Note: Students should always check the University Policy Library for the most recent version of university policies. Additionally, for more information, please see the Graduate Student Handbook on The Graduate School website. Academic Regulations: Undergraduate is also available.
Academic Honesty
Augusta University recognizes that academic honesty is essential to its academic function. The regulations in the Academic Honesty Policy protect the equity and integrity of the University’s grades and degrees, and help students develop ethical standards and attitudes appropriate to academic and professional life. Violations of academic honesty include, but are not limited to, cheating of all kinds, plagiarism, research misconduct, collusion, and false statements made to avoid negative academic consequences.
Cheating is prohibited.
Cheating includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Possessing, using, or exchanging improperly acquired information, written or oral, in the preparation of any assignment or examination;
- Copying from another student’s work;
- Using prepared materials, notes, or texts during an examination without permission from the instructor;
- Using any technological device to gain or provide advantage on an examination, lab practical, or other assignment without the permission of the instructor, including use of AI text generators;
- Substituting for another person during an examination or allowing someone else to substitute for you; and,
- Solicitation or bribery of any person to obtain examination information.
Collusion is prohibited.
Collusion occurs when multiple students conspire to violate academic honesty by providing or accepting unauthorized assistance, written or oral, in the preparation or completion of any activity, assignment, or examination without permission from the instructor, even if one or more of the students is not enrolled in the course or context in which the collusion occurs. Ordinary study groups, general discussions to facilitate learning, assigned cooperative learning projects, and appropriate campus resources (e.g., the Center for Writing Excellence, the Academic Success Center) do not constitute academic misconduct except when these are explicitly prohibited by the instructor. Collusion may result in additional consequences beyond the action taken for each individual violation of academic honesty. If students have any doubt about which types of collaboration are permissible, it is their responsibility to ask the instructor.
False statements are prohibited.
False statements include verbal or written declarations made to avoid or mitigate negative academic consequences by misrepresenting, distorting, embellishing, or concealing facts pertaining to a student’s academic conduct in a course or program of study.
Plagiarism is prohibited.
Plagiarism occurs whenever someone uses another person’s words or ideas, verbatim or paraphrased, without giving appropriate credit to the source. It includes reusing previously completed work (even one’s own, i.e. self-plagiarism) without consulting the instructor in advance to confirm such use is permitted and to clarify the extent of revision needed to qualify for credit. It also includes presenting content generated by artificial intelligence as one’s own. Students should not submit texts generated in part or full by artificial intelligence unless the instructor has granted explicit permission to do so (e.g. in the syllabus or on the assignment prompt). It is always assumed that all work produced or submitted in an academic context is the student’s own and reflects original labor performed to satisfy the expectations assigned in that context, except when the student explicitly acknowledges indebtedness to another source. Such acknowledgment should occur whenever one quotes another person’s words; uses or traces another person’s ideas, opinions, or theories (even if paraphrased); or borrows facts, statistics, sounds, images, or other intellectual property or illustrative materials, unless the information is common knowledge. If students have any doubt whether a piece of information is considered common knowledge, it is their responsibility to ask the instructor.
Research Misconduct is prohibited.
Research Misconduct is misrepresentation of data collection and analysis, including falsification, fabrication, or omission of data. Augusta University’s Policy for Responding to Allegations of Research Misconduct applies to students.
All other acts of academic dishonesty are also prohibited.
Other acts of academic dishonesty may be defined by the instructor in their course syllabus or other written instructions (e.g., assignment sheet, exam directions).
Responsibilities
Faculty Responsibility
It is the duty of the faculty and all instructors to practice and preserve academic honesty and to encourage it among students. The instructor must clarify in writing (for example, in the course syllabus) any situation peculiar to the course that may differ from the generally stated policy. Whenever possible, the instructor should make explicit the intent and purpose of each assignment so that the student may complete the assignment without unintentionally compromising academic honesty. It is the responsibility of the instructor to provide for appropriate oversight of assignments, examinations, internship components, and other course requirements. Finally, it is the responsibility of the instructor to provide written notice to the student of any suspected violations of the academic honesty policy as described in process and procedures below.
Student Responsibility
It is the duty of the student to practice and preserve academic honesty. Each student is responsible for knowing the specific policies that govern academic conduct for the program(s) and course(s) in which they are enrolled, as well as the appeals process for adjudicating such policies. If the student has any doubt about a course policy or the instructor’s expectations, they should consult the instructor or the course director. It is also the student’s responsibility to check daily their Augusta University email so that official notification to the student regarding academic dishonesty can be carried out in timely fashion. The following colleges handle disciplinary actions according to policies and procedures set forth in their respective conduct or honor codes:
- Dental College of Georgia (DMD Students) – Student Conduct Code. Available upon request of the Associate Dean for Students, Admissions, and Alumni.
- Medical College of Georgia (MD Students) – Medical College of Georgia Honor System. Available upon request by calling 706-721-2231.
If the student is alleged to have engaged in non-academic misconduct, they should refer to the Augusta University Student Code of Conduct and the procedures outlined therein.
