Potpourri burner
o Dictionary/thesaurus o Pajamas
o Calendar or planner Ó Microwaves
o Shower shoes
(you will get one here!)
o Book bag/back pack
(flip flops are perfect)
Ó No nails or screws
o Hangers
o Sewing kit o Some dressy clothes
o Calculator (just in case!)
o Stapler and staples o Fall & winter coats
o Gloves, hat & scarf
NOW THAT YOU’RE HERE—
ACADEMIC SURVIVAL SKILLS
40 WHAT IS ACADEMIC ADVISING?
The Academic Advising Center is a team of professionals dedicated primarily to assisting first year stu-
dents in defining and achieving their academic goals. In addition, we provide centralized academic ad-
vising services for the UCA Community.
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
DEAN’S OFFICE 450-3175 MAS 100
EARLY CHILDHOOD & SPEC. ED. 450-3172 MAS150
MIDDLE /SECONDARY ED &
INSTRUCTIONAL TECH. 450-3177 MAS 104
BUILDING ABBREVIATIONS
CBH—Baridon Hall MEAD—Meadors Hall
BHCC—Brewer-Hegeman Conf. Ctr. MCS—Math, Computer Sci.& Tech.
BBA—Burdick Business Admin. MH—Main Hall
DENH-Denny Hall NEWH—New Hall
EST—Estes Stadium NMIN—Minton Hall
FC—Farris Center PRIN—Prince Center
HPER—Health/Physical Ed. Bldg PHYT—Physical Therapy Center
DHSC—Doyne Health Sciences Ctr. SFAC—Snow Fine Arts Center
HAR—Harrin Hall SHDY—Short/Denny Hall
HUGH—Hughes Hall SHRT—Short Hall
IRB—Irby Hall SLHC—Speech/Language & Hearing
LAN—Laney Hall Center
LIB—Torreyson Library SRH—Stanley Russ Hall
LSC—Lewis Science Center SSA—Schichtl Studio Arts Building
MAC—McAlister Hall STAT—State Hall
MASH—Mashburn Hall TORW—Torreyson West
MCC—McCastlain Hal WTH—Win Thompson Hall
46 ACADEMIC CALENDAR
1 The Academic Calendar is subject to change and is posted on UCA’s webpage at:
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
http://www.uca.edu/schedule/html/academiccalendar.php
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
FALL SEMESTER 2009
16 17 18 19 20 21 22 August 16-19, Sun-Wed Welcome Week Activities for new freshman and
23 24 25 26 27 28 29 transfer students
August 16, Sunday “Countdown to Classes” Mandatory advising
30 31
session at 3:30 p.m. in Ida Waldran Auditorium
August 17, Monday Opening Convocation
August 20, Thursday Instruction begins - day and evening classes
September 2009 August 22, Saturday Instruction begins - Saturday classes
SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT
August 25, Tuesday Change-of-course period ends
1 2 3 4 5
Last date to register, add classes or change from
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 credit to audit or audit to credit
August 25, Tuesday Academic Success Prog. X-Per., DHSC Auditorium
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
September 1, Tuesday Academic Success Prog. X-Per., DHSC Auditorium
20 21 22 23 24 25 26 September 7, Monday Labor Day Holiday
September 8, Tuesday Academic Success Prog. X-Per., DHSC Auditorium
27 28 29 30
September 15, Tuesday Academic Success Prog. X-Per., DHSC Auditorium
September 18, Friday Final date to make degree application for Dec.
October 2009 graduation
SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT
Final date to officially withdraw from a Aug 20 -
1 2 3
Oct 9 course with a W grade
September 22, Tuesday Academic Success Prog. X-Per., DHSC Auditorium
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 September 25, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Aug 20 -
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
Oct 9 course with a WP or WF grade
September 29, Tuesday Academic Success Prog. X-Per., DHSC Auditorium
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 October 6, Tuesday Academic Success Prog. X-Per., DHSC Auditorium
25 26 27 28 29 30 31 October 8, Thursday MAJORS FAIR SC BALLROOM 12:30-3:00
October 13, Tuesday Final date to add Oct 12 - Dec 11 course
October 13, Tuesday Academic Success Prog. X-Per., DHSC Auditorium
October 14, Wednesday NOON Mid-term grades report date
November 2009 October 15 – 16, Thur/Fri Fall Break
SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT
October 20, Tuesday Academic Success Prog. X-Per., DHSC Auditorium
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 October 27, Tuesday Academic Success Prog. X-Per., DHSC Auditorium
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 October 30, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Aug 20 -
Dec 11 course or the university with a W grade
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
November 2 - 24 Advance Registration
22 23 24 25 26 27 28 November 3, Tuesday Academic Success Prog. X-Per., DHSC Auditorium
November 10, Tuesday Academic Success Prog. X-Per., DHSC Auditorium
29 30
November 13, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Oct 12 -
Dec 11 course with a W grade
November 30, Monday Final date to officially withdraw from a Oct 12 -
December 2009 Dec 11 course with a WP or WF grade
SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT &
1 2 3 4 5 Final date to officially withdraw from a Aug 20 -
Dec 11 course or the university with a WP or a
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
WF grade
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30 31
ACADEMIC CALENDAR 47
November 30, Monday Recommended date to make degree application January 2010
for December 2010 graduation SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT
31
SPRING SEMESTER 2010
January 14, Thursday Instruction begins for the Spring semester - day
and evening classes February 2010
January 16, Saturday Instruction begins - Saturday classes SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT
graduation
February 19, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Jan 14 -
Mar 5 course with a W grade March 2010
February 26, Friday Final date to officially withdraw from a Jan 14 - SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT
1 2 3
May 7 course or the university with a WP or WF
grade 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
April 23, Friday Recommended date to make degree application
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
for May 2011 graduation
April 30, Friday Study Day 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
May 1, Saturday Final Exams - Saturday classes
25 26 27 28 29 30
May 3 - 7, Mon-Fri Final Examinations - day and night classes
May 8, Saturday Spring Commencement
May 11, Tuesday NOON-
Final May 2010
grades SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT
report 1
date 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
48 HOW TO MAKE AN ADVISING APPOINTMENT
The AAC uses an innovative online appointment system called AdvisorTrac where stu-
dents can access their advisor’s calendar through any internet connection 24 hours a
day. The Academic Advising Center Advisors will see students as walk-ins from Wel-
come Week until the change of course period ends which is listed in the academic cal-
endar on page 46 of this book . After this date, appointments will be available. It is
recommended that you make an appointment within the first 3 weeks of class to
meet with your advisor. To make an appointment you will need to have access to a
computer with internet access.
TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
1. Log into URSA. This brings you to the Advisor Availability page.
2. Click on the “My UCA” tab. AdvisorTrac automatically searches for seven days
3. Go to the Advising Center Channel (in the following your sign in date. Extend the search by
center of the page) . changing the date if you need to. Make the date in
4. Click on the AdvisorTrac Logo. the same format as listed.
10. Make sure your advisor is shown.
This brings you to the AdvisorTrac Homepage 11. Click on “Advising” .
Your user id and password for this system is your 12. Click “Search”.
