Consumer Information

Tuition for each of the three programs at the Specs Howard School of Media Arts is $16,500.00.
But going to school can mean more financially than just paying tuition. An example of other costs that may need to be included in your budget while attending the Specs Howard School is included in the following tables. Remember that, other than tuition, these figures are estimates only and that your actual out-of-pocket costs may vary.

2015/16 Cost of Attendance Budgets for BMA, GFX, and DMA Programs

SOUTHFIELD CAMPUS

Southfield Campus: BMA 1st Academic Year Budget
Independent		Dependent
Expense	Estimated Cost For 8 Months	Expense	Estimated Cost For 8 Months
Tuition	12400	Tuition	12400
Room & Board	7177	Room & Board	3589
Personal Expenses	7488	Personal Expenses	7488
Transportation	1862	Transportation	1862
Total Expenses	28927	Total Expenses	25339

 

Southfield Campus: BMA 2nd Academic Year Budget
Independent		Dependent
Expense	Estimated Cost For 4 Months	Expense	Estimated Cost For 4 Months
Tuition	4100	Tuition	4100
Room & Board	3589	Room & Board	1794
Personal Expenses	3744	Personal Expenses	3744
Transportation	931	Transportation	931
Total Expenses	12364	Total Expenses	10569

 FARMINGTON CAMPUS

 

Farmington: GFX & DMA 1st Academic Year Budget
Independent		Dependent
Expense	Estimated Cost For The 1st Academic Year	Expense	Estimated Cost For The 1st Academic Year
Tuition	12400	Tuition	12400
Room & Board	8356	Room & Board	4178
Personal Expenses	6744	Personal Expenses	6744
Transportation	2638	Transportation	2638
Total Expenses	30138	Total Expenses	25960

 

Farmington: GFX & DMA 2nd Academic Year Budget
Independent		Dependent
Expense	Estimated Cost For The 2nd Academic Year	Expense	Estimated Cost For The 2nd Academic Year
Tuition	4100	Tuition	4100
Room & Board	4178	Room & Board	2089
Personal Expenses	3372	Personal Expenses	3372
Transportation	1319	Transportation	1319
Total Expenses	12969	Total Expenses	10880

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the Financial Aid Department at (248) 358-9000.

The goal of the Financial Aid Department at Specs Howard School is to assist eligible students in applying for and receiving financial assistance. 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. Specs Howard School reserves the right to suspend or administratively withdraw a student who does not meet cash payment obligations.

The Financial Aid Office at Specs Howard School may be contacted by calling 248-358-9000 or via email at aburt@specshoward.edu.

In order to apply for federal financial aid funding you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You may also complete the form online at fafsa.ed.gov. A paper version of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid is available upon request.

The financial aid professional is expected to always maintain exemplary standards of professional conduct in all aspects of carrying out his or her responsibilities, specifically including all dealings with any entities involved in any manner in student financial aid, regardless of whether such entities are involved in a government sponsored, subsidized, or regulated activity. In doing so, a financial aid professional should:

1. “Refrain from taking any action for his or her personal benefit.”

2. While performing one’s work in an exemplary fashion should result in “personal benefit” in the form of professional advancement and recognition, this provision obviously relates to actions that are contrary to the obligations the individual has to the institution and its students and their parents. This includes the individual, or a member of their family, never accepting cash payments, stocks, club memberships, gifts, entertainment, expense-paid trips, or other forms of inappropriate remuneration from any business entity involved in any aspect of student financial aid. It also relates to actions which, while on balance may be supportive of the financial aid professional’s work, are chosen from among alternatives because they also benefit the financial aid professional.

3. “Refrain from taking any action he or she believes is contrary to law, regulation, or the best interests of the students and parents he or she serves.”

4. The statement never taking action contrary to law or regulation should be self-evident. However, note the use of the term “believes to be contrary to law [or] regulation.” The financial aid professional works in a complex legal environment. Any doubts as to whether a course of conduct is legally proper should be resolved by referring the matter to the institution’s legal advisors for guidance. In addition, the individual should understand and adhere to all institutional policies as well as other local, state or federal requirements that are applicable to his or her conduct or job performance.

5. “Ensure that the information he or she provides is accurate, unbiased, and does not reflect any preference arising from actual or potential personal gain.”

