College Career Pathways

ABOUT COLLEGE CAREER PATHWAYS

Middlesex Community College’s College Career Pathways program gives sophomore, junior, and senior students at participating high schools the opportunity to enroll in college courses at their high school while simultaneously earning high school and college credits for those courses. This is a worthwhile program that helps students improve academically and allows them to begin their post-secondary education. You may hear this program being referred to as CCP, dual enrollment, or concurrent enrollment.

Both our college and your high school have very specific guidelines to follow to ensure that CCP students receive a rigorous, college level curriculum. High school teachers who have been selected to teach these courses hold the same credentials as faculty that teach at the college.

Middlesex Community College is an accredited college and transfers credits to many other colleges and universities. The decisions on accepting transfer credits is made by the college or university that would be receiving them. For more information, please visit: https://mxcc.edu/catalog/other-information/transfer-programs-for-middlesex-students/ or contact the college or university to which you are interested in transferring the Middlesex Community College credits.

IMPORTANT DEADLINES

• The deadline to apply and register for 2022-2023 fall semester or full year CCP courses is October 13, 2022.
• The deadline to apply and register for 2022-2023 spring CCP courses is March 9, 2023.
• The last day to withdraw from a fall semester or full year CCP course is November 11, 2022.
• The last day to withdraw from a spring semester CCP course is April 13, 2023.

COLLEGE CAREER PATHWAYS APPLICATION

Your guidance counselor or the instructor for your CCP course will supply you with the link where you can create an online account and complete the application for the CCP program.

• The deadline to apply and register for 2022-2023 fall semester or full year CCP courses is October 13, 2022.
• The deadline to apply and register for 2022-2023 spring CCP courses is March 9, 2023.

GRADES AND TRANSCRIPTS

To access grades and unofficial transcripts:

1. Go to my.ctstate.edu
2. Login using your NetID.
3. Go to the Student Tab.
4. Click on the “Student Self Service” Channel.
5. Click on “Student Records”.
6. Click on Final Grades, select term then submit.
7. Click on Academic Transcript, select level (MxCC Credit), then submit.
8. View/Print your final grades/transcript.
9. Click Logout (upper right) to exit from the website.

Official transcripts are available as eTranscripts that can be sent directly to educational institutions, potential employers, or other appropriate entities.

1. Go to my.ctstate.edu 
2. Login using your NetID.
3. Go to the Student Tab.
4. Click on the “Student Self Service” Channel.
5. Click on “Student Records”.
6. Click on Final Grades, select term then submit.
7. Click on Academic Transcript, select level (MxCC Credit), then submit.
8. View/Print your final grades/transcript.
9. Click Logout (upper right) to exit from the website.

Additional information about transcripts can be found here: https://mxcc.edu/records-grades/#transcript

ID/PASSWORD/LOGIN INFORMATION

Your NetID number and password are needed to access your application, grades, transcripts, and other account information.

If you do not remember your NetID or password, please use the online self-help tool to obtain your NetID or reset your NetID password. (https://supportcenter.ct.edu/netid/lookupnetid.asp). You will be asked to supply your last name, birth date, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. If you don’t know or don’t remember your password, click the “Reset Your Password” link and follow the steps given.

FERPA

FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) grants rights to post-secondary students, and not to a students’ parents or legal guardians, regardless of a student’s age. To learn more about these privacy rights, click here: https://mxcc.edu/records-grades/#FERPA/

CCP COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

The following pathways and courses are currently being offered in MxCC’s CCP program. Please note that not all pathways are offered at all high schools.

