ACADEMIC POLICIES

CLASS ATTENDANCE POLICY

Although it is recognized that absences will sometimes be necessary, students are expected to attend classes regularly. It is the responsibility of students to be cognizant of their own record of absences and to consult the instructor regarding work missed. The decision to permit students to make up work rests with the instructor. At any time during the semester an instructor has the right to drop a student from the course and assign a grade of F for excessive absences when a student exceeds the number of allowable absences specified in the instructor's attendance policy distributed to the student in the instructor's course syllabus. If a student is representing the University in an official capacity, as verified on a list released from the Office of the Provost, the instructor will not penalize the student for those absences. However, students should consult their instructor before anticipated absences.

CLASS ORGANIZATION

COURSE LOAD

A minimum of 30 semester hours per year is needed to graduate within four years. The year includes Fall, Spring, and Summer terms including the Maymester. A normal course load is 15 semester hours each semester.

A full-time undergraduate student is one who is enrolled in a minimum of twelve semester hours of Georgia College & State University academic or institutional resident credit. A student may schedule a maximum of 18 semester hours. A student who has earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.00 or higher on at least 15 semester hours may schedule more than 18 semester hours, and overload, with permission of his/her faculty advisor and department chairperson. During a short summer term, the normal load is 6 semester hours per term. Students may take a maximum of 3 semester hours, or one course, during the Maymester. For courses spanning both summer terms, the maximum course load is 18 semester hours. Any hours in excess of this must have the approval of the faculty advisor and the department chairperson.

COURSE NUMBERING

Freshman and sophomore courses are numbered 1000 to 2999. They are designed to be taken by students having fewer than two years of university credit. Courses numbered 3000 to 4999 are courses for major programs and are designed to be taken only by students having two or more years of university credit. Courses numbered 5000 to 7999 are designed primarily for graduate students. Any variation from a prescribed program requires written permission from the Dean of the School.

Most courses are identified by a four-letter prefix and a four-digit number, the first digit indicating the year level of the instruction. Learning Services courses are numbered 0090-0199. Learning Services courses carry institutional credit only. These courses cannot be applied for credit toward any degree and are not transferable to another college or university.

NOTE: (4-3-5) following course title indicates: 4 semester hours lecture, 3 semester hours laboratory, and 5 semester hours credit.

(Var.) indicates variable credits, as stated in the course description.

F and S indicate the course will normally be offered during the fall or spring semester, respectively.

DECLARATION OR CHANGE OF MAJOR/MINOR

A major may be declared or changed by contacting the department of the proposed major. A second major or minor may be declared by following the same procedure. Students who change their major should be aware that the total number of hours to complete requirements for graduation must meet or exceed 120 semester hours.

DEFINITION OF A MAJOR

A major program is composed of a minimum of 24 semester hours, 21 of which must be in the upper division of academic credit in an approved program. A minimum of 18 semester hours of a major must be taken in residence at Georgia College & State University. To see a listing of majors, visit the Colleges, Schools, and Majors site.

ESLG (ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE)

Students may obtain information about support services available to those who speak English as a Second Language through the Department of Modern Foreign Languages.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE REQUIREMENT

All students seeking a Bachelor of Arts degree must demonstrate minimum proficiency at the level of a fourth university course in one language. This proficiency can be demonstrated in one of two ways:

1. Course work. Students who have had two years of high school foreign language and who wish to continue that language must enter the sequence at the 1002 level. They may audit the 1001 course without credit. Students with three or more years of high school language are urged to choose the most advanced possible language course appropriate for their language competence, upon consultation with the Chairperson of the Department of Modern Foreign Languages. The 1001 course of a foreign language will not be accepted for credit if the student has taken two years of that same language in high school.
2. Testing. Students may also demonstrate proficiency and possibly exempt one or more courses by (a) submitting an appropriate score on an approved national test, or (b) by challenging the appropriate course(s) beyond 1001, for which they must consult with the Chairperson of the Department of Modern Foreign Languages. Students who successfully meet the course requirement receive credit hours but no letter grades.

International students with non-immigrant visa status must complete the foreign language requirement unless granted a waiver as specified in the International Students Admissions section of this Catalog.

In some majors, the language requirement may be fully or partly counted in Area F.

FRESHMAN ENGLISH REQUIREMENT

Students should take ENGL 1101 during their first term at GCSU unless they are exempt from it (score of 4 or 5 on the AP English test). All students must earn the grade of C or better in ENGL 1101 in order to complete the requirements for the course. Students should take ENGL 1102 the term after they pass ENGL 1101 with a C or better.

HISTORY AND CONSTITUTION (U.S. AND GEORGIA) REQUIREMENTS

Georgia law requires that each candidate for a degree from a University System of Georgia institution demonstrate knowledge of the history and constitution of the United States and Georgia by course work or examination.

The U.S. and Georgia constitution requirements can be satisfied by earning a passing grade in POLS 1150 Politics and Society or its equivalent taken at another University System of Georgia institution. Transfer students who bring credit for the core American government course from a non-University System of Georgia institution have satisfied the U.S. constitution portion of the requirement but not the Georgia constitution portion. The Georgia constitution requirement can be satisfied by passing POLS 2201 State and Local Government or by passing an examination. Contact the Department of Government and Sociology for details.

The U.S. and Georgia history requirements can be satisfied by earning a passing grade in HIST 2111 or HIST 2112 U.S. History or its equivalent taken at another University System of Georgia institution or by passing the U.S. and Georgia history examinations. Transfer students who bring credit for the U.S. History course from a non-University System of Georgia institution have satisfied the U.S. portion of the requirement but not the Georgia history portion. The Georgia history portion can be satisfied by passing HIST 4415 or by passing the Georgia history examination. Contact the Center for Testing to schedule the exam.

Students will be allowed no more than four attempts at the Georgia History exam and four attempts at the U.S History exam. After the 4th attempt, students will be required to pass HIST 2111 or HIST 2112 to satisfy the requirement for Georgia History and U.S. History. Students who are registered for HIST 2111 or HIST 2112 will not be allowed to sign up for the U.S. or Georgia History test during the semester they are taking the course.

Passing Advanced Placement tests for American government and/or U.S. history will satisfy the relevant U.S. portions of the requirement but not the Georgia portion.

MULTIPLE MAJORS

Students may major in more than one subject area. All degree requirements must be met for each department in which a major is declared. The student will be assigned an adviser in each subject area.

RESIDENCY FOR DEGREE CLASSIFICATION

A student is in residence if enrolled in courses offered at an approved Georgia College & State University facility, such as the Milledgeville residential campus, the Robins Residence Center, the Robins Graduate Center, the Logistics Education Center, and The Center for Graduate and Professional Learning in Macon. The degree residency classification does not affect fee assessment. For more information on residency for in-state tuition purposes click here.

SECOND BACCALAUREATE DEGREE

A student who has been awarded a baccalaureate degree, from Georgia College & State University or another accredited institution, may be granted a second baccalaureate degree provided the following conditions have been fulfilled:

1. The student has met all requirements for their chosen degree.
2. The student must satisfy all major requirements listed for the chosen program of study.
3. The student must complete the legislature requirements.
4. The student must complete a minimum of 40 semester hours in residence at Georgia College & State University.
5. The student must have at least 21 of the last 30 credit hours toward a degree completed in residence at Georgia College & State University at the 3000-4000 levels.

SENIOR EXIT REQUIREMENT

All undergraduate degree candidates must complete a Senior Exit requirement in their major field of study during one of their last two semesters prior to the completion of degree requirements. This requirement is determined by the major department and may be an examination, a portfolio, completion of a course, or other method of assessment. Students who are required to take a test should check with the Center for Testing, Room 217 in Lanier Hall, to determine the type of test, application procedures and deadlines required for their majors. These students are encouraged to register for the exam the semester before they plan to test. Timely inquiry, correct application, and registration are the responsibility of the student.

The Senior Exit requirement is an important part of the student's participation in assessing institutional effectiveness and fostering program improvement. Results of exit requirement will be part of the student's permanent record.

