Academic Policies

Academic Integrity and Conduct

Academic Freedom

The faculty of Saint Elizabeth University is committed to the goals, mission, and values of the institution with a special emphasis on quality teaching. The administration encourages diversity and creativity among the faculty and recognizes that each faculty member brings his or her own assets and expertise to Saint Elizabeth University. All constituencies of this institution expect (a) faculty members to grow and to improve during their period of service and (b) the University to encourage and support their efforts.

Saint Elizabeth University recognizes that institutions of higher learning are conducted for the common good and not to further the interests of either the individual teacher or the institution as a whole. The common good depends upon the search for truth and its free exposition. Academic freedom is essential to those purposes and applies to both teaching and research. For that reason the University affords its faculty members the opportunity to earn tenure.

Academic freedom in its teaching aspect is fundamental for the protection of the rights of the teacher to freedom in teaching and of the student to freedom in learning. The teacher is entitled to freedom in the classroom in discussing her or his area of competence, but should be careful while teaching not to introduce controversial matter which has no relation to the subject.

The teacher is entitled to freedom in research and in the publication of the results, subject to the adequate performance of his or her other academic duties. Freedom in research is fundamental to the advancement of truth. However, research for pecuniary return should be based upon an understanding with the authorities of the institution.

The faculty of Saint Elizabeth University recognizes that the principle of academic freedom carries with it certain duties as well as rights. The college teacher is a citizen, a member of a learned profession, and a member of an educational institution. When speaking or writing as a citizen, the faculty member should be free from institutional censorship or discipline; however, her or his special position in the community imposes special obligations. As a person of learning associated with an educational community, she or he should remember that the public may judge the profession and institution by her or his actions and remarks. Hence, the faculty member should at all times be accurate, exercise appropriate restraint, show respect for the opinions of others, and make every effort to indicate that she or he is not an institutional spokesperson.

Faculty are to maintain reasonable adherence to course descriptions published in University catalogs and other official publications and participate in a continuing review of such course descriptions to keep them current.

Academic Program Teach Out Policy

Policy Statement

This Teach-out policy addresses scenarios such as when a school chooses to discontinue a degree program or a track within a degree program, terminate a modality of delivering the degree program (e.g., the school wishes to stop offering an on-line program but continue the equivalent on-campus program), or decides to close an off-campus degree-delivery location.

Purpose of Policy

This policy is intended to provide an orderly process for students who have begun degree programs that are being deactivated or discontinued and to enable the “teaching out” of currently enrolled students so that they receive uninterrupted education toward their degree completion. All accredited programs should inform their unit’s accrediting body and follow their policies and processes. If an academic program is discontinued, it is the responsibility of the Provost to review and approve plans to close academic programs in order to ensure effective communication with stakeholders and to ensure that enrolled students are able to complete the academic program in a timely manner.

The Policy

Any decision to close a Degree or Certificate program entirely, eliminate a Degree or Certificate program from an additional location or eliminate a delivery modality for a Degree or Certificate program must also cease to admit students to the program. In addition, it must offer one or both of the following options to enrolled students:

The Department or College develops and documents a teach-out plan for currently enrolled students and terminates the program after the plan is finished.
The Department or College enters into a teach-out agreement with another institution or organization that will teach out the program for currently enrolled students.

Once a decision is made to stop delivering an academic program, eliminate a particular modality for an academic program or discontinue offering a program at a particular location, a teach-out plan and any relevant third party agreements must be submitted for review and approval by the Provost’s Office. Other relevant administrative offices may be consulted as part of this approval process. The Provost’s Office will also determine whether external agencies (e.g., Middle State Commission on Higher Education, the NJ Office of The Secretary of Higher Education, or other authorizing bodies) will be notified. The Faculty Handbook provides guidance on the institution’s obligations to all faculty teaching in a discontinued program.

The Department or College will develop a communication plan to inform currently enrolled students about the program closure and their options for completion. The Provost’s Office will notify relevant administrative offices (e.g., Admissions, Registrar, Financial Aid, etc.) about the program closure and the teach-out plan or agreement. The typical framework for a teach-out plan is described in the following section.

Procedures to Implement this Policy

The following may be addressed in all proposed teach-out plans:
Establishment of the date(s) by which

all marketing materials and advertising for the program will be withdrawn, canceled, corrected or deleted and all recruitment and admissions for the teach-out program ceases and
all the teach-out activities will end.
Completion of an audit by the dean/chair of the affected program to determine what courses and other activities are needed by students currently enrolled to complete their course of study.

Development of a schedule of courses to be taught during the teach-out period that ensures all remaining courses required for students to complete their programs will be offered in a reasonable sequence. In some cases, it may be necessary to modify program requirements (e.g., include independent study courses or similar alternatives) to enable the students to complete their programs, but in these cases the learning objectives and credit-hour requirements will be equivalent to those of the original degree program.

A description of the faculty resources and academic support services that will be provided throughout the teach-out period.

A statement about how the Department or College will assist students who are enrolled in an affected program and who wish to transfer to another program or institution.

Signed copies of teach-out agreements with other institution (if any).

Agreements with other institutions must include arrangement for the storing of student records and the disposition of final financial resources and other asset (if any)

Additional considerations when developing a teach-out plan:

Legal review of agreements with other institutions, if any, must be completed before a teach- out plan is communicated.

No formal announcement of program discontinuation may be made until the communication plan has been developed and approved.

All teach-out plans must be consistent with any requirements and expectations of the external organizations that accredit or certify the programs to be completed under the teach-out plan.

A Department or College is not obligated to accommodate students who fail to take required courses when they are offered under the teach-out plan, or who do not receive passing grades in courses taught under a teach-out plan, beyond the formal end of the teach-out period in the list of components of the teach-out plan.

Definition(s)

Program Deactivation means that the program suspends incoming enrollment, but wishes to maintain the program for potential future use. This action is internal to the University.

Program Discontinuation means that the University has notified the New Jersey Board of Higher Education that the University wishes to remove the program from the list of programs that it is authorized to offer.

Deactivating or Discontinuing Academic Programs

Policy Statement

Programs may be deactivated or discontinued if they no longer serve the University's mission, the needs of the students, the needs of society, or no longer possess academic validity or when the University cannot provide the resources to offer them. The decision to deactivate or discontinue a program shall be made only after all appropriate evidence has been gathered and examined, and thorough consultation with faculty and other affected parties has occurred.

Purpose of Policy

This policy provides criteria and a set of processes and procedures to be used in considering the deactivating or discontinuing of academic programs. The academic programs covered in this policy include the following: a) undergraduate and graduate degrees; c) minors and d) certificate programs. This policy allows the University to maintain flexibility and respond to changing demands.

The Policy

The deactivation or discontinuance of an academic program may have significant consequences for the entire University community, including faculty and staff as well as current or prospective students. Therefore, administration, faculty, staff and student interests and perspectives must be represented in discussions and documents of the process that may lead to the deactivation or discontinuance of any academic program. The University must provide an orderly and phased transition (See Teach Out Policy) for currently enrolled students. The University must carefully consider proposals to deactivate or discontinue a program. The final decision-making authority to deactivate or discontinue an academic program rests with the Board of Trustees.

Criteria

The Academic Life Committee of the University Faculty Assembly will initially evaluate the need for deactivation or discontinuance of an academic program. The initiating Dean will provide the committee with documentation demonstrating why the program is being considered for deactivation or discontinuance. The request must be accompanied by compelling written data and explanation. Justifiable reasons may include, but are not limited to:

the need for the program, program quality and effectiveness: data for effectiveness may include trends in numbers of applications, enrollment and graduation rates, and information about the range and quality of studies delivered. Other reports or evidence may be considered, such as routine program outcomes, alumni or student surveys, faculty/staffing plan, or other specific reviews. Evidence may include quality- improvement efforts and any evidence of program-renewal strategies
the availability of resources to sustain the program at an acceptable level of academic quality: evidence may include areas such as faculty availability, cost effectiveness, the length of time a program has been offered
the student and societal needs that the program meets, especially needs that cannot otherwise be met
the centrality and contribution of the program to the university. evidence of how the program contributes to a university-wide role beyond student degrees, such as general education or special academic area of emphasis
the programs relationship to the mission of the university.
factors and dynamics impacting enrollment and retention of students in the program such as persisting students and graduates: if students leave the program, whether they go to other programs in the university or to other institutions
the effect of deactivation or deregistration on overall cost and institutional effectiveness.

Procedures to Implement this Policy

The initiating Dean convenes the program faculty and discusses the recommendation to deactivate or discontinue the program with that group, gathering information that may support or refute the information included in the recommendation. The program faculty have the opportunity to respond in writing to the recommendation, if they so desire.

The recommendation for deactivation or discontinuation and the response of the program faculty, if provided, is sent to the Academic Life Committee of the University Faculty Assembly for review. The Dean will provide a summary of the factors leading to the recommendation to discontinue the program and will be present at the committee meeting when the final recommendation is discussed. The director of the affected program and all members of the program being reviewed for discontinuation will be invited to participate and to provide information and answer questions about the recommendation.

Once the Academic Life committee has responded to the recommendation, the Dean will make a final recommendation. This will be sent to the Provost along with the response from the standing committee and the affected program faculty.

