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RUVisit us on the

World Wide Webat:

www.radford.edu

Radford University Graduate Catalog 2003-2004, Volume 90 Fall 2003. Published by the Office of PublicRelations, Radford University, East Main Street, Radford, Virginia, 24142, once a year. Students who matriculateat Radford University at the beginning of the 2003-2004 academic year will use the 2003-2004 Radford UniversityGraduate Catalog for the official description of policies they must follow and requirements they must satisfy inorder to graduate. Students may, however, elect to meet all the degree requirements of a Radford UniversityGraduate Catalog published subsequent to the year of their matriculation subject to the limitations detailed in“Graduation Policy” on p. 49. Radford University reserves for itself and its departments the right to withdraw orchange the announcements made in this catalog.

Academic Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Degrees Offered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Graduate Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Admission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Fees and Financial Aid . . . . . . . . . . . .20Campus Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29Academic Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36Academic Colleges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51Academic Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54Courses of Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56Business Administration . . . . . . . . . . .59Communication Sciences and

Disorders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64Corporate and Professional

Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68Counseling and Human

Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73Criminal Justice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86Educational Leadership . . . . . . . . . . . .97English . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102Environmental and Engineering

Geosciences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107Foods and Nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114Nursing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .122Psychology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145School Psychology . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147Social Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151Special Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .157Board and Administration . . . . . . . . .165Graduate Faculty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167Faculty Emeriti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173

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Contents

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CalendarFall Semester 2003 2004 2005Residence Halls open Aug. 22-23 Aug. 20-21 Aug. 19-20Classes begin (8 a.m.) Aug. 25 Aug. 23 Aug. 22Census Date Sept. 8 Sept. 6 Sept. 5Fall break Oct. 18-21 Oct. 16-19 Oct. 15-18Thanksgiving break Nov. 26-30 Nov. 24-28 Nov. 23-27

(no classes)Last day of classes Dec. 12 Dec. 10 Dec. 9Study days Dec. 13-14 Dec. 11-12 Dec. 10-11Exams Dec. 15-19 Dec. 13-17 Dec. 12-16Commencement Dec. 20 Dec. 18 Dec. 17

Spring Semester 2004 2005 2006Residence halls open Jan. 10-11 Jan. 8-9 Jan. 7-8Classes begin (8 a.m.) Jan. 12 Jan. 10 Jan. 9Census Date Jan. 26 Jan. 24 Jan. 23Spring break March 13-21 March 12-20 March 11-19Last day of classes April 30 April 29 April 28Study days May 1-2 April 30-May 1 April 29-30Exams May 3-7 May 2-6 May 1-5Commencement May 8 May 7 May 6

Summer Session I 2004 2005 2006Residence halls open May 16 May 15 May 14Classes begin May 17 May 16 May 15Census Date May 21 May 20 May 19Memorial Day (no classes) May 26 May 31 May 30Last day of classes June 17 June 16 June 15Exams June 18-19 June 17-18 June 16-18

Summer Session II 2004 2005 2006Residence halls open June 27 June 26 June 25Classes begin June 28 June 27 June 26Census Date July 2 July 1 June 30Independence Day July 5 July 4 July 4

(no classes)Last day of classes July 28 July 27 July 26Exams July 29-30 July 29-30 July 27-28

Summer Session may include both a Maymester and Summer Session III term. The Maymester is a three-week short-term beginning on the same day as Summer Session I. Summer Session III is an 11-week longterm spanning both Summer Session I and Summer Session II. The dates are tentative and subject tochange.

Art (M.S., M.F.A.)

Business Administration (M.B.A.)

Communication Sciences and Disorders(M.A., M.S.) Speech and Language Pathology

Corporate and ProfessionalCommunication (M.S.)

Counseling and Human Development(M.S.)School CounselingStudent Affairs

AdministrationCounseling

Community Counseling

Criminal Justice (M.A., M.S.)

Education (M.S.)Curriculum and InstructionScience Education*Teaching English as a Second LanguageEducational Media/TechnologyLibrary MediaEnvironmental and Experiential Education*

Educational Leadership (M.S.)

English (M.A., M.S.)

Environmental and EngineeringGeosciences (M.S.)

Foods and Nutrition (Certification)

Music (M.A., M.S.)MusicMusic EducationMusic Therapy

Nursing (M.S.N.)Family Nurse PractitionerAdult Clinical Nurse SpecialistGerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist

Psychology (M.A., M.S.)ClinicalCounselingExperimental (M.A.)Industrial/Organizational

Reading (M.S.)

School Psychology (Ed.S.)

Social Work (M.S.W.)

Special Education (M.S.)Deaf and Hard of HearingHigh Incidence Disabilities

*offered only as cohorts

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Graduate Degrees

Dr. Carole Seyfrit, DeanCollege of Graduate and ExtendedEducationPreston Hall 213(540) 831-5724e-mail: gradcoll@radford.edu

As the world moves into the 21st centuryand the demand for highly trained profession-als in every field increases, more and more stu-dents are choosing to pursue a master's leveldegree. This degree, once considered primarilya stepping stone toward a doctorate, is becom-ing, for many, a terminal degree.

From 2000 to 2002, there was a 71 per-cent increase in the number of master'sdegrees awarded annually at RadfordUniversity. In recent years, more than 72percent of the master's degree students havebeen women; more than nine percent havebeen members of ethnic minority groups; 47percent have been 30 years of age or olderand over half of the graduate students havebeen enrolled part-time.

Radford tries to meet the needs of all ofthese various groups.

Radford is small enough to allow eachgraduate student opportunities for interactionwith fellow students and faculty members, yetlarge enough to provide challenging anddiverse areas of study. To better serve graduatestudents, the university schedules classes attimes designed to meet the scheduling needsof part-time as well as full-time students.

Many fields which once employed gradu-ates with bachelor's degrees now prefer tohire those with master's degrees. RadfordUniversity is meeting the challenge of edu-cating men and women in a wide variety offields including business administration,nursing, music and music therapy, art,English, criminal justice, communication,social work, psychology, communicationdisorders, environmental and engineeringgeosciences, and a variety of areas within thefield of professional education.

The College of Graduate and ExtendedEducation is responsible for administeringall post-baccalaureate programs at RadfordUniversity leading to Educational Specialist,Master of Fine Arts, Master of BusinessAdministration, Master of Arts, Master ofScience in Nursing, Master of Social Workand Master of Science degrees. The Collegealso offers graduate-level courses for teach-ers seeking recertification and for studentswho have already earned a bachelor's degreeand who are not seeking a further degree.

Graduate studies at Radford University aredesigned to give the student advanced knowl-edge in a special field of study, higher levels ofprofessional competence, an understanding ofand respect for scholarly research and asophisticated knowledge of the techniques ofcontinued, lifelong intellectual growth. Thesegoals are achieved through coherent, orderlyprograms of study, investigation and super-vised practical experiences that are carefullyplanned by each individual student in consul-tation with a graduate faculty adviser and agraduate advisory committee. Each student'sprogress through the program is monitored bythe graduate faculty adviser and by theGraduate College office through the variousstages of admission to the Graduate College,progression through a program of study, for-mulation and completion of a thesis, if one isto be written, administration of the compre-hensive examination and, finally, applicationfor graduation.

The Graduate College functions as theadmissions office for graduate students, con-sulting with each department or programoffice on each application for admissionbefore making final decisions.

The Graduate College consists of theDean of the College, the staff of theGraduate College and the graduate faculty invarious departments of the university. AGraduate Affairs Council, made up of repre-sentatives from the graduate departmentsand student representatives chosen by the

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Graduate Study

Graduate Student Council, advises the dean onthe administration of graduate studies and makesrecommendations to the Vice President forAcademic Affairs concerning graduate courses,curricula, academic standards and policies.

GRADUATE COLLEGE MISSION

Within the mission of the university, theGraduate College mission is to provide highquality graduate programs in selected areas ofstudy in order to meet needs of theCommonwealth and the nation for citizens witheducation beyond the level of the baccalaureate.

GRADUATE COLLEGE GOALS

1. To provide high quality graduate degree pro-grams in fields in which there are needs forpeople with such qualifications, for whichthere are prospective students seeking suchadvanced qualifications, and to which the uni-versity can devote the requisite human andmaterial resources;

2. To provide advanced educational opportuni-ties, beyond the baccalaureate, for profession-als and others who are not seeking a graduatedegree, or who already have a graduate degree,but who need to develop new knowledge andskills to meet changing conditions, or to con-tinue to keep current with advancing knowl-edge in their specialties;

3. To enhance the academic environment of theuniversity by attracting qualified students tothe campus, by giving faculty the opportunityto teach their specialties at an advanced level,and by fostering research and creative activityamong graduate students and faculty;

4. To assure that the graduate student’s experi-ence in Radford's programs is a coherent expe-rience of intellectual growth, enabling eachstudent to meet reasonable academic, intellec-tual, and professional goals.

GRADUATE COLLEGE OBJECTIVES

1. To serve as the admissions office for all grad-uate programs, maintaining admission stan-dards and procedures designed to admit appli-cants who have a high likelihood of a)

profiting from the experience of graduatestudy at Radford University, and b) success-fully completing their programs of study andachieving their graduate educational goals;

2. To recruit qualified graduate students to allgraduate programs, with particular attentionto under-represented groups;

3. To seek, generate, and, when appropriate,administer programs of financial and othertypes of assistance for graduate students;

4. To provide effective advising systems boththrough individual faculty advisers assigned bythe departments, and through a series of GraduateCollege checkpoints: admission, establishment ofregular admission status, approval of programrequirements, approval of written proposals fordirected studies and theses;

5 To maintain established standards of quality bythe checkpoints listed above, as well as by mon-itoring of academic status, enforcement of pro-bation and suspension rules, final approval oftheses, eligibility to take comprehensive exam-inations, and final degree checkouts (in collab-oration with the Registrar's Office);

6. To maintain established standards throughmonitoring membership of the GraduateFaculty in order to assure that facultyinvolved in graduate activities have theappropriate qualifications, achievements, andexperience required for each level of mem-bership;

7. To work closely with the individual depart-ments and the other colleges to see that grad-uate programs continue to meet current needs,to cancel or revise those that do not, and todevelop new programs as the need is per-ceived and the resources are available;

8. To work closely with the Graduate AffairsCouncil, to assure that the Council is wellinformed of opportunities and problems at thegraduate level as it establishes academic policiesand procedures, and approves curricularchanges;

9. To work with the Division of ExtendedEducation, the Roanoke Higher EducationCenter, the Southwestern Virginia HigherEducation Center, the Western RegionConsortium for Continuing Education, and otherentities to make high quality graduate educationavailable, particularly in western Virginia, forstudents who cannot readily study on campus;

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10. To work with the Graduate Student Council,Student Affairs, and other offices and groups tobe aware of and, whenever possible, responsiveto graduate students’ needs and concerns; and

11. To work with the Office of StudentAssessment and individual departments toevaluate how graduate programs utilize infor-mation related to student outcomes and stu-dent/alumni satisfaction in order to improvegraduate curricula, facilities and services.

CHECKLIST FOR THE GRADUATESTUDENT ADMISSION

1. Complete the application form available onlineat www.radford.edu/~gradcoll or from theGraduate Admissions Office, P.O. Box 6928,Radford, VA 24142. You may also telephone theGraduate Admissions Office at (540) 831-5431to request application materials.

2. Have two official transcripts sent from each ofthe undergraduate and/or graduate institutionspreviously attended or currently attending. Forapplicants who are graduates of RadfordUniversity, only transcripts for course worktaken at other institutions after graduation needto be sent. Transcripts must be signed andmailed by the institution in a sealedenvelope directly to the Graduate AdmissionsOffice.

3. Have two or more letters of recommendationsent to the Graduate Admissions Office.

4. Submit completed application form, $40application fee, letters of recommendationand any other materials required by the pro-gram to Graduate Admissions, P.O. Box 6928,Radford University, Radford, VA 24142. Theapplicant is responsible for making sure thatall application materials are submitted by thedeadline.Non-degree and transient applications may besubmitted at any time during the year alongwith an application fee of $40.

5. Have an official score sheet for the GRE,TOEFL, MAT or GMAT sent directly toGraduate Admissions.

6. Check for individual department requirementson page 19.

7. Applications and all other supporting materi-als should arrive no later than program dead-lines. Refer to chart on page 19 for officialdeadlines.

8. Apply for financial aid if needed (see p. 23).9. Contact the adviser to discuss undergraduate

deficiencies and/or courses to be taken duringthe first semester.

10. Become familiar with all academic policies andpertinent degree requirements presented in thecatalog.

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The fountain in the center of campus is a popular spot for students to catch a quick study break.

Radford University is a coeducational,comprehensive public university with highlydiverse curricula for undergraduates andselected graduate programs. The universitylimits enrollment to ensure continuing closeinteraction between students and faculty andto maintain other advantages of a medium-sized university.

The Graduate College offers more than 30programs of study, 17 of which lead to mas-ter's and specialist degrees. These programsprovide advanced and specialized courses ofstudy, supervised practicum experiences andopportunities for research. The universityhas an outstanding, nationally recruited fac-ulty, 82 percent of whom hold doctorates orother terminal degrees in their teachingfields. While their primary focus is on theteaching and learning process, the facultyalso are engaged in significant scholarly, cre-ative, and public service activities.

Radford University is located in a smallcity (population 16,500) in the New RiverValley, 36 miles southwest of Roanoke,Virginia, on Lee Highway and I-81, close tothe beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains ofVirginia. The university atmosphere is resi-dential. Most graduate students live in pri-vate accommodations within walking dis-tance of the campus. The university groundsand facilities are conveniently arranged,beautifully maintained and effectivelydesigned to meet the academic, personal andextracurricular needs and interests of thestudents.

MISSION

Radford University serves theCommonwealth and the nation through awide range of academic, cultural, humanservice and research programs. First andforemost, the university emphasizes teachingand learning and the process of learning in itscommitment to the development of mature,responsible, well-educated citizens. Radford

University develops students’ creative andcritical thinking skills, teaches students toanalyze problems and implement solutions,helps students discover their leadershipstyles, and fosters their growth as leaders.Toward this end, the university is student-focused and promotes a sense of caring andof meaningful interaction among all mem-bers of the university community. Researchis viewed as a vital corollary to the teachingand learning transaction as it sustains andenhances the ability to teach effectively.Radford University believes in the dynamicsof change and has a strong commitment tocontinuous review, evaluation and improve-ment in the curriculum and all aspects of theuniversity, so as to meet the changing needsof society.

HISTORY

Radford University was established by theGeneral Assembly as the State Normal andIndustrial School for Women in 1910 and hasbeen in continuous session since its 1913 open-ing. The university became Radford StateTeachers College in 1924 and was authorizedto award the Bachelor of Arts degree in 1935.In 1944, the university was consolidated withthe Virginia Polytechnic Institute as itsWomen's Division and renamed RadfordCollege. The General Assembly severed theformal affiliation of Radford College withVirginia Tech in 1964, and an autonomousadministration was established for RadfordCollege. The college also was authorized togrant the Master of Science degree. In 1972,after almost 60 years as an all-women's college,Radford became coeducational and in 1979was granted university status by the GeneralAssembly.

Today, Radford University is a coeduca-tional, comprehensive institution with under-graduate and graduate programs. In the last20 years, the enrollment has increased dra-matically and the number of graduate

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General Information

degrees awarded since 1996 has increased by22 percent. During fall 2000, enrollment inon- and off-campus programs was 9,242, ofwhom 1,042 were graduate students.

University PresidentsDr. John Preston McConnell

1911-1937 Dr. David Wilbur Peters

1938-1951 Dr. Charles Knox Martin Jr.

1952-1972 Chancellor, 1972-73 President Emeritus, 1973-1987

Dr. Donald Newton Dedmon 1972-1994

Dr. Douglas Covington1995-

CAMPUS

Radford University’s 177-acre campus isin a residential section of the city of Radford,population 16,500. Most of the university's26 administrative and academic buildings,15 student service buildings and 20 resi-dence halls are located on two large quad-rangles in a 76-acre area.

Natural forest growth, unusual rock for-mations, the surrounding hills and the NewRiver provide a scenic setting for the univer-sity. Radford is not completely immune tothe extremes of summer and winter weather,but the climate is basically temperate, withhot days and cool nights in the summer andcool to cold weather in the winter. Fall andspring months in the Appalachian Highlandsbring some of the most enjoyable weather tobe found anywhere on the East Coast. Pointsof interest to the visitor of Radford and thesurrounding areas include Claytor Lake andthe scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, which is 45minutes from the campus. Claytor Lake,located off Interstate 81 in Pulaski County,offers picnicking, camping, boating, swim-ming, hiking and horseback riding areas.

In addition to Radford's main campus, theUniversity Foundation owns a 376-acre tract

of land known as the Selu Conservancy. Theland, which borders the Little River and islocated about five miles southeast of thecampus, was received in two separate dona-tions. John H. Bowles donated the original185 acres in the fall of 1989; four additionalmembers of the Bowles family donated 191acres of adjacent land in the spring of 1991.Through various campus departments, stu-dents are able to use this continuous tract instudies of ecology and botany, mapping geo-logical features, as a model in resource man-agement and maintenance formation on actu-al building techniques as well as cultural andoral histories. In addition to its educationalopportunities, the conservancy offers aglimpse of Southwest Virginia's distinctivelandscape and resources. The SeluConservancy Retreat Center opened in thefall of 1997.

HIGHLANDER THEME

The influence of the Scottish immigrantswho settled Southwestern Virginia more than300 years ago is visible today in many areasof the university. These people were charac-terized by “firmness of decision, resourceful-ness, ardor in friendship, love of country anda generous enthusiasm.” Radford's athleticteams celebrate that heritage by proudly car-rying the Highlander name into competition.

In the spring of 1978, the universityadopted as its school colors the red, navy andforest green woven into tartan plaid. Fromthe plaid comes the name of the studentnewspaper, The Tartan.

ACCREDITATION ANDMEMBERSHIPS

Radford University is accredited by theCommission on Colleges of the SouthernAssociation of Colleges and Schools toaward bachelor's, master's and educationalspecialist degrees.