Academic Records and Transcripts
Permanent academic records are maintained by the Office of Registrar. Under the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), a student attending a post‑secondary educational institution may examine his or her permanent record maintained by the institution to assure the accuracy of its contents. This Act also provides that no personally identifiable information will be released to any party not authorized to have access to such information without the written consent of the student.
An Augusta University transcript is a complete record of a student’s enrollment at Augusta University, including all undergraduate, graduate, and professional coursework. Transcripts are available to request by current students, alumni, and former students. Visit the Transcripts webpages for details and any applicable costs.
Academic Standing
Grades, Academic Performance and Progress
The Graduate School: Satisfactory progress toward a degree in The Graduate School requires that a student maintain a cumulative grade point average* (GPA) of at least 2.8 for all courses attempted, and that all milestones required by the student’s program be met in the timeframe set by that program. A minimum grade of C or satisfactory in courses graded S/U (where S = satisfactory, U = unsatisfactory) must be earned for each non-repeatable course applying toward a graduate degree, and a 2.8 cumulative GPA in all courses attempted toward the degree is required for graduation. For repeatable S/U courses only, students may be allowed up to one U grade. Individual programs may set stricter GPA, U grade and/or other graduation requirements. Additional standards for satisfactory progress in courses related to the specific discipline may be set by the program (with approval of the TGS dean), in which case the higher standards shall apply. Such higher standards may include recommendation for dismissal from the program. Consult your program’s handbook.
*Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) includes all courses taken (every time taken) while in the degree (or certificate) program with no D/F grade forgiveness.
Academic Probation and Dismissal
Any student whose cumulative GPA for a degree program falls below 2.8 is placed on academic probation. This is not noted on transcripts. While on probation, the student must earn a minimum of 3.0 each grading period until the cumulative GPA is raised to at least 2.8. Students who fail to earn at least 3.0 each period while on probation shall be recommended for academic dismissal from the Program. The above are minimum standard for AU’s TGS graduate programs. With approval of the TGS Dean, individual programs may establish stricter GPA standards and/or performance standards for probation or dismissal, in which cases the stricter standards shall apply. For example, in the College of Education, any student who is unable to remediate the grade point average after one semester on academic probation will be placed on “academic suspension” for a period of one semester. Consult your program’s handbook for specific information.
Where circumstances warrant and upon recommendation of the academic program concerned and approval of the TGS Dean, a student being considered for dismissal under the provisions of this policy may be permitted to continue as a student on probation. In such cases, the student must earn a GPA of at least 3.0 each grading period while on probation until a 2.8 cumulative GPA is achieved. Failure to do so will result in dismissal from the degree program. The second dismissal will be final.
Students cannot graduate with a D or F grade in a course, and must re-take the course to earn at least a C grade or higher. Students cannot graduate with a U grade in any non-repeatable S/U course and likewise must re-take the course to earn an S grade. Any student in a dissertation or thesis track (including consulting track for Biostatistics MS students) who receive a U in a repeatable research course will be placed on academic probation. For repeatable S/U courses (e.g. research courses, seminar courses, journal clubs), students may have one, but not two, U grades. Two or more U grades in repeatable courses will result in the student being recommended for dismissal. Students earning a D, F, or U in a graduate course required for their degree can be recommended for dismissal by their program. The above are minimum standard for AU’s TGS graduate programs. Individual programs may set more stringent C, D, F and/or U probation and/or dismissal policies. Consult your program’s handbook.
Any PhD student who earns a grade of Unsatisfactory (U) in a Research course will be placed on academic probation. A student appointed as a Graduate Research Assistant will also be placed on GRA-funding probation if they earn a U in a Research course. Assignment of such a U grade by a faculty advisor will be accompanied by a written report to the Program Director and TGS Dean citing the reason(s) for the U grade, and the expectations/requirements the student must meet during the next semester in order to earn an S grade in the subsequent course. The Program Director and faculty advisor will discuss the student’s past performance and future expectations with the student. While on probation, a student must earn Satisfactory (S) grades in all S/U courses in which s/he is enrolled. A student who fails to earn all S grades while on probation will be recommended for academic dismissal. GRA-appointed students who earn a second U grade will be terminated from the GRA appointment.
A student may be considered for dismissal if s/he fails to make timely progress (meeting program requirements including milestones and timelines) toward the degree sought.
Academic Appeals
Any student who has been dismissed from a program and would like to appeal that dismissal should follow the Student Academic Appeals Policy at augusta.edu/compliance/policyinfo/policy/student-academic-appeals-policy.pdf. The Augusta University Student Academic Appeals Policy is specifically designed to address administrative decisions made with respect to an individual student which bears upon their career.
Auditing a Course
Students may audit graduate courses, but must secure permission of the instructor/course director, program director, and Dean of The Graduate School. No academic credit is awarded. Students auditing courses must pay the program’s tuition and fees. No changes from audit to credit or credit to audit will be permitted after the last day of the schedule adjustment (add/drop) period. Courses taken as audit do not count toward financial aid eligibility. A student enrolled as an auditor is expected to attend class regularly and to complete assignments as assigned by the instructor. An auditor who does not attend regularly may be withdrawn from the course. In order to audit a class, students must first apply at augusta.edu/admissions/apply.php, click on non-degree seeking, Auditor, Apply. Once this is complete, a Course Approval Form must also be completed. Contact The Graduate School to complete this form.
