2026-2027 Academic Catalog

Author: Julie Hingelberg

  • Financial Aid Eligibility Requirements for Graduate Students

    Eligibility Requirements

    Eligibility for Federal Direct Loans is determined by an analysis of family resources calculated by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To receive Federal Direct Loans from the College, students must:

    1. Be accepted for enrollment in a graduate degree program.
    2. Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
    3. Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
    4. Be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours (for Direct Loans).
    5. Have obtained a high school diploma or equivalent.
    6. Not owe a refund on previous Title IV funds received or be in default on any federal student loan.

    For more information, visit studentaid.gov.

    CCS also awards scholarships based on merit. Students may qualify for these scholarships based on the strength of their admission application and required documents at the time of admittance to the College. No additional application is required for these scholarships.

    Students receiving tuition assistance from their employers will have their tuition scholarship reduced accordingly.

    Duration of Eligibility

    Full-time students may receive financial aid for a maximum of three years (six semesters) of full-time awards. Half-time students are eligible for a maximum of six years (12 semesters) of half-time awards.

    To be eligible for Title IV funds, a student must be a regular student as defined in 34 CFR 600.2 of the Institutional Eligibility regulations. A regular student is defined as: “A person who is enrolled or accepted for enrollment at an institution for the purpose of obtaining a degree, certificate, or other recognized educational credential offered by that institution.”

    Therefore, the school cannot award federal Title IV aid for credit hours/course work that will not count towards the completion of that student’s degree program requirements (or otherwise result in a degree, certificate, or credential).

    Contact the Office of Financial Aid for more information.

  • Undergraduate Admissions Requirements

    Application Form

    Enter general personal and educational information. There is no fee associated with the CCS Undergraduate application. If you choose to submit your portfolio on ccs.slideroom.com, Slideroom will require $10US.

    Portfolio

    Upload 8-12 pieces of your original visual artwork to ccs.slideroom.com or get a one-on-one review with a CCS representative. Five drawings from imagination or observation are required for the following majors: Entertainment Arts: Animation, Entertainment Arts: Concept Design, Entertainment Arts: Game, Illustration, Transpiration Design. Works from all visual mediums can be submitted.

    Applications for our Film major do not require a portfolio. Applicants with a 3.0 Cum GPA are admissible. Portfolios submitted will not be used for determining an admission decision or merit scholarship.

    High School or College Transcript(s)

    Email or request an electronic version of your current transcript (unofficial or official electronic version) to the CCS Admissions office.

    High school students who have attended more than one high school: Submit a transcript that details all four years of enrollment or a transcript from each school attended.

    Homeschooled applicants: Submit a detailed transcript that includes student’s full name, address, dates and detail of courses completed, grades earned and the signature of the person who oversaw the education plan and created the document. If any coursework was completed at a college or high school, a transcript from that institution must be submitted as well.

    Transfer applicants: Submit transcripts from all previously attended colleges if they want to transfer previously-earned credit.

    International Applicants: If you’ve completed coursework outside the United States and wish to transfer credits, we strongly recommend you obtain a professional course-by-course evaluation of your academic records. Please use recognized credential evaluation services World Education Services (WES) or Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE), to ensure your coursework aligns with the U.S. education system.

    Official copies of all transcripts confirming graduation from high school, a GED test transcript, or the equivalent international education level, must be one file prior to the Add/Drop Deadline of the student’s initial start term, and is required for matriculation.

    Test Blind for Domestic Applicants

    Starting with applications for semesters in 2020, CCS will not require a standardized test (ACT or SAT) score. If a Test Score is submitted it will not be used to influence admission or scholarship. While CCS is committed to admitting students who have proven potential to succeed in our programs, our historical data indicates that Test Scores do not consistently identify that potential.

    English Language Test Score for International Applicants

    International applicants whose primary and/or native language is not English must submit one of the following English language test scores: TOEFL, IELTS, DuolingoEnglish Test, SAT or ACT. The test requirement may be waived if the primary language of instruction at their secondary school or college is English.

    Letters of Recommendation and Artists Statements are not required.

    Conditional Admission

    The College may occasionally admit students as Conditionally Admitted if their potential to succeed is not directly reflected in their High School Cum GPA. Conditions of admission and enrollment are as follows:

    • You will be limited to taking 13 credits during the first semester of your first year of study while you acclimate to the rigors of college. While this is still considered full-time enrollment, your limitation on credit load during this first semester may mean that you will need to attend classes during a summer semester or take an additional semester in order to satisfy your degree requirements.
    • You will successfully complete the CCS First Year Experience (SLP 007) course in your first semester.
    • You must receive a 2.0 or better GPA during your first semester at CCS or you will be placed on academic warning.
    • You are strongly encouraged to meet regularly with the staff of the Center for Tutoring and Writing to identify and receive any academic support you need.

