ACADEMIC INFORMATION
STUDENT
RESPONSIBILITY
Each student is
responsible for the proper completion of his or her academic program, for
familiarity with the Francis Marion University Catalog, for maintaining the grade
point average required, and for meeting all other degree requirements.
The academic adviser
will counsel, but the final responsibility for a successful college career
rests with the student.
Students are required to
have knowledge of and observe all regulations pertaining to campus life and
student deportment.
The University’s Code of
Student Conduct is summarized in the Student Life chapter of this catalog and
stated in expanded form in the Student Handbook. As students willingly accept
the benefits of membership in the Francis
Marion University
academic community, they acquire obligations to observe and uphold the
principles and standards that define the terms of FMU community cooperation and
make those benefits possible.
Each student while
associated with the University is expected to participate in campus and
community life in a manner that will reflect credit upon the student and the
University.
Change of Name or
Address –
Each student is responsible for maintaining communication with the University
and keeping on file with the Office of the Registrar at all times any change in
name and current address, including zip code and telephone number. Failure to
do so can cause serious delay in the handling of student records and important
correspondence.
Information regarding
advising and pre-registration will be mailed to the local address for those
students who are currently enrolled. Because of its nature and purpose, campus
housing may not be regarded as a student’s permanent home address.
Student Evaluation of
Course and Instructor – Every semester students are provided the opportunity
to evaluate each course and its instructor so that educational quality may be
maintained and enhanced. All students are encouraged to respond to the
evaluation with honesty, sincerity, and a sense of confidentiality. The
evaluation is administered during class time, with the instructor leaving the
room while a designated student hands out forms, collects forms, and then
delivers the completed forms to the appropriate faculty secretary. These
evaluations are completely anonymous, and faculty members do not receive any
feedback until grades have been turned in to the Registrar. Upon noting that
these procedures of evaluation have not been followed, a student may contact
the Office of the Provost in order to confidentially notify the administration
of such failure to follow procedures.
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CATALOG POLICIES
The Francis Marion
University Catalog is not an irrevocable contract. Regulations published in it
are subject to change by the University at any time without notice. University
regulations are policy statements to guide students, faculty, and
administrative officers in achieving the goals of the institution.
Necessary
interpretations of these policies will be made by the appropriate authorities
with the interests of the students and the institution in mind. Students are
encouraged to consult an adviser if they have questions about the application
of any policy.
Each new edition of the catalog
becomes effective at the opening of the fall semester following its
publication. To receive a degree, an undergraduate student must complete
satisfactorily all requirements described in the catalog in effect at the time
of first enrollment as a degree student at the University or all requirements
described in the catalog in effect at the time of graduation. Any student who
changes from one major or minor to another must meet requirements of the new
major or minor in effect at the time of the change. Any student who leaves the
University or changes to another major or minor for a period of one calendar
year or longer and then returns to the University or to the original major or
minor will be required to meet requirements in effect at the time of return.
Exceptions to these
policies may be necessitated by changes in course offerings or degree programs
or by action of authorities higher than the University. In that event, every
effort will be made to avoid penalizing the student.
While every effort has been
made to ensure accuracy of information, Francis
Marion University
reserves the right to change any provision listed in this catalog including,
but not limited to, academic requirements for graduation without notice to
individual students. However, every effort will be made to advise students of
such changes and to minimize the inconvenience such changes might create for
students.
Information regarding
graduation requirements is available in the Office of the Registrar. Students
are responsible for keeping themselves apprised of current graduation
requirements for the degree programs in which they are enrolled.
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PROVISIONAL PROGRAMS
The Office of
Provisional Programs serves students with diverse levels of academic
preparation and abilities by utilizing specialized programs and support
services to ensure academic success combined with adequate and appropriate
academic advising.
The academic adviser for
each student is the program coordinator who assists in the progressive planning
and continued focus on their chosen academic program.
Many students enter the
University having decided on a major and/or program of study. There are,
however, those students who have not decided on a major. This group of students
is admitted as undecided and is assisted by this office in being assigned to an
academic adviser within the College
of Liberal Arts. Once a student is
enrolled and would like to change her/his major, the student would need to
visit the department of the new major. The administrative assistant of the new
major will assign an adviser specific to the new major.
The Office of
Provisional Programs is located in Room 112 of the Stokes
Administration Building.
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ACADEMIC PROGRAM
DELIVERY
SEMESTER SYSTEM –
The University operates on the semester system with a fall term scheduled from
late August until early December and a spring term from mid-January to early
May. Courses meet for 15 weeks during the semester, normally culminating in a
final examination period. Two commencements are held annually, one in December
and another in May. Students completing degree requirements during summer terms
may participate in December commencement exercises.
SUMMER SESSION –
The University operates a late spring term of three weeks and two summer terms
of approximately five weeks each. Generally, students can earn a maximum of 15
semester hours of credit in the full Summer Session. However, those students
enrolled in laboratory courses may earn as much as 18 semester hours of credit.
Courses are generally scheduled by most departments and schools of the
University.
A special effort is made
to offer courses that meet the certification needs of public school teachers.
EVENING COURSES –
The University offers evening courses during each semester and during summer
sessions. Courses offered are selected primarily on the basis of demand from
those students who cannot attend daytime classes. Evening courses are offered
on campus and at selected sites in the community.
OFF-CAMPUS COURSES
– The University offers courses in off-campus locations where sufficient
student demand warrants them. These are regular University courses for students
who cannot attend classes on campus. On occasion the University offers credit
courses on a contract basis with an area school system.
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EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
PROGRAMS
Through off-campus
sites, flexible scheduling, and non-traditional approaches and technologies,
the University brings higher education opportunities to a variety of
individuals for whom a traditional college schedule is not an option. Relying
on the strengths and quality of Francis
Marion University,
innovative programs and delivery methods are designed to bring the University
to the community.
By scheduling programs
at area high schools and by working with South Carolina’s
technical colleges and area corporations, Francis Marion brings programs to
those who cannot attend classes on campus.