Individual program accreditation has beengranted to the following programs:

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• Business Administration – by the AACSB(the International Association forManagement Education)

• Counseling and Human Development – bythe Council for Accreditation of Counselingand Related Educational Programs(CACREP) for community counseling,school counseling and student affairs practice(counseling emphasis)

• Teacher and other Professional Education (allprograms) – by the National Council forAccreditation of Teacher Education

• Nursing – by the National League for Nursingand the American Association of Colleges ofNursing

• Social Work – by the Council of Social WorkEducation

• Music – by the National Association ofSchools of Music

• Speech-Language Pathology – by the Councilon Academic Accreditation of the AmericanSpeech-Language-Hearing Association.Radford University holds membership in

the American Association of State Collegesand Universities, the Virginia Association ofColleges, the American Association ofColleges for Teacher Education, theAmerican Association of Colleges ofNursing, the National Commission onAccrediting, Inc., the Southern RegionalEducation Board Council of CollegiateEducation for Nursing, the National Leaguefor Nursing Council of Baccalaureate andHigher Degree Programs, the Conference ofSouthern Graduate Schools, the Council ofGraduate Schools, the Council of GraduatePrograms in Communication Sciences andDisorders, the Association for ContinuingHigher Education, the University ContinuingEducation Association, the North AmericanAssociation of Summer Sessions, and theAmerican Association of CollegiateRegistrars and Admissions Officers.

EXTENDED EDUCATION

Based on the belief that learning is a life-long process, Radford University's Collegeof Graduate and Extended Education active-ly promotes and enhances the university'smission of teaching and learning, research

and community service. The office staffresponds to constituency needs by develop-ing, managing and assisting with a diversearray of academic programs and services.

The college coordinates off-campus degreeprograms, credit courses and noncredit profes-sional development programs and the partner-ship projects with Virginia Western CommunityCollege and the Southwest Virginia HigherEducation Center. Additional information maybe obtained by contacting the College ofGraduate and Extended Education at (540) 831-5431 (toll-free from Roanoke: 857-8920, ext.5431).

Roanoke Higher Education CenterThe Roanoke region has developed an

imaginative and collaborative project tomeet present and future needs for degreeprograms, workforce training and lifelonglearning opportunities. The center, located indowntown Roanoke, is designed to be aunique facility to offer a continuum of train-ing and education for all citizens who desireto achieve their potential and enhance theircontribution to society.

The center has 18 member institutions andagencies, all of which excel in their teachingand training methods. Radford Universitycurrently offers the following graduate pro-grams at the center: Business Administra-tion, Counseling and Human Development,Special Education, Criminal Justice andEducational Leadership.

For more information about current pro-grams and activities sponsored by RadfordUniversity in the Center, contact the univer-sity office at (540) 767-6190. Additionalinformation may be obtained by contactingthe College of Graduate and ExtendedEducation at (540) 831-5431 (toll-free fromRoanoke: 857-8920, ext. 5431). To learnmore about the Roanoke Higher EducationCenter, refer to the website at: www.rhec.edu

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The Southwest Virginia HigherEducation Center

Located in Abingdon, the SouthwestVirginia Higher Education Center was estab-lished by the General Assembly in 1991 tostrengthen the economy of the region througheducation and training of the future workforce.Six institutions of higher education provideundergraduate and graduate courses and pro-grams and are recognized as partners in the cen-ter. At the present time, Radford Universitygraduate programs are offered at the Center inSocial Work, Counseling and HumanDevelopment, Criminal Justice, andEducational Leadership.

For more information about current pro-grams and activities sponsored by RadfordUniversity in the center contact the universi-ty office at (276) 469-4014. Additional infor-mation may be obtained by contacting theCollege of Graduate and ExtendedEducation at (540) 831-5431. To learn moreabout the Southwest Virginia HigherEducation Center refer to the web site atwww.swcenter.edu.

ACADEMIC YEAR

The university year is divided into twosemesters, August to December (fall semes-ter) and January to May (spring semester);and four summer sessions. Students mayenter the university at the opening of eithersemester or summer session, pendingapproval of the department to which the stu-dent is applying.

ACADEMIC ORGANIZATION

The university is composed of seven col-leges: the College of Graduate and ExtendedEducation, College of Arts and Sciences,College of Business and Economics, Collegeof Education and Human Development,Waldron College of Health and Human Ser-vices, the College of Visual and PerformingArts, and the newly established College ofInformation Science and Technology. The

chief administrative officer of each college isits dean, who reports to the Vice Presidentfor Academic Affairs.

Each academic department within a givencollege is responsible for the content and pre-requisites of courses offered by the departmentand specifies the requirements for the depart-ment's degree and certification programs. Thechairperson is the chief administrative officer atthe department level.

UNIVERSITY NON-DISCRIMINATIONPOLICIES

Radford University does not discriminatewith regard to race, color, sex, sexual orienta-tion, disability, age, veteran status, national ori-gin, religion, or political affiliation in theadministration of its educational programs,activities, admission or employment practices.

The university has adopted policies to pro-vide for prompt and equitable resolution ofdiscrimination complaints. The Discrimina-tion Complaint Procedures describe the griev-ance procedure for students who have experi-enced discrimination. The Sexual HarassmentPolicy further defines sex discrimination byincluding examples of sexual harassment anda statement concerning consensual relation-ships between university employees and stu-dents. The Accommodation GrievanceProcedure for Students with Disabilities con-firms the university's commitment to provid-ing accessibility to its programs, services, andactivities for individuals with disabilities whoare otherwise qualified and entitled to a rea-sonable accommodation.

Individuals who believe they may haveexperienced discrimination, but are uncertainas to whether a complaint is justified orwhether they wish to initiate a formal com-plaint, may discuss their concerns confiden-tially and informally with the ExecutiveDirector of Human Resources. Students mayalso consult a staff member at the Center forExperiential Learning and CareerDevelopment or the Office of the Dean ofStudents.

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Only acts of discrimination committed byuniversity employees in connection withtheir university employment may bereviewed through these policies and proce-dures. The term “employee” refers to anyfaculty, staff or student with a contractualemployment agreement. In all cases ofalleged discrimination in which the violationis committed by a student, status as a studentis adjudicated by the university's studentjudicial system.

Copies of the complete policy statementsincluding procedures for resolving com-plaints are available in the Office of the Deanof Students, Center for ExperientialLearning and Career Development, and theDepartment of Human Resources.

Inquiries may be directed to the ExecutiveDirector of Human Resources at 704Clement Street. Telephone: (voice) (540)831-5421; (hearing impaired) (540) 831-5128.

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Commencement 2003

It is the policy of Radford University to admitstudents whose ability, preparation and characterindicate potential for success in the programs ofstudy offered. Radford University does not dis-criminate with regard to race, color, sex, sexualorientation, disability, age, veteran status, nation-al origin, religion or political affiliation in theadministration of its educational programs, activ-ities, admission or employment practices.Inquiries may be directed to the Director ofHuman Resources at 704 Clement Street.Telephone: voice, (540) 831-5421; hearingimpaired, (540) 831-5128.

Admission to Radford is selective and basedon a review of each applicant's academic qualifi-cations. Spaces are limited and applicants areencouraged to apply well in advance of the termin which they wish to attend.

For full-time students and/or students seekinggraduate assistantships or other forms of financialaid, the deadline is March 1 (for fall admission)or October 1 (for spring admission). All otherapplications are accepted throughout the year.

As the number of applicants who meet theessential requirements for admission exceeds thenumber that can be admitted, the universityselects those students who present the strongestqualifications in scholastic achievement, charac-ter, personality and performance in extracurricu-lar activities, and evidence of aptitude forachievement in the professional or specific fieldof study for which the applicant seeks training.

ADMISSION PROCEDURES

A student desiring to enter RadfordUniversity should request an application fromthe Graduate Admissions Office, Box 6928,Radford University, Radford, VA 24142 orapply online at www.radford.edu/~gradcoll.Students will be notified of action taken on theirapplication after it is complete. A completeapplication includes:• An official application completed and returned

with a non-refundable application fee.• Official transcripts from all undergraduate

institutions. If the degree has not been con-ferred at the time of application, a final tran-script must be sent during the first semester ofenrollment.

• Official test scores on the GRE, MAT, orGMAT.

• At least two letters of recommendation.Students should check departmental infor-

mation for additional requirements. Admission to a graduate program is granted

by the Dean of the Graduate College on recom-mendation from the faculty of the specific pro-gram. The decision is made, in the best profes-sional judgment of the educators involved, onthe basis of evidence that the applicant can ben-efit from graduate study at Radford University,and is likely to complete the proposed programsuccessfully. As noted below, specific gradepoint averages have been established for admis-sion. For those programs requiring standardizedtest scores (GRE – Graduate RecordExamination, GMAT – Graduate ManagementAdmissions Test, and MAT – Miller AnalogiesTest), the score will be considered in conjunc-tion with other indicators of academic aptitude(grades, experience, recommendations). A hightest score, for example, may offset weakergrades, and vice versa.

If a student wishes to apply for admission tomore than one program, a complete separateapplication must be submitted for each program.Application forms for admission can beobtained from the Graduate Admissions Office,to which they must be returned. Students mayalso apply online. Applicants should arrange tohave sent to the Graduate Admissions Office ascore report for an admission test if the depart-ment of the student’s major requires test scoresas part of its admission evaluation. Consult thedepartment admission policy on p. 19 to deter-mine which of the following test scores to sub-mit: Graduate Record Examination (theAptitude and, for some programs, Subject Test),Miller Analogies Test, or the GraduateManagement Admission Test. English languageproficiency is demonstrated by (1) TOEFL of550 or higher on the written test or 213 on thecomputer-based test, or (2) possession of a degreefrom an accredited institution where English is thelanguage of instruction.

For applicants who are graduates of RadfordUniversity, only transcripts for course worktaken at other institutions after graduation needto be sent. If the Radford transcripts do not

13

Admission

include the student’s entire undergraduate pro-gram, copies of all transcripts also must be sentto the Graduate Admissions Office. Students,excluding Radford University graduates, musthave official final transcripts, including theaward of the bachelor’s degree, sent to theGraduate Admissions Office.

The Graduate College must receive theapplication, transcripts and letters of recommen-dation or forms supplied with the applicationand the $40 application fee, no later than thedate specified on p. 19.

Non-degree and transient applications may besubmitted at any time during the year along with anapplication fee of $40.

At least two letters of recommendation arerequired in support of each application except inthe case of applicants seeking admission forProfessional Certification, for which three let-ters are required. Non-degree seeking or tran-sient student applicants are not required to sub-mit recommendations or test scores.Recommendation letters should be written bypersons familiar with the applicant’s academicbackground and/or work experience. An appli-cant who has had experience in the publicschools and who plans to continue working inthe area of professional education is encouragedto have one of the recommendations submittedby the immediate supervisor in the school sys-tem or, if not currently employed by a schoolsystem, by a supervisor in the last school systemin which the applicant worked.

In some graduate programs, the number ofapplicants who meet minimum admissionrequirements may exceed the number of newstudents who can be accommodated in the pro-grams. In these instances, departmental admis-sion committees will have to select the strongestapplicants and, regrettably, deny admission toothers who meet requirements.

Acceptance into the Graduate College iseffective for one semester. If a student does notenroll for the first time within one academicsemester after the initial acceptance, it will benecessary to reapply. Students who have notbeen enrolled for a period of two years will needto complete a current application and pay a $40application fee to re-activate their status.

NOTIFICATION OF ADMISSION

The Graduate Admissions Office will send thecompleted application materials to the chairperson ordirector/program coordinator of the department inwhich the student plans to major. If the departmentrecommends admission, the chairperson or direc-tor/program coordinator will suggest an academicadviser for the student and will note any deficienciesin the student’s undergraduate program. After thisinformation has been returned to the GraduateAdmissions Office, and a decision made by theDean, the applicant will receive written notificationof the College’s admission decision. A letter ofadmission will indicate the student’s admission sta-tus, program requirements, and the name and phonenumber of the student’s adviser. It also will indicateany special conditions to be met.

For further information, contact:Graduate Office AdmissionsP.O. Box 6928Radford UniversityRadford, VA 24142e-mail: gradcoll@radford.edu

GRADUATE INFORMATIONCHECKLIST

First Semester of Enrollment1. Meet with your advisor to finalize program

requirements. Ensure that the GraduateCollege has an official copy of those require-ments.

2. If you applied to the Graduate College beforeyour undergraduate degree was conferred, it isyour responsibility to ask your undergraduateinstitution to send a final transcript verifyingdegree conferred to the Graduate Collegebefore the end of the first term of enrollment.

3. Make up as many undergraduate deficienciesas possible.

4. Prepare for the preliminary examination ifrequired.

End of First Semester of Enrollment1. Select a graduate committee in consultation

with the adviser.2. Request change to regular status (if applicable)

if nine hours of graduate work have been takenat Radford University with at least a B average,all deficiency/ supporting courses have beentaken, and application is complete.

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Next to Last Semester of Enrollment1. Make application for the degree at the begin-

ning of next to last semester. Deadlines aregiven in the class schedule and on our web site.Information about commencement and gradu-ate hooding ceremonies will be sent after thecompleted application has been received bythe Graduate College.

Last Semester of Enrollment1. Check that all necessary program changes

have been approved.2. Submit two copies of the completed thesis or

graduate recital program notes to the GraduateCollege office no later than the last day ofclasses.

3. Request an approval form for your final com-prehensive examination and/or thesis defenseat least five days in advance of the examinationdate and return the signed form to the GraduateCollege office no later than the last day ofclasses.

CATEGORIES OF GRADUATESTUDY:

1. Degree Program: Any program that is designedto culminate in a student obtaining a master'sdegree or educational specialist degree.

2. Professional Licensure: Any program that isdesigned to culminate in the student obtaininginitial endorsement licensure.

3. Non-degree Seeking: For students wishing totake a course for reasons other than degree orinitial licensure purposes. Courses taken in thiscategory are not transferable to either a degreeprogram or professional licensure programwithout the permission of the appropriate chairand graduate dean. No more than two courses,not to exceed a maximum of six credit hours,may be transferred into a degree or licensureprogram. No more than 6 hours may be takenas a non-degree seeking student without thepermission of the appropriate chair and thegraduate dean.Prior to enrolling in a graduate course, non-

degree seeking students must show evidence ofa bachelor’s degree from an accredited institu-tion with a minimum grade point average of2.75. Exceptions should be directed to the rele-vant program chair or director.

Non-degree seeking students seeking admis-sion to a graduate program must provide

evidence that he/she has met all the admissionrequirements of the Graduate College and thespecific program in which he/she seeks enroll-ment.

Admission requirements to all categories ofgraduate study are the same.

CLASSIFICATIONS OFADMISSION STATUS

DEGREE PROGRAMRegular

Regular status may be granted to students whohave met all entrance requirements for theGraduate College, the department and program inwhich they wish to study.

In addition to all other Graduate College anddepartment requirements, minimal requirementsfor regular status include:

• The graduate application process completed• An official score on the GRE, MAT or GMAT• At least two letters of recommendation• Final transcript, showing degree conferred• Minimum 2.75 grade point average• All supporting course work completed

Departments, with the approval of theGraduate Dean, may establish and maintainadditional requirements for admission and regu-lar status.

ConditionalStudents may be admitted on conditional sta-

tus only if they are missing a final transcript(showing degree conferred); an official GRE,MAT or GMAT score; one or more letters of rec-ommendation; grade point average is below2.75 or the test score is below the minimumrequired by the department.

Students must remedy all admission defi-ciencies by the end of the first semester inwhich they are enrolled. Students who aredeclared conditional in the summer term mayhave until the end of the next semester in whichthey are enrolled to remedy their deficiencies.Students who are unable to remedy a deficiencyin the time frame established will be blockedfrom further registration of graduate courses.

Students who are admitted conditionally dueto an exception for undergraduate grade pointaverage must maintain a 3.0 grade point averagein all supporting coursework completed at

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Radford University. Additionally, studentsenrolled conditionally must maintain a 3.0 gradepoint average during their first nine graduatehours of coursework at Radford University.After nine hours without a 3.0, students will beblocked from further registration and will nolonger continue in the program unless a petitionto continue is approved.

A student’s status may be changed to regularafter completion of nine semester hours with a3.0 grade point average and completion of alldeficiencies.

PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE ANDCERTIFICATION

A student who holds a bachelor’s degreefrom an accredited institution and who wishes totake graduate courses to meet initial profession-al licensure requirements may be admitted as aprofessional licensure student upon submissionof an official transcript showing that the bache-lor’s degree has been awarded with a gradepoint average of at least 2.75 (on a scale of 4.0).Specific individual licensure andendorsement programs may have additionaladmission requirements. For these, please seethe respective courses of study sections of thiscatalog.

Three letters of reference are required fromat least three of the following:1. The director of the teacher education program

at the undergraduate college if the applicantwas enrolled in a baccalaureate teacher educa-tion program.

2. The chair of the department or a faculty mem-ber who served as adviser for the applicantfrom the major department if the applicant wasnot enrolled in an undergraduate teacher edu-cation program.

3. The clinical faculty member (cooperatingteacher) who supervised the applicant if theapplicant participated in any field experiencesor practica associated with teacher preparation.

4. The chair of the department or a faculty mem-ber who served as adviser for the applicantfrom the major department if the applicant hasbeen enrolled in a graduate major followinggraduation.

5. An employer to whom the applicant reported ifthe applicant has been employed since receiv-ing the baccalaureate degree.

Normally, courses taken under this admis-sion category may not be counted toward adegree; however, a professional licensure stu-dent in this status who subsequently decides topursue a degree may petition the GraduateCollege through the appropriate department tohave a maximum of six graduate hours evaluat-ed for acceptance toward a graduate degree.

It would be to the advantage of professionallicensure students to enroll formally in a degreeprogram as soon as possible after registration inorder to protect the potential future value of cours-es toward a graduate degree.

NON-DEGREE STUDENTS

An applicant who does not plan to pursue adegree or licensure but wishes to take one or morecourses may be admitted to this category uponapplication and submission of an official transcriptshowing that a bachelor’s degree has been awardedwith a minimum grade point average of 2.75.

Normally, courses taken under this admis-sion category may not be counted toward adegree; however, a graduate student in this sta-tus who subsequently decides to pursue a degreemay petition the Graduate College through theappropriate department to have two courses, notto exceed a maximum of six graduate hours,evaluated for acceptance toward a graduatedegree. Non-degree students seeking admissionto a graduate program must provide evidencethat he/she has met all the requirements of theGraduate College and the specific program inwhich he/she seeks enrollment.

Not all graduate courses may be taken bynon-degree-seeking students. Students areadvised to check with the specific programdirector as well as catalog requirements priorto enrolling in any graduate class. Non-degree students must adhere to all estab-lished policies of probation and suspension.