    These guardrails support student success by engaging students with the staff, offices and processes that will foster their success.

    Reapplication Guidelines

    If an applicant for admission to the College has been admitted to the same academic level four times in the past, but has never completed attendance through the first semester Add/Drop period of any admitted Start Term, the fifth and following applications for admission will be denied.

    Students with Disabilities and Requesting Accommodations

    CCS Nondiscrimination Policy

  • Chosen and Legal Name

    The College for Creative Studies recognizes the importance of accommodating members of the institution regarding the use of an individual’s legal or chosen name, while remaining in compliance with federal and legal obligations. There are various reasons students, faculty and staff may choose to use a name to identify themselves that differs from their legal name. It is the policy of the College to use a chosen name (if requested) within CCS systems where a legal name is not absolutely necessary. The use of a chosen name does not automatically change the legal name in College systems/records. Proper documentation is required for students, staff or faculty members that wish to change their legal name.

    Definitions

    Legal Name
    A name, also commonly known as a given name, that appears on the state issued ID card, driver’s license, passport, social security card, birth certificate, and immigration documents.  Documentation (marriage license, court order, divorce decree, etc) is required to change a legal name. A legal name change will result in a comprehensive change in the individual’s records.
    Chosen Name
    A first name that you may choose to be called. It is different from your legal first name and no legal documentation is required. A chosen name, also known as preferred name, is generally used by individuals who choose to use:

    Legal Name Policy

    CCS must always maintain a record of students’ and employees’ legal name and are used where required within CCS records/systems (i.e., Human Resource records, Financial Aid documents, student conduct records, medical/insurance records, academic transcripts, etc). A legal name will continue to appear within institution records for reasons related to conducting institutional business, technology limitations or if required by law. Legal name change requests will be approved based on submission of legal evidence indicating the name change.  All requests must be verified with Information Technology Services through the approving office, to update CCS systems.

    Chosen Name Policy

    A chosen name will appear in select institutional systems, records, or documents in which a legal name is not required. To assure accurate identification, the legal last name will appear along with the chosen first name whenever possible. CCS reserves the right to remove or deny the chosen first name if used inappropriately. This includes, but is not limited to, names using foul or inappropriate language, names submitted to avoid a legal obligation, fraud, and names used to create misrepresentation.  A chosen name that includes numbers or symbols will not be recognized. Each individual may request one chosen first name change during each twelve month period.  An Individual may request to revert back to their legal name at any time. Historical notes in systems may not be updated to reflect the change. 

    A chosen name can appear on CCS ID cards and email, among other approved areas if requested. All requests must be verified with Information Technology Services through the approving office, to update CCS systems.

    For the purpose of F-1 and J-1 student visa status, the legal name must be used on I-20s and DDS-2019s. An individual’s legal name is what appears on the passport.

    Under FERPA, a student’s chosen name or legal name may be disclosed as directory information (unless a request to withhold is on file to prevent disclosure, see FERPA Policy). The Chosen name will be used as first preference.

    Note: Parents/families that have access to your personal CCS accounts, will be able to see the same information accessed by a student or employee. It is recommended that personal accounts and login information is not shared with anyone (including family).

    Procedures for Chosen Name Requests and Legal Name Changes

    Procedures for chosen and legal names may vary. Individuals interested in updating personal records should contact the appropriate office directly related to their status of enrollment or employment. 

    Chosen & Legal Name Display Areas: 

    The below chart indicates where chosen and legal names will appear in CCS records and documents, along with the affiliated campus office*. 

    If a chosen name is requested, it will display on all items in the “Chosen Name” column. 

    The Legal Name will always appear within records listed in the “Legal Name” column.

    *Changes to a name (chosen or legal) may take 2 to 3 business days to update across campus systems.

    “The college will continue to review the section below to adhere to policy updates and institutional changes that impact the use of Chosen and Legal Names.”

    Academic Advising & registration Office (aARO)

    Last Updated: 07/30/20

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    Academic EvaluationTranscripts (Official, Unofficial, and CE)
    Registration ConfirmationEnrollment Verifications
    Class ScheduleSubpoenas
    Graduation Reports
    Academic Standing (probation/suspension)
    Diplomas
    Commencement line-up name cards
    Commencement Program
    Deposit Reports
    Course & Attendance Rosters
    Student Email*
    * All student records (UG, MFA, TC, Guest Students and non credit records)

    Academic Affairs

    Last Updated: 08/10/20

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    Dean’s/President’s list/lettersAcademic Honesty Records/notifications
    Review week schedules for departmentsImre Molnar Award letters
    Mentor or other Departmental student listsAward of Academic Excellence – Graduate Studies
    Student Affairs Monthly Reports

    admissions

    Last Updated: 08/17/20

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    Transfer Credit EvaluationsAcceptance Letters
    Admissions EmailMerit Scholarship Award letters
    Text messagesMailed documents

