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ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY FACULTY ADVISOR TRAINING MANUAL

2019-2020 WILSON ADVISING CENTER

870.972.3001

GETTING STARTED ADVISING

The Basics 2

Campus Referral Resources 3

STUDENT STATUS

Incoming Students 4

Student Status 5

New Student Registration, Advising Tips & Errors 7

REGISTRATION

General Education 8

Dual and Concurrent Credit 9

Advanced Placement 10

Language Requirements 12

ACADEMIC POLICIES

Academic Policies 12

Graduation Requirements 18

OTHER INFORMATION

Wilson Advising Center Services 20

Arkansas Academic Advising Network 21

National Academic Advising Association 22

NOTES 22

This document covers only basic academic advising information. For more information regarding academic advising, please contact the Wilson Advising Center.

WHAT’S INSIDE

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GETTING STARTED: KNOW THE BASICS UNIVERSITY ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Minimum ACT composite score of 21 AND a minimum final high school GPA of 2.75. Comparable scores on the SAT, ASSET or COMPASS may be submitted for consideration.

TRANSITION STUDIES Students who do not meet the stated admission standards of an ACT of 21 or higher and a grade point average of 2.75 or higher, but whose ACT score is 19 or higher and high school grade point average is 2.3 or higher are eligible. CONTACT: Toccara Carter, Interim Director of Transition Studies 972-2080, tcarter@astate.edu.

UNIVERSITY ADVISEMENT STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY Advising is a shared responsibility between the student, advisor and college community designed to help students grow individually, succeed academically, and to develop an appropriate educational plan leading to graduation with a focus on their life beyond the University. The University acknowledges its obligation to provide students with accurate and timely academic advising, delivered through its academic departments, colleges, and other units devoted to specific student populations.

A-STATE ACADEMIC ADVISING STRUCTURE Transition Studies Test Placement Scores & GPA Transition Studies

Undecided Exploring degree options Wilson Advising Center

Decided Major determined Academic Departments

A-STATE ACADEMIC SUPPORT STRUCTURE First Year Experience Courses All first time, first-year college students are enrolled in a First Year Experience (3 credit) course during their first enrollment period. This course is designed to help transition new learners to the college culture. There are over eighty sections including TS, undecided, discipline-specific and nontraditional options.

Pack Support for Faculty (Starfish Retention Solutions) Starfish is a communication tool for which faculty and nonteaching employees can refer students of concern to a team of Student Outreach Campus Administrators.

The Learning Commons There is a variety of tutorial assistance available to students on campus. Students seeking assistance in general education courses can visit The Learning Commons. Students may also check in with their instructors, form study groups or ask departments about graduate student assistance.

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University Advising Awards The university highlights exemplary advising with two annual awards. The You Made a Difference advisor award is student nominated and student selected, presented each fall semester. The Outstanding Faculty Advisor is peer or self-nominated and presented each spring at the Faculty Convocation. Both awards bring recognition and support to quality advising at A-State.

DEPARTMENTAL POLICIES AND STRUCTURE Find out what the advising structure or practice is within your department

Acquaint yourself with the curriculum for each major/minor within your department

Know General Education and graduation requirements for majors in your department

Become familiar with: Banner, Self Service, the A-State Bulletin, and Student Handbook

Attend an Advisor Training Session through Wilson Advising Center

CAMPUS REFERRAL RESOURCES COUNSELING CENTER, 972-2318 http://www.astate.edu/student-affairs/counseling/ The Counseling Center provides specialized services to help students perform better academically, cope with emotions, and be more effective in relationships with others. The Counseling Center also provides career assessments and test anxiety intervention. CAREER SERVICES, 972-3025 http://www.astate.edu/careers/ The Career Management Center offers a variety of employment and career-related services to prepare students for future employment. Career Services posts openings for career jobs, internships, and part-time jobs (on and off campus jobs, and Federal Work-Study jobs) through Career Connections. DISABILITY SERVICES, 972-3964 http://www.astate.edu/disability/ Disability Services arranges for academic adjustments and auxiliary aids for qualified students with disabilities. HONORS COLLEGE, 972-2308 http://www.astate.edu/honors/ Students formally admitted to the Honors College have an opportunity to gain unique research and scholarship through enriched coursework and programming. New students seeking honors status must have a minimum ACT score of a 28 and a 3.50 high school GPA. INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS, 972-2329 http://www.astate.edu/international/ This office assists international students with student services and transitional needs. In addition, the office monitors the compliance of international student policies. FINANCIAL AID, 972-2310 http://www.astate.edu/finaid/ The Financial Aid/Scholarship Office processes student aid requests and provides information regarding federal student aid and A-State scholarships.

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THE LEARNING COMMONS (TLC), 972-3478 https://www.astate.edu/college/university-college/the-learning-commons/ The TLC offers one-on-one and group tutorial assistance with most of the A-State general education courses. Online tutoring service is provided. Contact this office to find out more information. RESIDENCE LIFE, 972-2042 http://www.astate.edu/a/residence-life/ The Department of Residence Life offers on-campus housing for full time college students in traditional residence halls, apartments or family housing facilities. OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS, RECORDS & REGISTRATION, 972-2031 http://www.astate.edu/registrar/ Admissions, Records & registration assists students with registration issues, verifies enrollment, issues official transcripts, evaluates transfer work and is the official holder of academic records for the University. STUDENT ACCOUNTS, 972-2285 http://www.astate.edu/studentaccounts/ Student Accounts disperses financial aid and scholarship money and manages students’ financial account with A-State. Students work with this office to arrange payment plans. STUDENT HEALTH CENTER, 972-2054 http://www.astate.edu/a/student-health-center/ The Student Health Center has an array of medical services from treating minor illnesses and injuries to providing physical exams, immunizations, female exams (including pap smears), health education, and pre/post-test HIV Counseling (includes blood draw). STUDENT LEADERSHIP CENTER, 972-2055 http://www.astate.edu/a/leadership-center/ A-State offers a variety of organizations and associations for student involvement. Students can contact the Leadership Center or their academic department to learn about these opportunities. UNIVERSITY POLICE, 972-2093 http://www.astate.edu/police/ The University Police Department serves a number of functions at A-State to provide a safe environment. Some services include free car unlocking and campus escorts. WILSON ADVISING CENTER, 972-3001 http://www.astate.edu/college/university-college/advising-center/ The Advising Center assists undeclared students with major and course selection. Assistance is also provided for transfer students, students in academic distress and students seeking to officially withdraw from the university.

