Top 25 Questions by Parents and Guardians

1. What type of college is MWCC?
2. What is the process for my son/daughter to enroll at MWCC?
3. My son/daughter is still in high school, but is ready to attend college. Are there any options?
4. Will our family be able to afford MWCC?
5. My son/daughter is unsure of a major. Will MWCC be a good fit?
6. My son/daughter has a disability. Is MWC a good fit for him/her?
7. My son/daughter plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree. What programs are available for students who want to transfer?
8. My son/daughter wants to start a career after graduating from MWCC. Is MWCC a good fit?
9. Is MWCC a safe environment for students?
10. What if my son/daughter needs a tutor or extra help with a class?
11. What are MWCC’s payment policies?
12. Is financial aid available?
13. Are scholarships available?
14. My son/daughter is covered by my health insurance. Do we need to purchase the college health insurance plan?
15. How do students buy textbooks?
16. How can I support my son/daughter to be a successful college student?
17. Can I access college information about my son/daughter?
18. How does MWCC communicate important information regarding a student’s enrollment to the student?
19. Where can I access an academic calendar?
20. What is the college’s attendance policy?
21. How are course schedules set up?
22. Is there computer access on campus?
23. Will my son/daughter have access to the fitness center at MWCC?
24. Is public transportation available?
25. What is parking like on-campus?

1. What type of college is MWCC?

Personalized attention and small class sizes are hallmarks of MWCC. At MWCC, professors know their students’ names and care about their success. Unparalleled student services are readily available whether your son/daughter needs academic support, transfer or career counseling, or job placement assistance. Also, MWCC offers over 40 associate degrees and certificates to choose from and over 20 clubs and organizations to participate in. MWCC is dedicated to providing high quality, affordable education opportunities that prepare students whether they want to transfer to a four-year college or to begin a career. Many courses are transferable to colleges nationwide and cost significantly less.

The 269-acre, scenic main campus is located in Gardner, Massachusetts; satellite sites are located in Leominster, Fitchburg, and Devens. MWCC’s facilities include the 555-seat Theatre at the Mount, a fitness & wellness center, art studios, science and computer labs, and more.

2. What is the process for my son/daughter to enroll at MWCC?

MWCC’s student-friendly staff will help make the process of applying and enrolling as simple as possible. Advisers help students select courses based on current academic abilities and work with students to build an educational plan to ensure that students achieve their goals.

Step 1: Complete an application

Complete a college application, available online at www.mwcc.edu. The minimum requirement to enter the college is a high school diploma or GED.

Step 2: Choose an associate degree or certificate program

Choose one of MWCC’s over 40 associate degree or certificate programs. Selective programs such as Clinical Laboratory Science, Complementary Health Care, Dental Hygiene, Nursing, Physical Therapist Assistant, Practical Nurse, and Massage Therapy require additional minimum admissions requirements.

Step 3: Placement testing

After acceptance, schedule a placement testing appointment by calling (978) 630-9244. All incoming students must have their skill levels assessed in English, reading, sentence skills, and mathematics. Those students who have completed previous college coursework may be eligible to waive their placement testing by completing the testing waiver form. For detailed information regarding placement testing and to view sample tests, visit the Student Success Center website.

Step 4: Registering for courses

Once you have completed your assessment test, you can schedule your courses. For your convenience, you may want to schedule your testing and course selection on the same day. Call (978) 630-9238.

Step 5: Applying for financial aid

Although not required, MWCC strongly suggests that students apply for financial aid. The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is available on the web at www.fafsa.ed.gov or in our financial aid office. If you require assistance, contact our financial aid office at (978) 630-9169. Counselors can meet with you to complete the process.

Step 6: Submitting proof of immunization

Submit proof of immunization. Massachusetts law requires that students present a physician's certificate or school immunization records to be registered at an institution of higher learning (some exceptions may apply). If you require assistance, contact our health services office at (978) 630-9136

Selective programs have additional immunization requirements.

That’s it!

The Family & Parent Orientation gives a student’s family and support network the opportunity to learn about campus resources and ask questions about MWCC so they can be well-informed in assisting you to achieve your academic goals. Invitations to this orientation are mailed out with your invitation to the New & Transfer Student Orientation in July. With a 15:1 student/faculty ratio, MWCC students receive individualized attention from faculty who care. No large, impersonal lecture halls here! Not only do students receive individualized attention in the classroom, but all across the campus. Tutoring, career services, advising, and counseling are just some of the student-centered services available. Because MWCC faculty members are dedicated to teaching instead of research, their focus is on student learning. Professors know their students' names and care about their perspectives and success. Students can ask additional questions or discuss coursework during their office hours. MWCC offers several degree and certificate program options to fit students' goals, whether they want to: gain short-term training to start a career or transfer to a four-year public or private college or university. Go to http://www.mwcc.edu/programs/default.html

3. My son/daughter is still in high school, but is ready to attend college. Are there any options?

Through the dual enrollment program, high school students can complete their junior or senior year of high school and their first year of college simultaneously at MWCC. Participants even receive a discounted tuition rate. Students must meet established guidelines of MWCC and their participating high school. Students enrolled in the dual enrollment program are not allowed to participate in classes beginning after 6:00 p.m. without permission from the sending high school and the student’s parent or guardian.