    International admissions

    Last Updated: 08/10/20

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    Individual communication (email & text)Admissions documents & reports
    Institutional communication

    Business Services/Payroll
    Students, faculty & Staff

    Last Updated: 08/10/20

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    Tuition Billing
    Checks
    Pay Stubs
    W2’s
    All payroll systems/reports
    Receipts

    Campus Safety

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    CCS ID cards

    Career Development

    Last Updated: 08/13/20

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    College Central Network (formerly Job Book)
    Display/exhibition, Career Dev. recruiting events (or showcase)

    Financial aid

    Last Updated: 08/10/20

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    Individual Email communicationFinancial Aid Award letters
    Mailed correspondence
    Correspondence with Department of Education
    Loan records
    Pell Grant records
    Enrollment records

    Human resources

    Last Updated: 08/10/20

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    Employee/Phone DirectoryIRS forms
    CCS Employee ID cardBenefits
    CCS Employee email*Retirement
    Employee hire records
    Work-Study hire records
    Tuition remission records
    Employee fee waivers (credit and non-credit)
    *IT updates systems, but does not handle the initial requests for changes. Updates by office requests.

    Information technology

    Last Updated: 08/11/20

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    CCS email address*
    Access Manager*
    Self-Service – student*
    Self-Service – staff*
    WebAdvisor for Faculty*
    Phone Directory*
    *IT updates systems, but does not handle the initial requests for changes. Updates by office requests.

    International Student Services Office (ISSO)
    International Students

    Last Updated: 08/10/20

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    Registration Confirmations (AARO printed)Registration Confirmations (ISSO printed)
    Degree AuditsSEVIS
    Immigration documents

    Office for Institutional Equity & Inclusion

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    Title IX records

    student affairs, Student Life, Housing, Wellness Center, Nurse

    Last Updated: 07/31/20

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    On-Campus housing rostersMeal Plans
    Roommate assignmentsMedical & Insurance Records
    OrientationStudent Disability Services Records
    Disability Accommodation NotificationsStudent Conduct Records
    Student Elections
    Student Organization Representatives

    compliance reporting for Internal & external auditing processes

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    use of Legal name as required

    compliance Reporting Requirements As Mandated By Authorized Entities Of The U.S. Government

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    use of Legal name as required

    Compliance Reporting Requirements AS Mandated By The State OF Michigan

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    use of Legal name as required

    compliance with Subpoenas

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    use of Legal name as required

    alumni Office

    Chosen Name
    (if requested)
    Displays on:    		Legal Name
    will display:
    Tax receipts & gift agreements

  • A Brief History

    For more than a century, the College for Creative Studies (CCS) has distinguished itself as one of the premier institutions of higher learning in the world. The current College traces its heritage back to 1906 when a group of local civic leaders, inspired by the English Arts and Crafts movement, formed the Detroit Society of Arts and Crafts. The Society’s mission was to keep the ideals of beauty and craftsmanship alive in what was rapidly becoming an industrialized world. At their original location on Farmer Street, Society members began teaching informal classes in basic design, drawing, and woodcarving. In 1911, they opened a gallery where students, as well as prominent modern artists, displayed and sold their work.

    As Detroit’s creative community continued to take root, the Society recognized the need to expand. They moved to a larger location on Watson Street (1916), and10 years later became one of the first arts and crafts organizations to offer a formal, four-year program in Art (1926). Within a year, the Art School of the Detroit Society of Arts and Crafts grew to an enrollment of 280 students.

    Much of the school’s success was attributed to its close integration of rigorous courses with the progression of the art and design movements and world-class, contemporary exhibitions—a tradition that continues to prevail. In addition to hiring talented, local artists and designers, the school sought renowned painters, sculptors, and craftspeople from around the world to teach courses. In 1933, the Society’s gallery garnered national media attention as one of the first art institutions to recognize the automobile as an art form. This was around the same time that programs in industrial design and commercial art were introduced to the school’s curriculum.

    The school relocated for a third time in 1958 to its current location near the city’s cultural center. The move provided students with more convenient access to the Detroit Institute of Arts’ impressive collection. All classes and offices were initially housed in the Arts & Crafts building designed by Minoru Yamasaki.

    In 1962, the school officially became a college when the Michigan Department of Education authorized the institution to offer a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Industrial Design. Eight years later, the College was awarded the right to provide degrees in all of its major programs. The National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) granted original accreditation in 1972, and the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA) granted regional accreditation in 1977.

