Admissions

III. ADMISSIONS

UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS

The admission policies of Alabama State University are predicated upon the presumed competence of the individual rather than upon any consideration whatsoever of race, color, sex, religion or national origin.

 

The aim of Alabama State University is to enroll a student body of high ability and diversity that represents an international cross-section of people.

 

Students interested in enrolling in the university as first-time freshmen, transfer students from two-year colleges, transfer students from other four-year colleges or universities, special students, or part-time students are requested to follow the procedures outlined below.

 

New Student Orientation is required for all beginning and transfer students admitted to Alabama State University. New Student Orientation is scheduled prior to the beginning of each academic term. Students will receive information from the Office of Student Affairs regarding which session to attend following official notification of admission from the Office of Admissions and Recruitment.

 

Admission Standards

 

BEGINNING FRESHMEN

Admission decisions will be based on an assessment of the quality of the applicant’s academic preparation and other indicators of scholastic willingness and ability and general conduct.

 

Applicants who have earned a diploma from an accredited high school with a 2.2 cumulative grade point average (or GED certificate) who demonstrate that they can benefit from and contribute to the university’s educational program and goals will be admitted unconditionally. Alabama State University believes that the broadest academic experience in high school is the best preparation for admission to the university. In considering the academic record of an applicant, attention is given to the subjects studied and the grades received in those subjects. The applicant’s  high  school  record  should  include  at  least  four units  of   English and   ten  units   in   the   following  fields: mathematics, natural  sciences,    social  sciences and foreign languages. However, allowances in this unit distribution may be made to permit the student to pursue special areas of academic interest.

 

GPA   2.00 - 2.49 2.50 - 2.99 3.00 - 3.49 3.50 or higher

ACT / SAT   18 or higher / 950 or higher 17 / 910 - 949 16 / 870 - 909 15 / 830 - 869

 

Applicants  who  are  not  admitted  unconditionally  will  be  initially  denied admission.   Students who are initially denied admission may appeal to the admissions committee for admission based upon special factors or circumstances that may be mitigating in the review process. Appeals should be forwarded to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment.

 

Applicants to Alabama State University with high school diplomas from unaccredited high schools may be admitted as beginning freshmen if they have achieved a minimum ACT score of 20 or above (or equal value SAT score) and have earned a 2.2 cumulative grade point average in their high school academic work. Applicants  who  have  earned  the  GED  certificate  and  have  either  a cumulative high school grade point average of 2.2 that reflects completion of at least the 10th grade or have earned a composite score of 16 or higher on the ACT (750 on the SAT-critical reading and math) will be admitted to the university unconditionally. An applicant who has earned the GED certificate and is also 22 years of age or older will be admitted to the university unconditionally.

 

Applicants who   are   seniors in   high   school are   admitted with   the understanding that requirements for admission to the university will be fulfilled during their senior year. These applicants must submit final high school transcripts that reflect completion of high school with a standard, honors, or advanced diploma.

 

Admission Procedures

• Submit application, along with $25.00 non-refundable application fee, to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment.
• Have an official copy of high school transcript or General Educational Development (GED) report and official high school transcript mailed to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment.
• Submit test score results from the American College Testing Program (ACT) or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). An application for admission may be submitted before the students take the test. It is recommended that prospective freshmen take the ACT or SAT in the fall of their senior year in high school. In order to register for the test, consult your high school counselor or write to The American College Testing Program,  P.O. Box 414, Iowa City, IA 52243, concerning the ACT or write to the College Entrance Examination Board, Box 592, Princeton, NJ 08540, concerning the SAT.

 

Each freshman applicant should indicate his or her selection of an intended major on the application form. This information will be of assistance in the academic advising of the student.   University College is the initial college of enrollment for all freshmen entering the university. (See the University College section in this catalog for an explanation of the role of University College.) It should be noted that selection of a major while enrolled in University College does not guarantee admission to a degree-granting college or school. For specific information on a particular college or school, see admissions requirements for that college or school in Section V of this catalog.

 

ADVANCED PLACEMENT

 

Admission Standards and Advanced Placement Credit Policy

Students with special competence may qualify for advanced placement and/or course credit on the basis of scores earned in the College Board’s Advanced Placement Program (AP). Alabama State University may award credit to beginning freshmen who score 3, 4 or 5 on Advanced Placement Examinations. A minimum score of 3 is required to be considered for the possible award of credit. Advanced Placement Credits are awarded in English (6) 131/132; Mathematics (6) 133/134, 137/165; General Chemistry (8) 141/142; History (6) 131/132. A maximum of 26 semester hours of credit will be accepted to fulfill course requirements in the General Studies. Students seeking advanced placement must have a minimum high school grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 point scale.

 

Students are encouraged to become familiar with the AP examinations and acceptable scores prior to seeking such credits. Documentation of test scores must be sent to the Office of Admissions for possible award of credit. The awarding of credit will be administered by the Office of Admissions with the approval of the dean of University College.

 

Transfer Student Admission

 

Persons who have attended another institution are welcome to apply for admission to Alabama State University as transfer students. The eligibility and acceptance of transfer applicants are determined through careful consideration of their previous academic record and proposed program of study at Alabama State University. Transfer applicants must be eligible for readmission to the institution last attended. They must have at least a “C’’ (2.0) cumulative grade point average and at least 15 semester hours of college-level credit in the combined work attempted at all other colleges attended to be admitted unconditionally. The high school grade point average will be used as the admission criterion for transfer students with less than 15 semester hours of college-level credit. Students wishing to enroll in a particular college or school of the university should consult Section V of this catalog.

 

Transfer students are enrolled in University College for advisement purposes until satisfactory completion of the general education requirements has been verified. All transfer students should indicate the selection of a major on the application form. An eligible transfer student may expect to receive equivalent semester hours of credit for college-level course work completed with a grade of “C’’ or higher at any college or university that is fully accredited by the regional accrediting association. In all major courses, core courses, and selected minors, the minimum grade of “C” is required.

 

Transfer students who do not fulfill the regular admissions requirements for   transfer standing may appeal the denial as set forth above for entering freshmen.

 

Transfer credit is recorded on the student’s permanent academic record, but grades are not transferred to this record. Only work at Alabama State University is included in the cumulative grade point average.

 

Transfer students must earn their last 30 hours of coursework at the university. Not more than 64 semester hours from junior and/or community colleges will be accepted toward a degree at Alabama State University.

