You have many choices to make as you start your educational journey. Let this handbook serve as one of your resources to success. Within its pages, you can explore the many services and opportunities available to enrich your experience at Rockland Community College!

Students who require a printed version of the handbook may stop by Student Involvement in Room 3208 or email [email protected].

Student Handbook (PDF)
Student Code of Conduct

Mission, Vision, & Values

MISSION

Rockland Community College provides purpose driven educational opportunities and guidance in a diverse, affordable, and accessible environment, empowering individuals to positively transform themselves and their communities.

VISION

Rockland Community College is the national leader in effective institutional collaborations that improve the lives of our students and the vitality of the community.

VALUES

As a community of care, Rockland Community College approaches all aspects of the work of the College with integrity, on campus and beyond. Our values are:

  • Excellence
  • Engagement
  • Collaboration
  • Social Consciousness
  • Innovation

Diversity Statement

Rockland Community College embraces diversity at the core of our educational mission. Diversity is the responsibility of all College constituencies: students, faculty, staff, department chairs/heads, supervisors, administrators, the President and the Board of Trustees.

Rockland Community College fosters an environment that attracts, recruits, supports and retains faculty, staff, and students who value diversity. The College promotes a collegial and inclusive environment by recognizing, promoting, embracing, respecting and celebrating the expansive range and dimensions of cultures, attitudes, ideas and viewpoints contained within our campus community.

Embracing and fostering diversity encompasses a level of tolerance and respect, without judgment, for a multiplicity of traditions and cultures, which include not only race and gender, but age, citizenship, class, economic status, educational attainment, ethnicity, gender identity, mental ability, military status, physical appearance, physical ability, political affiliation, political beliefs, religion, religious beliefs, sex identity, sexual orientation, social status, spiritual practice, and other ideologies/identifications.

It is essential that our College, in its entirety, encompass diversity; therefore, we are committed to ensure equal opportunity and to sustain a climate of civility for all who work, study or visit.

Academic Calendar

See the Academic Calendar for important dates.

Campus Contacts

Use our Department Directory to find contact information for various offices at the College. If you need assistance in another language, please visit our International Language Resource page to find contact information for employees who speak different languages and can help direct you.

Call 845-574-4000 for the College Operator

Campus Information & Services

Academic Forgiveness Policy

The College’s Academic Forgiveness Policy is designed to help students recover from past academic problems. There are two options for academic forgiveness. The first option applies to students with prior unsatisfactory grades who have not attended Rockland for at least six consecutive fall and spring semesters, and the second is for current students who change their curriculum. Regardless of the option selected, students may be granted academic forgiveness only once. Additional restrictions apply to a student who wishes to return to the Nursing Program. Students may apply for this opportunity in Records and Registration at any time during their career. The decision to grant academic forgiveness will be made by the Assistant Registrar. For the full policy, please go to:
sunyrockland.edu/about/college-policies/academic-policies-and-procedures/academic-forgiveness/.

Academic Standing

A student must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 to maintain good academic standing. A student must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 to graduate from Rockland Community College. Complete details of the academic standing policy can be found at sunyrockland.edu/about/college-policies/academic-policies-and-procedures/academic-standing/.

ACADEMIC WARNING

A student who has enrolled for less than 12 credits and whose cumulative grade point average (GPA) falls below 2.0 is issued an academic warning and receives a letter from the College suggesting possible academic remedies.

ACADEMIC PROBATION

Students who have taken 12-29 credits will be placed on Academic Probation if their cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 irrespective of the semester GPA.

DISMISSAL

Students who have taken 30 or more credits will be academically dismissed if their cumulative GPA is below 1.5 and their semester GPA is less than 2.0. They may appeal in writing for a Waiver of Academic Dismissal to the
Coordinator of Academic Intervention. A waiver will be granted only once. Students granted a waiver will remain on Academic Probation. If a waiver is not granted, dismissed students will not be permitted to re-enroll until two semesters have elapsed (not including winter or summer sessions) and only after the Coordinator of Academic Intervention has interviewed them and approved a plan of study.

Academic Success Centers

The Academic Success Centers (ASC) at RCC offer complimentary academic support services to all enrolled students. Staffed by both peer and professional tutors, the Tutoring, Reading & Writing, and Science Learning Centers cater to students’ diverse academic needs. At the Tutoring Center (Room 8340), students can access subject-specific tutoring, while the Reading & Writing Center (Room 8349) provides assistance with academic and personal reading and writing tasks. The Science Learning Center (Room 8340) offers hands-on practice with a wide
range of lab equipment, models, DVDs, and computer programs. We provide various forms of support, including individual tutoring, study groups, and course review sessions. For students unable to visit campus, online tutoring is available via Teams through the Tutoring Center, as well as through our online platforms ThinkingStorm and StarNY. To schedule appointments or view drop-in schedules, students can log into TracCloud or contact the Tutoring and Science Learning Center (Room 8340, 845-574-4503) or email [email protected]. Additionally, more information is available on our Tutoring Center webpage.

