Institution:
• Belmont University
Course Identity:
• SCL6430-01 Strategic Planning & Management
• Fall 2023
• Thursday 6pm – 8:30pm
• Room 3058, Janet Ayers Academic Center
• 3
Instructor Information:
• Dr. Corey Driggs
• Contact information
o Mobile: 000000000
o Email: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
o Remote/Home
o Office Hours: Make an appointment.
Course Information:
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This course focuses on the process of strategic planning and management in organizations
and how external environments and internal dynamics affect the planning process.
Course General Topics/Outline for Class Schedule
Objectives and/or goals for the course – See Appendix A
Relevant pre-requisites - none
Method(s) of instruction
o
Textbook readings and lecture notes/presentations.
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Discussion Board Forums (5)
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Written Assignments (3)
Discussion Boards are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student will participate
in 5 Discussion Board Forums that will consist of a thread and 2 replies in response to the
provided prompt for each forum. Each thread will be a specific assignment stemming from your
reading of the case studies. There is not a minimum word count for these assignments, but you
must accomplish the goal of the exercise effectively. You may need to research about an
industry, company, or market condition associated with the case study to accomplish the
assignment. Any sources should be cited in current APA 7 format to support the content in the
thread. You will reply to two classmates and are to act as an advisor or stakeholder in the
process. Be critical of the topic and or analysis but do so in a professional peer to peer manner.
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Full Case Analysis – Pick a local company to perform a case analysis and conduct an
initial interview. Allow the client to inform you of an ongoing problem, market condition or
change management topic current in their organization. Perform a complete case
analysis (see chapter 13 of Dess et al. for reference and guidance). Formatting for
this document will be written in business form with cover page, executive summary,
body of findings (external analysis, internal analysis, corporate alignment) and a
summary/conclusion. There is no minimum word count on this assignment, however
you will need to address all attributes of a case analysis. (Note: the exercises in your
DB were designed to prepare you for this assignment.)
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Strategic Plan – Based on your case analysis, you will now develop a strategic plan
laying out your solution to the identified issue or problem, utilizing market research and
other case studies as your basis for the plan. The process of strategic planning is laid
out in your course text materials and will be discussed in class. You will need to perform
research on the company, market, and other factors related to your organization of
choice. There is no minimum word count on this assignment, however you will need to
address all attributes of a strategic plan. You will be presenting this to your client and
discussing the process of implementation, feedback from your POC documented (form
will be provided). Your client may or may not decide to implement it in the real world.
This does not count against you. Their feedback on the process and your deliverables is
the basis for the grade. You will submit this assignment after your presentation and will
need to add a summary section for the presentation meeting and discussion around
implementation / feedback. (Note: the exercises in your DB were designed to prepare
you for this assignment.)
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Strategic Plan Presentation - Your class presentation will be the final presentation
given to your client (your class) with post-strategic planning edits made (from actual
client). It will include an executive summary for the class, and your presentation (to be
turned in). Your grade for this portion will be peer reviewed from your classmates (they
will have a rubric and form to fill out). Presentation to be turned in at this point.
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Final Case Analysis with Strategic Plan – After edits and recommendations from
professor and peers, resubmit a final version (this is the 3rd document submitted) for
your course final exam. This document will be the combination of your case analysis and
strategic plan, changes made from both the organizational recommendations and your
peer reviewed recommendations.
Course requirements:
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Bryson, J. M. (2011). Strategic Planning for Public and Nonprofit Organizations: A Guide to
Strengthening and Sustaining Organizational Achievement, (5th. ed.). San Francisco, CA: Wiley and
Sons. (ISBN: 978-0-470- 39251-5).
Strategic Management Text & Cases by Dess, Lumpkin, and Eisner 10th edition (Copyright
2010) McGraw Hill Publishers ISBN: 978-0-07-353041-3
Policy for late work, absence from class, absence from tests and exams
 A grade of “FN” (failure for nonattendance) indicates that the student failed the course due
to excessive absences. When the number of absences (other than those addressed in the
Provost’s Excuse) exceeds three times the number of regularly scheduled class meetings
per week (20% of class meetings during regularly scheduled summer terms), the student
may receive the grade of FN (failure for non-attendance).
Grading Policy:– See Appendix C
The grading scale and policy for current students is in the 2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog
Academic Policies under Grading System at: – See Appendix D
The grading scale for the 2022-2023 Graduate Catalog Academic Policies are under Performance
Evaluation and Feedback at:– See Appendix E
Class Schedule:
MODULE/
WEEK &
DATE
READING & STUDY
ASSIGNMENTS
Wk1
Aug.
24th
Ch. 1& 2 Bryson
Ch. 1-2 & Ch. 13 Dess
Review Course information
/schedule.
Select project organization
Wk2
Aug. 31st
Ch. 3 & 4 Bryson
Ch. 3-4 Dess
Case study: 3 & 7 Dess
DB Post 1 South West or Fresh
Direct
50
Wk3
Sept. 7th
Ch. 5 Bryson
Ch. 5 Dess
DB1 Replies (x2)
Turn in your organization of
choice
50
DB 2 Kickstarter or QVC
50
Wk4
Sept.
14th
Wk5
Sept.
21st
Wk6
Sept.
28th
Wk7
Oct. 5th
Ch. 6 & 7 Byson
Ch. 6 Dess
Case study: 9 & 10 Dess
Ch. 8 Bryson
Ch. 7 & 8 Dess
Ch. 9 Bryson
Ch. 9 Dess
Case study: 12 & 14
Ch. 10 Bryson
Ch. 10 & 11 Dess
DB 2 Replies (x2)
POINTS
50
DB 3 Pixar or eBay
50
DB 3 Replies (x2)
50
MODULE/
WEEK
READING & STUDY
ASSIGNMENTS
POINTS
Wk 8
Oct. 12th
Ch. 11 & 12 Bryson
Ch. 13 Dess
Case study: 16 & 17 Dess
DB 4 Dippin Dots or Tata
Starbucks
50
Wk 9
Oct. 19th
Resource A; pg. 401: Bryson
Resource B: pg. 424: Bryson
DB 4 Replies (x2)
50
Project Research
Case Study: 20 & 21 Dess
DB 5 Nintendo or Samsung
50
Wk 11
Nov. 2nd
Project Research
DB 5 Replies (x2)
50
Wk 12
Nov. 9th
Meeting with Organization
Full Case Analysis /
Organizational Presentation
150
Changes made to Project per
organization feed back
Final preparations
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Changes made to Project per
organization feed back
Final preparations
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Wk 15
Nov. 30th
Class Presentations
Turn in PP
Participate in Peer Review
100
50
Wk 16
Dec. 7th
Class Presentations
Turn in PP
Participate in Peer Review
100
50
Wk 17
Dec. 14th
Final Exam
Full Final Case Analysis /
Strategic Plan Document Due
200
Wk 10
Oct. 26th
Wk 13
Nov. 16th
Wk 14
Nov. 23rd
TOTAL
DB = Discussion Board
1000
Class Attendance Policy: – See Appendix F
Please include these two University policies in writing:
Honor Pledge: See Appendix G
Students with Disabilities: – See Appendix H
Direct students to the BRUIN GUIDE for additional information on topics that relate to policies related to
disabilities, accountability, responsibilities, safety, etc. The Guide is a well written and comprehensive
reference for faculty, staff and students: https://www.belmont.edu/community-accountability/students/bruinguide.html
Appendices
Appendix A
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Objectives/Learning outcomes:
Demonstrate understanding of strategic planning as a decision-making process.
Articulate the theory of organizational success that underlies strategic planning.
Demonstrate skill in conducting the forms of analysis that strategic planning requires.
Articulate how strategic planning can contribute to the success of the visionary leadership paradigm.
Appendix C
https://www.belmont.edu/registrar/apolicies/grading.html
Grading Scale:
Review the current academic catalog for the complete academic grading policy.
Each hour of academic work taken for credit in the university is evaluated in terms of its relative quality, as
shown by the grade received in the course. The various grades and their corresponding quality points are:
A
4.0 quality points for each hour of credit.
A-
3.7 quality points for each hour of credit.
B+
3.3 quality points for each hour of credit.
B
3.0 quality points for each hour of credit.
B-
2.7 quality points for each hour of credit.
C+
2.3 quality points for each hour of credit.
C
2.0 quality points for each hour of credit.
C-
1.7 quality points for each hour of credit.
D+
1.3 quality points for each hour of credit.
D
1.0 quality points for each hour of credit.
D-
0.7 quality points for each hour of credit.
F
0 quality points for each hour of credit.
FN
0 quality points for each of credit, non-attendance
FX
0 quality points for each of credit, honor code
I
0 quality points for each of credit, incomplete
IP
In Progress
P
Passing
WP Withdrawal Passing
WF 0 quality points for each of credit, withdrawal failing
W
Withdrawal
AU
Audit (no earned hours or GPA)
NR
Grade not received
All courses offered for academic credit at Belmont University shall be graded on the following basis except as
described below.
A/A-
Grade of distinction
B+/B/B- Represents excellent work, above average
C+/C/C- Indicates average work
D+/D/D- Represents minimally acceptable work
F
Indicates non-acceptable work; no credit is received.
P
Indicates that the student has satisfactorily completed and passed the course and credit is
earned. It does not count in the student's grade point average.
Repeating of Courses:
The student may repeat any course which was previously taken at Belmont if the student wishes to improve
the grade. The student will not be allowed to repeat the course more than once with the exception of an “F”
grade which may be repeated an unlimited number of times. The last grade earned will be posted to the
transcript as the officially recognized grade for the course unless it is lower than the first grade. The original
grade will remain on the transcript but will not be figured into the cumulative grade average. All “repeat”
courses must be taken at Belmont. A course grade transferred from another institution may not be removed
by repeating the course at Belmont.
Midterm & Final Grades:
Students may view midterm and final grades through their BannerWeb account.
Midterm grades may be viewed by the student once the grade is posted by the instructor.
Final grades are available after instructors post the grades in BannerWeb, and the Office of the Registrar
completes the academic procedures at the end of the term. Grades are rolled to academic history three times
after the last day of final exams: Wednesday-graduating students; Friday- all other grades; and the final
procedure on the following Monday. Grade reports are not mailed. Students may print an unofficial transcript
or request an official transcript through BannerWeb.
