Bulletin - Academic Policies, Procedures and Requirements

Students and employees are particularly urged to read and understand Sec. 1. and Sec. 3. of this Bulletin. The components of Oglethorpe’s academic program are contained predominantly in Sec. 6. through Sec. 11., and all students should be familiar with the information contained in those sections.

Unless specifically noted otherwise, policies, procedures and regulations in this section apply to all students (TU and ADP).

6.1 - Academic Calendar
6.2 - Access to, and Appropriate Academic Use of, Computers and Other Electronic Devices
6.3 - Activities for New Students
6.4 - Placement Testing for Certain Disciplines
6.5 - Immunization Records
6.6 - Personal Demographic Information
6.7 - Advising
6.8 - Ways of Obtaining Limited Undergraduate Academic Credit Without Taking Classes at Oglethorpe
6.9 - Registration
6.10 - Academic Load
6.11 - Prerequisites, Co-Requisites and Program Requirements
6.12 - Auditing Courses
6.13 - Alternative Grading Options
6.14 - Course Repetition Policy
6.15 - Independent Study Policy

6.16 - Modification of Schedules Subsequent to Registration
6.17 - Class Attendance
6.18 - Ends of Sessions and Final Examinations
6.19 - Student Classifications and Options for Majors, Minors, Concentrations and Degrees
6.20 - Grades, Grading and Grade Changes
6.21 - Dean’s Academic Honors List
6.22 - Good Standing and Academic Good Standing
6.23 - Hardship Withdrawal
6.24 - Leaving and Re-entering the University
6.25 - Transcripts
6.26 - Degree Application
6.27 - Receipt of Diplomas, Commencement and Special Academic Recognitions
6.28 - Posthumous Degrees
6.29 - Earning a Second Baccalaureate Degree
6.30 - Remote and Hybrid Course Section Policy

6.1 - Academic Calendar

Please see Sec. 1.4. for definitions germane to the formulation of Oglethorpe’s academic calendar. Every session has its own academic calendar consisting of critical dates for that session. The official academic calendars for all sessions are maintained by the registrar and published online. The official academic calendars maintained and published by the registrar supersede and take precedence over all other calendars which may be published on individual syllabi, divisional webpages, or in any other place.

6.2 - Access to, and Appropriate Academic Use of, Computers and Other Electronic Devices

Please see Sec. 3.6. for additional important policies relating to digital media, information and communication.

6.2.1. Computer Access Requirement

Each student enrolled at Oglethorpe must have access to a computer, and any course offered at the University may require computer-based work. Departments and other units may establish minimum machine capability and software requirements, including the requirement that a student in a certain degree program must own a computer demonstrating certain minimum performance capabilities. See additional important information in Sec. 3.6. and Sec. 10.11.

6.2.2. Electronic Device Appropriate Use Policy

The Oglethorpe academic experience envisions students who have come to class prepared to share ideas, rather than merely receive them. Learning occurs through discussion in which each student listens carefully to the comments of others and seeks the opportunity to add, as appropriate, to what is being said. Participating in such a discussion requires careful attention on the part of the students and instructor. It is to promote such a learning environment that the University requires, as a general policy that electronic devices be turned off during class time. These devices include laptop computers, tablet computers, iPads, cell phones and all other electronic devices.

Oglethorpe University is committed to educationally sound uses of technology in the classroom, to providing a secure learning environment, and to preventing disruption of students’ and instructors’ educational experiences. The University is also committed to balancing the need for concentration in the course environment with concerns about safety and with students’ outside responsibilities. We recognize that, when used properly, hand‐held and wireless technologies can enhance the classroom environment and student learning; used improperly, these same technologies can significantly degrade the quality of learning in the course setting. Each student enrolled in courses in the University has a responsibility to other students and to the instructor to contribute to a courteous, respectful learning environment. This responsibility includes not disrupting instruction or distracting fellow students and maintaining an atmosphere that supports academic integrity, as represented in the Oglethorpe honor code and the code of student conduct.

While it is the general policy that all electronic devices be turned off during class time, instructors may prohibit any use of hand‐held or wireless technology that they deem substantially disrupts learning opportunities, degrades the learning environment, or promotes academic dishonesty or illegal activities. Students unsure of whether an activity is appropriate are encouraged to ask their instructors. Students are also encouraged to notify their instructors of disruptive behavior they observe.

Policy

Unless otherwise specified by the instructor on the syllabus or communicated via University e-mail, the following statements govern the appropriate use of hand‐held and wireless technologies in courses offered at the University.

Students may not use cell phones, tablet computers, laptop computers or similar communication devices during scheduled course meetings (including class time, laboratories, quizzes, exams, review sessions, individual instruction, or similar activities) in the University. By default such devices must be turned off. Communication by electronic devices, including but not limited to instant messaging, text messaging, web surfing, and telephoning during class, is strictly prohibited unless expressly designated as part of the learning activities. Electronic audio or video recording of the classroom environment is prohibited unless permission is given by the instructor prior to recording.
With the instructor’s explicit permission, electronic devices may be turned on. Even then the devices should have the sound turned off and vibrate mode also turned off. These devices may only be used for note‐taking or other specified course activities with the instructor’s permission. Students using these devices for note‐taking must turn off the wireless function (unless it is required for the note-taking or document viewing application in use) and close all applications/windows other than the appropriate document or application unless the instructor specifically permits otherwise. Students must avoid non-course‐related activities such as checking e-mail or social networking sites, web‐surfing, or playing games because these diminish their—and their classmates’—engagement with instructional activities.
Unauthorized use of electronic communication or wireless devices during quizzes, examinations, or other graded activities will be subject to disciplinary action under the provisions of the honor code. In certain circumstances (exams, laboratories, presentations, etc.), students may be temporarily required to deposit cell phones, laptops, or other electronic devices with the instructor or lab supervisor for the duration of the specific class or activity.
A course instructor, administrator, or staff member may prohibit activities that violate laws and/or University policies, such as those related to intellectual property rights or copyright, eavesdropping, or sexual harassment. (Examples of such activities might include using a camera phone to videotape performances or taking inappropriate photos without the subject’s knowledge or permission.)
Students who require access to hand‐held or wireless technology as assistive measures for documented disabilities may use them according to provisions in the student’s letter of accommodation.
Where personal emergency or family care responsibilities require access to electronic communication devices, arrangements must be made in advance with the instructor. The instructor will decide if such access is appropriate; students may appeal these decisions according to the provisions of 3.9.
Other exceptions to this policy may be granted at the discretion of the instructor.

Sanctions

Sanctions for violation of this policy will be determined by the instructor and may include dismissal from the class, attendance penalties or loss of class participation points, or other penalties that the instructor determines to be appropriate. These sanctions should be explicitly stated on the instructor’s syllabus.

Providing Notice to Students

Instructors should anticipate that issues with wireless communications and electronic devices may arise and publish any policies and restrictions in their course syllabi. Otherwise, a statement such as “Electronic Device Appropriate Use Policy is in effect for this class,” with a link to the text of the policy, should appear on syllabi for all courses offered at the University. If instructors plan to use sanctions for disruptions, they should publish details about the sanctions in the course syllabus.

Changes

Due to the dynamic nature of technology, any changes or additions to this policy will be published on the University’s web site.

6.3 - Activities for New Students

Students are “new” if they have never before attended Oglethorpe. This includes first-time freshmen and freshmen transfers (Sec. 4.2.1.) as well as other transfer students (Sec. 4.2.2.). New TU students may only enter at the start of a fall or spring semester, but not a summer semester. Any exception to this requires pre-approval of the vice president for enrollment management. New ADP students may enter in any session offered throughout the calendar year.

6.3.1. New TU Students Entering in the Fall

6.3.1.1. MAP Days

The Division of Student Affairs, in conjunction with the office of admission and the provost, schedules and coordinates MAP Days each summer. All new students who intend to enter during the ensuing fall semester are expected to attend one of these sessions. Prior to MAP Days, students will be encouraged to take the mathematics placement test (Sec. 6.4.1. through Sec. 6.4.3.) and the language placement test (Sec. 6.4.4.), as necessary, as necessary. The office of student success will craft first semester schedules guided by placement test scores, as well as student major and academic interests identified through the completion of the online course preference form, and based on course availability.

Entering degree-seeking international students who are unable to attend any MAP Days session will receive support from Global Education and Student Success to ensure an effective transition to Oglethorpe.

For international exchange students, Global Education arranges advising and course registration.

For non-international students who are unable to attend any MAP Days session, arrangements are made by other means to ensure an effective transition to Oglethorpe.

6.3.1.2. Orientation and Welcome Week

All new Oglethorpe students must attend scheduled orientation and are strongly encouraged to attend welcome week activities. All students matriculating will pay an orientation fee, (see Sec. 5.1.3.), which helps pay for various activities and events held during orientation.

6.3.2. New TU Students Entering in the Spring

New TU students who enter in the spring semester participate in a required orientation prior to the start of classes. Instead, there is an orientation prior to the start of classes. Students entering in the spring will be afforded the opportunity to take the mathematics placement test (Sec. 6.4.1. through Sec. 6.4.3.) and the language placement test (Sec. 6.4.4.), as necessary, so that their semester’s schedule can be accurately prepared.

Degree-seeking international students who enter in the spring will coordinate with the international admission counselor to ensure their proper advising, registration and access to mathematics and language placement tests.

For international exchange students who enter in the spring, the international student services coordinator arranges advising between Oglethorpe and the student’s home institution.

6.3.3. New ADP Students Entering in Any Session Throughout the Calendar Year

Most ADP students have had prior post-secondary experience, and so an extensive orientation is usually unnecessary. However, an abbreviated orientation session specifically for ADP, or an individual consultation with appropriate advisors, is provided in advance of each of the University’s accelerated sessions. Each entering student will meet with an advisor prior to the student’s first session at Oglethorpe to formally evaluate transfer credits and to plan the student’s schedule for the relevant session.

6.4 - Placement Testing for Certain Disciplines

TU and ADP students who will be studying mathematics, science (including biology, biopsychology, chemistry, physics, and physics/engineering), economics and/or foreign language (Chinese, French, German, or Spanish) courses must often take an appropriate placement test prior to their enrollment in the first such course. The placement test will identify which course among several will provide an appropriate entrée into the field or will identify one or more prerequisites which must be satisfied prior to the student enrolling in a particular course of interest.

Prerequisites and co-requisites play a prominent role in the following discussion. These topics are discussed in more general terms in Sec. 6.11.

6.4.1. Mathematics Course Prerequisites and Mathematics Placement Testing

Five mathematics courses have no prerequisites: MAT 111 Statistics, and MAT 121 Applied Calculus, MAT 125 Precalculus, MAT-195 Mathematical Thinking, and MAT 197 Modelling Contest Workshop. Also, the mathematics Core class, COR 314 Mathematics and Human Nature, has no prerequisites. Thus, any of these six courses can be taken at any time by any Oglethorpe undergraduate student, although junior standing (or higher) is strongly recommended when taking COR 314.

All other mathematics courses have prerequisites. The first couple of these are:

Course	Prerequisite (Earning a grade of C- or better)
MAT 131 Calculus I	MAT 125 Precalculus
MAT 132 Calculus II	MAT 131 Calculus I

Like all prerequisites, these can be satisfied in a variety of ways, including:

Passing the specified prerequisite course at Oglethorpe with a grade of C- or better, or
Taking a materially equivalent course at another regionally accredited post-secondary institution and transferring the credit to Oglethorpe (see Sec. 6.8.2. through Sec. 6.8.6. for additional details), or
• Exempting the prerequisite via test scores, such as those from specific Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) tests (see 6.8.1. for additional details).

Another option is the student’s standardized test results (SAT-M or ACT-M). While Oglethorpe does not currently require students to take the ACT/SAT, it can be helpful in this case. College Board and ACT Inc provide data that students meeting a certain level on the mathematics part of their (SAT or ACT) exam can be placed as follows:

An ACT-M score of 28 or SAT-M score of 700 gives the student non-credit equivalency (NCE) in MAT 125 Precalculus, enabling them to register for any introductory science course or Calculus I

The final option for satisfying some of these prerequisites is taking the Math Placement Exam online. This exam is currently available online; students should contact Admission or Student Success for access.

A student may be placed into MAT 131 if they obtain a 3 on the AP Calculus AB examination. This does not provide the student with any credit (just like the math placement exam explained above).

6.4.2. Mathematics Prerequisites and Co-Requisites, and Mathematics Placement Testing, for Science Courses

All introductory-level science (biology, chemistry, physics) lecture courses have mathematics prerequisites and/or co-requisites.

