Consumer Information

Notice of Availability of Institutional and Financial Information

Financial Aid Programs

You will receive a letter with the total amount of your award, and the award amounts from each program. A typical financial aid award includes:

• Grant/Scholarship/Award – a gift to you that does not have to be repaid
• Loan(s) – borrowed funds that must be repaid, with interest
• Employment – on-campus jobs that provide money for educational costs. (Federal work study, college employee)

Grants

Albright College Trustee Grants

Albright College gives Trustee Grants on the basis of financial need. These funds originate from several sources, including funds donated to the College.

Federal Government Grants

Federal Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants are given by the federal government on the basis of financial need. Both of these programs can change from year to year based off of the family’s financial need. The Federal Supplemental Opportunity Grant is need-based and is given until the Federal fund has been exhausted.

State Grants

Students who are Pennsylvania residents could be eligible for a Pennsylvania State Grant through the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA). Typically, the application for the PA State grant is initiated when a student from Pennsylvania submits a valid Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students can apply for the PA State Grant at www.aessuccess.org. PHEAA has a strict filing deadline of May 1st prior to the start of each academic year. Please allow for processing time of 2-3 business days after you submit your FAFSA for PHEAA to receive it.

It is very important to note that applicants may be contacted by PHEAA or our Financial Aid Office concerning incomplete applications, grants assigned to other schools, or missing documentation. This correspondence will most likely be sent by email. Applicants should address these requests as soon as possible to ensure there are no delays with the funding of their PA State Grants. Additional information and updated grant statuses can be found by visiting www.aessuccess.org or by calling PHEAA at 1-800-692-7392.

Students who are not Pennsylvania residents could be eligible for similar state grant aid programs in their home state. Not all surrounding states allow the student to receive state aid when attending a Pennsylvania institution. A reciprocal state is one that permits its own state grant funds to be used by students attending schools in Pennsylvania. Those states include; Delaware, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Ohio, Vermont, and West Virginia. For more information about these aid programs, including eligibility requirements and filing deadlines, please contact your high school guidance office or the corresponding state agency that manages the aid programs in your home state.

Loans

Federal Stafford Loan

Students can apply for federal student aid at www.studentaid.gov.

A Master Promissory Note (MPN) and entrance counseling must be completed to receive Federal Direct Stafford loan funds. You may complete these steps online at https://studentaid.gov/.

There are two types of Federal Stafford Loans:

A subsidized Stafford Loan is awarded on the basis of financial need. You will not be charged any interest before you enter into repayment. The federal government will pay the interest while you are in school at least half time or during periods of deferment.

An unsubsidized Stafford Loan is not awarded on the basis of need. You will be charged interest from the time the loan is disbursed until it is paid in full. If you allow the interest to accumulate, it will be added to the principal amount of your loan and additional interest will be based upon the higher amount.

If you are a dependent student whose parents do not qualify for a Federal PLUS Loan, or you are an independent student, you may qualify for an additional Unsubsidized Stafford Loan.

Federal Stafford Annual & Aggregate Loan Limits

Employment:

The Federal Work-Study Program is designed to help students earn spending money during the academic year for books, supplies, and other expenses. Campus jobs are available in such areas as the library, bookstore, academic and administrative departments, and food services. The funding does not disburse directly to the student’s college account to offset cost. It will be paid directly to the student for the hours worked. Use caution when figuring work study into out of pocket costs.

Find out more about Student Employment at Albright College by visiting the Student Employment page in our Human Resources Section.

Contact Information for Assistance in Obtaining Institutional or Financial Information

Admission:
P: 610-921-7700
Email: admission@albright.edu

School of Professional Studies:
P: 610-921-7799
Email: sps@albright.edu

Financial Aid Office:
P: 610-921-7515
F: 610-921-7729
Email: finaid@albright.edu

Student Accounts:
P: 610-921-7777
Email: studentaccounts@albright.edu

College Address:
Att: (Department you are addressing)
Thirteenth and Bern Streets
P.O. Box 15234
Reading, PA 19612-5234

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Statement

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records:

The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the College receives a written request. Students should submit written requests to the Registrar that identify the records they wish to inspect. The Registrar will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the Registrar, he or she shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.

The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading. Students should write the official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the College decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the College will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the College in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit, personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the College has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his other tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

Upon request, the College discloses education records without consent, to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

The right to file a complaint. Complaints should be addressed in writing to the Registrar’s Office so that a resolution may found. Complaints may also be made directly to the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the College to comply with the requirements of FERPA.” The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-5920

For additional information on these rights, please contact the Registrar or the Dean of Student Affairs.

Albright College, in accordance with the FERPA, has designated the following items as Public Information: Name, Addresses, Telephone Numbers, E-mail Addresses, Date of Birth, Area of Concentration, Participation in Sports and Officially Recognized Activities, Dates of Attendance, Academic Level (Class Year), Enrollment Status (Full-time/Part-time), and Degrees, Honors and Awards. Public Information may be released to the general public.

You may request that Public Information not be released by contacting the Registrar’s Office in writing. Requests to withhold Public Information will be honored for the current academic year only. To remain in effect, a request must be re-authorized each academic year.

Parent Notification Amendment

The Higher Education Amendments of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), permits postsecondary institutions to disclose to parents and legal guardians of students under the age of 21, without the student’s consent, information regarding the student’s violation of any Federal, State, or local law, or any rule or policy of the institution governing the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance.

Facilities and Services for Students with Disabilities

Albright College ensures that people with disabilities have equal opportunity to participate in its programs and activities, in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) and encourages qualified students to request impairment-related accommodations for which they qualify. Impairment-related academic adjustments, auxiliary aids, and services are offered through the Student Accessibility and Advocacy office, which handles all requests for academic accommodations and makes referrals to other college units as needed.

