99 Questions

Most Frequently Asked

by Prospective Students

& Their Parents

ADMISSIONS:

1. Is there an application deadline?   A strict deadline is presently not in place, although on certain years when enrollment is strong, one could be imposed.

2. How long does it take to process an application and when will the acceptance                  

letter be mailed?  The process is fairly quick if a student is able to submit all the necessary paperwork/forms in a timely manor.  Acceptance letters can usually be issued within a week after all the information has been processed.

3. Is an application fee required, and if so, how much is the fee?

Yes, a $20.00 application fee and usually it is best if it is collected at the time of the application.  Int’l students are required to pay a higher application fee of $35.00.

4. What is the average fall enrollment?  Mid-Continent University has

      approximately 1700 students in the undergraduate programs some of which  

come from countries such as Argentina , Brazil , Bahamas , Ghana , Ecuador , Korea , Antigua , Slovenia , Kenya , Nigeria , Jamaica , Uruguay , Serbia , Australia , Trinidad & Tobago and Canada .

       5.  What credentials must be submitted to properly file an application?

For a regular HS senior/junior:

a.                   A completed application form and $20 application fee.

b.                  An official copy of their ACT/SAT scores.

c.                   An official transcript from their high school.

d.                  1 Reference Letter

e.                   Essay

For a transfer student:

a.       For a prospect with 12 or more semester hours, an official transcript

                             from any/all colleges.

b.              For a prospect with less than 12 hours, refer back to HS requirements.  In many cases, the student may also need to provide an official copy of their HS transcript.

c.               A completed application form and $20 application fee.

d.              1 Reference Letter

e.               Essay

f.                Transfer Social Eligibility Form

6.   Does the college require a minimum SAT/ACT for admission?

Yes.  ACT – 18 or above; SAT – combined score of 860 or above.

Will the college accept either SAT or ACT scores for admission?

Yes, the college will accept either. We will always use the highest score achieved.         

7.      Is an interview, references, or essay required to admission?

Students who do not meet the criteria for regular Admission may be required to have a personal interview and/or to furnish recommendations from school, church, or community persons. 

8.      Must a physical examination be submitted prior to admission?

A health form showing good general health and proper immunizations and proof of insurance is required in order for a student to be enrolled so it is wise to encourage them to take the necessary steps to procure this.

9.      Must a prescribed curriculum be completed in high school?

Yes, Each student admitted to Mid-Continent University must have earned the minimum high school units as follows, or submit a passing score on the GED:

English – 4        Mathematics -  2    Natural/Physical Science – 2   Social Science –2

   10.    Are high school honors course weighed in favor of the grade point average and

what is the minimum GPA required?

            High school honors courses are given consideration, but we generally prefer to

look over the entire set of criteria when making an admission decision.  Incoming students from HS should have a Cumulative GPA of at least 2.00

   11.    Will the college accept the General Education Diploma (GED)?

A high school equivalency diploma may be accepted in lieu of a high school diploma.  Official documentation of scores is required; photocopies are not acceptable.

12.    Will the college honor a home study program or diploma from an unaccredited                                      private high school?

Yes.  Students who have been educated at home must submit a transcript outlining courses taken, a cumulative GPA of 2.00/4.00, and the name of any affiliated association or curriculum program used in the process of home schooling.  Students must then follow all other freshman student requirements for admission.

13.        How will the college evaluate or use two or more sets of SAT/ACT scores?

The college will give preference to the highest score submitted.

14.        Does the college permit any Dual Credit for High School Seniors?

Mid-Continent University may grant dual credit admission to high school seniors less than 19 years of age with superior ability that have not yet graduated from high school and have not attended college.  Students receive full credit for the college coursed toward graduation from high school while at the same time earning credit toward a college degree.  Written inquires should be directed first to the student’s high school counselor and then to the Dean of Enrollment at Mid-Continent University .  Students seeking acceptance into the dual credit program must be able to succeed without remedial work.  Students who wish to enroll in this program must submit the following to the Office of Admissions:

1.      A completed application for admission and an application fee of $20.00 (non-refundable)

2.      An official high school transcript indicating a cumulative GPA of 3.50/4.00 sent directly to the Office of Admissions from the high school guidance office.