6. When providing information, at all times the key should be transparency. Students and parents should be able to fully understand their rights, obligations, and of paramount importance their alternatives. Applying these principles to the use of “preferred lender” lists is instructive. If an institution elects to provide such a list, a financial aid professional is expected to demonstrate transparency, completeness, and accuracy of information by ensuring that:

Students and their parents understand they are not required to use any of the lenders on a “preferred lender” list, are free to select the lender of their choice, and understand the process for selecting a lender and applying for a loan;

The school will promptly certify any loan from any lender selected by a borrower;

The process through which “preferred lenders” are selected is fully disclosed;

Borrowers are provided with consumer information about the loan products offered by entities on a school’s “preferred lender” list. Such information must include the disclosure of competitive interest rates, terms, and conditions of federal loans; high quality loan servicing; or additional benefits beyond the standard terms and conditions for such loans.

The process through which students execute Master Promissory Notes preserves a student’s right to select the lender of his or her choice;

Lenders who are included in a “preferred lender” list disclose agreements to sell their loans to other entities; and

The selection of lenders for inclusion on a “preferred lender” list is based solely on the best interests of the students and parents who may rely on such a list.

7. “Be objective in making decisions and advising his or her institution regarding relationships with any entity involved in any aspect of student financial aid.”

8. Financial aid professionals must always be fair-handed when recommending or entering into a business relationship with any entity offering a product or service related to financial aid. A lender may not be placed on a school’s “preferred lender” list in exchange for a prohibited inducement. Placement on a “preferred lender” list, therefore, must not be based on benefits provided to the institution, an employee of the institution, or its students in connection with loans not covered by such list. In the same light, financial aid professionals should not arrange for alternative (i.e., nonfederal or “opportunity”) loan programs that disadvantage students or parents who do not receive such loans. Transparency also requires that when a student or parent has communication with what he or she believes to be the institution’s financial aid office that is precisely what should occur; no employee or agent of a lender should ever be identified, either directly or by implication, as an employee or agent of the institution.

9.”Refrain from soliciting or accepting anything of other than nominal value from any entity (other than an institution of higher education or a governmental entity such as the U. S. Department of Education) involved in the making, holding, consolidating or processing of any student loans, including anything of value (including reimbursement of expenses) for serving on an advisory body or as part of a training activity of or sponsored by any such entity.”

10. The first element in the Code of Conduct prohibits the conflict of interest that arises when one acts for personal gain. This fifth element is intended to avoid the appearance of conflict of interest that arises when a financial aid professional accepts benefits from a lending institution or similar entity. The fact that the financial aid professional may have no intention to provide an advantage to the lender as a result of the benefit he or she receives, and indeed does not provide any such advantage, is not the point. The benefit received by the financial aid professional creates an appearance that he or she may not be impartial, and may not be acting solely in the best interests of the students and parents he or she serves. In our profession such an appearance can do great harm, and it must be strictly avoided.

11. The term “nominal value” leaves some room for interpretation. This is intentional: many states and institutions have laws and policies that regulate such activities, and it is common for such laws and policies to define with specificity what is meant here by “nominal value.” As a general guide, and subject to more restrictive laws and policies, a total retail value of not more than $10 should be considered reasonable. This element of the Code of Conduct deals with reimbursement for travel and expenses incurred when serving on lender advisory boards or attending lender-sponsored training activities.

12. There is certainly value in providing lenders with the unique expertise and perspective that only financial aid professionals can provide, but receiving any remuneration for such service, even if only in the form of reimbursement for expenses, creates the appearance of conflict that must be avoided. The same principle applies to reimbursement for lender-sponsored training activities. Professional development is a key component of being an effective financial aid professional, and attending lender-sponsored training programs can be a valuable way of obtaining the most current information. Again, however, receiving any remuneration for such attendance from a source other than his or her institution, even in the form of reimbursement for expenses, creates the same impermissible appearance of conflict of interest, and must be avoided.

13. “Revenue Sharing Arrangements With Any Lender”

14. A school employee shall not accept from any lender of affiliate of any lender any fee, payment, or other financial benefit (including the opportunity to purchase stock) as compensation for any type of consulting arrangement or other contract to provide services to a lender or on behalf of a lender relating to education loans. In addition, a person employed in the financial aid office of the school, or who otherwise has direct responsibilities with respect to educational loans or other financial aid, shall:

Avoid any equity or other interest in any student loan lender;

Avoid consulting or similar financial relationships with student loan lenders and comply with the School’s Conflict of Interest Policies & Procedures.

15. “Private Loans as a Last Resort”

16. The school shall not certify student eligibility for a private educational loan without first informing the borrower that (a) federal financial assistance (including grants and loans under Title IV) may be available and (b) federal loans may provide more advantageous terms to the borrower than private loans.

17. “Disclose to his or her institution in such manner as his or her institution may prescribe any involvement with or interest in any entity involved in any aspect of student financial aid.”