The Director of Student Accessibility and Advocacy, Sherry Young, is committed to providing individual assessment of student needs and promotes self-advocacy and intentional learning among students with disabilities. The department endeavors to foster independent learning by students with disabilities through a strengths-based approach and by providing faculty with consultation and resources. Impairment-related accommodations are provided to students with disabilities, while maintaining the academic standards of the college. Students, including prospective students, are encouraged to use their strengths and develop a growth mindset to nourish their commitment to lifetime learning.

Requesting Accommodations:

Students who are interested in requesting accommodations should request an accommodation packet or contact the office via phone or email.

This informative and candy-related video from SUNY’s disability services department provides an overview of services for students with disabilities in higher education.

This presentation provides tips and information on services for students who learn differently at Albright.

Students can learn more about the ADAAA and regulations for students with disabilities in higher education via the Transition Guide from the Department of Education.

Office Location and Contact Information:

The Student Accessibility and Advocacy office is located in the Student Center conference room (down the hallway from the dining hall). The office can be reached by phone at 610-921-7503 or by email at saa@albright.edu.

Director’s Contact Information:

Sherry Young, MA
Director of Student Accessibility & Advocacy
Albright College
syoung@albright.edu
610-921-7503

Student Diversity

Albright College is an exceptionally diverse and welcoming community that embraces and celebrates students, faculty and staff from all backgrounds and cultures.

Our undergraduate student body comes from 21 states and 14 countries. Including our international students, 33 percent of students identify as a racial or ethnic minority.

At Albright, diversity is not about the numbers. Instead, it’s about the enrichment of classrooms and residence halls. It’s about readying students for success in an increasingly global society. Surveys of Albright seniors consistently show that the College’s diversity serves as invaluable preparation for interacting with the wide range of people they will encounter in the workplace and at graduate and professional schools after graduating from the College.

Many Albrightians are engaged in the study of diversity issues through coursework in majors such as Latin American studies, women and gender studies, and religious studies. Through service learning, students are given the opportunity to learn more about the world around them and engage in meaningful conversations that lead to change.

We provide the necessary resources and support to educate and inform the campus on diversity. The multicultural coordinator is an advocate for diversity and is dedicated to serving students through mentoring and advising. There are numerous groups dedicated to diversity on campus, including the International Student Association, Xion Step Team, African-American Society, Tumbao Salsa Club, Caribbean Culture Club, Muslim Student Association, Hillel, Newman Catholic group, Logos Christian Fellowship, Gay Straight Alliance and Gender Resource Center. You can find more information on clubs and organizations by clicking here.

If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact the Admission Office at 800-252-1856.

Class of 2017 Diversity at a Glance

• 59% Female
• 41% Male
• 45% Multicultural
• 25% African-American
• 11% Hispanic
• 2% International
• 5% Other

Refund Policy and Requirements for Withdrawal and Return of Federal Financial Aid

Due to unforeseen circumstances (including medical reasons), it may become necessary for a student to leave the College during the academic year.  In the event this does occur, tuition and other institutional charges will be refunded in accordance with the following schedule:

• 100% prior to the start of the semester
• 95% during 1^st week of semester 
• 90% during 2^nd week of semester  
• 75% during 3^rd week of semester
• 50% during 4^th week of semester  
• 25% during 5^th week of semester  
• No Refund during or after the 6^th week of the semester

Please note that any refund is subject to a $200 administrative fee, a $20 record fee and cancellation fees as delineated in the Residential and Food Service Contract, if applicable.  A student’s enrollment deposit will be credited to the student account as long as the student completed one semester at the College.

School of Professional Studies

Due to unforeseen circumstances (including medical reasons), it may become necessary for a student to leave the College during the academic year. In the event this does occur, tuition and other institutional charges will be refunded in accordance with the following schedule:

• 100%, prior to scheduled second night of class (textbook charge may apply), course will be dropped from official transcript
• 75%, prior to scheduled third night of class (textbook charge does not apply), a grade of ‘W’ or withdrawal is issued
• 0%, prior to scheduled fourth night of class (textbook charge does not apply), a grade of ‘W’ or withdrawal is issued
• 0% on the final day of last scheduled class, (textbook charge does not apply), a grade of “WF’ is issued

Please contact the School of Professional Studies office at (610) 921-7799 for questions pertaining to the SPS withdrawal policy.

Withdrawal from College

Students are expected to be enrolled, and attending classes, continuously from their initial enrollment through graduation. Understanding that unexpected events may occur, the College allows for a student to request a full withdrawal. Albright College reserves the right to initiate or mandate withdrawal and reserves the right to defer or refuse readmission. References in this policy to “withdrawal” refer to full withdrawal from all courses.

The following types of withdrawal are addressed in this policy: voluntary, voluntary medical and mandated medical. Issues of Community Standards violations or academic dismissals will be handled by the appropriate department.

