Atlanta, Georgia
School Catalog - 2021-2022 Version 1.0
Effective April 4, 2022
School Name
School Address
Atlanta, Georgia 30324
https://creativecircus.edu/
General Disclaimer
Accreditation Statements
State Approval/Licensure
Academic Calendar
About School
Mission Statement and Objectives
History
Founded in 1995 in Atlanta, Georgia, The Creative Circus is an accredited, two-year portfolio-building educational program for the creative side of the marketing communications industry. The Creative Circus seeks to train and develop talent to fill industry need. In addition to advertisements, design pieces, websites and images, Circus students develop concepts for full-scale branding, brand extensions, product development, interactive design and innovative technology applications. At the end of the two-year program, Creative Circus graduates earn a certificate and are armed with experience and an exemplary portfolio that shows industry employers what they know and how they think. The Creative Circus is the first step to a career as a working creative.
Facilities
Definitions
- Payment Period - a defined time frame that measures a student’s progress in their selected program of study allowing for the administration of Title IV funding. Payment periods will vary depending on a students selected program of study (i.e. term vs clock hour)
- Grading Period - the period of time for which students receive final grades, this can be a module, term, or payment period, varies by program.
- Term-based Programs - Typically comprised of 10/12 week courses in a term, varying by program
Admissions Requirements & Procedures
General Admissions Requirements
- Admissions Interview: Call or e-mail to arrange an appointment to visit the school. An admissions interview (preferably face-to-face, but by telephone if necessary) will provide full information about our programs, start dates, how we work with graduates and school requirements. Admissions interviews take place with an Admissions Representative who will evaluate a candidate’s interest in our programs and his or her dedication to the field of study. While work ethic and potential for success cannot be formally measured, these qualities are essential to success and will be discussed at the time of the admissions interview. Our goal is to enroll students who will be graduates and who will contribute to the creative industry. At the completion of the admissions interview, should both the prospective student and the Admissions Representative feel that the student has a significant chance of success from the course of study; the Admissions Representative will give the student a recommendation to apply and will work closely with the prospect to ensure all application materials are submitted in a timely manner. Prospective students who do not receive a recommendation from an Admissions Representative may appeal to the Director of Admissions.
- Application: An application may be obtained from an Admissions Representative. A $100 application fee is due at the time an application is submitted. Candidates for admission who submit an application without a previous successful interview will be contacted to schedule an interview.
- An Essay: 150 words addressing the following question are required: How will you participate and contribute to your own education in order to be a successful student and graduate of The Creative Circus?
- Enrollment Agreement: Indicates the tuition agreement with The Creative Circus and an estimate of total costs. This agreement allows a student to participate in our lock-in tuition policy to secure a tuition rate up to a year ahead and to maintain that rate as long as the student remains in good full-time academic standing. Should a student drop to part-time or withdraw, or be on academic dismissal, the former tuition rate is lost and the student will be charged at the most current cost per credit hour.
- All students are required to disclose to The Creative Circus any criminal convictions they receive while enrolled in any The Creative Circus program. Depending on the nature of that conviction, students may be dismissed from the program.
- 10-15 Samples of Work: All students must submit an application portfolio containing 10-15 samples of work. These samples need not be slick or polished and can take several forms. Their purpose is to indicate whether the applicant has the originality, creative potential and intellect to succeed in the rigorous Circus program. Prospective students with questions on what kind of work and how to submit work should contact Admissions. Applicants who would like their samples returned must enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope at the time they are submitted. Work is submitted to the appropriate Program Director for review and final recommendation on acceptance to The Creative Circus including any opportunity for advanced placement.
- Proof of high school completion or GED: All students must have successfully completed high school or have passed a high school equivalency (GED) test. Applicants must present evidence of graduation from a high school that is state-approved or accredited by an agency recognized by the United States Department of Education. A transcript from an accredited college will also be accepted as proof of high school completion. For non-high school graduates, evidence of the GED equivalency or other certification from a state-authorized examination, such as the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET) or the Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) must be submitted. Only applicants who show a passion for the field and innate talent, and whose background points to enthusiasm to learn, will be accepted. Each applicant must submit an Attestation Form indicating the high school from which he or she graduated or the GED testing center where the equivalency test was administered.
- Transcripts Official: Final transcripts from any previous post-secondary schools attended are required prior to starting at The Creative Circus. Transcripts can be mailed directly to The Creative Circus (attention Admissions) from the registrar’s office at a student’s former institution. Any fees associated with obtaining these records are the responsibility of the student.
- Notification: When all requirements for admissions have been fulfilled, the applicant will be notified regarding his or her admissions status. Any questions regarding acceptance should be directed to the applicant’s Admissions Representative.
Prior Education Requirement
Each applicant must have earned one of the following educational credentials from a The Creative Circus recognized organization: a high school diploma or equivalent or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
Prior to starting classes, applicants will be required to submit proof of high school graduation or a recognized equivalency certificate (GED) to the school by providing the school with an official transcript confirming graduation or a nationally or regionally accredited college transcript documenting (1) graduation from an associate degree or higher program with a graduation date listed or (2) graduation from high school listing the high school name and graduation date.
Arbitration
A condition of enrollment is the signing of an enrollment agreement by both the Student and a School administrator. The following provisions with respect to arbitration are part of the enrollment agreement. PLEASE READ THEM CAREFULLY TO ENSURE THAT YOU UNDERSTAND EACH PROVISION AND YOUR RIGHT TO OPT OUT OF THEM.
You (the Student) and the School agree that any dispute arising out of or relating to this enrollment agreement, your enrollment or your attendance at the School, whether such dispute arises during or after your attendance and whether the dispute is based on contract, tort, statute, or otherwise, shall be resolved by binding arbitration in the city and county in which the School is located. You (the Student) and the School each further agrees that this arbitration provision provides each party with its exclusive remedy for redress of any grievance or resolution of any dispute arising out of or relating to this Agreement (the Dispute), AND EACH PARTY EXPRESSLY WAIVES ANY RIGHT, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION THE RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY, IT MIGHT HAVE TO SEEK REDRESS.
THE STUDENT AND THE SCHOOL ALSO AGREE THAT DISPUTES MAY ONLY BE BROUGHT IN THE STUDENT’S INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY AND NOT ON BEHALF OF, OR AS PART OF, A CLASS ACTION OR REPRESENTATIVE PROCEEDING. If this specific paragraph is found to be unenforceable, then the entirety of these arbitration provisions shall be null and void and rendered of no further effect with respect to the Dispute.
If the Dispute is not resolved pursuant to the School’s Dispute Resolution procedures as outlined in the School’s catalog within 45 days from the date the Student submits a written complaint to the STVT-AAI Education Inc. Corporate Office, then the Dispute shall be resolved by binding arbitration in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Rules and the Supplementary Procedures for Consumer Related Disputes of the American Arbitration Association (AAA) then in effect, and judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof.
- The Federal Arbitration Act shall govern this arbitration agreement. The substantive law which will govern the interpretation of a student’s Enrollment Agreement and related documents and the resolution of any Dispute will be the law of the state where the School is located.
- Arbitration shall be the sole method of resolving all Disputes between the parties to this agreement.
- The arbitrator shall have the authority to decide all questions of arbitrability.
- Arbitration will take place before a single neutral arbitrator, chosen according to the AAA Commercial Rules, in the city in which the School attended by the Student is located.
- The parties may take discovery through interrogatories, depositions and requests for production that the arbitrator determines to be reasonable and necessary.
- The arbitration shall be conducted in the English language.
- The arbitrator shall have the authority to grant interim remedies pursuant to the AAA’s Optional Rules for Emergency Measures of Protection then in effect. The arbitrator shall have the authority to award monetary damages measured by the prevailing party’s actual damages and may grant any non-monetary remedy or relief that the arbitrator deems just and equitable and within the scope of this agreement between the parties. Judgment on the award rendered by the arbitrator may be entered in any court having jurisdiction.
- The arbitrator shall not have any authority to award punitive damages, treble damages, consequential or indirect damages, or other damages not measured by the prevailing party’s actual damages.
- The arbitrator also shall not have any authority to alter any grade issued to a student.The parties shall bear their own costs and expenses.
- The parties also shall bear an equal share of the fees and costs of the arbitration, which include but are not limited to the fees and costs of the arbitrator, unless the parties agree otherwise.The Student is responsible for all other additional costs that the Student incurs in the arbitration including, but not limited to, attorney’s fees or expert witness costs unless otherwise required of the School under applicable law.
- Except as may be required by law, neither party nor an arbitrator may disclose the existence, content, or results of any such arbitration without the prior written consent of both parties.
- If any clause within these arbitration provisions is found to be illegal or unenforceable, that specific clause will be severed from these arbitration provisions, and the remainder of the arbitration provisions will be given full force and effect.
- If the Student does not wish to be bound by these arbitration provisions, the Student must notify the School in writing within 30 days of the date that these arbitration provisions become effective. The Student may opt out by mail to the campus mailing address. The Student’s written notification to the School must include the Student’s name and address as well as a clear statement that the Student does not wish to resolve disputes with the School through arbitration.
Finally, the School cannot require the Student to participate in arbitration or any internal dispute resolution process offered by the School prior to filing a borrower defense to repayment application with the U.S. Department of Education pursuant to 34 C.F.R. § 685.206(e); the School cannot, in any way, require the Student to limit, relinquish, or waive his or her ability to pursue filing a borrower defense claim, pursuant to § 685.206(e) at any time; and any arbitration required by this pre-dispute arbitration agreement tolls the limitations period for filing a borrower defense to repayment application pursuant to § 685.206(e)(6)(ii).
Equal Educational Opportunity
- The Creative Circus declares and affirms a policy of equal employment opportunity, equal educational opportunity, and nondiscrimination in the provision of educational services to the public. The school will make all decisions regarding recruitment, hiring, promotion, and all other terms and conditions of employment without discrimination on grounds of race, color, creed or religion, sex,(including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or other factors which cannot lawfully be the basis for an employment decision.
- The Creative Circus reaffirms its policy of administering all of its educational programs and related supporting services and benefits in a manner which does not discriminate because of a student’s or prospective student’s race, color, creed or religion, sex, (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or other characteristics which cannot lawfully be the basis for provision of such services.
- The Creative Circus adheres to the provisions of the following federal laws, in each case as they have been amended to date: (a) the Higher Education Act of 1965, (b) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and (c) the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. Inquiries concerning the application of these laws and their implementing regulations may be referred to the Executive Director.
Student Disability Accommodation
It is the policy of Ancora Education to provide qualified students who have disabilities with reasonable accommodation based upon relevant law, the academic program’s educational standards, and sound ethical practice in disability services.
Having provided sufficient evidence of a disability and need for accommodation, a student may make official requests for accommodation by submitting an official disability accommodations request form and supporting materials. Students should make accommodation requests as far in advance of the relevant course, entrance assessment, activity or program, to allow for appropriate consideration and planning. Because the reasonableness of any individual accommodation request can vary substantially depending upon a student's current course load, schedule, or course content, accommodation requests must be reviewed by the Director of Education each term of enrollment. When possible, students entering a program of study for the first time should submit information related to disability at least six weeks prior to enrollment so that reasonable accommodation can be arranged and delivered prior to the start of the term. The Director of Education will consider the information (documentation) provided by the student, consult with faculty and/or other campus officials as needed, and determine what constitutes reasonable accommodation(s) for the student’s disability.
The Director of Education will identify a list of approved accommodations in accordance with the manifestations of the disability, a copy of which will be shared with the student. For academic accommodations, following review and approval at the start of each term of enrollment, the Director of Education will prepare individual letters for each instructor summarizing the approved accommodations relevant to his/her course. These letters will be delivered to the student and appropriate instructors through email. Faculty and other campus officials then are required to provide reasonable accommodation(s) in accordance with the Director of Education’s letter(s). If a faculty member or other campus official does not agree to an accommodation request, the student should seek the assistance of the Director of Education
A student who disagrees in any way with a decision regarding a request for accommodation may seek review of a decision under this procedure by contacting the Executive Director. If the Executive Director feels that the disagreement can be resolved informally, the Executive Director will try to do so, working with the student and the Director of Education and any other necessary individuals (such as a faculty member, for example). If informal resolution is ineffective or impractical, the Executive Director will refer the matter to the Office of the Chief Academic Officer for investigation and review.
Transfer of credit
- An official transcript of the student's coursework must be furnished directly by the institution where the coursework was completed before any application for transfer credits can be accepted.
- The campus may request additional information such as course descriptions or syllabi if there is question on the comparability of program content to the program in which the student will enroll. The student is responsible for providing any requested additional information.
- The student may be required to demonstrate through testing any hands-on competencies before transfer credit is accepted for courses where such competencies are required.
- Credits must have been earned in courses offered at institutions accredited by an agency recognized by either the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation at the time the credit was earned.
- A grade of "C" or higher must be earned in each course completed to be eligible for transfer from a non-Ancora owned school.
- A grade of "D" or higher must be earned in each course completed to be eligible for transfer from a commonly owned Ancora Education school.
- Credits will be evaluated on a course by course basis. In most instances, core requirements must be transferred within seven (7) year of completion. No timeframe restrictions will be imposed on general education coursework.
- Courses taken at institutions operating on quarter systems will be evaluated as direct equivalent credits into quarter credit programs. Those transferred from institutions operating on a semester basis to quarter hour institutions are multiplied by one and one half to convert them to quarter credit hours.
- In the case of a clock hour program, any course accepted must be at least the same number of clock hours as the course for which it is accepted. The student will also be required to demonstrate through testing any hands-on competencies prior to clock hour course credit being accepted for transfer.
- Courses that are classified as foundational in nature are not transferable.
- Transfer credits may impact the student’ schedule, causing the student to be less than full-time, which may impact eligibility for some sources of financial aid.
- The student will not be charged any fees from the receiving institution for transferring in credits from other institutions. Students are responsible for all fees for obtaining official transcripts and supporting documentation for transfer of credit (Students receiving VA funding, see Proof of Previous Education).
- In all cases of transfer of credit, Ancora campuses will attempt to avoid excessive loss of previously earned credit and avoid coursework duplication. Any questions about transfer of credits/clock hours should be discussed with the Director of Education, or designee.
Maximum Transfer Credits Accepted (Residency Requirement)
The total credits not earned in residency, including credit by transfer and credit by proficiency testing, may not exceed seventy five percent 75% of the total credit hours (or clock hours for non-credit hour programs) required for the completion of the program of study. 25% of the student’s total credit hours (or clock hours for non-credit hour programs) must be completed in residency.
Coursework Completed at Foreign Institutions
Credit earned at foreign institutions must be externally evaluated by a Ancora Education approved foreign credential evaluator which includes National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or Association of International Credential Evaluators (AICE) members.
Notice Concerning Transferability of Credits and Credentials Earned at Our Campus
Each Ancora Education campus is an accredited campus that is designed to provide the student with vocational career training and is not designed to prepare the student for transfer to other institutions. Acceptance of credits earned at a Ancora Education campus is determined solely by the receiving institution. The campus cannot and does not guarantee credit transfer.
Students wishing to transfer credits should first consult with the Registrar at those institutions concerning acceptance. Ancora Education campuses will provide official transcripts, for a fee, as well as course descriptions by request. Students with outstanding financial obligations will receive only unofficial transcripts, when requested. Accreditation alone does not guarantee credit transfer.
Transfer to Other Ancora Education Campuses
Students in good standing may transfer to another campus location. Transfer students are advised that they will be subject to the minimum residency requirements at the new campus for the program in which they are enrolled.
Procedure: Transfer of Credit
The student is responsible for requesting official transcripts be sent from the prior institution directly to Ancora Education campuses.
- All requests for transfer credit must be submitted by the end of the first term of attendance at the school.
- Since transfer credits impact scheduling and on time completion for students, students who submit official transcripts after the drop/add period in the student’s first term may see changes to scheduling and on time completion.
- If needed to evaluate comparability of credit, the student may need to request course descriptions and syllabi from the prior institution.
