Policies & Procedures

POLICY STATEMENTS

The College of Professional Studies Undergraduate Catalog contains Northeastern University's primary statements about courses, programs, and certificate requirements, as authorized by the president and the Board of Trustees. For information about other academic policies and procedures, including student responsibilities, student academic and co-curricular life, faculty rights and responsibilities, or general personnel policies, benefits, and services, please refer to the following:

CPS Bulletin and Student Handbook

For a complete listing of all CPS policies, call 617.373.2400 or toll free at 877.668.7727 to request a the current Bulletin and Student Handbook.

Refunds
College of Professional Studies/Lowell Institute School (LIS), School of Education, Undergraduate, Graduate, and Evening Noncredit Course Formats (with the exception of full-day courses)

12-Week, 8-Week, and 6-Week Sessions
Effective Fall 2006, the College of Professional Studies will permit students to withdraw from 12-week, 8-week, and 6-week courses through the second Saturday of the session and receive a 100% refund. After the second Saturday of the session, any student seeking to withdraw from a 12-week, 8-week, or 6-week course will be ineligible for a refund.

4-Week Sessions
Effective Fall 2006, the College of Professional Studies will permit students to withdraw from 4-week courses through the first Saturday of the session and receive a 100% refund. After the first Saturday of the session, any student seeking to withdraw from a 4-week course will be ineligible for a refund.

Courses Meeting for One Week or Less
With the exception of Education Summer Institutes and one day courses, the College of Professional Studies will permit students to withdraw from courses meeting for one week or less through the first day of the course and receive a 100% refund. After the first day of the course, any student seeking to withdraw from a course meeting for one week or less will be ineligible for a refund.

Full-Day Course Formats
For full-day courses, payment must be made no later than the first day of the course. Course fees are fully refundable if Northeastern University receives written documentation of withdrawal (or rescheduling if applicable) on or before the 14th day prior to the start date of the course. Withdrawals made less than 14 days prior to the start date of the course are subject to a 25% late withdrawal fee. If a student fails to attend a full-day course without notifying Northeastern University, the entire tuition may be assessed. For Professional Development courses, a substitute may be sent in a student's place in order to avoid the 25% late withdrawal fee.

Semester-Based Courses
Students enrolled in semesterbased courses may be subject to other Refund policies. Please visit www.northeastern.edu/cps for details.

Withdrawing From A Course 

12-Week, 8-Week, and 6-Week Sessions
Students who withdraw from a 12-week, 8-week, and 6-week courses prior to the end of the second Saturday of the session will have no record of the withdrawal on their transcripts. Thereafter, students who withdraw from the course until the end of the week prior to final examinations will have the withdrawal noted on their transcripts. No withdrawals are allowed for any reason during the last week of the session/term.

4-Week Sessions
Students who withdraw from a 4-week course through the first Saturday of the session will have no record of the withdrawal on their transcripts. Thereafter, students who withdraw from the course until the end of the week prior to final examinations will have the withdrawal noted on their transcripts. No withdrawals are allowed during the last week of the session.

Intensive Courses Meeting For One Week Or Less
Students who withdraw from an intensive course meeting for one week or less prior to the second day of the course will have no record of the withdrawal on their transcripts. Students who withdraw from the second day of the course to the last day of the course prior to final examinations will have the withdrawal noted on their transcripts. No withdrawals are allowed for any reason during the day on which final examinations are given.

A "W" grade (withdrawal) can only be given administratively by the Registrar's Office based on having followed the proper course withdrawal procedures. If a student has not withdrawn, faculty members are obliged to assume that the student is still in the course and must grade accordingly.

Students may withdraw from a course using any of the following methods:
• Using the myNEU portal (http://myneu.neu.edu/)
• Completing the interactive course withdrawal form (www.cps.neu.edu/withdrawal)
• Submitting a completed course withdrawal form in person to the Registrar's Office, 120 Hayden Hall, Boston, Massachusetts or to any one of our campus locations. Withdrawal forms may be obtained at any one of our campus locations. They can also be downloaded at www.northeastern.edu/cps.