Accessibility Services

Accessibility Services (AS) works collaboratively with the College community to facilitate equal access for students with disabilities to the educational programs, services and facilities of Rockland Community College [in compliance with Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)]. In addition, AS is a resource to students, faculty, staff and community services to provide education, consultation and guidance regarding disability issues. The goals of AS are to: provide reasonable accommodations and support services; empower students toward self-advocacy; promote achievement of students’ educational and career goals; offer training and support to faculty and staff regarding the needs of students with disabilities; organize and coordinate campus-wide disability awareness; and provide guidance regarding the development of College policies, procedures, programs, curriculum, and career advising to ensure equal access and foster an inclusive educational environment. It is the student’s responsibility to notify AS of the need for accommodations and to provide appropriate disability documentation, which is kept confidential. Eligibility for services/accommodations from AS is a separate process from Admissions. Students should first complete an Admissions application to the College before requesting services/accommodations from AS. Students are encouraged to contact AS for further information regarding the accommodations request procedures. For additional information, call 845-574-4541, visit Accessibility Services, Technology Center, Room 8150, or https://sunyrockland.edu/services/accessibility-services/.

Adding and Dropping Courses

A drop/add occurs when students who have completed registration make changes to their schedule. Students may add available courses through the first week of fall and spring sessions. Students may drop classes without a grade appearing on their transcript through the third week of the fall and spring semesters and through the first week of the winter and summer sessions. For all semesters/sessions, refer to the Academic Calendar for exact drop/add dates. Please refer to the College policies for additional information on the withdrawal policy, go to Records & Registration, Room 8110, or visit https://sunyrockland.edu/records-and-registration/.

Anonymous Crime Reporting

All criminal incidents and emergencies should be reported to the Public Safety Office located in the Fieldhouse, Room 5209, in person, or by telephone (845-574-4217). Our emergency phone number is (845) 574-4911. If necessary, the Rockland County Sheriff’s Dept. will be informed of the incident. The Sheriff’s Dept. can be contacted directly by dialing 911 or (845-638-5400). RCC Public Safety can be contacted by picking up any Campus Blue Light Emergency Phones or by dialing 845-574-4911 from any phone. An officer will be dispatched immediately to the site of the complaint. These phones should be used only for emergencies.

Report Anonymously via telephone anonymous reporting system at 845-574-4636;

Athletics

Rockland Community College athletics, supported by student activities fees, is a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association. The Hawks compete in both the Mid-Hudson Conference and belong in the Region XV of the National Junior College Athletic Association. Please visit the Athletics website at https://rcchawks.com/.

Attendance

Regular attendance is essential for successful study. Specific attendance regulations are established by individual instructors and are presented to students at the beginning of the semester. A poor attendance record can result in failing a course, receiving a lower grade, or jeopardizing financial aid eligibility. Failure to attend class cannot be used as a basis for refund. Please see additional information at https://sunyrockland.edu/about/college-policies/academic-policies-and-procedures/attendance-and-religious-absences/.

Automotive Technology Center

37 Ramland Rd, Orangeburg, NY • 845-359-6011

The Herbert Kurz Automotive Technology Center is an NC3 National Leadership Member and considered a model facility. Our 27,304 square-foot facility includes five classrooms, a certification room and a Snap-on Certified Lab with 10 lifts and customized Snap-on equipment. The College offers an AAS in Automotive Technology and Snap-on Industrial Certifications. RCC uses cutting edge academic technology in the Automotive Technology program. Visit https://sunyrockland.edu/programs/automotive-technology/ for more information.

Bias Crimes Prevention Statement

Hate Crime Notification – SUNY Rockland is required to annually report campus crime statistics to the U.S. Department of Education as required by Title 20 of the U.S. Code Section 1092(f). This information can be found on the U.S. Department of Education’s website. Legislation S.2060-A/A.3694-A amends the education law to require a college’s advisory committee on campus security to review current policies and procedures for educating the campus community about bias related and hate crimes, reporting hate crimes, and assisting victims during hate crime investigations. This legislation also updates the procedure for disseminating information on campus crime statistics, and specifically requires the reporting and posting of hate crime offenses. It requires this information to be made available on the college’s website, no longer simply providing students information about how to access it within the campus catalog, student handbook and viewbook. Colleges are also required to adopt a plan providing for the investigation of hate crimes on campus and inform incoming students about hate crime prevention measures. This legislation will require colleges that receive state funding to modernize and enhance their disclosure of hate crimes that occur on campus. To ensure students remain safe on college campuses in New York, the bill also creates a clear obligation on the part of colleges to investigate potential hates crimes and report them to law enforcement. This bill also strengthens existing reporting and information disclosure laws pertaining to identifying and addressing bias crimes on college campuses. Visit https://sunyrockland.edu/services/public-safety/annual-security-and-safety-reports/ for more information.

Bookstore

Rockland Community College’s Bookstore is the place to go to purchase all of your course-required and optional textbooks, course materials and supplies. There is also a wide range of paper products, pens, binders, software, gift items, general books, clothing and much more. Textbooks can be ordered online through the bookstore website. The bookstore is operated by Follett Higher Education Group. For more information contact the Bookstore at 845-574-4752, email [email protected], or visit https://sunyrockland.edu/services/campus-bookstore/.

Bus Service

Transport of Rockland (TOR) Bus System serves RCC’s main campus from all corners of Rockland County. Currently, TOR has five Bus Routes (59, 93, 94, 95, Loop 3) that stop at RCC each weekday with day and evening routes. TOR buses also provide transportation to the campus on Saturdays and Sundays. All buses pick up and drop off at the front door of the Cultural Arts Center. RCC provides an outdoor and an indoor waiting area for your comfort. You can also find a bus schedule rack there. For additional information, visit https://sunyrockland.edu/about/campustour/ or the Rockland County website https://www.rocklandcountyny.gov/departments/public-transportation.

