Policies and Information

Click on any of the following areas of interest for more information:

University Policies

Academic Records

• Calendar and Course Numbering
• Class Attendance
• Classification of Students
• Distance Education
• Enrollment, Registration & Withdrawal
• Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
• Grades and Grading
• Graduation
• Requests for Exception from Institutional Policy
• Transcripts

Undergraduate Policies and Information

• Academic Support
• Proficiency Examinations
• Undergraduate Majors
• Double Major or Second Baccalaureate Degree
• Academic Progress
• Academic Honors
• Graduation
• Special Academic Programs

Graduate Policies and Information

• Academic Progress
• Graduation
• Early Access

Academic Expectations

Maryville faculty members strive to foster an academic environment that promotes analytical, creative and value-oriented thinking. Achieving this goal requires mutual cooperation among faculty and students. Faculty members are involved in the teaching/learning process with students possessing unique talents, learning styles and backgrounds. At the same time, students should be committed to intellectual exploration and a serious pursuit of academic excellence. Faculty and students work on an ongoing basis to comprise a University community that celebrates diversity and rejects intolerance of any kind.

Academic Integrity

The freedoms to teach and to learn are inseparable. All members of the University community share the responsibility to uphold the integrity of the academic community. Faculty should encourage free discussion, inquiry and expression. Students are responsible for maintaining the standards of academic performance established for each course in which they are enrolled.

Grades and academic judgments are the responsibility of the faculty. Problems arising from academic dishonesty (such as cheating, fabrication, plagiarism) or faculty error should first be resolved through the informal grievance process. The informal and formal grievance processes are outlined in materials available in the Office of Academic Affairs and in the Student Handbook.

Alcohol and Drug Policy

Maryville University does not, nor will it, condone the illegal use or abuse of alcohol or drugs on campus. The University will dismiss or discipline employees/students who sell, share, possess or use any illegal drug or substance on campus. Maryville is committed to assisting with educational programs dealing with drugs and alcohol issues. The Drug-Free Workplace Act provisions are also enforced and followed. (The University’s complete Alcohol and Drug Policy is available in the Student Handbook and the University Policy Manual.)

Calendar and Course Numbering

Academic Calendar

Credit Hour

All credits are shown in semester hours.

Federal Credit Hour/Contact Hour Guidelines

To review a copy of the Maryville University federal credit hour/contact hour guidelines, please visit http://www.maryville.edu/academicaffairs/credit-hourcontact-hour-guidelines/.

Course Numbering

In the section listing academic courses and programs, courses numbered 100-200 are lower division courses designed for freshmen and sophomores. Those numbered 300-499 are upper division courses designed for juniors and seniors. Those numbered 500-699 are graduate courses; however, juniors and seniors may take graduate-level courses under special circumstances. 700-799 are doctoral level courses. Course descriptions  and course listings indicate the credit hours available.

Cross-Listed and Related Courses

Cross-listed courses have the same educational outcomes and the course can be used interchangeably for degree requirements. (Ex. HUM - 118  and ENGL - 118  )
Related courses have shared aspects, but because they have different expectations and educational outcomes, and may not be utilized interchangeably for degree requirements. (Ex. DSCI - 303   and DSCI - 503  ) 
Both types of courses can share attributes, including: offered at the same times, dates, instructors, share a classroom, etc.

Class Attendance

Maryville University recognizes that regular class attendance is essential to student success and expects students to attend all classes.  While Maryville does not centrally monitor attendance in courses, instructors may do so based on their individual discretion.  Accordingly, all students should be aware of the following: 

• Individual instructors determine their own attendance requirements and will communicate such requirements in writing on the course syllabus
• Each student is responsible for her/his own attendance and is responsible for communication about that attendance with the instructor.
• Students are responsible for any work missed as a result of absences of any kind and shall make arrangements with the instructor for make-up work if permitted.

The University recognizes that some absences are unavoidable due to serious personal illness; a family emergency such as serious illness or death involving a member of the immediate family; religious observance; jury or military duty; and representing the University in athletic, academic, professional or leadership development pursuits.

Although instructors are encouraged to make a reasonable effort to allow students to make up exams or work missed due to such unavoidable absences, an instructor is not required to provide alternative experiences that cannot be easily duplicated such as labs, clinical and practical experiences, guest speakers, etc.  Students must remain aware that missing such experiences may result in a loss of points in that class.  Excessive absences, even if necessary, may deprive students of the grade they are capable of earning and may result in failing the course.  In addition, a repeated failure to attend class for a significant period of time may result in a determination that the student has unofficially withdrawn, which may require repayment of financial aid awarded to the student for that course.

The policy applies to all undergraduate courses in all venues – day, evening, and online.

Attendance Reporting

The US Department of Education requires that student attendance be reported at the beginning of each term to ensure adherence to Federal Title IV regulations prior to the distribution of financial aid. These regulations verify that financial aid is being distributed appropriately; as in, distributed to students who are actively attending/participating in their courses.

To comply with these regulations, Attendance Reporting occurs at the beginning of each 8 week term. Each instructor is asked to provide a list of students who have never attended their course by the end of the second week of instruction, resulting in a Never Attended flag. 

“Never Attended” is defined as follows:

• For on-ground courses, Never Attended means the student has not attended a class session, submitted work, or contacted the instructor for an excused absence.
• For online courses, Never Attended means the student has not participated in the course. Participation is defined as submitting an assignment, quiz/exam, or discussion post. Solely logging into the course or viewing content does NOT constitute participation or attendance.