1. Voluntary Withdrawal Policy
   A student who wishes to leave the College for personal or medical reasons may request a withdrawal. A withdrawn student is no longer considered a degree candidate, may not remain living in residence on campus, and may not participate in College activities as an enrolled student.
   1. Procedure
      1. To initiate a withdrawal, a student must access Student Withdrawal Information and Form by logging into student eDocs, Student eDocs.
      2. If the student is unsure about the decision to withdraw, or has questions, the student should contact the Dean of Students Office at 610-921-7795, or lglenn@albright.edu to schedule an appointment.
      3. The student’s withdrawal is effective immediately once the form is submitted, or on the last date of the semester if the student is completing the semester’s coursework. Resident students are expected to remove all personal belongings from their assigned space and return keys and student ID cards to Residential Life or Public Safety when they leave.
         Note: Non-attendance in class does not constitute withdrawal. Unless a student has filed an official withdrawal, instructors must assign final grades that reflect the student’s academic performance and work completed.
   2. Readmission
      1. If less than a year has lapsed since a student’s withdrawal from Albright and he/she has not attended classes at another institution, the student should contact the Admission Office for readmission. Readmission will be granted after review and approval by College administration.
      2. If more than a year has lapsed since a student’s withdrawal and/or a student has attended classes at another institution, he/she must contact the Admission Office and reapply for admission.
      3. The College reserves the right to refuse readmission.

2. Voluntary Medical Withdrawal
   All requests for medical withdrawals require the recommendation of the College’s health or counseling care providers.
   1. Procedure
      1. Students seeking a medical withdrawal must access Student Withdrawal Information and Form by logging into student eDocs, Student eDocs.
      2. A letter from the physician or clinical psychologist must be provided to the Gable Health and Counseling Center, or Dean of Students Office.
      3. The student will be allowed to register for classes again only after the health center and/or counseling center has authorized a return to classes. Documentation should be provided to the college at least 45 days prior to anticipated return.
      4. If a student has taken coursework at another institution after withdrawal, he/she may need to reapply as a transfer student through the Admission office.
   2. Readmission:
      1. A student seeking readmission after a voluntary medical withdrawal should contact the office of the Vice President for Student and Campus Life and Chief Health Officer, or the Dean of Students Office.
      2. Readmission will require providing relevant medical information to the Gable Health and Counseling Center such as certification by the student’s physician or psychologist that the student is able to attend classes. Return to the College may be contingent upon signing a behavioral contract. Such contracts may require the student to acknowledge that certain behaviors are proscribed.

3. Mandated Withdrawal Policy
   A key component of Albright College’s mission is to provide a safe residential learning community where students are able to pursue their academic and social goals. The College may require a student to withdraw from the college if reason exists for the College to believe the student’s continued presence on campus poses a significant threat to self or to others or to the stability and continuance of normal college operations.
   1. Mandated Medical or Psychological Withdrawal: Typically, a mandated medical or psychological withdrawal will arise from a student exhibiting acute or persistent health or behavioral problems, despite having been offered or provided with reasonable accommodations, such as those made in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The College may initiate the mandated medical or psychological withdrawal process if, in the judgment of the Vice President for Student and Campus Life and Chief Health Officer, or the Behavioral Intervention Team, a student:
      1. Engages or threatens to engage in behavior that poses a danger of harm to self or others, causes significant property damage, or substantially affects the health or safety of others.
      2. Interferes with or disrupts the operations, activities, or functions of the College or fails to comply with the behavioral requirements of a College official in the performance of his/her duty with regard to the College’s commitments to both the individual and the community.
   2. Procedure
      1. Any individual who believes that a student meets the criteria described above should contact the Vice President for Student and Campus Life and Chief Health Officer, or the Behavioral Intervention Team.
      2. The Office of the Vice President for Student and Campus Life or the Behavioral Intervention Team will conduct a preliminary investigation and, if necessary, consult with Academic Affairs, Counseling Services, or other appropriate offices. The student may be required to undergo assessment by a medical/psychological provider identified by the Vice President for Student and Campus Life and Chief Health Officer, in consultation with the Director of Gable Counseling Center. If the student fails to complete this assessment, the Vice President for Student and Campus Life and Chief Health Officer, or designee, may implement a mandated medical or psychological withdrawal immediately.
      3. If a mandated medical or psychological withdrawal is implemented, the terms of the leave will be communicated to the student in writing.
      4. The decision of the Vice President for Student and Campus Life and Chief Health Officer concerning a mandated medical or psychological withdrawal is final.
   3. Readmission
      1. A student seeking readmission after a mandated medical or psychological withdrawal should contact the office of the Vice President for Student and Campus Life and Chief Health Officer, or the Dean of Students Office.
      2. Readmission will require providing relevant medical information to the Gable Health and Counseling Center, including certification by the student’s physician or psychologist that the student is able to attend classes. Documentation should be provided to the college at least 45 days prior to anticipated return.
      3. The Vice President for Student and Campus Life and Chief Health Officer, or designee, has the authority to make the final decision regarding return to the College, including return to activities and residential life, and may determine additional criteria for a student to return.
      4. Return to the College may be contingent upon signing a behavioral contract. Such contracts may require the student to acknowledge that certain behaviors are proscribed and that if they reoccur, withdrawal from the College will be mandated.
      5. Occasionally, a student is released within hours or within a day or two of entering a hospital. If the student lives on campus, he/she must find alternative accommodations off campus until his or her case is reviewed and readmission is approved.
      6. In no case will the student be permitted to attend classes or dining hall meals or participate in extracurricular activities until the review assessment has been completed.

Financial Aid Refunds

In accordance with federal regulations, Federal aid* will be adjusted based on the percentage of the semester completed prior to the withdrawal for any student who withdraws , or is dismissed, during the first 60 percent of a semester in which that student began attendance.

* Federal Title IV Financial Assistance includes Pell Grants, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants,  National Smart Grants, Perkins Loans, Stafford Loans, PLUS Loans and Federal Work Study.

Albright College grant and scholarship funds will be adjusted based on the percentage of tuition charged according to the withdrawal date. For further details, please reference the College Catalog.

A tuition insurance plan is available through GradGuard.com/Allianz. Please visit the student accounts/tuition insurance plan page for more information. Information about the tuition insurance plan will be at the bottom of the page.