Class Attendance
Regular, punctual attendance is expected of students in all classes and is counted from the first class meeting each term. Professors are required to monitor student attendance or ongoing participation in courses. Students who incur an excessive number of absences are subject to academic penalty. Additional attendance requirements may be established by the individual schools or programs as well as by the faculty for distance learning courses.
At the beginning of each semester, all professors will provide a clear written statement to all their classes regarding their policies in handling absences. Professors will also be responsible for counseling with their students regarding the academic consequences of absences from their classes or laboratories. Students are obligated to adhere to the requirements of each course and each course professor.
To assist the University in complying with federal regulations pertaining to financial aid, faculty members are also required to maintain a record of and report student non-attendance at the start of each academic term. The Registrar is responsible for informing faculty of the duration of the nonattendance verification period and appropriate reporting method at the beginning of each academic term. In accordance with this policy, a student who does not attend a class or begin participation in an online course during the non-attendance verification period will be dropped from the course by the professor unless they have contacted their professor and notified them of their reason for non-attendance. In the event a student is dropped for non-attendance during this designated time period, the effect is the same as if the student never registered for the class and the course will not appear on the student’s transcript.
Faculty members will be flexible enough in their attendance and grading policies to allow students a reasonable number of absences without penalty for extraordinary personal reasons or for officially representing the university. Students are expected to adhere to the attendance guidelines within the syllabus. No student should assume that the faculty member has initiated a withdrawal form. A student not withdrawn from a course who stops attending class, or who never attends class, is subject to receiving a grade of “WF” or “F” for the course.
Students involved in required activities representing Augusta University are excused from class meetings that conflict with specified events. These include, but are not limited to, athletic events for student-athletes, required academic or artistic events or competitions, or required student government activities. Other potential events as defined by the Deans of the colleges could be considered excused absences from classes when traveling. These absences shall not count against the student’s attendance record.
Course Load
A graduate student who registers for 9 or more hours is considered a full time student. A graduate student who is registered for 5 to 8 hours is considered a half time student. A graduate student who is registered for 1 to 4 hours is considered a less than half time student.
The Medical College of Georgia does not admit students on a part-time basis. Students in the Medical College may, with appropriate approval from that college, carry lesser academic loads than other students because of academic or scheduling problems. However, these students are considered to be committed to full-time pursuit of the Doctor of Medicine degree.
All Doctor of Dental Medicine degree-seeking students are considered to be fulltime and are expected to devote full-time efforts toward completing requirements for the degree. Most students complete the program in four academic years and take a uniform semester course schedule. Other students may, with special permission, complete the degree program in more than four years and take a variable semester course load designed to meet their academic or scheduling circumstances. Exceptions to this rule are part-time Dental College of Georgia faculty with international, non-CODA accredited dental degrees who may register as part-time students in order to complete the DMD degree for licensure purposes, and a. limited number of special students (eg foreign exchange students), who are not degree-seeking.
Course Numbering System
Courses should be numbered according to the appropriate level as determined by the stated student learning outcomes of each course.
- 1000-numbered courses present introductory or general knowledge courses at the undergraduate level. Courses in this level generally have no prerequisites.
- 2000-numbered courses present fundamental knowledge in a particular field or discipline at the undergraduate level. Courses in this level may have prerequisites at the 1000 level.
- 3000-numbered courses present topics related to major fields and disciplines at an undergraduate level.
- 4000-numbered courses present more advanced topics related to major fields and disciplines at an undergraduate level.
- 5000-numbered courses present introductory or general knowledge in a particular field or discipline at a graduate level.
- 6000-numbered courses present fundamental knowledge in a particular field or discipline at a graduate level.
- 7000-numbered courses are generally seminars and lectures and are reserved for specialists in educational, professional doctorates, and first-professional degrees.
- 8000-numbered courses are generally advanced seminar and lecture courses for research-based and doctoral degrees.
- 9000-numbered courses are advanced seminar and research courses and are to be used only by Doctor of Philosophy degree programs.
Offered courses are numbered from 1000 to 4999 to students at the undergraduate level. Generally, 1000 level courses are aligned to Freshmen level, 2000 level courses are aligned to Sophomore level, 3000 level courses are aligned to Junior level, and 4000 level courses are aligned to Senior level students. Post-baccalaureate, professional, and graduate courses are numbered from 5000 to 9999, depending on the relevant college or program. Certain courses are offered to undergraduate, graduate, and professional students jointly. Such courses are numbered appropriately for each class and degree program.
Credit for Prior Learning
See the policy at augusta.edu/services/legal/policyinfo/policy/credit-for-prior-learning-policy.pdf.
