Enrollment Information

Reading Area Community College is approved by the Department of Education of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as an institution of higher education, and is authorized to award the Associate in Arts Degree, the Associate in Science Degree, the Associate in Applied Science Degree, the Associate in General Studies Degree and the Certificate of Specialization, as well as appropriate diplomas and certificates.

The College operates on a two semester basis consisting of 14 weeks each, exclusive of examination periods and vacations. The unit utilized for credit courses is the semester hour.

Reading Area Community College has an open admission policy, which states that any student may enroll as a degree candidate. Based on placement test scores, some students may be required to complete courses in Community Education prior to enrolling in credit courses. A high school diploma will be considered valid if it was granted by a high school that has been verified by ACT and has a high school code listed online at www.actstudent.org.

College entrance examinations, such as the ACT or SAT, are not required, however will be considered in lieu of placement testing. High school transcripts, G.E.D. certificates, and prior college transcripts must be submitted to complete the application file and may be used as a basis for admission to some selective admission programs of study.

Prospective students (and their families) who are having difficulty completing the application process may obtain assistance in the Welcome and Information Center.

The open admissions policy does not guarantee acceptance into a specific program of study. Some programs have requirements that must be met in order for students to secure licensure or certification upon completion of the program. These programs must comply with regulations established by various governing bodies. Other factors include limitations on enrollment based upon availability of college or community facilities used for practical experiences. The following Associate in Applied Science and Certificate of Specialization programs have selective admissions procedures:

Medical Laboratory Technician, AAS  
Nursing, AAS   
Occupational Therapy Assistant at Lehigh Carbon Community College 
Physical Therapy Assistant at Lehigh Carbon Community College 
Practical Nursing, CC  
Respiratory Care, AAS  .  

Accessibility & Services for Students with Disabilities

Reading Area Community College strives to provide an environment that allows all individuals to develop to their fullest potential. In keeping with federal legislation and regulations, reasonable accommodations and individualized attention are provided for students with disabilities in order to ensure access to the campus and all of its academic programs and services. For information, contact Disability Services.

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Placement Test

All degree-seeking students are required to take the placement test in Reading, Writing and Mathematics before registering for credit courses. Students are strongly urged to prepare for the placement test in any of the following ways:

• Visit the ACT website at www.accuplacer.org and take practice tests.
• Obtain a high school mathematics textbook to review concepts.
• Review preparation suggestions.

Students who fail to adequately review for the placement test run the risk of being placed in classes below their actual competency level. This may result in additional classes and delaying graduation.

• Placement test scores will determine the placement of the student into developmental reading, writing, and/or mathematics courses or college-level English and/or mathematics courses.
• The placement test may be waived for students with certain credentials. For a complete list of waiver options, please visit this link.
• Students who apply for a semester and do not enroll in that semester must submit a new application. Students who withdraw from Reading Area Community College and return after one or more years must reapply for admission. Students who have not completed required coursework within two years of taking the placement test will need to retake the appropriate test(s).
• Prior to taking a placement test, students with documented disabilities should notify Disability Services to arrange appropriate accommodations.

Notification of Acceptance

Applicants will be notified of their acceptance after all necessary items have been received and processed by Enrollment Services. Students who submit applications or records under false pretenses are subject to dismissal without credit.

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Categories of Admission

There are two general categories under which applicants may be admitted to Reading Area Community College. They may enroll as full-time or part-time students in either category.

1. DEGREE CANDIDATES are applicants who wish to earn an associate degree or certificate. The College offers the Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science, Associate in General Studies and the Certificate of Specialization.
2. NONDEGREE CANDIDATES* are those who wish to enter the College for purposes other than earning an associate degree or certificate. The category includes the following types of students:
   1. GUEST: Students attending another college or university who elect to take certain courses at Reading Area Community College and then return to their home institution.
   2. EARLY ADMISSION: Students currently in high school who wish to begin college-level coursework. Candidates must be in good academic standing at their high school. The Director of Admissions and Enrollment Services reserves the right to decline admission to any Early Admission applicant after a review of their transcripts and placement test scores. Early Admission students must demonstrate college readiness in either Reading, Writing or Math in order to begin coursework at Reading Area Community College.
   3. NONDEGREE: Individuals may wish to take a specific course or courses for job improvement or enrichment but not necessarily work toward obtaining a degree. Coursework taken may be later applied toward a degree from the College or may be presented for transfer credit at another college or university.

*Nondegree Candidates do not qualify for Financial Aid.

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General Admissions Procedures

Degree Candidate

1. Submit the application for admission.
2. Submit official transcripts from high school and any college or university attended.  Transcripts should be sent to the Enrollment Services Office.
   NOTE: Applicants who hold a high school equivalency diploma (G.E.D.) should request that an official transcript be sent to Enrollment Services. Requests can be made to the Department of Education from the state in which you earned the G.E.D.
3. Take placement tests, if applicable.

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Nondegree Candidates

Guest:

1. Submit the application for admission.
2. Complete the Permission to Transfer Form/Guest Registration Form. Once the form has been signed by the designated official at the applicant’s home institution and the form is returned to Records Office, the applicant will be registered for the requested courses on a space-available basis.

