Common Questions
What is an aircraft dispatcher?
An aircraft dispatcher is essentially a “non-flying pilot”. The dispatcher plans flights and routes, determines aircraft performance and loading, and gathers information regarding current and forecasted weather. They also update pilots with this information given enroute weather conditions, airspace restrictions, and airport and air traffic delays. Dispatchers also provide flight following for several flights at a time and work directly with flight crews in real-time to make flight plan changes and deal with emergency situations, should they occur.
What are the differences between your credit and non-credit programs?
By definition, credit programs allow students to earn college credit toward obtaining a degree. Non-credit programs lead to certification or continuing education, but do not culminate in earning a degree. Unlike credit programs, traditional financial aid cannot be used in non-credit programs.
Can I obtain college credit for holding an FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate?
Students who hold an FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate can articulate the training required for that certification toward college credit in the following Aerospace degree programs.
Professional Pilot, Associate of Science
Aerospace Administration, Associate of ScienceSpecific credit articulation can be discussed with the Aerospace program staff.
How does Polk State College accept the Florida State Fire Certificates for credits towards the Fire Science Technology, A.S. degree?
Polk State College will only accept the following fire certificates issued by Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training, https://www.myfloridacfo.com/Division/SFM/FCDICE/default.htm. These State Fire Certificates have passed the Pearson Vue exam, a third-party, testing center that is considered the “Gold Standard” for this process.
Fire Officer I
Fire Officer II
Inspector I
Inspector ll
Investigator or Investigator lMinimum Standards (Certificate of Compliance) – an elective for 3 credits.
Will my Minimum Standards (Certificate of Compliance) count for credits?
Yes! “Certificate of Compliance” Firefighter II/Minimum Standards applies towards 3 credits in the elective category. This state certificate has to be the one issued by the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training (BFST). It will NOT accept certificates issued by the technical schools or academies.
Is there additional cost for the articulation of the fire certificates into credits?
There is no additional cost to the student for Polk State College accepting or processing these credits into the Associate in Science in Fire Science Technology Program.
Can the articulated fire credits apply towards a different AS degree at Polk State College?
No. These fire credits can only be applied to the Associate in Science in Fire Science Technology degree.
Can the Fire Science Technology AS degree be used towards a four-year degree?
Yes! Once a student achieves the AS Associate in Science in Fire Science Technology degree, all 60 credits can be applied towards a higher degree, such as a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration.
When looking at the curriculum (see current catalog information) for this degree, which chart (A or B) applies to me?
The issued certificate date of the Fire Officer l is very important. It is what determines the particular Fire Science curriculum that it applies to! It will be either Charts A or B (see curriculum document). This also identifies the number of credits awarded.
Will Polk State College accept individual, 45-hour fire courses for credits?
No fire course(s) or fire course(s) transcript will be accepted! This is a hard-and-fast rule that applies to these fire courses.
Fire science courses are only articulated into Polk State credits if the individual attains the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training Certifications or a combination of these State Certifications as listed in the catalog (i.e., Fire Officer I (new version), Fire Officer I (old version), Fire Officer II, Fire Safety Inspector I, Fire Safety Inspector II, and Investigator (new version) or Investigator I (old version) and the elective of 3 credits for Minimum Standards – “Certificate of Compliance”). These State certifications are verified by Pearson Vue or a similarly approved third-party testing service; therefore, no individual fire courses are accepted by transcript.
The student must bring the originally issued state certification (as listed above) to the Winter Haven Campus Administration Building (WAD). The certification is copied and placed into the student’s record, and the original certification is returned to the student. Articulation credit is provided at no cost to the student.
Note: In 2022, the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training discontinued the practice of automatically issuing a printed certificate; however, a student may specifically request a printed certificate. Polk State College verifies the fire certificate by accessing the student’s state fire records at the Fire College Department of Insurance Continuing Education (FCDICE), State of Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training. The student and FCDICE must coordinate to allow access to records. Information about these certifications is available at the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training website (http://www.myfloridacfo.com/Division/SFM/BFST).
Where do I bring these certificates?
Bring the original certificate to Polk State College’s Registrar’s Office on the Winter Haven Campus in the Administration Building (WAD). If a student does not have the State Certificates, Polk State College can verify the fire certificate by accessing the student’s state fire records at the Fire College Department of Insurance Continuing Education (FCDICE), State of Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training. The student and FCDICE must coordinate to allow access to records. Information about these certifications is available at the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training website (http://www.myfloridacfo.com/Division/SFM/BFST).
