Note: Students should always check the University Policy Library for the most recent version of university policies. Academic Regulations: Graduate and Professional 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).
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. 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 academic honesty as described in the Academic Honesty Policy.
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.
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 Warning, Probation, and Dismissal
Note: Students should always check the University Policy Library for the most recent version of university policies. The applicable policy is the Academic Standing for Undergraduate Students Policy.
Any undergraduate student whose institutional grade point average (GPA) at the conclusion of any semester is below a 2.00 shall be given an academic warning by being placed on academic probation. Undergraduate students at Augusta University who are on academic probation must have their course schedules approved by their advisors prior to registration. They may continue to attend only if they meet the following minimum academic standards, which are based on progression level.
Progression Level
|
Term GPA
|
Institutional GPA
|
| 0-29 |
1.50 |
1.00 |
| 30-59 |
2.00 |
1.60 |
| 60-89 |
2.00 |
1.90 |
| 90 & above |
2.00 |
2.00 |
Students who are on probation and fail to meet either the minimum Term or the Institutional GPA requirements specified above will be suspended (see below, “Academic Suspension”). Students who meet the Term GPA requirement will remain on probation until their Institutional GPA is at or above 2.00, at which time they will return to good standing. Some programs within the University maintain academic standards specific to their degree requirements which may exceed these basic requirements.
Academic Suspension
The mandatory minimum term of suspension shall be one semester. Students wishing to return to the University after a suspension must petition for reinstatement (see below “Appeal for Reinstatement”). Exceptions may only be made by the Dean of the student’s major. If reinstatement is approved, the student will be placed on academic probation and may be subject to additional conditions of continuation established by the University at the time of reinstatement. Should the probationary student achieve good standing, the student will be subject to the policy guidelines for students in good standing.
Appeal for Reinstatement
There is no guarantee of reinstatement from any academic suspension. Students suspended for academic deficiencies who complete the mandatory period of suspension may be considered for reinstatement. The student must submit a petition, in writing, at least 30 days prior to the desired semester of reinstatement. The appeal should state clearly the reasons why the student should be considered for reinstatement. Students should submit petitions to the dean of their major college. If the student does not have a declared major, the petition should be submitted to the Academic Advisement Center. These students should submit petitions to the Director of Academic Advisement for reinstatement. If a student has been away from the University for more than three semesters (including summer), they must also apply for readmission through the Office of Academic Admissions.
Academic Dismissal After Reinstatement
Should the student not satisfy the conditions of continuation established after returning from suspension, they will be academically dismissed from Augusta University. If dismissed, the student may be readmitted only after a successful appeal process which is outlined below. Students wishing to appeal a dismissal must follow the appeals process. Students may be readmitted only after successful appeal to the University or, if denied by the University, after successful appeal to the University System of Georgia Board of Regents (see USG BOR Policy Manual, Section 4.7.1, “Student Appeals”).
Academic Renewal
Any undergraduate, degree-seeking student who has experienced significant academic difficulty at Augusta University may petition to have one opportunity to make a fresh start after an absence of three consecutive calendar years (nine semesters) from Augusta University. The following procedures will be applied for students seeking academic renewal (excerpted from USG Board of Regents Academic and Student Affairs Handbook, Section 2.5.1):
I. Applying for Academic Renewal Status
Students are encouraged to apply for Academic Renewal status at the time of reenrollment or enrollment as a transfer student at Augusta University. Students who do not request Academic Renewal at that time must do so within one calendar year after reenrollment.
Applications for Academic Renewal are made through the dean of the college housing the student’s major, unless the student is assigned to the Academic Advisement Center. These applications are made through the Director of Academic Advisement. Students who are denied academic renewal may repetition after one calendar year (three semesters).
A student can be granted Academic Renewal status only one time.
II. All previously attempted coursework continues to be recorded on the student’s official transcript.
Only coursework completed prior to the period of absence may be considered for Academic Renewal.
The Academic Renewal GPA will be used for determining academic standing and eligibility for graduation.