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Nondegree:

1. Submit the application for admission.
2. Complete the Nondegree Registration Form. Once the form is returned to the Records Office, the applicant will be registered on a space-available basis

Readmission Procedures

A student who has previously studied at Reading Area Community College and desires to resume full-time or part-time study after an absence of one year or more must complete an application for readmission. The following procedures and regulations govern readmission to the College:

1. Applicants for readmission must complete the application for admission.
2. Applicants for readmission must fulfill all other admission requirements in accordance with the procedures outlined.
   NOTE: In most cases, high school transcripts do not need to be resubmitted by candidates who previously completed courses at RACC. However, transcripts from other schools attended in the interim will be required of those seeking readmission to degree programs.
3. Students seeking readmission to the nursing programs are processed through a special selection committee of the individual nursing program. The committee’s decision about readmission is based upon prior performance in the program, length of time the student had not been actively enrolled in a nursing course, programmatic changes since prior enrollment and space in the currently enrolled class at the point of readmission. For the Associate Degree Nursing program and the Practical Nursing program, only one readmission is permitted. For specific requirements, see individual programs.
4. Students seeking readmission are subject to the catalog under which they readmit.

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Early Admission Opportunities for High School Students

Early Admission Program:

RACC strongly encourages students to complete their high school diploma. The Early Admission Program is an opportunity for academically ready high school students to enroll in online and/or on-campus college courses at RACC.

High school students interested in enriching their curriculum with college course work during their junior and senior year may request consideration for the Early Admission Program by following the Early Admission application procedures.

RACC’s Enrollment Services staff, in consultation with the student’s guidance counselor, evaluates requests for Early Admission to the College on an individual basis. Students considering the Early Admission Program must exhibit maturity and demonstrate above average academic achievement (A/B average) to benefit from college-level courses.

Early Admission Application Procedures

1. Complete the application for admission. There is no fee to apply to the college. When completing the Online Application, select “Early Admissions” under admit type.
   Note: There are no application deadlines. However, students should apply early enough to complete the placement test and steps below in time to register for their desired start session.
2. Complete the Early Admission Supplemental Application Form. This form requires a signature from the student’s guidance counselor or other school official.
   Send the Supplemental Application form to:
   Admissions and Enrollment Services
   Reading Area Community College
   10 South 2nd Street, Box 1706
   Reading, PA 19603
   admission@racc.edu
3. Submit current transcripts. Applicants must submit high school transcripts and/or home school evaluations to the address above. ACT, SAT, or AP exams scores should also be submitted, as they might be indicators of college readiness.
4. Meet with an Enrollment Services Coordinator. The candidate’s assigned Enrollment Services Coordinator will contact you once after you submit your online application to set up a meeting to review your academic history. You must meet placement test requirements in order to enroll as an Early Admissions student. Depending on your academic history, the placement test might be waived for Early Admission to the college.
5. Prepare for and take the placement test. If your Enrollment Services Coordinator determines that you must take the placement test, then your next steps are to prepare for and take the test. Walk-in testing is available, or you can schedule an appointment by calling 610-607-6224. If you have a documented disability that may require accommodations during the placement test, please contact Disability Services at 610-607-6245 for an intake appointment prior to scheduling your placement test. Click here to view a practice test and tips on how to do your best on the test.
6. Review your placement test results. Schedule a follow-up appointment with your Enrollment Services Coordinator to review your placement test results and discuss registering for classes.
7. Register for class. Early Admission students are permitted to enroll in two (2) courses each semester, must register for 100 or 200 level courses, and must meet the prerequisites for the courses they intend to take. If you were accepted as an Early Admission student based on your standardized test scores, you may still be required to take the placement test to earn prerequisites for your requested courses. Early Admission students must demonstrate college readiness in either Reading, Writing or Math in order to begin coursework at RACC.
8. Pay your tuition and fees. Be sure to review the tuition due dates.
9. Prepare for class. Obtain your student photo ID and parking tag from the campus security office in the lobby of Weitz Hall. If you are taking online classes, click here to learn more about the technical requirements and tips for success in an online learning environment. You will also want to be sure to purchase your books before your classes start at the Campus Bookstore.

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Dual Enrollment at Local High Schools

RACC has partnered with area high schools to offer college credit for college-level courses students take at their high school. The courses taught at the high school must cover the same competencies as courses taught at RACC and the teacher must meet adjunct faculty qualifications. View a list of dual enrollment courses for the current academic year.

Dual Enrollment students concurrently complete their requirements for high school graduation at the same time they earn college credit. Students are eligible for dual enrollment courses by an evaluation of state standardized tests, cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher, and/or recommendation from their high school teacher and guidance counselor. Students are allowed to register for dual enrollment courses providing they meet the high school’s guidelines for dual enrollment and RACC’s course prerequisites.

Participating high schools include Antietam Middle Senior High School, Berks Career & Technology Center, Berks Catholic High School, Blue Mountain Academy, Brandywine Heights High School, Conrad Weiser High School, Daniel Boone Area High School, Exeter Township High School, Fleetwood Area High School, Governor Mifflin High School, Hamburg Area High School, Kutztown Area High School, Muhlenberg High School, Oley Valley High School, Reading-Muhlenberg Career & Technology Center, Schuylkill Valley High School, Tulpehocken Area High School, Twin Valley High School and Wilson High School. 

Working with their guidance counselors and/or dual enrollment teachers, students complete a RACC application, dual enrollment registration form, and FERPA form. The high school guidance counselor submits these documents along with student’s current high school transcript to Reading Area Community College’s Academic Affairs Office. 

Once students have completed the admission steps and registered for dual enrollment courses, the high school guidance counselors send these documents to the RACC liaison who forwards the applications/registrations to enrollment services/records.

Students will earn a grade on a RACC college transcript at the completion of the course.

All grades may be accessed through students’ Self-Serve/WebAdvisor account.

Students who wish to have an official transcript may request this in writing or by accessing RACC’s website for a transcript request form.