Note: In 2022, the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training discontinued the practice of automatically issuing a printed certificate; however, a student may specifically request a printed certificate.
I am not a Florida State Certified Firefighter. How can I become one?
If a student is not currently a Florida State Certified Firefighter and would like to become one, he or she must earn the State of Florida Firefighter I and II Certification (called “Certificate of Compliance” or Minimum Fire Standards). This basic training is provided in nearly 40 approved training centers throughout Florida. This is a comprehensive course that involves 400+/- of practical and academic work. This certification must be attained through a state certified fire academy such as the one at Ridge Technical College (Ridge Fire Academy), 7700 State Road 544, Winter Haven, FL 33881; Telephone: 863.419.3060. Ridge Technical College is a separate program from the Polk State Fire Science Technology Program.
To become employed as a full-time firefighter in Florida, an applicant must hold a State of Florida Firefighter I and II, “Certificate of Compliance” and a Paramedic or EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) certificate by the State of Florida. Most students take their EMT first. Also, some fire academies require EMT to be a prerequisite prior to the training for Firefighter I and II.
Also, they must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and a valid Florida driver’s license. Some Fire Departments only require EMT instead of Paramedic certification. Also, a high level of physical fitness is required. This requires good leg, back, core, and grip strength, as well as above-average cardio/endurance. Each fire department and training academy has different levels of physical fitness requirements and physical testing. Most departments require a high level of dependability, teamwork, compassion towards others, discipline, and commitment. Fire departments operate under a quasi-military, chain-of-command organizational structure.
Polk State College offers an excellent program for both EMT and paramedics.
Who do I contact if I need help?
Please contact Fire Science Technology Coordinator Jim Davis for any questions or concerns. He will be glad to help you! Jedavis@polk.edu
Thank you!
For assistance or support:
Jim Davis, M.A.
jedavis@polk.edu
Fire Science Coordinator, AS Degree Program
Polk State College
Cell: 863.781.2768How long is the Invasive Cardiovascular Technology (CVT) Program?
The program is a two-year, full-time program beginning every fall term, and running concurrently for 6 straight terms. The fall and spring terms consist of 16-week terms with the summer term being just 12 weeks.
How many credit hours is the CVT Program?
The credit hours required for this accredited program is set at 77 credit hours. Seventeen (17) credits for the prerequisites, nine (9) credits for general education, and fifty-one (51) credits for core CVT courses.
What are the pre-requisite courses for the CVT Program?
- All pre-requisites completed with a grade of “C” or higher
- High School graduation or equivalent
- ATI TEAS test (no minimum score)
- ENC1101 English Comp, MAC1105 College Algebra, BSC2085C Human Anatomy & Physiology I, BSC2086C Human Anatomy & Physiology II, and HSC1531 Medical Terminology
Do I need to be a Florida State Certified Firefighter to obtain a Fire Science Technology degree at Polk State College?
It is strongly recommended (but not required) that students attain the State of Florida Firefighter I and II Certification prior to pursuing the Fire Officer Certifications that are part of the articulated credit requirements for the Polk State Associate in Science in Fire Science Technology. However, to obtain the Fire Officer I certification (part of most options in this degree), a student shall be a State of Florida Firefighter. There is one category (Table A, Option V, Fire Safety), that does not require someone to become a State of Florida Certified Firefighter. This option is for students who do not hold the Firefighter I Certification. This is intended for risk managers, safety personnel, fire marshal personnel, insurance investigators, fire engineers, etc.
I hold an out-of-state, national, or military fire certifications or courses. How can I use these towards the Fire Science Technology degree
Firefighters who hold out-of-state, national, or military certifications or fire courses must contact the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training (BFST) and ask for an equivalency review to determine what is needed to satisfy or convert these certifications to Florida Fiore Certifications. For more information, students should contact the Bureau of Fire Standards and Training, 11655 NW Gainesville Rd, Ocala, FL 34482-1486; Telephone: 352.369.2800.
If these courses are not currently available at Ridge Technical College, please check with the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training (BFST). They are the State of Florida regulatory pro-board that oversees the training providers. BFST keeps a current list of Fire Science courses that are offered throughout the State of Florida. Often, there are private providers that offer these courses at reduced rates and fully online.
