Chapter 100 Academic Affairs
OFFICIAL AND UNOFFICIAL ADMINISTRATIVE WITHDRAWALS
Authority: Issued by the Chancellor. Changes or exceptions to administrative policies issued by the Chancellor may only be made by the Chancellor.
Category: Academic Affairs
Applies to: ●Administrators ●Faculty ●Staff ●Students
History: Approved - December 30, 2009 First Issued - February 3, 2010
Related Policies: Involuntary Protective Withdrawal
Contact for Info: Office of Enrollment Management (910) 672-1784
I. INTRODUCTION
It is the expectation of Fayetteville State University (FSU) that students will attend all of their classes regularly and consistently and be responsible for notifying faculty members, in advance, of the reasons for any class absences. Attendance in classes taught online is understood to mean regular and consistent interaction with the course website and instructor and submission of assignments according to stated deadlines. Students who are enrolled for a semester/term but stop attending classes shall be required to officially withdraw from FSU. Students who stop attending all classes during a semester, but fail to officially withdraw from FSU, shall be administratively withdrawn by the University in accordance with this policy.
II. GRADES
Receipt by a student of one or more of the following grades may lead to the initiation of the administrative withdrawal process:
A. Interim (Warning) Grade for Excessive Absences (EA)
Beginning on the day after the close of registration for each semester/term and continuing until the deadline for withdrawing from the University, a faculty member shall assign an interim grade of EA (Excessive Absences) to an officially enrolled student who has four (4) consecutive hours of unexcused absences or whose absences jeopardize the student's success in the class. In assigning an interim grade of EA, the faculty member shall determine the last date of attendance for each student who will receive an EA grade.
For online courses, a faculty member shall assign an interim grade of EA to a student who does not interact with the course website for more than one (1) week or who fails to respond to the faculty member's request(s) for information.
Students and their advisors shall be notified of the EA interim grade. Once the student is notified of the EA grade, the student shall either resume class attendance or withdraw from the class or the University by the specified deadline. If the student does neither, the student shall receive a final grade of FN (failure due to non-attendance).
The EA interim grade is not intended to apply to students who have excused absences. Students are responsible for providing written documentation of excused absences to faculty members. "Excused absences" are limited to documented personal illness, family emergencies, or participation in University sponsored activities.
B. Final Grades
- Failure Due to Non-Attendance (FN)
If a student does not take corrective action in response to an EA interim grade, the instructor shall assign the student a final grade of FN - failure due to non-attendance. Faculty who assign FN grades shall specify the last date of attendance. - Failure Due to Performance (F)
If a student earns a final grade of F due to his or her performance in class, the faculty member shall specify the student's last date of attendance which will normally be the date of the final exam. - Administrative Withdrawal from the University (WUA)
This grade will be assigned to all classes in which a student is enrolled if it is determined that the student stopped attending class during the semester even if the student did not officially withdraw from the university. The WUA grade is equivalent to the WU grade in terms of calculation of GPA and attempted and earned hours.
III. ADMINISTRATIVE WITHDRAWAL PROCESS
A. Review of Student Records
At the end of each semester, the Office of Enrollment Management shall determine which students should be administratively withdrawn by reviewing the final grades of all students in accordance with the following criteria:
- Students with FN grades in more than half of their classes and no grade of D or better in other classes will be administratively withdrawn from the university. Such students shall be assigned a final grade of WUA in all of the classes for the semester/term.
- Students with a combination of F, FN, or W final grades, and no grade of D or better, shall have their record reviewed to determine if they stopped attending all classes based on the date of last attendance recorded by each faculty member who assigned FN and F grades. If it is determined that the student did not complete the semester, the student will be assigned WUA grades in all classes. If the records indicate that the student completed the semester in at least one class, the student shall NOT receive WUA grades.
B. Effective Date of Administrative Withdrawal
The effective date of an administrative withdrawal shall be based on the following considerations:
- The latest date identified by faculty as the last date of attendance shall be the effective date of the administrative withdrawal, except as noted below.
- Should a student withdraw from a class after the last date of attendance cited by the instructor, the date of the student's actual withdrawal from the class shall be used as the effective date of the administrative withdrawal.
- If records show that at a date later than any date cited above the student met with an advisor, participated in a study group or academic support activity, completed assignments in Blackboard, or had some other documented interaction with university personnel, then a determination shall be made by the Office of Enrollment Management as to whether the date of the activity will serve as the effective date of withdrawal.
IV. ADJUSTMENT OF TUITION AND FINANCIAL AID
All forms of financial aid - including, but not limited to scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans - are provided to support students who are attending classes and making satisfactory progress toward degree completion. When the effective date of an administrative withdrawal is determined, the University shall apply its policies on refunds to re-calculate tuition and fees and make appropriate adjustments to a student's financial aid. Administrative withdrawal may result in the requirement for recipients of financial aid to repay all or some of the aid they received for that semester.
V. COURSE SYLLABI REQUIREMENT
Beginning with the spring 2010 semester, all course syllabi will include the following statements:
Policy on Administrative Withdrawal from the University: All students are expected to attend all classes regularly and consistently and are responsible for notifying faculty members, in advance, of the reasons for class absences. "Class attendance" in classes taught online is understood as regular and consistent interaction with the course website and instructor and submission of assignments according to stated deadlines. All forms of financial aid -- including scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans - are provided to support students who are attending classes and making satisfactory progress toward degree completion. To ensure accuracy of their academic records and financial accounts, students who are enrolled for a semester/term but stop attending classes are required to complete the official withdrawal process. Students who stop attending all classes in a semester will be administratively withdrawn from the university and may be required to make immediate repayment of all or some of the aid they received for that semester.
AWARDING OF POSTHUMOUS DEGREES AND DEGREES IN MEMORIAM
Authority: Issued by the Chancellor. Changes or exceptions to administrative policies issued by the Chancellor may only be made by the Chancellor.
Category: Academic Affairs Applies to: ●Faculty ●Staff ●Students
History: Approved - August 1, 2005
Issued - August 1, 2005
Related Policies: The Code of the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina
Contact for Info: Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (910) 672-1460
I. Purpose
There are unfortunate occasions when students die during their enrollment at Fayetteville State University. In appropriate recognition of a student's academic achievement when the student's progress would have likely fulfilled the requirements of a degree, Fayetteville State University establishes this policy to identify the requirements and procedures for awarding a posthumous baccalaureate or graduate degree or a degree in memoriam.
