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Course Catalog

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Course Catalog

History of NMSU Alamogordo

New Mexico State University Alamogordo (NMSU-A) is situated in the foothills, at the base of the Sacramento Mountains. This vantage point overlooks the city of Alamogordo and the Tularosa Basin. The service area of the school includes Holloman Air Force Base (HAFB), White Sands Missile Range, and stretches beyond the view to include the Mescalero Apache Reservation and approximately twenty villages and towns. Much of the south central New Mexico region benefits from the convenient location of the campus.

NMSU-A was established in 1958 with an initial enrollment of 278 students. The classes were held at night on the Alamogordo High School campus. The objective of this post-secondary educational venture was to serve the military and civilian personnel from HAFB, as well as students from the local non-military population.

Over the years enrollment has expanded to a present population of over 2500 students. At the same time, the number and the character of students’ objectives have also grown. The basic two-year traditional university-credited education has been expanded and enriched. NMSU-A has evolved from offering only two-year traditional education courses to providing occupational/technical programs and courses for personal enrichment as well as selected bachelor completion programs through NMSU Las Cruces Distance Education.

NMSU-A is a two-year community college campus dedicated to the concept of high-quality, cost-effective education that meets the needs of a diverse community. While some students continue to value the long established core courses, others are seeking alternatives to the traditional liberal arts education. Every possible effort is being made at NMSU-A to keep programs and curricula flexible in order to accommodate varied and expanding community educational needs.

Mission of the College

The mission of New Mexico State University Alamogordo is to provide quality learning opportunities for individuals in the diverse communities we serve.

Accreditation

NMSU-A is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The latest accreditation visit to the campus by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association was in April 2003. The North Central Association of Colleges and Schools may be contacted at the Higher Learning Commission, 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602-2504, (800) 621-7440, or www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org. The Nursing Program is approved by the New Mexico State Board of Nursing and holds accreditation from the National League of Nursing. The National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) is a resource of information for the NMSU-A Nursing Program and can be contacted at NLNAC, 61 Broadway, New York, NY 10006; (212) 363-5555, ext. 153, Fax: (212) 812-0390, or via the Internet at www.nlnac.org.

NMSU Campuses

The purposes of NMSU’s community college campuses are to make two years of college education available to students in their home environment; to provide a high quality program of education for all students, both full-time and part-time; and to provide occupational education courses. The community colleges are operated by NMSU.

The community colleges provide lower division courses of the same quality and kind as are offered on the Las Cruces campus. Courses offered for transfer credit are coordinated with the appropriate department and college at the Las Cruces campus and can be transferred to other two-year and four-year colleges and universities and are consistent with Veterans Administration and Social Security Administration regulations. Students attending a community college of NMSU are enrolled as New Mexico State University students and may change campuses if they meet Las Cruces campus admissions requirements.

Associate’s Degree Graduation Requirements

Designated associate’s degree programs are offered at the community college campuses for those desiring specialized training for employment. A General Studies Associate Degree is available upon completion of 66 credits and ENGL 111G with a C or better. The following degrees are administered by the Alamogordo campus: Associate of Arts, Associate in Criminal Justice, Associate in Early Childhood, Associate in Education, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in Arts in Heritage Interpretation, Associate in Nursing, Associate in Science, and Associate in Social Services. The Associate in Prebusiness Degree is administered by the College of Business Administration. The following Associate in Applied Science Degrees is administered at the Alamogordo campus: 3D Computer Animation, Biomedical Electronics Technology, Business Office Technology, Computing, Construction Technologies Electrical Option, Electronics Technology, Fire Science, General Studies, Graphic Design, Information Technology, Medical Office Technology, Occupational Business, Paralegal Studies, and Technical Communications.

Note: These degree plans are effective Summer, 2008 and are in effect through the spring semester 2013.

Candidates for these degrees must have a regular admission status and have attained at least a 2.0 grade point average. Students must complete a minimum of 66 credit hours (excludes non‑credit courses with the letter N suffix) or more as specified in each degree. In addition, the final 15 credit hours of an associate’s degree must be taken through NMSU-A or any NMSU campus (cannot include CLEP, challenge exams, or transfer credit). In order to graduate, students must fulfill requirements of a degree plan in a catalog that is no more than six years old at the time of their graduation and is no older than the year when the student began higher education coursework, whether at NMSU or another institution.

The designation Meritorious Graduate is awarded to the top 15 percent of the students receiving an associate’s degree within each college in any one academic year provided 45 or more credits have been completed at NMSU and/or one of its community colleges with computable grades.

Associate’s Degree Programs

In addition to taking basic courses toward a bachelor’s degree, NMSU-A students can pursue the following associate’s degrees:

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE:

3D Computer Animation

Biomedical Electronics Technology

Business Office Technology*

Computing**

Construction Technologies Electrical Option

Electronics Technology

Fire Science

General Studies

Graphic Design

Information Technology

Medical Office Technology***

Occupational Business

Paralegal Studies

Technical Communications

ASSOCIATE IN:

Arts

Criminal Justice

Early Childhood

Education

Fine Arts

Heritage Interpretation

Nursing (Limited Entry Program)

Prebusiness

Science

Social Services

*3 Concentrations: Accounting, Administrative Assistant, &

Banking/Teller

**4 Concentrations: Game Programming, Microcomputer Applications, Microcomputer Technology, & Web Mastery

***3 Concentrations: Medical Transcription. Medical Coding, & Medical Office Assistant

Certificate Programs

NMSU-A also offers Certificate Programs:

Arson Investigation

Basic Computer Skills

Basic Web Design

Business Office Technology

Educational Assistant

Electrical Apprenticeship

Emergency Medical (EMT) Services

Fire Prevention Specialist

Game Programming

Graphic Design

Heritage Interpretation

Legal Assistant

Medical Office Administration

Microcomputer Applications

Microcomputer Technology

Network Specialist

Office Skills

Photographic Technology

Prebusiness

Pre-Nursing

Technical Communications

With Emphasis in:

Visual Communications

Web Design & Development

Web Mastery

Wildland Engine Operator

Candidates for certificates must have regular admission status, have at least a 2.0 grade point average, and the final 15 credit hours must have been completed on an NMSU campus (cannot include CLEP, transfer credit, or challenge exams).

Admissions

A student may be accepted for undergraduate admission to NMSU-A as (1) a degree-seeking student or (2) a nondegree student under the policies and conditions as set forth in this section.

Degree (Regular) Status:

1. Regular Admission (first time at any college)

Requirements for admission as a regular student include the following:

  • Formal application for admission. A $20 non-refundable admission fee.
  • An official transcript of the student’s high school credits or General Education Development (GED) scores. Transcripts must be sent directly from the high school or GED Testing Center to:

NMSU Alamogordo

Admissions and Records Office

2400 N. Scenic Drive

Alamogordo, NM 88310

Note: If the high school transcripts or GED test results do not provide adequate information for a final admissions decision, NMSU-A may require the applicant to submit official results of the American College Testing (ACT) Program test battery.

Qualifications for admission to New Mexico State University Alamogordo include:

  • Graduation from any state high school or academy in the United States accredited by a regional accrediting association or approved by a state department of education or state universities, or
  • A minimum of a GED diploma.
  • Home-Schooled Admissions Requirements
  • Submit an admissions application.
  • Submit a Home-Schooled transcript containing the following: courses completed by grade level, grades earned in each course, credit earned for each course, signature of Home-School educator verifying the information, and a completion or graduation date from a Home-Schooled program. (If the student is enrolled in a correspondence course where the school will furnish a high school transcript, then an official transcript will be accepted from the correspondence school in place of the Home-School Evaluation Form.)
  • Submit the “Notification of Establishment of a Home-School PED 542-99a” Form. This form is to be submitted by the parent to the local school district to notify them they are being home-schooled; this is required by the State of New Mexico.

Note: New Mexico Home-School programs are currently not approved by the State Department of Education. New Mexico Home-Schooled students, who wish to be considered for Financial Aid and Scholarship programs, are encouraged to complete the New Mexico GED during their senior year in order to meet the Ability to Benefit criteria or he/she can still qualify by passing a State Department-approved test, called an ability-to-benefit test. The test must be independently administered in accordance with State Department regulations. For more information, visit the NMSU web site at http://prospective.nmsu.edu/freshman/qualifying/

2. Transfer Admission

Transfer students from other colleges or universities may be admitted to NMSU-A if they have at least a C (2.0) cumulative grade point average (GPA) and are eligible to return to the college or university last attended.

Transfer students from other colleges or universities must submit a degree (regular) application, an official transcript from all colleges previously attended (this includes Community College of the Air Force), and an official copy of their high school or GED transcript.

High school transcripts and GED scores will be waived when a student has completed 30 academic semester hours at a previously attended regionally accredited college/university. However, these transcripts may be required for Financial Aid.

A $20 non-refundable admission fee will be charged.

All transcripts must be sent directly to the NMSU-A Admissions & Records Office by the Registrar of each institution attended. A student who conceals the fact that he/she has attended another college or university and who does not have the Registrar submit a transcript for each institution, whether or not credit was earned, will be subject to immediate suspension.

Any transfer student who has less than a 2.0 cumulative GPA from his/her previous college(s) and/or vocational school(s) must submit a letter of appeal to the Admissions Appeal Board for admission to NMSU-A. Once a student is admitted to NMSU-A and registered, transcripts are forwarded to the Registrar’s Office at NMSU Las Cruces for evaluation.