    The next four decades brought about several improvements and significant changes to the campus. In 1975, construction of the architectural award-winning Kresge-Ford Building was completed, and the Detroit Society of Arts and Crafts changed its name to the Center for Creative Studies—College of Art and Design. The school acquired an apartment building adjacent to campus (the Art Centre building) in 1988 that serves as the main dormitory on campus and the building that formerly housed Detroit’s African American Museum of History in 1997 that was later transformed into the Academic Resource Center (now the Manoogian Visual Resource Center), which contains the Center Galleries and library. A parking structure was added to the campus in 1999, and in the fall of 2001, the College inaugurated the Walter B. Ford II building for design and technology-driven disciplines. The donation to fund this project was the largest ever given to an art college at the time. That year, two historic homes on the northern side of campus were also renovated to accommodate administration and admissions offices.

    The year 2001 brought about a milestone critical to the future of the school. Results of a research study led to the Board of Trustees’ decision to change the school’s name to the College for Creative Studies (CCS) to more clearly communicate its identity as an accredited, degree-granting “college.”

    The Josephine F. Ford Sculpture Garden was added in the fall of 2005 to provide a gathering place for the campus community, and in 2007, the College renovated another home on historic Ferry Street to house the Institutional Advancement and Human Resources offices. In 2008, CCS embarked on its most significant project to date—a $145 million redevelopment of the 760,000 sq. ft. historic Argonaut Building (formerly General Motors first research and design studio). Located in Detroit’s New Center district (about a mile from the original Walter and Josephine Ford Campus), the building serves as the A. Alfred Taubman Center for Design Education.

    The Taubman Center is home to the College’s five undergraduate design departments, graduate degree programs in design and transportation design and the Henry Ford Academy: School for Creative Studies, an art and design charter school for middle and high school students. This site has enabled CCS to expand its curriculum to include new areas of the creative industries, improve facilities for all of its departments and connect with the local community through the Design Core Detroit. It represents the College’s commitment toward accelerating metro Detroit’s transition to an innovation-based economy by renewing the infrastructure of an important urban neighborhood; attracting, developing and retaining talent in the creative industries; spurring research in sustainable product development; and creating jobs and new business opportunities. The original Ford campus continues to house arts and crafts disciplines as well as the majority of administrative offices.

    The College’s legacy has contributed to its recognition as an international leader in art and design education. In 2007, Bloomberg Business Week listed CCS among the top design schools in the world. The college now enrolls more than 1,400 students seeking undergraduate degrees across twelve majors and four graduate degrees. CCS also offers non-credit courses in the visual arts through its Precollege and Continuing Studies programs and annually provides over 4,000 high-risk Detroit youth with art and design education through the Community Arts Partnerships programs.

    A century of tradition shaped by some of the most brilliant minds in the world has culminated in a truly unsurpassed institution of higher learning—a community where the creative spirit is free to soar.

  • Mission Statement

    The College for Creative Studies nurtures the creativity that is vital to the enrichment of modern culture. The College educates visual artists and designers, knowledgeable in varied fields, who will be leaders in creative professions that shape society and advance economic growth. The College fosters students’ resolve to pursue excellence, act ethically, embrace their responsibilities as citizens of diverse local and global communities, and learn throughout their lives. The College engages in community service by offering opportunities for artistic enrichment and opening career pathways to talented individuals of all ages.

  • Resources and Policies for Veterans

    We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the contributions you have made to our country while serving in the Armed Forces. The College for Creative Studies is committed to our veterans and their eligible dependents. While transitioning back into civilian and college life, let us help you with many of the opportunities and challenges that you may face, including:

    • The VA educational benefits application process
    • Academic advising and course selection
    • Planning a program of study in accordance with CCS and VA policies and guidelines
    • Submission of enrollment certification paperwork
    • Information about scholarships offered to veterans and service members
    • Connections to College resources: Registration, Tutoring, Wellness Center and Career Services
    • Special recognition during the CCS Commencement Ceremony

    At the service member’s request, we will also:

    • Act as a liaison between the veteran and the VA
    • Serve as a point of contact for additional referrals and resources

    Veterans Educational Benefits

    Eligibility for benefits is determined solely by the Veterans Administration.

    Tuition Payments

    Tuition payments are sent directly to CCS for Chapter 31 (Vocational Rehabilitation) and Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill & Yellow Ribbon). Please keep in mind if your Chapter 33 benefits are less than 100% you are responsible for the remaining balance. Under all other programs, students receive funds from the VA and are responsible for paying their own tuition.

    Enrollment Verification

    If you are claiming benefits under Chapters 30, 1606, or 1607, you must verify your enrollment on the last calendar day of each month. Verification can be made online through WAVE at www.gibill.va.gov or by phone through the Interactive Voice Response (IVR) at 1-877-823-2378.

    Monthly Housing Allowance

    If eligible, the monthly housing allowance is paid directly to you. Students receiving benefits under Chapter 33 must be enrolled more than half-time (6 credit hours) to receive the housing allowance.

    Book Stipend

    If eligible, the book stipend (this includes art supplies) is paid directly to you. The stipend is based on your enrollment and is paid once per term ($41.67 per credit hour up to $1000/year).