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INTERNSHIPS
Internship programs
provide introductions to career options in professionally related work
experiences in business, industry, government, or service agencies. Internships
are offered by individual departments to allow students to gain practical work
experience in a particular field while working on a degree.
This work experience is
usually unpaid and may offer academic credit if there is appropriate faculty supervision.
Students generally work
between eight and 12 hours a week while also taking other classes. Rules of
eligibility and lists of companies offering internships can be obtained from
departmental offices. Some departments require internships as part of the
curriculum in certain disciplines.
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COOPERATIVE EDUCATION
Cooperative education
involves alternating periods of academic study (coursework within the major)
and periods of related work with the participating Cooperative Education
employer.
Work periods normally
take place during the sophomore and junior years and usually last one semester.
To qualify for participation in the program, students must have successfully
completed 30 semester hours of academic work and make formal application in the
department overseeing the experience.
The work assignment is
considered an integral part of the student’s education. Each completed work
period will appear on the student’s transcript, but no academic credit is
awarded for this experience. Normally the student will not be enrolled in any
classes during the semester of the work experience. During the Cooperative
Education program the student will be classified as full-time. Full-time status
provides a way to address insurance, taxes, loans, and other concerns surrounding
university status.
To enroll in the
program, a student must obtain a form from the Director of Career Development,
obtain approval from his/ her department chair/dean, and return the completed
form to the Director of Career Development.
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EXCHANGE PROGRAMS
The University
encourages students to maximize their learning experience by studying abroad.
FMU currently provides exchange programs in cooperation with universities in Australia,
England, France,
Germany, Mexico,
New Zealand,
and Switzerland.
Plans to expand the exchange programs are under way. For more information about
the Exchange Programs, contact the International Studies Coordinator at
843-661-1611.
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REGISTRATION
The Registrar is
responsible for the management of the registration process by which students
enroll in classes. Registration procedures for each term are described in the
schedule of classes for that term and on the University’s web site.
Each student should meet
with his or her faculty adviser to select courses to be taken. The student may
enter his or her schedules via the web, in the adviser’s office or in the
Office of the Registrar. Students must confirm schedules and pay fees in the
Cashier’s Office.
Through the registration
process, students assume academic and financial responsibility for the classes
in which they enroll.
They are relieved of
these responsibilities only by formally terminating enrollment by dropping or
withdrawing in accordance with procedures and deadlines specified in the
schedule of classes each term.
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COURSE LOAD
The unit of measurement
of University course work is the semester hour. It ordinarily represents one
lecture hour per week for one semester; however, a sequence of two or three
laboratory hours is considered to be the equivalent of one lecture hour.
Semester hours are also referred to as credit hours or credits.
The usual course load
for a Francis Marion
University student is 15 to 17 hours
per semester. With the approval of the student’s department chair or dean, a
student who earned a grade point average of 3.0 during the preceding regular
semester (while completing 15 hours or more) or has a 3.0 cumulative grade
point average may obtain permission to take more than 17 hours in one semester.
In addition, seniors who are within 19 hours of graduation and who have a 2.5
cumulative grade point average may also obtain permission.
No student who has
earned fewer than 15 hours at Francis
Marion University
will be permitted to carry an overload. Transient and correspondence courses
and any resulting overload must be approved prior to enrolling in the
course(s).
The maximum course load
permitted for Late Spring Term is one course, with a maximum of four hour
credit. The maximum course load for First Summer Term or Second Summer Term is
seven semester hours.
Students with grade
point averages of less than 2.0 may be required to carry reduced course loads.
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CLASSIFICATION OF
STUDENTS
Undergraduate students
who are enrolled in the regular session and who are registered for 12 or more
semester hours for University credit (not audit credit) are classified as
full-time.
Undergraduate students
who are enrolled in the Regular Session but who are registered for fewer than
12 semester hours are classified as part-time. A graduate student enrolled for
nine or more hours is considered to be a full-time student.
All undergraduate
students are also classified as either special or regular. Special students are
those who have completed a baccalaureate degree but are taking undergraduate
courses.
Regular students are
candidates for baccalaureate degrees and are further classified as follows:
Freshmen –
Students who have earned fewer than 22 semester hours of credit
Sophomores –
Students who have earned at least 22 but fewer than 54 semester hours of credit
Juniors – Students
who have earned at least 54 but fewer than 87 semester hours of credit
Seniors – Students
who have earned 87 or more semester hours of credit
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CLASS ATTENDANCE
POLICY
It is the responsibility
of the student to attend all scheduled meetings in the courses in which he/she
is enrolled. If a student is absent more than twice the number of required
class or laboratory sessions per week during regular semesters or more than 15
percent of required sessions during accelerated semesters, a grade of F or W
will normally be assigned, unless absences have been excused for cause by the
instructor.
Individual instructors
may choose alternative requirements for attendance. It is the responsibility of
the instructor to inform students, at the beginning of each course, of all attendance
policies. The instructor, at his/her discretion, may utilize a warning of
excessive absences or compulsory attendance. Attendance policies will be
outlined in the class syllabus.
If a student violates
the stated attendance policy, the instructor will notify the Office of the
Registrar to drop the student from the class with the appropriate grade. It is
the responsibility of a student to make up work missed because of absence from
announced tests and laboratory sessions. However, announced tests and
laboratory sessions may be made up only at the discretion of the instructor.
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DROPPING COURSES
A student is expected to
follow the course schedule for which he/she registers. However, prior to the
completion of 33 percent of a course, a student may initiate withdrawal from a
course and the grade recorded will be W. After the completion of 33 percent of
a course and prior to completion of 85 percent of a course, a student may still
initiate withdrawal from a course but the grade recorded will be F or W based
on the academic average at the time of withdrawal. During the last 15 percent
of a course, a student may not initiate withdrawal from a course. When a
student initiates withdrawal from a course, the withdrawal is not complete
until the student fills out a Drop Form, obtains all required signatures in the
proper order, and delivers the form to the Registrar’s Office.