Requests to award credit for prior learning may be initiated by faculty or by an individual student. If initiated by a student, the request should generally be made prior to or within the first semester of enrollment. Regardless of who initiates the request, all credit for prior learning must be approved through the university’s curriculum approval process as outlined in the Curriculum Approval policy. Once approved, all documentation associated with the approval will be on file with the Office of the Registrar.
The following processes and procedures are in addition to the curriculum approval process:
Credit for prior learning from standardized or field examinations. Credit may be awarded for tests from certain standardized or field examinations such as Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), College Level Examination Program (CLEP), Scholastic Aptitude Subject Test II, and the DANTES Subject Standardized Tests. Faculty of the appropriate discipline shall review at least once every five years – or when a major change takes place in the examination – 1) the required score(s), 2) level of credit, and 3) amount of credit awarded. Any recommendation for change resulting from this review must be submitted through the Curriculum Approval process. Credit for prior learning from standardized or field examinations shall be awarded automatically upon entrance to the university after receipt of official scores from the examination agency. A list of the required score(s), level of credit, and amount of credit awarded is available at the Office of the Registrar and Office of Academic Admissions. Credit awarded for prior learning from standardized or field examinations shall be recorded on the student’s transcript with the letter “K” in lieu of a letter grade. The Office of Academic Admissions is responsible for processing credit for prior learning from standardized or field examinations.
Credit for prior learning from departmental examinations. Students may request to receive credit for prior learning through departmental examinations (sometimes known as “challenging a course”) for courses that apply to their official program of study consistent with departmental policy. Faculty of the appropriate discipline may decide to recommend credit through departmental examinations. A copy of the examination, a chart linking examination questions to student learning outcomes appropriate to the rigor and level of credit being awarded, and a standardized scoring methodology are available in each department and with the Office of Academic and Faculty Affairs. A list of 1) the required score(s), 2) level of credit, and 3) amount of credit awarded based on departmental examinations is available at the Office of the Registrar. Credit awarded for prior learning from departmental examinations shall be recorded on the student’s transcript with the letter “K” in lieu of a letter grade. A non-refundable fee of $25.00 (USD) per credit hour must be assessed prior to a student attempting departmental examinations (e.g. $75.00 for a three-credit course). The academic department administering the examination is responsible for providing a graded copy of the examination and a letter outlining the amount of credit to be awarded based on the attempt to the Office of the Registrar. The Registrar will also be informed if the student fails to achieve a minimum credit-eligible score on the exam.
Credit for prior learning for significant, documented, experiential learning. Faculty of the appropriate discipline may decide to recommend credit for significant, documented, and verified experiential learning for courses that apply to a student’s official program of study. A chart linking these learning experiences to course-level student learning outcomes appropriate to the rigor, level, and amount of credit being awarded is required. Faculty of the appropriate discipline shall review previously approved experiences at least once every five years. Any recommendation change resulting from this review must be submitted through the Curriculum Approval process. A list of approved experiences is available at the Office of the Registrar. Credit awarded for prior learning from significant, documented, experiential learning shall be recorded on the student’s transcript with the letter “K” in lieu of a letter grade.
Transfer credit is not considered credit for prior learning. See Transfer Credit.
Discipline
Academic Discipline
There are defined standards of academic honesty and integrity for all facets of its students’ academic careers. Disciplinary sanctions for violations of these standards are mentioned in each academic policy.
Non-Academic Discipline
The relationships and appropriate behavior of students as members of the university community are defined through the document Student Code of Conduct in the Student Handbook. The document is available to all members of the university community through the Office of the Dean of Students.
The students have established a precedent of exemplary behavior as members of the university and civic communities. Individuals and groups are expected to observe the tradition of decorum and behave in no way which would precipitate physical, social, or emotional hazards to other members of the university community. Behavior that disrupts the learning environment and ultimately violates the University’s Code of Conduct will be addressed through the conduct system. Such violations may result in probation, suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate disciplinary measures.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Annual Notification
In establishing the University FERPA Records Policy, Augusta University adheres to a policy of compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, also known as FERPA, a federal law that requires colleges and universities to protect the confidentiality of student education records. The law states that, except in specified circumstances, no one outside the institution shall have access to a student’s education records, nor will the institution disclose any information from those records without the written consent of the student.
For details, see the FERPA Annual Notification posted on the Office of the Registrar FERPA webpage.
All questions concerning this FERPA Annual Notification may be directed to the attention of the Office of the Registrar.
Grades
The university follows the Board of Regents’ grading system, as required for all University of Georgia institutions. A 4.00 grade point average system, calculated to and truncated at two significant digits, is used. The following grades are approved for use and are included in the determination of the grade point average:
| Grade |
Description |
Grade Points |
| A |
Excellent |
4.0 |
| B |
Good |
3.0 |
| C |
Satisfactory |
2.0 |
| D |
Passing |
1.0 |
| F |
Failure |
0.0 |
| WA |
Withdrawal |
Not Computed |
| WH |
Withdrawal |
Not Computed |
| WF |
Withdrawal Failing |
0.0 |
| WM |
Military Withdrawal |
Not Computed |
| W |
Withdrawal |
Not Computed |
| I |
Incomplete |
Not Computed |
| S |
Satisfactory |
Not Computed |
| U |
Unsatisfactory |
Not Computed |
| V |
Audit |
Not Computed |
| K |
Credit by Exam |
Not Computed |
| CP |
Continued Progress |
Not Computed |
| IP |
In Progress |
Not Computed |
| NR |
Not Reported |
Not Computed |
The following symbols are approved for use in the cases indicated, but will not be included in the determination of the grade point average.