The Provost will review the Deans recommendation, along with the programs response and the response from the standing committee.
Should the Provost recommend the deactivation or discontinuation of any program, the President will review this recommendation. If the President concurs, the President will notify the Board of Trustees that the recommendation will be considered at the next meeting.

Once the Board of Trustees notifies the University Community of its decision, the Provost will begin formal notification to University Community and accrediting agencies as appropriate.

Definition(s)

Program Deactivation means that the program suspends incoming enrollment, but wishes to maintain the program for potential future use. This action is internal to the University.

Acceptable Use of Technology

The University provides technology resources to fulfill its mission as a liberal arts institution, to support our educational and community values, and to support its programs and initiatives. Access to the University's technological resources is a privilege extended to authorized users, and thus carries with it an associated expectation of responsible use.

The University's Acceptable Use Policy provides guidelines for appropriate use of technological resources, and is available by contacting Instructional Technology, the Office of Information Technology (973-290-4015), or the Office of the Vice President for Finance and Administration (973-290-4496).

This policy also can be found on the University's website at https://www.steu.edu/it/policy/.

By accessing the University's technology resources, users agree to abide by the Acceptable Use Policy.

Academic Integrity Policy

Academic integrity requires that each student acknowledges that the work represented in all assignments and all examinations is their own or is properly cited, and that the student has neither given nor received unauthorized information or assistance. Membership in the academic community of Saint Elizabeth University implies a high regard for human dignity and the expectation that ethical conduct be understood and practiced. Consequently, academic integrity is a vital part of the relationship among the University's faculty, administrators, staff and students.

Members of the academic community must recognize their individual responsibility to uphold academic integrity. The University does not tolerate academic dishonesty.

The Academic Integrity policies and procedures set forth below apply to all programs in the University. Some programs or departments may have additional policies on academic integrity and professional behavior as required by their professional accrediting agencies. SEU reserves the right, at any time, to suspend or dismiss a student who does not meet academic and/or ethical standards.

Purpose of Policy

This policy describes the observance of academic integrity among the University's faculty, administrators, staff and students.

The Policy

The University is committed to maintaining academic integrity throughout the University community. Cheating compromises the learning process; provides an unearned advantage; with the intent to deceive an instructor who is assigned to evaluate the student work.

Having academic integrity is important because it offers peace of mind knowing that an individual is doing the right thing, and tries to act consistently with those beliefs. Acting with integrity can reduce unnecessary stress in one’s life, and can make you happier, healthier, and more productive. xThe list of academic integrity violations is not limited to just plagiarism. Academic Integrity violations include, among other actions, the following; cheating in any form, theft of educational materials; purchase or obtaining in any other way a class paper or other assignment and submitting it as one’s own work; the unauthorized use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) to create a class paper or other assignment; the falsification of data; and illegal production of computer and audio/video software; including using a camera phone, text messaging, instant messaging or any other unauthorized method or communication of any sort, to give or receive assistance on a test or examination without the express permission of the instructor.

Students must abide by all quiz, exam, lock-down browser, and/or proctor instructions per the direction of the course/instructor. Sanctions will be imposed for violations of academic integrity. All faculty have access to plagiarism detection software, which can be used with or without a student’s knowledge in any Saint Elizabeth University course.

The following practices are illegal and/or violations of University policy: (this is not an exhaustive list; there may be additional scenarios not presented below)

Plagiarizing is the use of the work of another person or group without giving the author(s) credit. Plagiarism includes: using all or part of another student's paper, journal, lab report, computer program or file; buying a paper, or trading goods or services for a paper; and using ideas, phrases, sentences, paragraphs, or pages from an article, essay, book, newspaper, magazine, or any other reference source without properly citing that source, either deliberately or through neglect, including the unauthorized use of Large Language Models (LLM)
Cheating is a form of academic dishonesty in which the person misrepresents their mastery of the course content or clinical experiences. Cheating applies to examinations, labs, written assignment, clinical experiences, online discussions, and any other form of student assessment. Cheating on tests includes:
Copying answers from another student or using impermissible information on an examination.
Forging the name of a student or member of the faculty, administration, or staff on exams, projects, or University documents.
Sabotaging the work of another student by deliberately destroying, harming or altering material or projects.
Making, receiving or using unauthorized copies of computer or audio/video software.
Removing institutional copies of computer or audio/video software from the library laboratories, or offices without permission from Instructional Technology.
Copying all or part of another's computer program, assignment, file, database or audio/video material.
Using technology to obtain illegal access to another computer.
Unauthorized use of generative artificial intelligence technology, known as Large Language Models (LLM) such as ChatGPT
Altering educational versions of software in a manner that violates an existing license or agreement.
Providing falsified excuses, documents, or other information to excuse late or missed assignments.
Falsely documenting experiential and/or internship opportunities that did not occur.
Facilitation of dishonesty is deliberately or carelessly allowing one’s work to be used by other students without prior approval of the instructor or otherwise aiding others in committing violations of academic integrity.
Violating copyright laws and/or using the work of others via computer or other technological means without express permission and/or clear attribution demonstrates disrespect for the creative work and personal expression of others. Although electronic and/or magnetic information is easily produced, invasion of privacy, unauthorized access, trade secret violations, and copyright violations are illegal (1987 EDUCOM and AADAPSO and copyright laws). Most computer and audio/video software is protected by copyright laws. It is incumbent upon the user to be familiar with the license agreement between the editor or publisher and the purchaser.
Violations of research or professional ethics in this category include both violations of the code of ethics specific to a particular profession and violations of more generally applicable ethical requirements for the acquisition, analysis, and reporting of research data and the preparation and submission of scholarly work for publication. This also include, but is not limited to medical documentation such as charting, patient notes and other clinical records.
Fabrication is a form of dishonesty by which the person deliberately invents or falsifies information or research findings with the intent to deceive. Falsifying data includes describing experiments that did not take place, presenting results that were deliberately altered, and/or citing data or references that do not exist. This also includes but is not limited to medical documentation such as charting, patient notes and other clinical records.
Removing books, journals, periodicals, and other resources from the library without authorization is a form of stealing, and it is illegal.

Consequences of Violations

*These levels are not sequential; a Level One violation does not have to precede a Level Two Violation. For example, an egregious Level One violation may be escalated to a Level Two violation. The severity and repetitive nature of the violations will determine which level and sanction may be applied. The decisions regarding sanctions enacted may be made by applicable administration, faculty and staff.

Level One (I) Violations

A Level One Violation occurs when there is reason to believe that a violation of academic integrity might have resulted from a student's lack of awareness, and is often characterized by a relatively low degree of premeditation or planning on the part of the student committing the violation. The faculty member may address this on a one-to-one basis using discretion in adopting an appropriate course of action, but with the understanding that all Level One Violations must be documented and submitted.
In cases involving repeated occurrences of Level I violations, additional Level I violations may be considered a Level II or Level III violation.

Examples of Level One Violations:

Improper footnoting and/or use of sources
Quoting a passage directly without citation such as the unauthorized use of AI, (e.g., chatGPT)
Paraphrasing without proper attribution
Unauthorized use of an electronic device during a test or examination.
Prohibited collaboration with another student on a homework assignment

Recommended Sanction(s): (at the discretion of the Instructor; in consultation with the Dean, Chair or Director of the Program (if appropriate)):

Redoing the assignment
Failing the assignment or examination
Participation in a workshop or seminar on Academic Integrity (via Student Success Center)
In all instances, the instructor will report the episode utilizing the Navigate system and its resolution to the Director of Retention Initiatives.

Level Two (II) Violations

Level Two Violations are characterized by deliberate action, substantial premeditation or planning and clearly dishonest or malicious intent on the part of the student committing the violation even if this is the first instance.

In cases involving repeated occurrences of Level I, Level II violations may be considered a Level II or Level III violation.

Examples of Level Two Violations:

Cheating on a test, mid-term, or examination
Using impermissible material during an examination
Submitting another’s work as one’s own on an assignment paper, test, lab report, or project of any kind, such as the unauthorized use of AI, (e.g., chatGPT)
Unauthorized preprogramming of and/or access to devices or learning management systems
Submission of an assignment purchased from a company. (e.g. term papers, software program, etc.)
Substantial plagiarism on a major assignment

Recommended Sanctions: (at the discretion of the Instructor; in consultation with the Dean, Chair or Director of the Program (if appropriate))

Failing the assignment or examination
Participation in a workshop or seminar on Academic Integrity
In all instances, the instructor will report the episode utilizing the Navigate system and its resolution to the Director of Retention Initiatives.

Level Three (III) Violations

Level 3 violations are serious breaches of conduct, may involve a serious violation of a professional code of conduct, and may include extreme cases of dishonesty and maliciousness, even if this is the first instance of an academic integrity violation.