Campus Fun & Learn Center

The Campus Fun & Learn Center, Inc., at the Theresa Morahan Simmons Center for Children and Families on the Main Campus, is a licensed, non-profit childcare and early education center for children ages 6 weeks through 5 years. The Center is open from 6:30am to 6:00pm, Monday through Friday. Student parents attending RCC are eligible for child care tuition subsidies and scholarships. Care and education are provided to infants, toddlers and preschool age children. The facility also serves as a child development observation site for RCC students. For more information, call 845-574-4561 or visit https://sunyrockland.edu/community/childcare-center/ or https://www.campusfunandlearn.org/.

Campus Law Enforcement | Public Safety

Public Safety is responsible for law enforcement and has a working relationship with the County Sheriff’s Department, to which all crimes are reported. Public Safety officers patrol the Suffern campus 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year; and patrol the Nyack’s Hospitality and Culinary Arts Center, and Herbert Kurz Automotive Technology Center during their hours of operation. The Sheriff’s Department responds to requests by Public Safety. Public Safety will also provide escorts for students who do not wish to walk alone at night. Public Safety Escorts can be requested by dialing 845-574-4217. Visit https://sunyrockland.edu/services/public-safety/ for more information.

Campus Security Report - Campus Security Act

RCC is committed to providing students with a safe environment in which to learn and keep students, parents and employees well informed about campus security. As required by the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990, the College prepares a campus security report that identifies alleged criminal offenses reported to campus security authorities or local police agencies that have occurred on campus and in certain off-campus buildings or properties owned or controlled by the College. The Campus Personal Safety Committee will provide, upon request, all campus crime statistics as reported to the US Dept. of Education pursuant to the Campus Security Act. You may review the campus crime statistics for the College by visiting the Dept. of Education Web site at https://ope.ed.gov/campussafety/. To obtain a hard copy of the campus crime statistics and additional related information, please contact the Director of Public Safety at 845-574-4781.

Career Readiness & Success Center

Career Readiness and Success offers a comprehensive, integrated approach to career development that focuses on helping students during every facet of the career exploration process. Please contact 845-574-4520 or visit https://sunyrockland.edu/services/career-advising/ for more information about their services.

Applied Learning – Applied Learning refers to an educational approach in which students learn by doing. The College’s mission is to give students access to applied learning by providing: Internships/Practicums, Cooperative Education, Clinical Placement (SUNY Works); Service Learning, Community Service (SUNY Serves), Civic Engagement; Research, Entrepreneurship, Field Study, International & Domestic Travel (SUNY Discovers)

Career Counseling – With the help of a career counselor, students can explore interests, values and aptitudes as part of the career decision-making process. Students can take the Focus2 career assessment, a comprehensive tool that allows students to explore suggested occupations based on their strengths & values. Working with professional career counselors, students can develop a career action plan and explore a broad range of opportunities that will help them gain experience, knowledge and skills in their area of interest.

Internship Program – The College’s Internship Program offers students the opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience in a professional setting while earning college credit. The Internship Program offers an exciting partnership with hundreds of local and regional businesses in the tri-state area. Qualified faculty members help students gain perspective during their internship experience. Internships help students develop industry contacts, gain a competitive edge and build their professional portfolio.

Employment Opportunities – Career Navigators are on hand to help students as they seek full-time or part-time employment on and off-campus. Career Navigators assist students as they navigate the job search process, including writing a cover letter, composing a resume, building an online presence, preparing for interviews and following up with employers. The Career Readiness & Success Center also provides an annual Job Fair. Over 80 local companies seek students, alumni and community members to join the workforce.

Additional services – The Career Center provides a wide array of workshops and classroom presentations. These workshops include Resume Writing, Interviewing Techniques, Negotiating a Salary, Soft Skills, Choosing a Career, Job Search Strategies and more. There are also specialized programs for veterans and students with disabilities.

Change of Name and Address

Students are responsible for keeping the College informed of their current address. Changes in either address or name should be reported to Records & Registration. Please submit the Change of Information Form.

Common Hour

Common Hour is scheduled between 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It provides an hour during which classes are not normally scheduled. Freeing classroom space as well as student and faculty time, the hour is designed to build a sense of community. Take advantage of club meetings, lectures and events scheduled during Common Hour.

Computers

General access computers are available in the Technology Center and in the library. Internet access is available through the College and most classrooms. The College Website is sunyrockland.edu. For more information contact the Information Technology Help Desk, 845-574-4ITS (4487) or 877-241-1823.

Connection Center

The Connection Center assists RCC students to stay enrolled at the college by connecting them to non-academic community resources when “life happens”. The Connection Center advocates for and works with students to establish identified goals. We maintain an environment that fosters understanding, warmth, acceptance, and inclusion. We encourage & promote self-advocacy, self-empowerment, and the overall well-being of those we help. We invite you to learn more about our services & programs, including our Hawk’s HUB, discussion groups, LGBTQIA+ support, and basic needs assistance, by visiting the Connection Center in Technology Center, Room 8372, calling 845-574-4414 or emailing [email protected]. Visit the Connection Center page to learn more.

Counseling Services

Students who are facing personal problems, feeling emotionally distressed, or experiencing a crisis situation are encouraged to request personal counseling. This request can be made by emailing [email protected]. The Counseling Center offers opportunities for personal development through confidential short-term individual counseling, workshops and special programs. As appropriate, referrals are made to additional resources on and off campus. Students experiencing a mental health crisis when the Counseling Center is closed (evenings, weekends, & holidays) please call 911, Rockland County Behavioral Health Response Team at 845-517-0400, or The Suicide Crisis Lifeline at 988 for immediate assistance. Please also visit the Counseling page for more information.