- The Director of Education, or designee, will review credits based on the guidelines listed above.
- The Director of Education, or designee, will fill out the Transcript Evaluation Form and notify the student of the credits accepted for transfer.
- Students wishing to appeal decisions on transfer credit should submit request in writing to the Executive Director to identify reasons for appeal.
- The Executive Director will request follow-up information as needed for the appeal.
- The Executive Director will submit appeal through the Office of the Chief Academic Officer.
- The Executive Director will notify student of final decision regarding transfer credit. The decision from the Office of the Chief Academic Officer will be final.
- Once transfer credit is accepted, the student’s tuition will be adjusted based on the number of credits successfully transferred in.
In all cases of transfer of credit, The Creative Circus will attempt to avoid excessive loss of previously earned credit and avoid course work duplication.
Courses that are classified as foundational in nature are not transferable.
Proficiency Testing
Internal proficiency exams are available for certain courses to provide students with the opportunity to earn credit for course material in which they have previous experience. Students must apply to request a proficiency examination for a particular subject. Such a request should be granted if an examination is available and the Director of Education has reason to believe the student’s experience or training warrants such an evaluation. Students who were enrolled in the course beyond the Drop/Add period are not eligible to sit for the exam and a proficiency exam may only be attempted once. A score of 80% or higher is required to earn internal proficiency credit. Students will not be approved to test out of 300 or 400 level courses. Equivalent coursework from another institution may be evaluated for transfer credit per the transfer credit policy.
External Proficiency credit may also be granted to students who achieve acceptable scores on specific nationally recognized examinations such as Advanced Placement (AP), CLEP, and DANTES. The Director of Education, or designee, will review examinations proposed for credit to determine whether the material covered in the examination matches coursework in the student’s program of study.
Procedure: Internal Proficiency Examinations
The student is responsible for requesting the Application for Proficiency Examination from the Office of the Registrar.
- The student must request the Application for Proficiency Examination form from the Academic Department within the first five weeks of the student’s first term of enrollment.
- The student will fill out the form, including information as to why the student is requesting a proficiency examination. The campus may deny an application for a student who does not have relevant coursework, certification, or prior work experience.
- The Director of Education, or designee, will review the request, and if approved, will set up the proficiency examination.
- Some examinations may be scheduled for a specific day and time.
- Other examinations may be scheduled to be turned in by a specific day.
- Some examinations may have a hands-on component that must be proctored.
- Students wishing to appeal decisions on proficiency examinations should submit the request in writing to the Executive Director to identify reasons for appeal.
- The Executive Director will request follow-up information as needed for the appeal.
- The Executive Director will submit appeal through the Office of the Chief Academic Officer.
- The Executive Director will notify student of final decision regarding proficiency credit. The decision from the Office of the Chief Academic Officer will be final.
- Once a proficiency examination is passed, the student’s tuition will be adjusted based on the number of credits successfully passed.
Proof of Previous Education for Veterans Affairs Funding
As a student receiving any Veteran Affairs (VA) funding, it is required to show proof of all previous education obtained for Post-Secondary studies. When applying for VA Benefits, a student must complete a transcript request for all schools previously attended. The school will submit the request at no cost to the student applying, and the student will initially be certified for the first academic term. The school should receive the requested transcript(s) within the students first term to ensure accurate scheduling and timely certification of future charges. Each state has published limitations for how long a student may be certified without receipt and evaluation of prior coursework transcripts. Students with transcript(s) not received within their State’s Limitation will no longer be certified for future coursework until the school has received the required transcript(s). Exceptions to these limitations must be approved by the State Approving Agency and Executive Director.
Modes of Program Delivery
C: On-Campus (no courses are available online)
F: FlexTrack (some courses are available online)
H: Hybrid (each course is partially on-campus and online)
Distance Education
The Creative Circus students may have the opportunity to complete a portion of their programs of study, subject to limits established by the institution’s state licensure and accreditation, through distance education 100 percent online or hybrid courses. Admission requirements for these programs do not vary from admission requirements for programs of study offered entirely on ground.
Hybrid programs of study allow students in certain programs of study to complete greater than 50 percent but less than 100 percent of their program online. Hybrid programs contain courses that are a combination of online and face-to-face instruction.
Students are expected to interact with faculty and other students through online discussion boards as well as traditional face-to-face classroom activities. Students are required to participate in all face-to-face classroom activities and online activities as outlined in the course syllabi. Students enrolling in online courses should have basic computer competency and skills. All students have access to the same support services regardless of the mode of instructional delivery. All students have access to library services, academic advising, tutoring, and career services. All distance education/online courses and programs offered by the campus have been deemed as equivalent in content and quality to the same courses offered via traditional delivery methods.
Under certain circumstances, such as a student getting out of sequence with course schedules or courses that may not be offered each term, students enrolled in hybrid programs may be required to take fully online classes to graduate.
Students participating in hybrid programs are expected to complete the online orientation prior to the start of classes.
Hybrid Learning
Hybrid learning provides the student with an opportunity for greater flexibility in the learning environment. Hybrid courses are designed as a combination of online and residential (on-ground classroom) based learning. Each course has a specific percentage of the course delivered through online delivery.
Authentication and Protection of Student Identity
Users are provided a unique username and password and are prohibited from providing the user’s name and password to any other individual.
The students’ username, password, and email address are used to authenticate the student’s identity in order to complete assignments within the Learning Management System. All testing is completed through the Learning Management System, and the student’s unique username and password is used to verify the student’s identity.
The student’s unique username and password is used to verify student identity. Neither the Institution nor Ancora Education will release any student’s username and password to any individual that would violate a student’s rights under the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act.
No student is assessed any additional charges or fees associated with the verification/authentication of student identity.
Technology Specifications for Online Courses
Each student enrolled in an online or hybrid course(s) or program of study provided through the College is expected to have access to an internet connection, computer hardware, and operating software as outlined below. Campus computer labs are available to access online course content and to meet the necessary technology requirements.
Students Accessing Courses
All students are required to use a computer that meets or exceeds the following specifications:Operating System:
Windows 7 and greater
OS X 10.13 and greater
Chrome (latest version)
Memory: 4GB or higher
Chrome Browser (most recent release)
headset or speakers
Internet Connection: High Speed Cable or Faster
Note for those who may access courses from your place of employment: Employers often place restrictions on the content allowed through the organization’s firewall or network security measures. Such measures may affect your ability to access your online courses from place of employment, or using employer-provided Internet access, and is beyond our ability to predict or control.
Internet Policy
Throughout the educational community, the Internet can be used to educate and inform staff and students. As a learning resource, the Internet is similar to books, magazines, audio recordings, videos, CD-ROMs, and other information media. Student and educators use the Internet to participate in distance learning activities, to ask questions, and consult with experts, to communicate with other students, educators, and individuals, and to locate materials to meet educational needs.
The Internet also provides access to material that is of no educational value. However, the value of the information found and interaction available outweighs the possibility of locating inappropriate material.
Internet access is coordinated through a complex association of government agencies, as well as regional and state networks. The smooth operation of the network relies upon the proper conduct of all users who must adhere to strict guidelines. The guidelines, which require efficient, ethical, and legal utilization of the network resources, are provided here so that users are aware of the responsibilities they are about to acquire. In addition, guidelines from other service providers may result in access being suspended and or future access being denied.
Online Responsibilities
a. Acceptable use
The goal of providing Internet access for students and staff is to support education and research consistent with the educational objectives of the School. Transmission of any material in violation of any federal or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or material in violation of School Policies.
b. Privileges
The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in suspension of that privilege. The equipment, network, and data are the sole property of the School. Therefore, the School retains the right to monitor and or audit any network account at random to insure that the user is adhering to this policy.
c. Network Etiquette
While each user has the right to free speech, each user is expected to abide by the School’s accepted code of conduct. Appropriate behavior in telecommunications includes, but is not limited to:
i. Being polite
ii. Using appropriate conduct. Do not swear, use vulgarities, be abusive, post or publish objectionable material.
iii. Not engaging in illegal activities.
iv. Not revealing personal addresses or phone numbers.
v. Recognizing that school electronic mail is not private. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities or in violation of the acceptable use policy will be reported to appropriate authorities.
vi. Not knowingly or carelessly performing an act that will interfere with the normal operation of computers, peripherals, or networks.
vii. Respecting copyright laws. All communications and information access via the network are private property unless otherwise stated.
viii. Not employing the network for commercial purposes.
ix. Not transmitting material that infringes upon the right of others.
d. Warranty
The School makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. The School will not be responsible for any damages suffered using the Internet. These include, but are not limited to, loss of data resulting from delays, nondeliveries, misdeliveries, service interruptions, or personal errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at the user’s risk. The School specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through Internet access.
e. Vandalism
Vandalism will result in suspension or cancellation of privileges. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy the data of another user or to damage other networks. This includes but is not limited to the uploading or creation of computer viruses.
Refer to the catalog’s Student Code of Conduct section for a list of possible disciplinary sanctions.
Individual Subjects
Tuition
Program | Total Credits | Total quarters | Tuition per credit | Tuition total | Lab fee per quarter | Lab fee total | Registration fee | Total program charges (estimate) |
Art Direction* | 96.8 | 8 | $465 | $45,012 | $125 | $1,000 | $100 | $46,112 |
Copywriting* | 96.8 | 8 | $465 | $45,012 | $125 | $1,000 | $100 | $46,112 |
Graphic Design* | 96.8 | 8 | $465 | $45,012 | $125 | $1,000 | $100 | $46,112 |
Image* | 96.8 | 8 | $465 | $45,012 | $125 | $1,000 | $100 | $46,112 |
Creative Technology* | 96.8 | 8 | $465 | $45,012 | $125 | $1,000 | $100 | $46,112 |
Students re-enrolling at The Creative Circus will be charged the same $100 application fee which applies to all enrolling students, but will not be charged for an additional re-entry fee.
Other Fees | |
Returned Check Fee | $25 per item |
Payment Plans
Students expecting to use loan and grant funds must realize that it is their responsibility to provide all information and documentation necessary to obtain all forms of financial aid by the deadlines imposed by the school and the funding sources. Failure to do so may result in the student being required to provide immediate payment of all applicable charges.
Working students who are eligible for company-sponsored tuition reimbursement are required to advise and provide appropriate documentation to the Financial Services office.
Supplies
Book Provision for Pell Grant Eligible Students
Section 668.164(m) of the regulations under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, requires that a school provide a way for a Federal Pell Grant eligible student to obtain or purchase required books and supplies by the seventh day of a payment period under certain conditions if the student were to have a Title IV credit balance. To satisfy this requirement, the institution provides the opportunity for students to purchase books and supplies through a third party online bookstore.
Students may choose to opt out of this method and obtain necessary books and supplies on their own that may be needed for their program offering. To do so, the student will need to notify Financial Aid prior to the start of the term.
Past Due Accounts
Financial Aid
Applying for Student Financial Assistance
All students seeking or applying for financial assistance must meet with a member of the school’s Financial Aid Office staff to complete the application process. During this process, the staff member will provide guidance to the student on how to access the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA, https://studentaid.gov/) for completion by the student. The Financial Aid Office staff will provide the student with any other forms necessary to determine the student’s eligibility and complete the application process. It is the student’s responsibility to provide all required documents in order to verify eligibility and process the application in a timely manner.
Grants
Federal Pell Grant The Federal Pell Grant is a need-based grant program awarded to eligible students. The maximum award for full-time enrollment for the 2021- 2022 award year is $6,495. Eligibility and need are determined by the U.S. Department of Education regulations and are based on the financial need of each student. A student’s need is determined based on the Expected Family Contribution (EFC). The EFC is calculated based on the student’s FAFSA data. The EFC is reflected on the student’s ISIR.
The amount of Federal Pell Grant funds received over a lifetime is limited to the equivalent of six years of 100% Pell Grant eligibility, an aggregate limit of 600%. Students can monitor their aggregate balance by logging on to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) website at https://nsldsfap.ed.gov/nslds_FAP/ and viewing their Lifetime Eligibility Used found on the Financial Aid Review page.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) FSEOG is a need-based federal student assistance program. FSEOG funds are first awarded to Pell eligible students demonstrating the greatest financial need with the lowest EFC. Individual student awards may vary but typically range from $100 to $600. The U. S. Department of Education allocates FSEOG funds each award year. Each participating location will award and disburse as long as funds remain available. Eligible students demonstrating financial need are awarded based on a first come first serve basis.
Institutional Awards
A full-time employee who has at least one year of service is eligible for a scholarship for his/her spouse or dependent child over the age of 18. Employees are not eligible for scholarships. The family member may apply for any program offered by an Ancora school by completing an Ancora Family Member Scholarship Application form (get it from the Executive Director or HR Department). Approval is based on class availability and must be approved by the school’s Executive Director and the COO. The family member may apply for student financial aid if eligible. If the employee terminates
while the family member is attending, the student’s tuition will revert to full tuition for the remainder of the program.
Re-Entry Student Debt Forgiveness Grant Program
The Re-Entry Student Debt Forgiveness Grant encourages first-time drop students who withdrew from school after July 1, 2020 to re-enter and complete a career-focused program of study. It is awarded to each eligible re-entry student who enrolls, meets admissions requirements and is fully financially packaged to return to a program of study. The grant amount is determined based on the amount due to the institution on the student ledger card from prior attendance and is applied to that prior balance owed. The amount is determined after any eligible Pell or Direct Loan post-withdrawal disbursement is accepted/received. The maximum grant amount is $10,000. The student must remain active, continuous enrollment in their program for no less than one academic term or the grant may be withdrawn and the prior balance owed restored. A withdrawal after the first term will prevent any future scheduled grant payments from being made. The grant is applied to the prior balance in equal amounts over three (3) academic terms or the total remaining terms to graduate, whichever is less. This is a need-based grant and students must demonstrate financial need by signing an attestation regarding their inability to repay the prior balance owed. This grant is not available to students in the CDL Class A Tractor Trailer or Expanded Function Dental Assisting program.
Scholarships and discounts are not awarded in excess of tuition and fee charges and are not eligible for stipends.
Loans
Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan
The subsidized loan is a need based loan. Maximum awards are: $3,500 – First Year, $4,500 – Second Year, and $5,500 – Third Year or Beyond. Students may be eligible for this program in an amount not exceeding the cost of attendance minus Expected Family Contribution (EFC) less other financial aid awarded. For students who qualify, loans are provided with repayment options beginning six months after the student graduates or withdraws from school, or if their enrollment status changes to less than half time for the payment period. The interest is paid by the federal government until the end of the six-month grace period. On July 6, 2012, the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) (Public Law 112-141) was enacted. MAP-21 added a new provision to the Direct Loan statutory requirements (see HEA section 455(q)) that limits a first-time borrower’s eligibility for Direct Subsidized Loans to a period not to exceed 150 percent of the length of the borrower’s educational program. Under certain conditions, the provision also causes first-time borrowers who have exceeded the 150 percent limit to lose the interest subsidy on their Direct Subsidized Loans. Only first-time borrowers on or after July 1, 2013 are subject to the new provision. Students qualify to apply for different loan amounts based on their need and grade level in school each School year. The interest rate for loans first disbursed between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2022 is fixed at 3.73%.
Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan
The unsubsidized loan is a non-need based loan. Maximum loan amounts for independent students and dependent students whose parents are not eligible for a Federal PLUS loan: $6,000 – First Year and Second Year, $7,000 – Third Year and Beyond. Maximum amounts for dependent students whose parents are not denied a Federal PLUS: $2,000 – First Year, Second Year, Third Year and Beyond. Students may be eligible for this program in an amount not exceeding the cost of attendance less other financial aid awarded. The interest rate for loans first disbursed between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2022 is fixed at 3.73%. For students who qualify, loans are provided with repayment options beginning six months after the student graduates or withdraws from school, or if their enrollment status changes to less than half time for the payment period. Students have the option of paying interest only on the loan while they are in school or having the interest accrue until they begin repayment immediately following the six-month grace period. Students qualify to apply for different loan amounts based on their grade level in school each year.