To earn a degree, a student must meet the institution’s academic residency requirements after acquiring Academic Renewal status.
Academic credit for previously completed coursework, including transfer coursework, will be retained only for courses in which a grade of A, B, or C has been earned.
Retained grades are not calculated in a Renewal GPA. Such credit is considered in the same context as transfer credit, credit for prior learning, and courses with grades of “S.”
Courses with grades of D or F prior to the Academic Renewal must be repeated at Augusta University if they are required in the student’s degree program.
Applicability of retained credit to degree requirements will be determined by the degree requirements in effect at the time Academic Renewal status is conferred on the student. Specific institutional program regulations must also be met.
Augusta University will accept visiting credits for students with Academic Renewal status in accordance with current policy.
The Academic Renewal GPA is not used to determine graduation with honors. In order to graduate from Augusta University with honors, all attempted coursework from all institutions attended is used to calculate the final grade point average.
III. Undergraduate students who are transferring to Augusta University or are returning to Augusta University after a period of absence may be eligible for Academic Renewal.
Readmitted Students: Readmitted students may be eligible for Academic Renewal for coursework taken prior to the period of absence. Students must be absent from Augusta University for three consecutive calendar years (nine semesters).
Transfer Students: Students who leave an institution accredited by an accepted accrediting body and transfer to Augusta University are eligible to apply for Academic Renewal. Only coursework completed three years or more prior to the enrollment at Augusta University can be considered for academic renewal. Courses taken more recently than the period of eligibility are ineligible for consideration for Academic Renewal. However, transfer credit can be granted for coursework taken during this period in accordance with current policy.
IV. Any scholastic suspension that occurred in the past shall remain recorded on the student’s permanent record. If a suspension is on the record and the student encounters subsequent academic difficulty after having been granted Academic Renewal, the next suspension subjects the student to dismissal.
V. Re-entry into any program is not automatic.
VI. The granting of Academic Renewal does not supersede financial aid policies regarding Satisfactory Academic Progress.
VII. The granting of Academic Renewal does not supersede the admissions requirements of certain programs, e.g., teacher education and nursing, which require a specific minimum grade point average based upon all coursework.
VIII. Academic Renewal status granted by another USG institution shall be honored at Augusta University.
Additional Baccalaureate Degree
A student holding a baccalaureate degree from an institution accredited by an accepted accrediting body who wishes to work for another degree must complete the minimum residence requirements of the university (30 hours of coursework in courses numbered 3000 or above with an average grade of C or better) with at least 30 hours of resident credit in excess of the requirement for the original degree. In addition, the student must complete the exact requirements of major courses, allied fields, mathematics and foreign languages.
Auditing a Course
Regularly enrolled students at Augusta University may register for courses as auditors. No academic credit shall be awarded to students enrolled on this basis. No changes from audit to credit or credit to audit will be permitted after the last day of the scheduled drop/add for the term. Students auditing courses will be required to pay regular fees for enrollment. Courses taken as audits do not count toward financial aid eligibility. A student enrolled as an auditor is expected to attend class regularly and perform such other tasks as may be assigned by the instructor. An auditor who does not attend class regularly may be dropped from the class with a grade of W. A grade of V is assigned to a student who registers as an auditor.
Certificate Residency Requirement
A student must complete at Augusta University at least 25 percent of the credits required for the degree and a minimum of 30 hours of academic credit in courses numbered 3000 or above.
- at least 25% of the overall certificate hours from AU, and
- 50% of all certificate credit hours at the 3000 level or above from AU.
Class Attendance
Note: Students should always check the University Policy Library for the most recent version of university policies. The policy governing Class Attendance for undergraduates is the Undergraduate Class Attendance Policy.
Augusta University (AU) expects students’ regular attendance. Attendance within the courses for which a student is registered is a precondition for receiving credit for the course. Students registering late or who miss class are required to consult with their instructor to determine whether missed work may be made up, in a manner determined by the instructor and the course syllabus.