ORIENTATION AND WELLNESS COURSES

According to Board of Regents policy, Wellness courses – along with first year seminar and orientation courses – cannot be used towards the total hours required for graduation.  While the hours for these courses will still count toward your full-time status for the Fall semester and will still appear in your hours earned, when you apply for graduation any hours earned in Wellness or Orientation courses will be manually excluded.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL BACHELOR’S DEGREES

To qualify for a baccalaureate degree at Georgia College & State University, the student must satisfy the following requirements:

1. Complete all the courses required for the selected degree with a minimum 2.00 institutional grade point average in the courses.
2. Successfully complete a minimum of 120 earned semester hours. More hours may be required for particular programs. First Year Academic Seminars, orientation and activities courses (WELL) may not be counted toward the 120 hours.
3. All students, regardless of their degree program, must earn the grade of C or better in ENGL 1101 in order to complete the requirements of the course.
4. Complete 39 of the total number of semester hours counted toward a baccalaureate degree in courses at the upper (3000-4000) level.
5. Complete at least 21 semester hours at the upper (3000-4000) level in the major field of study.
6. Complete a minimum of 40 semester hours required for the baccalaureate degree in residence at Georgia College & State University. Complete at least 21 of the last 30 credit hours toward a degree in residence at Georgia College & State University at the 3000-4000 levels. No student may receive credit for more than a combination of 30 semester hours of extension and/or home study courses. At least 18 semester hours of required courses for the major field, professional component, or area of concentration, and 10 semester hours of those required for the minor, must be earned in residence at Georgia College & State University.
7. Complete the requirements for degrees in accordance with the regulations in effect at the time the degree is to be awarded, unless the Dean of the School or College makes an exception. Students must graduate under the degree requirements in effect at the time of their admission to the University and under the major requirements in effect at the time of their declaration of major, provided their enrollment in the University is continuous. Students who are not enrolled for one semester or longer, excluding the summer term, will be subject to the degree and major requirements in effect at the time of their return to the University. Officials of Georgia College & State University can make no exceptions to Board of Regents' policies.
8. Fulfill the departmental requirements for the chosen major. Students should seek consultation from his/her advisor and see the departmental sections of the Catalog for the major requirements.
9. Present a written application for the degree on the form available in the Office of the Registrar, 107 Parks Hall, by the dates indicated in the official University Calendar. Students must also pay the required graduation fee.
10. Satisfy both the Regents' Reading and Writing Skills requirements.
11. Successfully pass the legislative requirement of the Georgia and U.S. history and constitution exams.
12. Satisfy the Senior Exit requirement(s) in the chosen major(s).

NOTES:

• Students may be graduated in absentia provided they submit written notice to the Office of the Registrar of their intention to do so before the date of commencement.
• Georgia College & State University reserves the right to withhold a diploma from any student and refuse to forward transcripts for any student who has an unsatisfactory conduct record or who is in financial arrears to the university.
• The student is hereby informed and given due legal notice that all of these decisions are within the prerogative of the University, as previously determined by the courts, and are not subject to disciplinary-type due process requirements or strict application of contract law. When the student accepts admission into the college, he or she is agreeing to abide by and be governed by the policies, procedures and requirements contained in the Catalog.

GUIDELINES FOR APPLYING ALL DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

Students have ten calendar years from the year they are admitted to GCSU to complete their bachelor degree. Students must graduate under the degree requirements in effect in the catalog under which they entered. Students who take longer than ten calendar years to complete their degree requirements must repeat the courses, if they're still required, that were taken before the start of the ten-year period.

The student is hereby informed and given due legal notice that all of these decisions are within the prerogative of the University, as previously determined by the courts, and are not subject to disciplinary-type due process requirements or strict application of contract law. When the student accepts admission into the college, he/she is agreeing to abide by and be governed by the policies, procedures, and requirements contained in the Catalog.

Students are responsible for keeping themselves apprised of current graduation requirements for the degree programs in which they are enrolled. Information of this type is available primarily in the catalog. Any changes made since the publication of the catalog are available from the Office of the Registrar, and the Dean of the School in which the student is enrolled. Students are encouraged to check their degree requirements by using the Degree Evaluation tool - DegreeWorks - on the secure myCats page.

APPLICATION FOR GRADUATION

Each applicant for a baccalaureate degree from Georgia College & State University must make a formal application for graduation by the deadline printed in the Official University Calendar. After paying the application fee at the Business Office, the applicant should meet with his adviser to complete the application and obtain the signature of both the adviser and department chairperson. The graduation application must be returned to the Office of the Registrar for processing. The Office of the Registrar will complete the evaluation of the application and forward a copy to the student showing approval, missing requirements, or denial.

Students will not be allowed to graduate with any outstanding requirements. Any student unable to complete all requirements for graduation after formally applying for a degree will be unable to graduate. Students will be notified if graduation requirements are not completed, and the student will be required to resubmit an application for graduation for a future semester.

COMMENCEMENT

The University holds a formal commencement each year at the end of the Spring Semester. Diplomas are mailed following graduation. Graduating students are responsible for maintaining a current permanent home address or informing the Office of the Registrar of a diploma mailing address. Students who have completed all degree requirements will be invited to participant in commencement exercises.

REGISTRATION

Academic advising at Georgia College & State University is a faculty-based system that assures each student contact with a faculty member who can guide a student's course selection and assist in career preparation. Students who have not yet decided upon a major are assigned advisers from The Center for Student Success.

POUNCE

First year students who have been admitted to Georgia College & State University early for the upcoming Fall semester and have paid their admission confirmation deposit have an opportunity to participate in POUNCE, GCSU's early registration program. Eligible students who POUNCE establish contact with faculty from their intended major, create an optimal schedule for their entering term, and have their course registration completed prior to attending one of the New Student Orientation programs. Students will be sent notification of procedures via e-mail. For more information on POUNCE, contact Karen Higgs in The Center for Student Success office at (478) 445-2761.

REGISTRATION

Students may register for the upcoming term online from their myCATS account. Registration instructions, including information on viewing holds, are available online. See the University Calendar for registration dates or visit the Registrars Office in Parks Hall 107. Students may not register if holds are found on their record that block them from registering.

ADDING COURSES

A student may add courses to his/her schedule or through the third day of classes after late registration during Fall and Spring semesters (a period of two days after late registration during the Summer semester and for a period of one day after late registration during Maymester). Students may add classes via myCATS or by submitting a Course Change Card to the Office of the Registrar for processing during this period. Students with an adviser hold must obtain approval from their faculty advisor to add a class. Changing course sections does not require the approval of the advisor when using the Course Change Card.

To add courses after the add period, a student must submit a Course Change Card to the Office of the Registrar. The approval of the Chairperson, advisor, and the instructor are required on the card. No credit will be awarded in any course for which a student is not properly registered.

DROPPING COURSES

A student may drop courses from his/her schedule through the fifth day of classes after late registration during Fall and Spring semesters (for a period of two days after late registration during the Summer semester and for a period of one day after late registration during Maymester). Students may drop via myCats or by submitting a Course Change Card to the Office of the Registrar for processing. No approval is required on the Course Change Card to drop a course during this time period.

Students attending classes that do not meet until after the published drop/add dates are allowed 24 hours following their first class meeting to adjust their course load. Exact dates for add and drop periods are listed in the Academic Calendar.

After the drop period, but on or before the last day to drop a course without academic penalty (unless previously assigned an 'F' by the professor for excessive absences), students may drop courses by submitting the Course Change Card to the Office of the Registrar. Approval of the instructor and faculty advisor are required.

LIMIT TO DROPPING COURSES - 5 W POLICY

A student, who drops a course after the last day to drop a course without academic penalty (unless previously assigned an "F" by the professor for absences), will receive a grade of "WF" (Withdrew Failing) for the course. Undergraduate students who first matriculate at GCSU in Fall 2007 or later semesters may accumulate no more than five W grades. Once a student has accumulated five W grades, all subsequent drops will be recorded as WF. If a student withdraws from the university or drops a class due to an approved documented hardship, those W grades will not be counted as part of the five maximum.

WITHDRAWAL FROM THE UNIVERSITY

To withdraw from the University, a student must complete a Withdrawal Request. Failure to withdraw officially will result in the grade of 'F' in all courses.

A student who withdraws from the University either temporarily or permanently at any time after the last day to drop a course without academic penalty (unless previously assigned an 'F' by the professor for excessive absences) will receive a grade of 'WF' (Withdrew Failing) for each course being carried at the time of withdrawal. However, with the approval of the class instructor, the student may petition the Dean of the School of the student's major for a 'W' (Withdrew) or 'I' (Incomplete) if the withdrawal is due to nonacademic extenuating circumstances and the student is passing all courses at the time of withdrawal.

