Guide for new students 2012-2013
WELCOME TO MEDICINE HAT COLLEGE
Dear Student Thank you for choosing Medicine Hat College! We are honoured that you have chosen us and we will do all we can to support you in pursuit of your education. The purpose of this handbook is to act as a guide for you the new student. It will assist you in a variety of areas including registering for classes and connecting to important resources and supports such as funding, housing, and accommodations for disabilities.Great success is possible if you use the resources made available to you. Remember, we are here to help you find success as a student. The college staff and I look forward to working with you throughout your academic career as you move towards your scholastic and career goals. I hope you find this guidebook useful as you embark upon your first year at Medicine Hat College. Have a great year!
Craig Wood, M.A. Director, Student Services/Registrar
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THINGS TO DO CHECKLIST
PRIOR TO ARRIVAL
UPON ARRIVAL
Students must
Things to do
Know your MHC username and password and e-mail address Register for classes Know important dates Ensure funding is in place Have official transcripts sent to Medicine Hat College Pay tuition fees by Monday, Sept. 17, 2012 Check your MyMHC email frequently. It is your responsibility to check and read your email at this account
Students may need to
on Medicine Hat Campus
Get your Student ID card
Vera Bracken Library
Pay your fees
Registration Services
Opt out of Health and Dental Plan
Students’Association Office
Attend New Student Orientation
Individual Program Areas
Purchase textbooks
Bookstore
Ensure official transcripts are on file
Registration Services
Purchase your parking pass
Bookstore
Rent a locker
Students’ Association Office
Things to do
on Brooks Campus
Get your Student ID
Brooks Campus Library
Pay your fees
Front Office
Apply for student loans
Opt out of Health and Dental Plan
Front Office
Find a place to live
Attend New Student Orientation
Cafeteria
Meet with an Academic Advisor
Purchase textbooks
Bookstore
Access Disabilities Services
Ensure official transcripts are on file
Front Office
Register for Study Skills classes
Rent a locker
Brooks Campus Library
Opt-out of Health and Dental Plan at Students’ Association (if you already have extended health and dental coverage) by Monday, Sept. 17, 2012
Students need to bring
All Medicine Hat College students have a printing account tied to their MHC Student ID Number. There is a charge for printing in classrooms, labs and the library. Please set up your printing account at the Circulation Desk in the Library.
Method of payment to pay for tuition fees and books Student loan documents (if you have not already had loan documents processed) Proof of extended health/dental coverage (if you intend to opt-out of the Health and Dental Plan)
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2012-2013 ACADEMIC SCHEDULE FALL 2012 (SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER)
WINTER 2013 (JANUARY - APRIL)
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Monday, September 3
Labour Day (College Closed)
Tuesday, September 4
New Student Orientation
Wednesday, September 5
First day of Class
Monday, September 17
Last day to pay tuition and fees for Fall semester courses Last day to add or register for credit courses for Fall Last day to drop Fall semester courses and receive a refund Last day to opt out of Health & Dental Plan Last day to apply for Transfer Credit or Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition for Fall
Monday, October 8
Thanksgiving Day (College Closed)
Friday, November 2
Last day to Withdraw from courses and receive a “W” grade
Friday, November 9
Study Day (No Classes)
Sunday, November 11
Remembrance Day
Monday, November 12
College Closed (in Lieu of Remembrance Day)
Friday, December 7
Last day of Class
Monday, December 10 Tuesday, December 18
Final Exams for Credit courses
Monday, December 24 Tuesday, January 1
Christmas Break (College Closed)
Wednesday, January 2
College Open
Thursday, January 3
First Day of Class
Monday, January 14
Last day to pay tuition and fees for Winter semester courses Last day to add or register for credit courses for Winter Last day to drop Winter semester courses and receive a refund Last day to opt out of Health & Dental Plan Last day to apply for Transfer Credit or Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition for Winter
Monday, February 18
Alberta Family Day (College Closed)
Tuesday, February 19 Friday, February 22
Student Study Break (No Classes)
Monday, March 9
Last day to Withdraw from courses and receive a “W” grade
Friday, March 29
Good Friday (College Closed)
Thursday, April 11
Last day of classes
Monday, April 15 Thursday, April 25
Final Exams for Credit Classes
Students Association Office 403.529.3925 www.medhatsa.ca
IF YOU ALREADY HAVE EXTENDED HEALTH AND/OR DENTAL COVERAGE DON’T FORGET TO:
OPT OUT
BY 4 PM ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2012 (FOR FALL START) BY 4 PM ON MONDAY, JANUARY 14, 2013 (FOR WINTER START) (YOU MAY ALSO ADD FAMILY MEMBERS BEFORE THE DEADLINE FOR AN ADDITIONAL FEE))
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ORIENTATION GETTING STARTED
FAMILY AND FRIENDS ORIENTATION
During the spring we offer a “Getting Started” information session evening for students and their friends and family.
During the summer months we offer information sessions for new students and their families/ supporters. These sessions provide information that students and their families should know before starting school in the fall including a student specific session covering information on transitioning to college, academic policy, available supports and purchasing textbooks, parking passes, etc. The supporter-specific session includes information on the changing relationship between parent and student, FOIP, budgeting and expectation management.
• You will meet with advisors, get help with registration, and learn about scholarships, financial aid and funding options. • All students who are registered may have the opportunity to get their student ID card and avoid the long line ups in September! More specific details about the day, such as room numbers and start times will be available by March 1, 2012. This event is only held at the Medicine Hat Campus.
These sessions provide a great opportunity for new students to meet other students and to meet faculty and staff. More specific details about the day will be available by June 1st, 2012 on the website. This event is only held at the Medicine Hat Campus.
NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION Orientation at Medicine Hat College will help you to get off on the right foot and feel more comfortable with your transition to college. Orientation is on Tuesday, September 4, 2012. Your attendance is expected and is critical to your success at Medicine Hat College. • This is an essential day, where you will meet everyone at Medicine Hat College including your program coordinator, instructors, and fellow students. • You will learn where to find your classes, where to buy your books and about valuable support services that will make your transition to College a positive experience. More specific details about the day, such as room numbers and start times will be available by August 1, 2012. For more information about Orientation at Brooks Campus call 403.362.1677. For more information about any of these events, please call 403.529.3819 or visit www.mhc.ab.ca
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WEBMAIL SETTING UP YOUR MEDICINE HAT COLLEGE E-MAIL Your webmail account is used for all Medicine Hat College communication and business. It is your responsibility to check your email account frequently. Go directly to the webpage www.google.com/a/mymhc.ca or follow the link to webmail on the Medicine Hat College website. You will find this entrance page. • Your student e-mail will be your first.lastname@mymhc.ca (e.g. cindy.canuck@mymhc.ca). Email Address ___________________________________________________ • The first time you use the @mymhc.ca service you will be asked to create a new password. • Your initial password will be the First three letters of the month of birth, First letter capitalized. 4 digits of year of birth, last three digits of your MHC Student Identification Number. For example Cindy Canuck with student ID 202055858 you will have an email password of Feb1999858.
HOW DO YOU GET TO THE SERVICE? You can go directly to the webpage mail.google.com/a/mymhc.ca. You will find this entrance page:
• Note that you don’t enter you entire email address in the username field, just the username part. E.g. just cindy.canuck not cindy.canuck@mymhc.ca. If you have any problems accessing your email account please contact the MHC IT Support Centre at 403.529.899 or by email at callcentre@mhc.ab.ca
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REGISTRATION ONLINE REGISTRATION - MYMHC All students, new and returning, must create an account to use this service. Once you know your student ID number, and have an email address on file with Student Services, you may create an account on mymhc and take advantage of online information and services.
REGISTER EARLY We encourage you to register early. Students who register early have the best selection of courses and times offered. If you change your mind and decide not to attend, please advise the college as soon as possible.
CHOOSING COURSES AND SECTIONS To select the correct classes for your program, refer to the Medicine Hat College planning guides which are available online (www.mhc.ab.ca/programsandcourses Select the program you were accepted in and then download the program planning guide). The program planning guides outline the classes you should take for each semester of your program. Contact an Academic Advisor at the college if you are unsure of the classes you should take.
CREATING A MYMHC ACCOUNT • To login to mymhc.ca you will need to create a new account. • Select mymhc.ca and then select the Student Portal Homepage. • Select Create a New Account. • Enter your Student ID #, • Enter first and last name, favorite food. • Under login information it will ask you to enter a password and then an email will be sent to your mymhc email. • Once you have activated your account you can go into your student portal to register. Your username will be the same as your logon username (firstname.lastname). Your password will be what you had set up. You are now ready to register for your classes.
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Can I call the Registration Services desk to register for my classes? No, we do not accept registration for credit classes over the phone. You can register on-line or you can register in person, by mail, or fax.
What is the difference between dropping a class and withdrawing from a class? Early each semester, there is a period in which you can add or drop classes. A dropped class will disappear from your schedule and will not appear on your transcript. You will receive a refund for classes dropped prior to the add/drop deadline. After the add/drop deadline, there is another time period in which you can withdraw from classes. If you withdraw from a class during this time period, it will appear on your schedule and on your transcript as a “W”, but the grade “W” will not affect your Grade Point Average (GPA). You will not receive a refund if you withdraw from a class after the add/drop deadline. Both dropping and withdrawing from classes may have an impact on student funding that you may be receiving, as well as the length of time it will take you to complete your program. If you have questions, please contact your Academic Advisor.
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What if I register for classes and then decide not to attend college? Please let us know! After you have paid your registration deposit and have registered for your classes, a place is reserved for you. If you know you will not be attending MHC, call the Registration Services desk so we can free up the space. If you have already paid for your classes, your tuition and fees will be fully refunded (minus the $100 registration deposit) if you inform us prior to the add/drop deadline. The add/drop deadline for the spring semester or any classes or programs that have an off-cycle start date is the fifth day of classes. It is the student’s obligation to know the add/ drop deadline date for each semester because no extension will be given after this date. The $100 registration deposit is non-refundable.
How can I check which classes are full before registering? You can check which courses are full prior to registering by logging onto www.mhc.ab.ca and clicking on mymhc. Select Course Schedule and select the term you are in. At the Course box type in the course that you want, eg ACCT 113. Select Search. You will see the classes that are offered. Select the section you want and under Course Schedule select Click for Details. Here it will show you the number of available seats in that class.
What is the last day I can register for my classes? You may register for your courses right up to the start of classes. However, we encourage you to register early in order to have the best selection of classes and times offered. The last day to add a class to your schedule is the Monday after the second week of classes. It is advisable, however, to register and attend all classes as early in the semester as possible.
How do I know I am taking the right classes for my program? If you are unsure if the classes are right for your program, you should speak to an Academic Advisor. Our advisors have the latest information on programs and classes to help you make the best decisions. See the section on Academic Advising in this guide for more information.
What are electives? How do I know if I am taking the right ones? Electives are classes you choose to take. Usually a program will allow you to take one or two of two or more electives in a certain discipline. The best way to know if you are taking the right electives is to speak to an Academic Advisor.
How can I be sure these classes are transferable to the university I plan on attending after Medicine Hat College? MHC has transfer agreements with many post-secondary institutions around the province and across the country. Students may consult the Alberta Council on Admissions and Transfer website for information on Alberta course and program transfer arrangements (www.transferalberta.ca). Colleges and universities outside these agreements may accept MHC courses upon individual course evaluation. Speak to an Academic Advisor to help determine that you are taking the courses or program that will transfer to the university you plan to attend. Because of the vast number of transfer opportunities that are available to students, university transfer students are encouraged to contact advisors at the transfer institution to verify information from that institution’s calendar, website, or other publications.
I have taken similar classes at another post-secondary institution. Will I have to take these courses again? Not necessarily. If you have taken a similar class at another post-secondary institution, you need to apply for transfer credit and have official transcripts sent to MHC from your previous postsecondary institution. You can pick up the Transfer Credit Request Form at the Medicine Hat Campus Registration Services desk, the Brooks Campus Front Office or from an Academic Advisor or on our website (www.mhc.ab.ca). You should begin this process early as all requests must be processed by the last day to withdraw from classes for each semester.