Science Lecture Course*	Prerequisites (all with a grade of C- or better) or Co-requisites*
BIO 110 Biological Inquiry	Prerequisite: STM 101 Modeling and Problem Solving in STEM or MAT 125 Precalculus Co-requisite: BIO 111 Biostatistics
BIO 111 Biostatistics	Prerequisite: STM 101 Modeling and Problem Solving in STEM or MAT 125 Precalculus Co-requisite: BIO 110 Biological Inquiry
CHM 101 General Chemistry I	Co-requisite: STM 101 Modeling and Problem Solving in STEM or MAT 125 Precalculus
CHM 102 General Chemistry II	Prerequisites: STM 101 Modeling and Problem Solving in STEM or MAT 125 Precalculus and CHM 101 General Chemistry I
PHY 101 General Physics I	Prerequisite: STM 101 Modeling and Problem Solving in STEM or MAT-125 Precalculus
PHY 102 General Physics II	Prerequisites: STM 101 Modeling and Problem Solving in STEM or MAT 125 Precalculus and PHY 101 General Physics I
PHY 201 College Physics I	Prerequisite: MAT 125 Precalculus Co-requisite: MAT 131 Calculus I
PHY 202 College Physics II	Prerequisites: MAT 131 Calculus I and PHY 201 College Physics I Co-requisite: MAT 132 Calculus II

* Please note that each introductory-level chemistry and physics lecture course has a separate lab, whereas BIO 110 Biological Inquiry bundles the lecture and lab together. In all cases students must take the lecture and corresponding lab simultaneously. For example, those enrolled in CHM 101 must also be simultaneously enrolled in CHM 101L General Chemistry Laboratory I.

6.4.3. Mathematics Prerequisites and Mathematics Placement Testing for Economics Majors and Minors

Students who plan to major or minor in Economics are subject to a mathematics proficiency requirement. Such students must either have earned a 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Calculus AB or Calculus BC exam or must have earned a “C-“ or better in MAT 121 Applied Calculus or MAT 131 Calculus I at Oglethorpe (or in a materially equivalent course at another regionally accredited post-secondary institution). Students who choose to demonstrate proficiency by satisfactorily completing MAT 131 are reminded that MAT 131 has mathematics prerequisites of its own (see Sec. 6.4.1.). Therefore, such students should take the mathematics placement examination as soon as possible (preferably prior to their first semester at Oglethorpe) so MAT 131, as well as any necessary prerequisites, can be completed in a timely way. Economics majors and minors must satisfy all mathematics prerequisites prior to enrolling in ECO 220 Intermediate Microeconomics. Close consultation with the student’s academic advisor is encouraged.

6.4.4. Language Placement Testing

Students who are required to take a foreign language, and those who may simply wish to do so, are first required to take an online language placement test. Students should consult the chair of the division of foreign languages or personnel in student success for details. Students who have previous experience with the language of interest are not permitted to place themselves into language courses. Placement must be established in advance through the language placement test.

6.5 - Immunizations

As indicated throughout Sec. 4., every new student arriving at Oglethorpe (regardless of whether the student is full-time or part-time; regardless of whether the student is in TU, ADP or MBA; and regardless of whether the student is a freshman, a transfer, a transient, a graduate, joint enrolled, dual enrolled, or any other possibility or status) must be in compliance with Oglethorpe’s immunization policy.

It is the policy of the Oglethorpe to voluntarily comply with the mandatory immunization program established by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. These requirements include confirmation of immunity to measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), varicella (chicken pox), tetanus/diphtheria (Td) and hepatitis B, prior to registering for and attending any classes. The appropriate form is available online at https://oglethorpe.edu/life/support/wellness/health-services/immunization-and-insurance-requirements/. Georgia law requires that students residing in campus housing be provided information on meningococcal disease and vaccination. Further information is available at https://oglethorpe.edu/life/support/wellness/health-services/immunization-and-insurance-requirements/ or from the office of campus life or the office of residence life.

Oglethorpe also recommends that all students be vaccinated against COVID-19 and remain up to date on COVID vaccinations as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Students may apply for medical or religious accommodations related to this policy.

6.6 - Personal Demographic Information

A student’s personal demographic information (including, but not limited to, the student’s legal name, birthday, social security number, permanent and local address, permanent and local telephone number(s), personal e-mail address(es), major(s), minor(s), and anticipated degree) is kept on file and should be modified by the student when circumstances warrant. Some of this information can be changed by the student in OASIS. For any personal demographic information that the student cannot change in OASIS, the student should fill out the appropriate form, which is available online.

6.7 - Advising

Oglethorpe University is committed to providing quality advising through the office of student success. The primary purpose of advising is to assist students in the development of meaningful educational plans compatible with the attainment of their life goals. Students who work closely with their student success advisors are more likely to meet their goals and achieve collegiate success. Students should maintain regular contact with their advisors and are expected to work with them each semester to ensure the proper sequencing of courses, discuss completion of degree requirements, explore post-graduation plans, and inquire about any other academic matter.

Effective advising is characterized by a good working relationship between the advisor and the student. Student success advisors are expected to collaborate with faculty and develop the expertise to successfully communicate with students in a genuine, accurate, and confidential manner. Students are expected to understand University and program requirements and accept responsibility for fulfilling them. Together, advisors and students are expected to maintain a professional and mutually respectful relationship as they progress toward the attainment of educational objectives.

6.7.1. Advising for TU Students

All new TU students (both first-time freshmen as well as transfer students) will be assigned a student success advisor according to their major. Each advisor will work closely with their students to assist in a smooth transition to Oglethorpe. Advisors will assist students with registering for classes and will monitor their academic progress, help identify learning opportunities, and connect students with the proper resources to allow for a successful journey at Oglethorpe.

Students who declare multiple majors may be assigned multiple advisors, one in each of the student’s intended fields of study. For example, a student who chooses to double major may receive two major advisors, one in each disciplinary home. Students with more than one advisor should meet with and receive approval from each of their advisors before registering for courses each semester.

Advisor information is listed on a student’s record in multiple places in OASIS and in Navigate.

6.7.1.1. Changing Academic Advisors

Students may request to change their student success advisor. This is often expected when a student changes majors. Here are the ways in which a student obtains a new academic advisor:

Students submit the appropriate form online requesting a change to a specific new academic advisor. The Registrar’s Office will change the assignment, and the new advisor information will display in OASIS and in Navigate.
When a student changes majors, they will be assigned a new advisor by student success and sent notification to their OU email account about the new advisor assignment. The registrar’s office or student success will change the assignment, and the new advisor information will display in OASIS and Navigate.

6.7.2. Advising for ADP Students

All ADP students will be assigned an academic advisor from the student success staff according to their major.

6.8 - Ways of Obtaining Limited Undergraduate Academic Credit Without Taking Classes at Oglethorpe

This section describes ways a student may receive academic credit without actually taking courses at Oglethorpe. Unless specified otherwise, each of the following applies equally to both TU and ADP students.

Regardless of the total number of credits obtained from outside of Oglethorpe University, all degree-seeking students are required to complete a minimum number of credits at Oglethorpe University (32 for TU students; 30 for ADP students) to be eligible for degree conferral; see Sec. 8.3. In addition, all degree-types (B.A., B.A.L.S., B.B.A. and B.S.) require that at least half the credit hours specifically mandated for all declared academic programs (major, minor, concentration, certificate) according to the program requirements must be completed at Oglethorpe; see Sec. 8.5.

The following regulations are extremely important in terms of a student’s ability to satisfy graduation requirements; see Sec. 8.

6.8.1. Credit by Examination

Oglethorpe University awards academic credit for students that achieve certain levels of proficiency in the Advanced Placement (AP) exams, the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The University also utilizes placement examinations in certain disciplines to ensure that new students register for the appropriate level of courses in foreign language, mathematics, science, business, accounting and economics. Academic credit is not awarded for students based solely on placement examination scores. For placement test details, see Sec. 6.4. of the Bulletin.

The following guidelines apply to all three of the credit by examination programs (AP, CLEP, and IB) for which credit is issued:

TU students can earn a maximum of 32 semester hours of credit and ADP students can earn a maximum of 30 semester hours of credit from any combination of the different credit by exam programs outlined below.
Credit earned through any credit by exam program outlined below may apply toward graduation either as general elective credit or by meeting program specific requirements.
Students do not receive a grade for credit earned through examinations. Only credit is awarded.
No credit earned through credit-by-examination will satisfy any TU Core requirements, but may satisfy ADP general education requirements for students pursuing a B.A.L.S. or B.B.A. degree.
Students will work with their individual academic advisors on applicability of any elective credit earned via credit by examination toward satisfying specific program (major or minor) requirements.

If students have further questions regarding AP, IB or CLEP, please contact either the office of admission or the registrar’s office for more information.

6.8.1.1. College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

CLEP examinations normally are taken before the student matriculates at Oglethorpe. Only under special circumstances will credit be awarded for an examination taken after students complete their first semester at Oglethorpe University. Minimum acceptable scores are 500 for each general area and 50 in each sub-total category. The Subject Examinations are designed to measure knowledge in a particular course. A minimum acceptable score of 50 on a Subject Examination is required for credit. The Oglethorpe registrar’s office should be contacted concerning which subject examinations may lead to credit at Oglethorpe. A maximum of four semester hours will be awarded for each examination. A maximum of 32 semester hours may be earned with acceptable CLEP scores.

6.8.1.2. Advanced Placement (AP) Program

The University encourages students who have completed AP exams to submit their scores for evaluation prior to enrollment. Students are responsible for designating their official AP scores be reported to Oglethorpe University.

The following general guidelines are used when applying credit for AP exams:

Only test scores of 4 or 5 are recognized for credit; no credit will be given for AP scores of 1, 2, or 3.
The maximum credit allowed to any student based on AP scores is 32 credit hours.
Students must get approval from their individual academic advisors to have elective credit earned via AP apply toward meeting any program specific requirements.

This chart is subject to update at any time.

Exam Name	OU Credit Hours	Course Equivalents
Arts
Art History	4	Elective credit in art (history)
Studio Art (2-D, 3-D, or Drawing)	4	Elective credit in art (studio)
Music Theory	4	Elective credit in music
English
English Language and Composition	4	Elective credit
English Literature and Composition	4	Elective credit
History and Social Sciences
Comparative Government and Politics	4	Elective credit in politics
European History	4	Elective credit in history
Human Geography	4	Elective credit
Macroeconomics	4	ECO 122 Principles of Macroeconomics
Microeconomics	4	ECO 120 Principles of Microeconomics
Psychology	4	PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology
United States Government and Politics	4	POL 101 Introduction to American Politics
United States History	4	Elective credit in history
World History	4	Elective credit in history
Mathematics and Computer Science
Calculus AB	4	MAT 131 Calculus I
Calculus BC	4	MAT 132 Calculus II
Computer Science A	4	CSC 201 Introduction to Programming
Computer Science Principles	4	Elective credit
Precalculus	4	MAT 125 Precalculus
Statistics	4	MAT 111 Statistics
Sciences
Biology	5	GEN 102 Natural Science: Biological Science
Chemistry	5	CHM 101 General Chemistry InCHM 101L General Chemistry Lab
Environmental Science	4	Elective credit
Physics 1	5	PHY 101 General Physics InPHY 101L Intro Physics Lab I
Physics 2	4	GEN 101 Natural Science: Physical Science
Physics B	5	PHY 101 General Physics InPHY 101L Intro to Physics Lab I
Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism	6	PHY 202 College Physics IInPHY 102L Intro Physics Lab II
Physics C: Mechanics	6	PHY 201 College Physics InPHY 101L Intro Physics Lab I
World Languages and Cultures
Chinese Language and Culture	4	CHI 101 Elementary Chinese I
French Language and Culture	4	FRE 101 Elementary French I*
German Language and Culture	4	GER 101 Elementary German I*
Italian Language and Culture	4	Elective credit
Japanese Language and Culture	4	JPN 101 Elementary Japanese I*
Latin	4	Elective credit
Spanish Language and Culture	4	SPN 101 Elementary Spanish I*

*While every student will automatically receive 101 credit if they earn a score of 4 or higher on these World Language and Cultures AP Exams, these students will also have the possibility of receiving four additional credits in 102 of the same language if their placement exam score qualifies them to enter 201 or beyond. If a student who receives a score of 4 or higher on one of these exams places into 101 or 102 (or does not take the approved placement exam), they will still receive credit for 101 only. Regardless of placement score, the maximum credit granted based on the AP exam score and placement for a student will be eight (8) credits for 101 and 102 in the appropriate language.