Since dual enrollment courses would be traditional college freshman selections, students should contact the registrars’ offices of the colleges where they plan to apply in order to confirm that the transfer credits will be accepted. Dual Enrollment courses prepare students for college-level rigor. Dual enrollment credits provide a pathway to RACC’s many AA and AAS transfer programs. 

For additional information, contact the Director of Academic Partnerships at 610-607-6219.

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SOAR Programs of Study at Career and Technology Centers

SOAR (Students Occupationally and Academically Ready) prepares students for college and careers in a diverse, high-performing workforce. A student from any state-approved program from any CTC in the state can transfer these program credits (9 or more) to any college offering these programs.

Approved programs for RACC include: Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications, Computer Technology/Computer Systems Technology, Machine Tool Technology/Machinist, Administrative Assistant & Secretarial Science General, Accounting Technology/Technician & Bookkeeping, Childcare/Support Services Management, and Criminal Justice/Police Science.

These programs are identified by their Classification of Instructional Program (CIP) Code. A CIP code is used by schools and postsecondary institutions to categorize the Program of Study completed at the CTC and articulates to courses in one of RACC’s Associate in Applied Science degrees.

Students who have earned a minimum 2.5 GPA in their completed program of study at their CTC are eligible for college credits for up to three years after graduating from high school. Students are awarded credit, not a grade on their college transcripts. Students seeking their credit award need to provide RACC with the following items:

• Copy of High School Diploma 
• Official High School Transcript
• POS Perkins Statewide Articulation Agreement Student Documentation Cover Sheet, obtained from CTC program or high school counselor.
• NOCTI Skills Certificate or Certificate of Completion, obtained from CTC program or high school counselor
• Secondary Program Competency Task List signed by CTC program instructor

To view how the PA Bureau of Career and Technical Education SOAR Programs of Study taken at the High School level transfer to participating colleges including RACC, visit the CollegeTransfer.net website. Select the program of study by title or CIP code from drop-down menu and choose graduation year. 

Click Here to see how SOAR Programs are accepted at Reading Area Community College.

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International Student Enrollment

Application Deadlines

Fall Semester - June 1
Spring Semester - September 1

Reading Area Community College is authorized under Federal law to enroll nonimmigrant foreign students under the F-1 status. The following preliminary procedures must be completed before international students can be considered for admission to Reading Area Community College:

1. International student applicants must complete an application for admission to Reading Area Community College. An online application may be used.
2. International student applicants must submit a letter of intent stating which major or course of study to be pursued at Reading Area Community College and the expected starting and graduating dates of the program. International student applicants must submit a brief statement of their academic and work background and the objectives they hope to accomplish at Reading Area Community College.
3. International student applicants must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), if the applicant is a non-native English speaker. The TOEFL score must be submitted to the College for review. Applicants must score a minimum of 450 (paper-based), 45 (internet-based) or above to be considered for admission. Registration forms and the TOEFL Bulletin of Information for Candidates may be obtained from American Consulates, and United States Information Agencies, as well as many educational centers throughout the world and on the Internet at www.toefl.org. Registration forms may also be obtained by writing, well in advance of the desired test date. (College institution code: 2743)
4. Applicants must send certified copies of all official transcripts (academic records), with English translations, of all training received at the equivalent of high school level or above. All transcripts become the property of the College and will not be returned.
5. Applicants must submit a notarized legal document of sponsorship from the person or organization that is responsible for the student’s tuition, fees, room, board and any other financial needs for the duration of study at Reading Area Community College. If the student is not sponsored, the document should indicate that the student is responsible for all of the above. Reading Area Community College is not responsible for tuition, fees, room, board, scholarship or any of the financial expenses incurred by students while attending Reading Area Community College.
6. Applicants must submit an original current US or foreign bank statement showing a minimum balance of the cost for one academic year in American dollars. If an original bank statement cannot be provided, the applicant must submit a signed official letter from a US or foreign bank stating, in American dollars, a minimum balance of the cost for one academic year. The required amount in the account(s) listed on the bank statement or official letter must be accessible by the sponsor and/or student for college-related needs while attending Reading Area Community College. This information must be provided in the individual or organization’s name sponsoring the student attending Reading Area Community College. (Internet bank statements will not be accepted.)
7. Applicants must submit verification of housing accommodations by lease, rent receipt or a statement of accommodation provisions by a sponsor or sponsoring agency.

Only after all of these steps have been completed will an admissions decision be rendered. Some time may elapse before a decision is reached and the applicant is notified. In any event, the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service Form 1-20 (Certificate of Eligibility) will not be issued until the applicant has been accepted for admission to the College.

Individual visa status changes will not be initiated by the College, but must be handled through the Office of Immigration.

International Credential Evaluator:

Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc.
Post Office Box 514070
Milwaukee, WI 53203-3470 U.S.A.
www.ece.org

World Education Services/Bowling Green Station
Post Office Box 5087
Old Chelsea Station
New York, NY 10274-5087 U.S.A.
www.wes.org
*This is not a comprehensive listing. The College does not recommend any one evaluator over another. Students may use any accredited evaluation service. All costs are the responsibility of the student.

Important Websites

US Citizenship and Immigration Services
www.uscis.gov
The Test of English
As A Foreign Language (TOEFL)
http://www.ets.org/toefl/

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Selective Admissions Procedures

All applicants must fulfill the requirements for admission as degree candidates; that is, apply, forward official copies of all academic transcripts, and take the placement test. Additional procedures must also be followed for the College’s selective majors.

Medical Laboratory Technician Program

Clinical resources are limited. Therefore, admission into the clinical portion of the MLT program is on a selective basis for the second half of the program. The deadline for application for the January class is June 1.

