Student Handbook

Academic Calendar

Important dates for each semester — holidays, registration deadlines, final exam schedules, and withdrawal dates — are all listed on the Academic Calendar.

MyWCC Student Portal

MyWCC is your self-service hub. Use it to register for classes, pay tuition, check financial aid, view transcripts, and access your college email.

For help with your MyWCC account, contact the Welcome Center at MyWCCHelpdesk@sunywcc.edu.

Student Email

SUNY WCC uses your @my.sunywcc.edu email for all official communications. You are responsible for checking it regularly. Activate your account and set up multi-factor authentication as soon as you enroll.

Student ID Card & Parking

You need your Student ID at all times on campus and at all extension centers. It’s required to enter some buildings, for the library, athletic facilities, and campus events.

Get your Student ID and free parking decal at the Security Office (Student Center, Room 118). Bring your paid tuition receipt and photo ID. Your first ID is free; replacements are $10.

SUNY Westchester Community College offers free parking. Students must display a parking decal and may park in any numbered lot. Letter-designated lots are reserved for faculty and staff. Visitors park in Lot #1.

Students with Felony Convictions Policy

A prior felony conviction may impede your ability to complete the requirements of certain academic programs and meet the licensure requirements for certain professions. Students who have concerns about such matters are advised to contact the respective Dean of the School for the academic program they wish to complete. For more information on the policy visit the Rights and Responsibilities webpage.

Chosen Name & Pronouns

SUNY Westchester Community College allows students and employees to use a chosen name and pronouns wherever possible, consistent with applicable law. Some records require your legal name.

Changing Personal Information

Update your contact information through MyWCC. Name changes require documentation and must be processed through the Registrar’s Office.  Address changes involving a change of county require documentation and must be processed through the Bursar’s Office.

Immunization Requirements

New York State law requires students taking more than 5 credits to provide proof of immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella, and to complete a meningococcal meningitis documentation requirement. An immunization hold will prevent registration until documentation is submitted.

Orientation

Orientation is a full-day experience for new and transfer students. All first-time, full-time students are required to attend.

Academic Counseling & Student Success

Academic Counselors help you plan your courses, choose a major, and stay on track toward your educational goals.  

Academic Standards, Policies & Procedures

For complete academic policies, including grading, academic standing, attendance, academic honesty, course withdrawal, and more, visit the college’s official Policies & Procedures page:

Key policy areas include:

• Enrollment Policies (1.0) — admissions, placement, registration
• Classes Policies (3.0) — attendance, grading, academic honesty, withdrawal
• Academic Progress Policies (4.0) — academic standing, Dean’s/President’s List, Fresh Start
• Graduating Policies (5.0) — degree requirements, commencement
• Student Records Policies (6.0) — FERPA, transcripts

Appealing a Final Grade

If you believe a final grade was unfairly determined, you have the right to pursue a formal appeal.

For the complete Grade Appeal procedure, including steps, timelines, required forms, and FERPA requirements, visit:

Brightspace (Learning Management System)

Brightspace is the online learning platform for all courses. Courses appear in Brightspace six days before the start date. Your logon is your college email address and password. Log in regularly, check announcements, submit assignments, and use this platform to communicate with your instructors and classmates.

For Brightspace help, contact the SUNY Online Helpdesk at 1-844-673-6786 or visit online.suny.edu/help or mycourses

College Catalog

The catalog is your reference for program requirements, course descriptions, and degree information. This is crucial in guiding you in your course of study to meet your degree requirements and graduate in a timely fashion. Refer to the catalog edition from the year you enrolled in your program.

Changing Your Major

To change your program of study, request a Curriculum Change Request Form from your counselor before selecting courses for the next semester. You’ll need the signature of the chairperson for your new program, then submit the form to the Registrar’s Office.

College Scheduler

College Scheduler helps you build a class schedule that fits your needs. Add courses, block off-break times, and generate various schedule options. Once you’re ready, you can register.

Access it through the College Scheduler tile in your Student Self-Service Center in your MyWCC account. For instructions on how to use it, see the ‘How-To Guides’ on the Registrars page

Dean’s List & President’s List

Full-time students with a semester GPA of 3.5–3.74 earn the Dean’s List. A semester GPA of 3.75–4.0 earns the President’s List.

