HIGHER COLLEGE S OF T E CHNOLOGY

Student Handbook - 2011-2 01 2

OUR MISSION
The Higher Colleges of Technology is dedicated to the delivery of technical and professional programs of the highest quality to the students, within the context of sincere respect for diverse beliefs and values. Graduates will have the linguistic ability to function effectively in an international environment, the technical skills to operate in an increasingly complex technological world, the intellectual capacity to adapt to constant change, the commitment to sustainable development and the leadership potential to make the fullest possible contribution to the community for the good of all its people.

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Student Handbook - 2011-2 01 2

MESSAGE FROM THE VICE CHANCELLOR

I extend a warm welcome to you as you enter the Higher Colleges of Technology to pursue your higher education. I assure you that all the faculty, staff and managers of the Higher Colleges of Technology will accompany you every step of your way in your exciting journey of learning at the HCT. The mission of the HCT is to provide you with technical and professional programs of the highest quality. We are committed to providing you with a first class education that challenges you and encourages your curiosity, creativity and love of learning. Education has enormous power to change your life, as well as that of your community. At the HCT, we encourage you to understand the value of education and so enter into a realm of neverending learning. In this way you will be equipped to cope with the fast pace of change in our world and to make our community, our nation and our planet a better place. We are committed to your success and so provide many opportunities to help you fulfill your potential. Your teachers, advisors and counselors are there to guide you on your personal and academic journey at the Colleges. The activities and events at the Colleges provide you with many occasions for learning and personal growth. I would like to encourage you to participate in these whole-heartedly, to take advantage of the chances set before you and so enrich your present and future life. We look forward to your contribution to the dynamic community that is the HCT. We all wish you the very best and we commit our full support in your quest for excellence. Welcome to the Higher Colleges of Technology! Dr Tayeb Kamali Vice Chancellor

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CONTENT

FOREWORD STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES Student Web Services Academic And Personal Information Academic Advising Learning Resources Counseling And Special Needs Extra-Curricular And Co-Curricular Activities Student Associations Facilities Financial Aid, Awards, Bursaries And Scholarships Health, Wellness And Safety Standards Of Conduct Student Rights Student Appeals Student Feedback, Suggestions And Grievances Work Experience Graduation

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Student Handbook - 2011-2 01 2

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS Grading Academic Standing Duration Of Study Withdrawal Examination Procedures English Language Standards

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ACADEMIC CALENDAR Contacts Where to find further information Notes College Section

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Student Handbook - 2011-2 01 2

FOREWORD

Dear Student, Congratulations on your admission to the Higher Colleges of Technology. You should feel proud to be a student of the Higher Colleges of Technology. We are committed to ensuring that you are successful at the HCT, so we have produced this Student Handbook which explains what is expected of you as a student, what resources are available to you and how the system works. Understanding what is expected of you will help you to be successful in your studies. Please read this book carefully and if you do not understand any parts of these regulations, please speak to your Program Chair or your teacher. You can also find more details on the rules and procedures on the student portal at http://portal.hct.ac.ae Wishing you have every success during your time at the Higher Colleges of Technology.

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

From the time you are admitted to the HCT until the time you graduate, you will have access to a range of support services, facilities, and programs at your campus. These are designed to help you attain personal growth and academic achievement. Services include providing you with academic information, academic advising, and personal and career counseling where needed. A range of cocurricular activities, extra-curricular activities, sporting, health and wellness, and recreational facilities are also available. Financial aid and special needs accommodation are offered to students who need assistance.

STUDENT WEB SERVICES

Internet and Student Email You will have access to the Internet and email while at the HCT. Student Services staff will help you set up your user name and password. It is your responsibility to keep your password secure and not misuse it. If you have lost or forgotten your password, please contact Student Services. Before you are given a password to access the Internet and your email account, you are required to sign the HCT Internet access and electronic mail policy form. The HCT Website and Portal The HCT website, www.hct.ac.ae, contains a wealth of useful information, including news items, links to the library, the academic calendar and more. You can find the HCT Catalogue on the website, also. This has detailed information about your program and the HCTs policies, procedures and requirements. The HCT website also has a link to the HCT portal. You can access your email through the portal. You gain access to the portal with your user name and password. You can do this using a computer inside the college, at home or anywhere with an Internet connection.

