Consumer Information

2020/2021 Financial Aid Cost of Attendance Budget

This budget is an ESTIMATE based on the average cost of a student attending Specs Howard School of Media Arts books & supplies for the program are included in your tuition costs.

1^st Academic Year –  BMA Program students may incur an additional cost of around $28 for additional supplies (Independent Students total estimated expenses = $29,631.00 / Dependent Students total estimated expenses = $24,815.00)

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 the Specs Howard School is to assist eligible students in applying for and receiving financial assistance. Unless an extension is granted by the Financial Aid Department, all financial aid paperwork must be submitted to the Financial Aid Department prior to orientation or the student may be placed on a cash payment plan. The Specs Howard School reserves the right to suspend or administratively withdraw a student who does not meet payment obligations.

The Financial Aid Department at the 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.gov. A paper version of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid is available upon request from the Specs Howard Financial Aid Department.

Code of Conduct – Student Loans

The Specs Howard School of Media Arts is a participant in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. Direct Loans are low-interest loans for students and parents to help pay for the cost of a student’s education. The lender is the U.S. Department of Education (the Department) rather than a bank or other financial institution. Though the majority of aid recipients receive loans through federal programs, private (also called alternative) student loans can be a valuable tool in meeting the student’s educational goals. In processing private student loans, the Student Financial Aid Department adheres to the following principles:

1. No fee or material benefits are received from lenders in exchange for the promotion or processing of its loans.
2. No employee of the Financial Aid Department may receive gifts from a lender, guaranty agency or loan servicer.
3. No employee of the Financial Aid Department may enter into a contracting arrangement with a lender or affiliate that provides a fee, payment, or compensation for any type of consulting arrangement or contract to provide services to or on behalf of a lender relating to education loans.
4. The Financial Aid Department will not refuse to certify nor will it delay certification of any private education loan based on the borrower’s selection of a particular lender or guaranty agency.
5. The Financial Aid Department does not request or accept any staffing assistance from lenders.
6. Financial Aid Department employees are prohibited from receiving advisory board compensation, with the exception of reimbursement for reasonable expenses incurred.

All terms and their usage are as defined in Section 493 of the Higher Education Opportunity Act of August 14, 2008.

The Financial Aid Department at the Specs Howard School of Media Arts is committed to providing the highest level of service to its students and their families. We believe that the foundation of our service to students is grounded in the adherence to strict ethical and professional standards. It is our objective to administer the various financial aid programs in accordance with all governmental regulations and Specs Howard School policy and procedures.

FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID PROGRAMS

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

Financial Aid Packaging

Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Students will meet with the Financial Aid Department at the Specs Howard School and be packaged for financial aid eligibility based on the financial aid needs analysis output. At that point, a payment plan is created using the Financial Aid Eligibility Worksheet. The student and the Financial Aid Officer will discuss all grants, scholarships, and federal loans that the student is eligible for. During the next step, the Financial Aid Officer explains the loan terms and payment options available. The student is given a copy of the Eligibility Worksheet and makes a decision about whether or not to enroll.

Each year the Department of Education specifies certain required items that need to be verified prior to disbursing financial aid. Verification is specific to each financial aid award year. Data elements that need to be verified will vary from year to year, but may include items such as adjusted gross income, household size, taxes paid and untaxed income. Acceptable documentation to complete the verification may include verification worksheets, IRS tax transcripts and untaxed income documentation. If a financial aid file contains conflicting or inaccurate information, the student is notified and the file must be corrected before any financial aid funding can be disbursed. Whenever a student’s financial aid award is changed, the student is given a revised Award Letter to review and sign.

Federal Financial Aid Funds (Title IV Funds)

Below is a list of Title IV programs available at SHS:

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

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

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

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

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

Information pertaining to application procedures, student eligibility requirements, the criteria for selecting recipients and determining the amount of the student’s award can be found in the SHS catalog. A description of the rights and responsibilities of students receiving financial assistance, including the criteria for continued student eligibility, measuring satisfactory academic progress, along with the policies for re-establishing satisfactory academic progress, can also be found in the SHS catalog.