18. The same principle of transparency, or avoiding the appearance of conflict of interest, drives this element of the Code. Every institution has a written policy on disclosure of potential conflicts of interest, and a process of determining whether an employee’s involvement creates an actual conflict of interest or the appearance of a conflict. It is the obligation of the financial aid professional to strictly abide by the requirements of his or her institution’s conflict of interest policy, particularly with regard to any activities, involvement, investment, or interest in any financial aid-related entity. Institutional conflict of interest policies typically describe the nature of investments that require disclosure and review, generally excluding interests held by mutual funds or below a certain minimum value. As a practical matter, financial aid professionals should avoid any investment in or financial relationships with lenders and similar entities.

These principles should apply throughout the administration of the programs for which the financial aid professional is responsible.

There should never be any difference between “ethical” and “best” practices. The ethical practice is the best practice. As an organization, Specs Howard School unequivocally supports the principles and practices described in this Statement. When a practice or policy arises that appears in conflict with these principles, it is the obligation of the financial aid professional to bring this to the attention of those responsible within this institution, and to seek a resolution consistent with these principles.

FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID PROGRAMS

All Programs
Specs Howard School participates in several federal financial aid programs. The following are brief descriptions of those programs:

Federal Pell Grant
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 Office for details). The amount awarded to each student and 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 Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
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 Office for details). The amount awarded to each student and 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.

The Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan
The Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan is a low-interest loan made available to students to help fund their education. The Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford 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 Stafford Loan must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and meet with the Financial Aid Department at Specs Howard School, which will conduct a needs analysis for the student. Repayment of a Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan begins six months after the last date of attendance.

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

Federal Direct Plus Loans For Parents
The Federal Direct Plus Loan program is a form of financial aid that is not need-based, although students whose parents wish to apply for a Federal Direct Plus Loan are still required to complete the Federal Application for Free Student Aid (FAFSA) and meet with the Financial Aid Department at Specs Howard School. Repayment of the Federal Direct Plus Loan begins while the student is enrolled, unless other arrangements have been made with the lender.

ENTRANCE & EXIT COUNSELING
All Stafford loan borrowers at Specs Howard School must complete entrance and exit loan counseling. Loan counseling can be completed online by accessing the Direct Loan website at dlenote.ed.gov. Entrance counseling is a federal government requirement that requires students to complete student loan entrance counseling session prior to obtaining a Federal Direct Stafford loan. The purpose of entrance and exit counseling is to help students understand their rights and responsibilities as a student loan borrower.

DRUG RELATED CONVICTIONS
Under the Higher Education Act a student may become ineligible for federal student aid upon conviction of any offense, involving the possession or sale or illegal drugs while receiving Title IV federal financial aid. Federal aid includes Federal Stafford Loans, Federal PLUS Loans, Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants, Federal ACG Grants, and Federal Work Study.

Penalties for Drug Convictions
Possession of Illegal Drugs, eligibility will be suspended for:
First Offense 1 year from the date of conviction
Second Offense 2 years from the date of conviction
Third and Subsequent Offenses: Indefinite ineligibility from the date of conviction

Sale of Illegal Drugs, eligibility will be suspended for:
First Offense 2 years from the date of conviction
Second and Subsequent Offenses: Indefinite ineligibility from the date of conviction

How to Regain Eligibility for Federal Financial Aid After a Drug Conviction
There is a way that the student can regain eligibility for the federal programs. The student must successfully complete an acceptable drug rehabilitation program that meets the standard set by Congress and the Department of Education. The student will regain eligibility on the date you complete the program.

What is an Acceptable Drug Rehabilitation Program
An acceptable drug rehabilitation program must require passing TWO unannounced drug tests AND it must be either:

Qualified to receive funds from a federal, state, or local government agency or program, or from a state or federally licensed insurance company, or

Administered or recognized by a federal, state, or local government agency or court, or by a state or federally licensed hospital, health clinic, or medical doctor.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Question 23 on the FAFSA form asks if the student has ever been convicted of a drug related offense. Failure to answer the question will automatically disqualify the student from receiving federal aid. Falsely answering this question, if discovered, could result in fines up to $20,000, imprisonment, or both. To determine how to answer this question, call the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243).

Conviction During Enrollment
According to the United States Department of Education, if a student is convicted of a drug offense after receiving federal aid, he or she must notify the Financial Aid Office immediately and that student will be ineligible for further aid and required to pay back all aid received after the date of conviction.