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ACADEMIC AND PERSONAL INFORMATION

Personal Information You must provide the HCT with accurate information about your personal details, guardian and sponsor on admission. Before the end of the second week in the first semester of admission, you must log into Student Self Service to confirm that the following details on record are accurate: Personal information Full name Date of birth Gender National ID number Passport number Passport expiry date Marital status Mailing address Residence telephone number Guardian information Name of legal guardian Husband (for female students, if married) Emergency contact information Name of person to contact in an emergency Address Tel (residence) (office) (mobile) Relationship to you Sponsor information (for sponsored students only) Name of sponsor (organization) Name of immediate supervisor, position title Mailing address Tel (office) (mobile) Academic Information You will receive academic information in written and electronic format at the start of and throughout the academic year. Academic information notices are posted in written or electronic format in the Student and Academic Services areas of every college. Notifications are sent to your HCT student email address each semester. While enrolled, your timetable, grades, and other information about your studies are provided to you on Student Self Service. You can access the Student Self Service window on the portal. Your username for Student Self Service is your student ID. Student Services will

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provide you with a password after admission. New students are invited to attend orientation and training to use Student Self Service. From Student Self Service, you can get the following information: Timetable Academic progress report Exam timetable Attendance record

Student regulations and policies

Program information, course guide, and program regulations Program compliance information for graduation

Confidentiality and consent to release personal and academic information All information about you is treated as confidential while you are enrolled at the HCT. Your academic and personal information will not be released to anyone outside of the HCT without your written permission, with the exception of your legal guardian, the Ministry of Higher Education and where required by law. On admission, and before the end of the second week of each semester, you are required to complete a Student Consent Form on Student Self Service to declare whether you give permission to the HCT to release your personal and academic information to parties other than your legal guardian. Note that you should discuss with your Student Services Supervisor the consequences if you wish to withhold consent.

ACADEMIC ADVISING
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
You are assigned an academic advisor at the start of each academic year. The advisor is usually one of your teachers. Your advisor gives you advice and helps you to maintain satisfactory progress.

LEARNING RESOURCES
Library Your library is the place to go to read, study, work in groups, conduct research, and engage in other activities. At your library, you can watch a movie, learn to use new software and computer programs, borrow books, magazines, DVDs, audio books, and develop your learning and study skills. Experienced and helpful staff in your library are there to help you with your research and learning needs. The library plays an important role in helping you to become a lifelong learner and addressing HCTs graduate outcomes - the skills you will acquire to prepare you to successfully enter the global job market. Each library collection includes resources in a wide range of formats and subjects:
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books (paper, ebook, and audio books), newspaper and magazines (paper and electronic), and DVDs (documentaries and movies).

Your library is accessible online. Check out your library @ http://library.hct. ac.ae anywhere, anytime to access over 40,000 e-books, 36,000 online journals, and over 30 full text databases. As an HCT student, you can also request materials from other HCT campuses and through LIWA. LIWA is the unified catalogue for the libraries of the HCT, UAEU, and ZU. Check it out @ www.liwa.ac.ae. Library staff can help you find the materials you need. Independent Learning and Tutoring Each college campus provides support for you to become an independent learner and to assist with your coursework. A large selection of electronic resources is available in English, maths, and program-specific content. Specialized staff are available to provide personal assistance to enhance your learning.

COUNSELING AND SPECIAL NEEDS

There are qualified and experienced personal counselors and career counselors available to help you if you have problems that interfere with your academic performance. Personal Counseling and Special Needs Your personal counselor can help you find solutions to your problems and facilitate academic and personal growth in self awareness, self confidence, self management and interpersonal skills. Personal counselors are all trained professionals who maintain confidentiality. The HCT is committed to helping students with special needs to reach their full potential. If you have a disability and believe you require extra support, contact the college counselor or Student Services Supervisor to arrange a meeting as early as possible in the academic year. You will be required to provide the counselor with recent documentation of special needs from a qualified medical practitioner or other appropriate professional. Please discuss the type of support that would be helpful for you with your counselor and use this support if agreed upon. You

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Your library welcomes you to come in, stay a while, curl up, watch a movie, read the latest news, enjoy a good book, or plug in your laptop and enjoy our wireless facilities. Printing, photocopying and scanning facilities are also available at your library.