6.8.1.3. International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme

With the goal of developing citizens of the world, Oglethorpe University recognizes and appreciates the intellectual rigors of the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, its interdisciplinary nature, global perspective, and commitment to service. The alignment between courses like Theory of Knowledge and Oglethorpe’s Core Curriculum (see Sec. 7.) leads to a seamless integration into academic life at Oglethorpe. Because of this, four-year (meaning eight regular—fall and spring—semesters) renewable IB scholarships (Sec. 5.6.5.) as well as advanced standing (Sec. 6.19.1.) are awarded upon enrollment at Oglethorpe for earning an IB Diploma.

Hours will initially be awarded as general elective credits based upon the total IB diploma score (see IB Diploma Credit Chart below), with a score of 30 or higher earning the maximum credits allowable earned via credit-by-exam (32 semester hours). All, or a portion of, general elective credits may also be re-allocated for specific course credit and exemption based upon the IB Course Credit Chart. Should the amount of specific credit hours earned surpass the amount of general elective credits, the student will receive the greater amount, not to exceed 32 credit hours. Individual course credit may be given for a score of 5 or above (Standard Level or Higher Level). The IB Course Credit Chart is subject to update at any time.

6.8.1.3.1. IB Diploma Credit Chart

Students who earn the IB Diploma will be awarded a minimum number of credits based on the score received on their IB Diploma as outlined here. The individual application of those credits is determined by the courses/examinations that were used to make-up the diploma. Those guidelines are listed on the IB Course Credit Chart:

IB Diploma Score	OU Credit Hours Awarded
30 or higher	32
29	28
28	24
27	20
26	16
25	12
24	8

6.8.1.3.2. IB Course Credit Chart

Students who have completed the following IB courses/examinations (Standard Level or Higher Level) with a score of 5 or higher as either part of their IB Diploma or individually without earning the IB Diploma will have specific course equivalent credit given as follows:

IB Exam	OU Credit Hours	Course Equivalents
Studies in Language and Literature
Language A	4	Elective credit
Language B*	4	Elementary I (101) credit (French, German, Japanese, Latin, or Spanish*)
Individuals and Societies
Economics	4	Elective credit in economics
Geography	4	Elective credit
Global Politics	4	Elective credit in politics
History	4	Elective credit in history
Psychology	4	PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology
Sciences
Biology	5	GEN 102 Natural Science: Biological Science
Chemistry	5	CHM 101 General Chemistry InCHM 101L General Chemistry I Lab
Computer Science	4	CSC 201 Introduction to Programming
Physics	6	PHY 201 College Physics PHY 101L Intro Physics Lab I
Environmental Systems and Societies	4	Elective credit
Mathematics
Mathematics	4	Elective credit
The Arts
Music	4	Elective credit in music
Visual Arts	4	Elective credit in art

*While every student will automatically receive 101 credit if they earn a score of 5 or higher on these Language B IB courses/exams, these students will also have the possibility of receiving four additional credits in 102 of the same language if their placement exam score qualifies them to enter 201 or beyond. If a student who receives a score of 5 or higher on one of these Language B IB courses/exams places into 101 or 102 (or does not take the approved placement exam), they will still receive credit for 101 only. Regardless of placement score, the maximum credit granted based on the IB course/score and placement for a student will be eight (8) credits for 101 and 102 in the appropriate language.

6.8.2. Credits from Joint Enrollment and Dual Enrollment

A joint enrolled or dual enrolled student is one who has earned some academic credits at a college or university prior to earning a secondary school diploma. Transfer of those credits to Oglethorpe is governed by the same policy outlined below in Sec. 6.8.3.

6.8.3. Credit by Transfer

Transfer credit is considered to be credit earned at a college or university other than Oglethorpe after a student has completed secondary school or the GED, but prior to the student’s first enrollment at Oglethorpe.

The maximum number of credits accepted from a 2-year college is 64 total. There is no theoretical limit on the number of transfer credits from a 4-year college/university. However, students must meet the university’s residency requirement (see Sec. 8.3.) and complete, at Oglethorpe, at least half the semester hours specifically mandated for each major, minor, concentration, certificate or other specifically declared academic program.

Oglethorpe University always accepts transfer credit under the following guidelines:

Course work must be taken at a regionally-accredited college or university.
Course work completed at an international university will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis; students must have a recognized evaluation agency (some examples include AACRAO Office of International Education Services, Josef Silny & Associates, World Education Services, etc.) provide an evaluation of the foreign transcript to Oglethorpe University.
Course work completed as a part of a study away at an international university through an international partnership (bi-lateral exchange or international agreement) will be reviewed when a fully signed course approval form is submitted to Global Education prior to completion of the study away.
Course work must be college-level (generally numbered 100 or above) at the institution taken and must not be vocational in nature;
Grades of C- or higher only will be accepted for transfer credit. Any grades below C- will not be accepted as transfer credit;
Credits will be brought on to the Oglethorpe University record, but grades will not be used in determining a student’s Oglethorpe grade-point average;
Transfer credits based on a quarter system are converted to semester credit hours using the formula that one quarter-hour equals two-thirds of a semester credit hour. Fractional transfer credits will be credited. No more semester credit hours can be awarded at Oglethorpe than were given at the original institution.
No credit(s) will be posted until official transcripts with final grades are received by Oglethorpe University;
Course equivalencies will be determined by the enrollment services office in consultation with academic program faculty when necessary. If it is determined there is not an equivalent Oglethorpe course, elective credit will be awarded;
Transfer credits obtained under an existing articulation agreement are subject to separate guidelines; see below.
Courses recognized by the American Council on Education (ACE) may be accepted for transfer credit. Included among ACE-recognized courses are those appearing on the AARTS (Army/American Council on Education Registry Transcript System). A maximum of 30 semester credit hours of ACE recognized credits can be accepted.

6.8.4. Credits Through Transfer Under an Articulation Agreement

Oglethorpe has articulation agreements with regional partners; see Sec. 4.2.3. The amount and type of credit transferred to Oglethorpe based on work completed at one of the articulated partner schools is governed by the formal agreement that exists between Oglethorpe and the partner institution.

6.8.5. Credits Through ARCHE Cross Registration

Oglethorpe is one of more than twenty colleges and universities with membership in ARCHE (see Sec. 10.6.). Through the consortium, full-time, degree-seeking Oglethorpe students may enroll on a space-available basis in courses at any other member institution. The student need be admitted to the other institution and completes procedures, including payment of tuition, at Oglethorpe. ARCHE establishes minimum eligibility requirements for students to participate in the program, and host institutions have complete autonomy to approve registration requests. Deadlines to request ARCHE cross registration are established by ARCHE, and Oglethorpe will request completed forms prior to the ARCHE deadline to ensure all approvals and signatures have been obtained. ARCHE restricts the total number of credits any one student can obtain via cross registration.

Courses taken via ARCHE on a cross registration basis will count as courses taken in-residence for satisfaction of the residency requirement; see Sec. 8.3. The acceptance and application of ARCHE courses are governed by transfer/transient credit guidelines. As a result, only courses with grade of “C-“ or higher will be brought back in on a student’s record, and the grades earned in cross-registration courses will not impact a student’s Oglethorpe grade-point average.

Students should consult with enrollment services for questions about ARCHE cross-registration or visit the ARCHE website at http://www.atlantahighered.org.

6.8.6. Credits Earned as a Transient Student

A transient student is defined as a degree-seeking Oglethorpe student who requests to take one or more courses at another regionally-accredited college or university after matriculating to Oglethorpe.

Oglethorpe University always accepts transient credit under the following guidelines:

A completed transient student application must be submitted to enrollment services. The form requires pre-approval from a student’s academic advisor, and if the course is to be used to satisfy a major or minor requirement, the appropriate program coordinator. The form must be submitted prior to registering for the course in order to guarantee transient credit will be applied.
Course work must be taken at a regionally-accredited college or university; course work completed at an international university will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis;
Course work must be college-level (generally numbered 100 or above) at the institution taken and must not be vocational in nature;
Grades of C- or higher only will be accepted for transient credit. Any grades below C- will not be accepted as transient credit;
Credits will be brought on to the Oglethorpe University record, but grades will not be used in determining a student’s Oglethorpe grade-point average;
Transient credits based on a quarter system are converted to semester credit hours
using the formula that one quarter-hour equals two-thirds a semester credit hour. Fractional transfer credits will be credited. No more semester credit hours can be awarded at Oglethorpe than were given at the original institution.
No credit(s) will be posted until official transcripts with final grades are received by Oglethorpe University. Students who have not submitted final transcripts before the registration period for the semester after the one in which the transient credit was attempted will have holds placed on their accounts to prevent further Oglethorpe registration.

6.9 - Registration

Registration for all students is managed by the office of student success. Students with questions about registration procedures should contact their student success advisor.

A student’s initial registration at Oglethorpe University is covered in Sec. 6.3. and occurs prior to attendance at a MAP Day or in the weeks leading up to matriculation. Continuing students register for classes and make any subsequent schedule changes (i.e. drop and/or add classes) through their OASIS account whenever possible. If manual intervention is required, registration changes can take place via online forms or can be facilitated in-person at the office of student success.

When students register for a semester, they are registering for all sessions within that semester, not just the one(s) that may come first chronologically. From the viewpoint of Oglethorpe University, a student’s enrollment status (whether full- or part-time, for example) depends on the totality of hours being attempted in all sessions within a semester. Additionally, there are both financial and financial aid implications associated with making sure a student registers for all sessions within a semester at one time.

6.9.1. Dates for Registration

Registration dates for each semester are published each academic year. In general terms, registration will begin in November for the spring semester and in April for the summer and fall semesters. Access to the registration system is prioritized based on the classification level of students as determined by the total number of credit hours earned. Exact dates on which students are eligible to register will be available in OASIS and communicated to students and advisors.

6.9.2. Student Obligations Prior to Registration

All students should meet with their advisor prior to registration. The advisor will assist the student with planning appropriate course selections to progress toward degree attainment and post-degree aspirations. Advisor assignments are listed under the “my profile” link in a student’s OASIS account. If no advisor assignment is listed, students should notify the registrar’s office or student success. Students and advisors should work with a student’s degree audit report (found under the “program evaluation” link in OASIS) to ensure students are completing proper courses to meet published program requirements. Students will not be eligible to register until they have been cleared to register by an academic advisor.

Registration itself is a student-driven activity. Students are responsible for registering for the courses that were agreed upon during the sessions with their academic advisor. If students decide to alter their schedule from that which was agreed upon, the students will bear the responsibility for any unintended or unforeseen consequences, including but not limited to delayed graduation and denial of (or reduction in) financial aid. Students are responsible for knowing and following the policies, procedures, and requirements contained in this Bulletin.

If students are encumbered by the admissions office, business office, student affairs, campus safety, financial aid, library, provost’s office, or registrar’s office, they will be unable to process registration until the hold is cleared by the appropriate office. Students can see active holds on their account under the “student restrictions” link in their OASIS account. Registration cannot occur until students resolve any holds on their account and are cleared to register by the advisor.

6.9.3. The Registration Process

Students should register online via their OASIS account. If students receive error messages while attempting to register online, this would indicate they are attempting to register for a course in which they have not met the approved prerequisites, co-requisites, or other course and/or section specific restrictions. The error message provided in OASIS will indicate the reason the student is not eligible for the course in question. For registrations that need manual intervention, online forms are available to facilitate these registration requests, or students can come in-person to the office of student success for guidance on how to proceed. Registration via OASIS occurs in real-time, so processing a registration request in that manner always provides students with the best opportunity to ensure enrollment in specific course sections based on availability. Students are encouraged to register as soon as they are eligible and to register well before the start of the semester.

6.9.3.1. Late Registration

If a student registers for any course after the beginning of the session for the course, the registration is late. Registration is only allowed if there is space in a course section for a student. Late registration ends on the last day of the drop/add period as published in the academic calendar of the semester in question. After that point, no further registration is possible.

6.9.4. Cross Registering for ARCHE Courses

Oglethorpe University is a member of the Atlanta Regional Council for Higher Education (ARCHE). Through ARCHE students may request to cross register for courses at any other member institutions; see Sec. 6.8.5. and Sec. 10.10. for details. The student does not need to be admitted to the other institution, and the student completes all procedures, including payment of tuition, at Oglethorpe. However, special fees (lab fees, parking fees, security deposits, etc. for example) must be paid to the host institution. Students must abide by all host institutions’ policies and schedules regarding grades, exam dates, absences, and drop/add/withdrawal deadlines. To withdraw from a course, both Oglethorpe and the host institution’s withdrawal procedures must be followed. While grades earned through ARCHE cross registration are not calculated in a student’s Oglethorpe grade-point average, courses with grades of “C-“ or higher can be applied toward graduation requirements.