Degree Works

Degree Works is an online tool to track your progress toward degree or certificate completion. Use the “what-if” feature to see how your courses apply to a different major.

Dropping & Withdrawing from Courses

During the first few weeks of the Fall and Spring semesters, you may drop courses online through MyWCC and will be liable for fees and a percentage of tuition according to the refund schedule listed on the Academic Calendar (in addition, a $5 fee per dropped course applies). The specific date depends on the session you’re enrolled in (15 weeks, 12 weeks, 7.5 weeks, etc.). Dropped courses do not appear on your transcript. During the withdrawal period, leaving a course is considered a withdrawal and will be annotated on your transcript — see the Academic Calendar for specific deadlines. For full withdrawal policies and procedures, see the Enrollment Policy.

Online, Hybrid & HyFlex Courses

SUNY Westchester Community College offers multiple course formats:

• Online: Delivered entirely online through Brightspace.
• Hybrid: A mix of on-campus and online. On-campus meetings are no more than 50% of equivalent in-person time.
• Hybrid Flexible (HyFlex): Combination of online synchronous and in-person instruction modes. Your course will meet in person on campus on scheduled days and times; however, you may attend remotely via Brightspace and Teams. Remote students are integrated with the live class by the instructor.
• Online with In-Person Requirement: 80–90% online with proctored exams on campus.

Online attendance is defined by federal regulation as active participation in a discussion, assignment submission, or quiz/test completion. Students not meeting attendance requirements by the census date receive a WN grade.

Registrar’s Office

The Registrar handles enrollment, course changes, withdrawals, graduation applications, and transcripts. The office is located in the Administration Building, Room 107.

Schools & Programs

SUNY Westchester Community College is organized into four academic schools. Choose your school and major early and work with counselors to stay on your guided pathway towards your graduation goal.

• School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
• School of Business and Professional Careers
• School of Health Sciences and Wellness
• School of Mathematics, Science and Engineering

Testing & Assessment Center

SUNY Westchester Community College has a mandatory assessment and placement policy for all matriculated students. Placement determines your English, math, and reading course levels. Exemptions may apply based on GPA, SAT, ACT, or Regents scores.

Bursar’s Office

Pay your bill online via MyWCC (Mastercard, Visa, Discover accepted) or in person at the Bursar’s Office (Administration Building, first floor) or at one of the College’s extension sites.

Financial Aid

The Office of Student Financial Assistance assists you in receiving federal grants, work-study, loans, and scholarships to finance your education. Check your aid status by visiting your MyWCC > Student Self-Service Center > clicking on the ‘Financial Aid’ tile.

Financial Education (CFEE)

The Center for Financial and Economic Education fosters financial empowerment for students by offering free seminars and one-on-one financial coaching for students.

Scholarships

Many scholarships are available for new, continuing, and graduating students. Awards are presented to full-time and part-time students, as well as incoming, continuing, and graduating students. Awards are based on financial need and academic merit.

Student Fees (FSA)

The Faculty Student Association (FSA) manages these fees:

• Student Activity Fee — funds student organizations, Student Involvement, and Athletics
• Student Service Fee — funds Student Life departments, Security, and Commencement
• Cultural Arts Fee — funds student arts programs and publications

Tuition Refund Appeal

If you have extenuating circumstances, you may be eligible for a tuition refund. You have one year from the last day of the semester to file.

Work-Study

The Federal Work-Study program provides on-campus jobs for students with financial need. Check the work-study box on your FAFSA to be considered.

Academic Support Center

ASC offers free tutoring in math, reading, writing, ESL, science, and other subjects. Workshops and review sessions are also available.

Accessibility Services

Students with documented disabilities are encouraged to register for accommodations each semester. Through the Accommodate platform, students can submit documentation, sign up for accommodations, schedule appointments, and more.

Career Services

Career Counselors help with career assessment, job/internship searches, resumes, and interviews.

Childcare

The Virginia Marx Children’s Center serves children ages 6 weeks to 5 years 9 months, 51 weeks per year. Financial assistance is available for student parents. Call 914-606-6644.

Educational Opportunity Program (EOP)

EOP provides academic support, tutoring, counseling, and financial stipends for eligible first semester, full-time New York State residents.

Health Services

Registered nurses provide minor first aid, over-the-counter medications, wellness counseling, and health screenings. For campus emergencies, call 914-606-6911.

