Academic Regulations

Changes in University Regulations

The University of Arkansas at Monticello reserves the right to change the fees, rules, and calendar that regulate admission and registration, instruction, and graduation from the University. The University further reserves the right to change any other regulations affecting the student body. Changes shall become effective whenever proper authorities determine and shall apply not only to prospective students but also to those currently enrolled in the University.

Academic Sessions

The academic year includes two regular semesters in the fall and spring and two summer terms. The fall semester begins in late August and concludes prior to the Christmas holiday. The spring semester begins in early January and concludes in mid- May. The two summer sessions are normally scheduled between June 1 and August 15.

Academic Credit

The University operates on a semester calendar. One hour of credit represents an amount of work equivalent to one 50-minute lecture each week for a minimum of 15 weeks. From two to three hours of laboratory work constitute the equivalent of one hour of lecture.

Classification

Students are classified at the beginning of each semester based upon accumulated semester hours of credit earned. Students who have earned fewer than 30 credits are classified as freshmen; sophomores have earned at least 30 credits; juniors at least 60 credits; and seniors at least 90 credits.

Grading System

*A grade of “C” or better must be earned in some courses in order to progress to the next higher course level or to graduate in some majors.

A student may receive an incomplete, “I,” when warranted by circumstances out of the control of the student (i.e. serious illness, death in the family) that make completion of course requirements impossible by the conclusion of the semester. The student must have completed all course work for at least two-thirds of the semester and must be passing the course at the time of the event leading to the request. The awarding of an Incomplete is at the discretion of the instructor after the student has made the request. An instructor will not award an Incomplete unless a student has made such a request. The option must be discussed between the instructor and student, concluding in a written agreement outlining the specific requirements remaining to be satisfied for completion of the course. The Incomplete Course Completion Form must be filed at the time final grades for the term are submitted with each of the following signatures: course instructor, head of academic unit offering the course, and the student. A notation of “I” will be posted on the academic transcript. An “I” will not affect term and cumulative credits and grade point averages for the term in which the Incomplete is granted and subsequent enrollment terms during the time limit. A student may not re­enroll in an Incomplete course within the time limit allotted for completing the course. A grade of “I” may affect financial aid availability. The instructor will set the deadline for completion of all work, not to exceed one calendar year. Failure to complete course requirements by the deadline will automatically result in the replacement of the incomplete with a grade of “F” with the credits and grade point averages recalculated to reflect this change.

Except for the grade of “I”, no course grade will be changed unless an error has been made. All grades earned will remain on the permanent record. A grade of “D” or “F”, for example, will remain on a student’s permanent record, even though a higher grade may be recorded for the course in question, after it has been repeated.

Grading criteria for specific courses, outlining the basis on which grades are assigned, can be found in course syllabi.

Releasing/Restricting Student Education Records

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. “Education records” are “those records, files, documents, and other materials which 1) contain information directly related to a student; and 2) are maintained by an educational institution” as per 20U.S.C. § 1232g(a)(4)(A); 34 CFR § 99.3. FERPA applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

Generally speaking, FERPA allows the University to disclose education records or personally identifiable information from education records in the following circumstances: (1) with the written consent of the student; (2) if the disclosure meets one of the statutory exemptions*; or (3) if the disclosure is “directory information”, and the student has not placed a hold on release of “directory information”.

At UAM the following items are considered “directory information”:

1. Name
2. Address
3. Telephone number
4. Photograph
5. Date and place of birth
6. Nationality
7. Parent’s name and address
8. Spouse’s name and address
9. Marital status
10. Religious preference
11. Number of hours enrolled
12. Number of hours completed
13. Classification by year
14. Dates of attendance at University
15. Major Field of study
16. Participation in recognized activities and sports
17. Weight and height (athletic teams)
18. Scholarships, honors, degrees and awards received
19. Name of most recent educational institution
20. Campus e-mail address

Restricting Information

At any time, students may restrict the release of any/all “directory information” by visiting the student’s WeevilNet self-service account and accessing the “Security” tab on the Personal Information page to enter the restriction. Students should be aware that restricting the release of “directory information” has other consequences. For example, depending upon the particular directory items restricted, the University may not notify a student’s hometown newspaper about awards and honors received, may not verify enrollment to a third party, or may not verify degree completion to a third party.

Release of Information

Except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent*, personally identifiable information from a student’s education records, other than “directory information”, will not be disclosed without prior written consent of the student. This includes the following information concerning a student: 1) Academic (except for academic items listed as “directory information”); 2) Financial; 3) Disciplinary; 4) Health; and 5) Psychological. If a student wants the University to release any and/or all of the above information to a parent, spouse, or other third party, the student must visit the student’s WeevilNet self-service account and access the “Release of Information” link below the personal information section. The release is valid from date entered throughout continuous enrollment. Any changes or updates must be submitted through the same link.

The custodian of educational records (the Registrar) will maintain a record of each request for access to and each disclosure of protected personally identifiable information from the education records of each student, which will be maintained with the education records for as long as the education records are maintained.