How do I drop classes? You may drop classes online. You may also complete an Add/Drop Form. If you want to withdraw from your program you must complete the Withdrawal form (Program). Both the Add/Drop Form and the Withdrawal Form are available from the Medicine Hat Campus Registration Services desk, the Brooks Campus Front Office, an Academic Advisor and on our website (www.mhc.ab.ca). You must return your form to the Medicine Hat Campus Registration Services desk or the Brooks Campus Front Office by the add/drop deadline to complete the process and receive a refund.
What do I do if I want to take a lighter load, but want to make sure I am taking the right classes for my program? The best course of action is to make an appointment with an Academic Advisor to keep your program on track. See the section on Academic Advising in this guide for more information.
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FEES
Tuition statements are not mailed out. It is your responsibility to ensure that tuition fees are paid by the payment deadline. Statements can be printed from mymhc. Fees can be paid anytime between the date you register and Monday, September 17. You can pay your fees in the following ways:
ONLINE (USING A VISA OR MASTERCARD) Do I have to pay all my fees when I register for my classes? No, you do not have to pay your fees in full when you register for classes; however, you must pay your non-refundable $100 registration deposit in order to register for classes. You may pay the rest of your fees anytime after you have registered for classes, but prior to the add/drop deadline to ensure your place is held. If you are paying by Student Loan you must present your student loan document to the Financial Aid Office and have it processed. If you have not received your student loan documents by the last day to pay fees it is your responsibility to make alternative arrangements to pay your account until you receive the loan document.
Sign onto the portal (mymhc) on our website at www.mhc.ab.ca, click on the Account Status button. Select the term/semester you want to pay fees for and click process. This will bring up your current statement of your student account. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on “Pay with a credit card”.
IN PERSON Stop by the Registration Services desk and pay by cash, MasterCard, Visa, personal cheque, money order or debit card. You should have your Student ID number or picture ID with you when you come. The Registration Services desk is open weekdays 8:00 am - 7:30 pm and Fridays, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm.
BY PHONE, FAX OR MAIL You may pay your fees by phone, fax or mail by using Visa, MasterCard, cheque or money order. You can phone Registration at 403.529.3844, Fax at 403.504.3521 or mail your payment to Medicine Hat College, 299 College Dr SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 3Y6
LAST DAY TO PAY FEES Fall 2012
Monday, September 17, 2012
Winter 2013
Monday, January 14, 2013
Failure to pay fees in full by the deadline dates will result in being withdrawn from courses. Changed your mind. Not going to attend Medicine Hat College. You must withdraw from your courses before last day to pay fees. Failing to withdraw on time will result in being charged tuition fees and being sent to collections for unpaid fees.
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GOVERNMENT STUDENT LOANS
FUNDING YOUR EDUCATION
Alberta www.alis.gov.ab.ca 1.800.222.6485 B.C. www.aved.gov.bc.ca 1.800.561.1818 Saskatchewan www.aeei.gov.sk.ca 1.800.597.8278 Manitoba www.gov.mb.ca 1.800.204-1685 Ontario osap.gov.on.ca 866.330.3331 Quebec www.afe.gouv.qc.ca 1.888.345.4505 New Brunswick www.studentaid.gnb.ca 1.800.667.5626 Newfoundland & Labrador www.edu.gov.nf.ca 1.888.657.0800 Nova Scotia www.studentloans.ednet.ns.ca 1.800.565.8420 Prince Edward Island www.studentloan.pe.ca 902.368.4640 Northwest Territories www.nwtsfa.gov.nt.ca 1.800.661.0893 Nunavut www.edu.gov.nu.ca/apps 877.860.0680 Yukon www.education.gov.yk.ca 867-667-5929 Federal Government www.hrsdc.gc.ca Canlearn www.canlearn.ca Edulinx www.edulinx.ca 1.866.827.0310
Attending college provides new opportunities; it also brings new expenses such as tuition, books, and supplies. It is recommended that you find ways of funding your education without accumulating debt. While this may not always be possible, it is good to begin with this goal and consider other options as necessary. Carefully consider whether you can fund your education by the following means: • Personal resources, including working income, savings, or assets that you can liquidate • Family resource • Government Student Loans & Grants • Scholarships and bursaries • Registered Education Savings Plans (RESP) • Part-time Employment • Bank Loans/Line of Credit
SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE AT MEDICINE HAT COLLEGE Medicine Hat College offers over $300,000 in scholarships and bursaries to students each year. Scholarships and bursaries are based on academic achievement and other criteria or financial need. It’s easy to apply by simply filling out our online awards application form on our website (www.mhc.ab.ca, click on search, and type “MHC scholarships”). When you complete our awards application, you become eligible for all awards that apply to your year of study and program. Many other scholarships, awards and bursaries are available through sources such as local service clubs and agencies as well as personal or parental employer scholarship programs. Many of these are advertised on the Internet. Be resourceful and persistent in your pursuit of funding options. Other Scholarship Information Websites www.canlearn.ca www.alis.alberta.ca www.studentawards.com www.schoolfinder.com www.scholarshipscanada.com
GOVERNMENT STUDENT LOANS Students attending a post secondary institution on a full-time basis (minimum of 3 courses which total at least 9 academic credits for each term) can apply for a student loan through their provincial government. It is recommended that you apply early. Applications are available late May. You can apply on-line at www.alis.gov.ab.ca/studentsfinance/main.asp or you may pick up a paper copy at Medicine Hat College or your high school. By taking care of details as early as possible (we recommend no later than July 31), you can avoid the need to have interim financing to pay fees by the due date, purchase books and secure accommodation. You must complete an application for the province in which you completed high school, or the province in which you resided in twelve months prior to attending college. Check your province’s website (a list of provincial student loan websites is provided in this guide) to determine which type of package is available to you. Do not delay funding by completing the wrong application.
National Student Loan Service Centre nslsc.canlearn.ca 1.888.815.4514 17
Make no assumptions about whether or not you are eligible or how much you may be eligible for until you have gone through the application process. Many students are misinformed and fail to take full advantage of government student loans that are available. We recommend you keep a copy of your application or, in the case of online applications, print a copy in order that you know exactly what was reported and when the completed application was sent in. Most provincial loan applications take between three and eight weeks to process if all the information is complete and correct. Once you submit your application, you should contact the loan-processing office in your province to ask how long this process may take. Contact information is available on most provincial student loan websites.
