The mission of the Student Success Team is to engage and maximize each student’s academic experience through a holistic and connected support system. Each incoming student is paired with their own personalized Student Success Team. This team of experts includes: a University Advisor, a Faculty Mentor, a First Year Mentor, and a Financial Aid Counselor.
The University Advisor, also designated the School and Program Specialist, provides information on degree requirements, and connects students with various supports to help position themselves for success.
The Faculty Mentor is a faculty member from the major’s department and provides academic and career guidance specific to the student’s major. They may offer insight into major electives, internships, research opportunities, and more.
The First Year Mentor is the faculty that teaches the student’s First Year Experience course. They provide support in the classroom setting to ensure a smooth transition into the college environment.
The Financial Aid Counselor provides information, guidance, and support regarding student financial accounts, scholarships, grants, loans, and more.
Together, these skilled professionals collaborate to create an enriching and seamless student experience, laying a strong foundation for their academic pursuits. This innovative initiative has revolutionized the support and guidance offered to all students throughout their educational journey at Western.
Director: AnnMarie Puleo
University Advisors & School and Program Specialists: David Bryant, Cynthia Mena, Kelly Callaro, Joseph Gentile, Samantha Sciandra.
The University Advisement Center is in Old Main, 202, on the Midtown Campus, and is an integral part of the Division of Enrollment Management & Student Affairs
The University Advisement Center is an office where students are welcomed to ask questions, discuss concerns, and find resources they need to persist through meeting university and program requirements and making degree progress towards graduation.
All incoming students are assigned to a University Advisor based on their program or area of study. The University Advisement Center supports students in their academic journey by offering guidance on major requirements, assisting with course selection each semester, and providing information on university policies and procedures. The University Advisors work with students to discuss their academic and personal goals, support and collaborate with Faculty Mentors, encourage involvement with campus activities, and help students connect with academic support services such as tutoring and peer mentors.
The University Advisor does not replace the Faculty Mentor. Students are responsible for initiating contact with their assigned advisors early in each semester. Students can identify their University Advisor and Faculty Mentor in BannerWeb under Advisor & Registration information.
The University Advisement Center creates schedules for all incoming first-year students with care based on each program’s published Four-Year Plan. Schedules are composed of foundational courses, university and major program requirements, and General Education Exploration courses, meant to expose students to new disciplines of study. All First-Year students will view their schedule for the fall semester during New Student Orientation.
The University Advisement Center supports students from the Exploratory Studies/Undecided major. Students in the Exploratory Studies/ Undecided major work with their advisor to select courses that will expose them to different areas of study while still fulfilling degree requirements so that students stay on track for graduation. Students are encouraged to declare their formal major as soon as they feel comfortable, but ideally before they earn 60 credits.
Students are welcomed to create success plans if they find themselves wanting or needing extra support. These individualized plans are created in collaboration between the student and their University Advisor. Plans are voluntary but, may be required for students not making Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) or for students who are not in good academic standing, per their school Dean. Plans typically include bi-weekly meetings with their University Advisor, referral to departments for services, connections to academic support offices, and personal assessments for career or program counseling.
For more information about the University Advisement Center, visit https://www.wcsu.edu/advising/
Faculty/Staff
A complete list of the Athletics Department administration and coaches with contact information can be found on the WestConn website at Athletics Staff Directory
Intercollegiate Athletics
Western Connecticut State University offers a variety of opportunities for the student-athlete to excel at the regional and national levels of competition. The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics operates within the guidelines of the University’s mission and the NCAA Division III philosophy. We are devoted to providing the best possible resources and education to all students along with the faculty and staff for a successful co-curricular and wellness experience. Our programs are built on integrity, sportsmanship and the true spirit of competition. It is our goal to instill the following core values:
• Provide a total education experience to the student body and University community
• Promote the values of responsibility, accountability, commitment, discipline and awareness, preparing students’ success in future endeavors
• Encourage the discovery of passion for the sport
• Embrace and celebrate individual differences and commonalities
• Create traditions that instill pride in Western Connecticut State University, leading to a life-long connection
• Impact individual and cultivate relationships through community service and partnerships
Sporting events are scheduled throughout the academic year and opportunities are provided for male and female teams.
Men:
Fall — Soccer, Football, Cross Country, Golf
Winter — Basketball, Ice Hockey (Club 2024; NCAA 2025), Indoor Track and Field
Spring — Tennis, Baseball, Lacrosse, Outdoor Track and Field
Women:
Fall — Volleyball, Tennis, Soccer, Field Hockey, Cross Country, Golf
Winter — Basketball, Ice Hockey (Club 2024 and 2025; NCAA 2026), Indoor Track and Field
Spring — Softball, Lacrosse, Outdoor Track and Field
This year, WestConn’s 21 programs will belong to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III. The football program is a member of the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Association (MASCAC). There are 19 athletic programs that are members of the Little East Conference (LEC), while women’s golf plays independently. WestConn Athletics has individual sport pages as well as departmental pages on all social media sites.
Eligibility to Participate in Varsity Athletics
Eligibility is determined in accordance with policies established by the NCAA, including requirements for satisfactory progress and good academic standing. These can be found in our Student Athlete handbook on our website.
The Career Success Center programs are vital to all students from Freshman to Seniors and beyond. The extensive range of services to guide and assist WCSU students and alumni through important personal and professional processes that guide students through their ultimate destination: happiness in a great position at graduation. Offerings include: personal assessment and support toward major selection; vital career information, research and guidance; three extremely popular Career Education (CED) classes, to include Designing Your Life ©; applied learning, internships and a wide-variety of other experiential opportunities; job search research, preparation and execution; personal branding development; networking and professional connections; to include Linkedin preparation: free professional clothing from regional donations; and a variety of professional skill development techniques.
Students and alumni can take advantage of Career Success Center offerings through daily walk-in services during the Fall and Spring semesters and live and remote venues, including 24/7 available resources via web portals with connections to many career-discovery platforms. In-person and cloud-based tools are available, as are professional connections via Career Communities. These unique information hubs to help students explore possibilities, find experiential opportunities, gain career-ready skills and activate your future through targeted resources and job opportunities.
Designing Your Life and other Career Education classes, workshops and on-demand presentations are offered in the new Life Design Laboratory located next to the Career Success Center offices. Specialized co-exploration sessions are conveniently available to all students and alumni on a drop-in basis and through the campus-rotating “Level-up Your Career” booth with Student Career Peer Leaders (CPL) during the academic year. One-on-one coaching with a Career Expert is available by appointment and booked through website directions.