The timing of withdrawals in order to avoid academic penalty is the responsibility of the student. Deadlines are published in the University Calendar.

INVOLUNTARY MEDICAL WITHDRAWAL POLICY

A student may be administratively withdrawn from the University and/or from University housing when, in the judgment of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students and a professional member of the University's Health Services or Counseling Services staff, it is determined that the student's physical, mental, emotional or psychological health:

1. poses a significant danger or threat of physical harm to the student or to the person or property of others; or
2. causes the student to interfere with the rights of other members of the University community or with the exercise of any proper activities or functions of the University or its personnel.

Except in emergency situations, a student shall, upon request, be accorded a meeting with a University official or a hearing prior to a final decision concerning his or her continued enrollment at the University. If the student requests a hearing on such a matter, the Georgia College & State University Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students shall appoint a hearing body, consisting of students and faculty.

AUDITING COURSES FOR NON-CREDIT

Any student may audit any course with the permission of the instructor. Audited courses will not be counted as part of the normal course load and no grades will be awarded. Instructors may set special conditions for students who audit their courses. Audited courses will be designated with a grade of V and will be considered in fee assessment. Auditing a course will not prevent a student from taking the course for credit at a later time. Students must register as an audit student and pay regular tuition and fees. Changes from audit to credit or vice-versa cannot be made after the last day to add courses.

INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION

Departments may offer courses by individual instruction only in an emergency situation in which a student must have the course immediately and only with the consent of the appropriate instructor and department chairperson.

INDEPENDENT STUDY

Independent course study offerings are found in the undergraduate course description section of the Catalog. Independent study courses include only those areas of research, study, or investigation beyond those normally offered in the department curriculum. Departments may offer courses by individual instruction only in an emergency situation in which a student must have the course immediately and only with the consent of the appropriate instructor and department chairperson.

The mission of University System of Georgia Independent Study is to offer University System academic credit courses to University System students and individuals who are interested in earning academic credit through self-directed study. It provides freedom from the classroom structure and, as a result, places the responsibility for learning directly on the student. It allows flexibility of registration, permitting students to register at any time and take several courses simultaneously with up to a year to complete each course.

Independent Study courses are offered by academic departments located at senior institutions of higher education within the University System of Georgia. Faculties of the academic departments prepare the courses offered and grade lessons submitted by students to satisfy requirements of the courses. Academic credits earned through Independent Study are recorded on the student's permanent record in the University of Georgia Registrar's Office and may be used for degree requirements according to the regulations of the college or university from which the student plans to graduate. The total number of hours earned through Independent Study that may be applied toward a baccalaureate degree program within the University System of Georgia may not exceed one-fourth of the hours required for graduation.

TRANSIENT CREDIT

Students who want to attend another institution to take courses that will count toward their degree at Georgia College & State University

• must be in good standing
• must complete the Transient Permission Form available from the Office of the Registrar
• must obtain the approval of their department Chairperson and their faculty advisor prior to enrolling at the other institution. The form must specify the course or courses to be taken at the other institution.
• The student must request that an official transcript be sent to the Office of Admissions at Georgia College & State University in order to receive Georgia College & State University credit for the work.

Ordinarily, students are permitted to be transient students for only one semester. Students approved for Academic Renewal are not eligible to take transient coursework. Transient students attempting to satisfy the core areas A-E must take courses equivalent to Georgia College & State University courses. Nursing students who have taken either the BIOL 1100 or BIOL 1120 at Georgia College & State University must complete the lab-science sequence at Georgia College & State University.

The amount of transient student course work that may be used for degree credit is limited by the residency requirement of completing at least 40 hours at Georgia College & State University. At least 21 of the last 30 credit hours toward a degree must be completed at the 3000-4000 levels in residence at Georgia College & State University. In addition, the maximum number of course credit hours that may be transferred to Georgia College & State University to count toward a degree must not exceed 80 semester hours.

Georgia College & State University will accept only the credit hours from transient courses that are passed, and not the quality points. Grades earned in these courses will have no effect on the student's regents' cumulative or institutional grade-point average at Georgia College & State University. Retaking a course that was originally taken at GCSU will not affect your GCSU institutional grade point average.

COLLEGE LEVEL EXAMINATION PROGRAM (CLEP)

Georgia College & State University participates in the College Level Examination Program (CLEP). Details may be obtained from the Center for Testing. The general conditions and standards for awarding credit are as follows:

1. The maximum credit that can be earned by examination is limited to 30 semester hours.
2. No person will be permitted credit by examination for a course after once enrolling in the course.
3. The CLEP General Examinations and Subject Examinations may not be retaken within six months.
4. Credit earned by examination will be recorded on the student's record by course, course number, and semester hours earned. No grade or grade points will be assigned.
5. Credits earned through CLEP may be transferred from other institutions in the University System of Georgia or from other institutions upon verification that scores on credits to be transferred are equal to or higher than those required by Georgia College & State University.
6. For more information, visit the Admissions section of the Catalog. See also Challenging Courses.

CHALLENGING COURSES

Students may challenge undergraduate courses, i.e., receive credit for a course without enrolling in it, under certain conditions. A student who wishes to challenge a course must present to the chairperson of the department that offers the course sufficient information to enable the department chairperson to determine the student's mastery of the material provided in the course. A student who is considered eligible for a course challenge by a department chairperson is examined on the course by the faculty of the department according to a procedure established by the department. This challenge policy does not apply to learning support courses.

Students may not challenge courses that are offered through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) except foreign language courses.

If the student is approved for credit by examination, the student will pay an examination and recording fee per course challenged. Receipt of payment from the Business Office must be presented to the department chairperson before the examination. The result of the examination is recorded on the Credit by Examination Form provided by the Dean of the School. The Dean of the School will notify the Office of the Registrar of all successful challenges. If the student successfully challenges the course, the course credit is recorded in the student's permanent record, but no grades or quality points are awarded. No more than 30 semester hours credit may be awarded through the course-challenge procedure, and it is limited by the policy that a minimum of 40 semester hours must be earned in residence at Georgia College & State University. At least 21 of the last 30 credit hours toward a degree must be completed in residence at Georgia College & State University at the 3000-4000 levels. There is a limit of one challenge per course.

CREDIT FOR ARMED FORCES PERSONNEL

Georgia College & State University has been designated as an institutional member of Service Members Opportunity Colleges (SOC), a group of over 400 colleges and universities providing voluntary postsecondary education to members of the military. As a SOC member, Georgia College & State University recognizes the unique nature of the military life-style and is committed to easing the transfer of relevant course credits, providing flexible academic residency requirements, and crediting learning from appropriate military training and experiences. SOC has been developed jointly by educational representatives of each of the Armed Services, the Office of the Secretary of Defense, and a consortium of thirteen leading national higher education associations; the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) and the American Association of Community and Junior Colleges (AACJC) sponsor it.

UNIVERSITY CREDIT FOR EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCES IN THE ARMED FORCES

1. A student who desires transfer credit for educational experience in the armed forces should present evidence of such experiences to the Office of Admissions, who will evaluate the courses taken and determine the appropriate amount of credit to be awarded. In those cases in which the Evaluator desires consultation, the information is forwarded to the Department Chair of the student's major. The department chair will determine the credit to be awarded.

   Upper-division credit may be awarded by the Office of Admissions or recommended by the Department Chair of the area in which credit is sought.

2. There is no limit on the number of hours of armed forces education experience credit that can be awarded at Georgia College & State University. However, a student earning armed forces credit must fulfill all GCSU residency regulations. In addition, at least 21 of the last 30 semester credit hours toward a degree must be completed at the 3000-4000 level.
3. Grade transfer hours will be awarded for all university-level work accomplished at the University of Maryland Overseas Branch, University of California Overseas Branch, or any accredited college or university of the United States if the work performed was on a graded basis and not on a correspondence or pass-fail basis and if the work falls within a degree program of Georgia College & State University. The basic regulations regarding residence requirements cannot be waived. Courses deemed not acceptable for major or minor work in upper-division brackets by departmental chairpersons may be accepted for elective credit.
4. Courses taken on a correspondence, pass-fail, or credit basis in institutions listed in Paragraph 3 above may be validated by passing an examination approved by the department concerned. Any fees will be charged to the student.
5. Courses taken for credit in foreign universities may be accepted after evaluation by the Office of International Services and Programs. Local or College Level Examination Program course exams may be required and a fee charged. Upon the department Chairperson's recommendation, such work will be accepted for credit.
6. College level United States Armed Forces Institute courses offered on a graded basis will be accepted under the provisions of Paragraphs 1 and 2 above. Courses taken on a pass-fail basis may be validated through the College Level Examination Program, course exams, or by departmental exams, for which a fee will be charged. The University rule for maximum limit of 30 semester hours of correspondence and extension courses may not be exceeded.