INCOMING STUDENT STATUS

FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS: Students who complete 12 or fewer semester credit hours following high school completion, excludes

summer after high school graduation, are considered first-year students.

Students who earn concurrent credit while in high school are considered first-year students and must complete all first-year requirements, regardless of the number of hours earned.

First-year students must take necessary developmental coursework and first-year experience seminar the first enrollment period.

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TRANSFER STUDENTS: Students who have completed 12 or fewer semester credit hours will be admitted under conditions for

new freshmen and must submit high school transcripts and ACT scores in addition to all college transcripts.

Transfer students who have completed 13 to 23 or more transferable credit hours with a cumulative GPA

of at least 2.00 at a regionally accredited college or university and evidence of ACT scores taken within the

last five years or compliance with the state-mandated remediation requirements will receive unconditional

admission.

Applicants with 24 or more transferable hours must present final, official transcript from all colleges

attended. ACT scores taken within the last five years will be required for any transfer student who has not

successfully completed English I with a C or better and College Algebra.

Transfer students with a cumulative GPA of less than 2.00 upon approval of the Undergraduate Admission

Committee, may be admitted on academic probation, restricted to 12 hours of enrollment and required to

participate in the Restart@state program.

Students transferring from State of Arkansas accredited two-year institutions with an Associate of Arts

degree, or other associate degrees meeting the minimum state enhanced general education core, will

have satisfied Arkansas State University's general education requirements. However, specific A-State

degree requirements must be met for a bachelor's degree, i.e., certain degrees may require a "C" or higher

grade for major and/or other specific courses.

Students admitted with an associate degree will be classified as a junior for registration purposes.

STUDENT STATUS: DEVELOPMENTAL

Any Student who scores below a 19 on the math, reading, or English subscore of the ACT (or comparable score on other placement exams) is required to take the appropriate developmental/placement course during their first enrollment period at A-State.

Students must pass developmental courses with a “C” or better.

The Enhanced ACT is the most commonly used placement score for incoming A-State students.

Developmental Math Requirement Developmental Math is listed under Undergraduate Studies (UC) as UC 0173. It is a computer-based, individualized curriculum using MyMathLab. Students may proceed very quickly or somewhat more slowly through the course. There are nine modules or chapters and students are expected to complete at least the first five, although they may complete all nine during the first enrollment if they are able to do so and move on to College Algebra the following semester. Students with ACT of 18 may enroll in a co-requisite remedial and credited course combination (UC 0173 & College Algebra Math 1023). Students with a 19 -20 Math Score on the ACT are required to enroll in Structured Learning Assisted section of College Algebra.

Developmental Reading/Writing Requirements Students whose ACT or other equivalent scores in Reading or Writing at A-State are below 19 must enroll in a learning community of ENG 1003 and UC 0232 Reading and Writing for College Success. International students with scores in either Reading or Writing of a 16 and below will be required to enroll in UC 0143 Writing fundamentals and UC 0153 Enhanced College Reading, as they are not ready for Composition I

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even with UC 0232. Students who have a Reading score below 19, but an English score above 19 and have already taken Composition I as concurrent enrollment must take UC 0232 Reading and Writing for College Success as a stand-alone course.

STUDENT STATUS: HONORS

Incoming freshmen who met the following criteria will be formally admitted to the Honors College upon acceptance at A-State: 28+ ACT (composite score) AND 3.50+ High School GPA. Honor students are required to take a minimum of one honors course per semester. CONTACT: Rebecca Oliver, Director of Student Services, the Honors College, 972-2308 office, rsoliver@astate.edu

STUDENT STATUS: ATHLETICS

Practice times should be considered when scheduling classes for student athletes.

Academic rigor should be considered when scheduling classes pending if the sport is in season.

Student athletes receive priority registration.

Student athletes receive supplemental advising from athletic coordinators as assigned by specific sport.

CONTACT: Abigail Wilson, Director, Student-Athlete Academic Success Center, 972-3356,

awilson@astate.edu

STUDENT STATUS: INTERNATIONAL

Undergraduate Students and Prerequisite Undergraduate Students: To be considered full time,

undergraduate students and students enrolled in prerequisite courses for a graduate program must be

enrolled in 12 credit hours or more per semester.

On-line Courses: International students may take a maximum of 3 credit hours of on-line courses per

semester that will count toward their total number of credit hours required to be full time.

Internships and Off-Campus Work: International students are not allowed to work off-campus without

permission from the Office of International Programs.

CONTACT: Mallory Yarbrough, msluder@astate.edu International Student Services, 972-2329.

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NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION/ADVISING TIPS/COMMON ERRORS

NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION SCHEDULING TIPS:

Complete NSR form and assist student in creating a successful first-semester schedule complete with

CRNs.

All students will be “preregistered” in the appropriate FYE course, accompanying linked course, and any

developmental course required. All incoming first year students are required to take the FYE course

regardless of AP, dual or concurrent credit.

Be aware of campus location when placing students in courses. It is easy to overlook on the open class list

and accidently select a Paragould course.