Network ID and PIN just as like you logged into
URSA This will bring up your advisor’s availability. Ap-
5. Type your user id. pointments are made every 30 minutes.
6. Type your password. 13. Click on the time frame that best suits you.
7. Click the “Login” button. 14. A new screen appears. Click on the arrow
next to the time. If multiple selections are of-
This brings you to your home page. All messages fered, choose the time that best suits you.
sent to you by the AdvisorTrac system will be 15. All appointments require a “Need Help in”.
posted on this page until you log out. Your appoint- Click on the arrow and select an option.
ment day and time will also be posted here as well. 16. Click the “Save Appointment” button.
8. Click on “Go To” (located at the top right ). 17. Click on “Go To” at the top of the screen and
9. Click “Make an Appointment”. select “Main Menu”.
18. Click “Exit” to leave the program.
TO CANCEL AN APPOINTMENT
At the login screen: Appointment Page
• Your User Name is the 3rd party ID you used to • Click the DELETE button. Wait until request
log into URSA has been loaded.
• Your password is your six digit PIN. • Click on Main Menu.
• Click on EXIT to end the session or click on
Student Main Screen Make an Appointment to reschedule with your
• Click on date of appointment you wish to advisor.
cancel.
If you need any assistance, please come to the front desk in Harrin 100. Hours are Monday-
Friday 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
BEEN THERE...SHOULDA DONE THAT 49
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
1. READ and UNDERSTAND information contained in the Undergraduate Bulletin .
(http://www.uca.edu/ubulletin/)
2. GO TO CLASS!!! Individual instructors may assign a grade of WF for non-attendance to any stu
dent. Students are responsible for completing any missed work. If possible, talk to your instruct
tor before missing class. Definitely consult with your instructor when you return to class.
3. GRADE FORGIVENESS – a student may repeat in residence (at UCA) a maximum of four
courses in which a D, F, or WF grade is earned. Both grades will remain on the permanent
record, but only the second grade will be used to calculate the grade point average. This option
may be used only once for each specific course. A student must accept, for purposes of grade
forgiveness, the first four courses repeated. No course may be repeated for the purpose of grade
forgiveness after a course for which it is a prerequisite has been passed.
4. PROBATION – a student will be placed on academic probation whenever the semester grade
point average is less the 2.0. A student will be removed from academic probation whenever the
semester grade point average equals or exceeds 2.0 AND the cumulative grade point average
equals or exceeds 2.0.
A student on academic probation who does not achieve a 2.0 semester grade point average AND
does not meet the minimum cumulative average listed below will be academically suspended.
The calculations of hours attempted will include grades A, B,C,D, F, and WF.
A first suspension will be for one academic semester and the summer session. A second sus-
pension will be for one calendar year. A third suspension will be academic dismissal, for an in-
definite period of time. Credit earned at another institution while on academic suspension will
not count toward a degree at UCA.
5. DROP/ADD CLASSES – you will need a drop/add card signed by your advisor.
Deadlines apply.
WITHDRAWALS - You may withdraw without penalty from a class which meets for a full se-
mester with a grade of “W” up to a certain date within the semester. You will still be able to
withdraw from a class, but will the drop classification will be determined from the grade
52 TIPS FOR SUCCESS
you have in the class—Withdrawal Passing (“WP”) or a Withdrawal Failing (“WF”) and may
affect your overall GPA. Check the academic calendar for important deadlines. To
withdraw from a class, see your academic advisor.
To withdraw from the university, go to the Office of the Registrar in room 112 McCastlain
Hall. You must complete paper work and collect signatures from various university offices.
DO NOT assume that you are officially withdrawn because you have stopped attending
classes or have informed your instructors that you are withdrawing. You MUST complete the
official withdrawal process, or you may jeopardize your standing at the university.
CALCULATING YOUR GRADE POINT AVERAGE (G.P.A.)
UCA uses a four-point scale to determine grade point average (GPA). A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, F=0. To
obtain the grade point average, follow these steps: 1) Multiply the number of points for the grade, times
that number of credits for the course. For example, a B in a three-hour course is worth nine points. 2)
Add total grade points earned. 3) Divide by the total hours attempted to obtain the GPA.
COURSE RADE POINTS TOTAL
WRITING 1310 A (3X4) 12
HISTORY 2301 B (3X3) 9
MATH 1390 C (3X2) 6
HEALTH ED 1320 C (2X2) 4
KPED 1121 B (1X3) 3
34TOTA
L 12 34
Semester G.P.A.: 34 Grade Points divided by 12 Credit Hours = 2.833
TRANSFER COURSES
1. There is no limit on the number of credit hours that may be transferred to the university;
however, a maximum of 60 hours transferred from a 2-year institution may be applicable to-
ward a baccalaureate degree. A minimum of 60 hours earned at a 4-year institution is re-
quired for a baccalaureate degree.
2. Normally only credits with A, B, and C grades transfer. The university will, however, accept
for transfer a maximum of 6 hours of credit with D grades, subject to the following conditions:
• The transfer of credits with D grades is available only to first-time entering students at
the time of admission to the university.
• Only the first 6 hours of credit with D grades will be considered.
• Prerequisite rules shall apply to transfer of credits with D grades the same as they do to
UCA credits.
3. Take a copy of your evaluated transcript (s) with you when you meet with your advisor. If
you do not have a copy, you should be able to get one from the Office of Admissions.
4. If you do not agree with your transfer course evaluation, consult with Dr. Terrance Kearns in
the English department for general education courses or with the appropriate department
chair for all other courses.
5. If you are transferring foreign language credits and intend to enroll in additional courses in
that language, you may need to take a language placement examination. Contact the World
Languages office in room 207 of Irby Hall for information.
6. Your transfer courses should be recorded as part of your UCA file between mid-term and the
end of your first semester. Check online via your URSA account . Click on the Self-Service
tab, Student & Financial Aid, Student Records, Academic Transcript.
7. Please note that course credits transfer but not the grade point average. Your UCA grade
point average will be determined by the grades you make at UCA. Transfer credit is desig-
nated by the level at which it is earned (lower division - L or upper division - U).
TIPS FOR SUCCESS 53
FINDING A MAJOR
UCA’s web site offers a number of resources for exploring majors:
1. Discover Program through Career Services in Bernard Hall 314. Call 450.3134 to make an ap-
pointment.
2. Model Plans of Study are located on the UCA web site at http://www.uca.edu/model/. You can
check this site for model (suggested) four-year plans of study for many of the majors offered at
UCA. This is a good source of information if you are trying to determine a major.
3. Check the web site for the college and/or department offering the major in which you are inter-
ested at http://www.uca.edu/info/depts.php If you are interested in business, education, or health
sciences, these sites will give you more updated information than you will find in the four-year
plans.
4. If you want information about specific careers, the job market, etc, contact UCA Career Services,
which is located in Bernard Hall 314, telephone: 450.3134 or check out any of the following web
sites (enter websites EXACTLY as shown):
A. America’s Career Infonet http://www.acinet.org/
This site contains occupational information that will increase your overall understanding of
the job market, including supply/demand and salaries.
B. Career Planit http://www.jobweb.com/
Advice and resources designed to help college students find a satisfying major
C. Career Zone http://www.nycareerzone.org/
Important information on hundreds of careers
D. ONET http://online.onetcenter.org/
Occupational information on over 950 jobs
E. Prentice Hall Student Success Site http://www.prenhall.com/success/MajorExp/
index.html
Explore majors and other career planning material
F. The Princeton Review Career Site http://www.review.com/career/index.cfm
G. Myjobsearch.com http:/www.myjobsearch.com
As you will soon learn, college is very different from high school. In general, as a college student you
are considered an adult and as an adult you are responsible for your own choices —whether good or
bad. The following are comparisons you may have had in high school and what you can expect on the
college level.