Students who are flagged as Never Attended in at least one course will be reviewed by Academic Records to determine if they should remain in their course(s). If a student has not participated in all of their courses in the evaluated term, they will be dropped for non-attendance from their current and pre-registered courses. Students receiving financial aid will have their federal financial aid eligibility re-evaluated after being dropped for non-attendance, which may result in a balance due to the University.

Religious Holidays

Maryville University recognizes the variety of cultural and religious diversity expressed by our student body. Within our mission, “Maryville University regards diversity and inclusion as core principles of our learning environment, and multicultural understanding as an essential measure of student success.” Therefore, students have the opportunity to request reasonable consideration for absences due to religious or cultural observance. Students should communicate with the instructor prior to the end of the second week of the course to present their request. 

Classification of Students

Student Classification

Undergraduate students are classified by total credit hours earned as follows:

• Freshmen: 0–27.99
• Sophomores: 28–59.99
• Juniors: 60–89.99
• Seniors: 90+

Graduate students are classified as graduate with no class level designation.

Doctoral students are classified as doctoral with no class level designation.

Time Status

Undergraduate Enrollment:

• Half-time: 6 to 8 credits
• Three-quarter time: 9 to 11 credits
• Full-time: 12 or more credits

Graduate Enrollment:

• Half-time: 3 to 5 credits
• Three-quarter time: 6 to 8 credits
• Full-time: 9 or more credits

Distance Education

State Authorization

Federal regulations require institutions of higher education to be authorized in states where they provide education in order to be eligible to receive federal financial assistance. Since 2015, Maryville University is an active member institution of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA). SARA is an agreement among member states, districts and territories that establishes comparable national standards for interstate post secondary distance education and allows reciprocity facilitating the enrollment of students in online courses offered by SARA member institutions. Detailed information about our status in different jurisdictions can be found in our State Authorization website. For more information on SARA, its member states and institutions, please visit the NC-SARA website.

Professional Licensure

Federal regulations require that institutions offering programs leading to licensure or professional certification disclose whether their curriculum meet educational requirements for licensure in a particular state or jurisdiction. Our academic programs that lead to licensure or professional certification have conducted this review and made determinations based on educational requirements for licensure. However, professional licensure and certification regulations vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and are constantly changing. Therefore, we strongly encourage students pursuing degrees that lead to licensure and/or professional certifications to seek guidance from the appropriate licensing or certification board in their intended state of residence or practice to ensure our program meets licensure requirements prior to beginning an academic program. A complete list of these disclosures can be found in our Professional Licensure Information page.

Enrollment, Registration, and Withdrawal

Course Load

Full-time status for undergraduate students is 12-18 credits per term. More than 18 credits per term require the permission of the Dean and entails additional fees. Overload requests are typically approved if a student has completed 60 or more credit hours (including transfer credit) and a GPA of 3.5. Undergraduate students are limited to a maximum of 12 credit hours per 8 week session, and no more than 21 credits for the full semester.

Full-time graduate students normally take 9 to 12 credit hours per semester, depending upon the academic program. Please consult the individual school for details. Graduate students are limited to 9 credits per 8 week session, and no more than 18 credits for the full semester.

Registration/Course Scheduling

All students should consult with their academic adviser or life coach to select courses.

Students are encouraged to schedule and register for classes well in advance of the start of each term. Registration begins on the dates published in the academic calendar. 

Students are encouraged to register online through their Self-Service portal*.  Undergraduate Day students require their adviser/life coach’s approval before permission will be granted to enroll in classes.

Course sections of 8 or more weeks may be added or dropped during the first week of the term. Students may not add or drop these course sections after the first week of the term.  Students may withdraw from these course sections starting the second week of the term.

Course sections lasting less than 8 weeks may be added or dropped prior to the start of the term.  Students may not add or drop these course sections after the first day of the term.  Students may withdraw from these course sections starting the first week of the term.

Confirmation of course registration is provided to registrants at the time of registration. A billing statement follows via mail. Payment or payment arrangements must be made by the payment due date on the registration statement and as published. 

* Students in the Online Master of Science in Nursing, Online Nurse Practitioner Post-Masters Certificate, Online Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Online Doctor of Education programs are administratively registered by university staff, and do not self-register online.

International Student Restrictions

Unique registration restrictions exist for International Students in order to ensure Maryville University is in compliance with federal regulations.

• Undergraduate International Students must be registered for a minimum of 9 credit hours of face-to-face instruction (on campus) in order to be eligible to register for online course offerings.
• Graduate International Students must be registered for a minimum of 6 credit hours of face-to-face instruction (on campus) in order to be eligible to register for online course offerings.
• International Students sponsored by the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM) are restricted from registering for Online course offerings to ensure compliance with SACM policies.

Click here to contact an International adviser if you have questions regarding the registration restrictions for International Students.

Audit Policy

Students who wish to audit an undergraduate class must register for the course on an audit basis. Graduate coursework is only eligible for audit with departmental permission. Only main campus coursework, completed in an on-ground format, is eligible for audit. Coursework with experiential components (courses with labs, internships, clincials, etc.) are not eligible for audit. There is no grade or credit earned for the course, but it does appear on the student’s official transcript as an audit (notated with an AU). Courses taken on an audit basis do not meet degree requirements. 

Students who register for credit and wish to change to audit or who register for audit and wish to change to credit must make the change by the end of the add/drop period for that course.

Withdrawal from a Course

Enrolled students who choose to withdraw from a course, courses or the University must follow procedures published in the Withdrawal and Refund Policies section of this catalog. Failure to do so will result in grade(s) of “F” or “AF” being recorded on the student’s official transcript for the courses(s) involved. The withdrawal deadline is published in the Academic Calendar.  Non-attendance of class does not constitute withdrawal. The University reserves the right to withdraw students who do not meet their financial obligations.

