TROY Graduate Catalog 2006-2007 General Regulations

University Overview

Student Admissions
and Regulations

Financial Information

Degrees and Required
Credit Hours

Colleges

Course Descriptions

Board of Trustees,
Administration, Faculty

Index

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Catalog Table of Contents

GENERAL REGULATIONS

Admissions Pre-Admission Procedures Transcripts Admission Classifications Dual Enrollment / Cross Enrollment Changing Program of Study Transfer Credits	Research Requirement / Thesis/Field Project
	Intent to Graduate
	Transcript Requests
	University College
Semester Hours / Load Limits	eCAMPUS
Grading System Attendance Policy Drop / Withdraw / Readmission Procedures	Library
	Housing (Troy Campus only)
Admission / Requirements to Candidacy	University-Wide Regulations

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES

All regulations governing the Graduate School are designed to equal or exceed the minimum criteria recommended by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the Alabama State Department of Education, the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education, the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs, the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. All regulations regarding admission, retention, and completion are minimum, and departments, schools, and colleges may prescribe more stringent requirements. Applicants are advised to check with the dean, department chair, or program adviser in the academic area, or Graduate Admissions office for degree requirements specific to the degree sought.

PRE-ADMISSION PROCEDURES
Application Forms

Application forms for admission to the Graduate School may be obtained from the Admissions Office at all Troy University locations. The application should be completed at least one month before the first day of the semester or term of intended attendance. Consult the Troy University Graduate School Webpage for an application form at http://troy.troy.edu/graduatestudies/grsform.html and a list of available locations.

Applications must include

a completed application form,
official transcripts from all universities attended, and
other documentation supporting the application. Please see the following explanation of these application requirements.

Consult the Troy University webpage at www.troy.edu for additional information.

Troy Campus Graduate Admissions Troy University Troy Troy, AL 36082 Phone: (334) 670-3179	Phenix City Campus Graduate Admissions Troy University Phenix City One University Place Phenix City, AL 36869 Phone: (334) 297-1007	Dothan Campus Graduate Admissions Troy University Dothan P. O. Box 8368 Dothan, Alabama 36304 Phone: (334) 983-6556
Montgomery Campus Graduate Admissions P.O. Box 4419 231 Montgomery Street Troy University Montgomery Montgomery, AL 36103-4419 Phone: (334) 357-8843	eCampus Location & UPS Address 1101 South Brundidge Troy, Al 36081 U.S. Postal Mail Address: eCampus Troy, Alabama 36082 Phone: (334) 670-5876	University College Troy University 304 Adams Administration Building Troy, Alabama 36082 Phone: (334) 670-3616

TRANSCRIPTS

All official transcripts (raised seal with Registrar's signature, security paper, and without “Issued to Student” stamped on it) from all universities attended noting that credit was accepted toward the completion of the bachelor’s degree are required for applicants holding a bachelor's degree. All official transcripts showing the completion of the bachelor’s, master's or higher degree are required for applicants holding a master's or higher degree. These transcripts must be on file in the Admissions Office of the Troy University campus to which the student is applying. The Admissions office will assist students in completing transcript requests. Once the Application for Admission is on file, all transcripts submitted become the property of Troy University and will not be returned.

Baccalaureate Degree Holders
Students who have earned a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university, but lack the required grade point average and/or acceptable test score (official test score required) to be admitted unconditionally, may be granted conditional admission for a maximum of nine semester hours. Students admitted under conditional status may, with the consent of their major adviser, enroll in as many as nine semester hours during their first semester. (Also see Unaccredited or Otherwise Accredited Student Admission requirements.)

Students admitted conditionally due to only a low undergraduate grade point average will be cleared of their conditional status, if at the completion of nine semester hours, they have achieved a 3.0 grade point average or greater on all graduate work attempted. Students must clear the conditional admission requirement of a 3.0 average at the completion of nine semester hours, or they will be dropped from the graduate program for one calendar year after which they may petition the Dean of the Graduate School to re-enter.

Students admitted conditionally due to only a low test score will be granted unconditional admission prior to the completion of nine semester hours provided they have maintained a 3.0 grade point average on all graduate work attempted and have retaken the test and received a satisfactory score.

• Temporary Admission—MASTER’S DEGREE

(Nine-semester-hour maximum load for full time enrollment)

Temporary admission may be granted under certain circumstances to applicants who have not submitted all original transcripts, the letter of recommendation or original exam scores(s). Application fees must be paid in full to be considered for Temporary Admission status. Not applicable for Ed.S. students. Students must provide, at a minimum, proof of eligibility, copy of bachelors degree transcript, diploma or letter of completion to be initially considered as eligible for Temporary status.

