The Specs Howard School of Media Arts · 2016-11-14 · 1981: SHS adds its first TV studio, allowing students to study camera operation, lighting, directing and video editing. 1994:

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The Specs Howard School of Media Arts is dedicated to inspiring, educating and motivating future leaders in the media arts. We continuously monitor and evaluate both our student outcomes and the achievement of our institutional goals so that we may improve our efforts for our students, staff, employers, and community.

— SHS mission statement

The Specs Howard School is an equal opportunity educational facility. We welcome persons of all ages, genders, races, creeds, orientations and national origins.

The Specs Howard School of Media Arts is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), which is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency.

Specs Howard reserves the right to modify any portion of this catalog as needed. Any changes to this catalog will be provided in the form of an addendum, which shall be agreed to, in writing, by all parties.

All photographs in this catalog were taken either at the Specs Howard School of Media Arts’ main campus in Southfield, Michigan, or its satellite location in Farmington Hills, Michigan, unless otherwise noted.

Catalog Volume 44

November 2016

contents

WELCOME! ........................................ 2

Who is Specs Howard? ................... 2

About the School ............................. 3

Facilities ............................................. 4

Admissions Requirements ........... 6

PROGRAMS

Broadcast Media Arts (BMA) ........ 8

Digital Media Arts (DMA) ................ 12

Graphic Design (GFX) ..................... 16

Student Success ............................. 20

Career Services ................................ 22

Student Policies ............................... 24

Financial Policies ............................. 32

Class Schedules .............................. 36

Graduation and Employment Rates .......................... 38

Staff ..................................................... 39

Index ........................inside back cover

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who is specs howard?RADIO PIONEER Specs Howard was born Jerry Liebman on April 8, 1926, in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. In 1948, he received a bachelor’s degree in history/ political science and radio speech and dramatics from Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania. That same year, he opened his own radio station in his home state.

In 1954, Specs moved to Cleveland and continued his broadcast career there with NBC and Westinghouse. In 1962, he joined forces with Harry Martin, launching The Martin and Howard Show, which remained on the air in Cleveland until the duo moved to Detroit in January 1967. The show aired for another two years in Detroit.

In 1970, Specs founded the Specs Howard School of Broadcast Arts, which has since trained thousands of people for successful media careers. As a result of Specs’ longstanding history and dedication to the broadcast and media arts, he has been the recipient of a number of the industry’s top awards, honors and accolades.

Specs still shows up for work every day at the school he founded over forty-five years ago. If you spot him in the hall, be sure to say “hi!”. Oh, and the name? “Specs” was chosen as his professional moniker because of the trademark horn rimmed glasses he wore. “Howard,” however, was chosen randomly out of a phone book!

Specs was honored with the Michigan Association of Broadcasters Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009

welcome!and thank you...... for your interest in our school. We hope you will become one of the many students and graduates who have passed through our doors over the more than 46 years since we began teaching.

Whether it’s Graphic Design, Digital Media Arts or Broadcast Media Arts, rest assured that we will do our best to provide you with the quality training you deserve, always having your future success in mind.

Best of luck, and we look forward to seeing you soon.

Martin LiebmanPresident

Martin and Howard,some time in the ‘60s.

THE SPECS HOWARD SCHOOL offers undergraduate programs of study in Broadcast Media Arts, Graphic Design and Digital Media Arts. The curricula at the Specs Howard School focus on teaching students the skills and knowledge needed to work with industry equipment in job-related activities through a hands-on approach. Specs Howard students are continuously building confidence and increasing skill levels, while working toward achieving their ultimate goal: employment.

The Specs Howard School is a private career school that takes an active interest in every student’s individual development. All faculty members have received college degrees in their areas of expertise and/or have worked extensively in those fields.

The Broadcast Media Arts (BMA) program provides hands-on training through supervised lab sessions in the Specs Howard School radio and television studios. BMA students refine skills in radio performance, news and commercial copywriting, television field production, audio and video production, and digital editing. A portion of the BMA curriculum is taught via an online learning management system.

The Graphic Design (GFX) program provides hands-on training through supervised lab sessions in the Specs Howard School graphics labs. GFX students refine skills in basic graphic design principles, color theory, layout concepts, typography, copywriting, photography, motion graphics and web design. A portion of the GFX curriculum is taught via an online learning management system.

The Digital Media Arts (DMA) program provides hands-on training through supervised lab sessions in the Specs Howard School media labs. DMA students refine skills in camera techniques, non-linear editing, media writing, and web design. A portion of the DMA curriculum is taught via an online learning management system.

The Specs Howard School provides students with structured opportunities to succeed in simulated job situations.

Instructors provide the necessary theoretical background in traditional classroom settings and feedback from lab and field experiences. Whenever possible, students are offered internship opportunities (usually unpaid) with organizations in the communica-tions and media fields to enrich their educational experience. Internships, while strongly encouraged, are not a requirement for graduation from any SHS program.

The final measure of the quality of the Specs Howard School’s programs is the degree of success of the graduates. The SHS Career Services Department actively generates job leads and works individually with graduates to maximize their possi-bilities for timely and appropriate job placement. Additionally, Specs Howard School graduates have been working in the industry since 1970; therefore, many of the employers are graduates themselves who are currently employed in upper-level management positions in the radio, television and communications industries.

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about thespecs howard school

Students learning about the importance

of 3-point lightning.

SHS students in class, circa 1980s

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a briefhistory

n SOUTHFIELD CAMPUS19900 West Nine Mile Road

The Southfield location includes editing labs equipped with iMacs and Mac Pro workstations; a wide range of electronic news gathering equipment; a newsroom with access to Metro Source News Service; on-campus radio stations; radio practice studios. The Writing Lab provides students access to computers equipped with the Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Photoshop, as well as Internet access.

The Learning Resource Center at the Southfield campus provides all Specs Howard students with access to computers, software, a printer, WiFi, books and periodicals related to each curriculum, and training videos to augment their education.

n FARMINGTON HILLS LOCATION 23801 Industrial Park Drive

The Specs Howard School’s satellite location is a part of Studio Center, home to some of Michigan’s largest professional studios. In addition to classrooms, the location has iMac labs, a DMA production room, as well as a graphics production room equipped with color printer, and matte supplies. Students also have access to profes-sional video gear including cameras, portable light kits, sound equipment and camera support equipment.

1970: SHS begins offering programs in basic radio performance and federal licensing requirements.

1973: SHS incorporates its first on-air radio station, WNLD, as part of the radio program curriculum.

1978: SHS receives national accreditation. In 1983, the school is approved for federal financial aid programs.

1981: SHS adds its first TV studio, allowing students to study camera operation, lighting, directing and video editing.

1994: Keeping pace with new technologies, the school adds non-linear digital video editing to its curriculum.

2008: Due to demand for graphic and web design professionals, SHS adds the Graphic Design program. In 2010, demand for web-based media pros inspires the founding of the Digital Media Arts program.

2009: SHS opens its Farmington Hills location, at the Studio Center motion picture production complex.

2016: The Specs Howard School satellite location is expanded to become the home of both the Digital Media Arts and Graphic Design programs.

facilities

Radio students learning the ropes,

circa 1980s.

The Southfield location has been

open since 1994.

The Specs Howard School of Media Arts takes pride in providing our students with as much hands-on experience as possible. Whether it is making an informative documentary, or designing a poster for the Michigan State Fair, our students use their assignments to mimic real life industry experiences. On this page are several examples of student work from our programs.

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PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS interested in the Specs Howard School should schedule an appointment with an Admissions Representative and do the following:

n Take a tour: Come have a look around the Specs Howard School facilities.

n Review information on our programs: SHS offers three programs of study, employment opportunities, program schedules, policies, registration processes, and Career Services procedures. To begin the application process, you may call 866-61-SPECS to schedule an appointment to visit the school, at which time you’ll have the chance to check out our facilities and learn more about the programs offered.

n Complete an entrance evaluation: Application to the Specs Howard School’s programs is open to persons who have graduated from high school or who have obtained a GED equivalency. High school seniors who satisfy all other admissions requirements may register for Specs Howard School programs, but their enrollment will be contingent upon receiving a high school diploma.

The entrance evaluation for the Broadcast Media Arts (BMA) program consists of four parts: a general aptitude test, a grammar test, a recorded speech sample, and a computer proficiency test. The testing procedure measures the applicant’s general aptitude, grammar application and ability to speak without serious deficiencies, read written copy aloud and comprehend the type of writing regularly occurring in the broadcast industry.

For the Graphic Design (GFX) and Digital Media Arts (DMA) programs, the entrance evaluation consists of three parts: a general aptitude test, a grammar test and a computer proficiency test. Applicants must obtain a passing score in all designated areas to be admitted to their respective program. An official under the supervision of the VP of Education scores this evaluation.

Applicants who do not pass the entrance evaluation are informed of their area(s) of weakness. An applicant may be referred to an appropriate educational facility or private organization for possible remedial work. In the case of ambiguous test results, the VP of Education may meet individually with an applicant to review any unclear areas of the evaluation and, in certain cases, recommend that the evaluation be retaken.

Entrance evaluation results for the BMA, GFX and DMA programs are valid for one year. Applicants who pass the tests but do not enroll in any SHS programs must retake all parts of the evaluation in order to be considered for acceptance to any SHS programs if a year or more has passed. Graduates returning to the Specs Howard School to take an additional program do not need to retake the entrance evaluation.

admissionsrequirements

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n Look through our catalog: Our catalog, enrollment agreement and other related materials should be read prior to enrollment and are available upon request.

n Apply for admission: All applicants are charged a $50.00 application fee following successful completion of the entrance evaluation. This fee is non-refundable after midnight of the third business day following the signing of the enrollment agreement. Applicants must meet the admissions criteria, and all applications for enrollment must be approved and accepted by a member of the Acceptance Committee. The Specs Howard School is a private institution and reserves the right to deny admission to any individual who, in the judgment of the Acceptance Committee, does not possess the ability to be successful in the chosen program of study or who poses a threat to the educational environment.

n Complete an enrollment agreement: In order to secure a seat in a class, you must complete an enrollment agreement. Applicants may enroll at any time prior to the start date of any scheduled class, subject to availability. Each applicant’s Admissions Representative will explain the provisions of the enrollment agreement, admissions procedures, registration requirements, class openings and availability, and work to place the student in the class of his or her choice, pending availability.

n Attend a student orientation: Orientations are scheduled approximately two weeks before the class start. Attendance at orientation is mandatory. If a student is unable to attend orientation, that student must notify his or her Admissions Represen-tative. Failure to attend orientation without acceptable notification may result in loss of the assigned seat in class. The Specs Howard School reserves the right to replace that student with the next student on the waiting list.

Class transfers for students who have not yet started: Once a student is enrolled and has been assigned a starting date with a class, the student may request a transfer to another class. Such requests should be made in writing to the student’s Admissions Representative and should include an explanation for the request. If the transfer is approved, the student will be transferred into the requested class. All requests for a transfer before class start are subject to approval from the Director of Admissions.

Credit for life experience or other educational background: Students pursuing diploma programs at SHS must take those programs in their entirety. In most cases, no credit is granted for past experience or other academic activities. This ensures

that all graduates have fulfilled the stated objectives of the course and that minimum training levels can be reported to prospective employers. Military veterans with prior training or experience will be evaluated and required to take advanced standing tests to determine the appropri-ateness of the prior training and experience to SHS courses.

No guarantee of employment: The Specs Howard School of Media Arts makes no promises or guarantees of employment. Due to unique factors and attributes of each student, it is possible that even after success-fully completing a Specs Howard School program, a student may not find employment. Students should consider their own unique employ-ability prior to enrolling in any career school training program.

The Specs Howard School is an equal opportunity educational facility. We welcome persons of all ages, genders, races, creeds, orientations and national origins.

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nBROADCAST MEDIA ARTS is a 12-month program that provides students with an introduction to the skills and employment opportunities available to an entry-level employee in the broadcast and related industries. The

program also assists students in developing an understanding of job search principles, techniques and strategies appropriate to the industry.

The Broadcast Media Arts (BMA) program offers training in various aspects of radio and television broadcasting, including editing audio and video material using non-linear editing stations, creating effects and graphics, writing for web and broadcast, and marketing via web and social media.

Upon satisfactory completion of the BMA program, successful graduates will be able to take a concept, use industry-approved methods of putting that concept into story-form, and deliver that concept to the appropriate audience. Skill sets include, but are not limited to: shooting video; editing both audio and video content; writing effectively for broadcast; working with multiple software programs to create graphics, and audio and video effects; delivering on-air news, sports, weather and appropriate features; and branding and representing companies via web and social media.

All BMA students are loaned a Google Chromebook for the length of the program.

To offer students flexible schedules without sacrificing face-to-face contact with instructors and classmates, all on-site classroom training is blended with a weekly online component. Students attend class in a traditional classroom or lab two days a week.

The online component reinforces the weekly content while introducing new material. Online content is carefully selected to contain material a student can review repeatedly to aid in mastering a skill or concept that they will be using throughout the course and in the industry. Students will have access to their online content while attending school and for up to six months after graduation.

The online component is delivered via an online learning management system, and may be accessed wherever an Internet connection is available. The 12-month program includes homework and projects that must be completed outside the classroom.

Upon satisfactory completion of the SHS Broadcast Media Arts (BMA) program, successful graduates will be able to:

n Write effectively for broadcast purposes

n Demonstrate an understanding of software and equipment typically found in the industry

n Demonstrate proper technique when performing live for both radio and television

n Develop an understanding of demographics, psychographics, and geographics, as it relates to broadcasting

n Demonstrate technical skills necessary for creating video and audio content for broadcast distribution

n Develop confidence for working in the broadcast industry and communicating in industry-standard language

n Understand the various positions for which they may seek employment in the broadcast industry

broadcast media arts

Sue Lomasney | BMA SupervisorGraduate of the Specs Howard School – Radio Concentration. Honors include Highest GPA, Most Informative News Anchor, and Most Helpful and Supportive. Graduated Summa Cum Laude from Rochester College with a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication/Public Relations. Past experience includes WHMI 93.5 FM, Howell, MI – News Reporter/Anchor/Co-producer of weekly public affairs program “Viewpoint”; WTRC 1340 AM, Elkhart IN – News Reporter/Anchor; reporter for Total Traffic & Weather Network with iHeart Media, doing live and recorded traffic reports for WJR, Sirius XM (for both Detroit, MI and Tampa, FL areas), as well as several radio stations in Cleveland and Columbus, OH. Member of SHS staff since 2002.

Kelia Karson | BMA InstructorPhi Theta Kappa graduate of Macomb Community College with an Associate of Applied Science in Speech Commu-nication Public Relations. Graduate of the Specs Howard School. Bachelor’s degree, Rochester College. Past experience includes News Producer/Reporter, WOWF/WOW-FM; News Director/Air Personality, Tower 98; Host of FOX 36 Toledo KID’S CLUB, where she was honored by the FOX Television Network with the MONUMENT AWARD as #1 Kid’s Club Host in America. Owner of K Karson Media Group LLC. Member of SHS staff since 2003.

John Hoover | BMA Instructor Graduate of the Specs Howard School. Past experience includes SHS Street Team Manager & Producer/Editor as well

as Grip/Production Assistant for ESPN: Monday Night Football Barry Sanders Intro; Producer Phone/Production Assistant for CBS Sports: Christmas Eve Lions Home Game TV Truck; Camera Assistant/Grip for Biggest Loser; and Camera Assistant for Food Network: Restaurant Impossible. Member of SHS staff since 2009.

Aaron Nowak | BMA InstructorGraduate of the Specs Howard School. Recipient of Outstanding Achievement Award and Rossano Award. Past experience includes Digital Media Group at WDIV Local 4 and freelance videog-rapher/editor since 2005. Detroit Music Award winner with over 15 nominations for drum work with local rock band MindCandy; 2005 win for “Outstanding Rock Recording” for MindCandy’s “Recognize”; 2006 nomination for “Outstanding Video Low Budget” for MindCandy’s “Recognize”. Aside from instructing, Aaron is currently a camera operator for Joseph Productions Inc., working with The Detroit Red Wings. Member of SHS staff since 2009.

