Service Learning allows students to apply classroom knowledge while volunteering their service in a variety of areas. It complements an academic program, channeling students’ creativity toward solving urban problems and building a sense of community in neighborhoods through use of an experiential action-reflection model.
Plus One Credit Option Program
The Plus One Credit Option Program is the main model of service learning at the Mount. The model allows students to add a free, one-hour credit addition to any course in which it is offered. The program allows students to integrate a community service project with the selected course, and engages them in reflection on the responsibilities of service and leadership.
Students complete a learning contract that documents the Plus One Service Learning Objectives, student expectations, and evaluation criteria. Students are expected to complete a minimum of 30 hours onsite with identified community organizations. The extra credit is Pass/Fail, is classified as general elective credit, and will be documented as service learning on the student transcript.
Requirements for the Plus One Credit Option Program
- Registration for the service learning credit attached to a course in which it is offered.
- Students may only register for one service credit in an approved course per semester.
- No more than three documented Plus One Credits may be accumulated during pursuit of a degree.
- The Plus One Credit cannot be added as a 12th credit hour to create full-time status.
Other Opportunities for Service
In addition to the Plus One Credit Option Program, students may be engaged in courses which include service as part of their syllabi or individual service experiences. Service experiences occur on a local neighborhood level, in other regions of the country, and in other countries. The Mount offers Cultural Immersion courses through the Department of Religious and Pastoral Studies which offer field experience with service opportunity.