Procedures:

A baccalaureate graduate of a regionally accredited college or university who lacks certain necessary records may be granted temporary admission. Such records should be completed before the end of the semester or term for which the student was given temporary admission. Students admitted in temporary status are under conditional admission requirements until admission status may be determined. Conditional admission status requires that students must clear the conditional admission requirement of a 3.0 grade point average at the completion of nine semester hours, or they will be dropped from the graduate program for one calendar year, after which, they may petition the Dean of the Graduate School to re-enter. Students from non-accredited or otherwise accredited institutions, or students seeking dual enrollment are not eligible for temporary admission. (See Unaccredited or Otherwise Accredited Student Admission requirements.)

Procedures:

If the records are completed before the term ends and the results indicate that the student is not eligible for admission, the student must withdraw from the class or classes, with a refund if applicable, or receive non-degree credit for the class or classes for which he/she is registered. Applicable refunds will be made in accordance with regulations as stated in published refund policies.
When the records are completed and if it is determined that the student was not eligible for graduate admission, all hours pursued will be converted to non-degree credit with no refund of tuition.
When the records are completed and if it is determined that the student was not eligible for unconditional enrollment because of low grade point average or low exam score(s), students will be admitted under conditional status. See Conditional Admission requirements.
If the student has completed the term for which temporary admission was granted and the records are still not in order, the hours pursued will be held in abeyance until the records are clear. No refund of tuition will be made, and the student will not be permitted to enroll in succeeding terms until the records are complete and admissibility is determined; however, with the permission of the appropriate graduate admissions authority, the students may extend their temporary admission for a second term. Written approval authorizing the extension must be in the student’s permanent record. Students may attend only a maximum of one semester, two terms, or complete nine credit hours in temporary status. There is no “second semester” or “third term” extension.
When the records are complete and if it is determined that the student was eligible for unconditional admission, all hours pursued will be counted toward the appropriate graduate program requirement.

• Transient Admission

Procedures:

Students from other accredited institutions who wish to take a course(s) from Troy University must:

Complete a standard ''Application for Admission,'' proof of baccalaureate degree, (no official transcripts required) and pay the application fee.
Present a transient authorization form from the parent school to the Admissions office of the campus location where the course will be delivered. The authorization must identify the course(s) to be taken and the term in which it will be taken, or indicate that the course is to be taken at the student's discretion. The form must be signed by a designated official of the University or campus (i.e., Registrar, Director, etc.).
In all cases, such a student must meet all prerequisites and provide the documentation prior to being admitted to a particular course.

Application status for the semester is determined by the information supplied on the application for admission. Admission status may not be changed following the last day to add/drop for the semester.

• Transfer Admission

The admission requirements for a transfer student are the same as regular admissions standards. Students on temporary, permanent academic or disciplinary suspension from any other college or university should refer to Transfer of Students on Suspension.

Transfer of Students on Suspension from Another Institution

Temporary, Indefinite or Permanent Academic Suspension: A student who has been suspended from another college or university is not eligible to apply for admission to Troy University. Appeals may be made to the Dean of the Graduate School.
Disciplinary Suspension: Students on disciplinary suspension from another institution must be eligible to return to that institution before being considered for admission to Troy University.

Note: Requests for waivers must be submitted in writing to the Dean of the Graduate School.

• UNACCREDITED OR OTHERWISE ACCREDITED BACCALAUREATE DEGREE HOLDERS - STUDENT ADMISSION

Students must submit an official transcript(s) with degree(s) posted at least one semester/term prior to the desired date of registration. The appropriate academic college and the Graduate Council will evaluate all submitted transcripts using commonly accepted practices and guidelines. The applicant will be required to submit a copy of the college’s catalog and other information as needed. Only upon the approval of the Graduate Council may a student begin taking graduate courses at Troy University. Should the student be inadvertently (without the University knowing that the baccalaureate degree is from an unaccredited or otherwise accredited institution) admitted into classes prior to baccalaureate degree approval and the evaluation indicates that the student is not eligible for admission, the student will be withdrawn from the class or classes, or receive non-degree credit for the class or classes for which he/she is improperly registered. (Note: Students seeking advanced degrees in teacher education or nursing programs must hold a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university.)

• Post Masters Admission

Students admitted in this category must hold the master's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Graduate credit taken while enrolled as a post masters degree student is not admissible as degree credit unless it is approved by the Program Director and is limited to a total of six semester hours. All official undergraduate and graduate transcripts are required for admission. If the degree is earned outside of the United States, an American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) evaluation is mandatory.