In cases involving repeated occurrences of Level I or Level II violations, subsequent Level II violations may be considered a Level III violation

Examples of Level Three Violations

Theft of an examination or another student’s project
Forgery of any kind
Having a substitute take an examination
Sabotaging another’s work.
Repeated occurrences of Level I and/or Level II Violations
Cheating and/or plagiarism on a capstone project, thesis, or dissertation
Flagrant disregard for academic integrity policy, or egregious violations of the policy
A serious violation of a professional code of conduct

Recommended Sanctions: (at the discretion of the Instructor; in consultation with the Dean, Chair or Director of the Program (if appropriate)):

Documentation of the episode utilizing the Navigate system and its resolution to the Director of Retention Initiatives (where applicable).
A failing grade in the course
Suspension or dismissal, as determined by the Provost, in consultation with the Dean, Chair or Director of the Program (if appropriate))

Definition(s)

Academic Honesty is defined as the quality or condition of having or displaying strong moral principles; fair dealing; truthfulness, integrity.

Academic Integrity is important because dishonest behavior undermines learning and the credibility of the University. High standards of academic integrity safeguard one’s reputation, reflects well on the University and contributes to the well-being of society.

Academic assignments exist to help students learn; grades demonstrate a measure of how this goal is attained. Therefore, all work and all grades should result from the student’s own personal understanding and effort.

Academic Integrity Values: Honesty, Trust, Fairness, Respect, Responsibility and Courage. (ICAI, 2013).

Academic misconduct, broadly speaking, is any action which gains, attempts to gain, or assists others in gaining or attempting to gain unfair academic advantage. It includes, among other things, plagiarism, collusion, contract cheating, including purchasing or obtaining in any other way a class paper or other assignment and submitting it as one’s own work and fabrication of data as well as the possession of unauthorized materials during an examination.

Students’ motivation to cheat, whether online or face-to-face, emerges from several factors including:

Unfamiliarity with what constitutes academic dishonesty
Lack of understanding about consequences
Inadequate preparation
Pressure to raise grades
The availability of assistance in cheating from peers
Procrastination or poor time management
Self-justification habits

Academic Standing and Classification

Academic Standards and Continuous Enrollment for Graduate Students

Students accepted to a graduate degree program are expected to work with continuity and to register in that program until all requirements are completed. Students are reminded that an interruption of studies will affect their ability to make satisfactory academic progress toward the completion of their degree requirements.

Students who have taken all of their courses but have not finished their culminating experiences, theses, or dissertations will be required to pay a course fee equal to one credit of tuition each semester to maintain a continuous enrollment status through the completion of all coursework.

Students who fail to remain continuously enrolled will be withdrawn from their program of study after two semesters. Withdrawn students will be required to reapply to their program of study and will be bound by all policies and stipulations related to readmission (see Requirements for Good Academic Standing).

Full-Time, Part-Time and Acceleration

Undergraduate:

Twelve credits constitutes full-time status.

Students registering for more than 18 credits must get approval from the appropriate Dean and may incur overload charges, even when a Program may require that a student take more than 18 credits per semester in order to complete the degree in eight semesters.

Graduate:

A student who is taking nine or more credits in a semester is considered full-time. A student taking six to eight credits is half-time. A student enrolled in fewer than six credits is part-time.

Leave of Absence from the University

Undergraduate:

A student with a serious and acceptable reason may apply for a leave of absence through the Retention Coordinator.

A student receiving financial aid or University scholarships who intends to take a leave of absence must check with the Financial Aid Office. An approved leave of absence may affect the student's financial aid and/or scholarship funding.

If registered for courses, a student requesting a leave of absence must also follow the course withdrawal procedures. Application for a leave of absence from the University does not guarantee approval for course withdrawal from the current semester.

Graduate:

Students accepted to a degree Program are expected to work with continuity and to register in that Program until all requirements are completed. Program Directors will consider student-initiated petitions for a leave of absence from studies for up to two semesters. Requests for a leave must be documented. Students are reminded that an interruption of studies may affect their ability to make satisfactory academic progress toward the completion of their degree requirements. Students who request a leave for more than one full year will be required to reapply to their Program and will be bound by all policies and stipulations related to readmission (see Requirements for Good Academic Standing).

Matriculation

A matriculated student is one who has been accepted by the University and is working toward a degree.
A non-matriculated student is one who is taking courses, but is not working towards a degree.

Requirements for Good Academic Standing

Undergraduate Students:

To be in good academic standing, undergraduate students must meet the following conditions:

A semester GPA of a 1.81 and higher in their first semester
A 2.0 GPA in all other semesters, and
The cumulative GPA of a 2.0 for every semester after the first semester.

Graduate Students:

Satisfactory academic progress includes the achievement of the required cumulative grade point average and the accumulation of sufficient credits within a stipulated time frame.

A student must be in good academic standing with a 3.00 cumulative grade point average in order to apply for admission to degree candidacy.

Time Limitation for Graduate Degrees

Ordinarily, students are expected to enroll continuously until the program is completed. A student who does not earn any graduate credit toward the degree during two consecutive semesters will be required to reapply for admission to the graduate program; no fee is required for readmission. Students in good academic standing are readmitted under the catalog in effect at the time of re-entry.

The length of time given to a student to complete a degree is calculated from the date the student becomes matriculated in the graduate program.

A full-time student must successfully complete a degree within three calendar years; a half-time student pursuing a degree must successfully complete a degree in six calendar years. Less than half-time will be evaluated using similar criteria.

A full-time student in the 60-credit mental health specialty in counseling psychology must successfully complete a degree in five years; a half-time student in this program must complete a degree in seven-and-a-half years. Less than half-time students will be evaluated using similar criteria. However, a written petition for extension with full documentation of extraordinary cause, such as the granting of a leave of absence for medical or other good reason, must be made to the director of the program in which the student is enrolled.

Time spent in the armed forces is excluded from the time period. However, a student should apply for a leave of absence while in the armed forces.

A student will not be allowed to continue pursuing a degree beyond the stipulated time frame unless the student has received approval to do so. To petition for an extension of time, a student must submit a formal written request to the director of her/his graduate program, accompanied by a degree completion plan. A student approved for an extension will be placed on probation each semester until the degree has been completed. Approval for a time extension does not guarantee approval for additional financial aid.

Undergraduate Class Standing

First-year (Freshman): 0-24 credits
Sophomore: 25-57 credits
Junior: 58-87 credits
Senior: 88+ credits

Advising

Undergraduate

All students are assigned an academic advisor when they enroll at the University.
The advisor's role is to discuss the requirements of a given program and to recommend the selection of courses that best fit a student's needs based on degree requirements.
Double majors will be assigned two academic advisors, one from each major program. Even though only the advisor in the primary major will be able to approve students' registration in Self-Service, students are responsible for meeting with both advisors in preparation for registration each semester.
First-year students in the traditional undergraduate program are assigned an advisor who has been specifically trained to work with new students in assisting them to make a successful transition into college.
Students are required to meet with their advisor(s) prior to registration or if they need to adjust their schedule, but are encouraged to meet with them as often as needed.
It is the student's responsibility to be aware of the degree requirements and to follow the catalog in effect when she/he entered the University.

Graduate

Each graduate student must seek academic advisement and receive scheduling approval from their graduate advisor before registering for courses. Students are expected to arrange advising appointments well in advance of registration deadlines. Students should develop a plan of study for two semesters or more and review it when they meet with their advisors. Two-year tentative course schedules are available from the program.

Courses, Credits, and Registration

Academic Renewal for Undergraduates

Students who have been away from the University for three or more years and who wish to begin with a new GPA may apply for Academic Renewal. Academic Renewal excludes from the GPA all grades from the first semester of enrollment to the final semester of enrollment prior to readmission. Generally, students cannot renew more than 72 credits.

To begin the process of renewal, students must first enroll in a minimum of six credits at the University and earn a minimum GPA of 2.0. Application for Renewal must be made by the third semester of enrollment.

If renewal is granted, all courses and grades will remain on the transcript with a statement granting Academic Renewal. The credits on the transcript will be counted toward the degree, but the grades will not be used in calculating the student's GPA. Academic Renewal can be granted only once and cannot be reversed

Add/Drop

Students may add/drop courses up until the last day of the add/drop period for any given session. Consult the academic calendar for specific dates.

Students should complete the add/drop form, have their Academic Advisor sign it, and submit it to the Registrar's Office for processing.

Courses dropped during the add/drop period will not appear on the student's transcript.

Approval for Study at another University/College

Once matriculated into a program, students are expected to complete all coursework at the University. If a course must be taken at another regionally accredited university or online through another institution, students must obtain the approval of their academic advisor(s) in advance.

Students must fill out and submit an Approval for Study at Another College/University form.

Students must provide their advisor(s) with a catalog description, course number, and number of credits for the course they intend to take. The advisor(s) will determine and record the equivalent SEU course and sign the form. Students then submit the completed form to the Registrar's Office. Submitting this form assures students that the course will be accepted at SEU when transcripts are presented showing a grade of C or better.

When the course is completed, students are responsible for having an official transcript sent to the Registrar's Office from the institution where the course was taken. If a transcript is not received, it will be assumed the course was not completed with a transferable grade. Courses in which the grade earned is below a "C" or a 2.0 (on a 4.0 scale) will not be accepted in transfer.

The name and credits for courses taken at other institutions either in person or online will be recorded on the student's transcript. The grade is not listed and will not be counted in the student's grade point average.

Articulation Agreements

Saint Elizabeth University has articulation agreements with many two and four-year institutions and with several graduate programs at other institutions. Saint Elizabeth University has worked with these institutions to provide the best possible interface of courses for students transferring. Certain courses taken at these institutions may be used in place of specific major requirements at the University.