| I |
A student who is doing satisfactory work but, for non-academic reasons beyond their control is unable to meet the full requirements of the course, may be assigned an incomplete (“I”) grade. A form must be completed to assign the incomplete grade and must include justification. A student who has received an “I” grade has one additional semester to complete the required work and to receive a final grade. A grade change form is required to remove the incomplete and assign the final grade. Any incomplete grade not removed after the next semester will be converted to an “F” grade. If a student is assigned an I, the course director must notify the student in writing of the requirements for removal of the I and of the deadline for removal of the I. A copy of the notice must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar at the time the I is submitted. An e-mail notification to the student, with a copy of the e-mail sent electronically to the Office of the Registrar (registrar@augusta.edu), meets the requirements of this policy.
|
| W |
This symbol indicates that a student was permitted to withdraw without penalty. Any student who withdraws on or before midterm will receive a W. Withdrawals without penalty will not be permitted after the mid-point of the total grading period (including final examinations) except in cases of hardship as determined by the appropriate academic dean. |
| S |
This symbol indicates that credit has been given for completion of degree requirements other than academic course work. The use of this symbol is approved for dissertation and thesis hours, student teaching, clinical practicum, internship, and proficiency requirements in graduate programs. Exceptions to the use of this symbol for academic course work must be submitted to the USG chief academic officer for approval. |
| U |
This symbol indicates unsatisfactory performance in an attempt to complete degree requirements other than academic course work. The use of this symbol is approved for dissertation and thesis hours, student teaching, clinical practicum, internship, and proficiency requirements in graduate programs. Exceptions to the use of this symbol for academic course work must be submitted to the USG chief academic officer for approval. |
| V |
This symbol indicates that a student was given permission to audit this course. After the last day of late registration, students may not transfer from audit to credit status or vice versa. |
| K |
This symbol indicates that a student was given credit for the course via a credit by examination program approved by the respective school’s faculty. (CLEP, AP, Proficiency, etc). |
| CP |
This symbol designates a course that extends beyond the semester. A grade is not given until the course is completed. This symbol cannot be substituted for an I (Incomplete). |
The Grading Policy is available online at augusta.edu/compliance/policyinfo/policy/grading-system-policy.pdf.
Grade Changes
A Grade Change Form is required and is to be completed and submitted to the University Registrar. Grade Change forms may not be released to students. The form shall be initiated by the course instructor, and the dean of the college in which the course is offered or their designee must approve a grade change before it will be honored by the Registrar. Students in The Graduate School programs must have approval from the dean or their designee for the grade change.
Grade changes should be processed as soon as possible, and no later than one semester after the initial grade was assessed. There may be reasons that justify a later change of grade, but they must be of an unusual nature and considered most exceptional. Any exception must receive the respective college dean’s approval. Changes in Incomplete grades are exempt from this policy.
No grade changes shall be accepted after graduation.
Incomplete Grades
An Incomplete (I) grade indicates that a student did not complete course requirements by the end of the term due to circumstances beyond their control. The student must initiate the request, and approval is granted only if the instructor has confirmed the student is satisfactorily completing course requirements and the reason for the request is non-academic.
If approved, the instructor sets the conditions and deadline for completion. Incomplete grades, along with the last date of attendance (for financial aid purposes), must be submitted by the term’s grading deadline.
If the coursework is not completed within one semester, the I grade converts to an F. If retaking the course, the student must register and pay for the course again. The initial I grade will need to be graded, withdrawn, or changed to F. I grades may be extended if the student’s situation remains unchanged since making the request for an incomplete grade.
For students graduating, I grades in required courses must be resolved before the degree is awarded. Unresolved I grades in required coursework will delay graduation, requiring reapplication. I grades in non-required courses must be resolved by the graduation term’s grading deadline; otherwise, the student will not graduate as expected.
Graduation
Graduation dates for each term are published in the Academic Calendar. Students who have applied and complete requirements for graduation will be awarded their degree at the end of their completion term. Two commencement ceremonies are held each year, in fall semester and spring semester. Students who have completed all requirements by the end of the spring semester are permitted to participate in the Spring commencement. Students completing requirements at the end of the summer or fall semester participate in the Fall commencement. Students wishing to participate in commencement must complete the graduation application by the published deadline for the relevant semester. No diploma will be awarded until the student has been certified as having completed all academic requirements and has been certified by the Bursar as having met all financial obligations.
Each candidate for a graduate degree must apply for graduation. Graduation information and the Application for Graduation Form. Please read the application carefully and provide ALL requested information.