Computer Information Technology Pathway

CIS 1001 – Introduction to Computers

Credits: 3

This is an introductory course in information technology concepts and software productivity tools intended for Computer Information Systems majors and other students interested in computers and Information Technology. Areas of instruction include computer concepts, current topics and trends in information technology, the role of computer systems in business problem solving, an introduction to the major career areas of Information Technology, and Microsoft Office skills that are important to all college students.
Prerequisite: none
Prerequisite/Corequisite: none
Corequisite: none
General Education Code: CLIX
Previous CSC*101, CIS*101

CIS 1104 – Introduction to Operating Systems

Credits: 3

The objective of the course is to provide the student with an understanding of how an operating system works. Students will learn operating systems concepts, how to use Windows advanced features, and how the operating systems interact with hardware both locally and on a network. Topics covered will include troubleshooting and customizing Windows, how to set up a local network, security strategies, and an overview of the more popular operating systems on the market today.
Prerequisite: none
Prerequisite/Corequisite: none
Corequisite: none
Previous CST*120, CST*210

CSC 1273 – Intro to Programming w/JavaScript

Credits: 3

This course teaches students the fundamentals of programming using JavaScript, a dynamic computer programming language most commonly used as a part of web pages. Students will gain an understanding of the fundamental concepts of programming and interactive design. This introductory course is suitable for students with no prior knowledge or programming experience.
Prerequisite: none
Prerequisite/Corequisite: none
Corequisite: none
Elective Code(s): CPL
Previous CST*200, CSC*268, CSC*116

CST 1111 – Computer Hardware

Credits: 4
Laboratory-based course emphasizing computer architecture and related components. Analyzing and troubleshooting the relationships between the operating system, computer hardware, and peripheral devices.
Prerequisite: none
Prerequisite/Corequisite: none
Corequisite: none
Previous CST*140, CST*141, CST*149, CST*239, CST*240

Early Childhood Education Pathway

ECED 1001 – Introduction to Early Childhood Care and Education

Credits: 3
This course is designed to acquaint students with the field of early childhood inclusive education. The course will emphasize the importance of ages birth to eight and the part that early care and educational settings play in every child’s development including children with disabilities, developmental delays, language, and cultural differences. The course will review theories and philosophies of early care and education and will acquaint students with historical perspectives as well as modern trends, developments, and curriculum models. The course will explore the organization and composition of early childhood settings; curriculum planning based on Developmentally Appropriate Practices, materials, and equipment; and the role of the teacher including reflective practice. The course includes four, 2.5 hours of preschool classroom observations for a minimum of 10 hours. A minimum of 10 hours of field work is required for this course. Previous ECE* 101

ECED 1104 – Infant and Toddler Growth and Development

Credits: 3

Students will be introduced to theories, practices, and philosophies/approaches associated with caring for all young children during the first three years of life, including those children with disabilities, developmental delays, language and/or cultural differences. The relationship between nature (typical and atypical growth and development) and nurture (environment) are critically explored in this introductory course. The course will cover brain research; attachment; temperament; emotions and feelings; routines, health, safety, and nutrition; family engagement, indoor and outdoor environments. Previous ECE* 141

ECED 1303 – Creative Arts and Experiences

Credits: 3

This course is designed to study the concept of creativity and the creative process as it applies to art and creative play for all young children including children with disabilities, developmental delays, language and /or cultural differences.  Students will explore a wide variety of creative media suitable for use with all young children. Emphasis is given to creative experiences and environments as they impact on the development of all young children.
Elective Code(s): CRTY
Previous ECE* 103

ECED 1376 – Health and Wellness

Credits: 3

The relationship between health, safety and nutrition and child development will be examined.  Emphasis will be on the strategies needed to implement a safe, healthy, and nutritionally sound program for all children including children with disabilities, developmental delays, language and/or cultural differences. Community agencies and resources that benefit all children and families will be explored. Previous ECE* 176

Manufacturing Technology Studies Pathway

MFG 1010 – Parametric Design (SolidWorks)

Credits: 3
Introduction to computer-based design using SolidWorks® parametric 3D CAD software. The course focuses on Parametric Modeling and topics include: Design Intent and Process, Sketching Techniques, Model Development Techniques, Process-Specific Modeling, Design Changes, Editing Models, Patterning and Assembly Techniques. Students will participate in mostly individual and some group design projects as appropriate
Cross-listed: CAD 2200 – Parametric Design (SolidWorks)  
Previous MFG* 110