RETURN OF TITLE IV FUNDS
The federally mandated “Return of Title IV Funds” policy applies to any student receiving federal financial aid who fails to complete the payment period for which he or she was charged. 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 payment periods, applies to any student receiving grant or loan funds who withdraws or is administratively withdrawn from the program on or before the 60% point in a payment period. The percentage of Title IV aid to be returned is equal to the number of calendar days remaining in the payment period, as determined by the student’s last date of attendance, divided by the number of calendar days in the payment period after any applicable Pell adjustment based on a new enrollment status. Scheduled breaks of more than five consecutive days are excluded.

If a “Return of Title IV” 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 be returned to the lending and outside funding agencies prior to any refund of any funds to the student. 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 payment period definitions, please consult your Specs Howard School Financial Aid Officer.

INSTITUTIONAL REFUND POLICY
Three Business Day Cancellation
All 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 written request for cancellation must be delivered to the school. 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. Any refunds due an applicant will be made within thirty days after receipt of a written notice of cancellation.

FINANCIAL POLICIES
1. Any portion of an academic week attended shall be considered as a full week, for the purposes of the refund policy.

2.If a student misses eight consecutive calendar days of any program without notifying Specs Howard School of illness or extraordinary circumstances, he or she will be administratively withdrawn from Specs Howard School. Any refund will be computed from the last date of attendance. The student will be notified by mail of the administrative withdrawal.

3. Specs Howard School reserves the right to administratively withdraw a student at any time for good and sufficient cause, including but not limited to violation of policies noted in this catalog. Refunds, if any, will be computed from the last date of attendance.

4. If a student has been administratively withdrawn and the student has repeated any part or parts of the program, any refund will be computed according to the cumulative number of weeks the student attended class. This policy remains in effect regardless of whether enrollment was ended by the student or by Specs Howard School.

5. Students must exhibit competence in all areas of their program of study and must maintain Satisfactory 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. In all cases, the payment schedule must ensure that the tuition account is paid in full by the completion date of the student’s program of instruction.

6. A non-refundable transfer/reinstatement fee in the amount of $150 will be assessed to the account of any student who transfers from one class to another. The transfer/ reinstatement fee cannot be covered by financial aid, per federal regulations and may be waived by the Chief Financial Officer only under special or extraordinary circumstances.

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, Specs Howard School will consider a settlement that is reasonable and fair to both. The student must furnish official or legal written documentation 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 enrollment agreement, 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. Any student whose balance is unpaid two weeks prior to completion of his or her program of study may be suspended. The student will only be readmitted to class if an acceptable payment agreement is made with the Business Office.

9. All loans, Pell, FSEOG and student refunds will be made within thirty days from the date of determination of withdrawal.

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

11. A waiver must be signed by the student for the school to release any information to persons other than auditors and funding agencies.

12. The school reserves the right to cancel a class start due to insufficient enrollment. In this case, students may request a full refund of all monies paid or apply all monies paid to the next available class start date.

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 technological 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.

Michigan Veterans Trust Fund (MVTF)
Call for application: 517-335-1629
Any child between the ages of 16-25, who has been a resident of the State for the preceding 12 months, and who is the legal child of a Michigan Veteran who was killed, died as a result of service-connected disabilities, or is 31 rated 100% disabled due to injuries sustained while in the U.S. Armed Forces, may be eligible for a tuition waiver up to $2,800 annually for undergraduate study. The student must maintain a GPA of 2.25 or better.

Michigan Works!
Call toll free: 1-800-285-WORKS (9675)
The Michigan Works! Service Centers offer one-stop access to a wide range of career development services, including job training, information about education, internships and apprenticeships.

Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS)
Call toll free: 1-800-605-6722
The MRS is a part of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth. MRS is responsible for the vocational rehabilitation of Michigan citizens who are physically or mentally impaired. They work with eligible individuals to help them determine an appropriate employment goal and to develop an individualized plan to reach their goal. They also arrange, provide or purchase the services necessary to accomplish the plan.

Social Security Administration (SSA)
Call toll free: 1-800-772-1213
The SSA is a federal agency that administers two disability benefit programs that may be relevant to students: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Under both programs, people unable to work because of a disability may be eligible for monthly benefit checks. SSA defines disability as the inability to perform substantial work due to a medically determinable impairment that will last for at least 12 months or is a terminal condition.

Michigan Department of Human Services (MDHS)
The MDHS is a state agency that administers several programs that provide assistance with basic living expenses such as shelter, food, dependent care and medical needs. Income, assets and other factors determine eligibility. Applications for their various programs are available at an individual’s county MDHS office.