A faculty member may
withdraw a student from his/her course for a violation of the stated attendance
policy at any time during a semester. Prior to the completion of 33 percent of
a course, a faculty member may withdraw a student from a course for a violation
of the stated attendance policy and the grade recorded will be W. After the
completion of 33 percent of a course, a faculty member may still withdraw a
student from a course for a violation of the stated attendance policy but the
grade recorded will be F or W based on the academic average at the time of
withdrawal. When a faculty member withdraws a student from a course, the
withdrawal is not complete until the faculty member fills out an Automatic
Dropping of Students Form, obtains the signature of the department chair or
dean, and delivers the form to the Registrar’s Office.
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AUDITING COURSES
A student admitted to Francis
Marion University
as a regular or special student may elect to audit one or more courses provided
that he/she meets the course prerequisites or receives the approval of the
Registrar. Students who audit a course should adhere to the class policies
including attendance. Students who do not adhere to the stated policies may be
dropped from the course for not attending. No credit is given for auditing.
Audited courses are
considered part of the course load for a regular student in determining
overload approval but not when determining whether a student is classified as
full-time. Changes from audit to credit are not permitted after the regular
change of schedule period has ended. Change from credit to audit is permitted
after the change of schedule period has ended only if the student is doing
passing work in the course and only upon the approval of the Registrar.
Audited courses are
charged at the same rate as courses taken for credit.
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ADVANCED PLACEMENT
CREDIT
(College Board Exams and
CLEP)
Advanced placement
credit can be earned through the College Entrance Board Advancement Placement
Exams, CLEP exams, International Baccalaureate (IB) exams and through placement
exams offered by FMU. Francis Marion
University may accept a total of 30
hours of advanced placement credit.
A student may not take a
course for which he/she has previously earned advanced placement credit.
Students may audit such courses with the permission of the instructor and the
appropriate academic chair/dean.
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COLLEGE ENTRANCE BOARD ADVANCED
PLACEMENT
Students who have taken
advanced-placement tests through the College Entrance Examination Board
Advanced Placement Program and who score satisfactorily may obtain college
credit.
The score necessary for
credit for a particular course is determined cooperatively by the appropriate
department or school and the Registrar. Students must request that their scores
be sent to Francis Marion
University c/o the Office of
Counseling and Testing. Advanced Placement scores obtained during high school
are usually received at Francis Marion
University in mid-July.
Scores required to
receive credit in the AP program:
|
College Board AP Examinations
|
Score
|
Course Exempted
|
Credits
|
|
Art History
|
3, 4, 5
|
Art 101
|
3
|
|
Studio Art: Drawing
|
3, 4, 5
|
Art 203
|
3
|
|
Studio Art: 2-D Design
|
3, 4, 5
|
Art 204
|
3
|
|
Studio Art: 3-D Design
|
3, 4, 5
|
Art 205
|
3
|
|
Biology
|
3
|
Biology 105
|
4
|
|
Biology
|
4, 5
|
Biology 105, 106
|
8
|
|
Calculus AB*
|
3, 4
|
Math 201
|
3
|
|
Calculus AB
|
5
|
Math 201, 202
|
6
|
|
Calculus BC
|
3
|
Math 201, 202
|
6
|
|
Calculus BC
|
4, 5
|
Math 201, 202, 203
|
9
|
|
Chemistry
|
3, 4, 5
|
Chemistry 101, 102
|
8
|
|
Computer Science A
|
3, 4, 5
|
Computer Science 226
|
3
|
|
Computer Science AB
|
3, 4, 5
|
Comp Science 226, 227
|
6
|
|
Macroeconomics
|
3, 4, 5
|
Economics 204
|
3
|
|
Microeconomics
|
3, 4, 5
|
Economics 203
|
3
|
|
English Language and Composition
|
3, 4, 5
|
English 112
|
3
|
|
English Literature and Composition
|
3, 4, 5
|
English 112
|
3
|
|
Environmental Science
|
3, 4, 5
|
Biology 103
|
4
|
|
French Language
|
3, 4, 5
|
French 101, 102
|
6
|
|
French Literature
|
3, 4, 5
|
French 201, 202
|
6
|
|
German
|
3, 4, 5
|
German 101, 102
|
6
|
|
Comparative Government and Politics
|
3, 4, 5
|
Elective
|
3
|
|
United States
Government and Politics
|
3, 4, 5
|
Political Science 101
|
3
|
|
Government and Politics
|
|
|
|
|
European History
|
3, 4, 5
|
History 203, 204
|
6
|
|
United States
History
|
3, 4, 5
|
History 201, 202
|
6
|
|
World History
|
3, 4, 5
|
History 205
|
3
|
|
Human Geography
|
3, 4, 5
|
Geography 101
|
3
|
|
Latin Literature
|
3, 4, 5
|
Elective
|
3
|
|
Latin: Virgil
|
3, 4, 5
|
Elective
|
3
|
|
Music Theory
|
3, 4, 5
|
Elective
|
3
|
|
Physics B
|
3
|
Physics 215
|
4
|
|
Physics B
|
4, 5
|
Physics 215, 216
|
8
|
|
Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
|
3
|
Physics 201
|
4
|
|
Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
|
4, 5
|
Physics 201, 202
|
8
|
|
Physics C: Mechanics
|
3
|
Physics 201
|
4
|
|
Physics C: Mechanics
|
4, 5
|
Physics 201, 202
|
8
|
|
Psychology
|
3, 4, 5
|
Psychology 201
|
3
|
|
Spanish Language
|
3, 4, 5
|
Spanish 101, 102
|
6
|
|
Spanish Literature
|
3, 4, 5
|
Spanish 201, 202
|
6
|
|
Statistics
|
3, 4, 5
|
Math 114
|
3
|
* Including AB subscore
on BC exam.
WHO RECEIVES MY AP
GRADE REPORT? HOW CAN I HAVE A COPY SENT TO A COLLEGE?
AP Grade Reports (transcripts)
include your final grades for all AP Exams you have ever taken. A copy of the
report is automatically sent to you, your college (if you designated one on
your answer sheet) and your school the July following the exam administration.
