CSSE/Academic Support

Skill Courses

Academic Support provides a number of services to students. Each semester, classes are offered in:

SKIL-096 - Math for College (3 additive credits) Provides the means for students to develop mathematical literacy by reviewing computational skills, selected algebraic functions, and other selected math topics. Students will acquire quantitative sense and confidence to prepare for core curriculum or foundation courses in quantitative skills. Course includes initial diagnostic placement test, which determines specific content units to be covered. The course is individualized and includes small and large group instruction.

SKIL-097 - Writing for College (3 additive credits) Understanding and using the components of clear written communication are the goals of this course. Students learn to compose a thesis statement and develop a well constructed essay to prepare for ENGL-100 (College Writing I) and the Core Curriculum course ENGL-150 (College Writing II) as well as subsequent writing intensive courses.

CCCA-101 - The Creative Arts: Methods and History (3 core curriculum credits) This course explores basic themes shared by all the arts and addresses important aspects of artistic expression, such as the relationship between vision and reality and the interplay between artist and audience. Field trips and hands-on experience augment readings and discussion as students explore the creative experience. (CCCA-101 is offered only during the Individual Enrichment Program's Summer Seminar.)

The structure of these courses allows students to improve basic skills before enrolling in introductory level courses or to use the review of skills as academic support when taking introductory courses concurrently. The course work provides specific study and problem solving approaches to learning. Emphasis is placed on the development of efficient reading, writing and math skills.

Students enroll in these courses in a variety of ways: some are placed based on performance on freshman placement tests; others are referred by their instructors; still others seek help on their own because they have discovered that they need it.

Credits: Courses with a subject abbreviation of SKIL are awarded additive credits. These credits are not used to meet graduation requirements. However, the grades earned in SKIL courses are calculated into the student's GPA.  They also count towards a student's full time enrollment status.

Grades in SKIL courses: Standard letter grade notations are most frequently used in SKIL courses.  Faculty also have the option of assigning a grade of PC: Pass Continue.  This notation is used solely for SKIL courses.  It indicates that the student has demonstrated both effort and progress, but requires additional time and work to complete the curriculum.  A student who earns a PC grade will be re-enrolled in the course in the next semester of enrollment at MCLA.  A student is entitled to only one PC grade per SKIL course.  Once a student has been re-enrolled for the course, no further grades of PC can be awarded, nor can a student withdraw from the course.  Only regular letter grades (A through F and I) can then be assigned.

Academic Support staff members are available to assist with academic advising and planning.