It would be to the advantage of non-degree-seeking graduate students to enroll formally in adegree program as soon as possible after regis-tration in order to protect the potential futurevalue of courses toward a graduate degree.

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TRANSIENT STUDENTS

Students who are enrolled in good standingin graduate programs at other institutions butwish to take a course at Radford University fortransfer to their home institution must completea transient student application form which isavailable online or from the GraduateAdmissions office.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTINFORMATION

Radford University is committed to educatingstudents to take their place in today's highly compet-itive global society. The university is home to agrowing number of students and faculty membersfrom around the world.

International students are welcome at Radford.The university offers a number of services to make thetransition to campus as well as to the United Statessmooth and pleasant.

MULTICULTURAL SERVICES Claude Steele, Director0133 Heth Hall(540) 831-5765

The Multicultural Services Office assists stu-dents with their transition to the RadfordUniversity environment. Located on the first floorof Stuart Hall, the Multicultural Servies Office pro-vides information, services and programs to assiststudents with cultural adjustment concerns.Specific services include international student ori-entation programs in the fall, spring, both summersessions, and annual and special programs.

Annual programs are designed to provide inter-national students with the opportunity to sharetheir culture with others and address basic con-cerns. They include the International SpeakersBureau, International Coffee Hours, theInternational Friendship Program, andInternational Week.

The International Student Services staffunderstands the special concerns of theuniversity's international student population andencourages students to utilize the office'sresources. To make an appointment, stop by orcall (540) 831-5765. The office is open 8 a.m. -noon and 1 - 5 p.m. (Eastern Time), Monday -Friday.

All international students are required topresent proof of adequate health insurance cov-erage prior to enrollment. Students should con-tact the office if they have questions or needmore information concerning various healthinsurance policies.

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATIONCENTER

Dr. Joseph Flory, Director301 Cook Hall(540) 831-6200

The Immigration Counselor for RadfordUniversity is on the staff of the InternationalEducation Center. Located in Cook Hall, theofficer works closely with students, faculty andstaff both before their arrival at RadfordUniversity and during their stay to facilitate allINS issues.

ADMISSION FOR INTERNATIONALSTUDENTS

A student who plans to enter Radford in fallsemester must apply by December 1. A studententering spring semester must apply by July 1.

An applicant who has not already earned adegree at an institution at which English is thelanguage of instruction must take the TOEFL.The results must be mailed directly from theEducational Testing Service, Princeton, NJ08541, to the Graduate College Office.

A TOEFL minimum score of 550 on the writ-ten test, or 213 on the computer-based test isrequired for admission.

A notarized letter of sponsorship and an orig-inal and certified bank statement from a sponsoror parent certifying that the student has enoughmoney for the first year of attendance at Radfordis required. The official estimate is $17,104.

For more information regarding universitytuition and fees, see p. 20.

Applicants must have each college or univer-sity attended send official records to theGraduate College. All records must be certifiedand translated into English.

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An I-20 Form, used to obtain an F1 studentvisa, will be prepared after the application andall necessary information have been receivedand the Graduate College has made a decision toaccept the applicant as a Radford student. The I-20 Form cannot be prepared before an applica-tion is officially reviewed and the applicant hasbeen accepted.

OTHER SERVICES FORINTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Tutors trained in teaching English as a sec-ond language are available to help internationalstudents through the university's Writing Center.To make an appointment or for more informa-tion, call (540) 831-6035.

The International Student Affairs Council(ISAC), a branch of the Student GovernmentAssociation, was founded to address interna-tional student concerns and issues. ISAC plansand coordinates international-related activitiessponsored by various on-campus organizationsand clubs. It also seeks to help the entire campuscommunity understand and appreciate the richvariety of cultures represented by our interna-tional student body.

Music therapy graduate student Dwayne Martin enjoys interacting with some little students. Hands-on learning and volunteerism is an important part of the RU experience.

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Art Education/MFA Minimum grade point average of 2.75; 2 letters of reference; GRE or MAT; (for art education March 15 for fallonly); statement of philosophy, overall goals, synopsis of work; twenty slides of recent art work October 1 for spring

Business Administration Minimum grade point average of 2.75; 2 letters of reference; GMAT; applications are See Statement Below*reviewed following guidelines recommended by the International Association for Management Education (AACSB)

Communication Sciences Undergraduate degree; minimum grade point average of 3.0; February 1and Disorders 3 letters of reference; GRE; essay

Corporate and Minimum grade point average of 2.75; short essay (see brochure or catalog); GRE; 3 February 1 for fallProfessional personal letters of reference September 15 for springCommunication

Counseling and Human Minimum grade point average of 2.75; GRE or MAT; 3 letters of reference; essay See Statement Below*Development

Criminal Justice Minimum grade point average of 2.90; 2 letters of reference, only one of which may come from a Radford University Criminal Justice Professor; GRE or MAT; writing sample See Statement Below*

Education Minimum grade point average of 2.75; 2 letters of reference; GRE or MAT See Statement Below*

Educational Leadership Minimum grade point average of 2.75; 3 letters of reference; 3 years of K-12 classroom See Statement Below*teaching experience; GRE or MAT; essay

English Minimum grade point average of 2.75; 2 letters of reference; sample of expository writing; See Statement Below*GRE

Environmental and Minimum grade point average of 2.75; 3 letters of reference; GRE See Statement Below*Engineering Geosciences

Foods and Nutrition Overall 3.0 GPA/4.0 in all college classes; 3.0+ in DPD dietetic coursework; expressed interest in Dietetic Concentration clinical dietetics as evidenced by volunteer or work experience; verification statement from an ADA

approved/accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD); interest in medical nutrition therapy and clinical upskilling; desire to work in rural and interdisciplinary settings; effective communication, mathematical and interpersonal skills; need to participate in the D & D Digital computer match process.

Music Minimum grade point average of 2.75; 3 letters of reference; written diagnostic exams in See Statement Below*Music History and Theory before the end of the first semester and prior to admission to regular status

Nursing Minimum grade point average of 3.0; GRE or MAT; 3 letters of reference; graduation from March 1 for falla National League for Nursing accredited baccalaureate program in nursing; October 1 for springLicensure to practice as a registered nurse in Virginia; ability to document one year of nursing practice in the last five years

Psychology Minimum grade point average of 3.0; GRE; 2 letters of reference (1 from major department; March 1 for fallif applicant is not a psychology major then a letter of reference from a psychology faculty member is needed); short statement approximately 2 pages stating why you are interested in psychology and future plans

Reading Minimum grade point average of 2.75; 2 letters of reference; GRE or MAT See Statement Below*

School Psychology Minimum grade point average of 3.0; GRE; 2 letters of reference (1 from major department; if March 1 for fallapplicant is not a psychology major then a letter of reference from a psychology faculty member is needed); short statement approximately 2 pages stating why you are interested in psychology and future plans

Social Work Minimum grade point average of 2.75; GRE; qualifying scores on a standardized exam; Advanced: January 15previous experience in the field of human services as an employee, student, and/or volunteer; please check brochure or current catalog for further requirements Standard: February 15 (fall)

Special Education Minimum grade point of 2.75; GRE or MAT; 3 letters of reference; essay See Statement Below*Non-Degree Minimum grade point average of 2.75; official transcript showing baccalaureate degree conferred Rolling admission

Professional Certifica- Minimum grade point average of 2.75; coursework required for licensure; official transcript Rolling admissiontion/Licensure showing baccalaureate degree conferred; 3 letters of reference for initial certification

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTSEach program requires official transcripts from each college and university attended. Transcripts from your undergraduate institution showing degree

conferred are required. If you were an undergraduate student at Radford University, the Graduate Studies Office will request your transcript. A minimumgrade point average of 2.75 is required for all programs. Official test scores are required.

*For full-time students, and/or students seeking graduate assistantships or other forms of financial aid, the deadline is March 1 (for fall admission) or October 1 (spring).All other applications are accepted throughout the year.

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Fees and Financial InformationGraduate Student Expenses 2003-2004

Per PerSem. Year

12-18 hrs. per sem.In-state student Tuition & Fees $2,580 $5,160Out-of-state studentTuition & Fees $4,764 $9,5281-11 hrs. per sem.In-state studentTuition & Fees $215/credit hr.Out-of-state studentTuition & Fees $397/credit hr.*A student taking more than 18 credit hours persemester will be charged for the additional hoursat the credit-hours rate for part-time students.

EXPENSES (2003)Typical Budget for an In-state Graduate Student Per YearTuition & Fees, Room &Board Allowance $9,530

Books & Supplies 700Personal Expenses 2,112Transportation 600Total Budget for Academic Year $12,942

Typical Budget for an Out-of-state Graduate Student Per YearTuition & Fees, Room & Board Allowance $7,146

Books & Supplies 700Personal Expenses 2,112Transportation 1,000Total Budget for Academic Year $16,618

Optional Meal Plans for StudentsLiving Off Campus**

Per Sem. Per YearAny 5 MealsPer Week $ 476 $ 952Any 7 Meals Per Week $ 619 $1,238Any 12 MealsPer Week $1,232 $1,464Any 15 MealsPer Week $1,179 $2,358

Per Sem. Per YearAny 20 MealsPer Week - Full $1,262 $1,524RU Flex Plan $1,227 $2,454Flex Jr. $ 623 $1,264Any 90 Meals $ 430 $ 860Any 65 Meals $ 311 $ 622 **Food Dollars are associated with the 5, 7,12, 15 and 20 meal plans. For information,call the RU Express Office at (540) 831-5054or 831-6449.

Every effort is made not to change fees afterthey have been published; however, if thisshould become necessary, public notice will begiven prior to the semester in which the increasegoes into effect. Refer to the RU Web page forthe most up-to-date information: www.rad-ford.edu

IN-STATE TUITION ELIGIBILITY

All students who wish to apply for in-statetuition rates must submit the appropriate appli-cation form prior to the first day of classes forthe term they are seeking in-state status. Theform is available online or in the GraduateAdmissions office in Preston 211. Copies ofSection 23-7.4 of the Code of Virginia, the lawgoverning eligibility for in-state tuition, areavailable in the Reserved section of McConnellLibrary. Additional information is availablefrom the Graduate College office. It is theresponsibility of the student to apply for achange in domiciliary status.

VIRGINIA EDUCATORS REDUCEDTUITION RATE

Full-time Virginia educators (K-12) are eli-gible to apply for a reduced tuition rate forRadford University courses offered on and offcampus. Educators (teachers, administrators,supervisors, etc.) can be enrolled for a graduatedegree, additional endorsements or for re-licen-sure. Radford University has implemented thispolicy as recognition of the importance forVirginia educators to enhance their professionalknowledge and skills. The reduced rate in 2003-2004 is $183 per semester hour. An application for

the Virginia Educator’s Reduced Tuition rateneeds to be completed only once annually and iseffective for both the academic year and the fol-lowing summer session.

The following eligibility guidelines apply:1. A baccalaureate degree is required for

Kindergarten through grade 12 public and pri-vate school teachers, counselors, administra-tors, supervisors, librarians, and coaches.Admission to the Radford University GraduateCollege as a matriculated or non-degree stu-dent is required.

2. Eligible personnel must be full-time contractualemployees of a public school division or privateschool within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

3. Individuals on official leave from their assign-ments are eligible for reduced tuition.

4. There is no restriction on the number of hoursthat can be taken.

5. Courses for which educators request reducedtuition must be for professional development, notfor planned career changes outside of education.

For more information or to receive applica-tion forms, please call the Graduate College at(540) 831-5431.

OVERLOAD FEE

An overload fee will be charged for eachadditional hour over the full-time academicload. A full-class load at Radford, for purposesof tuition payment, is no more than 18 hours persemester. The overload fee is based on thesemester-hour charges for part-time students.

APPLICATION FEE

A nonrefundable application fee of $40 mustaccompany each application to the GraduateCollege. The application fee for non-degree andtransient students is $40. All application feesmust be paid in U.S. currency.

SUMMER SESSION FEES

The cost for summer sessions will be based onthe semester-hour charges for part-time students.

APPLIED MUSIC FEE

An applied music instruction fee is chargedat the rate of $200 per credit per semester.Applied music fees may be waived for level sys-tem applied lessonswith the approval of the deanof the College of Visual and Performing Arts forstudents majoring in music, and students regis-tered for Department of Music ensembles andstudying in a performance medium relevant totheir ensemble participation. Fee waivers do notapply for MUSC 107, MUSC 169, MUSC 170,MUSC 470 and MUSC 670.

PARKING FEE

Students may park motor vehicles andmotorcycles in university parking lots if theyhave obtained a parking decal from the ParkingServices Office located in Walker Hall. See“Parking” on page 30 for more details.

THESIS BINDING FEE

Students may request the library to bind per-sonal copies of theses at a charge of $9 per copy.Fees are not collected for the two copies sub-mitted to the Graduate College.

COMMENCEMENT COSTS

All students participating in the hooding andcommencement exercises must wear appropri-ate academic regalia, which is available throughthe campus bookstore. The charge for a cap,gown, tassle and hood is approximately $49.

CONTINUOUS ENROLLMENT

For more information regarding ContinuousEnrollment see page 43.

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RESPONSIBILITY FOR PAYMENTOF TUITION AND FEES

Payment of tuition, fees and other chargesowed to Radford University is the responsibilityof the student. Billing statements will be mailedto the student at the permanent address on filewith the university. If a student wishes to desig-nate a billing address he/she may do so with theRegistrar’s Office.

Failure to pay tuition, fees, and other chargesowed to Radford University could result inadministrative withdrawal from the university.The Code of Virginia allows the university torecover all reasonable administrative costs, latefees, collection fees, and attorney's fees incurredin the collection of funds that are due RadfordUniversity. The university reports past dueaccounts to a credit reporting bureau.

UNPAID FEES OR FINES

The university will hold transcripts andblock registration for future semesters for stu-dents who fail to pay tuition fees, fines or dam-ages. Collection agencies also may be used bythe university to collect unpaid fees or fines.

TUITION PAYMENT PLANS

Highlander Choice Monthly Payment Plan:In a continuing effort to assist with the paymentof educational expenses, Radford Universityoffers the Highlander Choice Monthly PaymentPlan as an alternative to standard paymentarrangements.

If you would like further information con-cerning the plans available:• Call the Highlander Choice customers’ service

number at (540) 831-6698;• e-mail hc@radford.edu;• Write Highlander Choice, c/o Student

Accounts, Box 6922, Radford, VA 24142. • Highlander Choice is also available on-line at:

www.radford.edu/~stuacct/, then follow thelink into the Highlander Choice home page.

REFUND OF CHARGES

Withdrawal from one or more but not all courses

A student who withdraws from a class by thecensus date will be refunded the difference intuition and fees for the reduced number of cred-it hours, if any. After the census date, there willbe no refund.

Withdrawal from the University (all courses)

A graduate student who officially withdrawsfrom the university on or before the census datewill be refunded all tuition and fees; all boardcharges (meal plan) less a $200 administrativefee.

After the census date through the last day towithdraw from a course with a grade of “W”, astudent will be refunded the unused portion ofboard (meal plan) or the board (meal plan)amount paid less a $200 administrative fee,whichever is less.

After the last day to withdraw from a coursewith a grade of “W” there will be no refund.

BANKING FACILITIES

Three banks are located near the RadfordUniversity campus: SunTrust Bank, Wachovia andFirst Virginia Bank – Southwest. In addition, thecity is serviced by First National Bank, Blue RidgeBank, Bank of America, and The National Bank.Wachovia and First National Bank operate auto-matic teller machines on campus.

STUDENT CHECK WRITINGPOLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Checks presented by Radford University stu-dents are accepted/cashed by the university sub-ject to the following limitations and policies:

• The university accepts checks for tuition/fees,room and board, the exact amount of goods orservices or to pay fines owed to the university.The Post Office accepts checks and RUExpress for the amount of purchase.

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• A student who knowingly writes a check withinsufficient funds in his or her checkingaccount may be charged with an honor codeviolation and may be prosecuted under thecriminal law of the Commonwealth ofVirginia.

• If a student writes two “bad” checks to the uni-versity in an academic year, thestudent’s check-cashing privileges at all uni-versity facilities may be suspended.

• If a check written to Radford University isreturned from the bank due to insufficientfunds, future tuition/fee or room and boardpayments may be required to be made withcash, money order, certified check or cashier’scheck and the student may be administrativelywithdrawn from the university.

• A student may be blocked from registrationand transcripts may be held if a check isreturned from the bank and remains unpaid.

• A $20 service charge will be applied to allchecks returned from the bank for any reason.In addition to the $20 service charge, a $75 latefee will be applied to all returned tuitionchecks, if applicable.

• The Bookstore will cash checks between $5and $25. There will be a service charge of $.50per check.

NOTE: Checks written directly to a studentby the Commonwealth of Virginia or byRadford University may be cashed at the bankindicated on the check or at a bank where thestudent has an account.

STUDENT FINANCIAL AID

Helping qualified students who would beunable to attend the university because of a lack offunds is the aim of Radford's financial aid pro-gram. During the 2001-2002 academic year,Radford provided some form of aid for more than73 percent of its students. Funds for educationmust first be the responsibility of the student. Thedifference between the student contribution andthe cost of attending the university determines thefinancial need of the student.

The criteria used for selecting student aidrecipients involve both the computed need andthe academic grade standing of the individualstudent. Top consideration for awarding finan-cial aid dollars will be given to those who

demonstrate the greatest need and who apply bythe deadline. To be eligible for federal financialaid students must be enrolled at least half-time(five credit hours per term).

After a student has been admitted to Radfordand has demonstrated financial need, the universi-ty tries to meet that need by offering a financialaid package which may consist of a grant, loanand/or on-campus job.

In addition to awards based on demonstratedfinancial need, scholarships based on leadership,character and academic achievements areoffered at Radford. Sources of financial aidinclude loans and grants from the federal andstate governments, as well as a number of pri-vate funds established through the RadfordUniversity Foundation. Students can find moreinformation about programs by visiting the RUFinancial Aid Web Site at:www.radford.edu/~finaid

A number of graduate assistantships areavailable to graduate students. For more infor-mation, please see pp. 27-28.

APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL AID

To determine need in a consistent way for aidapplicants, Radford suggests that students seekingfinancial aid submit a Free Application for FederalStudent Aid (FAFSA) by February 1. Forms andfurther information about the needs analysis systemmay be obtained from the Financial Aid Office. Thefinancial statement for renewal students also shouldbe filed by February 1.

