Undergraduate Academic Information

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The University establishes those conditions, which determine eligibility for continued enrollment. Students should be aware of these conditions and of other pertinent academic information as well, such as the policies on grading and class attendance; procedures for changing class schedules or degree programs; and the availability of special academic opportunities.

Academic Year

The University’s academic year includes two semesters and one summer term. The fall/spring semester traditionally run sixteen and eight week offerings. During the summer term, courses start and end at different times; although they traditionally run three, four, seven, eight, and eleven weeks. 

Courses are traditionally offered on-campus (day and evening), mix of on-campus and online, and online only.

Undergraduate Transfer and Award of Academic Credit

General Policy. Indiana State University acknowledges the importance of recognizing demonstrated student proficiencies. In addition to taking courses at Indiana State University, students may earn academic credits that may be applicable to degree requirements. Credits are awarded on a semester-hour basis and may be awarded by the following methods:

Advanced Placement and Prior Learning Credit. Indiana State University offers opportunities for students to earn credit toward a degree for knowledge they have already acquired. Students can earn up to 63 credits towards a baccalaureate degree and 25 percent of an undergraduate certificate. Credit earned this way counts toward graduation requirements but does not count towards resident credit. Students cannot receive this type of credit for courses where credit has already been earned. Fees associated with award of this credit is determined on a bi-annual basis by the Indiana State University Board of Trustees. The University Board of Trustees reserves the right to change fees at any time.

Placement Exam and Award of Back Credit. Indiana State University recognizes prior experiences in university-approved academic areas for students to earn back credit when exam results place them beyond the introductory level. Students must register and pass the academic course with a specific letter grade for back credit to be awarded.

Associate Degree Waivers. Undergraduates who earn an Associate of Arts (A.A.), Associate of Science (A.S.), or Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree from an accredited institution will be eligible for applicable waivers to Indiana State University’s Foundational Studies requirements.

Individual Transfer Course Equivalencies. Undergraduates who complete course work at another accredited college or university may be eligible for earned transfer credit at Indiana State University if the following conditions are met:

• Course work must be completed at an accredited institution in the United States or at an officially recognized international institution.
• Course work must be college-level.
• Course work must reflect a final grade earned of C- or better (or equivalent).

Course equivalency means that a transfer course is a discipline-specific equivalent to a specific Indiana State University course or Foundational Studies requirement. Elective credit is assigned for courses that meet transfer requirements, but for which no equivalency is determined. If a student changes their program, the new academic area will review transfer work that applies to the program. Academic deans have final approval of the applicability of transfer credits to requirements within their college.

Military Credit. Credit will be granted by Indiana State University according to the guidelines of the American Council of Education (ACE). IF ACE guidelines conflict with Indiana State University policies, the latter takes precedence. Students who have successfully completed college-level studies or DANTES exams while in the military may be eligible to receive credit if their official military transcript indicates attainment of college-level equivalency. Credit for military training and experience is granted based on official Joint Services Transcripts and/or discharge form (DD214). All service members qualify for 2-8 credits, based on completion of basic training and length of service as indicated on the DD214. Two credits are awarded for physical education with completion of basic training. Additional elective credit is granted for service time as follows: 2 credits for 12-15 months service. 3 credits for 16-17 months service. 4 credits for 18-19 months service. 5 credits for 20-21 months service. 6 credits for 22 months or more of service. A maximum of 63 credits may be granted based on a combination of service, training, and education while in the military. Credit from the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) is applied per Indiana State University’s individual transfer course equivalencies guidelines.

Program Articulations. These are agreements between Indiana State University and the respective institutions on pathways for students to transfer to Indiana State University. Students must complete the degree and meet the requirements outlined in the agreement. The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee is the final signatory for these types of agreements.

Statewide Indiana Transfer Initiatives. Indiana State University supports transfer students by supporting the following State of Indiana Transfer Initiatives. 

• Core Transfer Library (CTL). Students who successfully complete CTL courses at Indiana public and participating private institutions can transfer those courses to Indiana State University to meet determined course equivalencies. 
• Indiana College Core. Successful completion of the Indiana College Core, previously named Statewide Transfer General Education Core, at an Indiana public institution of higher education transfers as a block of 30 earned credits towards completion of the Foundational Studies requirements at Indiana State University. 
• Transfer Single Articulation Pathway. Transfer students who complete an eligible Transfer Articulation Pathway (TSAP) program and have been admitted to the corresponding baccalaureate program at Indiana State University are granted a block of 60 earned credits from the respective associate degree. TSAP’s are degree completion programs that enable students to earn a baccalaureate degree after completing an additional 60 credits as required by the respective major. 

Academic deans have approval on the applicability of academic credits to requirements within their college. Credit identified and awarded in the transfer and award of academic credit policy are excluded and do not count toward the 30 required hours of residence credit for graduation.

Academic Renewal

General Policy. Indiana State University provides Academic Renewal as an option to returning undergraduate degree-seeking students who have been out of school for a significant period of time and whose previous academic performance is not indicative of the academic work of which they are now capable. Academic Renewal recognizes that such students are often hampered by a previous, low grade point average, and it offers them the opportunity to use only those classes, taken after readmission, in the computation of their Indiana State University grade point average. Academic Renewal can occur only once, and it is irreversible.

Requirements. The following conditions apply for eligibility: 

1. Five or more years must have passed between the student’s previous ISU enrollment and the current term of readmission; 
2. Student must not have earned a degree from ISU; 
3. Student must be degree-seeking; 
4. Only after completion of a minimum of 12 credits with a grade point average of 2.0 or higher will the student be granted academic renewal. 
5. All academic requirements in place at the time of readmission must be met. 
6. Students must complete at least 30 credits of Indiana State University course work after readmission to earn a degree.   

Class Attendance

Students are expected to attend all classes. It is the responsibility of each instructor to inform students of the consequences of absence from class. It is the responsibility of the student to keep instructors informed regarding absences from classes.

It is the responsibility of each instructor to maintain attendance records as required to inform the University whether a student was present in class during certain weeks of class, as the University may designate. Each instructor must also include their class attendance policy, if any, in the course syllabus. Attendance records may take many different forms and each instructor may choose their own method.

Students with financial aid may have their aid reduced or cancelled if they are identified as not attending one or more courses during the first three weeks of each term.  Attendance should be accurately reported, even if the student has withdrawn from the University during the first three weeks of class, so that the correct amount of Title IV aid can be returned to the Department of Education and the State.

Throughout the semester, instructors are responsible for maintaining participation records or gradebooks with enough information for the instructor to accurately identify the latest date each student participated in an academically-related activity.  Examples of such activities include attending class in person, attending class via Zoom, submitting an assignment or discussion post, taking a quiz or exam, or discussing an academic matter with the instructor in person or via email.  When a student fails to earn any credits during a term, the Office of Student Financial Aid may contact the instructor to verify the Last Date of Attendance, which determines the amount of Title IV aid that is required to be returned to the Department of Education.

Credit Hour Requirements

A typical full-time schedule is 15 credit hours in the Fall and Spring semester. 

Good Academic Standing. Students in good academic standing may take up to 18 hours in a semester (12 hours in the summer term). Students who for any reason find it necessary to enroll in more than maximum credit hours need to petition their academic dean. In general, petitions for schedules in excess of 18 semester hours may be approved: when the student’s grade point average for the three previous semesters is 3.0 or above; when a student can complete graduation requirements only by carrying an excessive load in either of the last two semesters. (Students who are student teaching should not exceed 16 semester hours.)

Academic Probation. Students on academic probation are restricted to a maximum of 13 credit hours in the Fall and Spring semester, (12 credit hours in the Summer term). Exceptions may be granted by the student’s academic dean on a case-by-case basis.

Enrollment Verification and Veteran’s Certification

Undergraduate students are considered full-time if they are currently enrolled in 12 or more credit hours in a semester or term. The following tables serve as a quick reference guide for determining enrollment status.

*Time status can differ due to varying course lengths and will be individually calculated by the Veterans Administration.

Questions about status should be emailed to the Office of the Registrar.

Class Standing

A student is usually identified as a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior. Such a classification is applicable to the four years of regular college attendance. However, an increase in hours earned during one or more semesters or enrollment in summer may result in an accelerated program. Thus, it is more accurate to designate class standing in accordance with semester hours earned.

The following schedule of hours earned is used to establish class standing:

Course Numbers

In this Catalog, undergraduate courses are numbered in 100, 200, 300, and 400 sequences. Normally, freshman courses are in the 100 series, sophomore courses are in the 200 series. Courses numbered in the 300 and 400 series are considered upper division, and a minimum of 45 upper level credits are required to complete a baccalaureate degree.

Course Examinations

The use of written examinations as a means of determining achievement in the requirements of a course is considered by the University to be part of acceptable pedagogy. Each instructor may administer such examinations as they deem suitable to the content of the course, and at such times during the semester when the need for a written measuring device exists.

The final examination schedule is within the last week of each semester. During these days, each regularly scheduled class which offers two or more semester hours of credit, which meets between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and which meets for the full semester will be in session for one final two-hour period.

Final Examination Schedule. The final examination schedule for day, evening, and Saturday classes is published on the University Web site. During summer, final examinations are on the last scheduled class day.

Study Week. Study Week is intended to encourage student preparation for final examinations given during the final examination week. Class attendance, however, is expected. No examination of any kind, including quizzes that count over four percent of the grade, can be given during Study Week. Assignments due during Study Week must be specified in the class syllabus given to students at the beginning of each semester. Online courses are treated, for the purpose of this policy, like all other courses. Courses of 11 weeks’ duration or less are exempt from this policy. Examinations for laboratory, practicum, or clinical courses are permitted.

The student is responsible for notifying the Student Government Association of a violation of any of the above terms. The Student Government Association will take the correct procedures for informing the faculty member and the academic department chairperson of the failure to comply with the terms of the Study Week policy. The student’s name will be confidential to the Student Government Association.

Grading System

Letter Grades for Course Work Completed. A new plus/minus grading system was approved by the Faculty Senate effective fall 2009 and is reflected in the table below.  Courses taken before fall 2009 will retain their old grade point values; courses taken in fall 2009 and beyond will follow the New Points column.  Official transcripts will also reflect this change beginning with the fall semester of 2009.  Letter grades indicating the quality of course work completed and for which the credit hours earned can be applied toward graduation requirements generally can be interpreted as follows:

Letter grades assigned for unsatisfactory course work are “F” (failure) and “U” (unsatisfactory).

Grades of “W” will be assigned to dropped/withdrawn courses after the last day to add for the semester/term and will not be calculated in the student’s grade point average. 

The Grade Point Average (GPA). The grade point average is a numerical value which is obtained by dividing the number of grade points earned by the number of credit hours attempted. This average, often called the index, is computed at the end of each semester/term, and on a cumulative basis. No points are recorded for an “F”, although the hours attempted are included in the computation.

Suppose a student has earned the following grades:

3 hours of A (equal 12 points)
3 hours of B (equal 9 points)
3 hours of C (equal 6 points)
2 hours of D (equal 2 points)
2 hours of F (equal 0 points)

The semester average, then, would be 2.23, which is the quotient obtained by dividing 29 (the number of points) by 13 (the number of hours attempted).

An average (cumulative) grade point of 2.0 or above is required for graduation. (Some academic units require a higher cumulative grade point average; students should consult the appropriate section of the Catalog and talk with their academic advisor.)

The Incomplete. An incomplete grade (IN) may be given only at the end of a semester or term to those students whose work is passing but who have left unfinished a small amount of work – for instance, a final examination, a paper, or a term project which may be completed without further class attendance.

When a grade of incomplete (IN) is assigned, the professor will specify, via Blackboard and Web grading, the work necessary to complete the course and receive a grade, the deadline date for completion, and the grade to be assigned if the work is not completed by the specified date. The date for completion will normally be within four weeks of the beginning of the next semester, but will not be longer than one calendar year. The sole exception is for graduate research courses, which will have no maximum deadline.

In the event that the instructor from whom students receive an IN is not on campus, the disposition of students’ eventual grade resides with the appropriate department chairperson.

Students may not graduate with an incomplete on their record when the incomplete was assigned for any semester/term after spring 2007.

Course Repeat Policy. Students may choose to repeat any course for grade improvement.  The decision to repeat a class for grade improvement can potentially affect financial aid eligibility and such a decision should be in consultation with an academic advisor and financial aid counselor. 

Courses that can be taken multiple times for academic credit are not included in the policy.  Only the highest grade received for the course, taken at Indiana State University, will be included in the computation of the cumulative GPA.  The initial grade(s) and the repeat grade(s) will appear on the student’s record.  Only courses taken at Indiana State University are eligible for course repeat.  An exception can be granted by the Dean of the relevant college on a case-by-case basis.

Grade Appeal

Basis for Appeal. A student may appeal a grade granted by any instructor of any course. The student may appeal the grade based on one or more of the following:

1. An error in the calculation of the grade.
2. The assignment of a grade to a particular student by application of more exacting or demanding standards than were applied to other students in the same section of the same course, in the same semester, with the same instructor.
3. The assignment of a grade to a particular student on some basis other than performance in the course.
4. The assignment of a grade by a substantial departure from the instructor’s previously announced standards for that section of that course.
5. The assignment of a grade by a substantial departure from the written departmentally approved standards for a course.

Informal Appeal. All students must follow the informal appeals process for questioning grades prior to engaging the formal appeal. In so doing, they are to, where possible, seek out the instructor for a face-to-face conversation. The instructor is encouraged to listen to the entirety of the student’s case and then to consider whether the current grade is appropriate. Should no resolution occur, the student is required to contact the department chairperson. The chairperson is required to meet with the student one-on-one, to seek a conversation with the instructor one-on-one, and then is highly encouraged to meet with the two together. Students must initiate their informal appeal within 30 working days of the posting of the grade. Should no resolution occur, the student may choose to engage the formal appeal process.

Filing a Formal Appeal. A formal appeal is made in writing to the dean of the college of the instructor, hereafter referred to as “the dean.” When filing an appeal, a student must specify the basis of the appeal and do so within 30 working days of the conclusion of the informal appeal. The student must indicate one of the following: 

1. The instructor is unable or unwilling to communicate with the student on the appeal and the informal appeal could not proceed.
2. No resolution resulted from the informal appeal process.

The contents of the appeal should include as much of the relevant physical or electronic record as is possible for the student to collect. If the second basis (differential standards) is asserted, the student should provide a list of the names of other students and specific assignments so that a review of the relevant materials and appropriate comparisons can be made. 

Verification of the Appropriateness of the Appeal. An instructor “cannot respond” if she/he has died or has suffered a debilitating physical or mental condition. For appeals to grades submitted by instructors who have been terminated, resigned, or retired, it is the dean’s responsibility to manage the notification process. In doing so, the dean shall make three separate attempts at contacting the instructor within 30 days with the last attempt being in writing via registered letter to the last known address. If after ten working days of the dean’s receiving of the registered letter receipt, the instructor still refuses to discuss the grade appeal, the dean shall convene the Grade Appeal Committee.

If an instructor has denied the grade appeal after having met with the department chairperson, the dean must review the materials and discuss the matter with the student. The dean may choose to discuss the matter with the instructor, the chairperson, or both. If the dean cannot create a resolution satisfactory to the instructor and student, the dean shall convene the Grade Appeal Committee.

Academic Standing–Requirements for Continued Enrollment

The cumulative grade point average (GPA), in conjunction with class standing and term GPA, is used to indicate the academic standing of students at the end of any semester or summer term and will determine their eligibility for continued enrollment.

Good Standing. A student must maintain a C (2.0) cumulative grade point average to be considered in good academic standing by the University.

Academic Probation. If a student’s cumulative grade point average is less than 2.0, the student will be placed on academic probation. Students on academic probation will be restricted to no more than 13 credit hours, unless granted an exception. Students who are on academic probation are strongly encouraged to consult with their academic advisor to identify if repeating courses in which deficient grades were received is appropriate during the next semester (or the next time the course is offered).

Academic Dismissal. Students who meet the following criteria will be academically dismissed unless an exception is provided by the dean of the relevant college on a case-by-case basis:

1. First-term students who earn a term grade point average of less than .85;
2. Freshmen (0-29 earned hours) who are on probation and earn a term grade point average of 1.7 or less;
3. Sophomores (30-59 earned hours) who are on probation and earn a term grade point average less than 2.0;
4. Juniors (60-89 earned hours) and seniors (90+ earned hours) who are on probation and earn a term grade point average less than 2.2.

Students who have been academically dismissed should expect to stay out of classes for one academic semester (following a first dismissal) and one academic year (following a second dismissal), after which such students should petition their academic dean to return to classes. Deans will retain the discretion to provide exception to NOT academically dismiss on a case-by-case basis.  No student may return to classes after a third academic dismissal.

It should be pointed out that some programs may have requirements above the minimum University retention standards.

Academic Dismissal is not synonymous with Satisfactory Academic Progress Suspension.  A student may be in Good Standing but still be suspended from getting financial aid due to low rate of completion or exceeding the allowable attempted credit hours.

Grade Reports

All undergraduate students will receive Interim Grades, a progress report in the form of letter grades, based on assessments mad through the sixth week of the semester. These grades will be available no later than the Wednesday of the seventh week of classes. Interim and Final Grades are available to students through the MyISU portal.

The Dean’s List

The Dean’s List recognizes students for academic achievement. This Dean’s List includes full-time students whose semester grade point average is 3.5 to 4.0. Full-time status for Dean’s List calculation is determined by a minimum of 12 credit hours of punitive grades (“A” through “F”). The Dean’s List is prepared each semester/term in the Office of the Registrar during the final grade processing, which occurs after the close of the semester/term.

Class Schedules

A schedule of University class offerings is prepared for each semester/term and is found on-line. 

Registration Procedures

Students register for classes and make any subsequent schedule changes (i.e. drop or add classes) through the MyISU Portal. Detailed scheduling information and important dates are located on-line.

Auditing of Courses

Students who wish to audit a course for no credit may do so, for the purpose of hearing and seeing only; they do not have the privilege of participating in class discussions, laboratory work, or field work.  They do not take tests, submit term papers, or receive grades.  Students who audit a course will not appear on the class rolls or grade rolls, and no notation of the audit will be made on the student’s transcript.  A valid admission to the university is required.  The Permission to Audit form must be authorized by the instructor and department chairperson which offers the course on or after the first day of classes (not before).  A student may not transfer from audit to credit or from credit to audit.  There is a $5 per credit hour auditing fee.

Student Withdrawal from Semester/Term

The University recognizes that numerous circumstances may arise which will necessitate a student ceasing class attendance prior to the end of the semester. An “official withdrawal” involves the student withdrawing from all classes for which he/she is registered as well as notifying appropriate administrative officials of his/her decision to leave the campus. If a student leaves without properly processing a withdrawal, the absences from class and from the campus will be justification for the grade of F to be assigned for the courses in which the student is enrolled. Withdrawing from all courses can have substantial impact on aid eligibility and should be made in consultation with an academic advisor and financial aid counselor.

Procedures. The student is not officially withdrawn until he/she has completed the withdrawal procedures.

Grade Determination. Students who officially withdraw from the University by the last day to add (7th calendar day of a 16 week semester) will not have a grade or courses assigned to their transcript.  After the last day to add and through the 11th week of classes, the grade of “W” will be given. Dates and deadlines for summer and shorter length classes vary based on the duration of the class. Please see the schedule of classes for specific information. “W” grades are not included in calculation of the grade point average.

Residence Hall Contract Cancellation. Withdrawal from enrollment results in cancellation of the residence hall contract; however, students are responsible for contacting Residential Life if they are not planning to return to the University. Residence hall students should review the terms and conditions of their residence hall contracts concerning refunds and the contract cancellation service charge.

Administrative Withdrawal

Administrative withdrawals are initiated by the Director of the Office of Student Conduct and Integrity when a student is found responsible for violation(s) of University policies, fails to comply with procedures, and as a result of the finding, been temporarily separated (suspended) or permanently separated (expelled) from the institution. The grading and refund policies, which apply to voluntary withdrawals also apply to administrative withdrawals.

Administrative withdrawals are also performed when a student is academically dismissed at the end of a semester or term and has registration for a future semester/term. In that case, the student is administratively withdrawn from the future semester(s)/term(s).

Involuntary Medical Withdrawal

The University may order the involuntary medical withdrawal of a student if it is determined that the student suffers a condition that is detrimental to the functioning of the student or poses a significant threat to the campus community.  Examples include, but are not limited to, conditions that:

• Cause the student to engage in behavior that poses a significant danger of causing harm to others or to substantial property rights.
• Involve a threat to public health (for example, incomplete immunizations or failure to meet TB compliance policies.).
• Directly and substantially impede the lawful activities of others.
• Interfere with the educational process and orderly operation of the University.

Questions regarding this policy should be referred to the Dean of Students who also serves as the liaison to the Union Associated Physicians Clinic and chairs the involuntary medical withdrawal process. 

Change of College, Department, or Curriculum

Students who wish to change their majors should consult with their current academic advisor as to the appropriateness of the change. Normally, students must be in good academic standing to make a change. Students may request changes through the MyISU portal.  The dean’s office(s) and students will be notified of the status and any advisor changes via their ISU email account.

Degree Maps and MySAM

At Indiana State University, we provide all students with a degree audit and degree map in MySAM. MySAM is accessed through the student portal. Students should check their degree map regularly.  Degree maps are updated before each priority registration period so students can see the classes they need to take in upcoming terms.

Students unable to register during priority registration for a course on their degree map, must contact StayOnTrack@indstate.edu and their academic advisor so Indiana State University can work to:  

• modify the degree map without increasing time to degree, 
• provide a substitute course, or  
• ensure registration in the course that is needed. 

If a student fulfills their obligations and Indiana State University is unable to provide a solution, the university commits to pay the tuition and course fees for the respective Indiana State University course(s) scheduled in the future.

Sycamore Graduation Guarantee

As part of the Indiana State Advantage, undergraduate degree-seeking full-time freshman applicants are included in the Sycamore Graduation Guarantee. This assures eligible students will be able to complete a bachelor’s degree on time. If students adhere to the graduation guarantee responsibilities but do not finish in four years, Indiana State University will pay the tuition and any mandatory fees for any remaining required courses

The Guarantee

The Sycamore Graduation Guarantee applies to all undergraduate degree programs of 128 semester hours or fewer.

Indiana State University Responsibilities:

• Confirm a student’s eligibility into the graduation guarantee based on chosen program of study and any college preparation deficiencies.
• Provide appropriate courses for the major to ensure that the degree can be completed during the four-year period.
• Provide access to quality advising throughout a student’s time at Indiana State.
• Provide tools, including but not limited to degree audit reporting to enable the student to monitor degree progression.
• Provide an annual assessment report indicating if the student is on track to graduate within four years and, if not, what issues need to be addressed to get back into compliance with the Sycamore Graduation Guarantee.
• If a student is unable to graduate within four years due to the unavailability of required courses, the University may, when appropriate, allow the student to graduate by substituting a different course or an independent study assignment, as determined by the department and the college offering the student’s major.
• If course substitution is not an option, and the student is unable to graduate after completing four years and complying with all terms of the Sycamore Graduation Guarantee, Indiana State will pay the tuition and mandatory fees for any additional required courses*.

*The student must request a course substitution or waiver of tuition prior to the beginning of classes for the last semester of the student’s four-year plan. The waiver of tuition will be limited to tuition and mandatory fees for the required course(s) and does not extend to any other cost of attendance including room and board fees and textbooks. All other fees will be the responsibility of the student.

Student Responsibilities and Eligibility:

• Apply and attend Indiana State University as an undergraduate degree-seeking full-time freshman applicant.
• Acknowledge they have read and understood the student responsibilities by authorizing the Sycamore Graduation Guarantee Student Responsibilities in their MyISU Portal.
• Meet with their designated advisor to develop a four-year plan to identify the courses they must complete each semester to stay on course to graduate within four years. Students assume responsibility for monitoring their progress-to-degree by utilizing the degree reporting tool (MySAM) and are required to meet with their advisor each semester to ensure that they stay on track.
• Follow appropriate course sequencing (as defined in the MySAM plan) and completing prerequisites and required grades for progression.
• Must be admitted to a degree applicable major by the end of their second semester. If a change of major is approved, it must be done in time to meet the requirements of the new major and graduate within the original four-year time period.
• Remain in good academic standing each term/semester (by both institutional and major standards).
• Complete between 30-32 degree applicable credit hours each academic year. Academic year is defined as fall/spring/summer for summer/fall applicants; spring/summer/fall for spring applicants.
• Monitor their progress and email their designated advisor and the Guarantee program at registrar@indstate.eduduring the priority registration period if unable to register for a required course needed to meet progression/graduation standards.
• Ensure they have no holds blocking registration for courses during the priority registration period.
• Summer/fall applicants must apply for graduation by October 1 prior to their spring/summer graduation; Spring applicants must apply for graduation by February 1 prior to their fall graduation.

At various points, students may fall out of compliance with the agreement due to financial constraints, academic performance, change of major, and/or other issues. Students should work with their advisors to determine what options (summer school, tutoring, etc.) may exist to address those issues and come back into compliance.

Graduation

Graduation represents the culmination of a student’s program of study.  Baccalaureate degrees are awarded upon successful completion of all degree requirements. Degree requirements may be those in effect at the time of matriculation or at graduation, but not a combination of both. Usually, students should expect to follow the curricular requirements and University regulations provided in the Undergraduate Catalog based on their matriculation term. The dean of the college may determine which of the courses taken by the student more than seven years prior to graduation may be applicable to a baccalaureate degree.

Degree requirements for graduation are those as described by the college and the student’s chosen curriculum. The dean of each college is responsible for certifying the completion of degree requirements for each candidate for graduation. A degree audit is available from the MyISU Portal to assist students in planning and progressing toward graduation.

Each student is responsible for meeting all degree requirements by the time he/she expects to graduate, including that students must:

1. Apply for graduation two semesters before their planned graduation date. Following submission of the graduation application, any subsequent changes to the application are the responsibility of the student.  If requirements are not met by the expected graduation term, a change in the date of graduation must be made and is the responsibility of the student.
2. Earn a minimum of 120 credit hours, excluding any duplicate course credits.
3. Resolve any incomplete grades if the incomplete was assigned after spring 2007.
4. Complete at least 30 credit hours enrolled at Indiana State University, of which at least nine must be at the 300-400 level.
5. Complete a minimum of 45 credit hours of course work in 300 and 400-level courses.
6. Complete the Foundational Studies Program (see relevant section of this Catalog).
7. Earn a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0. Note: Certain programs require a higher minimum grade point average. Consult the relevant sections of this Catalog for individual degree program information.
8. Additional degree requirements are specified by the college and the students’ chosen curricula. Students should consult the relevant section of this Catalog for complete information about degree requirements for their major/minor programs.

Second or Additional Baccalaureate Degree. A student who desires a second or additional baccalaureate degree must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours at ISU after the awarding of the first degree and must fulfill all requirements for the degree being pursued. Two baccalaureate degrees may be granted simultaneously provided all requirements for both degrees have been completed and a minimum of 150 credit hours has been earned.

Upon certification of graduation, degrees are awarded, and graduates are granted full alumni standing. Graduates who are free of all University obligations are issued a diploma and transcript. The academic record at the semester of completion is closed once graduation is certified; no record changes will be permitted once the degree is awarded. No further registrations beyond the semester of completion are permitted. If the graduate desires to take additional courses or pursue another degree/certificate, he/she must be readmitted.

Commencement Ceremony.  Students who apply to graduate in Spring/Summer are invited to the commencement ceremony held in May.  Students who apply to graduate in Fall are invited to the commencement ceremony held in December. For more information, contact the Office of the Registrar.

Graduation Honors

Latin Honors are recognized by Indiana State University for baccalaureate candidates at commencement and on diplomas and transcripts. To be considered for Latin honors, students must:

1. Have a current graduation application on file in the Office of the Registrar
2. Adhere to commencement deadlines (March 15th for Spring/Summer and October 15th for Fall commencement).  Once the deadline has passed, graduation candidates will not be included in the commencement booklet or have Latin honors announced at the commencement ceremony.
3. Complete a minimum of 55 hours of resident (ISU) credit (not including credit awarded through credit by exam, prior learning, or other advanced standing programs).
4. Earn a minimum ISU cumulative grade point average of 3.50.
5. Earn a minimum Latin honors grade point index of 3.50. The Latin honors index is based on all eligible coursework completed at all regionally accredited institutions.  Eligible coursework includes all college-level courses, whether or not the courses are transferable to ISU. All non-ISU coursework is converted to ISU’s grading scale and combined with the ISU cumulative grade point average to calculate the honors grade point index.

Latin honor designations are based on the student’s cumulative honors index (not the ISU cumulative grade point average):

When determining Latin Honors for the commencement ceremony, the student’s record will be reviewed at the beginning of the semester/term of graduation and will include all coursework completed at that point in time. Latin honors will be recalculated after graduation and will include all coursework. The official Latin Honor will be designated on the diploma and transcript.

Effective Spring 2023, the Board of Trustees approved the revised Graduation Latin Honors Policy:

Indiana State University honors baccalaureate graduates who have high academic achievement by conferring the Latin designations of Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, and Summa Cum Laude.

Latin honor eligibility for commencement ceremonies. The Latin designation for the commencement ceremony will be reflective of the candidate’s academic record and will be reviewed at the established commencement deadline. The candidate for graduation must:

• Have a current graduation application on file in the Office of the Registrar by the established commencement deadline.
• Complete a minimum of 55 hours of Indiana State University resident credit (excludes course transfer credit, advanced or prior learning credit, placement exams, and military credit).
• Earn a minimum ISU cumulative grade point average of 3.5.
• Indiana State University courses approved for academic renewal will be included in the honor grade point average calculation.

Latin honors eligibility for placement on the official record. The Latin designation placed on the academic transcript and diploma will be reflective of the academic record at that point in time the degree is awarded. The graduate is eligible for a Latin designation if they meet the minimum 55-hour resident credit (see above) and the required cumulative grade point average.

Latin honors may apply to a subsequent baccalaureate degree provided all eligibility requirements are met. All Indiana State University resident credits will be used in the calculation of the Latin designation.

Academic Advising

Indiana State University is committed to providing quality advising. Academic advising is an integral part of the educational process. The primary purpose of academic advising is to assist students in the development of meaningful educational plans compatible with the attainment of their life goals.

Effective advising is characterized by a good working relationship between the advisor and the student, which adapts to the experiences and changing needs of the students. Quality advising also requires understanding, affirming, and respecting the individual differences within the University community. The advisor is expected to develop the knowledge, experience, and interest for successfully communicating with students in a genuine, sincere, accurate, and confidential manner. Students are expected to understand University and program requirements and accept the responsibility for fulfilling them. Together advisors and students are expected to maintain a professional and mutually respectful relationship as they review students’ progress toward the attainment of educational objectives.

Academic advising is an interactive process in which both students and advisors share the responsibility. The advisor serves as a facilitator of communication, as a source of accurate information, as a coordinator of academic planning, as an assistant in helping students solve academically related problems, and as an agent of referral to other professionals and campus resources.

Responsibilities of the University Administration. Effective advising is contingent upon adequate staffing, facilities, and resources including sufficient course offerings. Given the above, the administration should:

1. Ensure that facilities and personnel resources are adequate for effective advising.
2. Provide professional orientation, continuing education, and evaluation for advisors.
3. Provide adequate incentives, compensation, and recognition for advisors.
4. Ensure that administrative offices respond promptly to advisement inquiries.
5. Ensure that administrative offices provide current information.

Responsibilities of the Undergraduate Advisor. Inherent in the advisement process is the need to help students understand the nature of the University and a university education. Given the above, the advisor must:

1. Have a thorough understanding of:
   1. the Foundational Studies Program
   2. institutional requirements
   3. course sequences and major and minor requirements, and, if appropriate,
   4. teacher education requirements of advisees.
2. Know University and college policies and procedures.
3. Be available to students by maintaining adequate office hours and appointment times that are reasonable to accommodate students’ needs.
4. Be sensitive to the unique needs of individual students.
5. Discuss linkages between academic preparation, the world of work, and life goals.
6. Provide students with information about alternatives, limitations, and possible consequences of academic decisions.
7. Monitor student advisees’ progress toward educational/career goals through the maintenance of accurate student records.
8. Refer students to appropriate resources for needed assistance and serve as an ombudsperson (advocate) for advisees.
9. Participate in professional development activities related to academic advisement.
10. Exhibit the professional rapport necessary to maintain congenial relationships with advisees and for maintaining a positive, constructive attitude toward advising in general.

Responsibilities of the Undergraduate Student. Students must accept the idea of a university education. To have a successful educational experience requires developing a commitment to the advisement process that entails:

1. Being knowledgeable about the academic policies, procedures, and requirements (including graduation requirements) of:
   1. the University
   2. the college
   3. students’ program major(s)
   4. students’ program minor(s)
   5. the Foundational Studies Program.
2. Planning an academic program to meet degree requirements.
3. Maintaining personal copies of a tentative degree plan, progress reports, Foundational Studies evaluations, transfer credit evaluations, and other important University documents.
4. Knowing the name and office location of the academic advisor, and actively participating in the advising and scheduling process by consulting with that person.
5. Taking advantage of the information and advice provided.
6. Seeking and reviewing relevant information for decision-making.
7. Developing social, academic, and career goals, and examining how these goals can affect life.
8. Understanding that students must accept final responsibility for decisions regarding personal goals and educational goals, and for satisfying graduation requirements.
9. Applying for graduation.

Student Participation in Program Planning. Each student enrolled in the University is expected to read carefully and to understand the contents of this Catalog. This includes the awareness of the University’s general policies and regulations for academic achievement necessary for continued enrollment as well as for graduation, in addition to those regulations identified by Student Activities and Organizations relating to his/her/their social and campus conduct.

Students also are responsible for familiarizing themselves with any requirements special to the academic discipline of their choice which must be a condition of their qualifying for graduation.

Each student should assume at the earliest moment possible the initiative for preparing the semester schedule of classes. The academic advisor is available to offer suggestions and to verify the accuracy of course choices in meeting curricular patterns, but the primary responsibility for knowing the requirements of the academic program and proceeding to satisfy those requirements in an orderly and sequential manner remains with the student.

Degree Audit Tools. Each student will run a degree audit report each semester to use during the advising and registration period for the subsequent term. The degree audit (which is available on the MyISU Portal) provides students with a current account of courses taken (along with credit hours and grades earned), and also indicates remaining unmet requirements in students’ declared degree programs. Students are encouraged to review their degree audit each term, report any inaccuracies or questions to their academic advisor, and use the report to plan for degree completion. A completed plan of study is required for all students. The degree audit tools are for students and advisors to use to track progress toward degrees; it is not a substitute for academic advising, nor does it certify students for graduation.

A Student Guide to Academic Integrity

Indiana State University requires that all students read and support the Policy on Academic Integrity. Academic integrity is a core value of the University’s community of learners. Every member of the academic community (students, faculty, and staff) is expected to maintain high standards of integrity in all facets of work and study. The Policy on Academic Integrity describes appropriate academic conduct in research, writing, assessment, and ethics. The policy is found in the Code of Student Conduct, Section 2.0.

Academic integrity plays an important role in every aspect of the academic experience:

• Academic integrity affirms the importance of learning and the mastery of subject matter in a given discipline.
• Academic integrity is critical to the reputation of the institution and to the degrees conferred by that institution.
• Academic integrity and the sharing of knowledge must be based on honesty and truthfulness. Knowledge tainted by dishonesty has no value.
• Persons who engage in academic integrity violations cheat themselves and the entire University.
• Academic integrity is the cornerstone of Indiana State’s community of learners.

Academic integrity violations are not tolerated at Indiana State University. Penalties can be severe and include:

• Failing the assignment
• Failing the course
• Referral to Student Conduct and Integrity to face formal conduct charges. Students found responsible may be temporarily separated (suspended)  or permanently separated (expelled) and may also have a permanent notation affixed to the official transcript indicating that an academic integrity violation occurred.

Students are urged to discuss questions regarding academic integrity with instructors, advisers, or with the Academic Deans.

Standards of Classroom Behavior

Disruption or obstruction of teaching or other University activities is a violation of the Code of Student Conduct. The primary responsibility for managing the classroom environment rests with the faculty. Students who engage in any prohibited or unlawful acts that result in disruption of a class may be directed by the faculty member to leave the class for the remainder of the class period. Longer suspensions from a class, or dismissal on disciplinary grounds, must be proceeded by a disciplinary conference or hearing, as set forth in The Code of Student Conduct. Any behavior that allegedly violates the Code of Student Conduct will likely result in a referral to the Office of Student Conduct and Integrity.

Residence Credit

For undergraduate students, any course offered for credit by Indiana State University and for which a student must register is designated as residence credit. Credit by examination, placement, and work experience are excluded from residence credit.

Military Activation Policy

If a student is called to active duty during a semester in which they are enrolled at Indiana State University, the student may elect one of the following options:   

1.       PRIOR TO MID-TERM: The student may withdraw from all classes if they are called to active duty prior to mid-term and will automatically be entitled to a 100% reversal of all tuition and academic fees that they have been assessed for that academic semester.  A student who elects to withdraw must provide a copy of their orders to the Office of the Registrar Parsons 009.

2.       AFTER MID-TERM: If notification of the call to active duty comes after the mid-term examinations or after substantial graded work has been completed, the student may elect one of the following options:

a.    Withdraw from all classes and receive a 100% reversal of all tuition and academic fees assessed the student for that academic semester.

b.    Request an Incomplete (IN) in their courses in order to complete all required coursework upon return to the University. Deans and faculty are encouraged to extend the deadline beyond the customary period once the student has returned from active duty.  The student must provide a copy of the return from deployment to their dean/advisor. The student will not be required to pay additional tuition or academic fee charges on these classes at the time of course completion; however, they will be required to pay the originally assessed fees in accordance with published guidelines applicable to the term for which the Incomplete (IN) was requested.   

3.    Final 20% of Term: If activation is within the final 20% of the term, deans/faculty may choose to award credit to a student who has satisfactorily completed a substantial amount of coursework. 

Room and board charges will be adjusted according to the move out date and no penalties will be assessed for early move outs.  The student will be charged for the time they lived in the residence halls. Students receiving financial aid will be subject to the refund policies as provided by sponsoring agencies, e.g., Title IV, State, or third party. A student called to active duty who has received Perkins Loans Funds will need to contact the Bursar’s Office to discuss a military deferment.

Readmission:  Applicable policies will be waived for any reservists whose active duty extended beyond the time limitations and who wishes to enroll in the semester immediately following release from active duty.

Extended Learning

Indiana State Online. Indiana State Online offers baccalaureate degree programs and minors for freshmen and transfer students. Those who wish to enroll in a distance degree program must declare an official major when applying for admission to the university.  The majority of distance programs are 100% online, but some may require a few campus visits.

Eligibility-Freshman: Students must meet the specific eligibility requirements and be admitted to Indiana State University to enroll in distance program classes.

Eligibility-Transfer: Students who have accumulated credit hours from accredited institutions or have earned articulated associate of science degrees (A.S.) or associate of applied science degrees (A.A.S.) may be eligible to enroll in Indiana State Online programs. Articulation agreements have been established with selected colleges and universities.

Transfer of Credit: Transfer of credit depends on each student’s program of study, academic record, and the institution from which the credit is transferred.

Online Learning. Indiana State University offers a variety of online courses via the Internet for campus students.

Distance courses, programs, and minors:

• are the full equivalent of our campus programs,
• receive the same accreditation as campus programs, and
• are taught by ISU faculty.

Special resources are available for on-line learners. Visit Extended Learning’s website or contact the office for additional information. 

State Specific Information. State specific information concerning Indiana State Online distance programs can be found at State Information and should be reviewed before applying for admission.

Precollege Programs

College Challenge (Dual Credit). Selected courses from Indiana State University are offered to high school students at designated high schools. These college-level courses are taught by high school teachers who have been approved by the University’s appropriate academic department and, in effect, are serving as ISU adjunct instructors. Contact the College Challenge director at 812-237-2670 for additional information.

Summer Honors Program. The High School Summer Honors Program is coordinated by the Office of Admissions and provides one week of intensive academic challenge for talented high school students who have completed their sophomore or junior year of high school. To qualify for the program, students must have completed their sophomore or junior year during the current academic year, rank in the upper 25 percent of their respective class or have maintained at least a “B” average, and be recommended by their high school counselor, teacher, or principal. Selected freshmen are permitted to enroll in some of the seminars on a space available basis. Each seminar is discipline centered, focusing on a specific body of content. Upon successful completion of the program, students earn one hour of credit. The High School Summer Honors Program began in 1969 and assists Indiana State University in generating an atmosphere of academic excellence throughout curricula.