Faculty Syllabus

Course sections 001-003 are co-taught by the following instructors:

Credit hours: 3

Clinical hours per week: 16

Section 001: Tuesdays at RRC, Room 3228, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Section 002: Tuesdays at EVC, Room 9203, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Section 003: Thursdays at EVC, Room 9203, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

A health-related work-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, skills, and concepts. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical professional (WECM 2003). This clinical course focuses on performance of standard sonographic exam protocols and procedures in the clinical and laboratory setting (ACC Sonography Program).

This is a workforce education course.  Transferability of workforce courses varies.  Students interested in transferring courses to another college should speak with their Area of Study (AoS) advisor, department chair or the program director.

Course Rationale

DSVT 2361 provides students with supervised, hands-on clinical experience in vascular sonography to further develop and apply advanced didactic knowledge. Through direct patient scanning in the clinical environment, students refine image acquisition, protocol adherence, waveform analysis, and hemodynamic interpretation skills while strengthening professional communication and patient care competencies. This course emphasizes the integration of vascular testing principles with real-time clinical decision-making, supporting the transition from the academic setting to independent performance in clinical practice. As a corequisite to DSVT 2300, DSVT 2361 serves as a critical component of the curriculum, preparing students for advanced vascular sonography responsibilities and progression into DSVT 2262.

Prerequisites

Admission to the Sonography Program. Must hold AAS in Diagnostic Medical Sonography or Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography.

Course Learning Outcomes

As outlined in the learning plan, apply the theory, concepts, and skills involving specialized materials, tools, equipment, procedures, regulations, laws, and interactions within and among political, economic, environmental, social, and legal systems associated with the occupation and the business/industry and will demonstrate legal and ethical behavior, safety practices, interpersonal and teamwork skills, and appropriate written and verbal communication skills using the terminology of the occupation and the business/industry (WECM).

At the completion of DSVT 2361 the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate appropriate patient communication before, during and after an exam.
• Obtain and analyze grayscale, color Doppler and spectral Doppler images of the cerebrovascular, peripheral vascular and abdominal vascular systems within the allotted time frames.
• Perform and analyze indirect physiologic testing of the upper and lower extremity arterial systems via CW Doppler, segmental pressures, and PPG within the allotted time frames.
• Identify common anatomical variants of the cerebrovascular, peripheral vascular, and abdominal vascular systems.
• Evaluate sonographic images for diagnostic quality and manipulate equipment functions to improve image quality.
• Complete the Technical Report form, including a description of the sonographic appearances of the anatomy and abnormalities in the scan.
• Apply critical thinking to correlate patient clinical presentation and sonographic data to formulate a differential diagnosis. Includes vascular sonograms, clinical skill and pathology quizzes, and case studies.
• Demonstrate on-time successful completion of all requirements listed on the semester assignment sheet, lab calendar, and syllabus.

Program Learning Outcomes

At the conclusion of the Diagnostic Cardiovascular or Medical-Vascular Sonography Program, the student will:

• Demonstrate entry-level competency in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains in the sonography profession.
• Demonstrate the ability to perform diagnostic quality sonographic examinations within their specialty, including 2-D, color and spectral Doppler assessments
• Evaluate the normal, abnormal, and normal variant sonographic appearances within their specialty using 2-D, color Doppler, and spectral Doppler modalities according to standardized protocols and within recognized time frames set by industry and local standards.
• Adjust scan protocols to accurately document, assess and quantify pathologies.
• Employ prudent and safe use of ultrasound by maintaining the ALARA principle (AIUM.org).
• Employ professional judgment and discretion with regards to patient confidentiality, patient care and safety, professional interaction skills, and the reduction of sonographer musculoskeletal injuries.
• Recognize and respond in a timely manner to sonographic findings that require adjustment in imaging, notification and/or emergency protocols.
• Think logically, analytically and critically and employ those skills in clinical decision-making related to sonographic imaging, patient care and patient safety.
• Adhere to the principles stated in the Code of Ethics and Professional Standards in Sonography.

Required Texts and Supplies

• Vascular Sonography Clinical Binder. 3-Ring, any color/size.
• Cable Brace - any brand, solid color
• Pocket notebook - provided by the program
• Blue or black ink pen

Instructional Methodology

This is an in-person clinical lab-based course. On-campus and off-campus live scanning opportunities are provided. On-campus live scanning, computer tutorials and activities, and occasionally, the ultrasound-training simulator are used along with on/off-campus performance evaluations of clinical skills. Routinely an instructor will,

• Demonstrate a skill/image to a small group of students and allow each student to try to reproduce the skill or image, with or without direct assistance or guidance. 

• Place their hand on the scanning student’s hand to guide the student to feel how a better window, image, or view is obtained. 
• Review the student’s patient communication, scanning technique, images and provide verbal evaluation, feedback, and direction while the student is scanning. 
• Students serve as patients for classmates during the on-campus clinical session.

Clinical Education

Please refer to the Sonography Student Handbook for a comprehensive outline of student responsibilities in the clinical setting. 

This course includes both on- and off-campus clinical education. Students are assigned to an 8-hour on-campus clinical lab and an 8-hour off-campus clinical rotation each week. Clinical performance is evaluated across both settings and includes scanning techniques, ergonomics, patient care, clinical procedures, critical thinking, and professional behaviors.

Students practice scanning techniques through peer and volunteer scanning under faculty supervision and perform live patient scanning in the clinical setting. Scanning evaluations are conducted in both the sonography lab and off-campus clinical sites at regular intervals. Students are expected to use evaluation feedback to guide skill development and progression goals throughout the semester.

Students may scan patients at the discretion of the Clinical Instructor (CI) and are responsible for ensuring the CI is aware of current course requirements. Sonography faculty collaborate with Clinical Instructors to monitor student progress and provide ongoing feedback. Completion of all required assignments and evaluations listed on the semester assignment sheets is required for progression to the next semester.

Course Subjects:

• Upper extremity arterial duplex
• Lower extremity arterial indirect physiologic testing
• ABI with exercise testing
• Aortoiliac duplex
• IVC/Iliac vein duplex
• Upper extremity arterial indirect physiologic testing
• Palmar arch testing
• Mesenteric duplex
• Carotid duplex
• Left lower extremity venous duplex

Grading System

Scale                                                                 Grading Distribution

A = 93-100                                                                               40% Benchmark Evaluations (4)

B = 85-92                                                                                 20% On-Campus Competency Evaluations (2)

C = 75-84*                                                                               20% Off-Campus Competency Evaluations (7)

D = 68-74                                                                               20% Assignments (7)

F = 67 or below                                                                    

*A course grade of“C” or greater in all Sonography courses is required for progression in the program.