Students seeking experience in a variety of areas can apply for the Career Success Center’s Career Education Internship Program, course ED 297 which provides pre-professional experience linked to a career interest. In addition to experience, participating students receive academic credit and, in most instances, a competitive hourly salary.
Specialized career-support activities include personalized resume, curriculum vitae, job search and interviewing and grad school discernment; live and virtual career fairs/career exploration events; alumni and employer meet-ups; senior on/off campus recruiting; specialized workshops on networking, etiquette, dress for success, personal branding techniques, successful use of LinkedIn, and many more!
The Career Success Center and Life Design Lab are located on the third floor of the Westside Campus Center in Suite 300 and are open year-round. It is one of the few Centers that provides lifetime use of its services.
Additional and more extensive information is available on the Career Success website, by calling the office at (203) 837-8263, or by emailing careersuccess@wcsu.edu.
International Services Office
Midtown Student Center, Room 207
(203) 837-3270
wcsu.edu/international
International students or individuals with questions about study abroad should contact the International Services Coordinator in the Midtown Student Center 207. The International Services Coordinator assists students in obtaining and maintaining F-1 non-immigrant student status. The office also helps students with questions about study abroad through the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP), which offers semester or year-abroad programs in 50 different countries.
For matters relating to F-1 student visas or study abroad, please call the International Services Coordinator at (203) 837-3270.
Academic Support
Academic support centers at Western are professionally staffed, independent facilities that provide free tutoring for students who want help in specific subjects or who want to improve their study skills. For more information on what each center offers, please visit us at https://www.wcsu.edu/academic-support/.
The Tutoring Resource Center (Haas Library, 2nd floor) is managed by Haas Library and provides the following services free of charge:
The Math Clinic (https://www.wcsu.edu/math/math-clinic/) 323 White Hall Higgins Hall 108; Managed by the Mathematics Department, Director: Dr. Stavros Christofi, (203) 837-9351, christofis@wcsu.edu), provides tutoring on a walk-in basis for students taking math courses at WCSU. Tutoring is done in a friendly and non-threatening manner. Tutors help students with class material, the use of graphing calculators and mathematical software, homework assignments and preparation for quizzes or exams. Tutors will not help with take-home exams and other forms of assessments that must be completed by the individual student. Computers with access to ALEKS, MyMathLab, Matlab, Mathematica, Geometer’s Sketchpad, Minitab and other mathematical software are available for student use. The clinic also houses some mathematics textbooks for student perusal. Tutoring is provided on a first-come/first-served basis. On the second week of classes, a detailed schedule is made available that lists the hours the tutors work and what they are willing and able to tutor. Eg: https://www.wcsu.edu/math/math-clinic-schedule/
(323 White Hall; managed by the Mathematics Department), provides tutoring on a walk-in basis for students taking math courses at WCSU. Tutoring is done in a friendly and non-threatening manner. Tutors help students with class material, the use of graphing calculators and mathematical software, homework assignments and preparation for quizzes or exams. Tutors will not help with take-home exams and other forms of assessments that must be completed by the individual student. Computers with access to ALEKS, MyMathLab, Matlab, Mathematica, Maple, Geometer’s Sketchpad, Minitab and other mathematical software are available for student use. The clinic also houses some mathematics textbooks for student perusal. Tutoring is provided on a first-come/first-served basis; appointments cannot be made. On the second week of classes, a detailed schedule is made available that lists the hours the tutors work and what they are willing and able to tutor. Eg: https://www.wcsu.edu/math/math-clinic-schedule/
The Writing Center (Haas Library, room 302) offers free, one-to-one writing consultations for all currently enrolled Western students. We help with writing from any course at all stages of the writing process: understanding assignments, developing ideas, outlining and organization, developing a thesis and argument, incorporating source material, documenting and citing in various styles (MLA, APA, Chicago, and others), as well as grammar and punctuation. The Center is directed and coordinated by a professor in the Department of Writing, Linguistics, and Creative Process and staffed by graduate and advanced undergraduate student consultants from a variety of majors. These advanced writers receive ongoing education and professional development in the theory and practice of tutoring writing. The Writing Center is open 6 days a week, with hours varying by semester. We encourage appointments via our website: wcsu.edu/writingcenter. Drop-ins are also welcome.
The Ancell Commons offers FREE individual tutoring available to all students enrolled in Business and Justice and Law courses and Economics 211 and 213. Additionally, we offer presentation coaching to help polish and perfect your public speaking skills. We have a carefully curated website with valuable information for students on maximizing your education investment, getting started as a transfer student and how to study effectively, among other topics that will help you navigate and enjoy your time at WCSU. The Ancell Pride blog will help you get connected to events, clubs and resources that will add value to your WCSU experience and education.
We strive to deliver a positive and personalized experience for all students. All tutors undergo thorough and rigorous training in our CRLA certified training program in order to provide you with tutoring that is productive and helpful. Our goal is to establish good rapport with students so that they feel comfortable and are able to get the most out of their tutoring experience.
Head to The Ancell Commons tutoring website today to see our tutoring schedule and to make an appointment. Also, be sure to come visit us to get connected to events, clubs and resources that will help you optimize and enhance your time at WCSU.
Students at Western have access to two university libraries – the Ruth A. Haas Library on the Midtown campus and the Robert S. Young Library on Westside– that provide access to information resources designed to meet all curricular and research needs, including books, ebooks, journals (mostly online), newspapers, databases, video, and sound recordings. In addition to the research resources, the libraries offer study space for individuals and groups. Professional librarians are available in both libraries to assist students in finding and obtaining appropriate materials for any topic or project.
The Haas Library also houses Einstein Bagels and the Midtown Computer Center (MTCC) computer lab (first floor) and is home to the Tutoring Resource Center where students can get one-on-one tutoring in specific course as well as the Writing Center where students can get assistance with any writing project.
The Young Library (located on the fourth floor of the Westside Classroom Building) houses and cooperates with the Ancell Commons, a service and space dedicated to student achievement and success.
For more information, visit the library website: library.wcsu.edu.