Health Sciences students must submit annual health reports by August 1 (fall) or December 15 (spring).

International Student Services

Support services, immigration guidance, and academic transition assistance for F-1 international students.

JobSTAR

A partnership with Westchester County DSS providing academic advising and educational training for low-income and public assistance recipients.

Library

The Harold L. Drimmer Library offers 80,000+ books, textbook reserves, electronic resources, group study rooms, and research help. Chat, text, or email a librarian for assistance.

Mental Health & Counseling Services

Free, short-term counseling with licensed mental health professionals for depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, and other personal challenges.

Student Support Services

SSS Connects students with resources for housing, food insecurity, legal assistance, crisis services, and emergencies, including an on-campus food pantry.

Transfer Services

Individual counseling, workshops, campus visits, and on-site admission events, such as the Transfer Fair, to help you transfer to a four-year institution.

TRIO

TRIO is a federally funded support — tutoring, mentoring, counseling, and transfer assistance — for low income, first-generation, and/or disabled students.

Veterans Services

SUNY Westchester Community College is a Military Friendly© college, approved by the VA for educational benefits. Contact the Office of Veteran and Military Services for enrollment and benefits assistance.

Viking Success

Viking Success is an interactive platform connecting students, faculty, and staff to collaborate on academic achievement. Access campus connections and academic info in one place.

Athletics & Recreation

SUNY Westchester Community College sponsors intercollegiate teams in the NJCAA Region XV/Mid-Hudson Conference. Recreational facilities — pool, weight room, fitness center — are free with a valid Student ID.

Bookstore (Barnes & Noble)

Located in the Student Center and online at  sunywcc.bncollege.com, your one-stop shop for textbooks, supplies, and SUNY WCC gear. Purchases can be made with financial aid when available.  Omni cards are also sold here. Call 914-347-3858.

Bus Service

Bee-Line Bus routes #1C, 1X, 15, 40, 41, and 43 serve the main campus. . Call 914-813-7777.

Clubs & Organizations

SUNY Westchester Community College has 50+ clubs and organizations, including honors societies, cultural groups, performing arts, student publications, curriculum clubs, and special interest clubs.  Currently, the college has five student organizations: the Student Government Association, the Westchester Events Board, the Viking News, WARY Radio/Power 88.1, and the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society. All are open to all eligible students without discrimination.

College Closings & Weather

Check the college website, social media, or your college email/text alerts for delay and closure announcements. You are automatically enrolled in the emergency alert system.

Common Hours

Wednesdays 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM and Thursdays 4:00 – 6:00 PM are class-free. Use them for club meetings, events, or the gym.

Computer Labs & Computer Use Policy

Seven open computer labs are available with Microsoft Office, internet, and specialty software. Wireless access is available campus-wide.

For the full Computer Use Policy, see:

Commencement & Graduation

Start planning for graduation early in your final semester. Apply through the Registrar’s Office or MyWCC. Students are eligible to  graduate in August, December, or May. Caps and gowns are provided free to graduates. Commencement is the culminating graduating ceremony.

Dining Services

Three dining locations on campus: Viking Café (Student Center), Crema Café (Student Center), and Siegel Café (Gateway Center). Viking Dining Dollars can be purchased with financial aid and save you sales tax.

Extension Centers

Courses are offered at extension centers in Mt. Vernon, Ossining, Peekskill, and Yonkers.

Fine Arts Gallery

The Fine Arts Gallery is located in the Hankin Academic Arts Building. Free exhibitions and receptions are open to the public.

Honors Program & Honors College

The Honors Program offers challenging courses for motivated students. The Honors College accepts 18 students annually for a 24-credit honors-designated degree. A 3.5 GPA is required.

Leadership Programs

Multiple leadership development opportunities are available:

• Commit to Change — 12-week program focused on social change
• LatinXcellence — 4-week experience for Latinx emerging leaders
• Mindful Warrior — 8-week self-concept and leadership program
• Orientation Leader Program — serve as a guide for new students

Lockers

Available in most buildings. Bring your own lock. Remove all belongings at the end of each semester.

Lost & Found

Check with the Security Office (Student Center, Room 118), call 914-606-6730, or email security@sunywcc.edu.

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society

The premier honor society for two-year colleges. Invitation is extended to students with 12+ credits and a 3.5+ GPA.