Weighted grading, as listed under Grading Distribution, is used for this course to calculate the final grade.

DSVT 2361 Lab Documents, Assignments, and Evaluations

Items below marked with an asterisk (*) are included in the grade calculation for this course. 

Course Outline/Calendar

The course calendars are published separately from the syllabus. It is posted in the Blackboard site for this course. Also, the National Education Curriculum for Sonography is used to develop this course: https://www.jrcdms.org/nec.htm

Please note that schedule changes may occur during the semester.  Any changes will be announced in class and posted as a Blackboard Announcement.

Assignments

Assignment, assessment, and evaluation forms used by the program are found on Blackboard. The student is responsible for familiarizing themselves with all course documents and assignment criteria.

Each assessment evaluates the student’s ability to obtain, identify, and assess sonographic images within established time frames. Items on each assessment address the skills required to meet the clinical objectives for this course and prepare the student for a career in vascular sonography.

All assignments must be completed by the posted due dates. Late or incomplete assignments are not accepted and will receive a grade of “0”. If a student is absent for an extenuating circumstance, a missed assignment will be completed during the required absence makeup hours.

Semester Assignment Sheet

The Semester Assignment Sheet (SAS) includes relevant dates throughout the semester in which the student will practice assigned clinical skills and complete scanning evaluations. The student will receive signatures each week by vascular faculty for diagnostic quality practice scans meeting each assigned clinical skill objective.

The student is expected to obtain all required instructor signatures on a weekly basis as assigned on the SAS. The SAS is to be completed in full by the last on-campus clinical day of the semester. Incomplete or late Semester Assignment Sheets will result in an “I” Incomplete Grade for the course and delay completion of the program. 

Clinical Skills

Clinical skills are used to assess a student's ability to demonstrate, identify, and evaluate standard and off-axis sonographic images or clips, as well as anatomy and measurements, all within required time frames. Practice for each clinical skill is provided during the student's weekly scheduled lab session, where they will receive feedback on areas that need improvement. Each requirement is designed to address the scanning skills necessary to meet the clinical objectives of this course. These skills are assessed individually by faculty and documented in the student's clinical skills log.

Once the required number of practice scans (see SAS) has been completed, and all components of a clinical skill have been scored as “Satisfactory” by the instructor, the student may progress to completing the assigned scanning evaluations outlined in the SAS. After achieving a “Satisfactory” rating on a clinical skill, the student is expected to maintain proficiency in that skill throughout the remainder of the program. Students who do not maintain competency will be subject to remediation following the Health Sciences Corrective Actions process.

Students are required to submit their Semester Assignment Sheet (SAS), Clinical Skills Log, and all technical reports at the end of each on-campus clinical lab day.

A student who receives an “Unsatisfactory” rating on one or more assigned clinical skills must meet with the course instructor(s) to address the deficiencies. The student will receive a Sonography Early Alert (verbal warning) form and will be required to develop an action plan to support their improvement. The student may not complete a scanning evaluation until the action plan has been successfully completed and approved by the instructor, and all clinical skills related to the assigned scanning evaluation have been scored as “Satisfactory.”

If the student does not successfully complete the Sonography Early Alert/Action Plan by the assigned follow-up advising date, the Corrective Actions process will be initiated at Step 1: Written Warning.

Students must demonstrate competency on all assigned clinical skills and evaluations in order to complete the program.

Syllabus Attestation

The syllabus is the student’s guide to the course and contract with instructors. Students must acknowledge receipt and understanding of the course syllabus and course documents. This attestation is due by the end of the day on Sunday, February 1, 2026.

Clinical Site Orientation Assignment

This form serves as an orientation to the student’s clinical site. It is due before the student’s 3rd off-campus clinical day of the semester.

Journal - Included in the Assignment grade

Record your experiences of your clinical education weekly in your Blackboard Journal. Your instructor will review your Journal to ensure that you are meeting this course requirement. Weekly entries are due by Sunday each week of the semester unless otherwise posted in the Blackboard site for this course. 15 journal entries are due this semester.

• All Journal entries MUST be HIPAA compliant and professional
• Discuss any concerns about your clinical education directly with your ACC clinical instructor, the VT Clinical Coordinator, and/or the Sonography Program Director.
• Entries should include the student’s personal reflections and should not be generated by artificial intelligence (AI).
• Missed/late Journal entry = grade of “0”; inappropriate Journal entries will have a 10-point deduction for each inappropriate entry and may result in the initiation of the Corrective Actions process.

*Online Learning Assignments – Included in the Assignment grade

There are two case study assignments and two clinical skills quizzes to be completed this semester. The case studies and quizzes will be factored in to the assignment grade for the course. Due dates are listed on the DSVT 2361 lab calendar. Additional assignment instructions can be found on the Blackboard site for this course.

*Scanning Assignments – Included in the Assignment grade

There are two on-campus scanning assignments to be completed this semester (see DSVT ONC 2361 SAS). Each scanning assignment is composed of a list of tasks related to the imaging protocol for each scan. The student may begin completing each assignment on the first day the scan is assigned on the lab calendar.

Scan assignments are graded based on the clinical skills objectives for each scan, and are marked for completion as:

“0” = No/Task not completed

“1” = Yes/Task completed

Any tasks marked with a “0” on the assignment evaluation form must be redone and earn a score of “1” for assignment credit.

Assignments that do not meet all listed requirements or are not completed with a score of “1” for each task by the due date on the lab calendar will receive a grade of “0” for that assignment.

See individual scanning assignment forms on Blackboard for further instructions.

*Scanning Evaluations – Included in the Benchmark or Competency grade

• There are four Benchmark Scan Evaluations and two On-Campus Competency Scan Evaluations to be completed on-campus this semester (see DSVT ONC 2361 SAS).

• There is a minimum of seven off-campus competency scan evaluations to be completed this semester (see DSVT 2361 Off-Campus Semester Assignment Sheet)

  • The student will have the Fall 2 – Summer 2 semesters to complete off-campus requirements.
  • It is advised that the student begin completing off-campus requirements as early as possible, with the approval of the off-campus Clinical Instructor(s).

