MCC 101 Frequently Asked Questions
For unprepared students, beginning college can be overwhelming. MCC 101 prepares you for college by explaining about resources on-campus, teaching you time management skills, examining your study habits and much more.
⇐ Return to the College Experience
“You meet different teachers and other people who are there for any questions you may have. The library assignment was also great. It gave me the chance to use the learning tools that I will be using in all my classes.” – Dave Lundin
Review our Frequently Asked Questions for more information.
- Who is required to take MCC 101?
- Why do I have to take this course?
- What is the First Year Experience and why does MCC mandate that I take it?
- What could I possibly learn in MCC 101?
- What topics are covered in this course?
- Is there homework involved?
- Is the course transferable?
- Will I receive a grade or is it a pass/fail?
- Who teaches the course?
- Is there a proficiency test for this course? Can I get a waiver?
- Will I have to attend every class?
- Will I receive credit towards an Associate Degree from MCC?
- The catalog states that this is a 1 credit course that meets for 8 weeks. How does that work? When does the course start?
- The What if I do not want to take MCC101The College Experience?
- I have more questions. Who should I contact?
Who is required to take this course?
All first time students must successfully complete MCC 101 during their first year unless they have:
- Previously earned at least 24 semester hours of college credit with a 2.00 cumulative grade point average (at another college) or
- Successfully completed a course equivalent to MCC 101 at another college. Course must be documented on a college transcript.
- Why do I have to take this course?
It is important to us to be available to you early in your college career to answer your questions, discuss your expectations, and provide you with tools appropriate for college.
What topics are covered in the course?
You'll learn about campus resources, diversity, learning styles, time management, personal responsibility, and problem solving/critical thinking skills among others. You’ll also be required to attend an out-of-class seminar. Choose other topics from our schedule PDF.
Is there homework involved?
Yes, you may be asked to read a case study in preparation for class. Other activities include seminars, a library activity, journal entries, completion of certain in-class activities and a reflection paper. There are no exams. Grades are based on attendance, class participation, and completion of assigned activities. A textbook/manual is required and is available at the bookstore. Visit the bookstore ⇒
Is the course transferable?
Yes, MCC 101 has been articulated and will transfer to some state schools. See your advisor for more information ⇒
Will I receive a grade or is it pass/fail?
You will receive a letter grade (A through F) for completion of the course.
Who teaches the course?
Faculty members, as well as administrators, teach the course. In the future, we hope to have peer instructors as well.
- Is there a proficiency test for the course?
No, a proficiency test is not available for this course.
- Will I have to attend every class?
Yes, just as in other college level courses, there is a strong correlation between attendance and success in the course. Because of the nature of the class, makeup of missed work is very difficult to arrange.
Will I receive credit towards an Associate Degree from McHenry County College?
Yes, this course is required to be completed during a your first year at MCC and may count as an elective toward one of the associate degrees.
- The catalog states MCC101 is a 1-credit course that meets for 8 weeks. How does that work? When does the course start?
1-credit implies that there will be 16 class hours. Eight week courses begin during the first week of the semester and again approximately during the ninth week.
You can take MCC 101 in one of four formats:
- Traditional eight week format - Classes meet four times and students will be expected to attend seminars during the other four weeks. The seminars you choose to attend will require registration. Your instructor will explain the registration process at your first class meeting. Choose from the list provided PDF.
- Blended/Hybrid format - require four class meetings and four weeks of online activity
- Summer format - available in a two or four week format
- Online format - one online formation will be offered each semester
- I have more questions. Who should I contact?
Contact Ellen Zimmerman at (815) 455-8574.