Information Technology Services
Our mission is to provide reliable, innovative, and sustainable technology to support teaching, learning and collaboration. Our service areas include:
Information Technology & Innovation (IT&I) supports four staffed computer labs, two 24-hour computer labs, and technology classrooms on both of Western’s campuses. These facilities support a variety of software packages including Microsoft Office, Visual Studio, Visio, SharePoint Designer and Adobe programs. These facilities also support specialized software on various machines and are equipped with both black and white and color laser printers and scanners. Students can purchase print credits through the Get app and use their WCSU ID to print in the Computer Labs. These facilities are staffed with student Computer Center Assistants to provide help if needed. Students who need extensive support and training should visit the Student Technology Training Center. To learn more about accounts, visit https://support.wcsu.edu/ and select “Accounts”
Amy Shanks, Assistant Director
Phone: (203) 837-8609
The recreation department at WestConn is dedicated to providing the campus community with a multitude of recreational activities to encourage physical fitness and promote a positive well-being. All students are invited to engage in one of the many recreation, fitness and club sports activities taking place on campus. There are fitness facilities and studios available on both the Midtown and Westside campuses. For up-to-date information, please follow us on Instagram, WestConnREC.
Intramurals
Team and individual events are offered for women, men and coed divisions, and the programs are open to all current WestConn students, faculty and staff. For a current listing of intramural leagues and seasons, please visit one of our information desks.
Club Sports
The club sports program provides opportunity for individuals who share a common interest in a recreational sport to improve their skill level and overall knowledge of the sport or activity. Club sports can be organized on either a recreational or a competitive level. Instructional activities range from informal play to regular practices in preparation for intercollegiate and tournament competition. Many clubs compete with other schools and are a part of a collegiate league of play. Examples of current active club sports include dance team, cheerleading, ice hockey, ultimate Frisbee, power lifting and both men’s and women’s rugby.
John A. Murphy, Director (203) 837-8343
Mark Gegeny, Associate Director (203) 837-8211
Both the Campus & Student Centers are your “home away from home.” You will find dining locations, lounges, university box office, a theater, conference and meeting rooms.
Additionally, the Midtown Student Center (SC) houses the Colonial Corner containing the MicroMart ( snack bar), commuter lounge and event space, bookstore, game room, Counseling Center, the Intercultural Affairs Office, Judicial Affairs, Mail Services, the Center for Student Involvement (CSI), and the Substance Abuse Prevention office. The Student Government Association, student newspaper, radio station, Program Activities Council, Greek Council and Student Veterans Association are also located in this building.
The Westside Campus Center (CC) additionally houses the Campus & Student Centers Administrative Offices and Career Success Center, the testing center, as well as a computer lab. The Daily Grind, our late-night dining and entertainment venue, features Starbucks coffee, Tazo teas, Island Oasis, Pepsi products, pastries and snacks all served in a beautiful lounge setting fully equipped with wireless internet.
Student Center, (203) 837-8464
Our bookstore has everything from required textbooks and ebooks to rent or purchase (don’t forget to bring your schedule), to snacks, sweatshirts, school supplies and souvenirs. For more information go to www.bkstr.com/wcsustor
Campus Dining Services provide a wide variety of services to all students, faculty, and staff including meal plans, catering and on-campus dining. Please call (203) 837-8764 for all of your on-campus or off-campus foodservice needs or check out the website at
The shuttle operates seven days a week during the fall and spring semesters, excluding some holidays. For the most current shuttle schedule and holiday schedule, visit the website indicated above. When classes are cancelled for an entire day due to inclement weather, the shuttle does not operate. If classes are delayed, the shuttle will begin one hour before classes begin. If classes are cancelled, the shuttle will operate for one hour after classes are cancelled.
The Student Technology Training Center (STTC) is located on the Midtown campus in the Student Center, Room 225. This facility provides students with a comfortable environment in which to learn technology. The primary goal of the STTC is to improve student life outside the classroom by creating and maintaining an environment in which all students can empower themselves with a practical understanding of current technology. This facility provides tutorials, hardware and software, workshops, and individualized attention.
Students who visit the STTC can learn about Microsoft Office and Adobe products. The facility provides both PC’s and Macs. To learn more, visit http://www.wcsu.edu/iti/computers/
To report problems, or if you have questions, please call the Information Technology & Innovation Service Desk at (203) 837-8467, email requestit@wcsu.edu or log into our Service Desk Portal at wcsu.samanage.com to report an issue. Also, visit our Knowledge Base at support.wcsu.edu.
Midtown and Westside 24-Hour Labs
The Midtown Computer Center, Haas Library, is open to students 24/7. At Westside, the 24-hour lab is in the Westside Classroom Building, 247c. To gain access to these labs, students must swipe their university ID card through the facility’s card reader. The 24-Hour Labs are not staffed but are monitored and maintained regularly. It is the responsibility of each student to use these facilities in accordance with CSCU and WCSU’s computer policies. These facilities have the same software as the staffed computer centers.
Staffed Computer Labs
Staffed Computer Labs are in the Student Center, 226, the Haas Library, first floor, and the Westside Classroom Building, 117. The iLab is in the WS Campus Center, 125 and includes computers, meeting rooms, VR technology, and six XBox stations for students to enjoy. To learn more, visit http://www.wcsu.edu/technology/ and select “Computer Centers” under WestConn IT Essentials.
Student Accounts/Resources: All Western students are eligible for the following accounts:
WCSU User Account – Students who wish to use any of the computer facilities at WCSU (Computer Centers, technology classrooms, 24-Hour Labs, etc.) or access the wireless network must obtain a WCSU User Account. Accounts are automatically created when students are either 1) accepted into a degree program by Admissions, or 2) registered for a class. An informational message containing instructions for setting up a password is sent to the student’s personal email address given when applying through Admissions or first registering in person through the Registrar’s office. To learn more about accounts, visit https://support.wcsu.edu/ and select “Accounts”.
WestConnduit – WestConnduit is Western’s campus portal. It brings together campus announcements, upcoming events, social media and access to essential resources like Blackboard Learn (course management system) and Banner Web (see your grades, course schedules, financial aid information, register for classes and make payments).
To get to WestConnduit, visit http://conduit.wcsu.edu/
Office365 Account – The Connecticut State Colleges and Universities System (Western, Eastern, Southern and Central) email policy states that university email will be considered an official means for communication. All students will be issued a university email for university business through Microsoft’s Office 365 suite of online services. In addition to email, Office 365 gives you access to online storage, collaboration tools and Office Web Apps.
Students can get free copies of the latest Microsoft Office suite on WCSU’s Office365 portal. For more information, visit https://support.wcsu.edu and select “Software.”
myWCSU – Western has a mobile app for quick, on-the-go access to important information and services including news, announcements, email, phone numbers and more. Visit your mobile device’s app store and search for ‘myWCSU’ to download. myWCSU is accessible anytime, anywhere.