GRADES

Equating letter grades earned at Georgia College & State University to the following numerical code computes the grade-point average:

Each point represents a quality point earned per semester hour credit. Total quality points are determined by multiplying the number of points awarded for the grade in the course by the number of semester hours for the course. In other words, a student who receives an A in a three-hour course would earn twelve quality points for work in that course. It should be noted that students may earn credit through wellness activities, internships, student teaching and similar experiences which generate grades of either S (satisfactory) or U (unsatisfactory). When an S (satisfactory) grade is earned for courses in which credit toward graduation is received, the credit will be counted but there will be no quality points given. The institutional grade average will thus be determined by the total quality points for those courses in which A through F & WF grades were given divided by the number of credit hours in which those grades were given. Students may repeat courses under the institutional average. In the calculation of the institutional average only the last grade earned and credit awarded will count toward the institutional grade-point average.

The following symbols are used in the cases indicated, but they are not included in the determination of the grade-point average.

GRADE POINT AVERAGES

Georgia College & State University calculates three averages each semester. One is the term average, based upon all work attempted in a particular semester. The second is the Regents' cumulative average, as defined below. The third is the institutional average, which is described below and is used to determine academic standing and graduation eligibility. GCSU's truncates all GPAs to the second decimal point.

REGENTS CUMULATIVE GRADE POINT AVERAGE

Regents Cumulative Grade Point Average. The regents cumulative grade-point average is calculated by dividing the number of hours scheduled in all courses attempted in which a grade of A, B, C, D, F, or WF has been received into the number of grade points earned on those hours scheduled. The regents' cumulative grade-point average will be reflected on the transcript. Institutional credit shall in no way affect the regents' cumulative grade point average.

INSTITUTIONAL GRADE-POINT AVERAGE

Georgia College & State University uses the institutional average. Under the institutional average, students may repeat a course or courses and have only the last grade earned count toward the institutional grade point average and credit awarded. The institutional average is the basis for determining academic standing and eligibility for graduation. The institutional average applies to all students. The decision to use the institutional average for purposes other than academic standing and graduation is covered in other sections of this catalog. Students should be aware that when transferring to other institutions or when making application for graduate school, most receiving institutions make admission decisions based on the regents' cumulative grade point average. The institutional grade point average is for internal use at Georgia College & State University.

ACADEMIC STANDING

GOOD ACADEMIC STANDING

A student's academic standing is determined by the institutional grade-point average at the end of each semester. A student will be classified in good academic standing if the institutional grade-point average is at least a 1.75 for students with 0-29 institutional overall hours earned or at least a 2.0 with 30 or more overall institutional hours earned.

Some schools and programs at Georgia College & State University may have higher grade point average standards for admission to their respective programs. See particularly the admission standards for the schools of education and nursing and some majors in the arts and sciences.

ACADEMIC WARNING

A student incurs academic warning at the end of any semester in which the institutional average falls below the standard for good standing. To avoid being placed on academic probation the student must earn sufficient grade points during the next semester of enrollment to raise the institutional average to the minimum standard for good standing. If the student achieves the minimum standard at the end of the next semester of enrollment, the academic warning is lifted and the student returns to good standing. A student who fails to return to good standing by the end of the warning semester will be placed on probation. Academic warning is noted on the student's official transcript.

ACADEMIC PROBATION

Academic probation recognizes that a student is in serious danger of being dismissed from the University and notifies the student that a plan must be developed and implemented to improve the quality of his/her academic work. A student will be placed on probation at the end of any semester in which the institutional average remains below the stated minimums and academic warning has been issued during the previous semester. Students who achieve the required grade average for good standing will have their probation status removed. A student who fails to return to good standing by the end of the probation semester will be dismissed. Academic probation is noted on the student's official transcript.

Students on probation will be placed on restricted enrollment which means that the student will only be able to enroll in courses which he/she previously earned a D or F. The student will also be expected to develop a plan for obtaining academic good standing. This plan will be developed with the assistance of the student's advisor. The plan will include retaking courses, use of campus resources, monitored grades at mid term, and regular contact with the advisor.

ACADEMIC DISMISSAL

Students who fail to achieve good academic standing while on probation will be dismissed. Academic dismissal is the involuntary separation of a student from the University. Dismissal means the student is not in good standing and requires the student to stay out of school for one calendar year. Academic dismissal is noted on the student's official transcript. Students must apply to return after one year and must develop a plan that will ensure their return to good standing by the end of the first year of their return. Students not returning to the status of good standing will be placed on academic exclusion.

ACADEMIC EXCLUSION

Academic exclusion is the final involuntary separation imposed upon a student who having previously been dismissed and readmitted fails to meet the minimum standards of good standing. Exclusion means that a student is permanently dismissed from Georgia College & State University. Exclusion will remain permanent unless the student has been away from Georgia College & State University for five years or more and elects to return to the University under the policy of academic renewal which is described below. Academic exclusion is noted on the student's official transcript.

ACADEMIC RENEWAL POLICY

The University System of Georgia Academic Renewal policy allows undergraduate students who have been readmitted or reinstated after a period of absence of five (5) calendar years or longer to be eligible for academic renewal. Academic renewal for the student signals the initiation of a new grade point average to be used for determining academic standing. This provision allows University System of Georgia degree-seeking students who have experienced academic difficulty to make a fresh start and have one final opportunity to earn an associate or bachelor's degree. Georgia College & State University has adopted this Academic Renewal policy.

Students who wish to participate in the Academic Renewal program must file application for academic renewal directly to the Office of the Registrar within three semesters after re-enrollment or one calendar year, whichever comes first.

1. All previously attempted course work continues to be recorded on the student's official transcript.
   1. The Academic Renewal Grade Point Average begins when the student resumes taking course work following the five-year period of absence and Academic Renewal has been granted. A statement will be placed on the student's transcript indicating the Academic Renewal status.
   2. The Academic Renewal GPA will be used for determining academic standing and also will be used to determine eligibility for graduation.
      1. To earn a degree, a student must meet Georgia College & State University's residency requirements. Hours earned prior to Academic Renewal may apply provided they are within the ten-year guidelines.
      2. At least 50% of work toward a degree must be completed after the granting of Academic Renewal status for a student to be eligible for honors at graduation.
   3. Academic credit for previously completed course work (including transfer course work) will be retained only for courses in which an A, B, or C grade has been earned.
      1. Retained grades are not calculated in a Renewal GPA. Such credit is considered in the same context as transfer credit, credit by examination, and courses with grades of "S".
      2. Courses with D or F grades must be repeated at the Academic Renewal Institution if they are required in the student's degree program. All remaining courses for the current degree objective must be completed at the Academic Renewal institution. No transient credit will be accepted after invoking Academic Renewal.
      3. Applicability of retained credit to degree requirements will be determined by the degree requirements currently in effect at the time Academic Renewal status is conferred on the student. Specific institutional program regulations must also be met.
2. A student can be granted Academic Renewal status only one time.
3. Transfer credit:
   1. Suspended/dismissed students: a student who has been suspended/ dismissed from Georgia College & State University and has attended one or more System institutions during the period of suspension/dismissal will not be eligible for Academic Renewal.
   2. Non-suspended/ dismissed students: a student who has not been suspended/ dismissed from Georgia College & State University but who has been absent from Georgia College & State University five years or more and who has attended a school other than Georgia College & State University may choose only one of the following options:
      1. A student may return to Georgia College & State University subject to all relevant transfer and reentry policies. No renewal GPA is calculated and transfer credit will be granted for applicable courses taken during the absence.
      2. A student may apply for Academic Renewal. If Academic Renewal status is approved, no transfer credit will be granted for course work completed during the absence.
4. Any scholastic suspensions/dismissals that occurred in the past shall remain recorded on the student's official transcript. If a restricted enrollment or academic dismissal is on the record and the student encounters subsequent academic difficulty after having been granted Academic Renewal, the next dismissal would subject the student to permanent exclusion.
5. If a student does not request Academic Renewal status at the time of re-enrollment after a five year or greater period of absence, the student may do so within three semesters of re-enrollment or within one calendar year, whichever comes first.
   1. The Academic Renewal GPA begins with the first semester following re-enrollment.
6. Re-entry into any program is not automatic.
7. If a student is denied Academic Renewal and subsequently does not re-enroll, he/she may resubmit an Academic Renewal application after no fewer than three semesters have passed since the initial petition.
8. Georgia College & State University applications for Academic Renewal will be reviewed by the Registrar and the Associate Vice President for Enrollment Services. Students on academic exclusion must apply for Academic Renewal prior to reentering Georgia College & State University. A decision to participate in the Academic Renewal program is irreversible.
9. The granting of Academic Renewal does not supersede financial aid policies regarding Satisfactory Academic Progress.
10. The granting of Academic Renewal does not supersede the admissions requirements of certain programs such as teacher education or nursing which require a specific minimum grade point average based upon all course work.
11. Any currently enrolled student who has experienced an interrupted five year (or longer) period of non-attendance at the institution in which he/she is currently enrolled may apply for an Academic Renewal GPA.
    1. For currently enrolled students, there is a one year "window of opportunity" for requesting Academic Renewal status commencing with the effective date of this policy.
    2. The Academic Renewal GPA will include all course work taken since re-enrollment.
12. The policy became effective upon the date of favorable action by the Board of Regents.