Most of your classes are arranged for you. You arrange your own schedule in consultation with your
academic advisor. Schedules tend to look lighter than they
really are.
The school year is 36 weeks long; some classes extend over The academic year is divided into two separate 17-week
both semesters and some do not. semesters, plus a week after each semester for exams.
Teachers frequently rearrange test dates to avoid conflict with Professors in different courses usually schedule tests without
school events. regard to the demands of other courses or outside activities.
Teachers frequently conduct review sessions, pointing out the Professors rarely offer review sessions, and when they do,
most important concepts. they expect you to be an active participant, one who comes
prepared with questions.
Mastery is usually seen as the ability to reproduce what you Mastery is often seen as the ability to apply what you’ve
were taught in the form in which it was presented to you, or to learned to new situations or to solve new kinds of problems.
solve the kinds of problems you were shown how to solve.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE 55
♦ Go to Class!
♦ Turn off all cell phones, pagers, etc. before class starts.
♦ Go to class on time with assignments completed.
♦ Study 3 hours for every hour of class. If you are taking 12 hours, plan to study for 36 hours a week.
(College really is a Full-Time Job!)
♦ Pay attention to announcements made at the start and end of class.
♦ Prepare to take notes before class starts.
♦ Be attentive, take notes, and ask questions.
♦ Proofread your papers. Keep copies of your papers.
♦ Know the names of all your professors and where their offices are located.
♦ Visit with your professors during their office hours. Make appointments to see professors at times
other than office hours.
♦ Visit with your academic or faculty advisor at least twice a semester.
♦ Know where you can find assistance with academic, health, and personal problems. Use these ser-
vices. Your tuition and fees pay for them!
♦ Keep lines of communication open. Talk with parents, friends, and professors.
♦ Be considerate and respectful of your fellow students.
♦ Develop a sense of belonging. Get involved and make friends.
♦ Much learning takes place outside the classroom. Attend campus events. There are lots of work-
shops, guest speakers, athletic events, club activities, music, art and theater performances, and
more. Check campus bulletin boards, the Office of Student Activities, and the UCA Today web site
for information.
♦ Learn to use the library.
♦ Manage time and money well.
♦ Check your URSA e-mail account daily.
♦ Get enough sleep.
♦ You will have much more freedom. Use it wisely. You are responsible for your own actions!
♦ Be prepared to work hard. This is not high school.
STUDY TIPS
4
SERIOUS STUDENTS
«Understand that studying is not just reading.
«Choose a day each week to review ahead for at least the next week.
«Plan your study time.
«review.
Rewrite your notes the day of that lecture. Review your notes daily. Plan a time for a weekly note
«Try to prepare for each lecture by pre-reading the material in your text. You will find that you will
understand the lecture better if you have some basic background. This preparation is one that very
few students take seriously.
«Learn to identify main points and not get bogged down in details. Professors often give cues to
what's important by repeating information, changing their voices or rate of delivery, listing items in
order of importance, and, of course, by writing on the chalkboard.
«Use different colors when taking notes. Our brains love to associate memories with colors. You
may want to go through your notes and write potential study or test questions in red. Use symbols
as a memory jogger. Ex. A “T’ with a circle around it could be a test question of exam. An “!” could
indicate that the instructor emphasized a particular point.
TOP 10
TEST TAKING
TIPS
üBe prepared. Start test preparation the day the test is announced: Complete all home work and
reading assignments on time. Take good notes, and rewrite and review them immediately after
class. Regularly review all of your class notes. Participate in test review sessions.
üIf you need help, talk with your instructor as soon as possible. Don’t wait until the last minute.
üGet a good night’s sleep the night before the exam.
üArrive early for the exam.
üTake any needed tools or supplies with you to the exam—pencils paper, pens, a calculator, blue
books, etc.
üListen closely to the instructor’s verbal instructions and read any printed instructions on the exam.
If you don’t understand any part of the instructions, ask questions.
üIf you “blank out” or feel panicky, stop and try to relax. Take deep breaths and try to clear your
mind before you turn your attention back to the exam.
üAnswer all questions on the exam, even if you have to guess at answers.
CLASSROOM DO’S AND DON’TS 59
√ DON’T BE DISTRACTING: In the workplace, you know that staff meetings can be
disrupted by a co-worker who spills coffee, whispers to a neighbor, or taps a pencil
incessantly while others are trying to talk. A classroom is no different. Don’t fidget, eat,
rustle papers, whisper, pass notes, or otherwise distract and make sure your cell phone
does not go off during class.
√ DO ARRIVE ON TIME: You’ll disrupt the class if you consistently come late. If you
have a problem arriving on time, discuss it with your instructor. If coming late is
unavoidable, remove your coat and take out your notebook and pen before you enter
the classroom, take the first available seat, and make sure you catch up.
60 POINTERS FROM PROFESSORS
1. ...accept PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY, see- 1. ...see themselves as Victims, believing that what
ing themselves as the primary cause of their out- happens to them is determined primarily by exter-
comes and experiences. nal forces such as fate, luck, and powerful others.
2. ...discover SELF-MOTIVATION, finding purpose 2. ...have difficulty sustaining motivation, often feel-
in their lives by discovering personally meaningful ing depressed, frustrated, and/or resentful about a
goals and dreams. lack of direction in their lives.
4. ...employ INTERDEPENDENCE, building mutu- 4. ...are solitary, seldom requesting, even rejecting,
ally supportive relationships that help them achieve offers of assistance from those who could help.
their goals and dreams (while helping others do the
same).
6. ...adopt LIFE-LONG LEARNING, finding 6. ...resist learning new ideas and skills, viewing
valuable lessons and wisdom in nearly every ex- learning as fearful or boring rather than as mental
perience they have. play.
7. ...develop EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE, effec- 7. ...live at the mercy of strong emotions such as
tively managing their emotions in support of their anger, depression, anxiety, or a need for instant
goals and dreams. gratification.
8. ...BELIEVE IN THEMSELVES, seeing them- 8. ...doubt their competence and personal value,
selves capable, lovable and unconditionally worthy feeling inadequate to create their desired outcomes
human beings. and experiences.
From Skip Downing. On course; Strategies for Creating Success in College and in Life. Houghton Mifflin
62 GENERAL POINTERS FOR TAKING CLASS NOTES
GENERAL POINTERS
FOR TAKING CLASS NOTES
Be prepared with a notebook and at least two pens or writing implements. If you are an auditory
learner, ask your instructor if you may tape record lectures. Even if you record lectures, also
take notes.
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
Keep a folder for each class in which you can collect and organize handouts.
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
Choose a seat where you can hear easily and can see the lecturer, the chalkboard, or any vis-
ual aids such as an overhead projector or map.
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
Avoid sitting near distractions such as a friend, a window, or a source of noise (such as an air
conditioner or heater.)
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
Listen for cues from the instructor. Some lecturers:
• Pause before an important point
• Write an important point on the board
• Repeat an important point
• Make a point, give examples, and then repeat the point
• Change volume or inflection before an important point
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
Summarize rather than attempt to copy every word.
