The Big Sandy Community and Technical College (BSCTC) mission statement [1] mandates learning experiences for those preparing for immediate entry into the workforce upon graduation, for those transferring to a four-year institution, and for community members seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills. Consistent with this mission, all degree programs maintain course content that has appropriate learning outcomes and are based on fields of study appropriate to higher education.

All degree programs are consistent with the format and curriculum guidelines set forth by the Council on Postsecondary Education Program Approval Policy (CPE) [2] and posted on both the CPE academic policy website [3] and the 2006-2007 Kentucky Community and Technical College Rules of the Senate, Section III [4].

Associate in Arts (AA) and Associate in Science (AS) degree programs develop the general education competencies that prepare students for transfer to four-year institutions as stated in the Kentucky CPE Transfer Policy [5]. The Kentucky Transfer Framework, KRS 164.020 [6], ensures that degrees are designed to embody a coherent course of study based on content appropriate to postsecondary education and ensure the transfer of credit toward baccalaureate degree completion.

The Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree develops skills and competencies appropriate to the workforce. Advisory committees [7] composed of faculty, employers, and individuals employed in the field ensure courses and programs meet employer expectations. The advisory committees convene biannually as stated in KCTCS Policy 4.3.4-B [8]. Some degree programs must also adhere to specialized external requirements and to state regulations [9], such as Cosmetology [10], Dental Hygiene [11], Nursing [12], and Respiratory Care [13].

Source

Location/Special Instructions

1.

BSCTC Mission Statement

http://www.bigsandy.kctcs.edu/administration/mission.html

2.

Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education Program Approval Policy

2.7.2.2_CPE_KY_GOV_ProgramApprovalPolicy.pdf

3.

CPE "Academic Programs" web page

http://cpe.ky.gov/policies/academicpolicies/AcPrograms.htm

4.

KCTCS Rules of the Senate, Section III, Curriculum Development

2.7.2.4_Section_III_Curriculum_2005_2006.pdf

5.

Kentucky Transfer Policy

http://cpe.ky.gov/NR/rdonlyres/D91C75F0-2C60-4A04-91A0-11918212A739/0/Gen_Ed_Transfer_Revised_20050927.pdf

6.

KRS 164.020 Powers and Duties of Council, Items 14 and 15

http://www.lrc.ky.gov/KRS/164-00/020.PDF

7.

KCTCS Policy 4.3.4-B

http://www.kctcs.edu/employee/policies/volumeII/volII4-3-4.pdf

8.

Program Advisory Committee Minutes

2.7.2.8_Advisory_Committee_Minutes_Jan_2007.pdf

9.

Accreditation letters

2.7.2.9_Accreditation_Letters.pdf

10.

KRS 317A00.090--Cosmetology

http://www.lrc.state.ky.us/KRS/317A00/090.PDF

11.

KRS 313.00.290-Dental Hygiene

http://www.lrc.state.ky.us/KRS/313-00/290.PDF

12.

KRS 314.111--Nursing

http://www.lrc.state.ky.us/KRS/314-00/111.PDF

13.

KRS 314A00.200-Respiratory Care

http://www.lrc.state.ky.us/KRS/314A00/200.PDF