Because of institutional deadlines, students should complete forms for cross registration as early as possible after meeting with their academic advisor. The appropriate form is available online and more information about the program can be found on the ARCHE website at http://www.atlantahighered.org/. Interested students should consult the registrar’s office or their advisor for program specific questions and details if needed.

6.9.5. The Financial Aid Implications of Summer Semester Registration

In addition to the fall and spring, students can secure financial aid to help cover educational expenses incurred during the summer semester. However, there are a few factors students should consider as they seek summer aid. All institutional aid is awarded for the fall and spring semesters only. Institutional aid does not apply to expenses incurred during the summer semester. To help with summer expenses, students can seek federal, state, and private forms of financial aid. However, with federal funds, students need to be aware that federal aid eligibility is limited to one academic year. Using federal aid in the summer generally means there is less federal aid available to use in the subsequent fall and spring semesters. Students using federal aid during the summer can see how their disbursements are allocated by viewing their award letters.

6.10 - Academic Load

6.10.1. Full-time Academic Load (All Semesters)

To be certified as full-time students, individuals must have active registration for a minimum of 12 semester hours during a semester (including all sessions within the semester). However, a course load of 32 semester hours per academic year (TU) or 30 semester hours per academic year (ADP) is required in order to complete an undergraduate degree program in four years, assuming one does not take classes during the summer semester.

A student who is enrolled in less than a full-time course of study may be in jeopardy of the following:

Losing insurance coverage under their parent/guardian’s insurance policy;
Not being allowed to live in University residence halls
Being placed on a loan repayment schedule by a lender or guarantor if the student is the recipient of federal financial aid; and/or
Losing a scholarship if the guidelines for receiving the scholarship require full-time enrollment. All Oglethorpe merit-based financial aid require the student be full-time (see Sec. 5.6.)

6.10.2. Half-time Academic Load (All Semesters)

Half-time enrollment is active registration for at least 6 hours but less than 12 hours during a semester (including all sessions within the semester).

6.11 - Prerequisites, Co-Requisites and Program Requirements

The terms “prerequisite” and “co-requisite” are defined in Sec. 1.4. Prior to registering for any course, a student should read the description of the course in Sec. 13. of this Bulletin. If the course has any prerequisites and/or co-requisites, these will be listed in the course description. They will also be listed on the course description that is found in the class schedule that can be viewed in OASIS. Frequently programs demand not just prior completion of a prerequisite course but also the attainment of a minimal acceptable grade in the course (a “C-“or better, for instance). Faculty in some academic programs have also added special restrictions. For instance, some programs insist that no course taken in completion of a particular minor can be counted toward any other minor. Programmatic restrictions like these are to be found in Sec. 9. of this Bulletin. It is the student’s responsibility to understand any special programmatic requirements or restrictions and the impact those might have on the courses for which the student has opted to register.

It is the responsibility of students to make certain they will have satisfied all prerequisites and co-requisites by the start of the session in which the course in question is to be taken. If all prerequisites and co-requisites have not been satisfied by that time, the registrar will forcibly drop the student from the class, and the student will be so notified so that an alternative schedule can be developed prior to the end of the drop/add period. Note that if a student is forcibly dropped from a course and does not take immediate action, the student may lose full-time status, which can induce a number of ancillary problems (see Sec. 6.10.1.).

Please consult Sec. 6.4. for information on placement testing in certain disciplines as an important means for addressing prerequisite, co-requisite and related program requirements.

6.12 - Auditing Courses

Regularly admitted Oglethorpe students may register for courses on an “audit” basis. A student who audits a course may attend the course for enrichment, but is not required to take course examinations or complete other course requirements. In order to audit a course, a student must submit the appropriate request using the online form. The grade awarded for a class taken on an audit basis is “AU” and no credits or quality points are earned. Students may register to take courses on an audit basis only during the drop/add period of the relevant semester. Following the drop/add period of the relevant semester the status of a course being graded or audit cannot be changed; this provision is not appealable under the provisions of Sec. 3.9. Fees for auditing classes are available at https://hub.oglethorpe.edu/tuition-fees/. Audited courses cannot be used to satisfy any program, degree or graduation requirements.

6.13 - Alternative Grading Options

6.13.1. Credit/No Credit Option

After a TU student earns 32 semester hours at Oglethorpe, or after an ADP student earns 30 semester hours at Oglethorpe, the student may register to take a lifetime maximum of three courses on a credit (CR)/no credit (NC) basis. These courses cannot be taken in the same semester and cannot be used to satisfy general education requirements (see Sec. 7), or requirements for the student’s major or minor. The student must be in academic good standing (see Sec. 6.22.1) and must register for the CR/NC designation by the close of business on the last day to withdraw from individual session courses, after which the CR/NC designation cannot be changed.

Credit (“CR”) is defined as a grade of “D” or better and No Credit (“NC”) is defined as a grade of less than “D”. Neither CR nor NC will have an impact on the student’s GPA. A CR grade will grant credit for the course while the NC grade does not.

A student may request that the CR designation be changed to the letter grade reported by the instructor through a form provided by the registrar’s office that requires consultation with the relevant program coordinator, the student’s advisor, and other relevant staff. This will only be done if the course (with the letter grade) is a course necessary in that major, minor, or other program, either as a program requirement or as a pre-requisite for a course in that program. Even if a CR course is converted back to a letter grade, it still counts as one of the student’s uses of the CR/NC option. If the exact letter grade cannot be determined, then the converted CR goes back to the lowest possible value, a D.

6.13.2. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory Option

Some courses are designated in their course description to be graded as Satisfactory (S) or Unsatisfactory (U) for all students taking that course. Satisfactory is defined as a grade of “C-“ or better. This policy does not limit the number of courses which may be taken on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis if such courses must be graded in that fashion. Special Topics courses may be designated as S/U at the instructor’s discretion.

6.14 - Course Repetition Policy

Students may retake any course for potential grade improvement subject to the following conditions:

Students will receive academic credit for the course only once.
Grades for each enrollment in the course will be recorded on the student’s permanent record.
Only the repeated (most recent) course grade will be counted toward the cumulative and major grade-point averages for purposes of meeting graduation requirements.
Courses that can be repeated for credit (i.e. Special Topics courses with the same course number but different course titles) are not included in the policy.

Students should know that, when repeating a class, the honor code prohibits students from handing in the same assignment again that they submitted when they took the course previously.

This policy pertains only to courses taken at Oglethorpe University.

6.15 - Independent Study Policy

For TU Students

An independent study requires submission of an application which contains a proposed, detailed outline of study, including a list of objectives, a schedule of meetings and assignments, a list of works which will be read and/or a description of projects which will be undertaken, and a specification of the means by which the student’s performance will be assessed. An application form may be obtained from enrollment services, and is available online. The application (including an unofficial copy of the student’s transcript as well as additional supporting documentation) must be approved by the instructor, the division chair, the student’s advisor and the associate provost. The completed and approved application must be submitted no later than the close of business on the final day of the drop/add period of the session of study. First-semester sophomore standing (at least 32 semester hours earned) and a cumulative grade-point average of 2.0 or better are required. A student may take no more than 8 semester hours of independent studies at Oglethorpe and no request should duplicate a course that exists in the curriculum.

Only full-time faculty may supervise an independent study. Others may do so by invitation of the provost. Directing two or more unrelated independent studies in any given semester requires pre-approval by the provost.

For ADP Students

All features are the same as the TU policy, except that the student must have earned 30 (rather than 32) semester hours before applying for an independent study.

6.16 - Modification of Schedules Subsequent to Registration

Modification of a student’s course schedule for a particular session has the potential to adversely affect the student’s full-time status, financial aid eligibility, ability to graduate in a timely manner, and in other ways. Schedule modification should only be undertaken after consultation with a student’s primary advisor of record. Nevertheless, schedule modification is a student-driven operation. Students are reminded that they are responsible for knowing and following the policies, procedures and requirements in this Bulletin (see Sec. 1.1.).

When students register for a semester, they are registering for all sessions within that semester, not just the one(s) that may come first chronologically. From the viewpoint of Oglethorpe University, a student’s enrollment status (whether full- or part-time, for example) depends on the totality of hours being attempted in all sessions within a semester. Additionally, there are both financial and financial aid implications associated with making sure one registers for all sessions within a semester at one time.

6.16.1. Dropping and Adding Courses

Once students register for courses for a given session, they can modify their class schedule through the end of the drop/add period for that session. The final day of the drop/add period is clearly marked on the academic calendar for the session available online.

A course which is “dropped” is removed from the student’s schedule. The deletion is permanent. The student’s permanent academic record will not reflect in any fashion that the student was ever enrolled in a course which is dropped. Further, the dropped course has no impact on the student’s grade-point average or the semester hours attempted for the semester in question. There is no charge for a course which is dropped.

Dropping a course (without simultaneously adding one) has the potential for turning a full-time student into a part-time one; this can impact both the student’s financial obligations and financial aid situation.

A course which is “added” is, from that point forward, appended to the list of all other courses for which the student has registered for the semester in question. Courses which are added (and not subsequently dropped) will (like all courses for which the student registers) show up on the student’s academic transcript from that point forward, ultimately with some sort of grade attached.

Adding a course (without simultaneously dropping one) has the potential of creating an overload situation (see Sec. 6.10.3.), for which approval is required and for which there will be an additional charge.

The procedure for dropping and/or adding courses is very similar to the process of registration. Students who have been cleared for online registration should log on to OASIS to amend their course schedule. Students who have not been cleared for online registration (including all students who are entering Oglethorpe for the first time) should submit the appropriate online registration form. The form must be submitted by the close of business on the last day of the drop/add period of that session.

6.16.2. Cancelled Courses

Occasionally courses may have to be canceled. While every effort is made to do this prior to the start of the session, it sometimes happens that courses are cancelled after classes have begun. Any class cancellations are guaranteed to occur near the outset of the session, so that there is an opportunity for students (in consultation with their primary advisor of record) to use the remainder of the drop/add period of that session to make appropriate adjustments to the student’s schedule for the given session.

6.16.3. Withdrawal Period

For purposes of this policy, the duration of any session is defined to be the number of days between the first day of classes and the last day of classes for that session, excluding any final examination days. The “withdrawal period” of the session in question is defined to run until the listed last day to receive automatic “W” grades on course withdrawals as listed on the academic calendar.

6.16.4. Withdrawal from a Single Course

Once the drop/add period for a session concludes, no additional courses can be added to a student’s schedule for that session. The only way to eliminate a single course from that session is to withdraw from it. Unlike a dropped course, a course from which the student withdraws will appear on the student’s permanent transcript, accompanied by the grade of “W” (withdrew). Withdrawal from a course during a semester necessarily means the student:

Shows active registration in one or more courses for an ongoing and/or future session within the same semester), or
Remained registered for one or more courses in a chronologically earlier session within the same semester through the last day of that session.
Has taken appropriate action (see below) by the close of business on the last day of the withdrawal period for the session in question.

Withdrawal from a course is a student-driven choice although, as always, students are cautioned that eliminating courses from their schedule can have serious effects on their full-time status, on financial aid awards, on athletic eligibility, and on other factors as well. Students are urged to consult with their primary academic advisor and the office of financial aid before withdrawing from courses.

From the conclusion of the drop/add period through the withdrawal period of the session (see Sec. 6.16.3.), students wishing to withdraw from a course must submit the appropriate online form by close of business on the final day of the withdrawal period of the session. In this case, the student will receive the grade of “W” for the course. The “W” grade does not adversely affect the student’s grade-point average. No credit is given for the course.

Students who simply stop coming to a class without having followed the proper course withdrawal process listed above have not withdrawn from the course. All such students will be assigned a letter grade (“A” through “F”) for the course at its conclusion, and will not in any case be eligible to receive the grade of “W.”

Withdrawing from courses may have significant implications on a student’s bill and on the student’s financial aid. Students are cautioned to consult with personnel in the business office and the office of financial aid before withdrawing from one or more courses.

Course withdrawal requests submitted after the conclusion of the withdrawal period will neither be accepted nor processed. Students may not withdraw from a single course after the conclusion of the withdrawal period of a particular session.

6.17 - Class Attendance

Students are responsible for utilizing the resources (including instructional resources) of the University in a way that maximizes the educational benefits they can derive. Regular attendance at class sessions, laboratories, examinations and official University convocations is an obligation which all students are expected to fulfill. In addition, the official academic calendar maintained and published by the registrar may require attendance at events held at times other than regularly scheduled class meetings. All instructors will make a clear statement in each course syllabus describing their policies for handling absences from regularly scheduled class sessions and (if warranted) from any required outside-of-class meetings mandated by the official academic calendar. Students are obligated to adhere to the requirements of each course and of each instructor. Students are also cautioned to understand that how an absence affects the student’s grade in a course is at the discretion of the individual faculty member; there are no automatic excused absences for varsity athletic trips, student presentations at conferences, illness, or any other reason. Students should consult with faculty in advance concerning real or potential conflicts in their academic schedules.