• Teacher Certification Endorsement (oNLY)

(Non-Degree Matriculate Seeking Teacher Certification Endorsement Only)

Students interested in applying college credit towards teacher certification, but who are not applicants for a degree at Troy University, must be evaluated by the Troy University Office of Teacher Education in the area for which teacher certification is sought. The Office of Teacher Education may be contacted at (334) 670-3447. With the approval of the Director of the Teacher Education or the Dean of the College of Education, admission may be granted to qualified students holding current teacher certification and a bachelor’s, master’s or education specialist degree from a regionally accredited institution.

A copy of the evaluation completed by the Troy University Office of Teacher Education will be placed in the student’s file. This evaluation will direct the student in registering for applicable certification endorsement credits only.

Should a student apply later and be accepted to a degree program, no college credit used ''For Certification Endorsement'' will be considered for credit toward this degree. Additionally, no college credit may be applied to separate levels of certification. Please contact the Director of the Teacher Education to eliminate any confusion regarding credit use and certification endorsements, (334) 670-3447.

• Special Admission: Non-Degree Matriculant

A student interested in earning graduate credit, but who is not an applicant for a graduate degree at Troy University, may be admitted as a ''Special Student'' with the approval of the Dean of the Graduate School, or his/her designee. Admission may be granted to qualified students holding a baccalaureate degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution or to students in good standing at another regionally accredited graduate school (copy of transcript must be provided). Should a student apply later and be accepted to a degree program, a limit of six semester hours will be considered for credit toward the degree. It is the responsibility of the student to observe the limitations imposed on credit hours, coursework, and transfer of credit. Special students may not be admitted at a later date on a temporary admission. Credits taken in Special Admission status by students who are found not to be in good standing at their previous institution will be voided with the posting of no grade, “NG,” by the Registrar.

• INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ADMISSION

International Student Admission Requirements
1. Meet all Graduate School Admission Criteria (See Unconditional Admission section).
2. Make a satisfactory score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 197 (Internet based test) or 527 (Written test) or International English language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.0.

Additional Requirements for a Student Visa

Only the Troy University campus in Troy, Alabama, is approved to host students on an F-1 or J-1 student visa. No other Troy University campuses within the United States of America are approved for international student attendance if the international student receives an F-1 student visa based on Troy University sponsorship.

Persons requesting U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) form I-20 in order to obtain an F-1 visa or DS-2019 to obtain a J-1 visa additional information should contact the Center for International Programs, Troy, Alabama, 36082, USA, telephone number: 1 (334) 670-3736, email: intlprog@troy.edu, or visit www.troy.edu/internationalprograms.

International Student Submission Requirements
Students must submit the following official documents:
1. Completed Application for Admission.
2. Application fee.
3. All official transcripts and preferably an American Associate of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO)) or Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc (ECE) evaluation of the transcript if the institution is not an accredited United States institution. Prospective students must submit an institutionally transcribed transcript in English. Applicants who cannot obtain an institutionally translated transcript may obtain a translation utilizing the services of an approved credential evaluating service.

AACRAO

1 Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 520

Washington, D.C. USA 20036

Telephone 1-202-293-9161, Fax 1-202-872-8857, www.aacrao.org

Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc (ECE)

P.O. Box 514070

Milwaukee, WI 53203-3470

Telephone (414) 289-3400

Fax: (414) 289-3411

Email: eval@ece.org

http://www.ece.org

Institutionally translated transcripts will be evaluated preferably by AACRAO or ECE, or may be evaluated by Troy University using standard accreditation practices and guidelines. If the foreign school does not appear in any of these sources or if the transcript does not provide the information necessary to determine admission status based on standard criteria, the applicant must utilize the credential evaluation services of AACRAO. Whenever possible, applicants transferring credit should submit a copy of the school catalog.

Troy University Letter of Recommendation
The Letter of Recommendation form is located online at http://troy.troy.edu/graduatestudies/grsform.html or a print copy will be provided in the application package. The following items must be addressed in the letter of recommendation: the recommender’s name, organization, position or title, telephone or email, how long and in what capacity the recommender has known the applicant and the recommender must identify key characteristics that the candidate possesses (e.g. leadership, communication, knowledge, creativity, reliability, ability to communicate in writing, initiative, ability to get along with others, scholarly potential).

Satisfactory score on the graduate admission examination (Contact the Troy University International Admissions office or an International Troy University site office near you for more information).

Satisfactory score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 197 (Internet Based Test), 527 (Paper test) or a score of 6.0 on the International English language Testing System (IELTS). Note: The TOEFL is waived as an admission requirement for foreign students who hold the baccalaureate or equivalent degree from a regionally accredited United States of America university or a country whose language of instruction was English.