Western is Wireless
Western is 100 percent wireless, including residence halls and wireless printing. To use the wireless network, your laptop or other mobile device must be equipped with a wireless network adapter. To use the Western wireless network and wireless printing, you must have a WCSU User Account. We recommend registering your device(s) to get the most out of our wireless network.
To learn more about the wireless network and wireless printing, please visit https://support.wcsu.edu and select “Internet and WiFI.”
E-Learning at Western – Blackboard Learn is a course-management system that enables efficient delivery of online education and supplements on-ground and hybrid learning. Students may access their Blackboard courses by clicking on the Essentials tab on the homepage and then selecting Blackboard.
Technology Classrooms
We are proud to say that all Western classrooms are equipped with technology, offering an ideal, hands-on learning environment for both students and instructors.
Information Technology Policies –Learn about Western’s information technology policies at https://www.wcsu.edu/iti/policies/
Policies & Guidelines for Computer Use
As new policies become effective, they will be listed on this website.
Oni Figueroa, Testing Facilitator
Westside O’Neill Center 205
(203) 837-8877
academictesting@wcsu.edu
WCSU Testing Services offers College Level Examination Program (CLEP) on campus.
What is CLEP? The College-Level Examination Program® (CLEP) help you get college credit for what you already know, for a fraction of the cost of a college course. Whatever your reasoning for wanting to accelerate your path to a college degree, there is a CLEP test for you. WCSU administers all CLEP examinations; however, not every exam is accepted by the university for equivalency credit. Visit wcsu.edu/testing to learn about CLEP and how to register.
The WCSU Police Department is a 24-hour police department. The WCSU police officers can be found around campus either in cars, on foot or on bicycles, and their vehicles and uniforms are highly visible and easily recognizable. They enforce campus rules and regulations, and the laws of the State of Connecticut.
Academic Policies
Matriculated Student (Degree Seeking) – Someone who has been formally accepted by Western Connecticut State University to pursue a degree. Matriculated students may attend full-time or part-time.
Non-matriculated Student (Non-Degree Seeking) – Someone who is not enrolled as a degree seeking student at Western Connecticut State University. Registration is limited to less than 12 credit hours each semester.
Note: Students who have been academically suspended are no longer considered matriculated students but may enroll as a non-matriculated student
Course Load
A part-time student is an undergraduate student who is registered for less than 12 credits. Charges are assessed on a per-credit basis.
NOTE: Part-time matriculated undergraduate students must register for at least one class each academic semester in order to maintain their enrollment status.
A full-time student is an undergraduate student who registers for at least 12 credits in a given semester. The normal course load for a full-time student is 15 credits. Full-time students may take a maximum of *17.5 credits per semester. Music and Theatre majors as well as students in the Kathwari Honors Program may carry up to 21 credits per semester without additional tuition. Education majors enrolled in their professional seminar may carry up to 19 credits per semester.
NOTE: Any course load above the maximum requires approval of the school Dean. *Full-time students will be charged the per credit hour fee for every credit over 18 credits. The excess credit fee is non-refundable.
Matriculated students who do not register and do not complete a formal leave of absence or withdraw from the university will be administratively withdrawn and must reapply through the Admissions Office.
A student’s class standing is determined by the number of credits the student has successfully completed.
1st Semester – fewer than 15 credits
5th Semester – 60 to 74.5 credits
3rd Semester – 30 to 44.5 credits
7th Semester – 90 to 104.5 credits
Students enrolled at the university register for courses in advance of the fall and spring semesters, winter intersession and summer sessions, on a schedule announced by the Registrar.
Prior to any registration activity, students meet with their designated academic adviser or appropriate advising center personnel, to plan a course of study. Students must meet the prerequisites for courses and, when necessary, obtain specific permission from the Department chair for the course to enroll. Students may register for courses using their Banner Web account at bannerweb.wcsu.edu visit the Registrar’s Office located in Old Main Room 104, mail in, fax in, or complete the online registration form.
For additional details, go to www.wcsu.edu and click the Course Registration link in the right-hand directory. Or call the Registrar’s Office at (203) 837-9200.
Add/Drop
The add/drop period is held during the first six business days of every fall and spring semester. Students can make adjustments to their schedule during this time as necessary.
To add courses, you must complete your request before the end of the 6th business day of the semester. Any requests later than the first week of classes will require the approval of the instructor and department chairperson. Added courses that result in an overload (more than 17.5 credits) also need the approval of the dean.
You may drop a course during the first six business days of the semester. For courses held during one to eight week terms, you may drop the course prior to the second class meeting time. Dropped courses do not appear on your academic transcript. If dropping a course results in a student’s credit load falling below full-time status (12 credits), the student will be considered part-time and will be subject to changes in housing, financial aid and NCAA eligibility.
Note: The dean of the school reserves the right to make changes in personnel and to cancel, if necessary, any course offered (including Student-Developed Study). The dean also reserves the right to limit class size and to refuse registration when limits have been reached.
Auditing a Course
Students may audit any course with permission of the instructor. Auditors are subject to those conditions established by the instructor. You must obtain approval to audit within the first four weeks for full-semester courses or within the first two weeks for courses scheduled less than a full semester. Audited courses carry no credit. Audit forms, obtained at the Registrar’s Office, must be signed and completed within the time period stated for the audit grade to be assigned.
Withdrawal from Courses
Students may withdraw from a full-semester course until the end of the 12th week of the semester. Course withdrawals are recorded on a student’s transcript with a “W.” There is no academic penalty attached to this withdrawal (i.e., failure). The withdrawal deadline for courses that are eight weeks in length is the end of the 5th week. The withdrawal deadline for courses that are five weeks in length is the last day of the 3rd week. The withdrawal deadline for courses that are three weeks in length is the last day of the 2nd week. Specific course withdrawal deadlines are posted in the Academic Calendar. Students wishing to initiate a course withdrawal after the stated deadline must obtain the instructor’s written approval.
Withdrawals forms must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office. The Registrar’s Office will not accept withdrawals during finals week.
A course withdrawal may affect the attainment of satisfactory progress as defined by financial aid, Veteran’s benefits, scholarship eligibility, athletic eligibility, housing, and other policies. Students who are reported as stopped attending a course will receive a “W” for the course. Should a student be reported as stopped attending in all their courses, they will be administratively withdrawn from the university.
Part-time students pay tuition for each credit for which they are registered. If they drop/withdraw from a course within the refund deadlines, they will receive the appropriate refund as indicated on the Academic Calendar. Full-time students are eligible for a refund only if they withdraw from university. The refund deadlines are posted in the Academic Calendar.