Transfer Credits: NMSU evaluates courses from post-secondary institutions that are regionally accredited or are candidates for regional accreditation. Transfer students will receive full credit for course work completed with a grade of C or better, provided the classes are similar or equivalent to courses offered at NMSU. A transfer student may, on the basis of an evaluation of his or her transcripts, receive credit for courses taken at other institutions in which a grade of D was received. However, NMSU does not accept the transfer of courses with D grades that satisfy basic academic competency (basic skills) in English and mathematics. NMSU will not accept transfer credit for four-credit basic skills courses (such as ENGL 111G and CCDM 114N) when the incoming course carries less than three credit hours. Also, colleges or departments may choose to accept only courses graded C or higher in their programs for both transfer and native students. Any lower-division course from another institution receiving transfer credit from NMSU at the 300 or above level will still count as a lower-division course. Transcripts will be reevaluated when students transfer from one NMSU college to another.

Each college determines which transferred courses are applicable toward a degree or a minor. Grades earned in courses taken at other institutions are not included in the calculation of the NMSU GPA, except for grades earned by approved National Student Exchange students.

Credits from non accredited institutions may be evaluated by the student’s academic dean after the student has completed two semesters in full-time status with satisfactory grades.

CLEP credits, DANTES, USAFI, transfer, and course challenge credits cannot be used as part of the student’s last 15 credit credits of an associate’s degree. No more than six credits of courses in religion will be transferred.

Community/Junior College Transfers:

Community/junior college transfer students may be admitted and classified on the basis of acceptable credits earned at a two-year institution. However, transfer students are subject to the same graduation requirements as other NMSU students, including the required minimum number of credits from courses numbered 300 or above and the requirement that the last 30 credits toward a bachelor’s degree must be earned through this university.

General Education: General education, as part of the undergraduate experience, is a process that provides all students with a broad foundation and common framework upon which to develop knowledge and skills, social consciousness and respect for self and others enabling them to function responsibly and effectively now and in the future. General education fosters intelligent inquiry, abstract logical thinking, critical analysis, and the integration and synthesis of knowledge; it strives for literacy in writing, reading, speaking, and listening; it teaches mathematical structures, acquainting students with precise abstract thought about numbers and space; it encourages an understanding of science and scientific inquiry; it provides a historical consciousness, including an understanding of one’s own heritage as well as respect for other peoples and cultures; it includes an examination of values and stresses the importance of a carefully considered values system; it fosters an appreciation of the arts; and general education provides the breadth necessary to have a familiarity with the various branches of human understanding.

Transferring Courses to Fulfill the New Mexico General Education Common Core: During the 2005 New Mexico Legislative session, Senate Bill 161, consistent with requirements of state law (Chapter 224 of the Laws of New Mexico, 1995 as amended), was signed into law to further enhance and facilitate the articulation of general education courses among New Mexico’s colleges and universities. In accordance with policies established by the New Mexico Higher Education Department (NMHED), designated general education core courses successfully completed at any regionally accredited public institution of higher education in New Mexico are guaranteed to transfer to any New Mexico public institution. Students who have decided on a major and/or an institution at which to complete their studies should consult with an Academic Advisor at that particular institution to determine the most appropriate course selections. Students enrolling for the first-year of study at a New Mexico college or university and considering possible transfer into a certificate and/or degree program at another institution are encouraged to take the courses approved for transfer during their freshman and sophomore year of study.

The core matrix of approved courses guaranteed to transfer and meet general education requirements at any New Mexico college or university can be found on the NMHED web site at www.hed.state.nm.us Courses are listed by institution, whether university or community college, under each of the five general education areas. The courses for New Mexico State University are on the following list.

The New Mexico General Education-Common Core:

Area I: Communications (Select 10 credits)

ENGL 111G, Rhetoric and Composition…………………………… 4

ENGL 203G, Business and Professional Communication… 3

ENGL 211G, Writing in the Humanities and Social

Sciences…………………………………………………………………………….. 3

ENGL 218G, Technical and Scientific Communication…… 3

ENGL 311G, Advanced Composition………………………………. 3

ENGL 318G, Advanced Technical and Professional Communication 3

COMM 253G, Public Speaking…………………………………………. 3

COMM 265G, Principles of Human Communication………. 3

Area II: Mathematics (Select 3 credits)

MATH 121, College Algebra…………………………………………….. 3

MATH 142G, Calculus for the Biological and Management Sciences I 3

MATH 191, Calculus and Analytic Geometry 1………………. 3

MATH 192, Calculus and Analytic Geometry II……………… 3

MATH 112G, Fundamentals of Elementary Mathematics. 3

MATH 210G, Math Appreciation…………………………………….. 3

Area III: Science, with Laboratory (Select 8 credits)

ASTR 105G, The Planets…………………………………………………… 4

ASTR 110G, Introduction to Astronomy………………………….. 4

BIOL 101G/L, Human Biology………………………………………… 4

BIOL 110G, Contemporary Problems in Biology……………… 4

BIOL 111G/L, Natural History of Life……………………………… 4

BIOL 211G/L, Cellular and Organismal Biology………………. 4

CHEM 110G, Principles and Applications of Chemistry….. 4

CHEM 111, General Chemistry I……………………………………… 4

CHEM 112, General Chemistry II…………………………………….. 4

E S 110G, Introduction to Environmental Science……………. 4

GEOG 111G, Geography of the Natural Environment……… 4

GEOL 111G, Survey of Geology……………………………………….. 4

GEOL 212, Introduction to Environmental Sciences ……….. 4

PHYS 110G, Great Ideas of Physics…………………………………. 4

PHYS 211/L, General Physics I…………………………………………. 4

PHYS 212/L, General Physics II……………………………………….. 4

PHYS 215/L, Engineering Physics I…………………………………… 4

PHYS 216/L, Engineering Physics II…………………………………. 4

Area IV: Social/Behavioral Science (Select 6-9 credits)

ANTH 120G, Human Ancestors……………………………………….. 3

ANTH 125G, Introductions to World Cultures………………….. 3

ANTH 201G, Introduction to Anthropology…………………….. 3

C EP 110G, Human Growth and Behavior……………………….. 3

C J 101, Introduction to Criminal Justice …………………………. 3

ECON 201G, Introduction to Economics………………………….. 3

ECON 251G, Principles of Macroeconomics…………………….. 3

ECON 252G, Principles of Microeconomics……………………… 3

GOVT 100G, American National Government…………………. 3

GOVT 110G, Introduction to Political Science………………….. 3

GOVT 150G, American Political Issues…………………………….. 3

GOVT 160G, International Political Issues……………………….. 3

HL S 150, Personal Health and Wellness …………………………. 3

LING 200G, Introduction to Language ……………………………. 3

PSY 201G, Introduction to Psychology…………………………….. 3

SOC 101G, Introductory Sociology…………………………………… 3

SOC 201G, Contemporary Problems………………………………… 3

S WK 221G, Introduction to Social Welfare……………………… 3

W S 201G, Introduction to Women’s Studies……………………. 3

W S 202 G, Representing Women……………………………………… 3

Area V: Humanities and Fine Arts (Select 6-9 credits)

ART 101G, Orientation in Art……………………………………………. 3

ART 295, Introduction to Art History I…………………………….. 3

ART 296, Introduction to Art History II…………………………… 3

ENGL 220G, Introduction to Creative Writing………………….. 3

ENGL 244G, Literature and Culture…………………………………. 3

HIST 101G, Roots of Modern Europe………………………………. 3

HIST 102G, Modern Europe…………………………………………….. 3

HIST 201G, Introduction to Early American History……….. 3

HIST 202G, Introduction to Recent American History…….. 3

MUS 101G, Introduction to Music……………………………………. 3

MUS 201G, History of Jazz in Popular Music…………………… 3

PHIL 101G, The Art of Wondering…………………………………… 3

PHIL 136G, The Quest for God………………………………………… 3

PHIL 201G, Introduction to Philosophy…………………………… 3

PHIL 211G, Informal Logic……………………………………………… 3

THTR 101G, Introduction to Theater……………………………….. 3

Transferring Courses within Degree Programs:

To facilitate the transfer of courses within certain degree programs, New Mexico colleges and universities have collaborated to develop transferable discipline modules.

These are composed of an agreed upon number of hours and courses. When discipline module courses are taken in addition to the 35-hour general education core, the total number of hours in a transfer module is approximately 64. For information on the transferable discipline module for Business, see the Las Cruces catalog College of Business chapter. For information on the transferable discipline module for Early Childhood Education, see the College of Education chapter.

Inter-Institutional Transfer Guides and Catalogs:

Students who have selected a field of study and/or the institution where they wish to graduate are advised to consult the transfer guide or catalog for that institution for more current and detailed advice to guide their course selection. Transfer guides are available in the Advising office or at www.hed.state.nm.us.

Student Responsibility: Planning for effective transfer with maximum efficiency is ultimately the student’s responsibility. Responsible transfer planning includes early and regular consultation with the intended degree-granting institution to assure that all pre-transfer course work will meet the requirements of the desired degree.

Transfer Credit Appeal Process: All New Mexico public post-secondary institutions are required to establish policies and practices for receiving and resolving complaints from students or from other complainants regarding the transfer of course work from other public institutions in the state. A copy of NMSU’s transfer credit policy may be obtained from the Office of the Registrar or from the Deputy Secretary for Academic Affairs, Higher Education Department, New Mexico School for the Deaf Campus, 1068 Cerrillos Rd., Santa Fe, NM 87505-1650.