If information is released by the University, the student may request, and the University will provide, a copy of the records which have been disclosed. The student will be responsible for payment of a copying fee.

*Note: The University may disclose personally identifiable information from a student’s record without consent to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the university in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the university has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks; a volunteer or other party performing an institutional service or function for the University. A legitimate educational interest exists if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his/ her professional responsibilities for the University, including, but not limited to, performing a task in furtherance of the University’s educational mission; performing an administrative task outlined in the official’s duties; performing a supervisory or instructional task directly related to a student’s education; or providing a service or benefit for a student such as health care, counseling, job placement, or financial aid. School officials may not access student records for personal reasons.

As well, the University may disclose personally identifiable information from a student’s record without consent under the following conditions: 1) “directory information” not specifically restricted by the student; 2) disclosure is to an educational agency or institution where the student intends to enroll or seek services; 3) disclosure is to a federal, state or local agency in connection with an audit or evaluation of a federal or state program or for the enforcement of or compliance with federal or state-supported programs; 4) disclosure is in connection with an audit or evaluation of a federal or state program or for the enforcement of or compliance with federal or state-supported programs; 5) disclosure is in connection with a student’s application for or receipt of financial aid; 6) disclosure is to a state or local official to whom such information is required to be reported under any state statute enacted prior to 11/17/74; 7) disclosure is to federal, state or local agencies for the purpose of developing, validating, or administering predictive tests or administering financial aid or improving instruction; 8) disclosure is to an accrediting organization to carry out its accrediting functions; 9) disclosure is to the parents of a dependent student as defined by section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code; 10) disclosure is to comply with a judicial order or a lawfully issued subpoena (the University must make a reasonable effort to notify the student of the order or subpoena in advance of compliance); 11) disclosure is to appropriate persons, agencies, institutions, or organizations in connection with an emergency if knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student and/or of other persons; 12) disclosure is to the student

Inspect and Review Records

A student has the right to inspect and review his/her education records, with some exceptions under the Act, within 45 days of the day the university receives a request for access. Students should submit to the Office of the Registrar written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The university official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the university official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.

Amendment of Records

A student has the right to request the amendment of his/ her education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Students should write the university official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the university decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the university will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

Complaints

A student has the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the university to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is as follows:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington DC 20202-4605

Academic Clemency

In order to provide a second opportunity for undergraduate students who performed poorly at some point in their studies, the University of Arkansas at Monticello has a policy on academic clemency. This policy is designed to help former students who have gained a new respect and commitment to higher education and the career opportunities that come from a college degree.

To be eligible for academic clemency, the student must not have been enrolled in any institution of higher education for a period of 5 years or more. The student must be enrolled at UAM. The request for clemency must be made within the first semester of the student’s enrollment at UAM or the first semester the student is returning to UAM after being absent for a period of 5 years or more.

To be considered for academic clemency, the student must agree in writing to the following stipulations:

• All grades and credits earned in all semesters for which clemency is granted will be forfeited.
• All grades and credits for which clemency is granted will not count in computing GPA or in meeting requirements for graduation.
• The transcript will continue to contain the entire academic record, including the grade earned for each course. However, a notation will be made showing the semesters for which clemency was granted. The credit hours will become zero.
• Academic clemency can be granted only once in an individual’s academic career and such declaration and granting is final and irreversible.
• In regard to financial history, state and federal regulations take precedence over the institutional policy of academic clemency.
• The academic clemency at UAM pertains only to UAM, and other institutions may or may not honor this policy.

In the case of transfer students who have received academic clemency at another accredited college or university, UAM will honor the clemency established at the previous institution. UAM will allow academic clemency for work taken at UAM or at another institution.

Students interested in pursuing academic clemency should contact the Office of Academic Affairs for the appropriate form and instructions.

Chancellor’s List

After each fall and spring semester, the University publishes the Chancellor’s List of all undergraduate students whose semester grade point average is 4.00 for 12 or more hours of course work at the 10000-40000 level.

Dean’s List

After each fall and spring term, the University publishes the Dean’s List of all undergraduate students whose semester grade point average is 3.50 or higher for 12 or more hours of course work at the 10000-40000 level.

Course Prerequisites and Corequisites

No student may enroll in a course until successfully completing all prerequisites or concurrently enrolling in the corequisite. The instructor may withdraw any student who does not comply with this regulation. The head of the academic unit in which the course is taught may approve exceptions to this policy.

Course Numbers and Symbols

All courses are described as follows: a 4-digit alpha prefix identifying the discipline, 1 space, and then a 5-digit numeric suffix. The first number of the numeric suffix identifies the course level; the second and third numbers are course identifiers; the fourth character has multi-purpose uses; the fifth indicates credit hours. Example: ENGL 10103 indicates the discipline is English, the course level as freshmen, the course as Composition I, and the credit hours as 3.