3.      A minimum ACT test score of 21, or a minimum SAT score of 980 sent directly to the office of Admissions.

4.      An official letter of recommendation from the high school principal or guidance counselor.

5.      A letter of permission from the parent or guardian.

15.        Is there a waiting list for admission?

Not at this time, however the admissions office reserves the privilege if necessary.

16.        What are the transfer admission requirements?

See information in no. 5 above.

17.        Is admission open for freshmen and transfers at any quarter/semester?

Yes, on the semester basis.

   18.    Does the university offer a Joint Enrollment Program?

            No.

   19.    Does the college offer remedial or development studies?

Yes, Matriculating students will be tested in English, Math, and Reading and based on the results will be placed in developmental course to remedy deficiencies which would otherwise prevent success in the college curriculum.    Mid-Continent University administers an At Risk Program created to identify and help students who are at academic risk through poor class attendance, below “C” academic work, inadequate class participation and assignments completion, and/or inappropriate classroom, campus, or dorm behavior. 

ACADEMICS:

20.          What is the core curriculum or general education requirement?

Mid-Continent University has developed a core curriculum of 50 credit hours that each student must take as part of their course of study.  The core curriculum is designed to offer opportunities for career exploration and also to open new student learning experiences.  Refer to page 69-67 in the catalog.

21.          How many majors and degrees are offered?

Mid-Continent University offers 11 majors and 15 minors.

22.          Are internships, cooperatives or study abroad programs available?

Yes, Especially in the summer it may be possible for students to do internships and/or arrange for other special study opportunities on and off campus.  Study abroad programs are being looked into for the future.  Mid-Continent University has an incredible travel study component incorporated in their total curriculum.  Students have the opportunity to travel for four year in a row. 

23.          Are you on the semester system or the quarter system?  What is the college’s

Academic calendar?

Mid-Continent University is set up on a semester system.  For a copy of the academic calendar see the pages at the very end of the catalog.

24.          Will the college honor AP or CLEP, and if so, what are the minimum scores to

receive credit? 

More than likely. The registrar will determine based on information on transcript.

25.          How many courses are considered a full load?

12 semester hours.  Most students take between 14 and 16 semester hours in order to graduate in four years.

26.          When must an academic major be declared?

It varies depending on the student, however by the end of the sophomore year most students will select a major because they will need to take classes specifically designed for a given major.

27.          Does the college offer a tutorial service?

A tutorial program is available for those who need assistance.

28.          Will D’s transfer in from other colleges?

It depends on what course the D was in.  The register will determine, case by case. 

29.          Is physical education required?  If so, can it be waived?

Yes, at least 3 semester hours in the core curriculum.  As a general rule it is not waived.

30.          Are academic scholarships available?

Mid-Continent University offers several academic scholarship opportunities.  See financial aid brochure for more details.

31.          What are the university’s strongest academic areas?

The college has traditionally been a school focusing on Biblical Studies and that area remains strong.  However, with the addition of some other majors in Education, Psychology, Counseling, Behavioral Studies, Social Studies and Business Administration the overall academic level has improved considerably.

32.          What is the percentage of graduates that gain admission to graduate schools?

Current data is not available, however the college is in the process of compiling a researching this information, and hopes to have some results available soon.  For the most part, our graduates are able to get in to the graduate programs they choose.

33.          Does the university have a graduate school?

Not at this time.  Masters programs are part of the long range planning at this stage (3-5yrs).

34.          How long does it take to graduate?

Generally, four years.  But this could vary depending on the amount of classes a student would take each semester.

  35.     What major agencies accredit the college?

Mid-Continent is chartered by the Commonwealth of Kentucky and accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

36            What is the student faculty ratio?

Fourteen to one, presently.

  37.     How many full time faculty are employed, and how may hold a doctorate or

            terminal degree?

Consult the Mid-Continent University Catalog for this information.