A detailed statement of financial status showing that adequate financial resources are ensured. Non U.S. citizens (and immediate family members) who are members of allied military forces or civilian agencies assigned to U.S. military installations are exempt from providing financial statements or TOEFL scores provided that their proficiency in English is certified in writing by an appropriate U.S. military official. Such a statement of financial status is required only for those international students seeking a J-1 or F-1 student visa.

• THREE -YEAR BACCALAUREATE DEGREE HOLDERS REQUESTING ADMISSION TO THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Students completing a three-year baccalaureate degree will also be required to complete at least one year of a graduate program in their home country prior to applying to the Troy University Graduate School. No “Bridge Program” courses would be required.

Or
The dean of the discipline for which the student seeks admissions will prescribe a mandatory one-year baccalaureate equivalent course of study of at least 30 semester hours of undergraduate course work, to be completed with a cumulative grade point average of 2.50. All grades below the grade of “C” must be retaken. This prescribed course of undergraduate study shall be referred to as a “Bridge Program.” Bridge program students should not repeat courses taken at the undergraduate level. Bridge Program students will be enrolled as “Undergraduate” students. This course work must be successfully completed and certified by the dean of the college prescribing the course work prior to admission to the Graduate School. Upon completion of the Bridge Program, students meeting all admission requirements may be admitted to the appropriate graduate program.

Dual Enrollment – Lacking Prerequisites

Students holding a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university, who are applying for graduate admission, will have transcripts reviewed by their adviser to determine if specific degree program prerequisites are met prior to admission to a graduate program.

Students needing to meet prerequisite requirements will be considered “Post-Baccalaureate” students until such time as prerequisites are fully completed and the cumulative grade point average for the prerequisite courses is a 2.5. “Post-Baccalaureate” students having six semester hours or fewer of prerequisites remaining may begin dual enrollment course work and apply for Graduate Admission with the approval of their adviser.

Dual Enrollment - Final Semester OF Graduating Seniors Only

With the approval of the Dean of the Graduate School or designee, seniors lacking six semester hours or fewer for graduation may, during the term in which their undergraduate requirements are being completed, be enrolled in one or more courses for graduate credit provided they present an acceptable score on the appropriate entrance exam and have an overall grade point average of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) or a 3.0 grade point average on the last 30 semester hours. All hours attempted in the term in which the 30 semester hours were reached will be used to calculate the grade point average. Consult specific program for specific admission requirements. If admitted, the student may enroll in no more than a combined total of nine semester hours of undergraduate and graduate work.

CROSS ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT

Troy University has a Cross Enrollment Agreement with Alabama State University. Students may cross-enroll in selected courses without academic or financial penalty. To participate, contact the Registrar’s Office, Whitley Hall, Room 418, Montgomery or call (334) 241-9511.

CHANGING PROGRAM OF STUDY

If a student decides to change his/her declared program of study, the student must be in good academic standing or eligible for readmission and meet the entrance requirements for the new degree program in effect at the time of admission to the new program. A new graduate Admissions Application must be filed for the new degree program (no fee required). Courses previously credited to the former program will be evaluated for acceptability for the new degree program through the process of Petition for Transfer of Graduate Credit evaluation, and any loss of credit will be reported to the student and the Financial Aid Office, if applicable. No grades below the grade of “B” will be considered for transfer. Final approval to change programs will be granted by the appropriate academic dean consistent with change of program procedures established by that college. All grades from work attempted in the first graduate program will contribute to the cumulative grade point average, unless the credit is greater than eight years old. Admission to Candidacy to all graduate programs requires a cumulative grade point average of a 3.0.

Note: Students using VA benefits should be aware that the VA may not pay for courses taken in a second program unless the VA has been notified of the degree program change. (See the VA certifying official for further details.)

TRANSFER CREDIT FROM A PREVIOUS GRADUATE DEGREE

Courses taken at the graduate level that contributed to the completion of a prior graduate degree program may be applicable for credit in the new program based on review by the dean of the program. A limit of six semester hours of credit earned from any previous master’s degree may be applied to the requirement for a second master’s degree and is subject to departmental approval. All credits used to satisfy the second masters degree must be less than eight years old at the time of degree completion. (Note: Graduate nursing courses may not exceed five years). A Petition for Transfer of Graduate Credit form must be completed and approved. See TRANSFER CREDIT FROM A REGIONALLY ACCREDITED INSTITUTION section for specific requirements for the evaluation of transfer credit.

TRANSFER CREDIT FROM A REGIONALLY ACCREDITED INSTITUTION

No credit may be transferred to a Troy University graduate program until a student is unconditionally admitted and has completed a minimum of 6 semester hours with the university. The maximum number of graduate credit hours transferred into a graduate program will not exceed 12 semester hours.

