Student Support Services and Resources

A comprehensive system of services that includes, but is not limited to, the following: assessment of academic needs; determination of non-academic needs; development, implementation, and monitoring of support services plans; attention to personal problems; career; employment guidance; assistance with interpersonal relations; academic counseling; proper referral to campus/community resources; culture awareness activity; and student advocacy.

MathWorld is the Math tutoring and learning assistance center operated by the Mathematics Department. MathWorld consists of 4 rooms with over 60 computers and is staffed by the Instructional Skills Team consisting of 10 Instructional Skills Specialists (all called Bob).  The IS Team has over 250 years of combined teaching experience.  With ten vastly different personalities, you will find the “Bob” that works best for you.  With a little help from your “Bob,” you can pass any Math course.

During the Fall and Spring semesters, hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 8am to 8pm, and Friday and Saturday, 8am to 2pm. Hours are slightly reduced during the Summer sessions. Times are subject to change due to staffing and student enrollment. MathWorld is located in NTB 307. Contact: Call Bob at (210) 486-2893.

The Coordinator of International Student Services is the first point of contact for a prospective international student who seeks information regarding admission procedures for the college. The coordinator serves as a liaison between the college and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS). Additional purposes of the coordinator are to (1) issue the Form I-20, (2) establish and maintain files for each student, (3) provide counseling and guidance for international students, (4) keep students informed regarding the rules and regulations for the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) and St. Philip’s College, (5) serve as a point of contact for all departments on campus on all matters relative to international students, (6) provide services required by this special population of students, such as verification of enrollment to home country, confirm authenticity of documents submitted, granting clearance for registration, etc.

International students must enroll full-time (12 semester hours or more) and pay hospitalization insurance (Alamo Colleges Board policy) every Fall and Spring semester. The deadline to submit all required documents (application, transcripts, verification of financial resources, TOEFL, IELTS, etc.) are June 1st for Fall, and October 1st for Spring. For additional information, contact the International Student Services Office at (210) 486-2876. (See index for additional information regarding international student).

St. Philip’s College subscribes to a progressive advising model, which is a system of shared responsibility between students, faculty, and academic advisors. The goal of academic advising is to assist students in developing educational and career plans, provide opportunities for refining academic and life skills,  provide accurate information about academic progression and degree requirements, assist in understanding academic policies and procedures, access campus resources to promote academic success, and enhance retention and success through developing personal interactions with faculty and staff. 
Academic advising helps students become ready to succeed in the workplace, be prepared for lifelong learning, become productive members of society and have a strong desire to continue to strive for higher education. Academic advisors are committed to providing quality of service, support, and encouragement to the college student body, while building a foundation of trust within the student-advisor relationship.
For more information, speak to an Academic Advisor in person.Students who have earned less than 30 credit hours are to visit the Academic Advisors located in the Norris Technical Building, Room 100. Students who have earned 31 credit hours or more are to meet with the Academic Advisor located in the Welcome Center. Students may also visit our Southwest Campus located in Building 1, Student Support Center, to receive advising.

The mission of the Counseling Resource Center is to support academic success by providing students with counseling services and resources to address personal, social, educational, and psychological concerns. The services are designed to assist in the student’s adjustment to college life, promote student retention and persistence through graduation, and contribute to their efforts in resolving issues that are vital to healthy emotional development. The Counseling Resource Center strives to collaborate with the college community to promote the personal, social, and mental well-being of students. This is accomplished through outreach services, classroom visits, topic-specific workshops, and consultation with faculty, staff, and administration. Counselors are also available to provide academic advising and scholastic intervention as needed. 

Services and Programming

The Counseling Resource Center is staffed by licensed counselors who provide services to students at St. Philip’s College main campus and St. Philip’s College Southwest Campus. Services are provided on an appointment basis; however, walk-in counseling is available for students experiencing mental health crisis. Services provided to students include:

A.   Initial consultation (first appointment)  
B.   Short-term individual (Personal) counseling
C.   Scholastic intervention

D.   Anonymous online mood/alcohol screenings

       * www.alamo.edu/spc/counseling/services/

E.   Topic-specific programming for groups
            *   Discussion panels, faculty/staff training, etc.
F.   Classroom workshops
            *   Financial Aid Appeals Information sessions

            *   Sexual assault awareness
            *   Stress-in-college
            *   Healthy relationships, etc.
G.   Short-term group counseling
H.   SOBI - Behavioral incident team interventions
I.   Community resource referrals
J.   Skills coaching for individual students
            *   Test-preparation and study skills
            *   Relationship building
            *   Communication skills, etc.
K.   Administration, staff and faculty consultation
L.   Crisis intervention to assist students in acute personal crisis
 

The Counseling Resource Center is located in the Welcome Center, Suite 106. Please call (210) 486-2117 for additional information.

The Career and Transfer Center offers resources, guidance, and assistance with career and transfer planning to current students and graduates.  We can provide assistance in choosing a career and college major, assistance with finding both full and or part time employment, help in developing a resume and assistance in locating an internship or practicum site.  We offer group and individual sessions on interviewing techniques, dress for success and general labor market information.