GETTING YOUR STUDENT LOAN IS EASY! Step 1: Know which institution and specific program you are applying for. You cannot transfer an approved loan from one institution to another. You may not be able to use funds approved for one program of study for another, depending on your province. If you change your mind about academic institutions or programs once you have been approved for a student loan, you will most likely need to cancel your loan and re-apply. This can significantly delay the timing of approved funding and when it will be available to you.
Step 2: Processing Your Student Loan Once you have applied for a student loan and the application has been assessed by Alberta Student Finance, you will receive a “Notice of Assessment” (NOA) in the mail. This will detail the total funds you are receiving and when they will be released. Student loan certificates are either enclosed with the NOA or mailed at a separate date. We begin accepting documents in the middle of August. You must be registered for classes in order for us to sign the documents. Besides the documents bring your photo identification, social insurance card and either a void cheque or your electronic account transfer information coded on your cheques. We will confirm your registration, direct you to the Edulinx or Resolve representative at the on-campus kiosk to complete the process, and send your documents to the government for payment. You can mail us the documents (include your return address) for signing if you are from out of town. They will be signed and returned to you. Take them to an approved postal outlet with your photo identification, social insurance card and either a void cheque or your bank account information. The postal outlet completes the process with you and sends the documents to the government. We recommend you complete the processing with the Financial Aid Office at the college. We will keep track of your documents and can advocate on your behalf if we process the documents for you. If you process through a postal outlet we are not able to provide these services.
What if I am late applying for or receiving loan funding? You will need to put short-term financing in place for such things as tuition, fees, books, supplies, accommodations and general living expenses until your loan funding is in your possession. Contact the Financial Aid Office about options if you anticipate difficulty securing short-term funding.
Why do I have to be registered for classes before you sign my loan documents? When we sign your documents we confirm with the government that you are eligible for funding. You must be accepted at the college into the program indicated on the loan document and registered for a minimum of 9 credits of post-secondary classes. We also confirm the program start and end dates are correct and that you have presented identification to match the document. If any of these conditions are not met, we cannot process the documents.
Can someone else bring in my loan documents to be processed? No. To ensure that fraud does not occur within the student loan system, the government requires you to personally present the documents either to us or to a federal government employee (if a post office is processing your documents). You cannot designate anyone to do this on your behalf. Contact information for Medicine Hat College Financial Aid Office
Brooks Campus
Medicine Hat Campus Email: finaidinfo@mhc.ab.ca Tel: 403.504.3594 or 403.529.3996 Fax: 403.529.4822
Brooks Campus students can bring their Certificate of Eligibility to the Front Office at the Brooks Campus and complete the processing at a postal outlet, or visit the main campus in Medicine Hat to complete the entire process.
BrooksCampus Tel: 403.362.1686 or 403.362.1688 Fax: 403.362.1474
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TRANSCRIPTS
It is your responsibility to arrange for official copies of your high school and other post-secondary grades to be sent to the Registrar’s Office at Medicine Hat College. If you attended an Alberta high school or post secondary institution official transcripts documenting your high school and post-secondary education will be sent directly from the provincial Department of Education and/or from other institutions to the admissions office. ApplyAlberta, allows participating postsecondary institutions to send and request high school and post-secondary transcripts when authorized by a student. Please check with the Medicine Hat College admissions office if you have questions about the transcripts required to support your application. Students from other provinces please arrange for transcripts to be sent directly to Medicine Hat College as soon as possible (if currently taking classes please request transcripts as soon as marks are available). Transcripts are official only if the institution has sent them directly to the college. If you are unsure whether we have your official transcripts on file, ask at the Medicine Hat College Registration Services Desk or the Brooks Campus Front Office. Alberta Alberta Education Tel: 780.427.5318 Toll Free in Alberta 310.0000 Fax: 780.422.2137 www.education.alberta.ca British Columbia Ministry of Education - Transcripts Tel. 250.356.7270 www.bced.gov.bc.ca/transcripts Saskatchewan Saskatchewan Learning Tel: 306.787.9525 Fax: 306.787.0035 www.education.gov.sk.ca/transcripts Manitoba Student Records Tel: 1.800.667.2378 Fax: 204.773.2411 www.edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/studrec
Nova Scotia Contact last high school attended for official transcripts Northwest Territories Dept. of Education, Culture & Employment Tel: 867.920.6235 Fax: 867.873.0499 Nunavut Departmentof Education Tel: 867.975.5600 Fax: 867.975.5605 Ontario Contact last high school attending for official transcripts Ministry of Education and Training www.edu.gov.on.ca Quebec Ministry of Education Tel: 418.643.1761 www.meq.gouv.qc.ca
New Brunswick Contact last high school attended for official transcripts
Prince Edward Island Contact last high school attended for official transcripts
Newfoundland & Labrador Department of Education Tel: 709.729.3001 Fax: 709.729.0611 www.ed.gov.nl.ca/edu
Yukon Contact last high school attended for official transcripts
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STUDENT RESIDENCE APPLYING TO STUDENT HOUSING Medicine Hat College student housing offers a comfortable and convenient campus living. Our residence consists of 75 well-maintained townhouse units, only a few minutes walking distance from the college. Each townhouse unit can accommodate four single students and is fully furnished. Brooks Campus student housing consists of 8, four bedroom front/back split style units. Each unit is air-conditioned and includes:
You may apply for Student Housing at any time, even prior to being accepted to Medicine Hat College. Apply early, as space is limited. The security deposit must accompany your application. Applications are available • on our website at www.mhc.ab.ca, Current Students, Campus Facilities, Student Residence, to apply; • by calling Student Residence at (403)529-3820 in Medicine Hat or (403)362-1677 in Brooks to request a student housing application; or • by picking up an application from the Medicine Hat Campus Registration Services desk or Brooks Campus front office
• fridge, stove, freezer, microwave, • washer, dryer (coin free)
ACCEPTANCE
• TV • kitchen and living room furniture • Bedrooms are furnished with desks, closet storage, extra-long single beds and a jack for TV and telephone. Students need to bring their own bedding, linens, dishes, pots, pans and cutlery. Utilities and cablevision is included in the rent.