The student must meet the following ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA to be considered for selective admission into the clinical portion of the Medical Laboratory Technician Program: 

Applicants must:

1. Be a graduate of an approved secondary school or hold a high school equivalency diploma.
2. Have completed, with grades of “C” or better, two years of biological science (including advanced biology), laboratory chemistry, and algebra. If the previous academic experience is lacking or if placement scores indicate the need for preparatory work, the following Reading Area Community College courses may be used to provide the needed academic background: BIO 140  or BIO 150  , CHE 120  , MAT 035   , MAT 110  .
3. Upon declaration of the Medical Laboratory Technician major, meet with the MLT Program Director to determine eligibility, discuss the selective admission policies, and to certify that the student is able to carry out the duties and responsibilities of a Medical Laboratory Technician Student by agreement through the “Essential Functions” document.
4. At the time of selective admission application, have following courses completed, or currently in progress: COM 121  , COM 141  or COM 151  ,BIO 250  ,BIO 255  , MLT 110  , CHE 150  , CHE 250  , CHE 251  , MAT 210  , MLT 120  , HEA 220  , IFT 110   . Students who require the summer to complete coursework may still apply but this will result in a reduction of assigned points and reduced rank position in the selection process.
5. Have a “C” or better in all courses in the MLT curriculum.
6. Achieve a combined math/science G.P.A. of 2.5 including the following courses: BIO 250  , BIO 255  , MAT 210  , MLT 110  , CHE 150  , CHE 250  , CHE 251  , MLT 120 .
7. Abide to the following policy: No course in the Medical Laboratory Technician Program curriculum, or which is a prerequisite for a course in the curriculum, can be repeated more than once. This requirement includes any courses taken at RACC or at another institution. It also includes courses from which the student may have withdrawn or in which the student earned less than a “C” grade.
8. Abide to the following policy: No more than 12 credits of the Medical Laboratory Technician Program curriculum may be repeated. This includes courses taken at RACC and at other institutions. It also includes withdrawals or courses in which the student earned less than a “C” grade.

Please note: Course repeats or withdrawals that are older than ten years may be excluded from consideration in the admissions process at the discretion of the program director.

Application Process:

For application into the clinical portion of the program, the student must do the following by June 1st:

1. Submit a comprehensive Letter of Application requesting entry into the next clinical class. 
2. Submit two letters of recommendation; at least once must be from a RACC faculty member.
    

Selection Process:

1. The MLT Selection Committee will meet after June 1 to evaluate the applicant’s application. A point system will be assigned to rank the student applicants. Incremental points will be awarded based on several criteria which include: the timeliness of the submitted documents, cumulative GPA, math/science GPA, program history and required course completion. Students who require the summer to complete coursework may still apply but this will result in a reduction of assigned points and reduced rank position.
2. The date of enrollment in the program will be the deciding factor between equally ranked students.
3. Accepted students will receive a clinical assignment beginning with the highest ranked student until all the available clinical spaces are filled.
4. Students meeting the criteria but not assigned due to lack of clinical sites will be placed on a ranked waiting list. These students will be given a clinical assignment if space becomes available prior to the beginning of the fall semester. Students not given a clinical assignment will be required to re-apply the next year following the full application protocol.
5. Students who are accepted and decline their clinical placement will be required to re-apply the following year following the full application protocol.
6. The student will receive a notice stating the committee’s decision (Accepted, Accepted with provision, Declined, or Waiting list) and clinical site assignment by July 1.

The granting of the Associates Degree in Applied Science in the Medical Laboratory Technician Program is not contingent upon a student passing any type of external certification or licensure.

Special Note for LCCC and NCC Students:

The student from Lehigh Carbon Community College or Northampton Community College who has successfully completed specific general education requirements at LCCC or NCC, and specific program requirements at RACC, may be granted sophomore-level standing and admission to the Medical Laboratory Technician Program per stated selective admission requirements at Reading Area Community College.

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Nursing Program

Students who are not yet admitted to the clinical courses will be enrolled in the “Health Sciences (Nursing Intent)” program of study. This will provide a pathway for completing general education courses needed for the RACC Nursing Program. Students in this program of study may also complete additional courses as indicated to be awarded the Health Sciences Transfer degree, following College graduation policies. Pre-clinical students should meet with their assigned advisor regularly to ensure that they are taking the appropriate courses for their educational goals.

Admission to the Nursing Program is competitive and selective.  In order to be considered for the clinical portion of the Nursing Program, applicants must:

1. Have completed work equal to a standard high school course with a minimum of 16 units, including four units of English, three units of Social Studies, two units of Mathematics (1 of which is Algebra), and two units of Science with a related laboratory or its equivalent. If enrolled in grade 12, applicants must submit a list of their courses for their senior year. Upon graduation, a final transcript must be submitted. Applicants whose high school academics were completed outside of the United States must provide a recognized third party evaluation that verifies the equivalency to the U.S. educational system or will have to apply for a Certificate of Preliminary Education through the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
2. Satisfy appropriate high school prerequisites/requirement.  In order to be eligible to petition to the nursing program, students must have completed with grades of “C” or high in high school, one course in algebra, laboratory biology, laboratory chemistry, and one advanced laboratory biology course.  The course must be one Carnegie unit in length, or its equivalent.  Applicants whose high school academics were completed outside of the United States who wish to use their coursework as prerequisites must provide an authorized third party evaluation that verifies the equivalency of the coursework to the U.S. standard.