A grade of ''B'' or higher must have been earned in each course. Transfer credit will not be used to determine the Troy University grade point average.
Sixth-year degree program students must see the specific discipline section of the Graduate Catalog for further requirements.
To be acceptable as transfer credit, all hours must have been earned within eight years of the date of degree completion of the graduate program at Troy University. Credit accepted as transfer credit, which becomes over eight years old (graduate nursing courses may not exceed five years) before the graduate degree requirements are completed, will become invalid and will not be counted toward graduate degree requirements.
Where Troy University is replacing another university under Department of Defense contracts, students will be permitted to transfer up to18 semester hours of Troy University equivalent coursework. This rule applies for one calendar year from the start of the Troy University program and is only for students who have been in attendance at that site.

Documents Required for Evaluation of Transfer Credit:

A completed “Petition for Transfer of Graduate Credit” form.
A copy of the official transcript showing the course(s) taken.
A course description taken from the college catalog where the course was taken.
Evidence that the course was taken for graduate credit or would have been accepted as graduate credit if not indicated on the transcript.
Course substitutions may be considered, as applicable.

A copy of the course syllabus may be required.

Officially accepted transferred graduate coursework will be posted on the official Troy University transcript.

TRANSFER CREDIT FROM UNACCREDITED OR OTHERWISE ACCREDITED INSTITUTIONS

Some degree programs prohibit the acceptance of transfer credit from unaccredited or otherwise accredited institutions. If a student meets unconditional graduate admission standards and has earned graduate level credit at an unaccredited or otherwise accredited institution of higher learning, the student may petition for transfer credit. Petitions for transfer credit must be submitted immediately upon admission. Credits will not be accepted until the student has completed nine semester hours and has maintained a 3.0 grade point average necessary for good standing. Credits will be evaluated and approved by the dean of the discipline and the Graduate Council if needed. All requests must meet the stated conditions specified in the Transfer Credit from a Regional Accredited Institutions section above. A determination will be made based on (1) the unaccredited or otherwise accredited institution’s affiliation with the following agencies which honors recognition provided by the former : Council on Postsecondary Accreditation (COPA) and the Commission on Recognition of Post Secondary Accreditation (CORPA), (2) the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and/or (3) acceptance of credit by three other regionally accredited institutions located in the area of the unaccredited institution, or (4) review and approval of the Graduate Council. Contact the nearest Troy University Graduate Admissions office for more information.

Note: University College, Phenix City, Dothan, and Montgomery student Petition for Transfer of Graduate Credit request forms must be completed, with the request annotated across the top of the form, that the institution is non-regionally accredited. Attach a copy of the official transcript, course descriptions, syllabus, and faculty credentials if available. All information submitted by the student must be verified by the appropriate academic official at each location, and a letter recommending support or non-support must accompany the request before the dean of the college will have the petition reviewed.

Correspondence Credit

Credit earned through correspondence will not be acceptable for graduate work. A correspondence course is defined as a complete pre-packaged course designed to be delivered through sequential steps at the student’s own pace without instructor or student interaction.

Professional Military Education Credit (PME)

Troy University awards transfer credit for specific Professional Military Education (PME) courses completed at select military service schools for which credit is recommended by the American Council on Education and approved by each appropriate College’s dean. The maximum number of credit hours transferred into a graduate program, to include PME credit, will not exceed 12 semester hours. Please consult your adviser for individual program acceptance. No credit may be granted for work that will be over eight years old at the time of graduation from the Troy University program for which transfer credit was requested. No waivers will be permitted.

Transient Credit
Under no circumstances may a student be enrolled in another institution while enrolled at Troy University without prior transient authorization. Students who have been granted unconditional admission to the Graduate School, and who are in good standing, may petition to take pre-approved graduate level courses at another regionally accredited graduate school. Transient credit does not count toward Troy University residence credit or one’s Troy University grade point average (GPA). See specific program restrictions for transient credit. The maximum number of credit hours transferred into a graduate program, to include transient credit, will not exceed 12 semester hours.

Pre-approval to enroll in such courses must be obtained from the appropriate dean of the degree-granting college prior to enrollment in the course. A grade of ''B'' or higher must be earned in each transient course. Military senior service school credits, if appropriate for the degree, may be accepted as transient credit based upon the Professional Military Education Matrix (http://www.troy.edu/graduateschool/pme.pdf). The combined total of transfer and transient credits may not exceed 12 semester hours.

