Good Academic Standing | Probation and Dismissal

Minimum Academic Standards

All graduate students, whether matriculated or non-matriculated, are expected to:

• Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B).

• Make appropriate academic progress toward program completion.

Grades of B-, C+, and C are considered passing but represent marginal progress.

In some programs, students earning marginal grades in specific courses may be required to repeat the course and achieve a higher grade to remain in the program. See program course descriptions for specific requirements. Students earning marginal grades may also be advised to reduce their course load until academic standing improves.

Special Programs

Students enrolled in special funded programs (matriculated or non-matriculated) must contact their program coordinator for details about eligibility and continuation requirements.

Academic Probation

A graduate student is placed on academic probation if:

• Their cumulative GPA falls below 3.0.

No automatic probation is granted for students who:

• Have attempted nine (9) or more credits, and

• Have a cumulative GPA of 2.50 or below (or 2.70 or below in some programs).

In these cases, continuation is only possible through a successful appeal to the Office of Graduate Studies, supported by a letter from the academic department.

Probation Procedures and Continuation

• A probation indicator will be placed on the student’s record by the Office of Graduate Studies.

• The student must meet with an academic advisor to develop a plan for improvement.

• Once the plan is approved, the probation indicator will be temporarily lifted to allow registration.

• The probation indicator will be re-applied for future terms as part of an ongoing progress and pursuit review process. If the student does not raise their cumulative GPA to 3.0 or higher after the initial probation term, they may be placed on continued probation.

• Failure to meet the 3.0 minimum by the end of the continued probation period will result in a recommendation for academic dismissal from the program. This decision is made in consultation between the academic department and the Office of Graduate Studies.

• The student will receive an official notification of dismissal from the Office of Graduate Studies.

During probation:

• Students may only enroll in courses required by their degree program.

• Students may not take the comprehensive exam, submit a thesis, or receive a degree or certificate without departmental approval.

Dismissal

Dismissed students may appeal to continue in the program. The appeal must include:

• A formal request submitted to the Office of Graduate Studies, and

• A written letter of support from the student’s academic adviser or department chair.