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During the fall/winter semesters, registered full-time students from outside the immediate Medicine Hat and Brooks areas (for the respective campuses) are given preference for acceptance to Student Residence. A certain number of units at the main campus are available for students with physical disabilities. Acceptances are handled on a first-come first-served basis. The Student Housing Office reserves the right to adjust these policies as deemed necessary. You will be notified of your acceptance to student housing in mid-June.
SECURITY Safety for our residents is a priority. Security personnel regularly patrol the main campus buildings and grounds, including the residences.
When should I apply for Student Residence?
OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING
While there is no deadline for applications to residence, we advise students to apply eight to 12 months in advance, as housing is assigned on a first-come first-served basis.
Medicine Hat
How much does residence cost?
• Check our website for off-campus housing listings at www.mhc.ab.ca, click on Current Students, Campus Facilities, Student Residence Off-Campus Housing. Medicine Hat College accepts listings of accommodations from landlords for the convenience of its students. Medicine Hat College does not check the accommodations listed in any way and takes no responsibility for the actions of any landlord who advertises on this list, or for the condition of the rental accommodations listed. Selection of off-campus accommodations and rental agreements are the sole responsibility of the student.
Current MHC residence costs can be found on our website at www.mhc.ab.ca. Click on Current Students Campus Facilities; “Student Residence, Housing Costs”. You can also call the Student Housing Office at 403.529.3820 in Medicine Hat or 403.362.1677 in Brooks for residence costs.
• Check the Medicine Hat News for listings in the local daily newspaper. • Check campus bulletin boards. There are some postings on the bulletin boards around campus, including postings by students looking for roommates and local listings offering room and board accommodations.
Brooks • Check campus bulletin boards to find a roommate, room and board accommodations, or available private rental units
Can students live in student residence during the spring and summer months if they are not attending school? Yes, we do accept non-students for the spring and summer semesters, but students attending classes are given priority.
• Check the Brooks Bulletin website for listings (www.brooksbulletin.com).
Who do I call about telephone hook-up? The local telephone providers in Alberta are Telus and Shaw. You can reach Telus at 310.2255 or Shaw at 310.7429 toll-free in Alberta to arrange to have your phone set up. Be sure to call once you are settled in residence for a quicker set up.
Will I have Internet access in residence? While Student Housing does not provide Internet access for its residents, you are permitted to have Internet access hooked up in your unit by a local service provider (see telephone hook-up).
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ACADEMIC ADVISING
Why should I see an Academic Advisor? Academic Advisors are here to assist current and future students with planning course loads in all MHC programs of study. In addition, Advisors help students navigate MHC policies and procedures including admission, registration, withdrawals, course repetition, and graduation requirements. If you are unsure if the question you have should be addressed by your Academic Advisor, do not hesitate to ask when booking your appointment. Our advising staff will assist you in finding the right person to help you with your questions or concerns.
How do I know which courses to register in? For many programs the list of required courses by semester is shown in the academic calendar. Students in certificate, diploma and applied degree programs will receive a program planning guide when you pay your registration deposit. (Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we missed sending you one.) We recommend that all students in university transfer programs schedule an appointment with their Academic Advisor to discuss course selection.
What are some other things that my Advisor can do for me? • Help you find out if you are able to register in certain classes. • Help you to understand post-secondary terminology and expectations. • Work out alternatives for reduced course loads.
What are the office hours? The Academic Advising office hours for September - June are 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and Fridays 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. In July and August the hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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All MHC students are assigned an Academic Advisor based on their program of study. Your Advisor can help you with: • planning your academic program • understanding college policies and procedures • finding and using campus resources • locating accurate, up-to-date information to assist you in achieving your goals • figuring out your options if academic difficulties should arise It is strongly recommended that all new university transfer students book an appointment with their Academic Advisor to develop a plan of study before they register for classes. Students in Medicine Hat College certificate and diploma programs are welcome to meet with their Advisor if they have questions or concerns. Continuing students are encouraged to check in with their Advisor to review their plan of study. To book an appointment, call 403.529.3819 in Medicine Hat or 403.362.1677 in Brooks or drop by our offices. During peak registration periods, Advisors may operate on a same day appointment basis and do not book in advance, so you are encouraged to meet early with your Advisor to avoid the last minute rush.
Brooks Campus Appointments can be made with an Academic Advisor Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and every Wednesday up until 6:00 pm. To book an appointment, call 403.362.1677 in Brooks, or drop by the Front Office at the Brooks Campus.
COLLEGE STUDY SKILLS 4-HOUR MINI COURSE • Did you know there are actually some Test Taking Strategies that can be used to improve your level of success on exams? Learn all the secrets! • Does just hearing the word “test” cause you to break out in a nervous sweat? Find out how to RELAX and deal with Test Anxiety. • Do you fall asleep every time you pick up a textbook to read? Find out how to stay awake and actually remember what you have read in the Textbook Comprehension session. • Do you often need more than 24-hours in a day to get everything done? STOP wasting time and learn about Time Management • Have you ever been introduced to someone and then cannot remember their name two minutes later? You forgot because you were not listening. Find out how to improve your Listening Skills. • If you think your instructors are speaking another language when they tell you to Document Your Sources Using APA or MLA, you better sing up for study skills to find out what they mean and how to avoid Plagiarism. • After listening to your instructors lecture for an hours, should you have one or 10 pages of notes? Find out more about Note-Taking Strategies. • Do you have trouble remembering important information before a test? Sign up for study skills and learn how to improve your Memory Skills.
REGISTRATION A $20 non-refundable registration fee is required for this 4-hour mini-course. Register at the MHC Registration desk or by calling 403.529.3844.
FALL 2012 Option 1
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Option 2
Thursday, August 23, 2012
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Option 3
Thursday, September 20, 2012
4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Thursday, January 17, 2013
4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
WINTER 2013 Option 1
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STUDENT AND CAMPUS SERVICES THE BOOKSTORE
ACADEMIC RESOURCES CENTRE (ARC)
The Bookstore stocks all the required and reference texts for Medicine Hat College courses, in addition to taking personal book orders. Also available is a varied selection of art supplies, drafting, computer supplies, dictionaries, greeting cards, stationery, sundries, as well as college-crested sportswear, glassware, and mementos. Campus parking permits and city transit passes are sold through the bookstore.