Students are required to log all off-campus competencies on the DMVS Student Off-Campus Competency Tracking Form. This document must remain at the clinical site at all times. Under no circumstances should patient information be recorded in a notebook or removed from the clinical facility. At the end of the semester, students must discard the document in accordance with the site’s protocol for handling documents containing PHI. The document must be kept up to date and available for review by clinical instructors and program faculty throughout the semester, along with the images acquired by the student. The document will assist program faculty in performing progress checks with off-campus experiences.

Scan Evaluation Grading Policies

Scan evaluations assess professionalism, safety practices, image quality, measurement accuracy, and exam completeness within the allotted time. Students are allowed one (1) attempt per scan evaluation. Students must follow the Vascular Technology Program protocols for on-campus evaluations and the clinical facility’s protocols for off-campus evaluations.

All scan evaluations are performed independently by the student and graded without assistance. Evaluation tools and grading rubrics are available on Blackboard, and students are responsible for reviewing all assessment criteria.

Clinical competency evaluations must be graded by a registered sonographer who holds the appropriate credential in the specialty being assessed. Students may scan with any registered sonographer; however, only appropriately credentialed sonographers may complete competency grading. Competency grading may occur at the time of the scan or through PACS review, with input from the Clinical Instructor when applicable. Students are responsible for ensuring credential information is provided to support program accreditation and reporting requirements.

Scan evaluations are graded as follows:

• “0” = Does not meet expectations (<49%)
• “1” = Needs major adjustments (50–69%)
• “2” = Needs minor adjustments (70–89%)
• “3” = Meets expectations (90–100%)

Once a skill has earned a score of “2” or higher, the student is expected to consistently demonstrate competency in that skill. All scan evaluations and assignments are recorded in Trajecsys.

Students must complete the clinical skills log and all scan evaluations by the dates listed on the Semester Assignment Sheet. Missed evaluations due to an unexcused absence will receive a grade of “0.”

A passing score of 75% or greater is required on all scan evaluations. Students who do not meet this standard must meet with course faculty and will receive a Sonography Early Alert outlining unmet objectives. A success plan will be developed and must be completed prior to progression.

Demonstration of competency (75% or greater) is required on all assigned evaluations. Repeat competencies will be scheduled as needed. The maximum score for a repeat competency is 75%, and the recorded grade will be the average of the initial and passing attempt. Continued scores below 75% may result in corrective action and may impact program completion. Faculty may assign students to on-campus lab for additional instruction as needed.

A final course average below 75% does not meet course completion requirements and supersedes the competency evaluation process.

Scanning Experiences

Students are encouraged to obtain as many scanning experiences as possible over the length of the semester. Scanning experiences (each use of the transducer to scan is considered a scanning experience) are central to the attainment of sonographic skills that lead to increased numbers of hands-on scanning experiences and mastery of the technical skills required of ACC Sonography Program students. Therefore, the student should seek to obtain as many hands-on scanning experiences as possible using all resources that are available to them.

• Students are required to obtain a minimum of 60 vascular related scanning experiences over the length of the semester.
  • If a student cannot meet the required number of scanning experiences assigned for each week or otherwise specified time period, they required to confer with their instructor and/or the Clinical Coordinator.
  • Five (5) points will be deducted from the final course grade for failure to obtain the minimum required scanning experiences.

Professional Qualities - Final Evaluation

This is an evaluation of professional qualities required of the Diagnostic Cardiovascular and Medical Vascular student as well as an employee. Faculty and off-campus clinical instructors will complete these assessments at the end of the semester and review them with the student.

Course Policies

Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence Policy

Generative artificial intelligence (GAI) tools are not permitted in this course. This clinical course is designed to build technical, psychomotor, and professional skills through direct participation in lab activities, clinical application, and personal reflection. Because the focus of this course is authentic, hands-on learning, the use of GAI has no role in meeting course objectives.

Clinical competency requires students to develop independent judgment, technical accuracy, and authentic reflection. The use of GAI undermines these goals by replacing critical thinking, hands-on learning, and personal growth with computer-generated content. For this reason, GAI use is prohibited in all aspects of this course.

For the purposes of this policy, Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) is defined as computer-based programs and platforms (e.g., ChatGPT, Bard, Copilot, etc.) that create or modify text, images, or other content in response to user prompts. Because GAI is not permitted in this course, no resources for its use are provided. Students should rely on course materials, textbooks, faculty guidance, and clinical practice for support.

All assignments, including journal entries, case reflections, and clinical documentation, must be entirely the student’s own work. No portion of assessed work may be generated, assisted, or altered by GAI. Any use of GAI in this course will result in a grade of “0” on the assignment and may lead to further disciplinary action under college academic integrity policies.

No exceptions will be granted for the use of GAI in this course. Students with questions about acceptable resources should consult the instructor before completing or submitting work. In this course, GAI use is prohibited for all activities, including journal entries, clinical documentation, reflections, and assignments. No activities permit GAI, and no assignments require its use.

Clinical Attendance Policies and Procedures

Students are expected to attend 100% of assigned clinical hours.

Students must clock in on Trajecsys before doing anything else at the clinical site and must clock out at the time of departure from the clinical site.

Only designated desktop computers in the labs and at the clinical sites are used for Trajecsys clock-in and clock-out. Students are prohibited from using a cell phone, tablet, laptop, or home computer to clock in or clock out.

• The clinical site may designate one or more computers for student Trajecsys use
• If the designated computers at the student’s clinical site experience a loss of internet connection, the student must clock in/clock out as soon as the internet connection is re-established.
• If the student is unable to clock in when they arrive at the clinical site due to a lack of access to the appropriate computer, the student should notify the clinical coordinator of the incident using ACC email and include their arrival time as part of the communication.
• Use of a non-designated desk-top computer, the loss of internet connection during clock-in or clock-out, or forgetting to clock in or clock out, requires the student to send an explanation for the error via email to the appropriate program clinical coordinator using ACC email after the student leaves the clinical site. Do not use email through Trajecsys.

To clock in or out students must choose the correct clinical site for the day from the pull-down list on the screen.

• If the student makes a clock-in error by selecting the wrong site for the day, the student cannot make any changes to the clock-in. The student must leave the error as is and clock out at the correct time using the same site as the clock-in. The student must then send an explanation message email to the appropriate program clinical coordinator using ACC email after the student leaves the clinical site.
• Students are responsible for addressing Trajecsys alerts as they occur.

Students are expected to report on time and remain at the clinical site for the scheduled period. Unexcused absences, tardiness, late arrivals, and early departures will result in the initiation of the corrective actions/disciplinary measures process.

Falsification of attendance records may result in probation or immediate withdrawal from the program.