Public Sex Offender Registry (PSOR)
The Michigan State Police (MSP) has provided the PSOR as a tool to inform citizens of any convicted sex offenders living or working in their immediate area. The PSOR was developed with the safety of all citizens in mind. To learn more about the Public Sex Offender Registry please visit http://www.communitynotification.com/cap_main.php?office=55242/

Check with your employer.
Many employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement. Check with your employer’s human resource department for more information.

OVERALL COMPLETION RATE
Also known as the “Student Right to Know” or IPEDS graduation rate, the overall graduation rate tracks the progress of students who began their studies as full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking students to see if they complete a degree or other award such as a certificate within 150% of “normal time” for completing the program in which they are enrolled.
Some institutions also report a transfer-out rate, which is the percentage of the full-time, first-time students who transferred to another institution. Note that not all students at the institution are tracked for these rates. Students who have already attended another postsecondary institution, or who began their studies on a part-time basis, are not tracked for this rate.

Overall Graduation and Transfer-Out Rates

GRADUATION RATES BY TIME TO COMPLETION
Graduation rates can be measured over different lengths of time. “Normal time” is the typical amount of time it takes full-time students to complete their program. For example, the “normal” amount of time for many associate’s degree programs is 2 years. Not all students complete within the normal time, so graduation rates are measured by other lengths of time as well, including “150% of normal time” (e.g., 3 years for a 2-year program) and “200% of normal time,” or twice as long as the normal time (e.g., 4 years for a 2-year program).

Within “Normal Time” for the program:

Students who began in 2010-11: 67%

Within 150% of “Normal Time” for the program:

Students who began in 2010-11: 71%

Within twice as long as “Normal Time” for the program:

Students who began in 2010-11: 75% Percentage of full-time, first-time students who graduated in the specified amount of time.

RETENTION RATE
Between August 1, 2012 and October 31, 2012, there was an estimated 388 students at Specs Howard School of Media Arts that were considered Part-time. Of that number 205 were enrolled for the first time.

These estimates were gathered as part of the IPEDS Estimated Fall Enrollment survey in September 2012.

GRADUATION AND PLACEMENT RATES

* Completion percentages are 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:

Student is in active military deployment

Student has a medical condition that prevents

continued enrollment

Student is incarcerated

Student is deceased

** Placement percentages are 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 are determined to fit one or more of the following categories:

Student is continuing his/her education

Student is in active military deployment

Student has a medical condition that prevents employment

Student is incarcerated

Student is deceased

Broadcast Media Arts Program

The following statistic reflects the status of available graduates from 16 BMA classes that started from October 2012 through September 2013, as of October 2015 (as reported to ACCSC in our Annual Report in 2015).

Total Number of Students Started………………………………………….347
Total Number of Students Available for Graduation …………….347
Total Number of Students Completed……………………………………251
Completion Rate: 72%*

Total Number of Grads Available for Placement: ………………….201
Total Number of Grads Working in the Field: …………………………138
Placement Rate: 69%**

Graphic Design Program

The following statistic reflects the status of available graduates from 8 GFX classes that started from October 2012 through September 2013, as of October 2015 (as reported to ACCSC in our Annual Report in 2015).

Total Number of Students Started………………………………………….131
Total Number of Students Available for Graduation …………….130
Total Number of Students Completed……………………………………85
Completion Rate: 65%*

Total Number of Grads Available for Placement: ………………….79
Total Number of Grads Working in the Field: …………………………61
Placement Rate: 77%**

Digital Media Arts Program

The following statistic reflects the status of available graduates from 13 DMA classes that started from October 2012 through September 2013, as of October 2015 (as reported to ACCSC in our Annual Report in 2015).

Total Number of Students Started………………………………………….204
Total Number of Students Available for Graduation …………….204
Total Number of Students Completed……………………………………155
Completion Rate: 76%*

Total Number of Grads Available for Placement: ………………….137
Total Number of Grads Working in the Field: …………………………97
Placement Rate: 71%**

Farmington Hills

The following statistic reflects the status of available graduates from 9 DMA classes that started from October 2011 through September 2012, as of November 2014 (as reported to ACCSC in our Annual Report in 2014).

Total Number of Students Started………………………………………….141
Total Number of Students Available for Graduation …………….140
Total Number of Students Completed……………………………………114
Completion Rate: 81%*
Total Number of Grads Available for Placement: ………………….91
Total Number of Grads Working in the Field: …………………………63
Placement Rate: 69%**

GENERAL STUDENT BODY DIVERSITY STATISTICS

When you graduate from Specs Howard School, you not only receive a diploma and/or certificate of completion but the opportunity to apply the training you received toward an Associate or Bachelor degree at many area colleges and universities 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.

The 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. 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. Specs Howard School may charge a fee for copies.

Students have the right to request that 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.