 

Junior- and senior-level courses from junior and community colleges will not be accepted as transfer credits.

 

All transfer students must earn a majority of the credits in their major field of study at Alabama State University.

 

For the purpose of admission to a program in a degree-granting college, all credits earned from previous colleges, and/or credits earned at Alabama State University will be used to calculate the grade point average for admission to the program.

 

 

Admission Procedures

• Submit application, along with $25.00 non-refundable application fee, to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment.
• Have an official copy of all college transcripts forwarded to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment.
• Submit a copy of his or her high school transcript if less than 15 semester hours (or equivalent quarter credits) of college credits have been attempted.

Admission Standards

 

TRANSIENT STUDENTS

Students who are regularly enrolled at another institution but who wish to take advantage of programs available at Alabama State University may seek admission as transient students. Such an applicant will not be required to submit a transcript of credits. Transient students are classified under the general category of “special students,’’ with temporary admission to the university.

 

Admission Procedure

• Submit, along with $25.00 non-refundable application fee, application to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment.
• Secure written approval from appropriate registrar of the college or university of primary enrollment indicating which course(s) are approved for transient study and have a copy of the approval forwarded to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment.
• If a transient student wishes to attend Alabama State University for more than one semester, he/she must submit transient forms for each semester he/she plans to attend ASU.

 

DUAL ENROLLMENT

 

Dual Enrollment is a program that allows high school juniors and seniors to take college courses at Alabama State University (ASU) while still in high school. Students meeting ASU's admissions criteria may enroll in three to six credit hours per semester and up to twenty-four credit hours over a two year or four semester period. Alabama State University’s dual enrollment courses may count towards satisfying high school courses and are transferable to another post-secondary institution.

 

Juniors who apply to participate in the dual enrollment program at Alabama State University must meet the following criteria: 1. The student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0. 2. The student must either have earned a 21 on the ACT, 1060 on the SAT, or agree to take one of the standardized tests by the end of the semester in which they are enrolling. 3. The student must earn the required test score to remain in the program for the subsequent semester. Seniors who apply to participate in the Dual Enrollment Program at Alabama State University- must have a cumulative grade point average of a 3.0 and have earned a 21 on the ACT or 1060 on the SAT.

 

Admission Procedure

• A completed application (front and back)
• A signed endorsement clause to be completed by a core teacher
• An official high school transcript
• An official test score report (ACT and/or SAT)/ may be listed on transcript
• A Counselor and/or Principal Recommendation

EARLY ADMISSION

 

Students who have exceptionally high grades and ACT or SAT scores and who have strong endorsements from their high school and their parents may be considered for admission without completing their senior year of high school.

 

Candidates for early admission must have completed their junior year of high school with a minimum grade point average equivalent to 3.5 (B) on a 4.0 scale. Candidates’ grade point averages will be evaluated from the following subject areas: social sciences, mathematics, English and natural science. Candidates are required to score a minimum of 24 on the ACT or 1090 (critical reading and math) on the SAT exams. Applications must be accompanied by an endorsement from the applicant’s parents and counselor or principal.

 

Recommendation for  early  admission will  be  made  by  the  director  of Admissions  and  Recruitment, with  final  approval  by  the  Admissions  and Recruitment committee.

 

After approval for early admission has been granted, the student will be required to meet with the dean of University College and the chairperson of the department in which the student has indicated a major interest. The purpose of both meetings is for individual advisement concerning the student’s academic requirements while enrolled at Alabama State University.

 

Early admission students are required to register for a minimum of 12 hours (full time) per semester, but may not enroll for more than 15 hours. After the student has completed requirements for the University College General Studies, the limit on credit hour loads per semester can be lifted. It is recommended that early admission students enroll during the summer after completion of their junior year of high school.

 

Early admission students will be restricted to the General Studies while enrolled in University College. After completion of the core, students may select courses of their choice within their major field.

 

Early admission students will be assigned a special adviser from the Academic Advisement Center while enrolled in University College. After the student enrolls in a degree-granting college, another adviser will be assigned.

 

Special Students

 

Admission Standards

Applicants for admission who wish to enroll for credit but do not wish to pursue a degree at Alabama State University are welcome to apply as special students. Typical examples of special students include a person who already has a degree and enrolls for course work to complete teacher certification requirements; a person who is pursuing a degree at another college or university and makes arrangements with that university to complete certain course work here; a person who signs up for a seminar or workshop that awards college credit; or a person who has not earned a degree but wishes to take courses for general knowledge and personal satisfaction. A special student may enroll on a full-time or part-time basis, but may not become a candidate for graduation since special student status is not intended for degree-seeking students.

 

Special students may not be enrolled for more than two consecutive semesters. To continue enrollment at Alabama State University, students must meet beginning freshman or transfer requirements.

 

Admission Procedure

• Submit application, along with $25.00 non-refundable application fee, to the Office of the Office Admissions and Recruitment.
• Submit Undergraduate Special Student Classification Form to the Admissions and Recruitment Office

 

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

International students seeking admission to the University must complete the following actions:

• Complete Alabama State University Undergraduate Admissions Application and a $25.00 (U.S.) non-refundable application processing fee. The Admissions Application can be processed online.
• Evaluation of official transcripts from all schools previously attended (high school and college). Transcripts, if not in English, must be translated into English by an official translation service. Once the transcript has been translated, please forward to the following for evaluation:

 

Lisano International, P.O. Box 407, Auburn, AL 36381-

0407;   Phone and   Fax   (334)   745-0425;   E-mail:

LisanoINTL@aol.com;

Web: www.lisano-intl.com.

 

OR

 

World Education Services, Inc. (WES), P.O. Box 5087/Bowling Green Station,

New York, NY 10274-5087; Phone and Fax (334) 745-0425 ; 

Web: www.wes.org/apply

• Official  copy  of  the  Test  of  English as  a  Foreign Language (TOEFL) results is  required if  your native language is  not English. A minimum acceptable score of 500-paper-based, 173-computer-based, or 61-Internet-based exam. Also, the English language requirement will be met upon completion of Level 112 at a Language Center.
• Confidential Financial Statement, properly notarized, affirming your ability to fully meet the expected expenses of attending Alabama State University for the first year of study (U.S. dollars). International students pay out-of-state tuition. International Students are not eligible for undergraduate academic scholarships or financial aid.
• Health Center Evaluation Form.    Can be downloaded by visiting ASU website: clicking on Administration, then Student Affairs, then Health Center, then Health Center Evaluation Form.