Call-In Procedure for Clinical Absence

Contact the clinical coordinator for any absence, tardiness, late arrival, or early departure by phone. Email is not acceptable in these instances. If the coordinator does not answer, leave a message.

Additional Guidelines:

• Notify the clinical coordinator and the on-site clinical instructor listed on the clinical assignment sheet at least 30 minutes before the shift begins. If it is an early departure, notify the program coordinator using the facility’s phone at least 15 minutes prior to leaving the site.
• When calling the program for late arrival or absence, the message must include whether the clinical site has been contacted, who the message was delivered to, or if it was left on the department answering system.
• If the clinical site is closing early and/or all the sonographers are leaving for the day, the student must notify the clinical coordinator using the call-in procedure using the facility’s phone, and may not remain on-site without a clinical instructor or staff sonographer in attendance. The student is not penalized for the hours missed due to a site closing early.
• If a student leaves the clinical site during the lunch break, they are not to clock out of the Trajecsys system. The student must call their clinical coordinator using the facility’s phone when leaving and again when returning to the site.
• If a student clocks out after their scheduled clinical time ends, notify the clinical coordinator by email with an explanation as to why the late departure occurred.

If ACC is forced to cancel classes due to an emergency (including weather events), all sonography lecture classes, lab sessions, and clinical rotations will also be canceled. Notification of closure will be made through the college’s Emergency Messenger System. Students must provide ACC with a contact number to be part of this notification system. In case of an emergency, staff, faculty, and students will receive a voicemail or text message within minutes; e-mails will also be sent to the student ACC Gmail accounts. The message and e-mail will tell you the nature of the emergency and what action you should take, if any. Information will also be available through local radio and TV stations, as well as the ACC website. Visit http://www.austincc.edu for more information.

Absences

There are two types of absences as defined below:

Excused absence occurs when all three of the following conditions are met:

1. Follow the call-in procedure.
2. Sonography faculty finds the reason for absence to be credible and/or extenuating. Supporting documentation may be required. Extenuating circumstances are defined as:
   1. Death or major illness in a student’s immediate family

*Immediate family includes the student’s mother, father, sister, brother, spouse, children, mother-in-law, father-in-law, and grandparents. Others, such as legal guardians, may be deemed appropriate by the Program Director and Department Chair.

1. 1. Pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions
   2. Participation in legal proceedings or administrative procedures
   3. Required participation in military duties
   4. Severe or contagious illness or injury
      1. Requires Medical Clearance-Return to Clinical Form found in your Blackboard clinical course site. This form must be completed by a healthcare provider
   5. Verifiable circumstances beyond the student’s control
2. The student completes and submits the clinical absence form to the program clinical coordinator within one (1) week of the absence.

Unexcused absence occurs when one or more of the conditions above are not met. Unexcused absences are subject to the Corrective Actions/Progressive Disciplinary Measures process. Any scheduled assessments missed because of an unexcused absence will result in a grade of “0” for that assessment.

Tardy/Late Arrival/Early Departure

Time missed due to tardiness, late arrival, or early departure must be accurately recorded in Trajecsys.

• Tardy arrival: reporting to the clinical site up to 15 minutes after the assigned start time.

• Late: arriving to clinical assignment 16 minutes or more after the assigned start time.
  • The call-in procedure for clinical absences must be followed.
  • A student who is late to clinical is not allowed to enter a scan room while an exam is in process.

• Early Departure: leaving the clinical site before assigned departure time.
  • The call-in procedure for clinical absences must be followed.

Absence Makeup

All missed clinical time, outside of college closures, requires makeup. Students are not allowed to stay late or come in early to make up tardy, late, or absent hours. Arrangements for makeup time are made by the program clinical coordinator only and will be communicated to the student prior to the end of the semester.

Case Logs

The student is expected to document all scans performed on the case log in Trajecsys. This includes observation, live and SIM scan opportunities.

Scans are logged with one of the following keys: ONC, CLI, or OPL.

• ONC = On Campus Clinical
• CLI = Off Campus Clinical
• OPL = Open Lab

Clinical lab computers are NOT to be used to log case studies. Case logs must be completed at home between the actual clinical day and midnight Sunday. All recordings on the case log must be accurate and HIPAA compliant.

All exam information must remain at the clinical site or in the on-campus lab to maintain compliance with HIPAA regulations. See your instructor for information on case donations.

The student will document the type of experience by indicating:

• Clinical Site and Clinical Instructor – choose from drop-down menu.
  • If your instructor is not listed in the drop-down menu, do not add them; contact your on-campus clinical coordinator and provide the following:
    • The correct spelling of the first and last name of the sonographer to be added to Trajecsys.
    • The credential number of the sonographer (e.g., ARDMS, CCI, ARRT).
    • An email address for the sonographer. This can be their work email or, in the case of travel sonographers, their personal email.
• Major Study- (Examples: Abdomen, Vascular, Adult Echo; click “simulation” as needed)
• Skill - (Examples: Liver, Carotid, Apical)
• Participation level – (observed, limited, independent)
  • Observed: The student only observes an exam
  • Limited: The student receives assistance while scanning. Open lab scans are recorded as limited scans.
  • Independent: The student performs the exam without assistance. There may be direct or indirect supervision however, all images acquired are obtained by the student. Scanning evaluations should be marked in the Independent column.

• Pathology – choose case pathology and comments to explain case as needed
• Time – Include an approximation for how long the entire scan took to complete, start to finish. Includes both student and clinical instructor scanning.

To keep track of scans daily, students will make use of a pocket notebook (see Required Texts and Supplies in each course syllabus). Please note the following regarding the use of the pocket notebook:

• Clinical notebooks should accompany students to every clinical day, both on campus and off campus.
• Faculty reserve the right to review your notebook at any time.
• Students should only document the type of scan and their participation level. No other patient identifiers are allowed. Any patient information outside of these parameters will be considered a violation of the HIPAA policies and will result in corrective actions.
• Patient information, including but not limited to medical record numbers, accession numbers, patient name, birthday, etc., must never leave the lab or clinical facility under any circumstances.
• Clinical notebooks should be organized.
• The entries into the clinical notebook should be legible.

Dress Code: Clinical Courses

The following requirements and rules apply to on-campus and off-campus clinical settings. The clinical instructor or sonography faculty may dismiss the student from the clinical setting if their appearance violates any portion of the dress code.

1. Appropriately fitting and matching solid teal-colored scrubs for all on-campus and off-campus clinical rotation assignments.

