Online DEGREES

The academic policies and procedures at Post University are designed to ensure the maintenance of standards while meeting the needs of a diverse student body.

For information related to course registration, student records, schedule changes, and transcripts, please click here.

Major

Students typically declare a major field of study when admitted to the University. Students may change their major at any time by filing a request through the Registrar's Office. Available majors are identified in the Online Degrees section of the website.

Double Major

Students may fulfill the requirements for two majors at the baccalaureate level. Both majors will be listed on the transcript. If the majors are different degrees (BS and BA), the student must decide which degree will appear on the diploma. Students receive only one degree. Students must declare their major or double major prior to graduation. Completion of a double major may increase the length of time necessary for a student to graduate.

Minors

Students pursuing a baccalaureate degree may elect a minor, which entails a minimum of 15 credits in a discipline approved by the academic advisor. Students who wish to declare a minor may do so by contacting the Registrar's Office. Students must declare a minor prior to applying for graduation.

Double Majors/Dual Majors

In order to earn two degrees simultaneously, a student must obtain permission from his/her advisor and the Vice President for Academic Affairs. At graduation time, the student will complete two (2) Applications for Graduation, pay two graduation fees, and receive two diplomas as long as two different degrees are completed (B.S. and B.A.)

Second Baccalaureate Degree

In certain instances, it is possible for students to complete the work for two distinct baccalaureate degrees successively. A minimum of an additional 39 credits is required beyond the traditional 120-credit baccalaureate program. Students must satisfactorily complete all of the requirements outlined in each of the two baccalaureate programs. A form is available for this purpose in the Registrar's Office and must be signed by the student's academic advisor. If the student graduates and then wishes to return to the University to receive another degree at a later time, the GPA starts fresh.

En-Route Associate Degree

Associate degree recipients who continue in a baccalaureate program within two years will be considered to have taken an "en route" degree. As such, their Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) will be carried forward to their baccalaureate work. Associate degree recipients who subsequently enroll in a baccalaureate program after an absence of two or more years will be considered as newly admitted for baccalaureate study. As such, their CGPA earned in the course of their studies toward an associate degree will not be carried forward to their baccalaureate studies.

Residence Requirements

Candidates for a baccalaureate degree must earn at least their last 30 credits at Post University and must satisfy all degree requirements. This must include at least 15 credit hours in the major. Candidates for an associate degree must earn at least their last 30 credits at Post University and must satisfy all degree requirements, including at least 9 credit hours in the major.

Grade Point Average (GPA) Computation

A student's term Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated by multiplying the graded credit hours attempted ("A-F" Grades) by the quality point value of each grade received. This result is the number of quality points earned. The total quality points earned are then divided by the total number of graded credit hours attempted.

The Cumulative Grade Point Average is based on all course work completed to date.

---

Grading Policies

The following grades are used on academic records and carry the quality points indicated:

GRADE	QUALITY POINT VALUE	APPROXIMATE NUMERICAL EQUIVALENT
A	4.0	95 - 100
A-	3.7	90 - 94
B+	3.3	87 - 89
B	3.0	83 - 86
B-	2.7	80 - 82
C+	2.3	77 - 79
C	2.0	73 - 76
C-	1.7	70 - 72
D+	1.3	67 - 69
D	1.0	63 - 66
D-	0.7	60 - 62
F	0.0	Below 60

The following notations may appear on a student's transcript in lieu of a grade:

AU: AUDIT - The student elected not to receive credit for the course

AD: ADMINISTRATIVE WITHDRAWAL - The student was withdrawn from a course or dismissed from the University for inappropriate behavior

IN: INCOMPLETE - The student is being allowed additional time to complete the requirements of the course. An instructor will approve an "Incomplete" grade if the student has done substantial work in the course but has been prevented from completing the course in the allotted time by circumstances beyond his or her control. The instructor will specify the conditions that must be satisfied for the awarding of a final grade in a written contract signed by the instructor, the Vice President for Academic Affairs, and the Registrar. If an "IN" is granted, all work must be completed within two weeks. The instructor, however, may establish an earlier deadline. An incomplete not made up by the specified date automatically reverts to the default grade assigned by the instructor on the original "Incomplete" contract.

M: MILITARY WITHDRAWAL - Student has been activated to military service and needs to withdraw from the University

P: PASS - "P" grades are not included in the computation of the term or cumulative average. Credit hours are, however, included in the hours earned.

W: WITHDREW - The student withdrew from the course

Pass/Fail Option

Students may take one elective course with a pass/fail option. Students wishing to do so must declare their intention when registering. The decision, once taken, is irrevocable.

Grade Changes

No grade will be changed six months after the conclusion of the term in which the course was taken. No grade will be changed after a degree has been awarded.

Grade Reports

Students who are at risk of failing a course will be notified at the mid-term of the MOD. Final grade reports are mailed to a student's home within 10 days of the end of the MOD.