Emergency Closings

In the event the College is closed due to emergencies and/or weather, notifications will be made on the following:

Emergency Phone Numbers

Fire, Ambulance, Sheriff: Ext. 911
First Aid: Ext. 4911
Public Safety: Ext. 4217 or 4238
OSHA, Hazardous Materials, Fire Code Safety: Ext. 4722
New York Public Employee Safety and Health (PESH) Bureau
W. Averell Harriman State Office Building – 12, Room 158
Albany, New York 12240
(518) 457-1263 • (518) 457-5545 FAX

Emergency Security Blue Light Phones

These phones are located in numerous areas around the main campus. Emergency phones provide direct communication with the Public Safety base station. Use shall be limited to emergencies and security escorts only. Visit https://sunyrockland.edu/services/public-safety/emergency-phone-locations/ for phone locations.

Ethics Policy

All members of RCC should be trustworthy, honest, committed and loyal; strive toward continuous improvement and academic achievement; exercise creativity and innovation; and be respectful of all people and communities. These standards apply equally to everyone at RCC and are important to good citizenship. For a more detailed description of acceptable and unacceptable behavior at RCC, students should review the Student Code of Conduct. The Rockland Community College Ethics Policy outlines standards of ethical conduct and procedures for disclosing conflicts of interest. The Ethics Policy requires all members of the RCC community to avoid or disclose any potential conflicts of interest. The policy describes circumstances that may create a potential conflict of interest, such as favoring interests outside the RCC community for personal gain, using RCC resources for personal gain or using information obtained through activities at RCC for personal gain. Most students will not find themselves in situations at Rockland where conflicts of interest could arise. It is mainly leaders, teachers and staff who manage the affairs of RCC and make decisions that affect other people who must avoid or disclose conflicts of interest. Accordingly, those students who accept leadership responsibilities in student government or student activities should have a good understanding of the rules prohibiting conflicts of interest. All student leaders as well as other interested students are encouraged to pick up a complete version of the Ethics Policy at Human Resources, Brucker Hall, Room 6104. Questions about the Ethics Policy may be directed to any faculty member or to any RCC Vice President or Associate Vice President.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 protects the confidentiality of students’ records, allows students to inspect their educational records and to request the amendment of educational records that they believe are inaccurate. The College may disclose directory information at the discretion of the Registrar or designated official without the student’s consent. Directory information at Rockland includes: name, address, telephone listing, email address, date of attendance, field of study, degrees awarded and dates of degrees, honors and awards, likeness, full and part-time status, sports participation including height, weight, age and previous schools attended. Students who do not wish to have directory information released must notify Records & Registration by filing a Request to Prevent Disclosure of Directory information form within 14 days of the start of the semester. These forms are available in Records & Registration. Students should consider very carefully the consequences of any decision to withhold directory information. Once applied for, the request remains in effect until revoked in writing by the student. All questions should be directed to Records & Registration. See a detailed explanation of this policy.

Financial Aid

Financial Aid personnel assist students and families and can help them learn about and apply for federal, state and local financial aid programs. Free personal financial aid counseling and technical assistance is available at [email protected]. In addition, we have a FAFSA mini-lab. Students and Families can now walk-in and get assistance on campus with filling out their FAFSA application. The FAFSA Mini Lab is located in the Technology Center room 8141. Please call us at 845-574–4282 or visit our Financial Aid page.

Fitness Facilities

The Fitness Center, located in the Fieldhouse, is open to students registered for at least 6 credits with a valid student ID. Students will have access to free weights, treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, and rowing machines. The swimming pool is also available to students. Visit the Athletics page for hours. For more information call 845-574-4131.

Grading System

A = 4.0
A- = 3.7
B+ = 3.3
B = 3.0
B- = 2.7
C+ = 2.3
C = 2.0
C- = 1.7
D = 1.0
F = 0.0
AU = Audit
NA = Never Attended (0.0)
X = Dropped & Tuition refunded
P/F = Pass/Fail
TC = Transfer Credit
W = Withdrawal from course
I = Incomplete (changes to F after specified deadlines)

For additional information, visit Academic Grading System.

Graduation: Application for a Degree

To obtain a degree or certificate from Rockland Community College, students must apply for graduation. Students who believe they have met all degree requirements must complete the online Application for Graduation form in order to notify Records & Registration to review their academic history. Records & Registration will notify the student of their eligibility for graduation or outline the student’s remaining course requirements. For additional information, visit the Apply for Graduation page.

Hawk's Hub Food Cupboard

The Hawk’s HUB (formerly known as Food Cupboard) offers inclusive services to our students, including personal hygiene products (soap, shampoo, razors, laundry detergent, feminine products, deodorant, etc.) and a diverse selection of non-perishable groceries. The Hawk’s HUB is located in the Student Union, Room 3200. Please take note of the following procedures related to the Hawk’s HUB before utilizing our services:

  • All students must currently be enrolled and bring a valid RCC student ID card.
  • Demonstrate respect to all of those who use the Hawk’s HUB and the volunteers.
  • Participants are expected to bring their own standard grocery store-size reusable bag. A bag will be provided if a participant does not have one (limited supply).
  • Participants will be required to check out at the check-out counter, with a Hawk’s HUB volunteer, located in front of the personal hygiene products.
  • Participants will need to ask a Hawk’s HUB volunteer for access to personal hygiene products.
  • Participants will be allowed to shop through the Hawk’s HUB on their own taking a limited quantity of one (1) per item.
  • Participants are allowed to fill one (1) bag a week from the Hawk’s HUB.