Direct Loan Funding will be disbursed to the school in multiple disbursements. The first disbursement will be approximately 31 days after your program start date, the second disbursement at approximately week 17 of your program, the third disbursement at approximately week 33, and fourth disbursement at approximately week 41.

Information on terms, sample loan repayment schedules, as well as the necessity to repay your loan will be provided to you at your Financial Aid appointment and at your exit counseling.

Any federal student loan that you or your parent borrow will be submitted to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) and will be accessible by guaranty agencies, lenders and institutions determined to be authorized users of the data system.

Scholarships and additional funding sources

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

For more information regarding scholarships, visit

specshoward.edu/scholarships.

ENTRANCE & EXIT COUNSELING

All Direct Loan borrowers at the Specs Howard School must complete entrance and exit loan counseling. Loan counseling can be completed online by visiting https://studentloans.gov/myDirectLoan/index.action. Entrance counseling is a federal government requirement that requires students to complete a student loan entrance counseling session prior to obtaining a Federal Direct 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 of illegal drugs while receiving Title IV federal financial aid. Federal aid includes federal Direct 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: one year from the date of conviction

Second offense: two 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: two 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

To regain eligibility for the federal programs, a 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 they complete the program.

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 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 could result in fines of up to $20,000, imprisonment or both. For help in answering 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 Department immediately, at which time the student will be ineligible for further aid and will be 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 semester 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 semester, 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. Scheduled breaks of five or more 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 being returned 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 AidDepartment. For further information on semester 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. As stated above, a full refund of all monies paid by the student (applicant), including the $50.00 application fee, will be made by the school if cancellation is made by midnight of the third business day following the signing of the enrollment agreement. If the student has enrolled by mail or will be taking training at a site other than where they enrolled, without first seeing the school, the student has three business days from the date he or she first visits the school in which to cancel the enrollment agreement and receive a full refund. A signed letter requesting cancellation must be delivered to the school either in person or by registered or certified mail. If cancellation occurs after midnight of the third business day following the signing of the enrollment agreement, but before the start of class, SHS will refund all tuition monies paid by the student (but not the $50.00 application fee).

GENERAL 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 in any program misses 14 consecutive calendar days without notifying the Specs Howard School of illness or extraordinary circumstances, the student may be administratively withdrawn from the program. Refunds, if any, will be computed from the date of determination of withdrawal. The student will be notified by mail of the administrative withdrawal.
3. The 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 the Specs Howard School catalog. Refunds, if any, will be computed from the last day 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 total number of weeks within the semester the student attended class. This policy remains in effect regardless of whether enrollment was ended by the student or by the Specs Howard School.
5. Students must exhibit competency 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 Operating Officer, under special circumstances, may waive certain fees. These additional fees may affect the payment schedule of the student, as well. In addition, all students must pay tuition and any other charges in full to the institution by two weeks before the last day of class. Any student who still has financial obligations to the school will not be issued a diploma, will not be eligible for any job leads through the Career Services Department, nor will they be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony. In cases of emergency, extreme hardship or extenuating circumstances, consideration may be granted at the discretion of the Specs Howard School. (For more information, see Satisfactory Academic Progress; Administrative Withdrawal; and Reinstatement after Administrative or Voluntary Withdrawal.)
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. This fee (which may be waived by the Chief Operating Officer under special or extraordinary circumstances) does not apply to students who have not yet attended class. The transfer fee cannot be covered by financial aid, per federal regulation.
7. In the event of a prolonged illness, accident, death in the family, or other circumstances that make it impractical for a student to complete his or her program of study, the Specs Howard School will consider a settlement that is reasonable and fair to both parties. The student must furnish official or legal written 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 of her payment schedule. If a student defaults on the payment schedule agreed to in the Retail Installment Contract, the Specs Howard School reserves the right to suspend or administratively withdraw that student, withhold all tests, critiques, audition materials and other materials, and revoke all internships, until the account is made current or is paid in full. Any student whose balance is unpaid two weeks prior to completion of his or her program of study may be suspended. The student will be readmitted to class only if an acceptable payment agreement is made with the Business Office.
9. All federal loans, Pell, SEOG and student refunds will be made within 45 days of the date of determination of withdrawal. (See Financial Aid Refund Priorities, below.)
10. The Specs Howard School reserves the right to notify any funding agency of changes in a student’s status.
11. A waiver must be signed by the student in order to divulge any information to persons other than auditors and funding agencies. The school reserves the right to cancel any class start. In such a case, students may request a full refund of all monies paid, or apply all monies to the next available class start.
12. The school reserves the right to change or modify the program content, 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: (800) MICH-VET (800-642-4838)