Educational Program

• Traditional & Accelerated Degree Program Undergraduate
• Graduate

Instructional Facilities

• Buildings & Facilities
• Printable Campus Map
• Faculty & Staff Directory

Transfer of Credit Policies

Liberal arts courses from an accredited college or university are eligible to transfer to Albright. Non-liberal arts courses typically do not transfer.

We operate on a course unit system rather than semester hours. All Albright courses are considered equal to all others. Three-, four- and five-credit hour courses are considered equivalent to one Albright course unit. One- and two-credit hour courses do not transfer. Grades of C-minus or higher transfer to Albright.

You will receive an official transfer course evaluation with your acceptance letter to Albright.

Transfer Policies

Grades achieved at another institution do not count toward your cumulative average at Albright College. While the approved courses will count toward graduation, only the grades received while registered at Albright will determine your cumulative average. Transfer students must complete a minimum of 16 Albright courses to graduate from the College.

In general, you will receive credit for courses from accredited colleges or universities in which you earned a grade of C-minus or better and that are comparable to Albright’s offerings.

Study at Other Institutions

Current Albright College students can transfer courses to the College only from accredited baccalaureate degree-granting institutions or branch campuses of baccalaureate degree-granting institutions. Any exceptions to this policy will be determined by the academic departments involved and the academic dean.

Only courses in which you earned a grade of C-minus or better will be transferred to Albright. No more than four courses can be transferred. The grades earned in transfer courses will not be counted in the Albright grade point average.

You must obtain preliminary approval to take a course at another academic institution from both the Registrar’s Office and the chair of the academic department in which the course will be taken. Preliminary approval does not guarantee that transfer credit will be granted. Final approval for transfer credit will be granted only when Albright receives a syllabus for the course taken and an official transcript from the other institution, and when your request for transfer credit has been approved by both the chair of the Albright academic department and by the Registrar’s Office.

Academic departments will use appropriate academic standards in the evaluation of transfer work. This may include, but is not limited to, the evaluation of a course syllabus, course materials and student work, and the administration of an examination by the department. If major or related course credits are involved, the recommendation of the major’s department chair and the final approval of the academic dean are required.

Students transferring to Albright from other institutions are governed by the above regulations once they are degree students at Albright. Transfer students must complete at least 16 courses at Albright to earn an Albright degree, and they may be required to complete more than 16 courses in order to fulfill specific General Education Curriculum and/or area of major requirements.

Courses taken in study abroad or off-campus semester programs are treated as Albright courses for the 16-course requirement. (Click here for more information.)

School of Professional Studies

For many of our adult learners, Albright College will be the institution where they finish their bachelor’s degree, but not where they started. We see many students that have previous college credits from community colleges, private and public institutions of higher education. At Albright College, we will review all previous regionally accredited college credits for transfer, regardless of the year the course took place. Albright College does have partnership agreements with many community colleges in Pennsylvania and New Jersey that will give alumni of these colleges scholarships at Albright College.

To have your transcripts reviewed for transfer credit evaluation, please mail official transcripts to:

• Albright College
  SPS Office
  PO Box 15234
  13th & Bern Sts.
  Reading, PA 19612-5234

If your institution prefers to send electronic official transcripts (ex. Parchment), please have the official electronic transcript emailed to: sps@albright.edu.

Accelerated Degree Program & Graduate Program Transfer of Credit Policy

Accreditation, Approval, and Licensure of Institution and Programs

Albright College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 3624 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104-2680, 267-284-5000, www.msche.org. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

Albright College is also approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 333 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA 17126, 717-787-5041.

Documentation describing these accreditations and certifications are available for review upon request in the Planning Office.

Other Accreditation:

Chemistry – Accredited by the Committee on Professional Training of the American Chemical Society. The chemistry program offers courses which allow for accreditation of the biochemistry degree by the Committee of Professional Training of the American Chemical Society.

The Pennsylvania Department of Education has approved teacher certification programs in art education, early childhood education, foreign language education (French, Latin and Spanish), and secondary education (biology, chemistry, English, mathematics, physics and social science).

Computer Use Policy

Purpose

Albright College implements and maintains information technology resources (computers, tablets, cell phones, networks, servers, databases, web servers, Internet, etc.) for the use of its community members. These resources are intended for college related activities that further the mission of the college, support academic instruction, facilitate college administrative functions and enhance campus community life activities.

The access to these resources is a privilege that is offered to Albright’s community members and with this privilege comes the responsibility to use them within the normal constraints of legal and ethical behavior as defined by federal, state, local and college policies, procedures, guidelines and laws. Often technologies enable actions which are technically possible and yet not legally permissible. Albright’s expectations with regard to the use of its information technology resources is that the user of these resources is responsible for knowing what is permitted and acts within the laws and college policy that govern these resources.

Applicability

This policy applies to all users of Albright’s information technology resources, whether affiliated with the college or not, and to all uses of those resources, whether on campus or from remote locations. Additional policies may apply to specific computers, computer systems, or networks provided or operated by specific departments of the college or to uses within specific departments. Consult the operators or managers of the specific computer, computer system, or network in which you are interested or the management of the unit for further information.

Use of Albright College information technology resources constitutes an acknowledgement of this policy.

Policy

Users of Albright College’s information technology resources must:

• Comply with all federal, Pennsylvania, and other applicable law, all generally applicable college rules and policies, and all applicable contracts and licenses.
• Protect individual user account credentials from unauthorized use. Maintain responsibility for all activities associated with user account(s) or that originate from the user’s system.
• Use only those computing resources that the user is authorized to use and use them only in the manner and to the extent authorized.
• Access only information that is the user’s own, that is publicly available, or to which the user has been authorized access.
• Use only legal versions of copyrighted software in compliance with vendor license requirements.
• Respect the privacy of other users and their accounts, regardless of whether those accounts are securely protected.
• Respect the finite capacity of those resources and limit use so as not to consume an unreasonable amount of those resources or to interfere unreasonably with the activity of other users.
• Refrain from using those resources for personal commercial purposes or for personal financial or other gain, or in a manner not authorized by the college.

