Academic Information

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The statements set forth in this catalog are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as the basis of a contract between a student and this institution. While every effort will be made to insure accuracy of the material stated herein, the University of North Georgia reserves the right to change any provision listed in this catalog, including but not limited to, academic requirements for graduation, curricula, course offerings, and academic regulations without actual notice to individual students. Every effort will be made to keep students advised of such changes. Students should refer to the UNG web site for the most recent updates to the catalog. 

Academic Regulations

Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with the academic regulations of the University of North Georgia. Each student is urged to read the regulations carefully, to seek clarification from the Office of the Registrar if there are any questions concerning academic procedures (i.e., registration, program and transcript evaluation, the recording of grades, and graduation), or to seek interpretation from the Office of Academic Affairs if there are any questions concerning academic policies and/or degree program or graduation requirements.

Academic Year

The academic year is divided into two semesters (Fall and Spring) comprised of approximately fifteen weeks each and a Summer Semester. Summer Semester includes a May session, full session and two short sessions. Students may enter the University of North Georgia at the beginning of any semester.

Academic Credit

Credits are expressed in terms of semester hours.  As a rule, one semester hour is the credit given for the work associated with one hour of class per week throughout one semester.  There are exceptions to this rule.

The course numbering system used by the University of North Georgia is such that in general, the first digit of the course corresponds to the level of the class (1-Freshman, 2-Sophomore, 3-Junior, 4-Senior, 5-8-Graduate).  Undergraduate students may not enroll in courses numbered 5000-8999.

Courses are identified by a four-letter prefix and a four-digit number. Select science courses are designated on the schedule and on the students’ transcripts by a “K” suffix at the end of the course number.  This K suffix designates that the lab is embedded with the lecture; for example, BIOL 1107K. An embedded lab means that while the course requires a lecture and a lab, there is only one final grade posted for the course. Learning Support courses and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESL) courses carry institutional credit only. These courses do not grant credit toward any degree, are not transferable to another college or university, and are not calculated into the grade point average.

Uniform Grading System

All institutions of the University System of Georgia are on a 4.0 grade point average system.  The following grades are approved for use in institutions of the University System and are included in the determination of grade point average:

The following grading symbols are approved for use in the cases indicated but will not be included in the calculation of the grade point average:

I - This symbol indicates that a student was performing satisfactorily, but for non-academic reasons beyond her/his control, was unable to meet the full requirements of the course.  The grade of I must be recommended by the instructor and approved by the dean. If an I is not satisfactorily removed after one semester (not including summer semester), the symbol of I will be changed to the grade of F on the student’s academic record.  With approval from the instructor of the course and the dean, a student may be permitted an extended period of time beyond one semester to complete the course requirements.

IP - (In Progress) This symbol is appropriate for thesis hours, project courses, ESL, and Learning Support courses.  It is not appropriate for traditional credit courses.  If an IP grade is not satisfactorily removed after 3 semesters, the symbol of IP will be changed to the grade of F for thesis hours and project courses.  With approval from the instructor of the course and the dean, a student may be permitted an extended period of time beyond one semester to complete the course requirements. 

A final grade of IP is appropriate for Learning Support and ESL courses, however.  A grade of IP in a Learning Support or ESL course will not change to a grade of F.  A grade of Incomplete is assigned when a student has not, for excusable reasons, completed the requirements of a course.  A grade of IP is assigned when a student enrolled in a Learning Support course in spite of conscientious work and definite progress during the semester, fails to reach the competency required to complete the course.  the student enrolls in the course again the next semester and receives a grade and credit for the course when competency is attained.

S - This symbol indicates that a student completed the course with satisfactory work.

U - This symbol indicates that a student did not complete the course with satisfactory work.

W - This symbol indicates that a student was permitted to withdraw without penalty.  Students may withdraw from courses prior to the midterm and receive a grade of W. However, instructors have the ability to change a grade of W to WF if the student is failing the course at the time of withdrawal. According to policy, the instructor must include the right to retain this ability in the course syllabus. Withdrawals without penalty will not be permitted after the midpoint of the total grading period except in cases of hardship as determined by the Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs.

V - This symbol indicates that a student was given permission to audit the course.  Students may not transfer from audit to credit status or vice versa. Students must choose to audit a course before the drop/add period ends for the course.  If an audit student withdraws from a course prior to the end of the term, a “W” will be assigned as the grade rather than a grade of “V.” An audit student who is dropped by the instructor for excessive absences will be assigned a grade of “W.”

K - This symbol indicates that a student was given credit for the course via credit by examination.

NR - This symbol indicates that the grade was not reported by the instructor.

CR - This symbol indicates that the student was awarded credit for military experience.

Overall Grade Point Average and Repeated Courses

All courses in which a student receives an academic grade will be used to calculate an overall grade point average (GPA). If a student repeats a course, only the grade of the most recent attempt of the course is used for the purpose of calculating the institutional grade point average.  This is the case even if the grade in the most recent attempt is lower than in previous attempts.  When the grade in the most recent attempt of a course is lower, this grade is used in addressing graduation requirements.  For example, if a student earns a grade of D in a course, and upon repeating it earns a grade of F, neither grade is applicable toward meeting graduation requirements. 

Auditors

Regularly enrolled UNG students may register for courses as auditors.  No academic or degree credit shall be awarded to auditors.  Fees assessed for audited courses are the same as fees of courses taken for credit.  If an audit student withdraws from a course prior to the end of the term, a grade of “W” will be assigned as the grade rather than a “V.”  An audit student who is dropped for excessive absences will be assigned a grade of “W.”  Students must choose to audit a course before the drop/add period ends for the course.

Semester Honors

At the close of each semester, students who meet the stated criteria below will be recognized with thte appropriate honors designation on their academic transcript:

President’s List

Students who have a grade point average (GPA) of 4.0 while carrying 12 or more hours are placed on the President’s List.

Dean’s List

Students who have a grade point average of 3.5 while carrying 12 or more hours with no grade below “B” are placed on the Dean’s List.