Withdrawal from the University

Enrolled students who wish to withdraw from the University prior to the start of the term should notify their academic advisor or life coach as soon as possible to ensure their registration is canceled and student record is closed.

Enrolled students who wish to withdraw from the University after the start of the term should follow the process detailed for Withdrawal from a Course above.

Administrative Withdrawal for Non-Academic Reasons

The University may require a student to take an administrative withdrawal if there is sufficient evidence that the student is not engaging; is likely to engage in behavior that presents a real danger of substantial harm to self or others; or substantially disrupts the learning environment and activities of the campus community. It should also be understood that there are limits to the University’s ability to care for students with serious physical or psychological conditions, and therefore, the University reserves the right to decide, in certain circumstances, when it cannot provide educational or other services to a particular student.

This policy and associated procedures do not take the place of disciplinary action associated with a student’s behavior that is in violation of University policies, standards or regulations. This policy is to be invoked in extraordinary circumstances in which, at the discretion of the Vice President for Student Life or designee, the regular disciplinary system cannot be applied or is not appropriate.

This policy may be invoked when a student is unable or unwilling to request a voluntary withdrawal and the Vice President for Student Life or designee deems a withdrawal necessary in order to protect the health and safety of the student or others, or to protect the integrity of the learning environment and campus community. Examples of such extraordinary circumstances include, but are not limited to: suicidal threat/attempt, self-starvation or purging behavior, ongoing substance abuse or addiction, serious threats of harm to self or others, or bizarre or destructive behavior. Before a required administrative withdrawal is considered, the Vice President for Student Life or designee will give the student the option to take a voluntary withdrawal. There is no appeal to this policy since it is invoked only in extraordinary circumstances in response to immediate concerns.

In the event that the student chooses not to complete the plan outlined at the time of withdrawal, the Vice President for Student Life or designee will reevaluate the situation in consultation with the appropriate health/mental health professionals and involved staff and faculty members when appropriate. Either the administrative withdrawal period may be extended or the student may be considered permanently withdrawn, in which case she/he must reapply for admission to the University in order to continue her/his studies. The Vice President for Student Life or designee will notify the student in writing if she/he is permanently withdrawn.

Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) gives current and former students specific rights concerning access and control of their educational record as well as the right to challenge information believed to be inaccurate or misleading.

Maryville University is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of student records and abides by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). The law insures the confidentiality of student records, permits students access to their records and prohibits the release of records except by permission of the student or by court order, while also permitting the release of “directory information” without specific permission from the student. Contact Academic Records for more information.

FERPA affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. They are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records. (see pg. 12 for Requests of Disclosure of Information)
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records to ensure that they are not inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
4. The right to file with the U.S. Department of Education a complaint concerning alleged failures by Maryville University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

FERPA provides “eligible students” and, in certain circumstances, their parents, the right to review and confirm the accuracy of education records. All students at Maryville University are “eligible students” under FERPA. However, a parent of a child who is his or her dependent for tax purposes under Section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code retains FERPA rights and may access the educational records of his or her dependent student without the written consent of the student. The Director of Financial Aid, the appropriate academic dean, the Director of Health & Wellness Services, Dean of Student Life, the Director of Admissions, and the Registrar are the officials responsible for the maintenance of records listed in the section entitled “education records”.

 Education Records—Student “education records” are official and confidential records, files, documents, and other materials which contain information directly related to a student and which Maryville University maintains in any recorded way, such as handwriting, print, computer media, video or audio tape, film, microfilm, and microfiche. Examples include:

• Financial Aid records
• Admissions file
• The academic record, including grades, test scores, courses taken, academic specializations and activities, and official letters regarding a student’s status in school
• Date and place of birth, parent(s) and/or guardian addresses, and where parents can be contacted in emergencies.
• Special education records
• Disciplinary records
• Medical and health records that the school creates or collects and maintains;
• Documentation of attendance, schools attended, courses taken, awards conferred, and degrees earned.
• Personal information such as a student’s identification code, social security number, picture, or other information that would make it easy to identify or locate a student.

Directory Information

Maryville University has designated certain types of personally identifiable information as “Directory Information.” This includes a student’s name, photograph, major, grade level, dates of attendance, enrollment status (full-time, part-time, undergraduate, graduate); degrees and awards received, most recent previous school attended, address, telephone number, e-mail address, date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, and weight and height of athletes.

Student information will not be released by Maryville University except as authorized by law. Maryville offers students the option to keep directory information confidential. However, doing so will make this information unavailable to all, including prospective employers, insurance companies, credit agencies and others. To restrict the release of directory information, please complete the appropriate form, which can be requested from Academic Records office by email: academicrecords@maryville.edu. The restriction will remain in place until a written request is sent to Academic Records that the restriction be lifted.

Requests for Disclosure of Information

Admissions/Enrollment Office

Institutional information including, but not restricted to, admissions requirements and procedures, and academic programs and degree requirements.

Financial Aid

1. Financial assistance available to enrolled students including the federal, state and institutional programs in which the University participates.
2. Direct Loan information including deferment procedures.
3. Application procedures and eligibility requirements.
4. Terms and conditions of on-campus employment.
5. Criteria for measuring satisfactory academic progress and how to re-establish eligibility if aid is lost.
6. How aid is distributed to the University and the student.
7. Timetable and method for pro-rating aid in the event of withdrawal from class(es).
8. Information pertaining to alternative financing options.

Public Safety Office

As required by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure Act, the University must provide information to all community members on how to obtain a copy of Maryville University’s annual security report. This report includes statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus; in certain off-campus buildings or property owned or controlled by Maryville University.; and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from, the campus. The report also includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. This report can be obtained by contacting the Office of Public Safety or by accessing www.maryville.edu/publicsafety/clery-act.

Registrar

1. Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
2. The definition of “directory information” for Maryville University as developed under FERPA guidelines.
3. Right to file a complaint with Department of Education for alleged failure on the part of the University to comply with FERPA requirements.
4. The criteria used to determine what constitutes a school official and/or a legitimate educational interest should the University disclose personally identifiable information from a student’s educational records without prior consent.
5. Right to restrict disclosure of personally identifiable information included in directory information.
6. Right to, and procedures for, inspecting and reviewing student’s educational record.
7. Completion, graduation and transfer-out rates.
8. Registration policies and procedures.

Registration policies and procedures

1. Reports on athletic program participation rates and financial support
2. Drug and alcohol abuse policy and provisions

Grades and Grading

Grade Point Average Calculation

A student’s cumulative grade point average is determined by dividing the Maryville total grade points earned by the total number units of grade point weighted credits completed.
Students receive grade points for each unit of institutional credit completed (excluding repeated courses and Pass/No Pass courses), calculated on the following evaluation:

*During the semester of the enrollment in an approved course, an undergraduate student may change from a letter grade to a Pass/No Pass option.  A form for this permission is available through My Maryville Community, and must be submitted no later than the deadline posted in the academic calendar.

If a course is repeated, the higher graded course will be used in calculating the total credit hours and the cumulative grade point average.  Please see the Repeated Grades section immediately following for more information.

Repeated Grades

Students may repeat courses at Maryville University.  If the student repeats a course and receives a higher grade the course with the higher grade will be used in the grade point average (GPA) calculation and the lower grade will be removed from the GPA calculation.

Both grades will remain on the student’s transcript, however only the higher grade will be used for calculations of degree credit and GPA.

Grading System

* AF Note: If an “AF” grade is assigned, a Last Date of Engagement must be entered.  This date is the best estimate of when a student stopped attending class or the date of the last missed assignment, deadline, exam, presentation, etc.  If a student never attended class, the “Never Attended” box should be selected on the grading roster even if already selected as part of the enrollment verification (attendance reporting) at the beginning of the semester.

Grading System Notes for Students

Students who are considering a withdrawal from a course should consult the university’s policies and procedures and consider the implications of these actions with respect to financial planning including but not limited to financial aid, alternative loans and other sources of tuition funding.

Federal funds are awarded to the student with the expectation that the student will successfully complete the course(s) for which he or she has registered in a given term. When a student does not complete the course(s), then it is necessary for the University to review the aid amount awarded to the student based on the courses that the student has dropped or withdrawn. Students who completely withdraw from courses for any term are subject to the Return of Title IV (R2T4) refund calculation as dictated by federal regulations. Instructors approached by a student wishing to discuss withdrawal from one or more courses should refer the student to the Student Financial Services Team for information related to the student’s specific financial circumstances. Instructors are reminded that their final grade assignments must be based upon the student’s academic performance in the course and must not take into account the financial aid and/or personal financial consequences of that grade assignment on the student.

Grading System Notes for Faculty

Faculty will be asked to submit midterm and/or final grades by the established grading deadlines for each class.  In the event a student has stopped attending prior to the withdrawal date (or 75% point of the course), faculty should award a grade of “AF”.  The best estimate of the Last Date of Engagement will be calculated based upon when a student stopped attending class or the date of the last missed assignment, deadline, exam, presentation, etc.  If a student never attended class, the “Never Attended” box should be selected on the grading roster.  If faculty have no way of determining the last date of engagement, then a pre-determined date at the 50% point of the course will be used; this pre-determined date will be posted to the academic calendar.

If a student stops attending after the withdrawal deadline (or 75% point of the course), faculty will assign the grade the student has earned.  However, each faculty member has the ability to determine how many points of engagement are expected at the end of the semester.  Therefore, students missing the last 25% of course engagement in a course may automatically result in earning a F grade.

Pass/No Pass Policy

During the semester of the enrollment in an approved course, a student may change from a letter grade to a Pass/No Pass option by the same day as the last day to withdraw from a class. Undergraduate Students are limited to a total of three undergraduate courses, not required by major or minor, for this option.  A form for this permission can be found on My Maryville Community and must be submitted no later than the deadline posted in the academic calendar.

Incomplete/Delayed Grade Policy

Incomplete or delayed grades may be issued for coursework not completed by the end of the semester due to extraordinary circumstances. Incomplete (I) grades applies to undergraduate courses only and delayed grades (DG) apply to graduate courses only.  Remaining course work must be completed within six months from the date the “I” grade was issued or within one year from the date the delayed grade “DG” was issued. An “I” or “DG” grade in a prerequisite course may jeopardize sequential progression in coursework and professional programs.

Grade Reports

Mid-term and final grades are delivered to students online through the Self-Service portal; a Maryville email account is required to ensure security and privacy.

Official grade reports can be issued at the written request of the student. A Grade Report Request form is available from Academic Records. Requests should include the student name, student number and/or Social Security number, date of birth, term for which grades are requested, and the student’s signature.

Academic Forgiveness

Upon re-entry to Maryville University, undergraduate students are eligible to request academic forgiveness after 5 years of absence.  The Student Petition for Requesting Academic Forgiveness form can be obtained from Academic Records.  Upon approval, all prior grades will be removed from the grade point average (GPA) calculation if the student maintains at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA on the first 12 credit hours subsequent to re-enrollment.  This adjustment will be permanently noted on the student’s official transcript.