Job notices are posted daily and employers are regularly seen on campus recruiting students for both full and part time positions.

The Career and Transfer Center staff also provides a variety of services and information for students who are interested in transferring to a four-year college or university by providing them with information for admission, selectivity of specific colleges, financial aid, on and off-campus housing, college costs, and when and where one can apply.  We can provide students with course equivalency sheets, 2+2/ Joint Admission Agreements, Transfer core Curriculum Sheets, and Transfer Planning Guides. 

While attending St. Philip’s College, a student may complete a joint admission agreement and follow a degree plan designated by a specific university.  The degree plan permits the student to take only those courses which will apply towards a specific major at a specific university. Once the student completes all of the courses on the degree plan (with a minimum of 60 credit hours), he/she will earn an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts.

The overall goal of the Career and Transfer Center is to assist students in reaching their long-range educational and vocational goals and aid students in making their transfer experience a seamless process.

The Career and Transfer Center is located in the Norris Technical Building (NTB) Room 305 and 307. For additional information, contact the center at (210) 486-2649.

The Testing Center provides a broad range of testing services to meet the needs of its diverse student population: college placement, GED testing, correspondence exams, and proctoring services. The center also provides accommodation testing for students with documented disabilities. Please contact the Disability Support Services Office for more information regarding documentation requirements, at 210-486-2170. 

The Testing Center offers the following exams:

1.      The High School Equivalency-General Education Development Test (GED)

2.      ACCUPLACER placement exam

3.      THEA-IBT exam (external testing ONLY)  

4.      Distance Learning Exam

5.      Correspondence Exam

6.      TSI Assessment placement exam (effective 8/26/2013)

Operational Procedure for Placement Exam:  Individuals desiring to take a placement exam should complete a college application, submit transcript(s), and complete the MyMaps modules. After which the candidate may schedule the exam via the website, http://www.alamo.edu/spc/testing-center/, or receive further information and assistance from the Testing Center Staff, WEC 207B, (210) 486-2444. Please note that each candidate must present at least one valid photo identification to take the exam.  Effective 08/26/2013: All students will be required to take the state mandated test, TSI Assessment, and complete the Test Prep Module prior to testing. Please note after this date no previous state approved instrument will be accepted (e.g., Accuplacer, Asset, THEA, Compass). 

Testing Center staff monitor compliance with TSI standards, interpret placement scores/transcripts, and act as liaison among the Counseling Office, Admission and Enrollment Services, Records and Registration, and the Developmental Education Program. Testing facilities are located at MLK, second floor of the Welcome Center, and SWC, building 1 office B172.

Credit  by Examinations.  The College will accept test results on the following assessment instruments for the awarding of credit or advanced placement:

1. CLEP;
2. Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) and DANTES Subject Standardized Test (SSTs);
3. College Entrance Examination Board Advanced Placement Program (CEEB-APP); and
4. Institutional/Departmental Exams. No more than 32 hours of non- traditional credit may be awarded. With the exception of Advanced Standing Credit, credits earned by non-traditional methods are not posted on the transcripts until the student has satisfied the three (3) semester hours resident requirement. (CREDIT BY NON-TRADITIONAL METHODS may be referred to for additional information.) 

In this challenging economy, many people interested in taking and passing the General Education Development (GED) examination would like to continue with their education by enrolling in college classes. The SPC GED College Prep classes are designed specifically for those students who would like to pass the test and become better prepared for college entrance as well.

Classes are offered in reading, mathematics, and writing.  Each class requires a minimum of six classroom hours each week for eight weeks. During class, students will work hard to make academic progress while also receiving instruction and guidance in study skills. Instructors do not act as tutors but rather lecture and guide students through the material; regular homework, quizzes, and tests are part of this experience. Class attendance and participation are essential.

Before enrolling, interested students must take a free practice GED assessment examination. All examinations are given by appointment only, and staff members will provide individualized guidance to all prospective students who take the assessment exam. Students who do not meet the minimum entry requirements for this program will be referred to centers and agencies providing a more appropriate level of GED instruction.

For more information on this program, please call the Community Service Training Center at (210) 486-2107, or visit our website.

GED Testing Program

Candidates must bring proof of readiness to test or must take the GED Official Practice test at the Testing Center at the time of registration. To receive further information regarding GED registration times and testing, call 486-2525. Effective September 2013, the GED-Computer Based Testing (GED-CBT) will become available.

A student enrolling in Health Professions is required to submit an application form to the respective department. Placement tests are required. An interested person should contact the Department of Health Professions or Nursing Education department at least six (6) months prior to enrolling to obtain application information. Several Health Science programs have college-level prerequisite course requirements that must be completed prior to admission to the programs.
 

