General Policies

If degree requirements are changed, students have the option of graduating under the requirements in effect when they entered Augustana or under the new policy. Similarly, students have the option of graduating under the requirements for a major or minor which were in effect when they officially declared the major or minor, or under requirements subsequently adopted. However, students who interrupt their attendance for more than three consecutive terms (excluding the summer term) are subject to requirements in effect when they reenroll. These students also may be required to complete additional coursework in their major or minor if the department or program chair determines that previously completed work does not ful?ll a current requirement.

(The following exception applies to students who first enrolled at Augustana prior to fall term 2004-05 and who interrupted their attendance for more than three consecutive terms [excluding the summer term]: Such students may complete at any time before the beginning of the 2008-09 academic year the general education requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree in effect during the 2003-04 academic year. Any new major or minor requirements must, however, be fulfilled. If such students fail to complete the Bachelor of Arts degree before fall term 2008-09, they will be required to meet general education requirements effective fall term 2004-05 and thereafter. The one exception to this will be the first-year sequence. These students will be expected to complete: one course in college writing; one course in the Christian Tradition that is designated within upper-level religion offerings, and 6 credits in learning perspective (LP) courses in addition to the 27 LP credits required for all students. The 6 credits in learning perspective courses replace 6 additional credits in first-year liberal studies (LSFY) courses.)

Changes in requirements for majors and minors are effective on the first day of classes in the fall term after the faculty adopts them.

Exceptions to degree requirements or policies are made by the Committee on Advanced Standing and Degrees when circumstances warrant. Students who wish to file a petition with this committee may obtain counsel and the proper form from the Office of the Registrar.

The major area adviser and the Registrar provide assistance and information to students regarding requirements and progress toward the degree. An audit of progress toward the degree is provided to each student upon declaration for graduation, and updated computerized reviews are issued each subsequent term until graduation.

Note: The audit and reviews are provided only as planning aids. It is the responsibility of the student to report any printed error to the Office of the Registrar. The responsibility for understanding and meeting degree requirements rests entirely with the student.