NOTE: You must officially withdraw from a course to avoid receiving a failing grade. If you just stop attending the class without following the necessary withdrawal procedure, you may be given a failing grade.
Undergraduate Repeat Policy
Students are permitted to repeat most courses at Western; however, credit is granted only once toward graduation unless specifically noted in the course description (e.g., ENG 376). For up to the first seventeen (17) academic credits of repeated courses, the highest grade attained by the student will be substituted for the lower grade(s) for the purpose of calculating the student’s grade point average (GPA). Although the lower grade received in the repeated course will not be calculated in the GPA, it will remain visible on the student’s official university transcript. If a student repeats courses beyond the seventeen (17) academic credit limitation, the multiple grades attained for the repeated course(s) shall be used in the calculation of the student’s GPA. This policy applies to undergraduate courses completed at WCSU only, and may be applied only to courses taken after Fall 2008.
Repeating any course taken in a previous semester may affect certain federal and state benefits, various financial aid programs, loans, scholarships and social security benefits and veteran’s benefits. Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements must be met for continued financial aid eligibility. See the Office of Financial Aid and Student Employment section of the catalog for the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy.
Any course designated as X98 (Faculty-Developed Study) or X99 (Student Independent Study) is excluded from this policy. Special Topics classes are also excluded. Students are encouraged to consult with their academic adviser before repeating a course. Education majors and post-baccalaureate certification students should refer to the Education Department for information regarding the repeating of courses as this policy may affect eligibility for certification.
Taking a Course at Another Institution
Continuing matriculated undergraduate students have the option to take a course at another institution and transfer the credits to Western Connecticut State University. The course will appear as transfer credit with a grade of “T” on your WCSU transcript. This action will not affect your WCSU GPA. Courses that are transferred are not eligible to use for the “Course Repeat Policy” at WCSU.
In order for transfer credit to be posted students need:
1. Permission to take a course at another institution BEFORE the course is taken. The permission ensures that the credit will be transferable back to WCSU.
2. A minimum grade of “C-” must be earned for the course to be eligible for transfer credit. NOTE: Certain degree programs have specific grade requirements for courses that are higher than a “C-”. Therefore this earned minimum grade would not allow the course to be transferred. Refer to your degree program for details.
3. To request the visiting institution send an official transcript to the Registrar’s Office immediately after the course is completed.
Transfer credit cannot be posted to your academic record at WCSU until the official transcript is received. The official transcript should be mailed to the following address:
Western Connecticut State University
Registrar’s Office, Old Main 102
181 White Street
Danbury, Connecticut 06810
Pre-Approved Courses:
1. If the school and course is listed on the database as an approved equivalent course, no further action is required.
2. To determine WCSU course equivalencies, visit our database of local schools and WCSU transfer course equivalencies.
3. Students will not receive duplicate credit for a course in which they have already earned credit.
Courses Not In Transfer Equivalency Database:
If the course is not listed on the database as an approved equivalent course, then you must complete the following steps:
The official transcript should be mailed to the following address:
Western Connecticut State University
Registrar’s Office, Old Main 102
181 White Street
Danbury, Connecticut 06810
Withdrawal or Leave of Absence from the University Full-time and part-time matriculated students who find it necessary to withdraw from the university and does not intend to return should follow the formal withdrawal procedure with the Registrar’s Office. Students who must withdraw from the University but intend to return within one year (i.e., two academic semesters) should apply for a Leave of Absence.
A student who wants to withdraw from the university should consult with a representative in the Registrar’s Office to discuss the withdrawal. Students who are withdrawing are advised that:
A Leave of Absence is designed for students who plan to withdraw for a period of no more than one year (i.e., two academic semesters). Students interested in applying for a Leave of Absence must complete the forms with the Registrar’s Office. Students who are applying for a Leave of Absence are advised that:
Failure to Register
Matriculated students who do not enroll in fall or spring and who do not apply for a Leave of Absence will be withdrawn for failure to register and must reapply through the Admissions Office.
Grades, Honors and Good StandingAttendance Policy
Western Connecticut State University is a non-attendance taking institution but is required under federal law to report when a student has stopped attending classes. Faculty will report when a student has either never attended a class or when a student has stopped attending a class.
Students must be aware that failure to attend class may result in being dropped for non-attendance and this may impact their student financial aid. Students who stop attending class and do not notify the Registrar’s Office will be responsible for 100% of the tuition.
If a student has either dropped or withdrawn from all their courses, they will be considered withdrawn from the institution and may be required to apply for readmission.
Minimum Student Preparation HoursThe university expects all students to devote a minimum of two hours of preparation for each hour of class time.
Standard Grading SystemThe following grades and associated numerical values are used on academic records:
| A | 4.0 | C | 2.0 |
| A- | 3.67 | C- | 1.67 |
| B+ | 3.33 | D+ | 1.33 |
| B | 3.0 | D | 1.0 |
| B- | 2.67 | D- | .67 |
| C+ | 2.33 | F | 0.00 |
| P | Pass on Pass/Fail Option |
| FP | Fail on Pass/Fail Option |
| AUD | Audit |
| INC | Incomplete |
| W | Officially Withdrawn |
| RM or RP | These grades are given in specified courses to permit you to improve competence without academic penalty. Required courses in which a student receives an RP must be repeated. The RM grade requires a student to work with the instructor to correct specified weaknesses until a level of competence of “C” or better has been attained. |
Quality Points (Grade Point Average)In order to determine a student’s grade-point average (GPA), letter grades are assigned numerical values. The numerical weight assigned to each grade is then multiplied by the number of credits (semester hours) assigned to each course. For example, a grade of “B” in a three-credit course would merit nine (3.0 x 3 = 9.0) quality points.
Your GPA is determined by dividing the total number of quality points by the number of credits attempted. Grades of INC, P, W, AUD, RP and RM carry no quality points, and the credits for courses with those grades are not considered in the total credits attempted; therefore, they have no effect on your GPA.
Courses that are transferred to Western from another institution are not included in the determination of your GPA.
If you fail a course and then repeat it, both grades will appear on your permanent record and both the “F” and the highest grade will be used in determining your cumulative GPA. Refer to the Repeat policy in this catalog if you plan on repeating a course that you failed.