Admission Criteria
The applicant must be 18 years of age. High school diploma or GED. Applicants must have a minimum of a 2.0 GPA or the equivalent of a cumulative “C” average in all college course work/or high school. Submit 200 word double space essay: typed, 12 font - Times New Roman on why you choose St. Philip’s College and what will contribute to your success in completing the program.

Individuals who have completed High School requirements in a foreign country must submit an official high school transcript translated in English.  Contact the office of  Advising & Assessment for information regarding foreign transcripts. (210) 486-2262.
           
Requirements for Admission       
Entrance Exam / Pretest: Program requirement and Board of Nursing requirement (Rule 233.65)
 
Pass the required entrance exam with the scores established by the program as acceptable for admission.  Any one of the following exams may be taken:               
Accuplacer, ACT, ASSET and SAT, TASP/THEA scores (valid for (3) years).  
   
In an effort to admit students that are adequately prepared in the skills assessed by the entrance exam/s, the entrance exam required by the program will not be waived.
                                              
Individuals with college degrees, (regardless of the degree or type of degree),  must still qualify for admission by taking an entrance exam and must pass with the qualifying scores established by the program for admission.

Applicants must meet the entrance exam requirement before the application for admission is requested.

 

Eligibility for Licensure Issues
Persons planning to enroll in the Vocational Nursing Program who may have eligibility issues that could result in denial of licensure would not be eligible for admission.  The following are considered potential ineligibilities; criminal conduct and/or conviction; mental illness; chemical dependency including alcohol.

Persons with eligibility issues would not be eligible for admission until the declaratory order process is completed with the Texas Board of Nursing Examiners and proof of eligibility  for licensure is provided.

Eligibility for licensure information go to  www.bne.state.tx.us see BON rules and regulations Texas Administrative code rule 213.30   

Criminal background check:

• Applicant must consent for background check
• Applicant is responsible for the cost
• Persons with adverse report will be counseled by the program director to contact the BON to confirm licensure eligibility.

An applicant with declaratory orders pending will be eligible for admission if the BON determines that the applicant would be eligible for licensure. When the applicant shows proof that eligibility for licensure has been granted by the BON, the applicant will be placed in the order of current applicant roster for  admission.
   
Drug Screen:

• Applicant must consent to drug screen
• Applicant is responsible for the cost
• Applicants with a positive drug screen are not eligible for admission.

Program Information:

1. Immunizations must have documentation of two MMRs, Varicella (Chickenpox), current TD, TB screening or chest  X-Ray. Hepatitis-B series, Hepatitis-A series 
2. Applicants must complete Hepatitis B series (series of three) and  Hepatitis-A series (series of two) before application is submitted.
3. Must have current CPR (BCLS) card Infant, child and adult
4. All required immunizations as well as CPR must remain current while enrolled in the program.
5. Physical examination must be completed and signed by a physician. All questions on the physical exam must be answered.  
6. Reference letters (3) – All references must be verifiable, can include employer, co-worker (no family members)
7. Applicant must provide evidence of health insurance
8. A grade of C (77%) or greater must be earned in all nursing courses
9. All transcripts submitted must be official. College transcripts that indicate name of high school and date of graduation will be accepted.
10. GED certificates must include GED scores
11. High School transcripts from a foreign county must be translated in English before transcript is accepted. (see office of Advising and Assessment for more information)
12. All required documents must be completed.
13. Placement scores:  ACT, ASSET, SAT, TASP/THEA  (valid 3 years)
14. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
     

Admission Criteria
The applicant must be admitted to St. Philip’s College prior to being accepted into the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Mobility Program.Please refer to the current college catalog for the general admission criteria. The LVN to ADN Mobility Program is subject to the Texas Success Initiative (TSI). Call the Office of Advising and Assessment for current information regarding TSI at 210-486-2262.

Minimum Requirements for Application to the St. Philip’s College LVN to ADN Mobility Program

The applicant desiring admission to the ADN Mobility Program must:

1. Hold a current license to practice vocational nursing in the State of Texas or be eligible for reciprocity.
2. Submit an official transcript from an accredited Vocational Nursing program.
3. Complete all of the required prerequisite courses with a grade of “C”or above and a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or above.
4. Submit three letters of reference in which one must be from a Registered Nurse (RN) who has worked closely with the applicant, and one from a direct supervisor.
5. Applicant must hand carry copies of official transcripts including the official transcript from the applicant’s previous LVN program to the Nursing Education Department prior to applying for admission to the ADN Mobility Nursing Program. Applicants must be present when the transcripts are evaluated.
6. Applicant shall contact the nursing education department and schedule the nursing pre-entrance exam.
7. Request an application packet and submit completed packet by the posted deadline with all official transcripts.
8. Complete the application in accordance with the instructions.
9. A required scheduled interview for applicant seeking admission to the Nursing Mobility Program.
10. Applicants must submit proof of one year full time LVN clinical work with clinical experience within the last three (3) years.
11. Transfer of nursing courses will be considered on a case by case basis per review of the Program Director, Nursing Admissions Council, and Records and Registration Office.
12. The LVN-ADN Mobility Program applicant who has failed two courses in another nursing program will be ineligible for transfer or admission to the St. Philip’s College LVN-ADN Mobility Program.