If you want a copy of
your grade report sent to a second college or if you did not designate a
college on your answer sheet, the fee for each transcript is $12. There are
three ways you can make this request:
1. Call 609-771-7300;
please note that a $7 billing fee will be added to the total amount of each
telephone request for regular transcripts.
2. Complete the right
half of your AP Grade Report and send it to the address in option three below.
3. Send a letter with
your name, sex, birthdate, AP number, the year(s) you took the AP Exams, and
the name, city, and state of the colleges to receive your transcript.
Send your request and a
check made payable to AP Exams ($12 for each transcript) to: AP Exams, P.O.
Box 6671, Princeton, NJ
08541-6671
COLLEGE LEVEL
EXAMINATION PROGRAM (CLEP)
The University awards
credit for satisfactory scores on the Subject Examinations offered through the
CLEP program.
Only freshman and
sophomore students are eligible to take CLEP exams without prior permission
from a department chair.
Juniors and seniors may
attempt CLEP exams with the permission of the department chair or dean of the
school of the discipline in which a particular exam is offered. A score of 50
is satisfactory in all subject exams.
INTERNATIONAL
BACCALAUREATE
To assist you in
reaching your academic goals, Francis
Marion University
awards college course credit for satisfactory scores on higher level
International Baccalaureate (IB) examinations.
Students who have
completed courses and the tests in the International Baccalaureate Program must
have their scores sent to the Office of Counseling and Testing at FMU for
evaluation. The chart below explains how the tests will be evaluated in terms
of credit at FMU. The official FMU transcript will reflect the credit awarded
to the student.
|
I.B. ExamHigher Level
|
Score
|
Course allowed toward degree
|
Credits
|
|
Biology
|
4
|
Biology 104
|
|
|
Biology
|
5
|
Biology 105
|
4
|
|
Biology
|
6, 7
|
Biology 105, 106
|
8
|
|
Chemistry
|
5
|
Chemistry 101
|
4
|
|
Chemistry
|
6, 7
|
Chemistry 101, 102
|
8
|
|
Computing Studies
|
5, 6, 7
|
Computer Science 190
|
3
|
|
Economics
|
5, 6, 7
|
Economics 203, 204
|
6
|
|
English (Lang. A)
|
4, 5
|
English 112
|
3
|
|
English (Lang. A)
|
6, 7
|
English 112, 200
|
6
|
|
French
|
4
|
French 101
|
3
|
|
French
|
5
|
French 101, 102
|
6
|
|
French
|
6
|
French 101, 102, 201
|
9
|
|
French
|
7
|
French 101, 102, 201, 202
|
12
|
|
Geography
|
4, 5, 6, 7
|
Geography 101
|
3
|
|
German
|
4
|
German 101
|
3
|
|
German
|
5
|
German 101, 102
|
6
|
|
German
|
6
|
German 101, 102, 201
|
9
|
|
German
|
7
|
German 101, 102, 201, 202
|
12
|
|
History-American
|
4, 5, 6, 7
|
Waive prerequisite for history courses above the 299 level
|
|
|
History-European
|
4, 5, 6, 7
|
Waive prerequisite for history courses above the 299 level
|
|
|
Mathematics
|
5
|
Math 201*
|
3
|
|
Mathematics
|
6, 7
|
Math 201, 202**
|
6
|
|
Mathematics - Prob. & Statistics (35 hour option)
|
6, 7
|
Math 114
|
3
|
|
Music
|
4, 5
|
Music 115, 116, 101
|
3
|
|
Music
|
6, 7
|
Music 115, 116, 101, 215, 216, 245
|
14
|
|
Physics
|
5
|
Physics 215
|
4
|
|
Physics
|
6, 7
|
Physics 215, 216
|
8
|
|
Psychology
|
5, 6, 7
|
Psychology 206
|
3
|
|
Spanish
|
4
|
Spanish 101
|
3
|
|
Spanish
|
5
|
Spanish 101, 102
|
6
|
|
Spanish
|
6
|
Spanish 101, 102, 201
|
9
|
|
Spanish
|
7
|
Spanish 101, 102, 201, 202
|
12
|
*Students will be placed in MATH 202 and receive credit for MATH 201
after successful completion of MATH 202 with a grade of C or higher.
**Students will be placed in MATH 203 and receive credit for MATH
201 and 202 after successful completion of MATH 203 with a grade of C or
higher.
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ADVANCED
PLACEMENT EXAMS ADMINISTERED BY FMU
English Composition Examinations – FMU uses a
computerized placement exam to place students in the appropriate English
composition course (English 111 or English 112). The cost for the test is $5.
Placement testing is mandatory for all first-year students and is also required
for transfer students who do not have transferable credit in an English
composition course. The placement test is administered by the Office of
Counseling and Testing. Appointments can be made by calling 843-673-9707.
Students have the option of challenging their placement by taking a written
exam before the beginning of the semester. The written exam takes two hours and
costs $15. Students who receive a passing score will be allowed to enroll in a
higher English course. Students who pass the English 112 written exam will
receive three hours of course credit. Further information is available from the
Office of Counseling and Testing.
Foreign Language Credit – Exemption tests in modern languages are
recommended for all students with two or more years of high school work in
German, French, or Spanish. The exams include a listening comprehension section
and a reading comprehension section. All questions are multiple choice.
Based on the average of scores on both sections, a student may
receive from three to 12 hours of academic credit. The exams are administered
by the Office of Counseling and Testing, and the costs of each exam is $15.
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TRANSFER CREDIT
Transcripts of students transferring from another institution are
evaluated in the Registrar’s Office, and the results are provided to the
applicant. Determining the applicability of transferred credits to major
requirements is the responsibility of the Registrar’s Office.
Credit may be allowed for courses that are appropriate to the curriculum
in which the student is admitted. Courses passed with a grade of D or its
equivalent are not transferable and are not used in computing a student’s grade
point average except for specific courses taken in approved fourth-year
cooperative programs. All transfer credit must have been completed at a
regionally accredited institution. Transfer students are cautioned that a
course, though acceptable by transfer, may not necessarily be applicable to a
specific Francis Marion major, program, or degree. No more than 65 semester
hours of credit may be accepted from institutions accredited as junior colleges
or two-year institutions.