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
Write in outline form rather than in paragraph form.
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
Underline main ideas.
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
Fill in points right after the lecture. While the class is still fresh in your mind, jot down some
words or phrases to remind you about the most important ideas of the lecture or discussion and
make a note of material to reread or study. If you have a tape recorder, make verbal notes of
ideas to study or to follow up in your reading.
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
If your instructor tells you that certain material will be tested, make sure to identify this material
by starring, underlining, or highlighting it.
NOW THAT YOU’RE HERE—
CAMPUS SURVIVAL SKILLS
64 CONTROL STRESS BEFORE IT CONTROLLS YOU
A good plan for everyone to take is finding ways to deal with the every day pressure and stress in a
very proactive manner. We have a few words of wisdom that can help you with this somewhat over-
whelming task.
LEARN TO RELAX
Sounds a bit strange but it is true. By learning to relax, you are able to focus on what is at hand and be
more productive.
REGULAR EXERCISE
This is something that helps to alleviate the physical tension thus relieving stress, and it also keeps you
healthy and energized. You can go to the HPER Center located on campus where they offer two fit-
ness rooms with cardio and weightlifting equipment. They also offer aerobic and other exercise
classes.
SLEEP
Getting the right amount of sleep at the right time you will find yourself much happier and more produc-
tive. Not sleeping for a couple of nights and then sleeping for 16 hours to make up for it is not the best
way to avoid stress.
Don’t neglect the spiritual aspect of your life. Every person is different and what works for your room-
mate or your best friend, may not work or you. We cannot give you all the answers but that’s what your
time here at UCA is all about – finding the answers. Volunteer to help others – few things can make
you feel better than helping someone else.
There are many volunteer opportunities such as the local Boys & Girls Club, Senior Citizens Center
and Conway Housing Authority. For more information on handling stress, contact the UCA Counseling
Center at 450-3138.
♦ Write down your goals and the necessary ac- ♦ Say “NO” to unreasonable requests.
tions to achieve those goals. ♦ Use clear communication and practice active
♦ Set priorities for your goals. listening to be sure that you understand what
♦ Organize and schedule your activities on the other people say.
basis of your priorities. ♦ Be ruthless with time, but always gracious with
♦ Use calendars – weekly, quarterly and annual people.
♦ Set realistic deadlines with intermediate check- ♦ If in a leadership position, recruit other students,
points. delegate, and make assignments.
♦ Look at and review your goals and actions sev- ♦ Keep track of how you are spending your time.
eral times a month. ♦ Make the most of your peak-energy periods.
♦ Put 80% of your effort into the top 20% of your ♦ Use time saving techniques.
responsibilities. ♦ Use filing systems.
♦ Plan ahead for contingencies and leave “space” ♦ Develop routines.
in your plans for the unexpected.
HOW DO COLLEGE STUDENTS HANDLE TIME MANAGEMENT? 65
Your Vehicle
14. Carpool as often as possible. Grocery shop together!ý
15. Maintain the air pressure in your tires. You lose 1% of gas mileage if all four tires are 1 PSI too low or
$15 for every 10,000 miles you drive. Most cars are 5–10 PSI too low, which can be up to $200 per
year or $3.50 per week!ýý
16. Clean the air filter in your car and save 7% on fuel costs or $100 in gas for every 10,000 miles you
drive.ý
17. If you use credit cards, find one that gives free gasoline.
Make it a game!
Challenge your friends!
Who can save the most?
How much
can you save?
Can you save 1.70 per day?
That’s $50 per month.
That’s $600 per year!
The mission of the counseling center is one of education. The definition of goals, acquisition of knowl-
edge, and development of skills are central to the educational process. The primary aim of the counsel-
ing center is to enable students to achieve their goals and thereby develop to their fullest potential.
PERSONAL COUNSELING
Individual counseling is provided to help a person develop better coping strategies, resolve conflicts,
and handle crisis situations. Typical issues include:
♦ College Adjustment
♦ Depressed Mood
♦ Decision-Making
♦ Anxiety
♦ Relationship Concerns
♦ Family Problems
♦ Divorce Adjustment
♦ Intimacy
The Counseling Center uses a brief counseling model with a limit of 10 sessions of individual counsel-
ing, per student, in a one year period. Individuals who require longer term therapy will be provided with
referral sources.
GROUP COUNSELING
Group Counseling is available to assist persons who share similar concerns. The size of a group is
generally from 4-10 members. Groups that may be offered include:
♦ Divorce Adjustment
♦ Incest Survivors
♦ Eating Disorders
♦ Bulimic Support
♦ Assertiveness Training
♦ Stress Management
♦ Healthy Relationships
OUTREACH PROGRAMMING
Presentations, workshops, and seminars are given as requested for classes, residence halls, groups,
and organizations. Certain programs are planned in advance by counseling staff and are advertised
each semester. Among the topics presented are:
♦ Relationships
♦ Managing Emotions
♦ Self Improvement/Understanding
♦ Stress Management
♦ Depression
CONSULTATION
Counseling Center staff meet with individuals, small groups, organizations, and departments to assist
them in defining issues and developing strategies to deal with concerns.
Examples include:
♦ “I have a friend who needs counseling. What should I do?”
♦ “We want to improve relationships among our members. How do we go about that?“
♦ “There seems to be quite a bit of stress in our department. What can we do?”
REFERRAL
The Counseling Center maintains an extensive list of resources available in this area and can provide
suggestions for referral. Private practitioners, physicians, substance abuse treatment centers, and hu-
man service agencies are among some of the resources we can help to locate.
EMERGENCIES
An on-call counselor is available at 501-450-3138 from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Students living in university housing are also provided after hours emergency assistance. CALL
UNIVERSITY POLICE AT 501-450-3111 after 4:30 p.m.
CONFIDENTIALITY
The UCA Counseling Center follows the ethical guidelines of the American Psychological Association
and the American Counseling Association. Except in certain emergencies, information is released to no
one outside the Counseling Center staff without the written permission of the individual.
TRAINING
The Counseling Center also serves as a site for the training of graduate students in counseling. They
provide personal counseling under the supervision of the professional staff.
ACCREDITATION
The UCA Counseling Center is accredited by the International Association of Counseling Services.
Career Services is designed to assist students in maximizing their college career by preparing for
graduation through guidance and resources for undergraduates and graduate students, and alumni for
their life-long career development. The Career Services Department offers such services as:
ON CAMPUS INTERVIEWS
Want a job but just can’t make it to the interview with your busy schedule? Within our services, the in-
terviewers come to you! Our office attracts employers including private business and industries, gov-
ernment agencies, schools and other educational organizations to interview students for employment.
This is something you’ll definitely want to be a part of your senior year.
COMPANY INFORMATION
Need information about a specific company? Come in and receive all the literature you’ll ever want at
your fingertips!
TEACHER’S FAIR
Come meet with the Districts! Future teachers are encouraged to attend to meet representatives from
schools in the state and out of state.
CAREER FAIR
Come rub elbows with people who have the career you desire! Students from all majors are welcome
to meet representatives from a variety of companies who are searching for new employees. This fair
will be held in November and March.