Lyn Peraino | BMA InstructorGraduate of the Specs Howard School. Attended Henry Ford Community College, Lansing Community College. Past experience includes air personality WJML, Petoskey; air personality, WIBM, WXIK, WBHR, Lansing; air personality, WNOR, Norfolk VA; PSA Director/afternoon drive personality, WKQZ, Saginaw; Production Director/Promotion Director/Afternoon drive air personality, Program Director/on-air personality, WLNZ, Lansing; Host of “Strings and Things”, acoustic music radio show on Sirius/XM Satellite Radio; Voice-over talent/business owner since 1988. Member of SHS staff since 2008.

Steve Strasz | BMA InstructorGraduate of the Specs Howard School. Past experience includes 14 years at Comcast Cable working in all areas of television production, and a supervisor role for Advertising Sales Production. Recipient, Innovative Cable Excellence Award for Government Public Affairs Series “Comcast Newsmakers,” seen on CNN Headline news. Recipient, National Academy of Television

Arts & Sciences MI Chapter Emmy nomination for “Michigan Mysteries: The Houdini File.” Recipient, Telly Award finalist for commercial production, 2002. Seventeen years of experience with non-linear editing and graphics software. Wedding Videographer and Photographer for 11-4 productions from 2008 - 2012. Specs Howard School of Media Arts instructor since 2006.

Nick Wisniske | BMA InstructorBachelor of Communications in Electronic Media from The University of Michigan-Dearborn. Past experience includes producer, host, and camera for RecNSports, a bi-monthly feature program. Hosted Your Tiger Ticket, a monthly program about the Detroit Tigers that airs on Comcast TV and Comcast On Demand. He still does field shooting for Dearborn Television and hosts special events in the city. He also does Color Commentary for Ann Arbor High School Sports, calling everything from football to basketball to water polo. Member of the SHS Staff since 2011.

Eric Braun | BMA InstructorMaster of Arts, Telecommunications, Central Michigan University; Bachelor of Arts, Telecommunications, Eastern Michigan University; Graduate of the Specs Howard School. Past experience includes Production Director/On-air Personality, Northern Star Broadcasting (Big Country 102.9, Classic Rock, The Bear and the Zone); Air Personality/ Producer, WHNN, WCFX; voiceover talent on computer games, film projects and commercials. Member of SHS staff since 2005.

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bma staff

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FIRST MARKING PERIOD | WEEKS 1-8

Radio NewsGetting information that’s interesting and that affects an audience is what “news” is all about. Whether it’s the latest gossip about a celebrity, a weather warning, or the top sports story, it all has to be written. This course covers the ability to communicate through the spoken word – whether it’s radio, television or online – which is an essential element for success in broadcast-ing. This course also covers how to target an audience successfully, and provides time to dial in your writing skills by writing different types of stories. What you can do with the results is limitless.

Clock Hours: 68 (28 lecture; 8 lab;

32 Online) | Credit Hours: 3.0

Introduction to Broadcast Television

Delivering a report on camera, in a live setting, isn’t as easy as it looks. This course teaches you successful on-camera performance, in addition to focusing on the basic theories and terms used in broadcast television. The course covers lighting techniques, basic shot composition, and careers in the industry. You will also learn how to watch television and Internet videos with a more critical eye.



broadcastmedia arts

12-month program: 6 marking periods of 8 weeks eachClock hours: 816 | Semester credit hours: 31.0

Classes meet twice a week: either Monday and Wednesday, or Tuesday and Thursday. You must follow one schedule throughout the length of the program.

Day Classes: 10am - 2:30pm | Evening Classes: 6pm - 10:30pm. Maximum class size: 30 Lab hours are available Monday-Thursday 2:30pm-5:30pm and Friday 9am-4pm

Broadcast Media Arts Program Tuition: $16,900.00

SECOND MARKING PERIOD | WEEKS 9-16

Radio ProductionStep into the exciting world of audio production as you learn what’s involved in creating quality radio content for broadcast. You will learn how to operate a professional audio board as well as digital editing software, and you will develop skills in vocal performance, production techniques, editing, and the effective use of music and sound effects. You will also record and produce different types of audio projects, and eventually write and produce your own commercials.



Television Field ProductionLearn how to take your footage to the next level! Anyone can shoot video with a smartphone, but in this course you will learn the difference between an amateur shot and a great one. You will also learn about different types of professional cameras, lighting, microphones, and just about everything else you need to shoot the next big interview!



THIRD MARKING PERIOD | WEEKS 17-24

Studio FundamentalsIf you’ve ever thought, “I can do a better job than my favorite DJ”, then this course is for you. Learn what goes on behind the scenes in order to be a successful DJ. You’ll gain hands-on experience running an audio board, learning speech techniques, playing music and running commercials seamlessly. You’ll also be introduced to gathering material to make your show more interesting, along with the legal requirements of a radio show. Through lab sessions and instructor feedback, you’ll hear your confidence grow as your personality jumps out of the speakers.



Digital EditingLearn to tell your story through digital editing! In this course, you’ll develop skills in visual storytelling with interactive exercises every class period using industry-level software. Ever watched a commercial, TV show or movie? Learn how to edit video footage to create dynamic video packages – just like a professional!



FOURTH MARKING PERIOD | WEEKS 15-32

On Air IThe mystery of what happens inside a radio station will be revealed in this course. You will learn how to perform DJ shifts and how to handle the business of a radio station, such as documenting your work, the importance of playing commercials, anchoring newscasts, and production work. It’s all live in this course, and done like the pros.



Broadcast GraphicsThere are a number of skills that will lift you above the competition, and this course introduces you to one them: how Photoshop skills are applied to the video broadcast world. This course covers topics such as copyright issues and why they’re important, the appropriate use of color schemes, and using Photoshop to create things such as lower thirds. Master these skills and become more valuable as a potential employee!



FIFTH MARKING PERIOD | WEEKS 33-40

Broadcast Production ILearn to create your own videos from the ground up! We’ve all seen interviews – maybe it was the mayor, a celebrity chef or a professional athlete. In this course, you’ll have the opportunity to film in Southeast Michigan, conduct interviews, and create a video feature of your own choosing. Using all the techniques learned in previous courses, you will write, produce, shoot and edit, creating your own content from scratch!



On Air IITo land that first audio/radio gig, you must be heard. The On Air II course is all about that killer-sound-ing demo. You’ll assemble your best “on-air” content and commercials/promos into two demos designed to get you an interview. By this time, you’ve learned everything needed to edit and to sound professional. Do well in this course, and your next step could be that audio position you’ve been dreaming about!



SIXTH MARKING PERIOD | WEEKS 41-48

Career Preparation for Broadcasting

As you near the end of the road in this program, it’s time to shine. As you embark on your journey as a media professional, this course helps you put a résumé together that says, “I’m ready for that first job!”. This course also delves into complementing your attempts to get into the broadcast industry using the digital job search market. You will also be introduced to the importance of social media as a marketing tool.



Broadcast Production IILearn to master the skills needed to create your own media content. At this point in the program you’ll have gained experience filming interviews and b-roll. In this course, you’ll continue to film off campus, conduct interviews, and create an entertainment or sports feature of your own choosing, continuing to utilize the techniques learned in previous courses. You will write, produce, film and edit, creating your own content for use in a demo reel.



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n BMA EMPLOYMENT GOALS: Successful graduates will possess the knowledge, skills, and competencies to gain entry-level employment in various departments within television and radio

stations including positions such as radio on-air talent (DJ and/or news), marketing/promotions, on-camera reporter, camera operator, producer, editor, writer, production assistant, video technician, and sports broadcaster.

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nTHE DIGITAL MEDIA ARTS program is a 12-month program that provides students with an introduction to the skills and employment opportunities available to an entry-level employee in digital media arts and related

industries. The program also assists students in developing an understanding of job search principles, techniques and strategies appropriate to the industry.

Digital Media Arts (DMA) students study and practice various aspects of video production, including basic videography skills, writing for online media, non-linear editing, graphics and web creation. Upon satisfactory completion of the DMA program, successful graduates will be able to create professional video projects for the web. They will have the knowledge to transform scripts and storyboards into productions, edit footage using non-linear editing stations, work with multiple software programs to create still and motion graphics, design and maintain a basic portfolio website, demonstrate professional use of social media, and compress and upload video to the web.

All Digital Media Arts students are loaned a Google Chromebook for the duration of the program.



The online component is delivered via an online learning management system and may be accessed wherever an Internet connection is available. The 12-month program includes homework and projects that must be completed outside the classroom.

Upon satisfactory completion of the SHS Digital Media Arts (DMA) program, successful graduates will be able to:

n Demonstrate a basic under-standing of video camera operation, scene lighting, and audio recording

n Write and produce various types of video projects for broadcast and distribution via the web

n Edit video using non-linear editing software

n Create print and motion graphics projects using multiple software programs

n Design and maintain a basic website

n Use social media and a web-based portfolio for self-promotion

n Demonstrate a basic under-standing of story structure

n Analyze and criticize a variety of digital media art forms

n Interpret scripts, draw storyboards, and create shot lists

n Export and upload video to the web

digital media arts

Photo taken in Studio A at Studio Center located in Farmington Hills, Michigan.

Tim Peterson | DMA SupervisorBachelor of Science, Alma College, Alma, MI. Graduate of the Specs Howard School. Camera operator for local and national TV shows including NBC’s The Biggest Loser, ABC World News Tonight, The Maury Povich Show, America’s Most Ever, G4 Network, E! News Network, NBC Sports and MLB. Member of SHS staff since 2010.

Jeremy Anderson | DMA InstructorGraduate of the Specs Howard School Graphic Design program. Past experience includes design work for various semi-professional sports leagues and teams, and graphic and web design for the Emmy Award-winning television show Under the Radar Michigan. Teaching background includes courses in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and Dreamweaver, as well as WordPress and Joomla. Freelance graphic and web designer and self-proclaimed, “creative geek.” Member of SHS staff since 2013.

Ashley DiFonzo | DMA Instructor Graduate of the Specs Howard School Graphic Design program. Past education includes College for Creative Studies Advertising Design program, and Michigan State University Photography program. Past experience includes Digital Ops Coordinator for independent music label/digital media company, designer for promotions companies, and photographer serving the East Lansing community. Freelance graphic and web designer and self-titled “overachiever”. Member of SHS staff since 2015.

Hans Ihlenfeldt | DMA InstructorAttended Eastern Michigan University for Telecommunication & Film. Over a decade in Video Production & Lighting Design. Editor for WDIV, Channel 4. Proficient in videography, editing, audio, lighting, and motion graphics. Emmy-nominated producer. Member of SHS staff since 2016.

Elie Mosseri | DMA InstructorBachelor’s degree, Telecommunication & Film, Eastern Michigan University. Certified trainer for Avid and Final Cut Pro. Past experience includes Senior Editor, Kmart Corporation. Member of SHS staff since 2010.

Emory Reeves | DMA InstructorGraduate of the Specs Howard School. Camera operator for NBC’s The Biggest Loser and The Maury Povich Show. Film credits include PA, set PA, and assistant camera operator on many Michigan-based films, including Trans-formers and Dark Knight. Lead editor and camera operator on corporate videos, television commercials, and live-to-tape television programs for 11-4 Productions. Member of SHS staff since 2010.

Justin Skotarczyk | DMA InstructorM.F.A. candidate in Film at the Vermont College of Fine Arts, and a B.A. in Film and Video Production, Grand Valley State University. Over a decade of experience in the post-production market of Detroit as a motion graphics designer, creative editor, and visual effects artist. Feature film credits include, “DeadHeads” 2010, as Lead VFX Artist, and, “Jinn” 2014, as FX Artist. Past teaching experience in digital media art at the College for Creative Studies, and running workshops for Lawrence Technological University. Independent filmmaker focused on documentary and experimental genres. Member of SHS staff since 2015.

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dma staff

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Writing and Digital TechnologyThis course is an introduction to the field of digital media arts. Students will focus on pre-produc-tion, studying basic scriptwriting styles, blogging, and writing for the Internet. Attention is given to the differences between writing for print and writing for the web. Students will also begin to explore terminology and concepts of digital media, from basic lighting and audio to web. By examining different multimedia projects, students will begin to understand digital media arts terminology, workflow scenarios and future opportunities in the field.


32 online) Credit Hours: 3.0

Camera TechniquesStudents in this course begin to gain experience in the video production process by learning how to use and operate a high definition camera. Topics include: shot composition, camera movements, audio functions, and basic lighting.



digitalmedia arts




Digital Media Arts Program Tuition: $16,900.00


Introduction to Post ProductionIn this course, students will begin to explore nonlinear digital editing techniques using editing software. Topics include nonlinear editing terms and concepts, capturing file-based media, project management, basic editing skills, continuity, trimming modes, and editing and mixing audio.



Production FundamentalsIn this course, students will build upon their experience shooting with high-definition cameras, utilizing the three stages of producing video projects: pre-production, production and post-production. Students will also learn how to catalog and log footage in the post-production process.




Digital DesignThis course covers the principles of graphic and digital design. Students will explore terminology, typography, color theory, design concepts and overall basic graphic techniques. Students will also develop their skills with Adobe Photoshop. Topics include: using the Photoshop interface, image size and resolution, making selections, using layers and text, applying masks and retouching photos.



Media Production IThis course allows students to continue to develop their production skills in digital video production. Students will work in groups to fine tune their skills by writing, producing, and shooting projects. Topics include: shooting with alternative cameras, advanced audio and editing techniques.




Introduction to Web DesignThis course introduces students to the concepts, terminology and best practices of designing for the web. Topics include HTML, domain names, web hosting providers, HTTP, FTP, CSS, SEO, and best working practices in creating a website.



Media Production IIStudents will continue to develop their skills producing video projects. Topics include shooting longer format video projects, advanced techniques for shooting and lighting interviews, and camera support equipment. Hands-on experience with advanced production equipment and post-production equipment will assist students in their productions.




Multimedia DesignThis course introduces students to the world of motion graphics from concept to final design. Students design motion graphics for both the web and video using basic and advanced design principles.



Media for the WebStudents will continue to develop skill sets in web design. Topics include: content management systems, embedding and compressing video, and promoting media through social networking. Students will also design and create personal portfolio websites.




Advanced Portfolio ProjectsIn preparation for employment, students will continue utilizing skill sets from previous marking periods to create projects for their personal portfolios. Topics include: shooting and editing media projects, media management, advanced web topics, and resources for continuing education.



Career PreparationBreaking into the field of digital media arts involves more than just a great demo reel. This course assists students in the basics of job placement skills through résumé writing, researching markets, interview skills and other job resources and techniques. Students will also learn about promoting their work, as well as job placement via social networking.



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n DMA EMPLOYMENT GOALS: Successful DMA graduates will pos-sess the knowledge, skills, and competencies to gain entry-level employment in video production companies, post-production

facilities, advertising agencies, corporate marketing departments, news agencies, TV production departments, film sets, and other related industries where video content creation is vital.

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nTHE GRAPHIC DESIGN PROGRAM is a 12-month program that provides students with an introduction to the skills and employment opportunities available to an entry-level employee in the graphic design and related

industries. The program also assists students in developing an understanding of job search principles, techniques and strategies appropriate to the industry.

The Graphic Design (GFX) program teaches students the basics of print and web design utilizing Adobe design software. Students alter images in Photoshop®, create vector graphics in Illustrator®, prepare layouts using InDesign®, and create websites in Dreamweaver®, while developing a sound understanding of design fundamentals. Upon satisfactory completion of the GFX program, successful graduates will be able to visually communicate concepts and ideas for print and web design; produce and present work appropriate for a professional client/designer environment; format and design press-ready pieces with images and typography; design, create, host and maintain websites using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript; and brand and represent companies via web and social media.

All Graphic Design students will be loaned a MacBook Pro® and access to Adobe Creative Cloud apps. These resources are provided for use throughout the length of the program.



The online component is delivered via an online learning management system and may be accessed wherever an Internet connection is available. The 12-month program includes homework and projects that must be completed outside the classroom.