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SEMESTER Hours Required

The minimum number of semester hours required for graduate programs varies. Additional course work may be required for a student with academic deficiencies and/or a limited background and experience. Additional degree requirements will be determined by the student's adviser or advisory committee with the concurrence of the dean of the appropriate academic discipline. This process may result in additional semester hours in excess of the minimum number of published degree requirements.

HOUR LOAD LIMITS

Definitions:

A “semester” is defined for hour load limit purposes as 16 weeks of class meetings.
A “term” is defined for hour load limit purposes as up to a 10 week period of class meetings.

Warning: Students who register for course work in excess of the approved load without prior approval and violates the University's policy regarding course load will be required to drop the overload or lose the excess credit.

Temporary Admission Status
Students with a temporary admission status are limited to a maximum of nine semester hours per semester or six semester hours per term. The definition of a “full-time” graduate student for admissions status purposes is a student taking nine semester hours per semester or six semester hours per term. A part-time student is defined as a graduate student taking less than a “full-time” load.
Conditional Admission Status
Students admitted conditionally may take a maximum of nine semester hours per semester or six semester hours per term until the ''conditions for admission'' are removed.
Unconditional Admission Status
The maximum load for unconditionally admitted graduate students is nine semester hours per semester, or six semester hours per term, or a combination thereof shall not exceed nine semester hours over a sixteen-week period. With the written approval of the student's academic adviser, the maximum load may be increased to 16 semester hours for unconditionally admitted students. Students who schedule an overload may not reschedule an overload in the subsequent term unless they maintain an overall grade point average of a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale during the term in which the overload was scheduled.
Graduate Assistants
Graduate Assistants are limited to a minimum of six semester hours or a maximum of 9 semester hours per semester.

GRADUATE COURSE NUMBERS

Courses numbered ‘‘9950’’ to ‘‘9999’’ are for workshops or continuing education credit.
Courses numbered ‘‘7700’’ to ‘‘7799’’ are open only to students who have received the master’s degree.
Courses numbered ‘‘6600’’ to ‘‘6699’’ are open only to qualified graduate students or to students who have already received the master’s degree.
Courses numbered ‘‘5500’’ to ‘‘5599’’ are open only to graduate students and graduating seniors. Seniors must have the approval of the instructor of the course and meet unconditional graduate admission criteria. Courses numbered ‘‘5500’’ to ‘‘5599’’ in business, English, history, and mathematics are open only to graduate or post-graduate students. A student may not enroll in a course numbered ‘‘5500’’ to ‘‘5599’’ if it duplicates the same course listed on an undergraduate transcript.
For the master’s degree, 50% of the total graduate program must be earned in “6000” level courses. In the Education Specialist program, 50% of the total graduate program, must be earned in “7000‘‘ level courses.

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GRADING SYSTEM

The following grades are given in the Graduate School:

The grading system is based on a 4.0 grade scale (A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, F=0).

Grade	Description	Credit
A	Superior Attainment	Yes
B	Average Attainment	Yes
C	Below Average Attainment	Yes
D	Far Below Average Attainment	Yes
F	Failure	No
FA	Failure due to absences	No
I	Incomplete	Yes*
IP	Thesis or Clinical Research in Progress	No
P	Pass	Yes
AU	Audit	No
DR	Dropped Course (use only prior to midterm)	No
DP	Dropped Course Passing	No
DF	Dropped Course with Academic Penalty	No
NG	No Grade (Awarded only by Registrar)	Yes*
W	Withdrawal (use only prior to midterm)	No
WP	Withdrawal Passing	No
WF	Withdrawal with Academic Penalty	Yes*

*The computer will read “I”, “NG”, and “WF” as a grade of “F”.
Note 1: If the student makes a "D" or "F" in a core course, the course must be retaken.
Note 2: If the student makes a "D" or "F" in an elective course, the course may be retaken or another elective taken in its place.

REPEATING COURSES

Students may repeat a course in which they received a grade of “D,” “F,” or “W.” Students who received a grade of "C" or below in the required research course must repeat the course and attain a “B” or higher grade to satisfy the research requirements in their program of study. Both grades will be counted as hours attempted in determining the overall grade point average.

INCOMPLETE GRADES

Incomplete Grade

This incomplete grade policy replaces all other incomplete grade policies as of Aug. 1, 2006.

The instructor may report an “Incomplete (I)” for a student whose progress in a course has been satisfactory (e.g. the student is passing the course), but who is unable to complete the course grading requirements because of documented circumstances beyond his/her control.