The University also participates with N.J. Transfer to assist students in New Jersey community colleges to make decisions about transferring to other institutions.

Audit

Undergraduate:

Students may register to audit a course during the regular registration period on a space-available basis.
Changes in status from audit-to-credit or credit-to-audit must be made no later than the last day to add/drop.
Students who audit a class are not required to take tests or complete course assignments.
The extent to which an auditor may take part in a course's activities or receive extra help is determined by the instructor.
The charge to audit a course is one third of the regular tuition. All other fees are applicable.
The student's transcript will show a grade of "AU". The grade is not calculated in the grade point average nor is it counted towards degree requirements or progress.

Graduate:

Students who hold a bachelor's degree may register to audit a course during the regular registration period on a space available basis.
Changes in status from audit to credit or credit to audit must be made no later than the last day to add/drop.
Students who audit a class are not required to take tests or complete course assignments.
The extent to which an auditor may take part in a course's activities or receive extra help is determined by the instructor.
The fee for auditing courses is one third of the cost of tuition.
The student's transcript will show a grade of "AU". The grade is not calculated in the grade point average nor is it counted towards degree requirements or progress.

Cancellation of Courses

Saint Elizabeth University reserves the right to cancel, reschedule, or change the meeting times, faculty, or room assignments of any course.

Students must follow the usual add/drop procedure to add another course or section to replace a canceled course or section.

Course Levels and Numbering System

Courses numbered below 100 indicate pre-baccalaureate level courses (institutional credits). These do not count towards the degree.
Courses numbered 100 indicate introductory undergraduate level courses.
Courses numbered 200 indicate intermediate undergraduate level courses.
Courses numbered 300 and 400 indicate more advanced undergraduate level courses.
Courses numbered 500-700 are graduate level courses. Credits earned to fulfill the baccalaureate degree may not be applied toward the master's degree, except as part of an approved combined degree program at Saint Elizabeth University or as otherwise stipulated in the Academic Catalog.
Courses numbered 500 indicate graduate level courses that undergraduate students can take.
Courses numbered 600 and 700 indicate graduate level courses. Undergraduate students who have been accepted into an approved Combined Degree Program at SEU may take graduate classes in accordance with their program. Other undergraduate students may take graduate classes after obtaining approval from the Committee on Admissions and Student Academic Standing (CASAS)

Credit-by-Examination

Saint Elizabeth University recognizes four standardized testing programs:

Excelsior Examinations (Formerly Regents)
College Level Examination Program (CLEP – Subject Examinations)
Thomas Edison College Examination Program (TECEP)
Defense Activity for Nontraditional Education Support (DANTES)

In most programs, a maximum of 30 credits will be accepted toward degree completion through the combined options of testing, that is, Excelsior Examinations (formerly Regents), CLEP, DANTES, and TECEP.

Students in Business Administration can apply a maximum of 15 credits by examination toward the major, including no more than one 300 or 400-level course. Generally, credits are awarded for courses completed prior to matriculation in the University.

Students interested in receiving transfer credit for successful participation in standardized testing programs should submit official, original credentials for evaluation to the Dean of the appropriate School.

Credit Hour Policy

Saint Elizabeth University follows the U.S. Department of Education definition of a credit hour as a measure of the amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than:

"50 minutes* of classroom or direct faculty instruction each week for 15 weeks in one semester (or the equivalent attained by scheduling more minutes of instruction per week for fewer weeks in the semester) complemented by at least 100 minutes each week of laboratory or outside assignments (or the equivalent thereof for semesters of different length) OR at least an equivalent amount of work for courses with alternative formats including online, hybrid, internships, laboratories, studios, short-term study abroad courses, practicums, clinicals and tutorials.

In summary, ONE credit hour is awarded on the basis of one of three sets of criteria.

For traditional in-class courses: The completion of one credit hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two credit hours of out-of-class student work each week for one semester (15 weeks); or
For online, hybrid, and accelerated courses: The completion of an equivalent amount of faculty instruction and student work, as stipulated above in criterion (1), that may occur over a different amount of time; or
For other academic activities: The completion of an institutionally sanctioned academic activity (e.g., tutorial, externship, practicum, internship, independent study, studio work, laboratory work, fieldwork, and pre-dissertation/thesis work) that is equivalent to the amount of work stipulated in criterion (1), that may occur over a different amount of time.

Proposals for new courses are prepared by faculty and presented to the Academic Life Committee for review. The Committee determines if the proposed credit hour allotment aligns with the University's definition and with commonly accepted standards of higher education.

The University course syllabus template, used for all courses that are offered, requires faculty to delineate how each course meets the credit hour standards.

*This rule refers to a 50-minute "Carnegie hour" so the requirement is for 12.5 clock hours (750 minutes) of direct instruction or a total of 37.5 clock hours (2,250 minutes) of total student work for one semester credit. This policy conforms to the NJ Commission on Higher Education, U.S. Department of Education and Middle States Commission on Higher Education credit hour policies.

Cross Registration with Drew and Fairleigh Dickinson University (Madison Campus)

This option is available to full-time matriculated students who are in good academic standing.
Cross registration is available only during the fall and spring semesters (not summers or intersessions).
Cross registration is for undergraduate courses only.
Information regarding course information can be found on the websites of both institutions (www.drew.edu or www.fdu.edu).
Students must complete a cross registration form (for Drew; for FDU), signed by their academic advisor, and then submit that form to Saint Elizabeth University Registrar's Office for processing.
Courses completed via cross registration at Drew or Fairleigh Dickinson will appear on the Saint Elizabeth University transcript and are not considered transfer courses.

Enrollment in Accelerated 7-Week Sessions (Session A and Session B)

Most courses in 7-week sessions meet once a week and/or online and are specifically designed for students in the Continuing Studies Program. Traditional undergraduate students who have 96+ credits and need a specific course to graduate may obtain permission to take a 7-week course and should discuss this option with their academic advisor
Traditional undergraduate students will generally only be permitted to take one accelerated courses each semester.
Traditional undergraduate students meeting the above criteria must have an override registration form signed by their academic advisor(s) and approved by the appropriate Dean.
Traditional undergraduate students do not need override permission to take one or two-credit courses offered in the 7-week format.

Full Faith and Credit Transfer Policy

Students who have earned an Associate of Arts or an Associate of Science degree from approved transfer programs from county colleges in New Jersey or from Thomas A. Edison College can transfer all credits (including grades of "D") into Saint Elizabeth University. These students are granted junior class standing.
This policy also applies to nursing students who have earned an Associate in Applied Science degree from County College of Morris, Middlesex County College, and Raritan Valley Community College.

Medical Excuse Policy

Health Services does not provide verification of illness or written excuses for minor illnesses or injuries that result in absence from classes.

Students who will miss class because of routine illnesses should correspond directly with the faculty as soon as possible regarding their circumstances. (Ideally before they miss a class, exam, lab, assignment, etc.)

In the case of significant, prolonged illness lasting at least four or more days or hospitalization, Health Services will notify (with the student's written consent) the Retention Coordinator who in turn will notify student's professors.

This verification of significant illness will be provided only for serious illnesses for which the Health Services clinicians have provided services or for which the appropriate written medical documentation from outside clinicians is provided to Health Services.

Portfolio Experiential Learning Assessment (PELA)

PELA is an option for earning University credit that recognizes learning and growth that occur outside of the classroom. It allows students to identify and demonstrate previously acquired knowledge and skills.
Portfolios are compilations of data from the student's personal history (experiential learning, formal training and testing) with documentation that displays theoretical knowledge. Matriculated students in good academic standing may submit portfolios prior to reaching senior class standing.
One portfolio is submitted for each course. Appropriate faculty members at the University review the contents of the portfolio and decide to award credit or not. Students may be awarded up to 24 credits via portfolio assessment. These are counted as transfer credits without grades.
A fee is charged for a portfolio evaluation.

Readmission for Graduate Students

Former matriculated or certificate students who wish to return after having withdrawn from the University in good standing, must reapply to the their program of study. The catalog which is current at the time of readmission will be in effect, and the director of the student's graduate program will evaluate previously earned academic credits for their relevancy and applicability to the current curriculum.

Repeating a Course

Policy Statement

Under specific circumstances, undergraduate and graduate students may repeat a course that they have previously passed.

Purpose of Policy

This policy is designed to make students and advisors and other academic personnel aware of the circumstances in which students may repeat previously passed courses.

The Policy

Undergraduate and Graduate students may repeat courses under the following circumstances.

General Undergraduate Policy:

A grade of C- or lower in a required course (academic skills, major courses, and SEU110 and SEU 120) means the course must be repeated.
Other courses with a C- or lower may be repeated.
Repeating a course will result in the higher grade being calculated in the cumulative grade point average. Brackets [ ] on the academic transcript will signify that the course has been repeated.
The lower grade will remain on the academic transcript and be included in the cumulative attempted credit total, but will not be included in the cumulative grade point average or in the cumulative earned credit total.
Students are charged for repeated courses at the current tuition rate

Undergraduate Students (Courses in a Major):

Students may repeat a required course in their undergraduate majors if they have received grades of C-, D, F, or NC.
Students may not repeat a course for a second time at another institution unless written approval is given by the Department Chair and Dean.