• A white T-shirt may be worn under the top if needed but must be tucked in at the waist; it should not be visible below the hem of the scrub top
• The scrub top and pants must cover the student’s body when standing, seated, and stretching
• If additional coverage is required for comfort, a long-sleeved solid teal scrub jacket may be worn
• Head scarves worn for religious reasons must be free from adornment; white headscarves are recommended

1. Standard ACC photo ID and name pin must be worn at all times during clinical rotation assignments.
   • The name pin should be 1"x 3" in size, white with black letters and rounded corners, first name only. If the off-campus clinical site provides an ID badge, the student must wear it and the ACC ID badge. Both badges must be visible at all times; they may not overlap each other
   • The picture and the name pin must be front-facing at all times and attached either at the collar or in the pocket position as indicated in below:
2. Shoes must be clean and all-white professional shoes with white socks.

• Cloth shoes or shoes with air holes on the top are prohibited

1. Jewelry is limited to one ring, small post or small hoop earrings (one per ear), and non-PED wristwatches. No other jewelry or body piercing materials may be visible while in the clinical setting. Ear spacers must be flesh-colored if worn.
2. Lanyards are prohibited to ensure hygienic practices, medical asepsis, and to avoid patient or student injury.
3. Make-up if worn should be natural-appearing and minimal.
4. To reduce physical reactions to scents and odors, perfume, cologne, and other strong odors (smoke, cooking odors, spices) are prohibited.
5. For hygienic practices, medical asepsis, and to avoid injury to the patient while performing the ultrasound exam:
   • Fingernails must be clean and trimmed short. Clear nail polish may be worn and must be free of chips. Acrylic, gel nails, and nail extensions are not allowed.
   • Hair cannot be in the face, or over the eyes. Hair-colored clips, pins, or headbands may be worn to secure the hair away from the face.
   • Hair longer than shoulder length must be neatly pulled up and away from the neck in a neutral-colored clip or bun.
   • Beards and mustaches must be kept clean and trimmed to the jawline (must be able to be completely covered by a surgical mask). Once an N-95 mask fit test has been performed, facial hair must be kept the same as on the day that the fit test was conducted.
   • Hair colors must be natural; fad hair designs or colors are not allowed.
6. Surgical caps and masks must completely cover the head and facial hair when in an area where a surgical procedure is taking place in compliance with infection control policies and procedures.
7. Visible tattoos (permanent or temporary) must be covered at all times when in the clinical setting.

Sonography Student Working as Staff

Students in the sonography program will not be substituted for regular staff even though they may be competent in certain aspects of sonography.

Should a student be employed with an affiliate of the program, they may work only during times where it does not involve or conflict with program activities. Additionally, should a student be employed by a facility where clinical rotations are normally conducted, they may not use any “employer time” to substitute for program clinical requirements.

Professional Behavior

As future healthcare professionals, you are embarking on a path of great responsibility. The Austin Community College Health Sciences Programs have a duty to protect the public and maintain the highest standards of healthcare practice.

We expect you to:

• Uphold the utmost honesty and integrity in all your actions.
• Recognize that your choices impact yourself, your peers, and the healthcare profession.
• Abide by ACC, program, and clinical agency policies during all clinical experiences.
• Conduct yourself ethically and professionally, both on and off campus, including on social media.
• Assume responsibility for your actions and accept accountability for them.

Dishonesty, unethical behavior, or violations of professional standards may result in corrective actions, disciplinary measures, or dismissal from the program. We take these matters seriously to maintain program integrity and prepare you for the high ethical standards of healthcare.

We understand the challenges you may face and encourage you to reach out to your instructor, department chair, or advisor if you're struggling. Remember, the habits you form now will shape your future career. By choosing integrity and professionalism, even when difficult, you're building a strong foundation for success in healthcare.

Our goal is to support your growth into competent, caring healthcare professionals. We're here to guide you through this process and help you embody the high standards our field requires. We believe in your ability to make the right choices and learn from any missteps along the way.

Professional Qualities Feedback Form

The sonography program uses the Professional Qualities Feedback Form to provide positive feedback, inform students of qualities that need adjustment (attention), or to document behavior that does not meet program expectations. In all instances, this form provides the foundation for discussion, coaching, and training of professional skills required of sonographers in the workplace. From this feedback, faculty and students can work together to develop plans for improvement.

This is not a graded evaluation. Students will access the feedback forms using the Trajecsys Reporting System. Students will acknowledge receipt of this feedback by signing and dating the form in the comment section by midnight each Sunday. They may also make a comment if desired. Students are responsible for checking Trajecsys notifications each week. Students are instructed on how to acknowledge feedback when they enter the program. Please meet with your instructor if you are unsure how to complete this task.

Some behaviors and repeated noncompliance may, at the instructor's discretion, require initiation of the Progressive Discipline/Corrective Actions Process.

Corrective Actions/Disciplinary Measures

Faculty are committed to assisting student success in the program. To afford students due process and an opportunity for remediation, Health Science students who are not meeting course objectives in class, clinical/practicum, or lab will be apprised of their performance status using the following recommended steps. The progression of these steps is not required. A student's academic or disciplinary misconduct or performance can be addressed, beginning with probation or dismissal if warranted.

Step 1:  Warning 

The instructor provides the student with a verbal warning or written feedback as to their status. The instructor counsels the student regarding criteria for successful completion of the course and makes recommendations for improvement. The supportive resources include but may not be limited to - utilization of peer study groups, tutors, computer-assisted instruction, skills remediation, seeking the assistance of the Health Sciences Success Coordinator, ACC Success Coach, or Clinical counselor.

At the discretion of the instructor and depending on the situation, this step may be bypassed and a conference initiated. If the situation warrants probation or dismissal, the instructor will consult with the department chair to determine the appropriate disciplinary measure.

Step 2:  Conference

A meeting will occur between the student and the instructor to review the performance deficit(s). The student will receive a written Health Science Conference Report that will identify specific course/program objectives not being met. If applicable, to address the relevant performance deficits, the student may be issued a remediation plan/contract, which will include deadlines for completion steps that will assist the student in correcting the deficiency in order for the student to remain in the program and enhance the opportunity for success.

If at any time the student does not comply with any or all of the remediation or correction terms outlined in the conference report, the student may be placed on probation or dismissed from the program.

Step 3:  Probation 

A student may be placed on probation for any violation of the policies, standards, or provisions outlined in this handbook or the College's Student Handbook/Code of Conduct. Probation is a designated period during which a student must demonstrate improvement; failure to do so may result in dismissal from the program.