 

FOR   ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON UNDERGRADUATE INTERNATIONAL ADMISSIONS, CONTACT THE OFFICE OF DIVERSITY AND INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS, IN THE DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS, P.O. BOX 271, MONTGOMERY, AL 36101-0271, (334-229-4713 or 1-800-253-5037).

 

ADMISSION TO GRADUATE STUDY

Persons seeking admission to the University for Purposes of graduate study should consult the Graduate Studies Bulletin for detailed information.

 

 

CREDIT FROM NONTRADITIONAL SOURCES

Alabama State University will consider for advanced placement or advanced standing  credit   appropriate  service,  coursework  and  examinations  from nontraditional sources such  as  active  federal  military  service  and  service schools,  the  College  Entrance    Examination Board’s  Advanced Placement Program, the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and correspondence credits from fully accredited institutions.

 

No student will be advised or permitted to take either a departmental examination or a CLEP test and use the “passing’’ score as a substitute for enrolling in and satisfactorily completing prescribed curriculum courses unless prior approval to take the test for said purpose is granted by the relevant department chairperson, the dean and the Office of Academic Affairs. Approvals will be granted only in instances where proof can be presented that, by noncredit formal training (i.e., military service), the material prescribed for the course has been mastered by the student. A student may not attempt credit by examination in a field that the student has received college credit for a more advanced course or for a course in which a failing grade has been received.

 

The university will allow a maximum of 45 semester hours for nontraditional credit (AP, CLEP, etc.). “C’’ -level performance is required as a minimum for award of credit from any academic test. All requests for credit by examination should be submitted to the Office of Records and Registration in the Student Services Center.

 

ADVANCED PRE-COLLEGE EXPERIENCE PROGRAM

 

Admission Standards

The Advanced Pre-college Experience Program (APEX) is designed for students who wish to attend Alabama State University while simultaneously completing requirements for high school graduation.

 

The overall objective of APEX is to improve academic achievement, to develop personal maturity and to provide the benefits of an early college experience. Students in this program may take work in specific areas for which they are recommended and in which they have adequate preparation.

 

It should be noted that APEX is not an early admissions program.

 

Candidates who apply to participate in APEX are required to be currently enrolled high school students who have completed their freshman year of high school. Recommendations from either their high school principal or counselor, along with written permission from the student’s parents or guardians, must accompany their applications for admission.

 

Admission Procedures

APEX students must submit a copy of their high school record to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment. Candidates must have a cumulative grade point average equivalent to 3.0 (B) on a 4.0 scale.

 

Recommendation for enrollment into APEX will be made by the director of the Office of Admissions and Recruitment with final approval by the Admissions and Recruitment committee.  After acceptance into the program, students are classified as “special students’’ (non-degree-seeking students).

 

A maximum of three credits is allowed each semester. Students enrolled in the summer program may enroll for a maximum of six semester hours.

 

APEX students may not take courses that they are simultaneously taking in high school. For example, if a student is taking algebra in high school, he or she would not be permitted to enroll in algebra at ASU. Courses taken at the college level may not conflict or interfere with the student’s high school schedule. With the above provisions, APEX students may enroll in any 100- or 200-level course that does not require a prerequisite.

 

Course credits earned through APEX are acceptable as regular college credits. APEX students are not to use credits earned at ASU toward high school graduation requirements. Transcripts are not released until the student provides the Office of Records and Registration with notification of high school graduation.

 

After acceptance into APEX, students are required to meet with the dean of University College. The student is then assigned an adviser from the Academic Advisement Center.

 

ACADEMIC REGULATIONS

 

 

SCHEDULING PROGRAMS

A schedule of classes is made available prior to the registration period. The student, with the assistance of an academic adviser, may select courses and time periods and record them on his or her registration form. The student should take great caution when preparing his or her schedule to avoid conflict and unnecessary courses for his or her program.

 

 

CHANGES IN APPROVED CLASS SCHEDULE (DROP AND ADD)

A change of program period is allowed during each registration period. A student has the opportunity to drop a course, add a course, and change the time of a course or a combination of all of the above.

 

 

INDEPENDENT STUDY COURSES

A request for independent study must be submitted by the faculty and student in writing for approval by the department chair, college/school dean and the vice president for academic affairs.   The request must explain the need to use this independent format and   the   rubrics to   be   used in evaluating required assignments. Faculty must maintain documentation of weekly contact with the student and submit progress reports to the department chair, dean and vice president for academic affairs during the week of midterm and final exams.

 

This does not apply to university approved practicums and internships.

 

 

TRANSFER WITHIN THE UNIVERSITY

To transfer from University College to a major program, a student files a Declaration of Major form with his or her academic adviser. Then, the dean of University College rules on the student’s eligibility to transfer; and the dean of the degree-granting college rules on admitting the student to the intended major program.

 

To transfer from one degree-granting college to another, a student files with the Office of Records and Registration a completed Declaration of Major card that carries the signatures of the deans of the colleges involved and of the appropriate academic advisers.

 

A student may transfer from one curriculum to another within his or her college at any time during the semester, to become effective the following semester. The academic advisers monitor the change to determine if the change promises to be in the best interest of the student and that all prerequisites have been met when changing from one curriculum to another.

 

 

COURSE CANCELLATION

The university will normally cancel any course in which fewer than 10 students are enrolled and may not offer a course for which an instructor is not available.

 

 

PAYMENT OF FEES

Registration is not complete until all fees have been cleared with the Office of Student Accounts. Please refer to the section on fees in this catalog.

 

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING REGISTRATION PROCEDURE CONTACT THE OFFICE OF RECORDS AND REGISTRATION, ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY,

P.O. BOX 271, MONTGOMERY, AL 36101-0271.

 

 

UNIVERSITY ATTENDANCE POLICY

Each student is expected to attend all lectures, seminars, laboratories and field work for each registered class, including the first class session, in order to verify registration with instructors and to complete all work assigned for the course. Failure to observe this policy may seriously jeopardize a student’s academic standing.

 

If  a  student  does  not  attend  class  during  the  first  week  (first  five instructional days) of the semester and does not give prior notification to the instructor of reasons for absence and intent to attend the class, the student will be dropped from the course.