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should follow up before the start of each semester to ensure the required support is available. The information provided on the specific special needs of the student will be treated as confidential. In order to provide the accommodations necessary, limited information will be discussed with staff on a need-to-know basis with the permission of the student. HCT has an Assistive Technology Learning Resource Centre (ATLRC) to cater to students with special needs. ATLRC ensures that any student in the HCT system, regardless of the severity of the special need, is provided the opportunity to achieve. ATLRC provides special support and advanced assistive technology, along with continual encouragement to participate in College activities, assessment and learning. For students with special needs, computer based technology can play an essential role in overcoming a wide range of limitations that hinder classroom participation and academic success in higher education. Career Counseling Your career counselors can give you career information, advice and guidance to develop your academic and career goals. Your career counselors can also help you to find and apply for summer jobs, and jobs after you graduate. Most colleges have a Career Centre and career advisor to help students in making career related decisions, writing a resume, learning and practicing job search techniques, working on interviewing skills, finding out about possible employment opportunities and identifying their own strengths. Career days may be held at your college, where potential employers will be invited to meet students and inform them of job opportunities. Employment listings are posted at colleges to inform students of current positions available.

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EXTRA-CURRICULAR AND CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Throughout the year, the HCT offers a wide variety of physical, social and cultural activities. Make every effort to participate in these activities which are designed to supplement and complement your classroom work, enhance your HCT experience, and provide a healthy balance in your life. In many cases, students organize or coordinate college events such as film festivals, athletic and recreational competitions, health and wellness days, heritage and cultural displays, art shows and career fairs. These events develop individual and group initiatives, teamwork and leadership skills. They provide students with the opportunity to apply the skills they have learned in their programs and at the same time, support charitable causes and demonstrate academic achievements.
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STUDENT ASSOCIATIONS
The HCT is committed to supporting student associations to enhance the college experience for students through their active participation in a wide variety of college activities, and to ensure student representation in college management and governance. The College Student Council is a student leadership group at each college. The president of the College Student Council is elected by the student body in the college. The College Student Council acts as a link between the students and college management to improve student life. They plan and organize various activities and events throughout the year. All enrolled students are eligible to vote in the election of the president and other officials. The College Student Council plans and implements a range of college activities through regular meetings. College Student Council representatives of all the colleges also meet and elect a system-wide HCT Student Council. This committee represents the wider HCT student body nationally and internationally at educational institutions, conferences and student forums; advocate students interests, participate in discussions of national and international issues related to students; and promote communication between students and management.

FACILITIES
The HCT provides practical services and infrastructure at each campus, including transport to and from the college, parking on campus, a cafeteria, a student centre, study areas, prayer facilities, and convenience and/or stationery stores, cash-point services, and security and ID provisions. If you use your own car to come to college, you must apply for a parking permit. Lockers are available for the safe keeping of books and personal belongings. The college is not responsible for lost items. Apply for your parking permit and locker on Student Self Service.

FINANCIAL AID, AWARDS, BURSARIES AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Financial Aid The HCT recognizes that some students may need assistance with meals and transportation costs and provides help. If you have difficulties with financial matters which may affect your studies, for example, if you have difficulties

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Special Events The HCT has many opportunities for staff and students to expand their horizons and attend world class events created and nurtured at the HCT. In addition to college open days and career fairs, world class events such as Education Without Borders, Festival of Thinkers, and many other events offer a wealth of information for students.

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purchasing your laptop, speak to your college Student Services Supervisor or college Counselor to find out how to apply for a loan or get financial aid. Your college may provide transportation services for female students who dont have transportation from areas outside the city. You may have to pay a small fee to use this service during the semester. You should speak to Student Services staff, if you have questions concerning this. Awards, Bursaries and Scholarships Awards, bursaries and company scholarships are available to students who have achieved exceptional academic standards, and meet the specific application criteria required by sponsoring organizations. Through a range of awards, the HCT recognizes outstanding achievements by students. Graduate Awards The following awards are available to you on graduation, provided you meet the program GPA criteria in your program major and meet the additional criteria as follows: Distinction: Distinction with Honors: Program GPA between 3.5 and 3.74 Program GPA between 3.75 and 4.00

Distinction with Highest Honors: Highest GPA in your program in the HCT system, provided the program GPA is between 3.75 and 4.0. Chancellors Awards These awards are given to graduates who have made the most significant contribution to college life throughout the final academic year while maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or above in each semester of their final academic year. At every college, one award is given in each of the credentials. The Chancellor makes the final selections. Industry Awards There are many awards sponsored by specific companies for outstanding graduates in the appropriate program. Please refer to the HCT Catalogue for further information. Fulbright Scholarships for Graduates There is a UAE Fulbright program, which provides funding for up to two years of graduate study, such as a masters or doctoral program, in the United States of
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Directors List Students in good standing may be placed on the Directors List, which is published and maintained at the individual colleges. Students must achieve a GPA of 3.5 or above in order to be placed on the list. The minimum required credit hours vary with each program, detailed in the HCT Catalogue. Sponsored Students and Programs A number of employers in the private and public sector offer scholarships to students. These students are officially their employees while studying full time at the college. In most cases students agree to work for their employer for a set period of time after graduation. For more information please contact the Career Centre in your college.

HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY

The HCT provides all students with a safe and healthy educational environment for their studies. A wide range of health and wellness services are available, including physical fitness and sports education programs and food services. Security The HCT is concerned that all individual students are properly authorized to enter the campus. All HCT campuses have security gates with security personnel stationed at each entry. These security officers will only allow those who are properly authorized to enter the campus. Security officers have the right to prevent female students from leaving the college without permission, and to carry out random checks on student and staff vehicles. The HCTs security officers are appointed for the safety of the staff and students of the colleges, and should be treated with proper respect. Fire Drills In case of fire, each college has procedures to follow. You should learn where emergency exits, fire alarms and fire extinguishers are located. In the event of a fire drill or emergency, you must follow the directions of your teachers or security personnel. Medical Emergencies If you are seriously ill and your teacher needs to help you, she/he will call Student Services who will provide assistance and contact your family. An ambulance will be called if necessary.

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America. Fulbright Scholarships will be awarded to applicants who demonstrate academic excellence, strong English language skills, leadership qualities, and a commitment to improving cross-cultural relations through international exchange. Applicants must also express a desire to use skills gained in the United States to serve the UAE upon completion of their studies.

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Insurance Students are covered by UAE Government healthcare should they require medical assistance during their time at the HCT. The HCT holds public liability insurance and motor insurance.

STANDARDS OF CONDUCT
The HCT wants you to get the most out of your time at the HCT, to be successful and contribute to the HCTs excellent reputation. You should be prepared to meet the high standards of the HCT and you should understand that by doing so you are helping to promote the HCT as a world leader in preparing students for employment. It is high standards such as these, as well as strong academic performance, that make employers welcome graduates of the Higher Colleges of Technology. The HCT has set out well defined policies and procedures to ensure these high standards continue. Severe penalties and action may be taken against you for a breach of these rules. Academic Honesty Students and graduates are proud of the Higher Colleges of Technologys reputation for academic honesty and high ethical standards. The HCT requires you to be honest and ethical in your pursuit of learning. You must refrain from all forms of academic dishonesty. Cheating is the deliberate attempt to gain marks or academic credit dishonestly or helping others to do this. Examples of cheating may include, but are not limited to, the following: sharing or showing answers during a test or other forms of assessment

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copying anything done by another student and submitting it as your own telling another student what is on a test he or she will take later

giving another student access to your electronic files, and allowing him or her to use your work as his or her own bringing to an assessment, information or materials that are not allowed even if they are not used reading a test, examination or assessment before you should have access to it allowing another person to take a test, examination or assessment for you taking a test, examination or assessment for someone else

using a computer improperly during an assessment, such as by gaining access to unauthorized material; communicating with others during assessments; or using files of other users. Plagiarism is deliberately presenting another persons work as your own without acknowledging the original source. Examples of plagiarism may include, but are not limited to, the following:
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using the work of someone else, or changing some words and keeping the same structure and the same meaning without noting the source(s), and submitting it as your own work downloading information, pictures or charts from the Internet and inserting that material into your own document and submitting it as your own work without noting the source(s).

If you are accused of misconduct you are entitled to a hearing according to the HCTs guidelines and procedures. Please refer to the non-academic misconduct policy and procedure posted on the HCT portal, for more information. Code of Student Conduct Your responsibilities are set out in the following Code of Student Conduct. You must: complete all assessment tasks on time be prepared for classes

attend all classes regularly and punctually and participate fully in all learning and assessment activities participate fully in educational activities outside the classroom, such as field trips, that form part of a course in which you are enrolled meet the requirements for course completion and program completion promote appropriate behavior by example at all times observe the regulations of the HCT colleges and the directives of the staff behave in an orderly and disciplined manner in any assessment situation refrain from all forms of academic dishonesty respect and maintain all HCT property

conduct yourselves in a courteous and considerate manner in your dealings with the staff, visitors and other students

contribute to the best of your ability to create an environment that is conducive to the educational objectives of the HCT uphold the good name of the Higher Colleges of Technology as a community and the reputation of all its staff and students, in any communications within or outside the HCT.