Once the determination is made to place a student on probation, the student will meet with the instructor and department chair. The Health Sciences Success Coordinator may be asked to assist with strategies for the student, along with detailed faculty support resources. The student and faculty will review and sign a Health Science Probation Report explicitly stating expectations that must be followed during the probationary period and the consequences for non-compliance or unsatisfactory completion of these expectations.

Step 4:  Dismissal from the Program

If at any time during the probation period, the student fails to meet any of the conditions of the probation contract, the student may be dismissed from the program. Accordingly, if at the end of the probation period, the student has not met the criteria for satisfactory performance outlined in the probation contract, the student may be dismissed from the program.

A student who is placed on probation for unsafe clinical practices or behavior that violates the standards of the profession will be dismissed from the program for subsequent safety or professional conduct violations at any time during the program, even if the probationary period was completed successfully. If the student is dismissed from the program for a subsequent violation that occurs after the official college date for withdrawal from a course, the student will receive a performance grade of "F" or "U," unless a specific program states otherwise. A student can be placed on probation only once while in a Health Sciences program. If a student engages in behavior or conduct that would result in probation a second time, the student will be dismissed from the program.

If an instructor is recommending a student's dismissal from the program, the recommendation must be reviewed and approved by the program's department chair. Before a student can be dismissed from the program under this provision, a meeting must be held with the student to inform them verbally and in writing of the reasons for the dismissal, and to provide them an opportunity to respond, either verbally or in writing. A student has 5 business days after this meeting if they wish to submit a response. Day one begins the first business day after the meeting.

Following this opportunity to respond, the student may be dismissed, or other actions may be taken appropriate to the case. If the student is dismissed from the program, the notice of dismissal will inform the student as to whether they are eligible to reapply for readmission to the program. The notice must also provide notice to the student of the appeals process available to the student.

Reasons for Immediate Probation or Dismissal

Some situations may require an immediate response without recourse to the progressive steps set forth above. In response to severe or extremely dangerous behavior, or additional adverse behavior that occurs while the student is awaiting resolution of a previous incident(s), the student may be immediately placed on probation or dismissed from the program. Please note that if a student is dismissed from the program due to these behaviors, they may become ineligible for readmission. See program-specific policies and procedures pertaining to readmission into the program.

Examples of these include, but are not limited to:

• Unsatisfactory clinical performance.
• Unsatisfactory clinical attendance and punctuality.
• Inability to maintain physical and mental health necessary to perform the technical standards and essential functions of the program.
• Unethical, unprofessional behavior, and/or unsafe clinical practice.
• Refusal to participate in a procedure.
• Unsafe or unprofessional clinical practice that compromises patient or staff safety.
• Behavior that compromises clinical affiliations.
• HIPAA/HITECH violation that cannot be remediated with additional training or guidance.
• Violation of the Social Media and Electronic Device Policy that is egregious and substantially disrupts the educational or clinical environment, or is harmful to a patient's safety.
• Violations of patient confidentiality.
• Academic dishonesty or misconduct.
• Falsification of documentation.
• Dishonesty or unethical behavior towards a college official.
• Unprofessional behavior/unsafe behavior that seriously jeopardizes patient, student, staff, or preceptor safety.
• Violation of any of the Standards of Conduct outlined in the ACC Student Handbook that do not warrant expulsion from the College.
• Violation of the College's Sexual Misconduct Policy found in Administrative Rule 3.10.003: Prohibition of Sexual Discrimination or Sexual Violence or Sexual Harassment.
• Failure to report changes to criminal history after the admissions background check is completed. (Please see the criminal background section.) Any off-campus conduct that results in criminal charges that are not aligned with the clinical agencies' standards or the professional and ethical standards of the College or Health Sciences programs will result in immediate dismissal from the program.

Withdrawal

If a student voluntarily withdraws from a program, they must adhere to the program's specific withdrawal and readmission policies. An instructor can also initiate a withdrawal from a course for unsatisfactory performance, failure to meet course objectives, or violations of any professional or ethical policy, standard, or practice outlined in this handbook.

In some instances, withdrawal from a course may not necessarily lead to withdrawal from the semester or program. See specific program course progression and completion policies.

If withdrawal from a course results in dismissal from the program, the procedures outlined in Step 4: Dismissal will be followed.

Types of Withdrawal

• Student withdrawal: Requested by student. Student should observe withdrawal deadlines as published in the College’s Academic Calendar. 
• Instructor withdrawal: Withdrawal from a course initiated by the instructor. If the withdrawal from the course results in dismissal from the program, the procedures outlined in Step 4: Dismissal will be followed.
• Administrative withdrawal: Withdrawal by the college for failure to pay required fees or never attending class.

The College's general withdrawal policies and appeal procedures are outlined below:

• Withdrawal Policy: Semester Credit Courses

https://sites.austincc.edu/administrative-rules/administrative-rules/?p=1371  

• Instructor Initiated and Administrative Withdrawal and Appeal Policy

https://sites.austincc.edu/administrative-rules/?p=1450  

• A student may also file a student complaint to appeal a withdrawal initiated by an instructor. Please see the earlier section on Student Complaint Procedures.

NOTE: If a withdrawal is past the official college date for withdrawal from a course, the student will receive a performance grade of "F" or "U" under the circumstances outlined in this section unless a specific program states otherwise.

Exit Review Meeting/Interview

Before the withdrawal or dismissal from a program, a student must have an exit review meeting with a course instructor or Department Chair. If the student does not respond to mail or email correspondence regarding the exit review meeting, the email sent by the department will serve as the official exit documentation and any dates provided will be binding regardless of whether a meeting occurred. A student who is voluntarily withdrawing should consult their specific program for guidance on exit meeting/interview requirements. Students who are being dismissed from the program will have an exit review meeting in accordance with the dismissal procedures in Step 4 outlined above.

Technical Standards and Essential Functions

Health Science programs prepare students for careers that are both physically and mentally demanding. These professions, as well as the training required to enter them, necessitate a specific set of skills and behaviors. These include, but are not limited to:

• Critical thinking skills: The ability to analyze complex situations, make sound judgments, and solve problems in high-pressure environments.
• Quick and appropriate responses: The capacity to react swiftly and effectively to changing patient care needs.
• Physical stamina: The ability to perform tasks that may involve standing for long periods, lifting patients, or manipulating medical equipment.
• Mental resilience: The capability to handle stress, maintain focus, and make decisions in emotionally challenging situations.