Time limit for removal of incomplete grade

No incomplete may exceed ten weeks from the date it is assigned. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the instructor regarding the deadline for completing all course requirements. Any student who receives a grade of incomplete must adhere to the work completion deadline set by the instructor, not to exceed the end of the designated ten week period. This deadline applies whether or not the student re-enrolls for the semester or term following the assignment of the incomplete grade(s). Failure to clear the incomplete within the specified time period (not to exceed ten weeks) will result in the assignment of a grade of “F” for the course.

(For the purposes of implementation of this policy, the day the grade is assigned is determined by the University master calendar. A student who wishes to be assigned an incomplete grade must request this from the instructor prior to the assignment of final grades for the course.)

IP (IN-PROGRESS) GRADES

Students who show satisfactory progress in one of the following courses, but are unable to complete requirements in one semester, may be issued IP grades. No other courses are eligible to award the grade of IP. IP grades must be removed within one calendar year of the beginning date of the semester in which the grade was earned. An IP grade that is not removed during the stated time limit will automatically become a grade of “F.”

IP grades may be issued only for the following courses:

Research
Practicums
Internships
Thesis
Personal Supervisor and/or Curriculum Development Field Problem

DIRECTED STUDIES, SPECIALIZED STUDIES, READING, ADVANCED READINGS, SELECTED TOPICS COURSE RESTRICTIONS

Students may not exceed a total of six (6) semester hours taken in any combination of Directed Studies, Specialized Studies, Readings, Advanced Readings, or Selected Topics course credits. Consult individual programs for additional restrictions.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

In registering for classes at the university, graduate students accept responsibility for attending scheduled class meetings, completing assignments on time, and contributing to class discussion and exploration of ideas.

A student will be excused for class absence for circumstances beyond the student’s control or if the student has been required to attend an activity sponsored by the university. Faculty members who sponsor activities that require class absences must send a list of student names approved by the Dean or designee or Office of the Provost to each member concerned at least three days before the scheduled absence.

Faculty members may levy academic penalties upon unexcused absences; however, such penalties for unexcused absences will be a part of each course syllabus and will be distributed to each class at the beginning of each class and a copy filed in the departmental office.

Inclement Weather and Emergency Situations: Both faculty and students are responsible for meeting all assigned classes. In the event of inclement weather, faculty and students will be expected to attend classes as usual as long as they may do so without risking peril to themselves or to others. During periods of inclement weather, faculty and students will not be penalized for absences dictated by perilous conditions. In severe cases of inclement weather or other emergency conditions, the Office of the Provost or designee will announce cancellation of classes through the local and regional media as well as through the University’s web sites.

CHANGES IN CLASS SCHEDULES

The courses for which a student registers must bear the approval of his/her adviser and the appropriate Academic Dean’s approval of the class schedule. Changes in the class schedule are not permitted after the close of the registration period. Registration for a course makes the student responsible for completing the course unless he/she officially withdraws from the course(s).

DROP (Definition: Student is still enrolled in at least one course after the drop is processed.)

Drop Before Semester/Term Begins

Students who, for any reason, drop class(es) before classes begin MUST complete a “Drop” form and submit it to the appropriate office before the semester or term begins. Any student who fails to do so will be responsible for payment of tuition and will be charged with failing grades.

Drop After Semester/Term Begins
Students who drop after classes begin must complete a Drop form and submit to the appropriate office in order to protect their records and to qualify for partial refunds (refer to local policy). Drop forms are available in the Student Services office or your site office.
Drop After the Last Day to Drop
Students who drop after the last day to drop without academic penalty (see Schedule of Classes for the date) will be awarded the grade of “DP” (Drop Passing) or “DF” (Drop Failing).

Explanation of grade status at the time of drop:

Before the Last Day to Drop Cutoff Deadline: The symbol "DR" (drop) will be entered on the student’s record for each course, and the hours will not be charged as attempted. See the Schedule of Classes for the exact date.

After Last Day to Drop: With the exception of those who drop for documented reasons beyond their control, students who drop after the last day to drop will be assigned the symbol "DP" or "DF" for each course. Students who receive the "DF" will be charged with hours attempted in the overall grade point average. See class the Schedule of Classes for the exact date.

WITHDRAWALS

Definition: Student is no longer enrolled in any graduate course(s).

Students who, for any reason, register for classes but do not attend MUST NOTIFY THE RECORDS OFFICE IN WRITING TO WITHDRAW, PRIOR TO THE FIRST CLASS MEETING. Any student who fails to do so will be responsible for payment of fees and will be charged with failing grades.

Registration for a course makes the student responsible for completing the course unless withdrawal from the course or from the University is authorized. Students who withdraw after classes begin must complete and process the Withdrawal form to protect their records. Withdrawal forms are available in the Student Services office, Registrar’s office or the student’s site office. Exit Interviews are required for all withdrawals.