Application Process
The applicant desiring admission to the LVN to ADN Mobility Program must:

1. Fulfill all requirements as stated above.
2. Submit a completed application packet and pre-entrance nursing exam by the posted deadline.
3. After the deadline, the Nursing Admission Council, composed of at least two faculty members and the Program Director, will review completed applications.

Program Information

1. The applicant for this program must be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. Any potential student who has been convicted of a felony, implicated in a substance abuse or driving while intoxicated (DWI), must submit a declaratory order to the Texas Board of Nursing, and receive permission prior to being approved to take the NCLEX-RN. This process may take up to eighteen months. Potential students are encouraged to discuss their situation with the Texas Board of Nursing in Austin (512) 305-7400, prior to entering the program.
2. All prerequisites must be completed prior to application to the Nursing program.
3. Applicants admitted into the program must purchase liability insurance at premium rates applicable to current academic year.
4. Applicants must hold a current basic CPR certification while enrolled in the program.
5. Uniforms and necessary accessories must be purchased upon admission to the program.
6. Applicants selected for admission must have current immunizations. Refer to the admission packet for full details on required immunizations.
7. A grade of “C” (77%) or greater must be earned in all nursing courses. The student must earn a grade of “C” or greater in all courses in order to progress in or graduate from the nursing program. 

English as a Second Language classes focus on learning how to speak, read, understand, and write the English Language. These classes are available continuously to the community. For further information, please call (210) 486-2747. Each course has a curriculum that is specifically designed to meet the academic needs of the individual learner.

The St. Philip’s College Library has two locations. The main location is in the Center for Learning Resources (CLR), a wing of the Multipurpose Building at St. Philip’s College, located at 1801 Martin Luther King Dr. The second location is in Building 1, at Southwest Campus, located at 800 Quintana Rd. Both libraries feature quiet, comfortable study areas, including group and individual study rooms.  They offer computers with Internet and software programs for student projects, email, and research. Photocopiers and printers are also provided, as well as rooms for library instruction and media viewing. A small fee is charged per page for computer printouts and photocopies. The Reference and Instruction staff periodically give tours and are available during operating hours for help with research needs.

The Library’s collections include books, music CDs, videos, and DVDs, all of which may be checked out, as well as numerous print periodicals and reference materials for in-library use. If desired, videos may be viewed in the CLR’s TV/DVD viewing room.
                                                                                                                           
The library’s web site provides patrons with quick online access to books, articles and other media through the Alamo Colleges (AC) online Library Catalog and electronic databases. As these tools are Web-based, patrons can easily access library holdings and resources from any AC Library or from their home or office through the library‘s web site.

Other resources found on the Web site includes general library information, library guides, and library-service request forms. SPC faculty may contact any Librarian or complete a request form to schedule bibliographic/library instruction. 

Distance Learning is a form of education, where students work interactively with faculty and other students via the use of a combination of communication tools which include but are not limited to: e-mail, electronic forums, video conferencing, chat rooms, bulletin boards, audio conferencing, telecourses and other forms of computer-based and telecommunication. Students with scheduling or distance problems can benefit, as can employees, because distance learning can be more flexible in terms of time and can be delivered virtually anywhere. Distance Learning Courses are the same as on campus courses in terms of academic quality, credit hours, transferability, and cost. Instructors will guide students through the format and usage of technologies used to deliver their courses.

Popular distance learning delivery methods used at St. Philip’s College include:

Internet Courses
Internet courses require a student to access class lessons, and lecture notes through the World Wide Web and through electronic communications tools. Internet Course Requirements include accessing weekly lecture notes, resource materials, and assignments through the Internet; reading and studying textbook materials; and taking exams. Course requirements may vary by instructor. A complete list of Internet Course offerings can be found in the class schedule. Additional information may be obtained by calling (210) 486-2239 or visiting the St. Philip’s College website at http://www.alamo.edu/spc/admin/distance.

Telecourses
Telecourses require that a student view professionally produced television lessons at home instead of attending regular classes on campus. Telecourse TV lessons are broadcasted several times each week on Time-Warner Channel 98 and Grande Cable Channel 21. If the broadcast times are not convenient, a student may record the lessons with a VCR or TiVO and view them at a more convenient time. The TV lessons are also available in the library for check out. Telecourse Requirements include viewing several TV lessons per week at home, reading, studying the textbook and study guide material, taking exams on campus, and attending optional review sessions. Please see the class schedule for semester offerings.

Video conferencing courses
Video Conferencing Courses are conducted on two or more campuses or locations and are linked by the use of two-way audio and video equipment. These courses allow the instructor to be at one campus while students may be at a different campus. The instructor and students interact in “real time.” Video conferencing allows students to attend a college campus that is nearby while taking courses being offered at a distant location.