38.          Does the college offer pre-registration or telephone registration?

Three different dates are set during the summer for registration.  This is real registration, not just pre-registration.  No telephone registration is permitted due to the fact that an advisor’s input and signature are necessary when selecting classes.

39.          What is the total number of volumes in the library?  What services are available in the library?

The Anne P. Markham Library contains several thousand bound volumes, and subscribes to over 150 periodical and serial titles annually, Library hours are posted and have been designed with students in mind.  The library houses the entire circulating collection, reference sources, periodicals, and audio and videocassettes.  All cataloged materials of the libraries’ holding s are accessible on-line though the Winnebago/Spectrum Electronic Catalog.  This program provides faculty, staff, and students access to information regarding library holdings and resources.  In addition, the Library Web Catalog enables anyone with Internet access to utilize the Library’s Electronic Catalog.

The reserve collection consists of books and photocopies materials assigned by faculty members for class use in the library or for a limited checkout period.  A centralized interlibrary loan service for faculty and students is maintained for the borrowing of research materials from other libraries.  The library also provides on-line information searches.  Photocopying services are available for self-service uses at a minimum rate.  The seating areas combined with individual carrels allow for a diversified study atmosphere.

The Education Resource Lab, located in the library, serves as a library and a laboratory for students enrolled in the teacher education program.  Its collection includes a variety of specialized materials such as audiovisual aids, curriculum guides, textbooks, and reference materials.  Media equipment and materials development equipment are also housed in the library.

40.          May freshmen have cars on campus?

Yes.  All students with cars must follow the guidelines listed for parking as stated in the Cougar Student Handbook.

41.          Do national fraternities and sororities exist?

Not at this time.

42.          Are students required to purchase a meal plan?

Students residing in the campus residence halls are required to participate in the meal plan.

43.          Is there a dress code?

Students are not allowed to wear any clothing that is sexually suggestive, including t-shirts with various slogans or cartoons. Clothing appropriate to Christian ideals is encouraged.

44.          What campus organizations emphasize religious activities?

Several religious organizations exist for the benefit and spiritual growth of Mid-Continent University students.  Bible studies, and Chapel services are held on a regular basis and there are presently several student-oriented organizations such as Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Baptist Christian Ministries , and Ministerial Students Association.

45.          Is there an infirmary or health facility on campus?

Medical services are not available on campus.  However, the Mayfield area offers students a variety of medical services – hospitals, clinics, physicians, drug and alcohol abuse programs and a mental health center.  All these services are available to the student at the student’s expense.  During daily work hours M-F, a RN is available on campus to assist students and serve as a consultant/referral point in the event of medical assistance.

46.          What music groups exist (i.e., marching band, choir, ensemble)?

Praise band

47.          Does the college sponsor a drama or theater club?

Not presently.  However, several workshops and college drama classes have been offered.

48.          How long is the Christmas break and term breaks?

Please refer to the academic calendar for specific times and dates.

49.          Is there a job placement service or career day?

The library contains an assortment of materials related to the job search and catalogs from various graduate schools.  Available jobs are posted for review.  Assistance in job placement – including developing skills in writing resumes and interviewing for jobs – is afforded through the Office of the Career Development. 

HOUSING:

50.          Does the university offer an option between residence halls and apartment living?

Residence halls living are what are currently offered to all students on campus.

51.          Do co-ed residence halls exist?

No.

52.          Name the residence halls and briefly describe each?

Students are housed in three modern residence halls staffed by trained, adult directors and student staff.  All dorms provide spacious air-conditioned rooms designed to comfortably house two to three people.  All dorms offer study rooms, TV lounges and laundry. 

53.          Are the residence halls staffed with a resident house director?

Yes, as well as Resident Assistants.  All of the Residence Life Staff share authority and supervision for all the residence halls.  Their overall goal is to establish a personal environment that compliments Mid-Continent’s Christian liberal arts programs.

54.     Are students allowed to keep alcoholic beverages, firearms, or pets in their rooms?

Alcohol is not permitted in the residence halls, academic buildings, recreational facilities, the parking lots, or at college functions off campus.  Students are prohibited from possessing firearms or weapons on college property.  No firearms or ammunition will be permitted in the residence halls.  Hunters may opt to have the RD store certain firearms for students.  The residence halls are not conducive to raising or maintaining animal life.  Possessing an unauthorized pet will result in a $50 fine.

