This policy is intended as an alternative for a very limited number of students who may be granted the opportunity to meet modified college graduation requirements.
Such modification might include an alternative learning experience, the substitution of another course for a requirement, or waiver of a requirement. The modified requirements are to be individually designed to fit the student's capabilities while matching as closely as possible the definition and intent of the college's graduation requirements. (Approved October 15, 2001)
Definition of Criteria
In order to be considered for graduation under modified requirements, a student must have been enrolled as a matriculated student for at least one semester. The following conditions must also apply:
- Accommodations for disabilities must be coordinated through the O'Neill Center for Student Access and Support.
- Any disability that may prevent the student from successfully completing a requirement must be formally documented by an appropriate licensed clinician, (e.g. physician, clinical psychologist or certified school psychologist.)
- A record must be presented demonstrating that a reasonable attempt is being made at Cape Cod Community College to satisfy the unmodified requirements, all available support options are or have been exhausted, and all reasonable alternatives have been explored.
- Evidence must be presented that the disability has affected similar performance by the student in the past.
- A record must be presented verifying that the student has discussed the problem and possible solutions with college faculty and support services staff and pursued any recommended courses of action.
- Under Section 504 the student must be qualified in all other aspects.
A student meeting the established criteria must present a written request for consideration of the modification of graduation requirements to either his/her Program Coordinator if seeking an Associate of Science Degree or to the appropriate area Academic Dean if seeking an Associate of Arts Degree.
Upon evaluating the request, the Program Coordinator or Dean may either deny the request with suggested recommendations or convene and chair a Review Committee consisting of the student's faculty advisor or faculty representative, staff member from the O'Neill Center for Student Access and Support, and a faculty member representing the area of study to be waived or substituted.
If a waiver or substitution of a graduation requirement is unanimously agreed to, the decision is presented to the Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs for review and action.