How to access grades through BannerWeb:
1. Select ‘Student Service and Financial Aid’ Menu
2. Select ‘Student Records’
3. Select ‘Midterm Grades’ or ‘Final Grades’
4. Select a ‘term’ from drop-down list Choose 'Submit'
Appendix D
https://catalog.belmont.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=723,
Student Class Attendance Policy
Belmont University is committed to the idea that regular class attendance is essential to successful scholastic
achievement. Absence is permitted only in cases of illness or other legitimate cause. Attendance is checked
from the first class meeting. Late registrants will have accrued some absences prior to formal registration in
the course. In the case of excused absence from class, students have the right and responsibility to make up
all class work missed.
Provost’s Excused Absences
If a class absence is necessary because of an activity by another class or university organization, the
sponsor of the activity will provide a detailed memorandum on the letterhead of the unit to the Provost at
least two (2) weeks prior to the event. The memo will provide the names of students involved, the type of
event, and the date range of the event. If approved the Provost will countersign the memo, generating a
Provost’s Excuse, and copies will be provided by the sponsor to each student to present to instructor as an
excused absence with the allowance for the student to make up missed class work.
Failure for Non-Attendance
Should the number of absences other than Provost’s Excused Absences exceed 20% of class meeting time
(applicable to every term and part-of-term course) for a given student, the faculty member may assign the
grade “FN” (failure for nonattendance) to that student.
Student responsibilities
Students are responsible for notifying faculty members if they miss class(es). They are to provide
documentation in support of absenteeism for the faculty member to review and evaluate according to course
attendance policies. Student with excused absences (as approved by the faculty or through the Provost’s
Excuse) are able to make up all classwork missed during the absenteeism period.
Faculty responsibilities
Faculty members will provide an absenteeism policy on each course syllabus and review and explain the
policy to all students. Faculty members providing for excused absences will review requests for those not
covered by the Provost’s Excuse and communications relating to unexcused absences and approve them
according to the course syllabus. They will honor absences that are properly documented and provide either
the same or in-kind assignments and provide opportunities for students to make up missed coursework
during or immediately following an excused absence period.
Appeal
Students may appeal a disputed absence matter to the chair of the faculty member’s department or to the
appropriate dean’s office should the faculty member be the department chair. The appropriate dean’s
decision will be final. Proper documentation must be provided in support of the appeal. If the appeal is
approved, the chair or dean will communicate the reason for the approval and the remedy to the faculty
member who will permit the student (s) to make up missed coursework in a timely manner.
Changing a Schedule
Students may change schedules during open registration periods for that term. Students should be in
consultation with the faculty advisor. After the first week of classes or the designated “Drop & Add” period
schedule changes are no longer available on-line and only granted by exception. Courses withdrawn after
the date specified in the academic calendar are not subject to refunds. Students may not withdraw from a
course in the 30 calendar days from last day of the semester or last day published for WP/WF.
Change of Name or Address
Any current student needing to change pertinent personal data during a semester should fill out “Personal
Data Change Request” at Belmont Central or fill out a request on the web and email to the appropriate
university office. Changes of address must be made prior to exam week each semester. In order for a name
change to be processed, the student must bring an official document for a copy to be made in Belmont
Central. An official document includes: a marriage certificate, a court order, a driver’s license with a picture
ID, or a social security card.
Course Policies
Belmont University reserves the right not to offer any course in which fewer than 10 students enroll.
Any department may offer special studies courses under the number 1990-4990 for 0-4 hours credit. In these
courses an opportunity is provided for the student to pursue an area of special interest under the supervision
of a faculty member. Approval of the appropriate department chairperson, and the dean is required before
enrolling in these courses. Directed study courses may be offered by some departments (see departmental
course listings). Such courses are created and overseen in the same manner as special studies courses.
This catalog is a listing of courses. The mere listing of a course does not guarantee its offering any particular
semester or year. Certain courses may be offered only when demand warrants their offering.
Withdrawal from the University
Students wishing to completely withdraw must obtain a university withdrawal agreement form online or from
Belmont Central. Upon completion of the form, it is returned to Belmont Central for processing or may be
emailed to registrar@belmont.edu.
No financial credit will be given after the fifth week of classes. A telephone call giving intent to withdraw does
not constitute an official withdrawal. Students may not withdraw during the last 30 days of a semester.
WELL Core
As a graduation requirement for all undergraduate students, the program reinforces Belmont’s unique
mission of providing “an academically challenging education that enables men and women of diverse
backgrounds to engage and transform the world with disciplined intelligence, compassion, courage, and
faith.” Belmont’s WELL Core program is a shared experience that encourages the development of wellrounded individuals. Through WELL Core, students participate in various programs that encourage:
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Learning outside the classroom
Pursuing life-long learning
Valuing the arts
Exploring issues relevant to life, culture, and faith
Serving others
Contributing to community life at Belmont University.
The purpose of WELL Core is to nurture in each student the capacity to live a life that is satisfying, with a
sense of meaning and purpose, encompassing all dimensions of human life.
In order to graduate students are required to earn a total of 60 Well-Core credits (adjusted for transfer
students), 10 in each of the following categories:
1. Intellectual Well-Being: features wrestling with important and difficult issues and ideas. Emphasis on the
ecology of complex systems, critical thinking, artistic and literary criticism, expanded context for decision
making, rational decision-making and its limitations. Also includes programming on complex systems such as
ecosystems, mechanical systems, human organizations, and human health.
2. Occupational/Financial Well-Being: features development of skills in preparation for employment and
money management after graduation. It includes programming on how to get a job, career management,
personal finances, and work/life balance, as well as intellectual, emotional, and physical stress management
strategies.
3. Cultural Well-Being: features expanded understanding of the arts, as well as cultural and civic systems
and your connections to them. Includes programming on cultures and ideas other than your own, with an
emphasis on valuing differences.
4. Spiritual Well-Being: features deepening and enhancing personal and communal spiritual life connecting
to the Christian tradition, with emphasis on interplay between faith and justice, peace, mercy, grace, and
love. Includes programming on understanding various Christian faith perspectives, theological issues, and
religiously based ethics. Also includes more traditional worship services.
5. Interpersonal/Emotional Well-Being: features developing of skills of interpersonal connection as well as
recognition and coping with emotions. Includes programming related to interpersonal, emotional, and
physical well-being.
6. Community Well-Being Through Service: features group or individual direct community service, personal
civic engagement, and service learning. Includes a wide range of engagement opportunities, both on campus
and across the Nashville community.
Students earn credits by participating in programs. Traditional undergraduate students gain credits by
attending approved programs that are listed on the official WELL Core schedule. Students enrolled in the
University College program for non-traditional students may choose the portfolio method that allows them to
also gain credits for programs offered outside of the university’s approved schedule of programs. Community
Service credit is obtained by completing a form that indicates and verifies the nature of the service.
Students must complete a specific number of credits in each category. Requirements are based on the
catalog under which the student graduates and the number of academic hours transferred to Belmont at the
time of enrollment. Specific requirements can be found in The Bruin Guide or on the WELL Core Website at:
http://www.belmont.edu/bellcore/convocation/.
Academic Honor System
The members of the Belmont University community seek to provide students a high-quality education while
encouraging in the entire community a sense of ethics, social responsibility and interdependence. We believe
that trust is a vital part of this enterprise and that self-discipline and responsibility to one another are also
essential elements. We also believe that any instance of dishonesty is a violation of the values of the
Belmont University community. Therefore, the Belmont University Academic Honor System aims to cultivate
a community based on trust, academic honesty and social responsibility.
Complete information about the Academic Honor System, including Belmont University’s Honor Pledge,
student expectations, and more can be in The Bruin Guide, which is available online. Students may link to it
by pasting the following url into their browser:
www.belmont.edu/studentaffairs/student_conduct_academic_integrity/bruinguide/
Please note, the above information is provided to help answer some questions you may have about
Belmont’s Academic Honor System. It is not official statements of policy or process. The Bruin Guide states
official policies and processes and supersedes this information.
Academic Standing
Student Classification
Semester Hours
0-29
30-63
64-93
94 or more
Academic Standing
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
Grading System
All courses offered for academic credit at Belmont University shall be graded on the following basis except as
described below.
Letter Grade
A/AB+/B/BC+/C/CD+/D/DF
Meaning
is a grade of distinction.
represents excellent work, above average.
indicates average work.
represents minimally acceptable work.
indicates non-acceptable work; no credit is received.
Pass/Fail
Courses offered at Belmont University which fit the exceptions stated below will be
graded on P/F basis. A grade of P indicates that the student has satisfactorily completed the course.
However, the student does not receive quality points and the grade of P does not affect the student’s overall
GPA.
1. Continuing education and community service courses which do not offer academic credit.
2. Courses which offer academic credit, but which are not offered for classroom instruction at regularly
scheduled hours. Such courses may include, but are not limited to, independent studies, cooperative education, internships, and travel study courses.
3. Courses which offer academic credit, but whose published course descriptions indicate that they will
be offered on P/F basis only.
A student with 64 or more “earned hours” (Junior or Senior status) may elect to earn up to twelve (12)
semester hours of academic credit on “pass / fail” bases. The 12 semester hours must be in courses which
are general “free” electives in the student’s plan of study. Students electing this option may not do so with
courses in the major, minor or BELL Core unless the course is only offered and listed in the catalog as P/F.
To earn general “free” elective credit on P/F basis, the student must: (a) secure the agreement of the
academic advisor that the course is a general free elective and the student’s classification is appropriate. (b)
The student who elects P/F grading may not change back to a graded scale. (c) Upon registration for the
course, but generally not later than mid-term, the student should E-mail their advisor (who should approve
the P/F option). d) The advisor should forward to the course’s professor (noting prefix, title and CRN)
acknowledging the course is a free elective and under this policy the student (name and BU ID) is exercising
their option to request a final grade of pass or fail. A copy of the E-mail from the advisor should be sent to the
student, professor and Registrar for record keeping purposes.
I is an incomplete and is used only in cases of uncontrollable circumstances. Responsibility for completing
the work must be assumed by the student. All incomplete work must be finished before mid-term of the next
semester. An I is calculated as an F. The grade will be changed to an F at the midterm of the semester
following the one in which it was earned unless a grade is submitted by the instructor.
W indicates the student withdrew during the first four weeks of the semester before a P/F status can be
determined. A W does not affect the grade point average.