Please note that non-attendance does not constitute an official course withdrawal. If a student who began attendance and did not officially withdraw fails to earn a passing grade in at least one course over an entire term, the University must assume that the student has unofficially withdrawn. For this purpose, non-passing grades are defined as W, NE, *, L, or I. Unofficial withdrawals will be determined within 90 days of the end of the term. Federal financial aid recipients will have their awards reviewed and recalculated, causing a reduction in aid awarded. A student must officially withdraw from a course using one of the methods specified above in order to be eligible for a refund.

Semester-Based Courses
Students enrolled in semesterbased courses may be subject to otherWithdrawal policies. Please visit www.northeastern.edu/cps. for details.

Grading

Grading System
Grades are officially recorded by letters, evaluated as follows:

For Northeastern Online courses, the student's access to the Northeastern Online site ends at the end of the quarter. The Incomplete or "I" grade may be given only when the student fails to complete a single key requirement of a course, such as a paper or major report. The University has a one-year limit policy to make up Incomplete grades. However, Northeastern Online students will have access to the course management tool for a four-week period to complete the missing requirement. Therefore, Northeastern Online students are strongly advised to make up Incomplete grades within this four-week period. The makeup must be possible without the use of the Northeastern Online site.

To clear an “I” grade, a student should work out a completion plan with the instructor and fill out an Incomplete Grade Clearance Agreement before the end of the term or as soon as possible thereafter. This form is available online at www.neu.edu/registrar/forms.html.

S/U ["Pass/Fail"] Grades
Any undergraduate student not on academic probation, where permitted by the terms decided by College of Professional Studiesof section C below, may register for one S/U (commonly known as "Pass/Fail") course per term. Enrollment in one-credit-hour courses on an S/U basis does not prevent students from also electing an additional four-credit-hour course on an S/U basis.

• Such courses will normally be restricted to freely chosen electives outside the major field of specialization, so that no part of the specifically prescribed curricula will be affected.
• Degree students may register for one open elective course per quarter on a pass/fail basis (satisfactory/unsatisfactory) and may not take more than a total of five pass/fail courses total at the College of Professional Studies. To be eligible for pass/fail status, the student must be in good academic standing (have at least a 2.000 grade point average) and must also meet all prerequisites for the course.
• To be graded on a pass/fail basis, the student must file a Pass/Fail Petition and have it signed by an Academic & Student Support Specialist in the Office of Academic & Student Support Services. Petitions must be received prior to the fourth class meeting for 12-week courses. (For five- and six-week intensive courses, petitions must be received by the second class meeting.) Petitions are available online at www.northeastern.edu/cps, or at each campus location or by calling 877.668.7727 or TTY 617.373.2825.
• The grades recorded on the basis of the S/U system will not figure in the computation of the QPA.
• Satisfactory completion of the work in all courses taken on the S/U system of grading with a grade of C- or better will be designated on the permanent record by the letter S. Unsatisfactory work will be designated by the letter U.
• An "incomplete" in a course taken on an S/U basis will be designated by the letter X on the permanent record and must be treated according to the normal procedure for incomplete grades.

Auditing A Course
Students are permitted to audit courses, but they must complete the usual registration process and pay regular tuition fees. There is no reduction in fees for auditing. An auditor may participate in class discussion, complete papers and projects, and take tests and examinations for informal evaluation. However, regardless of the amount of or quality of work completed, no academic credit will be granted at any time for audited courses. In addition, audited courses cannot be used in the determination of enrollment status for financial aid purposes.

The student’s decision to audit a course must be communicated in writing to the Registrar prior to the fourth class meeting for twelve-week courses. For four-, six-, and eightweek courses, requests must be received by the second class meeting. No exception to this procedure can be approved without authorization by the Academic Standing Committee of the College.

Special Studies 
Qualified students may have the opportunity to take up to six special studies. Those who meet the specifications for this work may take a combination of:

• two advanced tutorials
• two independent studies
• two honors programs

Petitions for these studies are available at the Office of Academic & Student Support Services, all campus locations and online. Petitions should be filed at least six weeks prior to the quarter in which the special study is to be taken. Most special studies are taken under the direction of a faculty adviser who will meet with the student at least three times during the quarter and will be available for phone conferences. Students may request a specific faculty member. However, no special study may proceed without prior approval.