A.  If a student does not have specified courses in high school, then he/she must take the courses as listed below before submitting their nursing petition:

1. Algebra - take MAT 030   Algebra I. (See #4)
2. Chemistry - take CHE 120   Principles of Chemistry
3. Biology - take BIO 140  Essentials of Biology (preferred for Nursing) or BIO 150   Biology I
4. Advanced Biology - take BIO 140   Essentials of Biology (preferred for Nursing) or BIO 150  Biology I (this course meets the requirements for both the biology and the advanced biology requirement)
5. Biology and Advanced Biology - take BIO 140  Essentials of Biology (preferred for Nursing) or BIO 150   Biology I as the HS biology and BIO 250   Anatomy & Physiology as the HS advanced biology.

1. Take college placement test or submit appropriate SAT/ACT scores.  If the student does not place into college level math, then he or she must take the recommended math courses prior to admission to the Nursing Program. Students must place at the College English Composition level and the College math level of the placement test or take appropriate courses prior to submitting the petition.
2. Once the prerequisites have been successfully completed, with a “C” grade or better, a clinical petition form must be completed and submitted by the December deadline online through the RACC portal, by clicking on Self Service/WebAdvisor, and then Nursing Petition.
3. Upon petitioning to the nursing program, students must:
   1. Sign an affidavit stating that the student has not been convicted of a felonious act. The Professional Nursing Law (Act 69, PL 409, No. 10 and PL 233, No. 64) provides that as of January 1, 1986: The Board of Nursing shall not issue a license or certificate to an applicant who has been convicted* of a felonious act prohibited by Act of April 14, 1972 (PL 233, No. 64), known as “The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act,” or convicted of a felony relating to a controlled substance in a court of law of the United States or any other state, territory or country unless:
      1. At least 10 years have elapsed from the date of conviction;
      2. The applicant satisfactorily demonstrates to the State Board of Nursing that they have made significant progress in personal rehabilitation since the conviction such that licensure of the applicant should not be expected to create a substantial risk of harm to the health and safety of patients or the public or a substantial risk of further criminal violations; and
      3. The applicant otherwise satisfies the qualifications contained in or authorized by this act.

                        * The term convicted shall include a judgment, an admission of guilt or a plea of nolo contendere. 

1. Sign a second affidavit in reference to the Older Adult Protective Services Act and the Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance. This law has no time limit on the list of offenses. Both affidavits should be electronically forwarded per instructions with online Nursing petition process.

1. Additional Nursing Program Policies:
   1. All required pre-requisites and general education courses must have a grade of “C” or better.
   2. All required general education courses in the Nursing Curriculum cannot be repeated more than once for any reason (“W” as well as any grade less than a “C” grade).  This includes courses completed at RACC as well as a transfer institution of higher learning. Course repeats or withdrawals that are older than ten years may be excluded from consideration in the admissions process at the discretion of the program director.
   3. Only one readmission is allowed for the clinical nursing program.
   4. There is a five year limit on Anatomy and Physiology I and II (on application to nursing).
   5. Cumulative GPA must be at least 2.5.
   6. Nursing GPA - (All required general education courses) must be at least a 2.5 and include transfer courses as well as original course grades if repeated.  No developmental courses are counted as part of the Nursing GPA.
   7. The currently enrolled exceptional high school student should contact the Nursing Program Director as soon as possible to facilitate admission to the program.  All application deadlines will apply.
   8. All clinical courses must be completed with a “C+” or better for progression into the next level of clinical.
   9. Admission to clinical is based on an application point system:

1. More points will be given incrementally for higher GPA’s.  A minimum of a 2.5 GPA must be maintained for consideration for admission.
2. More points will be given incrementally for higher grades obtained in Anatomy and Physiology courses.
3. Points will be given for required general education courses completed with a “C” grade or better.

1. Invitations will be sent to the most qualified students to attend an orientation session. This will include the current numbers to fill the class as “provisional accepts” plus a few students selected as alternates.  Students who are not admitted will also be notified that they may re-submit a nursing petition for the following academic year if they choose to.
   1. A response to the invitation is required.
   2. Attendance at the all day orientation session on the scheduled date for the full time period is required.
   3. Failure to meet the above requirements will result in an automatic disqualification for admission.
       
2. The orientation session will include information about specific documentation that must be returned by the scheduled date to Health Profession Division Office Weitz Hall, 420. Failure to return the documentation by the designated date will result in disqualification for admission. The following documentation will be required (but not necessarily limited to):
   1. Evidence of good health. A physical form will be provided. All applicants will be expected to demonstrate “Essential Abilities/Qualities of a Professional Nursing Student” (see website for details).
   2. Evidence of a negative drug panel. Form will be provided.
   3. Evidence of specific immunizations or antibody titers. Form will be provided.
   4. Evidence of current CPR Certification for the Healthcare Provider by the American Heart Association or Professional Rescuer by the American Red Cross.
   5. Evidence of current health insurance.
   6. Criminal Records Clearance and Child Abuse History clearance. Applicants from out-of-state are required to submit an FBI Criminal Background Check. An applicant convicted of any of the “prohibitive offenses” contained in the Older Adult Protective Services Act or an applicant convicted of any type of child abuse will be disqualified from admission to the Nursing Program or continuing in the program regardless of the amount of time that has elapsed from the date of conviction.
       
3. Once all documentation has been confirmed, letters will be sent out with “full accept” status and appointments to register for NUR 100, Nursing I. A response will be required in order to confirm your status. Lack of a response will result in an automatic disqualification for admission.
    
4. Students who apply or are on the alternate list are not carried over from year-to-year. Any student including alternates who are not awarded a seat two weeks prior to the start of the semester may re-apply again for a future entrance year.  Students are required to meet any new admission criteria as published for that future entrance year. 