In making acceptable use of resources users must NOT:

• Engage in any activity that might be purposefully harmful to systems or to any information stored thereon, such as creating or propagating viruses, disrupting services, or damaging files or making unauthorized modifications to college data.
• Use college information technology resources in a manner that would jeopardize the college’s status as a non-profit institution such as using information technology resources to circulate advertising for products or for political candidates.
• Make or use illegal copies of copyrighted materials or software, store such copies on college systems, or transmit them over college networks.
• Attempt to circumvent or subvert system or network security measures.
• Use another person’s system, user account credentials, files, or data without permission.
• Engage in any other activity that does not comply with the general principles presented above.

Enforcement

Users who violate this policy may be denied access to college information technology resources and may be subject to other penalties and disciplinary action, both within and outside of the college. Violations will normally be handled through the college disciplinary procedures applicable to the relevant user. For example, alleged violations by students will normally be investigated, and any penalties or other discipline will normally be imposed, by the Office of Community Standards. However, the College may temporarily suspend or block access to an account, prior to the initiation or completion of such procedures, when it reasonably appears necessary to do so in order to protect the integrity, security, or functionality of college or other computing resources or to protect the college from liability. The College may also refer suspected violations of applicable law to appropriate law enforcement agencies.

Approvals and Revisions

Approved by President’s Advisory Council, January 24, 2012

For a printable copy of this policy, click here.

We, the staff of Albright College Information Technology Services strive to provide timely, seamless information services and technology support to our campus community. We would love to hear from you at the number or emails to the right if you have comments or suggestions.

File Sharing Policy

Electronic Storage of Highly Sensitive Data Procedures:

Additional safeguards and protocols exist to ensure Albright constituent privacy and to protect Highly Sensitive Data from unauthorized exposure.

Like Restricted Data, access to Highly Sensitive Data may only be authorized by Data Stewards.

Further, Highly Sensitive Data must not be stored or kept on any non-network storage device or media. Prohibited storage media includes storage on desktop computers, laptop computers, PDAs, cell phones, USB drives, thumb drives, memory cards, CDs, DVDs, local external hard drives and other USB devices, unless specifically approved encryption methodologies have been utilized.

Further, Highly Sensitive data cannot be distributed, including via e-mail or e-mail attachment, unless via approved encrypted means.

 Exceptions to the procedures for the electronic storage of Highly Sensitive Data must be approved by the appropriate division Vice President in consultation with the Chief Technology Officer. Approved exception requests will be documented to ensure the implementation of acceptable data encryption protocols.

We, the staff of Albright College Information Technology Services strive to provide timely, seamless information services and technology support to our campus community.  We would love to hear from you at the number or emails to the right if you have comments or suggestions.

Career & Job Placement Services

The Experiential Learning and Career Development Center is a resource for students of all academic majors and class years. Through individual appointments, programs, events, and interactive technology students have access to resources that cover a wide range of career-related topics. Career Counseling is for everyone– that means you, too, first-year students! It’s never too early, and it’s never too late to talk with a Career Counselor about your goals and aspirations, and how what you are doing now can help you get to where you want to be. We can help you with:

• Schedule an appointment to learn more about the Myers-Briggs Personality Indicator and the Strong Interest Inventory offered by the Center.
• Choosing a Career Field
• Connecting with Albright College Alumni and other Professionals through our special events and Handshake Mentors
• Connecting with Employers through on-campus recruiting, our special events and Handshake Mentors
• Graduate/Professional School Counseling
• Internships
• Job/Internship Fairs
• Job Searching
• Learning about Careers
• Practice Interviews by reviewing the Interview section of our Guides and Tip Sheets and then practice and review your skills and schedule a mock interview with a career counselor.
• Resume and Cover Letter Writing

Check out our workshops and special events or contact us to schedule an individual appointment.

Assistance Available from Federal, State, Local and Institutional Programs

Financial Aid Programs

You will receive a letter with the total amount of your award, and the award amounts from each program. A typical financial aid award includes:

• Grant/Scholarship/Award – a gift to you that does not have to be repaid
• Loan(s) – borrowed funds that must be repaid, with interest
• Employment – on-campus jobs that provide money for educational costs. (Federal work study, college employee)

Grants

Albright College Trustee Grants

Albright College gives Trustee Grants on the basis of financial need. These funds originate from several sources, including funds donated to the College.

Federal Government Grants

Federal Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants are given by the federal government on the basis of financial need. Both of these programs can change from year to year based off of the family’s financial need. The Federal Supplemental Opportunity Grant is need-based and is given until the Federal fund has been exhausted.

State Grants

Students who are Pennsylvania residents could be eligible for a Pennsylvania State Grant through the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA). Typically, the application for the PA State grant is initiated when a student from Pennsylvania submits a valid FAFSA. PHEAA has a strict filing deadline of May 1st prior to the start of each academic year. Please allow for processing time of 2-3 business days after you submit your FAFSA for PHEAA to receive it.

It is very important to note that applicants may be contacted by PHEAA or our Financial Aid Office concerning incomplete applications, grants assigned to other schools, or missing documentation. This correspondence will most likely be sent by email. Applicants should address these requests as soon as possible to ensure there are no delays with the funding of their PA State Grants. Additional information and updated grant statuses can be found by visiting www.aessuccess.org or by calling PHEAA at 1-800-692-7392.

