Academic Expectations Academic Expectations • • • • • • •
Course Expectations Course Completion Honor Code Grade Changes Grade Point Average Computation Academic Standing Graduation
COURSE EXPECTATIONS Syllabus/Course Outline The course syllabus is the student’s guide to the course. Students should receive a syllabus at the beginning of each course describing the course, policies within the course, and procedures that govern the delivery of the course. Students are responsible for obtaining the syllabus, or for having access to it electronically, and understanding the course policies it contains. Any questions about information in the syllabus should be directed to the instructor. Assignments and Testing Students should be aware of specific assignments, the scope of the assignments, due dates, grading criteria, and the application of the assignment to the course grade. Students should clarify these points with the instructor prior to submitting the assignment for grading. Students should be aware of testing policies as written in the course syllabus. If the student is unable to take a test at the assigned time, the student is responsible for arranging an alternate testing time and making any other needed arrangements with faculty members prior to the test date. This is in effect only for those courses in which alternative test arrangements are an option. The alternate testing process includes accommodation for disability support services and absences on the day of the exam for illness or family issues. Students should clarify how to address alternate testing with the individual faculty member prior to the first exam. Course Performance Faculty members design course activities that assist students to acquire, comprehend, and apply knowledge and skills in a variety of subject areas. The course
2013 – 2014 Catalog
Getting Started
syllabus is designed to provide information about the structure of the course and methods of determining successful course completion. Faculty assign grades that indicate achievement of course outcomes. Student behaviors such as class attendance, class participation, completion of all assignments, and passing marks on all graded activities, are the foundation for a student’s success in a course. Attendance Regular attendance is expected in all classes. When students register for courses, they assume responsibility for attendance and the completion of course work. The student who must miss class meetings is responsible for providing a legitimate excuse for absence to the instructor and making acceptable arrangements for completing required course work. COURSE COMPLETION Academic Letter Grades The method of grading is an integral part of the course structure and is the same for all students taking the course. All course grades are letter grades unless otherwise specified in the course syllabus. Instructors are required to state their grading policies in writing at the beginning of each course. Instructors will provide students enrolled in their courses with a syllabus containing the grading policy for the course as well as information about course content and requirements, including homework, exams, and attendance policies. The following grades appear on academic records: A
Indicates exceptional quality, originality, independent work, a thorough mastery of the subject and the completion of more work than is required.
B
Indicates outstanding ability above the average level of performance.
C
Indicates a satisfactory or average level of performance and lowest passing grade in program specialization requirements.
D
Indicates work of below average quality and performance. The lowest passing grade.
21