In order to complete requirements for an undergraduate degree, a
transfer student must earn at least 36 semester hours of work in residence at Francis
Marion University
(including a minimum of three courses above 299 in the student’s major).
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TRANSIENT CREDIT
A Francis Marion University student desiring to take courses at
some other institution either during the summer session or the regular session
and wishing to have courses transferred to Francis Marion University to apply
toward a degree must have in advance the approval of his/her adviser or
department chair or school dean, as well as the Registrar, before registering
for the courses. Only those students who are in good academic standing (those
with cumulative GPAs of 2.0 or above) can be approved to take courses at other
institutions. No course specifically required in the student’s major may be
taken at another institution without prior approval of the department chair or
school dean. Forms are available in the Office of the Registrar.
It is the student’s responsibility to have an official transcript
sent to the Office of the Registrar upon completion of the course(s) but no later
than one month prior to the date he/she is scheduled to complete degree
requirements. Grades earned at other institutions will not be computed in the
Francis Marion University GPA except when determining whether the student can
graduate with honors and when taken in approved fourth-year cooperative
programs. A grade of C or higher must be earned for a course to transfer to
Francis Marion. A maximum of 30 semester hours in transient credit may be
accepted as partial fulfillment of the requirements for the baccalaureate
degree. The sum of the transient credit and the transfer credit from junior
colleges and two-year institutions may not exceed 65 hours.
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CORRESPONDENCE CREDIT
A maximum of 30 semester hours in correspondence courses may be
accepted as partial fulfillment of the requirements for the baccalaureate
degree. No more than 12 semester hours may be accepted in any one subject. The
institution and the courses taken must have prior approval of the student’s
adviser, department chair or dean, and the Registrar. The student must have a
grade of C or better on each course accepted. Grades on correspondence courses
are not included in computation of grade point average. No course specifically
required in the student’s major may be taken by correspondence without prior
approval of the department or school. Correspondence credit does not count as
residential credit.
Information on correspondence courses available through other
colleges and universities can be obtained from the Office of Counseling and
Testing.
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FINAL EXAMINATIONS
The standing of a student in his/her work at the end of a semester
is based upon daily classwork, tests or other work, and the final examinations.
Final examinations are given on the dates and at the times designated in the final
examination schedule. The final examination schedule is available in the
schedule of classes published each semester. It is also available on the
University website.
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GRADING SYSTEM
A (Distinction)
A grade of A indicates achievement of
distinction and carries four quality points per semester hour.
B+
A grade of B+ carries three and a half quality points per semester
hour.
B (Above average)
A grade of B indicates above-average achievement and carries three
quality points per semester hour.
C+
A grade of C+ carries two and a half quality points per semester
hour.
C (Average)
A grade of C indicates average achievement and carries two quality
points per semester hour.
D+
A grade of D+ carries one and a half quality points per semester
hour.
D (Below average)
A grade of D indicates below-average achievement but acceptable
credit toward graduation and carries one quality point per semester hour.
F (No Credit)
A grade of F indicates unsatisfactory achievement or withdrawal
from the course after completion of one-third of the course without passing
grades. Semester hours are included as work taken in computation of grade point
average. No quality points or credits are earned.
IN (Incomplete)
IN is given a student who for an acceptable reason is allowed to
postpone beyond the end of the semester or term the completion of some part of
a course requirement. Approval by the department chair or dean is required. The
designation of IN is not computed in the grade point average. If the IN is not
replaced by a permanent grade by the end of the next semester or summer term in
which the IN was given, the designation of IN will automatically become a grade
of F. The grade of IN may not serve as a prerequisite for sequenced courses.
W (Withdrew)
W indicates that a course was dropped with permission prior to
completion of one-third of the course or that a course was dropped with a
passing grade after completion of one-third of the course. It is not included
as semester hours taken in computation of grade point average.
CO (Continuing)
CO is reserved for students who at the end of the semester have
not completed all their work in self-paced mathematics, French, English 111
courses, and/or Honors 491-99. This grade is not computed in determining grade
point average; however, these hours are included in the gross hours attempted
and therefore are used to determine eligibility to stay in school.
Under penalty of F, students must enroll the next semester in
those courses in which CO was earned. Students will not be allowed to receive the
CO grade more than once in the same course.
S (Satisfactory)
S indicates average or better than average achievement in certain
courses which are graded on an S-U (Satisfactory-Unsatisfactory) basis only.
Such courses are not included in computation of grade point average.
U (Unsatisfactory)
U indicates unsatisfactory achievement in certain courses graded
on an S-U (Satisfactory-Unsatisfactory) basis only. No credit is earned.
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GRADE
POINT AVERAGE
Grade points are computed by multiplying the number of semester
hour credits per course by the grade earned. The grade point average (GPA) is
computed by dividing the total number of quality points by the total number of
net hours taken. In the calculation of grade point average, the semester hours
for the first repetition of a course will not count in computing net semester
hours taken, but in subsequent repetitions, semester hours will be included in
computing net semester hours taken.
For a repeated course, the higher grade of the first two course
grades earned plus the grades on all other repetitions will determine the
number of quality points earned. Other institutions, however, may recalculate a
student’s grade point average and include all grades in that calculation. All
grades will appear on the student’s Francis
Marion University
transcript.
A student with a low grade point average is advised to repeat
courses for which a grade of D or F was earned.
A cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher is required for
graduation on all work attempted at FMU (including fouryear cooperative
programs). In addition, a student must maintain an average of 2.0 or higher in
his/her major courses in order to meet graduation requirements. Some programs
may require a higher GPA for admission, continuance in the program, and/or
graduation.
Advanced placement credits, credits transferred from accredited
institutions (except for credit for specific courses taken in approved
fourth-year programs), credits earned through correspondence and/or extension
work, and credit for courses taken on a Satisfactory-Unsatisfactory basis are
not used in computing a student’s grade point average but may be accepted
toward a degree.