Upon satisfactory completion of the SHS Graphic Design (GFX) program, successful graduates will be able to:

n Demonstrate a basic under-standing of design software commonly used in the Industry

n Understand and develop an effective use of typography and design

n Design and develop web pages along with social media content

n Identify and/or produce copy for advertising, packaging and web design

n Develop an understanding of the effective use of color in design

n Develop cohesive branding/identity for corporations, products, and services

n Develop an understanding of the printing process, printing substrates, and finishing processes

n Develop an understanding of copyright and Digital Rights Management

graphic design

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Nicole Gulley | GFX SupervisorBachelor of Arts in Graphic Design, Wayne State University; Master of Business in eBusiness, University of Phoenix. Has worked in various industries in various capacities including Production Artist, Production Supervisor, Graphic Designer, Creative Director, and Marketing Communi-cations Coordinator with a greater emphasis on web development and design. Clients have included Reach Out and Read Michigan, Reach Out and Read Florida, ALFAB Services, Inc., Chairdancing International, Lions Hearing Center of Michigan, Michigan After-School Partnership, and Detroit Children’s Choir. Technical proficiencies include InDesign, Dreamweaver, Illustrator, Photoshop, XHTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Flash. Member of SHS staff since 2011.

Tonya Brookins | GFX InstructorGraduate of Wayne State University, Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree with a concentration in Graphic Design, along with additional studies at the College for Creative Studies. Tonya has worked in the graphic design industry for over 15 years including providing original design solutions within highly specialized agencies and in-house publishing departments where she has produced print ads, direct mail, building wraps, posters and trade show displays. Her past clients include The Michigan State Lottery, Elias Brothers Big Boy, Toyota, Daimler Chrysler, and Georgia-Pacific. As the design principal of her own firm since 2007, she has worked closely with many start-ups, small businesses and

non-profit organizations. Member of SHS staff since 2014.

Nancy Cohen | GFX InstructorBachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), University of Michigan School of Art, majoring in Graphic Design. Worked for 12 years at WDIV-Detroit as a graphic designer and eventually Assistant Design Director, followed by 4 years as Design Director at WJBK FOX2 TV. Currently the owner of Nancy Cohen Design special-izing in branding and identity design, advertising, event design, display, presentation and website design. Graphic design clients include Nestlé, The City of Auburn Hills, Amrita Thera-peutics, The Berkley Area Chamber of Commerce, United Dairy Industry of Michigan, Advanced Manufacturing Group, HireMyMom.com, Campfire USA, ClinArt Pharmaceutical, The Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit and WRCJ. Member of SHS staff since 2015.

Gary Farmer | GFX InstructorPast experience includes contracting web and database design since 1996. Clients include Comau, Progressive Tool and Industries, CBS Radio Detroit (WOMC, WWJ, The Ticket, Smooth Jazz, AMP), Dick Purtan (as webmaster), Woodward One Media, Executive Editor of a Local Community Newspaper. Former US Army Photographer. Member of SHS staff since 2012.

Julie Langdon | GFX InstructorBachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University, majoring in Graphic Design and minoring in Advertising. Alumna of Schoolcraft Community College. Freelance Graphic Designer with past work experience as a Graphic Arts Specialist with Ford Motor Company for 17 years. Graphic Design teaching experience includes Schoolcraft College and Henry Ford Community College. Member of SHS staff since 2010.

Ron Nevers | GFX InstructorBachelor of Fine Arts, College for Creative Studies. Ron is a versatile Designer/Art Director responsible for the creation and implementation of branded marketing strategies resulting in double-digit growth in sales, traffic and

consumer loyalty. He has experience in print, broadcast, outdoor, logo design/brand strategies, web, UI/UX and app design. He has won numerous awards for advertising and design. Experience includes current Creative Director, In-House Realty (A Quicken Loans company); Senior Art Director/Graphic Designer, Vanguard Creative Group/Fresh Fuel; Senior Art Director, Yaffe & Company. Member of the Specs Howard School since 2010.

John Ohmer | GFX InstructorAssociate degree in Digital Imaging from the MCC Graphics Program, and graduate of the Specs Howard Graphics Design program. Past experience includes helping to develop the SHARE Program at Specs Howard. John has taught the graphics program at Akiva Hebrew Day School in Southfield MI, as well as teaching a graphics enrichment class for the White Lake school district in Bloomfield Hills MI. Member of SHS staff since 2009.

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Fundamentals of Graphic DesignThis course introduces the aspiring graphic designer to the basic elements and principles used by professionals to create real design projects. Students will learn about line, shape, color and typography, as well as the principles which guide the use of these elements, to achieve interesting and exciting compositions. They will use Adobe Illustrator® to bring their ideas to life through a variety of different design exercises.



Vector GraphicsStudents explore and demonstrate the use of Adobe Illustrator® in creating vector artwork. Topics include Illustrator® drawing tools, designing with layers, tracing and freehand illustration, the use of gradients and color, working with image paths, and creating and using type and outputting the results.



graphicdesign




Graphic Design Program Tuition: $16,900.00


Graphic CommunicationsStudents study the basic organiza-tional structures and communica-tion requirements of the graphics industry. Topics include the demands on today’s graphic artist, how to work and communicate with clients, tools needed to be a graphic designer, and the professionalism needed to acquire an entry-level position in the graphics industry.

Clock Hours: 68 (36 lecture; 32

online) Credit Hours: 3.0

Digital ImagingStudents use and demonstrate understanding of the various tools of Adobe Photoshop®, while familiarizing themselves with the use of digital SLR cameras and lighting techniques. Topics include image manipulation, image correction, color theory, image retouching, working with layers and selections, creating compositions, and becoming familiar with the uses of photography, basic camera operation, exposure, location shots and studio product shots.




DNA of Graphic DesignStudents explore the history of graphic arts and typography, focusing on a historical and theoretical overview of the evolution of, and innovation in, graphic design. Topics include a historical look at people and events that have impacted the modern graphic design industry, and the invention of type. Students will investigate topics through research and hands-on exploration.



Introduction to Layout and Publishing

Students develop skills in using the tools and features of Adobe InDesign® to create and format eye-catching press-ready documents. Topics include InDesign® workspaces, managing text, utilizing colors, swatches and gradients, utilizing transparency, creating tables, handling page elements and graphics, importing and exporting files, pre-press terminology, and workflow.




Branding and IdentityStudents learn to build a company’s brand identity from the ground up, from researching a brand and its competitors, to designing a new logo and creating all of the essential graphic components that their company might need. Students will design the corporate identity, mugs, t-shirts, billboards and signage, and create packaging for the brand. This class is an excellent resource for building a professional portfolio.



Introduction to Web DevelopmentThis course introduces concepts, terminology and best practices of designing for the web, helping students acquire the fundamental skills to create, host and maintain a website. Topics include hand-coding using HTML and CSS, step-by-step instructions and in-depth exploration of Adobe Dreamweaver®, hosting and FTP.




Advanced Web TechnologiesStudents build on the skills acquired in Introduction to Web Development, while learning more advanced web skills. Exploration of emerging web trends and technolo-gies in this ever-evolving field drive much of the student’s web design and development throughout the marking period. Students have the opportunity to work with web forms, JavaScript, multimedia, and user interface design in real-world, independent website projects.



Web IntegrationStudents build upon their skill in web technologies through integrating many of the powerful tools found online. Through hands-on exploration, students will earn effective ways to profession-ally brand and promote a company or service by means of the web, blogs, social networking platforms, and email blasts.




Advanced ProjectsThis course introduces students to examples of simulated graphics projects in preparation for what they will likely encounter as graphic design professionals. Students are challenged to create and design projects using skills learned in previous marking periods.



Portfolio DesignStudents build upon previous coursework and explore advanced topics in design, résumé writing and interviewing techniques, in preparation for seeking employment in the graphic design industry. In preparation for the job interview process, design portfolios are created and refined. Working one-on-one with the instructor, each student selects pieces that showcase his or her creativity, craft and computer skills.



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n GFX EMPLOYMENT GOALS: Successful GFX graduates will possess the knowledge, skills, and competencies to gain entry-level employment in advertising agencies, design studios,

corporate art departments, newspapers, magazines, TV and radio station design departments, printing businesses, and other related industries.

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THE SPECS HOWARD SCHOOL recognizes that students are enrolled in an intense program of study and are often in need of assistance while preparing for their chosen careers. Therefore, the school places a great deal of emphasis on services for students while they are in school, as well as after they graduate. Student and graduate needs are continuously assessed and, whenever necessary, assistance programs are modified and refined. The school strives to offer the utmost in customer service at all times. The Specs Howard School offers a wide range of services to assist students in completing their programs of study efficiently and productively.

Student Success Department: Recognizing that students come from a number of different backgrounds and face differing life situations, the Specs Howard School has a Student Success Department to help meet student needs. The primary objective of this department is to maximize the student’s general well-being and opportunities for success.

The Student Success Department provides an opportunity for students to confiden-tially discuss problems, questions or concerns they may have while enrolled at the Specs Howard School. The Student Success Department can provide a wide variety of information and support to students, including referrals to counseling agencies and remedial programs

Transportation: The Specs Howard School is located on the northeast corner of Nine Mile Road and Evergreen, at 19900 West Nine Mile Road, in Southfield, Michigan. Many bus routes intersect near the Specs Howard School. Additionally, the Specs Howard School is centrally located near several major freeways, including the Southfield Freeway, the Lodge Freeway/Northwestern Highway, and I-696. The Student Success Department is often able to assist students in forming carpools and making ride-sharing arrangements.

The Specs Howard School’s satellite location is located at 23801 Industrial Drive, Farmington Hills, Michigan. Many bus routes intersect near the Specs Howard School’s satellite location. Additionally, the Specs Howard School is located near several major freeways, including I-696, I-96, M-5, and I-275. The Student Success Department is often able to assist students in forming carpools and making ride-sharing arrangements.

Temporary Employment: The Student Success Department is often able to assist students in obtaining non-industry-related jobs while attending the Specs Howard School. When available, employment opportunities and resources are posted on the Student Success page within our online learning management system.

Child Care: The Student Success Department provides information to students about securing childcare; however, the Specs Howard School is not affiliated with

studentsuccess

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any child-care service and cannot endorse or accept responsibility for any child-care facility or individual. Child-care information can be found on the Student Success page within our online learning management system.

Student Housing: The Student Success Department maintains a listing of local housing information resources for students who are seeking housing while attending the Specs Howard School. For more information, visit the Student Success page within our online learning management system.

Food Service: Vending machines are located in the Specs Howard School Student Lounge at both locations. A food truck visits Monday-Thursday mornings.

Parking: Student parking is available in the parking lots adjacent to both Specs Howard locations. Parking is free.

Telephone and Messages: Students are NOT permitted to make or receive personal phone calls using Specs Howard phones. Wireless devices must be silenced during all classroom and lab sessions.

School Closing Information: In the event of inclement weather, Specs Howard School closing information will be announced on Detroit area radio and television stations. Notice is also typically posted within our online learning management system and via text messaging.

THE SCHOOL has a limited number of additional supplies for each of their programs. Should additional equipment, books or materials be required, a list will be provided at the time of enrollment, and the student will have the opportunity to purchase those items at the front desk or at any other outlet of their choosing.

In addition, the Specs Howard School of Media Arts makes it as easy as possible to participate in the online component of its curriculum through their Learning Resource Center and the Specs Howard Access to

Resources for Education Program (SHARE).

All students must have unrestricted Internet access to support the require-ments for the online portions of the curriculum. All students will receive a Specs Howard-issued computer device as part of the SHARE Program. These devices include all necessary software to support in-class and online work. Upon completion of the program, these devices must be returned to the Learning Resource Center Coordinator in the condition issued.

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careerservices

nTHROUGH PREPARATION of portfolios, demos, résumés, and interviewing skills, the Career Services Department is devoted to helping graduates obtain entry-level jobs in the broadcast media, digital media, and graphic

design industries.

Although placement is a priority, it is by no means a guarantee. Students are expected to take an active role in their search for employment. The most important factors in finding the first job after graduation are perseverance and professionalism. The Career Services Department plays an active role in searching for job leads and pursuing and maintaining relationships with employers, and assisting students in their endeavors.

Graduates seeking employment assistance are expected to follow up on the leads they accept from their advisors, and actively seek employment themselves by searching the Internet for job postings, researching potential employers, placing phone calls and

sending out résumés.

Having a good attitude is crucial to success in this or any other career. Students should come to class every day as if they are coming to a job interview because employers and grads visit the Specs Howard School on a regular basis.

The Specs Howard School prepares students to work in their specific part of the media industry. Some of the topics covered in class include demands of today’s media profes-sional, how to work with clients, under-standing the organizational structure of the industry, and establishing the profession-alism needed to acquire an entry-level job.

internships

Although participating in an internship is not a program requirement, interning for a company within the media industry is highly encouraged. The networking potential and work experience internships provide are invaluable. Many employers hire or

recommend exceptional interns for employment upon graduation.

Students in good standing are eligible to participate in a traditional internship program at a specified marking period within each program. The hours will vary with employers but most require about 10-15 hours a week for 10-12 weeks. A résumé and/or interview with an employer is typically required to become an intern.

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specsgrads

SPECS HOWARD GRADUATES are part of an esteemed network of professionals that have found their calling in various sectors of the media industry. Through a combination of training offered at the Specs Howard School, internship opportunities, and personal experience, these grads represent what may be possible for the future student that has the passion to succeed.

Specs Howard strives to maintain a sense of community among its graduates and welcomes the opportunity to assist them in finding employment as they move up in their careers. Since networking plays a significant role in finding employment, efforts are made to invite grads back to school to mentor students at various functions, as well as provide an industry perspective at advisory board meetings. Many graduates go on to become employers themselves, making their connection to the school a great opportunity for up-and-coming students.

The graduates featured on this page are only a small sample of the many success stories the Specs Howard School has assisted in achieving.

“When I came to Specs Howard, that’s when it clicked: This is what I’d do with my life.” ANDREW MILLER Producer/Editor, The Right Brothers

“Specs Howard graduates are hard working and come to us with the hands-on experience

they need to get that first foot in the door in this competitive business.”

DANA HAHNVice President and News Director, Fox WTTG/WDCA

STACIE KITCHENGraphic Designer,American Ink

STEVE LINVILLE Graphic Designer,Fathead

HOLLY LINGENFELTERGraphic Designer, ABC Harley Davidson

KYLE SAMMY Videographer Intern,Grand Circus Detroit

RON HILLIARDReporter,TV Warren News

JESS POXSONOn-air Talent,93.1 NASH FM

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Student responsibilitySHS students are expected to adopt a mature and responsible approach to their education. Students must carefully organize their personal schedules to meet the expectations of the program and courses in which they are enrolled.

Academic integritySHS students are expected to act with academic integrity, professionalism, honesty and responsibility.

Some examples of academic dishonesty and misconduct are: cheating; conspiracy, intimidation, or bribery; duplicate submission of work; fabrication or lying; fraud; plagiarism and/or unauthorized collaboration or assistance. These types of misconduct will not be tolerated at SHS. The school will respond with appropriate measures. Such sanctions may include a failing grade in an assignment, a failing grade in a course, suspension, or adminis-trative withdrawal from a program.

SHS expects students to conduct themselves with professionalism, respect, and courtesy toward faculty and staff. Students are expected to respect the learning environment and the rights of the other students. If a student has concerns about a course in which they are enrolled, the student should address those concerns to the instructor in a respectful manner. If the concerns cannot be resolved with the instructor, the student should then address the matter to the department supervisor, and then the appropriate school director.

studentpolicies

Authentication policyStudents participating in online content must log into a secure portal with an SHS user ID and password. All students who enroll in programs are authenti-cated through an identity management system that requires a unique username and password for access. Without these identifiers, students are unable to participate in classes or access the learning management system for online coursework.

The School’s policies regarding academic integrity and acceptable use of online services include penalties for unauthorized use of another individual’s name and password and for engaging in academic dishonesty.

Student conductAll students are expected to conduct themselves with decorum and dignity. Alcohol and drugs of an illegal nature are not permitted at the Specs Howard School. Any student found to be in possession of, or suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs on school property or adjacent parking facilities may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or immediate adminis-trative withdrawal.

Fighting, physically aggressive behavior, malicious destruction of property or harassment (sexual or otherwise, including but not limited to ethnic/racial intimidation or harassment) of students, school personnel or visitors may result in disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or immediate adminis-trative withdrawal.