Graduate Students:

A student cannot repeat courses with grades of C or better unless written approval is given by the Department Chair and Dean.
Students are charged for repeated courses at the current tuition rate.

Exception(s)

It is permissible to repeat such courses as Special Topics, Independent Study, and Internship more than once, when the course content changes, but the course numbering does not.

The academic policies of the MS Physician Assistant program may require a student to remediate or decelerate or repeat a course or clinical rotation. The policies governing these circumstances are documented here: https://www.steu.edu/academics/aas/physician-assistant/ms-in-physician-assistant/policies

The Pre-Licensure BSN program requires grades of C+ to pass a course: http://steu.smartcatalogiq.com/en/2022-2023/academic-catalog/academic-programs/nursing/bsn

Individual programs may adopt more stringent standards as long as they are communicated in writing to the Registrar and the Director of Financial Aid and posted in this document as well as documented on the program and Academic Affairs webpages.

Please note that federal financial aid cannot be applied to any previously passed course that has been repeated more than once.

Scheduling of Graduate Courses

Graduate classes are usually scheduled during the week in the late afternoons and in the evenings. Some Saturday courses may be scheduled. Graduate courses offered during the summer semesters may be scheduled during daytime or evening.

If a course reaches maximum enrollment, preference will be given to matriculated students, then to non-matriculated students, and finally to auditors.

Transferring Credits

Undergraduate:

Students requesting the award of transfer credits must submit an official transcript from the previous institution.
Acceptance of course credits earned elsewhere is at the sole discretion of Saint Elizabeth University.
Transfer courses need a minimum grade of "C" or a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale for acceptance by Saint Elizabeth University, unless the course falls under the "full faith and credit" policy.
A maximum of 90 credits will be accepted in transfer; however, the final 30 credits of the degree requirement must be completed at Saint Elizabeth University. In addition, at least half of the requirements for the major must be completed at Saint Elizabeth University.
Transfer credits will appear on Saint Elizabeth University transcript; however, transfer grades will not be reflected nor will they be used in the calculation of the student's Saint Elizabeth University grade point average.
Credits accepted in transfer become part of the student's permanent Saint Elizabeth University record; as such they cannot be replaced by new transfer courses.

Graduate:

Students requesting the award of transfer credits must submit an official transcript from the previous institution.
Acceptance of course credits earned elsewhere is at the sole discretion of Saint Elizabeth University.

Undergraduate Enrollment in Graduate Courses

Undergraduate students aside from those who are in an approved Combined Degree Program may petition CASAS (Committee on Admission and Student Academic Standing) to enroll in graduate level courses (600-level).
Students must have at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA.
Students must have 72 or more earned credits.
Undergraduate students may take a maximum of 6 credits of graduate level work (600-level courses).
Undergraduate students are limited to 3 credits of graduate work per semester (600-level courses).
Courses should count as elective credit for the undergraduate degree.
Undergraduate students will be placed on a waiting list until graduate students register.
Upon graduating with a SEU Bachelor's degree, students who apply and are accepted into a SEU graduate program can transfer the previously earned graduate credits to a SEU graduate program with Graduate Program Director's approval.
Students must complete and submit a CASAS Approval Form.

Unofficial Withdrawal

Unofficial withdrawal from the University occurs when a matriculated student does not return or stops attending classes during the semester at some point before the last day to withdraw. The last date of class attendance will be determined by the faculty member's attendance records. If the student can be reached, she/he is advised to complete the appropriate paperwork.

Students who stop attending after the withdrawal date will remain registered in their classes and receive grades of F. After the semester ends, these students will be considered withdrawn by the University.

Withdrawal from the University does not guarantee approval for course withdrawal from the current semester. In the case of withdrawals, tuition refunds will be prorated according to the schedule printed in the refund policies sections of the catalog.

The University reserves the right to require withdrawal at any time of students whose conduct or influence is deemed undesirable by the University community.

Non-payment of tuition and/or non-attendance in a course do not constitute acceptable withdrawal from the University.

Withdrawal from the University

A matriculated or certificate student who wishes to withdraw from the University must notify the director of her/his graduate program in writing. If enrolled in classes, the student should follow the course withdrawal procedure, mindful of the published deadline for course withdrawal.

Absence from class, instructor notification, or non-payment of tuition and/or fees do not constitute appropriate notification of withdrawal from a course and/or the University.

A matriculated student who has not earned any credits toward the degree in a one-year period is, however, considered to have voluntarily withdrawn from the program.

Students who cannot continue their studies are advised to officially notify the University of their intent not to continue. However, should the student withdraw unofficially, academic penalties may be imposed.

In cases of unofficial withdrawal, the withdrawal date is the last recorded date of attendance as determined and documented by the University. That date must be determined no later than 30 days after either (a) the date of termination or (b) the end of the semester or summer term. Furthermore, that date will be finalized as the earlier date of these options.

Withdrawing from a Course

Undergraduate:

Students may withdraw from a course after the add/drop period is over. Please consult the academic calendar for specific dates.
Students should complete the withdrawal form, have their academic advisor(s) sign it, have the instructor of the course confirm their last date of attendance, and submit it to the Registrar's Office for processing. Please note that a withdrawal form will not be processed unless the last date of attendance has been confirmed.
Courses dropped during the withdrawal period will appear on the student's transcript with a grade of "W".
Withdrawing from classes may affect Financial Aid and/or Residence Life status.

Graduate:

Students may withdraw from a course after the add/drop period is over. Consult the academic calendar for specific dates.
Students should complete the withdrawal form, have their Academic Advisor sign it, and have the course instructor confirm their last date of attendance and sign the form. Students are responsible for submitting the completed form to the Registrar's Office for processing.

Please note that a withdrawal form will not be processed unless the last date of attendance has been confirmed.
Courses dropped during the withdrawal period will appear on the student's transcript with a grade of "W".

Deadline to Apply for Graduation is September 30
Degrees and Graduation

Candidacy for Degree Status

Undergraduate:

Students are recommended to the Board of Trustees as degree candidates. All students who anticipate receiving degrees must apply for candidacy status. Diplomas are issued three times a year, in August, December and May.

The due date for filing the Graduation Application is September 30. Applications should be submitted directly to the Registrar's Office.

Late submissions will not be accepted and can hinder progress towards graduation.

The Undergraduate Application for Graduation is reviewed by the Registrar's Office. After an audit of the student's academic record is completed, the student will be advised of outstanding credits needed for degree completion.

Graduate:

The deadline for applying for graduation is September 30 of each year. Students for whom a December, May, or August graduation date is possible will be notified by @steu.edu email and will be required to complete and submit an Application for Graduation to the Registrar's Office.

Final approvals will be secured through review of the student's record by the director of the student's graduate program. The student will be billed the graduation fee, along with appropriate tuition and fees for the last semester.

Combined Degree Programs

B.S. Business Administration/M.S. Management
B.S./B.A. with a minor in Business Administration/M.S. Management
B.S. Foods and Nutrition/M.S. Nutrition
B.A. Justice Studies/M.A. Justice Administration and Public Service
B.A. Psychology/M.A. Counseling Psychology
B.A. Education/M.A. Education
B.A. Religious Studies/M.A. Theology

Combined degree programs at SEU allow highly motivated, eligible undergraduate SEU students to begin earning a master's degree while completing their undergraduate degree. Eligible students can take graduate level courses (see specific program description for number of graduate courses that can be taken as an undergraduate) which will be double-counted. The graduate courses can be applied as free electives toward completion of the undergraduate program. When the undergraduate program is completed, those credits will be transferred onto the graduate record.

Students in the combined degree program will be classified as undergraduate students until completion of the bachelor's degree.

Eligible students will:

Have earned Junior status (63 or more credits)
Have the required cumulative GPA for the program to which they are applying
Complete and submit a Combined Degree Application to the appropriate graduate program director
Be provisionally accepted into the graduate program after they are approved by the program director
Be matriculated into the graduate program after graduating with a SEU bachelor's degree and being accepted by the program director. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 when they complete the bachelor's program to continue with graduate studies.

Degree Requirements

Undergraduate:

Demonstrate competency in the basic academic skills of writing, reading, and mathematics
Fulfill the requirements of their major(s)
Pass the Capstone Experience Requirement in their major(s)
Complete the University's General Education curriculum
Successfully complete 120 credits of academic work applied to the degree
Attain a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average

Graduate:

Saint Elizabeth University confers graduate degrees upon students who successfully complete all course work with a grade point average of 3.00, fulfill the credit requirements of the specific program, and, where required, successfully complete and present a culminating/capstone project.

Culminating/capstone projects may include, but are not necessarily limited to, the development of a professional portfolio, the completion of a thesis or action research project, a professional work sample, and/or an internship experience.
Additional information and specific guidelines are available from the director of the graduate program.

Graduation

Undergraduate:

The University Commencement is held once a year, in May. Undergraduate students who have completed their degree requirements and attained the required grade point average are invited to participate in this ceremony. Students must complete an Application for Undergraduate Degree by the due dates.