    Yellow Ribbon Program

    CCS participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program. The Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program (Yellow Ribbon Program) is a provision of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008. This program allows institutions of higher learning (degree granting institutions) in the United States to voluntarily enter into an agreement with the VA to fund tuition expenses that exceed either the annual maximum cap for private institutions or the resident tuition and fees for a public institution.

    New Students

    1. Complete the Application for VA Education Benefits online at va.gov. If you do not have access to apply online, call 1-888-442-4551 and request that an application be sent to you.
    2. A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) will be issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs to the applicant/student showing approval to pursue an education program. This will include the remaining entitlement for the student and the eligibility dates.
    3. If you are eligible for VA benefits, submit your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to the VA School Certifying Official’s (SCO) office before the start of your first semester at CCS either by mail, email or dropping it off in person. The SCO’s office is located in the Academic Advising and Registration Office on the first floor of the Yamasaki Building.

    New Students applying for Veteran benefits for the first time, need to:

    Transferring VA Benefits

    If you have used your VA benefits at another institution, you will need to transfer your VA benefits:

    1. Complete Form 22-1995 Request for Change of Program or Place of Training – visit VA Forms website.
    2. Submit your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to the VA School Certifying Official’s (SCO) office before the start of your first semester at CCS either by mail, email or dropping it off in person. The SCO’s office is located in the Academic Advising and Registration Office on the first floor of the Yamasaki Building.

    All VA Students

    All VA Students need to:

    1. Complete the Request for VA Enrollment Certification once you have register for classes. This form will need to be completed each semester you wish to receive VA benefits. Bring completed form to the VA School Certifying Official (SCO) located in the Academic Advising and Registration Office in the Yamasaki Building.
    2. Notify the SCO of all changes of address, majors and withdrawals from courses.

    Additional Information for VA students

    The SCO monitors your academic progress and notifies the VA Regional Office of any withdrawals from classes or other changes in your status. Class attendance and completion is required for students receiving VA benefits. The VA only pays for courses a student completes. Lack of attendance or completion of any course could affect your benefits and create a debt with the VA.

    The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs will be notified of any student who is placed on probation or suspended from CCS.

    The Department of Veteran Affairs will pay for a student to repeat a course if the original grade received was a 0.0 or if the grade received does not meet the minimum requirement for graduation.

    The College’s refund policy for tuition and fees for students who drop a course(s) or withdraw from the College can be found in CCS Policy Database.

    Veterans receiving assistance under Chapter 31 or 33 will not incur any penalties, including the assessment of late fees, the denial of access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities, or the requirement that a covered individual borrow additional funds, on any covered individual because of the individual’s inability to meet his or her financial obligations to the institution due to the delayed disbursement funding from VA.

    Questions regarding veteran and military assistance may be directed to the VA School Certifying Official, Thomas Turoczi, tturoczi@ccsdetroit.edu or via phone at 313-664-7832.

  • Tuition Refund Insurance

    Students will be charged and automatically enrolled in a Tuition Refund Insurance Plan each semester. Subject to the program terms and conditions, if a student withdraws from all classes due to a personal injury, sickness, or mental illness, the Tuition Refund Insurance Plan will cover the following:

    Injury and Sickness Withdrawals

    75% of the insured term tuition and fees, less any refund or credit due you from the college, will be refunded provided your physical condition is certified by a licensed physician and forces you to completely withdraw from all classes for the balance of the term.

    Mental Health Withdrawals

    75% of the insured term tuition and fees, less any refund or credit due you from the college, will be refunded provided your medical condition is certified by a licensed physician and you have completely withdrawn from all classes for a condition whose diagnosis is found in the DSM-V Manual.

    In both cases, a “complete withdrawal” from the college is required. This means the student has given written notice that due to an injury or sickness he/she will not be able to complete the term and will not receive any academic credit. A written statement from a doctor certifying the injury or sickness and college verification is required. All mental health withdrawals will be classified in accordance with the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual DSM-V.

    For more information regarding the Plan please go to:

    https://www.tuitionprotection.com/collegeforcreativestudies

    Tuition Refund Insurance – Opt Out

    To opt out of the tuition refund insurance you must go to the following website and complete the Waiver Form.

    https://www.tuitionprotection.com/collegeforcreativestudies

  • Record Retention

    The following chart lists the record retention requirements for various areas of the College. The Record Retention Committee is responsible for reviewing this information on an annual basis and updating as needed.