WP indicates the student is passing at the time of withdrawal. A WP does not affect the grade point average.
WF indicates that the student is failing at the time of withdrawal during the university’s “withdraw passing /
failing” period in the term, or during a time after this period when the student is administratively withdrawn by
action of the university. A WF counts as an F when computing GPA.
FN indicates that the student failed the course due to excessive absences. Should the number of absences
other than Provost’s Excused Absences exceed 20% of class meeting time (applicable to every term and
part-of-term course) for a given student, the faculty member may assign the grade “FN” (failure for nonattendance) to that student. FN counts as an F when computing GPA.
AU indicates Audit. Academic credit is not received when auditing a course. The GPA is not affected. (Tuition
and fees still apply to audited courses.)
NR indicates Not Received. This means that the professor did not turn in the grade(s) by the deadline at the
end of the semester. This does not affect the student’s GPA. However, the student does not have credit for
the course until the appropriate grade is entered. The professor must complete a grade change form to
change the grade and the student will be notified stating their grade and updated GPA when processed.
FX grade on the student’s transcript will indicate that the failure of the course was due to an Honor Pledge
violation. The grade will be treated as an F for purposes of the student’s grade point average. After appeal,
any decision resulting in a grade of “FX” will automatically be reviewed by the Provost. During a student’s last
semester prior to graduation, s/he may have the “FX” changed to an F on the transcript in the following
manner:
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The student must have retaken and received a passing grade in the class in which the “FX” was
given;
The student must have no subsequent violations of the Honor Pledge while a student at Belmont;
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The student must write a letter to the Provost requesting the removal of the “FX”;
The student must propose and perform an activity or program that promotes academic integrity on
campus and which will be mutually agreed upon by student and the Honor Court. The Honor Court
will certify that the program has been completed in a letter to the Provost.
If the student satisfactorily completes the four conditions above, the Provost will instruct the Registrar to
change the “FX” to a grade of “F” on the student’s transcript.
Refer to the Academic Honors System in this catalog for information regarding Honor Code violations.
IP indicates In Progress academic work. Course work is continued. Does not count in GPA calculations. The
IP grade is only available for undergraduates taking study abroad courses which are ongoing or while
pending receipt of transcript / grade information from the study abroad institution. In rare circumstances a
specific course(s) due to circumstances (e.g. external research or an approved concurrent course) may
extend beyond the end of the regular term and if approved by the dean may carry an IP grade beyond the
end of the term. IP grades should establish a grade resolution date, or be subject to the timeline and grading
for incomplete grades.
Each hour of academic work taken for credit in the university is evaluated in terms of its relative quality, as
shown by the grade received in the course. The various grades and their corresponding quality points are:
Letter Grade
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
DF
Quality Points
4.0 quality points for each hour of credit.
3.7 quality points for each hour of credit.
3.3 quality points for each hour of credit.
3.0 quality points for each hour of credit.
2.7 quality points for each hour of credit.
2.3 quality points for each hour of credit.
2.0 quality points for each hour of credit.
1.7 quality points for each hour of credit.
1.3 quality points for each hour of credit.
1.0 quality point for each hour of credit.
0.7 quality point for each hour of credit.
0 quality points and no credit.
Students may view final grades and grade point averages the week following the last exam of the semester
through their MyBelmont account. Mid terms grades are not recorded to the student’s academic transcript.
Mid term grades serve as a notification to students regarding their academic progress in their courses.
Students may view mid term grades through their MyBelmont account.
Repeating Courses
The student may repeat any course which was previously taken at Belmont if the student wishes to improve
the grade. The student will not be allowed to repeat the course more than once with the exception of an “F”
grade which may be repeated an unlimited number of times. The last grade earned will be posted to the
transcript as the officially recognized grade for the course unless it is lower than the first grade. The original
grade will remain on the transcript but will not be figured into the cumulative grade average. All “repeat”
courses must be taken at Belmont. A course grade transferred from another institution may not be removed
by repeating the course at Belmont.
Grade Appeals
Students have the right to appeal grades directly to the instructor if they believe that an incorrect grade has
been assigned for the course. If a grade issue is not resolved after contact with the instructor, the student
may appeal in writing to the department chair / associate dean of the college. This must occur by the midterm point of the next semester. In the written appeal the student must be prepared to demonstrate and
document an unusual circumstance that warrants a review of the grade and evidences of the grade s/he
believes should have been given by the instructor. All written appeals will be reviewed within one month of
receipt and responded to in writing either confirming or changing the posted final grade. A copy of this
response will go to the Registrar’s Office for the student’s record.
Further appeal is through the administrative structure of the college in which the course was taken, with final
appeal to the Dean of the college. Any appeal must be in writing and include appropriate documentation to
support the student’s position that a grade change is warranted.
The final grade is the instructor’s posted grade, which may be viewed in the student’s grade report on-line at
the close of the term or part-of-term. It is solely the responsibility of the student to check that grades are
posted for all courses taken during a semester and note the grade given for each class. All grade appeals
must be requested by the mid-term point of the next semester. Unless an active appeal is under review, after
the mid-term point of the next semester, neither instructors nor the university will consider a grade change.
Once a final grade has been posted the student may not petition the instructor to do additional work or extra
credit to raise the grade awarded. Any grade change as a result of such action will be disallowed.
For grades of IP or I, once the I or IP is replaced (required prior to mid-term of the follow semester) by a
grade, including a change to F, that becomes the posting date of the final grade. Administrative grades such
as W (withdrawal) are handled through the Registrar’s Office.
Academic Standing: Dean’s List, Academic Probation, and Academic Suspension
Student’s academic performance at Belmont University for Dean’s List and Academic Probation is described
as their Academic Standing which reflects the Belmont University grade point average (GPA) in the last term
of enrollment (see policies below). Academic Suspension is based on the total number of GPA credit hours
completed at Belmont on a scale provided in the suspension table below.
Academic Good Standing
Enrollment in good standing is granted to all fully admitted students who maintain a cumulative Belmont
University grade point average of 2.0 or higher. However, a student’s academic status may change to
Academic Probation if any academic term/semester Belmont GPA or cumulative Belmont GPA is less than
2.0. Academic Suspension from the University is based on a scale provided in the suspension table below.
Dean’s List
Recognition to undergraduate students achieving dean’s list will be sent to their Belmont email address at the
end of each semester. Semester eligibility is based upon the following:
•
•
•
•
•
A minimum load of 12 semester credit bearing (GPA) hours for fall and spring semesters. Summer
Dean’s List is based on a minimum 9-hour load over the summer term.
The minimum semester hours (12 credit hours for fall and spring semesters and 9 hour summer)
must be hours that are attempted hours producing quality points; meaning each of those hours must
contribute by count to the semester / term GPA.
A quality point average of 3.5 GPA or better must be achieved.
Completion of all course work by the last official day of the semester with the exception of “in
progress” (IP) for study abroad courses. Hours taken as audit or P/F courses are not included in the
minimum credit hour load count.
No grade below a C in any course. This also includes P/F (pass/fail) and zero credit courses.
Table of Academic Standards (Probation and Suspension)
Overall Belmont GPA Hours
Probation if any semester GPA
or cumulative Belmont GPA is
less than
0-16
2.00
17-29
2.00
30-63
2.00
64-93
2.00
94 +
2.00
Suspension if Belmont
Institutional GPA is less than
N/A
1.00
1.50
1.75
2.00
Academic Probation
A student is placed on Academic Probation and recorded on the student’s transcript as an official part of the
student record when a student’s Belmont University grade point average (GPA) in any semester (fall, spring
or summer term) or their cumulative Belmont University GPA is less than 2.0. Academic probation and
academic suspension are not necessarily a process of progressive discipline. A student may move
immediately to suspension or dismissal if the grade point average meets the criteria indicated in the
Academic Standards table above. Probation is checked at the end of fall, spring and summer terms.
Students on probation may take no more than 16 hours while on Academic Probation, and are required and
expected with the 16 hour allowance as soon as possible, to repeat courses in which they received a “D” or
“F”. A student on Academic Probation in the current or last term of enrollment is not in “Good Standing.”
Academic Suspension
A student not meeting the minimum grade point average (GPA) on Belmont work as shown in Academic
Standards table above will be placed on academic suspension. A student placed on academic suspension is
ineligible to enroll at Belmont University during their suspension. A student who receives a first academic
suspension from Belmont may petition for readmission to the university after one semester of non-enrollment
(see chart below). A student who receives a second suspension may appeal for readmission after one year
from the date of the last suspension (see chart below). A third suspension results in dismissal from the
university with no opportunity for readmission. Each Academic Suspension is recorded on the Belmont
transcript as an official part of the student record. Suspension is checked at the end of fall, spring and
summer terms. A student on suspension may not enroll/return in the summer term. A student on Academic
Suspension (including “dismissal”) in the current or last term of enrollment is not in “Good Standing.”
Academic Suspension
Action
Ineligible to enroll next semester.
First suspension according to the GPA chart above
One standard semester suspension
If suspension occurs following the spring semester,
ineligibility includes summer and fall.
If suspension occurs following the fall semester,
ineligibility includes spring and summer (which
includes Maymester).
Ineligible to enroll next two semesters.
Second suspension according to the GPA chart
above
If suspension occurs at the end of the spring
semester, ineligibility includes: summer term (which
includes Maymester), fall semester, spring
semester and summer term.
Third suspension according to chart above
If suspension occurs at the end of the fall semester,
ineligibility includes: spring semester, summer term
(which includes Maymester), and fall semester.
University Dismissal - No readmission possible
Academic Suspension is a period of time away from Belmont meant to encourage the student to seek to
develop habits that will contribute to the student’s academic success if they return to Belmont. As a result of
being placed on academic suspension all courses that the student registered for in a future term (for
example, through priority registration) are automatically dropped from the student’s schedule. In addition,
during the period of the suspension Belmont does not accept any credit in transfer from another institution,
unless the student is approved for “concurrent enrollment” prior to taking the course.
Academic Suspension Appeals
Belmont University recognizes that a singular unique involuntary situation may occur that has a direct
impacted on the grade point average (GPA) resulting in academic suspension. This can usually be isolated
to one or two semesters. An academically suspended student does have a right of appeal to be filed no later
than three weeks after the end of that semester’s final exams, or by the date specified in the suspension
Email and/or letter. The appeal communication must be sent from the student to the University Registrar. The
Registrar will work in coordination with the Dean of the college of the student’s major / degree to review the
appeal.