Can I submit copies or email copies of my certificates for credits instead of originals?
No copies or emailed copies are accepted! Also, no mailed-in or handed-in copies (unless they are originals).
The student must bring the originally issued state certification (as listed in the catalog) to the Winter Haven Campus Administration Building (WAD). The certification is copied and placed into the student’s record, and the original certification is returned to the student. Articulation fire credits are provided at no cost to the student.
In 2022, the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training discontinued the practice of automatically issuing a printed certificate; however, a student may specifically request a printed certificate. Polk State College verifies the fire certificate by accessing the student’s state fire records at the Fire College Department of Insurance Continuing Education (FCDICE), State of Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training. The student and FCDICE must coordinate to allow access to records. Information about these certifications is available at the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training website (http://www.myfloridacfo.com/Division/SFM/BFST).
I do not have the original (printed) fire certifications as described for the articulation of fire credits. How can I receive credits for these certifications?
In 2022, the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training discontinued the practice of automatically issuing a printed certificate; however, a student may specifically request a printed certificate.
Polk State College will verify the fire certificate by accessing the student’s state fire records at the Fire College Department of Insurance Continuing Education (FCDICE), State of Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training. The student and FCDICE must coordinate to allow access to records. Information about these certifications is available at the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training website (http://www.myfloridacfo.com/Division/SFM/BFST).
Is there a deadline to apply for the CVT Program?
Yes. The application window is open April 15 – May 30 annually. If May 30 falls on a weekend, the applications are due the Friday prior to May 30.
Does the CVT Program have a waiting list?
No. The CVT Program does not put students on a waiting list. Students must re-apply each year should they not be selected for the program or selected as an alternate.
Do I need to complete the prerequisites before applying to the program?
Yes. All prerequisites must be completed prior to completing and submitting a CVT Program application.
When does the program begin?
The program begins every fall term, which is typically around the second week of August.
How long does the CVT Program take to complete?
The core course sequence, including the required general education courses, takes 6 terms to complete or two years.
May prerequisites courses be taken concurrently with the CVT Program?
No. All prerequisite courses must be completed prior to submitting a program e-application and prior to beginning the CVT Program course sequence.
Since Polk State College does not actually offer the required Fire Science classes, where can I take them? Online? Cost?
Polk State College does not provide direct instruction for any fire courses. The student has the flexibility of finding the fire (FFP, ATPC, or BFST) courses that are best suited for them, this includes online or traditional classes, scheduling, cost, and location.
Fire Science courses can be taken from a variety of sources including the local fire academy:
Ridge Technical College
7700 State Road 544
Winter Haven, FL 33881
Phone: 863.419.3060Information about these various Fire Science courses offered throughout the State of Florida is available at the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training (BFST) website (http://www.myfloridacfo.com/Division/SFM/BFST). They also offer fire courses and dorms at their BFST training facility in Ocala, Florida.
The general education requirements at Polk State College for this degree can be taken in a variety of methods, online, blended, or traditional classrooms, depending on availability.
The Bureau of Fire Standards and Training (BFST) incorporates three fire course prefixes: FFP, BFST, and ATPC. The corresponding course title, curriculum, learning outcomes, and four-digit numbering of courses remained the same. Which of these three prefixes are accepted for credits at Polk State College towards the Fire Science Technology A.S. program?
All three prefixes equally apply towards a corresponding State Fire Certification. Therefore, all three prefixes are accepted for articulation of credits at Polk State College through State Certification (i.e., Fire Officer I (new version), Fire Officer I (old version), Fire Officer II, Fire Safety Inspector I, Fire Safety Inspector II, and Investigator (new version) or Investigator I (old version)).
What is the Civic Literacy Competency in civic literacy requirement? How does it apply to the Fire Science Technology, A.S. Degree (effective Fall 2022)?
Yes! All students receiving an Associate in Science degree are required to comply with the following State of Florida requirements. To see how you can comply with or satisfy this requirement, check with your academic advisor!