Out-of-State Students and Legal Jurisdiction: By applying for admission/enrollment, both the student and parents agree that New Mexico law prevails and all litigation will be in federal court in New Mexico or in state court in Dona Ana County, New Mexico.

Credit by College Level Examination Program (CLEP): Prior to or during a student’s enrollment at NMSU, or any of its community colleges, credits may be earned through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) of the College Entrance Examination Board. CLEP is a national program of credit by examination that offers the opportunity to earn credits for college level achievement wherever or however one has learned. Earned CLEP credit will be treated as transfer credit without a grade, will count toward graduation, and may be used in fulfilling specific curriculum requirements. Current NMSU CLEP Policy as well as test schedule information is available at Advising & Career Services in the Student Services building.

Note: CLEP credits, DANTES, USAFI, transfer, and course challenge credits cannot be used as part of the student’s last 15 semester credits of an associate’s degree.

Advanced Placement: Students who have completed college level courses in secondary schools and have taken the Advanced Placement Examinations of the College Examination Board with resulting composite scores of 3, 4, or 5 may petition their academic dean for college credit and advanced placement. The amount of credit and the equivalent university courses for which credit will be granted will be determined by the head of the department in which the course is offered. Such credit will be treated as transfer credit without a grade, will count toward graduation, and may be used in fulfilling specific curriculum requirements.

Credit for Military Service: NMSU will allow credit to United States military personnel for courses and/or military occupation specialties as evaluated by the American Council of Education in the Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experience in the Armed Services. The amount of credit will not exceed 30 semester hours for undergraduate, and six semester hours for graduate-level students. Official documentation for military service, education, and training must be submitted to the NMSU Office of the Registrar.

Credit by Examination: Any enrolled student with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0, currently attending classes, may, with permission of the appropriate department, challenge by examination any undergraduate course in which credit has not been previously earned except an independent study, research or reading course, or any foreign language course that precedes the final course in the lower‑division sequence. The manner of administering the examination and granting permission shall be determined by the department in which the course is being challenged.

Students may not enroll in a single course, challenge it by examination, and drop it during the Drop/Add period, unless they enroll in an additional course.

In exceptional cases in which a student demonstrates outstanding ability in a course in which they are already registered, they may be permitted to challenge the course.

A student pursuing an associate’s degree will not be allowed to take special examinations for credit to meet the last 15 semester credits required for the associate’s degree.

Students desiring to apply for special examination may obtain the necessary forms from Advising & Career Services located in the Student Services Building. The fee for challenging a course is the same as the cost of tuition per credit hour.

A grade of C or better is required for credit and will be recorded on the student’s record as CR. Courses may not be challenged under the S/U option.

The special examination privilege is based on the principle that the student, exclusively, has the responsibility for preparing for a special examination.

Nondegree Status: Nondegree admission is designed to meet the needs of part‑time students who do not wish to pursue a degree at this university.

Note: Courses taken in this status may not be used to meet regular admission requirements.

Students on nondegree status are not eligible to receive financial aid or student employment; nor are they eligible to participate in student government or intercollegiate athletics; nor are they eligible to receive benefits from any veterans’ program.

Students interested in using nondegree credit for initial teacher certification, or recertification in a new field, need to contact the College of Education. Transcripts from previous institutions, high school, and/or results of college entrance exams may be required to assure readiness for university-level courses.

Nondegree students are subject to the same university regulations as regular students.

Nondegree students may not transfer more than 30 credits from this status to any undergraduate degree program.

Students must certify they are high school graduates or have obtained a GED diploma and that they are eligible to return to any previously attended college or university.

Transcripts from previous institutions, high school transcript, GED test scores, and/or results of college entrance/placement exams may be required to assure readiness for NMSU‑A courses.

Admission requirements include a nondegree application and a $20 non‑refundable admission fee that will be charged at the time of first registration.

Nondegree Special Admission Programs for High School Students

Dual Credit for High School Students: With the passage of State Law SB943 (Laws 2007, Chapter 227) the requirement for New Mexico high school students to participate in a college experience prior to high school graduation became mandatory. Students who attend a public high school, a charter school, or a state supported school are required to participate if their graduation date is 2010 or later. High school students may complete the requirement in four ways: 1) articulated course, which is not available through NMSU-A; 2) Advanced Placement (AP) course in high school; 3) an online college course; and 4) taking an in person college course. This program is designed to enhance and supplement the high school curriculum, not duplicate or replace it; therefore, there may be limitations on class choice.

Students who wish to take college courses at NMSU-A must meet the following requirements: Sophomores with a 3.75 or better GPA, and Juniors or Seniors with a 2.0 GPA or better. What course a student is allowed to take is based on their GPA, placement assessment results, and the courses authorized by their high school.

Students participating in this program at NMSU-A will have their tuition and general fees waived by the college. For approved courses (each high school will have a specific list), students must visit with the Dual Credit college advisor. Textbooks for the specific list of courses will be provided by the appropriate public, charter, or state sponsored school. Grades for courses taken at the college will be sent to the appropriate high school and are required to be transcribed on the high school transcript.

Early Admit: High school students who wish to take college courses but do not want their grade on the high school transcript must meet the same eligibility requirements as Dual Credit students (see above). However, these students will be required to pay their tuition, fees, and purchase the book for the class.

Home-school students who choose to participate in college courses must meet the same requirements mentioned above and will be required to pay their tuition, fees, and purchase the book. These students will be required to provide the college with a graded transcript. Home-school students must provide documentation that they are registered as a Home-schooled student with the local school district or with the NM Public Education Department. They must also provide documentation, if applicable, of registration with a Home-schooled program. Students must be concurrently enrolled in their high school curriculum as reflected on their transcript. This transcript must provide a graded (A-F) transcript showing courses, course levels, grade level, and grades signed by the Home-schooled program evaluator. Students must also meet the GPA requirements for each grade level.

Student Holds

Academic Advisor’s Hold: All students who are new to the NMSU‑A campus and all students classified as freshmen (including transfer students) must see an Advisor to have their New or Freshman Student Hold lifted. This is to assure that beginning students have selected appropriate classes that meet their placement assessment results, have met prerequisites, and are aware of the services available to them. Holds are lifted in the office of Advising & Career Services. Students may contact an advisor by phone (439-3720), by email advisor@nmsua.nmsu.edu or in person in the Advising Office in Student Services.

Freshman Interest Inventory Hold: Incoming degree seeking freshman are required to complete a career interest inventory, before or during their first semester, in order to be eligible for second semester registration. Students are required to bring a copy of the interest inventory results to an Academic Advisor for course and degree planning. The interest inventory currently being used by NMSU-A (CHOICES) is accessible online or through Advising & Career Services. Information on the website and password to take the inventory is available in the Advising Office or on the NMSU-A website at http://alamo.nmsu.edu/advising. Holds will be lifted upon completion of the interest inventory and subsequent meeting with an Academic Advisor.

Readmissions

Former students of New Mexico State University who have not attended an NMSU campus for four consecutive terms are required to make formal application for readmission. Applications must be submitted to the Admission & Records Office at least five working days prior to registration. Readmission does not require an additional admission fee.

1. Readmission to Degree (Regular) Status

A student who is seeking readmission and whose last NMSU admission status was degree-seeking (regular), must complete a degree-seeking readmission form. Additionally, if the student has attended other institutions during an absence from NMSU, the student must have official transcripts forwarded directly to the Admissions & Records Office by the registrar of each institution and must be eligible to return to the college or university last attended. Academic admission status at the time of readmission will normally be determined by previous NMSU academic standing. However, academic performance at other institutions attended during the applicant’s absence from NMSU may be considered when determining the student’s academic admission status.

2. Readmission to Nondegree Status

A student who is seeking readmission and who previously attended NMSU‑A under a nondegree admission status must complete a nondegree readmission form. However, if the student wants to be readmitted under a degree (regular) status, the student must request a change-of-status at the time of readmission.

A grade report or unofficial transcript from previous institutions may be required at the time of readmission to show eligibility to return to colleges/universities previously attended.

Change of Admission Status

A nondegree student in good academic standing (2.0 GPA or above) may apply for change‑of‑status from nondegree to degree (regular) admission by completing a change‑of‑status application and meeting the requirements for degree (regular) admission status. Nondegree students may not apply more than 30 credits earned under the nondegree status to any NMSU undergraduate degree program.

All documents required for the change‑of‑status must be in the Admissions & Records Office by the dates posted in the current semester schedule. If all documentation is not received by that date, then the change-of-status will be reviewed for processing the next semester of the student’s enrollment.

Any transfer student who has less than a 2.0 cumulative grade point average from his/her previous college(s) and/or vocational school(s) must submit a letter of appeal to the Admissions Appeal Board for a change-of-status to degree seeking.

Abitur Program

Family members of German military stationed at HAFB can complete the Associate of Arts and the Abitur requirements concurrently at NMSU‑A. The Abitur program was jointly designed by NMSU‑A and the German Air Force to bridge the differences between the German and American educational systems. It was initially approved in 1997 and was formally approved by the German Ministry of Education in October 2002. For further information regarding admissions requirements, contact the Admissions Coordinator located in the Student Services Building.

Foreign Student Admission

The general policies of the university as outlined in this catalog apply to foreign as well as domestic students. However, some special policies required by federal laws apply only to foreign students. Some admission and tuition exceptions have been developed for foreign military and their family members stationed in New Mexico. Contact the Admissions Coordinator for details.