An appeal does not remove the Academic Suspension status. The appeal is a request to waive the “ineligible
to enroll at Belmont” (non-enrollment period). For any appeal to be considered, two things must be
articulated:
1) The student must clearly demonstrate a unique involuntary situation that can be linked to academic
performance and provide evidence that the unique involuntary situation has been, or in process of being
corrected;
2) There is a reasonable belief that the student will be academically successful if allowed to re-enroll and
take courses before the time limit of the suspension has elapsed. If a student’s appeal receives the support
of the Dean and the student is approved to continue in the ensuing semester at Belmont, the student will only
be allowed to repeat D or F courses and the number of hours taken may be limited.
There is another form of appeal, which is different from requesting waiver of the Belmont non-enrollment
period. The student may request approval from and college Dean and University Registrar to take
“concurrent enrollment” courses. (This may even be suggested by the dean if waiver of the non-enrollment
semester(s) is not approved). “Concurrent Enrollment” is a Belmont student taking courses at another college
or university that has been approved along with the specific course(s) that are determined to be transferable
and will count toward the Belmont degree. If concurrent enrollment is approved, only BELL Core courses not
previously taken at Belmont are eligible to transfer back. Student should not take nor will they be approved to
take in concurrent enrollment any low grade course(s) that must be repeated at Belmont in order to replace
course grades counting in the Belmont GPA.
Academic Stipulations upon Return
Upon return with a status of Academic Suspension in the prior semester of enrollment the student will be
automatically placed under Academic Stipulations (student status will show as Probation while attending that
semester). Stipulations require:
The student should meet with their academic advisor and must plan a schedule to primarily repeat courses of
a “D” or “F.”
In primarily repeating courses as is required above, if the student’s GPA in the returning semester is below a
2.0 and the student is suspended again,no appeal is possible and the non-enrollment period is in effect.
The third suspension results in University Dismissal with no readmission possible.
Student may not take more than 16 credit hours.
As noted in the suspension paragraph and chart, the student may not return in a summer term. An exception
might be approved in writing from the primary major’s college dean and University Registrar, if there is a
demonstration that: 1) The student is only repeating D or F graded courses, AND, 2) The repeated courses
can be calculated upon successful completion with a minimum of C or better grade in each course, resulting
in a GPA that lifts the student out of an academic suspension status.
Rules Governing Student University Representation
Students on academic probation are subject to restrictions related to the participation in activities that may
require absence from academic courses, based on the following criteria:
Students on academic probation at the start of a term, who also have a cumulative Belmont GPA below 2.0:
Students in this category will not be permitted to represent the university in activities which require, or allow
voluntary, absence(s) from academic courses during that semester. This applies to all students including
those who participate in regularly scheduled activities for organizations such as athletics (both a team
members or in roles that support athletic teams or their practices), academic teams, performance groups, or
any other University organization.
Students who do not begin the semester on academic probation but who have a GPA below 2.0 in one, or
more, course(s) at mid-term: Students in this category may not represent the university in activities which
would require them to miss classes in which they are deficient. If the deficiency is removed, the Dean of the
college sponsoring the representing group / team may grant permission for the student to participate after an
academic review.
Students on academic or disciplinary probation cannot participate in study abroad programs (see Study
Abroad page at http://www.belmont.edu/studyabroad/students/policies.html ).
The university reserves the right to stipulate a student must be in good standing to travel and miss classes.
Double Majors
A student has the option to add a second major to the first or “primary” major. The first or primary major
determines the associated degree being sought and with it the BELL Core (general education) requirements.
For example, a student declares music business as the primary major, the degree defaults to a Bachelor of
Business Administration as the only degree option for a music business major.
•
•
If the choice of two majors (or more) have different degrees options, the student must choose a
primary degree to follow, meaning that the associated BELL Core, (and specifically the required
BELL Core Degree Cognates) with that degree is required. For example, a history major has a
degree choice between Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science as listed in the academic catalog.
As selected by the student, the degree of choice prescribes the BELL Core requirements and its
Degree Cognates.
If a student declares two majors but does not select a primary degree, and the two majors carry has
the same degree option, then the degree program will default to the degree that is applicable to both
majors. (e.g. Religious Studies B.A., and History B.A. / B.S., the default is the B.A.).
Exceptions to the basic guiding policy for student selecting the primary major where the degree is predetermined and defaulted by Belmont as follows:
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•
A degree in which a state or national license or unique identifier to specific field of study is primary
and thus the default degree (e.g. BSN; SWK).
A major that requires or that has professional or career licensing or certification contingent on a
specific degree will be considered the default degree
For example a student seeking national certifications found in coordination with an Exercise Science
major will default to a BS degree as the “primary.”
NOTES:
In some cases the degree has benefits in degree progression and often pre-requisites corresponding to the
major and should be considered as the primary / default (e.g. BBA).
If a student is a double major and drops one major, then the student must choose (or confirm) the degree if
the remaining major sought has degree options (e.g. some majors have a B.A. or B.S. option). If the
remaining major only has one degree option then that becomes the default degree. Students must be mindful
that dropping a major could result in a change of degree and thus a change in some required BELL Core
Degree Cognates.
A student that opts to add a second major to a primary degree should always review in the catalog technical
or pre-requisite courses required for the second major that may not be required for the first major or be
represented in the primary required BELL Core Degree Cognates.
Double majors are not required to have a minor.
Unique provisions in double majors with duplicate courses
In the case of a student with two majors that have some of the exact same course requirements for both
majors, up to 2 courses (not to exceed 8 hours) will be “waived” in the student’s secondary major that are
duplicated in the primary major.
If more than two courses are duplicated in the double major the student in coordination with the major
advisor must find appropriate substitute course(s). All other requirements for both majors must be completed.
Majors with a duplicate course in a minor
In the case of a student with a major that has at least one exact same course requirement for both the major
and minor, up to 1 course (not to exceed 4 hours) can be “waived” in the minor. If more than one course is
duplicated in the major and minor then a course substitution will be required in the minor.
In all cases of course waivers, students must still meet residency requirements in the major and minor. Total
hours to meet minimum requirements for the program of study and degree must also be met.
Double Degrees
A double degree is defined as earning more than one bachelor’s degree concurrently with a different
bachelor’s degree. Students enrolled prior to June 1, 2018 who had already formally declared a double
degree (no later than November 2017) and remained on the BELL Core (General Education) for each degree
officially with their catalog of entry, may complete the double degree. Such students may also change to a
double major. All double degrees must be completed by summer 2021.
Students entering after June 1, 2018, or not having formally declared a double degree by November 2017
are not eligible to seek double degrees except for a (Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Bachelor of
Business Administration (BBA) as follows:
The student must be accepted into the BSN degree program. This is the primary degree, with the BBA
degree as the second-degree program. All BELL Core courses must be completed for both degrees,
including associated Degree Cognates with each degree and all major level course requirements in both
majors.
Curriculum Information
Major/Minor Requirements
Belmont offers more than 100 undergraduate majors through its ten colleges and one school – Business
Administration, Entertainment and Music Business, Health Sciences, Liberal Arts and Social Sciences,
Sciences and Mathematics, Theology and Christian Ministry, Music and Performing Arts, O’More College of
Architecture and Design, Watkins College of Art, University College and the School of Education. The major /
minor links on this page may be used to review Belmont’s majors offered with specific degrees, minors, and
programs eligible for teacher licensure.
Each department sets forth its individual requirements for a major and a minor. Majors must be a minimum of
30 credit hours and minors a minimum of 18 hours. A student should choose a major field of study as early
as possible. All students must “declare” a major and minor (if required in the field of study) prior to the junior
year. A student changing his/her major or minor must notify the Office of the Registrar and file the
appropriate change of Program form. A student may seek licensure to teach in the State of Tennessee by
completing state licensure requirements through the School of Education. Forms are available in the Belmont
Central Office. For more information on major/minor forms, see graduation section of this catalog.
Curriculum for Working Adults
This university is committed to meeting the educational needs of working adults. To this end, Belmont
systematically offers the general education core on a rotating basis so that each course is offered in the
evening at least once each fourth semester.
It should be pointed out, however, that Belmont will be unable to guarantee that any student can fulfill all
degree requirements for traditional majors by attending only evening classes.
For a more complete explanation of programs specifically designed to meet the needs of working adults, see
the University College section of this bulletin.
FERPA and Privacy
FERPA - Family Education Rights and Privacy Act
What does “FERPA” stand for and why is it important?
• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974
• This federal law requires Belmont to protect the privacy of students’ education records
Rights guaranteed to students by FERPA
• The right of access to education records
• The right to consent to the release of records to third parties
• The right to challenge inaccurate or misleading information in an education record
• The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning non-compliance with
FERPA
Do parents or legal guardians have access to a student’s education records?
• A student, regardless of age, is the “legal entity” once he or she begins to attend Belmont. FERPA
•
•
rights belong to the student, not the parent or guardian.
This means that students must consent before a record is disclosed to the parents or legal
guardians.
A student can authorize Belmont to discuss his/her educational records with parents/guardians by
filling out the Consent to Release Educational Records.
What are education records?
Information recorded in any form that is directly related to a student and maintained by a college or university
and by those acting for the college or university.
When is Consent Not Required?
• To individuals within the university with legitimate educational interest
• To officials at an institution in which student seeks to enroll
• To comply with a court order or subpoena
• To parents of students who are dependents for income tax purposes
• To parents in cases of drug or alcohol violation when the student is under the age of 21
• In connection with a health or safety emergency if necessary to protect the student or others
• If the data is considered directory information
What is Directory Information?
• Name, address, telephone number
• Campus e-mail address
• Date and place of birth
• Major field of study
• Dates of attendance, degrees and awards received
• Previous educational agencies or institutions attended
• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• Weight and height of members of athletic teams
What if a student wants to prohibit the disclosure of directory information as well?
• Students who do not want their directory information released may visit the Office of the Registrar to
complete the appropriate form. Once the form is filed, the student’s record is flagged as “confidential”
and no directory information is disclosed except as required by FERPA.
• The confidentiality hold prohibits the release of information including but not limited to transcripts,
enrollment verifications, and degree verifications.