The Hawk’s HUB has different hours depending on the availability of volunteers. Please go to our Hawk’s HUB page. If you have any questions about the Hawk’s HUB or volunteering, please contact the Connection Center at 845-574-4414 or email [email protected].

Hospitality and Culinary Arts Center

70 Main St, Nyack, NY 10960 • 845-875-7571

Rockland Community College’s Hospitality and Culinary Arts Center is located downtown in the iconic river village of Nyack, NY. At its focus, the Center offers credit and non-credit degree programs, with hospitality and culinary tracks. Students learn in a state-of-the-industry teaching kitchen with restaurant-quality equipment, receive instruction from talented professionals, and experience the business operations of the Center first-hand.

Housing

Rockland Community College is pleased to offer full-time students an off-campus housing option with shuttle service at St Thomas Aquinas College-STAC (10 miles away) in Sparkill, NY. For more information, including eligibility requirements, costs, and accommodations at STAC, please visit the Off-Campus Housing page.

Identification Card

All students and employees are required to carry a SUNY Rockland Community College Photo ID card. Student IDs are an important tool to access a variety of campus services. To receive your ID, please follow these steps below:

  1. Make sure you are registered for classes. Only registered students will be able to receive an ID.
  2. Look up and write down your student ID number, which can be found on your profile page in the myRCC portal. You will need to bring this with you when you go to get your student ID printed.
  3. Visit the Public Safety Office on the second floor of the Fieldhouse in room 5209 at the Suffern, NY main campus.

Please remember that ID cards MUST BE PRESENTED to any college representative, acting in the performance of their duties. Visit the Public Safety page in myRCC for more information and hours.

Immunization Requirements

New York State Public Health Law 2165 requires all students, regardless of age, who enroll in six or more credits to complete the Meningococcal Meningitis Response section to the Immunization Record. Students must indicate the date of immunization or decline to be immunized. New York State Public Health Law 2165 requires all students born on or after January 1, 1957 and enrolled in six or more credits to demonstrate proof of immunity against measles, mumps and rubella. Failure to provide acceptable documentation in a timely fashion may result in removal from class without refund of tuition and fees. All students are strongly encouraged to stay up to date on their initial course of vaccinations and boosters consistent with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required as a condition to enroll in in-person courses. Questions regarding these policies should be referred to Records & Registration or visit Immunization Policy and Forms.

Injuries / Accidents

Public Safety Officers are available twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week to provide first-aid treatment and to respond to medical emergencies. Officers are trained in first aid, CPR, emergency oxygen, and automatic external defibrillators. Students should call 574-4911 and provide their names and location.

International Student Services

RCC is proud to enroll over 100 international students from more than 40 different countries each year. International Student Services (ISS) promotes the recruitment, enrollment and support of international students on F-1 student visas to enable them to achieve their educational, professional and personal goals. ISS provides advice, counseling, and advocacy regarding admission, immigration, cross-cultural, and personal matters for all prospective and current international students. For more information, email [email protected].

Library

The Rockland Community College Library serves the entire Rockland County community as an information center and encourages users to take advantage of the wealth of resources it has to offer. We invite you to use our services to search for information and engage in other learning or research activities, on site or online. The Library also supports the academic and information needs of its students and faculty by providing a broad array of information resources and services. Our collection includes: 29,000 print books collection; Over 90 single journals in print or electronic version; Almost 7,000 audio visual materials in various formats; Streaming videos (approximately 20,000 titles); 376,000 e-books collection; Access to 30,000 journals in electronic databases; and 180 electronic databases accessible both on and off campus. The library offers 18 public access PCs; a 24-seat computer lab for instructional space and student use; two quiet study rooms; 12 laptops for use in the library; 85 graphing calculators for semester loan; scientific calculators and charging devices for use in the library. The Library also runs the RCC Loaner Laptop program, which is in place to assist students experiencing difficulties completing their coursework due to the inability to access a computer outside of RCC. The process for applying for a loaner device, the granting of the approval, and the pickup and return of loaner laptops all reside with the library. All students wishing to request a loaner device are encouraged to contact the RCC Library at [email protected] or call 845-574-4408. Devices are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. We are pleased to be able to provide you with this free and supportive service. For more information visit the College’s Webpage for the Library or the Library’s website.

Lost and Found

Lost & Found is located in Public Safety, Fieldhouse, Room 5209 (2nd Floor). For more information call 845-574-4238.

Parking - Registration of Vehicles

Public Safety is responsible for the campus parking program, which includes the registration of all faculty, staff and student vehicles, and the enforcement of parking and traffic regulations. The issuance of a parking permit does not guarantee a parking space but does provide the permit holder with the opportunity to park in authorized areas when there are available parking spaces. Parking permits will be obtainable from Public Safety on campus during specific hours, the same as the ID Cards. Contact Public Safety at 845-574-4238 or 845-574-4217. Visit the Public Safety page in myRCC for more information.