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 Specs Howard School to disclose those records, without consent, to the following parties or under the following conditions (34 CFR 99.31):

Specs Howard School officials with legitimate educational interest;
Other schools to which a student is transferring (with a signed transcript request from the student);
Specified officials for audit or evaluation purposes;
Appropriate parties in connection with financial aid to a student;
Accrediting organizations;
To comply with a judicial order or lawfully 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;
Appropriate officials in cases of health and safety emergencies;
If a student is over the age of 18 and is listed as a dependent on the parent’s most recent year’s tax return supplied to the Financial Aid office.

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 Education Department.

Specs Howard School facilities are wheelchair-accessible. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are located on all floors at both locations and an elevator is located next to the main lobby at the Southfield campus. No qualified student shall by reason of disability be denied access to, participation in, or the benefits of any program or activity operated by 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 integrated setting appropriate. 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, 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 accommodation may be made at any time during their enrollment at Specs Howard School; however, requests for such accommodations must be made in advance of the coursework to which the request applies.

Any student wishing to request accommodations assistance should contact his or her admissions representative or a member of the SHS Education Department.

It 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. 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 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 from 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, in 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.

Alcohol policy

The use of alcoholic beverages is prohibited at the Specs Howard School of Media Arts, Inc. Any student found to be in the possession of or suspected to be under the influence 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, Inc. 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, and/or criminal prosecution.

A conviction of any offense, during the period of enrollment for which a student was receiving Title IV, HEA program funds, under federal or state law, involving the possession or sale of illegal drugs 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 Office 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 the 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 organizations 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 for 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 knowing the dangers of drugs. The Drug Enforcement Administration 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 Facts Sheets
https://www.dea.gov/druginfo/factsheets.shtml

Drugs of Abuse: A DEA Resource Guide
https://www.dea.gov/pr/multimedia-library/publications/drug_of_abuse.pdf

STEVE JULIN | Vice President of Education and Online Learning
Bachelor of Science degree in Television Journalism, Eastern Michigan University. Avid Certified Instructor, Certified Boris FX Instructor, Apple Certified Trainer. Author, “Avid Xpress Pro: Power.” Current Member, advisory board for the William D. Ford Voc-Tech Center. 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, ABS, CBS, NBC, and PBS. Recipient of Golden Eagle Award for documentary editing, 2000. Emmy Award nominee, 2001. Selected “Educator of the Year” by DAFT, 2009. Member of SHS staff since 1992.

 

SUE LOMASNEY | BMA Supervisor

Graduate of 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; Part-time Traffic Announcer with Total Traffic and Weather Network/iHeart Media for Sirius XM Satellite (in metro Detroit and Tampa, FL) along with several radio stations in Cleveland and Columbus, OH. Member of SHS staff since 2002.

 

JIM BELL | BMA Chief Instructor

Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Western Kentucky University. Graduate of Specs Howard School. Past experience includes Production and News, WCAR; Announcer, WTWR; Announcer, WKQI. Former member of National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ). Member of SHS staff since 1980.

 

KELIA KARSON | BMA Instructor

Phi Theta Kappa graduate of Macomb Community College with an Associates of Applied Science in Speech Communication Public Relations. Graduate of Specs Howard School. Bachelor’s degree at Rochester College. Past experiences include News Producer/Reporter, WOWF/WOW-FM; News Director/Air Personality, Tower 98; Producer/Co-Host, WMXD-Mix 92.3 Morning Show; News Director/Co-Host, WIMX, Toledo; Evening Air Personality, WJUC/107.3, Toledo; 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; Weathercaster, WNWO/NBC-24, Toledo; Producer/Reporter, WWJ Radio, Detroit. Owner of K Karson Media Group LLC. Member of SHS staff since 2003.

 

JOHN HOOVER | BMA Instructor

Graduate of 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 Instructor

Graduate of Specs Howard School, recipient of Outstanding Achievement Award and Rossano Award. Past experience includes Digital Media Group at WDIV Local 4 and freelance videographer/ 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; 3 consecutive Great Stuff Reader’s Choice Award wins at the Detroit Music Awards for Favorite Detroit Band in 2006, 2007 and 2008 and Favorite Detroit Album for MindCandy’s “Revelations” in 2006. 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.

 

BOB PALMATEER | BMA Instructor

Bachelor of Arts, Michigan State University. Graduate of Specs Howard School. Past experience includes on-air personality WONW, On-Air and Production Director WBNO-WQCT, On-Air, Music Director WABJ, On-Air WPZA. Writer, Editor and Producer, WWJ-Newsradio 950, Detroit. Member of the SHS staff since 1989.