    Reviewed and Updated: April 2025

    Data/DocumentsMinimum Retention Time
    Academic Advising and Registration
    Academic action authorizations (dismissal, etc.)7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Academic records (including demographic info and transcripts)Permanent
    Advanced placement & other placement tests7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Applications for graduation1 year after graduation ro date of last attendance
    Applications for readmission7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Audit authorizations1 year after date submitted
    Changes of course (add/drop)1 year after date submitted
    Change of grade formsPermanent
    Class lists (original grade sheets)Permanent
    Class schedules (students)1 year after graduation or date of last attendance
    Correspondence, relevant7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Credit by exam reports/scores (CLEP, PEP)7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Credit/no credit approvals (audit, pass/fail etc.)1 year after date submitted
    Curriculum change form7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Degree audit records7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Enrollment verifications1 year after verification
    Fee assessment forms7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    FERPA documentsSee FERPA schedule – permanet record retention
    Grade reports (registrar’s copies)1 year after date submitted
    Graduation authorizations7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Graduattion ListsPermanent
    Hold or encumbrance authorizations7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Military records7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Name change authorizations7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Pass/fail requests1 year after date submitted
    Personal data information forms1 year after graduation or date of last attendance
    Placement test records/scores7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Registration forms1 year after date submitted
    Teacher certificationsPermanent
    Transcript requests (student)1 year after date submitted
    Transfer credit evaluations7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Veterans Administration3 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Withdrawal authorizations2 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Admissions Office
    Acceptance letters – International Students3 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Admissions decision and scholarship data1 year after graduation or date of last attendance
    Advanced Placement Records1 year after graduation or date of last attendance
    Application data for admission1 year after graduation or date of last attendance
    Entrance exams/test scores (ACT, SAT, TOEFL)1 year after graduation or date of last attendance
    Letters of Recommendation1 year after graduation or date of last attendance
    Recruitment materialsMay dispose of materials after enrollment
    Other test scores1 year after graduation or date of last attendance
    Scholarship letters – International Students3 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Transcripts – high schools7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Transcripts – international high schools and colleges7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Transcripts – other colleges7 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Argonaut Building/Argo-Business Services
    Closing Document Binders (agreements with financing sources, Articles of Incorporation of all entities, other corporate papers37 years
    Contractor Contracts (all signed contracts during the construction/renovation phases)37 years
    Draw Packages (Contractor Invoices, legal invoices, payments, paper & electronic)37 years
    IRS Tax Returns (returns filed for all entities)37 years
    Reporting Documents (Statements, officer certificates, other reporting documents necessary for compliance with bonds, loan and tax credit requirements, paper & electronic)37 years
    Business Services
    Accounts Payable/Receivables (cash reports, month-end reports, bank reconciliation, consolidated reports)7 years (fiscal year) from date of creation
    Accounts Payable/Receivables (year-end reports)Permanent
    Bond (compliance reports, bank statements)Permanent
    Bookstore (price list keep indefinitely for textbooks)Permanent
    Cancelled Checks (relating to expenditures)7 years (fiscal year) from date of creation
    Expense Records (travel & expense reports, American Express, Mastercard)7 years (fiscal year) from date of creation
    Fixed Assets/Depreciation Schedule (inventory listing of furniture, equipment, computers, etc)Permanent
    Internal Revenue Tax Returns, other returns (returns submitted on our behalf by auditors, sales & usage tax report)Permanent
    Leasing AgreementsPermanent
    Official budget and revisions (approved budget, draft worksheets, electronic documents)7 years (fiscal year) from date of creation
    Purchase Orders (purchase req’s submitted by departments, original PO used for materials)7 years (fiscal year) from date of creation
    Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Data/Documents (FERPA)
    Request for formal hearingsPermanent
    Requests & diclosures of personally identifiable infoPermanent
    Student requests for nondisclosures of directory infoUntil terminated by student or parent
    Student statements on content of records regarding hearing panel discussionsPermanent
    Student’s written consent for records disclosureUntil terminated by student or parent
    Waivers for rights of accessUntil terminated by student or parent
    Written decision of hearing panelsPermanent