The Office of Cooperative Education, located in Bernard Hall room 209, helps eligible UCA students to
identify opportunities for these experiences. Students are coached on the placement process: com-
plete an application, submit a resume and are placed in an applicant pool. Cooperative Education is
an experiential learning activity involving a three-way partnership between the student, the university,
and an employer. These experiences permit students to enhance skills and knowledge obtained in the
classroom, solidify career decisions, gain work experience and develop career related networks. Stu-
dents are paid in many of these experiences. Some experiences permit students to earn academic
credit through internships.
DEPARTMENTS AND SERVICES OFFERED 71
Ÿ Develop partnerships across campus with student-centered offices and faculty to help the uni-
versity improve ethnic minority retention rates.
Ÿ Collaborate with other student service components on campus to provide support to underrep-
resented populations on campus.
Ÿ Increase ethnic minority student involvement in university leadership opportunities.
Ÿ Provide programs and services that will instill a university-wide appreciation for diverse per-
spectives and ensure equal levels of inclusion and participation.
Ÿ Work in conjunction with student organizations to provide programming that promotes the com-
munication and exchange of multicultural perspectives and values.
It begins with the Transitions Workshop. Transitions is a week-long event focusing on getting freshmen
students acquainted with campus life and meeting new people. During Transitions, freshmen are
paired with an upper-class, student peer-advisor to help them navigate the transition from high school
to college. Peer advisors work with students throughout their freshman year. The Mentorship Program
has events scheduled throughout the year to support both academic and social growth.
Mentorship Program students are experiencing success in their academic and co-curricular activities.
They are involved in and leading organizations on campus such as the Student Government Associa-
tion, Students for the Propagation of Black Culture, SOS, UCA Ambassadors, fraternities, sororities,
and many other student organizations.
Disability Support Services (DSS) at the University of Central Arkansas is committed to compliance
with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and other relevant state
and federal legislation. The goal of DSS is to maximize each student’s educational potential while help-
ing him or her develop and maintain independence. Our philosophy is one that encourages self-
awareness, self-determination, self-advocacy and independence in a comprehensively accessible envi-
ronment. While complying with the letter of the law, DSS also embraces the spirit by providing services
to all students with permanent or temporary disabilities to ensure that all University programs and ac-
tivities are accessible.
You are encouraged to visit the Office of Disability Support and learn more about the services available
to you. Early planning is essential for many of the resources and accommodations provided so we ask
that you contact us at the earliest possible date in order for us to assist with your needs.
The decision to use services is a matter of individual choice. Our experience has been that students
achieve higher levels academic and personal success when they demonstrate initiative and assertive-
ness, begin preparing for college of graduate school early, and are aware of and can communicate
their strengths and weaknesses along with appropriate accommodations. The student’s responsibility
is to become informed about and to make use of the resources and services available.
72 DEPARTMENTS AND SERVICES OFFERED
DSS will respond to telephone inquiries and referrals by sending the appropriate or requested informa-
tion about the Disability Support Services, as well as an invitation to visit the University. Prospective
students are encouraged to visit the University and DSS prior to the start of their first semester.
Specific goals of the office are as follows:
Ÿ Develop partnerships across campus with student-centered offices and faculty to help
the university improve ethnic minority retention rates
Ÿ Collaborate with other student service components on campus to provide support to un-
derrepresented populations on campus.
Ÿ Increase ethnic minority student involvement in university leadership opportunities
Ÿ Provide programs and services that will instill a university-wide appreciation for diverse
perspectives and ensure equal levels of inclusion and participation.
Ÿ Work in conjunction with student organizations to provide programming that promotes
the communication and exchange of multicultural perspectives and values.
Student Health Services provides essential health care services which enhance the ability of students
to be academically successful and develop the life skills and attitudes of healthy, productive members
of society. Services provided include:
♦ Treatment for minor illnesses and inju- lected lab tests)
ries ♦ Blood Pressure Monitoring
♦ Vaccines (MMR, tetanus/diphtheria) ♦ Health-related literature
♦ Hepatitis-B vaccine (fee required) ♦ Pregnancy tests (fee required)
♦ Meningitis vaccine (fee required) ♦ TB (tuberculosis) skin tests (except
♦ Crutch loan Thursdays) (fee required)
♦ Allergy injections, physician-ordered ♦ Physicals (by appointment only)
♦ Physician-ordered treatments (i.e. se- ♦ PAP smears (by appointment only)
The mission of Campus Recreation is to provide students, faculty, and staff with programs that offer com-
petitive, non-competitive, health promoting, and physical activity conducive to their personal development
and overall wellness within safe facilities and fun-filled environments. The department also provides lead-
ership development opportunities for students and participants. The department personnel recognize the
value of developing the total person and feel that recreational and intramural sports are an essential
component of the educational experience at UCA.
DEPARTMENTS AND SERVICES OFFERED 73
The UCA Office of Health and Wellness works to keep UCA students informed of numerous issues that
affect their lives daily such as stress management, self-image, and sexual health. Resources available
to students include various pamphlets, brochures, & videos which are available for checkout.
The Office of Health and Wellness offers several programs for UCA students, including Drug/Alcohol
Education Classes, RA Drug/Alcohol Training, and health related presentations to any UCA organiza-
tion. The office supports the Recognized Student Organizations H.E.L.P. and 80 PROOF:
H.E.L.P. was designed for students interested in Health and Wellness issues, specifically those regard-
ing HIV/AIDS and making a difference on campus. This student organization is instrumental in the
planning World AIDS Day.
80 PROOF is a Peer Education Group designed to help reduce the negative consequences of alcohol
abuse by promoting responsible attitudes and behaviors regarding alcohol consumption.
STUDENT CENTER
Phone: 450-3235
http://www.uca.edu/divisions/student/studentcenter/
The UCA Student Center is centrally located on campus and serves as a hub of campus activities and
services. You can find the following offices and services in the Student Center:
“The Bear” 91.3 KUCA FM Radio – Basement Greek Services & Leadership Development – 2nd
Barnes & Noble Bookstore – 1st Floor Floor
Food Court – 1st Floor Orientation – 2nd Floor
Post Office – 1st Floor Student Activities – 2nd Floor
C-Store – 1st Floor SGA – 2nd Floor
Java City – 1st Floor RSO Resource Center – 2nd Floor
There are also several lounges, meeting rooms, a ballroom, and conference-style rooms for studying,
relaxing, or student organization meetings. These rooms can be booked by calling the Calendar Office
at 450-5270.
The Student Activities (SAB) is an organization that provides fun and exciting activities for the UCA cam-
pus. SAB consists of five committees: Music, Comedy, Pop Culture, Films, and Novelty. Past performers
by the SAB include: Jimmy Fallon, Lifehouse, Michelle Branch, Pat Green, Jimmy Eat World, The Call-
ing, Train, D.L. Hughley, Taking Back Sunday, Dave Chapelle plus much more! Visit us at www.uca.edu/
divisions/student/activities/ to learn how you can get involved.
74 DEPARTMENTS AND SERVICES OFFERED
ORIENTATION
Student Center 206 Phone: 450-3235
http://www.uca.edu/orientation
The mission of the Office of Orientation is to coordinate and implement a process to:
♦ Assist new students with their academic, personal, cultural, and social transition to UCA
♦ Expose new students to the broad educational opportunities within the institution
♦ Integrate new students into the life of the institution
♦ Assist the institution in learning more about its entering students, and
♦ Provide an opportunity for new students and their families to become familiar with institu-
tional policies, programs, and resources.