Degree Pathways: Academic Program Eligibility

To facilitate student success, the University has defined degree pathways based upon student skill sets necessary to succeed at an entry level. Therefore, the following ACT Composite scores are required for immediate entry into an academic program. Students who successfully complete their initial placement may pursue additional levels of certificates/degrees, if so desired.

Students may request reconsideration up to one certificate/degree program level above their initial placement. To appeal, students must submit a Degree Pathways Request for Reconsideration Form with the required documentation to the Office of Academic Affairs or the Director of Instruction (Crossett or McGehee campus) at least two weeks prior to the first day of class for the term or semester of desired admission. For other placement scores, students falling within the Conditional Prep status must declare a technical certificate or file a Degree Pathways request for reconsideration.

Enrollment in Developmental Courses

The UAM developmental education program is designed to identify academically under-prepared students and assist in developing their abilities to successfully meet the requirements of college-level courses.

Students with developmental education needs and who are admitted to associate or bachelor’s degree programs are placed in math and/or English courses in compliance with the Arkansas Division of Higher Education approved UAM Student Placement Policy.

All students including individuals enrolled in developmental courses should be enrolled in at least 15 credit hours of coursework each fall and spring terms to ensure steady academic progress toward “on-time” degree completion.

*All majors from Mathematical and Natural Sciences and Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources as STEM. All others are Non-STEM.

**Students may be exempt from Composition Lab, Quantitative Literacy with Review or College Algebra with Review sections with a successful in-house placement exam.

Required Orientation Course

To assure that students have knowledge of university support services, regulations, and academic opportunities, as well as the skills necessary to succeed academically, all first-time freshmen enrolled in an associate’s or bachelor’s degree program are required to successfully complete an orientation course. Depending on various circumstances, a student will enroll in UNIV 11171 - Pathway to Success ; UNIV 10373 - Discover Your Pathway to Success ; or an orientation class distinct to the student’s major. Students admitted provisionally may also fulfill the requirement of an orientation course with TECH 10131 - Technical Orientation . First-time freshmen will receive guidance from their advisors in selecting an appropriate orientation experience.

Repetition of Courses

Students may not repeat a course in which a “B” or “A” has been earned, unless specifically required to do so by their program of study. All courses attempted (including repeats) will remain on the transcript. The last grade earned will be used in computing grade point average. NOTE: If a student repeats a course in which a passing grade was earned and receives an “F,” the credit previously earned will be invalidated; the grade of “F” will be used in computing the grade point average. A grade of “W” will count as an attempt but will not replace a previous grade or credit hours for a course.

Independent Study Courses for Undergraduates

It is sometimes desirable, and in the best interest of students’ academic growth, that they be allowed to engage in independent study or research. Independent study or research courses will carry a course number of 4790V in each discipline and are open only to students who meet the following criteria:

1. completion of 60 hours;
2. completion of a minimum of 12 hours of course work in the discipline of the independent study or research;
3. a 3.00 cumulative grade point average in the discipline in which the research is conducted.

Independent study and research courses will require extensive independent study and research, formal written reports, and regular conferences with the instructor. A detailed description of the proposal and its requirements must be submitted for approval to the academic dean and the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. Students may complete only one independent study/research project per semester. Independent study/ research proposals should not duplicate existing courses in the academic catalog.

Undergraduates Enrolled in Graduate Courses

Undergraduate students within 30 hours of graduation and who have at least a 3.0 cumulative grade point average may petition to enroll in graduate courses. The petition requires approval by the course instructor, the graduate program coordinator, the academic dean or chair of the unit offering the course, and the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs/Graduate Dean. Undergraduate students enrolling in and successfully completing graduate courses can apply the credits to their undergraduate programs. If consistent with the requirements of a specific graduate program, those graduate credits may also subsequently apply toward a UAM graduate credential. Refer to Graduate Programs  section of the catalog for requirements and limitations.

Undergraduate Special Topics Courses

Courses numbered 1980V and 3990V, with variable credit of 1 to 3 hours, are available in each discipline to allow academic units the freedom to offer selected topics on an as-needed basis at the lower or upper level. Such special topics courses must be approved by the instructor, academic dean, and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. A course syllabus for any given special topics class must be submitted as part of the approval process. To enroll in a special topics course, students must meet the prerequisites and/or corequisites as specified in the course syllabus and must meet any grade point requirements as stated in the syllabus or University catalog. A combined maximum of 6 credit hours may be earned in 1980V and 3990V special topics classes.

Audit

Students who audit a course do not receive credit for the course, and the instructor does not evaluate the progress of the student. After the deadline for registration has passed, students may not change from audit to credit status.

Non-Classroom Credit

Recognizing the fact that individuals are often able to learn concepts, skills, and information essentially equivalent to college-level learning, yet acquired outside the traditional college classroom setting, the University offers students the opportunity to earn college credit through special examination, evaluation, and other procedures. A maximum of 30 college credit hours may be awarded for non-classroom credit.