 

LYN PERAINO | BMA Instructor

Graduate of 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 Instructor

Graduate of 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’ experience with non-linear editing and graphics software. Freelance camera operator for Catholic Television Network Detroit from 2008 0 – 2009. Wedding Videographer and Photographer for 11-4 productions from 2008 – 2012. Specs Howard School of Media Arts Instructor since 2006.

 

NICK WISNISKE | BMA Instructor

Bachelor of Communications in Electronic Media from The University of Michigan-Dearborn. Previous experience includes Producer, Host, and Camera for RecNSports, a bi-monthly feature program. He also 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 as well as 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.

 

NICOLE GULLEY | GFX Supervisor

Graduate of Wayne State University, Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design, and University of Phoenix with a Masters of Business in eBusiness. Has worked in various industries in various capacities including Production Artist, Production Supervisor, Graphic Designer, Creative Director, and Marketing Communications 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 Instructor

Graduate 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. During her years in the advertising industry her work has also contributed to many well established brands including: The Michigan State Lottery, Elias Brothers Big Boy, Toyota, Daimler Chrysler, and Georgia-Pacific. As the design princi- pal of her own firm for the past eight years, she has worked closely with many start-ups, small businesses and non-profit organizations. Member of SHS staff since 2014.

 

GARY FARMER | GFX Instructor

Past 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), as Dick Purtan’s Webmaster, The Townsend Hotel, ALTe, Woodward One Media, The Dailey Law Show (WJR), Eternal Energy Shot and more. Also served as Executive Editor of a Local Community Newspaper. Former US Army Photographer. Member of SHS staff since 2012.

 

JULIE LANGDON | GFX Instructor

Bachelor Degree from Central Michigan University, majoring in Graphic Design and minoring in Advertising. Also an alumni of Schoolcraft Community College. Freelance Graphic Designer with past work experience as a Graphic Arts Specialist with Ford Motor Company. Graphic Design teaching experience includes Schoolcraft College and Henry Ford Community College. Member of SHS staff since 2010.

 

NANCY COHEN | GFX Instructor

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from the 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 specializing in branding and identity design, advertising, event design, display, presentation and website design. Graphic design clients include Anne Doyle Strategies, Nestlé, The City of Auburn Hills, Amrita Therapeutics, The Berkley Area Chamber of Commerce, Special D Events, Sacs of Life, United Dairy Industry of Michigan, Advanced Manufacturing Group, HireMyMom.com, Campfire USA, Dickinson Wright PLLC., Annabel’s & Co. Catering, ClinArt Pharmaceutical, The Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit and WRCJ. Teaching experience includes classes as an adjunct instructor at Specs Howard. Member of SHS staff since 2015

 

RON NEVERS | GFX Instructor

Bachelor 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 all categories of advertising and marketing, 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 Instructor

Associates Degree in Digital Imaging from the MCC Graphics Program, and Specs Howard Graphics De- sign Program graduate. Past experiences 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 teach- ing a graphics enrichment class for the White Lake school district in Bloomfield Hills MI. Member of SHS staff since 2009.

 

RODNEY WILLIS | GFX Production Coordinator

Graduate of Specs Howard School of Media Arts. Freelance designer for Crystal Clear Creations in Detroit and Atlanta since 2010. He has worked for clients such as Just Jesus Ministries, Creative Learning Children’s College, and Dedicated to Christ Church. Member of SHS staff since 2014.

 

TIM PETERSON | DMA Supervisor

Bachelor of Science, Alma College, Alma, MI. Graduate of 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, and E! News Network. Member of SHS staff since 2010.

 

JEREMY ANDERSON | DMA Instructor

Graduate of 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, one creative geek.Member of SHS staff since 2013.

 

ELIE MOSSERI | DMA Instructor

Bachelor degree, Telecommunication & Film, Eastern Michigan University. Certified trainer for Avid and Final Cut Pro. Past experience includes Senior Editor, Kmart Corporation and over 25 years as an editor and educator. Member of SHS staff since 2010.

 

MATTHEW WINNE | DMA Instructor

Bachelor of Science, Grand Valley State University. Graduate of Specs Howard School. Former Peace Corps volunteer. Independent filmmaker and video producer with expertise in writing, camera operation, audio, and editing. Past experience includes instructional media design at Macomb Community College. Member of SHS staff since 2011.