To achieve its mission, the Office of Orientation offers a variety of programs and services including:
♦ Summer Orientation and Academic Registration (SOAR) programs in June for incoming
freshmen and their parents
♦ A four-day program at the start of the Fall semester called Welcome Week
♦ Resource Fair for new students on the first day of classes in January
♦ An orientation guide for new students and parents
The Orientation Office relies on volunteer students to conduct its programs for freshmen and transfer
students. These two organizations are the Student Orientation Staff (SOS) and Transfer Orientation
Leader (TOL). These students are selected through an application and interview process every March,
and begin training in April.
The Greek system at the University of Central Arkansas offers you an opportunity for involvement that is
truly unique. Scholarship, leadership, brotherhood & sisterhood, community service, and social activities
are the key elements of the 18 fraternities and sororities at UCA. We believe that one of the best ways to
get the most out of your college years is through the Greek experience. The opportunities for involve-
ment and participation are numerous, and we encourage you to take a good look at what our Greek com-
munity has to offer.
FUTURE GREEKS FAQ
How can Greek life help me succeed academically?
Greek letter organizations were founded on the principle of successful scholarship. Academic success is
in the student’s favor when you factor in help from fellow sisters and brothers, study halls and sessions,
study skills workshops, test taking strategies, time management and class scheduling assistance. The
Greek community also provides a number of incentives and recognition to those Greeks who achieve
academically. For example, UCA’s Greek community’s grade point average is consistently higher than
that of the all university average. Many chapters also provide incentives to their members who excel in
the classroom; recognition at meetings, reduced fees, national awards and much more.
Does being a member of a Greek letter organization have benefits after graduation?
With the job market becoming increasingly competitive, a college degree no longer guarantees a suc-
cessful career. In today’s job market it is not only important what you know, but who you know. When
someone joins a fraternity or sorority, they not only become friends with the families, friends, and girl-
friends or boyfriends of those members as well. Members are also introduced to alumni of their chapters
all over the country. By joining a Greek letter organization, a person can create an entire network of peo-
ple, from which could possibly become an employer, a spouse, or a lifelong friend.
DEPARTMENTS AND SERVICES OFFERED 75
The Donald W. Reynolds Performance Hall on the UCA Campus opened on September 15, 2000, with a
sold-out concert by the late Ray Charles. Mr. Charles was backed by the University’s Concert Choir and
members of both the UCA Chamber Orchestra and Conway Symphony Orchestra. Since then, the 1200-
seat Reynolds Performance Hall has hosted numerous celebrities, including the Temptations, Ms.
Gladys Knight, the Irish Tenor Ronan Tynan, Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons, mezzo-soprano Denyce
Graves, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, and many national and international touring companies.
The Donald W. Reynolds Foundation made a $5.6-million grant to the University in 1997. UCA raised
$1.13-million to fund the Reynolds Endowment Fund, which assures that the Performance Hall will be
maintained as a first-class building in Conway, Arkansas, for the foreseeable future. Reynolds Perform-
ance Hall is managed by UCA Public Appearances, a division of the College of Fine Arts & Communica-
tion.
.“THE BEAR 91.3” KUCA-FM
Suite 01 Student Center Basement Phone: 450-3326
UCA has its own student-operated radio station “The Bear 91.3” and is sponsored by the Student Gov-
ernment Association. The radio station, which has a 5,000 watt signal and covers central Arkansas,
broadcast a top 40 rock format as well as campus news, weather, UCA sports and other events. The
76 DEPARTMENTS AND SERVICES OFFERED
station also gives students the opportunity to host their own radio shows with the music of their choice.
For more information, contact Monty Rowell at 450-3326 or Steve Owens at 450-5467.
We accept cash, personal checks with proper ID, VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, &
Barnes & Noble Bookstores Gift Certificates & Gift Cards.
SERVICES OFFERED
CAMPUS MINISTRIES
Ÿ Alabaster Dance Ÿ Elevation Ÿ Missionary Baptist Student
Ÿ Apostolic Students for Christ Ÿ Friends of Christ Uniting Fellowship
Ÿ Assoc. of Baptist Students Ÿ Students Ÿ Sons of Adam
Ÿ Baptist Collegiate Ministry Ÿ Griot Society Ÿ Student Mobilization
Ÿ Bears for Christ Ÿ Interdenominational Christian Ÿ Wesley Foundation
Ÿ Breakout Council Ÿ Words of Wisdom
Ÿ Campus Ministry International Ÿ Judah Chorale Collegiate Ÿ Young Life Fellowship
Ÿ Catholic Campus Ministry Choir
Ÿ Chi Alpha Christian Ÿ Lutheran Student Fellowship
Fellowship
THE ECHO
Student Center Phone: 450-3446
http://echo.uca.edu/
The Echo is UCA’s independent newspaper. It is written by UCA students and published every
Wednesday morning. The Echo supplies students and faculty with schedules of upcoming events as
well as information about issues of importance to UCA students and faculty. It highlights recent events,
gives opinions of UCA students and faculty on certain issues, presents feature stories about visitors of
UCA, and highlights sports events and sports schedules.
BAUM GALLERY
McCastlain Hall Phone: 450-5793
http://www.uca.edu/cfac/baum/
The Baum Gallery is an educational art museum for UCA students, faculty, and staff. It serves as a cul-
tural resource for the state, participates in national and international touring exhibitions and programs,
and curates original exhibits distinctly suited to an academic environment. The gallery develops exhibi-
tions and events that invite interaction and encourage dialogue about visual art: the creators, studio
process, history, criticism, curation, and cultural contexts.
The Baum Gallery is open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Thursday 9am-8pm, and on Sunday 1-5pm.
Weekday opening receptions are held on designated Thursdays from 4-6pm. Weekend receptions are
held on designated Sundays from 2-4pm. Additional events are publicized individually. All events are
free. The public is invited.
DEPARTMENTS AND SERVICES OFFERED 77
FINANCIAL AID
McCastlain 001 Phone: 450-3140
http://www.uca.edu/divisions/admin/finaid/
What types of financial aid do I apply for when I complete this application?
Your eligibility for all forms of federal financial aid, including PELL Grant, SEOG Grant, ACG Grant,
SMART Grant, Perkins Loan, FFELP Loans, Work-Study are determined when you complete the
FAFSA.
I sent in my FAFSA over four weeks ago, but haven’t heard anything. What should I do?
If you haven’t received a Student Aid Report (SAR), call the Federal processor at 1-319-337-5665 or 1-
800-433-3243.
I am independent of my parents. I don’t live with them, I file my own taxes, and they are not helping me
with college expenses. Can I file for financial aid without using their income information?
Probably not. The federal aid programs are built on the premise that educating a child is a family re-
sponsibility. It is unfortunate that your parents do not support you in this effort. However, the FAFSA
gives specific criteria for determining when a student may file for federal aid without using parental in-
come information, and none of the circumstances you mentioned are listed as factors in that determi-
nation. However, if there are other extenuating circumstances please feel free to contact the financial
aid office for further assistance.
HOW IS THE RESIDENCE HALL ROOM FURNISHED AND WHAT IS THE ROOM SIZE?