Students may earn academic credit without letter grades through these procedures by satisfactorily completing:

1. requirements and examinations in approved correspondence courses;
2. approved examinations in the College Entrance Examination Board ‘s Advanced Placement program;
3. approved examinations in the College Level Examination Program (CLEP);
4. examinations prepared by the appropriate academic unit;
5. assessment of prior military training;
6. completion of law enforcement and corrections training;
7. National Career Readiness Certificate;
8. International Baccalaureate Program; and
9. prior work and/or life experiences (experiential learning).

1. Correspondence Courses

The maximum correspondence credit accepted is 15 semester hours. All students enrolled at the University of Arkansas at Monticello who pursue correspondence work must have prior approval of their academic advisor, academic dean, and the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. The test must be taken either at the University of Arkansas at Monticello Testing Center or at the institution offering the correspondence course. If this procedure is not followed, the University may refuse to accept the hours for credit. Correspondence credit may not be taken when the same course is offered on campus, except in the case of absolute conflicts and with the permission of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.
Correspondence courses will not be used to satisfy General Education requirements, and some specific courses must be taken in residence.

The institution sponsoring the correspondence course must provide the University with a transcript or notification of completion. Credit will not be granted unless the grade for the correspondence work is a “C” or better.

2. Advanced Placement Credit

UAM will grant college credit for courses successfully completed in the Advanced Placement Program of the College Entrance Examination Board by an entering freshman while in high school. The semester hours of credit permitted will be that allowed for the corresponding course or sequence of courses at UAM, but no grade will be assigned. Students receiving Advanced Placement Credit for a course may not earn CLEP credit for a prerequisite to this course.

The tests and scores accepted by the University are:

*Credit will be considered on a case by case basis as determined by the academic unit.

This listing is frequently updated to reflect changes in the Advanced Placement program. For current information contact the Office of Academic Affairs at (870) 460-1032.

3. Credit by Examination

Students may gain college credit in a number of subjects through some nationally sponsored examination programs such as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP). Specific information about what tests can be taken for course credit can be obtained through the Testing Office located in Student Success Center, second floor, Monticello campus, (870) 460-1454.

4. Credit by Academic Unit Examination

In some instances, students may earn credit for selected 10000-40000 level courses by passing a specially prepared Academic Unit Examination. Academic Unit Examinations are not available for all courses. Students wishing to take an Academic Unit Examination must complete a form available in each academic unit, obtain permission from the academic dean, the professor of record (a full-time faculty member), and the appropriate Vice Chancellor.

Academic Unit Examinations can only be taken during a regular academic semester. Requests for credit by Academic Unit Examination must be submitted and approved by the 26th day of the semester. Exams must be administered within 5 weeks following the approval.

Students may not attempt credit by Academic Unit Examination in any course:

1. For which an approved CLEP examination is available,
2. When the student has already attempted the course,
3. When the student has completed a more advanced course for which credit by Academic Unit Examination is a prerequisite,
4. Below the 10000-level.

A maximum of 6 technical credit hours and 12 non-technical credit hours may be earned through credit by Academic Unit Examination. Academic deans have details regarding specific examinations as well as current fee information.

5. Credit for Prior Military Training

The University may award up to 12 credit hours for prior military training courses listed in the latest edition of the American Council on Education’s A Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services. The evaluation must be presented to the University on an official transcript from A.C.E. or a Joint Services Transcript (JST). For further information contact the Office of the Registrar.

6. Credit for Law Enforcement and Corrections Training

The University may award up to 6 credit hours for successful completion of the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy or the Academy of the Arkansas Department of Corrections, or equivalent certified law enforcement/correctional officer training at the state or federal level. Students who have completed both law enforcement officer and correctional officer training may be eligible for up to 6 credit hours for each distinct training. No more than 12 credit hours total will be awarded for law enforcement and corrections training. Based on the evaluation of the nature of the training, the Dean of Social and Behavioral Sciences and the Criminal Justice faculty will determine for which specific criminal justice courses the training can be substituted.

For further information contact the Office of the Registrar at (870) 460-1034 or School of Social and Behavioral Sciences at (870) 460-1047.

7. National Career Readiness Certificate

The WorkKeys assessment measures the essential work skills needed for success in jobs across industries and occupations and represents work readiness through the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC®). The primary purpose of the NCRC is to provide students with a workplace certification that represents their knowledge and skills in Applied Math, Graphic Literacy, and Workplace Documents.

The University will review a student’s Platinum, Gold, Silver, or Bronze credential through the ACT WorkKeys (NCRC) to award appropriate technical credit toward the attainment of a postsecondary technical certificate or degree. Any student who is interested in credit for their NCRC should contact the Assistant Vice Chancellor at the College of Technology campus where the credit will be applied.

8. International Baccalaureate Program (IB)

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program, a comprehensive and rigorous two-year high school curriculum, is offered in the United States and around the world. The IB program gives high school students the opportunity to pursue college-level studies and to receive credit for final examinations upon entering the University.