 

EMORY REEVES | DMA Instructor

Graduate of 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 Transformers 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 Instructor

Bachelor degree in Film and Video Production, Grand Valley State University. Currently pursuing Master of Fine Arts from Vermont College of Fine Arts. Past work experience includes Adjunct Faculty, College for Creative Studies; Editor and Motion Graphics Artist, Driver Solutions Inc.; Motion Designer/VFX Artist, Mosa; DI Film Tech/Assistant DI Colorist, Milagro Post. Member of SHS staff since 2015

 

ASHLEY DIFONZO | DMA Instructor

Graduate of Specs Howard School. Studied Photography, MIchigan State University; Photography & Advertising Design, College of Creative Studies. Past experience includes Digital Media Coordinator, Sage2; Graphic Designer, The Corporate Game; Freelance Designer, Pack Graphics LLC. Member of SHS staff since 2015.

 

RICHARD C. KERNEN | Vice President of Industry Relations and Career Services Instructor

Member, 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.

 

JENNIFER MICHAELS | Career Preparation Liaison/ Instructor

Graduate 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.

 

NATHANIEL KIPLINGER | SHARE Program Coordinator

Graduate of Specs Howard School. Past experience includes directing, producing and acting in TV and Radio commercials and producing online content for Metrotimes, 89X, The River, WRIF, Specs Howard, Live Nation and more. He has also co-hosted and edited Smitten for the Mitten, a weekly radio program on WDET HD2 for three years. Member of SHS staff since 2010.

The mission of the Career Services Department is to assist graduates in seeking jobs in the fields of radio, television, audio and video production, graphic design, web content, film and related fields. This department endeavors to identify potential employers and determine their specific needs in order to supply them with skilled, entry-level staff members.

The Career Services Department also seeks to act as the leading edge in determining industry trends and identifying opportunities on behalf of the Specs Howard School student body.
Specs Howard School cannot guarantee any job to any graduate, but works to help each graduate gain employment. The Career Services Department acts as an equal partner with each individual graduate seeking an entry-level position in the industry.

Job-seeking skill development is emphasized in each program. Throughout a student’s tenure at Specs Howard School, he or she will be exposed to a wide variety of materials relating to work in the media industry. Students spend time studying career options and preparing themselves for job interviews. The job-seeking process involves practice in interviewing techniques, generating job leads, evaluating skill levels, identifying likely employers, monitoring progress in skills development, training in personal perception and other relevant classroom and laboratory tools. At various stages in each program, students provide information to the Career Services Department regarding expectations in the job market, as well as areas of interest in the industry.

The Career Services Department has a full-time staff to support and direct graduates’ efforts in obtaining entry-level employment. However, the ultimate responsibility for obtaining employment rests with the Specs Howard School graduate. A professional demeanor, punctuality and an eager attitude are among the most important qualities a Specs Howard School graduate can possess in order to secure an entry-level position. Graduates must keep in mind that while interviewing with potential employers, they represent the school, their class and future graduates.

Specs Howard School believes that a graduate is still in training during the first one to two years in the industry, and strongly encourages graduates to seek positions in situations that will allow them to acquire the most varied skills. Toward this end, it is sometimes necessary for graduates to relocate to a smaller city, initially, in order to perfect their skills and build their long-term marketability in the industry.

Salary ranges for entry-level positions in the broadcast and media industries are often difficult to predict. They are dependent on the size of the market, flexibility and talent of the job applicant, overall ability and other factors. Some graduates start as low as minimum wage, though most earn more. Entry-level jobs exist for those graduates who are willing to work for them. The first job should be considered a “foot in the door” and a way to gain invaluable experience and establish business relationships. The student’s goal should be to obtain a position in the field for which he or she has been trained, gain knowledge and experience and, ultimately, market those abilities to excel at individual job situations.

The Career Services Department will make every attempt to match the appropriate job lead with the right graduate for the mutual benefit of the employer and the graduate. Specs Howard School makes no representations as to the safety of the job, nor can the school have any control over salary or wage compensation issues.

Any specific job offer or job acceptance decision is the responsibility of the employer and graduate, respectively. Graduates are expected to conduct themselves in a professional and businesslike manner while in the workplace. The Career Services Department reserves the right to withhold future services based on unacceptable or inappropriate conduct. The Career Services Department also reserves the right to withhold future job leads to any student who fails to keep his or her scheduled employer interview.

In order to maintain a partnership with Specs Howard School graduates, the Career Services Department requires that graduates keep in contact with the department on a regular basis; keep all scheduled appointments with employers; dress in an appropriate, professional manner when representing the school in an interview situation; and notify the school promptly of any changes in address, phone number or employment status. In order to be eligible for Career Services, students must be in good standing with the business office and, if applicable, have satisfied all criteria for extended payment plans.

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 on our web site, our official Facebook page (www.facebook.com/specshoward), and within our online Learning Management System.