Service learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful unpaid community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities.

Credit-Bearing Service Learning Program

The Credit-Bearing Service Learning 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 with faculty permission. 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 learning outcomes, student expectations, and evaluation criteria. Students are expected to complete a minimum of 30 hours onsite with identified community organizations. The credit is Pass/Fail, is classified as general elective credit, and will be documented as service learning on the student transcript.

Policy Guidelines for the Credit-Bearing Service Learning 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 service learning credits may be accumulated during pursuit of a degree.
  • Service learning credits cannot be added as a 12th credit hour to create full-time status.

Other Opportunities for Service

In addition to Credit-Bearing Service Learning 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. Examples include the following:

  • Cultural immersion courses
  • One-time volunteer experiences
  • Project-based service learning
  • Academic student philanthropy