Radford awards financial aid separately forthe academic year and the summer terms.Students who plan to be enrolled during thesummer must submit the Summer StudentFinancial Aid Application. The Free Applicationfor Federal Student Aid, however, needs to becompleted only once annually and is effectivefor both the academic year and the followingsummer sessions.

Students can find out the status of their appli-cation, documents that are missing from theirapplication, and awards that have been offeredto them by using the Radford University StudentInformation System.

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DISBURSEMENT OFFINANCIAL AID

All types of financial aid are credited to thestudent’s account at the beginning of each termwith the exception of graduate assistantships,work study and some loans.

These financial aid funds first must be usedto pay the required university charges outstand-ing at that time. Except in rare cases, all awardswill be disbursed equally over the course of thetwo academic semesters. Financial assistanceawarded for the summer terms will be dividedequally between the terms.

Radford University began participating inElectronic Funds Transfer (EFT) of FederalFamily Education Loan funds (Stafford andUnsubsidized Stafford) during the spring semes-ter of 1995. This option of disbursing loan pro-ceeds was an additional service that the univer-sity was able to offer its students. Stafford bor-rowers will again be able to participate in theEFT process for the 2003-2004 academic year.Financial aid applicants will receive informationwith their award package regarding this service.

RETURN OF TITLE IV FEDERALFINANCIAL AID

The Higher Education Amendments of 1998(HEA98) represent a major shift in the return ofTitle IV Federal Financial Aid when a studentwithdraws from the University. This change inpolicy became effective at Radford Universityin the fall 2000 semester. The policy governs allfederal grant and loan programs (Pell, Staffordloans, SEOG, Perkins and PLUS loans), butdoes not include the Federal Work Studyprogram.

In general, this law assumes that a student“earns” approved (verified) federal financial aidawards in proportion to the number of days inthe term prior to the student’s complete with-drawal. If a student completely withdraws fromschool during a term, the school must calculate,according to a specific formula, the portion ofthe total scheduled financial assistance that thestudent has earned and is therefore entitled toretain, until the time that the student withdrew.If a student receives (or the University receiveson the student’s behalf) more assistance thanhe/she earns, the unearned funds must bereturned to the Department of Education or to

the Federal Stafford or to the parent’s FederalPLUS loan lenders. If a student’s charges areless than the amount earned, and a refund is due,the student may be able to receive those addi-tional funds. Students who have not completedthe verification process are ineligible to receiveany financial aid.

The portion of the federal grants and loansthat the student is entitled to receive is calculat-ed on a percentage basis by comparing the totalnumber of days in the semester to the number ofdays that the student completed before he/shewithdrew. For example, if a student completes30 percent of the semester, he/she earns 30 per-cent of the approved federal aid that he/she wasoriginally scheduled to receive. This means that70 percent of the student’s scheduled or dis-bursed aid remains unearned and must bereturned to the Federal Programs. In the past, theprevious Federal and Pro Rata WithdrawalPolicy determined the amount of federal fundsthat must be returned, and the university wasrequired to reduce the student’s charges by thesame amount. The new policy governs theearned and unearned portions of the student’sFederal Title IV Financial Aid only. It deter-mines how much, if any, the student and/or theschool may need to return. This policy does notaffect the student’s charges. The University’sWithdrawal Policy (stated above) will be used todetermine the reduction, if any, in the student’stuition and fee or room and board charges. Thestudent is responsible for paying any outstand-ing charges to the University.

The student’s official withdrawal date will bedetermined by the University as (1) the date thestudent began the University’s withdrawalprocess (the date that the graduate student offi-cially notified the Registrar’s Office of his/herintent to withdraw); (2) the midpoint of thesemester if the student withdraws without noti-fying the university; or (3) the student’s last dateof attendance at an academically-related activityas documented by the university.

If it is determined that a portion of the finan-cial aid received on the student’s behalf isunearned, the University shares with the studentthe responsibility of returning those funds.

Any grant funds that the student is requiredto return to the Federal Programs are consideredan overpayment. The student must either repaythe amount in full or make satisfactory paymentarrangements with the Department of Education

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to repay the amount. If the student fails to repay,or make payment arrangements, to repay anoverpayment the student will lose his/her eligi-bility to receive future federal financial aid atany institution.

SATISFACTORY ACADEMICPROGRESS

Starting the 2001-2002 academic year, a newSatisfactory Academic Progress policy becameeffective for financial aid recipients. Federalregulations require that financial aid recipientsmust be making progress toward a degree inaddition to meeting the minimum cumulativegrade point average. Financial aid affected bythis policy includes grants, loans, Federal WorkStudy. Graduate Assistantships, FoundationScholarships, and the Work Scholarship pro-grams are exempt from the yearly quantitativeprogress measure, but not the minimum gradepoint average requirement. Some alternativeloans are exempt from this policy based on thelenders’ requirement of meeting academicprogress.

Students who enroll for a semester, receivefinancial aid covered by this policy, and with-draw from all classes before the end of sched-ule adjustment will be ineligible to receivefinancial aid. Summer classes will be consid-ered in relation to all summer terms.

Satisfactory Academic Progress means thatthe student has to meet three measures:

1. Maximum time frame — cumulativehours attempted may not exceed 150 percent ofthe program requirement.

2. Qualitative progress — meeting a 3.0cumulative grade point average

3. Quantitative progress — 75 percent of theYearly Hours attempted must be completed. Allcourse work is included in cumulative hoursattempted, including transfer hours.

A student has a right to appeal the termina-tion of his/her financial aid due to unsatisfacto-ry academic progress. Please check theFinancial Aid Office website http://www.rad-ford.edu/~finaid for more details on how toappeal and to download the appeal form.

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIESOF STUDENT RECIPIENTS

As a recipient of state or federal aid, eachstudent has certain rights and responsibilities.Knowing what they are will place the student ina better position to make decisions about educa-tional goals and how they best can be achieved.If at any time there are questions about financialaid, students should come to the Financial AidOffice where there is additional informationavailable concerning their legal rights andresponsibilities.

The student has a right to know:• the cost of attending Radford University for

an academic year, including tuition and feesand estimated costs of personal expenses,books and transportation;

• the due dates for mandatory fees and the pay-ment procedures for those receiving financialassistance;

• the deadline for submitting applications;• how the financial need was determined;• how much of the estimated financial need has

been met;• the types of financial aid offered by Radford

University and the terms of those types of aidwhich were received;

• how satisfactory academic progress is meas-ured; and

• the university refund policy for students whowithdraw.

The student is responsible for:• submitting honest and accurate information

concerning enrollment and family financialcircumstance. Full-time status is assumed(nine semester hours) unless indicated other-wise;

• adhering to all agreements signed in thecourse of applying for and receiving financialassistance;

• reporting a change to less than full-timeenrollment during the award period;

• promptly reporting to the Financial Aid Officethe receipt of scholarships, grants or loansawarded by organizations or agencies otherthan Radford University;

• becoming familiar with the deadlines forapplication, the terms of the financial aidreceived and refund policies for students whowithdraw;

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• signing a statement of educational purposeregis-tration compliance stating that student assistancewill be used solely for expenses related toattendance at Radford University;

• repayment of any over-awarded grant, schol-arship or loan monies;

• knowing the loan, repayment responsibilitiesand abiding by the terms of the promissorynote, and

• performing any student employment in a sat-isfactory manner. An unsatisfactory perform-ance may result in removal from the workprogram; and

• reporting a change in dependency and/or mar-ital status.

LOANS

Federal Perkins LoanThe Perkins Loan is funded by the federal

government but is administered directly byRadford University. Graduate students may bor-row a total of $30,000 which includes anyamount borrowed under NDSL or Perkins forundergraduate study. Students begin payingback these loans nine months after they eithercomplete their education or leave school. Nointerest is charged until repayment begins, andthen a five percent charge is applied to theunpaid balance.

Federal Stafford Student LoanThe Federal Stafford Loan enables graduate

students to borrow as much as $65,000 in subsi-dized Stafford not to exceed $138,500 in bothsubsidized and unsubsidized Stafford cumula-tive for both undergraduate and graduate work.Graduate students may borrow up to $8,500 peryear subsidized Stafford with a maximum of$18,500 in subsidized and unsubsidized Staffordloan. All students will be required to pay a threepercent one-time origination fee and may berequired to pay a one percent guarantee fee asrequired by the specific state guarantee agencyfor each loan. The interest rate for new borrow-ers is variable with a 8.25 percent cap. The inter-est rate for Subsidized Federal Stafford Loans issubsidized by the federal government until sixmonths after the student graduates or leavesschool, when repayment begins. ForUnsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans, the

borrower makes interest payments or capitalizesinterest.

Information on these loans is available fromState Guarantee Agencies, local banks, savingsand loan associations, credit unions and otherlending institutions, and at the Office ofFinancial Aid. Federal Stafford Loans require afamily or student to establish financial need forSubsidized Federal Stafford Loans. Those stu-dents not eligible for Subsidized FederalStafford Loans or partial Subsidized FederalStafford Loans will be eligible for UnsubsidizedFederal Stafford Loans. Therefore, all studentsapplying for Federal Stafford Loans must com-plete the Free Application for Federal StudentAid, to establish eligibility. Please note that Out-of-State Federal Stafford Loans, as well as loansguaranteed by any other agency must followprocedures as outlined in this publication.Federal Stafford Loan checks are madecopayable to both Radford University and thestudent. Some lenders deliver Federal Staffordfunds electronically. Students will be notifiedregarding fund delivery. Generally, half of theproceeds of the loan will be available in the falland the remaining amount available in Januaryfor the payment of Spring Semester fees.

Radford University Graduate Grant(RUGG)

This program is a graduate grant program.Students must be enrolled for at least ninecredit hours to be eligible. Awards average $750per academic year. Priority is given to those stu-dents with the highest need and applicationsmust be submitted by March 1. Students mayreceive other aid in addition to the RadfordUniversity Graduate Grant, if eligible, with theexception of other grant/scholarship recipients.Applicants for this program must submit theFAFSA by the March 1 deadline.

WORK PROGRAMS

Federal Work-Study ProgramThis is a federal program that provides part-

time jobs for undergraduate and graduate stu-dents with financial need as determined by theFree Application for Federal Student Aid(FAFSA). A student is assigned to work a spec-ified number of hours per week in a campuslocation.

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The Financial Aid Office will notify all workrecipients of their positions approximately onemonth prior to the start of the academic semes-ter during which they are to work. Students arepaid once each month for the preceding payperiod.

Residence Hall AssistantshipsThe Residence Director (R.D.) position is a

graduate assistantship with a two-year commit-ment. The R.D. is responsible for the total oper-ation of a residence hall housing 130-175 stu-dents. Qualifications for the position includeeffective interpersonal and communicationskills, a strong commitment to working with adiverse student population, and relevant experi-ence. Compensation includes tuition and fees,furnished one bedroom apartment (can accom-modate R.D.s who are single or married), fullmeal plan, and a monthly stipend for ninemonths. Additional information and applicationmaterials are available through the Office ofResidential Life, or at www.radford.edu/~stu-afair/reslife/

GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPSTo be eligible for graduate assistantships stu-

dents must be enrolled for nine hours each termthey hold an assistantship. Students in the follow-ing categories will be eligible for an assistantshipwith a minimum of six credit hours enrollment:

(1.) Employed as a graduate teaching fellowthrough the Graduate College.

(2.) The recipient of a federal traineeship fornursing.

(3.) Employed as a graduate assistant in summer.

Graduate Teaching FellowsGraduate Teaching Fellow (GTF): This is a

first- or second-year Graduate Assistant whowill teach one or two classes during the semes-ter. There are two classifications of GTFs: (1)those who are the primary instructor as well asthe official professor of record and (2) thosewho are the primary instructor but are not listedas the official professor of record. GTFs mayteach no more than two freshmen or sophomorecourses in any one semester. GTFs may notteach upper division or graduate courses. GTFswho have primary responsibility for teaching acourse for credit and/or for assigning finalgrades for such a course must have earned at

least 18 graduate semester hours in their teach-ing discipline, be under the direct supervision ofa faculty member experienced in the teachingdiscipline, receive regular in-service training,and be evaluated regularly. This does not applyto GTFs engaged in assignments such as assist-ing in laboratory sessions, attending or helpingprepare lectures, grading papers, keeping classrecords, and conducting discussion groups.

(1) GTFs as professor of record. This catego-ry will be very limited with assignments givenonly in circumstances where (a) there is a com-pelling reason for needing the GTF as the pro-fessor of record, (b) the student assigned musthave successfully completed a minimum of 18hours of graduate course work in the field to betaught, and (c) the student can teach withoutdirect mentoring or supervision.

GTFs teaching as the professor of record willbe considered full-time students and must takesix or more credit hours of graduate coursework. The pay will be $12 an hour working for10 hours per week (one course @ $1,860/$3,720per semester/year) or 20 hours per week (twocourses @ $3,720/$7,440 per semester/year),with the exception of the English,Environmental and Engineering Geosciences,and Psychology programs. The pay for theseprograms will be $14 an hour, working for 10hours per week (one course @$2170/$4370. persemester/year) or 20 hours per week (two cours-es @ $4340/$8680 per semester/year).

(2) GTFs not professor of record. A detailedmonitoring plan and supervision schedule mustbe provided for each GTF position. Each semes-ter, all GTFs must have a student evaluation foreach course taught as well as a post-course eval-uation by the supervisor/mentor. GTFs teachingwill be considered as full-time students andmust take six or more credit hours of graduatecourse work. Pay will be $11 an hour, workingfor 10 hours per week (one course @$1,705/@3,410 per semester/year) or 20 hoursper week (two courses @ $3,410/$6,820 persemester/year), with the exception of English,Environmental and Engineering Geosciences,and Psychology programs. The pay for theseprograms will be $13 an hour, working for 10hours per week (one course @$2,015/$4,030 persemester/year) or 20 hours per week (two cours-es @ $4,030/$8,060 per semester/year).

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Graduate Teaching/Research AdministrativeAssistant (GTA/GRA/GAA)

(1) A student who will be assigned to one ormore faculty members to assist in developingclassroom materials, grade papers, work on syl-labi, and assist in the classroom but will have nosignificant teaching responsibility; (2) a studentwho will be assigned to one or more facultymembers or to a department to assist in scholar-ly research; or (3) a student who will beassigned administrative tasks within a depart-ment or administrative office. Each semester allGTA/RA/AAs must have a performance evalua-tion by his or her supervisor. All GTA/RA/AAswill be expected to take a minimum of ninecredit hours of graduate coursework in fall andspring terms and six in the summer term. An excep-tion to the nine credit hours requirement for the falland spring terms may be granted for students thatneed fewer hours in order to complete their degreerequirements and graduate in the current semester.However, in order to qualify for this exception, stu-dents must be registered for at least six credit hours.Pay will be $10 an hour working for 10 hours perweek ($1,550/$3,100 per semester/year) or 20hours a week ($3,100/$6,200 per semester/year)except for the English, Environmental andEngineering Geosciences and Psychology pro-grams. The pay for these programs will be $12 perhour for 10 hours per week ($1,860/$3,720 persemester/year) or 20 hours a week(#$13,720/$7,440 per semester/year).

Graduate Office Assistant This assistantship provides a student with work

or employment opportunities and is funded fromCommonwealth Funds for “Student FinancialAssistance for Higher Education.” Allocationsmade directly from this fund may not be awardedto international students. Pay will be $10 an hourworking for 10 hours per week ($1,550/$3,100 persemester/year) or 20 hours a week ($3,100/$6,200per semester year).

Other EmploymentGraduate Assistants wishing to become

involved in any employment (either on-campus oroff-campus) other than the Graduate Assistantshipmust file a Request for Outside Employment formwith the Dean of the College of Graduate andExtended Education, who will approve or disap-prove this request based on his or her judgment ofindividual circumstances. The total number of hoursworked for all positions cannot exceed 20 hoursper week.

SENIOR CITIZENS HIGHEREDUCATION ACT OF 1974

The Commonwealth of Virginia allows sen-ior citizens who meet certain requirements totake courses at state colleges or universities freeof charge.

To be eligible, persons must have reached 60years of age before the beginning of the semes-ter in which they wish to enroll and must havehad legal domicile in Virginia for one year priorto the semester in which they plan to enroll.

Senior citizens may register for and enroll incourses as full-time or part-time students foracademic credit if their federal taxable incomedoes not exceed $10,000 for the year precedingthe year in which enrollment is sought. Seniorcitizens may register for and audit courses for aca-demic credit regardless of their federal taxableincome. In all cases, senior citizens are entitled toregister for courses only after all tuition-paying stu-dents have been accommodated. Applications areavailable in the Graduate College or on our web siteat : www.radford.edu/~gradcoll/

VIRGINIA WAR/PUBLIC SERVICEORPHANS EDUCATION PROGRAM

Section 23-7.1, Code of Virginia, providesfor tuition-free educational benefits at any state-supported college or university for children ofpermanently and totally disabled veterans or forchildren orphaned by an act of war. Both tuitionand fees are covered by this program.

Eligibility is determined by the Director of theDivision of War Veterans Claims upon submissionof an application. To be eligible for assistance, theapplicant’s parent must have been a resident ofVirginia upon entry into the service; the applicant’sparent must have been a resident of Virginia for atleast 10 consecutive years prior to the date of theapplication; the applicant must be between 16-25years of age; and the applicant must verify admis-sion to a state college or university. Eligible appli-cants are entitled to a maximum of 48 months oftuition assistance and must be progressing towarda clearly defined educational objective.

In addition, an amendment to Section 23-7.1now allows for tuition-free educational benefits fororphans and spouses of certain law enforcementofficers, correctional and jail personnel, sheriffs,deputy sheriffs, firefighters, members of rescuesquads, and alcoholic beverage control agents whohave been killed in the line of duty while serving orliving in the Commonwealth.

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Life outside and inside the classroom is con-sidered to be equally important in the total educa-tional process at Radford University. The univer-sity makes an effort to provide both the freedomand opportunity for students to engage in a varietyof activities and programs. Students are encour-aged to develop social, cultural, and creative inter-ests and awareness by actively participating in allaspects of campus life.

Numerous cultural and educational activitiesare offered each year.

Music, dance, and theatre department presen-tations enable students to attend, as well as partic-ipate in, numerous productions during the year. Afull schedule of art exhibits is arranged and pre-sented by the Radford University Art Museum. Aseries of activities is planned each year by theBlack Awareness Programming Board to exposestudents to black history and culture.