St. Philip’s College Archives is located on the third floor of the Center for Learning Resources on the Martin Luther King campus. The St. Philip’s College Archives holds a wide array of materials relating to the rich history of the Historically Black and Hispanic Serving College and the surrounding community. Students will find photographs, oral history interviews as well as correspondence and other personal documents from prominent people in local and American history – Bishop James Steptoe Johnston, Ms. Artemisia Bowden and Dr. Clarence Norris, Sr., to name a few. Unlike library materials, St. Philip’s archive materials provide a first-hand look at the historically significant episodes of the College’s history that encapsulate the struggle for economic survival, the vision to provide equal educational opportunities for all, the fight for civil rights and the determination to serve the academic and skill development needs of the community.  Students have access to authentic historical documents to support their coursework as well as to enhance their learning opportunities by experiencing and judging history for themselves.  An archivist is available by appointment to answer questions and provide access to the materials.

St. Philip’s College assumes no responsibility for boarding or lodging for a student. St. Philip’s College has no dormitories, so each student is responsible for securing his or her own room and board. The college cafeteria is a contracted vendor who serves three (3) meals per day, Monday through Thursday and two (2) meals on Friday.

St. Philip’s College Child Development Center is located on the northwest corner of the campus for optimal convenience and  can accommodate up to 57 children.  The Center is licensed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. The Center became nationally accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children in January 2005. The Center is a Four-Star Designed Vendor for Child Care Delivery Services and a Training Laboratory for SPC Students. The center provides full-time, quality early care and education for children 12 months to 5 years of age. An emergent curriculum is  offered along with emphasis on short- and long-term projects.  Students, staff, faculty, and community members are eligible to use the facility. Hours of operation are from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday-Friday. The facility will be closed on  all Alamo Colleges holidays.  Childcare fees are in accordance with Alamo Colleges’ policy and include breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack in accordance with USDA guidelines. Enrollment will be provided on a first-come basis. For additional information, please contact the Center at 210-486-2500.

Service-learning is a teaching method that links community service with learning objectives in academic and vocational/technical courses at St. Philip’s College. This model of learning combines classroom instruction and real-world application, benefiting both the student and the community equally.  For example, education majors can develop their skills by spending time serving in an elementary school classroom, or biology students can better understand their subject matter while improving their environment. Reflection activities and critical thought are then used to connect the service experience with the coursework. Student participating in this educational experience will be more prepared to face the complexities of the workplace. Service-learning brings together learning and social responsibility to craft a more well-rounded student. The program impacts student academic motivation, needs in the community, leadership development and civic responsibility.

Reasons to enroll in service-learning classes:

• Apply theory learned in the classroom
• Gain real-world experience
• Help your community
• Increase your chances of getting scholarships
• Added experience to your application to four-year institutions and to your resume

For more information about service-learning at St. Philip’s College, please contact 210-486-2246.

The Student Life Department is responsible for non-instructional areas of the college that focus on the well being and personal development of the students.  Student Life units includes the Student Health Center, Student Activities, Student Government, and Student Organizations, Extramural Sports.  This Department also serves as the Campus Liaison for the Bookstore and The Cafeteria.  The Department focuses on aiding students in the identification and development of leadership skills, creating networking and mentorship opportunities for students, and creating a safe and positive social environment on campus. The  Department includes two student centers: the E.L Turbon Student Center at the MLK Campus, and Building 1, room D-143 at the Southwest Campus.

E. L. Turbon Student Center

The Center is the “home away from home” for students.  Here they can relax, study, visit with friends, eat, or merely engage in competitive games. The Center has meeting rooms, an eating area with vending machines, a big screen TV, viewing area, a lounge, and houses The Student Government Association (SGA) office, Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), andAfrican American Men on the Move (AAMA) offices.  The Center has pool tables, a wide assortment of video games, and ping-pong tables.  Table top games such as dominoes, chess, and the like are also available.

Entertainment in the Center during a semester offers something for everyone.  Live music, caricatures, dance exhibitions, mechanical bull rides, poetry slams, and magicians are but a few of the events that one can expect to see on campus.  Most of this entertainment is free to students.  Couple this with noted speakers, self-help and development workshops, and one has all the ingredients for a full and action packed semester.

Students are encouraged to get involved in student organizations.  There are numerous student clubs on campus.  There are Social Clubs, Special Interest Clubs, and clubs organized by Educational Departments.  Information on student clubs and organizations can be found in room 110 of the E.L. Turbon Student Center. The Student Life Office also services a Student Center at the Southwest Campus, located in Building 1 Room D143 which also includes recreational equipment, lounge areas, and a big screen TV for student use.

Lockers

A limited number of lockers are located in the E.L. Turbon Center.  These lockers are free and issued on a first come first serve basis.  Lockers can also be found in the Campus Center.