Students who are not Pennsylvania residents could be eligible for similar state grant aid programs in their home state. Not all surrounding states allow the student to receive state aid when attending a Pennsylvania institution. A reciprocal state is one that permits its own state grant funds to be used by students attending schools in Pennsylvania. Those states include; Delaware, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Ohio, Vermont, and West Virginia. For more information about these aid programs, including eligibility requirements and filing deadlines, please contact your high school guidance office or the corresponding state agency that manages the aid programs in your home state.

Loans

Federal Stafford Loan

A Master Promissory Note (MPN) and Entrance Counseling requirements must be completed to receive Federal Direct Stafford loan funds. You may complete these steps online on the Federal Student Aid website.

There are two types of Federal Stafford Loans:

A subsidized Stafford Loan is awarded on the basis of financial need. You will not be charged any interest before you enter into repayment. The federal government will pay the interest while you are in school at least half time or during periods of deferment.

An unsubsidized Stafford Loan is not awarded on the basis of need. You will be charged interest from the time the loan is disbursed until it is paid in full. If you allow the interest to accumulate, it will be added to the principal amount of your loan and additional interest will be based upon the higher amount.

If you are a dependent student whose parents do not qualify for a Federal PLUS Loan, or you are an independent student, you may qualify for an additional Unsubsidized Stafford Loan.

Federal Stafford Loan Annual Limits

Students can review their federal loan borrowing history via the Federal Student Aid website.

Study Abroad Program:

Students enrolling in the Study Abroad program may be eligible to apply for Title V aid. Please visit the Study Abroad Program website for more information or contact the Financial Aid office for eligibility requirements.

Employment:

The Federal Work-Study Program is designed to help students earn spending money during the academic year for books, supplies, and other expenses. Campus jobs are available in such areas as the library, bookstore, academic and administrative departments, and food services. The funding does not disburse directly to the student’s college account to offset cost. It will be paid directly to the student for the hours worked. Use caution when figuring work study into out of pocket costs.

Find out more about Student Employment at Albright College by visiting the Student Employment page in our Human Resources Section.

Albright College Scholarships

High achieving students with demonstrated leadership and commitment to service add to the Albright community in significant ways. To reward those students for their good work, Albright offers a variety of Scholarships and Awards. All Scholarships and Awards are renewable in each semester of a student’s four-year degree as long as the student remains in good academic standing and in compliance with Albright’s Student Code of Conduct.

All students who apply by March 1 will be automatically considered for the Scholarships and Awards listed below. Winners of Scholarships and Awards will be notified at the time of acceptance, or soon thereafter. It is not necessary to apply for need-based financial aid in order to receive a scholarship or award.

Accepted students can receive only one Scholarship. Awards and institutional need based grants and financial aid may be in given in addition to a Scholarship.

Founders Scholarship

Founders Scholarships, in the amount of $12,000 per year, are offered to students with outstanding academic records. Founders Scholars generally rank in the top five percent of their graduating class and demonstrate strong leadership skills and a commitment to service.

Presidential Scholarship

Presidential Scholarships, ranging up to $10,000 per year, are offered to students with excellent academic records. Recipients generally rank in the top twenty percent of their class and demonstrate a commitment to school and community involvement.

Albright Scholarship

Albright Awards, ranging up to $8,000 per year, are offered to students with strong academic records. Recipients generally rank in the top forty percent of their class.

13th Street Gang Scholarship

North 13th Street in Reading, Pennsylvania is noted in a Ripley’s Believe it or Not as the only place in the United States where a student can go from kindergarten through college by taking classes at schools on the same street.

In recognition of this educational phenomenon, the 13^th Street Gang Scholarship, is awarded to all accepted students who have graduated from Reading High School, Northeast Middle School and 13th & Green and/or 13th & Union Elementary Schools.

Awards

Legacy Award

Enrolling Students who are children or grandchildren of Albright College graduates are eligible for an annual award of $500.  Candidates for the Legacy Award must provide documentation of legacy status in their application prior to an offer of admission.

in their application prior to an offer of admission.

United Methodist Award

In recognition of its affiliation with the United Methodist Church, Albright offers United Methodist Awards of $500 per year to incoming students who are active in their United Methodist Church.

Candidates for the United Methodist Award must provide a letter from their pastor clearly stating their active membership in the church. This letter must be received prior to an offer of admission.

Federal Student Financial Aid Penalties for Drug Law Violations

If you are convicted for a drug offense that occurs while you are a student is receiving federal Title IV aid, you may experience a loss of your eligibility for federal financial assistance.  This information satisfies the University’s requirement to notify you under a separate and concise notice:  Federal law provides that a student who has been convicted of an offense under any federal or state law involving the possession or sale of a controlled substance during a period of enrollment for which the student was receiving financial aid shall not be eligible to receive any federal or institutional grant, loan or work assistance during the period beginning on the date of such conviction and ending after the interval specified in the following:

• Possession, First Offense, 1 year of ineligibility
• Possession, Second Offense, 2 years of ineligibility
• Possession, Third Offense, indefinite period of ineligibility
• Sale, First Offense, 2 years of ineligibility
• Sale, Second Offense, indefinite period of ineligibility

A student whose eligibility has been suspended based on a conviction for possession or sale of a controlled substance may resume eligibility before the end of the ineligibility period if:

• The student satisfactorily completes a drug rehabilitation program that:
  • complies with the criteria prescribed in the federal regulations; and,
  • includes two unannounced drug tests

The student successfully passes two unannounced drug tests conducted by a drug rehabilitation program that complies with the criteria prescribed in federal regulations; or, the conviction is reversed, set aside, or otherwise rendered nugatory.