Graduation Honors

Scholastic recognition at graduation will be based on a overall grade point average (GPA) calculated on the basis of all work in the student’s college career, including any attempted at other institutions. Credit by examination, DSST, CLEP, and AP credit, as well as courses specifically excluded by university policy cannot be used in the GPA calculation for graduation with honors.

For baccalaureate students, the specific award will be one of the following:

For students earning an associate or career associate degree, the specific award will be “With Distinction” for an overall GPA of 3.5 or higher.

Changes in Grades

All grade changes must be approved by the Department Head and Dean of the appropriate College before they can be recorded by the registrar.

Classification of Students

Students who have earned less than 30 semester hours are classified as freshmen.  Students who have earned between 30 and less than 60 semester hours are classified as sophomores.  Students who have earned between 60 and less than 90 semester hours are classified as juniors.  Students who have earned 90 or more semester hours are classified as seniors.

Privacy of Student Records

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights to access and amend incorrect educational records.  It also regulates the disclosure of record information to outside parties.  All UNG students regardless of age must give written permission to release academic records to anyone who is not associated with the university, including parents or legal guardians.  According to the U.S. Department of Education, “under FERPA, schools may release any and all information to parents, without the consent of the eligible student, if the student is dependent for tax purposes under IRS rules.”

For additional information, students should review the Registrar’s Office website or the federal FERPA website at www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/index.html.

Student E-mail

Upon admission to the University of North Georgia, each student is provided with a student e-mail account. Student e-mail is the official channel of communication between the University and its students. It is the responsibility of the student to periodically monitor his/her student e-mail account and be aware of the information sent by the University. Lack of knowledge that results from failure to monitor University e-mail communications will not excuse students from complying with University policies, procedures and/or deadlines and will not be considered grounds for appeal for relief from those policies, procedures and deadlines.

Communication with Faculty Advisor

The academic advising process is a responsibility shared by the advisor and the student. It is the student’s responsibility to consult with the advisor concerning contemplated changes in class schedule, program of study, or career plans.

Course Loads

A student who is registered for 12 semester hours or more is classified as a full-time student.

A normal load for a full-time student is 15 to 18 semester hours.  A first-year student whose high school record and entrance test scores indicate inadequate preparation may be advised to carry a reduced load while adjusting to university-level work.

A student who wishes to carry more than 20 semester hours per term must have completed two or more semesters with a course load of 15 hours in a prior term with an institutional GPA of 3.0 or higher and have a minimum overall GPA of 2.5 in order to request an overload. This request must be approved by the student’s advisor, Department Head, and Dean.

A student whose overall grade point average is below a 2.0, or who has outstanding Learning Support or RHSC requirements and wishes to carry more than 17 semester hours must have a recommendation from her/his academic advisor and must have the written permission of the advisor, Department Head, and Dean.

Class Schedule Changes

Class schedule changes are allowed during the first five class days of fall and spring semesters.  The number of days allowed for changing a schedule will vary during summer sessions.  Students should consult the university calendar for this information.  Schedule changes should be made only after careful consultation with the academic advisor.  If a student drops classes, he/she may not be eligible for financial aid the student may have already received.  In this case, the student is responsible for returning funds to the Business Office.  Unauthorized changes in a schedule may result in loss of credit. After the initial period for adjusting class schedules, a withdrawal from a class will result in the assignment of a grade of W (withdraw without penalty) or WF (withdraw failing) as determined by the instructor and University System policy.  Instructors may request that the Office of Academic Affairs approve a grade of W after midterm in cases of extenuating circumstances. 

Required High School Curriculum (RHSC) Deficiencies

Students admitted to the institution with RHSC deficiencies will have two semesters plus a summer term to remove these deficiencies. Failure to remove deficiencies in this time frame will result in suspension until such time that the deficiencies are removed.

Students with RHSC deficiencies in social science, natural sciences, or foreign language must satisfy these deficiencies by completing the specified courses with a grade of “C” or better.  Courses taken to remove RHSC deficiencies do not count towards meeting degree requirements.

Students who do not meet the minimum SAT/ACT minimums for full freshman admission or who have RHSC deficiencies will be required to take the appropriate sections of the COMPASS Exam prior to registration in order to determine specific requirements for remediation in reading, English and mathematics. These students must make up their RHSC deficiencies according to established guidelines. Students who are granted provisional admission may satisfy RHSC deficiencies as follows:  

All RHSC deficiencies must be made up before the student has earned 30 semester hours of college-level credit. Students who accumulate 30 or more semester hours of college-level credit in the institution before completing all RHSC requirements may not register for other courses unless they also register for the appropriate course that meets the deficiency.  College courses taken to satisfy RHSC deficiencies cannot be used to fulfill Core Curriculum or degree requirements, but they are calculated in the cumulative grade point average. The academic record of transfer students who satisfy RHSC requirements at another University System of Georgia institution will reflect that the requirements are met.

Core Curriculum Rule

Students are required to successfully complete all Area A core curriculum courses (courses emphasizing communication skills and quantitative skills) in a timely manner. First-time and transfer students entering UNG who have earned 30 hours but have not completed Area A must enroll in the next course necessary to make progress toward completing this Area in every semester in which they take classes. For students with Learning Support requirements in reading, writing, and/or mathematics, taking the required Learning Support course(s) counts as making progress toward completing Area A. Students are also encouraged to complete at least one laboratory science course and at least one course of any foreign language requirement during the first sixty hours of coursework. 

Class Attendance

The University of North Georgia expects students to attend all regularly-scheduled classes for instruction and examination.  When a student is compelled for any reason to be absent from class, the student should immediately convey the reason for the absence directly to the instructor.  The student is responsible for all material presented in class and for all announcements and assignments.

The decision to permit students to make up work that is required in any missed class resides with the instructor.  Students who stop attending class may be administratively withdrawn (with or without academic penalty); a grade of W may be assigned when students fail to attend 10% of any class meetings prior to the midpoint of the term; a grade of WF will be assigned when students stop attending after the midpoint. Individual instructors or departments may have attendance policies stricter than that of the university, as long as the policies are stated in the class syllabus.