AU expects students to attend all regularly scheduled class meetings for instruction and examination. When a student is compelled for any reason to be absent, the student should notify the instructor as soon as possible and provide a reason for the absence. The student is responsible for all material presented in class and for all announcements and assignments.
Students should consult with their instructors about all class absences.
It is the responsibility of the student to:
- Notify the instructor as soon as possible about class absences.
- Determine what they missed during their absence and reach out to their instructor to determine whether make up work is possible or available.
The Augusta University instructor will clearly define excessive unexcused absences in their syllabus, including a clear statement about any potential penalties.
In all cases of excused absences, an instructor may require written proof of the reason for the absence, such as military orders, doctor’s notes, official AU communications, and the like.
While keeping with the excessive absence threshold, a student may miss a scheduled class without penalty, under the following conditions:
- Absences that occur with prior approval by the instructor of record or his/her designee
- Absences due to students involved in required activities representing Augusta University. 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. [Note: absences related to student clubs are not to be considered excused unless approved by the class instructor.]
- Absences due to legally compelled attendance at a court of law
- Absences due to required participation in ROTC Activities
- Absences due to pregnancy-related issues in accordance with the most recent federal guidance under Title IX
- Absence due to weather conditions that AU has officially recognized as hazardous for travel (does not apply to online classes unless the storm causes the student’s internet connection to fail.)
- Absences for religious accommodations: see Religious Holiday Policy
- Absences due to an officially documented illness or other medical or psychological issue, for which the instructor may require the student to provide official documentation from the care provider indicating that an absence was medically reasonable.
- Inability of a member of our armed services to attend class due to receiving orders for a period of service.
For absences that meet at least one of these “excused” conditions, the instructor will make reasonable efforts to find a means for the student to make up missed work; the make-up work is not required to be identical.
In all other cases, the decision to permit students to make up missed work shall reside with the instructor.
Any absence problems which cannot be resolved between the instructor and the student shall be challenged and reviewed in accordance with the AU policy on Student Academic Grievances.
Course Excursions or Field Trips
Whenever class trips entail absences from other classes, the instructor must secure advance approval from their department or program chair. If approved, a list of all students involved and the courses they will miss must be composed by the Department or College, which must then provide official notice. Students may not be required to go on field trips if they involve the student’s absences from classes in which examinations or other significant in-person exercises are scheduled, unless the professor overseeing the scheduled exam agrees to reschedule the exam for the impacted student(s).
Withdrawal for Excessive Absences
See Adding, Dropping, and Withdrawing from Courses for Undergraduate Students.
Classification of Students
Undergraduate students at Augusta University are classified as follows, based on the number of academic credit hours earned: Freshman, less than 30 hours; Sophomore 30-59 hours; Junior 60-89 hours; Senior 90 or more hours. The classification under which a student registers at the beginning of each academic semester will continue throughout the academic term. This policy does not apply to post-baccalaureate students.
Course Load
A normal undergraduate course load in a semester is 15-18 hours. Undergraduate students who wish to register for more than 18 semester credit hours must receive approval from either 1) the chair of their academic department, or 2) the Director of Academic Advisement if they are assigned to the Academic Advisement Center. A student may be approved to register for more than 18 hours only if: 1) they has a Regents’ GPA of 3.0 with at least 15 credit hours taken at Augusta University, or 2) they is within 30 hours of graduation, or 3) the student is granted permission by their dean.
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 unless it is part of a sequence.
- 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
Course Repeat Policy
Only specifically designated courses may be repeated for credit toward graduation and/or program completion. In any other course, a student taking that course forfeits the credit/grade earned in any previous attempt in the course, and is granted only the credit/grade earned in the latest attempt.
With the exception of such courses as Wellness (WELL) activity courses, “Selected Topics” courses, and other courses specifically designed for repetition and designated as such in the catalog, by registering for a course for which credit has already been received a student forfeits credit toward graduation in the previous attempt in the course. The final grade for graduation purposes will be the grade in the repeated course. While AU does not limit the number of times a student may retake a non-repeatable course, the student should be made aware of the fact that the grades in all course attempts will be used when calculating the student’s Regents’ (or cumulative) GPA. The Office of the Registrar’s regular recording processes will be used in carrying out this policy.