Students are encouraged to form and partici-pate in organizations; organizations are democrat-ic and contribute to their personal, social, and pro-fessional development. A variety of co-curricularclubs provides channels for speakers and discus-sion groups. Activities include politics, karate,skiing, community service, and much more.

RECREATIONALACTIVITIES

The Dedmon Center, a recreation and convo-cation complex located across U.S. Route 11(East Main Street) from the main campus, hous-es a natatorium featuring an eight-lane swim-ming pool; basketball, volleyball, handball, andracquetball courts; areas for free exercise;weight room; steam room; and a 1/6 mile jog-ging track. Outdoor facilities at the centerinclude a jogging trail; 12 tennis courts; andareas for field sports, such as baseball, soccer,lacrosse, softball, and intramural football.

Peters Hall, which previously housed recre-ation facilities, is currently closed for renova-tions. Satellite fitness rooms are located inMadison Hall and Muse Hall.

The Dedmon Center makes it possible forlarge numbers of students to participate inindoor sports, the intramural program, clubsports, and intercollegiate sports, as well as indi-vidualized conditioning programs. Other

outside activities include field hockey, crosscountry, golf, and basketball.

IntercollegiateRadford University, an NCAA Division I

member, currently participates in 19 varsitysports, 11 for women and eight for men. Thesports include: men's baseball, men's and women'sbasketball, men's and women's cross country,women's field hockey, men's and women's golf,men's and women's soccer, men's and women'soutdoor track, men's and women's indoor track,women's softball, men's and women's tennis,women’s volleyball and women’s swimming anddiving. The university offers athletic scholarshipaid in all 19 sports.

Campus RecreationCampus Recreation takes great pride in provid-

ing a variety of quality recreational activities andprograms for the students, staff, and faculty ofRadford University. All members of the RU com-munity are invited to take advantage of the variedrecreational opportunities offered throughout theschool year. Campus Recreation strives to get everymember of the university community active in atleast one set of recreational programs. These pro-grams include Intra-murals, Sports Club, RUOutdoors, and the Heth Games Room.

STUDENT SERVICES

Graduate Student LoungeThere is a lounge available for graduate stu-

dents on the fifth floor of McConnell Library,Room 562. This lounge provides computers andprinters in a quiet, comfortable work area tosupport graduate students’ research and scholar-ship.

Minority Student ServicesVarious services and programs for minority

students at Radford University are coordinatedby the Director of Multicultural Services, inconjunction with other departments. During areception each semester, new students are intro-duced to other students, faculty, and staff, andare encouraged to get involved in campus life.

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Campus Life

The Black Student Affairs Council, which isaffiliated with the Student GovernmentAssociation, addresses black student concernsand interests, helps coordinate activities spon-sored by black student organizations, and seeksto unite all students at the university.

The African-American Heritage Associationis designed to promote African-American histo-ry, heritage, and achievements through pro-gramming and other activities. The Hispanicand Asian Student Association and the NativeAmerican Heritage Association are also activeon campus. Eight historically black Greek letterorganizations complement social and serviceopportunities on campus. The fraternities areAlpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Phi BetaSigma, and Omega Psi Phi. The sororities areAlpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, SigmaGamma Rho, and Zeta Phi Beta.

Social, cultural, and educational activitiesdesigned to broaden all students' knowledge ofdifferent people and their contributions to socie-ty are presented annually by the BlackAwareness Programming Board and theDiversity Promotions Council. For further infor-mation, contact the director of MulticulturalServices at (540) 831-5765.

Disability Resource OfficeAssistance for students who have a docu-

mented disability is offered through theDisability Resource Office (DRO). Servicesmay include providing reasonable academicaccommodations, career counseling, study skillassistance, and personal counseling.

Radford University's approach focuses on thecoordination of existing resources and services toassist students. The University does not have astructured program for students with disabilities interms of designated courses and class sectionsspecifically related to their individual needs.

For more information, students can checkout the DRO website at:

www.radford.edu.edu/~droe-mail at dro@radford.eduor phone 540-831-6350 (Voice/TTY).

International Student ServicesFor information about international student

services, see p. 17.

Commuting and Off-CampusStudent Services

Commuting and off-campus student servicesare coordinated by the Office of the Dean ofStudents and the Off-Campus Student Council,a branch of the Student GovernmentAssociation. Several lounges are provided forcommuters/off-campus students in Heth Center.In addition to the lounges in Heth, areas whichprovide for study and relaxation are located inother campus buildings.

Announcements of interest to commut-ing/off-campus students are posted on the Off-Campus Student Council's web page at:http://www.radford.edu/~oscs

ParkingStudents may park motor vehicles, motorcy-

cles, and motor bikes in university parking lotsif they have obtained a parking permit from theParking Services Office located in Walker Hall.To purchase a parking permit, students mustsubmit proof of ownership (by the student or amember of the student's immediate family), per-sonal identification, and verification of hoursearned. The registration of a vehicle does notassure the registrant of a parking space.Overflow parking is available for all students atthe Dedmon Center. Time-limited parking (twoor four hours) is permitted on city streets adja-cent to the campus. Detailed information regard-ing parking and traffic regulations may beobtained at the Parking Services Office inWalker Hall or at the University PoliceDepartment in Russell Hall.

Off-Campus HousingA substantial number of rooms and apartments

for rent are available in the immediate vicinity ofthe campus. A list of off-campus apartments isavailable at the Office of Residential Life in TylerHall. Students living off campus may purchasemeal tickets and eat in the university dining halls.Several meal plans are available to off-campusstudents (see Dining Services, p. 32)

Center for Experiential Learning andCareer Development

The center is located in the lower level ofTyler Hall and provides walk-in assistance dailyfrom 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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Services include career counseling and theadministration of career assessments includingthe Strong-Campbell Interest Inventory, the SelfDirected Search, the Myers-Briggs TypeIndicator, Sigi Plus, and Virginia View. Studentsinterested in selecting a major, changing theirmajor, or understanding how the academic majortranslates into a career will find this invaluable.Typical sessions include an assessment of skillsand abilities, values, and the interaction betweencareer and personal goals.

Other services include help with the locationand application process for internship place-ments, service learning, or volunteer experiences.

Students are encouraged to develop a strongportfolio of skills and accomplishments that sup-port their academic program of studies. Individualand group assistance is provided with career plan-ning, the location of career information, jobsearch process, resume development, and inter-view preparation.

Programs include the Success Seminars forInterns, New Student Service Month, AlternativeSpring Break programs, an extensive database ofinternship and employment opportunities, an on-campus recruitment program, and career fairs.

PHYSICAL AND MENTALHEALTH SERVICES

Health CenterThe Student Health Center is located on the

ground floor of east Moffett Hall. The center isequipped to provide diagnosis and treatment formost of the common health problems encoun-tered by students. Serious medical situations arereferred to a network of local specialists. Over-the-counter medications and a limited numberof pharmaceuticals are provided. Emergencymedical care is available at the Carilion NewRiver Valley Medical Center.

Students are encouraged to contact theHealth Center regarding any special health con-cerns they bring to the university. Health infor-mation is confidential. Students must completethe RADFORD UNIVERSITY HEALTHRECORD FORM prior to enrollment. Pleasenote that two MMR injections are mandatoryand must be included in the immunizationrecord.

The Student Health Center is accredited bythe Accreditation Association for AmbulatoryHealth Care, Inc. (AAAHC).

Consult the Student Health Center Brochurefor hours of operation.

Center for Counseling and Student Development

The Center for Counseling and StudentDevelopment, located in Tyler Hall, is a place wherestudents can talk privately and confidentially aboutissues which are of concern to them. Among theissues for which students frequently seek assistanceare adjustment to college, depression and anxiety,and relationship concerns. Counseling at the CCSDis provided by professional counselors, psycholo-gists, and social workers, and by graduate studentsin counseling programs. Services at the CCSD arefree to both undergraduate and graduate students atRadford University, and confidentiality is strictlymaintained for all information shared in counseling.Specific services at the CCSD include:

Personal Counseling: Individual personalcounseling is offered for whatever concerns stu-dents may have. Typical topics include stress, anxi-ety, depression, sexuality, motivation, home, rela-tionships, and adjustment. Personality testing isadministered as appropriate.

Workshops and Groups: Workshops andgroups include communications, study skills,sexuality, career, grief, and support groups forminorities, students with disabilities, and stu-dents with other concerns.

For an appointment or information, stop bythe lower level of Tyler Hall or call (540) 831-5226 for Center for Counseling and StudentDevelopment, or (540) 831-6350 (V/TDD) forthe Disability Resource Office.

Speech and Hearing ClinicThe Speech and Hearing Clinic, located in

Waldron Hall, provides services for students,faculty, and staff. Graduate students majoring incommunication sciences and disorders providethe services under the direct supervision of fac-ulty members. Hearing evaluations and hearingaid evaluations are available, as are rehabilita-tion services for the hearing-impaired person.Speech and language evaluations and therapyare provided for persons with articulation, stut-tering, voice, or language problems. Theservices are free for Radford University stu-dents, faculty, and dependents. Appointmentsmay be made by calling (540) 831-7660(V/TDD).

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WRITING CENTER

The Writing Center, located in Muse Hall,assists students with written communication.Graduate and undergraduate English majorswho have experience as peer readers work withstudents on personal writing or on specific writ-ing assignments. Tutors trained in teachingEnglish as a second language are available tohelp international students. To make an appoint-ment, or for more information, call (540) 831-6035 or see the website at :www.radford.edu/~write.

DINING SERVICES

Dalton Hall and Muse Hall are the mainDining Service areas on campus featuring an all-you-can-eat dining service. The newest diningservice is located at the Muse Underground Cafein Muse Hall. Five different food venues arelocated here. They are: Traditions, Terri Yaki'sOriental Wok, the Hyde Park Grill (burgers),Stone Willy's Pizza Shop and Summit Sub Shopalong with a salad and beverage bar.

Pipers, located in Dalton, serves brunchbetween 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Monday throughFriday, and in the evening becomes a restaurantwith wait-staff service. All meal plans (except90-meal plan) include visits to Piper's in theevening for a pleasant, served meal. Other alterna-tives are Chick-Fil-A, Pomodoro’s Pizza andPasta, Mean Gene's Burger, Salvador's Deli, andFreshen's Smoothie Shop, which serves gourmetcoffee. These shops accept Food Dollars, RUExpress and cash.

In addition to a wide variety of entrees andaccompaniments, the Dalton dining hall featuresspecialties such as pasta, homemade soups, veg-etarian entrees, Belgian waffles, made-to-orderomelettes (Sunday), and special meals centeredaround holidays or other special events.

Meal plan students are admitted to the diningareas (Muse and Dalton) upon presentation of avalid I.D. For more information about DiningServices and Meal Plan Options, contact us at(540) 831-5351 or the RU Express office at(540) 831-5054, or visit their web site atwww.radford.edu/~dining.

MEAL PLANS FOR OFF-CAMPUSSTUDENTS

Meal plans available to the off-campus stu-dent include any 90 or 65 meals per semester, or5, 7, 12, 15, or 20 meals per week. Each planentitles you to a number of meals per week plusFood Dollars which can be used in any cashoperation in the Terrace Shops, Chick-Fil-A and6 visits to Piper's. Payment plan options areavailable for all off-campus meal plans throughthe RU Express Office in Walker Hall.

TECHNOLOGY SERVICES

Information Technology Resources (ITR)http://www.radford.edu/~itr consists ofAcademic Computing, Administrative Informa-tion Systems, Systems Administration andOperations, and Technology Assistance Center.ITR provides comprehensive computer andinformation technology support for theUniversity.

Students, faculty, and staff have access to awide variety of computer, network, and Internetresources.

WALKER TECHNOLOGY CENTERhttp://www.radford.edu/~walkertc

The Walker Technology Center is a general-pur-pose computer lab facility available for use by allstudents, faculty, and staff upon presentation of avalid RU ID card. This center is located on the sec-ond floor of Walker Hall and offers access to com-puters, hardware and software. Hours for the falland spring terms are as follows:

Monday – Thursday 7 a.m. – 2 a.m.Friday 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.Saturday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.Sunday 10 a.m. – 2 a.m.

The Walker Technology Center has over 100Windows and Macintosh workstations offeringa wide variety of hardware and software. Thecenter offers Internet access, laserjet printers,flatbed and 35MM scanners, and CD-ROM burn-ers. All workstations are equipped with Zip, 3.5floppy and CD-ROM drives. Users are required tobring their own floppies or 100MB Zip disks tosave their work. Users of the center must abide bythe Radford University Computing Policies andappropriate copyright laws.

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The Walker Technology Center offers twoteaching computer labs and a multimedia class-room with ceiling-mounted data projectors thatcan be reserve for teaching and presentations.

ACADEMIC DEPARTMENTCOMPUTING RESOURCES

Many academic departments use computers intheir curricula and maintain software specific to theirneeds. Hours of operation are posted and vary. Eachdepartment determines access to the labs. A com-plete list of academic departments with location andsoftware can be found at http://www.radford.edu/~acadcomp/acadlabs

Department ComputerArt MacintoshBiology MacintoshBusiness/Economics WindowsChemistry/Physics WindowsComputer Science Windows, UNIXEducation WindowsInterior Design WindowsForeign Language WindowsGeography WindowsGeology WindowsMathematics/Statistics WindowsMedia Studies MacintoshMusic MacintoshPhysical Education WindowsTeaching Resource

Center Macintosh, Windows

Theater Macintosh

A few of the academic labs are highlightedbelow:

The Art computer lab in Powell 206 offersPower Macintosh G4 computers. Softwareincludes image processing and graphic design. Thislab is available to students taking Art courses.

Geography maintains a computer lab inCook Hall with Windows and UNIX worksta-tions to teach geographic concepts and researchtechniques using geographic information sys-tems and image processing. Software includesAutoCad, AtlasGIS, ERDAS and Arc/Info.

Geology, Chemistry, and Physics computerlab is in Curie 147 with Windows computers.Software includes MoluCad, Sigma Plot, VisualGroundwater, Visual Mudflow, Rockworks, RedShift, and Voyages through the Solar System.

Music located in Powell Hall features sever-al special labs for music instruction withMacintosh G4 computers. Powell 106 has syn-thesizers to create MIDI compositions connect-ed to computers.

Speech Communications provides interac-tive multimedia Instruction on videodisc in theareas of Critical Thinking, Constructing andUsing Speaking Outlines, Mission Possible:Listening, Effective Introductions andConclusions, Developing Key Ideas, andCoping with Speech Freight. These programsare available in the Walker Technology Center.See the lab proctor to view these programs.

College of Education has two computer labs.Russell 211 has Windows computers. Softwareincludes Crossword Plus, and Learning Plus.

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McConnell Library

The Teaching Resource Center in Walker hasMacintosh and Windows computers with wordprocessing and multimedia developmentsoftware. The center is available to students andfaculty in the College of Education. The TRC isalso a Virginia Regional Teaching ResourceCenter for the public schools.

Campus and Internet E-mail accounts areavailable to all Radford University students atno charge while enrolled at the University. TheInternet account provides access to e-mail, indi-vidual web pages, the World Wide Web, and RUNetwork and is required for on-line registration.

Dial-in Modems are available to RU accountsthrough a phone connection. The modem poolsupports 56K (v.90) PPP connections.

RU Modem Pool Access Numbers:Local 633-1894 Dublin 643-2550Roanoke 857-8923Long Distance (charge) 540-633-1894Technology Training classes are non-credit

and free to enrolled students. Visit the RUTechnology Training web page athttp://www.radford.edu/~tektrain for an overalllist of training classes offered at RU.

OTHER STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

The Heth Information and EventPlanning Office

Located on the main floor of the Heth StudentCenter, the Information Office is staffed by amanager and student assistants who can answer avariety of questions and provide many services.These services include scheduling organizedactivities on campus and putting them on the uni-versity calendar, selling tickets for events spon-sored by student organizations and all-campusprogramming groups, a Lost and Found and acheck-out system for newspapers, magazines andother periodicals. The office also distributes thestudent newspaper, keys for student offices andconference rooms in Heth, and operates the build-ing's sound system. This area serves as the centralinformation office for the campus.

I.D. CardsStudents must present I.D. cards to use certain

campus facilities and services. I.D. card photo-graphs are taken at orientation and at registration.

If a university I.D. card is lost or stolen, thestudent must contact the ID/RU Express CardOffice (540-831-5054) in Walker Hall for areplacement. The replacement fee of $15 ispayable at the time the photograph is taken. If auniversity I.D. card is lost or stolen after 5 p.m. orduring the weekend, the student must contactCampus Police (540-831-5500) to invalidate theI.D. card. Only the ID/RU Express Office mayrevalidate a university I.D. card.

RU Express CardStudents may use their university I.D. card as a

debit card (the RU Express card) by making an ini-tial deposit of at least $25 to their card's account.Purchases made with the card are limited to thecard's current balance, which can be increased byadditional deposits and which declines with eachpurchase made with the card. The current balanceis displayed after each transaction.

The RU Express card offers three types ofaccounts: the Food Dollars account, the FoodDollars Plus account, and the RU Express account.The latter enables students to make purchases at awide variety of campus locations, including thebookstore, food court, and vending and laundrymachines, and at a number of off-campus businesses.

More information is available by contacting theI.D./RU Express Office in Walker Hall (Box 6992).

Vending ServicesSoft drink and snack machine refunds are

available at the Heth Information Center, theResidence Life Office in the basement of TylerHall, and the Dedmon Center main entrance. Toreport a malfunctioning machine, call (540)831-6267 with the machine location and thenature of the problem.

Lost and FoundA lost and found service is provided at the

Information Office on the main floor of HethStudent Center. For additional assistance, call831-5420.

Post OfficeA U. S. Post Office is located in Dalton Hall.

McConnell Library The John Preston McConnell Library, named

for the first president of Radford University,

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contains a growing collection of more than 300,000books and bound periodicals. Students have accessto information in both print and non-print formats,from books, periodicals, newspapers, and WorldWide Web-accessible databases to electronic books,CD-ROMs, microforms, videotapes, audio cas-settes, and other media. Students should obtain acopy of the information sheet “Library Services forStudents” to familiarize themselves with the infor-mation resources, facilities, and services available.