Direct PLUS Loan
Under the PLUS loan program, parents may borrow up to the full cost of education minus other financial aid received. Interest is charged during all periods and credit checks are required. The Federal PLUS loan program is available for eligible parents of eligible students to assist the student with tuition and school related expenses. The interest rate for loans first disbursed between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2022 is fixed at 6.28%.
Private Loans
Private loans are funded by an outside lender who determines your eligibility based on your credit worthiness (credit score). The school cannot guarantee any student will be approved or eligible for private loans. Private loans often carry higher interest and fees than Federal loans, so we encourage potential students to apply for Federal Student Aid before resorting to Private Loans.
- Private Loans - Students are eligible to apply for private educational loans to help cover tuition and educationally related expenses. Students may apply for private loans offered by private lenders; eligibility is determined by each lender. Private loans may require additional fees. Interest rates on private loans are generally higher than federal loans. Federal Regulations and the Truth in Lending Act require lenders to provide all borrowers with detailed disclosures. Please review the lender’s disclosures for additional loan information prior to signing a promissory note.
- The student’s Cost of Attendance (COA) for the period of enrollment to be covered by the loan;
- Any Estimated Financial Assistance (EFA) for the period of enrollment to be covered by the loan; and
- The difference between the COA and EFA.
Federal Work Study Program
The U.S. Department of Education allots a specific amount of FWS funds each award year. Students must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as part of the application process for FWS assistance. The FAFSA can be completed online at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa. Students seeking a specific job or a student with a potential job may request a review by the Centralized Financial Services Center to determine if the job meets the FWS requirements.
Vocational Rehabilitation
Veterans Education Benefits
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
- The date on which the VA payment is made to the institution
- 90 days after the date the institution certified tuition and fees following the receipt of the COE
Financial Aid Eligibility
- Fulfilling of all admission requirements;
- Submitting of all documentation requested by the school or lender(s) or both;
- Maintaining satisfactory academic progress in accordance with school policy;
- Completing “aid specific” requirements, such as entrance loan counseling, annual student loan acknowledgement and exit loan counseling.
In addition, graduating students who received federal student loans must complete exit loan counseling and meet all other graduation requirements before they will be considered a graduate and awarded a degree, diploma, or certificate. Withdrawing students who used federal student loans must attend exit counseling.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
The SCHOOL has adopted this Cancellation and Refund Policy for all of its campuses. The reason for a student’s cancellation or withdrawal does not affect how this Cancellation and Refund Policy is applied.
Applicants who have not visited the school prior to enrollment will have the opportunity to withdraw without penalty within three business days following either the regularly scheduled orientation procedures or following a tour of the school facilities and inspection of equipment where training and services are provided.
All monies paid by an applicant will be refunded if requested within three days after signing an enrollment agreement and making an initial payment or prior to the end of the drop/add period, whichever is later.
Written notice of cancellation or withdrawal will take place on the date the letter is postmarked or in a case where the notice is hand carried, it shall occur on the date the notice is delivered to the SCHOOL. The date of acceptance will be the delivery date of the notice of acceptance. If the notice is delivered by mail, it will be the postmarked date of the letter of acceptance. Written notice of cancellation or withdrawal is not required for payment of refund.
This section of the Cancellation and Refund Policy determines the amount of institutional charges that the SCHOOL has earned, and for which the student must pay, based on the student’s attendance. For purposes of determining the refund or the amount a student owes for the time attended, the last date of attendance is used. A student shall be deemed to have withdrawn when any of the following occurs: (a) the student notifies the SCHOOL of the student’s withdrawal or the actual date of withdraw, (b) the SCHOOL terminates the student’s enrollment as provided in the ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT or (c) the SCHOOL withdraws the student if the student fails to attend as outlined by the attendance policy.
When such withdrawal occurs prior to the end of the drop/add period of the initial period of enrollment, all tuition, fees, and other charges will be refunded in full.
If a student ceases attendance or provides notice of cancellation or withdrawal after the start of the period charged, but at or before completion of 60% of the period charged (75% for students attending in Texas), the amount charged for tuition for the completed portion of the course(s) shall not exceed the prorated portion of the total tuition charged for the period arrived at by multiplying the total tuition charged for the period by the ratio of the number of days attended to the total number of days in the period.
Example: Assume that a student, upon enrollment in a 70 day (10 week) term with the following costs $3,884 for tuition and $540 Program Fee, as specified in the ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT, withdraws after attending 25 days. The pro rata refund to the student would be $2496.86 based on the calculation set forth below:
$3,884 ÷ 70 Days × 45 Days Remaining = $2496.86
Amount charged Actual Refund Amount
If the student ceases to attend the SCHOOL after completing 60% of the period charged (75% for students attending in Texas), the student will be charged 100% of the tuition and charges applicable for all courses in the payment/academic period.
Return to Title IV
The law specifies how The Creative Circus must determine the amount of Title IV program assistance that a student earns if the student withdraws from school. The Title IV programs that are covered by this law are: Federal Pell Grants, Iraq Afghanistan Service Grants, Academic Competitiveness Grants, National SMART grants, TEACH Grants, Stafford Loans, PLUS Loans, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOGs), and Federal Perkins Loans. Please note that The Creative Circus does not participate in all of these Title IV programs.
When a student withdraws during his or her payment period or period of enrollment the amount of Title IV program assistance that a student has earned up to that point is determined by a specific formula.
If a student did not receive all of the funds that the student earned, the student may be due a Post-withdrawal disbursement. The school may automatically use all or a portion of the student’s Post-withdrawal disbursement of grant funds for tuition and fees. If the student’s Post-withdrawal disbursement includes loan funds, the school must get the student’s permission before The Creative Circus can disburse them. The student may choose to decline some or all of the loan funds so that the student doesn’t incur additional debt. However if the student owes a balance to the school, the student may want to authorize the loan disbursement to pay those charges in order to avoid having a payment to the school in addition to the Federal Loan payment.
While The Creative Circus will automatically use all or a portion of the student’s Post-withdrawal disbursement of grant funds for tuition and fees, the school needs the student’s permission to use these funds for any other school charges. If the student did not give permission, the student will be offered the funds.
There are some Title IV funds that cannot be disbursed to the student once he or she withdraws because of other eligibility requirements. For example, a first-time, first-year undergraduate student who has not completed the first 30 days of his or her program before withdrawing will not receive any Direct Loan funds that the student would have received had the student remained enrolled past the 30th day.
If a student receives (or the school or parent receives on the student’s behalf) excess Title IV program funds that must be returned, the school must return a portion of the excess equal to the lesser of:
- The student’s institutional charges multiplied by the unearned percentage of the student’s funds, or
- The entire amount of excess funds.
The regulations require that the school return Title IV funds to the programs from which the student received aid during the payment period or period of enrollment as applicable, in the following order, up to the net amount disbursed from each source:
1. Unsubsidized Federal Direct Stafford Loans
2. Subsidized Federal Direct Stafford Loans
3. Federal Direct PLUS Loans
4. Federal Pell Grants
5. Iraq & Afghanistan Service Grants
6. FSEOG
Refunds to the student or any of the Title IV or State programs will be paid within 45 days from the withdrawal/termination date (or any shorter period required by applicable law).
If the school is not required to return all of the excess funds, the student must return the remaining amount. Any loan funds that the student must return, the student (or parent for a PLUS Loan) must repay in accordance with the terms of the promissory note. That is, the borrower makes scheduled payments to the holder of the loan over a period of time. Any amount of unearned grant funds that the student must return is called a grant overpayment. Any overpayment as a result of withdrawal will be returned to the Department of Education on the student’s behalf. However, the return of this overpayment may result in a debt owed to The Creative Circus. The requirements for Title IV program funds when a student withdraws are separate from the school’s refund policy. Therefore, a student may still owe funds to the school to cover unpaid institutional charges that the school was required to return.
For purposes of calculating a clock hour return to Title IV that has externships or clinic courses without a defined schedule in CampusVue, the scheduled hours used in the return to Title IV calculation will be determined by using the total contact hours for the course divided by the number of weeks in the externship or clinic courses. If a daily hour subdivision is needed, to determine a student’s LDA, a week in an externship or clinic course will be divided by 5 days. This is only in the case a student drops in that course and they need to calculate scheduled hours up to LDA.
[1] This policy explains the requirements for the return of Title IV funds, which is part of the institutional refund policy.
Definition of Withdraw and Return to Title IV
For purposes of calculating Return to Title IV, a student is considered to have withdrawn from a payment period or period of enrollment if—
In the case of a program that is measured in credit hours, the student does not complete all the days in the payment period or period of enrollment that the student was scheduled to complete.
For answers to questions about Title IV program funds, students should contact one of the school’s Financial Services Officers.
Return to Title IV and Recording of Attendance
Career Services
Success and Professional Growth Orientation
Advising Services
Tutorial Assistance
Health Services
In the event of accident or illness on campus, the Director of Education should be notified immediately. Students who become ill, injured, or develop health problems requiring professional attention are referred to the emergency room of the hospital or to a local physician in accordance with instructions given by the student or the student’s family. In an emergency situation that requires immediate attention, a student may be taken directly to the hospital.
Environmental health and safety on the campus are the responsibility of the school. It is the policy of the school to have all facilities comply with the requirements of the state and local building codes, the board of health, and fire department regulations.
Our school is focused on the academic success and personal well-being of our students. An important but often overlooked element of that educational journey is mental health. Our school partners with META, a teletherapy company powering a mobile application designed to help college students connect to mental wellness providers. Students are able to download the META app, which includes a network of in-state licensed mental health professionals such as counselors, therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Students download the app, choose a provider, and receive counseling through the privacy and convenience of their smartphones via chat, video or voice calls. www.meta.app
Student Change of Address
- Log into the student portal.
- Click “Edit Your Profile” located after your student ID in the green bar that runs across the top of the page.
- On the next page, click the Edit button located in the bottom right corner of the page.
- Make any necessary changes and then click the Save button in the bottom right corner of the page.
School Closings Due to Weather
Emergency Information
Library
Housing
Publications and Announcements
Announcements can be read via the student portal. Announcements and updates are also posted on the bulletin boards throughout the corridors, classrooms, and student lounge. Student should check the student portal and bulletin boards periodically for any notices and/or special announcements.
Hours of Operation
Classes are scheduled Monday through Friday, from 9:30 am to 9:30 pm. Administrative offices are open Monday through Friday. Hours for each department are posted on office doors or near the offices.
Crime Awareness
Campus Visitors
Children
Policy for Canines on Campus
2. Proof that the dog has been spayed or neutered (if not already on file).
Upon approval, students are allowed to bring their canine to The Creative Circus. Failure to abide by any of the following rules will result in revocation of canine privileges: All dogs must be on a leash and in the presence of their owner. If the dog has an accident, it is the owner’s responsibility to clean up the mess. If the dog is a habitual offender, as determined by the Director of Education, we reserve the right to revoke the canine from coming back to school until the dog is house-trained. All dogs must behave in an appropriate manner while at The Circus. No rough-housing with other dogs, barking or concerning behavior towards other dogs or humans. The Director of Education reserves the right to ban any dog from The Creative Circus for any reason.
Student Code of Conduct
Students, faculty, staff and administration constitute a community of learners. Collectively, we share responsibility for exchanging knowledge and information, creating a culture that respects and values diversity and for maintaining an environment of accountability. Within the challenging and supporting learning environment at The Creative Circus, students of all ages, ethnicities, religions, genders, abilities, socio-economic backgrounds and sexual orientations are welcome to engage in the process of preparation for career readiness, active citizenship and lifelong learning.
In order to realize its mission, all members of the The Creative Circus community have a responsibility to promote and the right to expect:
Respect for Persons: The opportunity to ask questions and to express opinions is fundamental to the learning process. Diversity in perspective strengthens the learning environment for all participants. All members of the community will demonstrate respect for others while communicating a point of view and while allowing others to do the same, ensuring that the campus is free from intimidation and harassment. Disagreements among members of the community are expected to be resolved through a process that preserves mutual respect.
Respect for the Learning Process: Community members should be committed to a journey of continuous improvement for themselves and for others. Each individual brings with him/her a unique set of knowledge, skills, abilities and experiences that add richness to the learning environment. Individuals will progress at their own rate, within the approved parameters of the curriculum, capitalizing upon their own preferred style of learning in order to make progress on their journey. The unique journey of each individual should be encouraged and honored. The Student Code of Conduct has been developed to ensure that the learning process is not inhibited or disrupted for any individual or group of individuals.
Respect for the Learning Environment: The physical and virtual classroom, the institutional facilities and the campus, as well as all equipment and learning materials constitute the learning environment. Expectations for adherence to the Student Code of Conduct apply to those instances where the learning experience extends beyond the institution, such as situations that involve a field trip or an internship/externship/clinical/practicum. Equipment and learning materials vary by program. The safety of all members of the learning environment is of the utmost concern to the institution. Students must adhere to the dress code requirements for their program of study. All members of the learning community will utilize the resources provided by the institution as instructed and with caution, making campus officials aware of issues associated with facilities, equipment or learning materials.
Respect for Academic Integrity: All members of the community are required to adhere to institutional standards of academic integrity. One of the greatest values of participating in a community of learners is the opportunity to learn from others; however, individuals must acknowledge the sources of the information that are used to advance a point of view. Academic misconduct involves dishonesty or deception in the fulfillment of academic requirements. It includes, but is not limited to, cheating, plagiarism, unpermitted collaboration, forged attendance, using advantages not approved by the instructor, knowingly allowing another student to plagiarize or cheat from one’s work or submitting the same assignment for multiple courses without the knowledge of the instructor.
Student Code of Conduct Policy Statement
The Creative Circus affirms its commitment to provide an engaging learning environment and promote the exchange of ideas among the members of the learning community. All individuals who come to The Creative Circus to work and study will be accepted as unique individuals worthy or making a valuable contribution to the learning environment. Discrimination, disruption or harassment on the basis of age, ethnicity, religion, gender, ability, socio-economic background or sexual orientation will not be tolerated.
The Creative Circus accepts responsibility for communicating these values to students, faculty, staff, administration and the community served by the institution. The success of the policy to protect the learning environment and those engaged in the learning process is dependent upon the willingness of members of the community to make known behaviors and conduct that violate the policy.
A student found to have committed any one of the following Student Code of Conduct Offenses will be subject to the full range of sanctions including written reprimand, suspension and expulsion.
Student Code of Conduct Offenses
Academic Misconduct –Dishonesty or deception in the fulfillment of academic requirements. It includes, but is not limited to, cheating, plagiarism, unpermitted collaboration, forged attendance, using advantages not approved by the instructor, knowingly allowing another student to plagiarize or cheat from one’s work or submitting the same assignment for multiple courses without the knowledge of the instructor.
Dating Violence – Violence committed an individual (A) who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and (B) where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors: (i) The length of the relationship (ii) The type of relationship (iii) The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship. This offense applies to any such illegal activity by a current student, staff or faculty member.
Domestic Violence – Felony or misdemeanor crimes of violence committed by a current or former spouse of the victim, by a person with whom the victim shares a child in common, by a person who is cohabitating with or has cohabitated with the victim as a spouse, by a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction receiving grant monies, or by any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction. This offense applies to any such illegal activity by a current student, staff or faculty member.
Dishonesty – Provision and/or submission of false information to the institution by forgery, alteration or misuse of documents or records, falsifying a written or oral statement or submission of false identification to the institution.
Failure to Adhere to Dress Code – Programs of study are created to develop the knowledge, skills and competencies required for an identified set of career outcomes. As such, dress code standards that replicate the work environment may be imposed upon students enrolled in particular programs of study. The Dress Code may include requirements to wear a specific uniform. Alternatively, the Dress Code may limit attire that is worn to school or to school - related activities to defined standard, such as business attire or business casual attire. Finally, the Dress Code may necessitate removal of piercings and/or requirements to cover tattoos.
Mental or Bodily Harm to Self – Conduct that causes harm or has the potential to cause harm to one’s self including the intentional infliction of mental or bodily harm upon one’s self or taking reckless but not accidental, action which could result in mental or bodily harm.