II. Awarding of a Posthumous Degree
The student's major department chairperson, a faculty member, or an immediate family member of the deceased student may request that a posthumous degree be awarded to the deceased student. The written request (in the form of a letter) must be sent to the student's major department chairperson and received within twelve (12) months of the student's death. The student must have been continuously enrolled at Fayetteville State University until the time of the onset of a terminal illness, an injury, or death. The recommending department shall submit its request and supporting student transcripts to the appropriate dean of the college or school.
The dean shall certify that the following conditions are met before approval:
A. Baccalaureate Degree
- The student was enrolled and attending classes that, at the successful completion thereof, would have qualified him/her for graduation at the close of that term or semester.
- The student is in good academic standing.
- The major department approves the awarding of the degree.
B. Graduate Degree
- The thesis/dissertation student has completed all of the substantive requirements for the degree, and submitted a suitable draft of the thesis/dissertation. The non-thesis student has completed all course work, and is eligible to take comprehensive exams.
- The student is in good academic standing.
- The major department approves the awarding of the degree.
If approved, the dean's recommendation, with the supporting request and transcripts, shall be forwarded to the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs ("Provost"). The Provost shall then notify the Chancellor for appropriate action. If the Chancellor approves the recommendation to award a posthumous degree, the Provost shall notify the Registrar that it is proper to award the degree. The degree may be presented to the family of the deceased student at the next commencement ceremony, or the diploma may be mailed to the family of the deceased student. The decision to present the degree or mail the diploma will rest with the family.
III. Awarding of a Degree in Memoriam
The University may also award a degree in memoriam, upon written request, to a student who was in good standing at the University at the time of his or her death and who does >not meet the requirements necessary to be awarded a posthumous degree. Diplomas for Degrees in Memoriam will be prepared to read "Bachelor of Arts in Memoriam, Bachelor of Science in Memoriam," Master of Arts in Memoriam," etc., depending upon the degree the student was pursuing at the time of his or her death. Undergraduate students who have not chosen a major at the time of death will be awarded the "Bachelor of Arts in Memoriam."
Upon the death of a student, the student's major department chairperson, a faculty member, or an immediate family member of the deceased student may request that a degree in memoriam be awarded to the deceased student The written request (in the form >of a letter) must be sent to the student's major department chairperson and received within twelve (12) months of the student's death. The student must have been continuously enrolled at Fayetteville State University until the time of the onset of a terminal illness, an injury, or death.
The recommending department shall submit its request and supporting student transcripts to the appropriate dean of the college or school. The dean shall certify that the deceased student was in good standing at the university at the time of his or her death.
If approved, the dean's recommendation, with the supporting request and transcripts, shall be forwarded to the Provost. The Provost shall then notify the Chancellor for appropriate action. If the Chancellor approves the recommendation to award a degree in memoriam, the Provost shall notify the Registrar that it is proper to award the degree. Once approved, the Provost shall forward the degree to the family of the deceased.
CONTINUING EDUCATION UNITS
(NON-CREDIT INSTRUCTION)
Authority: Issued by the Chancellor. Changes or exceptions to administrative policies issued by the Chancellor may only be made by the Chancellor.
Category: Academic Affairs
Applies to: Administrator Faculty Staff
History: Approved - September 17, 2010
First Issued - September 20, 2010
Related Policies: Guidelines for the Use of the Continuing Education Unit [UNC Policy 400.1.9[G]]
Contact for Info: Office of Extended Education (910) 672-1228
I. PURPOSE
A part of Fayetteville State University's ("FSU") mission is to provide a broad range of programs generally categorized as "public service." Public service programs are integral to the basic instructional and research responsibilities of the University, but they also have an identity and integrity apart from instruction and research. An important component of the FSU's public service is the non-credit continuing education programs awarded by the University.
Having recognized the importance of non-credit continuing education and its significance to FSU, this policy has been established to ensure that FSU's non-credit continuing education awards are aligned with the University of North Carolina Guidelines for the Use of Continuing Education Units and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) requirements that continuing education credits are awarded on the basis of nationally accepted program quality criteria and administrative procedures.
This policy is intended to apply to the development and operation of continuing education programs which award FSU continuing education units (CEUs). It is not intended to govern conferences, seminars, workshops, or other activities which may be sponsored by FSU but do not involve the awarding of FSU CEUs. It is not intended to govern continuing education awards or other activities by community partners.
II. CONTINUING EDUCATION UNITS (CEUs)
Continuing Education is non-degree-related, non-credit instruction for professional development. Forms of instruction include short courses, conferences, seminars, and workshops.
CEU's frequently are awarded upon completion of continuing education programs. A CEU records the extent of an individual's participation in non-credit continuing education programs, and should not be confused with or equated with performance in a course for degree credit. One CEU is equal to ten contact hours (one contact hour equals sixty minutes of instruction) of participation in a structured continuing education program with qualified sponsorship, direction and instruction. Contact hours include, (a) classroom or meeting session time between the student and instructor and (b) alternative instructional programs including supervised independent study; project based assignments; and field trips with duration of more than two hours/contact hours of instruction (not including travel time).
III. QUALIFYING CONTINUING EDUCATION UNIT PROGRAMS
Non-credit programs for which individuals may be awarded FSU CEUs shall satisfy the following criteria:
A. The program shall be planned to meet the educational needs of a specific target population of professionally trained individuals.
B. The following program elements shall be determined during the planning stages and prior to the time the program is approved for implementation: program purposes and objectives; student performance requirements; evaluation procedures suitable for measuring the effectiveness of program design and operation; and the number of contact hours to be recommended for satisfactory completion of performance requirements.
C. The program shall be of an instructional nature sponsored or approved by an academic unit of the campus most appropriate for determining the quality of program content and resource personnel.
D. Provisions made for student registration, shall include the gathering of sufficient information from the student to ensure a permanent record of individual participation.
IV. PROGRAM REVIEW AND APPROVAL PROCEDURE
A. All programs leading to an FSU award of CEUs must have approvals by the chair of a sponsoring academic department and the appropriate college dean prior to being submitted to Office of Extended Education's (OEE) for review.
B. OEE shall review all proposed FSU awards of CEUs to ensure that such programs are in compliance with FSU policies and the University of North Carolina Guidelines for the Use of Continuing Education Units. All requests must include a proposed budget. The OEE shall have final approval on all requested programs and shall notify the sponsor once the program has been approved.
C. Requests for approval of programs shall be submitted for review and approval no later than six (6) weeks prior to the programs' start date. A decision to award the CEUs cannot be made after the program has been offered.