6.17.1. Class Attendance by Veterans

The Department of Veterans Affairs requires that institutions of higher learning immediately report to them when a veteran student discontinues attendance for any reason. It is the responsibility of the registrar to inform instructors of the veteran status of students in the instructors’ classes. Instructors must then report to the registrar’s office the absence of a veteran student as soon as it is known that the veteran student will not be returning to class. Generally, this should be reported after one week of absences and no later than two weeks of non-attendance by a veteran student.

6.18 - Ends of Sessions and Final Examinations

This portion of the Bulletin begins with Sec. 6.18.1.

6.18.1. For Courses Offered in Full Semester Sessions

No examination of any type may be given on the final day a class is scheduled to meet.

For all students (TU and ADP), final examinations, up to a maximum of three hours in length, are given in courses at the end of each semester. The final examination schedule is compiled in the registrar’s office and is available online.

The three hours allotted for the final exam in every course counts toward the class meeting time. Therefore, if instructors opt to not give a final exam, the instructors may still meet with their class for the 3-hour period which otherwise would be devoted to the final exam.

Instructors are not permitted to alter the final exam schedule. If a final exam is to be offered for a given section of a particular course, it must be offered only on the day and at the time specified on the final exam schedule. However, see the exception for individual students in the next paragraph.

If students feel that they have an intolerable or unfair final exam schedule (such as might happen when students have three or more final exams scheduled on a given day), they may appeal to their instructors in the hopes that one of them would be willing to make special accommodations which would allow students to take one of the final exams either a day (or more) early or a day (or more) late. Such an act is voluntary on the part of instructors. Such an act is also only in response to unusual circumstances which exist for individual students. Instructors cannot move final exam dates and times for course sections, only for individual students experiencing extraordinary circumstances. Instructors should inform their division chair if they arrange for any accommodations as described in this paragraph.

Instructors are required to grade all final exams they administer. They may not use others to help in the process.

6.18.2. For Courses Offered in All Sessions Other than a Full Semester Format

The final exam (if there is to be one) is administered on the last day of class. Most other procedures and regulations delineated in Sec. 6.18.1. continue to apply to courses offered in sessions other than the full semester format.

6.19 - Student Classifications and Options for Majors, Minors, Concentrations and Degrees

This portion of the Bulletin begins with Sec. 6.19.1.

6.19.1. Class Standing

Undergraduate students have a class standing that is based on the program (TU or ADP) in which the student is enrolled, as well as the cumulative semester hours earned at the moment in question. The classifications are:

Class Standing	Semester Hours Already Earned (for TU Students)	Semester Hours Already Earned (For ADP Students)
Freshman	0-32	0-30
Sophomore	33-64	31-60
Junior	65-96	61-90
Senior	97 or more	91 or more

6.19.2. Declaring and Changing a Major Program

Every undergraduate student (TU and ADP) must earn a major in order to graduate. Majors (and the nature of the corresponding degree) are listed in Sec. 8.; major requirements are explored in detail in Sec. 9. While there is no particular mandated timeframe for a student declaring a major, students are urged to make a preliminary choice as soon as possible. A student can declare a major (or change a previously declared major) by submitting the appropriate form, which is available online. If students changes their major, the students typically also should change their advisor; see Sec. 6.7.1.1. Students can verify their current declared major in OASIS or in Navigate.

6.19.3. Declaring and Changing a Minor Program or a Concentration

Undergraduate students (TU and ADP) are not usually required to earn a minor or a concentration in order to graduate, although at least one major (that being Communication Studies, for both the B.A. and the B.A.L.S. degrees) does require the student earn a minor in a separate but related field. Even when a minor or concentration is not required, students may decide that earning such credentials increases the student’s prospects for employment or graduate studies. The procedure for declaring or changing a minor or concentration is the same as for declaring or changing a major; see above. Students can verify their current declared minor and/or concentration in OASIS or in Navigate.

It is not possible to earn a minor in a program for which a major has been earned.

6.19.4. Policy on Counting Common Courses Between Major and Minor Programs

In the case where major and minor programs have some common courses that could be used to meet the requirements of multiple such programs, students who wish to major in one program and minor in another (or minor in more than one program) may use up to two overlapping courses towards meeting requirements of more than one program, unless otherwise stipulated by the requirements for the major or the minor(s).

6.19.5. Earning Two Majors at Oglethorpe

Every student who earns a baccalaureate degree must earn a major. At Oglethorpe, a student may earn a second major, although the maximum number of majors allowed is two; see Sec. 1.4.10. A vital consideration in the following policies, both of which describe earning a second major, is that both majors must be earned at Oglethorpe. Students who have earned a baccalaureate degree (and therefore a first major) at another regionally accredited post- secondary institution and who are interested in earning a second major at Oglethorpe must follow the policy in Sec. 6.29. A second key consideration in the following two policies is that the two majors must both be affiliated with the same student admit status. That is, every student is either in the TU program or the ADP program at the time the first major is earned. Which program the student is in at this time defines the degrees (and therefore the majors) available to that student. See Sec. 8. and Sec. 9. for further details. In all cases the second major must be one which is available for the same admit status. Students cannot earn one major affiliated with the TU program and a second affiliated with the ADP program.

6.19.5.1. Simultaneously Earning Two Majors at Oglethorpe

This policy pertains only to Oglethorpe students who, at time of degree conferral, have simultaneously satisfied the requirements for two majors. As noted above, both majors must be affiliated with the same admit status, either TU or ADP. Such students may earn a double major at time of degree conferral subject to the following conditions:

The student must complete all degree and graduation requirements of both majors.
No more than three courses can be counted in common between the two majors. Individual programs may establish different standards, and these requirements automatically supersede this more generic regulation.
If the majors both fall within the same degree type, then that degree will be awarded and the transcript will reflect attainment of both majors. If the two majors fall within different degree types (for example, for a TU student one major is affiliated with the B.A. degree and the other with the B.S. degree, or for an ADP student one major is associated with the B.B.A. degree and the other with the B.A.L.S. degree) then the student can choose (at the time they apply for graduation) which degree they wish to have. The transcript will show attainment of that degree with both majors listed. Note, particularly, that only one degree (albeit with two different majors) will be awarded in any of the above instances.

6.19.5.2. Oglethorpe Alumni Who Wish To Earn a Second Major Post-Baccalaureate

Students who have been awarded an Oglethorpe baccalaureate degree may return to earn a second major. As noted previously, both majors must be affiliated with the same admit status, either TU or ADP. Candidates must first apply for readmission (see Sec. 6.24.5.) under the same admit status (TU versus ADP) that is associated with the degree already earned. If the student’s first degree was a B.A. or B.S. then the student must apply for readmission into the TU program and must remain in that program throughout the process of earning a second major. Likewise, if the student’s first degree was a B.A.L.S. or B.B.A., then the student must apply for readmission into the ADP program and must remain in that program throughout the process of earning a second major.

The requirements for successful attainment of the second major are:

Except as noted below, the student must complete all degree and graduation requirements of the new major.
No more than three courses from the student’s previous work at Oglethorpe can be counted in common between the two majors. Individual programs may establish different standards, and these requirements automatically supersede this more generic regulation.
Other than the three potentially in-common courses described in item 2. above, previous disciplinary course work may or may not count toward the new major, at the discretion of the student’s advisor, appropriate program coordinator, and the registrar. For example, if the student has been gone more than five years, the advisor, program coordinator, and registrar may decide that the best interests of the student would be served by starting the new major partly or wholly afresh. If the student has been gone fewer than five years, the advisor, program coordinator, and registrar may decide that some or all previous course work could be applied to satisfy requirements of the new major. The same decision-making process will be used to decide whether or not previous course work can be used to satisfy course prerequisites relative to the new major.
Certain specific academic and co-curricular degree and graduation requirements for the new major are waived if those same components were satisfied at the time of the student’s first degree conferral, including:
- Any candidate for a second major under this policy has already satisfied the University’s general education requirement (the Core program for TU students and the relevant distribution requirement for ADP students) and no additional general education courses are required.
- If the student’s first degree was a B.A. then the student has already satisfied the foreign language requirement for that degree (see 8.4.) and no further foreign language courses need be attempted. However, if the student’s first degree was a B.S. and the new major is affiliated with the B.A. degree, then the foreign language requirement for the B.A. degree must be satisfied for the second major. If relevant, previous disciplinary course work will be accepted in satisfaction of this requirement. But if the student’s previous academic work at Oglethorpe did not satisfy the foreign language requirement for the B.A. degree, then satisfaction of that requirement must be accomplished after readmission.
The student must complete a minimum of 24 new semester hours of course work in residence at Oglethorpe to earn the second major. Once the student is readmitted to Oglethorpe to pursue the second major, no new transfer work will be accepted.
Maintenance of a 2.0 or higher cumulative grade-point average on all course work contributing to the Oglethorpe cumulative grade-point average. Maintenance of a 2.0 or higher grade-point average on all course work contributing to the new, second major.
No more than 8 semester hours of independent studies; and no more than 12 semester hours of internship are permitted.
Submission of a new, completed application for degree by the stated deadline. If a student does not complete the second major as anticipated, an updated application for degree must be submitted.
If the new major and the original major fall under the same degree type, then upon successful completion of the new major and all other related requirements enumerated in this section, the student’s permanent record will be modified to show degree attainment with both majors. If the new major falls under a different degree type than the first major then, at time of application for degree with the registrar, the students will indicate which degree they would prefer. Upon successful completion of the new major and all other related requirements enumerated in this section, the student’s permanent record will be modified to show degree attainment of this preferred degree with both majors. If students would like to have an updated diploma reflecting the new degree type, then they will pay all associated costs. Consult the registrar for details.
Satisfaction of all financial and other obligations to the University. However, no new degree completion fee will be assessed as long as such fee was paid at time of first degree conferral.
Participation in assessments of competencies gained and curricular effectiveness by completing standardized or other tests and surveys.
Formal faculty and board of trustees’ approval for graduation.
Students who earn a second major post-baccalaureate will not be permitted to walk a second time at commencement.

6.20 - Grades, Grading and Grade Changes

This portion of the Bulletin begins with Sec. 6.20.1.

6.20.1. The Grading System

For each session, faculty members submit mid-term reports to the registrar’s office on class rolls indicating performance of Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory (“S” or “U”) at a minimum. Those faculty that want to assign standard letter grades (A through F) at mid-term may do so. These mid-term reports are not part of the student’s permanent record.

Faculty members submit letter grades at the end of each session. These grades become part of the student’s official record once the semester in which the session is housed is complete. Once entered, a grade may not be changed except by means of an officially executed grade change.

If a faculty member is unable (for reasons including but not limited to retirement, termination, illness and death) or unwilling to assign a grade or to execute a formal grade change, then the chair of the division in which the relevant course is housed will be responsible for acting in the faculty member’s stead. If the faculty member who is unable or unwilling to assign or change a grade is a division chair then the provost will act in the chair’s stead in all matters related to grading.

The letter grades used at Oglethorpe are defined as follows:

Grade	Meaning	Quality Points	Numerical Equivalent
A	Superior	4.0	93-100
A-		3.7	90-92
B+		3.3	87-89
B	Good	3.0	83-86
B-		2.7	80-82
C+		2.3	77-79
C	Satisfactory	2.0	73-76
C-		1.7	70-72
D+		1.3	67-69
D	Minimal Passing	1.0	60-66
F	Failure	0.0	0-59
FA	Failure due to excessive absences*	0.0
W	Withdrew**	0.0
WF	Withdrew Failing*	0.0
I	Incomplete***	0.0
NS	No-Show**	0.0
S	Satisfactory****	0.0	70-100
U	Unsatisfactory*	0.0
CR	Credit****	0.0	60 – 100
NC	No Credit**	0.0	0 – 59
AU	Audit**	0.0
NG	No Grade yet assigned**	0.0

Notes:
*Grade has same effect as an “F” on the GPA.
**Grade has no effect on the GPA; no credit awarded.
***See Incomplete Policy below
****Grade has no effect on the GPA; credit is awarded.

6.20.2. Incomplete Policy

The grade of “I” (Incomplete) may be assigned at the end of a semester when conditions beyond the control of the student preclude completing course work on time. In such cases the student must have demonstrated passing efforts on completed course work and must be able to complete the unfinished work without further class attendance.

The grade of “I” can only be assigned if the instructor of record and/or the student agree that the “I” grade is appropriate, and a proper incomplete application is submitted. In general, incompletes are appropriate when the student has completed enough work to successfully pass the class and needs additional time to finish final outstanding assignments. Students generally initiate the process by submitting the online form requesting the incomplete, which has to be started before the grading deadline for the course in question. The form is then routed to the instructor of record to review. If the faculty member approves that an “I” is appropriate, the faculty member will be required to specify the expected remaining work that must be completed and indicate what grade the student has earned in the class if no further work is ever submitted. Finally, the instructor will indicate a due date for all remaining missing work; that date cannot exceed the midpoint of the next regular (meaning fall or spring, but not summer) semester. If no date is specified in the contract, the due date for all missing work will automatically be the midpoint of the next regular semester. The registrar’s office will notify the student when the instructor has agreed to the “I” grade and will send the student all the details outlined above that were provided by the instructor.

Students must complete all required work by the due date; otherwise, the current grade indicated on the contract will be recorded. The grade “I” has no effect on the GPA, and no credit is awarded. Degrees cannot be conferred if there are outstanding Incomplete grades on a student’s record.

The grade “I” may not be assigned in any course for a student who is currently on academic probation (see Sec. 6.22.2.2.). The registrar should not accept Incomplete contracts for students currently on academic probation. Instead, the instructor should be advised to simply assign whatever grade is appropriate in light of the missing course work. If a student on academic probation is inadvertently assigned the grade of “I,” the registrar will automatically convert that grade to an “F” for purposes of being able to evaluate the academic standing of the student.

6.20.3. The Grade-Point Average

The grades that can be assigned at Oglethorpe are given in the table in Sec. 6.20.1. As the table demonstrates, each grade is assigned a number of quality points.

For each course, the grade-points is the product of the semester hours for the course and the quality points of the grade earned.

6.20.3.1. Computing the Term (or Semester) Grade-Point Average

The term (semester) grade-points is the sum of all the grade-points earned in
courses taken during all sessions within the term (semester) in question.
The term (semester) hours attempted is the total semester hours for courses
taken during the semester in question and for which any of the following grades were assigned: “A,” “A-,” “B+,” “B,” “B-,” “C+,” “C,” “C-,” “D+,” “D,” “F,” “FA,” “WF” or “U.”
The term (semester) grade-point average (term (semester) GPA) is the term (semester) grade-points divided by the corresponding term (semester) hours attempted; if the quotient is undefined it is taken to be zero.

6.20.3.2. Computing the Cumulative Grade-Point Average

The cumulative grade-points is the sum of all grade-points earned in all courses
taken at Oglethorpe.
The cumulative hours attempted is the total semester hours for all courses taken
at Oglethorpe and for which any of the following grades were assigned: “A,” “A-,” “B+,” “B,” “B-,” “C+,” “C,” “C-,” “D+,” “D,” “F,” “FA,” “WF” or “U.”
The cumulative grade-point average (cumulative GPA) is the cumulative grade- points divided by the cumulative hours attempted; if the quotient is undefined it is taken to be zero.

6.20.4. Grade Changes

Grade changes may be required in a variety of instances, including (but not limited to):

Changing an “I” to a grade reflective of the student’s performance once any missing work has been submitted and evaluated.
To correct an error in fact made by the instructor in computing the original grade.
As a result of the resolution of an honor code case.
As a result of a successful grade appeal (see 6.20.6.).

To change a grade, the instructor of record must submit the formal grade change form available online.

Except as a result of an error in computation or as a result of a grade appeal ruling, no course grade will be changed after one year from the end of semester in which the grade was earned.

6.20.5. Posthumous Grades

When a student passes away before completing all assignments in a course, that student will be assigned a grade of “W” (Withdrew) in the course.

6.20.6. Grade Appeal Policy

Students may appeal only the final grade assigned in a course, and only for reason. Valid reasons are limited to:

The grade was assigned in an arbitrary manner (meaning it reflects a substantial deviation from accepted academic norms and/or from stated procedures found in the course syllabus or elsewhere), or
The grade was assigned in a prejudicial manner (meaning it was based at least partly on ill-will and is at odds with the stated means by which grades are to be determined in the course), or
At least one factor contributing to the grade is in violation of University regulations or in violation of state or federal law, or
There was an error in fact in the manner in which the grade was determined.

Students and faculty members should make every effort to informally resolve grade disputes. The grade appeal policy provides a method of last resort if informal deliberations fail to satisfy all parties.

The grade appeal policy applies only when a student initiates such an appeal. The grade appeal policy does not apply if an instructor voluntarily elects to change a final grade, nor does it apply to any portion of a grade (up to and including the final course grade) which may have resulted from a disciplinary action (such as punishment for an honor code liability). Grade appeals which may occur in conjunction with an alleged violation of Oglethorpe’s policy prohibiting discrimination, harassment and retaliation must be deferred until the grievance procedure detailed in that policy has fully concluded. Throughout this policy, any reference to “instructor” is understood to be a reference to the instructor of record.

If students feel that they have a valid reason to appeal a final course grade, and if informal negotiations with the instructor have not yielded relief, then students may formally appeal the grade as follows.

Timeliness

Any grade appeal must be initiated no later than the last day of classes of the semester immediately following the one where the grade was issued. If for any reason the instructor of the course is unavailable (e.g., is away for the summer, is on a sabbatical leave, etc.) the division chair will attempt to confer with the instructor to determine whether to proceed or delay the process until the instructor’s return. If the instructor is unable to return within one semester of the initiation of the grade appeal, the division chair will assume authority for the role of the instructor in the process.

Step 1

Students (either in person or via e-mail) request from the provost’s office an official grade appeal form. On that form the students will state why they feel the particular grade should be changed, providing as many details as possible. The only valid bases for appeal are the four listed above. The completed and signed form, along with any relevant supporting documentation, must be returned (either in person or via e-mail) to the provost’s office within five business days of the form having been given or sent to the student.

Step 2

The associate provost will forward the appeal and all supporting documentation to the instructor for the course in question. The instructor has 15 business days to respond to the associate provost and the student in writing, either agreeing or refusing to change the grade. If the instructor agrees to change the grade, the appropriate change of grade form must be filed with the registrar within the ensuing five business days. In this case, the appeal is concluded. In the case of a refusal, the instructor will explain the reasons for the refusal, adding as many details as possible. If the student still wishes to continue the appeal, the student will notify the associate provost of this fact within the next five business days following the announcement of the instructor’s decision. In this case, the process moves to Step 3.

Step 3

The associate provost forwards the original appeal, the instructor’s response and all supporting materials to the chair of the division in which the course is housed. In the case of a Core course, the Core director will serve as the relevant division chair. If the instructor is the chair, the associate provost will select the chair of a different division to serve. If the course is not housed within the Core or one of the regular divisions, a chair of one of the divisions will be selected to serve in this role by the associate provost. The chair will review the materials, and may elect to interview the student, the instructor and any other potential witnesses. Following this process, the chair has 45 days to summarizes their findings and delivers a written judgment to the associate provost, who will inform the other parties of the chair’s decision. The chair’s decision is conditionally binding (see Step 4) on both parties. If the chair decides that the grade should be changed, the chair will have sole authority on determining what the new grade should be. If the chair does not respond in 45 days, the provost will render a binding, final and non-appealable decision in the matter. If the provost decides that the grade should be changed, the provost will have sole authority on determining what the new grade should be.

Step 4

If either party can compellingly argue that the result of Step 3 is unjust, they have five business days from the date of notification of the chair’s decision to make such arguments in writing and to request the provost render a final decision in the matter. The provost will review all reports and documentation affiliated with the appeal, and may opt to interview the student, the instructor or any witnesses. The provost will render a binding, final and non-appealable decision in the matter. If the provost decides that the grade should be changed, the provost will have sole authority on determining what the new grade should be.

6.21 - Dean’s Academic Honors List

Students who earn a term (semester) grade-point average of 3.5 or higher while earning 12 semester hours or more during the fall or spring semesters are placed on the dean’s academic honors list.

6.22 - Good Standing and Academic Good Standing

For a student to be in good standing with the University requires the student be in academic good standing, financial good standing, and conduct good standing. Financial good standing is defined in Sec. 5.15. whereas conduct good standing is defined in Sec. 12.5. The remainder of this section examines academic good standing for all undergraduate students (TU and ADP) and the consequences of such students not being in academic good standing. Academic standing is determined for all students at the conclusion of a semester (fall or spring) in which they had final grades on their official academic record.

6.22.1. Academic Good Standing (TU and ADP)

To be in academic good standing students (TU or ADP) must achieve the cumulative grade-point average specified below in relation to the number of semester hours they have completed:

Cumulative GPA Required	Semester Hours Completed (TU and ADP)
1.50	0-35
1.75	36-64
2.00	65 and above

The academic standing of each student will be displayed on the official transcript in each term in which the student received traditional letter grades.

6.22.1.1. Academic Good Standing (Graduate)

To be in academic good standing, a graduate student must maintain an academic GPA of 3.0 or better. A cumulative 3.0 GPA is required to successfully complete a graduate degree. All graduate courses require a grade of “C” or better for successful completion.

6.22.2. Policies and Procedures for Undergraduate Students Who are not in Academic Good Standing

When a student (TU or ADP) first fails to satisfy the requirements of Sec. 6.22.1., and therefore becomes not in academic good standing, the following sequence of events will occur.

6.22.2.1. Academic Warning

When students are placed on academic warning (or simply “warning”), they are given the next regular semester (fall or spring) to raise their term (semester) grade-point average (GPA) to 2.2 or higher or to raise their cumulative GPA to a level sufficient to be in academic good standing. Students on warning should consult with a student success advisor to develop a plan and identify resources to assist them in returning to good standing.

After a regular semester on warning, the following things may occur:

The student achieves academic good standing. The student is no longer on warning.
The student achieves the required term (semester) GPA of 2.2 or higher, but their cumulative GPA is still such that they are not in academic good standing. As long as the student continues to achieve a term (semester) GPA of 2.2 or better, the student stays on warning. Eventually the student should achieve academic good standing, at which time they are taken off warning.
The student does not earn the required term (semester) GPA of 2.2 and also does not attain academic good standing. The student is placed on academic probation.

6.22.2.2. Academic Probation

A student on academic probation has already been on warning and has failed to satisfy the term (semester) GPA requirements to stay on warning and has likewise failed to achieve a sufficient cumulative GPA to attain academic good standing. The student is given one regular semester on academic probation prior to potential dismissal for academic reasons. The student is required to achieve either academic good standing or a term (semester) GPA of 2.2 or higher at the conclusion of the regular semester on academic probation. Students on probation should consult with a student success advisor to develop a plan and identify resources to assist them in returning to good standing.

Students who are on academic probation may not be assigned the grade of “I” (Incomplete) in any course.

After one regular semester on academic probation the following things may occur:

The student achieves academic good standing. The student is no longer on academic probation.
The student achieves the required term (semester) GPA of 2.2 or higher, but their cumulative GPA is still such that they are not in academic good standing. The student is placed on warning again.
The student does not achieve the required term (semester) GPA of 2.2 or higher and also does not achieve academic good standing. The provost, in consultation with the associate provost and the senior director of student success, will decide whether or not to dismiss the student for academic reasons. If dismissed, the student may appeal the dismissal directly to the provost within five business days of receiving notice of dismissal. The student should cite compelling reasons (including any relevant information regarding extenuating circumstances which can be attested to by reliable and objective third parties) why they should have one more chance to succeed academically at Oglethorpe. The provost will consult with other relevant parties, including the associate provost and the senior director of student success. If the provost finds there may be compelling reasons for giving the student one final chance, they can continue the student on academic probation only for one more consecutive regular semester. At the end of that regular semester, the student will have achieved academic good standing (if the cumulative GPA is sufficiently great), or be placed back on warning (if the term (semester) GPA is 2.2 or higher) or be dismissed.

6.22.2.3. Academic Dismissal

Students are dismissed for academic reasons after they have been on academic probation for one regular semester and have failed to achieve either academic good standing or the requisite term (semester) GPA of 2.2 (or better) to be placed back on warning. The student has one chance for an appeal; please see the previous entry, Sec. 6.22.2.2., for details. Students who are dismissed for academic reasons will be dropped from all classes for which they may be registered for future sessions and will be required to stay off-campus for at least the ensuing regular (fall or spring) semester (and any intervening summer semester).

In addition, students who receive the grades of “F,” “WF,” “FA” and/or “U” in all classes at the end of their first semester at Oglethorpe are subject to academic dismissal. The same appeal avenue as described in the previous paragraph is provided.

Students who have been dismissed for academic reasons may apply for readmission after one regular semester away. Please see Sec. 6.24.5. for additional information. As a part of the readmission process, and in addition to other materials required more generally for readmission, students should submit a narrative explaining why they reasonably expect a greater likelihood of academic success than was previously attained. It is helpful to have employers, counselors and/or other third parties write letters in support of the student’s bid for readmission, and such submissions may be required. The final authority for granting an academically dismissed student’s bid for readmission rests with the provost, who is free to attach significant requirements to, and expectations for, the readmitted student’s future academic performance. At minimum, students who are readmitted after being academically dismissed will have one regular semester to either achieve academic good standing or to achieve a sufficient term (semester) GPA (of 2.2 or better) to be placed back on academic warning (rather than on academic probation).

A student who is readmitted after being academically dismissed and who, after one regular semester, fails to satisfy all the provost’s requirements and expectations for academic performance will be permanently dismissed. In this instance, no further readmission is possible.

6.22.3. Academic Requirements for Student Athletes

Oglethorpe is a member of Division III of the NCAA (see Sec. 12.1.1.1. for additional information). All Division III NCAA bylaws are available at www.ncaa.org. Additionally, an abridged listing of the most frequently referenced Division III bylaws is housed at https://gopetrels.com/. The following summarizes the academic requirements to both practice and compete, as taken from the aforementioned abridged NCAA document.

6.22.3.1. Eligibility to Practice

Students are eligible to practice if they are enrolled in a minimum full-time program of studies leading to a baccalaureate or equivalent degree as defined by the regulations of the student’s school. [NCAA Bylaw 14.1.8.1]
Students are eligible to practice during the official vacation period immediately before initial enrollment, provided the students:
1. Have been accepted by the school for enrollment in a regular, full-time program of studies at the time of their initial participation; and
2. Are no longer enrolled at their previous school; and
3. Are eligible under all school and NCAA requirements. [NCAA Bylaw 14.1.8.1.6.1]
Students are eligible to practice while enrolled in less than a minimum full-time program of studies if they enrolled in the final semester or quarter of a baccalaureate program and if the student’s school certifies that the students are carrying (for credit) the courses necessary to complete their degree requirements. [NCAA Bylaw 14.1.8.1.6.3]

6.22.3.2. Eligibility to Compete

Students are eligible to compete if the students:
- Have been admitted as a regularly enrolled, degree-seeking student according to the published entrance requirements of their school; and
- Are in academic good standing according to the standards of their school; and
- Are enrolled:
  - In a full-time program of studies leading to baccalaureate or the equivalent (not less than 12 semester or quarter hours) and maintains satisfactory progress toward that degree; or
  - In a full-time graduate or professional degree program (as defined by the school for all graduate students) or are enrolled and seeking a second baccalaureate degree at their school. [NCAA Bylaws 14.01.2, 14.1.8.1 and 14.1.8.1.6.4]
If enrolled in less than a full-time program, students are eligible to compete only if:
- They are enrolled in the last semester of their baccalaureate or graduate degree program; and
- They are carrying credits necessary to finish their degree requirements. [NCAA Bylaw 14.1.8.1.6.3]
A student is eligible to compete during the official vacation period immediately before initial enrollment, provided:
- The student has been accepted by the school for enrollment in a regular, full-time program of studies; and
- At the time of initial participation, students are no longer enrolled at their previous educational institution; and
- The student is eligible under all institutional and NCAA requirements. [NCAA Bylaw 14.1.8.1.6.1]
Returning students are eligible to compete between semesters, provided:
- The students haves been registered for the required minimum full-time load at the conclusion of the semester immediately before the date of competition; or
- The students are either continuing enrollment or beginning enrollment, provided they have been accepted for enrollment as a regular full-time student for the regular semester immediately following the date of competition. [NCAA Bylaw 14.1.8.1.6.2]

Additional questions or concerns should be directed to Oglethorpe’s athletics director or compliance officer.

6.23 - Hardship Withdrawal

In rare circumstances the provost, in consultation with the vice president for student affairs, can grant a hardship withdrawal to a student. If granted, the student will receive the grade of “W” (Withdrew) in all courses in which the student was enrolled during the semester in in which the hardship occurred.

6.24 - Leaving and Re-entering the University

Students who require some time away in order to be successful but who plan to complete their degrees may request a leave of absence, which creates a pause in the educational program but maintains a student’s enrollment at the University. Readmission is not required when a student takes an approved leave of absence.

A student who intends to leave the university for a time period longer than allowed by a leave of absence, or to leave permanently, will withdraw from the University. Students who do not make satisfactory academic progress and are academically dismissed, or students who do not register for the number of semesters consecutively required by their degree program and do not respond to University outreach, will be moved to a withdrawn status. Students who wish to return to the University after withdrawal will be required to reapply to the University.

In some cases, a student may be required to withdraw for serious violations of university policy. In such circumstances, a student is generally not eligible to reapply to the University. Please see Sec. 6.22.2.3., Sec. 6.24.1 through Sec. 6.24.6. for more information.

6.24.1 Leave of Absence

Oglethorpe University expects students to plan for timely completion of a degree, typically eight semesters over four years. However, at times it may be necessary to take a break from your studies in order to graduate successfully, either before or after the beginning of the semester. If a student needs time away, Oglethorpe University offers support through the leave of absence process.

A leave of absence provides students a way to pause their course of study for one or more semesters. A student may take more than one leave if needed, but the total number of semesters of leave may not be greater than eight semesters (two years). Students whose leave is greater than eight cumulative semesters will be withdrawn and may reapply.

Students on leave remain admitted students but are not registered for classes. They remain a part of the Oglethorpe University community, with the following parameters:

Students on leave may not participate in activities or utilize resources, including campus facilities, intended for registered students.
Students on leave may not complete any course work to fulfill major or graduation requirements.
Students on leave are expected to complete courses for which they received an incomplete by the time of the leave begins. Incompletes may not be completed while the student is on leave.
New students are not eligible for a leave of absence before their first semester and should work with Admissions to determine appropriate next steps if they do not wish to enroll as scheduled.

If a student plans to submit a request for leave before the start of the semester, such request must be submitted it no later than 30 days from the start of the semester, unless the student experiences an emergency or other circumstance that prevents them from meeting this deadline.

When a student takes a leave of absence after the start of the semester, they will receive a W for all courses in which they were enrolled as of the end of the add/drop period. Leaves of absence are not recorded on student transcripts. A student must request a leave of absence for a semester in progress by 5 p.m. on the last day of classes. Once finals begin, a leave of absence is not available.

Students may not receive a W for only some classes after the W deadline has passed in the semester unless there is a specific reason that would make a W an approved accommodation. Students should consult with Accessibility Services to request such an accommodation and for further information about the process and required documentation.

To request a leave of absence, students must make an appointment with their Student Success advisor and other relevant staff, as applicable:

When students request a leave of absence, they will meet with their Student Success advisor to create a revised plan to complete all degree requirements in a timely fashion.
Before requesting a leave of absence, students are strongly encouraged to consult with Financial Aid to determine what if any impact a leave might have on eligibility and repayment.
Visa holders should consult with Global Education to determine whether a leave is appropriate and what additional steps may be required.

Students may request a leave of one or two consecutive semesters at a time by completing the appropriate form with their Student Success advisor. Students may request an additional two semesters of leave (two years total) by completing the appropriate form. Longer leaves are only available in extraordinary circumstances, including military service.

Students who request a leave after the start of classes will receive refunds in accordance with University policy. Students should review the refund policy with their Student Success advisor.

Returning from Leave of Absence

Students are encouraged to contact their Student Success advisor as soon as possible in the semester before planning to return in order to ensure registration in a timely fashion. A student and their advisor will collaborate to create a plan for your successful return, including the identification of helpful campus resources and a plan for check-ins to ensure things are going well. Advisors will also help identify any other important deadlines, such as housing selection if the student plans to live on campus.

Students in good academic standing at the time of a voluntary leave will register for the next semester through the same process as registered students as long as their request is received at least 30 days prior to the start of the registration period. If a student requests to return after that date, their Student Success advisor will assist in late registration, which may impact access to some courses.

6.24.2. Withdrawal from the University

Withdrawal from the University is defined as removal of a student’s active status in all courses (meaning a course for which the final grade has not yet been assigned) comprising the student’s academic schedule during the semester in question. Students who have determined that they need to completely leave the University are encouraged to discuss their situation with the office of campus life. Upon understanding the student’s particular situation, campus life officials may be able to provide assistance or referrals that make it possible for the student to remain at Oglethorpe. However, if students still wish to withdraw from the University, they should complete an official withdrawal form available online. Residential students are expected to move out of housing within 48 hours of withdrawing from the University. Students should be mindful of the financial and financial aid implications of withdrawing from the University that are detailed in Sec. 5.16.

Students may withdraw before or during the semester. After the semester has started, students may withdraw until the last day of classes. In cases where the student is unable to withdraw on their own due to medical emergency or other exigency, an authorized representative (parent, guardian, or spouse) may complete the process on the student’s behalf. The authorized representative assumes all liability associated with the withdrawal.

The transcript of students who complete the process of withdrawing from the University will show the following:

Considering all sessions within the semester in which the withdrawal occurs, if the date of withdrawal from the University is prior to the close of business on the drop/add deadline for one or more courses in which the student is enrolled, then no such course will be listed on the student’s transcript.
Considering all sessions within the semester in which the withdrawal occurs, if the date of withdrawal from the University is during the withdrawal period (see 6.16.3.) for one or more courses in which the student is enrolled, then the student will receive the grade of “W” (withdrew) in all such courses.
The university may make a notation on the student’s transcript if they withdraw from the university with a pending conduct process.
For all courses not covered by the above rules, instructors will assign a grade of either “W” or a “WF” (withdrew failing), depending on whether the student was passing the class or not at the time of the withdrawal. It should be noted that while the grade of “W” has no impact on a student’s grade-point average, the grade of “WF” impacts the student’s grade-point average in the same way as would the grade of “F” (failure). No credit is awarded for either the grade of “W” or “WF.”

Students may not withdraw from the University following the date of their last scheduled regular class meeting (when considering all courses scheduled into all sessions within a given semester).

If a student has received notification of a potential violation of a university policy and withdraws before the resolution process (such as a conduct adjudication) is complete, the incomplete process will be noted in their student record. In some cases, the University may complete the process without the student’s participation and record the outcome in the student’s record.

A student who withdraws from the University is not permitted to return to Oglethorpe anymore that semester. The student may reapply for admission to the University the following semester unless more time away is required (as in cases of withdrawal for medical, psychological or similar problems). The student must re-apply to the University in order to return; please see the policy on readmission in Sec. 6.24.6.

6.24.3. Involuntary Withdrawal

In the judgment of the vice president for student affairs, a student may be involuntarily withdrawn from the University when it is determined that the student has demonstrated behavior that:

Poses an imminent threat to campus safety, or
Interferes with the rights of other members of the University community or with the exercise of any proper activities or functions of the University or its personnel.

Any student subject to involuntary withdrawal will receive written notice of the concern, and the opportunity to present information relevant to the concern to the vice president of student affairs. A student may further appeal the vice president of student affairs’ decision to a designated member of the Senior Administrative Leadership Team. The notice of concern will include the effective date of withdrawal and instructions for appeal.
The transcript of students who are subject to involuntary withdrawal from the University will show the following:

Considering all sessions within the semester in which the non-academic withdrawal occurs, if the date of withdrawal from the University is prior to the close of business on the drop/add deadline for one or more courses in which the student is enrolled, then no such course will be listed on the student’s transcript.
Considering all sessions within the semester in which the non-academic withdrawal occurs, if the date of withdrawal from the University is during the withdrawal period (see 6.16.3.) for one or more courses in which the student is enrolled, then the student will receive the grade of “W” (withdrew) in all such courses.

A student who is the subject of an involuntary withdrawal will receive written information about options to return to the University once the behavioral concerns have been resolved. In general, the student must re-apply to the University in order to return; please see the policy on readmission in Sec. 6.24.6.

Students are responsible for the financial and financial aid implications of being subjected to an involuntary withdrawal from the University, as detailed in part in Sec. 5.17.

6.24.4. Death of a Student

From an administrative viewpoint, the death of a student is treated as a withdrawal from the University, and is subject to the policies and procedures outlined in Sec. 6.24.1., except that when the death occurs the only grade which can be assigned is “W” (withdrew), never “WF” (withdrew failing).

Some of the financial and financial aid implications associated with the death of a student are explored in Sec. 5.18.

6.24.5. Suspension and Expulsion

Students can be suspended or expelled for particularly egregious violations of the honor code (see Sec. 11.18.4. and Sec. 11.18.6.) or the code of student conduct (see Sec. H of the code of student conduct, which can be found in Sec. 12.4. of this Bulletin).

A suspension or an expulsion is a retroactive action. If a student is expelled, that suspension or expulsion is retroactive to the start of the semester during which the precipitating event occurred, unless the conduct process specifies a process for the student to complete classes in progress. The student is not permitted to finish the current semester, and will be removed from campus when the expulsion is enforced. They will remain absent from campus for the duration of the expulsion period. Suspensions are typically for one semester or more. Expulsions are permanent separations from the University.

A student who is suspended or expelled will be assigned the grade of “W” (withdrew) for all courses in which the student was enrolled, except that the student will receive the grade of “F” in any course wherein the student committed an honor code violation which led to the suspension or expulsion.

Students are responsible for the financial and financial aid consequences of being subjected to expulsion, as detailed in part in
Sec. 5.19.

6.24.6. Readmission

A student leaves the University when the student:

Is dismissed for academic reasons (see Sec. 6.22.2.3.); or
Is suspended for one or more regular semesters, as may happen as a result of both honor code and code of student conduct liabilities. A student who is suspended during a semester may be permitted to finish the semester, but is then forbidden from registering for any more classes that semester, and is also forbidden from being on campus, for the entire suspension period (usually the next regular semester, including any intervening summer semester); or
Withdraws from the University (see Sec. 6.24.2.); or
Is subjected to an involuntary withdrawal (see Sec. 6.24.3.); or
Graduates; or
Fails to register for a regular (fall or spring) semester any time between initial enrollment and graduation (TU students only); or fails to register for three consecutive regular (fall or spring) semesters (ADP students only).

A student who has left the University and who wishes to return to Oglethorpe (and who is eligible to do so) should complete the application for readmission online and submit the completed application and official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended to the office of admission in order to be considered for readmission. Students who were not in academic good standing at the time they left require the approval of the provost for readmission. Students who were not in conduct good standing at the time they left require the approval of the vice president for student affairs for readmission. The University may require additional supporting documentation relating to the student’s likelihood for success at Oglethorpe, and may place certain restrictions and conditions on any such readmission. All readmissions require the student be in financial good standing to enroll.

All students who are readmitted to the University are governed by graduation and other academic requirements at the time of readmission. Any exceptions are granted at the discretion of the provost.

6.25 - Transcripts

Students may access unofficial copies of their current transcript directly from OASIS.

Students, former students and alumni who need official copies of transcripts should submit a transcript request online. There is a nominal processing fee for each official transcript ordered.

Students who are not in financial good standing, and former students and alumni who have unpaid obligations to the University, will not be provided with official transcripts under any circumstances.

Oglethorpe holds do not prevent the release of a transcript due to outstanding financial balances for students who received Title IV funding towards course credit at Oglethorpe.

6.26 - Degree Application

By the half-way point of the semester prior to anticipated degree completion, students should submit the degree application, available through their OASIS account. A degree completion fee will be assessed at the time the degree application is submitted. Students who have unpaid obligations to the University will not be provided with final transcripts or diplomas in any circumstances.

If the student is not able to graduate as projected in the original degree application, a new degree application must be submitted reflecting the new anticipated graduation date.

6.27 - Receipt of Diplomas,Commencement and Special Academic Recognition

Diplomas are awarded at the close of the spring, summer and fall semesters to those who have submitted a degree application, paid their degree completion fee and satisfied all graduation requirements.

Commencement exercises are held once a year at the close of the spring semester in May. Students must have completed all graduation requirements in order to participate in commencement exercises. The only exception allowed is for a student who has completed all other graduation requirements except for a maximum of two courses totaling no more than 12 semester hours. Such students will be allowed to “walk” but will not receive their diploma until all graduation requirements have been satisfied. All other students completing graduation requirements at the end of summer or fall participate in the following spring’s commencement exercises.

Students who are not in financial good standing with the University or who have any holds whatsoever on their account will not receive a diploma or a final transcript, even if they have otherwise satisfied all requirements for graduation.

A student’s final transcript and/or diploma may indicate Latin honors, a special recognition discussed in the section below.

6.27.1. Latin Honors

Undergraduate degrees with Latin academic honors are awarded as follows:

Cum laude, for a cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher;
Magna cum laude for a cumulative GPA of 3.7 or higher; or
Summa cum laude for a cumulative GPA of 3.9 or higher.

Latin honors are not awarded to those who return to Oglethorpe for either a second major or a second degree after having already graduated.

Transfer work is not included in the determination for Latin academic honors. Latin academic honors are awarded to students who have completed all graduation requirements prior to commencement exercises. These honors are announced during commencement and are designated on the diploma and on the transcript. Latin academic honors announced at commencement exclude any student with pending graduation requirements who has chosen to “walk.”

6.28 - Posthumous Degrees

A posthumous degree may be awarded through the normal process of petitioning for a waiver of the University’s graduation requirements (see Sec. 3.9.). The petition may be made by any member of the faculty, staff or student body, or by any member of the immediate family of the deceased. If the petition is granted by the academic committee for complaints, appeals and exceptions, the degree must still be approved by a vote of both the faculty and the board of trustees, as is true of every degree conferred.

6.29 - Earning a Second Baccalaureate Degree

Students who earn a first baccalaureate degree at Oglethorpe cannot earn a second degree at Oglethorpe. Instead, they may earn a second major, either simultaneously with a first major (see Sec. 6.19.5.1.) or post-baccalaureate (see Sec. 6.19.5.2.). Earning a second baccalaureate degree is an option available only for students who hold a baccalaureate degree from another regionally-accredited U.S. post-secondary institution and for select students holding certain credentials from non-U.S. post-secondary institutions.

For students who hold a first baccalaureate degree from another regionally-accredited U.S. post-secondary institution, the process is as follows:

The student must apply for admission as a transfer student under the admit status which is affiliated with the degree of interest. Those interested in obtaining a B.A. or B.S. degree must be admitted to the TU program (see 4.1.1.). Those interested in obtaining a B.A.L.S. or B.B.A. degree must be admitted to the ADP program (see Sec. 4.1.2.).
The student’s first degree is treated as transfer credit. All the usual policies and procedures relevant to incoming transfer credits apply, except that the student can receive up to 92 semester hours of credits (for students admitted to the TU program) or up to 84 semester hours of credits (for students admitted to the ADP program).
If students are transferring in any work which might be relevant to the new major/degree, then they should be aware that previous disciplinary course work may or may not count toward the new major. For example, if more than five years have elapsed since students received their first degree, the advisor and registrar may decide that the best interests of the student would be served by starting the new major afresh. If fewer than five years have elapsed since the first degree was completed, the advisor and registrar may decide that some previous course work could be applied to satisfy requirements of the new major/degree. The same decision-making process will be used to decide whether or not previous course work can be used to satisfy course prerequisites relative to the new major/degree. In any case, the student may not transfer in credits sufficient to satisfy more than 50% of the semester hours required for the new major or any other officially declared academic program (minor, concentration, certificate).
Once the student first enters Oglethorpe, no new transfer work will be counted toward the second baccalaureate degree. That is, from this point forward, all new credits counting toward graduation must be earned in residence at Oglethorpe (see 8.3.).
The student must earn a minimum of 36 semester hours in residence at Oglethorpe and must end up satisfying all requirements of the new major/degree, including the requirement that at least 50% of all new declared academic programs (major, minor, concentration, certificate) required semester hours must be taken in residence at Oglethorpe.
Oglethorpe will accept the existence of a previous baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited post-secondary U.S. institution as proof of satisfactory completion of a suitable general education program, so no further general education courses are required.
Oglethorpe will waive graduation requirements for a second degree which are significant only for one’s first degree.
All other graduation requirements for the degree/major in question must be satisfied (see Sec. 8. and Sec. 9.).
Upon successful completion of all requirements, the student must submit an application for degree to the enrollment services office and pay the degree completion fee. The student will be awarded a new diploma and will be allowed to walk at commencement.

Use of the above policy is not permitted if a student’s first baccalaureate degree came from a U.S. post-secondary institution which was not regionally accredited at the time of degree conferral.

Students who have a post-secondary degree or similar credential from a non-U.S. college or university are considered on a case-by-case basis following completion (at the student’s expense) of a foreign credential evaluation and translation of the student’s post-secondary record by Josef Silny and Associates, Inc. (https://www.jsilny.org/). All inquiries should be addressed to the Office of the Provost, Oglethorpe University, 4484 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA 30319 U.S.A.

6.30 - Remote and Hybrid Course Section Policy

Face-to-face teaching is a core part of Oglethorpe University’s identity, a modality in which our faculty excel, and what many of our students prefer. It is assumed that most Oglethorpe courses will be taught face to face. However, there are instances when hybrid or online classes make sense. Here we lay out the procedure for approval of course sections taught remote or in a hybrid of face-to-face and remote (hybrid) fashion. Note that, unlike many other applications, this application is by section, not by course.

Note that this section uses definitions from 1.4.2 Academic Credit and 1.4.23 Modality Definitions extensively.

6.30.1. Restriction of Student Program of Study

No Oglethorpe student shall graduate with more than 50% of their total Oglethorpe credits from remote and hybrid sections of courses combined.

6.30.2. Application to Create a Remote or Hybrid Section of a Course

The Academic Program Committee (APC) shall design and maintain a form for approving remote and hybrid sections of courses. If the section is of a course that is already a faculty-approved in-person course, only this form needs to be completed and approved. If the section is of a course that is entirely new, applicants should include their answers to this form for their section of the class as part of their application for APC approval of the course.

When submitted, a copy of the form shall be sent to the Provost, relevant Program Coordinator, relevant Division Chair, and the chair of APC. This application must be submitted deadlines set by APC as part of the form. The Provost, Program Coordinator, Division Chair, or APC may reject an application for a remote or hybrid section but must do so within two months of the traditional academic year of their notification concerning the submission of the form. Else the form will be assumed to be accepted by all parties.

Once a section is approved for remote or hybrid instruction, that section can be taught again in future semesters using the form completed the first time it was taught without re-approval. APC expects that sections approved for remote or hybrid instruction will use the methods given in the application to teach this section. If substantive changes are made to how learning objectives are accomplished, a new form must be submitted as above.

The Academic Program Committee (APC) is specifically charged with reviewing the following facets of the section proposed:

Is the instructor of this section prepared to teach the section remotely or in a hybrid modality? For example, consultation with the instructional technologist, through formal training, use of a learning management system, or previous hybrid or remote teaching experience.
Does the direct instruction meet the quality and rigor standards of the program it is a part of?
Are the learning objectives of the course achieved, either in the same way as an in-person course or in a new approach?

Once approved, the remote or hybrid version of the section shall be listed with other courses being offered but clearly marked in two ways:

The modality of the section shall indicate clearly when a section is remote or hybrid.
The section number of the course shall indicate clearly when a section is remote or hybrid.

Once registration for the section has started, a section approved and marked for remote or hybrid instruction cannot change modality to in-person that semester (except when reverting from remote or hybrid modality after moving to that modality due to an emergency, see 6.30.3). This is also true for changes of modality from remote to hybrid.

6.30.3. Emergency Approval of Remote or Hybrid Section of a Course

This section applies to an instructor who has had a sudden and unexpected change in circumstances requiring a change in modality from in-person to remote or hybrid sections (utilizing the percentages that define remote or hybrid in Section 1.4.23) during the semester. The relevant Program Coordinator and Division Chair must agree to this modality change and set a date during the current semester to return to the former modality – if either of these do not approve the needed modality change, then the application is rejected. Approval of a course due to this emergency approval policy shall not be considered a permanent modality approval – if the instructor finds that teaching remotely or hybrid works well for them, then they should apply via the form mentioned in 6.30.2 for the section to be permanently approved for offering.

Being able to move a class quickly to a different modality would allow for continuity of instruction when unanticipated events occur and the instructor is able and willing to continue teaching. However, this option should be useful sparingly and not repeatedly across many semesters.

6.30.4. Consistency Between Remote and In-Person Course Sections

Teaching remote or hybrid sections requires specialized pedagogical approaches. To that end, class sizes should remain at the same level as in-person classes. This encourages the kind of personal attention students expect from Oglethorpe faculty. We also believe that face-to-face interaction opportunities are valuable – while many remote courses can be taught totally asynchronously, we expect the instructor to create time to meet with students if they have questions (via office hours, time set aside for appointments, or similar).

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