Students who are absent because of University-sponsored activities that are approved by the Provost or Vice President for Student Affairs will be permitted to make up any work missed during the absence.  “University sponsored activities” include activities related to performance groups, university athletic teams, the Corps of Cadets, the Student Government Association, field trips related to academic courses, as well as any other University sponsored activities approved by the Provost or Vice President for Student Affairs.  Approval of such absences will be granted only if the instructor receives advance notice in writing from the faculty member or university official sponsoring the activity.

Extenuating circumstances for which an absence may be excused include participation in university sponsored activities (see above), hazardous weather conditions, personal hardship, extended illness or hospitalization, family emergencies, or death in the immediate family.  Instructors may request documentation to verify the extenuating circumstances.

Any absence problems which cannot be resolved between the instructor and the student are referred immediately to the appropriate department head and, if necessary, to the Dean of the appropriate school.  The Dean of the appropriate school is the final arbiter in all absence disputes.

Academic Standing Policy

Good academic standing requires a minimum cumulative overall GPA of 2.0.  A student who has less than 15 GPA hours and has less than a 2.0 cumulative overall GPA will be placed on academic warning. After earning 15 credit hours, a student who does not have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 will be placed on academic probation.  A student on academic probation must earn a minimum semester GPA of 2.0 for each subsequent semester, until good academic standing is achieved, to remain on continued probation and avoid suspension. If the student fails to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 for each subsequent semester while on probation, he/she will be suspended for one year.

Should there be extenuating circumstances that contributed to the student’s poor academic performance, the student may write a letter of appeal to the Office of the Provost prior to the next Appeals committee meeting. The student would be encouraged to provide explanation regarding past academic performance and provide an outline of steps that he/she will take in the future in order to be successful academically in the future.  Documentation must be submitted to support the student’s appeal.  The Appeals committee will meet to consider the appeal and make a recommendation to the Provost, who will notify the student of the disposition of the appeal within a week of the committee meeting.

Suspension will be for one year.  Students suspended at the end of one semester will not be eligible to enroll for the next three academic semesters including summer.

After the period of suspension, students must appeal for readmission to the institution.  Readmission is not automatic or guaranteed.  Students who choose to attend another institution must provide official transcripts upon application for readmission.  These transcripts will be evaluated during the readmission process.  All students will be required to submit a plan for improvement for their return to the institution.

Students receiving financial aid are still required to meet Satisfactory Academic Progress to maintain aid eligibility.

Academic Support Programs

Learning Support Program

The Learning Support program at University of North Georgia provides the opportunity for students to improve their basic academic skills in the areas of English, Mathematics, and Reading, before enrolling in related college-level courses.

Students whose previous academic record, admissions test scores, and placement test scores indicate the need for additional preparation in English, Mathematics, and/or Reading are required to take the appropriate Learning Support courses. Additionally, students whose COMPASS Placement test scores indicate a READ 0099 and/or MATH 0097 requirement must take UNIV 1101 their first semester of enrollment.  Students who are required to take one or more Learning Support course must enroll each semester in the required Learning Support courses(s) before enrolling in any credit course until the requirement has been satisfied. Students may enroll concurrently in college-level courses for which they have satisfied the prerequisites. If students withdraw from any Learning Support course, they will not be allowed to remain in any regular college credit courses. If they remain enrolled in at least one Learning Support class, they will be allowed to remain in UNIV 1101, 1000-level PHED courses, and/or performance courses. The maximum time allowed for the completion of Learning Support READ 0099, ENGL 0099, and MATH 0097 is two semesters. The maximum time allowed for the completion of Learning Support mathematics is three semesters. Any semester a student is enrolled in a Learning Support course beyond the midpoint counts as one of the allowed semesters toward completion of Learning Support requirements. Students who fail to complete any Learning Support course within the time allowed or who do not make satisfactory progress will receive a grade of U in the course and be placed on Learning Support Suspension for one year (three consecutive semesters). They may apply to return after that suspension and begin anew with a placement test and all prior attempts set to zero (0).

Visit the Learning Support Program on the UNG website for more specific information about the Learning Support program and policies.

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESL) Program

University of North Georgia offers courses designed to prepare students whose native language is not English for success in college credit courses. This is a program designed to achieve advanced English skills and does not accept students who have little to no command of English. Placement in ESL is determined by TOEFL score, COMPASS placement testing, or professor’s recommendation.

In addition, students who score high enough on COMPASS placement tests to enroll in collegiate-level courses may also choose to take some ESL courses in order to enhance their academic performance. With the exception of ESLO 1101, ESL courses carry institutional credit.

UNG offers one course in pronunciation, one course in college orientation/classroom communication, two in academic vocabulary, three in writing/grammar taught on different skill levels (intermediate, high-intermediate, and advanced), and three in academic reading, also taught on different skill levels (intermediate, high-intermediate, and advanced). A student’s placement within the ESL program is determined by COMPASS score, an internal English test, and a writing sample. Students have three attempts to exit each level. Students exit from the intermediate and high-intermediate level classes by earning passing grades in these courses. Students exit the advanced reading class by earning a grade of C or higher in the class and by attaining a passing score on the COMPASS reading test. Students exit the advanced writing/grammar classes by earning a grade of C or higher in the class and by passing the Exit Essay, which is scored by members of the ESL and English faculty.

Students who are placed in ESL Reading must also take both ESLV 0051 and ESLV 0052 (Academic Vocabulary for ESL Students), which are non-sequential courses. Students who are placed ESL Reading and/or Writing must take and pass ESLO 1101 (Classroom Communication and College Orientation) with a grade of C or higher. Lower-level students or students with deficits in speaking and/or listening skills may also be required to take ESLC 0061 (Pronunciation).

Students who fail to pass a course in three semesters will receive a grade of U and be placed on Learning Support (ESL) Suspension for one year (three consecutive semesters). Students may apply to return after serving their suspension and begin anew with a placement test and all prior attempts set to zero (0).

Visit the ESL Program on the UNG website for more specific information about the ESL program and policies.

Transfer Policies for Learning Support and ESL

Students who complete Learning Support English, Math, or Reading courses at another USG institution are exempted from that/those area(s). Those students who begin Learning Support courses but do not complete them at another USG institution are placed in the equivalent courses at UNG. Previous terms of enrollment in Learning Support courses at another USG institution are counted toward the maximum allowed for completion. If transfer applicants have already accumulated the maximum number of attempts allowed, those applicants will not be accepted. Any students placed on Learning Support suspension from another USG institution may be admitted at the end of one year suspension in accordance with University System and Admissions policies.  Any students placed on Learning Support suspension or who leave for three consecutive semesters without satisfying her/his Learning Support requirements will, upon application for readmission, will be required to take the COMPASS Placement Test in any unsatisfied Learning Support area.

Students who transfer in fewer than 30 hours of college credit are subject to all the requirements of entering freshmen. Students who transfer in 30 or more hours of college credit are exempt from CPC requirements, but they are subject to COMPASS testing and placement if they have not completed the Learning Support requirement at a prior University System of Georgia institution.

Students accepted into UNG through the Learning Support and/or English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESL) Program are not allowed transient permission to take Learning Support and/or ESL courses at other institutions nor does the institution accept transient students into Learning Support and/or ESL courses.

Voluntary Enrollment

Students who believe they will profit from additional academic support prior to enrollment in the college-level course are welcome to voluntarily enroll in Learning Support and/or ESL courses.  Such students will not be required to take the exit-COMPASS to complete the course.  If students place into MATH 0099 but voluntarily elect to take MATH 0097 instead, the semester(s) of enrollment in MATH 0097 also count toward allowed number of semesters toward completion of Learning Support Math. Additionally, students who place into MATH 0099 but voluntarily elect to drop down to MATH 0097 must pass MATH 0097 before being allowed to advance to MATH 0099.

Transient Students

Current University of North Georgia students may request to complete certain courses at another institution as a transient student. A transient permission request form must be submitted to the Registrar’s office prior to the term in which the student would like take these courses. Permission is not granted to students who have outstanding Learning Support or ESL requirements, or to students who have been granted academic renewal, or to students who are on academic suspension.

Students who do not request (and receive) transient permission to attend another institution or who do not take the requested/approved courses risk not having their work transferred back to UNG.

The student’s academic advisor and College Dean (or designee), must approve Transient Permission Requests for the following students:

• students enrolled in baccalaureate programs taking transient coursework after Senior status has been achieved.
• students who are enrolled in certificate programs.

The Transient Permission Request form for undergraduate students is available from the Registrar’s office.  Graduate students should contact the Office of Graduate Studies for more information.

After the student submits the form, the Registrar’s office will send a letter of good standing to the other institution. The student must apply to that institution as a transient student. At the close of the transient term, students must request an official transcript of their coursework at the other institution be sent to the University of North Georgia.

Credit by Examination

University of North Georgia offers Credit by Examination (CBE) when scores on nationally standardized examinations (CLEP, etc.) or other academic experience strongly indicates that the student has acquired the information or skills related to given courses of instruction offered by the university.

In evaluating student submissions for possible credit, the university is guided by the principles developed by the American Council on Education (ACE), a national association of higher education institutions that serves adult learners and nontraditional students by evaluating and translating workplace learning and nontraditional education experiences into academic credits , and armed services members by evaluating and recommending equivalent college credits for military training and experience. The institution is further guided by the recommendations of Servicemembers Opportunity College (SOC), and by  the USG Adult Learning Consortium, in both of which UNG is a member.

Credit awarded by examination can be given only for courses officially approved for academic credit by the university.  The institution’s website contains a listing of courses for which a student may earn credit by examination. The credit (noted with a grade of K) carries no academic grade and is not computed into the grade point average.  The university limits the number of hours of Credit by Examination to 45 semester hours and no more than 24 hours of IB credit.  No more than 30 hours of credit by exam credit may be applied to an associate’s degree program.

A student who has earned a grade other than a W in the course may not earn CLEP or DSST credit for the course.  A student may earn CLEP or DSST credit for a course in which he/she is currently enrolled provided that the student withdraws from the course no later than the last date in the term to withdraw with a W.  Students should be aware that medical, dental and other professional schools may not recognize course credit by examination in their admissions processes.

Details regarding required scores and course equivalents for certain credit by exam tests are listed on the Academic Affairs website.  Information regarding the availability of these tests is available from the Testing Center.

Advanced Placement (AP)

AP credit for certain classes may be awarded in which an equivalent is offered and for which the required score is achieved.  AP tests are administered by the College Entrance Examination Board.  Thirty four tests in 19 subject areas correspond to Advanced Placement high school courses.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

A national standardized testing program that offers 33 tests in the subject areas of Business, Composition and Literature, History and Social Sciences, Science and Mathematics, and World Languages.  CLEP is managed by the College Board® and allows students to earn college credit by demonstrating mastery of college-level material by earning qualifying scores.  CLEP exams cover material that students typically encounter during their first two years of college.  CLEP credit may be awarded for courses at the 1000 and 2000 level.

Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) Subject Standardized Tests Program (DSST)

DANTES provides the Department of Defense (DoD) with worldwide education support by coordinating off-duty voluntary education programs, development activities and special projects, and sponsoring a wide range of standardized testing programs.  This testing program offers 38 exams to students.

Foreign Language Achievement Testing Service (FLATS)

Students may earn a maximum of 14 academic credits in select modern languages through the Foreign Language Achievement Testing Service (FLATS) offered by Brigham Young University (BYU).  Students must contact the UNG Testing Office before registering for a FLATS test via the BYU website.  The UNG Testing Office will provide the FLATS Registration Guide outlining how to proceed with the testing process.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

International Baccalaureate (IB) is a two-year college diploma program.  Students who complete IB tests in high school may submit official score reports for evaluation for academic credit.  IB credit may be awarded for certain classes in which an equivalent is offered and for which the required grade is achieved.  Up to 24 hours of credit for IB exams satisfying the minimum test scores set by UNG may be awarded.   IB diploma completers may be awarded credit for both higher level and standard level exams satisfying the minimum test scores set by UNG. Non-diploma completers may only receive credit for higher-level exams satisfying the minimum test scores set by UNG.