Pursuant to Rule 6A-10.02413 of the Florida Administrative Code, effective Fall 2022 competency in civic literacy is a requirement for all students receiving an Associate in Science degree. Competency in civic literacy must be demonstrated in the following ways:
Successful completion of one of the following courses:
- AMH 1010
- AMH 1020 – History of the United States: 1877 to the Present
- POS 2041 – American National Government
AND Florida Civic Literacy Examination (Score of 60% or better) Or completing one of the following assessments with the score indicated:
- AP Government and Politics: United States (Score of 3 or better)
- AP United States History (Score of 4 or better)
- CLEP: American Government (Score of 50 or better)
- Florida Civic Literacy Examination (Score of 60% or better)
Note: All approved accelerated credit is listed in the Credit-By-Exam Equivalencies. The Credit-by-Exam section of the Florida State Articulation Committee website provides further details.
Can prerequisites courses be taken at a school other than Polk State College?
Yes. Prerequisites may be completed at any accredited college or university. The comparable courses from other schools must be verified by the Polk State College Registrar.
Can the program be completed online, during evening hours, or on a part-time basis?
No. The CVT Program is a full-time, face-to-face program. The program has some hybrid-style courses with face-to-face meetings and limited online learning, no evening courses, and no part-time enrollment.
When may I apply for admission to the CVT Program?
E-applications to the CVT Program are completed and submitted via Etrieve. The application window is open from April 15 – May 30. Note, if May 30 falls on the weekend, all applications must be submitted the Friday prior to June 30, no exceptions.
Are there required immunizations I need to submit with my application?
No. There are no immunizations required when applying. However, once enrolled in the program, students are required to submit immunization verification. This includes titer levels for MMR, Tdap, Varicella, a two-step PPD, influenza, and surface antigen level for Hep B. Waivers are available for COVID-19 vaccinations.
Is a degree earned upon completion of the CVT Program?
Yes. Students who successfully complete the CVT Program are awarded an associate’s in science degree in cardiovascular technology.
How is the program structured?
The course curriculum sequence is dispersed over 6 terms. Year one includes most of the didactic instruction as well as lab hands-on training. Year two is comprised mostly of clinical affiliate rotations and the capstone review course. The majority of courses are M – F in the mornings or afternoons. Clinical rotations are 16-28 hours per week with no class, lab, or clinical in the evening or on the weekend.
Are jobs available in CVT?
Yes. Invasive cardiology is a high wage, high demand profession as heart disease continues to be the number one killer of men and women in the United States. However, jobs within Polk County may not be available since the hospitals have hired mainly Polk State graduates. Every student should be open to relocating beyond Polk County and Central Florida. There are many jobs available in other parts of Florida and throughout the United States.
What is the current entry level salary for CVT?
The annual salary for Florida is between $55,000 – $60,000 with the average hourly rate estimated at $28.67. This range does not include on-call pay, which can add significantly to one’s annual earnings.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes292031.htm
Is there a license examination process after graduation?
Yes. Students are eligible to sit for the national registry exam offered by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) up to 60 days prior to graduation, as well as after graduation. Successful completion of this exam earns students the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) credential.
What is the estimated cost of the CVT Program?
The total cost of the CVT Program is approximately $11,500. This includes tuition, college fees, textbooks, scrubs, immunizations, physical exams, background checks, testing, and lab fees.
Are Invasive Cardiovascular Technologists the same as cardiac or vascular sonographers?
No, both professional careers are completely different. The term cardiovascular technologist is utilized for a broad category of medical professionals who assist physicians in diagnosing and treating heart and peripheral artery disease.
Our program trains Invasive Cardiovascular Technologists who use X-rays to assist physicians in the diagnosis and interventional treatments for cardiac and vascular disease. CVT’s assist the physician in fixing blockages and other issues within the heart and peripheral vessels.
Sonographers, incorrectly referred to as cardiovascular technologists, use ultrasound waves to acquire images that help physicians diagnose and plan treatments for cardiovascular diseases. Sonographers do not assist physicians with interventional procedures.
In short, Cardiology is intervention (repair) focused, while Ultrasound is diagnostic (image acquisition) focused
When do classes start for the CVT Program?
After admission to the program, CVT courses begin in the fall term, typically the second week of August.
Are there night or weekend classes for the CVT Program?
No. Currently, the majority of classes and labs are scheduled Monday – Friday between 0900 – 1600. There is an occasional late afternoon class (1630 – 1930) depending on when the adjunct is available to teach the course.
Do I need to be a student at Polk State College to apply to the CVT Program?
Yes. Students must complete the registration process at Polk State College to apply to the CVT Program. College registration provides students access to Etrieve, the CVT Program e-application gatekeeper.
Do I need to take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) to apply to the CVT Program?
Yes. All students must complete the ATI TEAS exam. At this time, there is no minimum score required for the completion of the TEAS test. The program reviews the composite score, as well as specific sections of the test, and applies points to the acceptance point system. The exam fee is each student’s responsibility.
How many students does the Invasive Cardiovascular Technology Program accept into the program?
The CVT Program accepts 13 students beginning course work every fall term.
What is the CVT Program schedule like if I am accepted into the program?
The CVT Program is a very rigorous, full-time program. Effective time management is critical to student success in completing the program. There is ample information to cover and learn in the field of invasive cardiology. The time this program demands of students is equivalent to a full-time job. Between classes, hands-on lab, clinical rotations, and study time, students can expect to put in 20 – 30 hours a week. Students are highly encouraged not to work while in the program. If students do have to work, students must adhere to the program policies delineated in the student handbook of not working overnight and going directly to the clinic following a work shift.
Can I get copies of institutional research reports?
Hard copies and/or computer files of most reports can be furnished upon request. However, since most reports are available online in PDF format, we encourage you to use this feature.
What are the training requirements to become a pilot?
Each pilot certificate and rating has different training requirements, both in terms of minimum hours of experience you must obtain and in terms of tasks you must complete. For more information on the process of becoming a pilot, visit http://www.faa.gov/pilots/become/.
What is the Office of Disability Services (ODS)?
The Office of Disability Services (ODS) works with students who self-identify that they have a disability and who provide appropriate documentation supporting their claim. The ODS confirms the disability and determines appropriate accommodations for the student. The ODS also assists students and instructors in obtaining and providing reasonable accommodations.
How many students do we have?
If your request involves headcount, please be as specific as possible. Headcount figures can be annual or by term; college-wide or by campus; duplicated or unduplicated; credit, non-credit, or overall — we keep track of all of these. Also, please remember to specify if you want headcount, hours (student semester hours or credit hour equivalency), or FTE (full-time equivalency). Depending on why you need the data, knowing the headcount, by itself, may not answer your questions.
Where can I obtain an FAA Medical Certificate?
You can obtain an FAA Medical Certificate from designated Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs). The complete listing of available AMEs can be found at http://www.faa.gov/pilots/amelocator.
Bear in mind that all flight students must obtain an FAA medical certificate prior to beginning flight training at Polk State College.
What types of disabilities do you serve?
The ODS serves students with any disability that impacts a major life function. Some examples of common disabilities that Polk State College serves include, but are not limited to, the following: learning disabilities; attention deficit disorder; attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; autism or Asperger’s syndrome; hearing impairments; visual impairments; physical disabilities; diseases such as cerebral palsy, heart disease, cancer, or diabetes; and mental illness such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder. To speak with the Director of Disability and Counseling Services to learn more, contact 863.669.2309.
How many FTE do we have?
It depends on the formula you wish to use to calculate FTE (full-time equivalency). Basically, FTE is just a standardized unit of enrollment measurement that can use any of various factors — credit enrollment, non-credit enrollment, headcount, full-time vs. part-time students, etc.
If you are filling out a survey for an outside agency, you may be given a formula to calculate our FTE that may be different from the formula used by the state. The FTE figure you calculate with the state’s formula may be much different than what we officially report, but this is okay because this method allows outside data users to evaluate institutions on a level playing field.
Since fall 2004, the official formula for computing FTE in Florida’s College System, as used by the Division of Community Colleges, is (SSH/30) + (CHE/30), where SSH = Student Semester Hours (total credit hours) and CHE = Credit Hour Equivalents (contact hours / 30).
The formula for non-credit clock-hours has not changed: 1 FTE = 900 Clock Hours.
What kinds of airplanes and simulators do you use?
The Polk State College Aerospace Program, through its flight training provider, operates various aircraft from single-engine, four-seat aircraft to complex multi-engine airplanes. Polk State Aerospace incorporates training in both state-of-the-art Garmin G1000 glass cockpit displays and with conventional “round gauge” instrumentation. We heavily utilize flight simulation technology because of its incredible teaching potential and low cost. Students will train in FAA-approved aviation training devices for loggable flight time, and they also have on-campus access to a host of simulation products that enhance their knowledge and skill and no additional cost to them.
What is an accommodation?
An accommodation is something students with a disability are legally entitled to receive based on documentation. It helps them to succeed in the academic setting.
How far back is data available?
Some data elements have been tracked only for a couple of years, while others may be available for 10 years or more. Longitudinal data for the majority of key measures exists since the last administrative system conversion (beginning with academic year 1995/96). Contact IR for more information on data availability.
Who provides flight training service for the program?
Polk State Aerospace utilizes the partnership of a flight training provider. This provider offers structured training as part of the approved Polk State Aerospace training curriculum. All training is overseen by Polk State Aerospace staff, and staff regularly conduct observation flights with program students to ensure the highest level of flight proficiency and skill.
When should I self-identify with the ODS?
Students are encouraged to self-identify with the ODS as soon as they register at Polk State. Students may register with the ODS anytime during the semester; however, accommodations and services begin at the time the student is approved by the ODS.
What software do you use in the new Digital Media Technology program?
Currently, we use the latest version of Adobe Creative Cloud which includes the latest released versions of industry standard software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, and After Effects.
We also use Microsoft Office, Canvas LMS, Figma, Camtasia, and other high quality applications including open-source apps such as WordPress CMS. Actively enrolled Digital Media students may request a copy of Adobe Creative Cloud software for installation on their personal computers while enrolled in the program. Software used in a course depends on the instructor, course requirements, and other factors. Please contact the instructor for specific information.
Are there any procedures to follow for conducting research studies at Polk State?
Yes. However, we use a rather informal procedure for conducting studies at the College. Just provide a study overview including a brief justification via e-mail and get an OK from either your dean or the academic VP. If you forward the approved request to us, we can schedule a meeting to talk about the details.
Can I get college credit for the pilot certificates/ratings I already hold?
Yes. If you currently hold an FAA pilot certificate, you are eligible to receive appropriate college credit for Polk State College courses that correspond to the certificate(s)/rating(s) you hold. In order to be awarded that credit, you must participate in and successfully complete a Certificated Student Assessment (CSA) with the Program Director, Program Coordinator, or an authorized staff member.
Note: This is a non-lab activity. The CSA must be completed outside of scheduled flight lab times, and a student cannot enroll in an advanced flight lab until the CSA is successfully completed. If it is determined that you do not meet the minimum pilot standards in place at Polk State College, you will be assigned to a flight instructor for remedial training until such time as you can complete the CSA. Because this is a non-lab activity, financial aid monies may not be applied for use, depending on the type of financial aid you receive.
Students who successfully complete a CSA can expect the following credits for each pilot certificate or rating they currently hold with the FAA:
- Private Pilot Certificate: 4 credits
- Commercial Pilot Certificate: 4 credits
- Instrument Rating: 4 credits
- Flight Instructor Airplane: 4 credits
- Instrument Flight Instructor: 1 credit
- Multiengine Flight Instructor: 1 credit
- Ground Instructor: 3 credits
There are some exceptions to the requirement for completing a CSA. Incoming students with prior flight experience and pilot certification are encouraged to review the college’s policy on articulating credit for pilot certificates. There are separate policies for students who hold only an FAA Private Pilot Certificate and for students who hold advanced certificates and ratings above the Private Pilot level.
Polk State Aerospace – Pilot Certificate Articulation
Further questions on the CSA process can be addressed with the Program Director or Program Coordinator.
What are examples of accommodations you provide?
Typical accommodations include, but are not limited to, priority registration, faculty notification letters, note-taker services, readers, scribes, tutoring, alternate formats for printed materials, accessible classroom furniture, auxiliary aids and services, assistive-technology resources, extended testing time, distraction-reduced testing areas, course substitution, and TRiO support services.
Do I need to complete AS degree core courses first before completing a DMT certificate?
No . . . not at all. You are not required to complete the Digital Media Technology core requirements prior to enrolling in a certificate program.
Our certificate options were designed as stackable credentials toward an associate degree. This means that a student who completes a certificate program in Digital Media at Polk State may reuse all those courses toward the completion of a related associate degree (conditions apply). Additionally, a certificate may also stand independently as a credential for professionals with existing degrees who wish to gain additional skills in one of the concentrations we offer.
For instance, a person with a bachelor’s degree in communication who wish to gain video editing skills may enroll in our Digital Video Production certificate and complete the courses required. Certificate programs may be completed in two semesters (one year) if a student completes two or three courses each semester.