Recent studies completed by the Community College Research Center in Florida (June 2007) have shown there is a strong correlation for students who attend student success courses to achieve one of the following three indicators of success: earning a college credential, transferring to university, or remaining enrolled in college – compared to students who do not complete some sort of student success course. Many students are under-prepared when entering college for the first time, in terms of deficiencies in basic academic skills, poor study habits, and goal setting to cope with the demands of college life. They are also unfamiliar with how to access resources available on campus to help them succeed. The Academic Resources Centre is able to provide a number of resources to help you succeed at Medicine Hat College.
Brooks Campus stocks all required textbooks and course materials temporarily at the beginning of each semester. Additional items are displayed and available by placing an order (for delivery within a few days).
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The Academic Resources Centre (main campus) provides the following services to assist you with the successful completion of your program(s). These services are also offered at the Brooks Campus through the Open Learning Centre. • Tutorial Services • Exam Supervision • Distributed Learning • Peer Tutoring (at Brooks Campus, available through the Students’ Association)
CHILDCARE If you have children, take advantage of the on-site daycare at the main campus. With qualified caregivers for your children, you can leave your worries aside and enjoy your college experience. Operated by the College Child Care Society of Medicine Hat, this non-profit organization gives preference to college students with children (ages 19 months to six years). Apply early, as space is limited. Call 403.504.3694 for more information. In Brooks, you can access Newell Integrated Child Care Society 403.362.6559, which operates a daycare centre. The LINKS Community Information Centre 403.501.5556 is an information, resource and referral centre that can provide information about other childcare options.
COMPUTER LABS Medicine Hat College has several computer labs available for students, staff, and community reference use. There are a number of general labs available to all students, in addition to labs designed especially for students taking computer-intensive programs such as Computer Aided Drafting, Information Technology, Visual Communications, and Power Engineering. Computers are available in the Vera Bracken Library for public drop-in use and to facilitate student studies. Wireless access is also available at specific locations on campus. Brooks Campus has two computer labs and a number of computers in the library with high-speed Internet access.
DISABILITIES SERVICES If you have a disability and think it may interfere with your success in learning, you are encouraged to contact the Disabilities Services Office at 403.529.3824. Examples of disabilities that can be accommodated at the college include: • mobility disabilities • psychological or psychiatric disabilities • learning disabilities • disabilities related to chronic health problems (e.g. pain) or serious illness • hearing disabilities • vision disabilities If you require accommodation, it is important you disclose your disability and contact the Disabilities Services Coordinator as early as possible prior to the beginning of classes (three to six months prior to classes is highly recommended) so that appropriate accommodations and funding are in place when you begin your studies. You may choose not to identify you have a disability, especially if you believe it will not interfere with your learning or ability to access various facilities. However, if you need accommodation, you must advise us as to your disability and needs. When requesting accommodation, be prepared to support your request with reasonable evidence, which may include medical documentation, a learning disability assessment, or other documentation from a qualified professional. It is important to think about what options might accommodate your specific disability. Bring documentation of accommodations that might have contributed to your success with previous academic work to your discussions with the coordinator.
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The Disabilities Services Office located at the main campus also serves those students registered in classes at the Brooks Campus. Students attending the Brooks Campus must follow the same process as listed above and contact the Disabilities Services Office by calling 403.529.3824 or toll-free 1.866.282.8394 extension 3824.
HEALTH AND DENTAL PLAN The Student Health and Dental Plan is mandatory for all full-time (9 or more credits) students at Medicine Hat College. The extended health and dental plan provides coverage for expenses such as most prescription drugs, paramedical services and dental care. This plan supplements provincial health coverage, it does not replace it. One must have coverage with a provincial health insurance plan to be an eligible member of the Students’ Association Health and Dental Plan. If you begin your studies in September you will be charged the full amount. This amount will cover you for the period from September 1 to August 31. New Winter Term students who begin their studies in January (and September term students who change status from Part Time to Full Time in Winter Term) will be charged a pro-rated amount for health coverage from January 1 – August 31 (there is no fee pro-ration for dental coverage). The Extended Health and Dental Insurance Plan is not available to students who are registered only in the Spring/Summer sessions. If you already have an equivalent extended health and dental plan you may opt out of the Students’ Association Health and/or Dental plan. You can also enroll your spouse and/or dependants by completing an enrolment process and paying an additional fee, over and above the Students’ Association fee. This Change of Coverage period (where students opt out or enroll family members) is generally three weeks in length. At the time of printing, the deadline for Change of Coverage period for the 2012-2013 academic year is September 17, 2012. For 2012-2013 fee information, plan details, Proof of Coverage information and Change of Coverage, please visit the Students’ Association website: www.medhatsa.ca
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE (MANDATORY) StudentGuard health insurance is provided to: • International students (student or visitor status), • Canadian students studying abroad, • Faculty and staff going abroad. International students in credit courses are automatically charged for the mandatory insurance upon registration of classes. Students are charged the following for the 2012-2013 academic year. Fall 2012 (September 5, 2012 - January 2, 2013) $180.00 Winter 2013 (January 3 - May 1, 2013) $180.00 Information and claim forms regarding StudentGuard health insurance can be found in the International Education Office or at www.guard.me.
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LIBRARY Vera Bracken Library (Main Campus) The award-winning Vera Bracken Library provides a broad range of library and audio-visual services for students, staff, and community members. Our students have access to the library’s collection of over 100,000 books, audio-visual items, and periodicals. The library provides access to 20,000 full-text electronic journals through a variety of databases. There are 80 computer stations available on a drop-in basis and wireless access is provided. Study carrels, tables, group study, and lounge areas allow for comfortable use of the library’s print and non-print resources. The friendly library staff will provide assistance in locating and using the resources, as well as offering group tours and information literacy classes. Students can access other college, university, and public libraries online and through the interlibrary loan service. The Alberta Library cards are issued and welcomed at the library.