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Students Requesting Readmission to the Nursing Program

NUR 100  - Nursing I  Readmission

1. Any student leaving the program must meet with the Program Director.
2. Students seeking readmission to NUR 100  must submit their written request for readmission by the December deadline for NUR 100  applications. The request should be submitted to the Nursing Program office.
3. The student must also complete and submit a clinical petition online via RACC portal, under Self Service/WebAdvisor by the December deadline.
4. The student must submit their request for readmission to the office of the Nursing Program AND the online clinical petition in order to be considered for readmission. If both actions are not completed, the student will not be eligible for readmission.
5. The student will have an opportunity for a second attempt provided they meet the published admission criteria and policies for the program.
6. The student will be notified by letter or email of review of the student’s self-evaluation report from the Nursing Admissions committee.
7. A student may only be readmitted to the nursing program one time.
8. A 2.5 GPA or above is required to apply for readmission.

NUR 150 , NUR 200 , or NUR 250  

Readmission

1. Any student leaving the program must meet with the Program Director.
2. Students seeking readmission must submit a written request to the Nursing Program office.
3. The student request for readmission will be reviewed by the admissions committee.
4. The student will be notified by letter of the decision of the admissions committee.
5. If the student is approved for readmission, the student seeking readmission must pass each of the following steps:
   1. a theory test on content from preceding courses, followed by
   2. a clinical skills demonstration on skills from preceding courses.
6. A student may only be readmitted to the nursing program one time and must reenter the program within 2 years.

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Advanced Placement for Licensed Practical Nurses

Advanced placement is for the LPN who is a graduate of any NLN accredited practical nursing program and who has been licensed and working for six months.

1. Make an appointment to meet with the Director of the Nursing Program to review the advanced placement process and to develop an individualized plan for the process. Bring a copy of your current L.P.N. license to your appointment.
   
   PLEASE NOTE: YOU MUST QUALIFY FOR ADMISSION TO THE NURSING PROGRAM BEFORE YOU MAY BEGIN THE ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROCESS.
    
2. To qualify for admission to the Nursing Program:
   1. Submit application for admission. Submit all required transcripts and affidavits.
   2. Complete placement tests as required, for reading, writing and math.
   3. Complete coursework as indicated by the results of the placement tests. These are prerequisites to applying to the nursing clinical courses.
   4. Complete the prerequisite high school courses or their equivalent at RACC (see Nursing Program Selective Admissions Procedures):
      • Algebra
      • Chemistry
      • Biology
      • Advanced Biology
   5. Achieve a “C” grade or higher in all courses taken at Reading Area Community College which are required in the nursing curriculum.
   6. Achieve and maintain a cumulative (overall) grade point average of at least 2.5 in all courses taken at the college.
   7. Complete clinical petition. The clinical petition form must be completed and submitted online through the RACC portal by clicking on Self-Service/WebAdvisor, and then Nursing Petitions.
   8. Attend mandatory Orientation/Information Session for Incoming Nursing Students. Follow the instructions you receive at that time.
3. Payment: There is a cost to challenge NUR 100   - Nursing I. Take the assessment form and go to the Cashier’s Office to pay the fee. The cost for each challenge is determined by the college. The current fee is equivalent to 1/3 the tuition cost for the course. NUR 100  - Nursing I  is a 9-credit course. The fee will be equal to 3 credits. Bring the Cashier’s Office receipt with you to take the written test.
    
4. The Advanced Placement Process:
   1. Submit the clinical petition online through the RACC portal.
   2. Make appointment with the Director of the Nursing Program, to receive content outline for Nursing I and to schedule the theory exam.
   3. Take the comprehensive theory exam for NUR 100   - Nursing I and score 77% or higher. Present the receipt for the required fee when you come for the test.
      • You will not be allowed to take the exam if you do not have the receipt.
      • Testing must be completed by March 31st.
   4. Make an appointment for the Nursing Skills Test. Receive the Skills Checklists to use in preparing for the test and make an appointment to take the skills test.
      
      Testing must be completed by April 30th.
       
   5. Successfully complete the NUR 100   - Nursing I Skills Test.
   6. Successfully complete with a “C” grade or higher the required 2 credit course, NUR 111   - Transition to Nursing, prior to your first clinical course.
   7. If an applicant fails any portion of the advanced placement process (i.e. theory exam, skills test or NUR 111   ), the applicant will be disqualified for advanced placement.
   8. The student must complete all prerequisites for NUR 150  - Nursing II in order to begin NUR 150  - Nursing II.

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Occupational Therapy Assistant and Physical Therapist Assistant:

Reading Area Community College offers an Occupational Therapy Assistant Program and Physical Therapist Assistant Program in cooperation with Lehigh Carbon Community College. Students complete the general education requirements at Reading Area Community College and then apply to Leigh Carbon Community College to complete the clinical portion of the program.  Students are encouraged to check the Leigh Carbon Community College website for information about the selective admissions process.  After satisfactory completion of all program requirements, the student earns an Associate in Applied Science from Lehigh Carbon Community College.

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Practical Nursing Program

Students who are not yet admitted to the clinical courses of the Practical Nursing Program will be enrolled in the “Health Sciences (Practical Nursing Intent)” program of study. This program provides a pathway for completing general education courses needed for the RACC Practical Nursing Program. Students in this program of study may also complete additional courses as indicated to be awarded the Health Sciences Transfer degree, following College graduation policies. Pre-clinical students should meet with their assigned advisor regularly to ensure that they are taking the appropriate courses for their educational goals.