Student Government Association (SGA)

The SGA represents the student body and sponsors programs using the student activity fee. Elections are held each fall (Senators) and spring (Executive Board).

Westchester Events Board (WEB)

Student-run organization that plans campus events — comedians, game shows, trips, movie showings, and more — all free to students.

Viking News & Power 88.1 Radio

The Viking News is the student-run newspaper. Power 88.1 is the FCC-licensed student radio station. Both welcome students from all majors.

This section consolidates policies related to your rights, safety, and responsibilities as a student. Full policy text is maintained at:

Student Code of Conduct

The Student Code of Conduct outlines community values and student responsibilities. The process is educational, not punitive. Familiarize yourself with your rights and responsibilities as a SUNY WCC Viking.

CARE Team

The Community Assessment & Risk Evaluation (CARE) Team addresses reports of concerning

student behavior before they become larger issues. Submit a report at CARETeam@sunywcc.edu or sunywcc.edu/incidentreport.

The CARE Team does not respond to emergencies. For immediate help, call Campus Security at 914-606-6911.

Campus Security

FOR EMERGENCIES: Call 6-911 from any campus phone or 914-606-6911. At other college locations, such as Extension Centers, call 911.

Campus Security works to protect the lives and property of students, employees, and visitors. The Westchester County Department of Public Safety investigates crimes on the Valhalla campus. Local police handle incidents at extension locations.

Emergency Alert System

SUNY Westchester Community College uses text, email, and voice alerts for emergencies. You are automatically enrolled using your student record contact info.

Annual Campus Security & Safety Report

In compliance with the Clery Act, SUNY Westchester Community College publishes annual crime statistics and campus safety policies. Access federal crime data at ope.ed.gov/security or request a printed copy from the Security Office.

Children on Campus

Children are not permitted in classrooms during instruction. Children on campus for college-sponsored events must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.

Copyright Policy

Duplicating copyrighted material (software, video, audio) using any means — including peer-to-peer applications — violates federal law and college policy. Violations may result in disciplinary action, fines, and criminal penalties.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

SUNY Westchester Community College maintains an inclusive environment where diversity is valued. Discrimination complaints can be filed with the Chief Diversity Officer (Gateway Building Room 233G, 914-606-6313) or online.

FERPA (Student Privacy Rights)

FERPA protects the privacy of your education records. To authorize someone to access your records, complete a notarized FERPA Release Form and submit it to the Registrar’s Office.

Posting Information on Campus

Only Westchester County and SUNY Westchester Community College affiliates may post materials on campus.

Sexual Violence Response & Title IX

SUNY Westchester Community College has zero tolerance for sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, stalking, intimate partner violence, and sexual assault. If you or someone you know has been affected, you are encouraged to report it. Contact the Title IX Coordinator  at titleixcoordinator@sunywcc.edu For the full Title IX policies, see:

• Grievance Procedures for Sex–Based Harassment
• Grievance Procedures for Sex Discrimination
• Title IX

Student Advocacy & Complaints

Section 504 (Disabilities): , 914-606-6709

Title IX Coordinator: Dr. Rinardo Reddick, rinardo.reddick@sunywcc.edu, 914-606-6313

File a complaint with the college, SUNY, NYSED, or the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Conduct of Non-Community Members

Non-community members engaged in unlawful or disruptive acts on campus are considered trespassers and subject to arrest.

Alumni Association

All graduates automatically become members. Stay connected through e-newsletters, events, and the online community at mysunywcc.org.

Contact: wcc.alumni@sunywcc.edu or 914-606-6505

Ambassador Program

Student ambassadors assist with campus tours, high school visits, and Open House events. Contact the Office of Admissions at 914-606-6735.

Black & Hispanic Male Initiative (BHMI)

Supports male students of color with mentoring, tutoring, counseling, scholarships, and transfer assistance.

Foundation

The Westchester Community College Foundation raises funds for student scholarships and college initiatives.

Native Plant Center

A program of the college Foundation, featuring demonstration gardens and native plant education. Student volunteers welcome.

Voter Registration

SUNY Westchester Community College is a Voter Friendly Campus. Registration forms and civic engagement events are available throughout the year.

Workforce Development & Community Education

Non-credit courses for career preparation, professional development, lifelong learning, and ESL — for adults, teens, children, and seniors.