A full-time staff of 28, including 13 librarians,provides a variety of library and instruction servic-es. Students can access the library catalog(INNOPAC), a wide variety of periodical indexes,and other electronic information from the libraryhome page: http://lib.radford.edu. This page alsoprovides access to all of the resources of VIVA, theVirtual Library of Virginia, including the full text ofarticles from over 8,000 journal titles.

The Reference Services department, located onLevel 3, offers a wide range of resources and serv-ices, including individualized research assistance,library tours, and course-related instruction.Reference works, periodical indexes and abstracts,and many other general and specialized researchtools are available for use. In addition, there aremicrocomputer workstations for accessing a contin-uously expanding variety of electronic informationresources. Anyone needing help in using the libraryis encouraged to ask for assistance at the ReferenceDesk or send an e-mail message to: refdesk@rad-ford.edu.

The Radford University I.D. card serves as thevalid library card and must be presented in order tocheck out library materials.

Interlibrary loan service is provided for all stu-dents and faculty through the library’s membershipin an international network of over 30,000 partici-pating libraries. Requests for materials not ownedby the library may be submitted electronicallythrough the ILLiad system at: http://illiad.rad-ford.edu. Many requested articles can be e-mailedto the requester and viewed electronically. TheDigital Article Delivery Service enables students torequest copies of articles from periodicals ownedby McConnell Library and receive them electroni-cally without having to come to the library.

The Media Services department, located onLevel 4, houses non-print items, includingmicroform materials, recordings, videotapes,kits and other teaching aids, as well as previewequipment for all media. The recorded musiccollection consists primarily of classical music

but does contain some popular music, jazz, andBroadway plays. Spoken records are included.A Multimedia Center is available for creatingmultimedia projects and presentations. A sched-ule of training workshops, which are offeredthroughout the academic year, can be viewed athttp://lib.radford.edu/multimedia/classes.htm.

Carrels are available on Level 1 for use bygraduate students engaged in researchprojects and may be reserved through the LibraryAdministrative Office. A Graduate Study Lounge,equipped with computers and a laser printer, islocated in Room 562. Two group study rooms forstudent use are located on Level 5. One is availablefor sign-up only, while the other two are availableon a first-come, first-served basis.

The Radford Rooms, located off the mainReading Room on Level 3, contain special dis-plays, historic photographs, and other items of sig-nificance to the history of Radford University.Students are encouraged to discover the university'sunique past by visiting the Radford Rooms, whichare open during all hours that the library is open.

A library coffee shop, The Stacks Cafe, islocated off the main Reading Room and featuresa variety of gourmet coffees and light snacks.

McConnell Library offers the followingservices to students with disabilities:• Two Kurzweil reading machines (one may be

checked out and one is for in-library use) locat-ed in Media Services, Level 4.

• Two TeleSensory printed text enlargers (one inMedia Services and one in Reference Services).

• A computer workstation with Zoom-Textscreen enlarger in the Reference area, provid-ing access to the library catalog and electron-ic resources, web browsing, and ruacad.

• In the Media Services area, a Visually ImpairedEducational Workstation (VIEW) has screen-reading, screen-magnification, and voice-recog-nition capabilities, in addition to standard com-puter lab software, the library catalog, and otherelectronic library resources. Braille printing andconversion of print to Braille is also available.

• Wheel chair-accessible photocopier on Level 2.• Personal assistance in locating and retrieving

library materials.• Photocopy enlargements.

There are handicap-parking spaces betweenthe library and Lucas Hall. The handicapentrance to the library is located at the front ofthe building, where there is an elevator leadingto the main lobby.

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RESPONSIBILITY OF THEGRADUATE STUDENT

The student must become familiar with theacademic policies outlined in this section of thecatalog. The academic adviser will advise thestudent on all matters related to the program ofstudies, and the dean of the Graduate Collegewill aid the student in the interpretation of poli-cies whenever necessary. The ultimate responsi-bility for meeting all stated requirements forgraduate degrees awarded by the university restswith the student.

A Graduate Information Checklist of all mat-ters which must be attended to during the grad-uate programs appears on p. 7 of this catalogand is included in the student’s letter of admis-sion.

CODES AND POLICIES

Student Conduct CodeRadford University is a community of schol-

ars in which the ideals of freedom of inquiry,freedom of thought, freedom of expression andfreedom of the individual are sustained. Theexercise and preservation of these idealsrequires respect for the rights of all in the com-munity. Students who enroll at RadfordUniversity assume an obligation to conductthemselves in a manner compatible with the uni-versity's mission as an educational institution.To fulfill its functions of imparting and gainingknowledge, the university retains the authorityand the responsibility to maintain order onRadford University property.

Prohibited conduct, whether it occurs on uni-versity-owned, controlled or operated property,at university-sponsored functions, or off cam-pus, for which a student is subject to disciplineby the appropriate judicial body, is defined inthe Student Handbook. The handbook includespolicy statements regarding the Honor Code, theuse of alcoholic beverages, drugs, students’rights to privacy, fund raising policies and residencehall regulations. The handbook is prepared prior to thebeginning of the new academic year and, therefore,may contain some revisions to the policies whichappear in this catalog.

All students are expected to become famil-iar with the contents of the Student Handbookand are responsible for acting in accordancewith the policies contained therein. Studentswho do not receive a copy of the StudentHandbook at orientation or registration mayobtain a copy in the Graduate College Office.

The Vice President for Student Affairs or adesignee may defer procedural due process andplace a student on interim suspension upon mak-ing a determination that such action is necessaryto maintain safety and order on the campus. Astudent placed on interim suspension will, assoon as practical, be given a hearing by theappropriate judicial body.

Registration of Criminal RecordRadford University students who, at the time

of their initial enrollment at the university, areunder the supervision of a federal or state pro-bation or parole officer, have had felony crimi-nal charges taken under advisement, or havebeen convicted of a felony (including offensescommitted as a juvenile) must report their statusto the Dean of Students within 15 days follow-ing registration.

Any student who is subsequently placed onprobation or parole, has felony criminal chargeswhich are taken under advisement, or is con-victed of a felony must report this to the Dean ofStudents within 15 days following the date ofthat action.

Note: A student failing to comply with thisprovision is subject to immediate suspensionfrom Radford University or cancellation ofenrollment.

Class AttendanceAll students are expected to attend classes on a

regular basis. No absences of any nature will beconstrued as relieving the student from responsi-bility for the completion of all work assigned bythe instructor.

A student registering late for a class will beresponsible for all work assigned and material cov-ered during the class sessions that were missed dueto the late registration.

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Academic Policies

The first class meeting of an evening class,which meets one night per week for 15 weeks, rep-resents about seven percent of the total class time;this first meeting is a regular class. If students waituntil the second class meeting to enroll, the classcould be cancelled due to inadequate enrollment atthe first class meeting.

During the first week of each course, theinstructor shall inform students of the atten-dance policies for the course. Class attendancepolicies are determined by the instructor andshould allow for a reasonable number ofabsences which are required due to documentedofficial university-sponsored activities, healthproblems and other emergencies. It is the stu-dent’s responsibility to make arrangements,which are acceptable to the instructor, to com-plete work missed during the student’s absencefrom class.

Official university-sponsored activitiesinclude, but are not limited to, those eventswhich students attend as official delegates fund-ed by the university or in which they represent auniversity-funded, all-campus organization,intercollegiate athletic team or performinggroup, and academic course-related field trips inwhich participation is mandatory as approvedby the appropriate academic dean.

ADVISING

Faculty AdvisersAcademic advising is recognized at the uni-

versity as important to the educational develop-ment of its students and as both a natural exten-sion of teaching and an important professionalobligation on the part of its faculty. Sound aca-demic advice helps the student address not sim-ply course selection and scheduling but alsowhat a well-educated person should be andknow.

After consultation with the chairperson ofthe major department of each student admittedto graduate study, the dean of the GraduateCollege will assign each student an adviser. Anyrequest for a change in adviser must be request-ed by the student on a “Petition for ProgramChanges” form and approved by the chairpersonin the appropriate department and the dean ofthe Graduate College before action is taken.

Student’s Graduate CommitteeThe major adviser will serve as chairperson

of the student’s graduate committee, which willconsist of at least two additional faculty mem-bers. The adviser must be a full member of thegraduate faculty. The other two committeemembers must be full or associate members ofthe graduate faculty. If the student’s graduateprogram includes a minor, one member of thegraduate committee must be from the minorfield. This member must approve the four cours-es (minimum of 12 semester hours) that consti-tute the minor. For further information about thecomposition and functions of the student’s graduatecommittee, see “Thesis and Graduate Recital” on p.46 and “Comprehensive Examination” on p. 47.

Grading SystemA is given for excellent workB is given for work that is distinctly above

averageC indicates work below Graduate College

expectationsD is given for work of significantly below

average quality and indicates the coursemust be retaken

F indicates failure and means the class mustbe taken again with a passing grade beforecredit is allowed

AU indicates the student audited the courseI indicates work is incomplete. See “Incomplete

Grades,” on p. 38.IP indicates the course is in progressNG indicates non-graded NR indicates no grade was recorded by

instructorP indicates passed with satisfactory work of

“B” or better W indicates that a student withdrew, without

penalty, from the course after scheduleadjustment but before the end of the 12thweek and that no credit was obtained.

To graduate in a graduate degree program, thestudent must have a minimum 3.0 grade point aver-age overall and in the program of study. Grades intransfer courses are not used in calculating gradepoint averages. Only courses graded B or higher canbe transferred. Courses graded B- or lower will notbe accepted for transfer credit. In addition, everycourse on the program of study must be com-pleted with at least a grade of C.

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Note: some departments have more stringentrequirements; please refer to your departmentalhandbook.

The quality of work completed is recognizedby the assignment of grade points to various let-ter grades. The student’s academic standingdepends upon the number of semester hours ofwork successfully completed and upon the num-ber of grade points accumulated. RadfordUniversity uses a four point system in whichgrade points are assigned to grades as follows:

A = 4 points B = 3 points C = 2 points D = 1 point F = 0 points

A student's grade point average is computedby:• Multiplying the number of semester hours

(SH) for each course taken by the number ofgrade points (GP) corresponding to the gradeearned for the course (see table above)

• Adding up the total number of grade pointsfor the appropriate period (a single semester,for example, or an entire academic career atRadford University)

• Dividing the total number of grade points bythe total number of semester hours attempted(TSHA) during that same period. For example:

GPCourse Grade SH Per SH GPABC 401 A 3 x 4 = 12DEF 502 B 2 x 3 = 6GHI 601 C 3 x 2 = 6JKL 601 B 3 x 3 = 9MNO 702 A 3 x 4 = 12

__ __14 45

45 GP/14TSHA = 3.21/GPA

While courses passed with a grade of B orbetter at other institutions may transfer, thesegrades are not used in computing the Radfordgrade point average.

PASS-FAIL COURSES

All courses taken at Radford while classifiedas a graduate student, except those in which agrade of P is obtained, will be used in

calculation of the grade point average. The totalnumber of hours attempted, excluding those incourses graded on a Pass/Fail basis, is dividedinto the number of grade points obtained inorder to arrive at the grade point average. AnyPass/Fail course in which an F is assigned willbe calculated in the student’s overall grade pointaverage.

A minimum of 80 percent of the requiredcourses on a student’s program of study must betaken for a grade and a maximum of 20 percentcan be taken as Pass/Fail. Practica experienceand internships are exceptions to this rule. If acombination of thesis, practica or internshipexceeds 20 percent of the student’s program ofstudy, the student must take the rest of his or hercourse work for a grade. No course takenPass/Fail for which a letter grade can beassigned is acceptable unless recommended by afaculty member and supported by the depart-ment chair, and approved by the Graduate Dean.

REPETITION OF COURSES

If a student repeats for credit a course inwhich a C, D or an F was obtained, both theoriginal grade and hours attempted and the sub-sequent grade and hours attempted will be usedin the calculation of a grade point average. Nomore than six credits of coursework may berepeated in this way. Courses taken in which a“B” or “A” was obtained may not be taken asecond time for credit.

INCOMPLETE GRADES

At the faculty member’s discretion, the letter“I” may be entered on the student’s transcript fora course whenever some portion of the requiredwork has not been completed by the end of thesemester. A written statement of the require-ments for removal of the grade of “I” must besigned by the faculty member and student andfiled in the office of the chairperson of thedepartment in which the course is taught, with acopy submitted to the Registrar along with thefaculty member’s grade sheet.

The grade of “I” will automatically revert to agrade of F if not satisfactorily removed according tothe following schedule:

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Term in which latest date for removalFall End of the last day of classes

for the spring semesterSpring End of the last day of classes

for the fall semesterSummer End of the last day of classes

fall semesterA grade of “IP” (In Progress) will be used for

thesis and graduate recital in which case thesupervising professor determines whether or notan exception is warranted and has the option ofspecifying the length of time (maximum of twoyears from time of registration) the student hasto complete the work.

Once the grade of “I” and/or “IP” is placedon the transcript, it remains on the transcriptuntil it is replaced by the appropriate gradewhen all course requirements are completed orwhen the deadline for completion has passed.

Except for a thesis, directed study or gradu-ate recital, a student cannot re-enroll for acourse for which an “I” or “IP” is recorded onthe transcript. A degree cannot be awarded tostudents with Incompletes on their records.

See page 43 for information regardingContinuous Enrollment.

FULL-TIME STATUS

The normal full-time load for a graduate studentis nine hours per semester including summer, witha maximum of 14.

SUMMER SESSIONS

Any graduate student who enrolls in nine ormore semester hours of credit during SummerSession III, or a combination totaling ninesemester hours of enrollment in the Maymester,Summer Session I, Summer Session II, andSummer Session III, will be considered a full-time student.

A graduate student may enroll for a maximumof 14 semester hours of credit using any combina-tion of enrollments in the Summer Sessions.

DEFICIENCIES

A student who has not met the minimum 3.0grade point average in their program of study oroverall, may, during their last semester, take upto six semester hours to make up deficiencies.

These courses must be approved by the adviser,department chair and graduate dean.

GRADE APPEALS

This procedure is not intended to replaceinformal conferences between student and pro-fessor about a grade. If a formal appeal isdesired, the following, more formal, approach isnecessary.1. No later than the 10th day of classes of the

semester following the semester in which thegrade in question was given (unless the nextsession is the summer session, in which casethe “next semester” is interpreted as fallsemester) the student must submit a writtenstatement to the professor that he or shewishes to appeal the grade, and must consultwith the professor. The professor mustrespond to the student within five class daysin writing.

2. If the student is dissatisfied with the resultsfrom step number one, the student will pre-pare a written appeal giving a clear and pre-cise statement including the following:a. A statement that the student has

complied with item #1 above.b. Specifics of the appeal.c. Suggestion as to what the student

would consider a fair resolution of the appeal, with supporting reasonor reasons.The student will present this writ-ten appeal to the professor(s) andto the professor's department chairperson (or to the Dean if thechairperson's grade is beingappealed) by the end of the 20thclass day of the semester, exceptat the end of spring semester, inwhich case the appeal must bemade by the 20th class day of thefollowing fall semester.

3. The professor will submit written responseto the department chairperson (or to theCollege Dean if the chairperson's grade isbeing appealed) and to the student within 10class days of receipt of appeal. The depart-ment chairperson (or the College Dean if thechairperson's grade is being appealed) willattempt to resolve the appeal within five classdays. If not resolved, the student may, within

39

three class days, request in writing to the chair-person of the department personnel committeethat the appeal be considered.

4. The department personnel committee(excluding the professor(s) whose grade isbeing appealed) will decide if there aregrounds for a hearing by a majority vote at ameeting at which a quorum is present. Thestudent appellant and the professor(s)involved may submit a brief summary of theevidence and the department personnel com-mittee will ascertain whether or not there isprobable cause for a full hearing.

5. If a hearing is to be held, the department per-sonnel committee, excluding the professor(s)whose grade is being appealed, will conductthe hearing at which both the student andinvolved professor(s) must be present. In theevent that either the student or the facultymember is absent at the time of the appeal asa result of illness, resignation or any otherreason found valid by the personnel commit-tee, the personnel committee may proceedwith the hearing or delay the hearing until amore appropriate time. Evidence and testi-mony may be presented and the professorwhose grade is being appealed and the stu-dent appellant may present witnesses, evi-dence and testimony in their behalf. The fac-ulty member and the student shall place allavailable pertinent grade records and studentclass work in the hands of the personnelcommittee. The professor whose grade isbeing appealed and the student appellantshall have the opportunity to confront andquestion opposing witnesses. Neither partymay be represented by legal counsel at theseproceedings. When the department personnelcommittee hears a grade appeal, a quorumshall be three-fourths of the membership ofthe committee. The number of members nec-essary for a quorum is calculated by takingthree-fourths of the total membership of thecommittee (even if this total membershipincludes the faculty member involved in thegrievance) and rounding to the nearest inte-ger. If the faculty member involved in thegrievance is a member of the personnel com-mittee, he or she may not vote and may not bepresent when the vote is taken. Members of thepersonnel committee must be present at thehearing in order to be eligible to vote.

If three-fourths or more of the members of

the personnel committee present and voting(excluding abstentions) vote in favor of achange of grade, the chair of the personnelcommittee shall so inform the professor by writ-ten memorandum, with copies to the studentappellant and the department chairperson. If theprofessor does not make the grade change with-in 10 days, the chair of the personnel committeeshall then direct the Registrar by written mem-orandum which shall then be placed in the stu-dent's file to make the appropriate change ingrade on the student's transcript. The number ofvotes required to change a grade shall be calcu-lated by taking the total number of memberspresent and voting (excluding abstentions), mul-tiplying by three-fourths and rounding to thenearest integer.

If a majority but less than three-fourths ofthe members of the personnel committeepresent and voting (excluding abstentions)vote in favor of a change of grade the chair ofthe personnel committee shall so inform theprofessor by written memorandum, recom-mending that the grade be changed, withcopies to the student appellant and the depart-ment chair. If the professor chooses to makea grade change, such a change must be madewithin 10 class days.

The personnel committee, excluding anyprofessor(s) whose grade is being appealed,shall make a decision within 10 class days ofthe receipt of the appeal and inform the pro-fessor(s) involved, with copies going to thedepartment chairperson and the student.Minutes will be kept of all meetings relatedto the appeal. The decision of the departmentpersonnel committee may not be appealed.

6. In the event the faculty member concernedrefuses to participate in the appeals proce-dure or refuses to provide available materialsessential for the appeals procedure, thedepartmental personnel committee may, bymajority vote, elect to have the personnelcommittee chairperson direct the Registrarby written memorandum which shall then beplaced in the student's file to make the appro-priate change in grade on the student's tran-script.