• If the student needs Belmont to release information from the student record, the request must be
made in writing, accompanied by legal proof of identity. This applies whether the information is for
the student’s personal use or for use by a third party.
• Graduation, withdrawal and dismissal from the university do not automatically lift the confidential
status on a student’s record. The record will remain confidential until the status is revoked by the
student, in writing, accompanied by legal proof of identity.
• If a confidentiality request is not filed, Belmont University assumes that a student does not object to
the release of directory information.
For
additional
information,
please
visit:
http://www.belmont.edu/notices/privacy-policies/ferpa.html
http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html
Procedures for Protecting Students Privacy in Distance Education Courses
• Belmont University is committed to protecting student privacy for students enrolled in all courses
regardless of the mode of instruction (on-line, hybrid, classroom, etc.). All of the university policies
regarding student privacy and information security applied through FERPA apply to distance
education courses. Faculty teaching distance education courses are expected to uphold these
polices and follow these procedures:
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Teach distance education courses using BlackBoard, the University’s learning management system,
in order to ensure security of student work and grades.
Use the University’s secure BannerWeb site to report student grades.
Use BlackBoard or the University’s email system for all official, confidential communication such as
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providing feedback on student work, releasing grade or course progress information to students, etc.
Keep student work, scores or grades confidential. Students in the course should not have access to
other students’ work or grades.
Keep course BlackBoard or UR email account information secure. Do not share any login information
with anyone, give anyone unauthorized access to the BlackBoard course or assign a student the role
of instructor or graduate assistant in BlackBoard unless the graduate assistant is assigned a
teaching role in the class and has an educational need to know.
Follow FERPA guidelines for sharing student educational record information with other faculty, staff,
parents or others outside the university.
Graduation Requirements
All students must officially “declare” a major / minor by 64 credit hours. After the major/minor form has been
filed at Belmont Central, the student must follow the courses which must be taken in order to graduate. The
program of study courses can be be seen in the university catalog. Any course that does not follow the
catalog (for the degree program) in course title must have a substitution form (Program of Study Change
Form) submitted. These can be obtained from the advisor or the Dean of the College.
Students must file a graduation application online through their “My Belmont” account by the posted
deadlines for each graduation date. These dates are listed in the Academic Calendar in the front of this
catalog. At the beginning of the semester of that graduation, the student will be billed for the non-refundable
graduation fee. If a student fails to complete the graduation process in a given semester (as requested on the
student’s Graduation Application), the student must reapply for graduation and an additional $50 fee is
charged for each subsequent application.
General Degree Requirements:
1. A minimum of 128 semester hours of university work numbered 1000 and above, with a minimum of
32 credit hours taken in residence at Belmont University. Some majors may require more than the
minimum of 128 credit hours in order to earn the degree.
2. The last 32 semester hours of course work on which a degree is granted must be done in residence
at Belmont (with the exception of approved active articulation agreements), unless a Senior
Residency Waiver is granted by the University Registrar for specific credit hours. (See Senior
Residency Waiver Policy at the bottom of this page)
3. C average (2.0) G.P.A. on the total hours attempted at Belmont University and an overall cumulative
G.P.A. of 2.0 from all postsecondary institutions, colleges and universities attended. GPAs are not
rounded.
4. C average (2.0) G.P.A. is required over all work done in both the major and the minor areas
(including all transfer work except for courses determined not to be transferable that are remedial or
orientation). GPAs are not rounded.
5. All degree requirements (including convocation/Well Core) must be finished and officially recorded
with the University Registrar prior to commencement in order to be eligible to participate in the
graduation ceremony.
6. 24 hours of a student’s major must be in courses numbered 2000 or above, unless otherwise
approved under that major in the university catalog.
7. A completed minor of at least 18 hours is required of every student, except those seeking the
Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of
Social Work, Bachelor of Fine Arts, University College students, students who have double majors,
those seeking elementary licensure, or majors approved in the catalog without a minor required.
Students may not minor in the same subject discipline as the major (i.e. have the same major and
minor), unless university approved and so stated under that major in the university catalog. A
minimum of 6 hours of the minor must be taken at Belmont.
8. A completed major of at least 30 hours. A minimum of 12 hours of the major must be taken at
Belmont.
9. A student may graduate by meeting degree requirements listed in the university catalog for either the
year in which she/he enters Belmont University or the one for the year in which she/he graduates. A
student who is not enrolled for a period of two (2) consecutive academic years must meet the
graduation requirements for either the university catalog under which he/she reenters Belmont or the
one for the year in which he/she graduates.
10. At least 64 hours must be taken from accredited senior colleges and universities.
11. To fulfill graduation requirements, students must earn a specified number of credits as designated in
the University Convocation Program. (See The Guide, or access the convocation website from the
Belmont home page.)
12. It is the student’s responsibility to check with the Registrar’s Office regarding the applicability of
transfer work to the Belmont degree program.
13. The general policies and procedures in the latest (current) edition of the university catalog are always
applicable to all students.
Second Bachelor’s Degrees
14. The holder of a bachelor’s degree from Belmont University wishing to pursue a second degree from
Belmont University must complete all the following requirements:
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•
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•
A minimum of 30 hours must be completed at Belmont, plus any Bell Core (General Education)
requirements not previously earned for the new degree.
A student seeking a second degree at Belmont may not earn the same degree previously
earned.
The requirement for a minor is waived for students who have an earned bachelor’s degree.
A major as outlined in the catalog must be completed.
A student earning a second (different) degree is eligible to participate in graduation
commencement. The graduation GPA calculation will be the cumulative GPA of all academic
work. GPAs are not rounded.
15. The holder of a bachelor’s degree from another university wishing to pursue a second degree
from Belmont University must complete all the following requirements:
•
•
•
•
•
A minimum of 32 hours must be completed at Belmont, plus any Bell Core (General Education)
requirements not previously earned for the new degree.1
A student seeking a second degree at Belmont may not earn the same degree previously
earned.
The requirement for a minor is waived for students who have an earned bachelor’s degree.
A major as outlined in the catalog must be completed.
A student earning a second (different) degree is eligible to participate in graduation
commencement. The graduation GPA calculation will be the cumulative GPA of all academic
work.
Students who have previously completed a four-year, baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited
U.S. university shall be exempt from Bell Core (General Education) requirements at Belmont, except for the
six-hour Religion requirement and Bell Core courses required of that degree not previously earned in the
prior degree as follows: the math requirements for the B.S. and B.B.A. degree (whichever degree is sought)
and two 2000+ level same language requirement for those seeking the B.A. All second degrees must include
minimum hours matching the student in either 15 or 16 above, plus it includes the complete “major”
requirements, plus unmet Bell Core courses as outlined above.
Date of Degree Award Policy
The official date of the award of a Belmont degree corresponds to the date of a Belmont commencement
ceremony. To be eligible for award of degree the degree candidate on a specific commencement date must:
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•
•
•
•
Meet the requirements for degree outlined in the General Degree Requirements section of the
catalog above.
The student has applied for a commencement ceremony (graduation application) with the
expectation all degree requirements will be completed by that date.
In some cases of exception, an extension may be granted by the Office of the Registrar for required
course work to come in with successful grades within 30 days of the commencement ceremony date
of the student’s graduation application.
The 30 days following commencement allows for example already registered course resolutions of
an incomplete grade(s), or in-progress grade(s), or an official transcript from a concurrently
enrollment institution (with previously approved by the Office of the Registrar). Thus, all course
requirements are successfully met for the degree sought.
If 30 days is exceeded without successful course(s) resolution then the student must apply for the
next eligible commencement / degree award date. For example a student does not resolve an IP
grade for May commencement / award of the degree, must apply for an ensuing commencement /
degree award date such as August.
Belmont degree recipient adding a major post-graduation.
Students may elect to add another major post-graduation when that major is taken with no intention of
earning a degree. Because a student may not earn the same degree again, this may be the option used if the
major is exclusively within a degree already earned. Upon completion of the requirements for the second
major, the transcript will note the original degree GPA, the GPA of the additional work, and add in the
comment section at the top of the transcript “second major completed in (name of major), (date).”
Undergraduate Senior Residency and Waiver
All degree seeking students are required to take their last 32 credit hours in their degree / program at
Belmont University. Prior to registration for the course(s), students seeking to take courses outside of
Belmont must request a waiver of the senior residency requirement. Any credit hours taken without prior
approval will not be accepted in transfer. See the Senior Residence Waiver policy and criteria on the
Transfer Credit page.
Students approved for Senior Residency or in a Study Abroad program in their final semester of study are
responsible to ensure that official grades are received by the deadline for all graduating senior grades near
the end of the term. Without grades, completion of degree requirements cannot be confirmed. Students not
meeting degree requirements may not participate in graduation / commencement.
Academic Honors (Graduation)
Academic honors are calculated on all grades from all institutions of higher education attended.
Undergraduate students who earn a Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) between 3.50 and 3.749 are graduated
Cum laude (with honors). Students who earn a G.P.A. between 3.75 and 3.949, are graduated Magna cum
laude (with high honors). Students who earn a G.P.A. between 3.950 and 4.00 are graduated Summa cum
laude (with highest honors).
Graduate (Master and Doctorate) Degree Requirements
• Complete the specified program curriculum.
• Have an overall GPA of 3.0 or better (unless stated otherwise in a specific graduate school program)
• Complete all degree requirements within the time period specified for each program if such a timeframe is specified. Time limits shall be computed from and will include the first term of credit applied
to the degree program.
• Meet the minimum credit hours published in the catalog for that program.
• All graduate programs must have 30 semester credit hours or greater. Credit hour requirements for
award of the sought degree are specified in the program’s curriculum published in the University
Graduate Catalog for each program and degree.
Students must file a graduation application online through their “My Belmont” account by the posted
deadlines for each graduation date. These dates are listed in the Academic Calendar in the front of this
catalog. The student will be billed for a non-refundable graduation fee of $250 for candidates of a Master
degree and $275 for candidates of a Doctoral degree to cover graduation expenses of academic regalia and
diploma. An additional $100 fee will be charged for late applications and an additional $50 fee will be
charged for each subsequent application, due to failure to complete the graduation process.
Appendix E
https://catalog.belmont.edu/content.php?catoid=14&navoid=780.
Admission
Belmont University’s graduate programs are open to applicants without regard to race, sex, national origin, or
religious preference. Admission to the graduate programs is based on qualifications and space availability.