What do I need to do to get data?
In order to comply with SACS accreditation requirements and to fill your data request efficiently, it would be best if you send us an e-mail with your request following the same procedure described under 5.
Can I transfer my college credit to and/or from Polk State College?
Yes, Polk State College uses an established curriculum approved by the Department of Education for the State of Florida. You may transfer to Polk State College or transfer to another state college and take your accumulated credits with you. In some cases, placement tests or other evaluations may be necessary. Please consult the program director or an academic advisor for more information on credit transfers.
What documentation do I need to receive services?
In order to qualify for services, the ODS needs documentation from a qualified professional describing your disability, listing functional limitations, and giving recommended accommodations. Documentation should be current, within the past three years.
Will the courses I take for a certificate transfer to the AS degree?
Yes. Students who complete one of the three certificates in Digital Media may apply those credits to a Digital Media AS degree in Graphic Design or Video Production (conditions apply). Additionally, students must complete the required general education courses, core requirements, and any other course required in the AS program.
Is there any charge to my department for using your services?
Typically, no. The only time we would ask your department to pick up part of the tab for our services would be if the cost of materials is prohibitive. For example, if your request requires several thousand pre-printed scannable questionnaires, the cost to our office could be more than we can handle. (Our budget is very limited!) However, rest assured that IR does not charge for office time spent on College-related data requests and simple external requests — that’s why we’re here!
Your courses do not look like other collegiate aviation courses. Why is that?
The Polk State Aerospace approach to pilot training is completely different than any other collegiate aviation program you will encounter. Rather than focus on the traditional, maneuver-based flight training model, our program uses a human factors training methodology, similar to what you will find in place in commercial airline training. Every element of every class and flight lab is 100% practical education, whether lecture, group study, simulation practice, or actual flight training. We rely heavily on simulation to keep costs low while exposing our students to situations that you could never safely demonstrate in the airplane. Our program is different because it employs the latest flight training methods to engage students in learning while emphasizing technical proficiency and pilot safety.
Similarly, when it comes to our other non-flight program offerings, Polk State Aerospace believes in a practical, “outside-the-box” approach to learning. While the classroom is a perfectly acceptable learning environment, we believe in learning that promotes a more hands-on approach. We accomplish this through outstanding guest speakers from many segments within the aerospace industry and multiple field trips to industry sites. We also encourage all of our students to engage in industry internships, as this is the most practical type of experience one can hope for, while enrolled in the collegiate program.
I am an online student. How do I register for accommodations?
Contact the Director of Disability and Counseling Services at 863.669.2309. The Director will then e-mail you a copy of the Disability Self-Disclosure form and tell you what documentation you will need to send in order to get approved for services. Once you have completed the Self-Disclosure form and provided the appropriate documentation, the Director will send you a welcome letter and contact your instructors to let them know of your approved accommodations.
I don’t work for the College, but can I still make a data request?
Sure! Whether you are a student, outside agency, or just an interested citizen, we will do as much as possible to get you the data you need. Understand, however, that our first priority is to fill internal data requests because such requests are generally made for the purpose of improving programs and services to our students. So please be patient with us, and allow us as much time as possible.
Also, please understand that some of the information produced by IR can be of a sensitive nature. If we believe that your request is for highly sensitive information that may violate our students’ rights to privacy, such as grade distributions or identification of specific students, we may refer your question to the appropriate administrative office, which will determine if we can fill your request.
If you are with an external media agency (television or radio station, newspaper, magazine, etc.), please call Polk State’s Public Relations Office at 863-297-1051.
Why should I attend the Polk State College program instead of any other college program?
Our program is modern, fresh, and engaging. Every element of every class and flight lab will engage your mind, teaching you skills and knowledge while, more importantly, teaching you a safety mindset that will shape everything you do in the cockpit and outside of it. Our low tuition cost, extensive faculty experience, simulation focus, availability of financial aid opportunities, and much, much more all make the Polk State College Aerospace Program a solid choice for efficient study of the aerospace environment and job placement within it.
Is my documentation kept confidential?
Yes. Students sign a release of information so the Director of Disability and Counseling Services can share information with your instructors regarding your accommodations. Your disability is not disclosed unless you give the ODS written permission.
How long will it take to fill my request?