Attendance You must participate fully in all learning activities, be on time and be ready for the activities of the classes. There are more specific rules concerning attendance which you should be aware of:

You will receive a first warning which may be either a written or verbal if you are absent for more than 5% of the allotted course time.

After this warning, and if your absences are greater than 10% you will receive a

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taking text from other sources and putting the pieces together as one document and submitting it as your own work, without noting the source(s)

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If you are absent after receiving a final warning, you will be given an opportunity to explain the absences and to present relevant documentation. Unless, in the opinion of the College Director, there are extenuating circumstances, a failing grade will be recorded for the course and you will not be allowed to continue in the course. Non-academic Misconduct You must conduct yourself in an appropriate manner. There are rules concerning non-academic misconduct, which may include, but are not limited to: conduct which causes injury to a person and/or damage to HCT property the unauthorized removal or possession of HCT property

final written warning which will inform you that any further absences will result in failure of that course.

conduct which disrupts the educational and related activities of other students or staff, including behavior which brings into disrepute the reputation, academic standing of the HCT or the political, religious or cultural values of the UAE knowingly providing false or misleading information to the HCT.

If you are charged with academic or non-academic misconduct you will be subject to disciplinary measures. These rules are applicable to you while on, approaching or leaving the HCT campuses, HCT-sponsored or HCT-supervised events. If you are charged with misconduct, you are entitled to a hearing according to the HCTs guidelines and procedures. Please refer to the non-academic misconduct policy and procedure posted on the portal. Disciplinary Measures If you do not meet the personal and academic standards of conduct during assessments, disciplinary measures may be taken. These may include:

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a verbal notice or warning a written warning

after a maximum two warnings (verbal or written), a stronger penalty will be given

return of property or monetary reimbursement for damage to or misappropriation of property suspension or termination of privileges and activities cancellation of the results of an examination

disciplinary probation, which may include suspension of specified privileges for a defined period. The student may be required to attend counseling sessions suspension from classes for one semester or part thereof in one or more courses suspension for more than one semester or dismissal from a program termination from the Higher Colleges of Technology cancellation of the award of Bachelor Degree, Higher Diploma, Advanced Diploma, or Diploma.
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STUDENT RIGHTS
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
Whilst enrolled, you have the following rights: to have appropriate opportunities for learning to pursue the educational goals of your courses to have opportunities to discuss and express any views which are relevant to the subject matter of courses and which are not contrary to religious, political, cultural, and moral values of the UAE to the reasonable use of campus facilities to join appropriate campus organizations and engage in recreational activities subject to reasonable conditions to privacy and not to have your photographic image taken or published without consent other than in official HCT publications. All HCT students, potential students, and former students have the following rights: to freedom from discrimination based on disability to security for their persons on the HCT campuses

to confidentiality with regards to their views, beliefs, and political associations expressed in the course of instruction, advising, or counseling unless disclosure is authorized by written consent

to exemption from disciplinary action that affects their status as students except for academic discipline, and discipline under rules and regulations that shall be fully and clearly disclosed in advance of alleged violations to clear notice of the nature and cause of any disciplinary charges, and the right to an impartial hearing.

STUDENT APPEALS
Appeals to the College Director If you are subject to disciplinary measures (except in cases of termination from the HCT and cancellation of the degree or diploma), you may appeal the decision by presenting an appeal in writing to your College Director within one week of notification. If your College Director determines that the case requires further review, he/she may appoint a committee not previously involved in the matter, to conduct a review and present their report and recommendations. The decision of the Director, following consideration of the report, shall be final. Appeals to the Provost In cases of termination from the HCT and cancellation of the degree or diploma, and you believe there has been a breach of correct procedure, the appeal must be made within one week, in writing, to the Provost. The decision of the Provost shall be final.

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STUDENT FEEDBACK, SUGGESTIONS AND GRIEVANCES

The HCT wants you to be satisfied with your educational experience. If you are dissatisfied, you have the right to make a complaint and are encouraged to do so. Your college has a Student Services staff member who is trained to respond to your complaint within one working day. If you wish to make a complaint, contact your Student Services department. You can make your complaint face-to-face, by telephone or by email. Your complaint details are recorded immediately and you will receive an email from Student Services within one working day.