Grade Appeals Policy

In order to appeal a grade, the student must appeal in writing to the faculty member involved within ten (10) calendar days after receipt of the grade. The faculty member must respond in writing within ten (10) calendar days of receipt of the appeal. If the matter is not resolved, the appeal should be forwarded to the Director of Academic Advising, who will convene an ad hoc Faculty Course Review Committee for consideration of the appeal. The recommendation of the committee stands. However, only the faculty member may change the grade.

---

Honors

President's List: Full-time Students

Matriculated students who demonstrate exceptional academic excellence by earning a Grade Point Average of at least 3.75 while carrying a minimum of 12 credits in a 2-MOD period will be named to President's List for that period. Grades of C or IN are not eligible.

Dean's List: Full-time Students

Matriculated students who demonstrate excellence by earning a Grade Point Average of at least 3.5 while carrying a minimum of 12 credits in a 2-MOD period will be named to the University Dean's List for that period. Grades of C or IN are not eligible.

Dean's List: Part-time Students

Matriculated students who demonstrate excellence by earning a Grade Point Average of at least 3.5 while carrying a minimum of 24 credits over 4 modules will be named to a special University Dean's List. Grades of C or IN are not eligible.

Degree Honors

To qualify for honors, baccalaureate candidates must have earned a minimum of 60 credit hours in residence at Post University and achieved a Cumulative Grade Point Average of at least 3.50.
Summa Cum Laude - 3.90 to 4.00
Magna Cum Laude - 3.75 to 3.89
Cum Laude - 3.50 to 3.74

Excellence Convocation

Students who have distinguished themselves in scholarship, leadership and service to the University are accorded special recognition at the Excellence Convocation held on the morning of Commencement.

---

Honorary Organizations

Alpha Chi

Post University sponsors the Connecticut Gamma Chapter of Alpha Chi, the National Honor Society for students matriculating for the bachelor's degree. Membership is offered to juniors and seniors who are in the upper 10% of their class and who have earned a minimum of 30 credits at Post University. Eligibility is determined twice a year, in December and June.

Phi Theta Kappa

Post University sponsors the Omega Rho Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the National Honor Society for associate degree students. Membership is offered when a Cumulative Grade Point Average of at least 3.5 is acquired after 15 credits of course work at Post University. Eligibility is determined twice a year in December and June.

Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities

For a student to be recommended for inclusion in "Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities," he or she must have a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average of 2.75. Only Junior and senior students are eligible.

---

Transcript of Record

An "official" transcript is one bearing the seal of Post University and the signature of the Registrar. An official transcript is not given to a student or graduate of Post University but is mailed directly to the institution or individuals considering the applicant for admission or employment. An "unofficial" transcript may be given directly to the student or the graduate upon request and is stamped "Unofficial" or "Student Copy."

Students may have an official transcript mailed to other institutions, prospective employers, or other authorized agencies by completing the Transcript Request form. The request must reach the office at least one week before the transcript is to be issued. Due to the volume of requests made in December and May, transcript requests may take up to two weeks to process at that time. Transcripts, grade reports, certifications, or other information about a student may be withheld for failure to meet financial obligations or to return University property.

Degree Audit and Application for Graduation

Post University awards degrees in May, August, and December. Commencement exercises are held in May. Students may participate in the graduation ceremony provided that: (1) they are within 6 credits of their degree; (2) they are enrolled in classes; and, (3) they have a minimum 2.0 grade point average. Students anticipating a December graduation must complete their degree requirements by the end of MOD 2.

Potential graduates must meet with their advisors prior to their last two modules to make sure they have completed all required courses. While faculty advisors may assist each student in the selection of courses, the responsibility for fulfilling the requirements of the program and all University academic requirements of student rests with the individual student. Potential graduates must submit an application for graduation and the $75 nonrefundable graduation fee by December 15 for May graduation, May 15 for August graduation, and August 15 for December graduation. Failure to submit the completed application and fee to the Registrar's Office by the specified dates will mean a delay in graduation.
Graduation application forms can be obtained by clicking here.

Graduation Requirements

In order to receive a degree from Post University, students must:

1. Be matriculated in a program.
2. Satisfactorily complete all degree program requirements: complete at least 60 credit hours for an associate degree; at least 120 credit hours for a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts degree; the required number of credits for a Master degree.
3. Achieve a cumulative GPA of not less than 2.0.
4. Fulfill the residence requirement for the degree program they are pursuing.
5. Pay in full all charges and fees incurred while in attendance at the University.
6. Complete an Application for Graduation and pay a non-refundable graduation fee.

Alternative Credit Options

Post University provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate college-level proficiency in certain subjects where learning has occurred in non-traditional ways, such as advanced placement courses, correspondence study, independent study, on-the-job training, or work experience. Students earn course credits by examination or portfolio, but no grade is assigned.