    Financial Aid Office
    Financial Aid documents3 years after annual audit has been accepted by DOE
    Financial aid assistance records3 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Social security certifications3 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Human Resources
    Background Check7 years after employee termination
    Disciplinary Records7 years after employee termination
    Drug Test Results7 years after employee termination
    Employee and Faculty HandbooksPermanent
    Employee Applications7 years after employee termination
    Employee Benefit Election Forms7 years after employee termination
    Employee Benefit Plan Information6 years after filing or 1 year after plan termination whichever is longer
    Employee Offer Letter7 years after employee termination
    Employee Unemployment Insurance Information7 years after employee termination
    Employee Workers Compensation Information7 years after employee termination
    Employment Records7 years after employee termination
    ERISA Plan Descriptions and Related Documents7 years after filing
    FMLA Related Documents7 years after employee termination
    Form 55006 years after date of filing
    HR PoliciesWhile current + 3 years
    I-9 Documents1 year after termination or 3 years after date of hire (which ever is later
    Interview Evaluation and Assessment Results7 years after employee termination
    Job Applications (Hires)7 years after employee termination
    Job Applications (Non Hires)1 year from date application is received – 3 years if interviewed
    Job DescriptionsPermanent
    Performance Evaluations7 years after employee termination
    Personnel Files7 years after employee termination
    Summary Plan Descriptions, Annual Reports, Summary Annual Reports6 years after date of filing
    Institutional Advancement
    Advancement Events / Receptions etc. InformationWhen administrative value ends, records may be destroyed
    Alumni RecordsPermanent
    Annual Reports (endowment, scholarship, etc)7 years
    Biographical records (prospects & donors)Permanent
    Cash and non-cash gift records7 years
    Donor documentation7 years after expenditure of the gift or donation
    Gift / Pledge Records7 years hard copies, electronic permanently
    Gift acknowledgement letters7 years
    Gift Ageements (scholarship, sponsored project, etc.)Permanent
    Gift batch records7 years
    Revenue Records Contributions, Grant and Non Gift Records – all documents supporting the transaction such as donor correspondence except for credit card information7 years hard copies, electronic permanently
    Office of Civil Rights
    Hate, bias, and discrimination complaintsPermanent
    Title IX Case recordsPermanent
    Office of Global Engagement
    Academic records of enrollemnt3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Addresses of student for duration of program3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Admissions acceptance letter3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Appication to the college and supporting adm requirements3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Concurrent Enrollment documents3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Copy of 1-943 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Copy of employment authorization card3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Curricular Practical Training authorizations3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    F1, F2, J1 & J2 Visa copies3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Financial and support documents for initial I203 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    I-20s issued3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    ISSO forms3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Passport Information3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Program extension approval documents3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Reduced Course load authorization documents3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    STEM OPT I983 Trainging plan3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Termination reasons3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Transcripts3 Years after graduation| OPT/ STEM OPT dates or last attendance
    Office of Partnerships
    Agreements (Sponsored Projects, Design Sprints, Competitions)7 years
    External Partner Contact Information (NEON)Ongoing
    For Credit Internship Paperwork3 years
    Events Records (attendance, post event surveys)3 years
    Portoflio Site (hire.ccsdetroit.edu includes student portfolio1 year after graduation/alumni continued inclusion if requested
    Precollege and Continuing Studies
    Articulation Agreements/MOUs7 years
    Camp DocsWhen administrative value ends, records may be destroyed
    Non-Colleague Outreach Agreements and Program Details3 years
    Precollege and Continuing Studies Catalog5 years
    Publications, Statistical Data/Documents and Institutional Reports
    CatalogsPermanent (digital and/or paper)
    Commencement ProgramsPermanent (digital and/or paper)
    Degree StatisticsPermanent (digital and/or paper)
    Enrollment StatisticsPermanent (digital and/or paper)
    Grade StatisticsPermanent (digital and/or paper)
    Schedule of ClassesPermanent (digital and/or paper)
    Student Affairs
    ADA records3 years after graduation or date of last attendance
    Disciplinary action recordsPermanent
    Emotional Support Animal recordsPrior academic year retained
    Housing Application dataPrior academic year retained
    Housing charge recordsPrior academic year retained
    Housing withdrawal recordsPrior academic year retained
    Meal plan contractsPrior academic year retained
    Medical records3 years after graduation or date of last attendance