Each room comes furnished with a chest of drawers, bed with mattress, desk and chair, mini blinds,
sink, cable television jack, computer jack, mirror, and counter/ storage space.
The dimensions for the following are:
Arkansas Hall: 13’6’ W by 12’6’ L
Baridon Hall: 11’6 W by 12’6’ L
Bernard Hall: 13’4 W by 18’6’ L
Carmichael Hall: 12’6’ W by 15’ L
Conway Hall: 12’6’ W by 15’ L
Hughes Hall: 12’6’ W by 13’9’ L
State Hall: 12’6’ W by 13’9’ L
HOW ARE THE APARTMENTS FURNISHED AND WHAT IS THE BEDROOM SIZE?
Each apartment comes furnished with a love seat and chair in the living room, a dining set or bar
stools in the kitchen/dining area, cable jack in the living room, & computer jack in each bedroom.
Each bedroom comes with a chest of drawers, bed with mattress, desk and chair. Each window
comes with mini blinds.
devices may be rented through UCA services. Information regarding pick up times and location will be
noted in the information packet. Rental prices vary from year to year. To inquire about renting a mi-
crofridge call 1-888-929-0806.
Open element appliances, microwave ovens, sun lamps, air conditioners, outside antennae/satellite
dishes, potpourri pots, halogen lamps, outdoor grills, space heaters, explosives, fireworks, firearms, alco-
hol, lofts, pets other than a fish, weapons, etc.
MEAL PLANS
CAMPUS DINING SERVICES
purchase, the total cost of your meal is subtracted from the dollar balance in your account. Declining
Dollars can be used at your discretion throughout the fall and spring semesters and are accepted at
ALL campus dining locations.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON’T USE ALL THE MONEY I'VE DEPOSITED INTO THE ACCOUNT?
Refunds may be applied for by the BearBucks cardholder, in person or in writing at the end of the semes-
ter in which they graduate or anytime during the semester if the cardholder officially withdraws from
classes at UCA. There will be a $30.00 administrative fee upon closing your BearBucks account.
DID YOU KNOW?
In 1986, UCA's Torreyson Library became the first computerized or automated library in the State of Arkansas.
TORREYSON LIBRARY
Phone: 450-3129
http://library.uca.edu/
HOURS
Online services are available 24/7. Building hours during fall and spring semesters are Sunday,
2 P.M. to 12 Midnight; Monday - Thursday, 7 A.M. to 12 Midnight; Friday, 7 A.M. to 5 P.M.; and Satur-
day 8:30 A.M. to 4 P.M. The Library's "Night Owl Study Room" is open Sunday through Thursday,
from Midnight to 7 A.M. Hours vary during finals week, summer semesters, holidays, and intersession
periods. For additional information, please call 501-450-3129, 501-450-5224 or visit Library.uca.edu.
ARKLINK
As a member of the ARKLink consortium, Torreyson Library can provide students with an ARKLink bor-
rower's card, giving them borrowing privileges at dozens of academic libraries throughout Arkansas.
Please inquire about this service at the Circulation Desk.
Daily overdue fines are not charged. However, once materials are eight weeks overdue, student bor-
rowers will be billed for the replacement cost of the item, as determined by the Library. In addition,
DEPARTMENTS AND SERVICES OFFERED 83
Torreyson Library reserves the right to revoke Library privileges, block transcripts, and block course
Registration if materials are not returned on time. Charges for damaged materials will vary according
to the extent of the damage.
The Library's main book collection is arranged on the shelves by the Library of Congress Classification
system. Books in the Children's Room are arranged by the Dewey Decimal system.
COMPUTER ACCESS
Ninety-five desktop workstations (including five Macintosh) are available for student use in the east
wing of the Library 1st floor. These workstations offer access to the Microsoft Office suite of products
(Word, Excel, etc.), campus network resources, the internet, the Library's book catalog, and the Li-
brary's collection of electronic resources. Wireless internet access is provided throughout the building.
The second floor, east wing is specially configured with furniture and electrical outlets to accommodate
laptops, and laptops are available for in-building loan at the Circulation Desk.
ELECTRONIC RESOURCES
Over 55 research collections are available through the library website. These collections provide ac-
cess to business information, legal information, current events, and to full text journal, magazine, and
newspaper articles in the humanities, social sciences, life sciences, and applied sciences.
GOVERNMENT DOCUMENTS
Government Documents As a federal and Arkansas document depository, Torreyson Library collects
information published by both the U.S. and Arkansas governments. Most documents are available for
checkout, and many are accessible through the internet
INTERLIBRARY LOAN
This service provides students with access to materials such as books, articles, and media not owned
by Torreyson Library. Requests may be submitted via the Library's website or at the Library Reference
Desk.
PRINTING
Library printers operate on the “OneCard" system and require that students scan their UCA ID card.
Printing charges are $.05 per page using the OneCard system and $.10 per page for cash transac-
tions.
REFERENCE SERVICES
Library Faculty are available at the Reference Desk to give students personalized help in doing re-
search and finding information required for course assignments. Students may also receive assistance
by phone at 501-450-5224, or by email via the Library’s website.
RESERVE MATERIALS
Course reserve materials are available for checkout at the Circulation Desk and/or electronically via the
Library's website.
84 DEPARTMENTS AND SERVICES OFFERED
Safe@UCA
The UCA Police Department is pleased to announce the availability of brand new services offered to
the UCA community in the interest of safety and security on campus.
The Safe@UCA Info Line is active 24 hours a day to allow members of the community to call and listen
to a recorded message regarding the status of the university or to receive instructions or information
about emergencies or closures affecting the UCA campus. During an emergency or closure, the re-
corded message will be updated periodically with the latest information or instructions.
You are invited to preview the Safe@UCA Info Line by calling 852-INFO (4636).
In addition to the Safe@UCA Info Line we also have established the Safe@UCA email listserv for
those members of the UCA community who do not have access to listservs provided exclusively to stu-
dents or faculty and staff. Parents, visitors, neighbors, or anyone who would like to receive safety and
crime alerts via their personal email account, are invited to register.
Please visit the UCA Police Department Web site at www.ucapd.com to sign up for the Safe@UCA
email listserv.
We are also pleased to announce release of the next phase of implementation of AlertXpress at UCA.
At present, approximately 300 University administrators and key faculty and staff are registered to re-
ceive voice message alerts via telephone in the event of emergencies on campus. We are now ready
to open AlertXpress registration to all UCA faculty and staff.
To register for AlertXpress please log on to URSA and visit the UCA Police Department channel under
the Resources tab.
Through these and our many other efforts to protect and serve the academic community, the UCA Po-
lice Department is committed to maintaining our excellent quality of life on campus.
The Mathematics Lab provides tutoring and help for UCA students enrolled in College Algebra and
Trigonometry. The hours of operation for the lab are 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Thursday and 8 a.m. –
12 p.m. on Friday.
The primary mission of the UCA Writing Center is to help students become more confident, more effec-
tive, more self-sufficient writers and communicators. The Writing Center is a free service for all UCA
students.
We also offer two kinds of online conferencing, where you can either simply e-mail a draft to a consult-
ant and receive feedback, or receive e-mail feedback plus discuss that feedback online via Instant
Messenger. In addition, we offer a writing hotline, tip sheets, resource books, and workshops.