Advanced Placement

The University recognizes advanced standing for superior secondary school performance as indicated by scores of 5, 4, or 3 on the Advanced Placement Examinations (AP). The Director of Academic Advising makes decisions regarding the acceptance of Advanced Placement Examinations for advanced standing.

Standardized Examinations

CLEP: The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) offers examinations in courses, mostly at the introductory level. Students may earn three to six credits per exam passed.

DANTES: DANTES affords students the option to take examinations in introductory and upper-level courses, including technological areas. Examinees receive three college credits per exam based on a pass/fail formula score.

The CLEP and DANTES examinations are given off-campus. For information concerning sites and dates, consult the Director of Academic Advising. The maximum number of credits that may be earned through any combination of CLEP, DANTES, or Credit for Life Work Experience is 15 toward an associate degree and 30 toward a baccalaureate degree.

Competency Examinations

Students who believe they have sufficient professional experience, training or academic background to satisfy a course's requirements may request to take competency examination. Matriculated students are awarded three credits per exam passed. Students interested in this possibility should consult their advisor or the Director of Academic Advising.

Credit for Life Work Experience

Post University awards matriculated students credits for life experiences. This process allows students to earn three credits per course based on their work/volunteer experiences. Students can earn up to a maximum of 12 credits in this manner. Information regarding policies and procedures is available from the Director of Academic Advising.

---

ACADEMIC DEGREE PROGRESS STANDARDS

Periodically, the University will conduct a review to determine if students who are having academic difficulty are still in good standing. Students who fall below the required standards may be placed on warning, probation, suspension, or be dismissed. Each case is reviewed and, whenever possible, students are given the opportunity to continue with their education. In order to receive financial aid and continue your studies, you must meet the following standards minimum academic standards:

Total Credits	CGPA
0-30	1.50
31-45	1.60
46-60	1.70
61-75	1.80
76-90+	2.00

Academic Warning

Online students whose average falls below will 2.0 will be notified after participation in two modules. Failure to make necessary improvement could jeopardize the student's enrollment at the University.

Probation

Students who fail to maintain satisfactory academic progress toward a degree are placed on academic probation. Students on probation may not enroll for more than twelve credits in a given 2-MOD period and they may also be required to retake courses in which they performed poorly. Students placed on academic probation will be notified in writing by the Registrar's Office.

Suspension

Students who are not living up to their academic obligations may be suspended from the University. Suspended students may be allowed to return to the University if they can demonstrate that they have recommitted themselves to the completion of a degree program. Students taking courses at another accredited institution during suspension must have the courses approved by Post University; otherwise, no credit will be granted for these courses by Post University. Notification of suspension will be sent by certified mail from the Registrar's office to the student's home address. The student may appeal the suspension in writing to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. An Academic Appeals Committee will convene to discuss the merits of the appeal and either uphold the suspension or grant reinstatement to the student.

Dismissal

The University reserves the right to dismiss students who in the opinion of University authorities (a) are not suited to the program in which they are registered; (b) conduct themselves in a manner prejudicial to the interests of the University or hostile to the welfare of students or faculty; and, (c) do not adhere to the University's academic or social regulations. Students who have been dismissed from the University may not take courses at the University whether on ground or online.

Readmission

Students who have been dismissed for unsatisfactory scholarship may apply for readmission after one term. Students are encouraged to first successfully complete courses at another college before applying for readmission to Post University.

Academic Dishonesty

The entire University community must adhere to the highest standards of academic integrity. Academic dishonesty consists of plagiarism, cheating, unauthorized copying of computer discs, willful introduction of viruses, willful interruption of systems, and may also include unintentional complicity in others' academic dishonesty. Any reported cases will be directed to the Vice President for Academic Affairs, who will refer these cases to an academic dishonesty panel, which is comprised of faculty, staff, and students. Confirmed dishonesty may result in the assignment of a failing grade or other penalties.

Assessment

Post University is committed to development and delivery of the highest quality instructional experiences. To achieve this and other quality related educational objectives, the University engages in studies to evaluate educational outcomes. Students, from time to time, may be required to participate in these studies.

Attendance

Regular class participation is essential to the educational process. Excessive failure to complete assignments may result in a student being involuntarily dismissed from a course by the instructor. When such dismissal occurs during the first two-thirds of the module, an "AD," for Administrative Withdrawal, will be entered on the student's academic record. Involuntary dismissal during the final two weeks of a course will result in an "F" being entered on the student's record.

Auditing a Course

Students who wish to enroll in a class without receiving academic credit may audit the course. Audit status must be declared during the registration period and requires the permission of the instructor. Audit status, once declared, cannot be changed. The cost to audit a course is half the current rate of tuition.

Taking Courses at Another University

Post University students who wish to take courses at another accredited college or university and transfer the credits earned at that institution to Post University must have permission from the Registrar's Office. Students must be aware that taking a course at another university in which they received an "F" grade at Post University will not change the student's grade point average. A minimum grade of "C-" will be accepted for the transfer of credit.