Students seeking credit for IB examinations must request that a final, official IB transcript of certificate or diploma results be sent by mail to the UAM Office of Admissions.

Approval has been granted by appropriate academic units to award credit in the following courses. The minimum scores were established by the academic units of the subject areas.

9. Credit for prior work and/or life experiences

In some instances, the University may award up to 12 credit hours of experiential learning credit toward a baccalaureate degree; a maximum of 9 hours towards a master’s degree (not to exceed 25% of the hours required for the degree); a maximum of 6 credit hours toward an associate degree; or 6 technical credit hours toward an associate of applied science or technical certificate. Credit will not be awarded for any course for which a grade was received in the past 6 years. Credit will not be awarded for any course in which there is a College Level Examination Program (CLEP) test available at UAM. Credit for work and/or life experience will be awarded a grade of “credit” only; no letter grade (A, B, C, D, or F) will be assigned to prior work and/or life experience credit.

Any student who is interested in credit for prior work and/or life experiences should contact the dean of the academic unit or the Assistant Vice Chancellor at the College of Technology campuses campus where the credit will be applied. A student seeking experiential credit will be assigned a faculty advisor who will work with the student to develop an assessment plan (approved by the academic dean) to evaluate work and/or life experiences for academic credit/no credit. Evidence that supports the assessment plan for the experiential learning credit must be submitted to the faculty advisor at least 30 days prior to the end of the semester of course enrollment.

Student Load and Definition of Full/Part-Time Students

Full-time undergraduate student status requires registration in at least 12 semester hours of courses. Students registered in less than 12 semester hours will be considered part-time status. A normal load is considered 15 semester hours.

The maximum number of semester hours in which a student with less than a GPA of 3.00 may enroll is 18. A student who has a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or who has applied for graduation, may register for a maximum of 21 hours for the current semester. Students who do not meet the GPA requirement or graduation criteria must have approval of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs before registering for more than 18 hours. All students wishing to register for more than 18 semester hours must pay tuition and fees for the additional registration.

Students may register for a total of 7 semester hours per summer session not to exceed 14 semester hours during the combined summer sessions. Mini-courses, field studies, and courses across summer sessions are excluded from this 14-hour maximum. Students enrolled in at least 6 hours during the summer session will be considered full-time status. Less than 6 hours will be considered part-time status during the summer.

Schedule Changes (Drop/Add) and Withdrawal

For Fall and Spring semesters, students may add courses to their schedules, with the approval of their assigned advisor, only during the first through third class days of the semester. Students may drop a course, or withdraw from all courses, through the first 11 days of classes with no grade or course listed.

In a summer term, these periods are shorter; specific deadline dates are listed in the University Calendar.

A processing fee will be charged for each change of schedule except during the registration period.

During a fall or spring semester, courses dropped and withdrawals accomplished will be recorded on a student’s transcript as follows:

First 11 class days - no course listed;
12th class day through 50th class day - grade of “W” only;
After the 50th class day, no drops or withdrawals.

Any student who experiences an unexpected extenuating circumstance after the 50th class day and finds it necessary to leave the University may appeal to the Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs or his/her assigned designee for an exception to the above policy. The student is required to include supporting documentation for the appeal. The Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs may also consider the student’s attendance in class before rendering a decision.

To drop a course, a student should begin at the office of his/ her academic advisor. To completely withdraw from the University, a student should begin at the Registrar’s Office, return any library books, laboratory keys, University equipment, and check out of the residence hall.

When an emergency or other special circumstance makes it impossible for a student to withdraw in person, the student may correspond with the Office of the Registrar to make other arrangements.

Students who stop attending a course (or all courses) without dropping or withdrawing officially will receive a grade of “F” in each course(s).

Attendance Regulations

Regular class attendance is considered an essential part of the students’ educational experience and a requirement for adequate evaluation of academic progress. The faculty considers that college students, as mature individuals, will recognize the need for regular attendance and will comply with this requirement. Faculty may establish specific attendance requirements that will be stated in the course syllabus.

Student Absences Due to Participation in University-Sponsored Events

At times, a student may participate in a University-sponsored activity that causes the student to miss one or more class meetings. When this occurs, the sponsor of the activity will provide the student with a memo that includes the event, dates and times of the event, and the student’s name. The student will individually contact each of his/her instructors to discuss the class(es) to be missed. This discussion should occur at least one week prior to the anticipated absence. The student is responsible for all material covered and any class activities during the absence. The sponsor of the activity will also provide all academic deans and the Office of Academic Affairs a description of the activity that includes the location, dates, and a list of campus participants.

Policy on Visitors

All visitors to a class are required to have the permission of the instructor. Visitors to any classroom or University facility must not be disruptive or present a safety hazard. Anyone planning to visit a class for more than 4 sessions will be required to enroll in the class as an auditor.

Grade Point Average

A student’s cumulative grade point average represents only those grades earned in residence at the University. Grades earned in courses at other institutions and transferred to the University will not be used in calculating cumulative grade point averages. Additionally, correspondence courses will not be included in cumulative grade point averages.