Graduation

Degree Requirements

Specifics regarding Undergraduate and Graduate Degree requirements are detailed within the Undergraduate Policies and Information and the Graduate Policies and Information sections.

Intent to Graduate

Degree candidates must complete an application for graduation within the first four (4) weeks of the semester in which degree will be completed. Students may apply for graduation online via their Self-Service portal.

Participation in Commencement

May and December Undergraduate Commencement Ceremonies - Bachelor Students

• Undergraduate students are eligible to participate in the ceremony for which they are completing all degree requirements or have previously completed degree requirements.
  • Completed degree requirements in the previous Summer (August) - eligible to participate in the December Commencement ceremony. 
  • Completing degree requirements in Fall (December) -  eligible to participate in the December Commencement ceremony.
  • Completing degree requirements in Spring (May) - eligible to attend the May Commencement ceremony.
• Undergraduate students are not eligible for early participation in Commencement.

May and December Graduate Commencement and Hooding Ceremonies - Master and Doctoral Students

• Master and Doctoral students must complete all degree or certificate (Post-Master of Science in Nursing) requirements in the semester for which they are participating in commencement.  Students completing program requirements in the Summer (August) are eligible to participate in the Fall (December) Graduate Ceremony.
• Master and Doctoral students are not eligible for early participation in Commencement. 

Annual Commencement dates and deadlines can be found at maryville.edu/Commencement.

Certificates

Students may complete certificate programs alone or concurrently with a degree program. Certificates will be conferred at the end of the semester a student completes the appropriate coursework. A student cannot have a certificate retroactively conferred, but may return to Maryville to complete a certificate. Coursework for multiple certificates are eligible for overlap, but if more than 6 credits overlap between credentials, substitutions will need to be approved by the department. 

Requests for Exemption from Institutional Policy

Any special action relating to a student’s academic status or degree requirements must be supported by a petition which requests consideration by the Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee. The petition must be signed by the adviser or life coach and the dean or other designated official. No special action should be assumed to be approved unless the student has received notification that the request has been approved by the University.

This policy applies generally to any special request made by the student which cannot be supported by the regulations in this catalog. No petition may be submitted more than one semester after the situation or occurrence. A special form is available from Academic Records.

Transcripts

A permanent record of courses, grades and credit for each student is maintained by the University. Official transcripts are issued at the written request of the student. Transcripts may be requested electronically through www.maryville.edu/transcripts. Written transcript requests must include the student name, student number and/or social security number, date of birth, approximate dates of attendance and the student’s signature.

Transcripts cannot be released when there is an outstanding balance on a University account. The University reserves the right to withhold transcripts when a student defaults on University loan or fee payments.

Academic Support

Academic Advising / Life Coaching

The purpose of academic advising is to provide information to students as they develop a meaningful educational plan which is compatible with their life goals. It should be viewed as a continuous process of clarification and exploration. Maryville University’s advising mission is to create a collaborative educational journey which empowers students to accomplish their personal, academic, and professional developmental goals. An academic adviser assists students in identifying options and understanding the impact of decisions made as part of the advising process. The responsibility of the student is to become acquainted with and understand the academic requirements for their major, minor, concentration or certificate for degree completion.

Maryville provides a holistic and personalized Life Coaching program for students. Prior to the beginning of their first semester, first-year and transfer students will be assigned a Life Coach in the Division of Student Success. A Life Coach is a compass who helps students navigate the complexities of college life by providing individualized personal, academic, and professional development to ensure their overall success. In addition, Life Coaches will connect students with faculty mentors in their academic discipline for exposure and insight into various industries. The Life Coach team supports all students throughout their tenure at Maryville.

Students are assigned a faculty mentor in an area associated with their major field of study as they near 60 completed credit hours. Faculty mentors help guide students in the development of an academic plan consistent with their personal and professional goals and Maryville’s institutional standards.Students who are still deciding on an academic major work closely through this exploration process with their Life Coach in the Division of Student Success. Life Coaches assist students with the declaration process, including the utilization of the STRONG Interest Inventory, the CliftonStrengths assessment, and partnering with professionals and faculty in various disciplines to explore interest areas, career options, and academic programs.

Currently enrolled students should contact their Life Coach or faculty mentor to set up an advising appointment to plan for subsequent semesters. These professionals provide academic information, assistance in class selections and career guidance related to the student’s area of study and professional goals. It is recommended that on-campus students discuss online courses with their Life Coach or faculty mentor prior to enrolling to become aware of the unique aspects of online courses.

Students must receive approval from their Life Coach or faculty mentor prior to enrolling in classes each semester. Students are encouraged to meet regularly with their Life Coach or faculty mentor to discuss matters related to progress in their academic program and in reaching academic, personal, and professional goals.

Undergraduate online students are academically advised by professionals within the School of Adult and Online Education. The Life Coach team provides academic and career support to undergraduate online students through the Student Success Hub in Canvas.

Division of Student Success

The Division of Student Success focuses on ensuring a successful transition for students into the Maryville community, throughout their Maryville experience, and beyond their degree completion at Maryville. 

Once a student chooses Maryville, they will be assigned a Life Coach within the Division of Student Success. These individuals will serve as a resource and provide support for students’ academic, personal, and professional development. Our goal is for every student to know about the many opportunities for intellectual challenges, civic engagement, and making connections with peers and professionals at Maryville. 

The first-year experience begins with Maryville’s Student, Advising, Registration, and Transition (START) program. Through this program, the student will meet with a Life Coach, connect with current and new students, register for classes, gain a better understanding of academic requirements, and create an academic program plan that leads to personal fulfillment and professional success. Incoming students are also invited to participate in summer excursions and new student orientation. During these events, students learn about opportunities for involvement on campus, including leadership development and community service, as well as various resources on campus to support them throughout their tenure at Maryville. Throughout the first-year experience, students develop skills for success in their college classes, get involved in activities on campus and in the community, and connect with faculty and staff who mentor and advise them. The first-year experience enriches the college experience of students who join our campus community.

All undergraduate, on-campus full time students receive an iPad to engage in our active learning ecosystem and experience a more diverse, customizable, and interactive learning environment. Within the Digital World, first-year students will enroll in a University Seminar course during their first semester. These seminars are team taught by a Life Coach, faculty member, and a staff member to engage in meaningful dialogues. The University Seminar has three primary threads including the theme/topic of choice, diversity and inclusion, and the tools necessary for success at Maryville. University Seminar helps students develop skills that will enhance their experience as college students and as global citizens. First-year students are challenged to become independent, creative, and critical thinkers; they participate in the University’s community of scholars; and they learn to articulate and defend their ideas. In the spring of the first-year, faculty and Life Coaches invite students to share projects from their first-year experience in Maryville’s First-Year Experience Summit. These projects are illustrated on the iPads and provide an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding work of students.

In addition, support for students with documented disabilities is provided through the Division.  We also support international students through orientation, programming, other opportunities. Finally, the university library is a part of the division which supports students in their academic, personal, and professional success.

Proficiency Examinations

English Proficiency and Placement

Maryville University recognizes that the ability to write clearly and cogently is basic to success in college and beyond. Most programs at Maryville seek to develop and enhance this ability by requiring students to take and pass the basic sequence in English composition (English 101 and English 104) and through frequent and substantial writing exercises across the curriculum. Certain students, however, do come to Maryville already familiar with the conventions of standard English and are proficient in basic rhetorical strategies. Accordingly, the requirement to take English 101 may be waived in the case of any student who meets one of the following criteria:

1. Has attained a score of 27 or higher on the English portion of the American College Test (ACT).
2. Has attained a score of 620 or higher on the verbal portion of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT).
3. Has successfully completed a college-level course in English composition while still in high school and had that success validated by earning a score of 3 or higher on the Advanced Placement Examination in English Composition administered by the Educational Testing Service of Princeton, New Jersey.
4. Has completed a comparable course at another accredited college or university, provided the student earned a grade of “C-” or better in the course.

English 101 forms the prerequisite and foundation for English 104. Except as noted above, or as stipulated under program guidelines, only students who have successfully completed English 101 may enroll in English 104. The requirement to complete English 104 cannot be waived. Courses taken as part of an English as a Second Language program do not fulfill the English composition requirement or a humanities requirement.

Mathematics Proficiency and Placement

Maryville University is committed to ensuring that all its graduates develop quantitative reasoning skills appropriate to their disciplines or professional fields as well as the math skills required to understand and function in an increasingly complex world. Toward this end, most programs at Maryville require students to take one of two foundational courses in mathematics - MATH 115, Contemporary Mathematics, or MATH 116, Intermediate Algebra. It is recognized, however, that certain students do come to Maryville already proficient in the mathematical operations covered in these two courses.  Students may qualify for exemption from MATH 115, MATH 116 or MATH 117 and qualify for advanced placement based on the student’s score on the Mathematics Placement Test administered by the Division of Student Success.

Undergraduate Majors

Declaring An Undergraduate Major

Students who enter Maryville with an undeclared major are required to declare a major upon earning a total of 60 credit hours. Transfer students are required to declare a major upon completion of 60 credit hours or at the end of their second semester at Maryville. Students who change their academic program during their tenure at Maryville can be designated undeclared for up to one year while they explore other academic programs. Exceptions for not declaring a major at 60 credit hours must be submitted to the Vice President for Academic Affairs for review.

Change of Major

To change their academic major and/or minor, students should consult their life coach or advisor and submit a change of major request electronically through the student Community at http://community.maryville.edu.  Alternatively, students may obtain a change of major form from Academic Records or the Division of Student Success. 

Students who wish to major in nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or other restricted or limited access programs must be accepted into the program and should contact the appropriate program director for details.

If the request is approved, the student will follow the degree requirements for the current catalog year.  

Double Major or Second Baccalaureate Degree

Double Major in the Bachelor’s Degree

Students may earn a double major only using majors within the same degree. If a student is pursuing a major under one degree and wants to pursue a major under another degree they will have to pursue the double degree option. 

At least 24 semester hours in any major must be different from those in any other major. The specific requirements of each school or college and major must be satisfied for the second major. The same issue of the Academic Catalog must be used for General Education requirements. If one of the programs has sufficient elective credits, students may meet major requirements of another department by using these electives.

A student may not double major if there if 9 or more semester hours overlap in course requirements for the two majors and this prevents the student from being able to have 24 semester hours of major courses that apply to the second major and don’t apply to the first major. 

Simultaneous Conferral of Two Baccalaureate Degrees from Maryville University

To be granted simultaneous baccalaureate degrees, the specific requirements of each college or school and major must be satisfied, including any variation in General Education requirements. One senior capstone is adequate unless the two degrees require specific and different courses. A cumulative total of at least 152 semester hours is required. A minimum of 24 semester hours that are different from those that are included in the first degree and are part of an approved program are required to earn two degrees.

The student must apply for graduation by the appropriate deadline, submitting one online graduation application for each degree sought.