4. Will our family be able to afford MWCC?

MWCC is one of the best values in higher education. Students who start at MWCC often save thousands of dollars over those who attend private colleges and universities. The courses students would take toward an associate degree at MWCC parallel the courses they would take during the first two years at most four-year colleges and universities. MWCC’s career-focused programs are equally as economical, and high quality, as other private two year career programs. Financial assistance is also available.

5. My son/daughter is unsure of a major. Will MWCC be a good fit?

Many students aren't sure of their academic and career goals. MWCC is a perfect place to start. At significantly less cost, students can explore different subjects, change their major, and decide what path is best for them. Personalized academic and transfer counseling services can help students decide.

6. My son/daughter has a disability. Is MWCC a good fit for him/her?

MWCC has various types of assistance available to support qualified students with disabilities. Appropriate documentation of a disability is required. Available support services include, but are not limited to, reserved parking, elevator privileges, note takers, scribes, extended time exams/alternative testing, tutorial services, readers, study skills, taped lectures, computer-assisted instruction, consultation with faculty addressing individual issues, assistance in obtaining auxiliary aids, and adaptive computer technology. For more information, contact the coordinator for students with disabilities, (978) 630-9120.

7. My son/daughter plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree. What programs are available for students who want to transfer?

MWCC students transfer seamlessly to many public and private colleges and universities every year. They often save thousands of dollars by starting at MWCC. Also, if students meet certain qualifications, they will be guaranteed admission and/or thirty-three percent off tuition at participating Massachusetts public colleges and universities.

MWCC’s “3 plus ONE” program allows students to complete three years at MWCC and only one year at a four year college. For more information, go to http://transfer.mwcc.edu.

Check out our college cost comparison chart to see how much you can save if your son/daughter start their college education at MWCC.

8. My son/daughter wants to start a career after graduating from MWCC. Is MWCC a good fit?

Students aiming to enter the workforce after graduation can enroll in one of MWCC's career programs, which in many cases, can be completed in as little as two years. Check out our degree and certificate list to view student career and transfer options.

9. Is MWCC a safe environment for students?

MWCC is one of the safest places you can be. Professional police officers are dedicated to maintaining a safe learning environment and offer crime prevention programs and services such as safety escorts. For detailed information on security at MWCC, you can view the college’s annual security report (PDF).

10. What if my son/daughter needs a tutor or extra help with a class?

Staff in the Academic Support Center can help! Writing and math tutoring is available on a drop-in basis. Tutoring in other subjects is arranged by appointment. Services include: a writing center, online writing lab, math lab, and individual and group tutoring sessions. All services are provided free of charge to MWCC students. The center is located in room 116 on the first floor. For more information, access their website at: http://academicsupport.mwcc.edu

11. What are MWCC’s payment policies?

Paying for college is big responsibility. Payment of all charges is due in full by the due date specified on the student’s bill. Students whose accounts have not been paid in full, or otherwise cleared through commitments by other sources will be subject to cancelation of class enrollment. Students will not be allowed to re-enroll without proper payment. Payment is accepted via cash or credit card; waivers, scholarships, and financial aid; through third party payments (such as through an employer); and through an affordable monthly payment plan. For more information and payment resources, go to http://studentaccounts.mwcc.edu.

12. Is financial aid available?

Most students attending MWCC benefit from some form of financial aid. Most financial aid is need-based and begins with the student applying through the federal financial aid form at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Once the results of the FASFA are received by the MWCC financial aid office, each student’s application is reviewed and their awards are made. Students may be eligible for grant, loan, or work related aid. Timing is everything, and with financial aid, earlier is always better. Students should adhere to all published deadlines to receive their optimal financial aid awards. For more information go to http://www.mwcc.edu/financial.

13. Are scholarships available?

Scholarships are another form of financial aid that include a review of the student’s academic, personal and financial information. Depending upon the scholarship, students may need to document volunteer and community service activities and write a personal statement describing their reason for enrollment at the college or other related information. Scholarships are awarded to eligible students in January and in April for use during the following term. Ask for a scholarship brochure from the admissions or financial aid office, or go to http://www.mwcc.edu/catalog/financialaid.html.

14. My son/daughter is covered by my health insurance. Do we need to purchase the college health insurance plan?

Health insurance is required by state law for all students registering for nine or more credits. To ensure that students have proper health insurance, the college provides students with the Community College Health Insurance Plan. Students will see a fee for this on their tuition and fees bill. If you have comparable health insurance through another carrier, students may waive the charge at http://www.universityhealthplans.com/intro/MassCC.html.

This must be done no later than the first day of classes or your name will be submitted to the insurance company. Once submitted there will be no waiver or refund of the fee. Please note: free care does not constitute comparable coverage. For more information, go to http://studentaccounts.mwcc.edu.