Mental or Bodily Harm to Others – Conduct that causes harm or has the potential to cause harm to another individual, including:
- Behavior that intentionally inflicts mental or bodily harm on another person;
- Behavior that attempts to inflict mental or bodily harm on another person;
- Taking reckless, but not accidental, action that could result in infliction of mental or bodily harm on another person;
- Causing another individual to believe that the offender may cause mental or bodily harm to them;
- Sexual misconduct;
- Any act that demeans or degrades another individual; and/or
- Coercion of an individual to inflict mental or bodily harm to another person.
Sex Discrimination and Harassment – Conduct that encompasses discrimination on the basis of an individual’s sex in any aspect of employment or education, including but not limited to,
- Hiring and firing;
- Compensation, assignment, or classification of employees;
- Transfer, promotion, layoff, or recall;
- Job advertisements;
- Recruitment;
- Testing;
- Grading;
- Acceptance or participation in an academic program or school activity;
- Use of employer's facilities;
- Training programs;
- Fringe benefits;
- Pay, retirement plans, and disability leave; or other terms and conditions of employment; and
- Engaging in conduct that has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual's academic or work performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment in which to work or learn.
Sexual harassment, including sexual violence, is a form of discrimination; it is illegal. No employee or student, either in the workplace or in the academic environment, should be subject to unwelcome verbal or physical conduct that is sexual in nature. Sexual harassment does not refer to occasional compliments of a socially acceptable nature. It refers to behavior of a sexual nature that is not welcome, that is personally offensive, and that interferes with performance. It is expected that students, faculty and staff will treat one another with respect. All students, faculty, staff, and other members of the campus community, including intern/extern/practicum sites, are subject to this policy.
Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other visual, verbal or physical conduct of a sexual or gender bias nature, constitute sexual harassment when:
- Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment or academic status;
- Submission to or rejection of the conduct is used as a basis for academic or employment decisions or evaluations, or permission to participate in an activity; or
- The conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual's academic or work performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment in which to work or learn.
Sexual harassment may take many forms-subtle and indirect, or blatant and overt, including but not limited to, the following:
- It may occur between individuals of the opposite sex or of the same sex;
- It may occur between students, between peers and/or co-workers, or between individuals in an unequal power relationship (such as by a supervisor with regard to a supervised employee or an instructor regarding a current student);
- It may be aimed at coercing an individual to participate in an unwanted sexual relationship or it may have the effect of causing an individual to change behavior or work performance;
- It may consist of repeated actions or may even arise from a single incident if sufficiently severe;
- It may also rise to the level of a criminal offense, such as battery or sexual violence.
Sexual violence is a physical act perpetrated against a person's will or where a person is incapable of giving consent due to the victim's use of drugs or alcohol. An individual also may be unable to give consent due to an intellectual or other disability. Sexual violence includes, but is not limited to, rape, sexual assault, sexual battery, and sexual coercion.
Determining what constitutes sexual harassment under this policy is dependent upon the specific facts and the context in which the conduct occurs. Some conduct may be inappropriate, unprofessional, and/or subject to disciplinary action, but would not fall under the definition of sexual harassment. Examples of unwelcome conduct of a sexual or gender related nature that may constitute sexual harassment may, but do not necessarily, include, and are not limited to:
- Rape, sexual assault, sexual battery, sexual coercion or other sexual violence;
- Sexually explicit or gender related statements, comments, questions, jokes, innuendoes, anecdotes, or gestures;
- Other than customary handshakes, uninvited touching, patting, hugging, or purposeful brushing against a person's body or other inappropriate touching of an individual's body;
- Remarks of a sexual nature about a person's clothing or body;
- Use of electronic mail or computer dissemination of sexually oriented, sex-based communications;
- Sexual advances, whether or not they involve physical touching;
- Requests for sexual favors in exchange for actual or promised job or educational benefits, such as favorable reviews, salary increases, promotions, increased benefits, continued employment, grades, favorable assignments, letters of recommendation;
- Displaying sexually suggestive objects, pictures, magazines, cartoons, or screen savers;
- Inquiries, remarks, or discussions about an individual's sexual experiences or activities and other written or oral references to sexual conduct.
Any employee or student bringing a discrimination or sexual harassment complaint or assisting in the investigation of such a complaint will not be subjected to retaliation in terms and conditions of employment and/or academic standing, nor discriminated against, terminated, or expelled because of the complaint. Intentionally providing false information, however, is grounds for discipline.
"Retaliation" may include, but is not limited to, such conduct as:
- The denial of adequate personnel to perform duties;
- Frequent replacement of members of the staff;
- Frequent and undesirable changes in the location of an office;
- The refusal to assign meaningful work;
- Unwarranted disciplinary action;
- Unfair work performance evaluations;
- A reduction in pay;
- The denial of a promotion;
- Dismissal;
- Transfer;
- Frequent changes in working hours or workdays;
- Unfair grade;
- Unfavorable reference letter.
Determining what constitutes discrimination under this policy will be evaluated on a case by case basis and depends upon the specific facts and the context in which the conduct occurs. Some conduct may be inappropriate, unprofessional, and/or subject to disciplinary action, but would not fall under the definition of discrimination. Individuals who violate this policy are subject to discipline up to and including termination and/or expulsion, in accordance with the The Creative Circus’s Student Code of Conduct. Other, lesser sanctions may be imposed, depending on the circumstances. Victims of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking should contact his or her Executive Director to request changes to academic and working situations and how to request protective measures and receive support resources as set forth in the campus Annual Security Reports.
Discrimination- Civilly, criminally or administratively prohibited unequal treatment of a person based upon age, ethnicity, religion, gender, ability, socio-economic background, veteran status or sexual orientation.
Disruption/Obstruction – Obstructing or interfering with any institutional functions or activities, including instruction within a physical or virtual classroom.
False Report of Emergency – Causing, making or circulating a false report or warning of fire, explosion, crime or other threat to safety.
Destruction of Property –Intentionally or recklessly, but not accidentally, damaging, destroying, defacing or tampering with institutional property, property associated with the institution including internship/externship sites or the property of any person on or associated with the campus.
Theft or Possession of Stolen Property or Service –Taking an item or utilizing a service without consent of an official of the institution or possessing property that can reasonably be determined to have been stolen from the campus or from an employee or student of the campus.
Trespassing –Forcible or unauthorized entry into any institutional facilities or facilities associated with the institution.
Possession of Weapons or Dangerous Materials – Unauthorized possession of a weapon or dangerous materials, including, but not limited to firearms, compressed-air guns, pellet guns, BB guns, knives, explosive devices, incendiary devices, fireworks, ammunition or any other dangerous materials.
Manufacture, Distribution, Sale, Offer for Sale, Possession or Misuse of Drugs or Alcohol –Manufacture, distribution, sale, offer for sale, possession or use of any illegal drug or narcotic or possession or use of alcohol while on campus or engaged in any school related activities.
Use of Tobacco Products or Electronic Cigarettes in Unapproved Locations - Smoking or use of tobacco products or electronic cigarettes in locations other than those approved for that purpose.
Violation of Criminal Law – An alleged violation of any federal, state or local criminal law where the conduct of a student interferes with the institution’s exercise of its educational objectives or responsibilities.
Misuse or Abuse of Computers or Computer Networks –Misuse, alteration, tampering with or abuse of any computer, computer system, service, program, data, or network, including telephone or computer lines and wireless networks. Abuse includes utilization of school computers or Internet access in order to access pornographic web sites or to distribute pornographic material.
Misuse of Safety Equipment –Unauthorized use of or alteration of firefighting equipment, safety devices or other emergency safety equipment.
Sanctions
Enrollment into the institution signifies the student’s agreement to comply with the Student Code of Conduct. Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct will result in appropriate disciplinary sanctions.
The Student Code of Conduct has been developed to ensure that the learning process is not inhibited or disrupted for any individual or group of individuals. The Code of Conduct additionally serves as a mechanism for educating members of the learning community about appropriate standards of behavior. In the event that a violation of the Code of Conduct occurs, the school will strive to utilize the incident as a teachable moment, imposing fair and progressive discipline. However, should an individual commit an egregious violation of the Student Code of Conduct, the school has the responsibility to impose the strictest of sanctions upon the student, up to and including suspension or expulsion.
Disciplinary sanctions are described below.
Verbal Warning
A verbal warning is an official conversation held between the Director of Education, or the Executive Director, and the student, making the student aware of an incidence of unacceptable behavior that is in violation of the Student Code of Conduct. A notation will be entered into the Student Information System but documentation does not become part of the student’s permanent record. Any further misconduct may result in more serious disciplinary sanctions up to and including suspension or expulsion.
Written Reprimand
A reprimand is an official written notification of unacceptable behavior that is in violation of the Student Code of Conduct. The reprimand will be entered into the Student Information System and will become a permanent document in the student’s file. The student will be asked to sign the document and will be provided a copy of the reprimand. Any further misconduct may result in more serious disciplinary sanctions up to and including suspension or expulsion.
Disciplinary Probation
Disciplinary probation is a conditional status imposed for a designated period of time within a term prohibiting the student from being present without permission on the campus or any property associated with the campus, including internship/externship sites. The period of time may not exceed 14 calendar days. Disciplinary probation requires completion of a Code of Conduct Violation Form by an instructor and an approval by the Director of Education or Executive Director. Disciplinary probation may be used in those limited instances where a student is asked to leave a class for the duration of the day or until the Procedural Interview is conducted. The Procedural Interview should be scheduled within two business days of the incident. A copy of the form should be mailed and/or emailed to the student, indicating when he/she may return to class. The Disciplinary Probation Form becomes a permanent part of the student file and should also be notated in the Student Information System. The student must meet with the Director of Education or Executive Director to sign the form prior to returning to class. Any further misconduct may result in more serious disciplinary sanctions up to and including suspension or expulsion.
Suspension
Suspension is the loss of privileges of enrollment at the institution for a designated period of time and prohibits the student from being present without permission on the property of the campus or any property associated with the campus, including internship/externship/clinical/practicum sites. As a result of being placed on suspension, the student will be awarded a grade of W for any course in which they are currently enrolled. Regardless of whether or not the student is subsequently allowed to return to school to complete the program of study, the student is responsible for payment of tuition and fees and/or repayment of financial aid. The student shall be notified of the suspension in writing. The notification of suspension indicates the earliest possible date, in a future term, in which the student may consider submission of a request to return to school. The student is entitled to an opportunity to appeal the suspension. The notification of suspension becomes a permanent part of the student record and also must be noted in the Student Information System. Any further misconduct may result in more serious disciplinary sanctions. The Office of the Chief Academic Officer or the Chief Compliance Officer of Ancora Education must approve suspensions before they are imposed and before a student is notified.
Expulsion
Expulsion is the permanent loss of privilege of enrollment at the institution and prohibits the student from being present without permission on the campus or on any property associated with the campus. The student will be unable to complete his/her program of study with the institution. As a result of being expelled, the student will be awarded a grade of W for any course in which they are currently enrolled. The student is responsible for payment of tuition and fees and/or repayment of financial aid. The student is entitled to an opportunity to appeal the expulsion. The notification of expulsion becomes a permanent part of the student record and also must be noted in the Student Information System. In the event that a student appeal results in retraction of the expulsion, any further misconduct may result in more serious disciplinary sanctions up to and including suspension or expulsion. The Office of the Chief Academic Officer or the Chief Compliance Officer of Ancora Education must approve expulsions before they are imposed and before a student is notified.
Procedures
Filing of a Conduct Violation Form
Any member of the learning community (students, faculty or staff) may file a Code of Conduct Violation Form to initiate the process to respond to an alleged violation of the Student Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct Violation Form may be found on the Ancora Link site under Academic Forms. The individual who files the Code of Conduct Violation Form becomes the complainant. The student being charged with the alleged offense is referred to as the accused.
All Code of Conduct Violation Forms are first reviewed by the Director of Education. If the Director of Education determines that sufficient evidence exists to warrant further exploration of the complaint, the next step is for the accused to be scheduled for a Procedural Interview. The accused is sent a copy of the Code of Conduct Violation Form, via email and/or UPS or FedEx, providing a receipt and proof of delivery, which includes a detailed description of the incident, accompanied by a Notification of Violation Letter that indicates the date and time of the procedural interview. The Notification of Violation Letter provides details concerning the student’s rights and explains the entire process for resolving the alleged violation.
Procedural Interview
Any student charged with a violation of the Student Code of Conduct will be scheduled for a Procedural Interview with the Director of Education. In those instances where the Director of Education has filed the Code of Conduct Violation Form, the Executive Director should also be present for the Procedural Interview. The accused is sent a Notification of Violation Letter that indicates the date and time of the Procedural Interview, along with a copy of the Conduct Violation Form, describing the alleged violation. The Procedural Interview should be scheduled within five (5) business days of receipt of the Code of Conduct Violation Form.
The accused must attend the Procedural Interview. If the accused fails to appear for the scheduled Procedural Interview, one attempt will be made to reschedule the meeting. The rescheduled meeting shall occur within ten (10) business days of the receipt of the Code of Conduct Violation Form. If the student again fails to appear for the Procedural Interview, the Director of Education may move forward with the determination of the sanction.
The purpose of the Procedural Interview is to provide the accused with the opportunity to discuss the allegation that resulted in the filing of the Code of Conduct Violation Form. The Director of Education and/or the Executive Director will begin the meeting by delineating the student’s rights and options, as well as the potential sanctions that may be imposed for the alleged violation. The accused will have an opportunity to admit or deny the charge made against him/her in the Procedural Interview. The complainant also has the opportunity to attend the Procedural Interview either in person or via conference call.
In the event that the accused admits to the charge filed against him/her, the Director of Education and/or the Executive Director will determine the sanction during the Procedural Interview. The sanction will be notated on a copy of the original Code of Conduct Violation Form. The Code of Conduct Violation Form will then be signed by the Director of Education and/or the Executive Director. The student will be required to sign and date the form as well. The Code of Conduct Violation Form with the original signatures will be placed in the student file; the student will be provided with a copy of the signed form. The Director of Education will enter a notation in Contact Manager within the Student Information System.
The accused may deny the alleged violation of the Student Code of Conduct and request a Hearing to further explore the facts concerning the alleged violation. If a hearing is requested, the date and time of the hearing are determined during the Procedural Interview and they are documented on a copy of the original Code of Conduct Violation Form. The student is provided a copy of the updated Code of Code of Conduct Violation Form with this information as well as a copy of the Hearing Guide.
Hearing Procedures
The purpose of a hearing is to provide a forum for the complainant and the accused to present their case regarding the alleged violation of the Student Code of Conduct. The Executive Director serves as the Hearing Authority and will ultimately determine whether or not the alleged violation is proven. Please note that the definition of Hearing Procedures proceeding does not include communications and meetings between officials and victims concerning accommodations or protective measures to be provided to a victim.
The Executive Director or otherwise designated Hearing Authority will begin the Hearing by explaining the accused’s rights and will assure that fairness will be observed throughout the hearing. Attendees of the hearing are limited to the Executive Director or designee, the complainant and the accused.
The complainant will be given the opportunity to state the main points of the violation, providing evidence supplemented with statements by witnesses. After the complainant concludes his/her presentation, the accused will have the opportunity to state his/her case. The Executive Director or designee may question both the complainant and accused.
After all evidence and testimony has been presented, the Executive Director will determine whether or not the allegation is warranted. If the accused is found not to be in violation, the case will be dismissed and the Code of Conduct Violation Form will be documented accordingly and the student will be provided with a copy.
If the accused is found to be in violation of the Student Code of Conduct, the Executive Director will dismiss the complainant and the accused, indicating that notification of the sanction will be communicated to the student at a specified date and time in the office of the Executive Director.
As the Hearing Authority, the Executive Director or designee will consider the following when determining the sanction to be imposed:
- Statements from witnesses and evidence presented during the hearing;
- Seriousness of the violation;
- Prior disciplinary record of the student;
- Academic record; and
- Student progress in their program of study.