V. ADMINISTRATION
A. In accordance with SACS and UNC regulations, only one unit/department on each campus will be responsible for the administration of the award of CEUs. At Fayetteville State University, the administrative responsibility for all programs awarding FSU CEUs shall rest with OEE.
B. OEE shall maintain records of all FSU CEUs awarded for no less than seven (7) years, along with a complete listing of all approved CEU programs. The form and content of these records shall be consistent with nationally recognized standards for the maintenance of CEU records for students and programs. Procedures for recording CEUs shall be established by the Division of Academic Affairs and the OEE.
DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR IN THE CLASSROOM
Authority: Issued by the Chancellor. Changes or exceptions to administrative policies issued by the Chancellor may only be made by the Chancellor.
Category: Academic Affairs
Applies to: ●Administrators ●Faculty ●Staff ●Students
History: Approved - November 17, 2008
First Issued - December 9, 2008
Related Policies: The Code of the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina
Fayetteville State University's Code of Student Conduct.
Contact for Info: Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (910) 672-1469
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs (910) 672-1211
Dean of Students (910) 672-1201
I. PURPOSE
Section 608 of The Code of the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina (the "UNC Code") explicitly states that "all students shall be responsible for conducting themselves in a manner that helps to enhance an environment of learning in which the rights, dignity, worth and freedom of each member of the academic community are reported." The UNC Code further provides that "it shall be the duty of the chancellor to exercise full authority in the regulation of student affairs and student conduct and discipline."
Disruptive classroom behavior is also a violation of Fayetteville State University's Code of Student Conduct (Section III.B.5.e.) which defines disorderly conduct to include acting in a manner so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it materially or substantially interferes with normal classroom procedures.
This policy is intended as initial response before enforcing Section III.B.5.e. of the university's Code of Student Conduct ("Code") as it relates to classroom conduct and to enforce the right of all students to receive instruction without interference by disruptive behavior from other students. This policy should be used as a first resort before referring conduct to the Dean of Students for a violation under Code.
This policy is not intended to address behavior that poses an imminent threat or danger to the student or others. Such behavior should be immediately reported to the Campus Police and the Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs.
II. DEFINITIONS
A. Classroom - Any setting, such as regular classrooms, laboratories, sites of field experiences or internships, or other settings, in which instruction is provided by an FSU faculty member.
B. Faculty Member - Any individual authorized by Fayetteville State University to provide instruction in a course in which students have the opportunity to earn academic credit.
C. Disruptive Behavior - As used in this policy, any student behavior that interferes with instruction and learning. Examples include, though are not limited to, the following:
- Failure to respect the rights of other students to express their viewpoints by behaviors such as repeatedly interrupting others while they speak, using profanity and/or disrespectful names or labels for others, ridiculing others for their viewpoints, and other similar behaviors;
- Excessive talking to other students while the faculty member or other students are presenting information or expressing their viewpoints;
- Use of cell phones and other electronic devices in violation of the class syllabus;
- Overt inattentiveness (sleeping, reading newspapers);
- Eating in class (except as permitted by the faculty member);
- Threats or statements that jeopardize the safety of the student and others;
- Failure to follow reasonable requests of faculty members; and/or
- Entering class late or leaving class early on a regular basis.
- Faculty members have the right to clarify specific forms of disruptive behavior beyond those cited above.
III. LIMITATIONS
This policy does not apply to situations in which faculty members believe that a student's behavior poses a threat to the student's own safety or the safety of others. In such cases, faculty members shall report the potentially dangerous behavior to the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs who will determine the appropriate response to the information provided. If there is an immediate threat or danger of bodily harm, the faculty shall report that behavior to the Campus Police immediately.
IV. RESPONSIBILITIES OF FACULTY MEMBERS
A. Instructional Setting
Faculty members are responsible for maintaining an instructional setting in which the rights of all students are respected. To establish such a setting, faculty members are responsible for:
- Behaving in ways that exhibit professionalism and civility;
- Providing in the course syllabus clear statements of expectations for student behavior; and
- Using instructional strategies that encourage students' active engagement in the learning process.
B. Application of Policy
Faculty members are responsible for applying this policy in a reasonable manner (as defined by what most faculty members in similar circumstances would consider reasonable). Faculty may not use the policy to limit the rights of students to express points of view different from that of the faculty member or other students.
Faculty members should seek guidance in handling cases of classroom misconduct from the Dean of Students and/or Legal Counsel. Current case law in higher education has been fairly consistent in setting higher standards of due process in conduct cases involving students than in academic cases.
C. Reporting an Incident of Disruptive Behavior
Each incident of disruptive behavior should be reported to the Dean of Students. Faculty members shall report such incidents on the university's Report of Disruptive Classroom Incident form which is included as a part of this policy.
Report of Disruptive Classroom Incident
V. RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS
A. Knowledge of and Adherence to this Policy
Students are responsible for knowing and adhering to the provisions of this policy. Claims of ignorance of the policy will not excuse unacceptable behavior.
B. Complying with Requests from Faculty Members
Students are required to comply with requests aimed at reducing disruptive behavior, such as requests to move to another seat, to put away cell phones and other devices, and to leave the classroom. Students must recognize that failure to comply with a faculty member's request constitutes an additional occurrence of disruptive behavior. A student's belief that a faculty member is applying this policy unfairly is not a basis for refusing to comply with that faculty member's directive.
C. Right of Appeal
There shall be no right of appeal for actions listed under Section VI. Severe sanctions (such as permanent removal from a class) cannot be imposed without the student being formally charged in accordance with the Code. Students charged with a violation of the Code must be advised of their rights as well as offered the opportunity for a hearing.
VI. RESPONSES TO DISRUPTIVE CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR
When a faculty member determines that a student is engaging in disruptive behavior, the
faculty member may take the following actions.
A. Direct Student to Cease Disruptive Behavior
A faculty member may ask a student to cease talking, use of cell phone or other device, or other behaviors that are disrupting class. Faculty members should strive to make requests in a respectful manner and tone.
B. Direct Student to Change Seating Locations
The faculty member may request a student to change his or her seating location to minimize disruptive behavior
C. Require Student to Have an Individual Meeting with the Faculty Member
The faculty member may meet with the student to discuss the disruptive behavior and warn him or her of the consequences of its continuation.
D. Direct Student to Leave Class for the Remainder of the Class Period
A directive to leave class for the remainder of the class period should be made only after the faculty member has had an individual conference with the student to warn the student of the consequences of continued disruptive behavior.
An exception to the requirement that a conference be initially held shall be when a student's behavior is threatening or abusive to others or is a potential threat to the safety of the student and/or others. If a student, who exhibits such behavior, refuses to leave class as directed by the faculty member, the faculty member may contact FSU's Police Department to request that the student be removed from the class.