- Spring Applicants: submit application Fall Midterm BEFORE completion of requirements
- Summer & Fall Applicants: submit application Spring Midterm BEFORE completion of requirements
Students must have completed all degree requirements and be certified for graduation in order to participate in graduation and hooding ceremonies. Satisfactory fulfillment of any additional requirements and/or milestones required by the student’s program or the institution must also be completed to be eligible for graduation.
Time Limits
It is the student’s responsibility to meet all the requirements for their degree in the proper sequence and in the time limits specified in this document. Where circumstances warrant, a student may petition the Dean for exceptions to the time limit policies.
Doctor of Philosophy
The minimum requirement for the Doctor of Philosophy degree is three full academic years (nine semesters of full time enrollment), which cannot be satisfied through summer work alone. Typical PhD degree programs take more than three years of full time enrollment to complete. All course work and other requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy degree, including the Final Oral Examination, must be completed within seven (7) consecutive years from the date of enrollment in The Graduate School. Leaves of absence (withdrawals) do not extend the seven-year limit. It is the student’s responsibility to meet all the requirements for the degree in the proper sequence and in the time limits specified in this document. For students in combined MD/PhD or DMD/PhD degree programs, the seven-year limit does not include semesters of enrollment in the professional degree program.
EdD
The minimum requirement for the EdD degree is three full academic years (nine semesters of full time enrollment), which cannot be satisfied through summer work alone. All course work and other requirements must be completed within seven (7) consecutive years from the date of enrollment. Leaves of absence (withdrawals) do not extend the seven year limit.
DNP
All course work and other requirements for the DNP Traditional Program and the DNP Executive track, including the Final Oral Examination, must be completed within five (5) consecutive calendar years from the date of initial enrollment in the DNP program. Leaves of absence (withdrawals) do not extend the five-year limit. It is the student’s responsibility to meet all the requirements for the degree in the proper sequence within the 5 year time limit. This applies to both full-and part-time enrollment.
All course work and other requirements for the DNP Program with NP concentrations, including the Final Oral Examination, must be completed within six (6) consecutive calendar years from the date of initial enrollment in the DNP program. Leaves of absence (withdrawals) do not extend the six year limit. It is the student’s responsibility to meet all the requirements for the degree in the proper sequence within the six year time limit. This applies to both full-and part-time enrollment.
Master’s Degree
The minimum requirement for a master’s degree is two (2) full academic semesters. All course work and other requirements must be completed within five (5) consecutive years from the date of enrollment. Leaves of absence (withdrawals) do not extend the five year limit.
Grade Point Average Requirement for Graduation
The Graduate School requires a cumulative GPA of at least 2.8 to graduate. Students cannot graduate with a D or F grade in any course and must re-take the course to earn at least a C grade or higher. Students cannot graduate with a U grade in any non-repeatable S/U course and likewise must re-take the course to earn an S grade. The GPA and minimal grade requirement may be higher for some programs. Student’s should check with their program’s director for program specific information.
Professional Liability Insurance
Students in the health professions are required to participate in various clinical learning experiences as a prerequisite to successful completion of programs of study. Many of the clinical facilities where these learning experiences take place will only accept students who are covered by professional liability insurance. Students may contact the office of the dean of the college in which they expect to enroll for information on the availability and cost of such coverage.
Registration
Registration procedures are maintained by the Office of the Registrar. Notification of these procedures and any changes in the Academic Calendar will be published on the University website. Students are allowed ample time to register for classes. Registration for courses must be completed in accordance with the dates provided on the University Academic Calendar. A late registration charge will be assessed to any student registering outside the published registration dates. In keeping with Board of Regents’ policy 7.3.3, students are required to pay all tuition and fees prior to the first day of class. Students are not considered enrolled in the institution until all tuition and fees have been paid. Verification of attendance in all courses is required by the primary faculty member and must be completed by the published deadline. Except for unusual circumstances, students are not allowed to register after the last day of late registration (the drop/add period listed in the Academic Calendar). While reasonable efforts shall be made to inform students of registration dates and of any changes in these dates, it is the student’s responsibility to keep apprised of such changes.
Student Academic Grievances
Note: Students should always check the University Policy Library for the most recent version of university policies. The applicable policy is the Student Academic Grievance Policy.
Prior to initiating a formal academic grievance, including a grade appeal, student concerns may be discussed with the faculty member and/or reported to the department chair or unit head.
Academic grievances should normally be made by the grievant during the term of the student’s enrollment in the course in which the violation of rights was alleged to have occurred, and no later than end of the semester following the alleged violation of rights, including summer semester. A grievant who seeks a change of final grade in a course should be mindful that University policy requires such changes to be made by the end of the semester following the semester (including summer semester) in which the student was enrolled in the course. If the student wishes to initiate an academic grievance, they must follow the student academic grievance procedure as outlined below, keeping in mind the following principles:
Except when the complaint is of the most egregious nature or is related to intellectual diversity, the student must start with a sincere attempt to settle the dispute in an informal manner with the instructor. In general, administrators can initially hear the student’s concerns and refer them to this document, but they will not discuss any specific grievance until the appropriate procedural steps have been taken. The Dean of Students or designee may serve an advisory role for the most egregious incidents or those involving intellectual diversity by hearing specific grievances and facilitating the procedures outlined below.