Admission to the Practical Nursing Program is selective.  In order to be considered for the clinical portion of the practical nursing program applicants must:

1. Be a graduate of an approved secondary school or hold a high school equivalency diploma. Have completed, with a grade of “C” or higher, one course in algebra, biology and chemistry. Applicants whose high school academics were completed outside of the United States must provide a recognized third party evaluation that verifies the equivalency to the U.S. educational system or will have to apply for a Certificate of Preliminary Education through the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
2. Satisfy appropriate prerequisites/requirements.  In order to be eligible to petition to the practical nursing program, students must have completed with grades of “C” or higher in high school, one course in algebra, laboratory biology within the last 5 years, laboratory chemistry within the last 5 years. Applicants whose high school academics were completed outside of the United States who wish to use their coursework as prerequisites must provide a recognized third party evaluation that verifies the equivalency of coursework to the U.S. standard.
3. If a student does not have specified courses in high school, then he/she must take the courses as listed below before submitting their nursing petition:
   1. Complete the required foundation coursework and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or better. The prerequisite coursework is as follows:
      
      a. MAT 030   - Algebra I
      b. ORI 103   - College Success Strategies
      c. COM 031   - Basics of College Study Skills
      d. *BIO 140  - Essentionals of Biology or BIO 150  - Biology I
      e. *CHE 120  - Principles of Chemistry
      * Students possessing a high school-level biology or college level biology and/or chemistry course (with lab) with a “C” or better within 5 years of program start date will satisfy this/these prerequisites. 
4. Take the College’s placement test and score into college level English Composition (COM 121 ) and into college level Math or submit appropriate SAT/ACT scores.  If the student does not place at college level English or College level Math, then he or she must take the recommended English and Math courses.
5. Once the prerequisites have been successfully completed with no more than two outstanding courses, with a “C” grade or better, a clinical petition must be completed and submitted to the Welcome & Information Center in Berks Hall, Room 001, by the posted September deadline.
   
   Upon petitioning to the nursing program, students must:

a.  Sign an affidavit stating that the student has not been convicted of a felonious act. The Professional Nursing Law (Act 69, PL 409, No. 10 and PL 233, No. 64) provides that as of January 1, 1986: The Board of Nursing shall not issue a license or certificate to an applicant who has been convicted* of a felonious act prohibited by Act of April 14, 1972 (PL 233, No. 64), known as “The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act,” or convicted of a felony relating to a controlled substance in a court of law of the United States or any other state, territory or country unless:

  •At least 10 years have elapsed from the date of conviction;

  •The applicant satisfactorily demonstrates to the State Board of Nursing that they have made significant progress in personal rehabilitation since the conviction such that licensure of the applicant should not be expected to create a substantial risk of harm to the health and safety of patients or the public or a substantial risk of further criminal violations; and

  •The applicant otherwise satisfies the qualifications contained in or authorized by this act.

*The term convicted shall include a judgment, an admission of guilt or a plea of nolo contendere.

b.  Sign a second affidavit in reference to the Older Adult Protective Services Act on the list of offenses.

The requirements are that applicants must:

1. Show evidence of good mental and physical health.
2. Submit evidence of required immunizations or antibody titers. Submit evidence of negative drug and alcohol abuse testing.
3. Submit evidence of current CPR Certification for the Health Care Professional at the beginning of the program year. American Heart Association or the American Red Cross certification only are accepted.
4. Submit evidence of current health insurance prior to enrollment in PNP coursework.
5. In addition to the State Board of Nursing affidavit, you must submit evidence of a PA Child Abuse History Clearance and a PA State Police Criminal Record Check. Applicants are required to submit an FBI criminal background check. An applicant convicted of any of the “prohibitive offenses” contained in the Older Adults Protective Services Act (Act 169 as amended by Act 13) or any type of child abuse will disqualify the student from admission or continuing in the program regardless of time elapsed from the date of conviction. A second affidavit concerning this information must be signed. Past criminal history may have an impact upon the ability to obtain licensure and employment as a nurse (see Appendix “Consumer Information Disclosure” for PA State Board of Nursing policy: Refusal, suspension, or revocation of license; grounds in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Practical Nurse Law).

Additional Practical Nursing Program Admission Policies:

1. All prerequisite and co-requisite courses must have a “C” or above grade. 
2. No course in the Practical Nurse Program curriculum, or a prerequisite course required for the curriculum, can be repeated more than once. This requirement includes any courses taken at RACC or at another institution.  Withdrawals or courses in which the student earned a C+ will be evaluated on an individual basis.
3. No more than a total of 12 credits may be repeated in the prerequisite courses and co-requisite courses. This includes courses taken at RACC or any other institution. Withdrawals or courses in which the student earned a C+ will be evaluted on an individual basis.
4. All candidates will be selected according to highest grade point average (GPA). The minimum (GPA) required for acceptance into the Practical Nurse Program is a 2.5.
5. Only one readmission may be allowed for the clinical Practical Nurse Program.
6. There is a 5 year limit on Anatomy and Physiology I and II for those students who choose to waive Body Structure & Function. A & P I and II must be completed within 5 years of the start date into the Practical Nursing Program.
7. Students must successfully complete a math test for progression in the program. The passing grade is 80%.
8. The program is one year in length after all prerequisite courses have been completed.