E. Dismiss Class for the Period
A faculty member may dismiss class if he or she concludes that the disruptive behavior is so severe as to make instruction impossible. A faculty member is required to inform his or her immediate supervisor when a class is dismissed for this reason.
F. Deduct Points from a Student's Grade
A faculty member may deduct points from the final grade of students who continue to disrupt class despite repeated warnings by the faculty member. The student's grade shall not be reduced by more than one letter grade for disruptive behavior. The faculty member may deduct points from a student's grade only if the faculty member has had at least one individual conference with the student.
G. Filing a Complaint with the Dean of Students
If a faculty member is considering more severe sanctions against a student who is engaging in disruptive classroom behavior, the faculty member shall consult with the Dean of Students regarding filing a complaint against the student under the Code. Severe sanctions (such as permanent removal from a class) cannot be imposed without a formal charge for disorderly conduct or some other Code violation. A student who has been charged with a violation of the Code must be advised of his/her rights as well as offered the opportunity for a hearing.
HONORARY DEGREES
Authority: Issued by the Fayetteville State University (FSU) Board of Trustees. Changes or exceptions to administrative policies issued by the FSU Board of Trustees may only be made by the Chancellor upon the authorization of the FSU Board of Trustees.
Category: Academic Affairs
Applies to: ●Administrators ●Faculty ●Staff ●Students
History: Approved - March 25, 2010
Related Policies: Delegation of Duty and Authority to the Board of Trustees [Appendix 1 of The Code of the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina]
Contact for Info: Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (910) 672-1460
I. PURPOSE
Fayetteville State University (FSU) may honor individuals with an honorary degree for their distinguished achievements of extraordinary and lasting distinction in scholarship, creativity, leadership, humanitarian service, public service, for significant personal contributions or assistance made to Fayetteville State University or for significant accomplishments which are connected to the goals and mission of FSU. This policy outlines the process to be followed in awarding honorary degrees.
II. NOMINATION OF CANDIDATES FOR HONORARY DEGREES
Nominations of persons to receive an honorary doctoral degree may be made by any member of the University community (faculty, staff, students, alumni, trustees) and must be submitted, in writing, to the Office of the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (Provost), according to a calendar set by that office. Nominations must include:
- A description and explanation of the nominee's accomplishments;
- An explanation of how the accomplishments are connected to the goals and mission of FSU;
- An explanation of how the individual meets the criteria for receipt of an honorary degree;
- The nominee's curriculum vitae or other significant biographical information; and
- The name, address, and telephone number of the nominator.
III. EVALUATION OF CANDIDATES FOR HONORARY DEGREES
A. University Honorary Degree Advisory Committee
The Provost shall be responsible for convening the University Honorary Degree Advisory Committee (UHDAC). The UHDAC shall be responsible for evaluating all nominations and submitting final recommendation(s) to the Chancellor.
1. Membership
- The UHDAC shall consist of the following of the following seven (7) members:
- Three (3) faculty members selected by the Faculty Senate;
- One (1) graduate student selected by the Dean of Graduate Studies;
- One (1) undergraduate student selected by the President of the Student Government Association;
- One (1) staff member selected by the Staff Senate; and
- The Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs who shall serve as the chair of the UHDAC.
2. Terms
The faculty members shall serve staggered three-year terms and all other members (except the Provost) shall serve staggered two-year terms. Members may be reappointed for up to two (2) terms.
B. Candidate Evaluations
In evaluating nominees, the UHDAC shall consider only the information provided by the nominator or any publically available information. Under no circumstances may the UHDAC members solicit information from a nominee or disclose the names of individuals nominated for honorary degrees. All committee members shall maintain strict confidentiality of the nomination process.
IV. APPROVAL OF CANDIDATES FOR HONORARY DEGREES
The UHDRC shall forward its nominations for honorary degrees to the Chancellor for consideration. If the Chancellor approves of a nomination, the Chancellor shall forward his or her recommendation to the FSU Board of Trustees.
V. AWARDING OF HONORARY DEGREES
The FSU Board of Trustees is responsible for approving all honorary degrees to be conferred by the University, subject to such policies as may be established by the UNC Board of Governors. The FSU Board of Trustees shall make its selections of honorary degree recipients from nominations recommended by the Chancellor via the process outlined above.
Upon the approval of the FSU Board of Trustees, the Chancellor shall officially notify the individual upon whom an honorary degree will be conferred. Public announcement of a recipient of an honorary degree shall be made by the Chancellor or his or her designee.
The Chancellor shall determine when and where the honorary degree will be conferred.
RELIGIOUS OBSERVANCES
Authority: Issued by the Chancellor. Changes or exceptions to administrative policies issued by the Chancellor may only be made by the Chancellor.
Category: Academic Affairs
Applies to: Administrators Faculty Students
History: Approved: November 17, 2010
First Issued: November 17, 2010
Related Policies: North Carolina General Statutes § 116-11(3a)
Contact for Info: Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (910) 672-1884
Center for Personal Development (910) 672-1204
I. PURPOSE
The University Of North Carolina Board of Governors has directed Fayetteville State University (FSU) to adopt a policy (Policy) that authorizes a minimum of two (2) excused absences each academic year for religious observances required by the faith of a currently enrolled student. This Policy complies with that directive and with North Carolina law regarding excused absences for religious observances.
II. EXCUSED ABSENCES
Students shall be allowed a minimum of two (2) excused absences each academic year for religious observances required by the faith of the student. Such absences must be requested in accordance with the procedures in this Policy.
The minimum of two (2) excused absences from classes for religious observances shall not be counted against any mandatory attendance requirements; however beyond the minimum stated in this Policy, instructors shall maintain authority to establish and enforce the attendance policy for the courses they are teaching.
Students shall be given the opportunity to make up tests and other work missed due to an excused absence for a religious observance. Students shall not be relieved of their responsibility for any part of the course work required during their period of absence. Instructors may appropriately respond if a student fails to satisfactorily complete any alternative assignment or examination.
III. REQUESTING AN ABSENCE DUE TO RELIGIOUS OBSERVANCE
A. At least ten (10) calendar days prior to the date of the observance, a student shall complete the Request for Class Absence Due to Required Religious Observance form and submit it to the Center for Personal Development.
B. If the student has provided the Request for Class Absence Due to Required Religious Observance form to the Center for Personal Development in the time prescribed, the student shall be granted the excused absence as prescribed by this Policy. The Center for Personal Development shall be responsible for notifying the student's instructors of the student's approved absence.