Special studies are not offered in all subject areas. Before petitioning you may wish to consult with an Academic & Student Support Specialist by visiting one of our campus locations, calling 617.373.2400 or toll free at 877.668.7727 or spcs-adviser@neu.edu. In many cases, taking a full course will be of greater value to you.

Advanced Tutorial
The Advanced Tutorial is designed primarily for students with declared majors who have been unable to take a needed upper-level course in the usual format because the course has not been available for two consecutive years. The Advanced Tutorial is essentially a full course taken independently under the supervision of a faculty adviser who will provide a syllabus, test the student's progress, and ascribe a grade. With the exception of languages and a few labs, Advanced Tutorials are 3 quarter hour credits each.  Students may take no more than two Advanced Tutorials and should have completed 87 quarter hours before petitioning.

Independent Study
The Independent Study is an opportunity for degree students to undertake special research, reading, or experimental study projects in areas related to their program area of study. In addition to filing a petition, interested students should submit a study proposal for the program director’s approval. The proposal should include a detailed outline of the objectives and plan of study and should be accompanied by a supporting statement from the faculty member under whose direction the study willtake place. Students may take up to four Independent Studies.

Honors Program
The Honors Program is similar to the Independent Study, with two exceptions: the student must have a 3.500 GPA to be eligible and submit a more in-depth work product to earn the additional 1 quarter hours credit. Students may take up to two Honors Courses at 4 quarter hours each. Usually these courses would count toward major elective requirements.

Dean's List
A Dean’s list is compiled at the end of each fall, winter, and spring term. It contains the names of students in undergraduate degree programs who have earned a grade point average of 3.250 or higher, with no I grade(s) and no grade(s) below C-. A student who is on any form of probation, who is enrolled in a course on a pass/fail basis (except when there is no alternative or when required by the student’s program of study), or who is not carrying at least a half-time load, as defined by the College of Professional Studies, is not eligible. A half-time load is considered to be at least two courses or six quarter hours per term; a full load, at least four courses or twelve quarter hours per term. During the summer term, the College of Professional Studies will issue a certificate to each student who has been on the Dean’s list for one or more terms during the preceding academic year.

Diversity Requirement
All Undergraduate degree students will fulfill the Northeastern University diversity requirement. The requirement varies from program to program but generally can be fulfilled by completing one of four courses as outlined in the core curriculum.

Changing Major
Undergraduate students already matriculated in a certificate/degree program may choose to enroll in another undergraduate major/program by completing the appropriate change of program form, which is available on campus and online. Students must consult with an Academic and Student Support Specialist (in person, via email or telephone) prior to submitting this request to review information and requirements for the intended program. Students are responsible for meeting all admission requirements for the intended program. Graduate students already matriculated in a certificate/degree program who would like to enroll in another graduate program must apply to the intended program by submitting the following:

1. new personal statement

2. updated résumé, if applicable

3. at least one letter of reference (for degree applicants only).

Students must consult with an Academic and Student Support Specialist (in person, via email or telephone) prior to submitting this request to review information and requirements for the intended program. Students are responsible for meeting all admission requirements for the intended program.

Transfer Credit Policy - Undergraduate
The College of Professional Studies (CPS) awards undergraduate transfer credits for courses taken at regionally and programmatically accredited institutions. Information about the organizations responsible for these two types of accreditation is provided by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Transfer Credits earned outside of the United States or from other accredited institutions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Official transcripts from all institutions should be sent directly to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at the time of application. Students who wish to present transfer credits earned through college-level proficiency examinations must provide the official report of exam results. Once a new CPS student has been accepted into a program and a major has been declared, an official transfer credit evaluation will take place within the first academic term. Transfer credit awards are granted on a case-by-case basis employing the following guidelines:

• The minimum course grade acceptable for transfer credit is C, or 2.000 on a 4.000 scale.

• Credits earned in science and technology courses are valid for a period of 7 years. Credits in these subject areas earned more than 7 years ago may be applied to satisfy unallocated elective requirements. Courses successfully completed in other subject areas are not subject to timelines.

• Transfer credits may also be earned through APL, CLEP, DANTES, Excelsior College Examination (formerly Regents College and PEP), non-collegiate instruction.