Any child between the ages of 16 and 25 who has been a resident of the State of Michigan 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 of up to $2,800 annually for undergraduate study. The student must maintain a GPA of 2.25 or better.

Michigan Works!
http://www.michiganworks.org
(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)
http://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339-73971_25392—,00.html
(800) 605-6722

MRS is a part of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth (DLEG). 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)
https://www.ssa.gov
(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)
http://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/
(517) 373-3740

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.

Check with your employer. Many employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement. Check with your employer’s Human Resource Department for more information.

Sex Offender Registry

Incarceration may remove a sex offender from the streets, but it does nothing to prevent the offender from committing another crime when released. The federal Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act (CSCPA), enacted on October 28, 2000, requires institutions of higher education to issue a statement advising the campus community where they may obtain state information provided by law enforcement concerning registered sex offenders. It also requires sex offenders that are already required to register in a state, to provide notice, as required under state law, of each institution of higher education in that state at which the person is employed, carries on a vocation, volunteers services, or is a student. In the state of Michigan, convicted sex offenders must register with Michigan State Police. You can obtain information by visiting the Michigan Public Sex Offender Registry (PSOR) at http://www.michigan.gov/msp/0,4643,7-123-1878_24961—,00.html

STUDENT OUTCOMES

BROADCAST MEDIA ARTS

Graduation Rates:
Total Number of Students Started: 231
Total Number of Students Available for Graduation: 230
Total Number of Students Completed: 160
Completion Rate: 70%

Employment Rates:
Total Number of Students Graduated: 160
Total Number of Grads Available for Placement: 141
Total Number of Grads working in the field: 98
Employment Rate: 70%

DIGITAL MEDIA ARTS

Graduation Rates:
Total Number of Students Started: 146
Total Number of Students Available for Graduation: 146
Total Number of Students Completed: 88
Completion Rate: 60%

Employment Rates:
Total Number of Students Graduated: 88
Total Number of Grads Available for Placement: 80
Total Number of Grads working in the field: 59
Employment Rate: 74%

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Graduation Rates:
Total Number of Students Started: 104
Total Number of Students Available for Graduation: 104
Total Number of Students Completed: 68
Completion Rate: 65%

Employment Rates:
Total Number of Students Graduated: 68
Total Number of Grads Available for Placement: 60
Total Number of Grads working in the field: 43
Employment Rate: 72%

Completion percentage is determined by dividing the number of students who completed the respective program by the number of students available for graduation for that program. Unavailable students are those who are determined to fit one or more of the following categories:
• Student is in active military deployment
• Student has a medical condition that prevents continued enrollment
• Student is incarcerated
• Student is deceased

Placement percentage is determined by dividing the number of graduates who are employed in the field for which they were trained by the number of graduates available for job placement. Unavailable graduates are those who determined to fit one or more of the following categories:
• Student is continuing his/her education
• Student is in active military deployment
• Student has medical restrictions
• Student is incarcerated
• Student is deceased