Within the guidelines of the institution, faculty have authority and responsibility for course content, classroom procedure, and grading, except insofar as it can be shown that a decision was arbitrary or capricious, or based on discrimination with respect to race, religion, sex, handicap, age, or national origin.
When a student prepares their case, they should keep in mind that the burden of proof is on them, not on the instructor.
Students who have legitimate grievances which cannot be resolved at the departmental level should follow the procedures outlined in the Student Academic Grievance Policy. However, frivolous or mendacious complaints are discouraged.
Administrators shall not discuss the details of a specific grievance with a student who has not followed the procedure outlined in the policy, and any representative of a student must follow the same procedure.
Each party in the grievance, whether the grievant, the instructor, or an administrator, shall normally have five (5) business days to respond at any stage in the grievance procedure, unless both parties agree to an extension, or the exercise of due diligence requires additional time.
When a student believes they has an academic grievance, they should first seek to resolve that grievance by discussions with the faculty member or administrator involved. If initial discussions are not satisfactory, the student may take the complaint to the next administrative level as specified below, taking care not to skip levels in the administrative hierarchy. At every level the person hearing the alleged grievance should respond to the student within a reasonable length of time of the initial request. Normally such response should occur within five (5) business days after the student request unless bona fide reasons such as illness, personal emergency or campus absence for professional reasons makes this time limit unreasonable.
The student should consult with the faculty member involved by written letter or email, no later than the first day of classes of the semester following that in which the grievance occurs. The student should articulate the reason(s) for the grievance and the expected remedy. The faculty member (respondent) should provide a response to the student by written letter or email within five (5) business days.
If after communicating with the faculty member the student is not satisfied that a fair and equitable solution has been achieved, the student may take the grievance to the administrative supervisor of the faculty member. In most instances, this will be the department chair. This statement of the alleged grievance and the remedy, along with any documentary evidence, should be in written form.
If the student is still not satisfied, they may take the grievance to the academic dean of the faculty member’s school or college (for undergraduate students). Graduate students must concurrently contact the academic dean of the faculty member’s school or college and the dean of the graduate school. This statement of the alleged grievance and the remedy, along with any documentary evidence, should be in written form.
As a last resort and only after the previous steps have been carried out, or have been conscientiously attempted, the student may present a formal grievance in writing to the Augusta University Vice President for Faculty Affairs. they should set forth in writing a statement of the alleged grievance and the remedy sought at the department/unit or college level, along with any documentary evidence, which should be delivered to the Office of the Vice President for Faculty Affairs (OVP). The process for this formal grievance is outlined in the Student Academic Grievance Policy.
Transfer Credit
Coursework must be validated as being academically rigorous for the appropriate level at which a student receives transfer credit. Accreditation by one of the following organizations is one of the evaluations of quality used: Middle States Commission on Higher Education, New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Institutions of Higher Education, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools -The Higher Learning Commission, Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities. For institutions outside of the United States, such assurance is provided by an approved credentials evaluation service to which applicants submit their educational credentials.
Transfer Credit for Graduate Programs
The Graduate School
Transfer of graduate credit is never automatic; credits transferred do not reduce the residency requirement for any advanced degree. At the discretion of the Dean of The Graduate School of Augusta University (or Dean’s designee) and the faculty of the major program, up to nine semester hours of credit toward a degree may be transferred with the exception of the Doctor of Philosophy degree PhD. The actual maximum number of credit hours allowed for transfer (0-9) is program specific. A request for credit transfer should be initiated by the student and their advisor, through the program’s director.
Course work transferred to a degree program in The Graduate School must be relevant and applicable to the degree being sought. The individual applying for the transfer credit is responsible for providing the necessary documentation (i.e., course syllabi, transcripts, etc.) for the review. Course credit may be accepted for transfer if the:
- course content is equivalent to a course offered by the graduate program at Augusta University
- course was taken by the student within five years prior to the date of their projected enrollment
- student earned a grade of either “B” or higher or “pass”
- course is recommended for transfer by the graduate program and approved by the Graduate School dean.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree programs. A maximum of six credit hours is usually recommended but nine credit hours may be allowed in transfer from a master’s degree. The transfer of any course work beyond the master’s level is a matter for negotiation between the student, their advisory committee, their major department and the Dean of The Graduate School. In general, no more than a total of 20 semester hours may be transferred toward the PhD under any circumstances.
Colleges of Allied Health Sciences and College of Nursing
At the discretion of the Dean (or Dean’s designee), these Colleges may allow a maximum of six credit hours of transfer of graduate credit except as noted below. Approved coursework must be taken within five years prior to date of student’s projected enrollment.
The physician assistant program allows no transfer credit toward degree requirements.
The physical therapy program allows no transfer credit for physical therapy coursework completed at another institution.
The occupational therapy program will consider transfer credit of coursework completed within four years prior to student’s projected date of enrollment.
College of Education and Human Development
For the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), up to nine semester hours of credit toward the degree may be transferred in consultation with the student, advisor, and the department chair of the discipline of the courses being considered.