 

A student is permitted one (1) unexcused absence for each credit hour generated by the class. For example, two (2) absences are allowed in a two-hour class. Excessive absenteeism, whether excused or unexcused, may result in a student’s course grade being reduced or in assignment of a grade of “F.”

 

At the beginning of the class, the instructor is responsible for having listed on his or her syllabus the University Attendance Policy. The student will be held responsible for adhering to the University Attendance Policy. Instructors of courses are not obligated to provide makeup opportunities for students who are absent, unless the absences have been officially approved.   An officially approved absence, however, merely gives the individual who missed the class an opportunity to make up the work and in no way excuses him or her from the work required. Official excuses are granted by the Office of Student Affairs for authorized university activities, verified personal illness or illness or death in the immediate family.

 

Absences will count from the first day of registration for each course. Students receiving veterans’ benefits are required to attend classes according to  the  regulations  of  the  Veterans  Administration,  in  addition  to  those regulations set by the university for all students. It is the responsibility of the instructor  to  keep  an  accurate  attendance  record  of  all  students  enrolled. Students should understand that absences may jeopardize their grades. It is the responsibility of the student to withdraw from the university or drop a course.

 

REGISTRATION

To receive the proper credit for a course, the student must be officially registered for the course in the Office of Records and Registration and the student’s name must be listed on the official class roster. A student who attends a class without official registration will not receive a grade for the course. Any student who fails to comply with the official registration rules and regulations will not be allowed to petition for course credit.

 

 

STUDENT LOAD

The minimum credit hour load for a full-time undergraduate student is 12 hours per semester. A student who registers for less than the minimum load stated above is classified for academic purposes as a part-time student.

 

Normal Load – 12 to 18 semester hours of credit.

Maximum Load (for dean’s list students or others with special permission from their dean) – 21 semester hours of credit.

 

Students on Academic Probation – not more than 13 semester hours of credit during the regular academic year and not more than six semester hours of credit during the summer term.

 

 

AUDITING A COURSE

A student who wishes to audit a course must enroll as an auditor at the time of registration. No credit is earned and no examination for credit may be subsequently applied for when a course is audited.

 

Students who enroll as auditors may not change to credit status after the final date of the program change period.

 

 

WITHDRAWAL FROM A COURSE

A student who chooses to withdraw from a course after the last day of the drop/add period may do so without the approval of the course instructor or the dean.   This action will result in the student receiving a “W” for the course. A”W” denotes an official withdrawal from the course and is not calculated into the cumulative grade point average (GPA).   A student may withdraw from a course up through the week of midterm exams.  The  deadline  date  for withdrawing  from  a  course  (usually  the  Tuesday  after  midterm  week)  is stipulated in the academic calendar.  All official withdrawals must be made through the Office of Records and Registration.

 

When a student, as a result of emergency circumstances is forced to withdraw from a course after the established withdrawal date for the term; the student may petition, in writing, the dean of the school in which the course is offered for approval to withdraw from the course. A student may not withdraw from a course after the deadline if he or she is failing.  The dean will contact the student’s instructor to determine the student’s scholastic standing at the time of the request to withdraw.

 

If a student registers and stops attending a course; the course must be officially dropped through the Office of Records and Registration or a grade of “WF” will be recorded by the instructor.

 

If a student registers and never attends any class sessions for a particular course, a grade of “X” will be recorded for the course; unless the student officially withdraws through the Office of Records and Registration.  A grade of “X” may result in the reduction of a student’s aid award and/or the creation of a financial balance on the student’s account.

 

If the student improperly adds a course and does not process a schedule change form through the Office of Records and Registration, no credit will be allowed and he or she will not receive a grade for the course.

 

 

POLICY ON WITHDRAWAL FROM THE UNIVERSITY

A student who wishes to withdraw from the university must file an official notice with the Office of Records and Registration. One of the following methods may be used:

• Completion of the official “Withdrawal from the University” form in the Office of Records and Registration.
•  Submission of a letter to the Office of Records and Registration indicating the request to be withdrawn, via mail or fax.

 

Requests for withdrawal from the university must be received in the Office of Records and Registration by the last day of classes of the semester from which the student wishes to be withdrawn. Students who officially withdraw will receive “W” grade designations for the term of withdrawal.

 

 

COURSE SUBSTITUTIONS

Course substitutions on the undergraduate level are made only upon the recommendation of the adviser and approval by the department chairperson and the dean of the appropriate college.

 

 

EXAMINATIONS, GRADES AND GRADE POINTS

Final examinations are held at the end of each semester. Students are graded on the basis of the following guidelines:

 

A    4 grade points per semester hour     Excellent

B    3 grade points per semester hour     Good

C   2 grade points per semester hour      Satisfactory

D   1 grade point per semester hour        Minimum Passing

F    No grade points                                 Failure/Completed-Counted in GPA

I     No grade points                                 Incomplete (See below)

WF No grade points                                 Withdrawal/Failure-Counted in GPA

 

The following symbols are substitutes for grades, but are not grades themselves. None of the symbols listed below are counted in the GPA:

 

W        No grade Points        Withdrawal in good standing

IP        No grade points         in progress (see below) AU No grade points Audit

X          No grade points        Non-Attendance

 

An “I’’ (incomplete) grade is assigned in instances in which a student is likely to pass the course upon completion of requirements to change the “I” grade.  To yield credit for a course for which a grade of “I” has been assigned, course requirements must be completed by the end of the next semester of enrollment, not to exceed two calendar years.  When reporting the “I” grade, faculty will include the alternative grade that the student has earned, factoring in all of the course requirements, e.g., I (B) (C) (D) or (F).  If the student does not complete assignments to remove the “I” grade during the next semester of enrollment, the alternative grade will be the final grade.

 

Students receiving veterans’ benefits are required to adhere to the regulations of the Veterans Administration in addition to those requirements set by the university for all students. An “IP” (in progress) grade is assigned in instances in which the academic term has ended and all academic work has not been completed for the course or a final grade has not been assigned or received. This grade is only used for cross-enrolled courses and/or courses resulting in the completion of a thesis, dissertation or extensive coursework. This grade is not to be assigned in the place of an “I” (incomplete) grade. Students receiving veterans’ benefits are required to adhere to the regulations of the Veterans Administration in addition to those requirements set by the university for all students.