ACADEMIC HONORS

Georgia College & State University recognizes graduates with honors by designation in the commencement program, the student transcript, and on the diploma, those graduates who have high academic achievement. The Latin phrases Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, and Summa Cum Laude are used to identify these levels of achievement. These designations apply only to students receiving baccalaureate degrees; no honors are granted for graduate degrees.

To be eligible for academic honors, a students overall regents' cumulative and GPA must be as follows:

If a student's overall grade point average and the regents' cumulative grade point average differ, the lower of the two averages shall determine the honors designation awarded.

Students who have completed the requirements of the Honors Program are awarded a special certificate and are recognized at graduation.

PRESIDENT’S LIST

Students who make a term average of 4.0 on 12 or more semester hours at Georgia College & State University. Students may not have a grade of "I" or "F" during the semester.

DEAN’S LIST

Students who make a term average of at least 3.5 on 12 or more semester hours at Georgia College & State University. Students may not have an "I" or "F" during the semester.

PHI KAPPA PHI

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi was chartered at Georgia College & State University on May 23, 1973. Selection for membership is based on scholarship. Members are elected from undergraduate students, graduate students, faculty, administration, and alumni. To be considered for membership, undergraduate students from the junior class must have a minimum grade point average of 3.8; undergraduate students from the senior class must have a minimum grade point average of 3.75. Graduate students must have a grade point average of 4.0 and an undergraduate grade point average of 3.75 or greater.

HONORS DAY

Honors Day is the third Friday in April each year. Faculty Award recipients, Phi Kappa Phi, Alpha Lambda Delta, Omicron Delta Kappa, Outstanding Department Majors, Outstanding School Awards, and the University System of Georgia Academic Recognition Students are recognized.

REGENTS’ WRITING AND READING SKILLS REQUIREMENT

BOARD OF REGENTS' POLICY EXCERPTS

Each institution of the University System of Georgia shall ensure that students obtaining a degree from a System institution possess certain minimum skills of reading and writing, hereinafter called Regents' Writing and Reading Skills. The Regents' Writing and Reading Skills requirement has been developed to help attain this goal. The Regents' Writing and Reading Skills requirement will ensure students have competence in reading and writing at a minimum System wide level.

Students enrolled in undergraduate degree programs leading to the baccalaureate degree will be required to complete the Regents' Writing and Reading Skills requirement as a requirement for graduation.

There shall be two System-mandated courses in writing and in reading that represent a vehicle for meeting the Regents' Writing and Reading Skills requirement.

There will be System wide tests administered in reading and in writing. These tests will be referred to collectively as the Regents' Test. The Regents' Test is designed to provide an additional method for satisfying the Regents' Writing and Reading Skills requirement.

REGENTS’ READING AND WRITING SKILLS REQUIREMENTS ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES

1. Regents' Reading and Writing Skills Requirements

   Students enrolled in undergraduate programs leading to the baccalaureate degree shall pass the Regents' Reading Skills (RGTR 0198) and Regents' Writing Skills (RGTR 0199) courses as a requirement for graduation. These courses are offered for institutional credit. Students may exempt these courses through examination by passing the Regents' Test or an approved alternative test in reading comprehension and in writing. Those required to enroll in a Regents' Skills course must pass the corresponding Regents' Test in order to receive a passing grade for the course.

   The following are the specific implementation procedures:

   1. With a few exceptions, every student must take each part of the Regents' Test not previously passed or exempted every semester of enrollment in a University System institution.
   2. Students who perform at a very low level when taking the test for the first time should get immediate assistance and will be required to enroll in the Regents' skills course or courses in their next semester of enrollment and each semester thereafter until the requirement is satisfied.
   3. Students with 0-11 hours of previous college credit who do not pass but score above the low-failure level may take the test again in their next semester without taking the skills courses. If they are not successful in their second attempt, they must enroll in RGTR 0198 and/or RGTE 0199 in their third semester of enrollment and each semester thereafter until the requirement is satisfied.
   4. Students transferring 12 or more hours from an institution outside the University System of Georgia may test in their first semester of enrollment without taking the skills courses. If they are not successful, they must enroll in RGTR 0198 and/or RGTE 0199 in their next semester of enrollment and each semester thereafter until the requirement is satisfied. (Students transferring from Georgia Military College who have taken but not passed the Regents' Test must enroll in the skills course or courses in their first semester of enrollment.) Because the Regents' Test policy applies to all institutions in the University System, students transferring from another system institution must enroll in the skills course or courses if they have not satisfied the requirement by their third semester in the system, including their previous school and GCSU and excluding any semesters in which they were enrolled in Learning Support English or Reading, and each semester thereafter until it is satisfied.
   5. Students who have earned 90 hours of college credit and who are required to enroll in one or both of the Regents' skills courses are permitted to enroll in no more than 12 credit hours per semester, including the skills course or courses, until the Regents' Test is passed. Students who do not take the test are treated the same as those who do not pass the test for the purpose of required enrollment in RGTR 0198 and/or RGTE 0199.
   6. Students may exempt RGTR 0198 by scoring at or above specified scores on the following examinations:

      Regents' Reading Test exemption score: 61

      SAT Reasoning Test, Reading Section exemption score 510

      ACT Reading exemption score: 23

      (SAT or ACT scores must be from a national administration. Scores from institutional SAT or residual ACT tests will not be acceptable for this purpose.)

