continuing studies & early college : frequently asked questions

Who are we?
The Continuing Studies Department of MECA offers open-enrollment courses for adults, youth, and children.

What are classes like?
Classes are relatively small and most are held in the studio classrooms of the College. Most courses can be taken for credit or non-credit. Students are members of the community who take courses for personal enrichment and professional development. Instructors are practicing artists; some also teach in the College's degree program.

How do I get a catalog?
Email us at cstudy@meca.edu or call 207.879.5742 ext. 761 and leave a message with your name, mailing address, and a daytime phone number. Spelling of unusual names is appreciated! You can also use our online form to request a catalog.

How to register?
You can register by phone, online, FAX, by mail, or in person. Registrations must be accompanied by full payment and are processed in the order received. Many classes fill quickly, so early enrollment is advised.

When is the registration deadline?
The decision to cancel a class with low enrollment is usually made a week prior to the start of the class, so prompt registration is advisable.

What about withdrawal and refund policies?
Students must notify the Continuing Studies office at least six working days before the first meeting of a class for a refund. Please see "Withdrawal and Refund Policy".

Can you hold a spot for me?
No, we process registrations in the order in which we receive them. Full payment is due at the time of registration to assure your place. You can register by mail, online, in person, over the telephone (with a Mastercard, Visa, or Discover card), or you can fax your completed registration form to 207-879-5748.

We accept payments from a third party with a Purchase Order # or an Authorization Voucher from the Payor, such as Maine Dept. of Human Services. A student can be registered in a class once we have been contacted by the Payor.

What discounts are available?
Discounts are available to:

1) K-12 art teachers who teach at least 20 hours per week. We need a letter from the school each semester verifying current employment

2) employees and docents of Portland Museum of Art

3) MECA faculty, staff and (during the academic year) BFA and MFA degree students

4) graduates of MECA/Portland School of Art.

Call 207.879.5742 ext. 761 for details.

Do you have a financing plan? Can I make partial payments?
No, payment in full is due at the time of registration. There is information on loans (PLATO) available to CS students.

If a course is full, what are my chances of getting in from the waiting list?
Completely unpredictable. We will be glad to add you to the list, and you will be called promptly if an opening occurs.

Can I just show up for the first class and hope there will be a spot?
No, only registered students who appear on the class list will be admitted to the first class. People already on the waiting list will be given priority for available spaces should they occur.

Can my high-school age child take a course in the adult program?
Yes, by exception, for students who will be at least 17 years old at the time of the class. A personal interview, portfolio review, and permission of the instructor is required. Spaces are limited.

Can my 5-year-old take the Creative Kids class?
Sorry, we are firm about the grade and/or age limits in the classes for younger students.

Why would I take a class for credit vs. non-credit?
You should take the course for credit if you want to receive a grade (pass/unsatisfactory/fail, or a letter grade if specifically requested of the instructor at the beginning of the class). Should you ever need any record that you completed the requirements of the class (you are listing the course on your resume, you are seeking reimbursement from your employer, you need an
official transcript), you should take the class for credit. If the class is only available for non-credit, and documentation is required, select the CEU option at registration.

What do you know about the instructor?
See the bio information that follows each course description in the catalog. If you need more information, please call 207.879.5742 ext. 761. If you need to speak to the instructor, we will see that he/she gets your message.

What do I bring to the first class?
Whatever you need to bring, if anything, will be specified at the end of each course description in the brochure. Sometimes a supply list is mailed out with confirmation materials or provided during the first class.

What if I miss a class or two?
It is fairly common for a CS student to miss a class. In some cases, your instructor may be able to review missed material, depending on the course.

What about refunds?
Please review the refund/credit policy in the CS brochure and the "Withdrawal and Refund Policy" online.

Will this class be eligible for the federal Lifetime Learning Credit?
Consult with your tax preparer to determine if this is applicable.