CALL - Frequently Asked Questions - Bossier Parish Community College

That depends. The "fast-track" degree programs are designed for working adults, who previously attended, but did not finish college. These courses are taught online at an accelerated pace and cover the same amount of material in 4 weeks that is taught in regular semester. You must not only qualify to meet the degree requirements, you must also have the desire and interest in participating in online learning.

What do students who have taken a 4 week online class have to say?

"The CALL program is an exciting fast paced journey to a successful future. It definitely requires dedication and self discipline, but the end reward is worth the work!"
April - Fast-Track Business Administration Major

"Honestly, I did not know what to expect in the beginning and questioned if I would be able to even complete the course. Although the work load in a four week class is intense, it is doable."
Christy - Fast-Track Computer Information Systems in Software Applications Major

How do I know if online learning is for me?

CALL courses are 100% online, with the exception of a required speech course, so you have to be comfortable learning on your own, at a fast pace. You also have to be comfortable sitting at your computer! Visit this site www.yourcallla.org/e-learningto read about online learning and take the self-assessment.

What degree programs are offered by the CALL program?

BPCC has created 2 fast-track Associate of Applied Science degree programs - Business Administration or Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Software Applications. Both programs are 100% online with the exception of the Speech 110 class. You can view which classes you will be taking by program at www.bpcc.edu/callstudents.

How much does the program cost?

Tuition for these two degree programs is the same regular BPCC tuition. The one exception to the cost of a CALL course is an additional $50 fee charged per course. CALL students enrolled in more than 12 hours (4 courses) within a semester will not be charged an increased amount of tuition and fees, but will be charged a $50 fee for each and every CALL course. View the tuition and fee scale for CALL courses at www.bpcc.edu/callstudents/programcosts. Do not hesitate to contact a CALL team member by phone at 318-678-6050 or via email at call@bpcc.edu, should you have any questions.

How do I pay for a degree?

We understand that figuring out how to pay for you degree is often the most challenging aspect of the application process. Financial aid comes in the form of grants or loans. Some scholarships are available for CALL students through the BPCC Foundation. Many businesses and industries provide tuition reimbursement programs – check with your Human Resources Department about these opportunities. You can learn more about ways to pay for a degree at http://www.bpcc.edu/callstudents/financialaid.html.

How do I qualify for financial aid?

This first step in applying for financial aid is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.ed.gov. The key to the finical aid process is to apply early! Learn more by visiting BPCC's financial aid office at http://www.bpcc.edu/financialaid. The FAFSA and all other BPCC application documents must be completed to determine eligibility.

BPCC has a designated financial aid representative for the CALL program, Ms. Quintina Miles (qmiles@bpcc.edu).

When can I apply for Financial Aid?

As stated above, it is important you apply for financial aid as early as possible. Begin the process now by completing the FASFA online. Visit www.bpcc.edu/callstudents for a link to the financial aid page and user-friendly instructions.

Do my credits and hours from other colleges apply to the CALL program?

There is a 2 part answer to your question. Yes, BPCC accepts credits from other regionally accredited colleges and universities. Some credits may be transferrable and count towards your degree based on a free transcript evaluation that is conducted by the Registrar-Admissions Office. BPCC does not have a rule prohibiting the acceptance of credit based on age; yet, the acceptance of credit is made on a course by course and department by department basis.

What is the process to get my transcripts evaluated to determine what credits will transfer?

BPCC needs official transcripts from all institutions you previously attended, including high school transcripts, to evaluate your transcripts. You can use a BPCC form to request transcripts located at http://www.bpcc.edu/transreq.pdf.

I know this program is right for me, now how do I enroll for the CALL program at BPCC?

Great! We are so excited about helping you attain your degree. The first step is to complete and submit the admissions packet. You can download all necessary forms and instructions at www.bpcc.edu/callstudents under the "admissions requirements" tab. We will make admissions decisions as soon as all your application materials are received and your file is marked complete.

As part of the admissions process, I am required to complete a proof of immunization form. Why do I have to have this if I will be attending class online?

This form is required for all students attending BPCC. As a student of the College, it is required of you as well. You will note in the instructions for completing the form that you may complete the exemption portion of the form stating you are an online student. Completion of this form is a requirement for your admission.

Why is employment verification and résumé part of the admission process?

Three years previous work experience is a requirement for admission to the CALL program. The insight and knowledge gained from your work experiences are a key component to your success in the CALL program. Your résumé provides us a quick look at those experiences and the employer verification form is another vital piece of documentation. The purpose behind collect this admission information is to ensure your success in the CALL program, should you be admitted. I

I am not currently working full-time at my job; do I have to be full time in order to apply?

You need to demonstrate through the "employer verification form" that you have had at least three years of full-time work experience at some point in your career or profession. For example, if you have worked part-time for six years, those years can equate to three full-time years of work experience. Again, the reason for this admissions requirement is to foster student success in the CALL program. The program was not designed for students coming to college directly from high school; it is for adults with some work experience. As a final note, the decision about your eligibility for one of the "fast-track" programs is ultimately based on a number of factors, not just your work experience.

I completed the admissions packet and turned it in, what do I do next?

Please contact a CALL enrollment team member at 318-678-6050 or call@bpcc.edu to schedule a free pre-advising appointment with a CALL Program Director or Academic Advisor. During the pre-advising session, an individual academic plan will be created by you and a qualified advisor.

Is there any other way to receive credit for my educational and professional experiences?

BPCC is excited to offer a number of Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) options. You may choose to test out of a particular course by taking a nationally standardized exam at BPCC's recognized testing center. Many BPCC specific courses also offer challenge or skills exams as an option to taking the course. You may also choose portfolio assessment of college-level learning to document college level learning that you may have acquired through work, training, volunteering, or personal experience. Learn more about Prior Learning Assessment options at http://www.bpcc.edu/callstudents/pla.html.

Would I be required to take any kind of placement test?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors. Whether or not you will have to take a placement test will be determined upon review of your previous educational history. This review will take place at your FREE pre-advising session. In the meantime feel free to e-mail any questions to call@bpcc.edu; please, provide an address and telephone number in the email so we may contact you.

Can I take a CALL course without enrolling in the program?

No. Currently, CALL courses are designed for those students enrolled in one of the "fast-track" degree programs - the Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration or the Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Software Applications.

I am a BPCC student now and want to get in the fast-track program, can I do so?

Anyone meeting the program requirements is encouraged to apply. Remember the CALL "fast-track" programs are designed for working adults who have some college, but did not complete their degree. Current BPCC students who may meet the admissions requirements for the program may apply.

Do you have to already be a student at BPCC in order to enroll?

No, the program is designed for working adults who want to earn their degree. You would need to complete the admissions requirements for a "fast-track degree" program listed at http://www.bpcc.edu/callstudents/admissionrequirements.html.

Will other degree programs be offered through the CALL program?

BPCC plans to add at least 1 more program to begin in the Fall 2008 semester. When more details become available, the information will be posted on www.bpcc.edu/call.