To ensure that students are well-prepared for these demands, Health Science programs establish:

• Technical standards: These are the specific skills, abilities, and knowledge required to succeed in the program and the profession. They may include physical abilities, cognitive skills, and behavioral expectations.
• Essential functions: These are the fundamental, non-negotiable tasks that students must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodations, to complete the program and work safely in the field.

These standards and functions serve several purposes:

• They provide clear expectations for prospective and current students.
• They ensure that graduates are capable of meeting the demands of their chosen profession.
• They help maintain the quality and integrity of the educational program.
• They protect patient safety by ensuring that all students and graduates can perform necessary tasks.

By establishing and communicating these requirements, Health Science programs aim to:

• Prepare students effectively for their future careers.
• Maintain high standards of patient care and safety.
• Comply with accreditation and professional standards.
• Provide a fair and transparent framework for student assessment and progression.

The standards and essential functions are designed to ensure that all students, with or without reasonable accommodations, have the abilities necessary to complete their professional education and succeed in their chosen health science program.

Minimum abilities expected include the skills in the following five areas:

• Observation;
• Communication;
• Sensory and motor coordination and function;
• Intellectual, conceptualization, integration, and quantification; and
• Behavioral and social skills, abilities, and aptitude.

Reasonable accommodations must be administered or provided without altering the essential requirements of the specific program. Applicants are not required to disclose the nature of any disability(ies); however, an applicant with questions about these technical requirements is strongly encouraged to discuss concerns with the program’s department chair.

It is the responsibility of the student to contact the Student Accessibility Services (SAS) office if they feel they cannot meet one or more of the technical standards listed, with or without reasonable accommodations. Students can also contact the Student Accessibility Services Office on the campus where they expect to take the majority of their classes.

The Sonography Program Technical Standards are located in the Sonography Student Handbook.

Professional Standards, Ethics, and Confidentiality

Students must remember that the information concerning patients is confidential. Students are required to adhere to legal, ethical, and professional standards as established by state and federal regulatory agencies. We believe in your ability to uphold these important standards. However, we must emphasize that any breach of patient confidentiality or failure to comply with legal, ethical, and professional standards is a serious matter. Such actions could, unfortunately, result in immediate dismissal from the program.

We share this information not to alarm you, but to prepare you for the responsibilities you'll carry as future healthcare providers. If you ever feel unsure about confidentiality practices or ethical standards, please don't hesitate to contact your instructors, department chairs, or advisors. We're here to guide you and help you navigate these critical aspects of your professional development.

Remember, by protecting patient confidentiality, you are not just following the rules— you are honoring the trust patients place in us and upholding the values that make our healthcare professions noble and respected. ­­­­­­­­­­

HIPAA Compliance

Patient Information

Volunteers may be given a scenario script with program-created patient history and symptoms for a student scanning session. No personal patient information is entered into the ultrasound unit. A unique identifying number is assigned to each scan, which is the only method used for tracking cases. Any written documents completed by the student during their scanning session are considered part of the student’s work for the clinical course. Volunteers are not given any images or recordings of the scan.

Recorded Images

Images recorded on-campus or off-campus are considered personal patient information and must be kept secure at all times to maintain compliance with HIPAA policies and rules. All recorded images must remain confidential and within the sonography department or at the clinical site (see the procedure for case donations). Volunteers are not given any images or recordings of the exam.

HIPAA Compliance – Breach

Health Sciences HIPAA Breach Notification Process (Section IV):

If a breach occurs, an event notification form must be completed by the sonography faculty within three working days and distributed to:

• Covered Entity (clinical site/facility)
• HIPAA Privacy Officer
• Program/Department HIPAA File

Sonography students are not allowed to remove any patient images from the clinical facility. This includes images provided by a clinical instructor, staff sonographer, or physician, or through illicit use of a cell phone. If a clinical site wishes to donate images or a case study, see the procedure in the donated case section.

Violations and sanctions can be applicable to the individual and the program. The progressive discipline policy will be followed for student confidentiality violations as outlined in the student handbook.

HIPAA Compliance – Donated Case Study from Off-Campus Clinical Site

If a clinical affiliate site wishes to donate ultrasound images or case studies to the program, the clinical instructor at the site must contact the sonography program directly to initiate the donation.

In compliance with ACC HIPAA procedures regarding donated case studies, this procedure must be followed:

1. All images must be de-identified prior to the study leaving the clinical site. Images that cannot be de-identified cannot be used by the program and will not be accepted.
2. The sonography faculty is responsible for appropriately logging and labeling each donated case. The donated case log will be maintained in the sonography department and readily available for inspection by the HIPAA Task Force.

Electronic Devices

The use of a Portable Electronic Device (PED) is prohibited within the sonography lab, at the clinical site, and during class sessions. The use of computers and recording devices is prohibited during class sessions unless the instructor expressly permits it or the student obtains written permission from the instructor. This includes tablets and smartwatches. Violations of this policy will be addressed using the Corrective Actions/Disciplinary Measures outlined in the Health Sciences Division Policies and Procedures. Additional guidelines regarding social media and the use of electronic devices can be found in the Health Sciences Division Policies and Procedures section of the handbook.

What are Portable Electronic Devices (PED)?

Any non-stationary electronic apparatus with singular or multiple capabilities of recording, storing, processing, and/or transmitting data, video/photo images, and/or voice emanations. This definition generally includes, but is not limited to, laptops, PDAs, pocket PCs, palmtops, Media Players (MP3s), memory sticks (thumb drives), cellular telephones, smartphones, PEDs with cellular phone capability, and pagers.

General Information Social Media

As a student in an ACC Health Sciences program, it is imperative that you understand the critical ethical implications of using social media, including:

• Public nature of social media.
• All information published on social media can be viewed by anyone and traced back to you.
• There is no truly "private" social media site.
• Search engines can locate posts years after publication.
• Comments can be forwarded or copied.

The public, along with your future employers, expects high standards of professional behavior. If you are unsure about posting something or responding to a comment, consult with program faculty. Social media typically enables two-way communication with the audience; therefore, an individual has less control over how others will use materials. Social media may be used to investigate student behavior.

As a student in an ACC Health Sciences program:

• You will encounter confidential information in classrooms and clinical or medical settings.
• It is your responsibility to maintain confidentiality at all times.

Remember, it is your responsibility to follow the Social Media policy outlined below. Violation of any of these policies may result in corrective actions, including remediation with additional training and guidance up to dismissal from the program.

