Student Services

Counseling & Academic Advising

Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA)
Fall 2008 Transfer Student Workshop Series

The Counseling and Academic Advising Center is the one stop for all your advising, counseling, career search and educational planning needs. You will find us located in the Library.

Counseling and academic advising assistance: (708) 709-3506

IMPORTANT FALL 2008 REGISTRATION DATES
Spring and Fall Hours: Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Horas de servicio de los diferentes departamentos de Prairie State College (PDF)	IMPORTANT FALL SEMESTER REGISTRATION DATES August 18, 19, 20 - Registration resumes August 25 - Fall classes begin (16 weeks) August 25-26 - Schedule changes (8a.m. - 7p.m.) September 1 - Labor Day (College Closed) September 19 - Late Start classes begin (12 weeks) detailed calendar

Interested in a campus tour? Contact Beth Wyack to make arrangements.

Pre-Enrollment Counseling

Students planning to attend Prairie State College are eligible to utilize all counseling and advising services. The staff is available to assist you in deciding which program fits your needs, and answering your questions about PSC.

COMPASS Assessment Testing and Placement

All NEW students entering college for the first time are required to take the COMPASS test and meet with an advisor prior to registering for classes. *Please note: ACT scores may be used in place of Compass. An ACT score of 22+ in reading and a 17+ in English places a student directly into English 101. An ACT reading score of 22+ exempts a student from having to take the Compass reading test. Math ACT placement is determined by a student’s academic program. Students should meet with an academic advisor for further information.

I’m transferring to PSC from another college. Do I take the COMPASS test?

Students who have previously completed an English and/or math course with a “C” or better from an accredited college or university are exempt from COMPASS testing. However, official transcripts as well as completion of a Program Evaluation Form are required of all transfer students as part of the application process. Transcripts should be mailed to the Office of Admissions and Enrollment Services.

Students who took the COMPASS test at another college within the past year may submit an official score report to the Director of Testing, Room 1200 located in the Library, or call (708) 709-3603. Note: Prairie State College also requires an essay for English placement.

What is the COMPASS test?

COMPASS is a computerized test that confirms your readiness to take college-level classes. This computerized instrument is widely used at community colleges to determine a student’s prior level of achievement in English, Math and Reading. It is the policy of the College that students pursuing transfer and all degree programs achieve minimum scores required for entry into courses above the 100 level, or complete the necessary develop- mental coursework.

Students are encouraged to do their very best when taking the COMPASS test because the results determine whether placement in a developmental course is required, or whether you can work with your advisor to register immediately for college-level classes.

Where do I go for COMPASS testing?

1. Visit the Counseling and Academic Advising Center to meet with an advisor. He or she can assist you in completing your Admissions Application and answer any questions you have.
2. An advisor will then help you obtain your student ID number and direct you to COMPASS testing, Room 2505.

Please see the list of COMPASS testing dates below. Bring a photo ID card to the test. A calculator is permitted (but optional) for the math portion. Allow yourself three hours to complete the test.

What happens after I take the COMPASS test?

Within three days your scores will be forwarded to the Counseling and Academic Advising Center, where you will meet with a member of the advising team to review your scores and select your classes. The Counseling and Academic Advising Center is located in the Library on the main campus. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (through May 16). For more info call (708) 709-3506. The College is closed on Fridays from May 23 through Aug. 8.

Additional information on COMPASS testing may be obtained from Diane Janowiak, director of testing, at (708) 709-3603.

Bring a photo ID card to the test. A calculator is permitted (but optional) for the math portion. Allow yourself three hours to take this test.

New Student Orientation

A prepared student is a well-informed student. You will meet key faculty and other new students at New Student Orientation, receive information on key departments and have an opportunity to tour the College. You will meet with your advisor or counselor to select classes, receive your COMPASS assessment results and discuss college requirements.

Personal Counseling

Well-trained professional counselors are available to listen to your personal concerns and to assist you confidentially in resolving your personal problems.

Transfer Advising

The staff is available to assist you in selecting a transfer college or university and in planning courses that will transfer to other schools. Numerous college guides and catalogs are available for your use in the Advising Center. Representatives from various colleges and universities visit the campus regularly.

Contacts: