Undergraduate Academic Policies and Procedures

I. General Requirements for Undergraduate Degrees

1. University Courses (0-9 hours)
   BPP 410 Bonaventure Program Portfolio  (0 hours)
   * Diversity (D:) course* (3 hours)
   * Global (G:) course+ (3 hours)
   + D:/G: courses - One course at least at the 100 level and one course at the 200 level or above. Global requirement will be waived if student has spent one semester abroad.
   * Technological Literacy - defined by departments, divisions or schools
2. Written/Oral Communication (9 hours)
   * ENG 111 W: Composition  (3 hours)
   * ENG 112 W: Composition and Texts  (3 hours)
   * COM 101 Fundamentals of Public Speaking  (3 hours)
   * Writing Enriched Courses - see Writing Across the Curriculum (above)
3. Theology /Ethics/Philosophy (9-12 hours)
   * Theology (6 hours) including TRS 116 G: Western Religious Traditions 
   * (E:) Ethics (3 hours) at the 300 level or above
   * Philosophy (3 hours) if the (E:) Ethics requirement is met outside of the Philosophy (PHI) prefix
4. Humanities/Fine Arts (6 hours)
   * Literature (3 hours) - At the 200-level or higher
   * Fine Arts (3 hours) - Chosen from Art, Music, Theatre or Film
5. Social Sciences (9 hours)
   * History (3 hours)
   * Social Sciences (6 hours) - Chosen from two separate areas: Criminal Justice (CRJ), Economics (ECO), Human Services (HMS), Political Science (POL), Psychology (PSY) and Sociology (SOC)
6. Natural Sciences/Mathematics (10-11 hours)
   * Natural Sciences (7-8 hours) - 1 life science (BIO) and 1 physical science (CHE, PHY, SCI) with one lab
   * Mathematics (3 hours) - Needs to be at least MAT 125  or higher, except MAT 150: Applied College Algebra  or higher. (Elementary Education and Special Education require MAT 110  and MAT 111  in lieu of this requirement.)
7. Declaration of Major:
   Students can declare a major when they matriculate to QU, but are not required to do so. Even if they declare a major at the start of their QU career they can decide to change their major as their interests change. Students must declare a major by the end of their sophomore year (or before the completion of 60 semester hours). To declare a major, students file a declaration of major form (found under Student Forms on the Portal) with the Registrars’ Office. A change or addition of major after the end of junior year (or after the completion of 90 semester hours) may result in additional time toward degree completion. Discussions with your academic advisor and student financial services counselor is highly advised when making changes to your major.
   Major Requirements (Excluding Agreements with BRCN):
   Majors at Quincy University require a minimum of 33 credit hours of coursework at the 100-400 level in a single course code designation (ACC, BIO, etc.), 21 of which must be completed at Quincy University. Twenty-seven (27) hours must be at the 200-400 level. A maximum of 12 hours from “nontraditional” sources may be applied, with the approval of the Dean. No more than 42 hours of 200-400 level coursework taken from a single discipline (excluding courses taken to satisfy the Bonaventure Program requirements) may count toward the 120 credit-hour minimum required for the bachelor’s degree. Students may be required by their major program to take additional credit hours in other fields, above the 42 hour maximum in their major field. Practicum or internship credit is not allowed in the basic 33-hour major requirement but does apply to the 42-hour maximum. During their senior year, candidates for the baccalaureate degree participate in a coordinating, comprehensive experience in their major field. Normally this experience is the senior seminar which provides an in-depth study of a topic within the discipline which promotes research, evaluation, and discussion. In some instances, the comprehensive experience is gained through an applied activity such as a practicum, an internship, or student teaching. This comprehensive experience in the major must be completed in residence or through Quincy University (this requirement may not be met through transfer credit). Minimum and maximum for majors: 33-42 hrs.
   Double Majors
   Students may complete more than one major concurrently by meeting the specific requirements for each major as set forth in the catalog. Students are not allowed to major in an interdisciplinary major and also double major in one of the concentrations of that interdisciplinary major. Each major will be listed on the student’s transcript. If all majors are within the same degree program (e.g., B.A., B.S.), the student will receive only one degree and diploma.
8. Declaration of Minor:
   Although a student does not need a minor to graduate, students can declare one or more minors. To declare a minor, students file a declaration of minor form (found under Student Forms on the Portal) with the Registrar’s Office. A change or addition of minor after the end of junior year (or after the completion of 90 semester hours) may result in additional time toward degree completion.
   Minor Requirements:
   If not stated in the catalog, the minor is arranged with the appropriate faculty or program and approved by Academic Affairs. A minor must contain at least 18 semester hours unique from the major courses, 12 of which must be at the 200-400 course level and 12 of which must be taken at Quincy University. Courses listed as required support courses for a major may be used to count for a minor. A minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.00 must be earned in the minor. Any approved minor is indicated on the student’s transcript.
9. Electives:
   Elective hours will vary based on major.
10. Interdisciplinary Majors
    Interdisciplinary majors at Quincy University require a minimum of 36 and a maximum of 48 credit hours of coursework at the 100-400 level of which 21 hours must be completed at Quincy University. Twenty-seven hours must be at the 200-400 level. The interdisciplinary major shall consist of 21-27 hours in the primary field, 15-21 hours in the secondary field, and in some cases, 12-15 hours in a tertiary field. Hours earned in an identified tertiary field may be used as elective hours. Students must earn a minimum of 18 upper-level hours in the primary and secondary fields of the major.
    The requirements for the interdisciplinary major shall apply to those majors that are part of the regular curriculum and to collaboratively designed interdisciplinary contract majors developed in accordance with the applicable provisions for such majors as stated here.

II. Quantitative and Residency Requirements for Undergraduate Degrees

1. For the baccalaureate degree, a student must:
   1. Complete satisfactorily a minimum of 120 semester hours of courses as described under graduation requirements above and below. This should include a minimum of 39 semester hours of upper-level (300-400) courses unless otherwise stated in this catalog.
   2. Fulfill the requirements of the major or area of concentration as set forth under each academic program, including a minimum of 27 semester hours of courses at the 200-400 level in the major, 21 of which must be taken at Quincy University.
   3. Earn at least 30 semester hours in residency at Quincy University including 21 hours in the major or area of concentration.
   4. Transfer students must earn a minimum of 56 semester hours from a 4-year college or university.
2. For a second baccalaureate degree when the first degree was earned from Quincy University, a student must present a minimum of 27 hours in the second major (or area of concentration) at the 200-400 level, 21 of which must be taken in residency at Quincy University, fulfill any other requirements stated for the major as published in this catalog, and present a minimum of 144 credit hours for the combined degrees.
3. For a second baccalaureate degree when the first degree was earned elsewhere, a student must:
   1. Earn 30 semester hours in residency at Quincy University, including 9 hours of signature coursework in the Bonaventure Program unless undergraduate coursework is approved as equivalent.
   2. Present a minimum of 27 hours in the second major (or area of concentration) at the 200-400 level, 21 of which must be taken in residency. If previous courses satisfy some of the major requirements, the department will designate other courses that will enhance the major.
   3. Fulfill any other requirements stated for the major as published in this catalog.
4. Current Coursework
   A student returning to Quincy University to complete a degree after an extended absence may be required to repeat some courses so that the degree awarded will be current. This situation applies to 1) an absence of 5-10 years and 2) courses in the major and minor field(s). In the case of an exceptionally long absence, repetition and/or addition of some courses in the Bonaventure Program also may be required. The required courses will be determined by the academic advisor in consultation with Academic Affairs.

III. Qualitative Requirements for Undergraduate Degrees

To earn an undergraduate degree at Quincy University, a student must earn a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 in all major courses AND either:

1. no more than 2 major courses below C
   OR
2. C or better in al major courses.
   Look at your major and degree checklist for the specific standard being applied and an explanation of major courses

IV. Academic Catalog Covering Graduation Requirements

The catalog governing graduation requirements may be the catalog current at the time the student enters the University or any subsequent catalog during the period enrolled. If students interrupt their education for more than one year, they will follow the catalog current at the time they are readmitted. See Returning Student Readmission . 

V. Application for Graduation

Candidates for degrees should file an Application for Graduation with the Office of the Registrar. Graduation Application deadline for December degree candidates is October 15. Graduation Application deadline for May/Summer degree candidates is March 1. A non-refundable application fee will be charged when the application is filed. Failure to file an application on time may result in a later graduation date or late application fee. Students who do not complete their degree requirements by the date for which they originally applied for graduation must complete a new application indicating their new anticipated graduation date (additional reapplication fees may apply).

VI. Participation in Commencement Ceremony

In order to walk in winter commencement, students must have completed all graduation requirements in the fall semester. If a final course is completed in the J term, the degree will not be posted until spring.

In order to walk in the spring commencement, students can have at most two courses to be completed over the summer for their undergraduate baccalaureate degree. A plan for completing the coursework over the summer must be filed with the Office of the Registrar. Students who have completed all degree requirements except the required practicum(s) or professional experience (maximum of eight credit hours) may also participate in the May Commencement ceremony. Undergraduate teacher education students who have yet to complete student teaching may not participate in Commencement until student teaching has been successfully completed. For graduate students, please refer to the appropriate section listed in the back of this catalog for specific graduation requirements by program.
Any exceptions to the walking policies must be approved by the office of Academic Affairs. Walking in commencement does not mean that you have satisfied all university requirements to receive your degree.

VII. Graduation

Degrees are posted at the end of the term when all requirements are fulfilled.

Registration

Students admitted to the University enroll in classes through the Office of the Registrar or with their advisor on the specific dates listed in the University calendar. All degree-seeking students must consult with their designated faculty advisor prior to registration for authorization to register for courses.

The unit of credit is the semester hour. Each semester hour represents the equivalent of one class period of 50 minutes in length for 15 weeks of instruction. Sessions varying in length satisfy equivalent standards.

The normal course load for a full-time undergraduate student varies from 15 to 18 credit hours. Approval for more than 18 hours must be sought from the Vice President for Academic Affairs, and tuition per credit hour is charged for each credit hour over 18 (see Financial Policies ).

A late registration fee may be charged to those who fail to register by the end of the add/drop period at the beginning of each semester.

No credit is granted for courses in which the student is not properly registered. Proper registration, including dropping and adding courses, is the personal responsibility of each student.

Only students who are officially registered (graded or auditing) for a course may attend the course. (This policy refers to regular attendance. A student may attend a course as a one-time guest with faculty permission.

Full-Time Students

The minimum course load required to maintain full-time undergraduate status during the regular semester is 12 credit hours. Eighteen hours is considered the ordinary maximum; permission to exceed this limit must be sought from the Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Part-Time Students

Undergraduate students enrolled for fewer than 12 credit hours during a regular semester are classified as part-time students. Costs are determined on a per credit-hour basis.

Class Standing

Class standing or rank is determined by the number of credit hours completed at the end of each full term as shown on the following scale:

Changes in Registration

All changes in registration (adding or dropping courses, or changing sections of courses) must be made officially online or in the Office of the Registrar by completing the proper forms and by the appropriate deadline. Approval to waive a course pre-requisite must be obtained from the instructor, school/division, Dean, or the Office of Academic Affairs.

Dropping or Adding Courses and/or Withdrawal From Courses

It is a student’s responsibility to be properly registered for courses and to adhere to University policies regarding adding and dropping courses:

• No student may add a course after the add/drop period without approval from the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
• Courses officially dropped before the end of the add/drop period will not be recorded on transcripts.
• Courses officially dropped after the end of the add/drop period will be recorded with a grade of “W”.

“Official drop or withdrawal” means that a student has submitted to the Registrar the official forms including instructor and advisor signatures. Normally, students may not withdraw from individual courses after the eleventh week of a 15-week semester, the fifth week of a 7-week course, or the third week of a 4-week course. If extenuating circumstances apply, the student may petition withdrawal through the Vice President for Academic Affairs. A student who stops attending a class without an official withdrawal will be given an “F” for the course on the transcript. See Class Attendance Policy.

The number of course withdrawals initiated by a student cannot exceed 18 credit hours during the student’s undergraduate career. Administrative withdrawals will not count toward the total of 18 credit hours.

See the summer course schedule for summer term add/drop dates. Also see Statement of Satisfactory Academic Progress  policy.

Withdrawal for Military Service

When a student is called to active military service during an academic term, it is the student’s responsibility to notify the Registrar and to provide copies of the appropriate military orders.

A student called to active military service will be allowed a reasonable time to complete course requirements missed during his or her military duty. The student will receive a grade of “IN” (incomplete) if the absence extends through the end of the semester. When completion of the course requirements is impractical, the student may choose to withdraw from the course(s).

If no academic credit is received, all tuition and fees paid by the student, minus any financial aid that must be returned to the funding programs, will be applied to the semester during which the student returns. Room and board payments will be credited on a pro-rated basis.

Withdrawal From the University/Leave of Absence

Students who find it necessary to withdraw from the University must contact the Vice President for Student Development to complete an official withdrawal form and/or a Leave of Absence request.

A student who stops attending a course(s) or the University without filing an official withdrawal may earn an “F” for each course on the transcript. If a student stops attending and fails to respond to a certified letter from the Office of Student Development about his/her enrollment status, or stops attending for medical reasons, the student may be administratively withdrawn from all courses.

See Class Attendance Policy, Refunds: Tuition , and Title IV Student Financial Aid .

Quincy University students may take a Leave of Absence from the University for up to ONE full year. This leave of absence guarantees that these students will not have to reapply to the University when they return, and they will remain under their entry-year level catalog requirements.

Evaluation/Grading

Official grade reports are issued to students by the Registrar or made available online at the end of each semester. Midterm grades for lower-division courses are also available to freshman and sophomore advisors for advisement purposes.

Semester grades are determined by the instructor according to the grades earned by the student in all phases of academic work: class discussions, tests, laboratory work, reports, term papers, themes, and semester examinations.

Quincy University uses a letter grading system in all undergraduate courses and programs. Although other methods of grading such as points or percentages may be used at the discretion of the individual professor throughout and at the conclusion of a course, the official grades of record are letters. Hence, all faculty will be expected to convert those other grading systems to letter grades based on the standards described.

Undergraduate Programs

The following is the system of grading used at Quincy University for undergraduate programs:

Review of a Final Grade

A final grade in a course is reviewed only when there is a question about whether the grade was calculated in accordance with the requirements and grading procedures stated in the course syllabus. Concerns involving course grades must be brought forward within 45 days of the end of the term in which the grade was earned. A student should attempt to resolve the issue informally in discussions with the instructor of record.

A question about a final grade that is not resolved informally between the student and the instructor should be submitted in writing to the Dean of the school in which the course is housed. For the purpose of information, not re-grading, the student’s request should include supporting evidence, such as copies of graded papers, quizzes, tests, and other work performed in the course. The student should also note the steps taken so far to review the final grade. After (a) reviewing the case with the student and (b) reviewing the case with the assigning instructor, the dean will respond to the student and the instructor stating a recommendation regarding the assigned final course grade. Notification will occur in writing within 14 calendar days of receipt of the complete request for final grade review.

If a concern still remains, the student may request in writing  a review by the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA). The recommendation of the VPAAis final. Notification to the student and the instructor will occur in writing within 14 calendar days of complete receipt of the request for final grade review.

The grade, which the course instructor assigned, cannot be changed by anyone but that instructor. The instructor will advise the registrar of a change in grade, if any.  In egregious circumstances, the grade may be changed by the VPAA at the recommendation of the appropriate Dean.

Course Completion

A course is completed when the final grades are turned in at the end of the term. Student work cannot be submitted for a course after the end of the term unless the student grade is IN (incomplete).

Academic Honesty

The educative mission of the University is defeated when community members decide to compromise their integrity for the appearance of academic achievement. Thus, the following are against policy:

1. Cheating by any method on examinations or other academic work.
2. Falsifying grade reports, transcripts, notes, identification cards, letters of authorization and/or other official University documents.
3. Plagiarism is the stealing or using of passages or images, either word for word or in substance, from the writings of another and presenting them as one’s own. Plagiarism applies as well to those who allow their work to be copied by others. Further, the stealing of ideas is considered a form of plagiarism punishable by law.

Students found guilty of academic dishonesty are subject to various sanctions depending upon the extent, nature, and frequency of occurrence. These include, but are not restricted to, failure on the particular assignment, failure in the course, and dismissal from a program or from the University. The instructor will determine the grade for the relevant project and for the course. A database of student violations of academic honesty is maintained by the University, and repeated violations will automatically trigger a review process on the University level, which will determine the appropriate additional penalties to be given. Students should familiarize themselves with the procedures associated with academic dishonesty which are described in the Student Handbook.

Furthermore, to promote student engagement and foster learning, Quincy University expects students to produce their own original work. The use of artificial intelligence (AI), such as ChatGPT, to produce work claimed as one’s own is a sanctionable violation of QU’s Academic Honesty Policy. The use of artificial intelligence is only permitted with express instructor approval, according to the nature and goals of the assignment.

Copyright and Copyright Infringement

Copyright is the exclusive right to produce copies and to control an original literary, musical, or artistic work, granted by law. All copyrighted information, such as text and images, including those retrieved from information technology resources or stored, transmitted or maintained with information technology resources, must be used in conformance with applicable copyright and other laws. This includes unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing. Students who participated in such unauthorized distribution may be subject to civil and criminal liabilities.

For all the details of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), go to: http://www.copyright.gov/legislation/dmca.pdf

The university is responsible for investigating possible violations of University code and enforcing rules, which could result in the monitoring of stored material and/or disciplinary action. Upon receiving notice from our provider of a copyright infringement, the University will track down and notify the person who is charged with copyright infringement and deny access to the illegal copies of the copyrighted content. The issue will then be turned over to Student Affairs who may initiate a conduct hearing. All allegations of abuse of this policy will be handled by the judicial system.

Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or statutory damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. For “willful” infringement, a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court can, at its discretion, also assess costs and attorney’s fees. Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense.

The Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 (HEOA) (Pub. L. 110-315) added provisions to the Higher Education Act of 1965 requiring institutions to take steps to combat the unauthorized distribution of copyrighted materials through illegal downloading or peer-to-peer distribution of intellectual property. For more information about HEOA, go to http://www2.ed.gov/policy/highered/leg/hea08/index.html.

Programs have been written specifically for file sharing (P2P). Using these programs to download files for free so that you do not have to purchase the copyrighted materials is illegal. If you do not have permission from the owner, or if you have not paid a fee for the right to download the file, you are breaking the law. Buying the P2P application software does not make the files you download legal. Services on the Internet allow you to legally purchase copyrighted works online. By purchasing the content legally through these services, you not only avoid the risk of copyright infringement, but you also reduce exposure to computer viruses and spyware.

For more information, please see the Web site of the U.S. Copyright Office at www.copyright.gov, especially their FAQ’s at www.copyright.gov/help/faq.

Academic Assessment

Assessment at Quincy University facilitates the continuous improvement of teaching and learning in a learner-centered environment. Its purpose is to provide evidence about the extent to which our students are successfully and effectively learning; that our faculty are appropriately guided and supported while engaged in teaching; and that our policies and resources are distributed toward those ends, in keeping with the mission of the University.

Assessment is not intended to be an end unto itself. Rather, it is a vehicle to effect educational improvement, bringing the values and vision of the institution into the reality of our teaching and learning processes. Further, the assessment of academic success is an essential component in the evaluation of overall institutional effectiveness.

To ensure the greatest possible degree of effectiveness, assessment of student learning at Quincy University will be appropriately integrated at four interconnected levels:

1. The student
2. The course
3. The program
   1. Bonaventure program
   2. Degree programs
4. The institution

Additionally, the Quincy University assessment program will operate within the following guidelines:

1. It will be an on-going process designed to acquire, analyze and disseminate relevant data over time.
2. It will be a cumulative process that initially builds a body of data to guide curricular improvement, and thereafter, can be utilized with increasing sophistication to enhance overall teaching and learning processes.
3. It will be a multi-faceted process utilizing multiple evaluative measures, at multiple organizational levels, to collect multiple forms of data from both internal and external sources.
4. It will be a pragmatic process in that collected data on past and present practices will be carefully and critically evaluated to help Quincy University improve future experiences for both faculty and students.
5. It will be a comprehensive process integrated throughout the entire institution - reflecting the University’s mission statement.

Goals for Academic Assessment

1. To continuously improve the teaching and learning environment at Quincy University.
2. To effectively coordinate the University’s institutional assessment efforts, including data collection, analysis, reporting and warehousing.
3. To systematically solicit pertinent assessment data from multiple internal and external sources.
4. To guarantee the transparency of assessment processes and the publication of assessment results to involved constituents.
5. To substantively integrate assessment data into the University’s faculty development practices and activities.
6. To make available adequate resources to ensure the long-term success of teaching and learning activities and practices at the University.
7. To make Quincy University an effective and efficient self-assessing institution.

Course Evaluations

Course evaluation has always been strongly emphasized at Quincy University. This confidential process is conducted via Quincy University’s Moodle course management system, and all students are expected to complete evaluations for each course in which they are enrolled. Evaluations are available for online completion approximately one week before the conclusion of a course.

Auditing

Auditing classes (attending classes without being required to take written tests and final examination and without being entitled to university credit) is permitted, but requires regular registration and the payment of the audit fees. The normal audit fee for undergraduate or graduate courses is charged per credit hour. Full-time undergraduate students may audit a course with no additional charge, if their total course load (including audit class) is 18 hours or less. Senior citizens pay a reduced rate. See Financial Policies  for fees.

Students who audit courses are expected to participate in all course activities other than tests and final examinations to earn the grade AU. Students registering for audit may not register later in that same course for credit. Students may change to the conventional grading system only during the official add/drop period. Audited courses do not apply toward degree requirements, financial aid, or athletic eligibility.

Pass/Fail Option

A Pass/Fail option is provided to encourage upper-level students to explore subjects outside their major disciplines.

Junior or senior students may register Pass/Fail for one course from the regular curriculum per semester before the end of the add/drop period. In doing so they agree to the following conditions: 1) once registered they may not revert to the conventional grading system except during the add/drop period; 2) a failing grade will count against the grade point average; 3) the course cannot be used to fulfill any Bonaventure requirement; 4) no course in the major or minor discipline may be taken Pass/Fail. Students may not change registration to Pass/Fail after end of add/drop period.

Courses taken Pass/Fail at other institutions normally are not accepted in transfer. However, the student may petition the Vice President for Academic Affairs for acceptance of such courses according to the above policy.

This policy does not apply to activity courses in physical education, which may be taken Pass/Fail by any student.

Warning: Students who change majors face repeating any course previously taken Pass/Fail.

This course is in addition to activity courses which may be taken Pass/Fail.

Class Attendance Policy

Quincy University is dedicated to learning and teaching. Because these activities depend for their success on presence and involvement, students are expected to attend all of their classes. Instructors will make their specific attendance policies clear in their syllabi. Students are responsible for making themselves aware of and abiding by the attendance policy of each instructor. Students absent for any reason are still responsible for and expected to complete all required coursework as determined by the instructor. Instructors may require prior notice for foreseeable absences, and may require students to complete work before such absences. Instructors will make reasonable accommodation for such circumstances as serious illness, emergency, or official participation in University-sanctioned events. Students missing more than twice the number of class meetings per week may be given the grade of “F” for the course by the instructor. Instructors will notify a student who will receive an “F” due to non-attendance.

Financial Aid will be affected by non-attendance. Repayment of all or part of your aid may be required if you receive a grade of “F” or withdraw. Required refunds due to withdrawal by the student are returned to the fund from which aid was awarded. This may result in a balance due to the University.

E-mail Policy

Quincy University e-mail is one of the University’s official means of communication with students. All Quincy University students are expected to maintain a Quincy University e-mail account and are responsible for any deadlines or action communicated through electronic mail. All students are automatically given a Quincy University e-mail account, username, and initial password.

Final Examinations

Quincy University holds that a final examination or comparable culminating experience is required in all courses to evaluate student achievement. Final examinations for traditional semester courses are scheduled during a special examination period at the end of each semester. Final examinations for courses in other sessions are held during the last class period. In all cases, the final examination period is considered to be part of the required contact time for every course. Students should not make travel arrangements that conflict with their scheduled final exams because instructors will not schedule alternative or individual examinations in place of the course final exam. The final exam schedule is located on the Office of the Registrar’s web page.

Incompletes

In cases where a student is unable to complete a course due to unavoidable extenuating circumstances, the instructor may elect to give a grade of “Incomplete” with approval from the office of Academic Affairs.

“Incomplete” grades are intended to allow a student who has been prevented from completing coursework, due to unforeseen circumstances such as an extended illness, to finish the work after the end of the semester; they are not intended to allow a student to resubmit assignments or re-take exams in which they performed poorly. The “Incomplete” must be removed within 8 weeks of grades posting, unless an extension is granted by the office of Academic Affairs.

Any student who has 12 credit hours or more of outstanding Incomplete grades will not be allowed to register without special permission from the Office of Academic Affairs.

Change of Grade

Once a grade is reported, it may be changed only by the faculty member who reported it. If an error is detected, the correction should be made as quickly as possible. No grade change can be made later than exam week of the next semester. You cannot resubmit or submit additional work to get a change of grade.

Repeating Courses

Students may repeat courses to improve grades and grade-point averages. However, the last grade received following each repetition, even if it is a lower grade, becomes the grade of record and is used in the computation of the Quincy University grade point average. In all instances, the transcript will continue to show the previous registration(s) and grade(s) received. While the credit hours for the course will count each time toward attempted hours, the credit earned for a course repeated to improve a grade counts only once.

Any Quincy University courses repeated to improve a grade must be taken (repeated) at Quincy University. Courses taken elsewhere will not affect the Quincy University grade point average. Repeating courses may affect athletic and financial aid eligibility.

A class may be repeated a maximum of two times (taking the course a total of three times), unless special permission is granted from the School Dean and the Provost.

Academic Honors

Dean’s List

At the end of each semester, the University publishes a Dean’s List which names those undergraduate students whose semester academic averages are 3.5 or higher. Students must be enrolled at Quincy University for at least 12 A-F graded semester hours to be included on the Dean’s List for any given semester. Students with incomplete grades are not eligible for the Dean’s List.

Graduation With Honors

Beginning in Academic Year 2020-21, students who maintain cumulative GPAs of at least 3.60 on all Quincy University courses completed for a baccalaureate degree are eligible for graduation with honors as follows:

Cum Laude cumulative average 3.60-3.74
Magna Cum Laude cumulative average 3.75-3.89
Summa Cum Laude cumulative average 3.90-4.00

These honor distinctions will be noted on the student’s transcript and the diploma.

Students completing degree requirements must have a minimum Quincy University cumulative GPA of 3.60 to be considered for graduation with honors.

The determination of Graduation with Honors for a student with transferable academic credit will be based on the cumulative grade point average of the total college work at Quincy University. To be eligible for Graduation with Honors, a transfer student must complete a minimum of 56 semester hours of coursework, graded on A-F scales, from Quincy University. All graduation requirements must be documented as completed prior to Commencement for honors to be announced at Commencement.

Students receiving Summa Cum Laude honors are awarded the Bonaventure Award for graduating with highest distinction. Students receiving Cum Laude and Magna Cum Laude honors will receive silver and gold cords, respectively.

Students receiving master’s degrees are not eligible for graduation with honors.

Prior to Academic Year 2020-21, students who maintained a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.4 on all Quincy University courses completed for a baccalaureate degree were eligible for graduation with honors as follows:

Cum Laude cumulative average 3.40-3.54
Magna Cum Laude cumulative average 3.55-3.74
Summa Cum Laude cumulative average 3.75-4.00

Academic Standing

Academic standing at Quincy University is based on the student’s term and/or cumulative grade point average in residence. The GPA is obtained by dividing the total number of quality or grade points by the total number of GPA credit hours completed. Four quality points are given for every hour of “A,” three for “B,” two for “C,” one for “D,” and none for “F.” (See Grading System). The chart that follows shows the minimum requirements for Good Standing. A student who falls below the level of academic probation is subject to dismissal from the University.

1. Normally, students must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA to be in good standing; however, an extremely low term GPA will result in review and possible probation or dismissal.
2. Students whose cumulative GPA falls below a 2.0 will be placed either on academic probation or on academic dismissal according to their cumulative GPA as indicated by the chart above. Academic probation may be continued for several semesters if warranted.
3. A student who has been placed on academic dismissal has the right to appeal citing extenuating circumstances.  The appeal must be received in writing by the required date.
4. Students receiving financial aid through federally-sponsored student-aid programs must maintain satisfactory progress in the course of study they are pursuing. (See Statement of Satisfactory Academic Progress .)
5. Academic standing for transfer students will be based on the number of semesters a student has been enrolled at all colleges/universities the student has attended.
6. Athletic eligibility is governed by the academic and general requirements of the National Collegiate Athletic Association Bylaws Article XIV, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, and the Great Lakes Valley Conference.
7. For the purpose of participation in extra-curricular activities, including intercollegiate athletics, any student deemed eligible to continue full-time enrollment shall be considered in good standing.

New Start Policy

Under this policy, a student who left the University at least two years prior with less than a satisfactory grade point average (GPA) may begin a new cumulative grade point average upon reentry. The student must petition to be reinstated. The transcript will note “New Start Policy Invoked; Cumulative GPA Restarted, except for selected courses.”

The following restrictions apply:

1. The student may not have attended another institution within the past three years.
2. All previous Quincy University coursework and grades remain on the transcript.
3. “D” and “F” work from the previous period must be repeated if required in the new program; “C-” and better coursework may be carried forward and built into the new GPA.
4. The last grade achieved is used for all repeated courses.
5. Students exercising a “New Start” option must achieve a 2.0 average for all work counted toward the degree and whatever GPA is required in the major.
6. A “New Start” can only be approved once and applies to undergraduate coursework only.
7. There are certain majors that cannot invoke this new start policy, such as education and nursing.

Academic Probation or Dismissal

Students on academic probation may enroll for no more than 16 semester hours of coursework, and may be required to participate in certain academic support programs as a condition for continuance in class.

A student who has been dismissed for academic reasons may appeal for academic reinstatement for the following semester by submitting a letter as soon as possible to the Academic Appeals Committee through the Office of Academic Affairs, explaining any extenuating circumstances and proposing a plan for the improvement of academic performance. If the appeal is approved, the student will be reinstated on academic probation.

A student may be reinstated twice, but a third academic dismissal from the University is final.

A student who has been dismissed for academic reasons and sits out for a semester or more must apply through the Office of Admissions for readmission to Quincy University. The application for readmission will be submitted to the Academic Appeals Committee for evaluation. A student’s campus citizenship will be a factor in determining whether readmittance will be granted. If the application is approved, the student will be readmitted on academic probation.

Community Standards Probation, Temporary Suspension or Dismissal

Students who violate university policies and regulations governing conduct and behavior are subject to probation, temporary suspension, or dismissal through action of the Vice President for Student Development. Policies addressing student behavior and the review procedure are set forth in the Student Handbook, which is online at www.quincy.edu/student-life/student-handbook.

Special Credit Opportunities

In addition to the accredited courses listed in this catalog, Quincy University will accept a combined total of 40 semester hours of credit from nontraditional sources. The following credit opportunities are available for eligible degree-seeking students:

ACE Credit

ACE (American Council on Education) transcripts are reviewed for transfer equivalencies. The limit for ACE credit ordinarily is 12 semester hours.

Advanced Placement Program (AP)

The University participates in the Advanced Placement Program and grants credit for courses in which grades of 4 or 5 have been earned. A grade of 3 is acceptable in some cases. The credit granted varies by department or discipline by score achieved; students should inquire of the Office of the Registrar concerning the application of scores to credit hours by subject matter.

Articulation Agreements

Quincy University has articulation agreements with John Wood Community College (Quincy, IL) and Lincoln Land Community College (Springfield, IL). The Agribusiness and Supply Chain Management majors require the first two years to be completed at a partner school through articulation agreement.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

The University will grant credit through CLEP to a maximum of 30 semester hours. The University accepts the American Council on Education’s recommended scores for all tests. For more information about credit granted through CLEP, students should contact the Registrar’s Office. Students may find a CLEP test examination center location and other testing information at clep.collegeboard.org.

Credit by Examination

Quincy University grants credit for college-level academic competence as proved by acceptable performance in written examinations. Students may petition through the Vice President for Academic Affairs for faculty-prepared proficiency examinations.

Credit by examination is not permitted for a course when a student already has earned university credit for more advanced courses in the same area nor after a student has begun classes in the course which the examination is designed to evaluate.

Credit for Academically Related Experience (CARE)

Quincy University grants credit in certain cases for practical or life experiences which can be related to the academic emphasis of a regular curriculum of the University. These experiences may be off-campus but are evaluated by these criteria:

1. The experience should relate to a regular course or equate with academic experience.
2. The experience must be verified and documented.
3. The experience must be one which has produced a recognizable competence in the applicant.
4. The credit granted for experience is not applicable to residency requirements nor to the 56 hours required at a 4-year institution except for some Professional Studies programs. 
5. The credit must be totally separate from any practicum or internship experience for which credit has been granted.
6. The limit for CARE credit ordinarily is 12 hours.

Petitions for CARE credit are submitted to the QUEST Center. They are then reviewed by the CARE Credit Committee and the Vice President for Academic Affairs who determine the amount of credit to be granted (normally no more than 3 credits per experience).

Language Placement Tests

Students who test into advanced language courses may petition the Registrar to receive up to 6 hours of lower language course credit after completing the advanced course with a “C” or better.

U.S. Military Credit

Students who have been on active duty in the U.S. military, or the U.S. military reserve, will be granted two credit hours of elective physical education credit (PED 265 ) in recognition of their experience. Students who have been deployed abroad will also be granted the required global (G:) designation credit for three hours. Students will need to submit valid discharge paperwork to the Registrar’s office. Other documents may be requested by the Registrar’s office for verification. Military ACE transcripts are reviewed for credit in the QUEST Center.

Pre-College Credit Programs

The University awards credit for up to 30 hours of coursework at high schools through pre-college, deferred-credit, dual enrolled, or escrow programs. The student must submit an official college transcript. A grade of “C” or better is required to receive credit.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Students providing proper transcripts may be awarded credit for IB coursework (see Transfer and/or Acceptance of Non-Traditional Credit and the Quincy University website for details).

Special Study Opportunities

Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s (ABM) Program

The Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s (ABM) Program provides eligible students with the opportunity to expedite their education degree plan by allowing students to take a maximum of six Master’s level hours while they are still undergraduate students. The ABM program is available for the following master’s programs:

• Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) (online or on ground)
  • Undergraduate prerequisites: minor in General Business or MBA Pathway courses
• Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) leading to teaching licensure
• Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) in Leadership

Admission to the ABM Program. Students desiring to participate in the ABM program must apply by the end of the junior year. Application during the first semester of the junior year is encouraged.

Students must be full-time and have a minimum Quincy University cumulative GPA of 3.3 to apply for the ABM program. Transfer students must have completed a minimum of 24 hours or two fulltime semesters in residence at Quincy University before full acceptance into the ABM program. Full acceptance into the ABM program is contingent on a Quincy University cumulative GPA of 3.3 at the end of the junior year and satisfactory completion of the following application materials:

• Completion of the application form for the ABM program
• Letter of application including why the student wants to take graduate courses early and why the student expects to succeed as an undergraduate in graduate-level courses
• Letter of recommendation from undergraduate faculty advisor

Program Requirements. Students in the ABM Program may take up to six graduate credit hours as an undergraduate student. Students need to be enrolled in at least twelve undergraduate credit hours for both fall and spring of their senior year for financial aid purposes. They then are allowed to take one graduate course in both the fall and spring semesters. Any graduate courses taken by a baccalaureate degree student that are credited towards the master’s degree must have earned a grade of B- or better. In addition, students in the ABM program are required to maintain a GPA of 3.0 in their graduate coursework. Graduate courses cannot be substituted or waived for undergraduaterequirements. They can only be counted as electives toward the undergraduate degree. When a student withdraws or is dismissed from the ABM program before completing his/her bachelor’s degree, credit earned in the graduate courses is counted only toward the undergraduate degree and cannot be applied to a master’s degree.

Transition to Graduate Status. Acceptance into the ABM program does not guarantee admission to the graduate program. Eligibility requirements must be met at the time of entry to the graduate program. Graduate admission requires a baccalaureate degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Any additional program admission requirements must also be met.

ABM students must begin the graduate program in the semester immediately following conferral of the baccalaureate degree, excluding summer. Should an ABM student decide to begin his/her graduate studies at a later time, he/she will be required to pay an enrollment fee, and have his/her application reassessed.

Students in the ABM program become eligible to hold a graduate assistantship upon being classified as graduate students.

Students have a limited number of years from enrollment in the graduate program to complete the master’s degree. Please refer to the appropriate catalog section for specific residency requirements.

Contract Major

For the student with special needs or study interests, the contract major provides a custom-designed curriculum. In consultation with faculty advisors and the Vice President for Academic Affairs, a student may propose a program that combines the offerings of several programs in a pattern which fits the student’s special interests, rather than the definitions of a standard curriculum. The general requirements for graduation remain effective, but major and elective sequences are described in a “contract” approved by the student, dean, and the Vice President for Academic Affairs. This description may utilize courses from the regular curricula, along with private and independent study courses and CARE credits. Accredited courses may also be transferred from other colleges, and credit by examination is applicable, according to the regular rules for such transfers and applications.

Interdisciplinary major contracts must conform to interdisciplinary major requirements of the University as stated under Interdisciplinary Majors.

Directed Studies

Credit may be earned for study projects designed by the student under the direction of a faculty advisor, provided that the design is approved by the appropriate Dean and that evidence that the design has been realized is provided, usually by presentation of an acceptable research paper and by passing an examination in the area of study. If the addition of such a course causes a student to exceed the ordinary hour-limit of a full-time student, or if it is taken outside the calendar of a regular semester, additional tuition will be charged. To be eligible for a directed studies course, a student must have completed 30 hours of collegiate-level coursework with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher. Normally, a student may not take more than two courses or six semester hours through directed studies.

President’s Honors College

The Quincy University President’s Honors College provides a distinctive academic experience for qualified students who choose Honors. With designated Honors courses and extraordinary experiences inside and outside the classroom, Honors students work with faculty and one another while searching for answers to life’s most fundamental questions.

At Quincy University, the Honors College is jointly led by the President of the University and the Honors Dean, as Honors participation represents the University’s highest expression of intellectual curiosity and academic rigor. Honors students are invited to special events at the President’s House and the President interacts both formally and informally with Honors students throughout the year. The President also leads each year’s Fall Colloquium.

The President’s Honors College provides an academically challenging course of study that adds an interdisciplinary and enriched dimension to a student’s major field and experience in the Bonaventure Program. Honors students and faculty pursue the University’s mission to elevate students’ educational experiences, to prepare them for leadership, and to build relationships with faculty and each other. The Honors College promotes academic excellence through sustained critical thinking, original research, exceptional writing, and public presentation of scholarly work. Its members attend academic colloquia and participate in aesthetic and cultural activities as part of their enhanced university life. Consistent with the Catholic and Franciscan intellectual traditions that make QU special, the Honors College creates a shared experience of intellectual community and provides exceptional preparation for a life of service and leadership.

Admission to the Program. Participation in the Honors College is voluntary. Entering freshmen, current students in their first year of study, and transfer students are eligible for membership. The Honors College invites entering freshmen who have a composite ACT of at least 26 and a high school grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.4. Qualified first-year students and transfer students are also invited.

Students interested in the Honors College should contact the Dean and acquire the Honors College Handbook, which provides a comprehensive guide.

General Course Requirements. The President’s Honors College is University-wide and Honors students can choose any major field of study. Honors courses apply toward graduation in one of three ways: to fulfill a Bonaventure Program requirement, to serve as an elective, or to apply as a major or minor course. Honors students may not take more than six hours of Honors coursework in any semester unless they are pursuing Distinguished Honors Scholar status and choose to enroll in HON 498 Honors Thesis .

Honors students may transfer a maximum of two Honors courses from a previous institution. While full-time enrollment is 12-18 hours, Honors students may register for up to 21 hours during two semesters at no additional charge. This means that Honors students may receive six tuition-free overload hours while actively enrolled in the Honors College at Quincy University.

Honors courses fall into two categories:

Designated Honors Courses: Honors College students are required to take two designated inclass Honors courses, either Bonaventure Program classes or electives. First-year students enter the University curriculum as a group, usually sharing a common experience in one Bonaventure Program Honors class in the Fall with the option of another in the Spring. Other upper-level courses are offered which can be applied to the requirement of two designated Honors classes. For example, all Great Books courses qualify as Honors courses. In special circumstances, exceptions to this requirement may be made.

Contracted Honors Courses: Students may take other courses for Honors elective credit. To receive Honors credit, the student must acquire and complete an Honors Contract form from the Dean of the Honors College. The student and the instructor should describe how the coursework meets the standards of the Honors College. This may include alternative or additional reading, presentation, research, writing, lab work, service, and/or performance.

Academic Colloquia: The Honors College offers two academic colloquia each year. The Quincy University President offers the Fall Colloquium each year on a topic of his or her choosing. The Spring Colloquium is presented by a speaker chosen due to proficiency in an area that will be of benefit to Honors students. Attendance is required at both of these events. Honors students with circumstances that require them to miss a colloquium must obtain permission in advance from the Dean of the Honors College.

Aesthetic and Other Experiences: Students in the President’s Honors College are expected to exemplify a balance of academic excellence, moral integrity, cultural and aesthetic development, and leadership skills. To this end, each Honors student will participate in applicable activities throughout the academic year, and submit a summary of 700 to 1000 words to the Dean at the end of the year explaining their development in these areas.

Graduation from the Honors College: An Honors student must (1) complete 18 Honors hours and at least 60 hours at Quincy University and (2) achieve a final cumulative Quincy University GPA of at least 3.4, in order to graduate from the Honors College and have “Honors Scholar” noted on the academic transcript.

Distinguished Honors Scholar: A student wishing to earn the distinction of “Distinguished Honors Scholar” must (1) complete at least 18 hours in the Honors College and at least 60 hours at Quincy University; (2) make a public presentation of an Honors thesis; (3) hold a cumulative Quincy University GPA of at least 3.75 at application for Distinguished Honors Scholar status. This distinction is noted on the academic transcript.

Independent Study

Juniors or seniors who are seriously inconvenienced by the established schedule of curriculum offerings may study courses outside the regular class schedule, provided a faculty member agrees to direct this study. The requirements and assignments of the regular syllabus for the course must be fulfilled to the satisfaction of the study director. If the course causes the student to exceed the ordinary hour limit of a full-time student, or if it is taken outside the calendar of a regular semester, additional tuition will be charged. Students may not take more than four courses or twelve semester hours through independent study during their university career.  Students taking an independent study course may incur an independent study fee.  This fee will be incurred  unless determined to be an exception by the office of Academic Affairs.

International Studies (QUEST Center)

Quincy University encourages qualified students to enrich their education with an international study experience. The Director of Experiential Learning, under the guidance of the Vice President for Academic Affairs, works with students to select international study programs that meet their interests. International study opportunities are available for all majors. Quincy University has developed several special relationships and opportunities for study abroad. Students who have studied abroad for one full semester will automatically be granted a Global (G:) designation, and will not need to take a Global course to complete this requirement.

• College Consortium for International Studies (CCIS) - Through this consortium, Quincy University students may enroll directly at Quincy University and participate in 100 different academic programs in 27 countries. 
• Assisi Experience Program - The University regularly sponsors this program to provide students with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the University’s Franciscan heritage by journeying to the sites of Franciscan origins in Italy: Assisi, La Verna, Grecchio, Vatican City, and Rome. Students earn three hours of academic credit for an experience that includes a preparatory class, independent research, collaborative work with other students, and a 2-week culminating experience in Assisi and Rome.
• Short-term Study Abroad - Quincy University focuses on short-term faculty-led study abroad programs. These programs include a seven-week course taught during the semester followed by a 10-12 day study abroad trip.

Practicum / Internship

Practicum experiences are done on a part-time basis while the student is enrolled full-time in coursework. In a practicum, students are heavily supervised while being taught about the duties they will have to perform once they enter the workforce. One semester hour of academic credit is granted for every 50 hours of field experience.

Internships are completed on a part-time or full-time basis. As an intern, students are more heavily supervised than regular employees but can work independently on individual assignments and projects to get valuable hands-on experience. The credit ranges from 1 to 12 hours.

No more than 12 hours in practicum/internship credit from whatever source(s) may apply toward the basic 120-hour degree program.

Both of these experiences require the approval of the appropriate Dean before they commence. The number of credits that will apply will be determined at that time. All practicum/internship experiences will be graded Pass/Fail unless otherwise specified by the school or division.  These experiences are restricted to students in good academic standing, including a grade point average of at least 2.00 in the major. Students must register for a practicum/internship through the QUEST Center at the time the experience takes place. Registration should take place before the start date of the experience. See the website for the Academic Calendar for registration deadlines. See individual discipline policies governing the application of practica and internships in the major program.

Research

Many academic disciplines offer the opportunity to do work beyond the regular catalog offerings through special projects and research. Significant responsibility lies with the student to work independently to develop a proposal for study which must be approved by a faculty advisor and Dean. Student research is supported by the QUEST Center.

Summer School

The University offers a range of courses in several summer sessions. Graduate and undergraduate courses are offered and are designed for those who wish to accelerate their course of study, for teachers and other professionals who desire additional training, and for those who may desire to take advantage of the opportunity for cultural and educational advancement during the summer months.

A complete schedule of courses offered during the summer session can be obtained online at www.quincy.edu under Registrar.

J term

J term is a 3 week term in January.  Traditional undergraduate students who maintained full-time status in the Fall immediately previous can take one J-term course at no cost.  Part time, new, graduate, and PDP students can take one J-term course and are charged per credit hour at the summer rate.  Students should be aware that this is an intensive, fast paced learning environment.  

Three-Year Degree Program

This program option suggests that a degree can be completed in three years by a student utilizing fast-track options such as escrow and Advanced Placement courses as well as CLEP exams. These in combination with heavier course loads, summer school, and proficiency exams can produce a degree in three years. Students interested in this option should contact their faculty advisor.

The Washington Semester Program

Through an agreement with the American University in Washington DC, a second semester sophomore, junior, or senior Quincy University student may apply to spend a semester studying at the American University in Washington DC. The student will take a full time course load including an internship during the semester in Washington DC. This experience is particularly well suited for pre-law, political science, communication or history majors, but is open to students from any major.