Many factors are involved here. Depending on the complexity of your request, the workload in the office, the difficulty in getting the information, and the urgency with which you need it, filling your request can be instantaneous or take up to several weeks. It’s always best if you can give us as much lead time as possible in order for us to prioritize tasks. We understand that this is not always possible, and that things often come up at the last minute, but it is always a good practice to file your requests early.
How much will my flight training cost?
Flight training is expensive. There is no way around that fact. We use a reliable, modern fleet of airplanes, state-of-the-art flight simulation equipment, and electronic training media that ease some of the cost burden. Minimum costs for each flight training course are published on the Professional Pilot – About the Program page. Because of the fluctuating cost of fuel and other factors, these prices are subject to change at any time.
In addition to flight training costs, students will be required to pay for supplies, equipment, books, and course tuition. Some students will also have to gain additional flight experience outside of conventional pilot training in order to earn enough hours of experience to apply for the commercial pilot certificate.
Consult the Financial Aid information page for available benefits for helping defray some or all of the costs associated with flight training and associated expenses.
How is obtaining services different from high school to college?
At the collegiate level, students are required to self-identify to the ODS and provide documentation of their disability. Any testing that needs to be done is not provided or paid for by the College.
Will I have to attend special classes?
No. You will attend the same classes as other Polk State students.
Can my parents call to see how I am doing?
In order for the ODS to give your parents any information regarding how you are doing at Polk State, you will need to sign a release form with their name(s) that gives the ODS permission to speak with them.
Will my instructors be notified of my disability?
No. All information is kept confidential unless you give the ODS written permission to release it. The accommodation letters that your instructors receive only state your name and the accommodations you are eligible to receive.
What do I do if I need a reader or a scribe for a test?
Tests with readers or scribes are taken in the TLCC. They will arrange for a reader or scribe to be present, but the request must be made at least one week prior to the test.
Can I take the Aircraft Dispatcher Certification Program if I am not yet 23 years old?
Yes, an individual may take the aircraft dispatcher course as well as the FAA knowledge and practical tests. Students must be at least 21 years of age. Upon successful completion of the FAA practical tests, they will receive a Letter of Aeronautical Competency. Once the applicant turns 23, they must schedule an appointment at the nearest FAA Flight Standards Office. They will present the FAA with their Letter of Aeronautical Competency and appropriate identification in order to receive their Temporary Airman Certificate.
What do I do if I want to take a test in the TLCC?
Please give the TLCC and your instructor at least one week’s notice that you will be taking an exam there. The TLCC will arrange for your instructor to submit the test to the TLCC. The TLCC will require your license or Florida ID, and you will not be able to use your cell phone during the test.
If one of my accommodations is extended time, do I have to take my test in the TLCC?
Yes. Extended time extensions can only be used in the TLCC and in certain online class settings. If you choose to take your test in the classroom, you will not be allowed to use extended time and you will not be allowed to re-take the test using extended time.
How much extra time will I receive with extended time?
Extended time is determined on a case by case basis depending on the documentation provided to the ODS.
What do I do if I have registered with the ODS, but my instructors say they have not received my accommodation letter?
Contact the Director of Disability and Counseling Services immediately.
If I decide not to use my accommodations for a test and I fail, can I re-take it with my accommodations?
No. The ODS recommends you always use your accommodations for all tests.
If I register with the ODS in the middle of the semester, will my instructors let me re-take tests I did poorly on earlier in the semester?
No. Accommodations go into effect on the date you are registered and approved by the ODS.
Do I have to use my accommodations?
We encourage students to always use your accommodations. However, it is ultimately the student’s choice to use them.
Can a teacher decide that I cannot have my approved accommodations?
No. Contact the Director of Disability and Counseling Services immediately if this occurs.
I think I have a learning disability. Is there someone on campus who can test me?
Polk State does not conduct testing for learning disabilities, nor does the school pay for outside testing. The Director of Disability and Counseling Services can give you information as to where you can go in the community to be tested.
Will I receive the same accommodations as I did in high school?
Not necessarily. When you meet with the Director of Disability and Counseling Services, you will discuss the accommodations you used in the past that helped you achieve success in the classroom. You and the Director will determine what accommodations will best suit your academic needs.
What do I do if I am having a problem with an instructor who refuses to let me use my accommodations?
Contact the Director of Disability and Counseling Services immediately.