Credit for Prior Learning
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
Augusta University may award credit 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 Augusta University 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 Augusta University 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.
Dean’s Lists
Augusta University believes it is important to recognize the superior academic performance of undergraduate and Dental College of Georgia students by awarding them Dean’s List designation for a given semester according to the conditions set forth in this policy.
To qualify for the Dean’s List, an undergraduate student must (a) earn 12 or more hours of undergraduate coursework numbered 1000 or above, exclusive of K grades; (b) have achieved a grade point average of at least 3.50 for that semester; and (c) have received no grade of F or WF during the semester. For students with an Incomplete grade, Dean’s List computations will not be made until a grade is determined.
To qualify for the Dean’s List in the Dental College of Georgia, students must exhibit acceptable professional behavior, have a grade point average of 3.50 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher for that semester while carrying at least 12 hours of credit, and must not have received any unsatisfactory or failing grades for that semester.
The achievement of each student who qualifies for Dean’s List is acknowledged and noted on the student’s permanent record.
Double Majors
Students seeking to double major must satisfy all of the requirements of the two majors, including all residency and institutional requirements for each degree program. Students graduating with a double major must complete a minimum of 45 credit hours of upper-division coursework overall, with a minimum of 21 credit hours of upper-division coursework in one major. Courses taken to meet residency and institutional requirements for one major may be counted towards the residency and institutional requirements for the other major. Coursework for both majors must be completed prior to graduation. Students pursuing a double major must submit two separate graduation applications. Both majors will appear on the student’s official transcript.
Students graduating with a double major will be awarded one diploma if both majors are in the same baccalaureate degree (e.g., Bachelor of Science with separate majors in Mathematics and Physics). Students are eligible for a Simultaneous Degree if they graduate with a double major in two different baccalaureate degrees. Those students will be issued two diplomas (e.g., Bachelor of Arts with a Major in English and a Bachelor of Science with a Major in Mathematics).
Students earning a Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Integrated Studies are not permitted to double major.
Students graduating with a double major may add one or more minors and certificates, unless the catalog entry for that program explicitly prohibits it.
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.
Final Exams
Normally, the completion of a course will include a final examination; however, it is the instructor’s prerogative not to have an examination if the course organization is such that an examination is not appropriate. The official examination schedule is published on the Registrar’s Office website each semester.
Grades
Augusta University follows the Board of Regents’ grading system, as required for all University System 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 at Augusta University 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. An incomplete justification must be completed by the course instructor to assign the incomplete grade. 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 must be submitted in the student information system 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.
|
| W |
This symbol indicates that a student was permitted to withdraw without penalty. Any student who withdraws on or before last day to receive a “W” as listed in the Academic Calendar will receive a W. Withdrawals without penalty will not be permitted after the last day to receive a “W” as listed in the Academic Calendar 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 coursework. 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 coursework 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 coursework. 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 coursework 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). |
See the full The Grading System Policy.
Grade Changes
Augusta University requires a grade change to be submitted in the student information system. Any grade changes unable to be completed electronically should be submitted on the Grade Change Form to the Registrar’s Office. Grade Change Forms may not be released to students. Grade changes must be initiated by the course instructor and approved by the Department Chair/Program Director and Dean before it will be honored by the Registrar.
Grade changes should be submitted 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 as well as the Vice Provost. Changes in Incomplete grades are exempt from this policy.
No grade changes shall be accepted after graduation.
Grade Appeal Process
See Student Academic Grievances.
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 Requirements
All candidates for the bachelor’s degree at Augusta University must satisfy the following conditions:
Students must earn 39 or more hours in upper level courses. Students must complete all requirements for a major with a grade of C or better in each course. Together with the core curriculum, minor, if applicable, and electives these requirements must total at least 120 hours, not including the credits for the wellness requirement.
Specific graduation requirements for each program are found in this catalog.