15. How do students buy textbooks?

Books and supplies may be purchased from the bookstore, operated by Barnes & Noble, at the Gardner campus. The bookstore has extended hours each semester to accommodate evening, Devens, and Leominster campus students. For information, call (978) 632-8238. Regular hours are Mon. – Thurs., 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. & Fri., 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Bookstore staff can advise students on how to purchase software at an educational discount (through the bookstore, or elsewhere) as well as how to access low cost Internet Service Providers that offer institutional discounts to students.

16. How can I support my son/daughter to be a successful college student?

College is a pivotal time in a student’s life. MWCC expects students to be responsible and to do their best in their academic and co-curricular work. Parents and guardians can help their sons/daughters to be successful by attending the Family and Support Network Orientation and encouraging students to attend the New & Transfer Student Orientation, join clubs and activities, and to work to their potential.

17. Can I access college information about my son/daughter?

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. The college cannot legally release information to anyone except for the student, including but not limited to grades, attendance records, and payment information. The only information that can be released, with the student’s permission, is “directory” information, which may include the student’s first and last name and middle initial, the city and state of the student’s billing address; the student’s declared programs of study; the student’s enrollment status (full or part time); and degree or certificate earned and academic honors. For a full explanation of this policy, go to http://www.mwcc.edu/catalog/procedures.html.

18. How does MWCC communicate important information regarding a student’s enrollment to the student?

Phone, mail, email, and online.

Many services related to student enrollment at MWCC may be accessed online by students using an assigned student ID and personal identification number (PIN). To access these services, students must go online to www.mwcc.edu and click on “Web Services” to:

• Register for courses
• Add/drop courses
• Open and/or forward your student email account
• Review your financial aid information
• View and print your class schedule, grades, and transcripts (grades are not mailed)
• Review and pay your bill online (after registering)
• Access MWCC library web services
• Find the most up-to-date credit course listings
• Review the college catalog
• Run a degree evaluation

19. Where can I access an academic calendar?

The college’s academic calendar can be accessed at http://www.mwcc.edu/catalog/calendar.html.

20. What is the college’s class attendance policy?

Success in college is often related to class participation and attendance. Students are expected to attend ALL scheduled class meetings. If a student is unable to attend a class, it is the student’s responsibility to communicate with the instructor and make up work that was missed as a result of his/her absence. Absence does not constitute an excuse for academic work due. Excessive absence is defined by each faculty member and included in the course syllabus. If a student is excessively absent, he or she may be withdrawn or receive a failing grade for the course. MWCC supports the individual attendance policy as stated in every course syllabus.

In the case of emergency or illness that will cause a student to miss three or more consecutive sessions, the student should notify his or her specific instructors. If a student expects to be absent for an extended period due to illness, accident, etc., he/she should notify the student services office (students need not call for an absence of one day).

21. How are course schedules set up?

Monday/Wednesday/Friday Courses

Typically Monday/Wednesday/Friday courses meet from:
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
9:10 a.m. – 10:10 a.m.
10:20 a.m. – 11:20 a.m.
12:40 a.m. – 1:40 a.m.
1:50 a.m. – 2:50 a.m.
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

From 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 a.m. is Community Time, a time when few classes are scheduled so students have time to participate in groups and clubs as well as student activities.

Tuesday/Thursday Courses

Tuesday/Thursday classes typically meet from
8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
9:40 a.m. – 11:10 a.m.
11:20 a.m. – 12:50 p.m.
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
2:40 p.m. – 4:10 p.m.
4:20 p.m. – 5:50 p.m.

Days of the week

Days of the week will be noted on your son/daughter’s schedule the following way:
M - Monday
T - Tuesday
W - Wednesday
R - Thursday
F - Friday
S - Saturday
U - Sunday

22. Is there computer access on-campus?

Open access computers are located in the library for academic and educational use. Computers are also available in the Academic Support Center and in labs on the second and third floors. Students can do research, homework, and prepare for presentations using these electronic resources. Wireless access is available to students wishing to access the college’s network capabilities; you can get more information on this service and sign up through the Information Services department, email helpdesk@mwcc.mass.edu.

23. Will my son/daughter have access to the fitness center at MWCC?

Full-time MWCC students have access to the Fitness & Wellness Center at a discounted rate. The center features state-of-the-art equipment in a clean and friendly environment. The center is staffed with professional and certified personnel trained to assist your son/daughter in their recreational and fitness activities. For more information on the center, go to http://fitnessctr.mwcc.edu.

24. Is public transportation available?

The following transportation possibilities are available: MART Gardner Intra-City Busses; MART Fitchburg/Leominster Busses; MBTA Commuter Rail Service to Fitchburg only; Northern Tier and Vermont Transit Bus Lines. Further information on each is available in the student services office, room 141. You can also access information at www.montachusettrta.org or call (978) 345-7711.

25. What is parking like on-campus?

There is ample parking for students, faculty, and staff and reserved parking for the disabled. Parking stickers are not required for general student parking but they are required for vehicles that are registered out-of-state. Carpools may be facilitated by contacting the student services office. Special parking stickers for students with temporary or permanent disabilities are available in the health services office. Parking rules are defined in detail in the MWCC Traffic Rules and Regulation Booklet.