| The Rollins Plan

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for the Rollins Plan

February, 2010

General Information

The Rollins Plan (RP) is an alternative way to satisfy General Education requirements.  Students take seven (7) courses organized around an interesting theme or big idea.  The courses are related to each other so students will see how knowledge and ideas are related across different disciplines.  The Rollins Plan courses will develop important skills that are important to future employers and professional and graduate schools.  The courses are designed to improve students’ ability to integrate knowledge and to develop their critical thinking.  The two themes are Global Challenges: Florida and Beyond, and Revolution.

To satisfy the requirements for the Rollins Plan curriculum, students must demonstrate competency in Writing, Essential Math, Foreign Language, and complete the required seven (7) courses for their respective Rollins Plan.

Advising support for students in the Rollins Plan program is provided by faculty coordinators and advisors in TJ’s.  Tiffany Griffin will advise all students in Revolution and Lauren Murray will advise students in Global Challenges: Florida and Beyond. Faculty advisors are the primary advisors for students; therefore students are expected to consult with them on a regular basis.

1.  How were students selected for participation in a Rollins Plan? 
Each Rollins Plan has approximately 45 students.  The College marketed the Rollins Plan to first year students in Fall 2009.  Interested students completed an online application where they indicated which theme they preferred and wrote a 150 word paragraph about why they wished to participate in the program.  Students were selected by faculty in October 2009.  Additional applications are not being accepted at this time.

2.  Can a student transfer from one Rollins Plan to another?
No.  Students are expected to remain in their Rollins Plan.

3.  Will participation in the Rollins Plan be recorded on the student’s transcript?
Yes.  There will be a special designation on the student’s transcript recognizing that they successfully completed the Rollins Plan for General Education.

4.  What are the curriculum requirements for the Rollins Plan?
Under the Rollins Plan students must demonstrate competency in Writing, Essential Math, and Foreign Language.  The remaining general education requirements are satisfied through the seven (7) courses in the Rollins Plan.  Current courses in the curriculum are designated RPR and RPG.

5.  Will courses taken outside the Rollins Plan curriculum count in the Rollins Plan requirement? 
No.  Only courses completed with the RPR and RPG designation satisfy the Rollins Plan curriculum requirements. 

6.  Can courses taken for the Rollins Plan count in the major or minor? 
No. Courses taken for the Rollins Plan may not be double counted.  However, courses with the RPR or RPG designation that are not used to satisfy Rollins Plan requirements may count in the major or minor, with the approval of the department chair.

7.  What if a student wants to opt out of the Rollins Plan?   
While we believe it is unlikely any student will be unhappy in a Rollins Plan, they may leave the program.  At the time of departure, the Office of Student Records will evaluate the courses completed and determine which traditional general education requirements have been satisfied.  The student will then be required to complete any remaining general education courses for graduation.  All Rollins Plan courses will count towards graduation hours.

8.  Can students study abroad?
Yes, students have the flexibility to study abroad one semester with the Rollins Plan.  Students should start the planning process for study abroad with the Office of International Programs and an academic advisor in their first year.

9.  Can students participate in an internship?
Yes, students have the flexibility to participate in internships and participate in the Rollins Plan. Internships are encouraged.  Students should consult with their faculty advisor, the Office of Career Services, and the Office of Academic Internships early to understand the requirements for participation and the types of internships available to them.

10.  Why are co-curricular and engagement experiences important in the Rollins Plan?
The Rollins Plan is designed to engage students in a variety of learning experiences beyond the classroom that enhance the collegiate experience through cultural enrichment, social responsibility, and global citizenship.  These experiences include guest speakers, workshops, conferences, student organizations, service learning opportunities, etc. 

11.  What are the pre-requisites for the Rollins Plan curriculum? 
Students are expected to start with one introductory course, continue with the course sequence for their Rollins Plan, and finish with the capstone course.  Students should review the course map for their Rollins Plan at http://tars.rollins.edu/tpj/academic_advising/index.shtml.
 
12.   Are there course choices in the Rollins Plan?
All students are required to complete the introductory course in their Rollins Plan.  Each semester students will be able to select their Rollins Plan course from a few choices.  All students must complete the capstone course during their fourth year.

13.  Can students use transfer credits to satisfy the Rollins Plan curriculum?
No.