EGR 1120 – Engineering Drawing Specs

Credits: 3
This is an introductory course in the interpretation of engineering drawings beginning with the basics of orthographic projections. Topics include: Geometric Constructions, Orthographic Drawings, Auxiliary Views, Sections, Dimensioning, Tolerances, Working Drawings, Descriptive Geometry, and an introduction to Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
Prerequisite: None
Prerequisite/Corequisite: None
Corequisite: None
Previous EGR* 112

MFG 1424 – Blueprint Reading 1

Credits: 3
This is an initial course introducing the basic principles of blueprint reading. Topics include layouts of drawings, line types and their usage, orthographic projections, sectional and auxiliary views, sketching, dimensioning and tolerancing practices for holes, chamfers, angles, tapers, keyways, diameters and radii.
Prerequisite: Placement into MATH 0988 or instructor permission
Previous MFG* 124

MFG 1453 – Benchwork

Credits: 2
This course covers the fundamental principles used in semi-precision and precision layout. Students will be instructed on proper technique using hand tools, band saws, hole making tools, work holding devices, and deburring tools in order to fabricate workpieces from blueprints. Half of the course will be spent in lecture and half will be spent in lab completing hands-on projects.
Prerequisite: None
Prerequisite/Corequisite: None
Corequisite: None
Previous MFG* 153

MFG 1478 – CNC Fundamentals

Credits: 3
This course is a combination of classroom theory and hands on lab experiences. This course is split with 3-hours classroom and 3-hours lab each week to machine various projects. This course introduces a student to the fundamentals of Computer Numerical Controlled machines. The student will learn conversational programming to operate lathes and milling machines. This is the first step to understand the Cartesian Coordinate System and basic steps and processes to machine parts to blueprint specifications. The students will also learn to operate CNC machines to understand and set tool offsets as well as loading programs. This also includes proper tool and cutter mounting for best performance. Cutter compensation is covered in both conversational and G-code language. This includes the set-up of vises and other work holding devices or fixtures. Indicating surfaces and datum identification is an important part of this class. Geometric Dimensions and Tolerances are explained to meet business and industry standards. Included is maintenance and machine care.
Prerequisite: Placement into MATH 0988 or instructor permission
Course Fees: Advanced Manufacturing Course Fee
Previous MFG* 178

MFG 2444 – CNC I

Credits: 3
This course introduces students to Computer Numerical Control programming for CNC Mills and CNC Lathe. Students will receive instruction on CNC control commands (G & M code) through the use of Simulator MCUs (Machine Control Units) as well as online resources.
Course Fees: ????
Previous MFG* 244

Veterinary Technology Pathway

VET 1001 – Introduction to Veterinary Technology

Credits: 3
Introduction to Veterinary Technology is an overview of the veterinary technology profession. This course introduces the role of the veterinary technician and employment opportunities in the field. Covered topics include overviews of breed differentiation, nutrition, reproduction, and animal behavior.
Prerequisite: Eligible for ENG 1010 
Previous VET* 101

VET 1003 – Animal Care and Handling

Credits: 3
This course provides practical knowledge and “hands-on” experience with exotic, laboratory, small and large animals. Common husbandry practices, diet, behavior and handling and restraint are discussed. Normal physiologic values and physical exam findings and common diseases affecting each species are reviewed, along with disease prevention methods. Restraint, basic examination, grooming and handling methodologies are practiced in lab.
Prerequisite: Admission to Veterinary Technology Program
Course Fees: Clinical Program Fee Level 2 Assessed Per Semester
Previous VET* 100

The following courses might be offered through your high school for college credit, but they do not follow a CCP pathway.

