Undergraduate Academic Policies and Procedures

I. Requirements for Undergraduate Degrees

1. For the baccalaureate degree, a student must:
   1. Complete satisfactorily a minimum of 120 semester hours,
   2. Including completion of all Bonaventure   general education requirements,
   3. And a minimum of 39 semester hours of upper-level (300-400) courses unless otherwise stated in this catalog,
   4. And 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.
   5. Earn at least 30 semester hours in residency at Quincy University including 21 hours in the major or area of concentration.
   6. 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:
   1. Earn 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,
   2. Present a minimum of 144 credit hours for the combined degree
   3. Fulfill any other requirements stated for the major as published in this catalog.
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. Degree Requirements Summary

II. How to Declare a Major/Minor

1. Complete the Undergraduate Declaration of Major/Minor Form.

III. Requirements for Majors/Minors

1. Declaration of Major:
   1. ​Students can declare a major when they matriculate to QU, but are not required to do so.
   2. Students can change their major as their interests evolve.
   3. Students must declare a major by the end of their sophomore year (or before the completion of 60 semester hours).
   4. 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.
       
2. Major Requirements (Excluding Agreements with BRCN*):
   1. ​These are the general requirements applicable to all majors. For detailed, program‑specific requirements, consult the individual major listing in the catalog
   2. A minimum of 33 credit hours in a single course code designation (e.g., ACC, BIO) at the 100-400 level.
   3. At least 21 credit hours must be completed at Quincy University.
   4. A minimum of 27 credit hours must be at the 200-400 level.
   5. A maximum of 12 hours from nontraditional sources may be applied, with approval of the Dean.
   6. No more than 42 credit hours of 200-400 level coursework from a single discipline (excluding Bonaventure Program courses) may count toward the 120 credit hours required for the bachelor’s degree.
   7. Major programs may require additional coursework in other fields, which may exceed the 42‑hour maximum in the major discipline.
   8. Practicum or internship credit may not be counted toward the minimum 33 hours, but does apply to the 42‑hour maximum.
   9. During the senior year, students must complete a coordinating, comprehensive experience in the major field.
      • Typically fulfilled through a senior seminar, emphasizing research, evaluation, and discussion.
      • In some programs, fulfilled through an applied activity, such as a practicum, internship, or student teaching.
      • Must be completed in residence or through Quincy University (not through transfer credit).
   10. Total major credit-hour range: 33-42 hours in one discipline, but can be higher when support courses are included.
   11. Major Requirement Summary Table
        

       Requirement Area	Policy
       Minimum Major Hours	At least 33 credit hours in a single course code designation (e.g., ACC, BIO) at the 100-400 level
       Upper‑Level Coursework	A minimum of 27 credit hours in the major must be at the 200-400 level
       Residency Requirement	At least 21 credit hours in the major must be completed at Quincy University
       Nontraditional Credit	A maximum of 12 credit hours from nontraditional sources may be applied with Dean’s approval
       Maximum Discipline Limit	No more than 42 credit hours of 200-400 level coursework from a single discipline (excluding Bonaventure Program courses) may count toward the 120 credit hours required for the bachelor’s degree
       Additional Coursework	Major programs may require supporting coursework in other disciplines, which may exceed the 42‑hour maximum in the major field
       Practicum / Internship Credit	Practicum or internship credits do not count toward the minimum 33 major hours but do apply toward the 42‑hour maximum
       Senior Comprehensive Experience	Students must complete a coordinating, comprehensive experience in the major during the senior year
       Format of Experience	Typically a senior seminar emphasizing research, evaluation, and discussion; in some programs, an applied experience (e.g., practicum, internship, student teaching)
       Completion Method	The senior comprehensive experience must be completed in residence or through Quincy University, not through transfer credit
       Total Major Credit‑Hour Range	Generally 33-42 credit hours in one discipline; total may be higher when required support courses are included

       
       * For BRCN Major Requirements
        
3. Interdisciplinary Majors:
   1. ​Interdisciplinary majors require 36-48 credit hours of coursework at the 100-400 level.
      • At least 21 credit hours must be completed at Quincy University.
   2. A minimum of 27 credit hours must be at the 200-400 level.
   3. The major must include:
      • 21-27 hours in the primary field
      • 15-21 hours in the secondary field
      • 12-15 hours in a tertiary field, when applicable
   4. Students must complete a minimum of 18 upper‑level hours (200-400 level) across the primary and secondary fields combined.
   5. Credit hours earned in the tertiary field may be applied as elective hours.
       