Students who withdraw during any term after the last day to withdraw without academic penalty will be awarded the grade of WP (Withdraw Passing) or WF (Withdraw Failing). The WP grade will not affect a student’s grade point average; however, the grade of WF will be calculated as an F grade.

Explanation of Grade Status at the Time of Withdrawal

Before the Last Day to Drop Cutoff Deadline: The symbol "W" (withdrawal) will be entered on the student’s record for each course, and the hours will not be charged as attempted. See the Schedule of Classes for the exact date.
After Last Day to Drop: With the exception of those who withdraw for documented reasons beyond their control, students who leave the university after the last day to drop will be assigned the symbol "WP" or "WF" for each course. Students who receive the "WF" will be charged with hours attempted in the overall grade point average. See the Schedule of Classes for the exact date.

GRADE APPEALS

Faculty members have the authority to grade student work and to assign grades; these are academic judgments. A faculty member’s syllabus enumerates student academic performance expectations and consequences. Faculty members render academic judgments when a student’s academic performance violates established standards or fails to meet stated expectations. Academic judgments, made by faculty, are based on academic content, course requirements, and student performance. Students may not appeal grades based on allegations concerning the competence of a faculty member, the fairness of examinations, the difficulty of a course, or other matters of a purely academic nature. Grades for individual assignments and exams may not be appealed. While it is recognized that faculty hold the right and responsibility to grant a grade, a student who receives a course grade that he or she believes to be unwarranted for reasons other than those listed above may appeal that grade using these stated procedures.

Step 1. Within the first four weeks of the start of the following term or semester in which the grade is received, the student shall have informally appealed the grade to the instructor. If that instructor is not teaching at Troy University during the term following issuance of the grade, the student will make contact with the instructor through the Dean’s, Associate Dean’s, UC Associate Regional Director of Academic Affairs, or local Student Services office.

Step 2. If the issue is not resolved at this informal level and the student wishes to pursue the appeal, the student shall request in writing a meeting with the respective department chairperson. This request shall be addressed to the chairperson via the Associate Dean’s or UC Associate Regional Director of Academic Affairs and shall be received no later than the end of the fifth week of instruction for the semester following issuance of the grade. The request must summarize the student’s complaint and the student’s informal appeal to the instructor.

Step 3. Within two weeks of receipt of the request, the department chairperson shall discuss the appeal with the student and with the instructor, separately or at the same time. If the chairperson upholds the decision, the matter is closed. The decision is final.

Step 4: If the chairperson does not support the decision of the instructor, the matter shall be appealed to the dean of the college. Within two weeks of the meeting between the instructor and the chairperson, the dean, or their designee, shall meet with the student, the instructor, and the chairperson, separately or together. If the dean supports the original grade, the matter is closed. The decision is final.

If the dean does not support the original grade, the dean will inform the instructor of the decision and attempt to find a reasonable solution. If this is not possible, the dean will determine the appropriate academic remedy, which may include change of grade, and inform the instructor, in writing, of this decision. The instructor then will have two weeks to appeal the decision to the Faculty Council that will convene the Faculty Personnel Advisory Subcommittee to hear the issue and determine a ruling. (While this is an appellate right of faculty, the due process rights of the student will be observed during this process.) Barring unusual circumstances, the matter shall be resolved before the end of the first full semester (16 weeks) or second term following issuance of the grade. It is the student’s responsibility to initiate the appeals process within the timelines set forth in this procedure. The decision of the Faculty Personnel Advisory Subcommittee is final.

Note: Students may not use this procedure to appeal grades resulting from violations of Academic Honesty. Students should refer to the Oracle, the University’s official Student Handbook for these appeals.

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS

See program for details.

Resident Credit Calculation

Residency, the number of Troy University credit hours earned, must be established to be eligible for a Troy University graduate degree. Resident credit for a program is determined by deducting the non-Troy University transfer/transient credit hours allowed in the program from the total hours required for the program. Residency requirements vary by degree program. See specific programs for

Other Document Requirements

Students admitted conditionally due to only a low test score will be granted unconditional admission prior to the completion of nine semester hours provided they have maintained a 3.0 grade point average on all graduate work attempted and have retaken the test and received a satisfactory score.

Procedures:

Transfer of Students on Suspension from Another Institution

TRANSFER CREDIT FROM A REGIONALLY ACCREDITED INSTITUTION

Officially accepted transferred graduate coursework will be posted on the official Troy University transcript.

TRANSFER CREDIT FROM UNACCREDITED OR OTHERWISE ACCREDITED INSTITUTIONS

GRADUATE COURSE NUMBERS

CHANGES IN CLASS SCHEDULES