A foreign student is any individual attending NMSU while present in the United States on a non-immigrant student visa. Legal immigrants or refugees must present documentation of their status either to Admissions or the International Programs (IP) office on the NMSU-Las Cruces campus.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

Some of the more important rules as established by the United States Department of Homeland Security are:

1. Each student must maintain full-time student status for both the fall and spring semesters. This requires completion of a minimum of 12 credits for each undergraduate student per semester.

2. Foreign students may not work off campus without authorization. On-campus employment may be authorized under certain conditions.

3. All foreign students must maintain an up-to-date record in the Office of Student Services. This record must indicate the student’s current living address and local phone number.

4. Prior to admission, a prospective foreign student must demonstrate the following:

  • Academic ability to succeed in the chosen course of study;
  • Adequate financial support to complete the chosen course of study; and
  • Adequate command of the English language to maintain legal status as a full-time student for the fall and spring semesters.

University Procedures for Foreign Students

Scholastic Ability

1. Prospective undergraduates must have completed a minimum of 12 years of schooling and/or submit official diploma or completion certificate.

2. Official transcripts showing the classes taken and grades earned for the school years 10, 11, and 12 must be submitted. No hand-carried documents will be accepted, unless received in a sealed envelope.

3. The scholastic average for the last three years of high school must be equivalent to 2.5. Foreign students are not admitted on a probationary basis.

4. Graduation from a high school in the United States does not automatically qualify a foreign student for admission to NMSU. The student must also submit official transcripts from his/her foreign secondary school.

Financial Support

1. Each prospective foreign student must submit a current financial support document with his or her application.

2. This document must show that (a) the person providing the financial support has the necessary funds, and (b) the funds can be transferred from the student’s home country to the United States.

No financial aid is available from NMSU. The university reserves the right to demand advance deposit of funds for any period deemed reasonable prior to granting admission. A foreign national can never qualify for residency and must pay nonresident fees.

Per New Mexico Senate Bill No. 375, foreign military and their family members who are stationed in New Mexico through the NATO agreement may be classified as in-state for tuition purposes.

English Language Proficiency

NMSU requires a score of 500 (paper-based)/173 (computer-based)/61 (internet-based) or better on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for all foreign students, both nondegree and degree-seeking. A waiver of the TOEFL requirement may be considered for:

1. Students who are native speakers of English.

2. Students completing high school in the United States who (a) have attended the high school for at least two full semesters and (b) have scored in at least the 75th percentile in English on the American College Testing (ACT) program. Students admitted to the community college campus without the required ACT score in English may request a waiver if they have attended high school in the United States for two full years and have graduated from the high school.

3. Students transferring from a junior college, college, or university in the United States who have earned a minimum of 30 acceptable semester credits (45 acceptable quarter credits) with a GPA of 2.5 or better. Acceptable credit means classes that require a high proficiency in both written and oral English.

4. Students demonstrating English language proficiency by methods accepted by International Programs (IP).

5. Students enrolling in certain programs where English language proficiency is not required.

The university reserves the right to require any prospective foreign student to meet the TOEFL requirement.

For complete information concerning the TOEFL examination, applicants should review the following website www.toefl.org.

Foreign students are not admitted to the university for the sole purpose of studying English.

Prior to enrollment, each foreign student is administered an English screening examination. Based on the results, the student is either assigned to one of the special English classes for foreign students or is excused from special English instruction. The student may then be required to complete one or more regular English classes as required for a particular degree. Completion of basic English courses at other U.S. institutions does not automatically satisfy this requirement.

Admission Restrictions

Although NMSU does not set a quota for the total number of foreign students, there may be several factors that would prohibit admission even though the person meets all general requirements.

1. The dean of a chosen college and the department head of a chosen major or the President of a community college campus may refuse to grant admission.

2. There may be a disproportionate number of foreign students or a disproportionate number of a particular nationality in one department or college.

3. Academic Advisors may not be available.

4. Foreign nationals may be nondegree if admitted as exchange students, or as part of a special program, or as holders of visas that allow incidental studies related to their current non-immigrant status.

5. Non-native speakers of English normally are not admitted for summer sessions.

6. University community college campuses reserve the right to refuse admission to foreign students if the appropriate immigration and English-language support services are not available.

7. Preference for admission to the community college campuses is shown to students who graduate from high school in the United States.

8. University community college campuses reserve the right to set limits on the number of international

students admitted to their respective campuses based on the percentage of international students within an academic program.

All application materials, including the application for admission; letters of recommendation; all transcripts or national examination scores and/or transcripts from colleges or universities (with an English translation); all test scores including the TOEFL; and proof of adequate financial support must be on file in the International Programs Office, MSC 3567, NMSU, Las Cruces, NM 88003 for:

Fall semester …………………………………………………… by March 1

Spring semester …………………………………………….. by October 1

Miscellaneous Regulations

1. All foreign students must have health insurance. Students who do not purchase insurance from NMSU must present evidence of similar coverage to IP office. Students without insurance will not be allowed to register.

2. Upon arrival on campus new foreign students are not permitted to register until all IP requirements are met, including attending orientation and taking the English screening examination.

3. All foreign students are required to carry a minimum of 12 credits (exception can be made for foreign military stationed in New Mexico and their dependents).

Limited-Entry Admission Programs

The Nursing program is a limited entry program. Special applications are required and can be obtained from the appropriate department or the Advising Office. In addition to meeting regular undergraduate admissions requirements, students must be selected into this program.

Regulations

The following regulations apply to all campuses of NMSU and are effective with the publication of this catalog. Tuition amounts, fees, and similar items are subject to annual review and changes are effective with the current catalog or published in the current class schedule.

University Credits: The unit of university credit is the semester hour which is the equivalent of one hour’s recitation or a minimum of two hours of practice per week for one semester.

Class Rank (Classification): A student’s classification depends upon the number of credits completed toward graduation. Sophomore rank is achieved with successful completion of 28 credits; junior rank, 62 credits; senior rank, 94 credits.

Class Load: The normal load in a regular semester is 16‑18 credits in all colleges of the university. An overload is more than 18 credits. A normal load in summer school or in an 8-week session is the same number of credits as there are weeks in the session.

Written permission for the student to register for an overload must be obtained from the Office of Advising & Career Services. To be eligible to take an overload, the student must have a 2.5 cumulative grade point average, with no grade less than a C for the two preceding semesters. A one‑credit course in physical activity may be taken without being included in the calculation for determining an overload.

No freshman will be permitted to assume an overload.

Students may enroll for correspondence or extension courses only upon approval of the Campus Student Services Officer. Such courses must be counted as part of a student’s class load. No more than 30 credits in extension and correspondence courses will be accepted toward graduation. Correspondence course information is available in Advising and Career Services located in the Student Services Building.

Basic Academic Skills: Students who plan to continue their education at the Las Cruces campus must meet the Basic Skills Requirements in English and mathematics before they are eligible to attend NMSU Las Cruces.

The English requirement is met by passing ENGL 111G with a grade of C or better. This requirement can also be met with a 30 ACT English score, Advanced Placement Credit in English, or CLEP credit in English.

The math requirement is met when a student has completed CCDM 114N with a C or better grade or scored into MATH 120 or higher on the math placement exam. A score of 23 or higher on the mathematics portion of the ACT also qualifies as meeting this requirement.

General Education Courses and Requirements: General Education fosters intelligent inquiry, abstract logical thinking, critical analysis, and the integration and synthesis of knowledge; it strives for literacy in writing, reading, speaking, and listening; it teaches mathematical structures, acquainting students with precise abstract thought about numbers and space; it encourages an understanding of science and scientific inquiry; it provides a historical consciousness, including an understanding of ones own heritage as well as respect for other peoples and cultures; it includes an examination of values and stresses the importance of a carefully considered values system; it fosters an appreciation of the arts; and general education provides the breadth necessary to have a familiarity with the various branches of human understanding.

Satisfactory Academic Progress: A full‑time student is making satisfactory progress when the cumulative number of credits earned at NMSU, divided by the number of semesters attended at NMSU, equals at least 12. Part-time students must earn a proportional number of credits in the same time period for purposes of Financial Aid. In the case

of new freshmen, this definition will not be applied until the beginning of the third semester of enrollment; however, for all other students it will apply after one semester of enrollment. All students at the end of their second academic year must have a cumulative 2.0 GPA.

University Grading System: Grade reports are not automatically mailed to students. Students can access grades and credits on the web by accessing their my.nmsu account. At the request of the student, the instructor will provide information on progress in the course prior to the last day to drop a course.

The NMSU system of grading is expressed in letters, which carry grade points used in calculating the cumulative grade-point average:

Letter Grade per unit of Credit

A For excellent work………………………………………………………… 4

B For better than average work……………………………………….. 3

C For average work………………………………………………………….. 2

D For below average work……………………………………………….. 1

F For failing work…………………………………………………………….. 0

W Withdrawal………………………………………………………………….. 0

N Grade not submitted…………………………………………………….. 0

CR Credit authorized, but not letter grade……………………….. 0

IP In progress…………………………………………………………………… 0

RR Progress in undergraduate course (Required Repeat)… 0

S* Satisfactory work……………………………………………………….. 0

U Unsatisfactory work…………………………………………………….. 0

I Incomplete…………………………………………………………………….. 0

AU Audit………………………………………………………………………….. 0

*An S grade is a grade satisfactory to the professor and is normally equivalent to the letter grade of C or higher.

In computing the overall grade-point average, the total credits in which grades of A, B, C, D, or F have been assigned is divided into the total number of grade-points earned.