Prior Learning Assessment by Portfolio

Students can earn appropriate credit in their work or military experience towards a degree for verifiable college level learning acquired through life or work experience, not for the experience itself.  Students who acquire the level of knowledge that meets the expectations and the learning outcomes of a specific course may get credit for that course, provided the students can demonstrate proficiency in that specific course.

Upon the recommendation of the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Coordinator, a student seeking credit for prior learning through portfolio assessment will enroll in the Prior Learning Documentation (PLAC 2000) course.  In this course, the student will learn how to prepare a portfolio for submission.  A portfolio is a collection of work (e.g., paintings, writings, artifacts, examples) and related narrative developed by a student which may be used to demonstrate competency in an academic area.  The PLAC 2000 course cannot be used to fulfill Core Curriculum or degree requirements.

Once students complete and submit the PLA portfolio, assessors will evaluate it to determine if the portfolio provides evidence which ties those skills to a specific course objective. Credit may be awarded when a qualified faculty assessor determines that the prior learning is acceptable for credit.  A separate portfolio must be prepared for each course for which a student is seeking credit.  For more information, consult the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Student Manual at the Center for Adult Learners & Military website.

Credit for Military Experience

Students who served on active duty or attended military training may receive academic credit for their experience.  Students must submit appropriate documentation to request that their record be evaluated for this credit.  The Center for Adult Learners and Military (located on the Gainesville campus) and the Veterans Success Center (on the Dahlonega campus) coordinates the review of service members’ records by Academic departments and submits approved credit to the Registrar’s office to be recorded on the students’ academic transcript (with a grade of CR).

Professional Credit

UNG grants credit for a professional program for students in the LPN-ASN Nursing program. These students are certified licensed practical nurses (LPNs) that are enrolled in UNG in order to complete their Associate’s degree. Upon completion of a summer transition courses to validate skills and coverage of first-year ASN content, the Nursing Department may grant credit for the first two required ASN nursing courses (NURS 1100 Basic Concepts Essential to Nursing Practice and NURS 1110 Fundamental Concepts/Integrated Nursing Skills) based on the students’ nursing experience and successful completion of NURS 1090. Nursing courses from other nursing programs may transfer into UNG after review of course materials and with approval from the Nursing Department. The RN-BSN program adheres to Georgia’s RN-BSN articulation agreement and awards a set number of credit hours to those holding an associate’s degree in nursing. The awarding of the credit hours is contingent upon the successful completion of NURS 3110 The Transformation to Professional Nursing.
 

Cooperative Programs  

Regents’ Engineering Transfer Program (RETP)

Students seeking a bachelor of engineering degree may begin their college studies at the University of North Georgia through the Regents Engineering Transfer Program (RETP) or may take a pre-engineering curriculum. Upon successful completion of the pre-engineering curriculum, RETP students transfer to the Georgia Institute of Technology to complete the degree requirements. Non-RETP pre-engineering students take the pre-engineering curriculum and then apply for transfer to the engineering school of their choice.  

Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges (SOC)

Servicemembers Opportunity College (SOC), co-sponsored by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) and the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), functions in cooperation with 14 other higher education associations, the Department of Defense, Active and Reserve Components of the Military Services, and the Department of Veterans Affairs to expand and improve voluntary postsecondary education opportunities for servicemembers worldwide.  UNG is a member of the SOC Consortium to help coordinate voluntary postsecondary educational opportunities for servicemembers.

Consistent with a SOC Consortium institution of higher learning, UNG follows the general principles of transfer practice as outlined in the “Joint Statement on the Transfer and Award of Credit” that considers the educational quality of the transferred learning experience, the comparability of the nature, content, and level of the learning experience to that offered by the college, and the appropriateness and applicability of the learning experience to the programs offered by the college in light of the student’s educational goals. Academic residency requirements for active-duty servicemembers is limited to no more than 25 percent of the student’s undergraduate degree program.  UNG uses the ACE Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services to determine any transferable course credit for appropriate learning acquired in military service at levels consistent with ACE Guide recommendations.  Additionally, servicemembers may demonstrate prior learning experiences through life or work outside of structured higher education courses through the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) process in which students identify areas of relevant learning from past experiences, demonstrate that learning through appropriate documentation, and submit their materials so that they can be evaluated for possible course credit that is relative to specific UNG course objectives.  Interested students should refer to the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Student Manual on the Center for Adult Learners & Military website.

Adult Learning Consortium

The University System of Georgia- Adult Learning Consortium (ALC) is composed of 13 colleges and universities. The Adult Learning Consortium (ALC) is a “system” within “the System,” working collaboratively to improve programs and services which align with the State’s workforce development plan, meet the needs of adult students, and expand services for military students and veterans.
 

Military Withdrawal

Enrolled active duty military personnel or military reservists who receive emergency orders to active duty during the term may officially withdraw from UNG and receive a full refund of tuition and mandatory fees.  The refunding of other fees may be prorated based on the date of the withdrawal.  The grade of ‘WM’ (Military Withdrawal) will be given in each course from which the student is withdrawn.  Service members who request a military withdrawal must submit a copy of their orders to the Registrar’s Office preferably prior to departure, but before grades are given for the term. Official documentation is required in order for the withdrawal to be processed.  Military withdrawals are not granted for TDY (temporary duty) assignments or for terms that are complete.

Administrative Withdrawal

A student may be administratively withdrawn from the university when it is determined that the student has a condition which (a) causes the student to be unable to meet institutional requirements for admission and continued enrollment, (b) causes the student to interfere with the rights of other members of the university community or its personnel, or (c) poses a significant danger or threat of physical harm to the student or to the person or property of others. Either the student or the university can initiate an administrative withdrawal.