For calculating the GPA for honor graduates, see the “Honor
Graduates” section later in this chapter.
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GRADE
CHANGES
If a mistake was made in calculating or recording a term grade,
the instructor of the course may change the grade. A change of grade may occur
only within one calendar year from the receipt of the grade.
1. A faculty member seeking to change a student’s term grade
because of a mistake must request the change on the appropriate form, which may
be obtained from the Office of the Registrar.
2. The department chairperson or dean shall approve or disapprove
change-of-grade requests. If approved, the requests will be sent to the
Registrar with instructions to make the necessary corrections on the official
record.
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GRADE
APPEALS POLICY
MEMBERSHIP: The Grade Appeals committee will consist of five
faculty members to be elected by the faculty at large.
The committee will elect the chair.
FUNCTION: The committee will hear final course grade appeals not
resolved at the level of the academic unit.
GROUNDS FOR APPEAL: Unless the faculty member has acted in an arbitrary
or capricious manner in the assignment of the final course grade in question,
or unless the instructor’s grading policy is in violation of the guidelines
established by the University or his/her own policies as noted in the syllabus
or other written documents, it is the right of the instructor to determine
whether or not the final course grade should be changed.
PROCEDURES: The committee will meet as necessary, and is called by
the Committee Chair. Appeals for grade changes may not be made after 60 days
from the date the grade was given. The following procedures will be followed:
1. The student will first attempt to resolve the issue by
consulting with the instructor.
2. If the issue is unresolved after consultation with the
instructor, the student will then consult with the department chair/school dean
to attempt a resolution.
3. If the matter is not resolved after consultation with the
instructor and the chair/dean, then the student may petition the chair/dean,
who will forward the matter to the Grade Appeals Committee. The petition must
include the following items: a completed petition form signed by the instructor
of the course (unless the instructor is no longer a member of the Francis
Marion University faculty), the student’s adviser, and the chair/ dean of the
academic unit that offered the course; a letter explaining the basis for the
grade appeal; and if applicable, supporting documents and a list of any other
evidence to be presented. The student’s argument will be limited to statements
from the student and the evidence delineated in the petition.
4. Upon receipt of a completed grade appeal petition, the chair of
the Grade Appeals Committee will promptly inform the faculty member, the
appropriate department chair/school dean, and the Provost. The committee chair
will also make available to the faculty member a copy of the petition and the
supporting documentation.
5. The Grade Appeals Committee, upon receipt of a student’s grade
appeal petition, might seek additional information and advice, as it deems
necessary. In some cases, the committee may conduct a hearing, as when the
student, faculty member, or committee members might ask for one. Because this
hearing is for informational purposes only, it should not replicate judicial
proceedings. No legal counsel shall be permitted to appear.
6. Within 10 workdays after a decision, the chair of the Grade
Appeals Committee will notify the student, the faculty member, and the
appropriate department chair/ school dean of the committee’s findings and
recommendations.
If the Grade Appeals Committee, through its inquiries and
deliberations, determines that the grade should be changed, it will request
that the instructor make the change, providing the instructor with a written
explanation of its reasons. Should the instructor decline, he or she will
provide an explanation for refusing.
7. If after considering the instructor’s explanation the Grade
Appeals Committee concludes that it would be unjust to allow the original grade
to stand, the Committee may then recommend to the appropriate department
chair/school dean that the grade be changed. The chair/ dean in consultation
with the instructor will assign the appropriate grade. Only the chair/dean,
upon the written recommendation of the Grade Appeals Committee, has the
authority to effect a change in grade over the objection of the instructor who
assigned the grade.
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GRADE
REPORTS
At the end of each semester and each summer term, grade reports
are made available to students via the internet.
Faculty members must give students an opportunity to make an
informed decision on their academic performance prior to the last date to
withdraw without academic penalty. Mid-term grades for first-semester freshmen
will be recorded, submitted to the Registrar, and mailed to the advisers.
Mid-term grades for other students will not be submitted. Faculty will receive
a class roll prior to the last date for withdrawal to verify those enrolled in
and attending the class.
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TRANSCRIPTS
Official transcripts, those bearing the University seal, will not
be issued without the written consent of the student. A transcript will not be
released if the student is indebted to the University.
Forms for requesting transcripts may be obtained from the
Registrar’s Office or through the University’s web site. A fee of $5 must
accompany each individual transcript request. The request must be returned to
the Office of the Registrar after fee payment is made.
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REPEATING COURSES
A student may repeat courses to improve his/her grade point
average. The grade earned after the first enrollment of a course will replace
the grade originally earned when calculating the student’s grade point average,
provided that the repeat grade is higher than the original grade. All grades
earned after the first repetition of a course will be included in the
calculation of grade point average. (It is recommended that courses for which a
grade of D or F was earned be repeated.) A student may not repeat for credit a
100- or 200-level language course once he/she has received credit for another
course at a higher level in the same language and may not repeat for credit the
lower-level course of any subject in a hyphenated sequence once he/she has
received credit for the higher-level course.
Once a student has completed, either successfully or
unsuccessfully, a course at Francis Marion
University, he/she may not repeat at
another institution that course for transfer credit to Francis
Marion University.
However, a student may be permitted to repeat for additional credit a course
he/she took for credit ten or more years previously.
A student may not repeat an Honors course in order to raise
his/her grade point average. In order to improve the grade point average, a
student may repeat in a regular section a course that he/she took as an Honors
section, but the new grade will carry no Honors credit.
When a student repeats a course, all grades appear on the
transcript.
Grades of CO and W are not used in the calculation of grade point
average. These grades also are not counted in the repeat regulations.
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ACADEMIC RENEWAL POLICY
A student formerly enrolled at Francis
Marion University
who has not been enrolled at Francis Marion
University for three consecutive
calendar years is eligible to apply for Academic Renewal. The intent of this
policy is to provide a renewed start for students who experienced academic
difficulty during their initial enrollment at Francis
Marion University.