Conferral of a Second Baccalaureate Degree after Completion of the First Degree at Maryville University

Every student returning to Maryville University for a second baccalaureate degree, after receiving a first, files an application for readmission with the Admissions Office.  A minimum of 24 additional semester hours is required. When a first baccalaureate degree has been completed with an excess of 128 semester hours, these are considered to be elective credits toward the first degree only and are not applicable toward the 24 additional semester hours necessary for the second degree unless approved by the college awarding the second degree.

Each student pursuing a second degree must complete all school, college, and major requirements stated in the Academic Catalog that is in effect at the time the student begins study for the second degree. Satisfaction of General Education courses for the first baccalaureate degree at Maryville University fulfill all General Education requirements for the second degree unless the second degree requires specific courses for General Education that were not completed in the first degree.

Conferral of a Second Baccalaureate Degree on a Student Whose First Degree was Earned Elsewhere

A student whose first degree was earned from either a U.S. institution of higher education with appropriate regional accreditation or an international university properly evaluated by a NACES approved agency, must complete all college and major requirements for the new degree with a minimum of 30 semester hours at Maryville University.

Academic Progress

Prerequisite Grades

A “C-” or higher is required in all prerequisite courses.

Satisfactory Progress

Undergraduate students are required to maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale at the end of each academic semester. Program requirements for some majors and/or scholarship requirements may mandate higher standards for students to remain in the program and/or to retain their scholarships. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of the academic standards for their major and/or scholarship renewal requirements. Information concerning an academic major is available through the program director; information concerning academic requirements for the continuation of financial aid including scholarships is available at www.maryville.edu/admissions/financialaid or from the Student Financial Services Team.

Undergraduate Probation

The academic performance and records of students with academic deficiencies are reviewed at the end of each semester.
   
A new student who is accepted to the University under contract, or a re-entering student who is accepted on academic probation for re-admission to the University, must earn a minimum semester GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale during that semester to remain at the University.
   
A student whose cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 will be placed on academic probation for one semester. If the student’s cumulative GPA has not been raised to 2.0 by the end of the probation semester, the student will be placed on academic suspension. However, if the student’s semester GPA is raised to 2.0, the student will be given an additional semester to raise the cumulative GPA.
   
A student suspended for academic reasons will be considered for reinstatement after two consecutive semesters and with the approval of the Vice President for Academic Affairs. A student that has been away from the university for three consecutive semesters must apply for re-admittance to the Office of Admissions. A reinstated or re-admitted student must show evidence of reasonable expectation of improved performance.
   
Some programs observe more stringent probation policies. Please consult with the specific program for probation policy details.

Academic Honors

Deans’ List

Undergraduate degree-seeking students are eligible for the Deans’ list when they complete at least twelve (12) Maryville University hours in the fall, spring or summer semester with a minimum of a 3.5 grade point average and no single grade below a B-. 

Academic Honors List

Part-time undergraduate degree-seeking students are eligible for the Academic Honors List when carrying a minimum of six (6) credit hours in the fall, spring or summer semester and maintaining a minimum grade point average of 3.5 and no single grade below a B-.

Honor Societies

• Alpha Lambda Delta
      National Freshman Honor Society
• Alpha Eta National Honor Society
      National Allied Health Professions Honor Society
• Delta Epsilon Sigma
      National Scholastic Honor Society
• Delta Mu Delta
      National Business Honor Society
• Lambda Pi Eta
•     National Communication Honor Society
• Omicron Delta Kappa
      National Leadership Honor Society
• Pi Gamma Mu
      International Honor Society in Social Sciences
• Pi Lambda Theta
      National Honor and Professional Association in Education
• Pi Theta Epsilon
      National Occupational Therapy Honor Society
• Pinnacle International Honor Society for Adults and Other Non-Traditional Students
• Psi  Chi
      International Honor Society in Psychology
• Sigma Theta Tau
      International Nursing Honor Society

Other University Honors

Maryville presents a number of academic and leadership awards at annual recognition ceremonies.

Graduation

Undergraduate Degree Requirements

All undergraduate degrees require a minimum of 128 credit hours. Some programs may require additional credit hours for degree completion. A course cannot be used to satisfy both a requirement of the major and a requirement of the minor. In addition, a course cannot be counted as satisfying a major or minor requirement of both a first and second bachelor’s degree and/or a first and second major. Minors are required in many programs. Students should consult their adviser for details concerning specific program requirements.

Bachelor’s Degree

• A minimum of 128 credit hours
• 2.0 (“C”) or better cumulative grade point average
• Satisfaction of the program’s general education requirements
• Satisfaction of requirements for the major; one half must be completed at Maryville University
• Satisfaction of requirements for the minor (if applicable); one half must be completed at Maryville University
• Last 30 hours taken at Maryville University
• 60 hours taken at a four-year institution

Second Maryville Bachelor’s Degree

• 2.0 (“C”) or better cumulative grade point average
• Satisfaction of requirements for the second major
• Minimum of 24 credits over and above first bachelor’s degree (minimum of 152 credit hours)

Undergraduate Degree Programs

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.): A degree granted for completion of a four-year course of study or its equivalent in arts, education, humanities, social sciences, or professional programs.
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.): A professional degree granted for completion of a four-year course of study in art, graphic design, interior design, or interactive design.
• Bachelor of Science (B.S.): A degree granted for completion of a four-year course of study or its equivalent in education, mathematics, science, business and various technologies and therapies.
• Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science (B.S.M.L.S.): A degree granted for completion of a specified course of study in clinical laboratory science.
• Bachelor of Science in Music Therapy (B.S.M.T.): A four and-a-one-half-year degree program, that includes a six-month internship, and students who successfully complete the degree program are eligible to take the national exam for board certification in music therapy.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.): A degree granted for completion of a four-year course of study or its equivalent in nursing.