Student-initiated withdrawal
Students who seek to obtain a withdrawal after the approved withdrawal date must complete a Request for Health/Hardship Leave of Absence Petition to the Dean of Students for review or they will automatically receive grades of WF. Student-initiated withdrawals do not include any conditions for future registration. Examples include health-related withdrawal and hardship withdrawal.

University-initiated withdrawal
A student may be the subject of a university-initiated withdrawal from the university when 1) the student has received a student conduct sanction during a semester which would prevent the student from completing the semester or 2) it is determined, in the judgment of the Vice President for Student Affairs, that the student is a threat to her/himself and/or others or results in a significant disruption to the University community.
 

Students involved in University-initiated withdrawal have the opportunity to present their position and any relevant information prior to a final decision concerning continued enrollment at the University. University-initiated withdrawals follow the same guidelines, procedures, and due process as the Student Conduct hearing process outlined in the Student Handbook.
 

Students must complete all the conditions outlined within the university-initiated withdrawal. In order to be eligible to register for future terms, students must complete the Request for Re-enrollment Form. The conditions for reapplication to the University will remain for students who have not been in attendance for three or more consecutive semesters. Please see Submission Requirements at http://ung.edu/baccalaureate-admissions/admission-requirements. Examples include withdrawal based on student conduct suspension; withdrawal based on academic misconduct suspension; and withdrawal based on Behavior Intervention Team recommendation to the Vice President for Student Affairs.
 

Disciplinary Withdrawal

A student required to withdraw from the university for disciplinary reasons will receive grades of W or WF.  Grades of W after midterm require the approval of the Associate Provost for Academic Administration, or designee, and are approved only in cases of acceptable extenuating circumstances. 

Religious Holidays

Students who wish to be absent to observe a religious holiday during scheduled class times must make arrangements in advance with their instructors. Faculty members will be sensitive to the observance of these holidays.

Eligibility of Varsity Athletes

NCAA Academic and General Requirements (BYLAW, ARTICLE 14)

To be eligible to represent an institution in intercollegiate athletics competition, a student-athlete shall be enrolled in at least a minimum full-time program of studies, be in good academic standing and maintain progress toward a baccalaureate or equivalent degree as defined by the institution, which for purposes of this bylaw and its subsections shall not be less than 12-semester hours, regardless of the institution’s definition of a minimum full-time program of studies.  Also, a student-athlete may represent the institution while enrolled as a graduate or professional student or while enrolled and seeking a second baccalaureate degree at the same institution.

Regarding eligibility for competition, student-athletes must satisfactorily earn six-semester hours of academic credit the preceding regular academic term in which the student-athlete has been enrolled full time at any collegiate institution.  A student athlete must also satisfactorily complete 24 semester hours of academic credit since the beginning of the previous fall term or since the certifying institution’s preceding two regular semesters. A student-athlete must earn at least 75 percent of the minimum number of semester hours required for progress toward degree during the regular academic year.  The student-athlete shall earn no more than 25 percent of the minimum number of semester hours required for progress toward a degree during the summer or through correspondence courses taken during the 1993-94 academic year and thereafter.

A student-athlete shall meet the “satisfactory completion” provision of this requirement by maintaining a grade point average that places the individual in good academic standing, as established by the institution for all students who are at an equivalent stage of progress toward a degree.  To fulfill the “satisfactory completion” provision of this requirement, a student-athlete who first enters a Division II institution after the 1988-89 academic year must achieve the following cumulative minimum grade point average (based on a 4.000) at the beginning of the fall term or at the beginning of any other regular term of that academic year, based on the student-athlete earning: 

• 24 - semester hours:  1.800;
• 48 - semester hours:  1.900;
• 72 - semester hours:  2.000;
• 96 - semester hours:  2.000.

UNG Academic Standing policies supersede NCAA guidelines regarding academic eligibility.

Regarding freshman academic requirements, a student-athlete who enrolls in a Division II institution as an entering freshman with no previous full-time college attendance shall meet the following academic requirements, as certified by the NCAA Eligibility Center approved by the Executive Committee, and any applicable institutional and conference regulations, to be considered a qualifier and thus be eligible for financial aid, practice and competition during the first academic year in residence.  

1. a minimum cumulative grade-point average of 2.000 (based on a maximum 4.000) in a successfully completed core curriculum of at least 16 academic courses per Bylaw 14.3.1.1.
2. a minimum combined score on the SAT verbal and math sections of 820 or a minimum sum score of 68 on the ACT.  The SAT or ACT score must be achieved under national testing conditions on a national testing date.

To be eligible to represent an institution in intercollegiate athletics competition, a student-athlete shall be in compliance with all applicable provisions of the constitution and bylaws of the Association and all rules and regulations of the institution and the conference(s), if any, of which the institution is a member.  Specific attention is called to legislation affecting eligibility in the following areas:  Amateurism, Awards, Benefits, and Expenses, Ethical Conduct, Financial Aid and Recruitment.

Institutional Assessment of Students

The university affirms its prerogative to require all students to take any examination which may, from time to time, be required for institutional or University System evaluation and to charge each student for the cost of such an examination.

Academic Integrity Policy

Preamble

The University of North Georgia is dedicated to providing an educational climate characterized by integrity.  Academic integrity, in particular, must be the cornerstone of an institution of higher learning and must pervade all segments of the UNG community.  Furthermore, academic integrity is the mutual responsibility of the various constituencies (students, faculty, staff, and administration) which comprise the university. 

Honor Code

The honor code, “On my honor, I will not lie, cheat, steal, plagiarize, evade the truth or tolerate those who do,” reflects UNG’s commitment to academic integrity.

The policies and procedures regarding academic integrity at UNG are included in the Student Handbook under Student Code of Conduct.  The absence of an integrity code statement on an assignment, the absence of a written honor pledge on an assignment, or the absence of a student’s signature in no way releases the student from the responsibility to know, understand, and follow the university’s honor policy.