Consider test scores, high school performance, and student dialogue before placing students in courses.

Student schedules should be designed around their unique needs particularly in the first semester.

DO NOT place students in courses for which they lack the prerequisite course or placement score. If

students have already had or are currently taking the prerequisite, they may change their schedule once

proof of course completion is verified.

If students have an introductory math course or developmental reading course, consider the complexity

of their first semester. These courses will require substantial time commitment or impact ability in other

courses.

Be aware of credit hours. Most A-State scholarships cover exactly 15 credit hours. Financial aid requires

12 semester hours. International students must enroll in a minimum 12 hours.

Consider scheduling students into a Structured Learning Assistance course (SLA). These courses have

mandatory tutorial support hours.

Remember that student athletes need to be out of class for practice times if possible.

Band students, Choir students and ROTC students must schedule all appropriate courses.

FIRST YEAR ADVISING

Filled out the necessary paperwork for a four-year graduation program if desired. Paper work is on file.

Is aware of any high school core deficiency courses to be completed within first year of enrollment or by

30 hours-whichever comes first.

Is aware of any development courses needed.

Is aware of and/or have completed the Communications, Critical Thinking, and Mathematic blocks of

General Education Core by 45 hours.

Is aware of and/or has completed the Science blocks of the General Education Core by 60 hours.

Understands that student may only have a maximum of 18 concurrent credit hours during any academic

semester. NOTE: Student enrollment may not exceed ten (10) credit hours of half-semester courses (i.e.

first session, second session) or seven (7) credit hours per five-week summer session.

Is aware of academic support options.

Is aware that a minimum of a 2.0 GPA to remain in good academic standing.

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Is aware of the number of enrollment hours necessary to maintain current level of financial aid,

scholarship or other. Refer to Financial Aid Office if needed: 972-2310.

Is aware of both the advisee and advisor role in advising sessions.

SOPHOMORE YEAR ADVISING

Transfer work has been accepted and evaluated for credit. Was provided and is using a check sheet for

the major, along with an explanation of the requirements.

Is aware of A-State GPA requirements for graduation. Knows college or major GPA requirements if

different than A-State.

Is aware of upper-level credit hour requirements for major. Attends advising session prepared with questions

JUNIOR & SENIOR YEAR ADVISING

Is aware of job and/or post-bachelor’s degree options.

Is aware of internship, research, study abroad, requirements and/or possibilities if relevant to degree.

Has reviewed checklist for preparation for graduation (Has completed General Education, college core,

emphasis area, major and/or minor hours with the necessary GPA).

Submit an Intent to Graduate Application online in their Self-Service account prior to the fifth class day of

the semester in which graduation will occur.

GENERAL EDUCATIONCURRICULUM

A-State 2019-2020 UNIVERSITY & GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

The General Education Program develops a foundation and motivation for the lifelong pursuit of learning in undergraduate students at Arkansas State University by introducing them to a broad range of essential areas of knowledge that will enable them to think critically and participate ethically in a democratic nation and a global society. The General Education Program is designed to be completed in the first and second years, though this will not be possible for every student. However, Communication and Mathematics requirements must be completed within the first 45 hours earned toward a degree. The requirements in Science are to be completed before 60 degree hours are completed, if a course listed in the category is a prerequisite for a course listed under requirements of the major. Students and advisors should check the general education requirements specified by each college for its various majors. Except where modifications are noted for specific degree programs, all baccalaureate degree candidates are required to complete the following general education curriculum. Some courses require a minimum test score for enrollment. See the bulletin or an academic advisor to determine suggested, required, and/or acceptable substitutions for General Education selections within each major. MAKING CONNECTIONS (First Year Requirements) 3 Hours UC 1013 (or department equivalency) NOTE: Making Connections is a University Requirement and is in addition to the State Minimum Core of 35 general education hours.

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DUAL and CONCURRENT CREDIT

What is Concurrent Enrollment? Arkansas law allows the enrollment of high school students in college-level courses under certain conditions. Students are able to obtain credit toward a high school diploma at the same time they earn college credit. These courses are taken at the high school. What students and advisors should know: Students should attempt to have all concurrent hours transferred to A-State prior to their first advising appointment at A-State. This is typically during New Student Orientation. Hours accrued through concurrent enrollment are not used to determine freshmen status. New students are considered first-year students unless they have completed 13 or more Post-high school credited course hours.

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What is Dual Enrollment? Students who meet early enrollment criteria can begin to take college coursework on a college campus while still enrolled in High School. What students and advisors should know: Students accrue college hours the same as any other college student. *For more information regarding Concurrent Credit, contact Barbara Doyle at 972-2080.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT The university awards credit to students who participate in their high school Advanced Placement (AP) Program administered by the College Board Placement Test Program. Students who wish to obtain Advanced Placement credit must request the College Board to forward their test scores to Arkansas State University after they have been admitted. Students will be awarded credit in the courses listed below, provided they make satisfactory scores on appropriate AP examinations and meet other requirements designated by the department offering the course. AP credit is not awarded for a course the student has already completed at the college/university level. AP credit granted at other institutions is not automatically transferable to Arkansas State University. Students who wish to transfer AP credit must submit official documentation of earned scores. Students who establish their eligibility to receive AP credit shall have credit recorded without grade points on their permanent records after they have been enrolled at Arkansas State University for a full summer or semester.

TO RECEIVE A GRADE FOR AN AP COURSE: The student must sign up for concurrent enrollment, which means that students in high school need to also sign up for university or college credit with A-State or another institution. (The course is 'used' twice. The course is used to complete high school requirements and again for college credit.) When a student takes an AP course and is signed up for concurrent enrollment, a grade is reported to the university at the end of the semester. The student earns college credit (grade and grade points and hours) which are calculated into a grade point average (GPA). The student may be required to take the AP exam as part of the high school requirement for the course, but the score is not used in determining university credit because credit was awarded based on the grade earned in the course.