GENERAL STUDENT BODY DIVERSITY STATISTICS
2017 Fall Enrollment

Female 39%
Male 61%
American Indian or Alaskan Native 0%
Asian 1%
Black or African American 46%
Hispanic 2%
Native Hawaiian 0%
Two races or more 6%
Race or ethnicity unknown 0%
White 46%

UNDERGRADUATE AGE

24 and under 57%
25 and over 43%

COMPLETION STATISTICS

Number of awards conferred 2016-2017:
Broadcast Media Arts: 178
Digital Media Arts: 116
Graphic Design: 64
Total: 358

STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID 2015-2016

Any grant or scholarship aid 57%
Pell grants 42%
Federal student loans 62%

This information is collected in the IPEDS Fall Enrollments Survey. For more information, see:
https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?q=specs+howard+school&s=all&id=172325

When you graduate from the Specs Howard School, you not only receive a diploma, but the opportunity to apply the training you received toward an associate or bachelor’s degree at many area colleges and universities via articulation agreements. While the number of credits each college or university accepts is accurate at the time of printing, 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 can investigate and improve the process.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rochester College: Broadcast Media Arts graduates may receive up to 31 credits. Digital Media Arts graduates may receive up to 33 credits. Graphic Design graduates may receive up to 32 credits. 

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

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

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, but the Specs Howard School is not required to provide copies of records unless, for reasons such as great distance, it is impractical for students to review the records. The Specs Howard School may charge a fee for copies.

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

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

• 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
• Appropriate officials in cases of health and safety emergencies
• 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
• If a student is over the age of 18 and is listed as a dependent on their most recent tax return supplied to the Financial Aid Department

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

The Specs Howard School facilities are wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are located at the north end of the building.

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

Students with disabilities are not required to identify themselves as such, nor to request accommodation. However, the Specs Howard School cannot accommodate an individual who does not inform school officials about his or her disability and his or her need for accommodation.

If a student believes that accommodation is needed, the request for accommodation may be made at any time during their enrollment at the Specs Howard School. However, requests for accommodation must be made in advance of the coursework to which the request applies. Medical documentation of condition/disability must be provided. Any student wishing to request accommodation should contact his or her Admissions Advisor or a member of the SHS Student Success 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. The Specs Howard School of Media Arts neither condones nor supports the use of peer-to-peer file sharing or copyrighted material in ways in which the material was not intended.

Students who violate federal copyright laws may be subject to penalties such as paying court- ordered compensation, monetary fines and/or jail sentencing. A student’s enrollment at the Specs Howard School of Media Arts may be terminated if he or she is found to be file sharing, uploading, downloading or distributing copyrighted material, in any form, without permission or consent of the copyright holder.

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

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

Smoking

The Specs Howard campus is smoke-free, including e-cigarettes and vaporizers, except for the designated outdoor smoking area outside of the school’s north entrance.

Alcohol Policy

The use of alcoholic beverages is prohibited at the Specs Howard School of Media Arts. Any student found to be in the possession of alcohol, or suspected to be under the influence of alcohol while on school property or adjacent parking facilities may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension, immediate administrative withdrawal or prosecution.

Drug Policy

The possession, use, sale or distribution of narcotics or any controlled substance and/or drug paraphernalia is illegal under both federal and state laws and prohibited at the Specs Howard School of Media Arts. Any student found to be in possession of, or suspected to be under the influence of, illegal drugs while on school property or adjacent parking facilities may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or immediate administrative withdrawal, 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 Department will provide a Student Success Emergency Help Resource List that contains names, addresses and telephone numbers of organizations that can provide assistance to a person in need. Resources can also be found on the Student Success page within our online learning management system.

DrugAbuse.com

DrugAbuse.com provides trusted resources for substance abuse and addiction treatment where you can learn about the symptoms and signs of drug abuse, as well as the repercussions of abuse. Call 1-877-768- 9614 for help regarding drug abuse.