Upon reaching a decision, the Executive Director is expected to update the Conduct Violation Form by indicating the sanction that will be imposed as a result of the violation of the Student Code of Conduct. The Executive Director then meets with the student at the predetermined date and time to discuss the sanction and consequences of any repeat violation of the Student Code of Conduct. The student is required to sign the form and is provided a copy. At the same time the student is notified of the outcome of the hearing, a copy of the updated Conduct Violation Form will be provided to the complainant. The Executive Director is expected to make a notation in Contact Manager in the Student Information System and returns the hard copy of the Code of Conduct Violation Form to the student file.
In the event that the Executive Director determines either suspension or expulsion to be the appropriate sanction, the Code of Conduct Violation Form should be completed accordingly and emailed to the Office of the Chief Academic Officer and the Chief Compliance Officer. Upon approval from either the Office of the Chief Academic Officer or the Chief Compliance Officer, the Executive Director may proceed with the suspension or expulsion.
Appeals
The accused and/or complainant have the right to request an appeal by notifying the Executive Director or Director of Education of his/her intent to do so within three business days after receipt of the written notification of the sanction. Appeals may be filed for the following reasons:
- Inappropriate sanction; or
- New evidence that was not available at the time of the hearing has become available and is found to be substantial enough to change the outcome of the hearing.
The Appeal Board should be comprised of the Executive Director, Director of Education, and three other members of the administrative staff of the institution. In the event that the complainant is a member of the Appeal Board, that individual will recuse him/herself from the decision-making process. The Appeal Board meets in a closed session, within a reasonable period of time, and either grants or denies the appeal by a majority vote. In the event that there is a tie, due to absence of a member of the Appeal Board, the Executive Director will determine the outcome. In the event that the Executive Director was the complainant, the Director of Education will determine the outcome. If the appeal is granted, the sanction may be changed.
The individual filing the appeal will be notified in writing, utilizing the Code of Conduct Violation Form, of the decision of the Appeal Board within a reasonable period of time. The notification will be emailed and/or sent through the U.S. Postal Service. A hard copy of the form will be placed in the student file and the Director of Education will enter notes in the Contact Manager Field within the Student Information System.
Re-enrollment After Suspension
Students who have been suspended from the institution must petition to return to school after the specified period of time has elapsed. A Request to Re-enroll After Suspension Form is accessible from the office of the Director of Education. Students who have been suspended must contact the Director of Education for permission to return to the campus or to request that a copy of the form be emailed or mailed. The Petition is submitted to the Director of Education but must be unanimously approved by the Appeal Board. Re-enrollment may be granted but any repeat instance of violation of the Student Code of Conduct will be grounds for permanent dismissal from the institution.
Compliance with the Student Discipline Policy and Procedure provisions does not constitute a violation of section 444 of the General Education Provisions Act (20 U.S.C.1232g), commonly known as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA).
Non-Harassment Policy
The school will not permit, tolerate or condone harassment against any individual for any reason, including, but not limited to, harassment based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law. Comments, conduct, or innuendoes that might be perceived by others as offensive or harassing are wholly inappropriate and are to be strictly avoided. This policy applies to students, company employees, customers, vendors and visitors to the premises. The school intends to provide a school environment that is pleasant, healthy, comfortable and free of intimidation, hostility or other offenses that might interfere with a student’s educational performance.
Employees and students must avoid offensive or inappropriate behavior in school or employment‐related relationships and are responsible for ensuring that all student‐employee and employment‐related relationships remain professional and free from harassment at all times.
Employees and students must avoid offensive or inappropriate behavior in school. Relationships will remain professional and free from harassment at all times, this includes, employment‐related relationships and student‐employee and employment‐related relationships.
Harassment can include, but is not limited to the following actions:
- Inappropriate Communication – involves any language that is offensive, unnecessarily loud or that degrades or berates others, including, but not limited to, racial, religious, or sexual comments or jokes, sexual innuendos, or threats of any kind, whether communicated verbally, in writing, or electronically.
- Physical Abuse – includes, but is not limited to, touching, hitting, kicking, or threatening another person, including restraining by force or blocking the path of another.
- Interference or Hostile Environment – includes any behavior or action that interferes with a student or employee’s ability to perform job duties and responsibilities, or participate in the education process, or which results in or creates a hostile or intimidating environment.
- Sexual Harassment – includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual acts or favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
- Submission to such conduct is made, either explicitly or implicitly, a term or condition of an individual’s employment or continuation of education; continuation of education;
- Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment or educational decisions affecting such individual; or
- Such conduct is severe and pervasive and has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with the individual’s work or school performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment.
- Retaliation - – includes any adverse action or threat of adverse action taken or made because a student or employee has exercised or attempted to exercise any rights under applicable laws or under policies of the company. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, threats, or withholding or withdrawal of pay, promotions, training, grades or employment opportunities.
It is important that students and employees clearly understand the serious effects of harassment. Such behavior may result in personal liability, as well as a liability to the school.
If an individual feels that he/she has been subjected to any type of degree of harassment, he/she must report the incident verbally or in writing to the Executive Director or Director of Education, immediate supervisor, department head, and any other member of management, the Chief Executive Officer or the Human Resources department. A complaint must include the specific nature of the incident and the date(s) and place(s) such alleged harassment took place, as well as the name(s) of any individual(s) known to be involved, but does not have to be in writing.
When the school’s management becomes aware that harassment might exist, it is obligated by law to take prompt and appropriate action, whether or not the victim wants the school to do so. Complaints of violations will be promptly and carefully investigated, including interviews with all relevant persons. Investigators will conduct an objective investigation with consideration given to each person’s desire for privacy; however, no student or employee is guaranteed complete confidentiality and/or anonymity during an investigation. Only individuals with a legitimate “need to know” will be given any information regarding the complaint(s).
Employees and students who utilize this procedure are assured that they will be free from any reprisal or retaliation for reporting such violations or cooperating in an investigation.
Any student found to have harassed a fellow student or school staff member would be subject to severe disciplinary action, including possible expulsion from school. In addition, any staff member found to have harassed a student or other staff member would be subject to severe disciplinary action including possible discharge from employment. The school will take necessary action to remedy the situation appropriately. However, if an investigation of a complaint shows that the complaint or information was knowingly false, the individual who provided the false information will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from the school or, if a staff member up to and including termination from employment.
Academic Integrity and Copyright Infringement Policy
Plagiarism is the use of another’s words or ideas without proper citation, and includes copying large sections of text or images from print or electronic resources, or another student’s work. Students may avoid plagiarism by forming ideas in their own words, quoting only limited passages of borrowed text, and always acknowledging the origin of borrowed ideas or words with a correct citation.
Members of the The Creative Circus community are expected to follow copyright law, Title 17 of the United States Code, while fulfilling the core mission of teaching, research, and extending knowledge and creativity in all areas. The provisions in the copyright law allow an author, artist, composer or other creator of a work to control the use of his or her work by others, with important exceptions. Copyright protections and the accompanying exceptions extend to print and digital formats of literary works, computer software, musical works, unpublished materials such as manuscripts, dramatic works, pantomimes and choreographic works, pictorial and graphic works, sculpture, motion pictures and other audiovisual works, sound recordings, and architectural works. Failure to observe copyright or license agreements Unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material and unauthorized peer-to-peer sharing using the institution’s information technology system may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal from the school, legal action by the copyright owner, and/or criminal penalties.
Since the files distributed over peer-to-peer networks are primarily copyrighted works, there is a risk of liability for downloading material from these networks. To avoid these risks, there are currently many "authorized" services on the Internet that allow consumers to purchase copyrighted works online, whether music, ebooks, or motion pictures. By purchasing works through authorized services, consumers can avoid the risks of infringement liability and can limit their exposure to other potential risks, e.g., viruses, unexpected material, or spyware. Other legal alternatives for downloading or otherwise acquiring copyrighted material include utilizing the school’s library facilities or public lending libraries.
Questions concerning this institution’s copyright policy should be directed to Centralized Library Services.
Summary of Civil and Criminal Penalties for Violation of Federal Copyright Laws
Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or “statutory” damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. For “willful” infringement, a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court can, in its discretion, also assess costs and attorneys’ fees. For details, see Title 17, United States Code, Sections 504, 505.
Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense. For more information, please see the website of the U.S. Copyright Office at www.copyright.gov.
Copy equipment at the school may not be used to copy copyrighted material. In addition, none of the material listed below may be copied by students or employees. Copyrightable works include the following categories:
- Literary works, including computer software
- Musical works, including any accompanying words
- Dramatic works, including any accompanying music
- Pantomimes and choreographic work
- Pictorial, graphic, and sculptured works
- Motion pictures and other audiovisual works
- Sound recordings
- Architectural works
These categories should be viewed broadly. For example, computer programs and most “compilations” may be registered as “literary works;” maps and architectural plans may be registered as “pictorial, graphic, and sculptured works.”
Computer Use and File Sharing
Examples of behaviors considered to be in violation of the school's policy on student computer systems and network include:
- Sending obscene, harassing, intimidating and/or threatening messages through email or other means. Viewing or downloading, displaying, printing or otherwise disseminating material that is sexually explicit, profane, obscene, harassing, fraudulent, racially offensive, defamatory or otherwise unlawful.
- Downloading any software programs, files or other items including but not limited to internet accelerator programs, search engines, upgrades, enhancements, fonts, graphic images, photos or other items unless authorized to do so by the Director of Education or Executive Director. Transferring personal software to The Creative Circus computers is prohibited.
- Soliciting business, selling products, or otherwise engaging in commercial activities or personal advertisements. Using The Creative Circus computer and/or network to perpetrate fraud, misrepresentation or illegal activity.
- Providing others with access to one’s personal computer accounts or attempting to gain access to the computer accounts, files or system to which authorized access has not been granted.
- Attempting to circumvent or compromise The Creative Circus computer security or the security of any remote system accessed through South The Creative Circus equipment or networks.
- Creating or releasing computer viruses or engaging in other destructive or potentially destructive programming activities.
- Modifying, altering, or tampering with systems hardware or software unless explicitly authorized to do so by the Executive Director.
Sexual Harassment
Title IX Compliance Policy
The school is committed to providing a school environment that ensures the equality, dignity, and respect of every student. In keeping with this commitment, the school strictly prohibits discriminatory practices, including sexual harassment, and will not deny or limit the ability of any student to participate in, or benefit from, any school program on the basis of sex, (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity. Sexual harassment, whether verbal, physical or environmental, is unacceptable and will not be tolerated, whether it occurs on school grounds or at outside school‐sponsored activities. This policy applies to all school employees and students. All employees have a duty to ensure that no student is subjected to sexual harassment and to help maintain a school environment free of such harassment.
Ancora Education's Title IX Coordinator is responsible for each school's overall compliance with Title IX, including response to reports of sexual misconduct affecting the campus community, as set forth in further detail in Ancora's Title IX Compliance Policy. For questions regarding Title IX procedures and how the schools complies with Title IX please see the Ancora Education Consumer Information and Annual Security Report, which is located at:
https://creativecircus.edu/consumer-information/
Please direct any additional questions to the Title IX Coordinator, whose contact information is available below.
Attendance Policy
Incomplete Policy
Procedure:
- The student must request the Incomplete prior to the last day of the course using the Incomplete Grade Request;
- In order to approve an Incomplete, the student must have earned a minimum of a 25% in the course.
- The Director of Education, or designee, may approve students under an earned 25% with mitigating circumstances.
- Additional documentation may be required to approve exceptions.
- If approved, The Director of Education, or designee, will notify the student prior to an “I” grade being entered in the Student Information System;
- Student must make up all Incomplete grades within 14 days of the end of the course;
- All hours completed with a qualified instructor on campus to assist with makeup work will count toward the student’s attendance hours and is documented with an AD – Attendance Change Form;
- Grade will be converted to “F” or the grade the student has earned at the end of the incomplete period approved unless special approval is given to extend the deadline;
- Appropriate supporting documentation for the grade will be uploaded into Image Now along with the approved Incomplete Grade Request once the “I” grade is resolved;
- Students who are approved for an “I” grade in their final course may be withdrawn until the “I” is resolved if the approval extends beyond the Drop/Add period and the student isn’t enrolled in any other courses;
- In these cases, the student must be dropped, finish hours, reinstated, grades and hours finalized, then approved to graduate.
- Students may request a late incomplete after the course has closed through the Director of Education or Designee, Student Services Coordinator; Student Resource Coordinator, or Hybrid Teaching Assistant (SSC/SRC/HTA).
- Late incomplete requests must be submitted in writing within 7 calendar days of the end of the course and will be approved only based on mitigating circumstances.
- Late incompletes beyond a week may only be granted by the VP of Academics or the AVP Online Academic Operations in cases where the campus fails to provide the student with reasonable access to complete coursework.
Late Work Submission/Make-up Policy
Leave of Absence
Leave of Absence Conditions
The following conditions may be considered:
- Medical Leave (including pregnancy)
- Family Care (unexpected childcare issues or medical care of family)
- Military Duty
- Jury Duty
The following requirements apply:
A student may be granted a Leave of Absence (LOA) if:
- A LOA request is submitted in writing within 14 calendar days of the student’s last date of attendance, but prior to the student taking the LOA. The written request includes the reason for the request and is signed and dated by the student and an authorized school official. If unforeseen circumstances prevent the student from providing a written request within 14 calendar days the campus may use its discretion to grant the student’s request if the student provides the written documentation validating the unforeseen circumstances by the last day of the campus’s attendance policy. In this situation the school documents its decision and collects the written request at a later date.
- Generally, only one leave of absence may be granted to a student in a 12-month period. However, more than one leave of absence may be granted for limited, well documented cases due to unforeseen circumstances that are listed below, provided that the total number of days the student remains on LOA may not exceed 180 days during a consecutive 12-month time frame. Reasons for potential second leaves of absence include:
- One additional leave of absence, if it does not exceed 30 days and the campus determines that it is necessary due to unforeseen circumstances; this type of leave of absence would have to be subsequent to the granting of the single leave of absence, which is granted at the campus's discretion. This may not be possible in all programs based on term structure.
- Subsequent leaves of absence if the campus documents that they are granted for jury duty, military reasons, or circumstances covered under the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) (Public Law 103-3), enacted February 5, 1993. The circumstances that are covered under the FMLA, as applied to students, are:
- Birth of a son or daughter of the student and the need to care for that son or daughter (within 12 months of the date of birth)
- Placement of a son or daughter with the student for adoption or foster care (within 12 months beginning on the date of the placement)
- Need to care for the student’s spouse, or a son, daughter, or parent, if the spouse son, daughter, or parent has a serious health condition
- A serious health condition that makes the student unable to function as a student
- There may be limitations on LOA eligibility for students enrolled in term-based programs due to scheduling requirements. This is due to the requirement that a student must return into the same classes when coming off of an LOA.
- The total days considered on LOA will include days up to the point in the coursework where the student left on LOA. It is strongly advised that the student return at the beginning of the term when possible in order to benefit from a review of the material. Any resubmitted work the student completes will be graded, and the higher of the two grades will be counted.
- The student must have earned a successful grade in at least one course before being eligible to apply for an LOA
- A student may not apply for an LOA between terms, they are only eligible if they start an LOA during a term.
Failure to return from an approved leave of absence will result in withdrawal from the campus, may have an impact on aid, loan repayment and exhaustion of the loan grace period for the total days the student was on the LOA, and any unearned tuition shall be refunded within refund guidelines. Students in a LOA status may not receive further financial aid disbursements until returning to active status. Contact the financial aid office for more information about the impact of an LOA on financial aid.
An LOA will not be granted during the term for students enrolled in our standard term programs.
Withdrawal
Last Day to Withdraw: A student is awarded a grade of W (Withdrawal) when withdrawing from an active course or all courses prior to the last day to withdraw for a term or grading period. The last day to withdraw from a course is prior to the last week of the student’s course.