Brooks Campus Library Housing an 8,000 volume collection and 18 computers with high speed Internet access, the Brooks Campus Library serves Brooks Campus students and community members on-site and through referrals to the Vera Bracken Library and the interlibrary loan service.
MEDICAL CLINIC The Medical Clinic offers students, staff and their families walk-in medical services on campus. The clinic is open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 1 pm. Hours are subject to change.
PEER SUPPORT CENTRE (a service offered by the Students’ Association of Medicine Hat College) The Peer Support Centre strives to educate, support and improve the quality of life for the MHC students, while maintaining the concept of “students helping students.” You can find assistance with a variety of issues such as: • Coping with stress • Relationships, date rape, pregnancy • Loss of a loved one • STDs, drug and alcohol problems • Suicide The Peer Support Centre is located in room F111 by the Students’ Association. To receive further information or to find out how to become at volunteer please contact the VP Student Life at 403.529.3927.
PERSONAL COUNSELLING Counselling is available to students who require additional personal support or referrals to community services while attending college. This service is strictly confidential. A counsellor is available for appointments at the main campus from Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and is located in Student Advising. Call 403.529.3819 to schedule an appointment. A counsellor is available at Brooks Campus for appointments on Wednesdays from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm in Room D164. Students can also contact the counsellor directly by calling 403.362.4182 or 403.501.5902.
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SPORT & WELLNESS Campus Recreation & Intramurals Medicine Hat College emphasizes participation in sport, recreation, and fitness activities as a vital component of an enriched and balanced educational experience. Sports & Wellness offers Medicine Hat College students an opportunity to participate in a wide variety of activities and events. Make sure to sign up for activities such as flag-football, basketball, volleyball, floor hockey and more. For more information call 403.504.3546
Fitness Class, Exercise programs, Fitness Evaluations Sport & Wellness offers a variety of FREE fitness classes throughout the year for students and staff. If you need a personal fitness assessment or a customized exercise program, contact the Sport & Wellness department or drop by the office (G101).
Campus Fitness Centre and Equipment Room All MHC students have the privilege to use the Campus Weight Room and recreation facilities FREE of charge. Students have access to the playing fields, tennis courts, gymnasium, and locker rooms. Valid student identification is required.
About The Rattlers There are a number of animals associated with the dry grasslands and coulees surrounding Medicine Hat College. The pronghorn antelope is common, and in fact, college teams were once known as the Antelope (men) and Kudus (women) from 1969 to 1984. Yet no animal in the region evokes the same sense of mystique and ferocity as does the prairie rattlesnake. The rattlesnake is a predator that uses stealth and speed to hunt their prey. Any animal within striking range knows to tread carefully when the Rattler appears. Thus, both women’s and men’s teams took on the name Rattlers in 1984. The Rattlers compete in the following sports: • Men’s & Women’s Basketball • Men’s & Women’s Volleyball • Men’s & Women’s Soccer • Men’s & Women’s Indoor Soccer (Futsal) • Men’s & Women’s Golf The Rattlers soccer and golf seasons begin in early September and run until mid-November. The Rattlers volleyball and basketball regular season begins in mid-October and runs until mid-March. The Rattlers Futsal season begins shortly after the outdoor season concludes and runs through until March. All MHC students receive FREE admission to Rattlers home games. All home games take place on campus during weekends. Open try-outs for soccer and golf take place in mid-August, and early September for basketball and volleyball. For more information, or to follow the Rattlers, visit them online at www.rattlers.ca.
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BROOKS CAMPUS ATHLETICS Brooks Campus provides an outdoor court for basketball, tennis and street hockey. Equipment can be signed out from the library. In the main building, there is a spacious games room offering ping-pong, billiards, air hockey, and foosball.
LAKESIDE LEISURE CENTRE All full-time Brooks Campus students are eligible for a free pass to the Lakeside Leisure Centre, which includes two indoor skating arenas, the EnCana Community Gymnasium, fitness room, curling rink, 35-metre swimming pool, waterslide, water park, sauna, and steam room. Part-time students can purchase a pass for a pro-rated fee.
STUDENT EMPLOYMENT AND CAREER CENTRE The Medicine Hat College Student Employment and Career Centre (SECC) will do more than just help you find a “job”. They can help you prepare your résumé, improve your interviewing skills, and focus your employment search and provide you with a variety of career-related information in Job Jive, their monthly newsletter. Along with in-depth Career Counselling sessions, and aptitude and skills assessments, our team can assist you with determining your career path. Whether you are seeking a full-time, career position or part-time employment to supplement your income as a MHC student, our staff is there to help. While some job opportunities get posted on the on-site job boards at the Medicine Hat and Brooks campuses, all employment opportunities are available for viewing on our electronic job board at http://www2.mhc.ab.ca/EmploymentStudent/. Each year, the Employment and Career Centre invites dozens of employers on campus to conduct on-site recruitment and career information sessions. Here is a sample of some of the employers that have visited our campus. Alberta Health Services Alberta Health Areas Board Alberta Solicitor General and Pulic Security City of Medicine Hat Cenovus Energy
Meggitt Training Systems Canada Royal Canadian Mounted Police Sask Power TD Canada Trust
The SECC also hosts an Annual Fall Career Fair which is held towards the end of October. With up to 65 employers in attendance, students have the opportunity to explore different career paths, learn which employers hire for their field, network with multiple recruiters, and even land a job or paracticum placement. The Spring Job Fair, which takes place around the beginning of March, focuses on securing jobs for students after graduation or over the summer months. The Student Employment and Career Centre is located within the Student Services area, next to Financial Aid and across from Registration. All students are encouraged to utilize the services offered and participate in the career-related events throughout the year. The SECC is open Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For further information, please contact the Career Services Coordinator at 403.504.3569.
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STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION The Students’ Association of Medicine Hat College (SA) is led by a team of dedicated students including Brooks Campus representatives. These representatives act as the voice of the student body on campus, in the community, and province-wide. The purpose of the Students’ Association is to provide college students with a number of services that promote and advance each student in their academic, cultural, and recreational pursuits. Services offered by the SA include (services also offered at Brooks Campus are marked with an asterisk). • Bulletin boards* • Fax and photocopying services • Free phone • Locker rentals • Peer Support Centre • Crave (the student pub) • Student activities* • Student Handbook* • Student Health and Dental Plan* The SA is located in room F113 near Starbucks. All students are welcome to bring their questions, comments or concerns to the SA. Stop by anytime between the hours of 8:30 am to 4:00 pm (M-F) to speak to an executive member or call 403.529.3925 (main campus) or 403.362.1689 at Brooks Campus.
