Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you need accommodations?

• Special seating
• Equipment such as assistive listening devices, audio recorder, etc.
• Materials in alternative format such as large print, Braille, or electronic file
• Services such as interpreter for the deaf

These accommodations and more are available to qualified disabled individuals.* Interested disabled persons need to complete a Classroom Accommodation packet at least 10 working days prior to the class they wish to attend. For more information or to request a Classroom Accommodation packet, contact the Disability Resource Center: call 941-752-5295 (voice) or 941-751-8179 (TTY). * Must meet program eligibility standards and provide documentation of disability from relevant professional (audiologist, medical doctor, counselor, etc.)

What is the Refund and Cancellation Policy?

For multisession classes:
Prior to the start of first class - full refund. Between first & second session - 100% less $5 processing fee. After second session - no refund.

For one-day classes (and certain other workshops, seminars, conferences and computer classes): Refunds may be given if written notification is received by the Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development office before the stated registration deadline and/or the day prior to the event.

Non-attendance does not constitute a withdrawal or refund request. We reserve the right to cancel classes due to insufficient attendance; in that case, registration fees will be refunded in full.

What are the Student Fees?

State colleges enroll students in courses at nominal rates. Most of the courses in this catalog are totally supported by collected student fees and receive no additional state funds. Course fees are reflected in the course listings. A $10 fee will be charged for each replacement certificate. A $20 service charge will be assessed on checks with insufficient funds. Check with the Traffic Safety Institute on their fee policies as fees differ between programs.

What skills do I need to enroll in a course?

For personal enrichment courses, just bring your enthusiasm! For computer classes, it varies. We have introductory courses (Absolute Beginner) which require little to no computer experience. Other courses (Excel, PowerPoint, Word & more) require you to have a working knowledge of the Windows operating system. If you have any questions regarding which courses are appropriate for your skill level, please call 941-363-7203 for more detailed information.

What do I need to bring to class?

Ordinarily, all of your course materials will be supplied to you once class begins. Materials may include handouts, course manuals, pencils, or folders. Depending on the class, you may or may not be allowed to keep the course manual. In some cases, you must purchase a book from the SCF bookstore at Bradenton or Venice.

What does it cost to enroll in a class?

Class fees vary based upon the type of course, level of instruction, and materials used. As the self-supporting part of the institution, tuition and fees are collected and enrollment levels are set to cover the costs of the program. Class fee payment is required at the time of enrollment.

Who is the instructor of the class?

Our instructors are individuals who are practitioners in their field. They may be our faculty or staff. They may be local business and community leaders. They may be individuals with years of experience in the content area. Because many of our instructors are contracted on a class-by-class basis, contacting the instructor should be done through our Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development office.