C. The Center for Personal Development shall also be responsible for denying a student's request should the student have exceeded the student's two (2) excused absences, as allowed by this Policy. In such instances, the student should make a request for an excused absence due to a religious observance directly to the student's instructors. The instructor will evaluate the student's request according to the guidelines in the course syllabus regarding excused absences. If the student's request is approved, the student shall be responsible for completing all make-up assignments.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION FOR UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS
Authority: Issued by the Fayetteville State University (FSU) Board of Trustees. Changes or exceptions to administrative policies issued by the FSU Board of Trustees may only be made upon the authorization of the FSU Board of Trustees.
Category: Academic Affairs
Applies to: ●Administrators ●Faculty ●Staff ●Students
History: Revised - August 1, 2009
Approved - June 11, 2009
Related Policies: Regulations on Minimum Undergraduate Course Requirements and the Admission of Students Requiring Special Consideration [UNC Policy #700.1.1 [R]]
Contact for Info: Associate Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management (910) 672-1784
I. PURPOSE
The University of North Carolina (UNC) requires each campus to establish a policy for the admission of undergraduate students requiring special consideration with regard to campus-based admissions criteria. Fayetteville State University has established this policy in compliance with the aforementioned UNC directive. Specifically, this policy outlines the process to be followed for admitting undergraduate students requiring special consideration with regard to the following:
- Applicants who require special consideration as described under Special Consideration 6 of UNC Policy #700.1.1 [R] and
- Applicants who require special consideration with regard to campus-based admissions criteria.
II. SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR ADMISSION
A. Admission of Applicants Requiring Special Consideration
Due to unusual or special circumstances, the University may consider for admission, applicants who may or may not have met all the Minimum Course Requirements (MCR) as mandated by the University of North Carolina. Any student admitted who requires special consideration must show promise for academic success at FSU. Such applicants are described below.
1. Applicants who Fail to Meet UNC Minimum Undergraduate Course Requirements.
Applicants who, due to unusual or special circumstances, do not meet all of the MCRs, but who have achieved a superior academic record, as measured by grades, rank in class, admissions tests scores, the rigor of courses taken, or who demonstrate special talents may have some of the minimum requirements for applicants waived upon a finding that such individuals are qualified.
(Note: Any student who receives admission by this exception and has not met the requirement for the fourth unit of mathematics (beginning in Fall 2006) shall have 12 months from the first day of the first semester of the first year to fulfill the requirement. The course taken to fulfill this mathematics requirement may count as elective credit, but cannot be used to fulfill general education requirements after August 1, 2007. Exceptions may be granted for the fourth unit of mathematics requirement under this policy until September 1, 2010.)
2. Applicants who Fail to Meet Other Campus-Based Admissions Criteria
Applicants who fail to meet FSU-based admissions criteria may receive special consideration because they would not otherwise be admissible without further evaluation of their records.
B. Process for Admitting Applicants Requiring Special Consideration
The Director of Admissions shall identify applicants to be considered for special consideration and present such applicants to the Special Considerations Committee (Committee).
The Committee will engage in a holistic review of each application, taking into consideration academic and personal potential for success when deciding if a student should gain admission to the university. The Committee will consider recommendations, essays, extracurricular activities, awards, employment history, and community service. However, the overriding criterion in all admissions decisions shall be potential for academic success. Only students, who in the judgment of the Committee have a reasonable chance for achieving academic success (given the availability of academic support programs), shall be forwarded to the Chancellor for special consideration.
The Committee shall present information detailing the reasons for special consideration of an applicant. The final decision regarding the admission of the applicant shall be made by the Chancellor.
III. SPECIAL CONSIDERATION COMMITTEE
A Committee shall be established to consider requests from the Director of Admissions for the admission of applicants requiring special consideration. The composition of the Committee shall be as follows:
- One (1) faculty representative from each of the University's schools and college.
- Members of the University's administrative staff to include the Dean of Students, the Director of University College and the Director of Admissions.
The Director of Admissions shall serve as chair of the Committee.
IV. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
A. Reports on students who are admitted under Section II.A.1. of this Policy are required annually as a part of the student data file that FSU submits to the University of North Carolina. In addition, reports will be required annually to show that students who received exceptions from the fourth unit of mathematics have fulfilled this requirement by the start of the student's second year of study. The Chancellor shall be responsible for ensuring that this reporting requirement is met.
B. Reports on students who are admitted under Section II.A.2 of this Policy shall be made annually to the FSU Board of Trustees.
SUBSTANTIVE CHANGE
(SACSCOC)
Authority: Issued by the Chancellor. Changes or exceptions to administrative policies issued by the Chancellor may only be made by the Chancellor.
Category: Academic Affairs
Applies to: ●Administrators ●Faculty ●Staff
History: First Issued - September 8, 2021
Related Policies: Academic Catalog/Regulations
Regulations/Statutes: Regulation for Academic Program Planning and Evaluation [UNC Policy #400.1.1[R]
Substantive Change Policies and Procedures [SACSCOC]
Contact for Info: Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (910) 672-2309
SACSCOC Liaison (910) 672-2323
I. PURPOSE
Fayetteville State University (University) is required to comply with standards established by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools - Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). SACSCOC, as the University's accrediting body, requires the University to have a policy and procedures in place to ensure that all substantive changes (Substantive Change) are reported to SACSCOC in a timely manner. To comply with this requirement, the University has established this Substantive Change policy (Policy) which establishes the requirements, procedures, and processes necessary to ensure timely coordination and notification of Substantive Changes to SACSCOC. The University's SACSCOC Liaison will be responsible for notifying SACSCOC of any Substantive Changes in accordance with the Policy.
II. DEFINITION
SACSCOC defines a Substantive Change as a significant modification or expansion of the nature and scope of an accredited institution. Substantive Changes include high-impact, high-risk changes and changes that can impact the quality of educational programs and services.
III. REPORTABLE SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES
The following are considered Substantive Changes that must be reported to the SACSCOC Accreditation Liaison:
- Substantially changing the established mission or objectives of an institution or its programs.
- Changing the legal status, form of control, or ownership of an institution.
- Changing the governance of an institution.
- Merging / consolidating two or more institutions or entities.
- Acquiring another institution or any program or location of another institution.
- Relocating an institution or an off-campus instructional site of an institution (including a branch campus).
- Offering courses or programs at a higher or lower degree level than currently authorized.
- Adding graduate programs at an institution previously offering only undergraduate programs (including degrees, diplomas, certificates, and other for-credit credential).