Drug Fact 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

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 hundreds of 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 combatting the dangers of drugs. The Drug Enforcement Administration is 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.

Vaccination Policy

The Specs Howard School does not have a formal policy relative to vaccinations. However, we encourage all students to be current with any and all vaccinations.

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

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

–––––––––

RICO BEARD | BMA INSTRUCTOR
Masters of Telecommunication and Urban Studies, Michigan State University; Bachelor of Arts in Telecommunications. Past experience includes: Radio Host of “The Spartan Beat”, Spotlight Productions; Adjunct Instructor, Inter- national Academy of Design and Technology; Adjunct Instructor, Eastern Michigan University. Member of SHS staff since 2017.

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

KRIS HARRIS | BMA INSTRUCTOR
Bachelor of Science in English and Philosophy from Central Michigan University; graduate of the Specs Howard School. Past experience includes: Morning Show Producer and On-air Personality, 93.1 WDRQ; Morning Show Producer 96.3 WDVD; Programing Assistant WDRQ and WDVD; Producer and Programmer News Talk 760 WJR; Programmer 93.1 Doug FM, as well as 93.1 WHDZ and 96.3. Member of SHS staff since 2017.

AARON NOWAK | BMA INSTRUCTOR
Graduate of the Specs Howard School. Recipient of Outstanding Achievement Award and Rossano Award. Past experience includes Digital Media Group at WDIV Local 4 and freelance 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.” 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.

STEVE STRASZ | BMA INSTRUCTOR
Graduate of the Specs Howard School. Past experience includes 14 years at Comcast Cable working in all areas of television production, and in a supervisory 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, Michigan Chapter, Emmy nomination for “Michigan Mysteries: The Houdini File.” Telly Award finalist for commercial production, 2002. Seventeen years of experience with non-linear editing and graphics software. Wedding Videographer and Photographer for 11-4 Productions, 2008-2012. Member of SHS staff since 2006.

NICK WISNISKE | BMA INSTRUCTOR
Bachelor of Communications in Electronic Media from The University of Michigan-Dearborn. Past experience includes Producer, Host, and Camera Operator for RecNSports, a bi-monthly feature program. Hosted Your Tiger Ticket, a monthly program about the Detroit Tigers that airs on Comcast TV and Comcast On Demand. Currently shooting for Dearborn Television and hosting 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 SHS staff since 2011.

–––––––––

TERRY MAXX | DMA INSTRUCTOR
University of Toledo attendee, Over 28 year of industry experience in graphic design and web development. Past experience includes Production Artist, Creative Director, Business Owner. Member of the SHS staff since 2016.

NICOLE SULLIVAN | DMA INSTRUCTOR
Bachelor of Communications (Radio, Television and Film Studies) from Wayne State University. Attended Schoolcraft College. Past experience includes: Video Editor and Motion Graphics Animator (GTB), Owner, Video Production and Post- Production Specialist (Lil Hedy Productions), Lead Editor and Co-Producer (Jekyll & Hyde Advertising), Producer (Summit Training Source, Inc.), Editor and Producer (Comcast Spotlight). Member of SHS staff since 2018.

–––––––––

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

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

RON NEVERS | GFX 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 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.

Through preparation of portfolios, demos, résumés, and interviewing skills, the Career Services Department is devoted to helping graduates obtain entry-level jobs in the broadcast media, digital media, and graphic design industries.

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

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

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

Career classes at the Specs Howard School prepare students to work in their chosen industry. Some of the topics covered in class include the demands of today’s media professional, how to work with clients, understanding the organizational structure of the industry, and establishing the professionalism needed to acquire an entry-level job.

Internships

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

Students in good standing are eligible to participate in a traditional internship program starting at a specific point within each program. The hours will vary with employers but most require about 10-20 hours a week for 10-12 weeks. A résumé and/or interview with an employer is typically required to become an intern.

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

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