Academic Renewal applications are available to readmitted students in the
Registrar’s Office.
All course work previously taken at Francis
Marion University
by a student who is granted Academic Renewal will be treated as if it were
transfer credit from another institution for purposes of granting credit toward
graduation from Francis Marion
University. The earlier courses,
therefore, will not be included in computing the student’s grade point average.
Only those earlier courses in which a student earned a C or higher may be
counted toward fulfillment of graduation requirements.
All courses and grades, including those taken while previously
enrolled at Francis Marion
University, will appear on the
student’s transcript. Other institutions are likely to include all grades and
courses when calculating a student’s grade point average for such purposes as
transfer or admission to graduate and professional programs.
The Academic Renewal Policy is subject to the following
stipulations: 1. A student may be readmitted under the Academic Renewal Policy
one time only.
2. A student seeking readmission under the Academic Renewal Policy
who has been enrolled at other institutions of higher education since leaving Francis
Marion University
must be in good academic standing at the institution most recently attended.
3. A student must seek academic renewal at the time of application
for readmission. Once academic renewal has been granted, the action is
irreversible.
4. A student readmitted under the Academic Renewal Policy will be
governed by the rules and regulations (including major, minor, and general
education requirements) in effect at Francis
Marion University
at the time of readmission.
5. Readmission under the Academic Renewal Policy does not
guarantee acceptance into any program at Francis
Marion University
that requires a specific grade point average. Admission to those programs
depends upon the policies of the particular academic schools or departments
involved.
6. Students admitted under the Academic Renewal Policy are
automatically placed on academic Probation 1.
7. A course completed, either successfully or unsuccessfully, at Francis
Marion University
prior to academic renewal may not be repeated at another institution for
transfer credit to Francis Marion
University.
8. Following readmission under the Academic Renewal Policy, a
student must complete at least 36 semester hours at Francis
Marion University
to be eligible for graduation.
9. All courses taken at Francis
Marion University,
including those taken prior to academic renewal, will be counted when computing
eligibility for graduation with academic honors.
ACADEMIC STANDING
ELIGIBILITY
TO CONTINUE
A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA is required to maintain good academic
standing. After the first semester if a student fails to obtain the required
minimum 2.0 overall GPA, the student is placed on academic Probation 1 and will
receive written notification from the University.
While on the Probation 1, the student is strongly advised to
repeat courses necessary to regain an overall 2.0 GPA and may take no more than
13 credit hours in a regular term, seven hours in any one summer term, and four
hours in the late spring term. The student is removed from probation if the
cumulative GPA is 2.0 or higher at the end of that semester.
If the student’s overall GPA is not 2.0 or higher at the end of
the Probation 1 semester, the student is placed on Probation 2.
A student on Probation 2 is required to repeat courses to regain
an overall 2.0 GPA and is not allowed to take more than 13 credit hours in a
regular term, seven hours in any one summer term, and four hours in the late
spring term. Once the student’s academic adviser has advised the student, the
student’s schedule will be verified and entered into the system by the
Associate Provost for Enrollment Management or the personnel in the Registrar’s
Office. The student is removed from probation if the cumulative GPA is 2.0 or
higher at the end of that semester. At the end of the Probation 2, if the
student fails to earn a 2.0 cumulative GPA the student is dismissed from the
University.
If the GPA of a student with 87 or more hours falls below a
cumulative 2.0 GPA the student will be placed on Probation 2.
Note: This policy is for eligibility to continue only. Some degree
programs may have higher GPA requirements.
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ACADEMIC
DISMISSAL
After the first academic dismissal, the student will not be
allowed to enroll at Francis Marion
University until he/she has remained
out of FMU for a semester (Fall or Spring). At the end of serving the
dismissal, the student may apply for readmission by submitting the appropriate
application packet to the Admissions Office. If the student meets all other
admission requirements, the student will be readmitted and placed on Probation
1. The student must then meet the requirements under “Academic Standing:
Eligibility to Continue.” After a subsequent academic dismissal, the student
will not be allowed to enroll at Francis
Marion University
until he/she has remained out of FMU for a Fall and a Spring semester.
The student may then apply for readmission by submitting the
appropriate application packet to the Admissions Office. If the student meets
all other admission requirements, the student will be readmitted and placed on
Probation 1. The student must then meet the requirements under “Academic
Standing: Eligibility to Continue.” A student who is dismissed for a third time
will not be considered for readmission into the University unless she/he is
eligible for Academic Renewal and has earned an Associate of Science or
Associate of Arts Degree from another accredited institution. If the student
meets all other admission requirements, the student will be readmitted, must
then apply and be granted Academic Renewal, and will be placed on Probation 1.
A student who has been dismissed may appeal the dismissal.
The policy and procedure for this appeal can be obtained from the
Registrar.
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WITHDRAWING
FROM THE UNIVERSITY
Complete withdrawals must be initiated by the student at the
Registrar’s Office. A Complete Withdrawal Grade Report will be completed.
Failure to file the Complete Withdrawal Grade Report Form with the Registrar’s
Office may result in the grade(s) of F for the course(s). A student who
withdraws from the University after completion of one-third of the semester
receives in each course a grade of W or F based on his/her academic average at
the time of withdrawal. A student may not withdraw two weeks prior to
Reading Day or any time thereafter.
The effective date of a student’s complete withdrawal from the
University will be the date that the student initiates the withdrawal and a
Complete Withdrawal Grade Report Form is filed.
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RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS
A minimum of 36 semester hours of course credits must be taken in
residence at Francis Marion
University within five calendar
years preceding the date the degree is granted. No more than nine of the final
36 hours required for the degree can be taken at another institution or earned
through correspondence with the exception of hours earned by students while
participating in a Francis Marion University International Student Exchange
Program. Both the institution and courses taken elsewhere must be approved by
the Registrar. Each student graduating from Francis
Marion University
is required to complete successfully in residence at Francis
Marion University
a minimum of three courses above 299 in the student’s major.