 

 

GRADE POINT AVERAGE

The ASU grade point average may be computed by dividing the total number of GPA hours into the total number of GPA quality points.

 

 

CLASSIFICATION

Student classification requires satisfactory performance on basic skills and subject knowledge examinations as are deemed appropriate by the university as well as the successful completion of a required number of semester hours.

 

To advance from freshman to sophomore, from sophomore to junior, and from junior to senior, a student must demonstrate satisfactory performance on all required examinations and have successfully completed the following number of hours:

 

 

Freshman – Fewer than 32 semester hours

Sophomore – 32 semester hours

Junior – 63 semester hours

Senior – 93 semester hours

 

 

UNIVERSITY READING POLICY

Currently, this policy is suspended until further notice.

Students entering Alabama State University are expected to achieve a prescribed level of competency in reading. The minimum level of competency expected is 13.0 on a designated standardized reading test. Currently, the Nelson-Denny Reading Test is being used.

 

Students who score below the 13.0 grade level must satisfactorily complete designated reading courses. Students scoring 8.9 and below must enroll in Reading 120; students scoring 9.0-10.9 must enroll in Reading 130; students scoring 11.0 to 12.9 must complete Reading 132. Students must enroll in the appropriate reading course during their first semester of entry into the university, and they must re-enroll in a designated reading course each subsequent semester until the reading requirement is met. This policy applies to freshmen and transfer students. Students must satisfy the reading requirement prior to filing for graduation. Contact your adviser; this policy may be revised.

 

 

 

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY EXAMINATION

Currently, this policy is suspended until further notice.

A student who is enrolled in a program leading to the bachelor’s degree must pass the English Proficiency Examination in order to graduate from Alabama State University. It must be taken prior to admission to a degree-granting program. The examination is administered twice each semester. Students should arrange to take this examination in the semester following completion of the freshman English requirement. Transfer students are expected to take the English Proficiency Examination during their first semester of residence, if freshman English has been completed.

 

Students who do not pass the examination after two attempts must take English 135, Elements of writing, prior to taking the English Proficiency Examination for the third time (non-degree credit).  Students must pass the English Proficiency Exam prior to registering for the Baccalaureate Writing Competency Test (BWCT) and filing for graduation. Contact your adviser; this policy may be revised.

 

 

BACCALAUREATE WRITING COMPETENCY TEST

Currently, this policy is suspended until further notice.

The purpose of the Baccalaureate Writing Competency Test is to ascertain that ASU students are able to write with proficiency in their degree areas before they graduate. Although students must pass the English Proficiency Examination (EPE) after completion of freshman English, the test essentially ensures that students are capable of producing a written document that conforms to the standards of basic written composition. The EPE does not measure any higher-level writing and essay skills. The BWCT calls for students to write a reasonably sophisticated essay on a topic from their academic discipline. The BWCT is given once each semester, including the summer session.

 

Students who fail the BWCT must provide documentation that they have attended or participated in whatever form of remediation is recommended by their advisers/departments for a period of at least 30 days before they may be certified to register to retake the test. A copy of that documentation must be attached to the registration form and verified by the adviser. If   the  failure  is  due  to weaknesses in  writing  skills,  students will  report  to  the  University College Writing Center. Laboratory instructors will request the student’s BWCT booklet from the University Testing Center and, together with the student, plan a program of remediation. When the remediation is complete, students must get a signed statement from the lab instructor certifying satisfactory completion, and must include the certification with their registration to retake the exam. If the failure is due to weaknesses in the support section of the essay, the students will be assigned by the applicable department chair to an instructor to help them develop support material for various topics. In this case, students must present certification from the instructor verifying that the remediation has been completed as a part of their registration to retake the exam. Authorized retakes are administered only on normally scheduled BWCT dates and are not given at any other times.

 

Students observed using unauthorized materials or otherwise cheating on the BWCT will automatically receive a failing score and may be prohibited from retaking the test for one year or more. Additionally, such incidents may be referred for further disposition under the academic dishonesty provisions of the student handbook.

 

Students must pass the EPE to be eligible to register for and take the BWCT. Students should take the BWCT in their junior year. The BWCT is a graduation requirement. No student may receive a degree from ASU until he or she has satisfactorily passed the BWCT. Contact your adviser; this policy may be revised.

 

Although policies related to the Nelson Denny Reading Test, the English Proficiency Test and the Baccalaureate Writing Competency Test are currently suspended, students are required to demonstrate proficiency in areas measured by the tests provided in the various courses in the departments of Advancement Studies and the Department of Language and Literature. 

 

DOUBLE MAJOR

A student is allowed to graduate with a double major if he or she has met all requirements for both majors and of the colleges or schools in which those majors are offered. After all requirements have been fulfilled, the major may be registered on the student’s transcript. This may not be interpreted as meeting the requirements of a second degree.

The student may select the college or school from which the degree is to be awarded.

 

 

SECOND DEGREE

In order to earn a second baccalaureate degree after completion of the first degree, a student must:

• earn a minimum of 30 semester hours at Alabama State University,
• have been a full-time Alabama State University student for two semesters, and
• Have met all academic requirements for the degree sought as stipulated in the undergraduate catalog at the time of enrollment in the second degree program.

 

 

 

RELEASE OF DIPLOMAS

The university will release a diploma to a candidate who has satisfied all requirements of the university for graduation for the semester in which the graduation application was submitted. The deadline date for clearing any academic deficiencies is five days prior to commencement. A graduation fee is payable to the cashier’s office during the graduation application period.  If a student is in default on any payment due the university, his or her diploma and academic record will not be issued until the matter is cleared.

 

 

FAILURES

A student whose work is unsatisfactory for any reason shall receive a final grade of “F” for the course. In order to receive credit, he or she shall repeat the course in residence at this university.

 

 

WHAT CONSTITUTES AN ACADEMIC RECORD

The official academic record is a record of the student’s experience, family background, aptitudes and interests. The record indicates previous academic enrollment competencies achieved and all work pursued at the institution.