The message will include:

a copy of the student complaints procedure a summary of your complaint a request for further information, if needed, and the date that you must provide it, and details on when you will be contacted next.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

HCTs best practice approach for dealing with student complaints is as follows. Once your complaint is received, Student Services will assess it and decide if further action is required. If your complaint cant be resolved immediately you will be given feedback from your Student Services contact every five working days until a decision is made about how to resolve your complaint. When a decision is made you will have the opportunity to accept or reject the decision. If you accept the decision, Student Services will notify you that the case is closed. If you reject the decision you will have the right to appeal it. You can appeal the decision by sending a written appeal (or request) to the College Director within one week of the date you were informed of the decision. The decision of the Director is final. Student Services contact will keep a record of all the steps taken to investigate your complaint, including meeting minutes from all parties involved. You will have the opportunity to review the minutes of any meeting you participated in. A copy of all documents related to your complaint will be kept in your student file. All student complaints are reviewed at the end of each academic year to improve the process and to help students who have a similar complaint to yours in the future.

WORK EXPERIENCE
All undergraduate HCT programs feature a work experience course. Work experience helps you to develop your personal work ethic, helps you to make your career choice, and prepares you for an active role in the UAE work place. Work experience is normally within the UAE. However, there are a variety of

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GRADUATION
To qualify for a Higher Colleges of Technology credential, you must successfully complete all of the requirements of your program, such as minimum number of credits, required courses, work experience, English language assessments, and other requirements specific to your program major. You will graduate from the college where you completed your program. Your graduation ceremony will normally take place during the academic year following your graduation.

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work experience opportunities for HCT students to gain international experience in many programs. Such opportunities are promoted by the HCT as valuable preparation for the world of work in view of the UAEs unique position on the international scene.

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ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS

Your performance in the courses you take will be reported in terms of the following grades. The grade point average (GPA) is calculated at the end of every semester based on the grading system explained on the following pages. You will receive a final grade for a course only at the end of the semester.

GRADING

Grade A AB+ B C+ C

Range 90 100 85 89 80 84 75 79 70 74 65 69

Grade Points 4 3.7 3.3 3 2.3 2

Explanation of Codes

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Achievement that is outstanding relative to the course and GPA requirements. Achievement that is significantly above the course and GPA requirements. Achievement that satisfactorily meets the course and GPA requirements. Achievement that minimally meets the course requirements but may not meet the GPA requirements. Achievement that does not meet requirements.

60 64

0 59

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Grades not calculated In GPA

CC CH

Continuing Course Challenge Experiential learning Exemption Fail

A grade that indicate, a course is more than one semester in length A grade that indicates the students has been granted credit based on successful completion of an approved challenge assessment A grade that indicates the student has been granted credit based on work or life experience such as structured internships, volunteer work-travel, self-study, or training A grade that Indicate, a student has been exempted from a course requirement on successful completion of an equivalent HCT course Achievement that does not meet requirements in courses graded Pass/Fail the course

EL

EX FL

grade* Uncalculated I IP NG NS P TR U W Incomplete In Progress Not Gradable Not submitted Pass Transfer Credit Unclassified Withdrawal

Any grade followed by an asterisk is not computed in the grade point average A temporary grade that Indicates that the student has not completed all course requirements A notation that Indicates the student is currently enrolled in the course A notation that indicates thaI n0 final grade will be recorded for this course A temporary grade that is assigned if the grade is not submitted by the last day of semester Achievement that meets the course requirements in courses graded Pass/Fail A grade that Indicates the student has been granted credit for an equivalent course taken at another institution A notation that student did not meet all learning outcomes A grade that Indicates the student has withdrawn without penalty

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS

AU

Audit

A notation that Indicates a course is taken without credit

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GPA Calculation The Grade Point Average (GPA) is given on a scale from 0.00 to 4.00. Your GPA is calculated by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total credits attempted. Example Course HPS 1706 LSM 1103 HSC 1103 SCL 0111 HPS 1103 LSC 1103 Total Grade A C+ B CH D F 1 0 Points 4 2.3 3 x x x x x x 3 3 20 Credits 6 3 5 Grade Points 24 6.9 15 Not counted in GPA 3 0 48.9
48.9/ 20 = 2.45 GPA

A course in which grades A, A-, B+, B, C+, C, D, P, CH, EL, EX, or TR is received is counted towards program compliance requirements. Any grade followed by an asterisk is not computed in the GPA calculation.

The grades of AU, CC, CH, EL, EX, I, IP, NG, NS, P, TR U and W are excluded from the GPA calculation.

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS

WORK and PROJ courses and courses graded P/FL are excluded from the GPA calculation.

For repeated courses, only the highest course grade will be included in the program grade point average (GPA) calculation.

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ACADEMIC STANDING
At the end of each semester, an academic standing notion (Good Standing, Academic Warning, Academic Probation, or Academic Dismissal) will be placed on your academic record. These notions are permanent records and will not be removed. Full details of the Academic Standing Policy can be found at: http://portal.hct.ac.ae/sites/pnp/cass/pages/lp208.aspx Note: It is important to understand that the minimum Cumulative GPA of 2.0 for graduation may mean that you could pass all courses with D grades but not meet the graduation GPA requirement. If you receive a D grade in one or more courses in a semester, you may not have a high enough GPA for graduation. You should discuss the situation with your Program Chair, who may arrange for you to repeat the course(s) where you received a D, to improve your program GPA. If you are permitted to repeat, you may do so once only. If you do not maintain a satisfactory rate of progress, you will be dismissed from your program for academic reasons.

DURATION OF STUDY
For each program there is a maximum time allowed for completion. If you do not complete the program within the time allowed you will be subject to Academic Dismissal. Once you have enrolled in a program (not including Foundations), you are allowed an additional four consecutive semesters above the full-time program length, to complete your studies. If you do not complete your program within the allowed duration, in extenuating circumstances you may apply to your College Director for an extension. This must be done immediately following the end of the duration of study period. If you get an extension, it will be limited to no more than two consecutive semesters. No further extension is permitted.

WITHDRAWAL
If you wish to withdraw from the college, you must apply for withdrawal at the Academic or Student Services offices and follow the procedure. If you wish to return to the college, you must apply for re-enrolment which is subject to a place being available. The time when you withdraw from your course will affect your academic transcript. In exceptional cases, where the withdrawal is for medical or other special personal reasons, your College Director may allow you to withdraw without penalty, and allow you to receive a W grade. Prior to withdrawal, you

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS

You must have a minimum Cumulative GPA of 2.0 to graduate from your program.

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should discuss your withdrawal with the Program Chair and get advice about how your withdrawal may affect you.

Type of Course

Time when withdrawing

Date when* withdrawing Semester One course: - before 22 Sep 2011 Semester Two course: - before 23 Feb 2012 Semester One course: - before 13 Oct 2011 Semester Two course: - before 15 Mar 2011 Semester One course: - after 13 Oct 2011 Semester Two course: - after 15 Mar 2012

Transcript record

Within three weeks of beginning of the semester.

No course record on transcript

(except summer semester courses)

One full semester course

After the first two weeks and up to the end of six weeks from beginning of the semester.

W grade in that course shown on transcript.

After six weeks from beginning of the semester.

F grade in that course shown on transcript.

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS

Within six weeks of beginning of the first semester. Full year course After the first six weeks and up to the end of 12 weeks from beginning of the first semester. After 12 weeks from beginning of the semester. Less than full semester course

Before 13 Oct 2011.

No course record on transcript.

(two semester course)

Before 1 Dec 2011.

W grade in that course shown on transcript.

After 1 Dec 2011.

F grade in that course shown on transcript.

Time period for withdrawal without penalty will be prorated.

* any changes these dates will be announced on the HCT portal

Examination Procedures
Please read this section carefully and be sure you understand all the following rules. Please ask your academic advisor or the exam proctor if there is anything you do not understand.

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Leaving the Room Students must spend at least 30 minutes in the examination room. Students who leave the room without permission will not be allowed to re-enter. Students Belongings Students may use only the materials provided in the room. Nothing else, including telephones and pagers, may be brought into the examination rooms by students. Talking No talking is allowed. All student work is to be done in silence. Questions To get the attention of the proctor, students must raise their hands. Proctors will answer questions individually after the exam starts. Cheating Students accused of cheating will not be allowed to take additional exams and may be dismissed from the HCT (see Standards of Conduct: Disciplinary Measures). Total Time Allowed The proctor will explain the exact time limits of the exam. No extra time will be allowed after the exam has officially started. All students in the same program at all colleges are given exactly the same amount of time to complete all exams. Finishing the Exam Students cannot take any exam materials out of the room. When the exam is finished the proctor will collect all materials, including scrap paper.

English Language Standards

The HCT is an English medium institution. All programs at the HCT are delivered in English. You are required to meet specific English language standards in order to enter, progress or graduate from your program. English language standards are assessed using the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or equivalent. For a list of HCT-approved test centres, please see your Academic Services Department. IELTS must be taken at an HCTapproved test centre. Specific programs may have additional requirements please refer to the HCT Catalogue.