TO RECEIVE AP CREDIT AND NO GRADE: If a student took an AP course as part of his or her high school curricula and did not sign up for concurrent enrollment with a university, the student is only eligible for AP credit and does NOT receive a university grade. The student earns college level credit when an appropriate score is earned on the AP exam. A grade is not reported to A-State or any other university at the end of the semester of completion.

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*scoring 3 on both English Lang and English Lit Comp will award both ENG 1003 & ENG 1013

**plus completion of Intermediate II ***completion of PHYS 2034 or PHYS 2054 required before credit awarded

****lower-level credit is awarded for this course

For more information regarding Advanced Placement, contact the Registrar’s Office at 972-2031.

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LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS AND OPTIONS What Advisors Should Know

Language requirements are listed in the online bulletin.

Students should enroll in language courses in their freshmen year or as soon as possible!

Three different languages are currently offered: French, German, & Spanish.

Students may contact the languages department prior to their first language course at A-State to inquire about enrolling in a higher level.

Special Enrollment Opportunities in Spanish

Online courses in Spanish are not available to students taking in-person courses on the Jonesboro or Paragould campuses.

Fast-Track Courses in Spanish enable students to meet both Elementary 1013 & 1023 courses and both Intermediate 2013 & 2023 courses in one semester by enrolling in first and second session 7-week courses. These fast-track courses are numbered Sections 20 and 30.

Permits are required when a student: seeks to enroll in more than one (1) language course at the foundation level (Elementary-Intermediate) per semester or language courses out of sequence.

If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to call the Language Office at 972-3887. languages@astate.edu

ACADEMIC POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Academic Load: Number of hours a student may take each semester. Students with a grade point average below 3.5 may take no more than 18 hours in a given semester. Students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher may take up to 21 hours with permission of the dean of the college in which they are enrolled. The total academic load of students concurrently enrolled at other institutions of higher education while enrolled at A-State cannot exceed this maximum requirement.

The minimum credit hour load for classification as a full-time student in any term is 12 credit hours.

The maximum academic load for students is 18 credit hours per semester or 14 credit hours per summer term.

Student enrollment may not exceed ten (10) credit hours of half-semester courses (i.e. first session, second session) or seven (7) credit hours per five-week summer session.

Students holding a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or above may request permission of the dean of their college to schedule up to 21 hours in a semester or 17 hours in the summer term. If permission is granted, student enrollment may not exceed ten (10) credit hours of half-semester courses (i.e. first session, second session) or nine (9) credit hours per five-week summer session.

A one-hour overload is permitted during a student’s last enrollment period (semester or summer term) if the one-hour overload will complete graduation requirements.

For all students, the maximum academic load in the December interim term is three (3) credit hours.

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Change of Major: Change of major is processed online by the academic department of the new degree.

Class Attendance: Lack of class/lab attendance is one of the largest contributors to student failure! Students enrolled in freshman (1000 level) or sophomore (2000 level) classes may miss no more than twice the number of lectures, laboratory sessions, recitations, or other regularly scheduled class activities during the week (MWF classes - six absences; TR classes - four absences). If students miss more than the maximum number of classes, then they may be assigned a grade of FN in the course because of the excessive number of absences, regardless of their performance on coursework in the class. Students enrolled in junior or senior upper-level courses numbered 3000 or 4000 will not be assigned a grade of “FN” solely for failing to attend classes. Each instructor should state the attendance policy in his/her syllabus. Inclement Weather Policy: The University remains open for academic classes and other services during inclement weather except in extreme circumstances determined solely by the Chancellor of the University. Regional and local media will publicize the closing. Commuter students should use good judgment to determine whether they should drive to campus. If students decide not to come to campus, it is their responsibility to contact professors regarding the circumstances and to make up work missed for this reason.

FERPA- Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act: A student’s academic record is confidential and will not be released to unauthorized persons without written approval from the student. FERPA is designed to protect the privacy of educational records, establishes rights of students to review their records, and provides guidelines for correction of inaccurate or misleading data through informal and formal hearings. Faculty are advised to communicate in person or through the A-State email system.

Student Classification: Beginning students with less than 30 credit hours are classified as Freshmen; students with 30-59 credit hours are classified as Sophomores; students with 60-89 hours are classified as Juniors; and students with 90 or more hours are classified as Seniors. Current classification, not end of the semester classification, is used to determine when you may participate in the registration process.

Transfer Credit Policy: Many A-State students apply transfer credit, particularly concurrent credit earned during high school, to their degree programs. To receive credit, students must request that an official transcript be sent to the A-State Office of the Registrar from each regionally accredited or international institution attended. NOTE: 1) transfer credit is not used in calculating A-State GPA, so course work taken elsewhere in an attempt to raise a GPA will not result in a GPA improvement in most cases, and 2) Advanced Placement scores must be sent to A-State to receive credit for those courses.

Transfer Students & Restart: students who are admitted to the university with a GPA below 2.0 are required

to take Restart their first semester and must complete their first semester with a 2.0 or better. If they do not,

they are non-compliant with Restart according to the written agreement they sign and must sit out for the

following semester even though their standing shows probation.

After returning from the sit out semester, if they continue to perform poorly and earn a first suspension they

will be required to sit out for one calendar year (since they have already gone through Restart and even sat

out for a semester) and must appeal the Admissions and Credits committee before they can return. This is a

little different from the Readmit After Suspension Policy for students suspended through A-State.

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Changes in Recording Transfer Courses: Many institutions have courses equivalent in content to A-State’s upper-level courses. However, A-State cannot offer upper-level credit for transfer work from a two-year institution. The course is considered complete for the purpose of degree requirements and total hours, but the hours do not count toward the 45 upper-level hours a student would need to graduate.