Academic Renewal Policy

The Academic Renewal Policy allows University System of Georgia (USG) degree-seeking students who have experienced academic difficulty at a USG institution to have one opportunity to make a fresh start at that same institution after an absence of five calendar years.  Academic Renewal signals the initiation of a new grade point average (Renewal GPA) to be used for determining academic standing and eligibility for graduation.  The calculation of an Academic Renewal GPA begins when the student resumes enrollment following approval for Academic Renewal and includes all coursework taken since the student’s re-acceptance.  A statement of Academic Renewal status along with the Academic Renewal GPA will be displayed on the student’s academic record including the official academic transcript.  All previously attempted coursework and any previous academic suspensions and/or dismissals remain on the student’s permanent record including the official academic transcript.

Students who are eligible for Academic Renewal

• are re-accepted at UNG and were not enrolled at UNG for a period of at least five consecutive calendar years prior to their re-acceptance.
• petition for Academic Renewal within the first calendar year following their re-acceptance/re-enrollment at UNG.
• did not enroll at another USG institution during a period of academic suspension/dismissal from any USG institution.
• have never been granted Academic Renewal at UNG, or if have unsuccessfully petitioned for Academic Renewal before, have waited at least one calendar year before petitioning again. 

Transfer coursework completed during a student’s absence from UNG will not be accepted for transfer students who are granted approval for Academic Renewal.

For students who are granted approval for Academic Renewal, academic credit for previously completed coursework will be retained only for courses in which an A, B, C, or K grade has been earned, including any applicable transfer coursework.  Retained grades are not calculated in the Renewal GPA but will be calculated in the cumulative, overall GPA.  Applicability of retained credit to degree requirements will be determined by the degree requirements currently in effect at the time Academic Renewal status is granted to the students.  Specific institutional program regulations must also be met, such as minimum GPA based upon all attempted coursework, since reentry into any academic degree program is not automatic.  Courses with D, F, or WF grades that are required in the student’s degree program must be repeated at UNG.  No transient credit for these courses will be accepted.  Students who wish to earn a degree must satisfy UNG residency requirements after approval for Academic Renewal is granted.  At least 50% of coursework toward a degree must be completed at UNG after the granting of Academic Renewal status for a student to be eligible for honors at graduation.  The granting of Academic Renewal does not supersede financial aid policies regarding Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).

Eligible students who wish to petition for Academic Renewal should contact the Registrar’s Office for the required petition forms.

Military Science Instruction

Graduation requirements for members of the Corps of Cadets include successful completion of 12 semester hours of military science instruction unless exempted by the Associate Provost for Academic Administration upon the request of the Professor of Military Science.  To fulfill this requirement, all cadets, including those transferring from other institutions, are required to successfully complete at least one military science class each semester.

U.S. and Georgia Constitution and History Requirement

A Georgia law requires that all candidates for a degree from an institution supported by public funds shall pass an examination “of the History of United States and the History of Georgia” and an examination “upon the provisions and principles of the United States Constitution and the Constitution of Georgia.” The requirements for instruction in the above areas can be met by passing a test in each of the four areas or by satisfactorily completing one of the following courses at UNG or another regionally accredited college or university in the University System of Georgia: HIST 2111, HIST 2112 or POLS 1101.

If you transferred one or more of these courses into UNG from a private or out-of-state institution, you will have to take at least two exams to meet the mandated requirements.  See the following exam options.

• If you transferred from another state or received AP or CLEP credit for POLS 1101 & HIST 2111 or HIST 2112, you need to take the GA Constitution and the GA History exam.
• If you transferred from another state or received AP or CLEP credit for POLS 1101, you need to take the GA Constitution, GA History and U.S. History exams.
• If you transferred from another state or received AP or CLEP credit for HIST 2111 or HIST 2112, you need to take the U.S. Constitution, GA Constitution and GA History exams.

Students should contact the Department of Political Science & International Affairs and the Department of History & Philosophy for clarification of these restrictions. 

Any baccalaureate student who has not met the legislative requirement, but has completed Area E, may petition the Departments to use the following upper-level courses to meet the requirements listed below through coursework at the University of North Georgia:

Credit for U.S. history requirement: HIST 3150 or HIST 3151

Credit for Georgia history requirement: HIST 3182, HIST 3183, HIST 3184, or HIST 3185

Credit for Georgia constitution requirement: POLS 3106, POLS 4112, or POLS 4120

Students are encouraged to visit the departmental websites for more information. 

Regents’ Skills Program

Each institution of the University System of Georgia shall assure the other institutions, and the System as a whole, that students obtaining a degree from that institution possess certain minimum skills of reading and writing. The Regents’ Skills Program has been developed to help in the attainment of this goal. The objectives of the Regents’ Skills Program are (1) to provide System-wide information on the status of student competence in the areas of reading and writing and (2) to provide a uniform means of identifying those students who fail to attain the minimum levels of competence in the areas of reading and writing.  

The University of North Georgia has been granted an institutional exemption to the Regents Reading and Writing Skills requirement by the USG Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer under delegated authority of the Chancellor in consultation with the Chair of the Academic Affairs Committee of the Board of Regents.  

The exemption was granted based on UNG’s assessment of communications outcomes in Area A1 classes (ENGL 1101 and 1102). Therefore, if a student has passed ENGL 1101 and 1102 with a C or higher (or has been granted transfer credit for those classes AFTER ENROLLING at an exempt institution), then the student is exempt from Regents’ Test requirements at that point, regardless of where he/she may transfer. 

Other exemptions may be found at the BOR website at http://www.usg.edu/academic_affairs_handbook/section2/handbook/C757/

Plan of Study

Students pursuing a baccalaureate degree must have an approved plan of study (POS) on file in the Office of the Registrar prior to earning 90 hours.

Students seeking an associates degree must have an approved plan of study on file prior to earning 40 hours.

The POS is changed only upon written authorization of the faculty advisor and the head of the department concerned.  Degree programs are subject to change.  Adjustments may be made to the requirements for the degree regardless of the Undergraduate Catalog under which the student entered. 

Baccalaureate Majors, Academic Minors, and Field of Study

A baccalaureate degree program must contain a minimum of 120 semester hours, at least 21 of which must be upper division hours in the major field.  The program must require at least 39 semester hours of upper division work overall.