Foul language, loud disturbances, expressions of affection or displeasure inappropriate to a business environment, extremes in dress or grooming which draw undue attention or interfere with classroom decorum, academic cheating, inability to work with other students in laboratory sessions, or other breaches of conduct will result in consequences which may include written warning, suspension from attending classes for a period of one to three days, and/or additional

action up to and including adminis-trative withdrawal.

The Specs Howard School prohibits the use, possession, display or storage of firearms, ammunition, illegal knives, explosives (including fireworks), knuckles, clubs or nightsticks or other weapons on school grounds or in the SHS building. Peace officers certified by the State of Michigan and currently employed with a law enforcement agency are excluded but must declare the intent to carry a weapon in writing to the Student Success Department upon their initial enrollment at the Specs Howard School. Violation of this policy may result in administrative withdrawal from the institution.

SuspensionA “suspension” is an SHS-initiated interruption of training in the student’s current class, not to exceed three days. Suspensions may be invoked for disci-plinary, academic or financial reasons. Disciplinary suspension is the result of a violation of the student conduct policies of the Specs Howard School.

If a student is delinquent with his or her payment plan, that student may be subject to Financial Suspension, which may lead to administrative withdrawal. Students should contact the Business Office if they foresee any problems with their finances. If a student’s account is not paid in full by two weeks before the last day of class, that student will not be considered a graduate of SHS and will, therefore, not be issued a diploma nor be eligible for any job leads through the Career Services Department. These students may also be prohibited from participating in graduation ceremonies.

SmokingThe Specs Howard main Southfield campus is smoke-free, except for the designated outdoor smoking area outside of the school’s north entrance. The Farmington Hills location is entirely smoke-free, inside and outside the building, including the parking lots.

Alcohol policyThe use of alcoholic beverages is prohibited at the Specs Howard School of Media Arts. Any student found to be in

possession of, or suspected to be under the influence of alcohol while on school property or adjacent parking facilities may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or immediate administrative withdrawal.

Drug policyThe possession, use, sale, or distri-bution of narcotics or any controlled substance and/or drug paraphernalia is illegal under both federal and state laws and prohibited at the Specs Howard School of Media Arts. Any student found to be in possession of, or suspected to be under the influence of illegal drugs, while on school property or adjacent parking facilities may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or immediate administrative withdrawal.

A conviction for any drug offense involving the possession or sale of illegal drugs during the period of enrollment for which a student was receiving Title IV, HEA program funds under federal or state law will result in the loss of eligibility for any Title IV, HEA grant, loan or work-study assistance. The Specs Howard School will provide notice in a timely manner to each student who has lost eligibility for that assistance as a result of penalties under HEA Sec. 484 (r)(1). This will be a written notice and will advise of the ways in which a student may regain eligibility.

Drug and alcohol counselingPrograms are available to help students and staff who may be in need of counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation. The Student Success Department will provide a Student Success Emergency Help Resource List that contains the names, addresses and telephone numbers of organizations that can provide assistance to persons in need. Resources can also be found on our online learning management system.

Student complaint and grievance procedureStudents with concerns about unfair treatment or other problems with the staff, faculty or any Specs Howard School procedure have the opportunity to voice those concerns by requesting to meet with (in ascending order) any department

supervisor, the Student Success staff or the president. Every effort will be made to remedy the student’s concerns. If the student is not happy with the resolution, a written complaint may be filed with the appropriate department director. Every attempt is made to resolve the problem favorably, or to provide a satisfactory explanation for the circumstances. If the student does not feel that the complaint is satisfactorily resolved, he or she may ask for a hearing by a panel consisting of no less than three members of the staff and/or faculty.

Schools accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges must have a procedure and operational plan for handling student complaints. If a student does not feel that the school has adequately addressed a complaint or concern, the student may consider contacting the Accrediting Commission. All complaints reviewed by the Commission must be in written form, with permission from the complainant(s) for the Commission to forward a copy of the complaint to the school for response. The complainant(s) will be kept informed as to the status of the complaint, as well as the final resolution by the Commission.

Direct all inquires to:Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges2101 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 302Arlington, VA 22201(703) 247-4212; www.accsc.org

A copy of the commission’s complaint form is available at the school and may be obtained by contacting the Student Success Department.

Students may also file formal complaints with the State of Michigan. Proprietary school complaints are handled by The Michigan Department of Licensing & Regulatory Affairs.

Proprietary School SectionMichigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory AffairsVictor Office Center, 2nd Floor201 North Washington SquareLansing, MI 48933www.michigan.gov/lara

Student records and FERPAThe Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

Students have the right to inspect and review their own education records maintained by the school. The Specs Howard School is not required to provide copies of records unless, for reasons such as great distance, it is impossible for students to review the records. The Specs Howard School may charge a fee for copies.

Students have the right to request that the Specs Howard School correct records that they believe to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record, the student then has the right to a formal hearing. After the hearing, if the school still decides not to amend the record, the student has the right to place a statement with the record setting forth his or her view about the contested information.

The Specs Howard School must have written permission from the student in order to release any information from the student’s education record. However, FERPA allows the Specs Howard School to disclose those records, without consent, to the following parties or under the following conditions:

• SpecsHowardSchoolofficialswith legitimate educational interest

• Otherschoolstowhichastudentis transferring (with a signed transcript request from the student)

• Specifiedofficialsforauditorevaluation purposes

• Appropriatepartiesinconnectionwith financial aid to a student

• Accreditingorganizations

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• Tocomplywithajudicialorderorlawfully issued subpoena, provided the school makes a reasonable effort to notify the student of the disclosure in advance, unless such notification is not required by FERPA

• Appropriateofficialsincasesofhealth and safety emergencies

• Ifstudentisovertheageof18andis listed as a dependent on the most recent tax return supplied to the Financial Aid department

According to FERPA, a school may disclose, without consent, “directory” information. Directory information at SHS is defined as: student’s name, honors and awards, and the time period the student is/was attending classes at the school. Students may request that the school not disclose directory information about them. Such a request should be made in writing to the SHS Student Success Department.

AttendanceStudents are expected to attend all scheduled classroom, online and lab sessions in their entirety. Attendance will be taken for all sessions. The school maintains attendance records for students in all programs and documents students’ absences from classes.

Notification from studentStudents are responsible for contacting their instructor, via the online learning management system or email, if he or she will be absent or tardy. All messages regarding attendance are recorded on the student’s attendance record.

AbsencesThe maximum number of absences for any student enrolled in any program at SHS is three in any course. Absences are accrued by a student:

• failingtoattendascheduledclasssession

• failingtocompleteonlinecoursework

• having4(four)ormoretardieswithin a marking period

If a student’s cumulative number of absences (resident and online classes combined) should exceed three during any single course in any program, he or she will be advised by the Student Success Department and may be subject to an administrative withdrawal. There are no excused absences for recording purposes. A student who repeats a course should not exceed three absences of the total scheduled days for that repeated course, or he or she will be notified by a Student Success officer, and may be subject to an administrative withdrawal.

If a student in any program misses 14 consecutive calendar days, the student will be administratively withdrawn from the program.

TardinessTardiness is defined as arriving at a resident class or lab session after the scheduled starting time, but within a period of 30 minutes of the scheduled starting time. Upon arrival to class, the student must enter the time they arrived in class along with their signature on a sign in/sign out sheet.

A “tardy” is equal to one-quarter (1/4) of an absence, meaning four tardies equal one absence. If a student should arrive more than 30 minutes late to a class session, the attendance records for that session will reflect two tardies, indicating that the student missed more than 30 minutes of class.

Leave early/early departureEarly departure — or a “leave early” — is defined as leaving a resident class or lab session prior to the scheduled ending time, but within a period of 30 minutes of the scheduled ending time. Prior to leaving class, the student must enter the time they left class along with their signature on a sign in/sign out sheet.

A “leave early” is equal to a tardy. If the student should leave class more than 30 minutes before the end of the class session, the attendance records for that session will reflect two tardies, indicating that the student missed more than 30 minutes of class.

Online course component attendanceAll courses at SHS incorporate online sessions requiring that students log in, participate and complete assignments on a weekly basis. Failure to log in, complete online assignments and submit by deadlines will result in an absence being recorded for that session. These hours will be calculated with the student’s resident attendance record.

Holidays and school closingsIn the event of a school closing due to holiday observance, adverse weather conditions or other unavoidable circum-stances (i.e. power failures, etc.), each student attendance record will indicate a “canceled” day (“C”) for each such occurrence. For school closures due to scheduled holidays, make-up sessions will be offered to the students. The make-up session dates for holidays will be given to students no later than the beginning of the affected marking period.

If a student fails to attend a scheduled make-up day, an absence will be placed on the student’s record. Students missing the make-up session are responsible for contacting their instructor and making up any coursework or assignments.

For unscheduled school closures such as weather-related occurrences, make-up sessions may also be scheduled. The school will notify the students following any determination by the school to modify the student calendar. If the school makes a modification to the student calendar, the student’s Enrollment Agreement with the school will remain in full force and effect, and the student is still responsible for all academic and financial obligations.

Scheduled holiday observances for The Specs Howard School of Media Arts are:

• MartinLutherKingDay• MemorialDay• IndependenceDay• LaborDay• Thanksgiving• Christmas• NewYear’sDay

Satisfactory Academic ProgressIn order to receive Title IV financial aid (federal grants and loans) and be considered in good academic standing, students must attain satisfactory academic progress (SAP) toward the completion of their chosen program. The following policy explains how the Specs Howard School of Media Arts measures a student’s academic progress according to the Department of Education guidelines. To determine if a student has attained SAP, the Specs Howard School is required to evaluate a student’s progress by the length of time it takes to complete a program of study, the rate of completion, and the student’s cumulative grade point average (GPA). Students must meet all the requirements below to have success-fully attained satisfactory academic progress.

Assessment period: Evaluation periods occur at the end of each attempted 16-week period.

Length of time: To measure the length of time it takes to complete a program’s requirements, all credits attempted are included in the assessment. A student cannot attempt more than 150% of the published credits for the program of study.

Total Max. attempted program academic Program academic creditsof study credit hours allowed (150%)

BMA ...........31 credit hrs ... 46.5 credit hrsDMA ..........33 credit hrs .. 49.5 credit hrsGFX ...........32 credit hrs .. 48 credit hrs

Rate of completion: To measure the rate of completion, the total number of credits attempted is compared to the total number of credits completed. A student must successfully complete at least two-thirds (66.7%) of the total number of credits attempted per 16-week assessment period. Success-fully completed grades are A, B, C, and D.

BMA RATE OF COMPLETION Total possible Minimum Assess- academic academicment credits per credits earnedperiod* period (66.67%)

First .............. 10.5 .................7Second ........ 10 .....................6.67Third ............. 10.5 .................7Total ............31 ................... 20.67

DMA RATE OF COMPLETION Total possible Minimum Assess- academic academicment credits per credits earnedperiod* period (66.67%)

First .............. 11.5 ..................7.67Second ........ 10.5 .................7Third ............. 11 ......................7.33Total ............33 .................. 22

GFX RATE OF COMPLETION Total possible Minimum Assess- academic academicment credits per credits earnedperiod* period (66.67%)

First .............. 10.5 .................7Second ........ 11 ......................7.33Third ............. 10.5 .................7Total ............32 .................. 21.33

Cumulative grade point average: A student is expected to maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 1.0 at the end of the first attempted assessment period, a 1.75 cumulative GPA at

the end of the second attempted assessment period, and 2.0 cumulative GPA at the end of the third attempted assessment period. To meet graduation requirements, students must have achieved a cumulative GPA minimum of 2.0 upon the completion of their program. All courses attempted with earned grades of A, B, C, D, and E are included in the GPA calculation. Any grade earned by repeating a course will replace any prior grade for the same course. The grades from the repeated course will then be used to calculate the student’s GPA to determine if the student has achieved SAP.

Assessment MinimumPeriod* Cumulative GPAFirst ............................ 1.0 GPASecond ...................... 1.75 GPAThird ........................... 2.0 GPA

Assessment process: Whether or not a student is considered to be making SAP depends on the successful completion of courses, cumulative GPA, and maximum attempted credits to complete the student’s program of study. A student’s SAP is evaluated after each 16-week assessment period has ended. The evaluation will determine the student to be one of the following: the student will be in Good Standing, will be placed on Academic Warning, or will be denied future financial aid assistance (Denial Status). If denied future financial aid, the student has the option of submitting an appeal to the Appeals Committee (see “Appeal and reinstatement,” below). The student must meet all three requirements — length of time, rate of completion and cumulative GPA — to remain in good standing. The Financial Aid and/or Student Success Department will notify students if they are placed on academic warning or Denial Status for financial aid.

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*Note: The first assessment period occurs at the end of week 16. The second assessment period occurs at the end of week 32. The third assessment period occurs at the end of week 48.

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Good Standing for financial aid: A student in Good Standing (who is otherwise eligible for financial aid) is eligible for financial aid funding because they are fulfilling the requirements of Satisfactory Academic Progress.

Academic Warning for financial aid: Academic Warning will not prevent a student from receiving financial aid. The Academic Warning period is meant to inform the student of potential academic problems and provide time for corrective action. If a student does not meet Satisfactory Academic Progress standards at the end of the probationary period, the student will be administra-tively withdrawn.

Denial Status for financial aid: Denial Status will prevent a student from receiving any future financial aid funding until the student meets all requirements of Satisfactory Academic Progress.

Appeal and reinstatement: Students may appeal their Denial Status by submitting an appeal form to the Student Success Department. Some circumstances such as medical problems, illness, death in the family, relocation, or employment changes may be considered for an appeal. (For more details, see “Progress reporting and course grades,” below.)

Progress reporting and course grades: Each 16-week assessment period is made up of four 8-week courses (two courses are taken at time). Progress reports are provided to all students after each 8-week course period ends. Progress reports will contain grades for each course taken within those 8 weeks. To meet the graduation requirements, students must pass all program courses with a minimum course grade of a D-, 60% (.67 GPA). Grades are indications of academic performance in a student’s program of study. Students are graded in each of their 8-week courses according to the ranges shown in the chart below (maximum = 4.00).

If a student fails to achieve a grade of at least 60% (.67 GPA) for each course in an assessment period, that student will be administratively withdrawn from the program and, if applicable, placed in financial aid Denial Status. Depending on the circumstances of the student’s withdrawal, any continuation of an education at the Specs Howard School by that student will require reinstatement or re-enrollment. The student may appeal their withdrawal status by submitting an appeal form, which is available from the Student Success Department.

The student will be offered the opportunity to appeal and reinstate their enrollment to a different class in order to repeat the failed course(s). Students who may have accumulated a failed course or courses under the previous policy must reinstate at a later offering of the earliest course they failed. All courses must be successfully completed to earn a diploma.

If the student chooses to reinstate their enrollment to a different class, the student will receive an academic plan for the repeated course period. The academic plan will specify minimum grades to be achieved in order to fulfill Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements and achieve Good Standing status for financial aid by the end of the next assessment period. If the student fails to attain specified minimum course grades at the end of each repeated course, the student will be placed back in Denial

Status and be administratively withdrawn from the program.

When a student repeats any course or courses of any program, any grade(s) received during the repeated course(s) will replace any prior grade(s) for the same course(s). The grade(s) from the repeated course(s) will then be used to calculate the student’s GPA to determine if the student has achieved SAP.

Since Denial Status, Academic Warning and the repeating of any course(s) may affect a student’s financial aid eligibility, students in these situations are advised to contact the Financial Aid Department.

Transfer of credits: Students pursuing diploma programs at the Specs Howard School must take those programs in their entirety. In most cases, no credit is granted for past experience or other academic activities. This ensures that all graduates have fulfilled the stated objectives of the course and that minimum training levels can be reported to prospective employers. Military veterans with prior training or experience will be evaluated and required to take advanced standing tests to determine the appropriateness of the prior training and experience to SHS courses.

