Grade System

Grading Scale

The following grades are not calculated as part of the GPA

Making the Grade

Student academic performance is generally based on at least two measurements in each course: for example, two examinations, or an examination and a project. The exception would be a Capstone course or a Practicum, which may be solely measured on the student’s overall performance as evaluated by the professor. Upon the student’s request, professors will explain grades but will not change grades unless it can be shown that the original grading was in error. The Dean’s Office must approve any grade changes. If a student believes that the grade was assigned incorrectly, he/she may appeal the grade according to the steps outlined in the Grade Appeal Process (See below).

A grade of A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, or C signifies that the course was passed. Students may not retake the course for grade replacement. The passing grade remains on the student’s permanent record and will be used to compute the final GPA.

A grade of C-, D+, D, D-, F or FA signifies that the course was failed and that the student must retake the course and obtain a grade of C or higher. The failing grade remains on the student’s permanent record and is included on any transcript, but it is not used in computing the final GPA or credit hours toward graduation. A failing grade earned in a core course that has been discontinued may be repeated successfully by earning a grade of B- or higher in the current core course that is deemed equivalent. If a failing grade is earned in an elective course, the student may either retake the course, (in which case the failing grade will not be included in the GPA) or enroll in another course which will satisfy the elective requirement (in which case the failing grade will be included in the GPA). If a course has been failed more than once, only a single failing grade is excluded from the GPA. Failed courses may only be repeated once for grade replacement.

Incomplete Grades

The letter "I" denotes an Incomplete and is given only when a valid emergency prevented the student from completing course work. For an Incomplete grade to be considered, the student must have completed a substantial part of the course requirement with a grade for that work. If the student receives an "I" he/she must perform whatever academic tasks the granting faculty member deems necessary before the Incomplete will be changed to a letter grade. An Incomplete Grade Contract must be completed by the student and the professor specifying the work required and a date for completion. The Incomplete Grade Contract must be submitted to the Office of the Dean, for final approval and a copy will remain on file in the Office of the Registrar. Upon submission of the required work, the professor assigns a grade and submits a grade change form to the Office of the Registrar. If an Incomplete is not changed by the deadline specified within the contract, the grade indicated in the contract will be assigned.

Grade Appeal Process

To appeal a grade given by a professor, follow these steps:

1. Request a conference (in person, if possible) with the professor so that an explanation of the grade may be given. This request must be submitted in writing within 14 days of the posting of the final course grade. If Step 1 does not satisfy concerns or if the student is unable to meet with professor, proceed to Step 2.
2. Submit an appeal to the Dean or the Dean’s designee. This appeal must be made within two weeks following a conference with the professor (or an attempt to meet with the professor). The appeal must be prepared in written form. The Dean or designee will discuss the appeal with the student and the professor to see if the situation may be resolved. If necessary, the Dean or designee will consult with the Academic Review Board (the student may be asked to appear) prior to making the final decision. A final written statement of the situation will be provided to the student within one month after the appeal is submitted. This is the student’s final appeal. The Dean’s decision is final.