Students who have completed a degree the preceding August or December may participate in the May ceremony. All records for students completing degrees in August and December will carry the actual date of the degree completion.

Students who have uncompleted academic requirements may participate in the graduation ceremony if they have no more than two classes (a maximum of 8 credits) outstanding and if they are registered for the remaining credits for the summer sessions. In that case, they will be considered an August graduate.

Students with outstanding financial obligations can participate in the graduation ceremony but will not receive a diploma.

Graduate:

Degrees are conferred in May at a formal commencement ceremony for those who have completed all degree requirements the previous August or December, or who completed requirements at the conclusion of that spring semester.

Master’s degree students who have uncompleted academic requirements may participate in the graduation ceremony if they have no more than two classes (a maximum of 8 credits) outstanding and if they are registered for the remaining credits for the summer sessions. In that case, they will be considered an August graduate.

Doctoral students who have completed their coursework and attained the required grade point average and who have applied to defend their doctoral dissertations by April 15th (Ed.D.) or May 1st (PsyD) may participate in Commencement.

Diplomas:

Students who complete degree requirements in the fall will have their diplomas dated January of the following year. Students who complete degree requirements at the end of spring will have their diplomas dated that May. Students who complete degree requirements in the summer will have their diplomas dated September of that year.

The University provides the opportunity for students who have completed degree requirements and who do not wish to participate in the May Commencement to receive their diplomas at the conclusion of each academic term: fall, spring, or summer.

Grades are available through Self-Service, but a hard copy can be requested from the Registrar's Office at (973) 290-4441.

Second Baccalaureate Degree

To earn a second baccalaureate degree, a student must fulfill the following requirements:

Students must be accepted by Saint Elizabeth University in accordance with the current admission policies and procedures. Applicants will be considered transfer students.
Students must complete a minimum of 32 credits at Saint Elizabeth University beyond the first degree, with a minimum of 24 credits in the new major.
Students must complete Element III of the SEU Essentials Program. Students must maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average for the additional work, unless the major requires a higher average

Financial Aid

Financial Aid Eligibility

Failure to maintain satisfactory academic progress could adversely affect financial aid eligibility. Please contact the Financial Aid Department for current details or visit https://www.steu.edu/financialaid.

Grading

Attendance Policy

Students are expected to attend all classes for which they are registered and are responsible for absences resulting from late enrollment. Student attendance is defined as not only being physically present but being fully engaged with the material covered in each class. Attendance in online courses is defined as regular and substantive participation in the learning activities prescribed by the course instructor. For courses that have face-to-face meetings and online components, both attendance at face-to-face meetings and regular and substantive participation in online activities prescribed by the instructor are required.

Faculty will record student attendance for all classes.

Student Academic Concerns and Grievances - Non-Grade Appeal

Policy Statement

Under specific circumstances, undergraduate and graduate students may use the process below to pursue an academic program concern or grievance that is not a grade complaint or one of the other exclusions noted below.

Purpose of Policy

This policy is designed to make the University community aware students of the circumstances and processes in which students may pursue an academic program concern or grievance that is not a grade complaint or one of the other exclusions noted below.

Exception(s)

Acts of sex discrimination, sexual harassment and/or sexual misconduct (including sexual assault) will not proceed under the Student Grievance Policy. Please refer to Saint Elizabeth University's Title IX Policy and contact the University's Title IX Coordinator to file a report.
Grievances regarding Code of Conduct violations may be handled through judicial affairs procedures that include an appeal process through the Dean of Student Affairs, whose decision is final.
Acts of violence and physical assault will not proceed under the Student Grievance Policy. Please refer to Saint Elizabeth University’s Code of Conduct to file a report.
Grievances regarding final course grades, or grades on coursework shall not proceed under the Student Grievance Procedure. Please refer to Academic Review Board: Grievances and Grade Appeals.
Matters over which the University has no authority to act (e.g. municipal speeding tickets, arrests, etc.)

The Policy

Undergraduate and Graduate students may pursue an academic program concern or grievance that is not a grade complaint or one of the other exclusions noted below.

For all Academic Program Concerns and Grievances included in this policy, students should attempt first to resolve issues with the individual faculty or staff member, followed by the relevant department Chair or Program Director. The details of the resolution process are outlined below.

Grounds for Academic Program Concerns and Grievances (non grade-related) include, but are not limited to, the following:

Any grievance or complaint alleging any academic policy, procedure, or practice that would disrupt completion of a course, academic program, or timely eligibility for graduation.
Any grievance or complaint regarding the university administration, faculty, staff, or administrative procedures, policies, or actions except grade-related grievances or Title IX complaints

Resolution Process for Academic (non-grade related) Concerns and Grievances

Phase 1: As an initial step, students who wish to grieve an academic concern other than a grade-related complaint should attempt to resolve the matter informally with the faculty member, Department Chair, or Program Director who is the object of the complaint whenever possible. Attempts to resolve the matter should occur as soon as possible after the alleged incident. If the student is unable to reach the faculty member, Department Chair, or Program Director within a two-week period, the student should notify the department’s Program Coordinator or Administrative Assistant to facilitate scheduling a meeting. No legal counsel for any of the parties will attend the meetings.

Phase 2: If the parties are unable to resolve the dispute informally, the student should arrange a meeting with the faculty member’s supervisor (the Chair or Program Director). The student must outline in writing the reasons why they feel that the decision or action in question was unfair or inequitable, noting evidence to support their argument. If the complaint is with a Program Director, the student should arrange to meet with the Department Chair. No legal counsel for any of the parties will attend the meeting. The Chair or Program Director will conduct a review of the process, meet with appropriate parties, and prepare a written statement detailing the findings and the decision, and provide copies to all parties involved.

Phase 3: If the student is dissatisfied with the outcome of the department chair or program director’s decision, the student should arrange to meet with the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences or the Dean of the College of Professional Studies. No legal counsel for any of the parties will attend the meeting. The student must outline in writing the reasons why they feel that the decision or action in question was unfair or inequitable, noting evidence to support their argument. The appropriate Dean will conduct a review of the process, meet with appropriate parties, and prepare a written statement detailing the findings and the decision, and provide copies to all parties involved.

Phase 4: Should the matter remain unresolved, the student may file an appeal with the Provost within 7 working days of that meeting. The Provost will review all documents deemed necessary and schedule a meeting with all parties in a timely fashion, typically within 30 working days of the receipt of the written appeal. The student may attend the meeting and present her/his case directly if she/he chooses to do so. No legal counsel for any party will attend the meeting.

The Provost will then communicate his/her decision, along with its rationale, in writing to the student in a timely manner, typically within 30 working days of the meeting. If the student's appeal is denied, there will be no further avenue of appeal available to the student. All documentation of the appeal process will be kept in file in the office of the VPAA.

Student Grade Appeals

The Academic Review Board (ARB) provides undergraduate and graduate students with a means of resolving serious academic disputes that cannot be settled directly with the faculty involved, or by the Program Chairperson, or the appropriate academic Dean. Grade appeals will not be heard by the ARB unless they are based on misapplication or arbitrary application of the professor's grading policy or unusual circumstances.

The ARB has established the following arbitration process to settle disputes fairly and to the satisfaction of all parties involved.

To prepare for a grade appeal, students are encouraged to review the Student Request for Grade Appeal form and the Student Grade Appeal Flowchart for guiding the appeal process.

Before a grade appeal is referred to the ARB, students must first inform the professor about the disputed grade, and submit a Student Request for Grade Appeal form to the professor, with a copy of this form to the Program Chairperson in your School within 14 calendar days of the grade being posted by the Registrar.
The student must then set up a meeting with the professor within the first week of the beginning of the next semester.
If the meeting with the professor does not resolve the dispute, the professor will initiate the Grade Appeal Tracking Report and forward it to the next level within 24 hours. If the appeal remains unresolved, the designated representative of the University at each subsequent level will forward the report to the next level.

Graduate students in Theology, Psychology and Education, will arrange a meeting with the Director of the Graduate Program and provide her/him with the relevant documents and the Student Request for Grade Appeal form. If there is no resolution, the Director of the Graduate Program will notify the Program Chair within 24 hours.
Students in academic programs other than Theology, Psychology and Education will arrange a meeting with the Program Chair and provide her/him with the relevant documents.
The Program Chair will arrange and meet with the parties involved within three (3) calendar days of receiving notification of the grade appeal. If there is no resolution, the Program Chair will notify the School within 24 hours, providing her/him with the relevant documents.
The Academic Dean will arrange a meeting and meet with the parties within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the relevant documents to attempt to reach a satisfactory resolution.
If the matter remains unresolved after the Academic Dean’s intervention, the Academic Dean will inform the Chairperson of the Academic Life Committee within seven (7) calendar days and provide her/him with the relevant documents.
The Chairperson of the Academic Life Committee will notify both parties (faculty and student) in writing that the grievance has been received.
The Academic Life Committee Chairperson will initiate the mechanism for the selection of the Academic Life Committee members who will serve on the ARB. This five-member board will consist of three faculty members and two student representatives, who will be selected by the two parties involved in the grievance, with each party selecting one faculty member and one student member. The third faculty member will be a member of the Academic Life Committee designated by the Academic Life Committee Chairperson and will serve as the Chairperson of ARB. If either party fails to select members for the ARB, the Chairperson of the ARB will select the members.