Payment of Financial Obligations: No student will be permitted to graduate if they is in default on any payment due to the university.
Additional Degrees: Normally, two identical degrees are not awarded. However, a student may receive the appropriate degree of any other program by completing the additional requirements of that program and earning at least 30 hours of resident credit in excess of the requirement for the original degree.
Core IMPACTS Curriculum: The Core IMPACTS curriculum was developed by the University System of Georgia for the purpose of facilitating the education of students as they pursue baccalaureate degrees within and among the units of the University System. It includes 60 hours of lower-level courses that would normally be covered in the first half of a baccalaureate degree program. A student who completes any area of the core at a university system institution has the assurance that core area has been satisfied at Augusta University.
Course Requirements: Complete a minimum of 120 hours for the baccalaureate degree, not including the Wellness requirement as specified for the candidate’s program. A minimum of 39 hours of upper-division courses is required for students graduating with the baccalaureate degree.
Credit from Other Institutions: See Residence Requirement and Credit from Other Institutions.
Degree Requirements in Effect at Candidacy for Graduation: A candidate for graduation is subject to requirements in effect at the time of initial enrollment; however, changes may have been made while the student is enrolled. The changes in requirements shall be implemented so as to minimize the problems of transition for currently enrolled students. A student who is not enrolled for three or more consecutive semesters or who transferred to another institution will be required to complete a new application to the university and will be subject to the requirements for graduation in effect at time of readmission.
Grade Point Average: Students must achieve an institutional grade point average (see above) of at least 2.00 on all work attempted at this university or an academic renewal grade point average of at least 2.00 on all work since the date of academic renewal.
Graduation Application Fee: The graduation application fee is used to defray the cost of processing candidates for graduation, printing and mailing diplomas, and conducting the commencement ceremonies held each May and December. See the Graduation website for additional information.
Legislative Requirements: In 1975, the Georgia legislature enacted a measure that requires all graduates to have passed examinations on the history of the United States and of Georgia and on the provisions and principles of the constitutions of the United States and of Georgia. No academic credit is given for these examinations, which are administered each semester by Testing and Disability Services.
Certain history and political science courses (i.e., HIST 2111 , HIST 2112 , HIST 3711 , POLS 1101 , and POLS 4101 ), which are listed in the Course Descriptions section of the catalog, will satisfy this requirement. Students who fail one or both of the examinations should contact the chair of the appropriate department (History, Anthropology, and Philosophy or Social Sciences) soon after the examination date.
Wellness Requirement: WELL 1000 and two activity courses will be required for all Augusta University students seeking an undergraduate degree; transfer students who transfer in with 60 or more hours will have the requirement waived.
Baccalaureate Degree: Each student is required to pass three courses which should normally be completed during the freshman and sophomore years. Unless a waiver (as described below) is granted, the requirement will consist of the following:
- WELL 1000 (2 hours)
- Two WELL Physical Activity Classes: (2 hours)
A physical activity class may be a repeated course offering, but it is suggested the student take advantage of this opportunity to develop other skills by taking another activity class.
Waivers and Substitutions:
- Military Service – Students who were in the military may receive a waiver of the two Wellness Activity Course requirements if they were in good standing at the time of their separation. The student will submit a copy of their DD-214 Discharge Document to the Chair of Kinesiology and Health Science. Upon review of the document the Chair will email the Registrar and student stating if a waiver will be granted. If the waiver is granted the student will not be required to take the two Wellness Activity Courses. This waiver does not apply to WELL 1000 requirement.
- Physical Limitations - If a student has limitations regarding physical activity participation (as specified by a physician), written documentation from the physician is required indicating the type and amount of activity in which the student is allowed to participate. The student will submit this documentation to the Chair of Kinesiology and Health Science for their review. The Chair will email the Registrar and student stating if a waiver for the two Wellness Activity Courses will be granted. This waiver does not apply to WELL 1000 requirement.