- Changing the way an institution measures student progress, whether in clock hours or credit-hours; semesters, trimesters, or quarters; or time-based or non-time-based methods or measures.
- Adding a program that is a significant departure from the existing programs, or method of delivery, from those offered when the institution was last evaluated.
- Initiating programs by distance education or correspondence courses.
- Adding an additional method of delivery to a currently offered program.
- Entering into a cooperative academic arrangement.
- Entering into a written arrangement under 34 C.F.R. § 668.5 under which an institution or organization not certified to participate in the title IV Higher Education Act (HEA) programs offers less than 25% (notification) or 25-50% (approval) of one or more of the accredited institution's educational programs. An agreement offering more than 50% of one or more of an institution's programs is prohibited by federal regulation.
- Substantially increase or decreasing the number of clock hours or credit hours awarded or competencies demonstrated, or an increase in the level of credential awarded, for successful completion of one or more programs.
- Adding competency-based education programs.
- Adding each competency-based education program by direct assessment.
- Adding programs with completion pathways that recognize and accommodate a student's prior or existing knowledge or competency.
- Awarding dual or joint academic awards.
- Re-opening a previously closed program or off-campus instructional site.
- Adding a new off-campus instructional site/additional location including a branch campus.
- Adding a permanent location at a site at which an institution is conducting a teach-out program for students of another institution that has ceased operating before all students have completed their program of study.
- Closing an institution, a program, a method of delivery, an off-campus instructional site, or a program at an off-campus instructional site.
IV. RESPONSIBILITIES RELATED TO SUBSTANTIVE CHANGES
The following outlines the duties and responsibilities of University officials related to substantive changes.
A. Academic Unit Program Coordinators
The Academic Unit Program Coordinator shall be responsible for the following:
- Submitting a substantive or non-substantive proposal(s) to the departmental curriculum committee.
- Ensuring and verifying the appropriate Classification of Instructional Program (CIP) Codes.
B. Department Curriculum Committee Chairs
The Departmental Curriculum Committee Chair shall be responsible for the following:
- Supervising the proposal review process.
- Ensuring and verifying the appropriate CIP Codes
- Submitting a proposal and vote tally to the Academic Unit Program Coordinator.
C. Academic Department Chairs
Academic Department Chairs shall be responsible for the following:
- Reviewing proposals and determining whether to approve.
- Ensuring employees under their supervision are knowledgeable of current Substantive Change policies and procedures.
- Ensuring employees under their supervision receive appropriate training in identifying and reporting Substantive Changes.
- Consulting with the University's SACSCOC Liaison when a proposal under consideration may be defined as a Substantive Change.
D. Deans
Deans shall be responsible for the following:
- Reviewing their respective College's proposal to determine whether to approve.
- Ensuring employees under their supervision are knowledgeable of current Substantive Change policies and procedures.
- Ensuring employees under their supervision receive appropriate training in identifying and reporting Substantive Changes.
- Consulting with the SACSCOC Liaison when a proposal under consideration may be defined as a Substantive Change.
E. SACSCOC Liaison
The SACSCOC Liaison shall be responsible for the following:
- Serving as the University's point of contact with SACSCOC for Substantive Changes.
- Ensuring that University employees are aware of and abide by this Policy.
- Ensuring that University planning related to modifications or expansions of programs and services is consistent with this Policy.
- Assisting employees with proposals that may result in Substantive Changes.
- Conducting reviews to determine whether Substantive Changes should be approved.
- Maintaining a database of Substantive Changes that will be or have been reported to SACSCOC.
F. Provost
The Provost shall be responsible for reviewing and approving all Substantive and Non-Substantive changes.
G. Faculty Senate and Faculty Committees
The Faculty Senate and Faculty Committees shall be responsible for the following:
- Supervising the proposal review process through various committees in the Faculty Senate and various faculty committees.
- Ensuring votes and signatures are recorded.
- Provide pertinent feedback throughout the review process.
V. TIMELINES
To ensure timely coordination and notification of Substantive Changes, employees are expected to adhere to the timelines implemented by the University, the UNC System and SACSCOC.
TEXTBOOK POLICY
Authority: Issued by the Chancellor. Changes or exceptions to administrative policies issued by the Chancellor may only be made by the Chancellor.
Category: Academic Affairs
Applies to: ●Faculty ●Staff ●Students
History: Approved on December 1, 2006
First Issued on December 6, 2006
Related Policies: N/A
Contact for Info: Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (910) 672-1460
I. INTRODUCTION
In 2006, the Board of Governors (Board) of the University of North Carolina approved several recommendations made by a subcommittee of the Board appointed to address student concerns over the rising costs of textbooks. The recommendations made by the subcommittee and approved by the Board have been incorporated into Fayetteville State University's Textbook Policy.
II. EFFORTS TO MINIMIZE THE COSTS OF TEXTBOOKS
A. Optional Materials and New Editions
The university recognizes that the selection of textbooks and materials for classroom use is the responsibility of the faculty. To minimize the cost of textbooks to students, the university encourages its faculty to consider the following:
- Making optional those materials that are not used extensively;
- Using alternative materials, such as digitized materials that can be licensed for campus use or electronic textbooks;
- Using "packaged" or "bundled" materials only when the additional materials prove valuable to students in their coursework; therefore, the faculty member should consider continuing to use an older edition or an unbundled option so more used texts are available; and
- Managing the use of new editions or changes in titles/texts to the extent that it does not affect the students' learning experience. Not changing to a new edition or not changing texts completely means that more used texts are available and also usually means that students pay lower prices.
Faculty should also clearly communicate to students which textbooks are required versus "recommended" and should place textbooks on reserve in the campus library so as to increase options that are available to students.
B. Textbook Ordering
1. Deadlines
Established deadlines are set to allow sufficient time for the university's bookstore to identify books that will be purchased during the buy-back process and to provide adequate time for books to be ordered so they will be available on or before the beginning of classes. Adherence to these deadlines will be monitored. The deadlines for submitting book orders are as follows:
- Fall Semester - April 15
- Spring Semester - October 21
- Summer Sessions - April 1
2. Effect on Book Prices
a. Returning book orders in a timely manner is critical to minimizing the costs of textbooks.
b. Substantial savings - usually 25% - to students occur when used textbooks may be purchased rather than new books. The bookstore is unable to purchase used books back from students if the book has not been adopted for the upcoming term. The number of used books available to bookstores from wholesalers is also limited. The likelihood of finding used books drastically decreases with the passing of each week. With textbook prices on the rise, used books are becoming increasingly attractive to students.