The First Year Experience Center offers advising services to students between 0-30 credit hours, in addition to special programs for first year students. The purpose of the program is to retain participating students beyond their critical first year of college where the majority of drop outs occur. Through extensive one-on-one student services and academic support, students are helped to adjust to college life and acquire the skills needed to become successful students. Services and programs offered include:  Academic Advising, for 0-30 hours, creating Individual Success Plans, Fresh X Summer Bridge, Book Loan, Calculator Loan, Early Alert, New Student Orientation, Student Success Newsletters, and Academic Student Planners. The First Year Experience Center is located in the Norris Technical Building (NTB), room 100. For more information, please call (210) 486-2170. 

The Student Health Centers are staffed with professionally trained and licensed Nurses.  Campus nurses seek to inform and educate the campus community in the art of “staying well.”  The staff is readily available to respond and administer first aid to on-site emergency injuries and illnesses.  A wide assortment of health related services are available at the Health Center.  They include but are not limited to the following:

• Consultation on health related problems
• Health Information Pamphlets
• Information on community-based health organizations
• Student Insurance Information

The Center presents health programs in cooperation with area health specific groups.  Campus wide Blood Donor Drives are coordinated by this office. Students with chronic health problems or disabilities are encouraged to consult with the Nurse at the beginning of each semester.  All students are encouraged to keep their immunizations up to date.

College Health Centers Locations:
 

• The Department of Public Safety (DPS) has an emergency phone located outside the DPS office for immediate assistance.
• Courtesy Patrol Assistance is available for locked keys and dead batteries during the hours of 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Escort service is also available for anyone needing assistance to his or her vehicle.

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBER (210) 222-0911
NON-EMERGENCY NUMBER (210) 485-0099

Police protection is afforded 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The primary objective of the patrol officer is to provide a safe environment for the employees, students, and the community. Protection of life and property.

Police duties include but are not limited to the following:

• Patrol functions (vehicle, foot, and bike);
• Identify suspicious activities and persons;
• Conduct field interviews;
• Conduct field investigations;
• Respond to call(s) for service;
• Provide escorts;
• Non-emergency requests;
• Traffic enforcement;
• Traffic accident investigations;
• Respond to alarms;
• Conduct investigations;
• Community relations;
• Crime prevention activity;
• Disturbance calls;
• Record the above (written reports).

Calls are assigned to the patrol officer on a priority basis. Criminal calls have priority over service calls or non-emergency requests. The DPS also has bike patrols assigned to all campuses between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. The bike officers patrol the interior of all campuses as well as the parking lots.

Every student attending classes who operates a motor vehicle and parks on the College campus must purchase and properly display a “Student Parking Registration”  (see Tuition Section). To be valid, the Parking Registration must hang from the inside rear-view mirror with the registration number facing the front of the vehicle.  A  registration placed in any other manner will be classified as “No Registration.”  Parking registrations are valid for one (1) academic year (September 1 through August 31.) The purchase of a Parking Registration DOES NOT guarantee the student a parking space on the College campus, but only authorizes the student to park in authorized “student”  parking lots if space is available and the Parking Registration is properly displayed. It is imperative that the student who operates a motor vehicle secures a copy of the Traffic and Parking Rules and Regulations at the time he or she purchases the Parking Registration. This will minimize misunderstandings and penalties involving the issuance of Parking Citations.

The Alamo Colleges Department of Public Safety Officers are commissioned Peace Officers vested with the power and authority to issue traffic citations and summons, to arrest and file charges, if necessary in the City or Justice of the Peace Courts. A student found in violation of the Traffic and Parking Rules and Regulations will be issued a Traffic/Parking Citation. Each Campus citation is $12.00 if paid within ten (10) days of the issue date on the citation. Fines shall be paid at the Bursar’s Office or mailed in. If not paid within ten (10) days of the issue date on the citation, the fine increases to $18.00. The Alamo Colleges Department of Public Safety Office may be contacted at (210) 485-0099. For citation information call (210) 486-2999. There is a 24-hour dispatcher on duty for emergency service who may be contacted at (210) 222-0911.  If you are issued a Justice of the Peace citation, you must appear in the court stated on the citation.  Failure to appear may result in criminal charges.

Servicemen’s Opportunity College (SOC)

In recognition of the unique educational problems confronting many Army active-duty military in attaining their educational goals, the College has sought official registration as a Servicemen’s Opportunity College. A pledge of continuous effort is made to fulfill the educational commitment to the military by maintaining the standards specified by the criteria of a SOC, using promising new approaches to meet the educational needs of the military.

Guidelines for Evaluation of Military Educational Experiences and SOC Enrollment

The following procedures should be employed by a military person desiring to have his or her educational records evaluated for college credit to participate in the SOC Program.

Step 1: Submit an official Joint Seervices Transcripts (JST) for the evaluation of educational experience during  military service.  Credit will only be granted if military educational experiences are relevant to the declared subject major.
Step 2: Retain a copy of the Joint Services Transcripts (JST) transcript, and schedule an appointment with Ms. Conyers (Servicemen’s Opportunity College Counselor) to discuss the SOC program and the College’s degree plans.

The Educational Support Services Department (ESS) at the College provides academic and psychosocial support services that are designed to promote student success.