The university seeks student diversity that enriches the academic community.
International students applying to Belmont University graduate programs may contact International Student
Services for information regarding TOEFL testing, student visa information, health insurance, housing, work
permission, and social activities sponsored by the International Student Association.
Honor System
The members of the Belmont University community seek to provide students with a high-quality education
while encouraging in the entire community a sense of ethics, social responsibility, and interdependence. We
believe that trust is a vital part of this enterprise and that self-discipline and responsibility to one another are
also essential elements. We also believe that any instance of dishonesty is a violation of the entire Belmont
University community. Therefore, the Belmont University Honor System aims to cultivate a community based
on trust, academic honesty, and social responsibility that promotes the following:
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•
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•
•
to ensure that students, faculty, staff, and administrators understand that the responsibility for
upholding honor at Belmont University lies with them;
to ensure that all members of the Belmont University community understand that all forms of
dishonesty represent a profound violation of the entire community;
to clarify what constitutes academic dishonesty and to define standards of behavior expected of all
members of our community;
to promote an environment at Belmont University where honor is expected and respected and where
dishonesty is not tolerated;
to define a statement of expectations at Belmont University regarding behavior, as well as a
mechanism for a consistent and reasonable adjudication process for violations of our community.
Affirmation of Academic Integrity
The Belmont community values personal integrity and academic honesty as the foundation of university life
and the cornerstone of a premiere educational experience. Our community believes trust among its members
is essential for both scholarship and effective interactions and operations of the university. As members of
the Belmont community, students, faculty, staff, and administrators are all responsible for ensuring that their
experiences will be free of behaviors which compromise this value. In order to uphold academic integrity, the
university has adopted an Honor System. Students and faculty will work together to establish the optimal
conditions for honorable academic work.
Student Honor Pledge
I will not give or receive aid during examinations; I will not give or receive false or impermissible aid in course
work, in the preparation of reports, or in any other type of work that is to be used by the instructor as the
basis of my grade; I will not engage in any form of academic fraud. Furthermore, I will uphold my
responsibility to see to it that others abide by the spirit and letter of this Honor Pledge.
Standards for Academic Integrity
Generally, academic fraud and dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, the following categories: cheating,
fabrication, plagiarism, multiple submissions, obtaining unfair advantage, aiding and abetting, and
unauthorized access to academic or administrative systems.
Cheating: using unauthorized notes, aids, or information on an examination; altering a graded work prior to
its return to a faculty member; allowing another person to do one’s work and submitting it for grading.
Plagiarism: submitting material that in part or whole is not one’s own work without properly attributing the
correct sources of its content.
Fabrication: inventing or falsifying information, data, or citation; presenting data gathered outside of
acceptable professorial guidelines; failing to provide an accurate account of how information, data or citations
were gathered; altering documents affecting academic records; forging signatures or authorizing false
information on an official academic document, grade, letter, form, ID card, or any other university document.
Multiple Submissions: submitting identical papers or course work for credit in more than one course without
prior permission of the instructor.
Obtaining Unfair Advantage: a) gaining or providing access to examination materials prior to the time
authorized by an instructor; b) stealing, defacing, or destroying library or research materials which can
deprive others of their use; c) unauthorized collaboration on an academic assignment; d) retaining,
possessing, or circulating previously used examination materials without the instructor’s permission; e)
obstructing or interfering with another student’s academic work; or f) engaging in any activity designed to
obtain an unfair advantage over another student in the same course.
Unauthorized Access: viewing or altering in any way computer records, modifying computer programs or
systems, releasing or distributing information gathered via unauthorized access, or in any way interfering with
the use of availability of computer systems/information.
Aiding and Abetting: providing material, information, or other assistance which violates the above Standards
for Academic Integrity; providing false information in connection with any inquiry regarding academic
integrity.
For additional information regarding procedures for upholding the Honor System, including sanctions for
violation of the system, contact the Office of Student Affairs.
Auditing Classes
Courses may be audited provided space is available and students satisfy the necessary prerequisites, except
in the Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy programs. Current Belmont students and alumni need to
request admission to a course in writing. Others must apply for Special Student status and can either be an
observer in the class or an active participant (team projects, class discussions, testing). Admission requests
should be made to the graduate office of the appropriate program. Cost for auditing is the same as credit
hour tuition.
Students will be billed before the term begins. Tuition is due by the published payment deadline.
Student Class Attendance Policy
Belmont University is committed to the idea that regular class attendance is essential to successful scholastic
achievement. Absence is permitted only in cases of illness or other legitimate cause. Attendance is checked
from the first class meeting. Late registrants will have accrued some absences prior to formal registration in
the course. In the case of excused absence from class, students have the right and responsibility to make up
all class work missed.
• Provost’s Excused Absences
If a class absence is necessary because of an activity by another class or university organization, the
sponsor of the activity will provide a detailed memorandum on the letterhead of the unit to the Provost at
least two (2) weeks prior to the event. The memo will provide the names of students involved, the type of
event, and the date range of the event. If approved the Provost will countersign the memo, generating a
Provost’s Excuse, and copies will be provided by the sponsor to each student to present to instructor as an
excused absence with the allowance for the student to make up missed class work.
• Failure for Non-attendance
Should the number of absences other than Provost’s Excused Absences exceed 20% of class meeting time
(applicable to every term and part-of-term course) for a given student, the faculty member may assign the
grade “FN” (failure for non-attendance) to that student.
• Student responsibilities
Students are responsible for notifying faculty members if they miss class(es). They are to provide
documentation in support of absenteeism for the faculty member to review and evaluate according to course
attendance policies. Student with excused absences (as approved by the faculty or through the Provost’s
Excuse) are able to make up all classwork missed during the absenteeism period.
• Faculty responsibilities
Faculty members will provide an absenteeism policy on each course syllabus and review and explain the
policy to all students. Faculty members providing for excused absences will review requests for those not
covered by the Provost’s Excuse and communications relating to unexcused absences and approve them
according to the course syllabus. They will honor absences that are properly documented and provide either
the same or in-kind assignments and provide opportunities for students to make up missed coursework
during or immediately following an excused absence period.
• Appeal
Students may appeal a disputed absence matter to the chair of the faculty member’s department or to the
appropriate dean’s office should the faculty member be the department chair. The appropriate dean’s
decision will be final. Proper documentation must be provided in support of the appeal. If the appeal is
approved, the chair or dean will communicate the reason for the approval and the remedy to the faculty
member who will permit the student (s) to make up missed coursework in a timely manner.
Class Load
The minimum load for full-time status is six (6) hours of graduate credit per term.
International Students
Belmont welcomes international students into its graduate programs and is authorized to issue F-1 (student)
and J-1 (exchange visitor) documentation for obtaining visas. International students interested in pursuing a
graduate degree from Belmont University should follow the steps outlined in the graduate catalog for the
particular graduate program they wish to pursue with the following additional requirements.
International Applicants Seeking Non-immigrant Visas [F-1 student Visa]
In order to be issued an I-20 for the desired entry term, international students must be admitted by October 1,
March 1, or June 1 in order to enroll for the spring, summer, or fall terms respectively.
1. International applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in the
English language by meeting any one of the following: minimum TOEFL score of 550 paper-based
test (PBT) or 80 internet-based test (iBT); minimum IELTS score of 6.5; minimum SAT Critical
Reading score of 530; successful completion of ELS Language Center Level 112.
2. International applicants with college level course work from foreign institutions must have their
transcripts evaluated by a credential evaluation service such as World Education Services,
www.wes.org.
3. Submit the notarized Sponsor Statement indicating the individual responsible for financing your
education. (Note: A bank statement is NOT sufficient.)
4. International applicants who are offered admission to Belmont must complete the Enrollment
Confirmation Form and submit a nonrefundable enrollment deposit of $3,000* payable to Belmont
University which will be applied to the first semester charges.
5. Upon receipt of the Enrollment Deposit, Belmont will issue an I-20.
6. After receipt of the I-20, you should apply for the visa by taking the Belmont University offer of
admission letter and I-20 to the nearest American embassy or consulate. Please check with the U.S.
Department of State, www.unitedstatesvisas.gov, for specific information about obtaining an
appointment for a visa interview and paying the appropriate fees.
*Students who do not enroll as scheduled, due to failure to obtain a visa, may request a $2,900 refund of the
tuition deposit, if requested within 30 days after the close of registration.
Graduate students are not eligible for on-campus housing. All international students must purchase health
and accident insurance coverage. Information and application for an insurance plan with coverage for
hospitalization, surgical benefits and medical care may be obtained online at www.belmont.edu/ie.
Application to the University for Resident Aliens or Permanent Residents – International English
Competency
Applicants who are permanent residents or resident aliens may follow the application instructions for
domestic students with one exception. Applicants whose first language is not English must have a score of at
least 550 (written), 213 (computer based) or 80 (internet based) on the Test of English as a Foreign
Language (TOEFL) or successfully complete ELS Language Centers Level 112.
International Students Seeking Exchange Visitor Visas [J-1 Exchange/Visitor Visa]
International students interested in attending Belmont through one of its established exchange programs may
be considered for admission by completing the Exchange Application available online at
www.belmont.edu/ie. A student must be recommended by his or her home institution in order to participate
and be issued a J-1 visa.
Performance Evaluation and Feedback
Getting feedback on your performance is critical to improvement. A variety of instruments will be used by
various instructors throughout your courses. Where appropriate, grades will be given that will be an overall
indication of performance. The grading scale for graduate courses is as follows:
Grade
A
B
C
F**
Overview of performance quality of letter grades A-F
Level
A high level of performance has been achieved with respect to course objectives.
Competency has been demonstrated in all or most course objectives. Class contribution was
meaningful.
The student has not achieved competency in some course objectives.
The student has not achieved competency in most course objectives.
Eligible grades
Each hour of academic work taken for credit in the university is evaluated in terms of its relative
quality, as shown by the grade received in the course. The various grades and their corresponding
quality points are:
A
4.0 quality points for each hour of credit.
A- 3.7 quality points for each hour of credit. B+
3.3 quality points for each hour of credit. B
3.0 quality points for each hour of credit.
B- 2.7 quality points for each hour of credit. C+
2.3 quality points for each hour of credit. C
2.0
quality points for each hour of credit. C1.7
quality points for each hour of credit. F 0 quality
points and no credit.
V
Incomplete grade. Incomplete is used only in cases of uncontrollable circumstances. Responsibility
for completing the work must be assumed by the student. An I is calculated as an F. The grade will
be changed to an F at the mid-term of the semester following the one in which it was earned unless a
grade is submitted by the instructor.
W
Withdrawal during the first four weeks of the semester. Does not count in GPA calculations.
WP
Withdrawal Passing. Withdrawal after the first four weeks of the semester with a grade of C or better
at the time of withdrawal. Does not count in GPA calculations.
WF** Withdrawal Failing. Withdrawal after the first four weeks of the semester with a grade of F at the time
of withdrawal. Counts as an F in GPA calculations.
FN**
FN indicates that the student failed the course due to excessive absences. Should the number of
absences other than Provost’s Excused Absences exceed 20% of class meeting time (applicable to
every term and part-of-term course) for a given student, the faculty member may assign the grade
“FN” (failure for nonattendance) to that student. FN counts as an F when computing GPA.
FX**
FX grade on the student’s transcript will indicate that the failure of the course was due to an Honor
Pledge violation. The grade will be treated as an F for purposes of the student’s grade point average.
After appeal, any decision resulting in a grade of “FX” will automatically be reviewed by the Provost.
During a student’s last semester prior to graduation, s/he may have the “FX” changed to an F on the
transcript in the following manner:
The student must have been remediated or readmitted to the graduate program where
possible, retaken and received a passing grade in the class in which the “FX” was given;
o The student must have no subsequent violations of the Honor Pledge while a student at
Belmont;
o The student must write a letter to the Provost requesting the removal of the “FX”;
o The student must propose and perform an activity or program that promotes academic
integrity on campus and which will be mutually agreed upon by student and the Honor Court.
The Honor Court will certify that the program has been completed in a letter to the Provost.
If the student satisfactorily completes the four conditions above, the Provost will instruct the Registrar
to change the “FX” to a grade of “F” on the student’s transcript.
o
Note that some individual graduate colleges may have specific published rules which will be applied
for academic conduct violations or conditions / actions related to any for of a failing grade.
P
IP
Passing. Does not count in GPA calculations.
In Progress (IP) means the course work is continued. Does not count in GPA calculations. A student
must complete the IP by mid-term of the follow semester (e.g. fall course in the spring; a spring
course in the fall; a summer course by the fall). If the IP is not resolved in the prescribed time-frame
the grade converts to “I” and the policy governing an incomplete grade goes into effect and is subject
to review by the department. If the course should have been completed in the term of enrollment
then an incomplete (“I”) is the appropriate grade.
Special continuation and allowances may be granted in specific programs such as Physical Therapy
where students in clinical courses may carry the IP grade on-going since the clinical
experience/course may not be completed at the end of the semester or may cross terms until
completed. Department specific approvals for IPs will be reflected on the departmental page and in
the course description.
AU
NR
Audit. Does not count in GPA calculations.
Not Received. This means that the professor did not turn in a grade(s) by the deadline at the end of
the semester. No credit is given for a course with a NR until the professor enters an appropriate
grade for the course. The NR does not affect the student’s GPA. The professor must complete a
grade change form to change the grade and the student will be mailed a letter stating their grade and
updated GPA when processed.
** See policy below under “Progression Toward Graduation” for actions that result from a grade of any “F”
grade.
Academic Numbering
Graduate level courses are represented with 5000 and 6000 numbered courses. Beginning in the spring
2004 term, Belmont University converted all three digit academic numbers to four digits. In most instances
the change was accomplished by adding a zero (0) to the end of the existing number.
Definition of Academic Numbering and Credit Hours
Course Numbering System
Course descriptions are arranged alphabetically by subject prefix description. Courses are identified by a
course prefix up to four letters and a course number that indicates suggested level and/or type of course.
At Belmont, the first digit in the course number indicates the year level of the course, as follows:
Courses which begin with number 1 are primarily for freshmen; those beginning with 2, primarily for
sophomores; 3, primarily for juniors and seniors; 4, primarily for seniors. 5 and 6000 level courses are
graduate level.
Some courses are offered only in the fall and/or spring semesters. Some courses are only offered in
alternating years or based on need. Please consult individual departments and/or catalog course listing for
course schedule rotations.
Courses are numbered as follows:
1000-2990 Undergraduate, lower division
3000-4990 Undergraduate, upper division
5000-6990 Graduate, Masters, Doctoral
Credit Hour
A credit hour is an amount of work represented by intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of
student achievement that reasonably approximates:
1. For a traditional, face-to-face lecture class, not less than one contact hour (50 minutes) of classroom
or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class student work, including but
not limited to reading, studying, conducting research, writing, performance practicing, rehearsals and
other learning activities each week for approximately 15 weeks for one semester or the equivalent
amount of work over a different amount of time, or
2. At least an equivalent amount of work as required outlined in item 1 above for other academic
activities as established by the institution including distance education, lab and lecture/lab, tutorial,
seminar, independent study, thesis, studio, internships/practica, student teaching, clinical, physical
education, discussion/quiz/recitation and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.
For face-to-face lecture classes, this shall equate to a minimum of 750 minutes of classroom contact,
including final exams, per credit per semester.
Course Delivery
1. In Person: Class meets in person only at times noted on schedule - in person attendance is required
(not available online).
2. Hybrid: course (also occasionally called a “blended” course) supplements, adds to and /or replaces a
portion of traditional classroom face-to-face instruction with web-based online learning (e.g., video
lectures, online discussions, activities, assignments, self-directed projects, etc).
3. Synch:Online: Class meets online only at times noted in schedule - online attendance is required at
scheduled times.
4. Asynch:Online: Class is available to students online only; may or may not have scheduled meetings.
Repeating Courses
If a student repeats a course, it must be done the next semester the course is offered. The last grade will be
the permanent grade recorded, and the student’s GPA will be recomputed accordingly. No course may be
repeated more than once.
Grade Appeals
Students have the right to appeal grades directly to the instructor if they believe that an incorrect grade has
been assigned for the course. If a grade issue is not resolved after contact with the instructor, the student
may appeal in writing to the department chair / associate dean of the college. This must occur by the midterm point of the next semester. In the written appeal the student must be prepared to demonstrate and
document an unusual circumstance that warrants a review of the grade and evidences of the grade s/he
believes should have been given by the instructor. All written appeals will be reviewed within one month of
receipt and responded to in writing either confirming or changing the posted final grade. A copy of this
response will go to the Registrar’s Office for the student’s record.
Further appeal is through the administrative structure of the college in which the course was taken, with final
appeal to the Dean of the College. Any appeal must be in writing and include appropriate documentation to
support the student’s position that a grade change is warranted.
The final grade is the instructor’s posted grade, which may be viewed in the student’s grade report on-line at
the close of the term or part-of-term. It is solely the responsibility of the student to check that grades are
posted for all courses taken during a semester and note the grade given for each class. All grade appeals
must be requested by the mid-term point of the next semester. Unless an active appeal is under review, after
the mid-term point of the next semester, neither instructors nor the university will consider a grade change.
Once a final grade has been posted the student may not petition the instructor to do additional work or extra
credit to raise the grade awarded. Any grade change as a result of such action will be disallowed.
For grades of IP or I, once the I or IP is replaced (required prior to mid-term of the follow semester) by a
grade, including a change to F, that becomes the posting date of the final grade. Administrative grades such
as W (withdrawal) are handled through the Registrar’s Office.
Transfer Credit
A student may transfer up to six (6) hours of graduate credit with a minimum grade of “B” from an accredited
institution upon approval of the student’s graduate director. A degree program may have a different number
of allowable credit hours, which may be found on their catalog page or web page. The School of Education
has a five (5) year limitation on courses that are transferable.
*The School of Physical Therapy does not accept graduate-level transfer credit from other institutions toward
the Doctorate of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) degree. Veteran students who apply to the physical therapy
programs are eligible for consideration of graduate level transfer credits from accredited institutions.
*The School of Occupational Therapy does not accept transfer credit from other institutions toward its degree
program. Veteran students who apply to the occupational therapy programs are eligible for consideration of
graduate level transfer credits from accredited institutions.
* Students accepted into the M.A. in Mental Health Counseling Program may request graduate course credits
from an accredited institution be reviewed for possible substitution for Belmont University course credit. The
program department will determine at its sole discretion what course(s) are eligible for transfer toward the
student’s program of study. Eligible transfer course work must have at least a grade of “B” in each course.
Other credit bearing work on a transcript such as academic projects, significant research, internships, and
fieldwork courses with a grade of “P” may also be considered as an eligible transferable course provided that
the content of the work is determined to have an equivalency for a course in the program. The department
may accept up to 21 credit hours of course work toward the graduate degree.
* In the Belmont College of Law all academic credits accepted for transfer must have been completed at an
ABA-approved law school. No more than one-third of academic credits required for graduation at the
College of Law shall be accepted for transfer (i.e. 29 academic credits). The College of Law shall accept
transfer credit only for courses in which the grade received is equal to or higher than the grade point average
required for graduation at the other law school. Credit for any course required for graduation from the
College of Law shall be accepted for transfer only when the course was comparable to the course offered at
the College of Law. All grades for which credit is transferred shall be entered as “Pass” on the student’s
records and shall not affect the student’s cumulative grade point average.
Credit by Challenge Examination
Belmont University grants university credit in select courses to students who pass a comprehensive
challenge examination. Credit by prepared examination is available at the department level. Academic
departments and schools decide which of the courses they teach are available for credit by challenge
examinations.
Students wishing to earn credit by challenge examination must complete the Credit by Challenge
Examination Form which is available at Belmont Central (belmontcentral@belmont.edu). In completing the
form, the student must secure permission to take a challenge examination from the appropriate department
first, and then from the dean of the school in which the credit is sought.
The fee for the examination is one-third the cost of the regular tuition for the course.
Progression Towards Graduation
It is essential that students make satisfactory progress toward their degree in terms of consistency and
performance. Unless stated otherwise in a specific graduate school, unsatisfactory progress will result in the
following actions:
Condition
GPA less than 3.0
More than three “C” grades
“F” grade in any course
Failure to enroll in a term
Action
Probation
Dismissal*
Dismissal*
Inactive Status
If a student remains on Inactive Status for more than one year without the program director’s permission, the
student must reapply for admission to the program.