C. Textbook Committee
To examine issues associated with minimizing the costs of textbooks, the Chancellor shall establish a committee composed of university students, faculty, and the Director of Business Services. This committee will meet on an ongoing basis.
IV. FACULTY-AUTHORIED PUBLICATIONS AND POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
The development of textbooks and other educational material is a natural and desirable outcome of intellectual activity and is encouraged by the university. However, it is recognized that potential for conflicts of interest are present when textbooks and other educational materials produced by faculty members are required, recommended, or suggested for a class which the faculty member is teaching and when the sale of such materials produces financial gain for the faculty member. In such case where a faculty member wishes to use a self-authored textbook as a required text in a course that he/she is teaching, the process for determining whether to allow the faculty member to use the self-authored textbook shall be as follows:
Step 1: The faculty member shall present his or her written request to the academic affairs committee (or a similarly constituted body) of the faculty member's department. The committee shall review the faculty member's request and forward its written recommendation and the faculty member's written request to the chair of the department.
Step 2: After reviewing the faculty member's request and the committee's recommendation, the department chair shall forward his or her written recommendation (along with the initial written request and the committee's recommendation) to the dean.
Step 3: The Dean, upon receipt and review of the initial request from the faculty member and the recommendations from the committee and department chair shall determine whether a conflict of interest exists. The Dean's decision shall be final.
The production of educational materials such as class notes, workbooks, answer sheets, or custom texts intended for use either exclusively or primarily at FSU shall be provided to students at the department's or university's expense or at minimum expense such as the cost of reproduction if such materials are produced by a commercial entity or publisher. If a commercial entity or publisher produces the materials, the university shall be assessed no royalties or additional fees.
It is recognized that some textbooks and educational materials are produced for a national readership. In instances when a faculty member develops textbooks and educational materials primarily for national audiences, FSU may be assessed royalties or similar fees with prior written approval from the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.
V. COMPLIMENTARY TEXTBOOKS
Complimentary textbooks, either solicited or unsolicited, shall not be sold for profit. The books may be maintained for faculty reference or contributed to a library for student reference.
No individual, group or company may seek to purchase or sell complimentary copies of textbooks on the university's campus.
The university's bookstore may not sell or purchase materials which are identified as complimentary textbooks.
TUITION RATE FOR UNDERGRADUATE
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT STUDENT
Authority: Issued by the Chancellor. Changes or exceptions to administrative policies issued by the Chancellor may only be made by the Chancellor.
Category: Academic Affairs
Business, Finance and Administrative Services
Applies to: ●Faculty ●Staff ●Students
History: Approved, August 1, 2005
First Issued, February 15, 2006
Related Policies: N/A
Contact for Info: Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (910) 672-1460
Vice Chancellor for Business and Finance (910) 672-1151
All students who have earned bachelor's degrees and who are classified as undergraduate professional-development students are assessed tuition and fees at the undergraduate rate.
To be classified as an undergraduate professional-development student, a student must meet all of the following criteria:
- have earned a bachelor's degree;
- be enrolled in undergraduate coursework (100 - 400 level); and
- not be pursuing (or seeking) a master's degree.
TUITION SURCHARGE
Authority: Issued by the Chancellor. Changes or exceptions to administrative policies issued by the Chancellor may only be made by the Chancellor.
Category: Academic Affairs
Applies to: ●Administrators ●Staff ●Students
History: Approved - September 17, 2010
First issued - September 20, 2010
Related Policies: Tuition Surcharge Guidelines [UNC Policy #1000.1.5[G]]
North Carolina General Statute § 116-143.7[as codified by Section 9.10(a) of Session Law 2009-451]
Contact for Info: Office of the Registrar (910) 672-1185
Office of Student Accounts (910) 672- 1155
I. PURPOSE
Fayetteville State University (University) has established this policy to comply with the University of North Carolina (UNC) Board of Governors' imposition of a tuition surcharge on students who take more than 140 degree credit hours to complete a baccalaureate degree in a four-year program, or more than one hundred ten percent (110%) of the credit hours necessary to complete a baccalaureate degree in any program officially designated by the UNC Board of Governors as a five-year program. This policy details the requirements necessary to impose a fifty percent (50%) tuition surcharge on students beginning with the 2010-2011 academic year.
II. SURCHARGE
A. Students Subject to the Surcharge
The surcharge shall be imposed on all counted credit hours in excess of the threshold defined below for each of the following three (3) categories of undergraduates:
- For students earning a first baccalaureate degree in a program that requires no more than 128 credit hours, the surcharge shall be applied to all counted credit hours in excess of 140.
- For students earning a first baccalaureate degree in a UNC Board of Governors' approved program that requires more than 128 counted credit 2 hours, the surcharge shall be applied to all credit hours that exceed 110 percent of the credit hours required for the degree. Such programs include those that have been officially designated by the UNC Board of Governors as five-year programs, and combined bachelor's/master's degrees.
- For students earning a baccalaureate degree other than their first, the surcharge shall be applied to all counted credit hours that exceed 110 percent of the minimum additional credit hours needed to earn the additional baccalaureate degree.
B. Students Exempt from the Surcharge
The surcharge shall not be imposed on undergraduates who complete the following:
- A first baccalaureate degree program that has not been officially designated by the UNC Board of Governors as a five-year program and whose counted credit hours were taken in eight (8) or fewer regular term semesters or the equivalent; or
- A first baccalaureate degree program that has been officially designated by the UNC Board of Governors as a five-year program and whose counted credit hours were taken in ten (10) or fewer regular term semesters or the equivalent.
III. CALCULATION OF CREDIT HOURS
The surcharge shall be imposed on tuition charged in the current semester and in subsequent semesters where a student's cumulative credit hours total, with that semester's course load included, exceeds the threshold. The surcharge does not apply to required fees. Students shall be informed, by email, when they are within twenty (20) hours of the tuition surcharge threshold.
A. Included Credit Hours
The undergraduate credit hours to be counted shall include the following:
- courses taken at the University or accepted for transfer;
- failed courses; and
- courses not completed unless officially dropped by the student consistent with the academic policy of the University.
All credit hours transferred shall be included for tuition surcharge calculation purposes regardless of their application to the student's major or minor, unless otherwise exempted.