Communication Skills Studio

The Communication Skills Studio, housed in the Counseling Department (SLC 103J), provides one-to-one tutoring for qualified students with specific disabilities. Referrals to this service must be made by the learning disabilities specialist on campus (located in NTB 106).

Tutoring and Technology Lab Center (TnT)

The TnT is located in NTB 116 and offers free tutoring by peers, skills specialists, and college faculty in most academic courses that are offered at the college. Smarthinking, a free on-line tutoring service, is also available via each student’s PALS account. The TnT has a total of 50 computer workstations and 20 laptop computers for student use. Located within the Center are four breakout rooms and six carrels for individual study or testing. A flat screen LCD CCTV (My Reader) and an automatic adjustable table suited for students in wheelchairs are also available. The following specialized software and hardware are provided: JAWS, Magic Dragon Dictate Naturally Speaking Preferred, Kurzweil 1000 and 3000, SARA, a high speed scanner, Zoomtext and Fastforward.

Interpreter Services

Interpreter Services is located in NTB106 and is available to hearing impaired students. A TDD is available for student use.

Students who will be requesting interpreter services for the semester must register for classes during EARLY registration to insure interpreter services for all of his/her classes.  To find out the dates of early registration, please contact the registrar’s office at 210-486-2020, or visit the office web site.  If a student chooses to wait until late registration to register for classes, the Interpreter Services department cannot guarantee that interpreter services will be provided for all classes.

In accordance to new district policies and Section 54 of the Educational Code, effective Fall 2005, ALL students will be required to submit the following documents to Interpreter Services, to remain on file, in order to receive an approved tuition waiver for St. Philip’s College:

• Completed Educational Plan Application
  Student will be required to complete an Education Plan Application as provided by Interpreter Services prior to enrollment with St. Philip’s College and to update it when deemed appropriate. The Education Plan Application is property of St. Philip’s College, Interpreter Services to be used as an in-house tool and is not a state or federal issued document.
• Major and Degree plan (received from the student’s academic advisor)
  The Education Plan Application will accompany the student’s degree, certificate or enhanced program plan.
• Certificate of Deafness
  Student is responsible for applying through and obtaining the certificate with the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitation Services, Division of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services based in Austin, Texas.
• High School transcript
  Student will submit his/her high school and/or college transcripts to both Admissions and Records and Interpreter Services as a requisite to enrollment.
• Letter of recommendation
  Student will be required to obtain a letter of recommendation from his/her high school principal, employer or some other responsible adult who is willing to serve as a reference and letter will remain on file with Interpreter Services.

After meeting with an advisor and submitting all necessary documents, the advisor or counselor in Interpreter Services will approve the Certificate of Deafness, which then can be presented to the business office for tuition waiver

Learning Disabilities and Psychological Services Program

The Learning Disabilities and Psychological Services Program offers specialized help, in the form of accommodations, to a student who has been diagnosed with learning disabilities or psychological disabilities. In addition, the program offers diagnostic testing for a student who is having difficulty keeping up in class, taking notes, understanding reading assignments, working math problems, passing tests, and/or writing essays.

Remediation techniques, compensatory skills training, individual and group counseling, and techniques for helping students discover new coping strategies that maximize academic potential are offered. Services are available in NTB 106.

General Use Computer Labs

General use computer labs are provided by Information and Communication Technology (SPC-IT) in the Norris Technical Building on the Martin Luther King (MLK) Campus, on the Southwest Campus in Buildings 1 and 3, at Randolph Air Force Base, and at Lackland Air Force Base. These labs contain networked personal computers, printers, and a large assortment of academic and productivity software.  The SPC-IT general use computer labs are connected to the Internet.  General use computer labs are scheduled by faculty members to support the academic needs of their students.

Open IT Student Computer Labs

Networked computers with Microsoft Office Suite, special-use software and Internet access are available for student use in open labs on the MLK Campus and SW Campus. Students can use the open lab computers to access their ACES account. Open computer labs are available at the MLK Campus in the TnT Center, Norris Technical Building 116 (NTB) and at Southwest Campus in Building 3, Room 105 on a first-come, first-served basis during open lab hours.   Lab hours will be posted at the beginning of each semester.

Students are expected to follow all the Alamo Colleges’ Acceptable Computer Use Procedures.  These procedures are available in the student computer labs and can be found on the SPC-IT Web site.

For information, contact:  Information and Communication Technology, 

(Available to St. Philip’s College students)

The Alamo Colleges (St. Philip’s College), University of the Incarnate Word and Our Lady of the Lake University have an agreement to participate in the Army R.O.T.C. Program housed at the St. Mary’s University Department of Military Science.  A student from St. Philip’s College who wishes to take Army ROTC may enroll for the course just as they would any other class. Ensure that the prerequisites are met then enroll.

A Leadership Laboratory is held every Wednesday afternoon for two hours, to further the development of leadership skills through a varied program consisting of field trips, practical exercises, and visits to military installations. This laboratory is required each semester for all Military Science students. In most cases, ROTC cadets may receive an academic minor in Military Science.