During the summer, faculty and students will be on call to serve on the ARB. Preference will be given to Academic Life Committee members, but if necessary, non-Academic Life Committee members will be asked to serve during the summer. This list will be drafted during the spring semester by the Chairperson of the Academic Life Committee.
The Chairperson of the Academic Life Committee will consult with those involved to determine the hearing date(s). Members of the ARB will meet prior to the hearing to establish procedures for the review and to select a chairperson and determine a timetable for the completion of the Board's work.
The ARB will then convene a hearing with both parties. Board members must keep the proceedings and all other matters related to the hearing in the strictest confidence. Counsel for the parties or the University will not attend the hearing.
The ARB will listen to the statements of the parties involved in the grievance, ask questions, review appropriate materials, deliberate, and recommend in writing a resolution to the grievance. This recommendation must be determined within 30 calendar days of when the Academic Life Committee Chairperson was informed of the grievance.
The Chairperson of the ARB will sign the proposed resolution and forward to the Vice President of Academic Affairs within seven (7) calendar days. She/he will accept or reject the recommendation and notify the parties of the decision in writing. Only the Vice President for Academic Affairs may change grades. A record of the hearing will be maintained in strict confidentiality in the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs

Final Assessment of Learning

Undergraduate:

A final exam or other assessment of learning is included at the end of each semester in each course for which credit is given.
The final exam schedule for traditional undergraduate students is arranged by the Registrar's Office.
If a student has a conflict in her/his exam schedule, she/he should contact the Director of Student Services who will work with the faculty involved to resolve the issue.
Exams cannot be given in advance so that student may leave the University before the close of the semester.
Students may not miss a final exam without prior approval from the Dean of the School which houses the affected course. If an emergency arises that prevents the student from taking the final exam, the Dean's office should be contacted as soon as possible. The student must then take the final exam within one month after the close of the semester.
In the event of snow, exams will be given on the scheduled snow dates.

Graduate:

If circumstances prevent a student from taking the final examination in a course or from participating in another form of final assessment, it is the student's responsibility to contact the instructor prior to the scheduled assessment. If a final exam is not given, it is expected that the class will meet during the exam week.

Grade Changes

Once a final course grade has been submitted to the Registrar, a faculty member can change it only in the event of a clerical, calculation, evaluative, or administrative error with respect to work completed during the academic term in which the student was enrolled in the course. Grade changes should occur no later than four weeks after the start of the following semester. The Change of Grade Form requires the signatures of the Instructor, the Program Chair, and the appropriate Dean.

Except when a grade of "I" or "DE" is awarded in accordance with the policies governing those grades, student grades may not be changed for work submitted after the conclusion of the academic term in which it was assigned.

A final grade may be changed to "I" only with the signatures of the Program Chairperson and the appropriate Dean.

Students may appeal their grades only on the basis of work completed and submitted during the academic term in which it was assigned.

Student inquiries regarding grades must be made as soon as possible after the grade is received. Grade appeals must be made within 30 days of the end of the semester. For more information on grade appeals, see Academic Review Board procedures.

Grading Policies

Undergraduate:

Academic standing and eligibility for graduation are dependent upon both quality and quantity of work. The grade point average is a numerical index of the ratio of the number of quality points earned to the number of credits received.
A minimum grade of "C" is required for all courses in the major, for academic skills courses, for successful completion of, SEU110, SEU120, and for courses listed as a prerequisites for other courses.
A minimum grade of "D" is acceptable for courses meeting other general education requirements and any related requirements for a major.
no replacement policy.

Graduate:

Academic standing and eligibility for graduation are dependent upon both quality and quantity of work. The grade point average is a numerical index of the ratio of the number of quality points earned to the number of credits received.
no replacement policy.
A graduate student is expected to achieve grades of A or B to remain in satisfactory academic standing.
Three C+/C grades or one grade of "F" in course work will be grounds for dismissal.
The student is responsible for reporting to the Registrar's Office any error on their academic record within 30 days after the grades have been posted via Self-Service. The University will not be liable for unreported errors on student records.

Incomplete Grades

Undergraduate:

The grade of "I" may be granted only if a student petitions the instructor(s) for that grade prior to the end of the academic term in which she/he is enrolled in the affected course. A grade of "Incomplete" may be given if the student's already-completed work is of passing grade quality but remaining coursework is unfinished because of illness or other serious cause, and only if the faculty member and the student agree. An "Incomplete" in any course becomes a failure and is recorded as a grade of "FI" (Failure Resulting from an Incomplete) if course requirements are not completed within four weeks following the end of a semester (fall, spring, or summer) or two weeks following the end of an accelerated session or winter intersession. For first-time freshmen, an incomplete grade becomes an NC during their first semester at SEU if the work for the course is not completed in the appropriate time frame.

The Request for Incomplete Grade Form must be submitted to the appropriate Program Chair prior to the end of the incomplete period. Incomplete Extension Forms showing the signatures of the Student, the Instructor, and the Program Chair are submitted to the Registrar’s Office.

Graduate:

The grade of "I" may be granted only if a student petitions the instructor for that grade prior to the end of the academic term in which she/he is enrolled in the affected course. A grade of "Incomplete" may be given if the student's already completed work is of passing grade quality but remaining coursework is unfinished because of illness or other serious cause, and only if the faculty member and the student agree. An "Incomplete" in any course becomes a failure and is recorded as a grade of "FI" (Failure Resulting from an Incomplete) if course requirements are not completed within four weeks following the end of a semester (fall, spring, or summer) or two weeks following the end of an accelerated session or winter intersession.

Requests for extensions must be submitted to the instructor of the course and the Director of the Graduate Program prior to the end of the incomplete period. Requests for an Incomplete Extension form can be obtained in the Registrar's Office. The student is responsible for making satisfactory arrangements with the instructor for the completion of the course requirements. The student earning an incomplete grade is expected to complete the course requirements as soon as possible.

Under no circumstances will any student carrying more than one Incomplete grade be permitted to begin additional course work

Mid-Term Advisory Grades for Undergraduates

First-time, full-time students matriculated in the traditional undergraduate program and students on probation are given advisory grades at the mid-point of the fall semester as a way to monitor their performance in their courses. These are not considered official grades and do not become a part of student transcripts.

Pass/Fail for Undergraduates

Full-time students with senior or junior standing may take one course each semester on a pass/fail basis. Sophomores may take one course a year as pass/fail.

Matriculated part-time students with sophomore standing (31-63 credits) may take one course as pass/fail throughout the duration of their sophomore standing. Part-time students with junior standing (64-95 credits) may take two courses as pass/fail throughout the duration of their junior standing, with no more than one pass/fail course per semester. Part-time students with senior standing (96 or more credits) may take two courses as pass/fail throughout the duration of their senior standing, with no more than one pass/fail course per semester.

To register for a course on a pass/fail basis, students must have no grade below "C" in the preceding year (the last two major semesters excluding summer sessions). Courses used to fulfill general education requirements, courses being taken to fulfill minor requirements, and courses required for the major may not be taken on a pass/fail basis.

Students may register for one course on a pass/fail grade basis in the Registrar's Office on the dates specified in the academic calendar. Once a student has designated a course pass/fail, she/he cannot change that decision. The instructor will not be notified of a student's choosing the pass/fail option. The instructor will assign a letter grade, which will then be translated to a pass/fail grade by the Registrar's Office.

Honors

Academic Honors Program for Undergraduates

The Honors Program is designed for a highly select group of students whose high school record, rank in class and SAT scores indicate superior scholastic aptitude or who in their college work demonstrate unusual proficiency and scholarly interests through a superior grade point average.

Students accepted in the Honors Program are encouraged to devise their own curricula in consultation with the academic deans and other advisors. In addition to fulfilling the requirements for their major, First Year Seminar, English Composition, fitness/Wellness, and Foreign Language, students must fulfill the following:

Cumulative Average of 3.5 or Higher
Four Honors Designated courses
Two Honors Seminars
Independent Research Project

Please contact the Director of the Honors Program for more information.

Dean's List, Provost's List, and President's List for Undergraduates

Matriculated Students

Saint Elizabeth University recognizes the achievements of its undergraduate scholars with three categories of academic distinction:

President's List (GPA of 3.85-4.0)
Provost's List (GPA of 3.7-3.84)
Dean's List (GPA of 3.5-3.69)

To be eligible for the President’s, Provost’s, or Dean’s Lists, full-time students must successfully complete a minimum of 12 credits (excluding credits taken in pass/fail courses and audited courses) during the eligible semester with a minimum semester grade point average as outlined above for the relevant List. Courses which the student elects to take on a pass/fail basis are also excluded from credit calculation. Students with grades of Incomplete (I), No Credit (NC), and/or Failure (F) are not eligible for the Lists.

Part-time students must accumulate a minimum of 15 credits (excluding credits taken in pass/fail courses and audited courses) during an academic year, beginning with the fall semester and ending with the summer sessions, and must maintain a minimum grade point average as outlined above for the relevant List. Students with grades of Incomplete (I) and/or Failure (F) are not eligible for the Lists.

Transfer credits and/or Saint Elizabeth University Intersession courses are excluded from the determination of eligibility for the Academic Honors.