Graduation Honors

Degrees with distinction are conferred on students who have maintained a high degree of excellence throughout their undergraduate studies:

Academic Progress

Satisfactory Academic Progress

A graduate student who maintains a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale at the end of each academic semester has maintained satisfactory institutional academic progress. A grade of “D” is not acceptable in graduate programs and limitations exist as to the number of credits that may be earned at “C” level work.

Probation

Please consult the specific graduate program for details regarding academic probation status.

Time Limitations

A time limitation applies to the completion of Maryville graduate programs. The limitation begins from the time of formal admission to the graduate program. The limitations are:

• Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Rehabilitation Counseling - three years
• Master of Arts in Education - six years
• Master of Arts in Management and Leadership - five years
• Master of Business Administration - five years
• Master of Science in Accounting - five years
• Master of Science in Cybersecurity - five years
• Master of Science in Data Analytics - five years
• Master of Science in Software Development - five years
• Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling - seven years
• Master of Arts in Speech Language Pathology - five years
• Master of Health Administration - five years
• Master of Music Therapy - six years
• Master of Occupational Therapy - see program handbook
• Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Leadership - six years
• Master of Science in Actuarial Science - four years
• Master of Science in Nursing - five years
• Post-Masters Doctor of Nursing Practice - four years
• Bachelor of Science Nursing-Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN-DNP) - seven years
• Doctor of Education - four years
• Doctor of Physical Therapy - see program handbook

Graduation

Graduate Degree Requirements

A minimum of 30 credit hours is required for master’s level programs at Maryville University.  The degree requirements for graduate degrees are specific to each graduate program. See graduate program listings in the College of Arts and Sciences, John E. Simon School of Business, School of Education or the School of Health Professions sections or consult the specific graduate program office for details.

Graduate Degree Programs

• Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Leadership (MA): a 36-credit graduate program, with optional concentration in Emerging and Digital Media, focusing on preparing individuals for public relations, advertising, and marketing communications senior-level positions in corporate, government, not-for-profit, and community organizations.
• Master of Arts in Management and Leadership (MA): A 36 credit graduate program with concentrations in Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Health Administration, Human Resource Management, Information Technology, Marketing, and Project Management.
• Master of Arts in Education (MAEd): A program for experienced and/or pre-service educators, including those who aspire to the principalship.
• Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling (MARC): A 48-credit graduate program leading to eligibility for national certification as a rehabilitation counselor and educational preparation for Missouri licensing as a Professional Counselor (LPC). Additional coursework is offered for specialization in marriage and family therapy, music therapy and substance abuse. 
• Master of Business Administration (MBA): A 36 credit program offering concentrations in Accounting, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Emerging & Digital Media, Financial Services, Health Administration, Human Resource Management, Information Technology, Management, Marketing, Project Management, and Software Development.
• Master of Health Administration (MHA): A 36-credit graduate program designed to prepare individuals for careers in developing, planning, managing, or leading health care organizations. Coursework includes opportunities to specialize in Health Informatics & Data Analytics, Population Health Management, Senior Services, Healthcare Leadership, and General.
• Master of Science in Accounting: A 30 credit program to prepare students for the CPA exam.
• Master of Science in Cybersecurity: A program focusing on providing on demand cyber skills.
• Master of Science in Data Analytics: A program focusing on in-depth knowledge and skills of data analytics. 
• Master of Science in Software Development: A program focusing on in-depth knowledge and skills in several aspects of developing applications or software. 
• Master of Music Therapy (MMT): A graduate program providing advanced music therapy education with opportunity for individualized supervision in specialized areas.
• Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT): An entry-level professional program in occupational therapy that qualifies the graduate to sit for examination by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. After successful completion of this exam, the graduate will be a registered occupational therapist.
• Master of Science in Actuarial Science (MS): A program designed to prepare students to pass the advanced exams required to reach the designation of Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (F.S.A.).
• Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology (MS): The entry level program in Speech-Language Pathology that includes extensive clinical training to be eligible for the Speech-Language Pathology Praxis examination and clinical fellowship year (CFY).  
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with concentrations in Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, and Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): a post-master’s option for certified advanced practice nurses and a BSN-DNP option with concentrations in the above specialties.
• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT): An Early Assurance (freshman admit) professional program in physical therapy that qualifies the graduate to be eligible for the physical therapy licensure examination.
• Doctor of Education (EdD): A program in advanced leadership; areas of concentration in Educational Leadership (for those who already hold an administrative certificate), Teacher Leadership, and Higher Education Leadership.

Early Access

Maryville University offers qualified undergraduate students with the option to pursue graduate work in some areas of study via early access programs. These programs are designed for, and limited to, Maryville undergraduate students with exceptional undergraduate academic performance in their major field of study. The Early Access program enables them to earn up to 12 credits of graduate credit while completing their undergraduate degree.

Qualified students will apply to one of these programs during the year just prior to their final undergraduate year (typically during their junior year), but are encouraged to discuss their interest in pursuing one of these accelerated programs with their advisors as early as their first semester at MU. Students can then receive guidance from their advisors as they prepare for admission into their chosen program.

• Accounting
• Actuarial Science
• Artifical Intelligence
• Business Administration
• Cybersecurity
• Data Analytics
• Data Science
• Early Childhood Education
• Health Administration
• Literacy Specialist
• Management and Leadership
• Music Therapy
• Rehabilitation Counseling
• Software Development
• Strategic Communication and Leadership