The Coordinator for Military Science, Dr. Lang Coleman is the point of contact for students from St. Philip’s who want more information about ROTC. You may contact him at 210-486-2613 or SLC 246a.  You may also contact the Professor of Military Science and the Army ROTC offices which are dual located at University of Incarnated Word in the Chapel Bld, Room 7 and on the bottom floor of Treadaway Hall at St. Mary’s University. The telephone numbers are 832-3210 or 436-3415. ROTC Enrollment Officer number is 210-379-1997. Email:  rotc@universe.uiwtx.edu.

• Four-Year Program

The Basic Course, usually pursued concurrently with the freshman and sophomore years, is voluntary for students who are physically qualified for military training. There is no obligation incurred by non-scholarship cadets. Veterans who have served on active duty for a period of over one year and who have received an honorable discharge, or High School students that have completed three or four years of JROTC may be granted credit for the basic course with concurrence of the Professor of Military Science.

Students who are physically qualified and have met the standards prescribed by the Professor of Military Science in scholastic achievement and demonstrated leadership ability may pursue the Advanced Course. Cadets are normally enrolled in the Advanced Course during their Junior and Senior Year or Graduate students pursuing a Master Degree. They are required to attend a five-week ROTC Leadership Development Assessment Course (LDAC) the summer following their junior year. Upon satisfactory completion of LDAC and the academic work required for a degree, students are commissioned as Second Lieutenants in the United States Regular Army, the Army Reserves, or the Army National Guard. 

• Two-Year Program

In addition to the standard four-year course outlined above, the Army ROTC offers a two-year program for those who did not have or take the opportunity to complete the normal Basic Course.  In order to enroll in the Advanced Course, a student must successfully complete four weeks of leadership training, provided at the Leadership Training Course (LTC) during the summer months prior to beginning their junior year or their first year in graduate school. If students desire to take advantage of this opportunity, they should communicate directly with the Professor of Military Science no later than March 1 of the year preceding the Fall semester. Those students seeking a Master’s Degree are eligible to participate in our two-year program. 

• Scholarship and Remuneration

The Department of the Army offers four, three, and two-year competitive scholarship assistance to qualifying ROTC students. This assistance consists of payment up to $20,000 a year to cover tuition and fees, and a $900.00 a year book allotment, plus a grant to the ROTC cadet of $250.00 to $400.00 a month during the period of enrollment (not to exceed 40 months). The student need not be enrolled in the ROTC program prior to competing for a scholarship. Students interested in competing for scholarship assistance under this program should contact the Army ROTC Enrollment Officer.

Formally enrolled Advanced Course Students, not under the scholarship program, will be given a grant at the rate announced annually by the Secretary of the Army (currently this rate is $350.00 to $400.00 per month) not to exceed twenty months. During LDAC, all students are paid at the rate of one half of the base pay per month of a second lieutenant in lieu of subsistence allowance, plus the allowance of 18 cents per mile for travel performed from their homes to and from the course.  Students attending LTC prior to entry into the two-year program are paid at the same rate per month as a private plus travel pay. ROTC graduates who are commissioned in either Regular Army or the Army Reserve are authorized a uniform allowance when they report for active duty. 

• Uniform and Equipment

All uniforms, textbooks and other equipment will be issued to students enrolled in Army ROTC courses. Students are responsible for the maintenance and up keep of all items issued to them.

The Mission of the Student Development Department is to assist students in facilitating their growth by providing instructional modules, encourage academic achievement, decision making, critical thinking, personal and career growth, and an appreciation for lifelong learning.

The Student Development offers a wide range of professional counseling and academic services. These services include:

• Classroom Instruction
• Educational Planning
• Academic Advising
• ESW’s Advising
• Student Success Classes
• Substance Abuse Counseling
• Personal Counseling

Degrees Offered

• Liberal Arts
• General Studies

All Liberal Arts and General Studies students should meet with a counselor to design an Educational Plan. This plan outlines the course of study necessary to reach the student educational goal.

The Student Development Department is located in the Center for Learning Resources. For additional information, contact the department at (210) 486-2087. 

The mission of the Office of Veterans Affairs is to assist St. Philip’s College students to efficiently and accurately process VA certification requests and Hazelwood Act exemption requests for eligible veterans and/or their dependents.

The Office of Veteran Affairs offers assistance to students receiving educational assistance under one of the public laws for veterans and/or their dependents. Students utilizing Veteran Affairs benefits and/or the Hazelwood exemption should contact the Veteran Affairs Office to obtain information regarding enrollment and specific requirements.

New student veterans and/or dependents are required to declare a major and provide official transcripts from every institution attended, including appropriate military transcripts (AARTs for Army, SMART for Marine Corps and Navy and CCAF for Air Force).

Students using VA benefits and/or the Hazelwood exemption must notify the Office of Veterans Affairs of any adds, drops, course, or program changes.