55.     Do fraternities and sororities have separate housing?

We do not offer these programs presently.

56.     What appliances are permitted in the residence hall rooms? (i.e., hotplates, phone, computers, TV’s, refrigerators, etc.)

Electrical items with exposed heating elements are not allowed.  Those items which are prohibited are hot plates, air conditioners, deep fat fryers, lanterns, a and all open coil electrical, or heating appliances.  Small refrigerators and microwaves are permitted.

57.          Are rooms equipped for special services? (i.e. internet service, cable, voice mail,

etc.   

Yes, cable TV service is available to those residents who wish expanded and/or premium service.  Mid-Continent University provides two telephone connections to each residence hall and the student is provided with a voice mailbox.  No independent phone connections are slowed.  Long Distance Services must be done with a calling card or by calling collect.  Students can request Internet access in the residence halls, but they must provide an Internet accessible computer in order for the connection to be made.

58.          Are freshmen permitted to live off campus?

Generally no, but special cases may be considered via the Student Life Office.  The present Student Handbook requires that all students under the age of 21, and/or less than 60 hours completed, live on campus, unless the student is living with a parent or legal guardian.

59.          May students have private rooms?

Residents may request private rooms.  Private rooms are available only on a space available basis and in some years none are available.  At present, private rooms are smaller.

60.          How many students share a room?

Two to three persons.

61.          Are the residence halls air-conditioned?  Yes

62.          Is there a tuition or room deposit required to reserve space, and if so, how much?

At this time we do not require a tuition deposit.  A $200 room security deposit is required to reserve a place in the residence halls.

63.          Do the residence halls have laundry facilities?  If so, how much does it cost to wash and dry clothes at these facilities?

Yes.  The cost is $2.00 per load.

64.          Do the residence halls have private or hall baths?

Most dorms offer a suite set-up where 2-4 students share bathroom facilities.  Students are required to keep these areas clean and should be prepared to bring adequate cleaning supplies.

65.          Are students subject to curfew, and how are residence halls secured for the evenings?

Mid-Continent University does observe a suggested curfew time.  12:00 a.m. on weeknights and 2:00 a.m. on weekends.  Doors are locked after these times and admittance is available, via Residential Life Staff member.

ATHLETICS:

66.          What athletic scholarships are available?

Individual coaches determine athletic scholarships.  Contact the Athletic Department. or the Admissions office to set up an appointment for try-out dates and related information.

67.          In what athletic associations, division and conferences does the college participate?

Mid-Continent University is presently associated with NCCAA.  We are presently a member in the NAIA as well.  Mid-Continent University is a member of the TranSouth Athletic Conference.

68.          What intercollegiate sports does the college offer students?

Men:  Baseball, Soccer, and Basketball

Women:  Softball, Volleyball, and Basketball

Coed Spirit Squad

69.          Does the college offer an intramural sports program?

Yes. Student Services usually coordinates these activities.  Several sports are included.

70.          Does the college offer cheerleading opportunities?

Yes, we have a coed spirit squad.

71.          What general athletic facilities exist for overall student use?

The multi-purpose facility – Cougar Center – the newly refurbished weight room, tennis courts, outdoor soccer fields, baseball and softball diamonds.

FINANCIAL AID AND EXPENSES:

72.          What are current expenses for tuition, room, board, and fees?

Refer to current fee sheet.

Tuition is based on $360 per semester hour.  Room and Board per semester is $3,000.00.  A typical residential college student taking 15 hours each semester can anticipate paying approx. $18,050 a year.

73.          Does out-of-state tuition apply? 

No.

74.          Are jobs available on the college campus?

Yes, some via federal work-study programs and some via Mid-Continent University work study programs.

75.          How much are books?

Approximately $700-$800 per year.

76.          How do students apply for financial aid?  Are there any deadlines for scholarships or other aid?

Students must submit a completed FAFSA from and fill out the Mid-Continent University Institutional Aid form.  Some scholarships have specific deadlines.  Please check with the Financial Aid Office for more information.