Pregnancy or Related Conditions

The College does not discriminate against any student on the basis of pregnancy or related conditions. Absences due to medical conditions relating to pregnancy will be excused for as long as deemed medically necessary by a student’s doctor and students will be given the opportunity to make up missed work. Students needing assistance can seek adjustments from Accessibility Services, which is located in Room 8150 in the Technology Center, at 845-574-4541 or [email protected] or the Title IX Coordinator. Please see https://sunyrockland.edu/about/title-ix/ for more information.

Recycling

Electronics — Contact ext.4200

Batteries – NO WET CELLS – send all batteries, rechargeable and alkaline to maintenance, basement of Academic II

Printer & Toner Cartridges — send to Maintenance, basement Academic II

Paper — Any color office paper, newspaper, magazines, junk mail, notebook paper, construction paper, copier/fax paper, manila folders, envelopes, cardboard, spiral and marble notebooks, telephone books, boxes, craft paper, corrugated containers, brown paper bags, soft covered books, hardcover books WITHOUT the hard covers, non-metallic wrapping paper & greeting cards; NO waxed or coated paper, paper cups, mixed material paper, paper towels/napkins

Containers — Plastics #1—#7; clear, green, or brown glass bottles/jars; aluminum cans, foil, plates; EMPTY Aerosol cans; bi-metal containers; milk cartons, drink boxes, food & beverage containers; NO plastic bags, film plastic, cookware, ceramic cups or plates, containers w/ toxic substances, hangers, styrofoam, light bulbs

Textiles — Be sure bins and textiles are dry and not moldy before depositing materials; Green Tree Recycling is a not-for-profit company that accepts all material. The serviceable clothing is distributed locally first through Charity Partners, and then wherever needed.

Refund Policy

For the full refund policy, visit https://sunyrockland.edu/financial-aid/tuition/refund-policy/.

Sexual Harassment / Sexual Violence / Title IX

In accordance with Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and College policy, the College does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its educational programs, activities, admissions or employment practices. Title IX and College policy protect students and employees, both male and female, from unlawful sex discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence.

Examples of sexual harassment are: pressure for a dating, romantic, or intimate relationship; unwelcome sexual advances; unwelcome touching, kissing, hugging, or massaging; unnecessary references to parts of the body; remarks about a person’s gender, nonconformity with gender stereotypes, or sexual orientation; sexual innuendoes or humor; obscene gestures; sexual graffiti, pictures, or posters; sexually explicit profanity; stalking or cyberbullying that is based on gender or sex; email, texting (“sexting”) and Internet use that violates the Sexual Harassment Policy or Student Code of Conduct; or sexual violence.

Examples of sexual violence are: pressure for or forced sexual activity; sexual penetration without consent; sexual contact without consent; incest; statutory rape; sexual exploitation; stalking that is based on gender or sex; or dating and domestic violence.

The College encourages the reporting of sex discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence, that is prompt and accurate. This allows the College community to quickly respond to allegations and offer immediate support to the victim/survivor. All allegations will be investigated promptly and thoroughly, and both the victim and the accused will be afforded equitable rights during the investigative process.

All victims/survivors of sexual violence have rights, regardless of whether the crime or violation occurs on campus, off campus, or while studying abroad. For information about these student rights, visit https://sunyrockland.edu/about/title-ix/students-bill-of-rights/.

The College wants you to get the information and support you need regardless of whether you would like to move forward with a report of sexual violence to campus officials or to police. You may want to talk with someone about something you observed or experienced, even if you are not sure that the behavior constitutes sexual violence. A conversation where questions can be answered is far superior to keeping something to yourself. Confidentiality varies. For detailed information about confidentiality and privacy, including information about how to reach confidential, supportive resources on and off campus, visit Options for Confidentially Disclosing Sexual Violence. The College’s Sexual Harassment Policy and Sexual Violence Response Policy can be found on the website. Individuals with questions or concerns about Title IX and/or those who wish to file a complaint of non-compliance, may contact:

Title IX Coordinator:
Christina Merriweather
Interim Executive Director of Student Engagement and College Life
Technology Center, Room 8247
845-574-4276
[email protected]

Deputy Title IX Coordinator:
Julia Jefferson
Sr. Human Resources Generalist
Brucker Hall, Room 6104
845-574-4160
[email protected]

Alternatively, or in addition to the Title IX Coordinator(s), inquiries regarding Title IX may be directed to the federal agency charged with enforcing compliance with Title IX, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, 32 Old Slip 26th Floor, New York, NY
10005-2500; Tel. (646) 428-3800; TDD: 877-521-2172; Email [email protected].

Student Involvement

To address the interests of our diverse student body, Student Involvement offers exciting opportunities to meet new friends and explore different cultures. Through a variety of programs, services and activities, Student Involvement provides students an opportunity to broaden their college experience outside of the classroom. For more information on any of the below programs, stop by (Student Union, Room 3208) or call Student Involvement 845-574-4373 and remember to check your RCC email for updates. Visit Student Involvement for more information.

CO-CURRICULAR TRANSCRIPT PROGRAM

This program provides an opportunity for students to receive an official document that lists their learning experiences beyond the classroom. This is an official record of the co-curricular activities and accomplishments of our students, which is verified by an advisor and Student Involvement. For more information, stop by (Student Union, Room 3208) or call Student Involvement 845-574-4373 and remember to check your RCC email for updates.

EVENING STAR PROGRAM

The Evening Star Program is designed with evening students in mind—to encourage evening student involvement and to promote active learning. Evening students are provided on-campus information, advisement and resources; refreshments are also provided. Evening Star is offered on a staggered schedule once per week on the Bridge between Academic I and Academic II from 5:30pm – 7:00 pm.