Residence Requirements and Credit from Other Institutions: Students seeking a baccalaureate degree must complete in residence at Augusta University at least 25 percent of the credits required for the degree and a minimum of 30 hours of academic credit in courses numbered 3000 or above. At least one-half of the major concentration and at least one-half of the minor concentration must be completed in residence at Augusta University.
The amount of credit that the university will allow for work done in another institution within a given period of time may not exceed the normal amount of credit that could have been earned at the university during that time. A maximum of 62 hours of credit earned in a community college may be applied toward a degree.
Augusta University limits academic residency to no more than twenty-five percent of the degree requirements for all degrees for active duty servicemembers. Academic residency can be completed at any time while active duty service members are enrolled. Reservists and National Guardsmen on active duty are covered in the same manner.
Special Examinations: Special examinations may be required of the student as they progresses through various levels of the curriculum.
Graduation with Honors
AU awards honors to students graduating with a bachelor’s degree who meet specific standards of academic excellence as measured by the grade point average. For an undergraduate degree to be awarded with honors, a student must have completed a minimum of 60 semester hours in residence for a bachelor’s degree. For students completing all coursework at AU, the Regents GPA is used for the calculation of honors. For students transferring coursework to AU, a grade point average including all transfer work and all work taken at AU will be used for calculation of honors. For transfer students, both the calculated GPA and the Regents GPA must meet the standards below. The honor will be determined by the lower of the two GPAs.
The standards for honors are as follows:
- Summa Cum Laude: 3.90 - 4.00 GPA
- Magna Cum Laude: 3.70 - 3.89 GPA
- Cum Laude: 3.50 - 3.69 GPA
Participation in Commencement
Augusta University holds two commencement ceremonies each year, in the fall semester and spring semester. Augusta University 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.
Minors
Minor programs of study are prescribed areas of academic study consisting of 15 to 18 credit hours of coursework with at least 9 hours of upper-division coursework. Courses taken to satisfy any of the Core IMPACTS domains may not be counted as coursework in a student’s minor. However, Field of Study courses may be counted as coursework in the minor.
Students must complete at least half of the courses for the minor while in residence at Augusta University. Student must earn a grade of at least a “C” in the last attempt of all courses applicable to a minor.
Coursework completed for a degree program may usually be applied to a minor and vice-versa. For majors that do not have a mandatory minor requirement, 100% sharing between a major and a minor is permitted. In those cases, a course may satisfy the requirement of the major, a first minor, and – if applicable – a second minor. Students in majors that have a mandatory minor requirement, or students in majors where hours for the minor are required to meet the minimum hours for graduation, cannot share upper-division coursework between major and minor requirements, unless the catalog entry for that program explicitly permits it.
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 Augusta University college/school in which they expect to enroll for information on the availability and cost of such coverage.
Registration
Registration procedures at Augusta University 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 at Augusta University 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 may be assessed to any student registering outside the published registration dates.
In keeping with Board of Regents’ policy, 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 Appeals
Note: Students should always check the University Policy Library for the most recent version of university policies. The applicable policy is the Student Academic Appeals Policy.
An academic appeal is a request for review of an administrative decision made with respect to an individual student which bears upon their student career. The appeals procedure does not apply to issues which have broad application to the university as a whole or to constituent groupings within the university. However, appeals can be made in matters such as admission, transfer of credit, probation, suspension, dismissal, and other similar matters. Appeals also may be made in cases related to the Augusta University Student Concerns and Complaints Policy. A supervisor’s decision in an appeal can itself be appealed, but there is no appeal of the President’s decisions except in cases where it is reasonably alleged that a decision against the student was based on discrimination with respect to race, sex, age, handicap, religion, or national origin. This policy provides a means to appeal in cases where administrative decisions have been made which may have a negative effect on a student’s academic career. It addresses situations not covered by the Student Academic Grievance Policy.
The procedures set forth in the Student Academic Appeals Policy are intended to provide students at Augusta University a means for appealing administrative decisions which are alleged to have a negative impact on that student’s academic career. If the student wishes to address alleged violations of their rights by their instructor, or wish to file a grade appeal, the student should refer to the Student Academic Grievance section in these regulations. If the student’s problem is related to a non-academic issue, they should refer to the Augusta University Student Code of Conduct.