B. Excluded Credit Hours
The following credit hours shall be excluded from the calculation:
- credit hours earned through the College Board's Advanced Placement (AP)
- credit earned though College Level Examination Program (CLEP) or similar programs;
- credit earned through University advanced placement, course validation, or any similar procedure for awarding course credit; and credit earned through dual-enrollment in high school;
- credit earned through military service and/or training;
- credit earned in all summer sessions; and
- credit earned from an extension division of any UNC institution, including Fayetteville State University
No surcharge shall be imposed on any student who exceeds the degree credit hour limits within the equivalent of four (4) academic years of regular term enrollment, or within five academic years of regular term enrollment in a degree program officially designated by the Board of Governors as a five-year program.
IV. WAIVING THE TUITION SURCHARGE
A. Reasons for Granting a Waiver
The tuition surcharge can be waived, upon a request by a student if the student demonstrates that any of the following have substantially disrupted or interrupted the student's pursuit of a degree:
- Military service obligation defined as the performance of duty on a voluntary or involuntary basis in connection with service in the Armed Forces, Reserves, or National Guard including, but not limited to; active duty, active duty for training, initial active duty for training, and inactive duty training.
- Serious medical debilitation defined as an illness, injury, impairment, or physical or mental condition requiring; (1) inpatient care in a hospital, hospice, or residential medical care facility; or (2) continuing treatment by a health care provider; provided that such incapacity did not result from the student's violation of University policy or the commission of a felony.
- Short-term or long-term disability defined as a mental or physical incapacity that causes the performance of the student's academic commitments to become impossible or impractical; provided that such incapacity did not result from the student's violation of University policy or the commission of a felony.
- Other extraordinary hardship defined a hardship of any kind which, despite responsible handling, resulted in the substantial disruption or interruption of the student's pursuit of a degree.
B. Required Documentation
In order to demonstrate that a wavier should be granted for a particular reason, the student shall provide the following documentation:
1. Military Service Obligation
Verification of the student's voluntary or involuntary performance of a duty in connection with service in the Armed Forces, Reserves, or National Guard including, but not limited to; active duty, active duty for training, initial active duty for training, and inactive duty training.
2. Serious Medical Debilitation
A certification issued by the treating health care professional(s) must be presented stating each of the following:
a. the approximate date on which the Serious Medical Debilitation commenced.
b. the extent to which the serious medical condition has impacted the student's pursuit of a degree.
c. the relevant and appropriate medical facts regarding the condition.
3. Short-Term Disability
A certification issued by the treating health care professional(s) must be presented stating each of the following:
a. the approximate date on which the short-term disability commenced.
b. the extent to which the student's physical or mental incapacity has impacted the student's pursuit of a degree.
c. the relevant and appropriate medical facts regarding the condition.
d. that, to the best of the treating health care professional's knowledge, the student's disability is not permanent.
4. Long-Term Disability
Certification issued by the treating health care professional must be presented stating each of the following:
a. the approximate date on which the Long-Term Disability commenced.
b. the extent to which the student's physical or mental incapacity has impacted the student's pursuit of a degree.
c. the relevant and appropriate medical facts regarding the condition.
d. that, to the best of the treating health care professional's knowledge, the student's disability is likely to be permanent.
5. Extraordinary Hardship
A verification of any circumstances which, despite responsible handling, led to the substantial disruption or interruption of the student's pursuit of a degree.
C. Procedure for Requesting a Waiver
Students whose personal circumstances match the waiver circumstances listed above may submit an appeal with thirty (30) business days of receiving written notice of the tuition surcharge by submitting a Tuition Surcharge Waiver Request via email (surcharge@uncfsu.edu) The Division of Academic Affairs shall provide students with instructions on how to submit a waiver and what documentation is needed to review the student's appeal. The instructions shall also include information indicating which University office the student should submit additional documentation to, as listed in III-B above.
Students may also submit the Tuition Surcharge Waiver Request Form (PDF). The form outlines the documentation that is necessary to review the student's appeal. The form shall also include information indicating which University office the form should be submitted.
Once a waiver request is received, the University's Tuition Surcharge Wavier Committee (Committee) shall review the request and determine whether a waiver shall be granted. The Committee shall consist of no fewer than three (3) members. The members of the Committee shall be drawn from departments whose expertise is relevant to the waiver category upon which the student's waiver request is based.
The Committee shall inform the student of its decision no more than thirty (30) business days of receipt of the waiver request. The Committee's decision shall be final.
DEFINITIONS
If a request for a waiver is made by a student, the tuition surcharge shall be waived if the student demonstrates that any of the following have substantially disrupted or interrupted the student's pursuit of a degree:
- Military service obligation defined as the performance of duty on a voluntary or involuntary basis in connection with service in the Armed Forces, Reserves, or National Guard including, but not limited to; active duty, active duty for training, initial active duty for training, and inactive duty training.
- Serious medical debilitation defined as an illness, injury, impairment, or physical or mental condition requiring; (1) inpatient care in a hospital, hospice, or residential medical care facility; or (2) continuing treatment by a health care provider; provided that such incapacity did not result from the student's violation of University policy or the commission of a felony.
- Short-term or long-term disability defined as a mental or physical incapacity that causes the performance of the student's academic commitments to become impossible or impractical; provided that such incapacity did not result from the student's violation of University policy or the commission of a felony.
- Other extraordinary hardship defined a hardship of any kind which, despite responsible handling, resulted in the substantial disruption or interruption of the student's pursuit of a degree.
DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED TO SUPPORT REQUEST FOR WAIVER
In order to demonstrate the applicability of a waiver category the student shall provide the following documentation:
1. Military Service Obligation
Verification of the student's voluntary or involuntary performance of a duty in connection with service in the Armed Forces, Reserves, or National Guard including, but not limited to; active duty, active duty for training, initial active duty for training, and inactive duty training.
2. Serious Medical Debilitation
A certification issued by the treating health care professional(s) must be presented stating each of the following:
a. the approximate date on which the Serious Medical Debilitation commenced.
b. the extent to which the serious medical condition has impacted the student's pursuit of a degree.
c. the relevant and appropriate medical facts regarding the condition.
3. Short-Term Disability
A certification issued by the treating health care professional(s) must be presented stating each of the following:
a. the approximate date on which the short-term disability commenced.
b. the extent to which the student's physical or mental incapacity has impacted the student's pursuit of a degree.
c. the relevant and appropriate medical facts regarding the condition.
d. that, to the best of the treating health care professional's knowledge, the student's disability is not permanent.
4. Long-Term Disability
Certification issued by the treating health care professional must be presented stating each of the following:
a. the approximate date on which the Long-Term Disability commenced.
b. the extent to which the student's physical or mental incapacity has impacted the student's pursuit of a degree.
c. the relevant and appropriate medical facts regarding the condition.
d. that, to the best of the treating health care professional's knowledge, the student's disability is likely to be permanent.