7. In these proceedings, the burden of proof ison the student appellant to prove that achange of grade is the appropriate action inhis or her case. Each department personnelcommittee of five or fewer members will

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elect additional members to supplement theavailable number of voting faculty so thatgrade appeals are heard by at least fourvoting members. The department personnelcommittee will first elect from the group ofremaining faculty members in that smalldepartment who are not on the personnelcommittee. Then, if the minimum number offour voting members is not achieved, thepersonnel committee will elect from a relat-ed department of the committee's choice.These individuals would serve on the depart-ment personnel committee only when agrade appeal is submitted. The individualsshould be elected at the first meeting of thedepartment personnel committee fall semes-ter of each year.

PRACTICA/INTERNSHIPAPPLICATIONS

Students preparing to complete a field com-ponent of their program should apply to thedepartment and/or program in which they areenrolled. Departments and/or programs willmonitor and regulate admission into all pro-grammatic field experiences. Students musthave prior written approval of the departmentchair or graduate coordinator before they arepermitted to register for any field experience.

Undergraduate and graduate programs, inwhich students are required to participate in apractical experience, including internships,practica, clinical courses, student teaching, andfieldwork shall: 1. Provide written information to potential

majors about the qualities of character andinterpersonal skills that are normally expect-ed in order to complete the program success-fully.

2. Identify (when feasible) potential problemsthe student may have in a practical experi-ence prior to engaging in the experience,make those concerns known to the student,and make appropriate recommendations tothe student.

3. Provide the following: a) written criteria forentry into a practical experience and proce-dures for implementation of those criteria; b)performance standards during the experience;c) circumstances under which the student maybe withdrawn from, or denied entry to, the

experience; and d) processes, includingappeals, which regulate such withdrawals. Departments and programs governed by the

above policy include, but are not limited to:Communication Sciences and Disorders,Psychology, Counseling and HumanDevelopment, Criminal Justice, EducationalStudies, Music, Nursing, Social Work andSpecial Education. Policies specific to each pro-gram will be on file in the Office of the VicePresident for Academic Affairs, the GraduateCollege, and in each department office. Studentsplanning to take such courses should obtain acopy of the relevant departmental policies andprocedures before registration in the course.

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Degree RequirementsFor all graduate degrees, at least 80 percent of

the credit hours in the major and 80 percent of thehours in the overall program must be in 600- or700-level courses.

All degree programs require that the studentcomplete a minimum of 30 or more semesterhours of graduate-level work with at least a Baverage in the major, in the overall program and inall courses taken since admission.

At least 24 credits must consist of RadfordUniversity courses. Some programs may haveadditional credit hour requirements. A six-hourthesis, graduate recital or creative project isrequired for all Master of Arts and Master of FineArts programs.

Specific requirements for each program arelisted in the departmental sections.

The professional education training pro-grams are those with either a major or a minor ineducation. If education courses are to be used inthe minor, the entire minor must be in education.

MinorsA minor at the graduate level will consist of a

minimum of twelve semester hours and four cours-es taken at Radford University. A faculty memberfrom the field in which the student is to minor must,in consultation with other faculty in the minordepartment, approve the four courses that will con-stitute the minor. If the specified requirements for aminor are met, the minor will be identified on thestudent’s transcript.

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Undergraduate DeficienciesStudents enrolled in Master of Science degree

programs with a major or a minor in education whoplan to work in the public elementary or secondaryschools must hold the Collegiate ProfessionalCertificate or take nine semester hours of under-graduate education courses (which will not counttowards the master's degree) before they will beallowed to take for graduate credit any 500-level or600-level courses offered by the College ofEducation and Human Development.

For departments outside the College ofEducation and Human Development, the num-ber of hours of undergraduate courses requiredin the major area before 600-level courses canbe taken in the major is specified in the depart-mental sections.

Students will be advised in their letters ofadmission of any undergraduate deficiencies aswell as the program requirements. They shouldcontact their academic advisers immediately todiscuss how these deficiencies may be made up.

Students who have not completed deficien-cies by the completion of 12 semester hours orby the end of their second semester will beblocked from registering for additional courses.

All work taken to satisfy deficiencies will appearon the official transcript and will be calculated in theoverall grade point average.

Program RequirementsAll students enrolled in a degree program

will, at the time of admission, receive a programrequirements sheet which lists all courses,including deficiencies, which the student mustcomplete in order to meeting degree require-ments. Please check with your department forany variation on this form.

The program requirements sheet will be theresponsibility of the department in which thestudent is enrolled and must fulfill all therequirements of the appropriate degree programas published in the catalog. The year of the cat-alog being followed must be indicated on thisform.

Once a course in the program has beenattempted, it cannot be deleted from the pro-gram. Every course on the program require-ments sheet must be completed with at least agrade of C, and the average must be at least a B.

Changes in the program must receive thesame approvals as the original program. ThePetition for Program Change is available onlineat www.radford.edu/~gradcoll/ or in theGraduate College Office in Preston 220 and inmost departmental offices.

CHANGE OF MAJOR

Agraduate student may change from one degreeprogram to another if he or she meets the criteria foradmission to the new program and is accepted bythe program. The student must file a Change ofMajor form with the Graduate College Office,which forwards all credentials to the new depart-ment for an admission decision. The student is noti-fied of the decision by the Graduate College.

A student who changes graduate degree pro-grams may choose a catalog no earlier than theone in effect at the time of official admissioninto the new program, or the catalog underwhich the student next enrolls.

SUPPORTING COURSES

The student should list on the programrequirement sheet all courses taken in support ofthe master's program but not used as part of thedegree program.

These supporting courses can be coursesneeded to make up undergraduate deficienciesor graduate-level courses which the student andadviser feel may be beneficial but are notabsolutely necessary as part of the approvedprogram. An average of at least a B is requiredin supporting courses, as it is in all other cours-es taken by a graduate student.

All work taken as supporting courses willappear on the official transcript and will be cal-culated in the overall grade point average.

TRANSFER OF CREDIT;OFF-CAMPUS CREDIT

A maximum of six semester hours of transfercredit may be accepted as a part of a master'sdegree program at Radford University.

Only credit for A and B grades transfer.(Credit for grades of B- will not transfer). Alltransfer credit must be approved by the student’sadviser after consultation with graduate facultyin the discipline involved and by the dean of theGraduate College.

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Any student enrolled in a degree program atRadford University who wishes to take transfer-able graduate work as a transient student atanother institution must secure approval fromhis or her adviser and from the dean of theGraduate College before such work is taken.Courses which will not be accepted for graduatecredit by the institutions offering the courseswill not be accepted by Radford University.

CONTINUOUS ENROLLMENT

All graduate students are required to be reg-istered during the semester they receive theirdegree from Radford University. Registrationand tuition payment is required of all graduatestudents when using University facilities and/orfaculty time. The minimum number of hours forregistration is one. Registration allows use ofservices such as library checkout, laboratories,and recreation facilities not open to the public.

Students who are not currently registered forany course work, and who have completed allcourse work but have other outstanding degreerequirements (e.g., comprehensive examination,thesis, removal of an I or IP grade), are requiredto register for a continuous enrollment courseeach semester, including summer, until theyhave met the outstanding requirement(s). Thiscourse carries no credit hour production anddoes not count toward degree requirements.This course option is also available to thoseadmitted students who are not enrolled in agiven semester but who wish to use Universityfacilities and services during that time. Thisform is available online or in the GraduateCollege office in Preston 220. Approval of theprofessor of record and the Dean of the Collegeof Graduate and Extended Education is requiredprior to registration.

CORRESPONDENCE CREDIT

No correspondence credit, wherever earned,can be applied toward any graduate degreeawarded at Radford University.

500-LEVEL COURSES

Faculty teaching graduate students in 500-level courses are expected to require additionalwork of these students if the course is beingtaken for graduate credit. This work can be in

the form of readings, papers or a limitedresearch project. The student is responsible forinforming the instructor if the course is beingtaken for graduate credit. For a student toreceive graduate credit for a class, the instructorof that class must hold graduate faculty status.

SPECIAL TOPICS COURSES

After a special topics course has been offeredtwice within five years, it must be submitted to theappropriate curriculum committee and assigned apermanent course number prior to being offered athird time.

PREREQUISITES

The prerequisites listed in the catalog for cer-tain graduate courses are the result of thoroughconsideration of course content by the graduatefaculty in the department offering the course. Aprerequisite will be waived only if extraordinarycircumstances exist, and if the graduate facultyin the appropriate department and the facultymember teaching the course submit a request forwaiver to the dean of the Graduate College.

GRADUATE CREDIT FORRADFORD UNIVERSITY SENIORS

Seniors at Radford University with an over-all grade point average at Radford of 3.00 orbetter may be permitted to take up to six credithours of graduate-level courses during theirfinal year of undergraduate work. Students havethe option of counting the course(s) toward theirundergraduate degree or toward a graduatedegree, if all admission requirements are met.Graduate courses taken to meet baccalaureaterequirements may not be used toward a graduatedegree, except in approved accelerated bache-lor’s/master’s programs (see below).

Undergraduate students who wish to takecourses for graduate credit must receive specificapproval from the instructor and the dean of theGraduate College. Request forms are availablein the Graduate College office in 211 Preston.

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ACCELERATED BACHELOR’S/MASTER’S PROGRAMS

Students accepted for approved bachelor’s/master’s accelerated programs may take up to 12graduate credits and these may count toward boththe bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Students inthe RN/BSN/MSN accelerated program maycount up to 15 graduate credits toward both theBSN and MSN degrees. To be eligible for partic-ipation in an accelerated degree program, stu-dents must have completed at least 60 undergrad-uate credits and have a cumulative GPA of atleast 3.00. Individual departments may imposestricter admission requirements. Admission andcompletion requirements for specific accelerateddegree programs are described in the catalog.

The objective of accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s degree programs is to provide a means bywhich exceptional undergraduate students atRadford University may complete the requirementsfor both the Baccalaureate and Master’s degrees atan accelerated pace.

Eligibility: Students must have completed aminimum of 60 and a maximum of 96 credit hoursin their undergraduate programs. Transfer studentsmust have completed a minimum of two semestersas a full-time student at Radford University, a min-imum of 24 hours. Students must have a minimumaccumulated grade point average (GPA) of 3.00.(See the RN/BSN/MSN program details for excep-tions to the eligibility criteria).

Application to an Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree Program: A prospective studentwho meets the eligibility requirements aboveshould set up a meeting with the Graduate ProgramCoordinator to review the requirements for anaccelerated Bachelor’s and Master’s degree pro-gram. Students in an accelerated program mustsubmit the standard application for admission to theGraduate College including an application form,application fee, transcripts, test scores, and anyother materials required for admission to the mas-ter’s program. In addition, students must completethe Accelerated Degree Application form. Uponreview of the materials submitted, a letter of accept-ance (or denial) to the Master’s program, contin-gent on meeting the accelerated requirements andcompleting the bachelor’s degree, will be sent tothe student.

Participation and Graduation: Students mustcomplete the Bachelor’s degree prior to enteringthe Master’s program. Students in an acceleratedprogram may not elect to by-pass the Baccalaureatedegree. Students must receive a grade of B or bet-ter in the double counted graduate level courses.Courses with a grade of C or below cannot be dou-ble-counted between the two degrees. No morethan 12 hours of graduate work may be countedtoward the requirements of both degrees (15 hoursin the RN/BSN/MSN program). Students mustcomplete the Master’s degree within six (6) yearsof the start of their first graduate course. If theMaster’s program is not completed within thesetime limits, none of the graduate courses taken asan undergraduate will be counted toward the mas-ter’s degree. Permission to pursue an accelerateddegree program does not guarantee admission tothe Graduate College. Admission is contingent onmeeting eligibility requirements at the time ofentering the graduate program.

Withdrawal/Ineligibility: Astudent may at anytime withdraw from an approved accelerated pro-gram by informing the Graduate ProgramCoordinator in writing. A copy of this should besent to the Graduate College. If a student completesthe Baccalaureate degree requirements with anaccumulated GPA of less than 3.0, then he/she is nolonger eligible to pursue the accelerated program.Individual departments may have higher require-ments and a failure to meet these requirements willmake a student ineligible to participate in the accel-erated program. A student who does not follow theapproved Accelerated Degree requirements maybecome ineligible to participate in the acceleratedprogram. A student who is ineligible to participatein (or withdraws from) the accelerated program,cannot double-count any courses for bothBachelor’s and Master’s degrees.

CLASS LOAD The normal full-time load for a graduate stu-

dent is 9 hours per semester including summer,with a maximum of 14.

A graduate student who is employed fulltime or part time must realize that an excessivecourse load might well result in substandard per-formance in academics and on the job. TheGraduate Affairs Council suggests the followingupper limits on course loads for employed grad-uate students:

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Maximum MaximumNumber of Number ofGraduate Courses

Percent Hours Per PerEmployment Semester Semester100 5 175 7 250 10 325 13 4

WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURES

Withdrawal from One or MoreBut Not All Courses

The student may complete a withdrawalform in the Registrar’s Office or notify theRegistrar’s Office in writing or via e-mail thathe or she wishes to withdraw from one or more(but not all) classes. The withdrawal is not com-plete until the Registrar’s Office has been noti-fied.

Students must contact the Student AccountsOffice in Walker Hall to initiate a request for arefund of tuition if they drop a class or classes priorto the census date and if the reduced class loadqualifies them for a tuition refund.

A student who drops a class prior to the con-clusion of schedule adjustment will receive nograde. A student who withdraws from class afterschedule adjustment but before the end of the12th week of the semester (or 80 percent of asummer session) will receive a grade of W. Astudent who withdraws from class after the 12thweek of the semester (or 80 percent of summersession) will receive a grade of F.

A student may not withdraw from more thanthree graduate classes. Anything beyond thethird withdrawal results in an automatic F.

Withdrawal from the University(All Courses)

Students withdrawing from all courses during agiven semester must contact the Registrar’s Officein Martin Hall in writing or via e-mail. This processmust be followed to ensure the student will receiveany eligible refunds and the appropriate grades forthe semester.

Students who withdraw from the universitybefore the end of the tenth day of classes (CensusDate) will receive no grade. A student who with-draws from the university (all classes) after theCensus Date but prior to the end of the twelfth weekof the semester (80 percent of summer session) willreceive Ws in all classes. Withdrawals from the uni-versity after the twelfth week will result in automat-ic Fs.

Withdrawal from Continuance in aDegree Program

Graduate students who wish to withdrawfrom continuance in a degree program atRadford University should submit a letter inwriting to the Graduate AdmissionsCoordinator, Box 6928, Radford University,Radford, VA 24142.

EXCEPTIONS TO WITHDRAWALPROCEDURES

Exceptions to the withdrawal proceduresmay be granted upon recommendation of theOffice of the Assistant Vice President forStudents Affairs/Student Development in casesof documented medical or other non-academicreasons.

Withdrawal from Off-campus CourseStudents who register for off-campus courses

must adhere to withdrawal policies and procedurespublished as outlined above.

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RETENTION POLICIESGood Standing

Any student who maintains a minimum gradepoint average of 3.00 will be in good standing.

Probation and DismissalIf at any point a graduate student’s cumulative

grade point average falls between 2.00 and 3.00, thestudent will be placed on probation. Astudent who ison probation cannot apply for regular status. A full-time student who is on probation must take a reducedcourse load of no more than nine semester hours ofcoursework in a given term; a part-time student onprobation may take no more than four semesterhours of coursework in a given term.

To return to good standing, a student must earna minimum cumulative grade point average of3.00 within the first nine credit hours attemptedafter being placed on probation. A student whodoes not meet the minimum cumulative gradepoint average in that time period will be dis-missed from the Graduate College. A student whohas been placed on probation and then reinstatedmay again be placed on probation if the student’sgrade point average again falls below 3.00. If atany point a student earns a cumulative gradepoint average below 2.00, the student will be dis-missed from the Graduate College with no possi-bility of reinstatement.

DIRECTED STUDYThe directed study is a course designed by

the student after thorough consultation with theprofessor who will supervise the study. Beforeregistering for a directed study, the student mustsubmit a written proposal for approval by thesupervising professor, adviser, departmentchairperson and the Graduate Dean.

It is recommended that students have earnedat least 12 semester hours, be on regular status,and have an approved program of study prior toenrolling in directed study courses.

A directed study cannot be used to replacea required course in a graduate program ofstudy.

The directed study will be graded on an A/Fbasis.

A single directed study can carry from one tofour semester hours of credit. A maximum of sixsemester hours of credit in directed studies canbe used toward graduation in a degree program;departmental requirements may limit the studentto fewer than six hours of directed study.

Students electing to do a thesis as part of theirdegree requirements may take up to four hours ofdirected study as part of the degree program, as longas the content of the directed study is not directlyrelated to the thesis topic.

The proposal should be submitted to theGraduate College at least two weeks prior toregistration.

THESIS OR GRADUATE RECITAL

A thesis or graduate recital is required in allMaster of Arts programs. It can be an elective or arequirement in a Master of Science program, at theoption of the department.

A student planning to do a thesis should submita proposal to the dean of the Graduate College atleast two weeks prior to registration. This proposalis submitted on a form available online or in theGraduate College Office in 220 Preston Hall, andmust be signed by the student’s adviser, by thegraduate faculty member who will direct the work,by the other members of the student’s committee,and by the dean of the Graduate College. Studentsmust be on regular status and have an approvedprogram of study on file.

The particular style used in writing a thesisis determined by the thesis director, but gener-al rules about style can be specified by thegraduate faculty in the department involved.Basic guidelines for all theses can be obtainedonline at: www.radford.edu/~gradcoll or fromthe Graduate College Office in Preston Hall220.

Students who plan to do a thesis or graduaterecital are advised to begin seriousplanning of this work during the first semester ofenrollment as a graduate student. Past experienceshave shown that it is very difficult for a student todo a respectable job on the thesis or recital if allwork is concentrated in the last semester beforegraduation.

The thesis grade will be recorded as “Pass” or“Fail.” Conventional letter grades are given for thegraduate recital.

A graduate student may take only two years tocomplete or withdraw from a thesis grade of “I” or“IP” starting from the first semester in which thestudent registered for thesis credit. After two yearsthis grade will revert to an F. All requirements forthe degree must be completed within six academicyears.