Graduation requirementsBMA, GFX, and DMA graduates receive a diploma indicating the program of study completed. In order to graduate and receive a diploma from any Specs Howard program, a student must:

• completeallareasoftraining

• maintainSatisfactoryAcademicProgress

• passallprogramcourseswithaminimum course grade of a D-, 60% (0.67 GPA)

• havesubmittedrésumésand appropriate forms to the Career Services Department, so placement status can be determined

• completeallfinancialaid

GRADE PERCENTAGE (GPA)

A ........... 93 – 100.00% .....3.77 - 4.00 A- ......... 90 – 92.99% .......3.67 - 3.76 B+ ........ 87 – 89.99% .......3.33 - 3.66 B ........... 83 – 86.99% .......3.0 - 3.32 B- ......... 80 – 82.99% .......2.67 - 2.99 C+ ........ 77 – 79.99% ........2.33 - 2.66 C ........... 70 – 76.99% ........2.0 - 2.32 C- ......... 65 – 69.99% ......1.67 - 1.99 D+ ........ 64 – 64.99% .......1.33 - 1.66 D ........... 61 – 63.99% ........0.83 - 1.32 D- ......... 60 – 60.99% .......0.67 - 0.82 E ........... 0 – 59.99% .........0W ........... WithdrawalR ............ Repeat I ............ Incomplete

paperwork, if applicable

• paytuitionandanyothercharges in full to the institution as described in the Tuition and Financial Policies section in the SHS catalog

All students must satisfactorily complete all graduation requirements, as listed in the Specs Howard School catalog, by the last day of class. Students who have not complied with this policy will be granted a period of up to 30 days in order to complete those requirements. Any student who does not satisfy the requirements within the extended time period will not be considered a graduate of the Specs Howard School. In cases of emergency or extreme hardship, an additional extension may be granted at the discretion of the VP of Education.

Graduation dates are subject to change. Graduation ceremonies are held a minimum of four times a year, off site, at a location that will be announced to the graduating classes at least four weeks in advance.

Repeating portions of a programIf a student repeats any course in his or her program of study for any reason, including attendance, academic deficiencies, or a student-initiated transfer, he or she will be assessed a $150.00 transfer fee (this fee may be waived by the Chief Financial Officer under special circumstances). Additional tuition will also be assessed if the new class to which the student is assigned is at a higher tuition rate than the original class. For first-time transfers, no additional tuition will be assessed for the repeated course(s). Course fees will be assessed for any additional transfers at a rate of $1,350.00 per repeated course.

When a student repeats any course or courses of any program, any grade(s) received during the repeated course(s) will replace any prior grade(s) for the same course(s). The grades from the repeated course(s) will then be used to calculate the student’s GPA to determine if the student has achieved SAP.

Make-up work/incomplete gradesIt is the responsibility of each student to contact his or her instructor to make arrangements for making up any work that may be missed due to absence or other circumstances.

If a student is absent for a class period and there is another class at approximately the same place in the curriculum, that student may make up the missed day with the other class, provided the instructors of both classes agree that the material is sufficiently close in both classes that the student would learn essentially the same material at the appropriate time. If the student then makes up the class period with the second class, that student will not be marked absent for the original class period.

An incomplete grade (I) may be given at the end of a course if approved by the VP of Education, and if the instructor believes the material can be completed in a reasonable amount of time (not to exceed two weeks) as the student continues in the program. The incomplete grade (I) must be approved by the VP of Education, and will be approved only in cases where there were extenuating circumstances that led to the incomplete coursework, and when it is feasible for the coursework to be completed independently by the student without the assistance of any classmates.

The instructor must submit a request to the VP of Education for an incomplete status and incomplete grade. The request must describe, in detail, the reason for the request, the time frame (not to exceed two weeks), and the specific coursework that will be required from the student to resolve the incomplete grade. Any incomplete grade (I) that is not resolved within the assigned period will automatically become a failing grade (E).

Withdrawal of enrollment“Withdrawal” means that the enrollment reserved for the student in a particular class is being prematurely ended by the student. In these cases, students must submit a written notification to the Student Success Department of

their intent to withdraw from their class. Upon receipt of this written notice, the appropriate Specs Howard School departments will be notified so that proper action can be taken.

Administrative withdrawal“Administrative withdrawal” means that the enrollment reserved for the student is being prematurely ended by the Specs Howard School. The school may initiate administrative withdrawal for a number of reasons, including, but not limited to, the following: providing false information on the enrollment agreement (including, but not limited to, educational status certification); failing to maintain satisfactory academic progress; being tardy or absent in excess of school policy; failing to pay all monies owed to the school on a timely basis; destroying or damaging any property of the school (the student may be held liable for repair or replacement of the damaged property); possessing any weapon while on campus; using, possessing and/or distributing alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs on campus; being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs while on school premises; engaging in unlawful or improper conduct, or conduct contrary to the best interests of the school or any other conduct that reflects negatively upon the school; and demonstrating behavior disruptive to normal classroom discipline, including behavior that could be considered as harassment (sexual or otherwise, including but not limited to ethnic/racial intimidation or harassment).

Any student wishing to appeal an administrative withdrawal determi-nation must send a letter of appeal to the Student Success Department. The letter should describe any circum-stances and/or documentation that the student feels warrants further consideration. After reviewing those circumstances, the Student Success Department will notify the individual as quickly as possible of the decision made by the school. For information on reinstatement of enrollment see “Reinstatement after administrative or voluntary withdrawal,” below.

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Reinstatement after administra-tive or voluntary withdrawalIf a student wishes to return to school after administrative or voluntary withdrawal, he or she may apply for reinstatement, provided that a period of less than one year has passed between the student’s last date of attendance and the student’s scheduled date of return. If a period of more than one year has passed between the student’s last date of attendance and the student’s scheduled date of return, under the discretion of the VP of Education, the student may need to apply for re-enrollment (see “Re-enrollment,” below) and possibly repeat courses already attempted and passed. The Student Success Department, as well as the appropriate department supervisor, may request a conference with the student to ensure that reinstatement is truly in the student’s best interest. The Student Success Department will inform the student of either approval or denial of reinstatement, as well as options for the date of return to the school, if approved. Students returning to the first marking period must attend the scheduled orientation for the class or risk forfeiting their seat in class.

Students may be assessed a $150 administrative fee to process a reinstatement. If the student is returning in the first assessment period, the administrative fee is due no later than forty-five days prior to the start date of the new class. If the student is returning to a second or later assessment period, payment is due no later than 30 days before the student’s scheduled date of return. In the event that the student is scheduled to return to school within a shorter time period, the Business Office will determine the payment schedule. Failure to make payment by the deadline may result in forfeiture of the seat in the class. Students whose reinstatements are approved are also required to meet with a member of the Specs Howard School Financial Aid Department (if applicable) prior to the deadline.

Re-enrollmentIf a period of more than one year has passed between the student’s last

date of attendance and the student’s scheduled date of return, under the discretion of the VP of Education, the student may need to apply for re-enrollment and possibly repeat courses already attempted and passed. The student may be required to meet with the Student Success Department before re-enrollment is granted. A re-enrolling student must complete all admissions procedures as outlined in the catalog. Any coursework completed during the previous enrollment is ineligible for a grade in the new enrollment period.

Student transcripts reflect all academic work attempted. If a student retakes a course, the grade earned from the repeated course will count toward the student’s cumulative GPA and appear as a letter grade on the transcript while the grade earned in the original attempt will no longer count toward the student’s cumulative GPA but will appear on the transcript. The repeated course will clearly be identified.

Class transfers for currently enrolled studentsA “class transfer” is a student-initiated move from one class to another. All transfer requests must be submitted in writing to the Student Success Department. The student will enter the next available class with an opening when that class progresses to the point where the student is scheduled to rejoin and continue his or her training. Students must be current with their financial obligations to the Specs Howard School by the re-entry date, as determined by the transfer agreements.

Failure to rejoin a class after being granted a transfer will result in adminis-trative withdrawal. In this case, students must apply for reinstatement in order to return to school. Interruptions in training may affect a student’s funding status or the receipt of additional benefits. All appropriate agencies will be notified of a transfer by the Specs Howard School.

A student’s ability to transfer may be limited and must be approved by the Student Success Department. If a student is granted more than one

transfer, he or she may be assessed additional tuition charges (additional tuition fees will also be assessed if the new class into which the student transfers is at a higher tuition rate than the original class). For more information on additional tuition charges, please refer to the section entitled “Tuition and financial policies” in the SHS catalog.

Disability and reasonable accommodations policyThe Specs Howard School facilities are wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair accessible restrooms are located on all floors at both locations. An elevator is located near the main lobby at both locations.

No qualified student shall by reason of disability be denied access to, partici-pation in, or the benefits of any program or activity operated by the Specs Howard School. Reasonable efforts will be made so that each qualified student receives appropriate accommodations to ensure equal access to educational opportunities, programs and activities in the most appropriate setting. This policy is consistent with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”) and Michigan’s Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act (“MPDCRA”).

Students with disabilities are not required to identify themselves as such, nor to request an accommodation. However, the Specs Howard School cannot accommodate an individual who does not inform school officials about his or her disability and his or her need for an accommodation. If a student believes that an accommodation is needed, the request for an accommo-dation may be made at any time during their enrollment at the Specs Howard School. However, requests for accom-modations must be made in advance of the coursework to which the request applies. Medical documentation of condition/disability must be provided. Any student wishing to request accommodations should contact his or her Admissions Representative or a member of the SHS Student Success Department.

TranscriptsAn official transcript of a student’s academic performance will be sent directly from the Student Success Department to another school when the student submits the Transcript Request form and a $3.00 processing fee. The Transcript Request form can be found online at specshoward.edu/transcripts.

InternshipsThough not a requirement for graduation, an internship can be an excellent enhancement to the Specs Howard School curricula and make a significant contribution to a student’s pursuit of employment. The skills and experience obtained while working at an internship are invaluable and contribute to a student’s ultimate goal of employment.

Any student seeking an internship through the The Specs Howard School of Media Arts Career Services Department must meet the following criteria:

• Successfullycompletetheweek-32 assessment period and maintained a GPA of 3.0 or better

• Maintainacceptableattendanceas reviewed by the Career Services Department

• Understandthatmissingschoolfor the internship may lead to being removed from the internship

• Remaincurrentwithallfinancialobligations to the school. Failure to do so will result in the withdrawal of the student from the internship

• Obtainsignaturesfromtwoinstructors recommending them for the internship opportunity

Students failing to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and/or with excessive time absent from class, will no longer be eligible and will be removed from their internship immediately.

Students will be provided with internship opportunities that reflect the area of interest within the coursework they

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are pursuing. Internships are provided as they become available. By turning down an opportunity to participate in an internship when it becomes available, a student may be disqualified from future internship opportunities.

The student and the employer must meet the following criteria to qualify for a Certificate of Completion for an internship:

• Employerandstudentagreeandunderstand that the internship is to be a mutually beneficial experience and that it is solely a learning experience on the part of the student

• Thestudentmustcompletea minimum of 120 hours of internship duties (typically 10-15 hours per week for 10-12 weeks)

• Employeragreestosendacompleted survey to the Specs Howard School within 10 days of completion (surveys will be supplied by the Specs Howard School and can be emailed or faxed to the Career Services Department)

• Studentmustsuccessfullycomplete the internship program and receive satisfactory scores on the Final review from the employer

In most cases, internships are unpaid.

Copyrighted materials policyIt is illegal, as described in federal law (Title 17 of the US Code), to download, upload, file share, or distribute in any fashion, copyrighted material, in any form without permission or a license to do so from the copyright holder. The Specs Howard School of Media Arts neither condones nor supports the use of peer-to-peer file sharing or copyrighted material in ways in which the material was not intended.

Students who violate federal copyright laws may be subject to penalties such as paying court-ordered compensation, monetary fines and/or jail sentencing. A student’s enrollment at The Specs

Howard School of Media Arts may be terminated if he or she is found to be file sharing, uploading, downloading or distributing copyrighted material, in any form, without permission or consent of the copyright holder.

Summary of civil and criminal penalties for violation of federal copyright laws: Copyright infringement is the act of exercising, without permission or legal authority, one or more of the exclusive rights granted to the copyright owner under section 106 of the Copyright Act (Title 17 of the United States Code). These rights include the right to reproduce or distribute a copyrighted work. In the file-sharing context, downloading or uploading substantial parts of a copyrighted work without authority constitutes an infringement.

Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or “statutory” damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. For “willful” infringement, a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court can, at its discretion, also assess costs and attorneys’ fees. For details, see Title 17, United States Code, Sections 504, 505.

Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense. For more information, please see the website of the U.S. Copyright Office at www.copyright.gov.

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Cancellation, refund, administrative withdrawal and withdrawal policiesAll tuition and fees paid by the applicant shall be refunded if the applicant is rejected by the school before enrollment. All tuition and fees paid by the applicant shall be refunded if requested within three business days after signing a contract with the school. All refunds shall be returned within 30 days.

Three-business-day cancellationAll applicants are charged a $50.00 application fee, which is refundable within three business days of signing the enrollment agreement and non-refundable thereafter. A full refund of all monies paid by the student (applicant) will be made by the school if cancellation is made by midnight of the third business day following the signing of the enrollment agreement. If the student has enrolled by mail or will be taking training at a site other than where they enrolled, without first seeing the school, the student has three business days from the date he or she first visits the school in which to cancel the enrollment agreement and receive a full refund.

A signed letter requesting cancellation must be delivered to the school either in person or by registered or certified mail. If cancellation occurs after midnight of the third business day following the signing of the enrollment agreement but before the start of class, SHS will refund all tuition monies paid by the student, but not the $50.00 application fee. Any refunds due an applicant will be made

within 30 days after receipt of a written notice of cancellation.

Refund policyStudents will be charged according to the number of weeks attended for each semester. For students beginning programs and for students reinstating after January 1, 2016, the following policy will apply:

Amount charged Week to the studentSemester 1 Week 1 = 25% = $1550.00 Week 2-8 = 50% = $3100.00 Week 9-16 = 100% = $6200.00 Semester 2 Week 1 = 25% = $1550.00 Week 2-8 = 50% = $3100.00 Week 9-16 = 100% = $6200.00Semester 3 Week 1 = 25% = $1025.00 Week 2-8 = 50% = $2050.00 Week 9-16 = 100% = $4100.00

For students beginning programs and for students reinstating after January 1, 2017, the following policy will apply:

Amount charged Week to the studentSemester 1 Week 1 = 25% = $1587.50 Week 2-8 = 50% = $3175.00 Week 9-16 = 100% = $6350.00 Semester 2 Week 1 = 25% = $1587.50 Week 2-8 = 50% = $3175.00 Week 9-16 = 100% = $6350.00Semester 3 Week 1 = 25% = $1050.00 Week 2-8 = 50% = $2100.00 Week 9-16 = 100% = $4200.00

Return of Title IV fundsThe federally mandated Return of Title IV Funds policy applies to any student receiving federal financial aid who fails to complete the assessment period/semester for which he or she was enrolled. Prior to the return of Title IV Funds calculations, the student’s last date of attendance must be calculated.

The last date of attendance can be calculated in one two ways:

Official withdrawal will be the result of failing to meet satisfactory academic progress (SAP) or other polices as outlined in the Specs Howard School of Media Arts catalog. The last date of attendance (LDA) is set beginning on the first business day of the week following the last academic activity or onsite attendance by the student. Any portion of an academic week attended, or in which there was academic activity from the student, shall be considered a full week for the purposes of the refund policy.

If a student misses 14 consecutive calendar days of any program without notifying the Specs Howard School of illness or extraordinary circumstances, he or she will be administratively withdrawn. If the student has an unofficial adminis-trative withdrawal, he or she will be notified by mail of the administrative withdrawal date. The date is set beginning on the first business day of the week following the last academic activity or onsite attendance by the student. Any portion of an academic week attended, or in which there was academic activity from the student, shall be considered a full week for the purposes of the refund policy.

The formula which determines the amount of federal Title IV aid that must be returned to the federal government by the school or student, is as follows:

The refund, calculated by assessment period, applies to any student receiving grant or loan funds that withdraws or is administratively withdrawn from the program on or before the 60% point in a assessment period. The percentage of Title IV aid to be returned is equal to the number of calendar days remaining in the assessment period, as determined by the student’s last date of attendance (LDA), divided by the number of calendar days in the assessment period/semester. Scheduled breaks of five or more consecutive days are excluded.