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS

Starting the Exam All exams will start on time. Students must be present 30 minutes before the exam starts. Students must bring their HCT Student ID cards to access the examination room. Students who arrive late will not be allowed to take the assessment. Students who miss the exam will have to wait until the next time the exam is scheduled. Students who fail to show up after scheduled breaks will be required to re-sit both sections of the exam.

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English Language Requirements These are explained at: http://portal.hct.ac.ae/sites/pnp/cass/pages/lp237.aspx If a student wishes to present a TOEFL score, he/she must apply to Educational Testing Services (ETS) to have the Official Score Report sent directly to HCT. The HCT Designated Institution Code is 1992. The Official Score Report should be sent to: System Registrar, HCT, PO Box 32092, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Up to 2 months should be allowed for this to be received. TOEFL scores are accepted only from HCT-approved test centres. For a list of approved centres, please see your Academic Services Department. IELTS and TOEFL results are valid within HCT for up to five years from the date of issue, provided the student has been studying or working continuously in an English medium environment.

Academic Calendar 2011-2012

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
This calendar notes important dates throughout the HCT academic year. The HCT year is divided into two main semesters Fall and Spring. There is also a third summer session. The calendar contains the final date by which you can add or drop a course, which is the end of the third week of the semester. You need to be sure that you make these changes during the add/drop period, otherwise, you might be penalized. The dates for withdrawal without penalty are given on p.28 in this handbook. To see the complete Academic Calendar, please go to: http://portal.hct.ac.ae

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CONTACT DETAILS
ACADEMIC POLICIES AND REGULATIONS CONTACT DETAILS

HCT College Al Ain Mens Al Ain Womens Abu Dhabi Mens

Tel. Number (03) 782 0888 (03) 782 0777 (02) 445 1514

Fax Number (03) 782 0099 (03) 782 0766 (02) 445 1571 (02) 641 3456 (02) 657 8140 (04) 326 0303 (04) 267 3939 (09) 222 2113 (09) 228 1313 (02) 884 9081 (02) 884 9081 (07) 221 1611 (07) 221 0660 (02) 877 8158 (06) 558 5252 (06) 558 5353 (02) 446 2050

P.O.Box 17155 17258 25035 41012 41012 15825 16062 4114 1626 58855 58855 4793 4792 58855 7946 7947 5464

Website aam.hct.ac.ae aaw.hct.ac.ae admc.hct.ac.ae adwc.hct.ac.ae adwc.hct.ac.ae dbm.hct.ac.ae dwc.hct.ac.ae fjm.hct.ac.ae fjw.hct.ac.ae mzc.hct.ac.ae mzc.hct.ac.ae rkm.hct.ac.ae rkw.hct.ac.ae mzc.hct.ac.ae shct.hct.ac.ae shct.hct.ac.ae certonline.com

Abu Dhabi Womens- (02) 641 3839 City Campus Khalifa Campus (02) 657 8000 Dubai Mens Dubai Womens Fujairah Mens Fujairah Womens Madinat Zayed Mens Madinat Zayed Womens Ras Al Khaimah Mens Ras Al Khaimah Womens Ruwais Sharjah Mens Sharjah Womens CERT (04) 326 0333 (04) 267 2929 (09) 222 2112 (09) 228 1212 (02) 894 3700 (02) 894 3700 (07) 221 2999 (07) 221 0550 (02) 894 3800 (06) 558 5222 (06) 558 5333 (02) 404 8501

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WHERE TO FIND FURTHER INFORMATION

HCT College Contact Academic advice Activities Address change Authorization ID card Campus information Career Planning Complaints, Academic Complaints, Student Life Computing Counseling Special Needs Services Academic Advisor, Program Chair Student Services Supervisor Student Self Service Window Student Services Office College Reception Career Centre; Program Chair Program Chair Student Services Supervisor College IT Services Student Services Office Student Services Office Academic Services Supervisor Student Services Office Program Chair Student Services Supervisor Student Self Service Window / Academic Nurse / Student Services Office Student Services Office Student Services Office Student Services Office Student Services Office Community Relations Officer Academic Services Supervisor; Program Chair Academic Services Supervisor; Program Chair Academic Services Office Work Experience Coordinator

WHERE TO FIND FURTHER INFORMATION

Disciplinary matters Events Field trips Financial Aid Grades / Transcripts Health Care Lost & Found Lost ID card Parking Sports Information Student Publications Study Abroad Tutoring Withdrawal from course / college Work Experience

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