Re-Admission
Students who have withdrawn from The Creative Circus and wish to be readmitted should contact the school. If the application for re-admission is for a different curriculum, the standard requirements for a change of program will apply. All applicants for re-admission will be required to complete the Smarter Measures Assessment. The assessment measures student readiness to return to school and engage in post-secondary learning based on non-cognitive indicators of success. The school uses the results of the assessment to determine the type of support that will be most beneficial to the student through the program of study.
Approval for readmission for the same curriculum or an alternate selection will be based on the applicant's ability and aptitude, the time elapsed since withdrawing, recommendations of the instructors of the program to which the applicant is reapplying, and the applicant's career objectives. Prior tuition balances and student loan statuses must be clear before readmission application forms will be processed. Re-entering students must meet all admission requirements in place at the time of their re-entry. Applicants granted re-admission may have course load restrictions, specific grade and attendance requirements, and/or required advisement sessions in order to remain enrolled at The Creative Circus.
A re-entering student who was required to withdraw because of active military status will be promptly re-entered with no advance notice required by the student if re-entering within five years of completion of service, unless unusual circumstances require the institution to admit the student at a later date. Re-entry will be processed into his/her same program of study at the same enrollment status and with the same number of hours previously completed. If that program is no longer offered, the student will be re-admitted to the program that is most similar in terms of content and credit hours unless the student requests admission to a different program. If the School assesses that additional academic preparation is required before resuming active enrollment, this will be provided by the School at no charge to the student. In all cases, the student will be charged the same tuition and fees that would have been assessed at the time the student left the School for active military service. Students may contact the Director of Education or designee for more information about this policy and eligibility, or when ready to re- enroll.
Loss of Personal Property
Administrative Prerogatives
Grievance Resolution
The Creative Circus’s stated objective is the preparation of its graduates for a career in their chosen field of training. If a student has a grievance, the following procedure must be followed. It is The Creative Circus’s desire that a grievance be settled at the lowest possible level, and resolved as rapidly as possible.
- A student will attempt to resolve a grievance with the person involved.
- If a student is unable to resolve the grievance with the person involved, it should be submitted in writing to that person’s supervisor.
- If the grievance is still unresolved after two days, the student should submit a written summary to the Executive Director. A meeting will be set up to include the student, person involved, and the Director. Every effort will be made to resolve the grievance at this point.
- If the student notifies the Executive Director in writing that the student does not consider the grievance to be resolved, a written summary by the Executive Director, along with all other materials, will be forwarded to:
Ombudsman Department
STVT-AAI Education Inc.
2241 S Watson Road, Suite 181
Arlington, Texas 76010
complaints@ancoraeducation.com
A written decision on the grievance report will be sent to the student and the School Director within five working days after receipt of the signed grievance.
Grievances may also be directed to the Georgia Non-public Postsecondary Education Commission:
Georgia Non-public Postsecondary Education Commission
2082 East Exchange Place, Suite 220
Tucker, Georgia 30084-5305
(770)414-3300
https://gnpec.georgia.gov/student-resources/student-complaints
Students also have a right to appeal an institution's decision to the Georgia Non-public Postsecondary Education Commission.
Schools accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE) must have a procedure and operational plan for handling student complaints. The student may also consider contacting he school’s accreditor. All complaints reviewed by the accreditor must be in written form and shall grant permission for the accreditor to forward a copy of the complaint to the School for a response. The complainant(s) will be kept informed as to the status of the complaint as well as the final resolution by the accreditor. Please direct all inquiries to:
Council on Occupational Education (COE)
7840 Roswell Road, Bldg. 300 Suite 325
Atlanta, GA 30350
Phone: 770-396-3790
www.council.org
A copy of the accrediting agencies complaint form is available at the School and may be obtained by contacting the Executive Director.
https://studentaid.gov/feedback-ombudsman/disputes/prepare
Statement of Non-Retaliation
Faculty, administrators, and staff shall not intimidate or take retaliatory action, as defined below, against any member of the community, who makes a report of the type defined below in good faith and without malice.
This Policy also prohibits persons from knowingly and intentionally making a report of non-compliance or grievance that is knowingly false.
The prohibition against retaliation applies to:
- The disclosure of information concerning conduct that the reporter believes is illegal or in violation of campus policies;
- Disclosures made during compliance review or a peer review process;
- The filing of a legitimate complaint, grievance, or incident report
The types of retaliation that are prohibited include but are not limited to:
- Intimidation;
- Adverse actions with respect to the reporter's work assignments, salary, vacation, and other terms of employment;
- Unlawful discrimination;
- Termination of employment;
- Adverse actions against a relative of the reporter who is a Ancora Education employee or student at an institution owned and operated by Ancora Education; and
- Threats of any of the above
Note that an adverse personnel, academic or other disciplinary action against an employee or student whose conduct or performance warrants such action for reasons unrelated to the reporting of a concern will not be deemed a violation of this policy.
Individuals who violate this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary proceedings as set forth in the catalog, and, if found to have violated the policy, they may be subjected to the full range of available sanctions, up to and including termination of employment or dismissal from an academic program.
Care of Facilities
Student Consumer Information
- Director of Admissions: Admission requirements and procedures, cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, books, transportation, housing, and refund policy.
- Director of Education: Description of academic programs, facilities, and faculty; data on student retention, numbers and percentages of students completing programs, academic standards of progress, transfer credits from other institutions, and students with disabilities.
- Director of Student Placement: Assistance with securing employment upon graduation including preparation of resumes, completion of application materials, and preparation for interviews; assistance with locating part-time employment while in school; information on graduate placement, and employment demographics of the region.
- Financial Aid Director: Description of financial assistance programs, rights and responsibilities of financial aid recipients, means and frequency of payments, financial aid awards, terms and schedules of student loan repayment, and general terms and conditions of employment provided as financial aid.
- Campus Director: Information regarding the overall operation of the campus. The Campus Director is the Chief Operating Officer and principal administrator for the school.
Academic Resources, Policies, & Procedures
Student Classification
a. Full-time Student - For credit hour programs, a full-time student is a student scheduled for 12 or more credit hours per term.
b. Three-quarter time Student - A three-quarter time student is a student scheduled for at least 9 but less than 12 credit hours per term.
c. Half-time Student - A half-time student is a student scheduled for at least 6 but less than 9 credit hours per term.
d. Regular Student - A regular student is an admitted student who is enrolled in a diploma or certificate program in good academic standing.
e. Non-Matriculating Students – Non-matriculating students are those who seek admission for course credit in order to meet specific educational needs but do not wish to take the entire required curriculum leading to an academic credential. The non-matriculating student is required to submit an application as such and is not eligible for federal or state aid.
f. Auditing Students – In some instances a student may be allowed to audit a previously passed course in his/her program for the purpose of improving skills or knowledge base. Audited courses are assigned a grade of AU and do not count as credits attempted or earned for any purposes and do not have any effect on calculations of pace or GPA.
Definition of a Credit Hour
A credit hour is defined as an amount of work represented by intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than (1) one hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class student work for ten to twelve weeks for one quarter hour of credit, or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time; or (2) at least an equivalent amount of work as required in paragraph (1) of this definition for other academic activities as established by the institution including laboratory work, internships, practica, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.
Credit in traditionally delivered programs is measured in credit hours and is calculated based upon the following attribution formula:
One quarter credit hour equals, at a minimum, 10 classroom hours of lecture, 20 hours of laboratory, and 30 hours of externship. A class hour is an instructional period of fifty (50) minutes of instruction in a sixty (60) minute period. For Title IV purposes, the school uses the classroom hours of instruction plus out-of-class hours (Study/Prep/Review) identified for the course(s).
The syllabus for each course describes both the hours of classroom instruction as well as the out-of-class learning activities required to support the academic credit awarded for the course. Many courses are a combination of lecture, lab, and practicum.
Definition of a Clock Hour
Admission to Classes
Registration
All students are expected to register during the time scheduled for that purpose. Quarterly registration dates are published and announced. The school reserves the right to schedule courses that are deemed appropriate for the best educational sequence for the student and the school. Course schedules and course loads should be carefully planned by the student in consultation with his/her Program Director or the Director of Education. Each student is responsible for being familiar with the requirements of his/her program of study and for keeping account of progress toward completion of graduation requirements. The student is expected to be familiar with the regulations set forth in the catalog. An electronic copy of the catalog is available on the school website. A student who desires to register for course work above the normal course load outlined for the curriculum must obtain written permission from his/her Program Director who must receive final approval from the Director of Education.
Schedule Changes and Drop/Add Period
The equivalent of the first five school days of each term are designated as the “drop/add period” for schedule changes involving individual courses for students who start at the beginning of the term. By the end of the drop/add period, each student’s schedule must be in place for the remainder of the term. Individual courses dropped during drop/add will not appear on a student’s transcript and no tuition will be charged for those courses.
Grading System
+Satisfactory grades are 70% or higher for Title IV programs. Non-Title IV programs may have other requirements for S grades (75% or higher). Check with the Director of Education for specific STCT grading information.
Grade Measurement
Grades measure the degree to which a student masters the competencies in program coursework and are one measure of a student's ability to meet employment standards in the field for which the student is preparing. Upon the completion of each term, the student is given a letter grade in each course based upon written examinations, practical exercises, projects and other submitted work, as defined in the course syllabus. Every course for which a student officially registers will appear on the student's official transcript unless the student cancels his/her enrollment prior to the commencement of classes or drops an individual course prior to the end of the drop/add period. All courses entered on a student's official transcript are assigned a letter grade.
Extra Credit Policy
Grade Reports
Grade Change Policy
Graduation Requirements
- Complete an industry-ready portfolio as evaluated by the Graduation Committee
- Maintain a minimum CGPA of 2.0 while enrolled
- Satisfactorily complete all current curriculum requirements or their equivalent
- Fulfill all financial obligations to the institution
- Complete minimum clock hour/credit hour requirements after consideration of transfer credits or advanced placement.
The Graduation Committee is comprised of the student’s department head, the Executive Creative Director, the Career Services Director and a representative of the industry. This committee will review and evaluate the portfolios of all prospective graduates. The portfolio review is part of each programs graduate portfolio review course.
Student who do not meet the requirements have two options to complete their portfolio for a re-review by the Graduation Committee:
- Status is changed to Drop and there is a specified time given to the student to complete their portfolio and re-submit to the Graduation Committee for review.
- Student enrolls in a 9th quarter to complete his or her portfolio. At the end of this quarter the student’s portfolios are resubmitted to the Graduation Committee for review.
Once the portfolio is deemed industry –ready by the Graduation Committee and approved, and assuming all other graduation requirements have been met, the student’s status is changed to Graduate.
Early Graduation Policy
Graduation Ceremony
Transcripts
Transcripts may be requested at www.parchment.com
Satisfactory Academic Progress
Satisfactory Academic
Progress
A student must meet the following standards of academic achievement and
successful course completion while enrolled. Satisfactory Academic Progress
(SAP) applies to all students including full or part time status, and all
periods of an active regular enrollment regardless of whether or not the
student receives financial aid. Student enrollment status is determined at the
end of the drop/add for any given term or payment period (determined by
program, defined herein as “academic term”). All courses in a program must be
successfully completed in order for a student to graduate from the program.
Permanent records are maintained for every student indicating courses completed
and grades earned. Students must be considered to be in good standing, either
as a result of having met SAP, having an approved appeal on file, or having met
the terms of a given academic plan, in order to maintain enrollment in a
subsequent scheduled academic term. SAP does not apply to students enrolled in
professional development/continuing education courses, which are courses not
included within the scope of the institution's accreditation and are not
eligible for Title IV funding.
The following SAP standards are for Credit Hour Programs:
Evaluation Points: All SAP evaluations for Credit Hour Programs
occur at the end of an academic term and are cumulative in nature. All students
re-entering after a period of non-attendance will have their most recent SAP
status reviewed to determine eligibility to return. Re-entries will then be
evaluated for SAP in their new enrollment at the end of the academic term. SAP
is determined by measuring the student’s cumulative grade point average (CGPA)
and the student’s pace toward completion of course credit hours attempted in
the academic program. The calculated CGPA and pace are compared against
thresholds (see table below) to determine whether or not the student meets SAP
(at or above threshold).
For credit hour programs, credits attempted are those credits
for which the student is enrolled at the end of the drop/add of an academic
term. Credits earned are credits for which the student receives a passing grade
at the end of the academic term.
Satisfactory Progress Thresholds for Credit Hour Programs:
Programs greater than 80
Credit Hours |
|
Programs with 60-80
Credit Hours |
||||
Credit Hours Attempted |
CGPA |
Minimum Pace |
|
Credit Hours
Attempted |
CGPA |
MinimumPace |
0-36 |
1.5 |
50% |
|
0 -24 |
1.5 |
50% |
37-64 |
1.75 |
60% |
|
25 - 36 |
1.75 |
60% |
65+ |
2.0 |
66.67% |
|
37+ |
2.0 |
66.67% |
Programs less than 60
Credit Hours |
|
CGPA |
Minimum Pace |
2.0 |
66.67% |
At the end of any SAP Evaluation period, if a student’s CGPA or Pace is below
the stated threshold, the student’s academic progress is considered
unsatisfactory.
Maximum Timeframe/Maximum Program Length
A student must complete an academic program in no more than one and one half
(1.5) times the published normal program length. To determine the maximum
timeframe for programs measured in credit hours, take the published number of
credit hours necessary to graduate and multiply by 1.5.
Example:
92 Published Program Credits x 1.5 Maximum Timeframe = 138 Maximum Attempted
Credits Permitted to Complete Program
If, at any time, it is determined to be mathematically impossible for a student
to complete the program of study within the Maximum Timeframe, the student WILL
be ineligible for additional Title IV funding and dismissed from the program of
study.
Students may appeal dismissal for extenuating circumstances and must meet with
the Director of Education for the appeal process. If approved, the student will
be placed on extended enrollment and the student's cGPA will continue to update
based on the Repeated Courses policy where the highest grade will be applied in
each repeated course. However, the student will be assessed no further charges
and remain ineligible to receive financial aid.
Please see each course outline in this catalog for a program level explanation
of what qualifies as maximum timeframe.
Unsatisfactory Academic Progress
Students not meeting SAP are subject to dismissal from their programs of study
and are ineligible to receive financial aid, except under certain
circumstances.
Financial Aid Warning for Credit Hour Programs
If a student’s progress in a credit hour program, measured at the end of an
academic term is determined to be unsatisfactory, the school may place the
student on Financial Aid Warning status for one academic term. The student will
be advised of the performance necessary to re-establish SAP. A student on
Financial Aid Warning is still eligible to receive financial aid. If, at the
end of the academic term during which the student was placed on Financial Aid
Warning status, the student’s academic progress is above both thresholds for
SAP, the student is removed from Financial Aid Warning.
Financial Aid Probation for Students in Credit Hour Programs
If, at the end of the academic term during which the student was placed on
Financial Aid Warning status, the student’s academic progress is not above both
SAP thresholds for pace and CGPA, the student is subject to dismissal. The
student is no longer eligible to receive federal financial aid. This decision
is subject to appeal by the student as defined below. Upon approval of a
student appeal, the student will be placed on Financial Aid Probation.
Eligibility for federal financial aid may only be reinstated for one payment
period.
Appeals of Adverse Determinations
Students who are ineligible to receive financial aid and/or are academically
ineligible to continue due to unsatisfactory academic progress are advised
immediately following the determination. Students may submit a written appeal
to the Academic Review Committee.
This appeal should be filed within five (5) business days of notification of
the decision and must explain in writing the circumstances leading to their
unsatisfactory academic performance and how those circumstances have been
resolved, ensuring they are successful going forward. The Academic Review Committee
will consider all information including potential mitigating circumstances such
as a severe illness, medical condition or injury, the death of a family member
or other special circumstances presented by the student. The Academic Review
Committee will uphold or deny the appeal within five (5) business days
following receipt of the appeal from the student. A student who has been placed
on probation due to unsatisfactory academic progress must have an appeal upheld
in order to remain enrolled. This should occur prior to the final drop/add date
of the academic term in order to in order to make appropriate scheduling
adjustments. The student should attend class while the appeal is being
reviewed.