A course for which only CR, but no letter grade, is given and a course in which an S grade is earned may be counted toward graduation but is not computed in the grade-point average.

Prerequisite: A prerequisite is an enforceable entry requirement for a particular course.

Repeating Courses: A student may repeat a course taken at this university in which a D or F grade has been earned. A computable grade (excluding I, W, RR, AU, CR, S, or U) in a repeated course may be substituted in the calculation of the grade-point average, though the original grade also remains on the transcript. The first occurrence with a C or better grade will count in earned/passed hours. Future attempts will not count in earned/passed hours. If a student repeats a course eligible for grade substitution in which they have earned a D and then fails the course, the second grade of F will not be substituted for the original grade.

Neither credits nor grade points may be earned by repeating a course for which a grade of C or higher has already been received. Repeat option applies only to eligible courses that were completed prior to the time a student was awarded a baccalaureate degree at NMSU.

Incomplete Grade: The grade of I (Incomplete) is given for passable work that could not be completed due to circumstances beyond the student’s control. The following regulations apply to removing or changing an I grade.

1. Instructors may assign I grades only if the student is unable to complete the course due to circumstances beyond the student’s control that develop after the last day to withdraw from the course. Examples of appropriate circumstances include documented illness, documented death or crisis in the student’s immediate family, and similar circumstances. Job related circumstances are generally not appropriate grounds for assigning an I grade. In no case is an I grade to be used to avoid the assigning of D, F, U, or RR grades for marginal or failing work.

2. To assign an I grade, the instructor must complete the I Grade Information Form. The form must be signed by the student and the instructor. The form must be delivered to the Admissions & Records Office. The instructor will state in writing on the I Grade Information Form the steps necessary to complete the remaining coursework, or the instructor may indicate that the student will be required to reenroll in the course to receive credit (in which case the I grade will not be removed). The student will sign this document, and the Admission’s Office will send a copy of the document to the student’s official permanent address as recorded in the Registrar’s Office.

3. The student is entitled to have the I grade removed from the student’s transcript only if the student completes the remaining coursework as specified on the I Grade Information Form, in a manner satisfactory to the instructor. The work must be completed within 12 months after the I grade is assigned and prior to the student’s graduation, or within a shorter period of time if specified by the instructor on the I Grade Information Form. If the student fails to complete the coursework, the instructor may change the I grade to any appropriate grade (including D, F, or U) provided that the instructor stated that this would occur on the I Grade Information Form.

4. I grades can be removed from the student’s transcript by the instructor only during the 12‑month period following assignment of the I grade or prior to the student’s graduation, whichever comes first. To remove an I grade, the instructor must complete a Change of Grade Form and file the form with the Admissions & Records Office. The instructor may assign whatever grade is appropriate for the entire course. The correct form must be signed by the instructor and the Division Head. This may include grades of D, F, or U. An I grade not changed by the assigning instructor within 12 months and prior to graduation shall remain an I grade thereafter.

5. A student may re-enroll and receive credit for any course for which an I grade was previously received, however, retaking the course will not result in a removal of the I grade from the student’s transcript and the student must pay regular tuition for the course.

The effect of removing an I grade on a student’s academic standing (scholastic warning, probation, or suspension) depends on the date the transaction is officially recorded on the student’s academic record. If the transaction is recorded before the student begins another semester, the grade replacing the I is included in the grade-point average calculation that establishes the student’s academic standing. If the transaction is recorded after the student begins another semester, the new grade’s effect on academic standing is based upon its inclusion with grades for the semester in which the student is enrolled.

RR Grade (Required Repeat): The RR grade applies only to designated skill development undergraduate courses approved by the University Curriculum Committee and indicates the student has made substantial progress toward completing the requirements of the course. It carries neither penalty nor credit. The student must re-enroll and successfully complete the course in order to earn credit. The grade of RR may be received only once in any given course, and it remains on the student’s transcript.

The S/U Option: Students with 28 credits at NMSU under traditional grading, with an overall average of 2.5 or better, may exercise the S/U option. The following limitations apply:

1. No more than 7 credits per semester or 4 credits per summer session.

2. Not to exceed a total of 21 semester credits.

These limitations do not apply to honors courses and courses officially designated S/U.

Each course under this option must be requested during registration. Eligibility must be determined by an Academic Advisor and certified by the student. The course must be taken outside the major. If the student changes majors, the new major department may require a traditional grade for a course previously passed with an S grade. The traditional grade change is made by the instructor or by a course challenge if the original instructor is no longer with the university.

Eligibility for S/U grading must be re-established after adjusted credit has been approved.

Nondegree students who do not meet the above requirements may take courses under the S/U option. However, these courses may not be applied toward an undergraduate degree at NMSU.

Each academic college of the university may designate courses in which the grading will be on a basis of S or U for all students enrolled in the courses. Credits in such courses are not included in the 21-credit limitation or the 7-credit-per-semester limit.

Grade Point Average: A student’s NMSU semester and cumulative GPAs will be based solely on courses taken at an NMSU campus or under an approved National Student Exchange.

Independent Studies: Independent study courses (including directed reading and special topics courses which do not carry a subtitle) are for students capable of self‑direction who meet the requirements for the S/U option, i.e., if the students are not eligible for the S/U option, they are not eligible for independent study. Each college determines the maximum number of credits that may be earned in independent study courses.

Degree Audit: Students have access to the Degree Audit System (STAR) available online through their student online account at http://my.nmsu.edu. To self check progress toward a degree, students must select the college, the degree, and the year they meet the requirements. The reports are self explanatory. See an advisor for assistance, if necessary.

Dean’s Report of Academic Achievement: Following the close of the semester, each college dean publishes a list of students who have achieved honor standing in grades for the previous semester. To be eligible, a student must have been enrolled in 12 or more semester credits with a computable grade in each. The top 15 percent of eligible students by college for that semester will be named to the Dean’s Honor List.

Academic Honors Recognition:

The Honors College: The Honors College provides motivated undergraduate students with opportunities to broaden and enrich their academic programs. In small classes taught by master teachers, honors students engage in lively discussion and collaborative investigation of interdisciplinary topics. By taking honors courses, students may also work toward completing General Education requirements and disciplinary requirements in their major.

Almost all honors courses fulfill university General Education requirements. General Education requirements are met through the New Mexico Common Core Requirements. Students must check with an Academic Advisor for current requirements and lists of specific course that meet these requirements. To have these courses count toward one of these programs, a student must earn at least a B. Questions about the Honors College should be directed to the Honors Director at (505) 646-2005 or on the web at http://honors.nmsu.edu.

Automatic Eligibility: Entering freshmen are automatically eligible for admission to the Honors College by meeting one of the following criteria:

1. Composite ACT score of 26 (or 1160 SAT score); or

2. High school GPA of 3.75 or higher and an ACT of at least 24 (or 1100 SAT)

Admission by Petition: Entering freshmen who have an ACT score of at least 24 (or 1100 SAT score) or a high school GPA of 3.50 may submit a written petition for provisional admission to the Honors College using a form provided by the Honors College office upon the request of the student. A College Admission Committee composed of the Director, Associate Director, and one member of the honors faculty review petitions and determines whether provisional admission shall be granted.

Transfer and Continuing Students: Transfer and continuing students who have earned at least 15 college credit hours will be eligible for admission to the college on the basis of a cumulative college GPA that meets eligibility requirements for continuing students (see following paragraph).

Eligibility for Continuing Membership: The eligibility criteria for continuing membership in the Honors College is the same as for continuing Crimson Scholars status:

1. Fewer than 28 hours earned: 3.3 GPA

2. More than 28 hours earned: 3.5 GPA

Appeals: Students who fall below the designated GPAs and lose their eligibility for Honors College status due to extraordinary circumstances may petition the College Admission Committee for readmission.

Enrolling in Honors Courses: Students do not need to be members of the Honors College in order to enroll in honors courses. Any eligible student may enroll. The eligibility requirements to enroll in lower-division honors courses are the same as those pertaining to admission to the college and continuance in the college. For upper-division courses, the requirement is a cumulative 3.2 GPA. Students lacking these requirements may petition the Honors College Director for permission on a case-by-case basis.

Graduating with University Honors: Contact the Honors College for information or see the NMSU Las Cruces catalog for requirements to graduate with honors

Crimson Scholars: The Crimson Scholars Program is a benefits and recognition program for academically superior students taking seven or more credits per semester. Crimson Scholars are eligible for all Honors courses.

To be eligible for the Crimson Scholars Program, applicants must be degree-seeking. Entering freshmen must have either: a minimum ACT standard composite score of 26; or a minimum ACT standard composite score of 24 and a 3.75 or better high school GPA; or a minimum SAT score of 1160. Currently enrolled students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 for 12 or more credits at NMSU or one of its community colleges. Transfer students must have a 3.5 cumulative GPA for 12 or more credits from their previous institution(s) or complete 12 or more credits at NMSU or one of its community colleges for eligibility.

To maintain Crimson Scholar status, freshmen entering on an ACT score must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.3 and complete three or more credits per semester to continue in the program until they complete 28 credits. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 and be currently enrolled in a total of seven or more credits per semester at NMSU or any NMSU community college to retain their Crimson Scholars status. Transfer students must have a 3.5 cumulative GPA for 12 or more credits from their previous institution(s) or complete 12 or more credits at NMSU or one of its community colleges for eligibility.

Students who have exercised the adjusted credit option must have completed at least 35 computable hours from the last semester they exercised the adjusted credit option with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or above.