Hours of Operation:
Monday -Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Tuesday - Thursday: 6:00 - 9:00 pm
Friday: 8:00 a.m. - noon
Approximately 13-15 tutors work in the center to assist with Intermediate and College Algebra. They
also have the ability to cover many different areas if called upon. Students that need assistance can
get a schedule of when certain tutors are available and for what specific subject. There are also super-
vised study (quiet) areas during the days and evenings for students to take advantage of.
Sally Roden, UCA's current dean of undergraduate studies, was recognized in February 1998 for her
contribution to ensuring the success of freshmen students when she received the Outstanding Advocate Award
from the National Resource Center for the Freshman Year Experience and Students in Transition.
UCA TERMINOLOGY 87
UCA TERMINOLOGY
ACADEMIC FREEDOM
"Right" of faculty to decide what, within reason, will be done in the classroom, such as course content, teaching
methods, attendance policy, etc.
ADVANCE REGISTRATION
Period of time when students may register for class for the upcoming semester in advance of the established day
for registration.
ADVISOR
Faculty or staff member "assigned" to an individual throughout his/her college career as an academic resource per-
son.
BACCALAUREATE
A degree awarded by the University to a student who has completed his/her undergraduate studies.
CATALOG/ BULLETIN
Published every two years, UCA’s Undergraduate Bulletin contains general information on admissions, enrollment,
fees, housing, graduate schools, etc., as well as information on schools and the programs and courses offered.
The catalog in effect when you are admitted determines the requirements for your major and degree program.
CLASS PERIOD
Monday/Wednesday/Friday (MWF) Class periods are 50 minutes long starting on the hour. Monday/Wednesday
(MW) and Tuesday/Thursday (TTH) class periods last 1 hour and 15 minutes. All classes are designed to have 10
minutes between classes to allow students time to walk to their next class.
CLOSED CLASSES
A course which has reached its maximum student capacity.
COLLEGE
A degree-granting academic unit of the University.
CREDIT HOURS
Numerical value assigned to each class; credit hours roughly equate to the number of hours a student is actually in
the classroom per week.
DEAN
The administrative head of an academic school or college.
DEPARTMENT CHAIR
The administrative head of an academic department within a school or college.
ECHO
The Echo is the weekly newspaper of UCA, and is distributed without cost every Wednesday.
ELECTIVE
Class not specifically required in the student's course of study.
MAJOR
Concentrated course work in one area leading in part to a degree with specialization in that particular area.
MINOR
A group of courses that represent a subordinate area of study.
88 UCA TERMINOLOGY
ORIENTATION
Get acquainted period for new students. Time when students learn more about rules and procedures, facilities, per-
sonnel services, etc. of the university.
PREREQUISITE
Required course that has successfully been completed prior to the enrollment in a more advanced class.
PRIVACY ACT
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act establishes the privacy of student records and the conditions under
which students and others may review a student's educational records.
PROFESSOR
The highest professional rank a faculty member can achieve. Other faculty ranks include associate professor, as-
sistant professor, and instructor.
REGISTRAR
Administrator responsible for keeping student records, transcripts, and handling class registration procedures. The
Registrar’s Office is located in McCastlain Hall.
RESIDENT ASSISTANT
A junior or senior level student who lives in a residence hall and advises/counsels the hall’s residents.
SCHOOL COLORS
The UCA school colors are Purple and Gray.
SCROLL
The Scroll is the University yearbook. It is distributed to all students with a valid UCA ID at the end of each spring
semester
UCA ID
Random unduplicated number assigned identify a UCA student and is issued at the beginning of registration.
UCA ID CARD (BearBucks) Don’t lose it!!! Your student identification number is on the card and you’ll need it to
attend football games, use the Health Center, check out books at the library, enter certain residence halls and par-
ticipate in many campus activities. Your meal plan and DCB funds are also on your card.
URSA
University Resources for Students and Administration. URSA is the web portal or doorway to UCA information and
can be personalized to fit the needs of each individual in the UCA community.
VICTOR E. BEAR
The official UCA mascot.
WITHDRAWL
Letter "W" recorded when a student voluntarily and officially drops out of a specific class or the University
within a prescribed period time limit.
X-PERIOD
Time period on Tuesdays and Thursdays from1:40 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. for campus programs and student organiza-
tions to hold meetings.
HOMEWORK 89
HOMEWORK
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE FOLLOWING COMPLETED BEFORE CLASSES START:
2. Student Handbook
http://www.uca.edu/divisions/student/handbook/ Be sure to pick up your copy during fee
payment in McCastlain Hall.
3. Undergraduate Bulletin
Read the General Policies section and your major section. http://www.uca.edu/ubulletin/.
1. View /print your schedule (p. 26) Print a new copy the day before classes start in case of
last-minute schedule changes.
2. Find your advisor (p. 26) and contact information (p. 42).
3. View your academic transcript located in the Self-Service tab of URSA for any posting of
concurrent or transfer credit (p.26).
þ Check your UCA e-mail at least twice a week to keep up with important university information.
þ Purchase a planner/calendar. Write the important academic dates (p. 46) in the planner before
classes start.
þ If you have received or are expecting concurrent credit, AP/IB/CLEP credit, or have taken course
work during the summer, make sure to contact the Academic Advising Center if schedule revisions
are needed before classes start. Make sure official transcripts are sent to UCA.
þ Buy required textbooks early. Keep your receipt but do not mark in textbooks. If the book isn’t
needed, you will have a short time frame to return the books for a full refund. Be aware of book re-
turn deadlines.
þ For your convenience and protection, save all of your receipts for your UCA expenditures (textbooks,
tuition, deposits, fines, etc.) Make a folder for this purpose if necessary.
þ Bring this handbook with you when you come to UCA. Several instructors use it as the sole textbook
for their class.
þ Attend the mandatory session, “Countdown to Classes” on Sunday, August 16th at 3:30 at Ida
Waldran Auditorium in Main Hall.
UCA made history in 1997 when it created the first residential college in Arkansas, Hughes Residential College.
90 MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Topics covered:
Come to the Advising Center in Harrin 100 for dates to specific programs
MAJORS FAIR
Thursday, October 8, 2009
12:30-3:00 p.m.
Student Center Ballroom
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REGISTRATION CANCELLATION
My plans have changed, and I will not be attending UCA the following term for
which I am registered: _______________________________________________.
Please cancel my registration for this term. I understand that I may be required to
re-apply in order to attend UCA in the future.
NAME____________________________________________________________
Street Address____________________________________________________
E-MAIL___________________________________________________________
Signature________________________________________ Date____________
NOTICE: In order to avoid a financial obligation for the enrollment, this Reg-
istration Cancellation must be received by the University BEFORE the first day of
classes at the University for the specified term. The student identification card
is the property of the University, and should also be returned.
UCA FIGHT SONG
Go-Go-Fight Bears
You will lead us on to victory FORMER NAMES OF UCA
Hey, go-go-win team
Bears will charge the field and never yield 1975 – Present: University of Central Arkansas
1967 – 1975: State College of Arkansas
So, FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT!
1925 – 1967: Arkansas State Teachers College
We've got the spir-it, and we'll show our colors 1907 – 1925: Arkansas Normal School
Here tonight-so let's cheer
The Purple and the Gray Team
Mighty BEARS will win the FIGHT (Go Bears!)