If a Return of Title IV Funds calculation is required, the student may also be obligated to repay a portion of the loans and/or grants obtained for that student’s tuition. Any refund due will

financialpolicies

be returned to the lending and outside funding agencies before any monies are returned to the student.

Once the Return of Title IV Funds is complete, a “Student Status – Financial” form is completed to detail what was received, what must be returned and what is owed if the student does not return to school. Refunds are issued in the order that best benefits the student: Unsub-loan, Sub-loan, PLUS-loan, Pell, SEOG, other outside funding and finally, the student. If the student had scheduled aid that was earned based on the Return of Title IV Funds calculation, but the school did not receive the aid prior to the student’s withdrawal date, the student is entitled to a post-withdrawal disbursement.

Paperwork will be sent to the student notifying them of the post-withdrawal option and/or disbursement (in the case of federal Pell grant funding). Students are offered the option of accepting or declining the post-withdrawal disbursement.

Worksheets used to determine the amount of federal Return of Title IV Funds are available upon request from the Specs Howard School Financial Aid Department. For further information on semester definitions, please consult your Specs Howard School Financial Aid Officer.

General financial policies1. Refunds are calculated beginning

on the first business day of the week following the last academic activity or attendance by the student. Any portion of an academic week attended, or in which there was academic activity from the student, shall be considered a full week for the purposes of the refund policy.

2. If a student misses 14 consecutive calendar days of any program without notifying the Specs Howard School of illness or extraordinary circumstances, he or she will be administratively withdrawn. The student will be

notified by mail of the adminis-trative withdrawal.

3. The Specs Howard School reserves the right to adminis-tratively withdraw a student at any time for good and sufficient cause, including but not limited to violation of policies noted in this catalog.

4. If a student returns to repeat any part or parts of the program and their enrollment is subsequently ended, whether voluntarily or administratively, any refund will be computed according to the total number of weeks the student has attended the repeated part or parts of the program.

5. Students must exhibit competency in all areas of their program of study and must maintain Satis-factory Academic Progress. In the event that the student’s enrollment is reinstated following a voluntary or administrative withdrawal, additional tuition may be charged to reflect the length of the period of retraining.

The Chief Financial Officer, under special circumstances, may waive certain fees. This policy remains in effect regardless of whether the reinstatement occurs as a result of a voluntary or administrative withdrawal. These additional charges may affect the payment schedule of the student, as well. In all cases, the payment schedule must ensure that the tuition account is paid in full by two weeks before the completion date of the student’s program of instruction. (See catalog sections on Satisfactory Academic Progress, Administrative withdrawal, and Reinstatement after administrative or voluntary withdrawal, for more information.)

6. A non-refundable transfer fee in the amount of $150 will be assessed to the account of any student who transfers from one class to another. This fee (which

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may be waived by the Chief Financial Officer under special or extraordinary circumstances) does not apply to students who have not yet attended classes. Per federal regulations, the transfer fee cannot be covered by financial aid.

7. In the event of a prolonged illness, accident, death in the family or other circumstances that make it impractical for a student to complete his or her program of study, the Specs Howard School will consider a settlement that is reasonable and fair to both parties. The student must furnish official or legal written documen-tation to support such a request.

8. Any student who is experiencing financial difficulties should arrange a meeting with the Business Office to discuss his or her payment schedule. If a student defaults on the payment schedule agreed to in the installment agreement, the Specs Howard School reserves the right to suspend or administratively withdraw that student, withhold all tests, critiques, audition materials and other materials, and revoke all internships until the account is made current or is paid in full. The student will be readmitted to class only if an acceptable payment agreement is made with the Business Office.

9. All federal loans, Pell, SEOG and student refunds will be made within 45 days of the date of determination of withdrawal.

10. The Specs Howard School reserves the right to notify any funding agency of changes in a student’s status.

11. A waiver must be signed by the student in order to divulge any information to persons other than auditors and funding agencies.

12. The school reserves the right to cancel a class start. Students may

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request a full refund of all monies paid, or apply all monies to the next available class start.

13. The school reserves the right to change or modify the program contents, equipment, staff or materials, as it deems necessary. Such changes may be necessary to keep pace with techno-logical advances and to improve teaching methods or procedures. In no event will any such changes diminish the educational standard or content of any program, or result in additional charges to the student.

Financial Aid DepartmentThe goal of the Financial Aid Department at the Specs Howard School is to assist eligible students in applying for and receiving financial aid.

All financial aid paperwork must be submitted to the Financial Aid Department prior to orientation (unless an extension is granted by the Financial Aid Department) or the student may be placed on a cash payment plan. The Specs Howard School reserves the right to suspend or administratively withdraw a student who does not meet cash payment obligations.

Federal financial aid programsThe Specs Howard School participates in several federal financial aid programs. Following are brief descriptions of these programs.

Federal Pell Grant: The Federal Pell Grant program is a type of financial aid that does not require repayment. Funds are awarded based on need, as determined by a standard formula, and are only available to students who do not already have a bachelor’s degree. To apply for a Federal Pell Grant, the student must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and meet with the Financial Aid Department at the Specs Howard School, which will conduct a needs analysis for the student.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG): The Federal SEOG program is a type of financial

aid that does not require repayment. This grant shall be awarded to students that demonstrate financial need and have an “automatic-zero EFC” (see the Financial Aid Department for details). The amount awarded to each student and the number of students receiving the award will be determined by the Financial Aid Department. If the funds must be returned for any reason, including but not limited to withdrawal, the award may be given to another student. If a student’s enrollment status changes prior to disbursement, his or her award may be given to another student, depending on the availability of remaining Federal SEOG funds.

Federal Direct Subsidized Loan: The Federal Direct Subsidized Loan is a loan made available to students to help fund their education. The Federal Direct Subsidized Loan is need-based. In order to apply for this loan, the student must be in need of aid, as determined by a standard formula. Students who wish to apply for a Federal Direct Subsidized Loan must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and meet with the Financial Aid Department at the Specs Howard School, which will conduct a needs analysis for the student. Repayment

of a Federal Direct Subsidized Loan begins six months after the last date of attendance.

Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan: The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is a form of financial aid that is not need-based, although students who wish to apply for a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan are still required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and meet with the Financial Aid Department at the Specs Howard School. Repayment of the principal loan amount will begin six months after the student’s last date of attendance. Payment of interest on the unsubsidized portion is the responsi-bility of the student during school and during the six months prior to the start of repayment of the loan amount.

Federal Direct PLUS Loans For Parents (FPLUS): The Federal Direct PLUS Loan program is a form of financial aid that is not need-based. Students whose parents wish to apply for a Federal Direct PLUS Loan are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and meet with the Financial Aid Department at the Specs Howard School. Repayment of the Federal Direct PLUS Loan begins

35

while the student is enrolled, unless other arrangements have been made with the lender.

Scholarships and additional funding sources Specs Howard School students may also qualify for other sources of funding such as Michigan Rehabilitation Services, United Auto Workers, Michigan Works!, Michigan Education Trust Fund (MET) and several other scholarship opportunities.

For more information regarding scholarships, visit specshoward.edu/scholarships.

Satisfactory Academic Progress and financial aidThe standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) must be met in order for a student to receive financial aid. In the event that a student fails to achieve Satisfactory Academic Progress, financial aid eligibility will be denied until the student meets all requirements outlined in the SAP policy (see the “SAP,” page 26).

Financial aid refund priorityIn cases where early voluntary or admin-istrative withdrawal requires a refund to a lending agency or grant program, the monies will be refunded to the agencies in the following order:

1. Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan2. Federal Direct Subsidized Loan3. Federal Direct PLUS Loans for

Parents4. Federal Pell Grant5. Federal Supplemental Educational

Opportunity Grant (SEOG)6. Other federal, state, private or

institutional awards7. Student

The Financial Aid Personnel — Code of Conduct can be found at specshoward.edu/consumerinfo.

Drug and alcohol abuse prevention informationAlcohol policy: The use of alcoholic beverages is prohibited at the Specs Howard School of Media Arts. Any student found to be in the possession of,

or suspected to be under the influence of alcohol while on school property or adjacent parking facilities may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or immediate administrative withdrawal. Specifically, it is illegal for any person under the age of 21 to possess alcoholic beverages; to give, serve, or permit alcoholic beverages to be served to any person under 21; or to misrepresent or misstate his or her age or the age of another person for the purpose of inducing any licensee or his agent or his employees to sell, give, serve, or deliver any alcoholic beverage to a person under 21. Any violation of this policy may be cause for disciplinary action and/or prosecution.

Drug policy: The possession, use, sale or distribution of narcotics or any controlled substance and/or drug paraphernalia is illegal under both federal and state laws and prohibited at the Specs Howard School of Media Arts. Any student found to be in possession of, or suspected to be under the influence of illegal drugs while on school property or adjacent parking facilities may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or immediate administrative withdrawal.

A conviction for any drug offense involving the possession or sale of illegal drugs during the period of enrollment for which a student was receiving Title IV, HEA program funds under federal or state law will result in the loss of eligibility for any Title IV, HEA grant, loan or work-study assistance. The Specs Howard School will provide notice in a timely manner to each student who has lost eligibility for that assistance as a result of penalties under HEA Sec. 484 (r)(1). This will be written notice and will advise of the ways in which a student may regain eligibility.

Drug and alcohol counseling: Programs are available to help students and staff who may be in need of counseling, treatment or rehabilitation. The Student Success Department will provide a Student Success Emergency Help Resource List that contains names, addresses and telephone numbers of organizations that can provide

assistance to a person in need. Resources can also be found on the Student Success page within our online learning management system.

DrugAbuse.com: DrugAbuse.com provides trusted resources for substance abuse and addiction treatment. You can learn about the symptoms and signs of drug abuse, as well as the repercussions of abuse. Call 1-888-744-0069 for help regarding drug abuse.

Michigan Mental Health Networker (The Networker): The Networker has been working since 1993 to provide up-to-date information on mental health and substance abuse agencies throughout Michigan. The Networker currently lists over 400 agencies that aim to help those struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues. Go to mhweb.org to get a list of organiza-tions that provide help.

Drugs and alcohol are often glamorized in today’s media. Becoming addicted to drugs and alcohol has negative effects on one’s body, mind and lifestyle. The following resources are available to anyone who has fallen victim to drug abuse and is looking for help. It’s never too late to reach out for help. Knowledge is the best defense in combatting the dangers of drugs. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) offers an excellent resource for drug fact sheets providing origins, street names, abuses and health risks.

The DEA is a government agency that specializes in enforcing the controlled substance laws and regulations of the United States. On the DEA website you can find information on specific drugs, drug laws and prevention. Visit dea.gov to learn more about the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Drug fact sheetsdea.gov/druginfo/factsheets.shtml

Drugs of Abuse: A DEA Resource Guidedea.gov/pr/multimedia-library/ publications/drug_of_abuse.pdf

36

Class Days Time 1st Marking Period 2nd Marking Period 3rd Marking Period 4th Marking Period 5th Marking Period 6th Marking Period

BMA 10-15 T/TH PM 11/17/15 —1/23/16 1/26/16 — 3/19/16 3/29/16 — 5/21/16 5/24/16 —7/16/16 7/26/16 —9/17/16 9/20/16 — 11/12/16

BMA 01-16 T/TH AM 2/2/16 — 3/26/16 3/29/16 — 5/21/16 5/31/16 — 7/23/16 7/26/16 — 9/17/16 9/27/16 —11/19/16 11/22/16 –2/4/17

BMA 02-16 M/W AM 2/29/16 — 4/23/16 4/25/16 — 6/18/16 6/27/16 — 8/20/16 8/22/16 — 10/15/16 10/24/16 —12/17/16 1/2/17 — 2/25/17

BMA 03-16 M/W PM 4/4/16 — 5/28/16 5/30/16 —7/23/16 8/1/16 —9/24/16 9/26/16 —11/19/16 11/28/16 — 2/11/17 2/13/17 — 4/8/17

BMA 04-16 T/TH PM 5/3/16 — 6/25/16 6/28/16 — 8/20/16 8/30/16 — 10/22/16 10/25/16 —12/17/16 1/3/17 — 2/25/17 2/28/17 — 4/22/17

BMA 05-16 T/TH PM 6/28/16 — 8/20/16 8/23/16 — 10/15/16 10/25/16 — 12/17/16 1/3/17 —2/25/17 3/7/17 — 4/29/17 5/2/17 — 6/24/17

BMA 06-16 M/W AM 7/25/16 — 9/17/16 9/19/16 — 11/12/16 11/21/16 — 2/4/17 2/6/17 — 4/1/17 4/10/17 — 6/3/17 6/5/17 —7/29/17

BMA 07-16 M/W PM 8/29/16 — 10/22/16 10/24/16 — 12/17/16 1/2/17 — 2/25/17 2/27/17 — 4/22/17 5/1/17 — 6/24/17 6/26/17 — 8/19/17

BMA 08-16 T/TH AM 9/20/16 — 11/12/16 11/15/16 — 1/28/17 2/7/17 — 4/1/17 4/4/17 — 5/27/17 6/6/17 — 7/29/17 8/1/17 — 9/23/17

BMA 09-16 T/TH PM 10/25/16 —12/17/16 1/3/17 — 2/25/17 3/7/17 —4/29/17 5/2/17 —6/24/17 7/4/17 — 8/26/17 8/29/17 — 10/21/17

BMA 10-16 M/W AM 11/14/16 — 1/28/17 1/30/17 — 3/25/17 4/3/17 —5/27/17 5/29/17 — 7/22/17 7/31/17 — 9/23/17 9/25/17 — 11/18/17


DMA 01-16 M/W PM 2/1/16 — 3/25/16 3/28/16 — 5/21/16 5/30/16 — 7/22/16 7/25/16 — 9/17/16 9/26/16 — 11/19/16 11/21/16 — 2/4/17

DMA 02-16 T/TH AM 1/5/16 — 2/27/16 3/1/16 — 4/23/16 5/3/16 — 6/25/16 6/28/16 —8/20/16 8/30/16 —10/22/16 10/25/16 — 12/17/16

DMA 03-16 M/W AM 2/29/16 — 4/23/16 4/25/16 —6/18/16 6/27/16 —8/20/16 8/22/16 —10/15/16 10/24/16 —12/17/16 1/2/17 — 2/25/17

DMA 04-16 T/TH PM 3/1/16 — 4/23/16 4/26/16 — 6/18/16 6/28/16 —8/20/16 8/23/16 —10/15/16 10/25/16 — 12/17/16 1/3/17 — 2/25/17

DMA 05-16 M/W PM 5/2/16 — 6/25/16 6/27/16 —8/20/16 8/29/16 —10/22/16 10/24/16 —12/17/16 1/2/17 — 2/25/17 2/27/17 —4/22/17

DMA 06-16 T/TH AM 5/3/16 — 6/25/16 6/28/16 — 8/20/16 8/30/16 —10/22/16 10/25/16 —12/17/16 1/3/17 —2/25/17 2/28/17 —4/22/17

DMA 07-16 M/W AM 6/27/16 — 8/20/16 8/22/16 —10/15/16 10/24/16 —12/17/16 1/2/17 — 2/25/17 3/6/17 — 4/29/17 5/1/17 — 6/24/17

DMA 08-16 T/TH PM 6/28/16 — 8/20/16 8/23/16 — 10/15/16 10/25/16 — 12/17/16 1/3/17 — 2/25/17 3/7/17 — 4/29/17 5/2/17 — 6/24/17

DMA 09-16 M/W PM 8/29/16 — 10/22/16 10/24/16 — 12/17/16 1/2/17 — 2/25/17 2/27/17 — 4/22/17 5/1/17 — 6/24/17 6/26/17 — 8/19/17

DMA 10-16 T/TH AM 8/30/16 — 10/22/16 10/25/16 — 12/17/16 1/3/17 — 2/25/17 2/28/17 — 4/22/17 5/2/17 — 6/24/17 6/27/17 — 8/19/17

DMA 11-16 M/W AM 10/24/16 —12/17/16 1/2/17 —2/25/17 3/6/17 —4/29/17 5/1/17 —6/24/17 7/3/17 —8/26/17 8/28/17 — 10/21/17

DMA 12-16 T/TH PM 10/25/16 — 12/17/16 1/3/17 —2/25/17 3/7/17 — 4/29/17 5/2/17 — 6/24/17 7/4/17 —8/26/17 8/29/17 —10/21/17