The grade point average of a student who takes a course at UAM and then repeats the course at another institution will not be affected by the grade earned at the transfer institution, even if the grade earned there is sufficient (“C” or better) to allow the credit to be accepted at UAM.

NOTE: Except for repeats, a minimum 2.00 cumulative grade point average (GPA) is required to enroll in a junior (30000) or senior (40000) level course. Any exceptions to this policy must be approved by the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs or designee.

Conditional Prep Status

The Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board has indicated that beginning January 2013, a first-time associate or baccalaureate degree seeking student with a high school diploma or GED and/or a composite score of 15 or below on the ACT, 690 or below on the SAT, 62 or below on the COMPASS Reading Skills test, 35 or below on the ASSET Reading Skills test, or 68 or below on the ACCUPLACER Reading exam will be admitted to the institution under the Conditional Prep Status.

A student who is admitted under the Conditional Prep Status must:

1. Declare a technical certificate program as his/her primary plan of study. A student may file a Degree Pathways appeal to attempt entry into a certificate/degree program one level above his/her initial placement.
2. Sign an Enrollment Agreement that outlines the requirements of satisfactory academic progress and continued enrollment. This Enrollment Agreement must also include an individualized degree plan that must be signed by the student and the student’s academic advisor;
3. Enroll in a freshman seminar/orientation course. This orientation course must be repeated each semester until it has been successfully completed;
4. Participate in a comprehensive advising/hold on the registration process; and;
5. Complete any necessary developmental courses during the first 30 semester credit hours.

At the end of each semester, the records of students actively admitted under Conditional Prep Status are reviewed by the Office of Academic Affairs or Director of Instruction on the appropriate technical campus. A student who has not completed the requirements of the Enrollment Agreement with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.00 will be required to enroll in the appropriate course(s).

First-Time Freshmen: 8-Semester Program of Study

Pursuant to Arkansas Act 1014 of 2005, first-time freshmen may elect to participate in a guaranteed 8-semester degree completion program for most bachelor’s degrees offered at the University. During fall and spring terms, all first-time freshmen must submit a signed acceptance of an 8-Semester Program of Study or a waiver of the 8-Semester Program of Study by the 5th class day.

The degree majors that are included in the 8-semester degree completion program are:

B.A. in Art
B.A. in Communication
B.A. in English
B.A. in History
B.A. in Music
B.A. in Political Science
B.B.A. in Accounting
B.B.A. in Business Administration
B.I.S. in General Studies
B.L.A. in Liberal Arts
B.S. in Agriculture
B.S. in Biology
B.S. in Chemistry
B.S. in Computer Information Systems
B.S. in Criminal Justice
B.S. in Education Studies, non-licensure
B.S. in Exercise Science
B.S. in Health and Physical Education, non-licensure
B.S. in Land Surveying, for those beginning in Fall Semester only
B.S. in Mathematics
B.S. in Natural Science
B.S. in Psychology
B.S. in Teaching and Learning, non-licensure
B.S.W. in Social Work

When choosing to participate in the guaranteed 8-semester degree completion program, the student accepts responsibility for monitoring his/her progress toward a degree and for making choices that will lead to graduation in 4 years. In accepting an 8-semester program of study for degree completion, the student acknowledges that he/she must do each of the following:

1. Follow exactly the 8-semester program of study with the understanding that any exceptions must be approved by the academic advisor, academic dean, and Academic Affairs.
2. Make satisfactory academic progress including maintaining a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.00 or greater overall, as well as maintaining the required grade point average in the major and, if applicable, the minor.
3. Be continuously enrolled in fall and spring terms and complete at least 30-36 semester credit hours of appropriate course work each academic year as outlined in the program of study.
4. Have each class schedule approved by the official academic advisor and register for classes each semester during the designated pre-registration or registration period.
5. Accept any available course section in scheduling classes for a new semester.

In accepting an 8-semester program of study for degree completion, the student acknowledges that any of the following will void the agreement: changing the major, dropping a course, failing a course, failing to earn a minimum grade required for a course, incurring academic probation or suspension, withdrawing from the University, failing to pay tuition and fees, failing to finalize registration, or incurring disciplinary actions or sanctions that affect academic progress.

Any first-time freshman who chooses not to commit to completion of the program of study within 8 semesters is required to sign a waiver. A waiver is appropriate for any student who has not declared a major, has declared a major not included in the 8-semester degree completion program, is not seeking a baccalaureate degree, is required to enroll in one or more developmental courses, or is not a full-time student.

Questions about the 8-semester program of study plans and procedures should be addressed to the Office of Academic Affairs at (870) 460-1032.