Graduation Honors for Undergraduates and Graduate Students

Undergraduate Students

Degrees are awarded with Honor to students who achieve a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.5 in all academic work and High Honor to those with a 3.70. Highest Honor is given to students who achieve a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.85. Graduation honors are computed at the completion of all credits for the degree. These honors are printed on the diploma such as: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with High Honor.

3.5-3.69 – Cum Laude
3.7-3.84 – Magna Cum Laude
3.85-4.0 – Summa Cum Laude

These honors are also noted on the transcript.

Departmental Honors are also awarded to undergraduate students who have attained a 3.7 grade point average in all courses in the major and who have passed the comprehensive examination with honor. Departmental Honors include all course work for the degree. These honors are announced at the commencement ceremony but are not written on the diploma. Departmental Honors are noted on the transcript.

Graduate Students

Graduate students do not receive graduation honors.

Program Honors for Undergraduates

Awarded to graduating students who have attained a minimum of a 3.7 grade point average in all major courses and who have passed the capstone experience with honor.
This honor is calculated by the Registrar's Office after all degree work is completed and capstone experience results are submitted

Special Achievement Awards

The Sister Anna Concilio O'Neill Award is bestowed annually for distinguished achievement in mathematics.
The Sister Hildegarde Marie Mahoney Award is bestowed annually for general excellence.
The Sister Elizabeth Ann Maloney Award is bestowed annually for distinguished achievement in campus ministry.
The Sister Anna Catherine Lawlor Award is bestowed annually for distinguished achievement in biology.
The Sister Therese Aquinas Roche Award is bestowed annually for distinguished achievement in philosophy.
The Florence J. Morris Memorial Award is bestowed annually for distinguished achievement in accounting by a Continuing Studies student.
The Continuing Studies Scholastic Achievement Award is bestowed on a Continuing Studies student who has earned the highest cumulative grade point average, completed a minimum of 56 credits at Saint Elizabeth University, and attained a minimum grade point average of 3.50.
The Sister Jacqueline Burns Award is bestowed annually on a student whose leadership has enriched and advanced the multicultural and international life of the community at the University.
The Sister Marian José Smith Award is bestowed annually for excellence in chemistry.
The John J. Riordan Award is bestowed annually on an undergraduate and/or graduate student who has the potential to make an impact in his/her field or discipline.
The Sister Anne Gertrude Coleman Award is bestowed annually for excellence in English Studies.
The Sister Anita Richard Heilenday Woman of Promise Award is bestowed annually on a traditional undergraduate student who exemplifies the mission and values of the University and the Foods and Nutrition Program.

Internships

Internships

An internship is a short-term, professional-level work experience with an employer in a student's field of interest. It emphasizes learning rather than earning on the job. An internship should enhance a student's interpersonal, communication, technical, and field-specific skills, and allow a student to gain a greater understanding of the future career she/he is pursuing while helping to prepare her/him for entry-level employment. Ordinarily, in order to earn one internship credit a student is expected to participate in 30 hours of activity approved and monitored by her/his program(s).

Students may apply no more than six internship credits toward the degree. Many programs require an internship, but all students are encouraged to complete at least one internship as part of the degree. All of the procedures of the University and the Program must be observed as students prepare for internships. Students should consult the Academic Internship Handbook for a complete discussion of procedures and deadlines as well as copies of all necessary forms.

As students prepare to register for their internship experience, they must seek the assistance of the Internship Coordinator. The Internship Coordinator will guide and support students as they prepare for their internship experiences

Majors and Minors for Undergraduate Students

Acceptance into the Major

Some majors have accreditation standards that require that students meet acceptance criteria. Students will be advised of this during the admission process. Otherwise, students select their major(s) by informing their academic advisors who then notify the Registrar.

Transfer students in the traditional undergraduate program, including those pursuing a second degree, apply to the program of their intended major during their first semester at the University; formal action by the program is taken at the completion of that semester.

All other undergraduate students must apply for acceptance into the program of their intended major. Ordinarily, application to and formal acceptance by the major program occur in the second semester of the sophomore year, or for Continuing Studies students at approximately 48 credits.

Major/minor forms are available in the Registrar's Office. Students should declare and/or change their major prior to registration for an upcoming semester.

Double Major

All elementary education majors must complete a double major. These students complete a major in elementary education and a second major chosen from an area of the liberal arts and sciences.

Other students in good academic standing may also pursue a double major. Students must work with an advisor in each major to develop a plan of study.

The dual degree plan must be approved by the appropriate Dean(s) and retained by both advisors. The plan must identify the primary major. After the approval, students are expected to complete the major requirements of both programs and to continue to work with an advisor in each major.

All drop/add forms, withdrawal forms, and approval for study forms must be signed by an advisor from each major. When students register online for upcoming terms, the primary advisor will have access to approve or deny courses; however, both advisors must be consulted to ensure that the correct curricula are followed.

The University cannot guarantee that students can complete a double major within a four-year time period.

Independent Study

Independent study is defined as a plan of academic study provided by an individual faculty member for a single student. An independent study enables the student to pursue an advanced topic or area of study not addressed in existing courses. The independent study should encourage student initiative and depth of critical thinking and/or creativity. An Independent Study form must be completed by the student, and all required signatures must be secured before the registration can be processed.

Ordinarily, independent study is limited to junior and senior students who are not on academic probation. A maximum of six credits of independent study may be applied toward graduation.

Majors

A major consists of a concentration of courses in a given subject area of at least 28 credits. Students completing a degree must select at least one major, but with approval, they may be able to pursue a double major. All elementary education majors must pursue two majors. Course requirements for each major are listed under each program in the academic catalog. Students in some majors are required to select a specific concentration within the major.

Students must follow the major requirements listed in the academic catalog in effect when they entered the University, unless programmatic changes preclude doing so. In such cases, changes will require the approval of the program chairperson. Some programs have very specific requirements for acceptance. These are listed under the individual program information.

At least one-half of the major must be completed at Saint Elizabeth University. A minimum grade of C is required of all requirements in the major. Related requirements do not require a grade of C.

A student may apply a maximum of two courses to both the major and minor Students must complete a capstone experience for each major.

Students are responsible for understanding all major and degree requirements, and they must regularly consult with their academic advisors to ensure progress toward their degrees.

Minors

A minor consists of a concentration of courses in a given subject area, usually 18 to 24 credits. Students often complete a minor because it complements their major field of study. Others choose a minor simply because of their interest in a particular field of study. Minors are available in most academic programs. Students may complete a maximum of two minors.

To declare a minor, the student must complete and submit the Major/Minor form to the Registrar's Office. This form will serve to notify a program of the student's intent. Interested students should declare a minor as early as possible. However, minors must be declared no later than the end of the drop/add period of the junior year, thus ensuring enough time to complete the requirements for the minor.

Students must adhere to the minor requirements in effect during the catalog year in which they declare a minor unless programmatic changes preclude the completion of that set of requirements. In such cases, the change(s) made will require the approval of the Chairperson of the minor Program(s).

At least one half of the minor must be completed in residence at Saint Elizabeth University. A minimum grade of C is required in all courses applied to the minor. A student may apply a maximum of two courses to both her major and minor in cases where this is possible. Related courses required by the student's major may be counted toward the minor.

Academic advisors in major programs will serve as advisors for the minor as well. However, advisors and/or students should feel free to call upon the minor program(s) for informal advising.

Students should be aware that their choice of a minor may be limited by the requirements of their major area of study, limited space availability in certain courses, and/or complexities in scheduling.

Student Records and Transcripts

Change of Student Name/Address

Name changes require legal documentation (e.g., copy of marriage certificate, etc.).
Individuals will be notified via @steu.edu email when the name has been changed in the system.
Change of Name/Address Form

Educational Records / FERPA

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA, 1974)

In compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA, 1974) Saint Elizabeth University lists the following categories of information, which are considered directory information: student's name, address, telephone, email address, enrollment status, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended.

Saint Elizabeth University may release this information to inquirers (e.g., prospective employers, graduate schools, or in news releases). Students who do not wish to release any or all of the above information must submit a request in writing to the Registrar's Office through the FERPA Authorization to Release Information form. This request will be in effect until the student separates from the University.

Records Retention Schedule

Records Retention Schedule

Request for Transcripts

Transcript requests must be made in writing to the Registrar's Office.
There is a $5.00 fee per transcript. There is a $10.00 fee per transcript for 24-hour turn-around service.
Transcripts cannot be issued to students whose financial obligations to Saint Elizabeth University have not been met.
Transcripts submitted to the University from other institutions are not permitted to be released to a third a party.
Unofficial transcripts are available via Self-Service.

Solomon Amendment

The Solomon Amendment became effective on October 23, 1998. Under the Solomon Amendment institutions are required to fulfill military requests for student recruiting information. Failure to comply may result in the loss of various forms of federal funding and Federal Student Aid.

Student recruiting information includes, but is not limited to student name, address, telephone number, date of birth, place of birth, class, major, degree(s) received, and educational institutions attended.

Under FERPA, students may request that directory information be withheld. This protection will be honored under the Solomon Amendment. Any student who wishes to have directory information withheld should request a "no release" as described above.