FREE LEGAL INFORMATION

Free legal information is provided to serve as a resource to inform Rockland Community College students of their rights and responsibilities concerning legal issues. Free confidential consultations with an attorney are available by appointment, as funded through the Student Activity Fees. This service does not include representation in court. To contact the attorney, contact Student Involvement ([email protected] | 845-574-4373)

NATIONAL SOCIETY OF LEADERSHIP & SUCCESS (NSLS)

The NSLS is the largest leadership honor society in the United States. Our NSLS chapter at Rockland Community College was started in 2019. Our local chapter is part of the national organization with 700+ chapters and over 1.4 million members. Students are selected based on exemplary academic achievement. Our members have access to: More than $400,000 in scholarships; An exclusive NSLS job board; A personalized letter of recommendation. The NSLS leadership program teaches the interpersonal skills that employers seek to give you an edge in the job market. Hear directly from current members as they share how their experience has changed their life. If you become a member, some of the other benefits are: Learn from exceptional leaders like former President Barack Obama during exclusive Speaker Broadcast; Meet new friends and make lifelong connections (on-campus and virtually); Overcome challenges with success coaches shortcutting your way to success; Access to private networking events. Contact Student Involvement to learn more ([email protected] | 845-574-4373).

STUDENT ACTIVITIES BOARD

The Student Activities Board (SAB), a committee of the Student Government Association, initiates student-sponsored, campus-wide events and programs, including Club Fest, Spring Fest, sporting events, lectures and theater trips. Joining SAB is a great way to become involved on campus, meet friends, have fun and develop transferable leadership skills. The SAB Chairperson collaborates with the Presidents of all student Clubs and Organizations to coordinate programs, share information, and discuss ideas and concerns. For more information, contact the Director of Student Involvement..

STUDENT ACTIVITY FEES

Each semester, student activity fees are collected from enrolled RCC students. The Student Government Association approves and oversees the expenditures of the student activity fees. Student activity fees are used to support programs for the benefit of the campus community, including cultural, educational, social and recreational programs, as well as tutoring, athletics and campus based scholarships. Students are encouraged to take full advantage of activities supported by student activity fees. For more information, please stop by Student Involvement, Room 3208.

STUDENT CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Students are strongly encouraged to get involved in any of the 40+ Student Clubs/Organizations here at Rockland Community College. There are Clubs/Organizations focused on academic majors, performing arts, physical health, religion, politics, and a cadre of other special interests. This is a great way to build your transferable skills as you prepare for the next step after RCC. A list of Student Clubs/Organizations can be found on the RCC website. Clubs and Organizations are supported and funded by the Student Government Association; each Student Club/Organization has an advisor who is an employee of the College. Clubs and Organizations must submit an application to reactivate their Club/Organization each semester. An application must also be completed and turned in to activate a new Club/Organization; please check your RCC email for the deadlines.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

The Student Government Association is the official student voice of RCC’s student body. Composed of 5 Executive Board members, 10 Sophomore Senators, and 10 Freshman Senators, the Student Government Association oversees the Student Activities budget and represents the student body on a number of campus committees such as the RCC Association Board. Members of the Student Government Association are elected to serve for one academic year. Elections for Executive Board members and Sophomore Senators are held in April. Freshman Senators are elected in October. Student Government Association meetings are held every Thursday at 3:30pm in the Student Union, Room 3214. For more information, contact Student Involvement, 845-574-4373.

STUDENT PUBLICATIONS

Outlook Student Press, RCC’s student-run newspaper, publishes campus news, feature stories, editorials, columns, entertainment and sports news, advertising, and more. For additional information or to join the staff, visit the Outlook office in the Library.
Impulse, the award-winning literary magazine, is published annually by students and faculty members, and contains student art and photography as well as fiction, poetry, essays, and other creative writing by students.

VOLUNTEER SERVICE PROGRAM

The Volunteer Service Program provides opportunities for RCC students to develop a sense of social awareness and an understanding of life, work and responsible citizenship in a diverse and changing world on-campus and off-campus. After completing a brief application, students are given access to a set of on-campus and off-campus volunteer opportunities to choose from that matches their skills, interests and times of availability. For off-campus volunteering, students can be paired with a non-profit agency where a partnership allows for advanced student learning. To complete the Program, students will fulfill a total of 42 hours of volunteer service to be eligible—for an opportunity to audit a 3-credit course after graduation and to receive a certificate and graduation cords. Contact Student Involvement to learn more ([email protected] | 845-574-4373).

Student Success Advising

At Rockland Community College, you are provided with a Student Success Team that will help you with your academic journey, career exploration, transfer planning, support service referrals, and more! During your first semester, you will take an ‘Introduction to the School’ course that will outline the various College offices and departments that can help you on your path. RCC has four schools that specialize in different areas of study: School of Arts, Education, Humanities & Social Sciences; School of Business & Professional Studies; School of Nursing, Health & Wellness; and School of Science, Technology, Engineering & Math. Because you belong to one of the Academic Schools, you will be assigned a Student Success Advisor who is an expert in your program or major. To find out who your Advisor is and how to contact them, visit the who is my advisor page and click on your School and then find your program. Contact Student Success at 845-574-4306 or [email protected] with any questions. Please also see the webpage for advising.