Students designated as Crimson Scholars whose cumulative GPA’s drop below the required 3.5 or drop below three credit minimum will be dropped from the program. If in the following semester, the student’s cumulative GPA and credits again meet the minimum requirement, the student will automatically be reinstated. If dropped from the program for two consecutive semesters, the student must reapply to the program once he/she qualifies.

In recognition of the student’s academic achievement, a statement designating Crimson Scholar is placed on the student’s transcript. To be designated in the commencement program as a Crimson Scholar graduate, a student must complete a minimum of four semesters (semesters need not be consecutive) in the program and must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5. Students who completed two semesters as Crimson Scholars and are eligible for a third semester receive a lapel pin. Crimson Scholars are entitled to early registration and special library privileges. Additional information and applications are available at NMSU‑A from the Advising & Career Services in the Student Services Building.

Note: Crimson Scholars interested in work-study positions must submit a yearly Free Application for Federal Student Aid and complete a financial aid file with the NMSU-A Office of Financial Aid.

Aerospace Studies: The college Air Force Reserve Officer Training Program (ROTC) curriculum provides pre-professional preparation for future Air Force officers. It is designed to motivate and prepare college men and women for their initial active duty assignments as Air Force commissioned officers. The curriculum is designed to give the participating student an understanding of the military instrument of national power with emphasis on the United States Air Force and how it fits into American society. Inherent in course content and methodology are opportunities for the student to develop his or her capacities to think creatively, speak and write effectively, and to lead and manage efficiently.

The Air Force ROTC Commissioning Program is open to all qualified students in all academic majors leading to a bachelor’s degree as well as any student who has two years remaining at the university, including graduate study. The lower division courses cover the General Military Courses.

Freshman and sophomore courses are AERO 121, AERO 122, AERO 221, and AERO 222. These courses provide general background knowledge of the military establishment with emphasis on the Air Force. The courses may be taken out of sequence.

Adjusted Credit Option: The adjusted credit option allows students who obtain a low GPA (less than a 2.0 cumulative) during their first few semesters to get a fresh start. This option may be used only once and is not reversible. All courses carrying a grade of S, CR, C, or better earned prior to the grading period in which the student requests the adjusted credit option (including transfer courses) are included as adjusted credit. All allowable credits are designated on the permanent academic record as “adjusted credit” and are omitted from the calculations of the cumulative GPA.

A fee of $10 is required for the submission of an adjusted credit option application. Application forms are available in Advising & Career Services located in the Student Services Building. Students applying for this option must pay the $10 fee at the NMSU‑A Business Office. In addition, students must:

1. Be pursuing their first bachelor’s degree;

2. Be currently enrolled as a regular or nondegree undergraduate;

3. Have a cumulative grade-point average of less than 2.0 at NMSU;

4. Have successfully accumulated fewer than 60 transfer plus NMSU credits;

5. Exercise the option only during the fall or spring semester before the last day to withdraw from the university; and

6. Pass an additional 30 graded credits before they may be awarded an associate’s degree.

Other courses taken during the period of credit adjustment are not calculated in the cumulative GPA. The repeat rule for the courses starts anew for students who have taken the adjusted credit option.

Credits covered by this option are shown on the transcript with an appropriate notation, and all coursework attempted is shown. In no circumstances will a transcript of this record be issued that does not include all courses attempted at this university.

Probationary status and eligibility for on-campus employment is not affected by the exercise of the adjusted credit option.

Students are eligible for university honors if the criteria for university honors are met for all courses taken at NMSU or one of its community colleges after the period of adjusted credit.

Audits: A regularly enrolled student may register for any course prior to the last day of registration as an audit or without credit with the consent of NMSU‑A Admissions & Records Office, provided the space is not required for regular students. The fee is the same as for credit courses. Audit courses are not considered in determining the maximum load except for students on probation.

A student may not change from credit to audit after the last day to register but may withdraw with no refund and continue to attend with the permission of the instructor.

Changes in Registration: Registration changes may be processed only in accordance with university regulations and with appropriate signatures.

Note: It is the responsibility of the student to initiate official withdrawal from a course and to obtain all necessary signatures on the Drop/Add Form. A picture ID will be required for all schedule changes.

Forms are available from the NMSU‑A Admissions & Records Office and completed forms must be returned to that office. Courses may not be added or dropped after the cutoff dates indicated in the Academic Calendar. For refund policy, see the “Costs” section of the catalog and the current NMSU‑A Schedule of Classes.

When a student officially drops a course, the W grade is assigned as follows:

1. No grade is assigned during the registration period.

2. A grade of W is assigned to any student who officially drops a course during the first half of its duration. A student may not officially drop a course after this time.

3. A grade of W is assigned in all courses to any student officially withdrawing from the university prior to the last three weeks of classes (dates are noted on the Academic Calendar and in the Schedule of Classes).

A student found to be insufficiently prepared to succeed in a regular course may be transferred to a more elementary course in the same field any day before the last day to officially drop an individual course.

Any person attending under Veterans Educational Assistance or Financial Aid should notify the Office of Financial Aid and Veterans Programs if dropping or adding courses changes enrollment status for benefits.

Withdrawal from NMSU: Withdrawal from any NMSU campus is an official procedure that must be approved as indicated on the withdrawal form. It is the student’s responsibility to initiate withdrawal from the university and to obtain necessary signatures. A picture ID will be required for withdrawal. Students who leave without following the official procedure are graded appropriately by the instructor. Withdrawal begins at the Admissions & Records Office, and completed forms must be returned to that office. Applicable dates are published in the Academic Calendar for all regular sessions. All withdrawals will be recorded on the student’s transcript. The student cannot withdraw from the university by phone or web.

Attendance, Student Performance, and Attendance Alerts: Students are expected to attend regularly all classes for which they are registered. Valid reasons for missing classes neither relieve the student of the responsibility of making up the work missed nor of contacting the instructor about making up any missed work. Specific class attendance requirements are determined by the instructor of the course.

When the number of absences hinders a student’s progress in a course, the instructor may forward to the Campus Student Services Officer, through the instructor’s department head, a statement of the student’s excessive absences including a recommendation for retention or expulsion from the class. The Division Head may add a similar recommendation.

Upon recommendation of the instructor, the Campus Student Services Officer may drop a student for persistent absences or for persistent failure to complete assignments. Similarly, a student may also be dropped from a class for engaging in behavior that interferes with the educational environment of the class. Any student who has been dropped from a class shall have the right to appeal that decision through the Student Academic Grievance Policy.

Only enrolled students, for credit or audit, are permitted to attend classes. However, a student who has officially withdrawn from a course with no refund may continue to attend the course with the permission of the instructor for the remainder of the semester.

Students not enrolled for credit or audit may visit individual classes only with instructor permission.

Instructors also notify Advising and Career Services of absences through the use of the Attendance Alert Forms in order to meet Federal and State laws which require that universities report non-attendance to the Financial Aid Office and other funding agencies. Instructors may use the alert forms to show concern about student’s academic progress. Copies of the Attendance Alert Forms are sent to the student to encourage students to monitor their academic progress and are retained in the Financial Aid Office during the semester.

Veterans Programs: NMSU-A degree programs are approved by the State Approving Agency for enrollment of persons eligible to receive education benefits from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA). Eligible students may apply for benefits and advanced VA payment by submitting applications at the Financial/VA office. Advance payment must be requested at least 30 days prior to the first day of classes.

Veterans Benefits Certification: All veterans and dependents that are eligible to receive veteran’s benefits must complete the application and certification process prior to registration. Students must have courses approved by an Academic Advisor and certified by the NMSU‑A Veterans Office each semester of enrollment. Additionally, all Chapter 30, 32, 34, and 1606 students must self-certify to the VA at the end of each month either on the web at www.gibill.va.gov or by calling 1-888-GIBILL1.

Veterans Attendance and Satisfactory Academic Progress: Students must be pursuing a degree in a specific program to be eligible to receive benefits. Admission procedures for veterans and other eligible persons are the same as those for other students. Students who do not satisfy all requirements for full admission may be certified for two terms; however, they may be required to repay the DVA for some or all benefits received if they do not achieve full admission status during that time.

Title 38, United States Code, requires that education assistance to veterans and other eligible persons be discontinued when the student ceases to make satisfactory progress toward completion of the training objective. The DVA will be appropriately notified of the unsatisfactory progress. A specific request must be submitted by the student to reinstate benefits. The DVA will determine eligibility for reinstatement of benefits. Students are responsible for notifying the NMSU-A Veterans Office of any change in their enrollment or change in personal information affecting their eligibility. Students may receive education benefits only for courses that are required for their designated degree program. Students who receive DVA benefits are subject to strict academic regulations and should be aware of how auditing a course, repeating a course, changing degree program or enrollment status, and other actions may affect their eligibility to receive benefits.

If the university has liability claims filed against it as a result of a veteran failing to meet compliance requirements of the Veterans Administration, the university will not release any academic records on the veteran until such time as the veteran has reimbursed the federal government for funds drawn in violation of those requirements.

Financial Aid: The mission of the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarship Services is to improve access to higher education by providing comprehensive financial assistance and information to all students and the NMSU-A community. Although primary responsibility for educational costs rests with the student and his/her family, NMSU-A, the federal government, and the state of New Mexico all contribute to assist students pursuing higher education.

The Financial Aid Office administers an extensive program of grants, scholarships, and loans. The awarding of grants and loans is based on need, while the awarding of scholarships is based mainly on academic ability and, in some cases, financial need. Assistance in the form of work is available through the Federal College Work-Study Program and the New Mexico Work-Study Program.