GFX 1-16 T/TH AM 3/1/16 — 4/23/16 4/26/16 — 6/18/16 6/28/16 — 8/20/16 8/23/16 — 10/15/16 10/25/16 — 12/17/16 1/3/17 — 2/25/17

GFX 2-16 M/W PM 2/29/16 — 4/23/16 4/25/16 —6/18/16 6/27/16 — 8/20/16 8/22/16 — 10/15/16 10/24/16 — 12/17/16 1/2/17 — 2/25/17

GFX 3-16 M/W AM 5/2/16 — 6/25/16 6/27/16 — 8/20/16 8/29/16 — 10/22/16 10/24/16 — 12/17/16 1/2/17 —2/25/17 2/27/17 — 4/22/17

GFX 4-16 T/TH PM 5/3/16 — 6/25/16 6/28/16 — 8/20/16 8/30/16 — 10/22/16 10/25/16 — 12/17/16 1/3/17 — 2/25/17 2/28/17 — 4/22/17

GFX 5-16 M/W AM 6/27/16 — 8/20/16 8/22/16 — 10/15/16 10/24/16 — 12/17/16 1/2/17 — 2/25/17 3/6/17 — 4/29/17 5/1/17 — 6/24/17

GFX 6-16 T/TH PM 6/28/16 — 8/20/16 8/23/16 — 10/15/16 10/25/16 — 12/17/16 1/3/17 — 2/25/17 3/7/17 — 4/29/17 5/2/17 — 6/24/17

GFX 7-16 T/TH AM 8/30/16 — 10/22/16 10/25/16 — 12/17/16 1/3/17 — 2/25/17 2/28/17 — 4/22/17 5/2/17 — 6/24/17 6/27/17 — 8/19/17

GFX 8-16 T/TH PM 8/30/16 — 10/22/16 10/25/16 — 12/17/16 1/3/17 — 2/25/17 2/28/17 — 4/22/17 5/2/17 — 6/24/17 6/27/17 — 8/19/17

GFX 9-16 M/W AM 10/24/16 — 12/17/16 1/2/17 — 2/25/17 3/6/17 — 4/29/17 5/1/17 — 6/24/17 7/3/17 — 8/26/17 8/28/17 — 10/21/17

GFX 10-16 M/W PM 10/24/16 — 12/17/16 1/2/17 — 2/25/17 3/6/17 — 4/29/17 5/1/17 — 6/24/17 7/3/17 —8/26/17 8/28/17 — 10/21/17

nBROADCAST MEDIA ARTS 2015/2016/2017 BMA CLASS START & END DATES BY MARKING PERIOD

class schedules

nDIGITAL MEDIA ARTS 2016/2017 DMA CLASS START & END DATES BY MARKING PERIOD

nGRAPHIC DESIGN 2016/2017 DMA CLASS START & END DATES BY MARKING PERIOD

37

HOLIDAY SCHOOL CLOSING & MAKEUP DAY SCHEDULEMartin Luther King DayClosed: Monday, January 18, 2016Makeup day: Friday, January 22, 2016Classes effected:BMA 04-15 AM, 05-15 AM, 08-15 PM, 09-15 AMDMA 03-15 AM, 05-15 PM, 07-15 AM, 09-15 PM, 11-15 AM, 01-16 PMGFX 02-15 PM, 03-15 AM, 05-15 AM, 09-15 AM, 10-15 PM

Memorial DayClosed: Monday, May 30, 2016Makeup Day: Friday, June 3, 2016Classes effected:BMA 05-15 AM, 09-15 AM, 02-16 AM, 03-16 PMDMA 07-15 AM, 09-15 PM, 11-15 AM, 01-16 PM, 03-16 AM, 05-16 PMGFX 05-15 AM, 09-15 AM, 10-15 PM, 02-16 PM, 03-16 AM

Independence DayClosed: Monday, July 4, 2016Makeup Day: Friday, July 15, 2016Classes effected:BMA 08-15 PM, 09-15 AM, 02-16 AM, 03-16 PMDMA 09-15 PM, 11-15 AM, 01-16 PM, 03-16 AM, 05-16 PM, 07-16 AMGFX 09-15 AM, 10-15 PM, 02-16 PM, 03-16AM

Labor DayClosed: Monday, September 5, 2016Makeup Day: Friday, September 9, 2016Classes effected:BMA 08-15 PM, 09-15 AM, 02-16 AM, 03-16 PM, 06-16 AM, 07-16 PMDMA 11-15 AM, 01-16 PM, 03-16 AM, 05-16 PM, 07-16 AM, 09-16 PMGFX 09-15 AM, 10-15 PM, 02-16 PM, 03-16 AM

ThanksgivingClosed: Thursday, November 24, 2016Makeup Day: Friday, December 2, 2016Classes effected:BMA 01-16 AM, 04-16 AM, 05-16 PM, 08-16 AM, 09-16 PMDMA 02-16 AM, 06-16 AM, 08-16 PM, 10-16 AM, 12-16 PMGFX 01-16 AM, 04-16 PM, 06-16 PM, 07-16 AM, 08-16 PM

New Year’s Day (observed)Closed: Monday, January 2, 2017Makeup day: Friday, January 6, 2017Classes effected:BMA 2-16 AM, 3-16 PM, 6-16 AM, 7-16 PM, 10-16 AMDMA 1-16 PM, 3-16 AM, 5-16 PM, 7-16 AM, 9-16 PM, 11-16 AMGFX 2-16 PM, 3-16 AM, 9-16 AM, 10-16 PM

Martin Luther King DayClosed: Monday, January 16, 2017Makeup day: Friday, January 20, 2017Classes effected:BMA 2-16 AM, 3-16 PM, 6-16 AM, 7-16 PM, 10-16 AMDMA 1-16 PM, 3-16 AM, 5-16 PM, 7-16 AM, 9-16 PM, 11-16 AM, DMA1D17GFX 2-16 PM, 3-16 AM, 9-16 AM, 10-16 PM

Memorial DayClosed: Monday, May 29, 2017Makeup day: Friday, June 2, 2017Classes effected:BMA 6-16 AM, 7-16 PM, 10-16 AM, BMA3D17, BMA4N17DMA 7-16 AM, 9-16 PM, 11-16 AM, DMA1D17, DMA5N17GFX 9-16 AM, 10-16 PM, GFX1D17, GFX3N17

Independence Day (observed)Closed: Monday, July 3, 2017Makeup day: Friday, July 7, 2017Classes effected:BMA 6-16 AM, 7-16 PM, 10-16 AM, BMA3D17, BMA4N17DMA 9-16 PM, 11-16 AM, DMA1D17, DMA5N17, DMA6D17GFX 9-16 AM, 10-16 PM, GFX1D17, GFX3N17

Independence DayClosed: Tuesday, July 4, 2017Makeup day: Friday, July 14, 2017Classes effected:BMA 8-16 AM, 1-17 PM, BMA5D17, BMA6N17DMA 10-16 AM, DMA2N17, DMA3D17GFX 7-16 AM, 8-16 PM

Labor DayClosed: Monday, September 4, 2017Makeup day: Friday, September 8, 2017Classes effected:BMA 10-16 AM, BMA3D17, BMA4N17, BMA7D17DMA 11-16 AM, DMA1D17, DMA5N17, DMA6D17GFX 9-16 AM, 10-16 PM, GFX1D17, GFX3N17

ThanksgivingClosed: Thursday, November 23, 2017Makeup day: Friday, December 1, 2017Classes effected:BMA BMA1N17, BMA5D17, BMA6N17, BMA9D17, BMA10N17DMA DMA2N17, DMA3D17, DMA7N17, DMA9N17, DMA10D17GFX GFX7D17, GFX8N17, GFX9D17


BMA1N17 T/TH PM 1/24/17 — 3/18/17 3/21/17 — 5/13/17 5/23/17 —7/15/17 7/18/17 — 9/9/17 9/19/17 — 11/11/17 11/14/17 —1/13/18

BMA3D17 M/W AM 3/6/17 — 4/29/17 5/1/17 —6/24/17 7/3/17 — 8/26/17 8/28/17 — 10/21/17 10/30/17 — 12/23/17 1/1/18 — 2/24/18

BMA4N17 M/W PM 4/3/17 — 5/27/17 5/29/17 — 7/22/17 7/31/17 — 9/23/17 9/25/17 — 11/18/17 11/27/17 — 1/27/18 1/29/18 — 3/24/18

BMA5D17 T/TH AM 5/23/17 — 7/15/17 7/18/17 — 9/9/17 9/19/17 — 11/11/17 11/14/17 — 1/13/18 1/23/18 — 3/17/18 3/20/18 — 5/12/18

BMA6N17 T/TH PM 6/27/17 — 8/19/17 8/22/17 — 10/14/17 10/24/17 — 12/16/17 1/2/18 — 2/24/18 3/6/18 — 4/28/18 5/1/18 — 6/23/18

BMA7D17 M/W AM 7/10/17 10/28/17 11/6/17 3/3/18 3/12/18 6/30/18

BMA9N17 M/W PM 9/18/17 1/13/18 1/22/18 5/12/18 5/21/18 9/8/18

BMA9D17 T/TH AM 9/26/17 1/20/18 1/30/18 5/19/18 5/29/18 9/15/18

BMA10N17 T/TH PM 10/17/17 2/10/18 2/20/18 6/9/18 6/19/18 10/6/18

BMA11D17 M/W AM 11/6/17 3/3/18 3/12/18 6/30/18 7/9/18 10/27/18


DMA1D17 M/W AM 1/9/17 — 3/4/17 3/6/17 — 4/29/17 5/8/17 — 7/1/17 7/3/17 — 8/26/17 9/4/17 — 10/28/17 10/30/17 — 12/23/17

DMA2N17 T/TH PM 2/7/17 —4/1/17 4/4/17 — 5/27/17 6/6/17 — 7/29/17 8/1/17 — 9/23/17 10/3/17 — 11/25/17 11/28/17 —1/27/18

DMA3D17 T/TH AM 3/7/17 — 4/29/17 5/2/17 — 6/24/17 7/4/17 — 8/26/17 8/29/17 — 10/21/17 10/31/17 — 12/23/17 1/2/18 — 2/24/18

DMA5N17 M/W PM 5/8/17 — 7/1/17 7/3/17 — 8/26/17 9/4/17 —10/28/17 10/30/17 — 12/23/17 1/1/18 — 2/24/18 2/26/18 — 4/21/18

DMA6D17 M/W AM 6/26/17 — 8/19/17 8/21/17 — 10/14/17 10/23/17 — 12/16/17 1/1/18 — 2/24/18 3/5/18 — 4/28/18 4/30/18 — 6/23/18

DMA7N17 T/TH PM 7/25/17 11/11/17 11/21/17 3/17/18 3/27/18 7/14/18

DMA8D17 T/TH AM 8/1/17 11/18/17 11/28/17 3/24/18 4/3/18 7/21/18

DMA9N17 M/W PM 9/18/17 1/13/18 1/22/18 5/12/18 5/21/18 9/8/18

DMA10D17 M/W AM 10/2/17 1/27/18 2/5/18 5/26/18 6/4/18 9/22/18

DMA10N17 T/TH PM 10/31/17 2/24/18 3/6/18 6/23/18 7/3/18 10/20/18


GFX1D17 M/W AM 1/23/17 —3/18/17 3/20/17 — 5/13/17 5/22/17 — 7/15/17 7/17/17 — 9/9/17 9/18/17 — 11/11/17 11/13/17 — 1/13/18

GFX3N17 M/W PM 3/20/17 — 5/13/17 5/15/17 — 7/8/17 7/17/17 — 9/9/17 9/11/17 — 11/4/17 11/13/17 — 1/13/18 1/15/18 — 3/10/18

GFX7D17 T/TH AM 7/18/17 11/4/17 11/14/17 3/10/18 3/20/18 7/7/18

GFX8N17 T/TH PM 8/29/17 12/16/17 1/2/18 4/21/18 5/1/18 8/18/18

GFX9D17 T/TH AM 9/26/17 1/20/18 1/30/18 5/19/18 5/29/18 9/15/18

GFX10D17 M/W AM 10/23/17 2/17/18 2/26/18 6/16/18 6/25/18 10/13/18

nBROADCAST MEDIA ARTS 2017/2018 BMA CLASS START & END DATES BY MARKING PERIOD

nDIGITAL MEDIA ARTS 2017/2018 DMA CLASS START & END DATES BY MARKING PERIOD

nGRAPHIC DESIGN 2017/2018 DMA CLASS START & END DATES BY MARKING PERIOD

38

BROADCAST MEDIA ARTSThe following statistics reflect the status of 12 BMA classes that started between October 2013 and September 2014 (as reported to ACCSC in our Annual Report for 2016).

COMPLETION: Total number of students started........................................ 322 Total number of students available for graduation ........ 321 Total number of students completed ................................. 236 Completion rate .................................................................. 74%*EMPLOYMENT: Total number of students graduated ................................. 236 Total number of grads available for placement............... 204 Total number of grads working in the field ....................... 142 Employment rate ................................................................ 70%**

Occupations with O*NET-SOC Code. Learn about these occupations by searching for the O*NET-SOC Code at ww.onetonline.org:

Board Operator (27-4012.00); On Air Personality/Announcer (27-4012.00); Producer (27-2012.01); Newsroom Writer/Reporter (27-3022.00); Production Assistant (27-3043.04); Promotions Assistant (11-2011.00); Sales Assistant/Representative (11-2011.00); Reporter (27-3022.00); Talent (27-3011.00); Videographer/Camera Operator (27-4031.00); Video Editor (27-4032.00); Newsroom Writer/Reporter (27-3022.00); Production Assistant (PA) (27-4031.00); Audio/Visual Tech (27-4011.00); Grip/Lighting (27-4011.00)

DIGITAL MEDIA ARTSThe following statistics reflect the status of 12 DMA classes that started between October 2013 and September 2014 (as reported to ACCSC in our Annual Report for 2016).

COMPLETION: Total number of students started........................................ 193 Total number of students available for graduation ........ 193 Total number of students completed ................................. 137 Completion rate .................................................................. 71%*EMPLOYMENT: Total number of students graduated ................................. 137 Total number of grads available for placement............... 115 Total number of grads working in the field ....................... 82 Employment rate ............................................................. 71%**

Occupations with O*NET-SOC Code. Learn about these occupations by searching for the O*NET-SOC Code at www.onetonline.org:

Videographer/Camera Operator (27-4031.00); Video Editor (27-4032.00); Production Assistant (PAs) (27-4031.00); Audio/Visual Tech (27-4011.00); Grip/Lighting (27-4011.00); Webmaster/Web Designer (15-1099.04); Multi-Media/Motion Artist (27-1014.00)

GRAPHIC DESIGNThe following statistics reflect the status of 12 GFX classes that started between October 2013 and September 2014 (as reported to ACCSC in our Annual Report for 2016).

COMPLETION: Total number of students started:....................................... 151 Total number of students available for graduation: ....... 151 Total number of students completed: ................................ 102 Completion rate: ................................................................. 68%*EMPLOYMENT: Total number of students graduated: ................................ 102 Total number of grads available for placement:.............. 90 Total number of grads working in the field: ...................... 65 Employment rate: ............................................................... 72%**

Occupations with O*NET-SOC Code. Learn about these occupations by searching for the O*NET-SOC Code at www.onetonline.org:

Graphic Designer (27-1024.00); Webmaster/Web Designer (15-1099.04)

*Completion rate percentage is determined by dividing the number of students who completed the respective program by the number of students available for graduation for that program. Unavailable students are those who are determined to fit one or more of the following categories:

• Studentisinactivemilitarydeployment

• Studenthasamedicalconditionthat prevents continued enrollment

• Studentisincarcerated• Studentisdeceased

**Employment rate placement percentage is determined by dividing the number of graduates who are employed in the field for which they were trained by the number of graduates available for job placement. Unavailable graduates are those who determined to fit one or more of the following categories:

• Studentiscontinuinghis/hereducation

• Studentisinactivemilitarydeployment

• Studenthasmedicalrestrictions• Studentisincarcerated• Studentisdeceased

graduation & employment

rates

39

Specs Howard | FounderBachelor of Arts, History & Political Science and Radio, Speech & Dramatics, Allegheny College. Owned and operated radio station in Pennsylvania. NBC, ABC and Westinghouse air personality. “Martin & Howard” radio team. Former radio and television freelance performer. Over 60 years in broadcasting. Member of American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, Screen Actors Guild, Adcraft Club of Detroit. Winner, Detroit Producers Association “Lifetime Achievement Award,” 1996. Inductee, Michigan Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame, 2005; Inductee, Ohio Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame, 2007; Winner, “Pioneer Award,” Imagine America Foundation, 2008. Recipient, “Lifetime Achievement Award,” Michigan Association of Broadcasters, 2009.