If an appeal is denied, the student will be dismissed and is ineligible to
receive financial aid. If the appeal is upheld, the student will be placed
on Financial Aid Probation status for one academic term. An
academic plan will be created for the student, and the student will be
considered eligible to receive financial aid. The academic plan must be
structured so that a student reestablishes SAP within a reasonable timeframe.
The student’s performance against the academic plan will be reviewed at the end
of each academic term with the use of an Academic Plan Reviewed document. If,
at the end of an academic term the student’s performance is consistent with the
terms of the academic plan, the student remains eligible to receive financial
aid and may continue in school for the subsequent academic term. If, at the end
of an academic term the student’s performance is determined to be
unsatisfactory, the student will be dismissed from the program of study.
Students on academic plans will be advised at the end of each academic term to
ensure that they understand their required performance for reestablishing
satisfactory academic progress by the end of the plan.
A student may be dismissed at any time if the Academic Review Committee does
not believe the student will be successful in upholding the Academic Plan. In
those cases, the student may submit an additional appeal to continue. A student
may reestablish satisfactory academic progress upon successful completion of an
academic term by meeting the thresholds listed in the SAP tables above.
Students who re-establish satisfactory academic progress are advised they no
longer need to be on an academic plan and remain eligible to receive financial
aid.
Financial Aid Dismissal for Students in Credit Hour Programs
If the student’s academic progress is not above both SAP thresholds for pace
and CGPA after an academic term on Financial Aid Probation, the student will be
placed on Financial Aid Dismissal and is no longer eligible to receive federal
financial aid. If the student is making sufficient progress while in this
status, the student will receive an Academic Plan Reviewed document to continue
eligibility. If the student does not make sufficient progress, the student will
be dismissed, subject to additional appeal.
Students Receiving Veterans Education Benefits
Students using Veterans Education Benefits are subject to the same calculations
of CGPA and Pace, but have different limitations as to how long they may remain
not meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress standards. Students using Veterans
Education Benefits will be subject to the following limitations.
Students will no longer eligible to be certified for Veterans Education
Benefits once they fail to meet SAP standards for a third consecutive SAP
evaluation period. This means students who fail to meet SAP at the end of their
Financial Aid Probation term will have their benefits terminated. Student will
only be eligible for certification if they return to Satisfactory Academic
Progress. If a student exceeds Maximum Time Frame as defined in the SAP policy
above, they are no longer eligible to be certified for Veterans Education
Benefits.
Other Factors Impacting Academic Standing for Credit Hour Programs
Program Changes: When a student transfers to a new program, the
total program length of the new program is used as a basis for determining the
maximum program length. All previously attempted coursework that is applicable
in the new program is carried forward into the new program, whether it was
completed successfully or not (i.e., including grades of F or W), for the
purposes of calculating both qualitative and quantitative academic progress. A
student who is not meeting SAP standards is not eligible for a program change
without approval of the Director of Education or designee. This also applies to
students who were not meeting SAP standards at the point of being withdrawn and
wish to re-enter in a different program.
Transfer and Proficiency Credits: Transfer and Proficiency credits
are entered as grades of “T” or “TO” which are not computed in a student’s
qualitative grade point average. Transfer and proficiency credits are counted
as credits attempted and earned for the purposes of calculating a student’s
pace of progress in the program. See also Transfer of Credit in this catalog.
These grades will be used in calculating both qualitative grade point average
and pace of progress as defined in the Standards of Academic Progress
policy.
Additional Degrees/Diplomas: Degree or diploma students who wish to
remain continuously enrolled and pursue an additional program must complete all
requirements of the first program before enrolling in a subsequent program. Any
successfully completed courses that are contained in the subsequent program
will be counted towards completion of that program. (Note: students may
not be enrolled concurrently in and receive funding for two Title IV eligible
programs).
Pass/Fail Courses
Grades of S and U are assigned to classes that do not fulfill graduation
requirements such as English Language Foundation (ELF) courses that are graded
on a pass/fail basis. A grade of W* is assigned for withdrawal from a Pass/Fail
class for certain programs after the drop/add period.
Repeated Courses While in an Active Degree Seeking Status
F, U, NA, NP, W, and W* grades require repeating and are retained on the
transcript. Repeated courses will appear on the transcript with both the new
letter grade earned and the original letter grade earned. The highest grade
will replace the other attempts for the purposes of calculating the CGPA.
Courses which have been repeated will count as credits/hours attempted for the
purposes of calculating pace. Students in credit hour programs may
receive financial aid to repeat failed courses. Other than Foundation courses,
which can only be repeated a single time without appeal approval, there is no
fixed limit to the number of times a particular course may be repeated as long
as a student is making satisfactory academic progress. As of July 1, 2011, a
student’s enrollment status in a term-based, credit hour program for Title IV
purposes may include coursework being repeated that was previously taken in the
program, but may not include more than one repetition of a specific, previously
passed course. The original grade and the repeated grade will both appear on
the transcript. Only the highest grade will count for purposes of calculating
the CGPA. All attempts count in the pace of the program.
Audited Courses
Audited courses are assigned a grade of AU. Audited courses do not count as
credits attempted or credits earned for any purposes and do not have any effect
on the calculations of pace or GPA.
Grades and CGPA
The following table summarizes the effect of specific grades on the
calculations of pace and CGPA:
Students are able to access their student portal at any time to view academic progress, including grades.
Withdrawal Grades for Institutional Withdrawals
The W grade is assigned to class withdrawals when a student withdraws or stops
attending all courses prior to the withdrawal deadline. The earned grade in the
course is awarded after the withdrawal deadline.
Withdrawal Grades for Individual Course Withdrawals
A course is unregistered during the drop/add period for a student who maintains
enrollment in one or more course. Courses dropped after the drop/add period but
prior to the withdrawal deadline are issued a grade of W (Withdrawal). The
earned grade in the course is awarded after the withdrawal deadline.
A grade of W* is recorded for Pass/Fail courses (campus credits) dropped after
the drop/add period or for courses being withdrawn during an LOA period. The W*
may also be used in rare instances when a correction needs to be made to a
student’s schedule based on a documented issue. A grade of NA is recorded for
module-based courses that are dropped after drop/add but prior to the start of
the module in which the course was scheduled. W grades count as credits
attempted but not earned for the purposes of calculating the pace in academic
progress and are excluded from CGPA. W* and NA grades are excluded from both
the CGPA and Pace components of SAP.
Incomplete Grades
Incomplete grades count as credits/hours attempted but not completed. When the
Incomplete is converted to a letter grade, it will be computed as credits/hours
completed or failed, depending on the grade assigned.
Repeated Coursework
A student may also request to audit any course within their program version with their Director of Education.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
All students shall have the right to inspect and review their educational records, to request corrections or deletions, and to limit disclosure of the records in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (also referred to as the Buckley Amendment).
The Registrar oversees the educational records. Students may request a review of their records by writing to the Registrar or his/her designee and identifying the record(s) they wish to review. Such review will be allowed during regular school office hours under appropriate supervision and within 45 days of the date the request is received by the school. A copy of the records may be obtained for $1.00 per page. When grades are included, the transcript charge applies.
A student may request the school to amend his/her educational records on the grounds that they are inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of his/her right to privacy. However, grades and course evaluations can be challenged only on the grounds that they are improperly recorded. The student should write to the Registrar and identify the part of the record he or she wants to change and specify why it is inaccurate. The Registrar, together with other involved school personnel, will review the written request and confer with the student to make a determination. If the student is not satisfied with the result of the conference, the school will notify the student of his or her right to a formal grievance hearing. Within 45 days of the hearing, the student will be provided with a written decision, which will be considered final. Written documentation of the hearing and of the decision will be included as part of the student’s permanent record.
The following are exemptions to FERPA:
- Financial records submitted by a student’s parent(s);
- Grades and access to student education records to parents who certify that the student is financially dependent;
- A school official who has a legitimate educational interest and needs to review an educational record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. A school official is a person employed by the school in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position, or a person or company with whom the school has contracted, such as an attorney, auditor, collection agent, employment agency, or loan management agency, or a person serving on the Board of Governors, or a student serving on an official committee or assisting another school official in performing his/her tasks;
- Confidential letters of recommendation received by the school prior to January 1, 1975. For such letters received after December 31,1974, the Act permits students to waive their right to access if the letters are related to admissions, employment, or honors;
- School security records;
- Employment records for school employees who are not current students;
- Records compiled or maintained by physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, or other recognized professionals or paraprofessionals acting or assisting in such capacities for treatment purposes, and which are available only to persons providing the treatment;
- Authorized representatives of the U.S. Government, state and local authorities where required, and accrediting agencies;
- Appropriate persons or agencies in the event of a health or safety emergency, when a release without consent is necessary under the circumstances; and
- Records requested through court order or subpoena.
The school may release certain student directory information without the consent of the student unless the student has specifically requested that the information not be released though it is not standard practice to release directory information to third parties. The student should inform the school in writing within ten (10) days after the first date of attendance if the student does not wish to have any or all of such information released by the school. Such directory information includes some or all of the following data: student’s name, address(es), telephone number, e-mail address, program, dates of attendance, photograph, diploma awarded, post-graduation employers and job titles, participation in activities and recognition received, previous secondary and postsecondary educational institutions attended by the student, and date and place of birth.
The school also reserves the right to release to police agencies and/or crime victims any records or information pertinent to a crime which has occurred on campus, including the details of and disciplinary action taken against the alleged perpetrator of the crime. The student has the right to file a complaint concerning alleged failures by the school to comply with the requirements of FERPA at the following U.S. Department of Education office:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-5901
Additional information on FERPA is available from the Campus Director’s office.
Directed Study
Courses are offered via directed study only when extraordinary circumstances warrant. Requests for directed study will be evaluated on a case-by case basis as determined by the Director of Education and/or the Program Director. Directed study involves a high level of independence and self-direction on the part of the student to read, conduct research, and complete written examinations, reports, research papers, and similar assignments designed to measure the student’s grasp of the subject matter. Under the supervision of a faculty member, a learning contract shall be developed which outlines specific learning objectives, texts, supplemental readings, course requirements, evaluative criteria, and examination dates. Because directed study classes are the exception and not the rule, the number of courses that a student will be allowed to take in directed study will be limited. In all cases, the directed study contract must demonstrate that the student receives an appropriate combination of instructional time and assignments to be completed outside of class to master the stated course objectives. The following factors will be carefully evaluated prior to granting a request for an independent study:
- The student’s grade point average;
- The student’s proximity to graduation;
- The existence of extenuating circumstances or hardships that prevent the student from taking the course on campus; and
- The availability of distance-education sections of the course.
The directed study should not be granted for the purpose of allowing a student to repeat a class he or she has failed or from which he or she has withdrawn. The directed study should not be granted to fill a schedule or allow an easy transition back into school for a student who has withdrawn for one or more terms.
Programs of Study
The following programs of study are offered at The Creative Circus: |
Certificate |
• Art Direction |
• Copywriting |
• Creative Technology |
• Graphic Design |
• Image |
The following courses are offered at The Creative Circus (These courses are not included within the school's scope of accreditation with ACCSC and are not eligible for Title IV funding): |
Certificate of Completion |
• Summer at the Circus |
Copywriting | ||||
Certificate | ||||
| ||||
Major & Related Requirements | Quarter Credit Hours | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
CG904 | Indesign/Illustrator | 1.65 | ||
CG925 | Digital 1 | 1.65 | ||
CL100 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CW101 | Introduction to Copywriting | 1.65 | ||
CW104 | Art Direction for Copywriting | 1.65 | ||
CW106 | Headlines | 1.65 | ||
CW720 | Copycrafting 1 | 1.65 | ||
CW805 | Professional Development for Copywriting | 1.65 | ||
DS520 | Brand Extensions | 1.65 | ||
DS760 | Cultural Media | 1.65 | ||
GE101 | Strategy | 1.65 | ||
GE102 | Introduction to Creative Thinking | 1.65 | ||
CL200 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CW201 | Developing Your Voice | 1.65 | ||
CW203 | Writing for Radio | 1.65 | ||
TM210 | Introduction to Creative Team | 1.65 | ||
CL300 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CW301 | Copy 1 | 1.65 | ||
TM310 | Creative Team 3 | 1.65 | ||
TM311 | Advertising Concepts 1 | 1.65 | ||
CL400 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
TM410 | Creative Team 4 | 1.65 | ||
TM411 | Advertising Concepts 2 | 1.65 | ||
CL500 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
TM510 | Creative Team 5 | 1.65 | ||
TM511 | Advertising Concepts 3 | 1.65 | ||
CL600 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CW601 | Writing Long Copy | 1.65 | ||
TM601 | Interdisciplinary Team 1 | 1.65 | ||
TM610 | Creative Team 6: Alternative Marketing | 1.65 | ||
TM611 | Advertising Concepts 4 | 1.65 | ||
CL700 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
TM710 | Creative Team 7 | 1.65 | ||
TM711 | Advertising Concepts 5 | 1.65 | ||
CL800 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CW820 | Copycrafting 2 | 1.65 | ||
GR801 | Graduate Portfolio Review/Job Preparation | 1.65 | ||
XXXXX | Electives | 4.95 | ||
Total | 96.8 | |||
Total Quarter Credit Hours Required for Graduation | 96.8 | |||
The Creative Circus is a portfolio school where students perfect their portfolios, learn to collaborate as a team, and pitch their ideas and strategies. Student portfolios are reviewed quarterly by a panel of faculty and industry experts. Based on their quarterly portfolio panel review, students in the Copywriting program they may be scheduled to take courses outside of their approved program of study to ensure they can meet the objectives in the Copywriting program. All course substitutions must be approved by the Director of Education. | ||||
Creative Technology | ||||
Certificate | ||||
| ||||
Major & Related Requirements | Quarter Credit Hours | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
CL100 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL200 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL300 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL400 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL500 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL600 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL700 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL800 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CT102 | Intro to Graphic Design for Non-Designers | 1.65 | ||
CT103 | Creative Technology 1 | 1.65 | ||
CT104 | Experiential Technology 1 | 1.65 | ||
CT105 | CT Independent Study 1 | 1.65 | ||
CT203 | Creative Technology 2 | 1.65 | ||
CT204 | Experiential Technology 2 | 1.65 | ||
CT205 | CT Independent Study 2 | 1.65 | ||
CT303 | Creative Technology 3 | 1.65 | ||
CT304 | Experiential Technology 3 | 1.65 | ||
CT403 | Creative Technology 4 | 1.65 | ||
CT404 | Experiential Technology 4 | 1.65 | ||
DS505 | Corporate Identity | 1.65 | ||
DS603 | Experiential Design | 1.65 | ||
DV100 | Web Development | 1.65 | ||
DV201 | Web Development | 1.65 | ||
DV203 | User Experience | 1.65 | ||
DV301 | Web Design and Implementation Advanced | 1.65 | ||
DV303 | Motion Graphics Basic | 1.65 | ||
DV311 | Introduction to Programming | 1.65 | ||
DV330 | Interactive Studio 1 | 1.65 | ||
DV401 | Web Development 4 | 1.65 | ||
DV402 | Web Animation Advanced | 1.65 | ||
DV403 | Motion Graphics Intermediate | 1.65 | ||
DV421 | Application Development | 1.65 | ||
DV500 | Object-Oriented Programming | 1.65 | ||
DV504 | Game Development Basic | 1.65 | ||
DV530 | Interactive Studio 3 | 1.65 | ||
DV809 | Graduate Portfolio Review | 1.65 | ||
GE101 | Strategy | 1.65 | ||
GE102 | Introduction to Creative Thinking | 1.65 | ||
VS101 | Typography 1 | 1.65 | ||
VS203 | Production Methodologies | 1.65 | ||
Total | 96.8 | |||
Total Quarter Credit Hours Required for Graduation | 96.8 | |||
The Creative Circus is a portfolio school where students perfect their portfolios, learn to collaborate as a team, and pitch their ideas and strategies. Student portfolios are reviewed quarterly by a panel of faculty and industry experts. Based on their quarterly portfolio panel review, students in the Creative Technology program they may be scheduled to take courses outside of their approved program of study to ensure they can meet the objectives in the Art Direction program. All course substitutions must be approved by the Director of Education. | ||||
Graphic Design | ||||
Certificate | ||||
| ||||
Major & Related Requirements | Quarter Credit Hours | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
