Credit-Bearing Service Learning Program
The Credit-Bearing Service Learning Program is the main model of service learning at the Mount. The model allows students to add a free, one-hour credit addition to any course in which it is offered with faculty permission. The program allows students to integrate a community service project with the selected course, and engages them in reflection on the responsibilities of service and leadership. Students complete a learning contract that documents the learning outcomes, student expectations, and evaluation criteria. Students are expected to complete a minimum of 30 hours onsite with identified community organizations. The credit is Pass/Fail, is classified as general elective credit, and will be documented as service learning on the student transcript.
Policy Guidelines for the Credit-Bearing Service Learning Program
- Registration for the service learning credit attached to a course in which it is offered.
- Students may only register for one service credit in an approved course per semester.
- No more than three documented service learning credits may be accumulated during pursuit of a degree.
- Service learning credits cannot be added as a 12th credit hour to create full-time status.
Other Opportunities for Service
In addition to Credit-Bearing Service Learning Program, students may be engaged in courses which include service as part of their syllabi or individual service experiences. Service experiences occur on a local neighborhood level, in other regions of the country, and in other countries. Examples include the following:
- Cultural immersion courses
- One-time volunteer experiences
- Project-based service learning
- Academic student philanthropy