Student Loan Information

Initial Loan Counseling for Student Borrowers

Exit Counseling for Student Borrowers

Every student who receives Federal Loans are required to complete Exit Counseling upon their graduation or when they leave school. This is a mandatory federal requirement. For more information on this, visit the Department of Education Exit Counseling Guide.

Code of Conduct

1. No action will be taken by financial aid staff that is for their personal benefit or could be perceived to be a conflict of interest.
2. Employees within the financial aid office will not award aid to themselves or their immediate family members. Staff will reserve this task to an institutionally designated person, to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest.
3. The preferred lender list is compiled without prejudice and for the sole benefit of the students attending the institution. The information included about lenders and loan terms will be transparent, complete, and accurate. The complete process through which preferred lenders are selected will be fully and publicly disclosed. Borrowers will not be auto-assigned to any particular lender.
4. A borrower’s choice of a lender will not be denied, impeded, or unnecessarily delayed by the institution, even if that lender is not included on the institution’s preferred lender list.
5. No amount of cash, gift, or benefit in excess of a de minimis amount shall be accepted by a financial aid staff member from any financial aid applicant (or his/her family), or from any entity doing business with or seeking to do business with the institution (including service on advisory committees or boards beyond reimbursement for reasonable expenses directly associated with such service).
6. Information provided by the financial aid office is accurate, unbiased, and does not reflect preference arising from actual or potential personal gain.
7. Institutional award notifications and/or other institutionally provided materials include the following:
8. A breakdown of individual components of the institution’s Cost of Attendance, designating all potential billable charges.
9. Clear identification of each award, indicating type of aid, i.e. gift aid (grant, scholarship), work, or loan.
10. Standard terminology and definitions
11. Renewal requirements for each award.
12. All required consumer information is displayed in a prominent location on Albright web site(s) and in any printed materials, easily identified and found, and labeled as “Consumer Information.”
13. Financial aid professionals will disclose to their institution any involvement, interest in, or potential conflict of interest with any entity with which Albright has a business relationship.

Preferred Lender Lists and Arrangements

Federal Loans:

Federal PLUS Loan
Through this program, parents of dependent undergraduate students may borrow up to the total cost of education, less any financial aid received. Graduate and professional students are also eligible to borrow under this program. Parents of Dependent undergraduate students can apply for the Parent PLUS Loan at www.studentloans.gov with their social security number and FSA ID.

Private Student Loans:

Before applying for private student loans, undergraduate and graduate students should have filed a FAFSA at www.fafsa.gov. Make sure to maximize your federal and state aid options before applying for additional loans. Borrowers and co-signers should review and compare information about interest rates, fees, loan terms and repayment terms. Interest rates are often determined by the credit history of borrower and/or co-signer. During the application process, selecting options such as in-school deferment and repayment schedule can directly affect interest rates. For specific questions, please contact the lenders directly.

A list of lenders can be found at www.elmselect.com.

** New Jersey residents – you may be eligible for a NJ Class Loan. More information can be viewed at www.hesaa.org/njclass

Interest Free Monthly Payment Plans:

Albright College offers a monthly payment plan option. Additional information about payment plans can be found here.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program

Drugs

A number of states have legalized the cultivation and use of marijuana for medical purposes.  Also, some states have allowed the recreational use of marijuana.

The growth and use of marijuana is illegal under the Federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA).  Marijuana use and possession remains illegal under federal law despite the action of the states’ legalization of same as cited above.

The supreme Court has made clear that federal law supersedes any and all state law regarding medical marijuana.  Therefore, the use or possession of marijuana even for medical purposes is illegal under federal law.

Students or others in the Albright community with disabilities may argue that possession and use of marijuana for medical purposes is not only legal, but possibly even necessary as an accommodation under the American with Disabilities Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.  However, laws and regulations under both statutes make clear that illegal drug use is not protected and courts have held that the use and possession of marijuana remains illegal.

Thus, to be consistent with its policies regarding drugs and alcohol, the policy of Albright regarding illegal use of drugs and alcohol includes marijuana even for medical purposes. Students, therefore, have no right to use or possess marijuana on the Albright campus.

1. Standard of Conduct –Possession, use and/or distribution of non-prescription and/or illegal controlled substances, prescribed medical drugs that were unlawfully obtained or are being unlawfully or abusively used, and related paraphernalia are strictly prohibited on any area of campus. In addition, the abusive or unlawful use of over-the-counter drugs is strictly forbidden. Any violation of this policy is also considered a violation of the Student Conduct Code.
2. College Sanctions – Students who possess, use and/or distribute illegal drugs, prescribed medical drugs that were unlawfully obtained or are being unlawfully used, or drug paraphernalia(including hookahs and other smoking devices) on Albright College property will be subject to community standards sanctions and educational programming. Repeat offenders may face more severe penalties, including automatic suspension and/or removal from the residence halls. Students who distribute controlled substances or possess such substances with the intent to distribute may be subject to more severe sanctions including suspension and/or expulsion.
3. Local, State and Federal Laws – In addition to sanctions imposed by the College, drug violations may be referred to the appropriate external authorities. Under local, state and federal laws, such as the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, violations as specified above may result in penalties ranging from fines through imprisonment. There are circumstances when controlled substance convictions will interfere with federal financial aid eligibility.  If you find yourself in a situation on-campus or off-campus where you believe your eligibility for federal financial aid could be in jeopardy, please contact the Director of Financial Aid for guidance and support.
4. Health Risks –The health risks caused by drug use vary depending on the drug involved. Studies have shown that marijuana contributes to sterility in men, destroys brain cells and leads to diseases associated with cigarette smoking. The use of cocaine or any cocaine-based substance may cause heart failure, erratic behavior, personality changes, birth defects, loss of appetite, paranoia and mood swings. The use of drugs without a doctor’s supervision may also cause serious health difficulties. In addition, the abuse of any substance can adversely affect relationships, employment, academic and athletic performance and self-esteem.
5. Treatment –The College provides confidential counseling services to students. The Albright College Counseling Center is located at the Gable Health Center and can be reached at 610-921-7532. The Counseling Center personnel will provide referrals to both in- and outpatient treatment facilities at area treatment centers and/or hospitals. Treatment fees are the responsibility of the individual.