Previously, the equivalent course would appear with an A-State course number implying upper level credit. This was misleading. Proxy courses have been created that mirror A-State’s actual upper-level courses, but are set up to award lower-level credit courses. These courses will begin with an L in their number (e.g. POSC L033, MATH LL14, etc.) instead of the standard 3 or 4, but maintain all other characteristics of their parent courses.

POLICIES THAT AFFECT ACADEMIC STANDING Honor Roll: At the close of each semester, an honor roll consisting of a Chancellor’s List and a Dean’s List is published. Students who are full-time (12 hours) and whose GPA is within the range of 3.80-4.00 will be placed on the Chancellor’s List. Students with a GPA in the range of 3.60-3.79 will be placed on the Dean’s List. Your transcript will be posted with the appropriate list, if applicable. Graduation with Academic Honors: The following academic distinctions are recognized at graduation:

summa cum laude - cumulative GPA of 4.00

magna cum laude - cumulative GPA of 3.80-3.99

cum laude - cumulative GPA of 3.60-3.79 Other requirements apply when transfer work is included. Please see your undergraduate bulletin for additional requirements associated with qualifying for Academic Honors.

Academic Standing: Academic standing is based on students' cumulative and semester GPA and is used to determine eligibility for continued enrollment in coursework at the University. Students are either in good or unacceptable standing based on their institutional GPA. If either the cumulative or semester GPA is below a 2.0, students will be placed on academic probation or suspension.

Good Standing: Students are in good standing with the university when their semester GPA and cumulative GPA is a 2.0 or better. Students with good academic standing are permitted to enroll in a maximum of 18 hours per semester.

Academic Probation: Students are placed on academic probation when their semester GPA or cumulative GPA falls below a 2.00. NOTE: First-time, first-year students on academic probation at the end of their first semester will have the option of enrolling in a credited course through Transition Studies for additional academic mentoring and group support.

Academic Suspension: Students with both semester and cumulative (institutional) GPA below the required 2.00 who were already on academic probation will be placed on academic suspension at the end of the semester. Academic suspension is a mandatory absence of enrollment from A-State. However, students on a first-time suspension may seek immediate enrollment in the Restart@state Program by contacting the Wilson Advising Center, 972-3001. Students placed on second or third suspension are required to serve a mandatory suspension from the university for one calendar year. Students on a fourth suspension are dismissed from the university and must petition the Undergraduate Graduation and Academic Credit Appeals Committee for permission to return to A-

State.

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Incompletes or “I” Grades: A grade of "I" (incomplete) is appropriate on the final grade roster when a student fails to meet all course requirements for reasons beyond his/her control, i.e., illness of the student, or serious illness or death in the family, or extended research projects at the graduate level. Procrastination, pressure of work in other courses, or work not connected with the student's school load are not satisfactory reasons for an "I" grade. All "I" grades must have prior approval of the chair of the department in which the course is offered, which requires the "Request for Incomplete Grade" form to be on file with the department and the Office of the Registrar. NOTE: “Grade Change Report” forms must be completed and submitted at the close of the next semester immediately following the one in which the original grade was recorded.

Repeating of Courses: According to the Undergraduate Bulletin: the Grade Re-computation Policy allows students to repeat up to 18 semester hours in which grades of D or F were earned and have only the last grade

counted in computing the grade point average for undergraduate degree requirements. Courses may be repeated

any time before the first Baccalaureate degree is awarded. The student can select the courses eligible to be

repeated as long as these courses meet the requirements below.

1. Students may not repeat for credit any course in which they have earned a grade of "C" or better. 2. The student must have earned a grade of D or F in the course. Note: A grade of F cannot replace a grade of

D. If the grade in the first attempt is a D and the grade in the second attempt is an F, both grades will be counted.

3. Students may repeat up to 18 semester hours. 4. All other repeated courses will have both grades counted. Degree hours will be applied only once toward

graduation requirements. 5. Courses repeated must be the exact course. Students may not use substitutions for repeated courses. 6. The student should be aware that the grade of D or F from any previous attempts will remain on the

transcript. The previous attempts will be indicated by an "E" in the repeat column.

NOTE: Developmental courses are not included in the "Repeating of Courses" policy.

The Department Chair, the appropriate College Dean, and the Registrar will determine the application of the repeat course policy in those instances where course numbers and/or titles have been changed at Arkansas State University and for courses completed at other institutions of higher education. Every student is eligible for the provisions of the repeat policy, regardless of the Bulletin year in which the student entered A-State.

Students who are planning to apply for admission to graduate school should take note that most graduate/professional schools recalculate GPAs based upon ALL courses that students have attempted during their college career. Thus, any repeated courses will have both grades counted in consideration for graduate school admission.

How long does it take for the transcript to be updated after turning in the form? Students should check their transcript in 3 to 5 days after turning in the form to give the Office of the Registrar time for processing. How can you tell if the form has been processed when viewing a transcript? You can look for an "E" in small print beside the first attempt of the course. This "E" represents that the class has been "excluded out" from your GPA.

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What course can replace the other? The courses must be the exact same course. For instance, if you take World Civilization to 1660 and you want to repeat the course, you must retake World Civilization to 1660. You cannot take World Civilization FROM 1660 to replace the grade you made in World Civilization TO 1660.