A minor must contain 15 to 18 semester hours of coursework, at least 9 of which must be upper division coursework.  Courses taken to satisfy Core Areas A through E may not be counted as coursework in the minor.  Courses taken in Core Area F may be counted as coursework in the minor.  Courses taken to satisfy the major requirements may not be used to satisfy the minor requirements.

For a program of study in which a minor is not required, the field of study consists of all upper division coursework in the major field.  For a program of study in which a minor is required, the field of study consists of all upper division coursework in the major field and the minor field.  In a chosen major or minor, no deviation from the requirements may occur without written approval from the student’s academic advisor, the student’s department head, and the Associate Provost for Academic Administration.  A student must achieve at least a 2.0 institutional grade point average in the field of study in order to receive a baccalaureate degree.

Multiple Majors

Students wishing to pursue multiple majors at the baccalaureate degree level must complete all Core Curriculum (Areas A-E) and upper division requirements for each major.  Coursework completed to satisfy one major may be utilized to satisfy requirements of other majors.  For majors that share course requirements, a maximum of 15 credit hours may be used twice (once in each major’s program of study) to satisfy degree requirements of both majors.

Students wishing to pursue multiple majors at the associate degree level must complete all Core Curriculum (Areas A-E) and Area F requirements for each program of study.  For majors that share Area F course requirements, a maximum of 9 hours may be used twice (once in each major’s program of study) to satisfy degree requirements of both majors.
 

Second Degree

Students who earned a baccalaureate degree from UNG and wish to pursue a second baccalaureate degree must complete a minimum of 30 additional hours in residence and fulfill requirements for the second major and degree.

Students who earned an associate degree from UNG and wish to pursue a second associate degree must complete a minimum of 9 additional Area F hours and fulfill the requirements for the second major and degree.

Students may pursue an associate degree while concurrently pursuing a baccalaureate degree.  Students may earn the associate degree once all graduation requirements for the degree are met.  The student may apply to graduate from the associate degree program and may participate in the appropriate graduation ceremony before all requirements for the baccalaureate degree are met.

Candidacy for the Degree

Membership in the senior class does not within itself imply candidacy for the degree.  Before the degree can be conferred, all indebtedness to the university must be met and published requirements for the particular degree fulfilled.  Responsibility for meeting these requirements rests with the student, and each candidate should ensure her/his program of study is on file for graduation with the Office of the Registrar.

A student must submit an application for graduation, and pay the graduation fee by the published deadline for the semester in which the student anticipates completing degree requirements.  Additionally, the student must be on-track to complete all degree requirements no later than the grade submission deadline for the term in which the student is to be awarded the degree. The Registrar’s Office will determine whether or not a student is eligible to participate in a commencement ceremony. This application may be secured from the Office of the Registrar’s website.

For all baccalaureate degrees, the student must complete the requirements of the core curriculum, must fulfill the major and minor requirements, if any, and offer sufficient approved elective courses to bring the total number of acceptable credit hours to at least 120.  A student pursuing a Baccalaureate degree must also pass or be exempted from the Regents’ requirement.

For an Associate’s degree, a student must complete a minimum of 15 hours in residence at the University of North Georgia.  For a Baccalaureate, a student must complete a minimum of 30 hours in residence at UNG, including at least 21 hours of upper division (3000 level or above) in the major field.  A student must also meet any additional residence requirements of their degree program.  Credit is considered in residence if the credit is eligible to count toward graduation and tuition is assessed by UNG (excluding credit by exam).  Special exceptions may be granted with the approval of the department head and the Associate Provost for Academic Administration.  For more detailed information, see the section on a Second Baccalaureate.

Students pursuing a degree from UNG must meet additional University System Learning Goals or Overlay Requirements as well.  One course is required in each of the following areas: United States Perspectives, Global Perspectives and Critical Thinking. 

Georgia law requires that all candidates for a degree from an institution supported by public funds shall successfully pass coursework or an examination “of the History of the United States and the History of Georgia” and coursework or an examination “upon the provisions and principles of the United States Constitution and the Constitution of Georgia.” 

A student must have a minimum grade point average of 2.0 on all work presented for graduation.  A student must have a minimum grade point average of 2.0 on coursework completed at UNG and at least a 2.0 institutional grade point average in the field of study. Certain programs of study may have higher minimum grade point averages and grades that are required for graduation.

Degree candidates may participate in only one commencement ceremony per semester and will be recognized for only one degree when they cross the stage during that ceremony. Any degree candidate eligible to receive multiple degrees must choose one degree for which they will be recognized during the commencement ceremony.

Students who, at the end of the semester in which they are eligible to graduate, receive one or more failing/inadequate grades and/or grades of IP or I in a course or courses that are required to complete the degree will be allowed to participate in the commencement ceremony, but will not be certified to receive the degree until all degree requirements are met.

Study abroad students who, at the end of the semester in which they are eligible to graduate, receive one or more failing/inadequate grades and/or grades of IP or I in a course or courses that are required to complete the degree will be allowed to participate in the commencement ceremony, but will not be certified to receive the degree until all degree requirements are met.

Transient students who, at the end of the semester in which they are eligible to graduate, receive one or more failing/inadequate grades and/or grades of IP or I in a course or courses that are required to complete the degree will be allowed to participate in the commencement ceremony, but will not be certified to receive the degree until all degree requirements are met. Transient students who, at the end of the semester in which they are eligible to graduate, do not have official documentation of transient course credit on file in the Registrar’s Office will be allowed to participate in the commencement ceremony, but will not be certified to receive the degree until all degree requirements are met.

In order to participate in a commencement ceremony, students who plan to earn required course credit via credit by examination (departmental examinations for course credit, CLEP, DSST, etc.) during the semester in which they are eligible to graduate must attempt to earn the appropriate credit by examination and have official documentation of that attempt on file in the Registrar’s Office no later than the grade submission deadline for the term in which the student is eligible to be awarded the degree.

No student may be declared a graduate of the university until all requirements for entrance and for graduation have been met, the degree has been conferred, and the diploma has been awarded.