Academic Standing and Suspension

At the end of each fall and spring semester, the University reviews the term and cumulative grade point averages of all students. To make academic achievement and progress toward a degree, each student is expected to maintain both semester and cumulative grade point averages of 2.00 or higher. If either the cumulative or semester grade point average falls below 2.00, the student will be placed on academic probation. Academic probation carries no restrictions but serves as a notice that academic suspension from the University will follow unless the quality of academic work improves. The University will continue a student on academic probation until both the cumulative and semester grade point averages are 2.00 or higher. When both the cumulative and semester grade point averages are 2.00 or higher, the student is removed from academic probation.

Students on academic probation whose semester and cumulative grade point averages both fall below 2.00 will be subject to suspension from the University. The first suspension will be for one semester; the second suspension and any subsequent academic suspensions will last for one year each. An academic suspension may be appealed to the Academic Appeals Committee at the student’s respective location (Monticello, Crossett, or McGehee).

Students subject to their first academic suspension (one semester) at the end of the spring semester will be allowed to enroll in the fall semester if, during the summer, they earn at least 6 hours of course work at UAM (any of the 3 locations) with a minimum 2.00 grade point average on all courses attempted. Otherwise, they must sit out the fall semester or have a successful appeal.

Students subject to their first academic suspension (one-semester) at the end of the fall semester will have the option to enroll in a maximum of 9 hours of course work during the spring term to improve their GPA. They will be allowed to enroll in summer and/or fall classes if, during the spring semester, they earn at least 6 hours of course work at UAM (any of the 3 locations) with a minimum 2.00 grade point average on all courses attempted. Otherwise, they must sit out the summer and fall semesters or have a successful appeal.

The grade point averages of all students enrolled at UAM during the summer will be evaluated at the end of the second summer term on all courses attempted. Students whose cumulative grade point average meets the appropriate standard at the end of the summer will be removed from academic probation or academic suspension. Students will not be suspended or placed on academic probation based on their academic performance during the summer.

Any credit earned from another institution while a student is subject to suspension or suspended will not be accepted by UAM.

Suspended students who are not enrolled at any UAM location during a spring or fall semester must contact the Office of Admissions for readmission to the University.

NOTE: A student’s financial aid eligibility is based on grade point average and number of credit hours completed; therefore, financial aid standing may be different from academic standing. There is a separate appeals process for students on financial aid denial. Students should contact the Office of Financial Aid in Harris Hall for specific financial aid information.

Continuous Enrollment in Required Courses

All full-time students must be continuously enrolled in the appropriate English composition and mathematics courses until general education requirements in these areas have been met. A student enrolled in developmental mathematics, and/ or developmental English composition, and/or Composition I, must complete the course with a grade of “C” or higher. Part-time, degree-seeking students must complete the mathematics and English composition requirements in the first 30 credit hours attempted.

Honor Society

Alpha Chi is a national scholarship recognition society with more than 300 chapters nationwide. Its purpose is to promote academic excellence and exemplary character among college and university students and to honor those who achieve such distinction. As a general honor society, Alpha Chi admits to membership students from all academic disciplines. UAM’s chapter, Arkansas Zeta, was chartered in 1956. Membership is by invitation and is limited to students actively seeking academic degrees who: have completed at least 62 hours; academically rank in the upper ten percent of the Junior and Senior classes; have compiled at least a GPA of 3.60 or above; and have completed the general education requirement in English composition and mathematics. Transfer students must have completed at least 24 hours at UAM. Accumulated “W’s” may affect eligibility.

Transfer Policy

Transfer applicants must meet the minimum academic standing requirements as outlined elsewhere in this catalog and be admissible to the institution from which they are transferring. Students should contact the Office of the Registrar (870-460-1034) for additional information.

Transfer students must submit an ACT, ACCUPLACER, or SAT score when he/she has not completed a transferable course in mathematics which will satisfy the general education mathematics requirement or when he/she has not completed one semester of a transferable course in English composition. Course credit for acceptable work is transferred, but grades are not transferred; i.e. transfer work does not affect the UAM grade point average of a student.

Students on suspension from UAM may not transfer hours taken at any other institution during the suspension period.

Other regulations affecting transfer credit are:

1. Transferring students may receive credit for course work completed at an accredited post-secondary institution where a grade of “C” or higher has been earned. Credit is not awarded for course work completed at educational institutions judged not to be collegiate level.
2. Generally, the University does not accept transfer credit hours in which a grade of “D” was awarded. However, requests for exceptions to this transfer credit policy may be made to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. The following regulations apply:
   1. A student entering the University for the first time must make application during his/her first term of enrollment.
   2. Six (6) credit hours with grades of “D” will be the maximum allowed.
   3. Transfer hours accepted with grades of “D” will be applicable only to general education or to general electives.
3. No more than 6 credit hours of religion will count toward the degree requirements of a major.
4. A maximum of 68 credit hours may be transferred from a community, technical, or junior college. Exceptions may be made in instances where UAM has entered into articulation agreements with community, technical, or junior colleges.
5. The final decision regarding transfer course equivalents to University courses will be made by the University.
6. Military service, CLEP examination scores, and Advanced Placement scores may be evaluated for credit but will not be accepted as posted on another institution’s academic transcript. Original documentation must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar for evaluation.
7. Transfer students with less than a 2.00 cumulative grade point average or less than a 2.00 semester average for their last semester will be admitted on academic probation.

