# Course Substitution (Skipping a Prerequisite or Required Course) ## Overview A **course substitution petition** allows you to request approval to use a different course to fulfill a requirement, or to skip a prerequisite course based on equivalent experience or prior coursework. ## Types of Substitutions ### 1. Prerequisite Substitution Used when you have completed equivalent coursework at another institution or through other means that should satisfy a course prerequisite. **Common scenarios:** - Transfer courses that don't articulate directly but cover equivalent content - Military training or work experience - Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) credit - Credit by examination ### 2. Degree/Certificate Requirement Substitution Used when you need to substitute a required course in your degree or certificate program with a different course. **Common scenarios:** - Course no longer offered - Scheduling conflicts that prevent completion - Equivalent course taken at another institution - Medical or disability accommodation ## How to Submit a Petition ### Step 1: Gather Documentation Collect relevant evidence: - Course syllabi from other institutions - Transcripts showing completed coursework - Letters from instructors or supervisors - Certificates or credentials - Work experience documentation ### Step 2: Visit Counseling Office **Location:** Cesar E. Chavez Student Services Center, Building 68, 2nd Floor **Hours:** - Fall & Spring: Monday-Tuesday 8:00am-6:30pm, Wednesday-Thursday 8:00am-5:00pm, Friday 8:00am-3:00pm - Summer: Monday-Thursday 8:00am-6:00pm **Contact:** - Phone: (619) 421-6700 ext. 5240 - Email: [email protected] ### Step 3: Meet with a Counselor Schedule an appointment through the [Counseling Front Desk](https://swccd.craniumcafe.com/group/general-counseling-front-desk/lobby) to discuss: - Your specific situation - Required documentation - Chances of approval - Alternative options ### Step 4: Complete Petition Form Your counselor will help you: - Fill out the appropriate petition form - Attach supporting documentation - Route to the correct department for approval ### Step 5: Wait for Approval - Processing time varies (typically 1-3 weeks) - Check your student email regularly - Follow up if you don't receive a response within 3 weeks ## Approval Process **Chain of approval may include:** 1. Academic counselor (initial review) 2. Department chair/coordinator (for prerequisite waivers) 3. Dean of the relevant division (for degree requirement substitutions) 4. Admissions & Records (final processing) ## Important Notes - **Timing:** Submit petitions well before registration deadlines - **No guarantee:** Meeting with a counselor doesn't guarantee approval - **Appeals:** If denied, you may appeal with additional documentation or justification - **Prerequisites for safety:** Some prerequisites (lab safety, clinical requirements) cannot be waived regardless of experience - **Accreditation:** Certain programs have strict accreditation requirements that limit substitutions ## Alternative: Credit for Prior Learning For extensive work experience or military training, consider [[Credit for Prior Learning]] instead of a substitution petition. See the [Credit for Prior Learning office](https://www.swccd.edu/student-support/credit-for-prior-learning/) for more information. ## Related Resources - [[Waiving a Class]] - For waiving graduation requirements - [Student Education Plan (SEP)](https://www.swccd.edu/student-support/counseling-and-career-advisement/student-education-plan-sep.aspx) - [SWC Catalog - Academic Regulations](https://catalog.swccd.edu/academic-regulations/) - [Transfer Center](https://www.swccd.edu/student-support/transfer-connections/) - For transfer course evaluations