Testing Center

Located in Room 8280, the Testing Center offers a range of services to students, including makeup exams, special testing accommodations, and support for distance learning courses. Additionally, it serves as an external testing venue for Rockland County residents enrolled in courses at other colleges. Upholding academic integrity and excellence is a top priority for Rockland Community College and the Testing Center staff. Students utilizing the Testing Center must adhere to the Student Code of Conduct and comply with instructions provided by Testing Center staff. Operating hours coincide with class schedules, and for the most up-to-date information, please contact the Center at 845-574-4504 (message only), email [email protected] or visit the Testing Center page.

Transcripts

Students may request copies of their official transcripts online. The transcript fee is $5.00 per copy. Allow several business days for processing official transcript requests.

Transfer Services

Transferring to a four-year college is the goal of most RCC students. To ease this process, RCC offers transfer counseling and guaranteed transfer agreements with numerous public and private four-year colleges. Graduates of Rockland Community College’s programs have enrolled at more than 360 four-year colleges and universities in the United States, Canada, and overseas. Our graduates have been admitted to Yale, Cornell, Amherst, Columbia, Cal Tech, Fordham, NYU, Wesleyan, Georgetown, Brandeis, UCLA, Parson School of Design, and numerous SUNY and CUNY colleges. Your Student Success Advisor can help you research transfer options and help you navigate the application process. In addition, each semester, transfer events are held on campus to encourage Rockland Community College students to make direct contact with representatives of four-year institutions. For more information, contact your Student Success Advisor, email [email protected] or visit Transfer Services.

TRiO Student Support Services

TRiO is a federally funded enrichment program designed for first-generation, low-income, and/or disabled students who have the potential to achieve and maintain high levels of academic excellence. Participants are developed as leaders and are involved in professional development, personal growth experiences, and community engagement activities. Through the TRiO program, students are introduced to RCC resources, faculty and administrators, dedicated peer mentors and committed program professionals. TRiO services include tutoring, academic skills development, and specialized services to assist students in developing necessary skills and strategies to succeed in college. All services are free and available to any student who completes the application, qualifies under federal guidelines, and is invited into the program. Students must be a citizen or national of the United States or meet the residency requirements for Federal Student Aid; be admitted or accepted for admission in the next academic term at RCC; be a student with low-income; be a first generation college student OR a student with a disability. For more information, contact TRiO at [email protected] or 845-574-4276. Visit the TRiO Scholars page for more information.

Tuition Refund Appeals & Retroactive Withdrawal Requests

For more detailed information about tuition refund appeals and retroactive withdrawal requests, please visit: https://sunyrockland.edu/financial-aid/tuition/refund-policy/tuition-refund-appeals-and-retroactive-withdrawal-requests/.

TUITION REFUND APPEALS

A Tuition Refund Appeal (TRA) is a petition for students requesting a tuition refund due to unexpected and serious circumstances beyond his/her control that prevented the student’s ability to attend or complete courses during a given term. Students must be withdrawn from their courses for the appeal to be considered; students who complete their coursework and receive final grades ( to include an “F”) cannot submit a tuition appeal. Students looking to dispute a grade must complete the process for a grade change RCC Grade Change. If the appeal is submitted while the semester is in progress, the student must have officially dropped the course. TRA’s will not be accepted once final grades have been assigned. Courses with assigned grades other than a “W” are not eligible for a tuition refund appeal.

A Tuition Refund Appeal applies to ALL COURSES taken during that semester unless specific documentation supports a different outcome. If the TRA is approved, the student receives a letter grade of “X” which will not affect their GPA. If the TRA is denied, the decision stands and no refund will be issued. Students have 60 days from the last day of the semester in which the courses were dropped to file a Tuition Refund Appeal.

RETROACTIVE WITHDRAWAL REQUESTS

A student may request a Retroactive Withdrawal from a course or courses in which the student was enrolled at the College if circumstances of a serious and compelling nature prevented the completion of course work and extenuating circumstances prevented withdrawal by the deadline published on the academic calendar. A request for a retroactive withdrawal applies to all courses taken during the part of term in question since “extenuating circumstances” are not course specific.

Voter Registration for NYS

In accordance with the National Voter Registration Act, Rockland Community College has established a Voter Registration Program to ensure that the College community understands the importance of voting and that eligible students and staff have the opportunity to vote.

Here’s some important information about registering to vote:

TO REGISTER YOU MUST

  • be a US citizen
  • be 18 years old by December 31 of the year in which you file the form. (Note: you must be 18 years old by the date of the general, primary or other election in which you want to vote.)
  • live at your present address at least 30 days before an election
  • not be in jail or on parole for a felony conviction
  • not be adjudged mentally incompetent by a court
  • not claim the right to vote elsewhere

You can register in person at your County Board of Elections on any business day, except Election Day. If you want to vote in an election you must mail or deliver the registration form to your county board of elections no later than 25 days before the election in which you want to vote. Your eligibility to vote will be based on the date you file the form and your county board will notify you of your eligibility.

NEED A REGISTRATION FORM?

You can get registration forms at most state agency offices and post offices or at any County Board of Elections, or stop by Student Involvement, Room 3208.

QUESTIONS

Call your County Board of Elections, or call 1-800-FOR-VOTE. Hearing impaired people with TDD may call 1-800-533-8683.

Selected College Policies

Please note this is not an exhaustive list of all college policies. For a complete list of all college policies in their most up-to-date form, please visit https://sunyrockland.edu/about/college-policies/.