Repeat Course Error Message: Arkansas State University implements safeguards for course repeats. Any course that you have previously received passing credit for at A-State or transfer credit to A-State will now require a permit to be issued in order to register to retake that same course. Any attempt to register for a course a student has received passing credit for will result in the following error message in Self Service:

The Office of Admissions, Records and Registration will issue permits to any students that request an override

into a repeated course. Students will need to ensure that repeating this course will not impact academic and

eligibility requirements by contacting the following people or offices (where applicable):

Academic Advisor

Financial Aid

Athletics

Honors

Veterans Affairs

For more information on this policy, please visit http://www.astate.edu/a/registrar/students/repeating-

courses/index.dot. If you have any questions regarding this, please contact the Office of Admissions, Records

and Registration at 972-2031.

Dropping of Individual Courses: The final date for dropping individual courses is posted on the Academic Calendar available on the website or in the current Undergraduate Bulletin. The drop date for individual classes is STRICTLY enforced! Students are strongly encouraged to see an advisor and financial aid/scholarship officer before dropping a class. Courses dropped before fees are assessed for the semester do not appear on the transcript. Courses dropped after the deadline day of class will have a designation of W on the transcript.

Drop for Non-Attendance-WN: If students do not attend class during the first eleven days of a semester or the first week of a five-week term, they will be administratively dropped for non-attendance and a “WN” will be posted on their transcripts for each course. Failure to attend class during this period is likely to void students’ financial aid and/or scholarship support.

Failure to Attend and Not Withdraw-FN: A grade of FN may be given if students stop attending class during the semester. It will count as an “F” in the GPA and can have repercussions regarding financial aid depending on when the student stopped attending class. An FN grade may be changed to a W provided students drop the class or withdraw from the university prior to the drop date.

Withdrawal from the University: Sometimes it may become necessary for a student to totally withdraw from the university due to extenuating circumstances. This may be the best choice to prevent irreversible academic

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distress, particularly if the student has been ill, injured, or has had an unacceptable absenteeism rate due to other unpreventable circumstances. Students may withdraw at any time during the scheduled registration period by contacting the Wilson Advising Center. Withdrawal from the university after Sunday of the first full week of a semester or Friday of the first week of a five-week term must be complete through the Wilson Advising Center. A grade of “W” will be placed on the official transcript for each enrolled class to indicated withdrawal. Failure to complete the withdrawal process will result in the automatic receipt of an “F” in all enrolled courses. The withdrawal date policy is STRICTLY enforced! It is strongly encouraged that students counsel with their advisor and financial aid/scholarship officer before dropping a class.

The Undergraduate Graduation and Academic Credit Appeals Committee: Serves as an appeals committee for students contesting decisions on university requirements such as graduation requirements, academic suspension, and academic credit. This committee addresses academic matters. For financial aid consideration, please see the Financial Aid appeal process.

Membership consists of the chair of each college admissions and credits committee and three students appointed by the Student Government Association (SGA). The Registrar, Assistant to the Chancellor for Diversity Initiatives, Director of Admissions, and a representative from the Office of Student Affairs will serve as ex-officio, non-voting members.

Recommendations for individual student appeals concerning university requirements for graduation or academic requirements will be forwarded to the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Research with a copy to the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs.

This committee meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month at 2:00 p.m., unless otherwise stated. Contact your college representative for location. You may view a list of all current representatives at http://chancellor.astate.edu/shared_governance/2009-10_Committees/undergrad_grad_appeals.html.

Academic Suspension: Students who plan to return to A-state after a fourth or subsequent suspension are required to petition this committee to seek readmission. Attendance is required for this type of appeal.

Procedure to petition the Undergraduate Graduation and Academic Credit Appeals Committee: 1. Student completes Undergraduate Graduation and Academic Credit Petition form with help of advisor. 2. Advisor signs and sends to college representative for college review. Student completes

Undergraduate Graduation and Academic Credit Petition form with help of advisor. 3. Advisor signs and sends to college representative for college review. Do not forward or send to Office

of Admissions, Records and Registration. This slows down the appeals process. 4. College representative sends at least one copy of the petition and supporting materials to the Registrar

prior to the meeting. The college committee must have indicated a decision BEFORE the form is brought to the Office of Admissions, Records and Registration. Usually this must be done by the Thursday before the meeting.

5. Petitions are distributed to the committee by the Registrar for review prior to the meeting. 6. University Committee reviews petition and all supporting documentation provided by the student and

makes decision. 7. Students are encouraged to provide as much supporting documentation as possible.

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8. Students petitioning for admission after a suspension are required to attend the meeting. For other petitions, students are not required to attend, but their attendance is recommended.

9. Students will be notified by the committee representative of the outcome of their appeal.

Academic Clemency: Is a provision allowing a one-time, irrevocable calculation of grade point average and credit hours toward graduation to be based only upon work done after a prolonged separation from college. This provision is provided for undergraduate students who have gained maturity through extended experience outside higher education institutions, and are currently enrolled at Arkansas State University and have demonstrated acceptable academic performance following their return.

Who is Eligible...Requirements to be satisfied by a student prior to requesting academic clemency toward an undergraduate degree are as follows: Separation from all academic institutions for at least five years, and then completion of a minimum of twelve semester hours of graded courses from a regionally accredited institution of higher education with a 2.0 or better grade point average, and formal application filed with the registrar. How Do I Apply...Upon approval by the registrar, the student will be granted academic clemency. The student's permanent record will remain a record of all work; however, the student will forfeit the use (for degree purposes at Arkansas State University) of any college or university credit earned prior to the five-year separation indicated above. The date of the clemency will coincide with the date of re-entry following the prolonged separation, and the permanent record will note that a fresh start was made and will note the date of the fresh start. The record will carry the notation, "Academic Clemency granted - (date of fresh start)." A student requesting academic clemency will pay a fee of $30 to the A-State Treasurer’s Office.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL BACCALAUREATE DEGREES

Each candidate for a baccalaureate degree must meet the following general requirements: (Some A-State colleges have additional specific "general" requirements.) 1. Submit an INTENT TO GRADUATE form online with the Office of Admissions, Records and Registration

prior to the start of the semester in which graduation will occur. August graduates should initiate an INTENT TO GRADUATE form by the first day of class of the first summer term. (If the student is unable to graduate at the end of the semester for which application has been made, a new INTENT TO GRADUATE form must be filed during the next semester in which the student expects to graduate).