IncompletesTo receive an incomplete (“INC”) grade in a class, students must formally request it from the instructor in writing. Once approved by the instructor, the incomplete grade denoted as “INC”, will be assigned by the instructor during the final grading period. Incomplete grades must be resolved within six weeks of the next major term (fall or spring). If the incomplete grade is not replaced with a grade within the designated timeframe, it will automatically convert to a grade of “F” or the minimum passing grade as determined by the instructor. Incomplete grades may not be removed by repeating a course. Students will be ineligible for the Dean’s List if they have an incomplete grade at the time the Dean’s List is generated. During their graduating semester, students must coordinate with their degree auditor regarding the timeline for resolving the incomplete grade.
When a student opts for an incomplete, it signifies their commitment to completing the coursework and earning a final grade. Therefore, a “W” grade (withdrawal) cannot serve as a resolution for an incomplete. A “W” denotes a course registration status and cannot be applied to a student’s academic record once the withdrawal period for a specific term has passed.
Pass/Fail OptionYou may take general elective courses on a pass/fail basis. The purpose of this option is to encourage students to take courses in areas they would like to investigate in addition to those in which they are majoring or concentrating. A maximum of four general elective courses may be taken as pass/fail grades, provided that:
Credits taken on a pass/fail basis do not generate quality points and are not included with credits attempted on the standard basis in computing the academic average. Successfully completed pass/fail credits are included in the credits necessary for graduation unless the description of the particular course indicates otherwise. Information regarding changes of grade or pass/fail options can be obtained from the Registrar’s Office.
Grade ReportsYou can access your grades by logging onto WestConnduit.wcsu.edu. If necessary you may request an unofficial transcript at the Registrar’s Office.
Transcript PolicyA transcript is the complete, unabridged academic record, without deletions or omissions, compiled while a student attends Western Connecticut State University. Upon the granting of a degree or completion of a program, a student’s transcript is considered officially sealed, meaning no changes in grades or alteration in courses will be made unless that student believes that the information in his or her transcript is inaccurate, misleading or in violation of his or her rights of privacy. It is a student’s responsibility to review and confirm the accuracy of his or her academic record. Current students may view their transcript online at any time to verify its content. It is recommended that degree recipients confirm the accuracy of all grades, honors, terms and cumulative GPA notations at the time final grades are posted to their academic record upon graduation.
The university prepares and issues two categories of transcripts: An official transcript presents a listing of courses for which the student enrolled and the grade for each course with the original signature of an authorized official, and bears the legal seal of the university. An official transcript can be to another institution or agency. Students may request a transcript for their personal use. This transcript is stamped “ISSUED TO STUDENT.”
Note: Transcripts will not be issued if you have any outstanding fees (e.g., parking tickets, library late fees).
Dean’s List
Full-time Undergraduate StudentsDean’s List recognition for full-time matriculated students is awarded at the end of each fifteen-week semester. To be eligible, students must have earned a minimum of 12 graded semester hour credits with a minimum 3.5 semester average. Students are ineligible for the Dean’s list if they have either: been issued “incomplete” grades at the time the Dean’s List was produced or were enrolled in pass/fail courses during the grading period, reducing the student’s gradable course load below 12 credits.
Part-time Undergraduate StudentsDean’s List recognition is awarded to Part-time matriculated undergraduate students at the end of the Spring semester. To be eligible, students must have been part time during both the fall and spring semesters and successfully completed a minimum of 12 graded semester hours within that academic year (fall and spring semesters) with a minimum grade point average for the year of 3.5. Students are ineligible for the Dean’s list if they have either: been issued “incomplete” grades at the time the Dean’s List was produced or were enrolled in pass/fail courses during the grading period, reducing the student’s gradable course load below 12 credits.
Graduation HonorsTo be eligible for graduation honors, you must earn a minimum of 30 semester hours of quality point-bearing credit at Western. No pass/fail credits or transfer credits are included in this minimum. Graduation honors standards are based on your cumulative grade point average and are awarded as follows:
| Summa Cum Laude | 3.9 to 4.0 |
| Magna Cum Laude | 3.7 to 3.89 |
| Cum Laude | 3.5 to 3.69 |
December graduates are identified after that term and May candidates are considered at the conclusion of the January intersession semester preceding graduation. Students who have earned a minimum of 30 credits toward their graduation requirements in residence at Western Connecticut State University with a cumulative earned GPA of at least 3.5 are considered to be Graduation Honors candidates eligible for recognition at the May Commencement. Candidacy for May Graduation Honors does not guarantee the award of Graduation Honors upon completion of degree requirements.
Graduation honors, which appear on the transcript and on an honors certificate, will be awarded only to students who complete their graduation requirements with a minimum of 30 credits in residence at Western Connecticut State University and who have a cumulative earned grade point average of at least 3.5. The residency requirement for honors may not be waived. Students with questions regarding academic honors should consult the academic dean of their major.
Good Standing
In order to remain in good academic standing and be granted a diploma from the university, students must maintain a cumulative average of at least 2.0 (“C”). Professional curricula and some major programs have additional or higher academic standards, which the student must meet at specific intervals.
Academic Warning
Students shall be placed on Academic Warning the first fall or spring semester in which their cumulative GPA falls below 2.0.
Academic Probation
Students who are on Academic Warning and fail to raise their cumulative GPA to the minimum 2.0 in the following fall or spring semester shall be placed on Academic Probation. Students on Academic Probation shall be allowed to continue at the University but shall remain on probation provided their semester GPA is at least 2.3. Once the cumulative GPA reaches 2.0, the student shall be removed from Academic Probation and shall be returned to Good Standing. Students shall have three (3) semesters to raise their cumulative GPA to 2.0. If the cumulative GPA is below 2.0 after the third semester of probation, the student shall be academically suspended.
Academic Suspension
Students on Academic Probation shall be Academically Suspended in the fall or spring semester if (1) their semester GPA is below a 2.3 and cumulative GPA is below a 2.0, or (2) their cumulative GPA remains below 2.0 after the third semester of probation. Students who are academically suspended from Western Connecticut State University are no longer matriculated at the University.
Suspended students can appeal for reinstatement to regain matriculation status, they may do so during or subsequent to the semester in which they are non-matriculated. Reinstatement to the University does not guarantee acceptance or reacceptance to programs with GPA requirements higher than 2.0. All appeals shall be made to their Academic Dean. Once a student’s dismissal appeal has been granted, if a cumulative GPA 2.0 is not attained in the first semester back, the student will be dismissed. Students are ineligible to appeal if they are dismissed a second time.
Dismissed students may register part-time as non-matriculated students but must achieve a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher prior to attempting 30 credits as a non-matriculated student, to return to good standing and apply for readmission to their last program of study.