Accounting

ACCT 1098 – Special Topics Accounting

Credits: 3
This course provides a study of important trends and current issues in the field of accounting. Topics may include, auditing, financial accounting, managerial accounting, accounting systems, or taxation. Students should check the class schedule for listing of actual topics.
Prerequisite: ACCT 1130 and ACCT 1170 or permission of instructor.
Previous ACC* 198

ACCT 1130 – Principles of Financial Accounting

Credits: 3
A study of basic accounting principles and procedures, from the initial recording of transactions to the preparation and analysis of financial statements, with emphasis on theory as well as practice.
Prerequisite: MATH 0988/MATH 0989  with a grade of D- or higher OR placement using multiple measures
Previous ACC*113, ACC*115

Biology

BIO 1100 – Principles of the Human Body

Credits: 3
This non-STEM (Science,Technology, Engineering, and Math)majors natural science course is designed to introduce students to basic principles required to support human life. The cellular nature of life and organization and function of organs and organ systems is emphasized. Students use a variety of resources from readings to media to case studies to acquire and evaluate relevant scientific content. Select body systems and disease states are discussed. This course cannot be used as the prerequisite for BIO 2111 or BIO 2350.
Prerequisite: Eligibility for ENG 0910 
Prerequisite/Corequisite: None
Corequisite: None
General Education Code: SCRX
Elective Code(s): LART, SCI
Previous BIO* 110

New Media

COMM 1601 – Digital Video Production

Credits: 3
This course is an introduction to single camera video field production and post-production techniques with an emphasis on visual storytelling. Students will learn program development, proposal and script preparation, high-definition camera operation, portable lighting techniques, sound recording, video editing, motion graphics, visual effects and preparing finished programs for distribution. Students will create news, documentary, instructional and narrative programming for a variety of platforms including mobile, Internet streaming and broadcast television.
Prerequisite: None
Prerequisite/Corequisite: None
Corequisite: None
General Education Code: ARHX
Elective Code(s): HUM, LART
Previous COM* 129

NMP 1110 – Introduction to Digital Graphics

Credits: 3
This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts and techniques involved with producing digital imagery for various production applications and environments. Students will explore a range of digital software and hardware applications designed for use by artists and designers in various media production industries. Topics covered include: proper organizational workflow techniques related to screen-based, online media production (communication, asset management, file sharing, etc.) and creative use of common digital graphic production tools.
Prerequisite: previous computer experience highly recommended
Previous DGA* 110

NMP 1120 – Image Editing and the Pixel

Credits: 3
Students will receive in-depth instruction in leading digital image editing software which is used in commercial graphics, video production and new media production. This software is used to edit and manipulate photographs and other images with an emphasis on integration into assorted media productions. Topics covered include: image creation and editing; digital color theory and file formats; typographic effects; advanced filter techniques; automation and performance options; and new media production workflow considerations.
Prerequisite: NMP 1001 or NMP 1110 
Previous DGA* 120

NMP 1025 – New Media Production

Credits: 3
This course is an introduction to the production of New Media. “New Media” means current and emerging communications technologies that are digital-based, interactive, and interconnected through computers, the Internet, mobile devices and social media platforms. The course also touches on emerging areas such as virtual reality and 360-degree video. Students will explore and produce a variety of digital media including, web sites, blogs, podcasts, and social media profiles using various forms of digital images, audio, video, and graphics.
Prerequisite: previous computer experience highly recommended
Previous COM* 125 or DGA* 125

NMP 2210 – Web Productions Fundamentals

Credits: 3
An introduction to graphic and multimedia skills utilized in website production. This course discusses the anatomy of web pages, identifies common web-based elements and tackles production issues such as effective web sites across different browsers and platforms, dynamic layout for variable screen resolutions, color, project planning, mapping, interface design, prototyping and organizing content.  Students will use industry standard applications for coding (X)HTML/CSS and creating, editing, and integrating graphics and multimedia elements involved in web-based media production.
Prerequisite: NMP 1001 or NMP 1110 
Previous new, replaces DGA 241 Internet Web Design I

WHAT IS COLLEGE CAREER PATHWAYS?