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AWARDS

Three graduate awards; one each for the out-standing research thesis, the outstanding cre-ative project, and for exemplary performance,are given each year at the spring hooding cere-mony to students who completed their graduatedegrees during the past academic year. A facul-ty committee designates the recipients of theseawards from nominees selected by eachCollege. A cash award and a plaque are given toeach student and a commemorative plaque to thefaculty adviser of each award-winning thesis orproject.

PRELIMINARY COMPREHENSIVEEXAMINATION

In addition to the final comprehensive exam-ination given during the last semester of enroll-ment, the graduate faculty in each departmenthave the option of requiring a preliminary com-prehensive examination to be administeredsometime before completion of three-fourths ofthe master's degree program. This preliminaryexamination would be designed to measure thestudent’s competence in the major area. If a par-ticular program requires such a preliminaryexamination, this information is given in thedescription of the program in the departmentalsections of this catalog.

FINAL COMPREHENSIVEEXAMINATION

A final, comprehensive examination isrequired of all Master of Arts, Master ofScience, Master of Science in Nursing, Masterof Social Work, Master of Fine Arts, andEducational Specialist degree candidates. Thisexamination can be written or oral as deemedappropriate by the department. It should betaken during the last semester of the student’sgraduate program and should be scheduled bythe student and the adviser at least two weeksbefore graduation. The student must have atleast a B average in the major area and in theoverall program at the time of application for theexamination. The necessary examination form isavailable in the Graduate College Office, 220Preston Hall. It is recommended that forms berequested five days in advance of the examina-tion date.

For a Master of Science degree candidate,the committee conducting the examination mustconsist of three faculty members, including thestudent’s adviser, at least one additional facultymember from the student’s major departmentand at least one faculty member familiar withthe student’s work in a minor area if the gradu-ate program has a distinct minor.

For a Master of Arts or Master of Fine Artscandidate, the committee must consist of thestudent’s adviser and at least two additional fac-ulty from the major department, including thethesis or graduate recital director if this person isnot also the adviser.

The student, in consultation with the adviser,can suggest the names of faculty to serve on thecommittee. All members of the committee mustbe full or associate members of the graduatefaculty and must sign the Report of FinalComprehensive Examination. A majority of thecommittee must recommend “satisfactory” inorder for the student to pass.

It is important that the student doing a thesisor recital choose the committee before begin-ning work on the thesis or recital and that thecommittee members be kept informed of the stu-dent’s progress in the preparation of the thesis orrecital.

A candidate who fails the examination mayrequest re-examination no earlier than the fol-lowing semester. A student who fails to pass theexamination on the second attempt will bedropped from the degree program.

Students should note specific departmen-tal requirements for the final comprehensiveexamination in the course descriptions sec-tion of this catalog.

TIME LIMIT

All requirements for the master's degree mustbe completed within six academic years. NeitherRadford University courses nor transfer coursesmore than six academic years old at the time ofgraduation will be allowed as part of the hours forgraduation.

SECOND MASTER'S DEGREE

Students will not be allowed to enroll in agraduate program leading to a master's degree ina field in which they already hold a graduatedegree. A student pursuing a second master's

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degree in a new field may not count toward thenew degree any credits already applied towardan earlier degree, but must meet all require-ments for the appropriate degree.

AUDITING COURSES

Students may audit classes on a space avail-able basis with written permission of the classinstructor and the department chairperson.Students who audit a course may not transfer toregular status in the course after the census date.Auditing students are expected to attend class onthe same basis as a regular student. The instruc-tor may delete from the roster any auditing stu-dent who does not meet course requirements.

RECORDS AND REPORTS OFSTUDENTS

Grades as filed with the office of theRegistrar are final, except where an error ofjudgment has occurred or an error has been made incomputation or transcription. Students may elec-tronically access grades at the end of the semester.

A transcript is the official record, compiled bythe Registrar, of a student's academic career. Foreach semester or summer term, the transcript showsthe courses, credits and grades; semester or summerterm grade point average; and notice of academicprobation, suspension or withdrawal. Transfer cred-it also is recorded, but without grades.

The completed transcript records the degreeand major, minor and/or concentration asappropriate, final graduation grade point aver-age, and the date the degree was conferred.

Transcripts are issued upon the receipt of asigned, written request. There is no charge for thisservice. There is a limit of ten transcripts issued perrequest, unless otherwise approved by theRegistrar.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTSAND PRIVACY ACT

Radford University student record policiesand practices are in full compliance with stateand federal laws.

Upon request, the university will grant stu-dents who are or have been in attendance accessto their educational records, except thoseexcluded by law, and will provide an opportuni-ty for a hearing to challenge such records.

The university will not release informationabout a student from records, except directoryinformation, to other than a specified list ofexceptions without obtaining the written con-sent of the student.

A full statement of the Family EducationalRights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and informa-tion as to how students may exercise the rightsaccorded them by this policy are available fromthe office of the University Registrar or from theDean of Students Office.

University and federal laws permit the uni-versity to routinely release information in thefollowing categories with respect to each stu-dent unless the student informs the universitythat any and all information designated shouldnot be released without the student’s prior con-sent. Requests for the restricted release of direc-tory information should be filed at theRegistrar’s Office.• Student’s name, local and home address,

phone listing• E-mail address• Major field of study • Participation in officially recognized activi-

ties and sports• Weight and height of members of athletic

teams• Photograph• Dates of attendance• Degrees and awards received

Students should report any change of name,address or marital status to the Registrar’sOffice so their university records can becorrected.

HONOR SYSTEM

Radford University's Honor System providesthe foundation for a university community inwhich freedom, trust and respect can prevail. Inaccepting admission to Radford University, eachstudent makes a commitment to support anduphold the Honor System without compromiseor exception. The students of RadfordUniversity believe that individuals have theright to compete fairly, to keep what they haveearned and to have others accept their wordwithout question. Individuals have the responsi-bility to be honorable in their own conduct andto insist that other students act honorably.

Lying, cheating and stealing are consideredto be acts of dishonor, and will, therefore, cause

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a student to be subject to temporary or perma-nent suspension from the university community.Students who commit an honor violation or anymembers of the Radford University communitywho have knowledge that a student has commit-ted an honor violation are expected to complywith the reporting procedures.

GRADUATION POLICY

A currently enrolled full-time student maymeet the graduation requirements listed in theRadford University Graduate Catalog in effectat the time of the student’s initial enrollment atRadford. Or, the individual may elect to meetthe requirements in any subsequent catalog pub-lished between enrollment and graduation aslong as the catalog is no more than six years old.A student may not follow requirements for grad-uation listed in a catalog in effect prior to thestudent’s enrollment at Radford.

A regularly enrolled, part-time student maycomplete the graduation requirements in effectwhen the student enrolled at Radford. Or, this stu-dent may complete requirements listed in any sub-sequent catalog, as long as the catalog is no morethan six years old when the student graduates.

APPLICATION FOR DEGREE

Each candidate for the advanced degreesmust apply for the degree through the GraduateCollege Office at the beginning of his or hernext to last semester (please see class schedulebooklet for deadlines). Unless the necessaryforms are filled out by the student before thestated deadline, graduation may be delayed.

COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES

Commencement exercises and hooding cere-monies are conducted at the end of the fallsemester and again at the end of the springsemester and are open to degree-seeking stu-dents only. Students completing degree require-ments are urged to attend these ceremonies unlessextenuating circumstances justify their absence.Diplomas will be mailed to students completingdegree requirements after confirmation that theirdegree requirements have been completed.

HOODING CEREMONY

Earning an advanced degree is a distinctiveachievement that deserves special recognition inaddition to the customry commencement ceremo-ny. The practice of hooding degree recipientsgrows out of the traditions of academic regalia.The academic cap, hood and gown originated inmedieval universities in Europe around the 12thcentury.

Hoods are traditionally black on the outside,trimmed with the color representing the degree, andlined on the inside with the official colors of theuniversity. Thus, you should be able to identify theinstitution from which the wearer received thedegree, and the level of the degree, by looking atthe hood. The presentation of the hood is a symbol-ic recognition of admission to a higher scholarlystatus within the academic community.

Awarding a graduate degree is not somethingto be taken lightly. The act of attaching your hoodas part of your academic regalia carries with itsome significant recognitions, including:• acknowledgement of your achievements• recognition of the University’s expectations of

your future leadership roles, and• acknowledgement of the University’s bond

with you.Those who receive a Graduate Degree, as well

as the graduate faculty supporting the awardingof this degree, have formed a life-long partner-ship. The hood you receive will forever link youwith Radford University and link the faculty ofRadford University with you. The colors you areawarded are both Radford’s colors and yours.

The hooding is done by a Radford Universitygraduate faculty member, traditionally a profes-sor under whom the candidate has studied. Thehooding ceremony is held in PrestonAuditorium prior to the University’s com-mencement exercise.

PARTICIPATION IN COMMENCEMENT

Radford University restricts participation ingraduation exercises to those degree-seeking stu-dents who will complete their degree require-ments by the time of commencement or who cancomplete the requirements in no more than twocourses or six semester hours, which will be avail-able during the immediately following summersession(s).

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A student who wishes to participate in thecommencement exercises and will not have metall requirements prior to the expected term ofgraduation, but can do so in no more than twocourses or six semester hours that will be avail-able in the immediately following semester,must submit a petition to participate along withthe application for graduation. Graduation appli-cations and petitions to participate in com-mencement must be approved by the departmentfollowing the guidelines established by depart-ments and submitted to the Graduate College bythe end of the third week of the semester prior tothe expected term of graduation. All applica-tions must be approved by the Graduate Dean.Participation in commencement does not guar-antee that the diploma will be awarded.

EXCEPTION TO ACADEMICPOLICY

The Radford University Graduate Catalog isthe basic authority for academic requirements atRadford University. All students are expected tofollow the catalog in the pursuit of their degrees.On rare occasions, extraordinary circumstancesmay, however, justify minor departures from thecatalog requirements. Graduate students whoneed to petition for an exception to academicpolicy must complete the Graduate StudentAcademic Petition form in consultation withhis/her adviser, available online or in theGraduate College office and submit to theGraduate College.

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Nursing students at RU work directly with patients and receive valuableexperience, which helps strengthen their career path.

Radford University is organized into sevencolleges – the College of Graduate andExtended Education and six academic colleges.Students enrolled in other graduate programsapply to the Graduate College and are advisedby graduate faculty members. However, theystill maintain close ties with the other academiccollege in which their majors are located. Forexample, a student majoring in music therapy isconsidered a member of the College of Visualand Performing Arts as well as the GraduateCollege.

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES

Ivan B. Liss, DeanJudy Niehaus, Associate DeanYoung 107, (540) 831-5149

The College of Arts and Sciences offers themaster's degree in six areas including theEducational Specialist degree in SchoolPsychology. Degrees are listed on p. 4.

Graduate degrees are offered through the depart-ments of Communication, Criminal Justice,English, Geology, and Psychology.

Other areas or departments do not offer agraduate degree but offer selected courses forgraduate credit.

The College of Arts and Sciences consists of15 academic departments and several special-ized programs. Both graduate and undergradu-ate programs within the College provide closestudent-faculty relationships designed to meetthe needs of individual students.

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ANDECONOMICS

William A. Dempsey, DeanWhitt 135, (540) 831-5187

The College of Business and Economicsoffers the Master of Business Administra-tion(MBA) degree, an interdisciplinary programthat involves course work in the College's threeacademic departments: Accounting, Finance andInformation Systems; Economics; andManagement and Marketing.

AccreditationThe graduate and undergraduate programs in

business administration offered by the Collegeof Business and Economics at RadfordUniversity are accredited by the InternationalAssociation for Management Education.(AACSB). The AACSB is recognized by theCouncil on Postsecondary Accreditation and bythe Office of Postsecondary Accreditation, U.S.Department of Education, as the sole accreditingagency for baccalaureate and master's degreeprograms in business administration andaccounting.

Enrollment RestrictionsStudents in graduate programs outside of

business may not take more than 50 percent oftheir coursework in business or economicscourses.

Center for Economic Education145 Davis Hall, (540) 831-5100

The Center for Economic Education pro-vides in-service programs for local teachers ofeconomics or economics-related subjects. Thecenter also prepares educational materials, con-ducts research, assembles economic educationlibraries and engages in a variety of communityprograms. The Center for Economic Educationis a member of the Virginia Council onEconomic Education and the U.S. Joint Councilon Economic Education.

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION ANDHUMAN DEVELOPMENT

Paul Sale, DeanPatricia Shoemaker, Assistant DeanPeters Hall A121, (540) 831-5439

The College of Education and HumanDevelopment provides programs designed to preparestudents for areas of specialization that include teach-ing and administration in elementary, middle and sec-ondary schools; school, community and studentaffairs counseling and student affairs administration;child development; and special education. Studentsmay select from a wide range of program options atboth the undergraduate and graduate levels. Many of

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Academic Colleges

these options lead to teacher licensure. Through pro-grams emphasizing academic excellence, the Collegeis committed to the development of knowledgeable,thoughtful, skillful and caring professionals whothink critically and synthesize experience as effectivepractitioners, leaders and innovators.

Students in the College of Education andHuman Development work closely with a high-ly competent faculty who are dedicated to teach-ing, to providing service, and to promoting aca-demic excellence at Radford University.

The College of Education and HumanDevelopment includes the departments ofCounselor Education, Educational Studies,Exercise, Sport and Health Education, andSpecial Education.

Praxis ExaminationBy action of the Virginia General Assembly

and the Board of Education, all prospectiveteachers seeking initial certification after July 1,1980, are required to take the PraxisExamination and submit scores to the Divisionof Teacher Education and Certification. A pass-ing score on the Core Battery as well as applica-ble Specialty Area tests is required as a prereq-uisite for initial teacher licensure.

Licensure/AdvisingDonna DunnPeters Hall A104, (540) 831-5424

The office provides information concerninglicensure, certification, transfer, and advisingwithin the College of Education and HumanDevelopment.

Field ExperiencesPeters Hall A104, (540) 831-5277

The office administers a variety of services thatsupport academic programs within the College andthe University. Specifically, the office coordinates thegraduate and undergraduate field programs includingEarly Field Experiences, Pre-Student Teaching,Student Teaching and Graduate Practica. The officealso coordinates special programs, seminars, work-shops and institutes developed by the faculty.

Early LearningMcGuffey Hall 101A, (540) 831-5476

The office provides information about earlylearning programs, resources, and materialsthrough institutes, workshops and seminars for

parents, teachers and other community workers.Housed on campus is a laboratory school inwhich children from two to four years old areprovided a warm and stimulating learning envi-ronment. The office assists and supports facultyin research and development activities related toearly learning.

Center for Professional DevelopmentDr. Gary EllermanPeters Hall, A125(540) 831-5249

The Center for Professional Development wasestablished in the College of Education and HumanDevelopment and reports directly to the dean of thecollege. Working with regional directors of profes-sional development, the center serves school divi-sions by providing current, relevant staff develop-ment programs that enhance the professional growthof classroom teachers, school administrators andother school personnel. More information can beobtained as follows: e-mail:pdcenter@radford.eduweb: www.radford.edu/~pdcenter

WALDRON COLLEGE OF HEALTHAND HUMAN SERVICES

Karma Castleberry, Interim DeanRaymond Linville, Associate Dean345 Waldron Hall, (540) 831-5102

The Waldron College of Health and HumanServices provides students with programs of studyfor entry into and advancement within health-relat-ed and human services professions. The programscombine a strong liberal arts and sciences base withdiscipline-specific study to develop graduates whocontribute to the health and well-being of society.Programs are characterized by an emphasis on inte-grating theory with practice in the classroom and inon- and off-campus practicum experiences. Thefaculty is committed to teaching and promoting stu-dent development, to advancing scholarship withinthe disciplines and to providing professionalservice.

The Waldron College of Health and HumanServices is composed of six academic departments.Graduate students may pursue a Master of Arts orMaster of Science degree in CommunicationSciences and Disorders with a concentration inspeech-language pathology, a Master of Science inNursing with a specialty in Adult Clinical NurseSpecialist, Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist,

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Family Nurse Practitioner and a post baccalaureategerontology certificate; or family nurse practition-er; or a Master of Social Work degree.

Radford University offers a graduate certificate inDietetics in the School of Allied Health, Foods andNutrition Program within the Waldron College ofHealth and Human Services. It is currently grantedDevelopmental Accreditation by the Commission onAccreditation for Dietetics Education of theAmerican Dietetic Association with an emphasis inmedical nutrition therapy and is designed to preparedietitians to work in both interdisciplinary environ-ments and in rural settings.

COLLEGE OF VISUAL ANDPERFORMING ARTS

Joseph P. Scartelli, Dean242 Porterfield Hall, (540) 831-5265

The College of Visual and Performing Artsseeks to provide comprehensive preprofessionaland liberal arts education for students in the disci-plines of dance, fashion, interior design, music, the-atre and the visual arts; to serve the educationalneeds of all Radford students by providing compre-hensive opportunities and experiences in the arts; toenrich the artistic and cultural environment of theuniversity, western Virginia, the Commonwealthand beyond; and to make significant artistic contri-butions in the disciplines of dance, fashion, interiordesign, music, theatre and the visual arts.

The faculty of the College maintain active pro-fessional lives as performers, artists, designers andresearch scholars. Frequent visits by guest artistsprovide a special dimension to the educational expe-rience of the arts. Students have many opportunitiesto learn from the arts professionals who appear onthe campus annually.

Internship programs are an integral part ofmany College of Visual and Performing Artsdegree requirements. The College's CommunityArts School employs qualified students as teach-ers in dance, music, theatre and the visual arts.

COLLEGE OF INFORMATIONSCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Wilbur W. Stanton, Dean and AssociateVice President for AcademicAdministration127 Davis Hall, (540) 831-5958

The College of Information Science andTechnology at Radford University prepares stu-dents with skills and expertise essential to theCommonwealth and the nation as each movesfrom an industrial-based economy to an informa-tion-based economy. The College develops stu-dents' creative and critical thinking skills, teachesstudents to analyze problems, and provides stu-dents with the knowledge and skills required toeffectively utilize information technology to meet avast array of challenges in the arts and sciences,health and human services, education, and everyaspect of business. Most important, the learningexperiences, programs of study, and faculty mentor-ing are all designed to teach students to be comfort-able with the dynamics of change. Faculty in thiscollege have a strong commitment to continuousreview, evaluation, and improvement of curricula inpartnership with professionals in the IT industry inorder to meet the emerging needs of society.

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