 

Academic transcripts may be photocopied or reproduced in their entirety via computer. The records are well-designed to ensure that all necessary information is included. Students’ academic records contain the following data:

 

 

Identification of the

Institution

Name

Location: City, State, ZIP code

Identification of the Student

Name

Address

Date of Birth

Place of Birth

Identification

Number

Basis of Admission Secondary School Graduation/GED

Name, Location of School

Date of Graduation

Previous Higher Education-Undergraduate

Name, Location of Institution

Period of Attendance

Previous Higher Education-Graduate

Name, Location of Institution

Period of Attendance Date of Graduation

Degree Received

Area of Study (at time of graduation) College, School or Division Program or Major

Minor

Record of Work Pursued

Dates of Attendance Course Identification Amount of Credit

Grades and Grade Points

Course Description

Demonstrated Competencies Source or Type of Credit Termination Status

Statement of Graduation

Status at Time of Last Attendance

Academic Status: Good Standing

Academic Probation

Academic Suspension

Academic Dismissal

 

 

REPORTING OF GRADES

Final grades will no longer be mailed to students at the completion of the semester. Final grades must be viewed via Hornet’s Web at www.alasu.edu.

 

CHANGE OF GRADE

Grades reported by instructors to the registrar may not be changed, except in case of error in recording or in evaluation. A grade, once reported, may be changed only with the concurrence of the instructor, dean and vice president for academic affairs and each such change shall be supported by written justification.

 

COURSES REPEATED FOR CREDIT

A student may repeat a course in which a grade of D or F is received.  The first D or F grade will be excluded or “forgiven,” from the cumulative grade point average (GPA) calculation. The highest grade received will be the grade used in computing the cumulative grade point average on the first repetition attempt.  If a course is repeated more than once, all subsequent grades received in the repeated  course  will  be  calculated  in  the  cumulative  grade  point  average, including a D or F grade.

 

A student may repeat a course in which a grade of C is received with the approval of the dean of the college involved.  A student may not repeat a course after graduation in order to alter the cumulative grade point average after the degree has been conferred.

 

The repetition policy may be applied only one time per course.  No course can be used more than once toward degree requirements, unless the course is specifically designated by the department as a repeatable credit.

 

ACCURATE ADDRESS INFORMATION

It is a student’s responsibility to make certain that accurate address information is on file at all times. You may update your address at the Office of the Registrar in person, by letter or by faxing the information to (334) 834-0336.

 

Different addresses can be maintained in your electronic file. However, you must provide specific address data and instructions to ensure accuracy of this information. The most commonly used addresses are:

LOCAL: This is your address in the Montgomery area. Semester-specific mailings are sent to this address (e.g., bills, registration information, and financial disbursement).

PERMANENT HOME: This is the address to which semester grade reports and bills will be sent. In some cases this may be the same as the local address.

HOUSING (Local): This is the residence hall address if you are living on campus.

PARENT/GUARDIAN: Specific mailings are sent to this address.

 

RETENTION

Academic eligibility requirements for continuation in residence are calculated on Alabama State University course work. Academic probation is a scholastic warning, indicating that the student is in danger of being suspended. A student on probation can continue his or her enrollment without interruption.

 

Academic suspension is a status that bars a student from continued enrollment at the university for one regular semester. For example, students placed on academic suspension at the end of the spring semester are not eligible for re-enrollment for any term, including the summer term, until the next spring semester.

 

SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC STANDING

A student who maintains the minimum cumulative GPA requirement for their respective classification will be considered to be in “satisfactory academic standing.”

 

ACADEMIC PROBATION

A student’s (including a freshman) academic progress will be evaluated at the end of their first academic year. If the student fails to meet the satisfactory academic progress requirements after the first year, they will be placed on academic probation for the third semester and be subsequently reevaluated at the end of the third term -- not to include the summer.  The student will be suspended for one semester (Fall/Spring) if they fail to make satisfactory academic progress after the third semester. Once the student has earned more than 31 hours, they will be placed on academic probation after one semester whenever their cumulative grade point average at Alabama State University is less than the grade point averages identified below for the applicable level of cumulative graded hours:

 

Cumulative

Graded Hours1                                                                                                       ASU GPA2

0 - 31                                                                                                          1.6

32 - 62                                                                                                        1.8

63 - 92                                                                                                        2.0

More than 92                                                                                             2.0

 

• Cumulative graded hours include hours attempted at ASU and hours transferred from any other institution(s).
• Only the cumulative GPA earned at ASU will be used to determine the probation and suspension status (regardless of what the overall GPA may be for transfer students).

 

CLEARING PROBATION

A student may clear probation by elevating the ASU cumulative grade point average  to  a  level  equal  to  or  greater  than  those  identified  above  for  the applicable class level. Credits and grades earned at another institution may not be used to clear probation.

 

Students who are placed on academic probation will be referred to the Academic Center for Educational Success (A.C.E.S.) and assigned to an ACES advisor. Additionally, probationary students will have a Retention/ACES hold on their HornetsWeb account and must adhere to prescribed services as determined by their ACES advisor.  Students who fail to meet all of the above-mentioned conditions will not be considered for continued enrollment.

 

Students with academic deficiencies are encouraged to enroll in the summer term.

 

ACADEMIC SUSPENSION

A student (including a freshman) will be suspended for a regular semester if his or her cumulative grade point average at the end of a term places him or her on probation and that probationary status is not cleared at the end of the next term enrolled. A student will not be suspended at the end of a term in which he or she completes a full-time course load and earns a 2.0 (C) term grade point average, but will be continued on probation unless his or her probationary status has been cleared.  Upon return from a suspension, academic status will be determined by the aforementioned probationary standards. (The reinstatement procedures are outlined below.)

 

No credit earned at another institution by a student on suspension from ASU will be used in clearing a suspension or in meeting requirements for an Alabama State University degree.

 

 

ACADEMIC DISMISSAL

A student who receives a second suspension will be subject to academic dismissal. Academic dismissal does not imply future reinstatement; nor does academic dismissal mean that a person is forever barred from attending Alabama State University. Students may apply for reinstatement after remaining out of Alabama State University for a minimum of two regular semesters.

 

Dismissed students are not eligible to apply for readmission for summer terms, until he or she has remained out of Alabama State University for two regular terms.

 

The application for readmission must be accompanied with evidence that the student is likely to succeed upon readmission.

 

An academically suspended or dismissed student who has incomplete or other deferred grades which could, when cleared, remove his or her suspension or dismissal, will be given until the end of the program change period of the next semester to remove his or her suspension or dismissal.

 

No credit earned at another institution by a student on academic suspension or dismissal will be used in clearing a suspension or dismissal or in meeting requirements for an ASU degree.