All financial aid awards are based on information provided by the student and parents, availability of funds, and eligibility requirements. Any award may be revised based on changes in enrollment, cost of attendance, family contribution, or failure to meet satisfactory academic progress. Withdrawals or reductions in enrollment may affect an award or any future awards. Financial aid will not pay for audited courses.

The student should apply annually for financial assistance by March 1. To apply, students must complete the FAFSA application online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.

Generally, eligibility requirements to receive financial aid are as follows:

1. Only students who are U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents are eligible to apply for financial aid.

2. Students must be in good academic standing and must be making satisfactory progress toward a degree.

3. Generally, undergraduate students must be enrolled at least half-time (six hours) for federal aid programs and full-time (12 hours or more) for scholarships.

4. Need must be clearly established for need-based financial assistance.

5. Students must have a high school diploma from an accredited high school or a GED.

6. Students who owe a refund on a federal grant or are in default on a federal student loan are not eligible for financial aid.

7. No student will be denied financial assistance on the basis of age, ancestry, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

8. Have a valid social security number.

9. Register with selective service, if required.

10. Sign a statement on the FAFSA certifying that you will use federal student aid only for educational purposes.

Note: Financial Aid is paid at the beginning of each term. Aid will not be paid for any courses added after the 16-week census date. Students will be billed for courses they drop or do not attend if a change of enrollment status results.

The Financial Aid Office provides online applications and support services for students who apply for financial aid. The Financial Aid Office awards funds from federal programs that include the Pell Grant, the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG), Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership (LEAP), Work-Study, Stafford Loan, and Plus/Supplemental Loan. State grant, work-study, and loan programs are also available. Students can check the status of their files and accept or decline awards available online through their student online account at http://my.nmsu.edu

Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress: Federal regulations require that financial aid recipients meet certain academic standards to be eligible for federal financial aid. To ensure that financial aid recipients are making satisfactory academic progress, academic transcripts are reviewed at the end of each term to determine eligibility for the next term. All terms of attendance are reviewed, including periods in which the student did not receive financial aid. All transfer work is taken into account when satisfactory progress is reviewed.

1. Qualitative Progress: Undergraduate students must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 (a C average).

2. Completion Rate: Students must complete a minimum of 67 percent of all course work (registered credit hours) attempted at NMSU. Any course with a grade of withdraw (W), incomplete (I), repeats (RR), failure (F), audit (AU), or no credit (NC) is not considered completed course work. Repeated courses are included in the calculation.

3. Maximum Time Frame: Students must complete their program within 150 percent of the credit hours required by the program. Students who have reached the maximum allowable time will be suspended from receiving financial aid. Developmental/remedial hours are excluded from this calculation. Total attempted hours including repeated courses and transfer course work are included in the student’s maximum time frame calculation.

Financial Aid Suspension: Students are suspended from receiving financial aid if they do not meet satisfactory academic progress standards. Students on financial aid suspension will not receive any form of federal or state financial aid (grants, loans, work-study). Financial aid eligibility is reinstated when all standards of satisfactory progress are met.

The Appeals Process: Students suspended from financial aid may appeal the suspension if there are mitigating circumstances affecting their progress. Students who would like to appeal the suspension must submit an appeal form available at and all required documentation to the Office of Student Financial Aid. A committee will review the appeal and may grant reinstatement of financial aid based on mitigating circumstances that directly contributed to deficient academic performance. Appeals are evaluated on a term-by-term basis.

Privacy Rights: The following information has been designated as directory information and is subject to release to the public under the Buckley Amendment (20 USCS § 1232g; PL 98-380, section 2), the “Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974″ (FERPA): Student’s name, address, email address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, classification, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent, previous educational agency or institution attended by the student.

Students can prohibit the release of directory information to the public by bringing a photo ID to the Office of Admissions & Records located in the Student Services Building and by submitting a written request. Such requests must be made by the end of late registration for any semester. It will NOT prohibit the release of directory information to entities of the university which have a “need to know” to accomplish their required official tasks. It will NOT prohibit a university department from including the student’s name on mailing lists for distribution of materials that are essential to his/her enrollment at the University. Students who are also University employees should be aware that filing this restriction will result in suppression of both employee and student information.

The authorization to restrict directory information remains in effect until the student revokes it. The authorization has no affect on directory information released prior to the completion of the request.

Other information regarding disclosure of student data is posted at the Office of Admissions and Records in compliance with the Act.

Requests for withholding directory information must be filed in writing with the Admissions and Records Office by the third Friday of class for the fall or spring semesters.

Students have the right to:

1. Inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the University receives a request for access. Students should submit to the Admissions & Records Coordinator and the Campus Student Services Officer, a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The University official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the University official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.

2. Request an amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading. Students may ask the University to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the university official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.

If the University decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the University will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his/her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3. Consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is defined as a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit and health staff); a person or company with whom the University has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Regents; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his/her tasks.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his/her professional responsibility.

Upon request, the university discloses educational records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.

Washington, DC 20202-4605

Social Security Numbers in Student Records: Social security numbers are collected from prospective and current students who wish to be employed on campus or to receive financial aid are required by law to provide their social security number for administrative use. Further, the University is mandated by federal tax regulations to provide tuition and fee payment information to the student and the Internal Revenue Service, so that applicable educational tax credits may be computed. The social security number is a confidential record and is maintained as such by the university in accordance with FERPA.

Student Special Care Policy: To ensure the safety and well-being of our students, NMSU‑A may, on occasion, require that students receive a particular type of care or treatment (i.e., emergency medical attention, live-in attendants, or vaccinations) as a condition of continued enrollment. When this care or treatment is required by the cognizant university administrator, the student will be obligated to assume any financial responsibility associated with the treatment.

Furthermore, the University may on occasion contact a student’s parent(s), legal guardian, or spouse in cases of extreme emergency, or where a possibility of imminent harm exists. This will occur only when, in the judgment of the appropriate official, the best interests of the student and the University will be served.

When practical, the University will notify the student in writing of the University’s intention to undertake the steps authorized by this policy. This decision may be appealed by the student to the Campus Student Services Officer within 24 hours of notification. The appeal should be in writing and should state clearly the reason why the student objects to the proposed action. The Campus Student Services Officer will review the facts in the case and convey the decision to all parties within 48 hours. The Campus Student Services Officer’s decision shall be final.

Non-Academic Grievance Process: (Refer to the Student Handbook for grievance procedures and appeals related to non-academic issues.) The general rules and regulations applicable to students are in the “Student Code of Conduct” of the Student Handbook or can be obtained from the Advising & Career Services located in the Student Services Building, or at http://alamo.nmsu.edu.

Academic Appeals: Procedure for Initiating Grievance Complaints: This procedure has been established to provide a method to resolve undergraduate student grievances at the lowest administrative level in a fair and expeditious manner. For the purpose of this procedure, grievances are limited to alleged violations of university policy or procedures by the university or its employees, disputes with faculty and/or alleged unfair treatment. Usually this method is used to appeal a grade the student feels was not justified.

Note: Under no condition should these policies be used when the student has allegedly violated the University Code of Conduct or a contractual agreement, and at no hearing should either party have a lawyer.

Any student who believes that he/she has been unjustly treated within the academic process may proceed as far as necessary in the steps detailed below. Should the alleged grievance not involve a faculty member or course, the student is to appeal directly to the Division Head in whose area the alleged grievance occurred or to the Campus Academic Officer.

1. Appeal to faculty member: The student is to submit a written appeal to the faculty member within thirty (30) days after the start of the semester following the semester in which the alleged grievance occurred. Semester in this case refers to fall and spring only. If the alleged grievance occurs during the summer session, the student is to submit an appeal no later than thirty (30) days into the fall semester following the summer session in which the alleged grievance occurred. The faculty member and the student are to discuss the problem. The faculty member will submit a written report outlining his or her decision to the student and Division Head within ten (10) working days of receipt of the student’s written appeal.

2. Appeal to the Division Head: If a decision satisfactory to the student cannot be reached, the student may submit a written appeal to the Division Head in which the course in question is taught. This is to be done within ten (10) days of receipt of the faculty member’s written decision. The faculty member, the Division Head, and the student are to meet to discuss the problem. The Division Head will send a written response outlining his/her decision to the student and the faculty member within ten (10) working days of this meeting.

3. Appeal to the Campus Academic Officer (or designee): If a satisfactory decision cannot be reached among the Division Head, the faculty member and the student, the student or the faculty member may submit a written statement of appeal to the Campus Academic Officer (or designee). This is to be done within ten (10) working days after receipt of the written decision by the Division Head. The Campus Academic Officer may request a written recommendation from the college Academic Appeals Board. Should this be the case, the Academic Appeals Board will conduct a hearing with the student and faculty member (not necessarily at the same time) to review the merits of the appeal. They may also ask for supporting evidence for or against the appeal. The Academic Appeals Board will submit the written recommendation to the Campus Academic Officer within five (5) working days following the conclusion of their process. The Campus Academic Officer may meet with the student, faculty member, and Division Head to discuss the appeal (not necessarily at the same time). The Campus Academic Officer will submit a written response outlining his or her decision to the student, faculty member, Division Head, and Campus President within ten (10) days of the last meeting.

4. Appeal to the campus President (or designee): The campus President may, at his or her discretion, review the appeal upon the written request of the student or faculty member and render a final decision. An appeal to the campus President is the last step in the appeals process and the campus President’s decision cannot be appealed further. Should the campus President not choose to review the appeal, the decision of the Campus Academic Officer is final.