Veteran Student Benefits and Academic Standing
When a student using VA education benefits has been on probation for two consecutive semesters or has been suspended, the VA will be notified and benefit payments will be discontinued in accordance with the law. Benefits will only be reinstated when the student is in good academic standing at the institution.
Placement Examinations
Placement tests are given in specified subject areas to ensure that students are assigned to courses appropriate to their levels of knowledge and skill. Subject areas that require testing for placement include foreign languages, mathematics, physics and writing. Tests are administered by the Admissions Office or the academic department as noted in this catalog.
Final Examinations
No class meetings will be held during the final examination period at the end of the fall and spring semesters. Examination schedules are published online in advance at www.wcsu.edu. No student may be absent from a final examination except for a compelling, substantiated reason.
Make-up Examinations
Make-up examinations are given at the discretion of the instructor, but no later than six weeks after the start of the next semester in which the student is in attendance or within one year if the student is no longer enrolled at the university.
Examinations for Students with Disabilities
Students with disabilities who require special administration of an examination should contact the coordinator of AccessAbility Services at (203) 837-8946 in Higgins Annex 017 to discuss reasonable accommodations.
Grade Appeal Policy
When disagreements occur between student and instructor on the accuracy of a grade, the university regards it as important for the matter to be settled within a reasonable period of time. A specific procedure is in place that ensures students will get an impartial hearing of such a complaint.
Academic grading reflects careful and deliberate judgment by the course instructor. Academic evaluation of student performance requires expert consideration of cumulative information and is to some extent subjective.
The university recognizes that in rare instances there may be “palpable injustice(s)” in the determination of a final grade. Students may use the appeal process when they believe there is evidence to show that 1) a final grade was determined by methods and criteria different from those used for determining final grades for others in the same class or 2) the evaluation was made as the result of bias or caprice.
Student confers with instructor:
The student shall first confer with the instructor who awarded the grade no later than the end of the fourth week of the next regular semester. In the case of half-semester courses, students shall have the right to begin the appeal process at the conclusion of the course.
Written grievance to professor:
If no amicable settlement is reached, the student shall present the instructor with a WRITTEN copy of his/her grievance along with any supporting documentation, which shall be considered confidential. The instructor shall respond in writing to the student within five working days. (It is suggested that students prepare a packet of information for the instructor, the chair and the dean).
Ability to choose a mentor/adviser:
Students, if they wish, shall have the right to choose a mentor/adviser for the purpose of guiding them through the appeal process. Students shall have the right to present their case at each stage of the appeal process. At the student’s request, the mentor/adviser may accompany the student to meetings related to the appeal process as an observer.
Written grievance to department chair:
If not satisfied, the student, within five working days of receipt of the instructor’s response, may present the case in writing to the appropriate department chair who may effect a mutually agreed-upon settlement with the instructor. The department chair shall respond in writing to the student within five working days with a copy sent to the instructor.
Written grievance to academic dean:
If the student is not satisfied, the student may, within five working days of receipt of the department chair’s response, present the case in writing to the appropriate academic dean who may effect a mutually agreed-upon settlement with the instructor and department chairperson. The academic dean shall respond in writing to the student within 10 working days, with copies of the decision sent to the instructor and the department chair.
Written grievance submitted to university senate president by dean (for ad hoc committee):
If the student is not satisfied, the student may ask, within five working days of receiving the dean’s decision, that the dean contact the president of the University Senate to convene the Ad Hoc Committee on Grade Appeals. The dean shall forward the request to the senate president within five working days of receipt. The dean shall also notify the provost/academic vice president, in writing, that the senate is being asked to convene an ad hoc committee.
The Ad Hoc Committee on Grade Appeals shall be composed of three members of the instructional faculty in the ranks of tenured professors or tenured associate professors serving on the senate, selected in alphabetical order each time the committee is appointed.
The senate president shall appoint the ad hoc committee within five working days and shall notify the student and the instructor of that fact. The senate president shall not discuss the details of the case with the ad hoc committee. The ad hoc committee will convene within five working days. It is the responsibility of the student to present three copies of all material, including any additional material submitted later in the process and relevant to the case to the chair of the ad hoc committee.
Professor submits materials as requested by ad hoc committee:
The instructors shall submit such materials as requested by the committee and shall have the right to present their case at any stage of the appeal process. The committee shall consider the case and reach a decision within 15 working days of its convening by the senate president.
Committee decisions and next steps:
Denial:
Following its deliberations, the committee may deny the appeal, in which case the matter shall be closed.
If palpable injustice is found:
If the committee finds that the grading constituted a palpable injustice, as defined above, the case shall be remanded to the instructor for reconsideration. If the instructor disagrees with the finding of the committee, the instructor shall inform the committee and the student within five working days of that fact.
Student requests committee to recommend to provost:
If the student disagrees with the grade change as effected or with the refusal by the instructor following the remand, the student shall request within five working days that the committee make a recommendation to the provost/vice president for academic affairs.
If either the student or the instructor has disagreed, the committee shall then forward its recommendation for a grade to the provost/vice president for academic affairs, who will implement the recommendation of the committee within five working days.
Action of the provost is final and binding upon all parties:
The action of the provost/vice president for academic affairs shall be final and binding upon all parties and shall be communicated by the provost/vice president for academic affairs to the student and the instructor.
This is Western Connecticut State University’s policy on Academic Honesty.
2.1.1 Academic Honesty Code
A student has an obligation to demonstrate honesty in carrying out his/her academic assignments.
2.1.2 Faculty Responsibility
Faculty members are responsible for knowing the principles and procedures of the Academic Honesty Policy, and for enforcing the policy when academic honesty violations occur. Faculty members must also remind students of the Academic Honesty Policy and help them comply with it.
2.1.3 Student Responsibility
Students are responsible for maintaining the academic integrity of the university by following the Academic Honesty Policy. Students are responsible for doing their own work and avoiding all forms of academic dishonesty.
2.2 Academic Honesty Violation
The most common academic honesty violations are cheating and plagiarism. Cheating and plagiarism are complex issues, therefore we offer the following definitions.
Cheating includes, but is not limited to:
Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to:
2.3 Resolution of Academic Honesty Violations
A student involved in an academic honesty proceeding may continue to attend all classes until the matter is resolved.
2.3.1 Action Initiated by the Faculty Member
If a faculty member believes a student has committed an academic honesty violation, the faculty member should complete the Academic Honesty Report (Appendix A).