 

 

Reinstatement after Academic Suspension or Dismissal

• A student who desires to appeal their academic suspension must appeal in writing to the Office of Records and Registration Aid by the date indicated in the suspension letter.  The letter should be hand-delivered to the Office of Records and Registration or mailed to the following address:
          Alabama State University
          Academic Standards Committee
          Office of Records and Registration
          P.O. Box 271
          Montgomery, Alabama 36101-0271
  The letter should include the following:
  1. reasons why the student did not meet the minimum academic requirements;
  2. reasons why the student’s suspension should be lifted;
  3.  has changed that will allow you, the student, to not only meet, but exceed    the minimum academic requirements; and
  4. present an academic plan and successfully follow it until completion.
• The Academic Standing Committee, appointed by the University Registrar, shall have a membership that consists of two representatives from the faculty; one representative from Records and Registration; one representative from Financial Aid; and one representative from the Office of Retention, respectively. This Committee will review the petition and determine if the student should have his or her suspension lifted and be subsequently allowed to re-enroll. The committee normally reviews on the written record and does not conduct hearings unless unusual circumstances warrant. A student is encouraged to submit third party written documentation, if necessary, to support their appeal. The student shall be notified in writing of the Committee’s decision.
• The student may appeal the Academic Standards Committee’s decision to the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs within five working days. The Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs has five working days to render a decision and respond to the student in writing.  The decision of the Assistant Vice President is final.
   

 

 

ACADEMIC HONORS

Degrees with honors are conferred according to the following index of cumulative averages:

3.75-4.00                                                    Summa Cum Laude

    3.50-3.74                                                    Magna Cum Laude

    3.00-3.49                                                    Cum Laude

 

The prediction of honors is based on the cumulative GPA recorded at the time diplomas are ordered.

 

Degrees with honors are also conferred on students who complete the general University Honors Program and college honors requirement.

 

 

THE HONORS PROGRAM

Alabama State University offers an honors program that is designed to challenge the academically strong and talented student. The objectives of the program are:

• To provide opportunities for capable students to pursue outstanding and independent academic achievement.
• To offer opportunities for capable students to expand the breadth and depth of their educational experience beyond the standard curriculum.
• To encourage accelerated students to develop their maximum potential.

 

Interested students are invited to inquire about the program in the Office of Academic Affairs, Room 118, Councill Hall.

 

 

DEAN’S LIST (Semester Honor Roll)

A full-time student (minimum of 15 semester hours) passing all credit work carried during a semester and attaining a scholastic record of 3.0 for the semester may be designated an honor student for that semester. These academic honors will be made a part of the student’s permanent record.

 

ACADEMIC AND SOCIAL SUSPENSIONS AND DISMISSALS

No student is eligible for admission to ASU who is under academic or social dismissal or suspension from another university. Likewise, no credits earned by an ASU student while on either academic or social dismissal or suspension from ASU will be accepted.

 

 

TRANSIENT CREDIT FROM ANOTHER INSTITUTION

A student currently enrolled at Alabama State University and planning to attend another institution as a transient student must receive written permission from his or her academic adviser, department chairperson and dean prior to actual enrollment. Failure to do so will jeopardize the acceptance of transient credits by ASU. In order to receive transient credit, a student must be in good academic standing.

 

To determine the acceptability of the credits, an official transcript must be sent by the institution to the Office of Records and Registration at Alabama State University. The request for the transcript must be made by the student. While approval may be given to enroll in the course(s), candidates for the bachelor’s degree must earn their last 30 hours at the university, unless excused by their dean. Approval is given on a semester basis.

 

The total course load (transient and/or cross-enrolled credits plus on-campus credits) must not exceed the maximum load allowed for a regular semester or summer term.

 

An eligible transient student will not receive any semester hours of credit for college-level course work completed with a grade less than “C.’’ In addition, the university from which the credit is transferred must be fully accredited by the cognizant regional accrediting association.

 

Transient credit forms are available in the Office of Records and Registration in the Student Services Center.

 

WITHDRAWAL FROM THE UNIVERSITY

Official withdrawal from the university must be filed in the Office of Records and Registration. A grade of “W” is recorded for all courses when the student completes the withdrawal form and returns it to the Office of Records and Registration. A grade of “WF” is recorded for courses for which the student is registered when he or she fails to complete the withdrawal form. Withdrawal from the university must take place by the last day of classes.

 

ACCESS TO AND RELEASE OF STUDENT RECORDS

Transcripts and grade information will be released according to the guidelines of the Family Rights and Privacy Act.

 

The Office of Records and Registration will make available as a continuing service the official academic record or transcript and its supporting personnel folder to the student within a reasonable time, under no circumstances to exceed seven days. The student must be able to present proper identification (student ID card).

 

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

Alabama State University complies with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended.

 

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights include:

• The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day Alabama State University (ASU) receives a request for access. A student should submit to the registrar a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The ASU official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.  If the records are not maintained by the ASU official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
• The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. A student who wishes to ask ASU to amend a record should write the ASU official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed, and specify why it should be changed. If ASU decides not to amend the record as requested, ASU will notify the student in writing of the decision and the student’s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.   Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
• The right to provide written consent before ASU discloses personally identifiable information from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. ASU discloses education records without a student’s prior written consent under the FERPA exception for disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests.  A school official is a person employed by ASU in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the ASU has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using ASU’s employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for ASU. Upon request, ASU also discloses education records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. FERPA requires an institution to make a reasonable attempt to notify each student of these disclosures unless the institution states in its annual notification that it intends to forward records on request.
• The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by ASU to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-5901

 

 

 

POLICY ON TUITION REFUNDS OR CREDIT FOR STUDENTS CALLED TO ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE

Alabama State University students who are called to active duty during a term when they are enrolled will be counseled on the options they may pursue, depending upon when the call is received.

• If it is  not very late in  the term, the student will have the option of withdrawing  with  full  refund   of  tuition  and  required  fees  and  a proportionate refund of room and board.
• The student may withdraw from the course(s) and leave tuition and fees paid as full credit for use upon re-enrolling at the university.
• If the call to duty occurs close to the end of the term, the student may be permitted to take the final examinations early and receive full credit for the course(s).
• If it is late in the term and the student does not wish to complete the final examinations, he or she may opt for either receiving “incompletes” in the course(s) or withdrawing under item “2” above.