(School of Business
students should see residence requirements for the Bachelor of Business
Administration program.) Credits earned during the Francis Marion University
Summer Session are counted on the same basis as credits earned during fall and
spring semesters in meeting residence requirements.
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ASSESSMENT
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All students who enroll at Francis
Marion University
are required to participate in assessment(s) of oral communication skills,
basic computer skills, General Education knowledge and also in their major(s),
if required. Participation may include, but is not limited to, such activities
as capstone courses, assessment tests, portfolios, student surveys, and the
assessment activities of their major(s).
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CHANGES IN GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
In addressing the needs of an ever-changing society, the
curriculum offered by Francis Marion
University continues to evolve.
Continuously enrolled students may elect to meet the graduation requirements
stated either in the University Catalog of the year in which they first entered
Francis Marion
University or in the University
Catalog of the year in which they are graduated from the University. Students
returning to Francis Marion University after an absence of one year or more
will be expected to meet the graduation requirements stated either in the
University Catalog of the year in which they returned to Francis Marion
University or in the University Catalog of the year in which they are
graduated. The effective University Catalog must not be more than 10 years old.
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APPLICATION FOR DEGREE
Undergraduate students are advised to file an Application for
Degree with the Registrar’s Office during pre-registration the semester prior
to graduation. Applicable fees should be paid when the student is notified. The
final deadline for filing each semester and summer session is published in the
calendar section of the University Catalog. Failure to meet the stated deadline
will result in a delay in time of graduation.
All students are expected to attend the ceremony. Those students
desiring to graduate in absentia should complete the appropriate information on
the degree application.
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PRIVACY OF STUDENT EDUCATIONAL RECORDS
The written institutional policy concerning the Family Educational
Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (the Buckley Amendment) is housed in the
Registrar’s Office. The University is restricted in the release of certain
student records without the prior written consent of the student.
However, the University can release directory information that
includes such information as the student’s name, address, telephone number,
etc., without the student’s permission. A student who does not want this
information released must make a request in writing to the Office of the
Registrar within two weeks after the first day of class. The request for
nondisclosure must be filed each term of enrollment.
Students have the right to inspect and review information
contained in their educational records. Students wishing to review their
records must make a written request to the Registrar listing the item or items
of interest. These records will be made available within 45 days of the
request.
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USE OF SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER
The Privacy Act of 1974 (U.S. Public Law 93-579, Sect.7) requires
that we notify you that disclosure of your social security number (SSN) is
voluntary. But you should know that Francis
Marion University
uses the SSN as your student identification number and all University records
are kept using this number for identification. The Swamp Fox Web for Students
(on-line registration) system requires you to enter your SSN and a password for
entry. If you do not wish to disclose your SSN, you can apply for a special identification
number in person in the Registrar’s Office, Stokes
Administration Building,
Room 118.
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RECOGNIZING ACADEMIC DISTINCTION
WILLIAM
H. BLACKWELL AWARD
Named in memory of the founding chairman of the Francis Marion
University Foundation, the William H. Blackwell Award goes to the individual
baccalaureate student(s) with the highest grade point average. Although all
baccalaureate degree recipients during the year are eligible for consideration,
this award is presented only during the spring commencement ceremony.
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HONOR
GRADUATES
The Latin phrases distinguishing the levels of performance
recognized by medieval universities have come to be used to honor modern
graduates as well. An undergraduate student who completes degree requirements
with a grade point average from 3.5 to 3.74 shall be granted a diploma cum
laude (with
praise). An undergraduate student who completes degree requirements with a
grade point average of 3.75 to 3.89 shall be granted a diploma magna cum
laude (with
great praise). An undergraduate student who completes degree requirements with
a grade point average of 3.9 or higher shall be granted a diploma summa cum
laude (with
greatest praise).
All work that is taken at Francis Marion University (including
repeated courses) and all work that is taken at other institutions and
considered transferable (including courses in which grades of D and F are
earned but which were not transferred) will be included in computing a
student’s grade point average for honors. In order to receive a diploma cum
laude, magna cum laude, or summa cum laude, a transfer student must complete a minimum of
60 semester hours at Francis Marion
University.
In order to graduate with honors for a second degree, a candidate
must have graduated summa, magna, or cum laude in his or her first
degree and must have earned a minimum of 60 hours at Francis
Marion University.
All work taken at the collegiate level will be computed to determine the
student’s grade point average for honors.
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PRESIDENT’S
LIST
Any full-time undergraduate student who attains a grade point
average of 3.75 or higher in a given semester shall be recognized as
exceptional and placed on the President’s List.
PRESIDENT’S
LIST FOR PART-TIME STUDENTS
Any part-time undergraduate student who has completed at least 12
hours at Francis Marion University and who has declared a major shall be placed
on the President’s List for Part- Time Students at the end of any semester in
which the student has completed at least six semester hours and in which the
student has attained a grade point average of 3.75 or higher.
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DEAN’S
LIST
Any full-time undergraduate student who attains a grade point
average of at least 3.25 but less than 3.75 in a given semester shall be
recognized as distinguished and placed on the Dean’s List.
DEAN’S
LIST FOR PART-TIME STUDENTS
Any part-time undergraduate student who has completed at least 12
hours at Francis Marion University and who has declared a major shall be placed
on the Dean’s List for Part- Time Students at the end of any semester in which the
student has completed at least six semester hours and in which the student has
attained a grade point average of at least 3.25 but less than 3.75.
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UNIVERSITY
MARSHALS
Each year the University selects a number of outstanding
undergraduate students to serve as marshals for campus events and lead academic
processions, especially commencement ceremonies. These full-time students serve
an important role for the University by assisting at plays, lectures, concerts,
and other public occasions. New marshals are chosen at the end of their
freshman year from those who have compiled an outstanding grade point average.
Marshals are honored in the fall of their sophomore year at a luncheon hosted
by the University president and serve for the remaining three years of their
FMU career. Marshals wear distinctive blue blazers with the University logo.
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UNIVERSITY
HONORS
See page 178.