   7. Students may exempt RGTE 0199 by scoring at or above specified scores on the following examinations:

      Regents' Essay Test exemption score: 2

      College Board Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition exemption score: 3

      College Board Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature and Composition exemption score: 3

      International Baccalaureate (IB) higher-level English exemption score: 4

      SAT II English Writing exemption score: 650

      SAT Reasoning Test, Writing Section exemption score: 560 (effective Spring 2007)

      SAT Reasoning Test, Reading Section exemption score: 510 and SAT Reasoning Test, Writing section exemption score: 500 (effective Summer 2008)

      ACT Combined English/Writing exemption score: 24 (effective Summer 2008)

      ACT Reading exemption score: 23 and ACT Combined English/Writing exemption score: 22 (effective Summer 2008)

   8. Additional standardized test scores may be specified by the Senior Vice Chancellor for Academics and Fiscal Affairs for use in exempting RGTR 0198 and RGTE 0199. Such scores must be from a national test administration and must indicate a very high probability (at least .95) of passing one of the courses or the associated component of the Regents' Test. Tests used to exempt the writing requirement must include an externally-graded writing sample.
2. Guidelines for Regents' Reading Skills and Regents' Writing Skills Courses
   1. Students enrolled in a Regents' skills course must pass the corresponding Regents' Test in order to receive a passing grade for the course.
   2. Students must meet all criteria regarding attendance and performance in the course to be eligible to take the corresponding Regents' Test. Students who do not attend a required Regents' course may be administratively withdrawn from all courses for the term and/or restricted to enrolling only in the Regents' course in the next term.
   3. Students not passing the course receive a "U" and must repeat the course until they pass. Those passing receive a grade of "S."
   4. The Regents' skills courses carry institutional credit, which may not be applied towards a degree, or accepted for transfer credit to another institution.
3. Special Categories of Students
   1. A student holding a baccalaureate or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education will not be required to complete the Regents' Writing and Reading Skills requirement in order to receive a degree from Georgia College & State University.
   2. Students whose native language is not English are given the option of taking the standard Regents' Test or of following special local procedures. Under the special procedures students are allowed extended time and may use a translation dictionary that they supply. The essay test is locally developed and uses topics not requiring knowledge specific to American culture. The essays are evaluated locally by three raters selected from Georgia College & State University faculty and staff who use scoring procedures comparable to those used for the standard test. All other procedures for the Regents' Writing and Reading Skills requirement apply to this group.
   3. Georgia College & State University follows the approved procedures for special administration of the Regents' Test for students with test anxiety, learning disability, or other documented need. In most cases, a student with visual, hearing, or motor impairment takes the Regents' Test with appropriate accommodations based on the student's needs. If any accommodations in the test administration are to be made because a student has a disability, the student must contact the Center for Testing as early in the semester as possible to discuss necessary arrangements. Students with a learning disorder must be determined to be eligible for accommodations by the Committee on Learning Accommodations. The Regents' Reading and Writing Skills courses may not be waived for students with disabilities; however, appropriate accommodations will be provided.
   4. Students who live out of state may be permitted to have the Regents' Tests administered out of state if they have fulfilled course requirements and follow the procedures outlined in the Regents' Testing Program Administration Manual.
4. Essay Review

   A student may request a formal review of his or her Regents' Essay Test if that student's essay received at least one passing score among the three scores awarded. The review procedures shall be as follows:

   1. A student must initiate the review procedure with the Center for Testing by mid-term of his/her first semester of enrollment after the semester in which the essay was failed orwithin one calendar year from the semester in which the failure occurred, whichever comes first.
   2. Students whose essays are under review and who have earned 45 credit hours must enroll in the Regents' Writing Skills course.
   3. The on-campus review will be conducted by the three faculty members designated as a review panel. The on-campus review panel may (1) sustain, by majority opinion, the essay's failing score, thus terminating the review process, or (2) recommend, by majority opinion, the re-scoring of the essay by the Regents' Testing Program Office. The student will be notified concerning the results of the on-campus review. The on-campus review panel decision to terminate the review process is final.
   4. If the on-campus panel recommends re-scoring of the essay, that recommendation will be transmitted in writing, along with the essay, to the office of the System Director of the Regents' Testing Program. The Director will utilize the services of three experienced Regents' essay scorers other than those involved in the original scoring of the essay to review the essay, following normal scoring procedures for the Regents' Essay Test. The decision of the panel on the merits of the essay will be final, thus terminating the review process. The student will be notified through the institution concerning the results of the review.
5. Guidelines for Test Registration

   Students should register for the Regents' Test through PAWS. There is a Register for Regents' Test link on the Student Services & Financial Aid menu. After selecting the appropriate term, students will see the available test sessions, and they will select the one they prefer. International students whose first language is not English or students who qualify for testing accommodations should register for extended time sessions through the Center for Testing instead of using the online process. Students with a Regents' Test hold (Must take RGTE 0199 or Must take RGTR 0198) must contact the Center for Testing to determine their eligibility to test. It is recommended that students take the test in their first semester of enrollment.

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Students are expected under all circumstances to show a proper respect for law and order, care of property, rights of others, and a sense of personal honor and integrity as is required of good citizens. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner becoming a university student. Students at GCSU can expect that they will be treated with reason and respect, and that the faculty and staff of the University will act responsibly toward them. The University expects students will employ reason, show respect to others, and to take responsibility for their actions.

Students who disregard the expectations placed upon them as good citizens subject themselves to the disciplinary process. Georgia College & State University has a policy on the standards and procedures for student non-academic discipline. The policy acknowledges both the need to preserve the orderly processes of the University with regard to its teaching, research, and public service missions, as well as the need to observe the student's rights. While the rules and regulations of Georgia College & State University are not meant to duplicate general laws, there are some respects in which the lawful interests of the institution as an academic community coincide with the broader public interests treated in general laws. Students who commit offenses against the laws of municipalities, states, or the United States are subject to prosecution by those authorities and are liable for disciplinary action under Georgia College & State University rules.

The Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students is the administrative official with primary responsibility for student discipline.

Students accused of misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct may choose between an administrative hearing or a Student Judicial Board hearing. Hearings of alleged violations of the University's Honor Code are heard by the Student Judicial Board. The administrative hearing will be one in which the Vice President/ Dean of Students chairs the case, and a staff panel determines guilt or innocence and imposes sanctions. The judicial board hearing will be conducted by the Student Judicial Board, chaired by a designated faculty adviser.

Sanctions against a student judged guilty of misconduct could include oral or written reprimands, personal probation, revocation and/or limitation of privileges, restitution, probation, suspension or expulsion. A student may be temporarily suspended, pending final action on the charges, if potential harm to self or others is judged to exist. The student shall be afforded an opportunity for a preliminary hearing prior to temporary suspension.

Further, the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students shall have power to impose such temporary sanctions, including suspension, pending a hearing, when a student engages in conduct that materially and substantially interferes with the requirements of appropriate discipline in the operation of the University.

It is the student's responsibility to be familiar with the university student disciplinary procedures.

These policies and procedures are subject to revision from time to time. Please refer to the Student Handbook for the most recent version.

THE HONOR CODE

All students are expected to abide by the requirements of the Georgia College & State University Honor Code as it applies to all academic work at the University. Failure to abide by the Honor Code will result in serious penalties.

MATRICULATION PLEDGE

In enrolling at Georgia College & State University, I solemnly pledge that I will conduct myself in such a manner as to reflect credit on the Georgia College & State University community, and I will uphold the Honor Code of the University. If I violate this Honor Code, I will accept the imposed penalty, which may include expulsion from the University.

PREAMBLE

Since 1942, there has been an Honor Code at Georgia College & State University. This Code is a dynamic aspect of the University that helps to define its character as an institution of higher learning in the best liberal arts tradition. Through the years, this Code has given rise to an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust on the Georgia College & State University campus.

And, as a result of periodic examination and review, the Honor Code continues to grow stronger. After undergoing thoughtful study and meticulous revision during the 1998-99 academic year, the new Honor Code reflects a renewed desire of the present student generation for an honorable community and also guarantees stiff punishments for dishonorable actions.

The commitment to honor has its own rewards, but the Honor Code also brings responsibilities – a respect for the ideas, values, and property of others; a readiness to subordinate one's own interests to the interests and well-being of the whole University community; and a dedication to abide by the rules of the University. In order to maintain an honorable campus, student commitment is vital. This commitment begins with personal integrity, extends to the refusal to condone violation of the rules, and ends with support of an appropriate punishment for those who violate the spirit and provisions of the Honor Code. Anything short of full commitment undermines the very essence of Georgia College & State University honor. Those who engage in dishonorable behavior may be banned from the University for one or two semesters, or permanently.

Students who are unfamiliar with the concept of honor or who have a history of dishonorable behavior are urged to consider alternatives to Georgia College & State University. However, those wishing to renew themselves in the spirit of honor will be invited to join the community of Georgia College & State University by formally embracing the Honor Code and signing the Honor Roll at the beginning of their academic career at GCSU (the Honor Code, however, is applicable to all students who matriculate at GCSU).

THE HONOR CODE

It is presumed that any student who matriculates at Georgia College & State University is willing to conform to a pattern of mutual trust and honor and shall deal honorably with all members of the University community. It must be understood that it is the responsibility of each student, faculty, and staff member to preserve, nurture, and strengthen this spirit of honor. Georgia College & State University students shall at all times refrain from, discourage, and as far as possible, prevent all attempts at lying, cheating, stealing, plagiarism, and vandalism. When a violation of the Honor Code is detected, a student should take steps to bring the matter to the attention of the Judicial Council or the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students.