We encourage thoughtful, professional use of social media. Your online presence reflects not only on you but also on our programs and your future healthcare profession. By adhering to these guidelines, you protect your future career and uphold the integrity of the healthcare field. We are here to support your growth as healthcare professionals. If you have any questions or concerns about social media use, please don't hesitate to reach out to program faculty for guidance.

Social Media/Electronic Device Policy

• All social media postings must be made within the guidelines of the "Professional Behavior, Professional Ethics, and Confidentiality, Safe/Unsafe Clinical/Practicum'' policies outlined in the program-specific student handbook, and State Professional Codes of Conduct/Code of Ethics as applicable to their specific field. Any violations of the above-referenced policies through the use of social media platforms or portable electronic communication devices will result in disciplinary action, which may include failure in a course and/or dismissal from the program.
• All postings to social media platforms must comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA)/Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH), applicable facility policy, and state law. Any social media posting or comment to any online forum or website that violates HIPAA guidelines and jeopardizes a patient's privacy or safety may result in immediate dismissal from the program.
• Do not share, post, or otherwise disseminate any information, including images, about a patient or information gained as a result of your presence in a clinical/practicum setting or as a result of a student-patient/client relationship.
• Do not identify patients/clients by name or post or publish information that may lead to the identification of a patient/client (examples include, but are not limited to: date of care, facility name, diagnosis, and treatment/surgery). Restricting access to postings through privacy settings is not sufficient to ensure privacy.
• During clinical experiences/practicums, any use of electronic devices (cell phones of any kind, laptops, etc.) must be with faculty approval within the guidelines of facility/program policies.
• Do not take photos or videos of patients, families, personnel, or clinical facility areas on personal devices, including cell phones of any kind.
• Maintain professional boundaries in the use of electronic media. Online contact with patients/clients or former patients/clients blurs the distinction between a professional and personal relationship. Online contact/communication with a current patient/client outside the communication methods allowed within the facility/program is prohibited.
• Student(s) must have permission from the faculty to video or audio record in the classroom. Official accommodations made by the Student Accessibility Services (SAS) will be provided.
• Personal phone conversations or texting are NOT allowed at any time while in patient/client areas or the classroom. If the student needs to respond to an emergency text or call during class, the student is asked to leave the classroom.
• Any social media comments or postings to any online forum or webpage that substantially disrupt the program, violate professional conduct standards, or indicate a potential danger or threat to a student, patient, or staff member may result in immediate dismissal. Students are encouraged to seek guidance from faculty or the program department chair if they have any questions about appropriate social media use in the context of their studies and future profession.
• A first-time violation of this policy is a serious matter and, depending on the circumstances, may result in placement on probation and/or other corrective actions as outlined in the policy; in all cases, additional training and guidance will be provided.

Computer Access and Use

Sonography courses utilize the Blackboard learning management system for instruction, testing, and dissemination of information. Students must have a computer with adequate internet connectivity speeds to access this platform. Instructions on the use of Blackboard can be found at https://instruction.austincc.edu/students/kb/blackboard/.

Sonography students are required to demonstrate a variety of computer skills throughout the length of the program. Quizzes, tests, assignments, and other activities are part of the grading for all coursework and require skillful use of a computer. If you are unfamiliar with using a computer or have limited computer skills, please seek assistance in attaining these skills through ACC Library services or the help desk to meet the requirements for these courses.

Sonography Chain of Command

Students who have questions or disputes regarding course objectives, including evaluations, must first discuss their concerns with the assigned course instructor. If the instructor is unable to resolve the student’s questions and concerns, the student should request an appointment with the program director, who will investigate the issue. The program director may request a meeting with the student and the instructor as part of the resolution process. If the issue continues unresolved, the student may request a meeting with the sonography department chair, who may also request a meeting with the student and the instructor as part of the resolution process. If after this meeting the issue remains unresolved, the student should follow the student complaint procedure found in the ACC catalog.

Withdrawal Policy

It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that their name is removed from the rolls should they decide to withdraw from the class.  The instructor does, however, reserve the right to drop a student should he or she feel it is necessary.  If a student decides to withdraw, they should also verify that the withdrawal is recorded before the Final Withdrawal Date. The student is also strongly encouraged to keep any paperwork in case a problem arises.

Students are responsible for understanding the impact that withdrawal from a course may have on their financial aid, veterans’ benefits, and international student status.  Per state law, students enrolling for the first time in Fall 2007 or later at any public Texas college or university may not withdraw (receive a “W”) from more than six courses during their undergraduate college education. Some exemptions for good cause could allow a student to withdraw from a course without having it count toward this limit. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor when making decisions about course selection, course loads, and course withdrawals.

ACC and Health Sciences Policy: Incomplete

An incomplete (grade of "I") will only be given for extenuating circumstances.  What constitutes “extenuating circumstances” is left to the instructor’s discretion.  If a grade of I is given, the remaining course work must be completed by a date set by the student and professor.  This date may not be later than two weeks prior to the end of the following semester.  A grade of I also requires completion and submission of the Incomplete Grade form, to be signed by the faculty member (and student if possible) and submitted to the department chair.

Students may request an Incomplete from their faculty member if they believe circumstances warrant.  The faculty member will determine whether the Incomplete is appropriate to award or not.  The following processes must be followed when awarding a student an I grade. 

1.      Prior to the end of the semester in which the “I” is to be awarded, the student must meet with the instructor to determine the assignments and exams that must be completed prior to the deadline date.  This meeting can occur virtually or in person.  The instructor should complete the Report of Incomplete Grade form.

2.      The faculty member will complete the form, including all requirements to complete the course and the due date, sign (by typing in name) and then email it to the student.  The student will then complete his/her section, sign (by typing in name), and return the completed form to the faculty member to complete the agreement.  A copy of the fully completed form can then be emailed by the faculty member to the student and the department chair for each grade of Incomplete that the faculty member submits at the end of the semester.

3.      The student must complete all remaining work by the date specified on the form above.  This date is determined by the instructor in collaboration with the student, but it may not be later than the final withdrawal deadline in the subsequent long semester.  

4.      Students will retain access to the course Blackboard page through the subsequent semester in order to submit work and complete the course. Students will be able to log on to Blackboard and have access to the course section materials, assignments, and grades from the course and semester in which the Incomplete was awarded.  

5.      When the student completes the required work by the Incomplete deadline, the instructor will submit an electronic Grade Change Form to change the student’s performance grade from an “I” to the earned grade of A, B, C, D, or F. 

If an Incomplete is not resolved by the deadline, the grade automatically converts to an “F.”  Approval to carry an Incomplete for longer than the following semester or session deadline is not frequently granted.”