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.
Student Conduct
Non-Academic Conduct Issues
Augusta University has defined the relationships and appropriate behavior of students as members of the university community through the Student Code of Conduct, which may be found within the Student Manual. The document is available to all members of the university community through the Office of the Dean of Students.
The students of Augusta University have established a precedent of exemplary behavior as members of the university and civic communities. Behavior that unduly disrupts the learning environment and ultimately violates the University’s Code of Conduct will be addressed through the Student Conduct Process. Such violations may result in disciplinary probation, suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate disciplinary and/or educational measures.
Any violations of Academic Honesty are handled through the procedures outlined above.
Transfer Credit
Coursework must be validated as being academically rigorous for the appropriate level at which a student receives transfer credit. The institution where credit was earned must be accredited by an accrediting organization that is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or by the U.S. Department of Education, or both. 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 Associate and Baccalaureate Degrees
Coursework transferred to undergraduate degree programs at Augusta University must be collegiate level coursework that is relevant and applicable to the degree being sought at Augusta University. These courses must have been taught beyond the level of secondary education either as part of an associate or bachelor’s degree program. Credit earned at accredited technical colleges may not transfer unless the credit was earned in a designated college transfer program that is part of an officially sanctioned college preparatory curriculum. See https://www.usg.edu/academic_affairs_handbook/assets/academic_affairs_handbook/docs/TCSGUSGTransfer.pdf.
After admission, an evaluation of accepted transferable credits is made by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Students, in consultation with their advisors, may request departments to review their academic records to potentially approve a Required Course Substitution/Exception Request or Examination of Transfer Work form. A course substitution allows a course to fulfill a degree requirement it would not typically satisfy. All course substitutions must be approved by the chair of the department in which the course in question is offered. All approved course substitutions must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar for processing. A department chair, or their designated reviewer can also authorize an updated evaluation of transfer credit if they feel that a course for which substitution is being sought should have a different Augusta University equivalent than originally determined. All official correspondence for this re-evaluation of transfer work must be submitted through the designated channel of communication with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions for processing.
Students seeking a baccalaureate degree must complete at Augusta University at least 25 percent of the credits required for the degree and a minimum of 30 hours of academic credit in courses numbered 3000 or above. At least one-half of the major concentration and one-half of the minor concentration, if applicable, must be completed at Augusta University.
The amount of credit that the university will allow for work done in another institution within a given period of time may not exceed the normal amount of credit that could have been earned at the university during that time.
active duty service members of the United States Armed Services or the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (PHSCC) must complete at least 25 percent of the degree requirements for all degrees at Augusta University. Academic residency can be completed at any time while active duty service members are enrolled. Reservists and National Guardsmen on active duty are covered in the same manner.
Coursework that is more than 20 years old is subject to validation by the Office Undergraduate Admissions or that person’s designee. Credit decisions will be made in consultation with appropriate department chairs.
Visiting 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
Augusta University students may add or drop courses from their schedule of classes, provided they do so by the published deadline.
After the add/drop period has ended, a student may withdraw from a course without penalty up to the last day to receive a “W” set forth in the Academic Calendar. Following this deadline, a student who withdraws from a course will receive a grade of WF (Withdrew Failing), except in cases of medical, hardship, or military withdrawal. WF grades will be treated as F grades for grade point calculations.
Initiating a withdrawal is the responsibility of the student. Forms for initiating a withdrawal may be obtained from the Office of the Registrar’s website and the Academic Advisement Center. A student must consult an advisor before withdrawing from a course. A student must obtain all required signatures on the official withdrawal form and obtain a last date of attendance for the course. 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.
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 W (before the last day to receive a “W” set forth in the Academic Calendar), WF, or F for the course. However, an instructor may withdraw a student for excessive absences (more than 10 percent of class time).
See the Adding, Dropping, and Withdrawing from Courses for Undergraduate Students policy for more information.
|