It is, therefore, the university’s policy to take every reasonable step to ensure that the student is not penalized by the university as the result of the call to active military duty.

 

 

VETERANS’ SERVICES

Veterans receiving benefits, who are enrolled on the main campus and at the off- campus sites, must take courses in their academic programs, complete the veterans’ registration information for each semester, and notify the Veterans Services Officer immediately of any schedule changes.

 

All changes in student status that affect changes in benefit entitlement will be reported to the Veterans Administration.

 

A veteran or veteran’s dependent enrolled in an associate degree program,   upon the accumulation of 53 hours, must maintain a 2.00 cumulative grade point average or lose benefits.

 

 

EXTENSION AND CORRESPONDENCE COURSES

The university offers no correspondence courses. It accepts credits that may be earned by students through extension and correspondence courses from recognized institutions under the following conditions:

• Credit for extension and correspondence courses is given only for undergraduate courses and only when it is possible to establish fair equivalency.
• Not more than nine credits may be earned through extension courses in any one year.
• Not more than one-fourth of the credits necessary for a degree may be secured through                    successful   completion   of   extension        or correspondence courses. Under special conditions, exceptions may be made for students in the Servicemen’s Opportunity College Program.
• Not more than one-fourth of the credits required by any department may be satisfied through extension or correspondence courses.
• Students who are regularly enrolled at the university may not obtain credit through extension or correspondence courses.
• Students who are under academic or disciplinary probation or suspension may not obtain credit through completion of extension or correspondence courses.
• Credit may not be earned in summer months through extension or correspondence courses.
• Since it is necessary for students who expect to earn a degree to be in residence during their final term, no extension or correspondence credits may be earned during this term.
• Requirements for courses which may have been failed at the university or at other institutions may not be satisfied through extension or correspondence courses.
• No partial credit is given for participation in an extension or correspondence course program.

 

 

CENTRAL REQUIREMENTS FOR DEGREES

A candidate for the bachelor’s degree must:

• Earn not fewer than 120 semester hours in a planned program of study.
• Satisfy the reading requirement stipulated by the university reading policy.*
• Pass the English Proficiency Examination, the Alabama State University Baccalaureate Writing Competency Examination and other tests as are prescribed by the college or school in which candidate is enrolled.*
• Make application for graduation through the office of the registrar according to the dates outlined in the class schedule book.
• Earn the last 30 hours at the university, unless excused by the dean of the college in which the candidate is enrolled.
• Earn at least 25 percent of the credits required in the curriculum at the university.
• Earn a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 (C).
• Earn a grade of “C” or higher in all major field courses.
• Earn a grade of “C” or higher in all core courses required for the degree.
• Earn a grade of “C” or higher in selected minor field courses.
• Pass a senior comprehensive examination in the major field.
• Complete all requirements for the degree to be conferred.
• Satisfy the faculty of the college or school that the candidate is a suitable representative of Alabama State University.
• Fulfill all financial obligations to the university.

 

 

*Note: Contact your adviser regarding the exit exams. These policies may be revised.

 

CATALOG REQUIREMENTS AND TIME LIMITS

Degree requirements and other university regulations are established by the catalog current at the time of initial enrollment, and the student is entitled to complete requirements under the catalog within an eight-year period. The student may elect  to  satisfy  requirements under  the  latest  catalog,  provided  all requirements of the current catalog elected are satisfied within  an  eight-year period. Students who fail to complete requirements under one catalog within the eight-year period must fulfill requirements of the current catalog. Students whose eight-year catalog entitlement expires as a result of discontinued enrollment are subject to the requirements of the catalog current at the time of re-enrollment.

 

Students who transfer to another institution lose entitlement under the catalog of initial entry and, upon readmission, are governed by the catalog current at that time. The institution reserves the right to correct, alter, amend or modify any item contained in the catalog. Any such changes will be shown in the schedule book of classes or in the correction sheet to the schedule book and on the student’s individual program of study (graduation checklist).

 

*Candidates for graduate degrees must:

• • • Complete all requirements set forth by the faculty of the college or school which offers the degree.
    • Complete all work within a time limitation of eight years.
    • Make application for graduation through the Office of the Registrar.
    • Fulfill all financial obligations to the university.

* See graduate catalog.

 

Curriculum changes made pursuant to federal and state governmental agencies are exceptions to the student’s entitlement to complete requirements under the catalog current at the time of initial enrollment.

 

ENROLLMENT IN GRADUATE COURSES BY SENIOR UNDERGRADUATES

Qualified non-education undergraduate students may enroll for graduate credit in courses numbered 500 and above in special cases. Work taken by undergraduates may be applied toward a graduate degree only if:

• Working on a Master of Science degree (non-education);
• Approval is obtained from the chair of the student’s undergraduate department, the dean of the student’s undergraduate department, the chairperson of the selected graduated class and the signature of the graduate dean;
• The student is eligible for admission as a prospective graduate student (has GPA of 2.5 or better);
• In reviewing undergraduate records, the student has demonstrated him or herself to be capable of performing graduate level work in the area identified;
• This privilege is exercised only during the senior year for a maximum of 6 hours.

 

The student may qualify for this privilege by securing the required signatures on the Senior Privilege form (available from the Graduate School), and returning it with a properly signed and approved Schedule Request form to the Graduate School for the dean to initial and copy prior to registering. The total undergraduate and graduate load for a student shall not exceed 12 hours per semester.

 

 

DEADLINE CLEARANCE FOR GRADUATION

To qualify for graduation, all academic deficiencies must be cleared five days prior to the commencement date.

 

ACADEMIC ADVISEMENT

Academic advisement and enrollment at Alabama State University are continuous and may be completed during the dates listed on the composite class schedule. This program provides the student with information and direction as to selection of a major, graduation requirements and other information pertaining to the academic area. The enrollment of the student is based on agreement between the student and the academic adviser, who is a member of the Academic Advisement Center staff. Each adviser assists matriculating students in selecting appropriate courses during registration; advises students on the authorization of repeat and add and drop procedure; monitors and records academic progress of each student on appropriate forms; assists each student in the selection of a major area of study that coincides with the student’s career goals; recommends student transfer based on criteria from the chair; and makes monthly reports to department chairs.

 

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY

While Alabama State University will endeavor to provide timely, helpful and accurate advisement, it is the responsibility of the student to know and to satisfy the degree requirements of his or her academic program.