CG925 | Digital 1 | 1.65 | ||
CL100 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
DS104 | Trademarks | 1.65 | ||
DS505 | Corporate Identity | 1.65 | ||
DS506 | Publication Design | 1.65 | ||
DS520 | Brand Extensions | 1.65 | ||
DS705 | Professional Practices | 1.65 | ||
DS760 | Cultural Media | 1.65 | ||
DV200 | Information Architecture | 1.65 | ||
GE101 | Strategy | 1.65 | ||
GE102 | Introduction to Creative Thinking | 1.65 | ||
GE976 | Books, Boxes & Portfolios 2 | 1.65 | ||
GR801 | Graduate Portfolio Review/Job Preparation | 1.65 | ||
TM601 | Interdisciplinary Team 1 | 1.65 | ||
VS101 | Typography 1 | 1.65 | ||
VS102 | Introduction to Graphic Design | 1.65 | ||
VS203 | Production Methodologies | 1.65 | ||
VS302 | Advanced Color Theory | 1.65 | ||
CG904 | Indesign/Illustrator | 1.65 | ||
CL200 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
VS201 | Typography 2 | 1.65 | ||
VS202 | Color Theory | 1.65 | ||
CL300 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
VS301 | Typography 3 | 1.65 | ||
CG921 | Web Design | 1.65 | ||
CL400 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
DS401 | Illustration for Design | 1.65 | ||
DS403 | Package Design | 1.65 | ||
VS401 | Design Concepts | 1.65 | ||
CG913 | Photoshop 2 | 1.65 | ||
CL500 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL600 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
DS606 | Branding | 1.65 | ||
CL700 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL800 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
DS803 | Creative Sequential Design | 1.65 | ||
XXXXX | Electives | 6.6 | ||
Total | 96.8 | |||
Total Quarter Credit Hours Required for Graduation | 96.8 | |||
The Creative Circus is a portfolio school where students perfect their portfolios, learn to collaborate as a team, and pitch their ideas and strategies. Student portfolios are reviewed quarterly by a panel of faculty and industry experts. Based on their quarterly portfolio panel review, students in the Graphic Design program they may be scheduled to take courses outside of their approved program of study to ensure they can meet the objectives in the Graphic Design program. All course substitutions must be approved by the Director of Education. | ||||
Image | ||||
Certificate | ||||
| ||||
Major & Related Requirements | Quarter Credit Hours | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
CL100 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
IM100 | Basic Lighting | 1.65 | ||
CL200 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL300 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL400 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL500 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL600 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL700 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
CL800 | Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 | ||
DV303 | Motion Graphics Basic | 1.65 | ||
DV304 | Video Editing I | 1.65 | ||
GE920 | Film/Video/TV Production | 1.65 | ||
GR803 | Advanced Specialized Study | 1.65 | ||
IM110 | Digital Photography 1 | 1.65 | ||
IM120 | Digital Color Management | 1.65 | ||
IM200 | Advanced Lighting | 1.65 | ||
IM210 | Digital Photography 2 | 1.65 | ||
IM220 | Visual Thinking for Photographers | 1.65 | ||
IM130 | Image Boot Camp | 1.65 | ||
IM310 | Introduction to Portraiture | 1.65 | ||
IM320 | Introduction to Product Illustration | 1.65 | ||
IM340 | Documentary Photography | 1.65 | ||
IM350 | Equipment & Tools | 1.65 | ||
IM410 | Competitions for Photographers | 1.65 | ||
IM420 | Fashion and Beauty | 1.65 | ||
IM430 | Interiors and Exteriors | 1.65 | ||
IM510 | Tabletop/Still Life Photography | 1.65 | ||
IM520 | Corporate Photography | 1.65 | ||
IM620 | Styling | 1.65 | ||
IM640 | Weddings | 1.65 | ||
IM720 | Individual Projects 1 | 1.65 | ||
IM730 | Business and Marketing | 1.65 | ||
IM810 | Graduate Portfolio Development | 1.65 | ||
IM820 | Individual Projects 2 | 1.65 | ||
IM830 | Assisting Workshop | 1.65 | ||
IM840 | Directed Studies 1 | 1.65 | ||
TM601 | Interdisciplinary Team 1 | 1.65 | ||
VS202 | Color Theory | 1.65 | ||
XXXXX | Elective | 3.3 | ||
Total | 96.8 | |||
Total Quarter Credit Hours Required for Graduation | 96.8 | |||
The Creative Circus is a portfolio school where students perfect their portfolios, learn to collaborate as a team, and pitch their ideas and strategies. Student portfolios are reviewed quarterly by a panel of faculty and industry experts. Based on their quarterly portfolio panel review, students in the Image program they may be scheduled to take courses outside of their approved program of study to ensure they can meet the objectives in the Image program. All course substitutions must be approved by the Director of Education. | ||||
Summer at the Circus | ||||
Certificate of Completion | ||||
| ||||
Major & Related Requirements | Clock Hours | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
ADPR5991-2 | Advanced Creative Explorations II - Dipping Your Toe in Type | 30 | ||
ADPR5991-3 | Advanced Creative Explorations II - Board Games - Applied Creativity | 30 | ||
ADPR5992-1 | Advanced Creative Exploration I: Idea Development & Creative Teams | 30 | ||
ADPR5992-2 | Advanced Creative Exploration I: Using Creative Suite Effectively | 30 | ||
ADPR5992-3 | Advanced Creative Exploration I: Art Direction for Everyone | 30 | ||
ADPR5992-4 | Advanced Creative Exploration I: Creative Strategy & Selling Creative Ideas | 30 | ||
ADPR5993-1 | Advanced Creative Exploration II: Photo & Video Basics for Marketing Comm. | 30 | ||
ADPR5993-2 | Advanced Creative Exploration II: DeathMatch: Concepting to Win | 30 | ||
Total | 240 | |||
Total Clock Hours Required for Completion | 240 | |||
Course Descriptions
Course Numbering System | ||||
The course numbering system is a series of letters which identify course subject areas followed by a series of numbers that identify course level: | ||||
| Art Direction | |||
| Advanced Creative Explorations | |||
| Graphic Design | |||
| Creative Lab | |||
| Creative Technology | |||
| Copywriting | |||
| Design | |||
| Web Design | |||
| Graphic Design | |||
| Capstone | |||
| Electrical | |||
| Teamwork | |||
| Visual Arts | |||
The first number of the three digits indicates the level of the course: | ||||
0 | Preparatory courses | |||
1 | Normally a first-year course | |||
2 | Normally a second-year course | |||
| ||||
| ||||
| ||||
| ||||
Art Direction (AD) | ||
AD401 Layout 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
AD501 Layout 2 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
|
Advanced Creative Explorations (ADP) | ||
ADPR5990-2 Adv. Creative Exp.I - Branded Social Media Content | 60 Clock Hours | |
| ||
ADPR5991-2 Advanced Creative Explorations II - Dipping Your Toe in Type | 30 Clock Hours | |
| ||
ADPR5991-3 Advanced Creative Explorations II - Board Games - Applied Creativity | 30 Clock Hours | |
| ||
ADPR5992-1 Advanced Creative Exploration I: Idea Development & Creative Teams | 30 Clock Hours | |
| ||
ADPR5992-2 Advanced Creative Exploration I: Using Creative Suite Effectively | 30 Clock Hours | |
| ||
ADPR5992-3 Advanced Creative Exploration I: Art Direction for Everyone | 30 Clock Hours | |
| ||
ADPR5992-4 Advanced Creative Exploration I: Creative Strategy & Selling Creative Ideas | 30 Clock Hours | |
| ||
ADPR5993-1 Advanced Creative Exploration II: Photo & Video Basics for Marketing Comm. | 30 Clock Hours | |
| ||
ADPR5993-2 Advanced Creative Exploration II: DeathMatch: Concepting to Win | 30 Clock Hours | |
|
Graphic Design (CG) | ||
CG904 Indesign/Illustrator | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CG913 Photoshop 2 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CG925 Digital 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
|
Creative Lab (CL) | ||
CL100 Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CL200 Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CL300 Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CL400 Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CL500 Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CL600 Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CL700 Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CL800 Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CL900 Creative Comprehensive Lab | 5.5 Quarter Credit Hours | |
|
Creative Technology (CT) | ||
CT102 Intro to Graphic Design for Non-Designers | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CT103 Creative Technology 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CT104 Experiential Technology 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CT105 CT Independent Study 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CT203 Creative Technology 2 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CT204 Experiential Technology 2 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CT205 CT Independent Study 2 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CT303 Creative Technology 3 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CT304 Experiential Technology 3 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CT403 Creative Technology 4 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CT404 Experiential Technology 4 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
|
Copywriting (CW) | ||
CW101 Introduction to Copywriting | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CW104 Art Direction for Copywriting | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CW106 Headlines | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CW201 Developing Your Voice | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CW203 Writing for Radio | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CW301 Copy 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CW601 Writing Long Copy | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CW720 Copycrafting 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CW805 Professional Development for Copywriting | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
CW820 Copycrafting 2 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
|
Design (DS) | ||
DS104 Trademarks | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DS401 Illustration for Design | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DS403 Package Design | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DS505 Corporate Identity | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DS506 Publication Design | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DS520 Brand Extensions | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DS603 Experiential Design | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DS606 Branding | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DS705 Professional Practices | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DS760 Cultural Media | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DS803 Creative Sequential Design | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
|
Web Design (DV) | ||
DV100 Web Development | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV201 Web Development | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV203 User Experience | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV301 Web Design and Implementation Advanced | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV303 Motion Graphics Basic | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV304 Video Editing I | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV311 Introduction to Programming | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV330 Interactive Studio 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV401 Web Development 4 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV402 Web Animation Advanced | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV403 Motion Graphics Intermediate | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV421 Application Development | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV500 Object-Oriented Programming | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV504 Game Development Basic | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV530 Interactive Studio 3 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
DV809 Graduate Portfolio Review | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
|
Graphic Design (GE) | ||
GE101 Strategy | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
GE102 Introduction to Creative Thinking | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
GE920 Film/Video/TV Production | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
GE976 Books, Boxes & Portfolios 2 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
|
Capstone (GR) | ||
GR801 Graduate Portfolio Review/Job Preparation | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
GR803 Advanced Specialized Study | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
|
Electrical (IM) | ||
IM100 Basic Lighting | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM110 Digital Photography 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM130 Image Boot Camp | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM200 Advanced Lighting | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM210 Digital Photography 2 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM220 Visual Thinking for Photographers | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM310 Introduction to Portraiture | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM320 Introduction to Product Illustration | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM340 Documentary Photography | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM350 Equipment & Tools | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM410 Competitions for Photographers | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM420 Fashion and Beauty | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM430 Interiors and Exteriors | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM510 Tabletop/Still Life Photography | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM520 Corporate Photography | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM620 Styling | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM640 Weddings | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM720 Individual Projects 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM730 Business and Marketing | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM810 Graduate Portfolio Development | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM820 Individual Projects 2 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM830 Assisting Workshop | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
IM840 Directed Studies 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
|
Teamwork (TM) | ||
TM210 Introduction to Creative Team | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
TM310 Creative Team 3 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
TM311 Advertising Concepts 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
TM410 Creative Team 4 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
TM411 Advertising Concepts 2 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
TM510 Creative Team 5 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
TM511 Advertising Concepts 3 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
TM601 Interdisciplinary Team 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
TM610 Creative Team 6: Alternative Marketing | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
TM611 Advertising Concepts 4 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
TM710 Creative Team 7 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
TM711 Advertising Concepts 5 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
TM814 Concepting for the Portfolio | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
|
Visual Arts (VS) | ||
VS101 Typography 1 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
VS102 Introduction to Graphic Design | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
VS201 Typography 2 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
VS202 Color Theory | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
VS203 Production Methodologies | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
VS301 Typography 3 | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
VS302 Advanced Color Theory | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
| ||
VS401 Design Concepts | 1.65 Quarter Credit Hours | |
|
Organization, Faculty & Staff
Organization
GOVERNANCE
Board of Directors of STVT-AAI Education Inc.
William Hansen
Pete Kirchof
Michael Williams
Andrew Milgram
Daniel Ducote Jr.
Stephanie Nellons-Paige
Aron Schwartz
Michael Zawisky
Bill Nance - President and Chief Executive Officer
Administrative Staff
Janie Belden
Director of Education
David Haan
Executive Director
Jaye Liptak
Admissions Representative
Melaney Johnson
Registrar
Debra Bailey
Admissions Representative
TBD
Career Services Advisor
Kim Bianco
Marketing Manager
Brooks Jones
Facilities & Technology Manager
Carolann Robinson
Director of Admissions
Hannah Heller
Director of Career Services
Naja Duhart
Student Services Manager
Myla Wilson
Financial Services Sr. Officer
Candice Smith
Financial Services Officer
Faculty
Aaron Konter |
ABJ, The University of Georgia |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Adam Harrell |
BA, Appalachian State University |
Alex Burmenko |
BA, Georgia State University |
Allison Yancy |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Amanda Nolte |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Andrew Hamilton |
BA, Emory University |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Beryl Firestone |
BS, University of Florida |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Blair Dempster |
BA, Penn State University |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Brandon George |
BA, Vanderbilt University |
Caleb Morris |
BFA, Savanah College of Art & Design |
Catherine Perry |
BA, University of Georgia |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Charles Austin |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Dakota Ling |
BFA, Western Carolina University |
Danny Corrales |
BA, Art Institute |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
David Gordon |
BA, University of Arizona |
Certificate, Miami Ad School |
Derrick Ogilvie |
BA, University of Georgia |
Certificate, Portfolio Center |
Don Hardy |
BFA, Delta State University |
Ed James |
Resume |
Ed Morgan |
BA, Emory University |
Eric Holden |
BFA, Art Institute of Atlanta |
Gary Weiss |
BVA, Georgia State University |
BFA, Art Center College of Design |
Grant Weber |
BA, Evergreen State College |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Greg Haygood |
BS, University of Chicago |
Hannah Williams |
BS, Erskine College |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Jennifer Burrows |
BA, University of Miami |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Jonathan Mueller |
BA, University of Florida |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Jonathan Spring |
BFA, Savanah College of Art & Design |
Kelly Lewis |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Kevin Ames |
Kevin Rej |
BFA, University of Georgia |
Lindsay Zarczynski |
BFA, Georgia State University |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Lisa Balser |
BS, Kent State University |
Certificate, Portfolio Center |
Melissa Thursby |
BS, Armstong Atlantic State University |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Michael Marley |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Mitch Bennett |
BA, University if North Carolina |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Nakita Pope |
BA, Hampton University |
Certificate, Portfolio Center |
Peter Harris |
BA, Milligan College |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Priya Pilani |
BBA, The New School |
MBA, University of South Florida |
Rachael Green |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Randy Spears |
BA, Mars Hill University |
Rebecca Zavorski |
BA, The University of Georgia |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Richarsd Nenoff |
BA, Washington University |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Robert Cherof |
BS, University of Florida |
Robert Lee |
BFA, Columbus College of Art and Design |
Rochelle Augsbury |
BS, New York University |
Rodney Johnson |
MFA, SCAD in progress |
Sarah Bailey |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Sarah Lowe |
Bam Saginaw Valley State University |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Stefan Kjartansson |
BA, Listahaskoli Island |
Ted Murphy |
BFA, Atlanta College of Arts |
Theresa Bremer |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |
Theresa Sicurezza |
Thomas Futch |
TomTurnquist |
BA, Georgia Southern University |
Certificate, Portfolio Center |
William Benham |
BS, Clemson University |
Certificate, The Creative Circus |