Transfer of Technical Credits

Generally, technical courses are not transferable as credit toward baccalaureate degrees. However, an exception for credit may be made for no more than 12 hours of technical course credit from an accredited technical school, college, or college of technology with the approval of the advisor, academic dean, the Office of Academic Affairs, and the Registrar through the Completion of a Recommendation for Course Equivalency, Waiver, or Substitution form.

Arkansas Course Transfer System

The Arkansas Course Transfer System (ACTS) contains information about the transferability of courses within Arkansas public colleges and universities. Students are guaranteed the transfer of applicable credits and the equitable treatment in the application of credits for the admissions and degree requirements. Course transferability is not guaranteed for courses listed in ACTS as “No Comparable Course.” Additionally, courses with a “D” frequently do not transfer and institutional policies may vary. ACTS may be accessed on the Internet from the Arkansas Division of Higher Education (ADHE) website (http://adhe.edu), select “Students” then “Arkansas Course Transfer System.”

Major Field of Study

Any student can declare a major field of study, at which time he/she will be assigned to an academic advisor in the academic unit offering the major. Students who are undecided about their major are advised by “General Studies” faculty advisors. Regardless of whether a major has been declared, students are encouraged to complete the general education requirements within their first 60 hours.

Some major programs have specific course work, grade point, or other requirements that must be met to continue in the field of study. Students should contact their academic advisor or the academic dean of the appropriate school or division for information about specific major requirements.

Students can change their major by completing a “Change of Major” form in the academic office of the desired major.

Declaring a Major

With the exception of a student who wishes to pursue the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (B.I.S.) degree, a student should declare a major field of study prior to earning 45 credit hours at the 10000-level or above. A student wishing to pursue the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree must earn 45 credit hours at the 10000-level or above before declaring himself/herself a B.I.S. major.

Academic Appeals Committee

The Academic Appeals Committees are composed of 7 full-time faculty members on the Monticello campus and 5 faculty/staff on the UAM College of Technology at Crossett and the UAM College of Technology at McGehee campuses. These committees are responsible for hearing student appeals of academic probation, suspension, and other academic matters. The Committee will hear appeals of grades if mediation by the academic dean or Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs cannot resolve a dispute. The Student Handbook, available from the UAM homepage, includes a detailed description of the appeals process.

Appeals should be addressed to the chief academic officer of each campus.

Degree Pathways Request for Reconsideration Committee

The Degree Pathways Request for Reconsideration Committee for the Monticello campus is composed of the Dean for School of Arts and Humanities, the Dean for School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic Success, and the academic dean relevant to the request. The UAM-COT of McGehee and the UAM-COT at Crossett Degree Pathways Request for Reconsideration Committees shall be composed of five (5) full-time faculty members from the student’s campus. The Student Handbook, available from the UAM home page, includes a detailed description of the reconsideration process.

Academic Code Violations

Cheating, which includes plagiarism, is a serious academic violation and involves a student obtaining a test, essay, research paper, presentation, project, quiz, or other course assignment or requirement with the intention of presenting it to the course instructor as one’s own work. Plagiarism is any instance in which a student uses the words and/or the ideas of another without proper documentation of the source for those words and/or ideas.

These violations are adjudicated through the academic violation process below:

1. An instructor who suspects that a student is guilty of cheating within the instructor’s class must inform the student of this suspicion, present evidence of the violation, and provide the student with an opportunity to respond to the accusation.
2. An instructor who believes a student is guilty of cheating within the instructor’s class may take any of the following actions: 1) issue a warning to the student; 2) lower the grade awarded to the student for the test or assignment; 3) require the student to retake the test or to re-do the assignment; 4) award no credit for the test or assignment; 5) award the student a failing grade for the course.
3. A student who receives any of the above actions and who believes the action is unjust may appeal the instructor’s decision as addressed in the academic appeals process. The student must initiate this process within ten class days of receiving written or oral notice of the action.

Transcripts

The University charges $10 (price subject to change) for each transcript issued.

Only the student may request his/her transcript. Transcripts may be requested as follows:

1. Online: http://www.getmytranscript.org/
2. In person. Students may to go the Cashier’s Office (Harris Hall, second floor, Monticello campus) during Cashier’s office hours and make payment for the transcript. The request and the receipt should be submitted to the Office of the Registrar in Harris Hall for transcript pickup. Arrangements can also be made to have the transcript mailed directly from the University.
3. By mail. Students should send a signed request including full name, social security number, contact information, and where to send the transcript to: Cashier’s Office, PO Box 3597, Monticello, AR 71656.

Upon specific request, transcripts may be faxed directly from the Office of the Registrar. However, students should be aware that recipients of such transcripts might not accept them as official. Faxing a transcript and mailing an official transcript are considered two separate transactions, and two separate fees will be charged.