Middlesex Community College’s College Career Pathways program gives sophomore, junior, and senior students at participating high schools the opportunity to enroll in college courses at their high school while simultaneously earning high school and college credits for those courses. This is a worthwhile program that helps students improve academically and allows them to begin their post-secondary education. You may hear this program being referred to as CCP, dual enrollment, or concurrent enrollment.

Both our college and your student’s high school have very specific guidelines to follow to ensure that CCP students receive a rigorous, college level curriculum. High school teachers who have been selected to teach these courses hold the same credentials as faculty that teach at the college.

Middlesex Community College is an accredited college and transfers credits to many other colleges and universities. The decisions on accepting transfer credits is made by the college or university that would be receiving them. For more information, please visit: https://mxcc.edu/catalog/other-information/transfer-programs-for-middlesex-students/ or contact the college or university to which you are interested in transferring the Middlesex Community College credits.

There is no cost to participate in this program. Application fees, tuition, textbook, and all other fees are waived. The federal Carl D. Perkins Grant funding, the Connecticut Board of Regents (BOR) for Higher Education, and the Connecticut State Department of Education help to support this program. Students are, however, responsible for following guidelines and meeting deadlines, which will help them prepare for similar experiences after high school graduation.

For additional information about College Career Pathways, contact your child’s High School Counselor or Michele Rousseau, CCP Coordinator, at 860-343-5728  or MRousseau@mxcc.edu .

COURSE DELIVERY

(Adapted from Housatonic Community College, 2015)

Dual enrollment courses offer an important opportunity for students to earn college credit while still in high school, which enables them to complete their college education more quickly and at lower cost. Unlike Advanced Placement (AP) or College Level Examination Placement (CLEP), dual enrollment courses allow students to actually experience college-level teaching and learning in the classroom, thereby giving them a critical window into the college experience and easing their eventual transition into college expectations and work.

At the heart of earning college credit, however, is the authenticity and integrity of college-level work offered in dual enrollment courses. In short, the college and high school partners must ensure that dual enrollment courses provide teaching and learning experiences that are equivalent to those which students would receive at the college. According to NECHE accreditation standard 4:36

The institution demonstrates its clear and ongoing authority and administrative oversight for the academic elements of all courses for which it awards institutional credit or credentials. These responsibilities include course content and the delivery of the instructional program; selection, approval, professional development, and evaluation of faculty; admission, registration, and retention of students; evaluation of prior learning; and evaluation of student progress, including the awarding and recording of credit. The institution retains, even with contractual or other arrangements, responsibility for the design, content, and delivery of courses for which academic credit or degrees are awarded. The institution awarding a joint, dual, or concurrent degree demonstrates that the program is consistent with Commission policy, and that the student learning outcomes meet the institution’s own standards and those of the Commission. (Commission for Institutions of Higher Education, 2011)

Consequently, College Career Pathways articulated courses are required to conform to several college policies and standards associated with ensuring the integrity of the college credit experience, including:

• Students enrolling in the course must meet all prerequisites for the course
• Course instructors must possess appropriate qualifications and credentials commensurate with those of on-campus faculty
• Course instructors must participate in ongoing professional development
• Course instructors must participate in faculty and course evaluation
• The course must adopt the college’s approved student learning outcomes
• The course must adopt the college’s approved general education competencies as well as assessment procedures and instruments (where applicable)
• The course must utilize the college’s grading procedures or rubrics (where applicable)
• The course must participate in relevant college-wide course/program assessment.SE

FERPA

FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) grants rights to post-secondary students, and not to a students’ parents or legal guardians, regardless of a student’s age. To learn more about these privacy rights, click here: https://mxcc.edu/records-grades/#FERPA/

(Adapted from Housatonic CC, 2015)

Overview of Teacher Certification and Pathway Articulation Process

The process of articulation of College Career Pathways courses between the high school and Middlesex Community College is initiated by submitting a Concurrent Enrollment Agreement . Two major elements determine approval for articulation: instructors need to meet college credentialing standards and a review of course curriculum in order to ensure alignment with courses taught on campus. Content must be reviewed by MxCC faculty and the high school. Teachers from the high school must submit their credentials (including official transcripts from all higher education institutions attended), resume or CV, and a College Career Pathways Teacher Certification Application  for review and approval by the college’s academic department. Finally, an articulation agreement is signed by representatives of the college and high school.