VIOLATIONS DEFINED

"Lying" is defined as any attempt to deceive, falsify, or misrepresent the truth in any matter involving University business. University business includes but is not limited to, financial aid information, excuses for absences, statements to professors in order to reschedule tests or assignments, and responses to the queries of Public Safety officers.

"Cheating" is defined as the employment of or rendering of any illicit aid in any assigned work.

"Stealing" is defined as the appropriation of money or property belonging to another person, organization, or the University, or the borrowing of property without the knowledge of the owner.

"Plagiarism" is defined as presenting as one's own work the words or ideas of an author or fellow student without proper documentation through quotation marks and footnotes or other accepted citation methods. Ignorance of these rules concerning plagiarism is not an excuse. When in doubt, students should seek clarification from the professor who made the assignment.

"Vandalism" is defined as intentional, malicious damage to University property or property belonging to others.

PENALTIES

The Judicial Council may, for any first offense violation of the Honor Code, impose immediate suspension for the remainder of the current semester and possibly for one additional semester (depending on the severity of the violation). If suspended in the fall, one would be suspended for the remainder of the fall semester and possibly the spring semester; if suspended in the spring, one would be suspended for the remainder of the spring semester and possibly the following fall semester.

The normal penalty for a second Honor Code violation is immediate expulsion from the University.

Presented by the Student Government Association, passed by the University Council, and ratified by the student body of Georgia College & State University, March 1999. Amended by Student Government Association, February 2001.

• Georgia College & State University shall publish the Academic Dishonesty Policy in the current Catalog and/or Student Handbook.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

GENERAL STATEMENT

Georgia College & State University may discipline a student in non-academic matters. This normally involves matters which occur on the GCSU campus or at GCSU-sponsored events, but may be extended to off-campus matters which could reasonably be expected to impact the GCSU community. Repeated off-campus arrests generally result in GCSU judicial charges as well as criminal charges. For the purposes of this section the term conduct shall include acts which knowingly or unknowingly violate federal, state, or local laws, and/or Georgia College & State University rules and regulations, or which the student knew or reasonably should have known would result in occurrences prohibited by this section. All students are expected to adhere to the stipulations of the GCSU Honor Code, which addresses lying, cheating, stealing, plagiarism, and vandalism. All residence hall students are expected to adhere as well to the contract terms and stipulations listed in the University Housing Handbook for Residence Hall students and The Village residents. Students are subject to disciplinary action for violating the following Code of Conduct:

1. Conduct that violates local, state, or Federal laws or GCSU regulations regarding alcohol and other drugs.
2. Conduct that constitutes a danger to the personal safety of other members of the University community. This may include assault, attempted assault, or the threat of assault.
3. Conduct that obstructs, seriously impairs, attempts to obstruct or seriously impair University-run or University-authorized activities on any University property, indoors or out.
4. Acts which violate University provisions concerning parking, traffic, ID cards, University keys, smoking in unauthorized places, carrying firearms, unauthorized peddling, unauthorized use of sound amplifying equipment, and other acts which violate local, state or federal laws, or which violate appropriate conduct.
5. Intentional harassment of another person. Harassment includes, but is not limited to, threatening, intimidating, verbally abusing, impeding, telephoning, communicating electronically, following or persistently bothering or annoying. Harassment may represent but is not limited to acts based on sex, race, religion, national origin, handicap or sexual orientation.
6. Failing to abide by disciplinary sanctions imposed by a GCSU judicial body.

STUDENT ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

1. Policy Statement

   Georgia College & State University acknowledges the need to preserve an orderly process with regard to teaching, research, and public service, as well as the need to preserve and monitor students' academic rights and responsibilities. Since the primary goal of education is to increase one's own knowledge, academic dishonesty will not be tolerated at Georgia College & State University. Possible consequences of academic dishonesty, depending on the seriousness of the offense, may range from a revision of assignment, an oral reprimand, a written reprimand, an F or a zero for grade work, removal from the course with a grade of F, to suspension or exclusion from the University.

   Academic dishonesty includes the following examples, as well as similar conduct aimed at making false representation with respect to academic performance:

   1. Cheating on an examination;
   2. Collaborating with others in work to be presented, contrary to the stated rules of the course;
   3. Plagiarizing, including the submission of others' ideas or papers (whether purchased, borrowed, or otherwise obtained) as one's own. When direct quotations are used in themes, essays, term papers, tests, book reviews, and other similar work, they must be indicated; and when the ideas of another are incorporated in any paper, they must be acknowledged, according to a style of documentation appropriate to the discipline;
   4. Stealing examination or course materials;
   5. Falsifying records, laboratory results, or other data;
   6. Submitting, if contrary to the rules of a course, work previously presented in another course;
   7. Knowingly and intentionally assisting another student in any of the above, including assistance in an arrangement whereby any work, classroom performance, examination, or other activity is submitted or performed by a person other than the student under whose name the work is submitted or performed.
   8. Students accused of academic dishonesty may appeal through the student academic dishonesty procedures in effect at Georgia College & State University.
2. Procedures for Academic Misconduct Appeal
   1. Informal conference

      A student accused of academic dishonesty shall first participate in an informal conference with the instructor. If an informal conference, designed to explore academic dishonesty with the instructor and the student, does not end in satisfactory resolution, the following procedures for an academic misconduct appeal will apply. Options at the conclusion of an informal conference may include the following: a revision of assignment, an oral reprimand, a written reprimand, an F or 0 for the graded work or an F for the course, and/or referral to the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students in accordance with paragraph II (F).

   2. Formal conference

      If the student is dissatisfied with the results of the informal conference, the student must state in writing to the instructor his/her dissatisfaction within ten class days following the informal conference. The instructor shall schedule a formal conference within ten class days of the informal conference or receipt of the student's written complaint. The Vice President/Dean of Faculties may extend the ten class-day period in unusual circumstances. The purpose of the formal conference shall be to review the evidence against the student, to review the evidence and argument presented by the student in his/her defense, and to review the appropriateness of the penalty which may be imposed by the instructor. The instructor and the student may both be accompanied at the formal conference by a student, faculty member or staff member of their choice.

   3. Notice

      At least five class days in advance of the formal conference, the instructor shall inform the student in writing of the alleged offense and of the facts or conduct on which the allegation is based. The student shall be informed of the date, time, and place of the formal conference. This notice shall be served on the student in person or by certified return-receipt requested mail and shall be accompanied by a copy of the Academic Dishonesty Policy and Procedures.

   4. Academic penalties imposed by the instructor

      The instructor may give the student a revision of assignment, an oral reprimand, a written reprimand, an F or 0 for the graded work or an F for the course. An academic penalty may or may not be imposed where the student's own academic performance was not affected, such as in the following instances: (1) the student assisted another student to engage in academic dishonesty, (2) the student stole a copy of an examination, and the theft was discovered before the exam so that the student did not take the exam. In such cases, if the student is enrolled in the course, the instructor may impose the penalties permitted by this section, or if the student is not enrolled in the course, the instructor may refer the matter to the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students.

   5. Instructor's decision

      If after the formal conference, the instructor believes that the student has not violated the Academic Dishonesty Policy, he/she shall so inform the student in writing within five class days. If the instructor believes that the student has violated the Academic Dishonesty Policy he/she shall inform the student of his/her decision in writing with a copy to his/her supervisor. Such decisions shall be served in person or by mail and shall include: (1) a full explanation of the facts on which the instructor's conclusions were based; (2) specifications of the penalty or penalties imposed; (3) further action in the case, if any, which the instructor has recommended; and (4) notice that the decision may be appealed to the instructor's supervisor.

   6. Referral to Vice President / Dean of Students

      If the instructor believes that the student should be considered for non-academic disciplinary sanctions, including but not limited to suspension or expulsion of the student from the school, college or University, the instructor may request that the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students proceed in accordance with the University's non-academic disciplinary procedures. In such event, the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students shall receive and maintain copies of all correspondence and final decisions on academic misconduct. If the instructor concludes that the conduct in question may constitute a violation of the Honor Code or the Student Code of Conduct, but (1) does not constitute academic dishonesty as defined in this policy, or (2) does constitute academic dishonesty but cannot be sufficiently addressed by an academic sanction under this policy, then the instructor shall request that the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students proceed in accordance with the University's non-academic disciplinary procedures; in this event, the instructor shall forward in the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students all documentation and correspondence regarding the accusation.