The faculty member will request a meeting with the student within five university calendar days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays) to attempt to resolve the incident. As a result of this meeting, if the faculty member determines that a violation has occurred, he or she should give the student a copy of two things: (a) this policy statement, and (b) the completed Academic Honesty Report (Appendix A).
The faculty member retains a copy of the Academic Honesty Report of this incident, and forwards a copy of the Academic Honesty Report to the faculty member’s department chair, school dean, associate vice president for academic affairs (if violation occurs in a graduate course) and dean of students. The faculty member may assign a penalty; see section 2.5 below.
If the faculty member is unable to contact the student, or if the student fails to meet with the faculty member, the faculty member may assign the penalty. If a penalty is assigned, the faculty member will send the student a copy of this policy statement and a completed Academic Honesty Report (Appendix A).
The faculty member will send these documents by registered mail to the student’s current mailing address on file with the university, and provide a copy to the faculty member’s department chair, school dean, associate vice president for academic affairs (if violation occurs in a graduate course) and dean of students. The final grade for the course will not be recorded in the Registrar’s Office until all of the student’s rights to appeal have been exhausted.
2.3.2 Appeal Procedures
If the student does not admit responsibility for the incident or does not accept the penalty proposed by the faculty member, the student may appeal first to the faculty member’s department chair, then to the dean of the faculty member’s school, and then to the Senate Ad Hoc Committee on Grade Appeals. If the student does not appeal, the decision of the faculty member stands and a copy of the Academic Honesty Report will be forwarded by the faculty member’s department chair, school dean, associate vice president for academic affairs (if violation occurs in a graduate course) and dean of students, where it will be filed for future reference.
2.3.2.1 Department Hearing
Within five university calendar days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays) of the faculty member’s notification to the student that a penalty has been assigned, the student may request a meeting with the faculty member and his/her department chair. This meeting should take place within five university calendar days of the student’s request
As a result of this meeting, the department chair will complete an Academic Honesty Report (Appendix A) and, with the consent of the faculty member, affirm, deny or modify the original penalty assigned by the faculty member. Within five university calendar days of the meeting, the department chair will forward copies of the completed Academic Honesty Report to the student, the faculty member, the school dean and the associate vice president for academic affairs (if violation occurs in a graduate course), and the dean of students. Copies of the report will be sent by registered mail (with return receipt) to his/her current mailing address on file with the university.
Within 10 university calendar days of the department chair’s decision, the student or the faculty member may appeal the department chair’s decision to the dean of the faculty member’s school. If the decision is not appealed, the department chair will send a copy of the Academic Honesty Report to the faculty member’s school dean, the associate vice president for academic affairs (if violation occurs in a graduate course) and to the Office of the Dean of Students, where it will be filed for future reference.
2.3.2.2 Dean’s Review
Within five university calendar days of the department chair’s notification to the student that a penalty has been assigned (within an academic long semester, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays), the student or the faculty member may submit a written appeal to the dean of the faculty member’s school. This written appeal should ask the dean to review the department chair’s decision and explain why the student or faculty member believes that the department chair’s decision was wrong.
Within 10 university calendar days from the time the written appeal is received in the dean’s office, the dean will determine if the department chair’s action should be upheld or overturned and will communicate his/her decision in writing to the student by registered mail, and inform the faculty member, the department chair, the graduate dean (if applicable) and the dean of students.
Within 10 university calendar days of the dean’s decision, the student or the faculty member may appeal the dean’s decision to the Senate Ad Hoc Committee on Grade Appeals. If the decision is not appealed, the dean will send a copy of the Academic Honesty Report along with the results of the dean’s review of the report to the student, the faculty member, the associate vice president for academic affairs (if violation occurs in a graduate course) and the Office of the Dean of Students, where it will be filed for future reference.
Students may still be subject to further disciplinary action by the university through the student code of conduct, administered by the dean of students (or his/her designee).
2.3.2.3 Senate Ad Hoc Committee on Grade Appeals
If the student or faculty member is not satisfied, he/she may ask, within five university calendar days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays) of receiving the school dean’s decision, that the school dean contact the president of the university senate to convene the Ad Hoc Committee on Grade Appeals. The school dean shall forward the request (along with all relevant materials) to the senate president within five university calendar days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays) of receipt. The dean also shall notify the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs, in writing, that the senate is being asked to convene an ad hoc committee.
The Ad Hoc Committee on Grade Appeals shall be composed of three members of the instructional faculty in the ranks of tenured professors or tenured associate professors presently serving on the senate, selected in alphabetical order each time the committee is appointed.
The senate president shall appoint the ad hoc committee within five university calendar days and shall notify the student and the faculty member of that fact. The senate president shall not discuss the details of the case with the ad hoc committee. The ad hoc committee will convene within five university calendar days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays).
The committee shall consider the case and reach a decision within 15 university calendar days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays) of its convening by the senate president. Following its deliberations, the committee may deny, affirm or modify the appeal. The committee shall then forward its recommendation to the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs, who will implement the recommendation of the committee within five university calendar days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays).
The action of the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs shall be final and binding upon all parties, and shall be communicated by the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs to the student and the faculty member (with copies to the department chair, school dean, associate vice president for academic affairs, if violation occurs in a graduate course, and dean of students).
2.4 Maintenance of Academic Honesty Reports
The Office of the Dean of Students will maintain a copy of each Academic Honesty Report filed on a student until that student’s graduation or permanent suspension of studies. Students will be assumed to have permanently suspended their studies at WCSU if they go five years without enrolling for any coursework. Faculty members or administrators investigating allegations of academic honesty violations may request that the Office of the Dean of Students release to them any previous reports that have been filed on the student against whom the current allegations are being made.
2.5 Penalties
The penalty for an academic honesty violation on a significant course requirement such as a final copy of a term paper/project or final examination shall be an “F” for the course. The penalty for academic honesty violations in other coursework will be left to the discretion of the faculty member and may be modified upon appeal. When an academic honesty violation includes flagrant behavior, such as having a substitute take an exam or stealing an exam, the faculty member also shall refer the matter to the Office of the Dean of Students for disciplinary action pursuant to the CSCU Student Code of Conduct. The Office of the Dean of Students also may initiate disciplinary action against a student with repeated academic honesty violations.
3. REVIEW AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1-Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs and Vice President for Student Affairs
2-University Senate
3-President
Review: Every three years (and as needed)
President
Policy History
Issue #1: 2006
Issue #2:
Senate Approved as Revised: R-06-05-02
Administrative Approval: 9/6/06