Credentialing Standards for CCP Instructors

Middlesex Community College follows the Connecticut State College and University (CSCU) standards for engaging instructors:

“The standard minimum qualification for teaching positions at any of the community colleges remains a master’s degree in the discipline or a related field with zero to two years of experience teaching in the discipline at the college level.”

1. Exceptions will be at the discretion of the Chief Academic Officer in consultation with the relevant department at each of the colleges.
2. Colleges are encouraged to clarify in writing, to the extent possible, the existing acceptable qualifications for particular courses (i.e., entry level courses).
3. The Chief Academic Officer is responsible for oversight of all hiring.
4. Alternative Minimum Credentials: When the use of alternative minimum credentials is deemed necessary for a particular position, the faculty in the department may then propose alternative minimum qualifications for their discipline, including (if applicable) differentiated qualifications based on the level of the course being taught (developmental, 100-level, 200-level; or sub-specialty within the discipline). Any proposed alternate qualifications for adjunct faculty must be approved by the college president. The President and/or the CAO must also confirm the determination that the field is one where a master’s degree is not customary.” (Golden, 2015) For a complete listing of the college’s Minimum Hiring Qualifications for Adjunct Faculty please see the link [https://mxcc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/180501-MxCC-Minimum-Hiring-Qualifications-for-Adjunct-Faculty.pdf] on our website.

CCP Credentialing Process for the Current Academic Year

Credentialing policy for CCP instructors

All instructors must go through the approval process prior to teaching a credit bearing CCP course.

Approval of new instructors

Any instructor who wishes to teach a credit bearing course at his or her high school must follow the procedure below:

1. Complete these initial steps prior to the course being offered at the high school:
   • Complete MxCC’s College Career Pathways Teacher Certification Application 
   • Provide official transcripts for undergraduate and graduate education.
   • Provide an up-to-date resume.
   • Interview with MxCC Program Coordinator.

2. Approval process will be conducted by the Program Coordinator or the Dean of Academic and Student Affairs or designee.

3. The instructor will receive a letter from the MxCC Program Coordinator that either:
   • Acknowledges them as an “Associate Adjunct” at MxCC and approves them to teach the course for college bearing credit
   • Denies their application to teach the course for college bearing credit with reasons for the denial.

4. All CCP instructors must agree to have the MxCC Faculty liaison conduct a minimum of one classroom observation during the first year. Also required of instructors:
   • Participation in the annual program orientation.
   • Participation in mandatory professional development session annually.

Policy for De-Certification of CCP Instructors

The following constitute cause for de-certification of instructors in the CCP program:

1. Unsatisfactory evaluations
2. Failure to follow the policies of the course and MxCC regarding
   • Enrollment
   • Delivery of the course (e.g. outcomes not followed or not met)
   • Grade reporting (examinations, final grade)
   • FERPA Guidelines 
   • Conduct unbecoming

Orientation, Training, Observation of Instructors

Orientation

Instructors are required to attend annual orientations held early in the fall semester. These orientations may comprise full session concurrent workshops, department sessions, and may include a meal.

Training

The college encourages all CCP instructors to attend department and Center for Teaching (CFT) trainings and curriculum alignment meetings. Additionally, instructors should make training requests known to their Program Coordinators.

Site Visits & Evaluations

Program Coordinators will arrange to visit with their instructors and conduct a class observation for evaluation purposes at least once during the year.

FORMS

• Teacher Certification Form
• Concurrent Enrollment Agreement
• FERPA Guidelines