2. Register for the graduation fee online using the Self-Service Account when registering for the final enrollment period before completing all degree requirements. This fee is required of all students who wish to receive their degree, even if they decline participation in the ceremony. This fee must be paid before the diploma, final transcript, or graduation attire can be released. (If the student is unable to graduate at the end of the semester for which application has been made, and has already paid the required fee, this fee will not carry over to the term in which graduation actually occurs). The fee must be paid again.

3. Complete graduation requirements under the provisions of an A-State Jonesboro Bulletin that is not more than seven years old at the time of the student’s graduation, provided the student was enrolled

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in residence at a regionally accredited institution of higher education during the year the bulletin was in effect.

4. Complete a First Year Experience/Making Connections Seminar during the first semester of enrollment at A-State regardless of the number of concurrent, AP and other college credits earned while in high school. This course is an integral part of the overall first year experience and is designed to assist students to make a smooth transition to the university experience. Students who meet A-State transfer guidelines of 13 or more credited and transferable hours at time of initial enrollment are exempt from this policy. This requirement may be waived in cases of students transferring to A-State Jonesboro.

5. Meet the English proficiency requirement. Complete ENG 1003 with a grade of C or better before enrolling in ENG 1013. Complete ENG 1013 with a grade of C or better. Students who are not pursuing a teacher education degree [B.S.E./B.M.E./B.S.A. (Ag.Ed.)] and who have earned lower than C in ENG 1013 may satisfy the requirement by repeating the course with a C or better, OR by passing the English Proficiency Essay after completing 62 degree-credit hours, OR by earning a passing grade in an upper-level English writing course.

6. Complete HIST 2763, or HIST 2773, or POSC 2103 as stated in General Education Curriculum to satisfy the Arkansas requirement of American History or American Government.

7. Complete the General Education curriculum, with substitutions/additions listed under the description of each degree program.

8. Complete half of the last 50% of semester hours through the A-State campus.

9. Complete a minimum of 45 semester hours of junior-senior level courses after earning 30 degree credit hours. (UPPER-LEVEL COURSES COMPLETED BY A STUDENT BEFORE HE/SHE HAS EARNED 30 DEGREE-CREDIT HOURS CANNOT BE COUNTED AS JUNIOR-SENIOR CREDIT.)

10. Complete a minimum of 120 semester hours (additional hours may be required by the various colleges for particular majors) and meet the requirements for a degree as outlined in the respective colleges’ requirements. NOTE: Students transferring from two-year collegiate institutions must complete a minimum of 57 semester hours in accredited senior institutions as a prerequisite to the baccalaureate degree.

11. Have an average of C or better (2.000 GPA) on all work attempted, on work in the major field, on work in the minor field if one is completed, and, if a transfer student, on all work taken at this institution. A passing grade must be made in all courses required for the degree. (These are minimum grade averages and some colleges on the campus will require higher averages.)

12. Eighteen (18) of the last 24 semester hours must be Arkansas State University work. Exceptions may be granted by the dean of the college in which the student is majoring, when conditions stated below are met.

The student must have met A-State’s residency requirement by completing 32 semester hours through the A-State Jonesboro campus.

The student must have earned at least 90 hours at A-State and/or institutions having a formal articulation agreement with A-State.

The remaining course work must be completed at a regionally accredited baccalau-reate-degree-granting institution.

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13. A maximum of 25 percent of a baccalaureate degree program may be earned through credit by examination (including CLEP) advanced placement, correspondence, evaluated military service credits, DANTES and USAFI courses. Students may submit toward a baccalaureate degree a maximum of 30 semester hours earned through credit by examination. (Arkansas Act 88 of 1979 exempts nursing students from these maxima. Confer with the dean of the College of Nursing and Health Professions for information.)

14. An official record of correspondence or transfer work completed at another institution must be on file in the Office of Admissions, Records and Registration at Arkansas State University at least three weeks before the degree is to be granted. If coursework is taken elsewhere during the last semester, an official transcript must be received no later than two weeks following commencement. Until it is received, the diploma and final transcript will be held.

REQUIREMENTS FOR AN ADDITIONAL BACCALAUREATE DEGREE Students who wish to complete additional baccalaureate degrees in other fields of study must satisfy the following requirements:

Complete graduation requirements under the provisions of an A-State Jonesboro catalogue that is not more than seven years old at the time of the student’s graduation, provided the student was enrolled in residence at a regionally accredited institution of higher education during the year the catalog was in effect.

Meet the residency requirements. If the first degree was awarded by A-State, the student will complete the remaining degree requirements in residence. If the first degree was NOT awarded by A-State, the student must complete a minimum of 32 hours in residence at A-State (residency requirement) and meet the requirements of the degree sought.

Regardless of where the first degree was awarded, students must have completed ENG 1003 and ENG 1013 with a ‘C’ or better and HIST 2763 or HIST 2773 or POSC 2103 (or equivalent courses).

NOTE: Academic ranking and academic honors designations are applicable to the first baccalaureate degree only. GPA calculation is based on all A-State Jonesboro work including the first degree earned.

WILSON ADVISING CENTER SERVICES

Academic Advising for Undeclared Majors the Advising Center is the primary home for advisement of students who are still considering their choice of college majors. These students are designated with an undecided status for major. It is not unusual for new students to begin higher education not knowing which career path to choose. In addition to academic advising with the Wilson Advising Center, students may also visit the A-State Counseling Center to take a number of career inventories to assist them in making their decision.