Transfer Credit for Professional Programs
Dental College of Georgia (DCG)
The Dental College of Georgia does not normally accept advanced standing transfer students. However, in the event that a Georgia resident who has enrolled in a dental education program at another accredited U.S. institution cannot complete their dental education due to discontinuation of the program in which the student was initially enrolled, the Dean of the Dental College of Georgia may grant advanced standing admission to such a student provided the student has met the admission requirements for the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University, and was in good standing at the time the program was discontinued.
Medical College of Georgia (MCG)
Students currently enrolled and are in good standing at other Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) medical schools will be considered for transfer admission with advance standing to the second and third year classes of MCG only when there are compelling reasons for the transfer and only on a space available basis. Courses taken at the student’s first institution will be evaluated and transfer credit will be awarded on a course by course basis. Students accepted as advanced standing transfers under these circumstances may be required to study on an altered or modified curriculum and may be required to repeat courses taken at the student’s first institution.
Appeal Process
Appeals regarding transfer credit shall be handled in accordance with the Student Academic Appeals Policy.
Visiting Students and Cross-Registered Students
At Augusta University, students must be in good standing and must obtain prior approval to enroll in any and all credit courses at any other institution as a visiting or cross-registered student. This prior approval of each course must be obtained from the Augusta University department or college that offers a course most comparable to the one that will be taken elsewhere. A visiting student is defined as a degree candidate at Augusta University who is granted the privilege of temporary registration at another institution and will not be enrolled at Augusta University during that period of temporary registration. A cross-registered student is defined as a degree candidate at Augusta University who is granted the privilege of enrolling at both Augusta University and another institution during a semester.
Withdrawal
Students may add or drop courses from their course schedules, provided they do so by the published deadline. Thereafter, they may withdraw from courses up to midterm. After midterm, students may withdraw from courses without penalty up to the last day to receive a “W,” as set forth in the Academic Calendar. After this date, students may withdraw from courses but will receive a “WF” grade, except in cases of extreme hardship. The WF grade will count as an F grade for purposes of institutional grade point average calculation.
The responsibility for initiating a withdrawal resides with the student. A student who registers for a course and stops attending class (or never attends class) is not automatically withdrawn by the instructor and is subject to receiving a grade of “WF” or “F” for the course. However, an instructor may withdraw a student for excessive absences. Forms for initiating a withdrawal may be obtained from the Office of the Registrar. A student should consult with their advisor before withdrawing from a course. A student must obtain the signature of the instructor to officially withdraw from a course. Students in The Graduate School programs must also have approval from the dean of The Graduate School. Once the withdrawal request has been received by the Office of the Registrar, the official date of withdrawal will be the date the student initiated the request.
Withdrawal with Option to Return
Registration in each grading period indicates that a student is making progress toward their enrollment objective. Students who plan to take a semester or more off from what is required by their official approved program curriculum should request a withdrawal with the option to return from The Graduate School Dean, through their program director, using the Withdrawal Form. Withdrawal requests may be for absences no more than three consecutive semesters in length. The semester in which the student withdraws is considered semester one. Students withdrawn (with the option to return) less than three consecutive semesters will be required to be reactivated. Such reactivation requests must be specifically approved by The Graduate School Dean using the Reactivation Form. Some programs may require a re-enrollment plan. A withdrawal does not modify a student’s obligation to complete the degree within the maximum time limit allowed for that degree. Students must notify their program director and The Graduate School of their intent to return at least three weeks prior to the beginning of the semester (grading period) in which they plan to return, unless a longer period is specified by the program.
Students who have not enrolled in Augusta University for three consecutive semesters must apply for readmission through the Office of Academic Admissions using the online application process following published procedures and deadlines. Acceptance back into the program is not automatic.
Inactivation after Non-Attendance
A student who does not enroll for three consecutive terms will be classified as inactive by the Registrar. Re-enrollment after withdrawal is not automatic, and the individual will be required to re-apply for admission and be evaluated through the standard admissions process.
Medical Withdrawal
Students may request a Medical Withdrawal when the student experiences a medical emergency or serious health condition which prevents them from completing their course work for the current semester.
Hardship Withdrawal
Students may request a Hardship Withdrawal when they have experienced an unexpected occurrence in their life that requires that they withdraw from all classes for the semester. Students must apply for a hardship withdrawal with the Dean of Students Office prior to the last day of classes for the term they experienced the hardship. The last date to apply is by 5:00 PM on the last day of classes for the semester in which the student experienced the hardship. A hardship withdrawal can only be requested after the last day to withdraw without penalty.
Military Withdrawal
Students who are active duty military and receive reassignment orders that would prevent completion of the term may request a Military Withdrawal.
Dismissal and Withdrawal from The Graduate School and University with No Option to Return
Students who have been dismissed from a program or from The Graduate School, or have chosen to withdraw with no option to return, will not be eligible to return to the program or The Graduate School, whichever applies. A student withdrawing from their program and all courses in which they are currently enrolled must complete the Withdrawal Form to include all required signatures.
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