For Practical Nursing Re-Admission, please follow the steps outlined below:

1. Students must meet with the Assistant Director of Practical Nurse Program to discuss re-entry in the program.
2. Students must notify in writing to the Assistant Director of the Practical Nurse Program of their intention for readmission at least two semesters before he/she wishes to re-enter the program. Students who have withdrawn from Semester I, must restart the program, as there is no advance placement into Semester I. All students must submit a written self-evaluation with the re-admission request. Self-evaluation guidelines will be provided.
3. Students who are re-admitting to PNP101 must submit a new practical nursing petition to the Welcome & Information Center in B001.
4. Students may only be re-admitted one time.
5. Students must follow the Practical Nursing Program Re-admission Request Process. Re-admission depends on seat availability.  Students readmitting into PNP 102 or PNP 103 as a result of course failure must take courses to achieve a cumulative GPA of 2.5 based on the semester grade prior to the course failure.
6. Students readmitting into PNP 102 or PNP 103 will set a date with the Practical Nursing Program for an in-house comprehensive exam and skills testing of the semester prior to which you plan to re-enter. The deadline date must be at least four weeks prior to the start of Semester II.
   1. Students will receive Semester I and/or II objectives to study from and are encouraged to schedule practice sessions in the lab for remediation purposes. Students will also be encouraged to seek employment as a certified nursing assistant. All candidates will be required to demonstrate clinical competency by a skill performance examination. The skills will include procedures from the preceding semester and will be pass/fail. The candidates will have one (1) attempt to successfully complete any skill. Three skills will be assessed for students entering Semester II or Semester III.

1. All candidates must successfully complete a math test with a score of 80% to re-enter the Practical Nurse Program.
2. Students must pass the comprehensive exam with a score of 77% or above and the skills test by pass/fail to be approved for re-admission.
3. Candidates are allowed to test one (1) time.
4. Successful students will meet with the Assistant Director to discuss re-entry into the Practical Nursing Program

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Respiratory Care Program

Applicants must:

1. Declare Respiratory Care as their major and meet with the Respiratory Care Program Director for an interview to discuss the academic and clinical requirements of the program and to be informed of the criteria for admission and continued enrollment in the Respiratory Care courses. The interview is mandatory and must be completed prior to April 15 of the intended year the student wishes to enter clinical courses.
2. Attain a grade of “C” (2.0) or higher in all courses required within the Respiratory Care program of study and maintain a cumulative G.P.A. of 2.50 or higher in all college courses. This rule applies to courses taken at the College as well as any required courses transferred into the College from other institutions. It is the student’s responsibility to request transcripts be sent to the College from outside institutions in time for evaluation of the transcripts by April 15 of the intended year the student wishes to enter clinical courses.
3. Submit a Letter of Intent to enter the clinical courses, identified by the “RES” course designator, to the Respiratory Care Program Director by April 15 prior to the intended Fall semester. Information on the required content of the letter can be obtained from the Program Director.
4. Have a medical examination certifying the student is physically fit as per the Health Professions Division format.
5. Be currently certified for cardiopulmonary resuscitation by either the American Heart Association for Health Care Providers course, or American Red Cross Professional Rescuer course.
6. Submit evidence of a negative drug panel, a Child Abuse clearance, a state Criminal Background clearance and an FBI finger-printed Criminal Background clearance. Students should consult the Program Director before applying for any of the items listed.
7. Submit evidence of required up-to-date immunizations and/or of antibody titers as required by the approved health form.
8. Submit evidence of current health insurance.
9. Attend a mandatory orientation meeting on the assigned date and time after being selected for a Fall semester clinical cohort. Absence from this orientation meeting will result in the student forfeiting their seat in the clinical cohort unless permission or approval is obtained from the Respiratory Care Program Director or a higher level academic administrator.
10. No course in the Respiratory Care curriculum, or which is a prerequisite for a course in the curriculum, can be repeated more than once. This requirement includes any courses taken at RACC or at another institution. It also includes courses from which the student may have withdrawn or in which the student earned less than a “C” grade (2.0).
11. No more than 12 credits of the Respiratory Care curriculum may be repeated. This includes courses taken at RACC and at other institutions. It also includes withdrawals or courses in which the student earned less than a “C” grade (2.0).
12. Successful completion of Anatomy and Physiology courses may not be older than five years. An exception of this requirement is evidence of advanced, related study at the junior level or higher that is less than five years old and for which the passing of Anatomy and Physiology was a pre-requisite. 
13. Course repeats or withdrawals that are older than ten years may be excluded from consideration in the admissions process at the discretion of the program head.
     

Re-Entry Requirements:

1. Only one re-entry to the Respiratory Care Program will be allowed for a student after withdrawing with a grade of W or receiving a failing grade in any Respiratory Care (RES) course. The student must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.50 or higher in college courses in order to qualify for re-entry.
2. Re-entry into the program is limited to two years following unsuccessful competition of a course or withdrawal from a course.
3. The individual must pass a SKILLS examination (written and performance) for re-entry.

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Enrollment Services

The goal of the Enrollment Services Office is to help new students be better prepared for the first semester at RACC. The staff provides a general introduction to the College and facilitates the enrollment for new students. Located on the first floor of Berks Hall, Enrollment Services oversees campus tours and information sessions, the college application process, placement testing and transcript evaluations.

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Advising

After completing placement testing, new students will meet with a professional advisor who will explain appropriate course placement and assist students with course selection and registration. Advisors are available on both a walk-in basis or by scheduled appointment.

Students who have prior college credits should have their official transcripts sent to RACC’s Assessment Center for evaluation several weeks prior to meeting with an advisor. In lieu of an official transcript, an advisor may allow one-time registrations upon receiving unofficial transcripts and final grades. However, college credit will only be awarded through the Assessment Center.

Current students already enrolled at the College, should see their faculty/academic advisor for advisement, course scheduling, and registration. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their advisor on a regular basis to ensure that their graduation requirements are being met. Additionally, students can access Self-Service/WebAdvisor to register for classes, check grades, locate advisor name and contact information, access their financial aid, and make payments on their account.

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