Instruction for First Year Experience Making Connections Courses is provide as needed for the undeclared major sections by Wilson Advising Center Staff. The focus of these sections is on major awareness and career opportunities. Students in these sections have an opportunity for in depth exploration of college majors. In

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addition to this focus, the course covers the core content found in all Making Connections courses, such as study behaviors, academic policies, research and other college success skills.

The Restart@state Program is a mandatory intervention program for students placed on a first academic suspension at Arkansas State University. Eligible students who take advantage of this opportunity are enrolled in the Restart Program. The main program requirement is enrollment in a one-credit, graded course. The Restart Seminar is designed to aid students back to solid academic performance with emphasis placed on self-responsibility, proper decision-making and study skills strategies. Students must submit a completed application before consideration for acceptance into the program.

Students are not eligible for the Restart@state Program if:

They are not on a first suspension.

They have not been enrolled at Arkansas State University for more than 2 years.

They have previously attempted Restart.

Withdrawing from the University and Dropping Classes: During the course of a semester, students are permitted to drop individual courses within the permitted time frame yet still maintain enrollment in other courses. To drop all courses for a semester, or to drop down to zero hours, you must officially withdraw at the Wilson Advising Center. Deadlines for dropping individual courses can be found under Important Dates on the Registrar's web page. Withdrawing from A-State: Prior to the start of a semester, students wishing to discontinue enrollment at A-State may drop all classes through their Self-Service account. However, once the semester begins, tuition and certain fees or penalties may be assessed. Students will no longer have the ability to drop all classes (withdraw) through Self-Service. To drop all courses for a semester (withdraw), please contact the Wilson Advising Center at (870) 972-3001 for instruction. For information about the refund policy, please contact Student Accounts at (870) 972-2285. What students and advisors should know: It is not always clear the effect dropping courses or withdrawing may have on a student's status or eligibility for various services. For concerns regarding financial aid or residential hall eligibility, please contact these respective departments. For academic questions or concerns, please contact either the department of your major or the Wilson Advising Center for assistance. CONTACT: Melissa Jackson, Director of the Wilson Advising Center mjackson@astate.edu 870-972-3001.

ARKANSAS ACADEMIC ADVISING NETWORK

The Arkansas Academic Advising Network (ArkAAN) http://www.arkansasadvising.org/contact-us.html is an association of professional advisors, counselors, faculty, and administrators working to enhance the

educational development of students and the advising profession.

ArkAAN was established in 1994 and has over 70 members representing different colleges and universities throughout the state. The purpose of ArkAAN is to raise the level of recognition of academic advising as a profession and to promote the professional development of academic advisors in higher education in Arkansas.

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General Information ArkAAN views sound academic advising as a vital aspect in the education of students. Academic advising is an interactive process in which advisors assist students in setting and achieving academic, social and personal

goals consistent with the students’ interests, values, abilities, and career expectations. In the profession of academic advising, advisors create a supportive environment in which they may challenge students to take responsibility for making appropriate academic and career decisions. Through the relationship established between the advisor and students and the discussions they have about available resources, students will have the opportunity to learn about education and career options, academic policies and procedures, and degree requirements. Mission The goals for ArkAAN are as follows:

1. Develop professional standards for academic advising. 2. Establish a communication network among institutions of higher education. 3. Establish a liaison to governing boards of higher education in Arkansas.

4. Establish relationships with other professional organizations and groups in Arkansas. 5. Promote an awards/recognition system for academic advising. 6. Organize and offer an annual conference/professional development event to members and others involved in academic advisement throughout the state. 7. Establish a consultation bureau for members and institutions in Arkansas. 8. Support the goals and programs of the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA)

Conference & Awards ArkAAN hosts a professional development conference each year. Awards are presented at each conference to an outstanding academic advisor, faculty advisor and an advising administrator. Award deadlines are in March. You can like ArkAAN on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Arkansas-Academic-Advising-

Network/348081731974764

NATIONAL ACADEMIC ADVISING ASSOCIATION

The National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) is an association of professional advisors, counselors, faculty, administrators, and students working to enhance the educational development of students. http://www.nacada.ksu.edu/

NACADA promotes and supports quality academic advising in institutions of higher education to enhance the educational development of students. NACADA provides a forum for discussion, debate, and the exchange of

ideas pertaining to academic advising through numerous activities and publications. NACADA also serves as an advocate for effective academic advising by providing a Consulting and Speaker Service, an Awards Program, and funding for Research related to academic advising.

The National Academic Advising Association evolved from the first National Conference on Academic Advising in 1977 and has over 11,000 members representing all 50 United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, and several

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other international countries. Members represent higher education institutions across the spectrum of Carnegie classifications and include professional advisors/counselors, faculty, administrators and students whose responsibilities include academic advising.

NACADA functions with volunteer leadership with support from the NACADA Executive Office. Members have full voting rights and elect the national board of directors as well as other leaders within the organization. NACADA is designated by the IRS as a 501(c)3 non-profit educational association incorporated in Kansas.

Association Awards The National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) is pleased to offer the National Annual Awards Program. These awards are designed to honor individuals and institutions making significant contributions to the improvement of academic advising. Reward Systems Many institutions of higher education have few effective systems in place for the evaluation of academic

advising, and little reward or recognition is attached to its successful delivery. Good advising, like good teaching, publication and research, needs to be recognized. NACADA believes a tangible reward system can be an enhancement to effective advising. The goal of the NACADA Annual Awards Program is to encourage wider support and recognition for academic advising in colleges and universities by providing an opportunity for recognition of outstanding advising. An ultimate outcome of this program is to improve advising services for students. The deadline for the receipt of nomination submission for most award categories is in early March each year. Retiree recognition forms are due in early June.

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