  • Disbursement of Financial Aid/Refunds

    The main award year consists of two semesters (Fall and Winter) for a total of 31 weeks. Awards are credited to student accounts at the beginning of each semester and are based on full-time status (12 credits or more). Awards will be adjusted for students attending less than full-time based on their actual semester enrollment. Students must be enrolled at least half-time (six credits) to receive most kinds of financial aid.

    Students whose total financial aid is greater than the charges owed to the school will receive a refund for the overage. Refunds for for all borrowers at CCS will be processed the week before each semester is set to begin. If your financial aid funds and/or supplemental loans are in excess tuition and housing charges owed to CCS, the Cashier’s office will issue a refund check to you for the overage. It is important to remember that financial aid is disbursed on a per semester basis, so if you have taken out an additional $5000 for the year, you will receive $2500 during the fall semester, and $2500 during the winter semester. Refund checks are printed in the Cashier’s office every Friday. You may also set up Direct Deposit for your refund through the Business Office.

    ALL STUDENTS entitled to a refund should expect the refund within first the 1-2 weeks of the start of the semester.

  • Academic Probation and Suspension – Undergraduate Students

    Academic progress is monitored at the end of each semester. Students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 to be considered in good academic standing.

    If a student has less than a cumulative 2.0 GPA, he/she/they is placed on academic probation for a period of one semester. If the student fails to achieve a 2.0 cumulative grade point average at the end of the academic probation semester, he or she is suspended from the College.**

    Grade Point Average Requirement For Art Education Majors

    In the Art Education program it is the student’s responsibility to maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.50 at the end of each term. Additionally, teacher candidates must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.70 in Art Education courses. Only grades of “C” or better will be accepted in required art education courses. If a student receives a grade of “C-” or below they must retake the course to obtain a grade of “C” or better. Students not meeting the Art Ed GPA requirements should meet with the Chair and the appropriate instructor to evaluate progress and identify areas for support. Additionally, the Center for Tutoring and Writing is available for all students seeking assistance with any course content. The higher grade is always recorded for purposes of calculating cumulative GPA.

    Notification of Unsatisfactory Academic Progress

    Students who do not meet the College’s academic standards will be notified, by the Registrar, in writing via a letter sent to the preferred address on file. This letter will provide information about the requirements for students placed on academic probation or the process for readmission if the student has been suspended from the College.

    Academic Probation Policy

    Students, who fail to meet the 2.0 cumulative grade point average requirement, are placed on academic probation for one semester. Students on academic probation will be restricted to a credit load of 12-13* hours and will be required to follow an Academic Success Plan. Students who do not exit academic probation status at the end of the subsequent semester will be suspended from the College**. Students who meet the 2.0 Cumulative GPA requirement the subsequent semester, are returned to “good academic standing”.

    *Exceptions to credit load restrictions will be determined upon review.

    Academic Suspension Policy

    Students suspended for failing to meet the cumulative GPA requirements, must adhere to the “academic suspension restrictions”. Students on academic suspension have the option to appeal by submitting an application for readmission to the Academic Advising & Registration Office (see full details under Appeal Process for Readmission).

    Students suspended for disciplinary reasons or who have exhausted appeal submissions, will not be considered for reinstatement through an academic appeal process.

    Academic Suspension Restrictions

    Students on Academic Suspension are restricted from the following as long as the suspension status is active:

    • Registration of any CCS Course(s), including non-credit and/or continuing education courses.
    • Use of Campus facilities. Students with “I” grades and previous approved campus access, will need to contact the assigning Instructor to confirm alternative options for assignment completion (outside of CCS facility use).
    • Living in or maintaining CCS Housing and/or Meal Plans. Contracts will be canceled or deactivated until the suspension status is resolved. The CCS Housing Office will confirm all exit and cancellation procedures.
    • Student Aid may be discontinued and loan repayments may be required after 6 months away from college. The Financial Aid Office will verify Student Aid status and requirements.
    • Veteran, dependents and/or GI Bill benefits will not be certified. VA Certifying Official will confirm additional requirements.

    **Academic Suspension Exceptions:

    Students who do not obtain the minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA, but have achieved the following at the end of the probation semester, may be granted “Continued Academic Probation” by the Registrar’s Office for displaying substantial improvement:

    1. successfully completed 67% of attempted credits in the probation semester (and)
    2. obtained a semester GPA of 2.0 or higher at the end of the probation semester.

    **Students granted “Continued Academic Probation” must also confirm status of Financial Aid eligibility before choosing to enroll in the approved semester. Satisfactory Academic Progress (including cumulative GPA requirements) is evaluated to determine Financial Aid. 

    Students granted “Continued Academic Probation” will be required to follow the probation policy requirements for an additional semester. Students who do not meet the cumulative GPA requirements at the end of the semester, are suspended from the college.

    Appeal Process for Academic Suspension

    Students who have been confirmed and notified of their suspension may appeal their “academic suspension” from the College by submitting the following to the Academic Advising & Registration Office:

    1. Submit Application for Readmission:
      • For readmission to a Winter term, must reapply by October 31 deadline
      • For readmission to a Fall term, must reapply by July 31 deadline
    2. Submit Explanation of Suspension
    3. Pay $50 Readmission Fee

    Appeals should be based on circumstances beyond the student’s control such as, injury or illness, death of a relative, or other special circumstances. The appeal must explain the failure to make satisfactory progress and what has changed that will allow satisfactory progress in the future (address the problems that led to the academic suspension and put forth the case outlining success upon returning to CCS). This information must be provided in the “Student Explanation” section of the Application for Readmission.

    The faculty Academic Performance Committee will review appeal submissions during the next academic semester. After the review is completed, students will receive a letter from the Registrar’s Office, on behalf of the Academic Performance Committee, stating the outcome of the appeal hearing.

    Appeal Approved

    A student who successfully appeals the status of suspension and whose appeal is granted will be placed on “Continued Academic Probation” and will be required to follow all standard probation requirements in addition to requirements outlined by the Academic Performance Committee. Academic Progress is reviewed again at the end of the Continued Academic Probation semester, in which the student must meet the academic standards.

    If a student fails to meet the academic standards after the appealed suspension, the student is returned to the status of suspension indefinitely and dismissed from the college.