4. Double Majors:​
   1. Students may complete more than one major concurrently by fulfilling all requirements for each major as outlined in the catalog.
   2. Students may not complete an interdisciplinary major and simultaneously major in one of the individual concentrations that make up that interdisciplinary major.
   3. Each successfully completed major will be listed separately on the student’s transcript.
   4. If all majors fall within the same degree designation (e.g., all are B.A. programs or all are B.S. programs), the student will receive one degree and one diploma.
       
5. Contract Majors:
   1. ​​The contract major is designed for students with special needs or specific academic interests who desire a customized course of study.
   2. In consultation with faculty advisors and the Associate Provost, a student may propose a program that:
      • Combines coursework from multiple academic programs.
      • Reflects the student’s individual interests rather than a standard curriculum.
   3. All general graduation requirements remain in effect.
   4. Major and elective requirements are outlined in a formal contract that must be approved by:
      • The student
      • The faculty advisor
      • The academic dean
      • The Associate Provost
   5. The contract may include:
      • Courses from existing curricula
      • Private and independent study courses
      • CARE credits
   6. Accredited coursework may be transferred from other institutions, and credit by examination may be applied in accordance with University transfer and credit policies.
       
6. Minor Requirements:
   1. ​These are the general requirements applicable to all minors. For detailed, program‑specific requirements, consult the individual minor listing in the catalog
   2. A minor must include at least 18 semester hours that are distinct from major coursework.
   3. At least 12 hours must be at the 200-400 level.
   4. At least 12 hours must be completed at Quincy University.
   5. Support courses for a major may also count toward a minor.
   6. Students must earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 in the minor.
   7. All approved minors are recorded on the student’s transcript.
       

IV. Registration

1. Process
   1. ​Incoming students meet with their incoming academic advisor to discuss their first‑semester schedule.
   2. Incoming academic advisors register students for their initial semester courses.
   3. In subsequent semesters, students meet with their assigned academic advisor to plan their schedules for the next term.
   4. All degree‑seeking students must consult with their designated faculty advisor and obtain advisor authorization before registering for courses.
   5. After receiving authorization, students register themselves via the University portal during the dates published in the Registration Schedule.
   6. Any changes that students can not make by themselves need to be made using the Change of Registration form, under student forms on the portal.
       
2. Add/Drop
   1. ​The add/drop period occurs at the beginning of each semester and allows students to adjust their course schedules.
   2. During this period, students may add available courses, drop courses, or make other schedule changes without academic or financial penalty.
   3. All schedule changes must be completed through the University portal.
   4. The add/drop deadline is published in the University Academic Calendar each semester.
   5. After the add/drop deadline:
      • Students may no longer add courses.
      • Dropped courses are subject to the University’s withdrawal policies.
         
3. Withdrawal
   1. Course Withdra​​wal
      • ​​Withdrawal is the formal process by which a student removes themselves from a course, using the Change of Registration form, after the add/drop period, resulting in a grade of “W” recorded on the academic transcript. Students should consult with their instructor and academic advisor when making this decision.
      • Approval from the instructor and academic advisor is required to process the withdrawal.
      • The withdrawal deadline is published in the University Academic Calendar each semester.
      • A student who stops attending a class without an official withdrawal may be given an “F” for the course on the transcript.
      • 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.
         
   2. Withdrawal for Military Service
      • ​​Students called to active military service during an academic term must notify the Registrar and provide copies of official military orders.
      • Students will be given a reasonable amount of time to complete course requirements missed due to military duty.
      • If the absence extends through the end of the semester, the student will receive a grade of “IN” (Incomplete).
      • If completing course requirements is impractical, the student may choose to withdraw from the affected course(s).
      • If no academic credit is earned:
        • Tuition and fees paid (minus any required financial aid returns) will be applied to the semester when the student returns.
        • Room and board payments will be credited on a prorated basis.
           
   3. Withdrawal From the University & Leave of Absence
      • ​​Students who need 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 courses or stops attending the University without filing an official withdrawal may receive an “F” for each enrolled course.
      • Students who stop attending and fail to respond to a certified letter from the Office of Student Development, or who stop attending for medical reasons, may be administratively withdrawn from all courses.
      • Students should also review related policies:
        • Class Attendance Policy
        • Refunds: Tuition
        • Title IV Student Financial Aid
      • Quincy University students may take a Leave of Absence for up to one full year.
        • Students on an approved leave do not need to reapply upon return.
        • Students on leave remain under their entry‑year catalog requirements
           
4. Standing Definitions
   1. ​Full Time Student
      • Students must enroll in a minimum of 12 credit hours during a regular semester to maintain full‑time undergraduate status.
      • 18 credit hours is considered the ordinary maximum course load.
      • Students wishing to enroll in more than 18 credit hours must obtain permission from the Provost.
   2. Part Time Student
      • ​​Undergraduate students enrolled in fewer than 12 credit hours during a regular semester are classified as part‑time students.
      • Tuition and fees for part‑time students are assessed on a per-credit‑hour basis.
   3. 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:

        Credit Hours		Class Rank
        0-23.9		Freshman
        24-47.9		Sophomore
        48-85.9		Junior
        86 or more		Senior

   4. Enrollment Status
      • Quincy University provides enrollment verification certificates through Myhub.
      • Myhub is a secure online portal provided by the National Student Clearinghouse that allows students to download official QU enrollment verification certificates at no charge.

      • Students may also request verification by completing the Student Verification Letter Request form on the student portal.

   5. Enrollment status is reported as defined in the table below.

      Enrollment Status	Undergraduate
      F= Full Time	12 or more credit hours
      Q = Three-quarter time	9-11 credit hours
      H = Half-time or more	6-8 credit hours
      L = Less than half-time	1-5 credit hours

       

V. Transfer Credit Policy

A. Quincy University accepts transfer credit from accredited two- and four-year institutions. Exceptions to this policy require approval from the Office of Academic Affairs.

B. TRANSFER OF COLLEGE CREDITS

Transfer students must have at least a “C” average in all courses presented for transfer. A maximum of nine semester hours of “C-/D” will transfer to Quincy University. Normally, acceptance of “C-/D” for transfer courses is limited to freshman and sophomore level courses. Courses taken as Pass/Fail at other institutions will be accepted if the course(s) are calculated in the earned hours of the transfer institution. However, the student may petition the Vice President for Academic Affairs for acceptance of such courses.

Students from a community college may transfer credits to Quincy University as follows:

1. Students who have earned the Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree in a baccalaureate transfer program from a regionally accredited college will have satisfied most Quincy University freshmen and sophomore Bonaventure requirements. All other Associate degrees including: Associate of Applied Science, General Studies, and Fine Arts will be evaluated independently.
   The following requirements remain:
   • 6 hours of Theology; students must take TRS 110 at QU, 3 hours can transfer in
   • (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, unless 3 hours of Philosophy are transferred in
   • 2 (W:) Writing-Enriched courses
   • Service Learning Requirements

See Bonaventure Program Requirements.

2. Students who have taken general courses at a community college or who have completed a non-baccalaureate transfer program (such as the Associate in Applied Science degree) and then transfer to Quincy University must fulfill the Bonaventure Program requirements of the University.
3. Courses taken at any other college or university after a student enrolls at Quincy University must have prior approval to assure transfer of credit.
4. The number of credit hours accepted from approved or accredited community colleges is limited only by the requirement that a student must earn at least 56 semester hours or the equivalent from approved four-year colleges or an equivalent in foreign university/college hours. These 56 semester hours include a required minimum of 30 semester hours in residency at Quincy University. All transfer students must satisfy departmental requirements for
   baccalaureate degrees including prerequisites. All transfer students must satisfy departmental requirements for baccalaureate degrees including prerequisites.
5. Grades earned in courses accepted for transfer do not figure into the cumulative grade point average at Quincy University.
6. Prior to meeting with an incoming advisor for regsitration, all transfer students must complete the Transfer Student Graduation Timeline Acknowledgement.
7. Only students who have completed 24 hours of college post high school graduation are exempt from the First-Year Experience (FYE) course.

​​VI. Courses

A. Class Attendance Policy

1. Quincy University is dedicated to learning and teaching, and both depend on student presence and engagement in class.
2. Students are expected to attend all classes.
3. Instructors must communicate their specific attendance policies in their syllabi.
4. Students are responsible for understanding and following each instructor’s attendance policy.
5. Students who are absent for any reason are still responsible for completing all required coursework as determined by the instructor.
6. Instructors may require prior notice for foreseeable absences and may require coursework to be completed before the absence.
7. Instructors will make reasonable accommodations for serious illness, emergencies, or official University‑sanctioned events.
8. Students missing more than twice the number of class meetings per week may receive a grade of “F” for the course.
9. Instructors will notify students who are at risk of receiving an “F” for non‑attendance.
10. Requests to be away from campus for an extended period during the semester and complete coursework online must be approved by the Office of Academic Affairs.
11. Financial aid may be affected by non‑attendance.
    • Students who earn an “F” or withdraw may be required to repay all or part of their aid.
    • Refunds due to withdrawal are returned to the original aid sources, which may create a balance owed to the University.

B. Evaluation/Grading

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

Other Designations

1. Midterm grades are issued for all 100‑ and 200‑level courses to provide students with timely feedback on their academic progress. These grades are intended to help students assess their performance, seek additional support if needed, and make informed decisions prior to the withdrawal deadline. Midterm grades are not recorded on the official transcript and do not factor into the student’s grade point average (GPA), but they serve as an important indicator of standing in the course.

2. Final grades are issued at the end of each academic term to reflect the student’s overall performance in a course. These grades are recorded on the official transcript and are used in calculating the student’s GPA.

   • No work can be submitted after the last day of the term in which the class was taken, unless the student received an incomplete (IN).

   • Once a grade is reported, it may be changed only by the faculty member who submitted it.

   • If an error is detected, the correction should be made as quickly as possible. No grade changes may be made after exam week of the next semester.
3. Review of a Final grade
   • ​​​​​A final grade may be reviewed only when there is a concern that it was not calculated according to the requirements and grading procedures stated in the course syllabus.
   • Concerns about course grades must be raised within 45 days of the end of the term in which the grade was earned.
   • Students should first attempt to resolve the issue informally with the instructor of record.
   • If the concern is not resolved informally, the student may submit a written request to the Dean of the school in which the course is housed.
     • After reviewing the case with both the student and the instructor, the Dean will provide a written recommendation regarding the final grade within 14 calendar days of receiving the complete request.
     • The request should also outline the steps already taken to review the grade.
     • The request should include supporting evidence, such as graded assignments, quizzes, tests, or other course materials.
   • If the concern remains, the student may submit a written request for review by the Provost.
     • The Provost’s recommendation is final.
     • Written notification will be provided to the student and instructor within 14 calendar days of receiving the complete request.

   • A final course grade cannot be changed by anyone other than the instructor who assigned it.

     • The instructor will notify the Registrar if a grade change is warranted.
     • In egregious circumstances, the Provost may change a grade based on the recommendation of the appropriate Dean.
4. ​Incomplete Grade Policy
   • ​​In cases where a student cannot complete a course due to unavoidable extenuating circumstances, the instructor may assign a grade of “Incomplete” with approval from the Associate Provost.
   • “Incomplete” grades are intended only for students prevented from completing coursework because of unforeseen events (such as extended illness).
   • “Incomplete” grades may not be used to allow students to redo assignments or retake exams in which they performed poorly.
   • An “Incomplete” must be resolved within 8 weeks of grade posting unless an extension is granted by the Office of Associate Provost.
   • Students with 12 or more credit hours of outstanding Incomplete grades may not register for additional courses without special permission from the Office of Academic Affairs.
5. Pass/Fail
   • ​​A Pass/Fail grading option is available to encourage upper‑level students to explore subjects outside their major disciplines.
   • Junior and senior students may register Pass/Fail for one elective course per semester prior to the end of the add/drop period.
   • By selecting the Pass/Fail option, students agree to the following conditions:
     • Once registered, students may not revert to conventional letter grading after the add/drop period.
     • A failing grade (F) will be calculated into the grade point average.
   • Important: Students who change majors may be required to repeat any course, that is now a major course, previously taken Pass/Fail
   • Courses taken Pass/Fail at other institutions are normally not accepted for transfer credit; however, students may petition the Provost for review in accordance with this policy.
6. Auditing
   • Auditing a class-attending without taking exams or earning academic credit-is permitted with regular registration and payment of applicable audit fees.
   • The standard audit fee for undergraduate and graduate courses is charged per credit hour.
   • Full‑time undergraduate students may audit a course at no additional cost if their total course load, including the audited course, does not exceed 18 credit hours.
   • Senior citizens are eligible for a reduced audit fee (see Financial Policies for details).
   • Students auditing a course must participate in all course activities except tests and final examinations to earn the grade of AU.
   • Students may not later register for credit in a course they have previously audited.
   • Students may change from audit to conventional grading only during the official add/drop period.
   • Audited courses do not apply toward degree requirements, financial aid eligibility, or athletic eligibility.
7. Course Evaluations
   • Course evaluation is a long‑standing priority at Quincy University.
   • Course evaluations are an essential tool for improving teaching effectiveness, enhancing course quality, and ensuring a high‑quality academic experience for students.
   • The evaluation process is confidential and conducted through QU’s Moodle course management system.
   • All students are expected to complete evaluations for every course in which they are enrolled.
   • Evaluations open for online completion approximately one week before a course concludes.

​​C. Repeating a Course

1. Students may repeat courses to improve grades and their grade‑point averages.
2. The last grade earned for a repeated course-even if it is lower-becomes the grade of record and is used in calculating the Quincy University GPA.
3. All previous registrations and grades for repeated courses remain visible on the official transcript.
4. Credit hours count toward attempted hours each time a course is taken; however, credit earned for a repeated course is counted only once.
5. Courses repeated to improve a grade must be repeated at Quincy University; courses taken elsewhere do not impact the Quincy University GPA.
6. Repeating courses may affect athletic eligibility and financial aid eligibility.
7. A course may be repeated a maximum of two times (for a total of three attempts), unless special permission is granted by the School Dean and the Provost.

D. Independent Study

Independent study is reserved for exceptional circumstances and is not intended as an alternative to regularly scheduled coursework. It may be approved only when a student faces a significant and unavoidable scheduling conflict that cannot be resolved through existing curriculum offerings.

Juniors and seniors may petition to pursue an independent study, provided a qualified faculty member agrees to supervise the work. Approval is subject to review by the Provost.

The independent study must adhere to the scope and rigor of the standard course syllabus, and all requirements and assignments must be completed to the satisfaction of the supervising faculty member.

Students may complete no more than four independent study courses during their undergraduate career.

If an independent study results in a course load exceeding the normal full-time limit, or if it is conducted outside the standard academic term, additional tuition will be charged. Students enrolled in independent study may also be assessed an independent study fee, unless an exception is granted by the Office of Academic Affairs.

E. Final Examination Policy

1. Quincy University requires a final examination or comparable culminating experience in every course to assess student learning.
2. For traditional semester courses, final exams are scheduled during a designated final examination period at the end of each semester.
3. For courses offered in other sessions, final exams are typically held during the last class meeting.
4. The final exam period is considered part of the required instructional time for all courses.
5. Students should not make travel plans that conflict with their scheduled final exams.
6. Instructors will not provide alternative or individual final exams due to travel conflicts.
7. The official final exam schedule is available on the Office of the Registrar’s website.

F. Academic Honesty

• Quincy University is committed to academic integrity. Learning and personal growth are compromised when integrity is sacrificed for the appearance of academic achievement. The following behaviors are violations of University policy:

1. Cheating on exams, quizzes, assignments, or any other academic work, by any method.
2. Falsifying academic or University records, including grade reports, transcripts, notes, identification cards, letters of authorization, or other official documents.
3. Plagiarism, which includes:
   • Using another person’s words, ideas, or images-whether word‑for‑word or paraphrased-without proper acknowledgment.
   • Presenting someone else’s work or ideas as your own.
   • Allowing your own work to be copied by others.
   • Stealing ideas, which is also considered plagiarism and may be punishable by law.

• ​Consequences of Academic Dishonesty

1. Students found responsible for academic dishonesty may face sanctions based on the seriousness and frequency of the violation.
2. Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
   • Failure on the assignment
   • Failure in the course
   • Dismissal from a program or from the University
3. The instructor determines the grade outcome for the assignment and the course.
4. The University maintains a record of academic honesty violations. Repeated violations automatically trigger a University‑level review to determine additional penalties.
5. Students are responsible for reviewing the academic honesty procedures outlined in the Student Handbook.

• Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

1. Quincy University expects students to submit their own original work in all academic settings.
2. The use of artificial intelligence tools (such as ChatGPT) to produce work that is submitted as one’s own without permission is a violation of the Academic Honesty Policy and may result in disciplinary action.
3. Use of AI tools is only permitted with explicit approval from the instructor, based on the goals and requirements of the assignment.
    

G.  Current Coursework

1. Students returning to Quincy University after an extended absence may be required to repeat certain courses to ensure the degree awarded reflects current academic standards.
2. This policy typically applies in the following situations:
   • An absence of five to ten years
   • Courses within the student’s major and/or minor field(s)
3. In cases of an exceptionally long absence, students may also be required to repeat or add courses within the Bonaventure Program.
4. Decisions regarding required coursework are made by the academic advisor, in consultation with Academic Affairs.

VII. Academic Honors

A. Dean’s List

1. At the end of each semester, Quincy University publishes a Dean’s List recognizing undergraduate students for outstanding academic achievement.
2. Students must earn a semester GPA of 3.5 or higher to be eligible.
3. Students must be enrolled in at least 12 semester hours of A-F graded coursework at Quincy University during the semester.
4. Students with incomplete grades are not eligible for the Dean’s List.

B. Graduation With Honors

1. Honor distinctions are recorded on the student’s official transcript and diploma. Honors distinctions are awarded as follows:

   • Cum Laude: cumulative GPA of 3.60-3.74
   • Magna Cum Laude: cumulative GPA of 3.75-3.89
   • Summa Cum Laude: cumulative GPA of 3.90-4.00
2. ​Eligibility Requirements

• ​​Students must have a minimum Quincy University cumulative GPA of 3.60 and all coursework must be graded on an A-F scale.to be considered for graduation with honors.
• For students with transferable academic credit:
  • Honors determination is based on the cumulative GPA earned at Quincy University.
  • Transfer students must complete a minimum of 56 semester hours at Quincy University.
• All graduation requirements must be officially documented as completed prior to Commencement for honors to be announced at Commencement

​3. Recognition

• Students graduating Summa Cum Laude receive the Bonaventure Award for highest distinction.
• Students graduating Cum Laude receive silver cords.
• Students graduating Magna Cum Laude receive gold cords.
   

VIII. Academic Standing

A. Academic standing is determined based on the total number of credit hours earned and the student’s cumulative grade point average (GPA). To remain in good academic standing at Quincy University, undergraduate students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. Conditions for Good Standing, Academic Probation, and Academic Dismissal are outlined in the chart below.   When a student’s GPA falls below a 2.0, they may be placed on academic probation, then suspended for either a fall or spring semester, then suspended for one academic year. Typically, academic dismissal will follow the second suspension.

1. Students must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA to be in good standing; however, a term GPA below 2.0 will result in an academic alert.
2. Students whose cumulative GPA falls below a 2.0 will be placed either on academic probation or on academic suspesion 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 suspension 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 credit hours a student has earned at all colleges/universities the student has attended. However, only their cummulative Quincy University GPA is considered.
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.
   ​

B. Academic Probation or Academic Suspension

1. Students placed on academic probation:

   • May enroll in no more than 16 semester hours of coursework.
   • May be required to participate in academic support programs as a condition of continued enrollment.

2. A student who is academically suspended may:

   • Appeal for academic reinstatement for the following semester by submitting a written appeal as soon as possible.
   • Submit the appeal to the Academic Appeals Committee through the Office of Academic Affairs.
   • Include an explanation of extenuating circumstances and a plan for improving academic performance.
   • If the appeal is approved, the student will be reinstated on academic probation.
   • Students may remian enrolled in J term and Summer courses for which they are already registered.

3. A student may be reinstated a maximum of two times.

   • Academic dismissal is final and can not be appealed.

4. A student who has been academically suspended and does not enroll for one semester or more:

   • Must apply for readmission through the Office of Admissions.
   • The readmission application will be reviewed by the Academic Appeals Committee.
   • A student’s campus citizenship will be considered in the readmission decision.
   • If approved, the student will be readmitted on academic probation.

IX Undergraduate Enrollment in Graduate Level Courses

Degree seeking undergraduate students with senior standing may request approval to enroll in up to nine (9) credit hours total of graduate‑level coursework while maintaining undergraduate classification.  Undergraduates may not exceed 18 total hours, in any semester where they are taking graduate courses.

Such enrollment is intended to support advanced academic preparation and must align with the student’s academic goals and program of study. Approval is not automatic and is granted on a case‑by‑case basis.

Graduate coursework completed while enrolled as an undergraduate may be applied toward either the bachelor’s degree or a future graduate degree, but not both. Students admitted to an approved accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s or bachelor’s-to-doctoral program may apply graduate credit hours to both degree programs as permitted by the specific program’s requirements.

Eligibility and Approval Requirements

To enroll in graduate‑level coursework, the student must:

1. Hold senior standing and a minimum GPA of 3.4 at the time of enrollment

2. Obtain written approval from:

   • The student’s academic advisor

   • The Dean (or designee) of the college

   • The Office of Academic Affairs

Additional Provisions

• Graduate programs have no obligation to admit undergraduate students to their courses and do so at their own discretion.

• Graduate‑level courses taken under this policy may or may not apply toward future graduate degree requirements, subject to graduate program policies.

• Enrollment is contingent upon course availability and satisfaction of all course prerequisites.

X. Experiential Learning (QUEST Center)

A. 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.

• 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.
   

B. Practicum / Internship

1. Practicum
   • Practicum experiences are completed on a part‑time basis while students remain enrolled full‑time in coursework.
   • Students participating in a practicum receive close supervision and guided instruction related to professional duties they will perform in the workforce.
   • One semester hour of academic credit is awarded for every 50 hours of approved field experience
2. Internships
   • ​​​​Internships may be completed on a part‑time or full‑time basis while the student is enrolled in coursework.
   • Internship students receive structured supervision and guidance, though typically with greater independence than in practicum experiences.
   • Students may work independently on assigned projects and responsibilities appropriate to their field of study.
   • Internships are designed to provide supervised, hands‑on experience that prepares students for professional duties upon entering the workforce.
   • One semester hour of academic credit is awarded for every 50 hours of approved field experience
3. Additional Notes
   • ​​Faculty and Dean approvals are required for new sites.
   • Faculty approval is required for approved sites.
   • Students need to complete the Application and Registration for Practicum or Internship Form, prior to the start of the experience.
   • A maximum of 12 hours in practicum/internship credit may apply toward the basic 120-hour degree program.

C. 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:

1. ACE Credit

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

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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:

     • The experience should relate to a regular course or equate with academic experience.

     • The experience must be verified and documented.

     • The experience must be one which has produced a recognizable competence in the applicant.

     • The credit granted for experience is not applicable to residency requirements nor to the 56 hours required at a 4-year institution. 

     • The credit must be totally separate from any practicum or internship experience for which credit has been granted.

     • 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).

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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).

XI. Graduation

A. Academic Catalog Covering Graduation Requirements

1. A student’s catalog year corresponds to the academic year in which they first enroll as a degree-seeking student and determines the set of degree requirements they must satisfy.  Students are responsible for satisfying all degree requirements and complying with the academic regulations in place at the time of their initial enrollment.  Continuously enrolled students may request to update their catalog year to a more recent one by submitting the “Request to Change Catalog Year” form; however, they should consult a faculty advisor before doing so, as the change may affect specific graduation requirements. After a catalog year is updated, students are not permitted to revert to an older catalog year.

   Students who discontinue enrollment for more than one year will follow the catalog in effect during the term in which they are readmitted. Students who receive an approved Leave of Absence for up to one year will retain the catalog requirements assigned at the time of their initial enrollment. Refer to the Returning Student Readmission policy for additional information.

B. Application for Graduation

1. Candidates for a degree must file an Application for Graduation on the student portal.

2. Application deadlines:

   • September 15 for December degree candidates

   • February 15 for May/Summer degree candidates

3. Failure to submit the application by the deadline may result in:

   • A delayed graduation date

   • A late application fee

4. Students who do not apply for graduation by the deadline will not be permitted to participate in commencement ceremonies.

C. Participation in Commencement Ceremony

1. Winter Commencement

   • Students must have completed all graduation requirements by the end of the fall semester to participate in Winter Commencement.

   • If a final course is completed during the J‑term, the degree will not be posted until spring, and the student is not eligible to walk in winter commencement.

2. Spring Commencement

   • Undergraduate students may participate if they have no more than two remaining courses to be completed during the summer term.

   • A plan for completing summer coursework must be made with the Faculty Advisor and approved by the Associate Provost.

   • Students who have completed all degree requirements except for required practicums or professional experiences (up to eight credit hours) may participate in the May Commencement ceremony.

   • Undergraduate teacher education students who have not yet completed student teaching are not eligible to participate in Commencement until student teaching is successfully completed.

3. Additional Information

   • Any exceptions to commencement participation policies must be approved by the Office of Academic Affairs.

   • Participation in Commencement (“walking”) does not indicate that all university requirements for degree conferral have been satisfied.

D. Degree conferral

1. Degrees are conferred by Quincy University upon certification that all academic requirements have been satisfactorily completed.

2. Degree conferral occurs after final grades are submitted and reviewed by the Office of the Registrar.

3. Degrees are officially conferred on the published conferral date for each term (December, May, or Summer).

4. The official transcript reflects the degree conferral date once the degree has been awarded.

5. Diplomas are issued after degree conferral and verification of all University obligations.

XI. Academic Assessment

A. Academic assessment at Quincy University supports the continuous improvement of teaching and learning in a student‑centered environment. Its purpose is to show how effectively students are learning, how well faculty are supported in their teaching, and how University policies and resources contribute to these goals in alignment with QU’s mission.

Assessment is not an end in itself. Instead, it is a tool for educational improvement, helping the University translate its values and mission into daily teaching and learning practices. Assessment of academic success also plays a vital role in evaluating overall institutional effectiveness.

B. Levels of Assessment

To ensure meaningful and comprehensive evaluation, assessment at Quincy University occurs at several interconnected levels:

• Student Level - Measuring individual learning and development
• Course Level - Evaluating learning within specific classes
• Program Level - Reviewing curricular effectiveness within majors
• Bonaventure Program - Assessing general education outcomes
• Institutional Level - Documenting the University’s overall academic effectiveness
   

C. Guiding Principles of the QU Assessment Program

The assessment process at Quincy University is designed to be:

• Ongoing: Continuously collecting, analyzing, and sharing data over time.
• Cumulative: Building a meaningful body of evidence that informs curricular and instructional decisions.
• Multi‑Faceted: Using multiple measures at multiple levels, incorporating data from both internal and external sources.
• Pragmatic: Focusing on how data about past and current practices can help improve the future academic experience for students and faculty.
• Comprehensive: Integrated across all University functions and reflective of QU’s mission.

D. Goals for Academic Assessment

Quincy University’s academic assessment efforts aim to:

• Continuously enhance the teaching and learning environment.
• Coordinate and support institutional assessment activities, including data collection, analysis, reporting, and storage.
• Systematically gather relevant assessment information from multiple internal and external sources.
• Ensure transparency in assessment processes and make results available to appropriate stakeholders.
• Meaningfully integrate assessment findings into faculty development, instructional planning, and academic improvement.
• Provide the resources necessary to sustain high‑quality teaching and learning.
• Strengthen Quincy University’s ability to function as an effective, efficient, and self‑assessing institution.