   7. Appeal from the instructor's decision

      The instructor's decision to impose an academic sanction may be appealed to the instructor's appropriate supervisor, either as to the issue of whether the student did engage in conduct as alleged or as to the penalty or penalties. Appeals shall be in writing and must be filed with the office or person designated within 10 class days of the instructor's decision. While such appeal is pending, the penalty or penalties shall be stayed and no grade assigned for the course. If the student does not file an appeal within ten class days of the instructor's decision, the instructor's decision shall become final. If the instructor's decision is affirmed in whole or in part, the supervisor (if the instructor has not done so) may request that the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students proceed in accordance with the University's non-academic disciplinary procedures.

   8. Appeal from the supervisor's decision

      The supervisor's decision may be appealed within 10 class days by either party to the appropriate Dean of the School or College who may refer it to an appropriate academic misconduct hearing committee for review and recommendation. The committee shall act within the bylaws of the school or college in which the alleged violation occurred. The committee must include student representation.

      1. Jurisdiction. The committee shall hear appeals of the supervisor's decision.
      2. Penalty. The penalty recommended to the Dean of the School or College by the appropriate committee may exceed the penalty imposed by the instructor. Further, the committee may modify the academic penalty imposed by the instructor. If the instructor's decision is affirmed in whole or in part, the Dean (if neither the instructor nor the supervisor has done so) may request that the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students proceed in accordance with the University's non-academic disciplinary procedures. If the committee finds that no violation of the Academic Dishonesty Policy occurred, and if the Dean concurs, the instructor shall eliminate any academic penalty which was based on the alleged academic misconduct.
   9. Appeal from the Dean of the School or College the Dean's decision may be appealed by either party to the Vice President/Dean of Faculties within 10 class days of the decision of the Dean.
   10. Appeal from the Vice President/Dean of Faculties
   11. The Vice President/Dean of Faculties' decision may be appealed by either party to the President of Georgia College & State University within ten class days of the decision of the Vice President/Dean of Faculties. The President's decision on Academic Dishonesty shall be the final decision on the Georgia College & State University campus.
3. Notice to Students

   Georgia College & State University shall publish the Academic Dishonesty Policy in the current Catalog and/or Student Handbook.

APPEAL PROCESS

POLICY STATEMENT

Any student or former student of Georgia College & State University has the right of timely petition. Petitions are available from the Dean of the appropriate school and are to be used by the student, in consultation with the faculty adviser, to remedy undue hardship and specific inequities that may adversely affect the student's ability to fulfill the academic requirements of the University. Petitions must be used to secure approval of special agreements between faculty and students on academic matters and to provide for emergency situations caused by unforeseen complications in fulfilling academic requirements. Petitions must have the signed approval of the appropriate University officials' names.

RIGHT OF APPEAL

An academic grievance or appeal is an allegation by a student of substantial and/or unjustified deviation, to the student's detriment, from policies, procedures and/or requirements regarding admission, grading policies, special agreements, instructor's requirements and academic requirements of the University. Students shall have the right to file academic grievances or appeals according to the following procedures approved by the University.

PROCEDURES FOR ACADEMIC GRIEVANCE OR APPEAL

Following are the proper procedures for resolving academic grievances or appeals:

1. The student shall petition in writing the appropriate academic or administrative official responsible for the action which forms the basis of the grievance or appeal. The petition shall contain a clear and concise statement of the grievance or appeal, the remedies sought, and a request for a meeting with the involved person or persons.
2. The respondent shall schedule a meeting to discuss the matter with the student within ten class days of receipt of the written grievance or appeal.
3. If the student is not satisfied with the results of the discussion and wants the grievance or appeal to be considered further, the student shall appeal in writing to the respondent's supervisor to seek a resolution. This consultation must begin within ten class days after the conclusion of the discussion with the respondent.
4. If the student is not satisfied after seeking consultation at the supervisor's level and wants the grievance or appeal to be considered further, the student shall appeal in writing to the secondary supervisor to seek a resolution. This consultation must begin within ten class days after the supervisor has completed consideration of the grievance or appeal.
5. If the student is not satisfied and wants the grievance or appeal to be considered further, the student shall appeal in writing to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. This grievance or appeal must be filed within ten class days after the secondary supervisor has completed consideration of the grievance or appeal. The decision of the vice president for academic affairs will become the final decision of the academic grievance or appeal at the institution. A clear statement of the reasons for the decision shall accompany the decision as to the resolution of the grievance or appeal. The student and appropriate University officials shall be notified in writing of the decision within ten class days after consideration of the grievance or appeal.

Students should be aware that their faculty advisor, the Office of Counseling Services, the Student Government Association, and the Office of Academic Affairs are resource areas where students may receive assistance.

The time limit for a grievance or appeal may be extended upon approval of a written request to the vice president for academic affairs.

NON-ACADEMIC GRIEVANCE OR APPEAL PROCESS

Georgia College & State University recognizes the importance of providing a prompt and efficient procedure for fair and equitable resolutions of a non-academic grievance or appeal. A non-academic grievance or appeal alleges discrimination by a University employee on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, physical handicap/disability or involves personal behavior and/or University policy. Accordingly, students are encouraged to use the non-academic grievance or appeal process without fear of prejudice or reprisal for initiating the process or participating in its resolution.

DEFINITION

A non-academic grievance or appeal is an allegation by a student concerning (1) a University employee, (2) administrative policies, procedures, regulations or requirements of the University, (3) student employment, or (4) a University program, service or activity. Students shall have the right to file a grievance or appeal according to established procedures.

PROCEDURES FOR NON-ACADEMIC GRIEVANCE OR APPEAL

Following are the proper procedures for resolving a non-academic grievance or appeal:

1. The student shall submit a complaint in writing to the appropriate University official responsible for the action which forms the basis of the grievance or appeal. The complaint shall contain a clear and concise statement of the grievance or appeal, the remedies sought, and a request for a meeting with the involved person or persons. The complaint must be submitted within five days of the event unless there are extenuating circumstances.
2. The respondent shall schedule a meeting with the student within ten class days of receipt of the written grievance or appeal to discuss the matter. A written reply by the respondent to the student, indicating the results of the meeting and including further action, if any, to be taken, shall be attached to the written grievance or appeal.
3. If the student is not satisfied with the results of the discussion and reply and wants the grievance or appeal to be considered further, the student shall appeal in writing to the respondent's supervisor to seek a resolution. This consultation must begin within 10 class days after the conclusion of the discussion with the respondent. A written reply by the respondent's supervisor to the student, indicating the results of the meeting and including further action, if any, to be taken, shall be attached to the written grievance or appeal.
4. If the student is not satisfied after seeking consultation at the supervisor's level and wants the grievance or appeal to be considered further, the student shall appeal in writing to the secondary supervisor to seek a resolution. This consultation must begin within ten class days after the supervisor has completed consideration of the grievance or appeal. A written reply by the secondary supervisor to the student, indicating the results of the meeting and including further action, if any, to be taken, shall be attached to the written grievance or appeal.
5. If the student is not satisfied and wants the grievance or appeal to be considered further, the student shall appeal in writing to the next appropriate supervisor. This grievance or appeal must be filed within ten class days after the secondary supervisor has completed consideration of the grievance or appeal. A written reply by the next appropriate supervisor to the student, indicating the results of the meeting and including further action, if any, to be taken, shall be attached to the written grievance or appeal.
6. The decision of the President will become the final campus decision on the grievance or appeal. A written reply by the President to the student, indicating the results of the meeting and including further action, if any, to be taken, shall be attached to the written grievance or appeal. The student and appropriate University officials shall be notified in writing of the decision within ten class days after the last consideration of the grievance or appeal.

Students should be aware that their faculty adviser, the Office of Counseling Services, the Student Government Association, and the Office of Student Affairs may be resource areas whereby students may receive assistance on a grievance or appeal. The time limit may be extended upon approval of a written request submitted to the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students.

These policies and procedures are subject to revision from time to time. Please refer to the Student Handbook for the most recent version.