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INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION International Education offers services to students in the following areas: • Academic & personal counselling • Admissions & registration • Banking (opening a bank account) • Homestay placement • International health insurance • Public transit (using the transit system) • Travel advice (recommending travel agents) • Study abroad opportunities • 24 hour emergency assistance • Citizenship & Immigration advice (Study permits, Off-campus work permits and Post Graduate work permits) Coupled with these services, international students can participate in the International Student Club as well as activities both on campus and in the community. Always open to ideas for cultural activities and exchanges or to share information, please feel free to contact the International Education office at 403.504.3615 or come and visit us!
HOMESTAY PROGRAM International Education offers an excellent Homestay program to all of its international students. Medicine Hat is a safe and friendly city where families welcome students into their homes. Families open their homes to international students to expose international students to Canadian language, culture and customs. Families are diverse: with or without children, older couples, single parent families and even single people take students into their homes. Living with a Canadian family is an excellent opportunity for international students to learn the language and the culture of Canada. Students interested in Homestay should complete the Homestay section of the application form and specify clearly any special requests. Homestay placements are made at no cost to the student and are based on preferences with regards to pets, children and smoking. Homestay fees are currently $550 per month and include 3 meals a day! (This price is subject to change without notice). For further information about Homestay, please contact International Education at 403.504.3615 or send an email to inted@mhc.ab.ca.
MANDATORY HEALTH AND DENTAL PLAN - INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE StudentGuard health insurance is provided to: • International students (student or visitor status) • Canadian students studying abroad • Faculty and staff going abroad
International students in credit courses are automatically charged for the mandatory insurance upon registration of classes. Students are charged the following for the 2012-2013 academic year: Fall 2012 (September 6, 2012 – January 3, 2013) $180.00 Winter 2013 (January 5 – April 21, 2013) $180.00 Information and claim forms regarding StudentGuard health insurance can be found in the International Education office or at www.guard.me. The global community is a vital part of Medicine Hat College. The college’s international activity is guided by the philosophy that education and learning is greatly enhanced by an understanding of different cultures, languages and peoples. Medicine Hat College has a strong commitment to prepare students for the workplace of increasing cultural diversity and will encourage students to participate in study, travel or to enjoy other aspects of international life.The International Mobility Program offers three options of education opportunities around the world!
STUDENT EXCHANGE Through an exchange agreement with a partner university or college, each institution allows select full-time students in good academic standing to enroll at a partner institution for one semester. Students remain registered at their home institution while on exchange and therefore do not have to apply for re-admission upon return. Accommodations, meals, mandatory medical insurance, books, personal expenses and travel costs, as well as any additional fees at the host institution are the responsibility of the student.
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SHORT TERM STUDY ABROAD The Short Term Study Abroad option of the International Mobility Program is initiated by a faculty member from the program you are registered in. However, the International Education Department will assist a faculty member who wishes to lead a Short Term Study Abroad program. Please see your program coordinator for study abroad opportunities. Partnership Agreements for Student Exchange and Study Abroad CHINA Beijing University of Technology www.bjut.edu.en The Chinese University of Hong Kong www.cuhk.edu.hk/v6/en JAPAN Kinjo Gakuin Universty www.kinjo-u.ac.jp/eng Kobe City University of Foreighn Studies www.kobe-cufs.ac.jp/en Momoyama Gakuin University www.andrew.ac.jp KOREA Ewha Womens University www.ewha.ac.kr/eng Korea University www.korea.edu MALAYSIA Goon Institute/Kolej perdena www.goon.edu.my/main.html TAIWAN China University of Science & Technology www.en.ustc.edu.cnl National Taipei College of Business www.ntpu.edu.tw THAILAND Mahidol University www.muic/mahidol.ac.th Srinakharinwirot University www.swu.ac.th/en/ Sripatum University www.spu.ac./thid_history.htm
INTERNATIONAL DEGREE COMPLETION Medicine Hat College is proud to facilitate relationships with International universities and colleges that are willing to offer Medicine Hat College diploma graduates the opportunity to earn an International degree. Medicine Hat College has entered into and will strive to enter into “Block Transfer Agreements”. This program enables Medicine Hat College diploma graduates to transfer their Medicine Hat College diploma to International partner institutions for credit towards a four year bachelor degree. In most agreements, you will be able to complete the bachelor program in two additional years of study abroad. The College continues to research and present new opportunities and will assist you in achieving your educational goals. Partnership Agreements for International Degree Completion (Block Transfer) Australia Griffith University, Brisbane www.griffith.edu.au China The Chinese University of Hong Kong www.cuhk.edu.hk/v6/en Montana Montana State University - Northern www.msun.edu/ Taiwan Ming Chuan University www.mcu.edu.tw Thailand Mahidol University www.muic/mahidol.ac.th Sripatum University www.spu.ac./thid_history.html For more details on the International Mobility Program contact the International Education Department at 403.502.8448; email international@mhc.ab.ca; or visit our website at www.mhc.ab.ca/international/international_exchange/default.html.
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Advising Office
403·529·3819
Student Residence
403·529·3820
Brooks Campus
403·362·1677
Toll Free
1·866·282·8394
Campus Visit
403·529·3819
info@mhc.ab.ca
www.mhc.ab.ca
Medicine Hat Campus
403·529·3811
Medicine Hat College 299 College Drive SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 3Y6
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Medicine Hat College Guide for New Students 2012·2013 Advising Office Brooks Campus Campus Visit Medicine Hat Campus Student Residence Toll Free info@mhc.ab.ca www.mhc.ab.ca Medicine Hat College 299 College Drive SE Medicine Hat, AB T1A 3Y6
403·529·3819 403·362·1677 403·529·3819 403·529·3811 403·529·3820 1·866·282·8394