| On October 6, 1990, the Institute embarked on a new adventure, the introduction of a (part-time) Weekend Study program, the first of its kind in the nation. Although many colleges of funeral service education offer evening programs, Simmons did not feel that its geographical location would lend itself to this approach. The weekend program, which is more conducive to reaching out to a larger area, began in 1990 with six students. Our program has grown in popularity. Today, 30+ students are enrolled in weekend classes. Program of Study Classes are scheduled on Saturdays for 14 weeks per semester. They may start as early as 7:00 am and end as late as 5:00 pm. The Weekend Study program runs concurrently with the Weekday program, thereby giving the weekend student the flexibility to crossregister in weekday classes which may reduce the length of program study. Many students in the past have taken advantage of this opportunity and have turned part-time study into full-time. Practicum Requirement (2 Credit Hours) The American Board of Funeral Service Education and Simmons require that each student must participate in a minimum of 10 case calls prior to graduation. Although Simmons has an exceptional case load during the year to meet the requirements of weekday students, weekend students may find it more convenient to obtain this requirement outside of Simmons. This may be achieved through an "off site" agreement arranged in conjunction with the Institute, the student, and the funeral home, preferably located near the student. Prior to participating in an Off-Site agreement, the student must be duly registered with the New York State Department of Health, be in possession of a "student pocket card" and must be currently enrolled or have satisfied course requirements for Anatomy and Embalming Theory. Length of Program Students entering the program without transfer credits may complete the program in 28 consecutive months, provided they begin in the Summer term. The length of the program will vary among students. Transfer credits accepted from other approved programs do not assure that one might finish the Weekend Study program in less than 24 months. The Institute cannot guarantee course offerings each semester for transfer students registered in the Weekend Study program. All Institute graduation requirements must be met before the A.O.S. Degree in Funeral Service Arts and Sciences can be granted. Course Frequency for Weekend (Saturday) Students Registration allowing, all courses will be offered at least once in 28 months. Simmons reserves the right to cancel classes due to lack of enrollment. Institute Policies All Institute policies apply. Orientation for New Students Orientation for weekend students will be held along with the weekday students, held on a day before classes begin each semester. This is an opportunity to take care of miscellaneous registration details and to purchase books for the new term. |