Alcohol

1. Standard of Conduct – Possession, distribution, use and/or consumption of alcohol by students under 21 years of age is strictly prohibited on campus. The operation of a motor vehicle by a driver who is legally impaired or intoxicated (reckless driving) is also prohibited. In addition, consumption of alcohol and/or possession of open containers of alcohol by any student in public areas are not permitted. No alcohol is permitted at Greek rush events.
2. College Sanctions – Students who violate any of the above alcohol regulations will be subject to a minimum penalty of a disciplinary warning. Subsequent offenses will result in more serious action. Offenses and sanctions will be kept on file in the Community Standards office and reported to the appropriate agencies.
3. Local and State Laws – In addition to sanctions imposed by the College, alcohol violations may be referred to the appropriate external authorities. Under local and state laws, such as the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Vehicle and Traffic Law, and Alcoholic Beverage Control Law, violations may result in penalties ranging from fines through suspension of a driver’s license and possible imprisonment.
4. Health Risks – Use of alcohol may result in mood changes, impulsive actions, loss of judgment and loss of coordination. Excessive use of alcohol may cause heart damage, liver damage, damage to the digestive tract, cancer, brain damage, mental disorders, loss of sexual function, blood disorders and birth defects. Also, long-term alcohol use may affect relationships, employment, academic and athletic performance, and self-esteem. Students will be held completely responsible for any violation of College policy while under the influence of alcohol.
5. Treatment – The College provides confidential counseling services to students.  The Albright College Counseling Center is located in the Gable Health Center and can be reached at 610-921-7532. The Counseling Center personnel will provide referrals to both in- and out-patient treatment facilities at the Reading Hospital and other area treatment centers.

This information is provided in compliance with section 1213 of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended by the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 [20 U.S.C. 1145g] and again amended in the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) [Public Law 110-315] was enacted on August 13, 2008.

Fire Safety Policies, Fire Statistics and Fire Log (On-Campus Housing Facilities)

Throughout the years, Albright College has taken the initiative to update many facility systems in order to provide a safe environment for students and staff.

There are electrical smoke detectors in each student room, which alarm locally.  The smoke detectors in the common areas are connected to the central alarm system (SimplexGrinnell), which in turn, is directly connected to the Reading City and Muhlenberg Township Fire Departments, in addition to the Department of Public Safety.  The local fire departments require two fire drills (evacuations) throughout the academic year.

Each residence hall has an assigned Resident Assistant.  These individuals receive training during the year and are required to conduct inspections of the residence halls, communicate safety concerns to hall residents during regularly scheduled meetings and to participate in scheduled fire drills.

The Reading City and Muhlenberg Township Fire Departments support various campus activities and works closely with the College for the continued improvements in the area of fire prevention.  The College does require the complete evacuation of buildings during any alarm event and will discipline/fine students for noncompliance.

During Orientation, students must participate in presentations on fire safety and prevention.  The presentations cover a variety of topics, including:

1.  Personal safety.

2.  Residence hall fire prevention and quick reporting.

3.  Emergency response.

What You Need to Know Ahead of Time…

1.  Several exit routes from your floor/area.

2.  The location of at least 2 pull stations

3.  Individuals in your area that may need assistance in getting to a safe area during an emergency.

If You Discover a Fire…

1.  Yell out “FIRE” as you are going to the pull station to alert others in the area.

2.  Call the Albright College Department of Public Safety at x7670 from a safe location.

If You Hear the Alarm Sounding in Your Building…

1. Start evacuation procedures immediately.
2. If you can do so without putting yourself at risk, rescue any injured individuals who may need assistance.  (Certain individuals in your building may need assistance with evacuation or getting to a safe location.)
3. Close all doors behind you.  (This action helps to contain the fire to as small of anarea as possible.)  Never prop open fire doors.
4. Use exit stairwells for evacuations.
5. Assemble outside of the building in the pre-determined location for your floor/building.      Never go to another location during an evacuation.
6. Move away and remain a safe distance from the building.  Do not re-enter the building until permitted by the fire department officials.

Fire Log

Since Albright College is an institution that maintains on-campus student housing, it must maintain a written, easily understood fire log that records, by the date the fire was reported, any fire that occurred in an on-campus student housing facility.  The fire log must include the nature, date, time and general location of each fire.

Any entry or addition to the fire log must be made within 2 business days of the receipt of the information.

Campus Security Policies, Crime Statistics, and Crime Log

• Annual Security Report (Clery act)
• The Handbook for Campus Safety and Security Reporting
• Clery – Campus Security Authority Referral Form
• Main Campus (includes fire summary)
• Allentown Satellite Campus
• Bethlehem Satellite Campus
• Blue Bell Satellite Campus
• Carbon – Schuylkill Satellite Campus
• Delaware County (Media) Satellite Campus
• Harrisburg Satellite Campus
• Lancaster Satellite Campus
• Phoenixville Satellite Campus
• Pottstown Satellite Campus