5. Exceptions to the time involved: The Campus Academic Officer or designee may waive the normal time frame for appeals for compelling reasons. Regardless of circumstances, academic appeals must be initiated with the course instructor within two years of the conclusion of the semester or summer session in which the course was taken.

6. Enrollment: A student need not be enrolled at the university to initiate an appeal.

Academic Appeals Board: An academic appeals board will be appointed by the Campus Academic Officer to hear student appeals. The appeals board will consist of three faculty members and two students.

Maintenance of Records: Instructors and/or divisions shall keep records used to compute individual grades for two years after the completion of a course. If a grade has been appealed, these records shall be kept for at least two years after completion of the appeal. Divisions may require that records be kept for longer periods.

Academic Misconduct: Students at NMSU-A are expected to observe and maintain the highest academic, ethical, and professional standards of conduct. Any student found guilty of academic misconduct shall be subject to disciplinary action. Academic misconduct includes, but is not limited to, the following actions:

1. Cheating or knowingly assisting another student in committing an act of cheating or other forms of academic dishonesty;

2. Plagiarism, which includes, but is not necessarily limited to, submitting examinations, themes, reports, drawings, laboratory notes, undocumented quotations, computer-processed materials, or other material as one’s own work when such work has been prepared by another person or copied from another person;

3. Unauthorized possession of examinations, reserved library materials, or laboratory materials;

4. Unauthorized changing of grades on an examination, in an instructor’s grade book, or on a grade report; or unauthorized access to academic computer records;

5. Nondisclosure or misrepresentation in filling out applications or other university records in, or for, academic departments or colleges.

NMSU‑A Grievance Procedure:

For Students with Disabilities: NMSU‑A has adopted an internal procedure providing for the prompt and equitable resolution of complaints alleging any action prohibited by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 USCS § 691 2993, Section 504) or of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability.

Students are encouraged to attempt to resolve any problems or complaints they might have at the local college level first. Students should initially contact the NMSU‑A Advisor for Special Populations, 439-3720, in an effort to resolve problems related to the need for - or provision of - special accommodations, as well as those that are related to access needs or the equalization of learning opportunity. The next level of appeal is the Campus Student Services Officer, who also serves as the ADA Coordinator.

While students are encouraged to resolve concerns at the college level, any student may contact the Director of Institutional Equity at (575) 646-3635 or (575) 646-7802 TDD at New Mexico State University at any time.

Informal Complaint Procedure: The student may wish or choose to resolve the complaint on an informal basis, i.e., mediation, a letter to the professor, a telephone call, or some resolution amenable to the student. A written confidential record of the final outcome or resolution will be retained at the NMSU‑A Student Services Office.

However, if a student wishes to file a formal grievance he/she should consult the NMSU-A Student Handbook for the appropriate procedure. A copy is available in Student Services or on the web site http://nmsua.edu.

The foregoing procedures are implemented to:

a) Protect the substantive due process rights of students with disabilities; and b) assure that NMSU‑A complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

For further information, contact:

Advisor for Special Populations

(505) 439-3720

or

Campus Student Services Officer, ADA Coordinator

(505) 439-3716

or

Director Institutional Equity

Office of Institutional Equity - EEO

NMSU, O’Laughlin House

1300 E. University

Las Cruces, NM 88003

(575) 646-3635

TDD: (575) 646-7802

Academic Standing: The following academic regulations apply to all NMSU‑A students.

Note: See section on Incomplete, I, grades to determine the effect of removal of I grades on academic standing.

Academic Warning, Probation and Suspension: When students do not maintain adequate academic standing, they begin a progression of Academic Warning to Academic Probation I and II, and finally to Academic Suspension. Each state imposes more structure and limitations on the student in order to help the student return to normal academic standing. The intent is not to punish, but to help the student return to normal academic standing and success. Since some of these limitations involve limitations on the number of credits hours, students on Probation II or Suspension may be subject to loss of financial aid. It is the responsibility of the student to determine the impact of their changed academic standing on their financial aid. Notification to students of academic warning, probation or suspension appears on the student’s grade report at the end of each grading period.

Academic Warning: An Academic Warning is issued when a student’s cumulative GPA falls below a 2.0 while in good academic standing. The Campus Academic Officer will send the student a letter detailing the consequences should the cumulative grade point remain below a 2.0 at the conclusion of the semester.

While under Academic Warning the following restrictions apply:

1. The student may be required to enroll in a 3-hour special study skills/time management course specifically designed for students on Academic Warning for the first time, or an equivalent approved by the Campus Academic Officer (CAO).

2. Students will be required to enter into a contract with their advisor, approved by the CAO that places further stipulations on Academic Warning. The contract may include, but is not limited to the following:

a. The student may be required to take at least one repeat course to try to greatly improve the GPA.

b. Except for the special student skills/time management course, the student’s coursework may be restricted to required courses for the degree.

c. The student may be required to get tutoring help.

d. The student may be required to see an academic advisor on a specified time schedule.

e. The number of hours for which a student may register may be restricted (due to extenuating circumstances such as the student’s workload commitments).

The CAO may place the student on Academic Probation I should the student not adhere to the stipulations of the contract.

If the student’s semester GPA is less than a 2.0, and the cumulative GPA remains below a 2.0 at the end of the semester on Academic Warning, the student is placed on Academic Probation I. If the semester GPA is greater than 2.0 but the cumulative GPA is still less than 2.0, the student will remain on Academic Warning. If the cumulative GPA is greater than a 2.0 at the end of the semester then the student is returned to regular status.

Summer Courses: A student may use summer classes to try to get warning or probationary status removed. Under no circumstances may a student on Academic Warning or Academic Probation be allowed to register for an overload.

Academic Warning status is continued if the student withdraws from the university.

Academic Probation: There are two stages in Academic Probation. A student is placed on Academic Probation I when a student under Academic Warning has a semester GPA less than 2.0, and the cumulative GPA remains below 2.0 at the conclusion of the semester. Or, if the student maintains a semester GPA greater than 2.0 while on Academic Probation I but the cumulative GPA is still less than 2.0

Under Academic Probation I the following conditions apply:

1. The student cannot enroll in more than 13 hours of course work during the semester. Note: Students that fall below 12 credits in any one semester will jeopardize their financial aid. Should this occur, students should see their academic advisor or the CAO as soon as possible to try to implement corrective measures.

2. The student will enter into a contract or individualized education plan with the student’s advisor and approved by the CAO that places further stipulations on Academic Probation 1. The CAO may place the student on Academic Probation II or Academic Suspension should the student not adhere to the stipulations of the contract.

3. Students on Academic Probation receiving educational benefits from the Veterans’ Administration must obtain counseling from the Office of Veterans’ Programs.

The student must maintain a semester GPA equal to or greater than 2.0 until such time that the cumulative GPA is greater than 2.0 at which time the student goes back to regular status. Until the latter happens the student remains on Academic Probation I. The student will be placed on Academic Probation II if unable to maintain a 2.0 semester GPA, and the cumulative remains below a 2.0 GPA, while under Academic Probation I.

Academic Probation II: Issued when a student falls below a semester 2.0 GPA, and the cumulative remains below a 2.0 GPA, while on Academic Probation I. Or, if the student maintains a semester GPA greater than 2.0 while on Academic Probation II but the cumulative GPA is still less than 2.0.

1. The student cannot enroll in more than 7 hours of coursework during the semester.

2. As with rule 2 under Academic Warning and Academic Probation I and at the discretion of the CAO, the student will be required to enter into a contract with the student’s advisor, and approved by the CAO, to place further stipulations on Academic Probation II.

The CAO may place the student on Academic Suspension should the student not adhere to the stipulations of the contract.

The student must maintain a semester 2.0 GPA or higher until the cumulative GPA reaches a 2.0 or higher at which time the student is placed on regular status. A student unable to maintain a semester GPA of 2.0 or higher, and the cumulative remains below 2.0 GPA, while under Probation II will be placed on Suspension.

Transfer Students: Students (admitted under special provisions) whose transcripts indicate less than a 2.0 GPA are admitted on Academic Probation I.

Continuing in Probationary Status: Students may continue to enroll while on Academic Probation I or II provided they maintain a semester GPA of 2.0 or higher. They are continued on that same level of Academic Probation if they withdraw from the university while on Academic Probation.

Removal of Academic Probation: Such academic standing is removed when the cumulative GPA is raised to 2.0 or higher, with the following exceptions: (1) a transfer student may not remove probation by summer class work alone; (2) if an I grade is removed after the student has enrolled, the new grade’s effect on academic standing is based on its inclusion with grades for the term for which the student is enrolled; and (3) exercise of the Adjusted Credit Option does not change academic status until subsequent grades are earned.

Academic Suspension: When a student does not achieve a semester 2.0 GPA or higher, and the cumulative remains below a 2.0 while under Academic Probation II, the student is placed on Academic Suspension. Students under Academic Suspension must sit out a minimum of one (1) semester and then petition the Provost or CAO to be removed from Academic Suspension. At this time the suspension status will be evaluated for possible removal. Should the suspension be lifted, the student is placed on Academic Probation II until such time that the cumulative GPA equals or exceeds a 2.0. At the discretion of the Provost or CAO, the student will enter into a contract approve by the Provost or CAO and the students academic advisor setting stipulations to have the suspension removed. Failure to adhere to the contract wi