77.          What scholarships may be available for prospective students?

Several forms of scholarship may be available ranging from academic to athletic to miscellaneous.  Please refer to specific scholarship documents available.

78.          Will the college bill students for tuition and fees?  Is a payment plan available?

The college sends regular statements.  Payment arrangements for each term must be confirmed in advance.  A Payment Plan is available.  For specific information contact the Business Office.

79.          Will the college take a credit card?  Yes, several are honored.

80.          What is the refund policy?

Mid-Continent University issues refunds on several criteria such as time frame, loan requirements, etc.  For more specific information contact the Business Office and refer to the current catalog.

GENERAL COLLEGE QUESTIONS:

81.          How large is the campus in acreage?  Approximately 65 acres.

82.          How many buildings are located on the campus?

One classroom building, a library, four residence halls, the Cougar Center, a multipurpose student center and cafeteria, a student study area, The Advantage-Adult Education Building, a Wellness Facility housing weights and exercise equipment, the Department of Elementary Teacher Education Building, and he administration building are all conveniently placed within easy walking distance on a well designed campus.

83.          What year was the college founded?

Mid-Continent was founded in 1949.

84.          Is there a visitation day for prospective students?

Several opportunities/events are offered every year to provide students with the option to visit the campus, meet with admissions personnel, and acquire info. on financial aid and scholarships and interact with current students and faculty and staff.  Visitors are always welcome and it is best to schedule your visit though the Admissions Office Campus Visit Coordinator at 270-247-8521, ext 238.

85.          Is there a mini-term or summer school?

This option varies from year to year-check for current info via the Registrar and Admissions Office.

86.          From what geographical area does the college get most of its students?

Primarily from the Western Kentucky area and surrounding 5 hour radius.  However, students from other states and countries have chosen Mid-Continent University as their college of choice.

87.          Is a ROTC program available?  No.

88.          What is the size of the community?

Mayfield is a small, rural, picturesque community with a population of approx. 10,750.  Mayfield is located in Graves County , population approximately 37,199 people.

  89.     What attractions are in reasonable distance to the college?

Mid-Continent University is only twenty minutes from Paducah , KY.   The Mid-Continent University campus is located in Western Kentucky ’s beautiful four rivers area and many man made lakes and sightseeing opportunities are nearby.  We are approx. 2 hours from Nashville and Memphis and about 3 hours from St. Louis and Louisville .

  90.     In what ways has the campus been adapted for the handicapped?

Mid-Continent University is in compliance with handicapped accessibility standards.  Any student with a handicap must identify him/herself when applying for admission.  Mid-Continent has a Disabled Student Advisor who can assist with specific needs.

91.          What is minority enrollment?  International enrollment?  

Minority enrollment is approx. 23%.  International enrollment is less than 1%.

92.          Where can students cash out-of-town checks?

The Business Office can occasionally provide this service, $20.00 limit.  Some local banks may also.

93.          What is class attendance policy concerning cuts?

The Attendance Policy is outlined very clearly in the catalog.  See page 54 for more information.

94.          What is the ratio of enrolled males to females?

Approx.  52% female, 48% male.  These figures vary on a regular basis because our enrollment figures change with the addition of adult education on-going programs starting and concluding often.

95.          Does the college offer a freshman orientation program?

Not at this time.

96.          Does the college have a campus security force?

The campus is safe, well lit and secure, but presently has no security force.

97.          Does the college provide overnight housing for prospective students visits?

Mid-Continent University can provide housing for specific visits, but advance arrangements must be mad via the Admissions Office.  Please note that this is not always an option that is available.

98.          Will the college accommodate special service need such as diets, medications, psychological counseling, etc.?

Mid-Continent University has some specific programs designed to assist students with various needs.    Please check with the Student Services Office for more information on what Mid-Continent offers.

99.          How does the college compare in size to other in the state?

We are considered to be a small, liberal arts college.  There are many larger private institutions and state sponsored universities within the state and within a close proximity to Mid-Continent University .

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