Martin Liebman | PresidentMaster of Science degree in Computer Science, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI); Bachelor of Arts degree in Music, Oakland University; Bachelor of Arts degree in Linguistics, Oakland University. Attended Eastman School of Music, majoring in composition. Former board member, Detroit Producers Association (DPA). Past experience includes Research Scientist, GM Research Labs; Adobe Certified Instructor, Avid Certified Instructor and editor, Media Power; Composer and audio engineer & editor. Winner of Emmy and Telly awards for music and sound effects.

Charlene Kernen | COO/ CFOBachelor of Business Administration, Walsh College. Attended Wayne State

University majoring in Accounting/Business Administration. Over 20 years experience in the areas of accounting and finance. Past experience includes Controller, T.D. Catallo, Inc., Financial/Personnel Manager, R & P Associates, Inc.; Office/Systems Manager, Fluid Systems Engineering, Inc. Previously owned and operated accounting and tax service business for over 8 years. Member of SHS staff since 1997.

Richard C. Kernen | Vice President of Industry RelationsMember, Board of Directors, Michigan Association of Broadcasters Foundation, Michigan Production Alliance. Member, Michigan Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. Former Cable Commissioner, City of Dearborn; Past Experience includes management and programming positions at WXYZ, WRIF and Starr Broadcasting. Past Board Member, Detroit Producers Association and Detroit Chapter of Media Communications Association. Member of SHS staff since 1972.

Steve Julin | Vice President of Education and Online LearningBachelor of Science in Television Journalism, Eastern Michigan University. Michigan’s first Avid Certified Instructor; author, “Avid Xpress Pro: Power”; current member of advisory board for the Saline School District. Past experience includes Senior Avid Editor, Grace & Wild HD Studios; Editor/Training Provider for Ford Motor Company, Kmart, The Discovery Channel, General Motors, General Television Network, Lansing Community College, ABC, CBS, NBC, and PBS. Recipient of Golden Eagle Award for documentary editing, 2000. Emmy award winner for Great Lakes ~ Great Tastes (PBS), 2014 and 2015. Selected “Educator of the Year”, 2009, by DAFT and the Michigan Arts Council. Member of SHS staff since 1992.

Angela Burt | Director of Financial AidMaster of Science in Administration, Central Michigan University; Bachelor of Business Administration, Detroit College of Business, Associate Degree, Delta College. Experience: Financial Aid Specialist, Davenport University.

Member of SHS staff since 2001.

Mary Harms | Director of Human ResourcesAttended Macomb Community College, majoring in Computer Accounting. Past experience includes Business Manager at Gromek, Bendure & Thomas. Member of SHS staff since 1988.

Michael Shiner | Director of MarketingBachelor of Arts degree from Kalamazoo College. Graduate of Specs Howard School. Past experience includes Vice President of Admissions and Marketing at the Detroit Engineering Institute; Director of Ross Medical Education Center in Madison Heights; Regional Vice President and Print Media Manager for Ross Education, Inc. and President of Marketwise Educational Services, Inc. Member of the SHS since 2010.

Nancy Shiner | Director of Career Services and AdmissionsAttended Macomb Community College, majoring in Business and Marketing. Past experience includes Promotional Activities Coordinator, Detroit Free Press; Director of Financial Aid, Admissions and Marketing Officer, Detroit Engineering Institute. Member of SHS staff since 1988.

Avery Snyder | Supervisor of Student Success; Deputy Title IX CoordinatorGraduate of Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Health Services and a Graduate Certificate in a Specialty Program for Alcohol and Drug Abuse. Past experience includes working with physically and developmentally disabled persons on their occupational skills; alcohol and drug abuse prevention for at-risk youth; co-chair of support/life skills groups for battered women, at-risk pregnant women, and anger management populations. Member of SHS staff since 2013

Jennifer Michaels | Career Preparation Liason and InstructorGraduate of Specs Howard School. Past experience includes Sales Assistant for CBS Radio, 97.1 The Ticket, Promotions Director for Magic 105.1, Morning News Assistant for Trudi Daniels at 101 WRIF. Member of SHS staff since 2009.

staff

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ACCREDITATION

The Specs Howard School is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges

(ACCSC). ACCSC is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency.

ARTICULATION AGREEMENTS

When you graduate from the Specs Howard School, you not only receive a diploma, but the opportunity to

apply the training you received toward an associate’s or bachelor’s degree at many area colleges and univer-

sities via articulation agreements. While the number of credits each college or university accepts is accurate

to our knowledge, transfer credit is granted by the receiving institution and is subject to change. The number

of credits accepted may also vary due to program changes or other conditions beyond our control. It may

also depend on how long ago you graduated from Specs Howard. We recommend investigating the college

or university you wish to attend and their transfer policy before you enroll. We would also like to know if you

encounter any problems so we are able to investigate and improve the process.

Oakland Community College: Broadcast Media Arts graduates may receive up to 18 credits. Graphic

Design graduates may receive up to 18 credits.

Schoolcraft Community College: Broadcast Media Arts graduates may receive up to 15 credits.

Washtenaw Community College: Broadcast Media Arts graduates may receive up to 9 credits.

Eastern Michigan University: Broadcast Media Arts graduates may receive up to 17 credits.

Ferris State University: Broadcast Media Arts graduates may receive up to 12 credits.

Madonna University: Broadcast Media Arts graduates may receive up to 24 credits. Graphic Design

graduates may receive up to 24 credits.

Rochester College: Broadcast Media Arts graduates may receive up to 31 credits. Digital Media Arts

graduates may receive up to 33 credits. Graphic Design graduates may receive up to 32 credits.

Lawrence Technological University: Broadcast Media Arts graduates may receive up to 27 credits.

SANCTIONS AND APPROVALS

The Specs Howard School of Media Arts is:

•LicensedbytheMichiganDepartmentofLicensingandRegulatoryAffairs,LicenseNo.8601000006

•ApprovedbytheMichiganStateDepartmentofEducationforvocationalrehabilitation

•Authorizedunderfederallawtoenrollnon-immigrantstudents

•AnAvidCertifiedTrainingCenter

AFFILIATIONS AND MEMBERSHIPS

• AccreditingCommissionofCareerSchools and Colleges

• AdcraftClubofDetroit

• AmericanFederationofTelevisionand Radio Artists

• AssociationofPrivateSectorColleges and Universities

• AvidTechnology,Inc.

• BetterBusinessBureau

• ChaldeanChamberofCommerce

• DigitalArts,Film&TelevisionAssociation

• DearbornChamberofCommerce

• DetroitSportsBroadcastersAssociation

• DetroitRegionalChamberofCommerce

• DetroitEconomicClub

• Digidesign(aDivisionofAvidTechnology,Inc.)

• FarmingtonHillsChamberofCommerce

• ImagineAmericaFoundation

• InternationalAssociationofAdministrative Professionals

• MediaCommunicationsAssociation– International (MCA-I)

• MichiganAssociationofBroadcasters

• MichiganChamberofCommerce

• MichiganChapterAllianceforCommunityMedia

• MichiganDepartmentofLicensingand Regulatory Affairs (LARA)

• MichiganMediaProfessionals

• MichiganStudentFinancialAidAssociation

• MidwestAssociationofFinancialAid Administrators

• NationalAssociationofStudentFinancialAidAdministrators

• NationalAssociationofTelevisionArts&Sci-ences Oakland County Business Roundtable

• ScreenActorsGuild

• SocietyofBroadcastEngineers(SBE)

• OaklandCountyTech248

• ScreenActorsGuild-AmericanFederationofTelevision and Radio Artists

• SocietyofMotionPictureandTelevision Engineers (SMPTE)

• SouthfieldChamberofCommerce

• TroyChamberofCommerce

OWNERSHIP

The Specs Howard School of Broadcast Arts, Inc.

(d.b.a. The Specs Howard School of Media Arts),

located at 19900 West Nine Mile Road, Southfield,

Michigan, 48075, is a closed corporation with a

limited number of shareholders who are active in

business, broadcasting and education.

OFFICERS

Martin Liebman | President

Char Kernen | COO/CFO

Specs Howard | FounderFor completion rates and other disclosures, please visit specshoward.edu/consumerinfo

For over 46 years, the Specs Howard School of Media Arts has

been dedicated to educating media industry professionals. What

started out as a school for radio, has grown to become the home

for anyone seeking to learn about Broadcast Media Arts, Digital

Media Arts, and Graphic Design.

BMA students gain skills in radio and television broadcasting,

production and studio operation, on-air and interviewing skills,

audio and video editing, and broadcast graphics. Graduates will

be equipped with a demo reel they can use to apply for their first

job in the industry.

DMA students focus on creating content for the web, learning

skills such as scriptwriting, blogging, camera techniques, audio

and video editing, web design and motion graphics. Each student

creates a personal portfolio to present to prospective employers.

GFX students learn graphic techniques including color,

typography, image manipulation, vector graphics, the use of

DSLR cameras, layout and publishing, logo design, web develop-

ment and more. Students create individual design portfolios to

use when seeking employment.

Classes meet either

Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday,

at either 10:00am-2:30pm or 6:00pm-10:30pm.

8-10 hours of online content delivered per week

The Specs Howard School Quick GuideA Brief History

page 2

Programs

Broadcast Media Arts (BMA)

page 8

Digital Media Arts (DMA)

page 12

Graphic Design (GFX)

page 16

Class Times

Through preparation of portfolios, demos, resumes, and interview-

ing skills, the Career Services Department is devoted to helping

graduates obtain entry-level positions in the Broadcast Media

Arts, Digital Media Arts and Graphic Design industries.

Federal financial aid is available to those who qualify.

To learn more about placement rates and positions available in

Broadcast Media Arts, Digital Media Arts, and Graphic Design

industries, please visit specshoward.edu/consumerinfo.

The Student Success Department provides an opportunity

for students to confidentially discuss problems, questions, or

concerns they may have while enrolled at the Specs Howard

School. The primary objective of this department is to maximize

the student’s general well-being and opportunities for success.

The current cost to attend any program at the Specs Howard

School of Media arts is $16,900.

All applicants must pay a $50 application fee at the time of enroll-

ment. This fee cannot be waived, is not included in the price of

tuition and is not covered by Financial Aid.

For the length of each 12-month program, students are loaned a

computer device to be used to complete all online assignments.

For the most current list of supplies needed for each program,

please visit specshoward.edu/supplies.

Career Services

page 22

Financial Aid

page 32

Consumer Information

page 32

Student Success

page 20

Tuition

pages 10, 14, 18

Application Fee

Specs Howard Access to

Resources for Education

Program (SHARE)

page 21

Supplies

page 21

The Specs Howard School of Media Arts participates in a

number of merit- and need-based scholarship programs for

both the high school senior and non-traditional adult students.

For more information regarding deadlines, please visit

specshoward.edu/scholarships, or call our Admissions

Department at 248-228-8900.

Specs Howard High School Competition

First Place: Full scholarship

Second Place: Half scholarship

Third Place: Quarter scholarship

Specs Howard High School Preparatory Scholarship $3,500

Specs Howard High School Academic Scholarship $3,000

Specs Howard Industry Scholarship $500

Specs Howard Veterans Scholarship $4,000

Specs Howard Need-based Adult Scholarship $2,000

Specs Howard Alumni & Family Scholarship

Specs Howard Graduate Scholarship: $5,000

Specs Howard Graduate’s Family Scholarship: $2,000

Michigan Student Film & Video Festival Scholarship

Full scholarship awarded by Digital Arts, Film & Television (DAFT)

(only available for BMA and DMA students)

• scholarshipexperts.com

• collegeanswer.com

• fastweb.com

Scholarships

Additional Scholarship

Resources

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Main Campus: 19900 W. 9 Mile Rd., Southfield, MI

Where to find us

866-61-SPECS | specshoward.edu

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INDUSTRIALPARK DRIVESpecsHowardSchool

Satellite Location: 23801 Industrial Park Dr., Farmington Hills, MI

indexAbsences ........................................................................................................................................... 26Accreditation .................................................................................................................................... 40Academic Warning .......................................................................................................................... 27 Admissions Requirements and Procedures ............................................................................. 6Administrative Withdrawal ............................................................................................................ 29Affiliations and Memberships ...................................................................................................... 40Alcohol Policy ................................................................................................................................... 24Articulation Agreements ............................................................................................................... 40 Attendance ....................................................................................................................................... 26 Broadcast Media Arts ..................................................................................................................... 8Career Services ................................................................................................................................ 22 Child Care .......................................................................................................................................... 20 Class Schedules .............................................................................................................................. 36 Class Transfers for Currently Enrolled Students ..................................................................... 30 Class Transfers for Students Who Have Not Yet Started ....................................................... 7Credit for Life Experience or Other Educational Background .............................................. 7Digital Media Arts ............................................................................................................................ 12Disability and Reasonable Accommodations Policy ............................................................. 30 Drug Policy ........................................................................................................................................ 25Facilities ............................................................................................................................................ 4 Financial Policies ............................................................................................................................ 32Food Service ..................................................................................................................................... 21Grades ................................................................................................................................................ 28 Graduation & Employment Rates ................................................................................................ 38 Graduation Requirements ............................................................................................................. 28 Graphic Design ................................................................................................................................. 16 Holidays and School Closings ...................................................................................................... 26, 37 Internships ........................................................................................................................................ 22, 31 Make-up Work/Incomplete Grades ............................................................................................. 29Mission Statement .......................................................................................................................... inside cover Officers .............................................................................................................................................. 40Online Component .......................................................................................................................... 8, 12, 16Orientation ........................................................................................................................................ 7, 30, 34 Ownership ......................................................................................................................................... 40Parking ............................................................................................................................................... 21 Progress Reporting and Course Grades ...................................................................................... 28Re-Enrollment .................................................................................................................................. 30 Refund Policy .................................................................................................................................... 32Reinstatement After Administrative or Voluntary Withdrawl ............................................... 30Repeating Portions of a Program ................................................................................................ 29Sanctions and Approvals .............................................................................................................. 40Satisfactory Academic Progress ................................................................................................ 27, 35Scholarships and Additional Funding Sources ....................................................................... 35School Closing Information .......................................................................................................... 26, 37 SHARE Program ............................................................................................................................... 21Smoking ............................................................................................................................................. 24 Staff and Faculty ............................................................................................................................. 9, 13, 17, 39Student Complaint and Grievance Procedure ......................................................................... 25 Student Conduct ............................................................................................................................. 24 Student Housing .............................................................................................................................. 21 Student Policies ............................................................................................................................... 24 Student Records and FERPA ........................................................................................................ 25Student Success ............................................................................................................................. 20 Supplies ............................................................................................................................................. 21 Suspension ....................................................................................................................................... 24 Tardiness ........................................................................................................................................... 26 Telephone and Messages .............................................................................................................. 21 Temporary Employment ................................................................................................................ 20 Transcripts ........................................................................................................................................ 31 Transportation .................................................................................................................................. 20 Tuition ................................................................................................................................................. 10, 14, 18 Withdrawal of Enrollment .............................................................................................................. 29

Main Campus | 19900 W. 9 Mile Rd., Southfield, MI

Satellite Location | 23801 Industrial Park Dr., Farmington Hills, MI

866-61-SPECS | specshoward.edu

Documents

The Specs Howard School of Media Arts · 2016-11-14 · 1981: SHS adds its first TV studio, allowing students to study camera operation, lighting, directing and video editing. 1994: