The College uses a standard letter grading system to evaluate work against published course outcomes.
Plus/minus grades (for example B+, B−) may be used at the instructor’s discretion, with corresponding grade points (B+ = 3.3, B− = 2.7).
Instructors publish grading criteria, weights, and rubrics in the syllabus at the start of the term. Graded work is returned with feedback in a timely manner — typically within one week for on-time work. Grades reflect achievement relative to the stated course outcomes.
An “I” may be granted at the instructor’s discretion when extraordinary circumstances (such as serious illness) prevent a student who is passing from finishing on time. It requires a written agreement on the remaining work and a deadline, typically within six weeks of the term’s end. If the work is not completed by the deadline, the “I” converts to an “F” (or the default grade in the agreement).
The College is a live-seminar institution; active attendance and participation in synchronous sessions are required. Attendance is recorded each session. Up to two absences per four-credit course are permitted without penalty; additional absences reduce the participation grade and may trigger a standing review. Cameras are on during seminar discussion unless an approved accommodation applies.
After an absence, review the class recording (when available), get notes, and coordinate make-up work with the instructor promptly. For a short absence, email the instructor within a week with written responses to the session’s guiding questions. Instructors are not obligated to recreate live sessions; alternative assignments may be assigned.
During the first two weeks, you may add or drop courses; dropped courses do not appear on the transcript. After add/drop, withdrawing before the published deadline (typically the seventh week) results in a “W.” Degree-seeking students in good standing may request a leave of absence, generally up to one year.
First, contact the instructor with specific concerns; the instructor reviews the work and explains in writing. If unresolved, submit a written appeal to the Dean of Faculty stating the grounds (procedural error or new evidence); the Dean issues a written decision. You may then appeal to the Provost, whose decision is final.
The College monitors Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) each term so students stay on pace to complete their program while meeting quality expectations. SAP applies to all credit-bearing programs (certificate, associate, bachelor’s).
You must meet both a quality standard and a pace standard at each evaluation:
SAP is evaluated at the end of each term after grades post. Midterm advising checks help identify students who may need early support. SAP is recalculated when a grade changes (for example, when an Incomplete is resolved).
A student placed on Suspension or Dismissal may appeal in writing within ten (10) business days, describing extenuating circumstances (with documentation), explaining what has changed, and — for suspension — proposing an Academic Plan. An independent faculty reviewer and the Dean of Faculty decide within ten business days; the decision is final.
You return to Good Standing by meeting all SAP standards at the next evaluation, or by satisfying the terms of an approved Academic Plan.
The College’s community is founded on honesty, trust, fairness, respect, and responsibility. Students are expected to submit only their own work (unless collaboration is expressly permitted), to cite sources properly, and to treat classmates and faculty with civility in all seminars and discussions.
Unless a syllabus or assignment explicitly permits specific uses, assume that generative-AI and automated tools are not allowed for producing graded work. When permitted, follow the assignment’s rules and disclose and attribute the tools you used. Brainstorming, locating sources, and grammar checks may be allowed with disclosure; having an AI compose, paraphrase, analyze, translate into your final wording, or fabricate citations is prohibited unless expressly permitted. Each instructor states the rules for AI in the syllabus or assignment.
Use only your assigned account; do not share credentials. Participate in seminars under your name on file and, when requested, with your camera on. Assessment relies on live seminar discussion, analytical writing, and oral defense to reflect authentic work. (See Identity Verification.)
Anyone may report a suspected violation to the instructor or the Dean of Faculty. You are told the allegation and the evidence and may respond in writing, normally within five business days. Decisions use the preponderance-of-evidence standard and are recorded in your academic file.
Sanctions are proportionate to severity, intent, and history:
You may appeal an integrity decision within ten (10) business days on grounds of procedural error, new evidence, or a disproportionate sanction. An independent faculty reviewer and the Dean of Faculty decide within ten business days; the decision is final. Before your first course, you complete an Academic Integrity orientation and sign an acknowledgment.