Any student on “Probation” or “Dismissed” (expressed either as “university dismissal” or “program dismissal”)
academic standing is considered to be “not in good standing” with the university.
Students on probation must raise their cumulative GPA to 3.0 or better within the next two semesters, unless
stated otherwise in a specific graduate school. If a student fails to meet this criterion the student is
automatically dismissed from the program. Any student who is dismissed may apply for readmission, but only
once. Reapplication under these circumstances does not guarantee admission back into the program.
*Several graduate programs have specific or additional conditions for program dismissal (such as in graduate
business MBA for Massey Program, in graduate nursing for MSN & DNP Programs, and in graduate PT for
Physical Therapy program). Graduate students should be familiar with dismissal conditions for their program
of enrollment. In the absence of specific conditions in a program’s graduate handbook (or equivalent) the
matrix of dismissal conditions above will apply.
Graduate (Master and Doctorate) Degree Requirements
• Complete the specified program curriculum.
• Have an overall GPA of 3.0 or better (unless stated otherwise in a specific graduate school program)
• Complete all degree requirements within the time period specified for each program if such a
timeframe is specified. Time limits shall be computed from and will include the first term of credit
applied to the degree program.
• Meet the minimum credit hours published in the catalog for that program.
• All graduate programs must have 30 semester credit hours or greater. Credit hour requirements for
award of the sought degree are specified in the program’s curriculum published in the University
Graduate Catalog for each program and degree.
Students must file a graduation application online through their “My Belmont” account by the posted
deadlines for each graduation date. These dates are listed in the Academic Calendar in the front of this
catalog. The student will be billed for a non-refundable graduation fee of $250 for candidates of a Master
degree and $275 for candidates of a Doctoral degree to cover graduation expenses of academic regalia and
diploma. An additional $100 fee will be charged for late applications and an additional $50 fee will be
charged for each subsequent application, due to failure to complete the graduation process.
Date of Degree Award Policy
The official date of the award of a Belmont degree corresponds to the date of a Belmont commencement
ceremony. To be eligible for award of degree the degree candidate on a specific commencement date must:
•
•
•
•
Meet the requirements for degree outlined in the Graduate Degree Requirements section of the
catalog above.
The student has applied for a commencement ceremony (graduation application) with the
expectation all degree requirements will be completed by that date.
In some cases of exception, an extension may be granted by the Office of the Registrar for required
course work to come in with successful grades within 30 days of the commencement ceremony date
of the student’s graduation application.
o The 30 days following commencement allows for example already registered course
resolutions of an incomplete grade(s), or in-progress grade(s), or an official transcript from a
concurrently enrollment institution (with previously approved by the Office of the Registrar).
Thus, all course requirements are successfully met for the degree sought.
If 30 days is exceeded without successful course(s) resolution then the student must apply for the
next eligible commencement / degree award date. For example a student does not resolve an IP
grade for May commencement / award of the degree, must apply for an ensuing commencement /
degree award date such as August.
Degree
Graduate degrees represent more advanced specialized fields of study than an undergraduate degree. A
“graduate degree” is the general name for degrees such as a master’s or doctorate degree. A graduate
degree at Belmont must be a minimum of 30 earned credit hours. Award of the degree is the successful
completion of a program of study meeting all graduation requirements of the degree sought as published in
the University Catalog. Belmont offers masters’ degrees in Accountancy (M.ACC.), Audio Engineering
Technology (M.S.), Business Administration (M.B.A.), Education (M.Ed.) (M.A.T.), Fine Arts (M.F.A); English
(M.A.), Mental Health Counseling (M.A.), Music (M.M.), Nursing (M.S.N.), Occupational Therapy, (M.S.O.T.),
Special Education (M.A.S.E.), Sport Administration (M.S.A.); Doctoral degrees in Nursing Practice (D.N.P.),
Pharmacy (PharmD), Physical Therapy (D.P.T.), and Occupational Therapy (O.T.D.); and the Juris Doctor in
Law (J.D.). The award of a degree is granted after academic audit by the Office of the Registrar confirming
all requirements for the degree has been met, followed by an affirmative vote of the faculty senate and the
Belmont Board of Trustees of eligible candidates resulting in the conferring of the degree. The awarded
degree(s) will show on the student’s official transcript.
FERPA and Privacy
FERPA - Family Education Rights and Privacy Act
What does “FERPA” stand for and why is it important?
• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974
• This federal law requires Belmont to protect the privacy of students’ education records
Rights guaranteed to students by FERPA
• The right of access to education records
• The right to consent to the release of records to third parties
• The right to challenge inaccurate or misleading information in an education record
• The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning non-compliance with
FERPA
Do parents or legal guardians have access to a student’s education records?
• A student, regardless of age, is the “legal entity” once he or she begins to attend Belmont. FERPA
rights belong to the student, not the parent or guardian.
• This means that students must consent before a record is disclosed to the parents or legal
guardians.
• A student can authorize Belmont to discuss his/her educational records with parents/guardians by
filling out the Consent to Release Educational Records.
What are education records?
Information recorded in any form that is directly related to a student and maintained by a college or university
and by those acting for the college or university.
When is Consent Not Required?
• To individuals within the university with legitimate educational interest
• To officials at an institution in which student seeks to enroll
• To comply with a court order or subpoena
• To parents of students who are dependents for income tax purposes
• To parents in cases of drug or alcohol violation when the student is under the age of 21
• In connection with a health or safety emergency if necessary to protect the student or others
• If the data is considered directory information
What is Directory Information?
• Name, address, telephone number
• Campus e-mail address
• Date and place of birth
• Major field of study
• Dates of attendance, degrees and awards received
• Previous educational agencies or institutions attended
• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• Weight and height of members of athletic teams
What if a student wants to prohibit the disclosure of directory information as well?
• Students who do not want their directory information released may visit the Office of the Registrar to
complete the appropriate form. Once the form is filed, the student’s record is flagged as “confidential”
and no directory information is disclosed except as required by FERPA.
• The confidentiality hold prohibits the release of information including but not limited to transcripts,
enrollment verifications, and degree verifications.
• If the student needs Belmont to release information from the student record, the request must be
made in writing, accompanied by legal proof of identity. This applies whether the information is for
the student’s personal use or for use by a third party.
• Graduation, withdrawal and dismissal from the university do not automatically lift the confidential
status on a student’s record. The record will remain confidential until the status is revoked by the
student, in writing, accompanied by legal proof of identity.
• If a confidentiality request is not filed, Belmont University assumes that a student does not object to
the release of directory information.
For additional information, please visit:
http://www.belmont.edu/notices/privacy-policies/ferpa.html
http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html
Procedures for Protecting Students Privacy in Distance Education Courses
Belmont University is committed to protecting student privacy for students enrolled in all courses regardless
of the mode of instruction (on-line, hybrid, classroom, etc.). All of the university policies regarding student
privacy and information security applied through FERPA apply to distance education courses. Faculty
teaching distance education courses are expected to uphold these polices and follow these procedures:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Teach distance education courses using BlackBoard, the University’s learning management system,
in order to ensure security of student work and grades.
Use the University’s secure BannerWeb site to report student grades.
Use BlackBoard or the University’s email system for all official, confidential communication such as
providing feedback on student work, releasing grade or course progress information to students, etc.
Keep student work, scores or grades confidential. Students in the course should not have access to
other students’ work or grades.
Keep course BlackBoard or UR email account information secure. Do not share any login information
with anyone, give anyone unauthorized access to the BlackBoard course or assign a student the role
of instructor or graduate assistant in BlackBoard unless the graduate assistant is assigned a
teaching role in the class and has an educational need to know.
Follow FERPA guidelines for sharing student educational record information with other faculty, staff,
parents or others outside the university.
Appendix F
https://www.belmont.edu/registrar/apolicies/attendance.html
Class Attendance Policy:
Belmont University is committed to the idea that regular class attendance is essential to successful scholastic
achievement. Absence is permitted only in cases of illness or other legitimate cause. Attendance is checked
from the first class meeting. Late registrants will have accrued some absences prior to formal registration in
the course. In the case of excused absence from class, students have the right and responsibility to make
up all class work missed.
Provost’s Excused Absences:
If a class absence is necessary because of an activity by another class or university organization, the
sponsor of the activity will provide a detailed memorandum on the letterhead of the unit to the Provost at
least two (2) weeks prior to the event. The memo will provide the names of students involved, the type of
event, and the date range of the event. If approved the Provost will countersign the memo, generating a
Provost’s Excuse, and copies will be provided by the sponsor to each student to present to instructor as an
excused absence with the allowance for the student to make up missed class work.
Failure for Non-Attendance:
Should the number of absences other than Provost’s Excused Absences exceed 20% of class meeting time
(applicable to every term and part-of-term course) for a given student, the faculty member may assign the
grade “FN” (failure for nonattendance) to that student.
Student Responsibilities:
Students are responsible for notifying faculty members if they miss class(es). They are to provide
documentation in support of absenteeism for the faculty member to review and evaluate according to course
attendance policies. Student with excused absences (as approved by the faculty or through the Provost’s
Excuse) are able to make up all classwork missed during the absenteeism period.
Faculty Responsibilities:
Faculty members will provide an absenteeism policy on each course syllabus and review and explain the
policy to all students. Faculty members providing for excused absences will review requests for those not
covered by the Provost’s Excuse and communications relating to unexcused absences and approve them
according to the course syllabus. They will honor absences that are properly documented and provide either
the same or in-kind assignments and provide opportunities for students to make up missed coursework
during or immediately following an excused absence period.
Appeals:
Students may appeal a disputed absence matter to the chair of the faculty member’s department or to the
appropriate dean’s office should the faculty member be the department chair. The appropriate dean’s
decision will be final. Proper documentation must be provided in support of the appeal. If the appeal is
approved, the chair or dean will communicate the reason for the approval and the remedy to the faculty
member who will permit the student (s) to make up missed coursework in a timely manner.
Appendix G
Honor Pledge
A Bruin does not lie, cheat, or steal, and does not tolerate those acts.
Appendix H
Students with Disabilities
In compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, Belmont University will make reasonable
accommodations for students with disabilities. Students with needs for academic or other accommodations
should contact the Office of the Dean of Students in the Beaman Student Life Center as soon as possible.
For complete details, see the brochure, “Meeting the Needs of the Students with Disabilities,” available in the
Office of the Dean of Students.
Appendix I