• Students who are transferring credits earned in the daytime undergraduate programs at Northeastern University must have earned grades of C- or better, and will have to complete at least 24 QH at the College of Professional Studies for a bachelor’s degree and at least 12 QH for an associate degree.

• The College of Professional Studies reserves the right to revise transfer credit awards due to course duplication, student’s change in program of study, or other reasons deemed necessary by the College of Professional Studies.

• With specified exception, to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree, students must complete at least 50% of the total quarter hours required for the degree at the College of Professional Studies.

• Students transferring into an undergraduate certificate program may transfer up to 9 credits, depending on the specific certificate program.

Transfer Credit Policy - Graduate
The College of Professional Studies (CPS) awards graduate transfer credits for courses taken at a regionally and programmaticially accredited institutions. Information about the organizations responsible for these two types of accreditation is provided by the Council for Higher Education accreditation. Transfer Credits earned outside of the United States or from other accredited institutions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

An official transfer credit evaluation will take place once an applicant has been accepted to the certificate or degree program. Official transcripts and course descriptions will need to be sent directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions at the time of application. Graduate courses will not be evaluated for transfer credit if they were earned to fulfill an academic requirement for a graduate degree program. All graduate transfer credit awards are made on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the graduate program director, the Senior Associate Dean of Academic and Faculty Affairs, and/or designee.

For Active-Duty Military Personnel
As a member of the Servicemember Opportunity Colleges, the College of Professional Studies’ academic residency requirement is different for active-duty servicemembers.

• For on-ground programs, active-duty servicemembers are required to complete 25% of the undergraduate certificate/degree program in the College of Professional Studies.

• For online programs, active-duty servicemembers are required to complete 30% of the undergraduate certificate/degree program in the College of Professional Studies.

Assessment of Prior Learning
The College of Professional Studies wants to help students maximize credit for prior learning. You can earn credits toward your undergraduate degree in several ways:

Through credits transferred from an accredited American college or university or from recognized institutions of higher education in other countries.

Through the following college-level proficiency examinations:

The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) general and subject examinations

The Excelsior College Examination Program (formerly Regents College and PEP)

DANTES Examination Program of the Educational Testing Service

Advanced Placement (AP) Examination Program of the College Entrance Examination Board

Challenge examinations in areas such as medical terminology

Through Modern Language Proficiency Examination:
College of Professional Studies students may be eligible to receive a maximum of 12 quarter hours of credit in a modern language that is part of their particular curriculum. Examinations are currently offered in American Sign Language, French, and Spanish.

Through Assessment of Prior Learning (APL) by portfolio:
College of Professional Studies students may obtain up to 18 quarter hours of APL credit in specified academic disciplines for knowledge gained through prior learning experiences.

Specifically, students may be eligible for APL credit if they have accrued a foundation of knowledge and skills equivalent to the content of courses in the following areas:

Liberal Arts (ART, CMN, ECN, ENG, HST, JRN, MUS, PHL, POL, PSY, SOA, SOC, TCC, THE)

Health Professions and Sciences (BIO, BT, CHM, HIA, HMG, HSC)

Information Technology (IT and MIS)

Business (RE and TRN only)

The primary method for documenting prior learning is through the assessment of a student portfolio, although in some instances an examination will also be required. In some cases, entire Professional Development certificates may be transferred in as electives to the College of Professional Studies through the Assessment of Prior Learning (APL) process. There is a onetime non-refundable evaluation fee of $100.

In order to be eligible to receive credit for prior learning, you must be accepted into a degree or certificate program and be in good standing. Please contact the Office of Academic & Student Support Services at 617.373.2400 or toll free at 877.668.7727 for further information.

TRANSCRIPTS REQUESTS

Northeastern University requires a written release before a transcript can be mailed out. Requests must be made in person, by mail or fax. Phone and e-mail requests will not be accepted.When mailing in your request for transcripts, you must include the following information:

• Name (including maiden or any other names)
• Current mailing address
• Telephone number
• Date of birth
• Social Security Number/N.U. ID number
• College/programs attended; major course of study
• Year(s) attended
• Degree(s) received
• Number of copies you require
• Complete mailing address(es) where transcript(s) should be mailed
• Student signature

Transcript requests are generally processed and mailed out within three days of receipt. Students who are blocked financially are unable to get transcripts of any kind until financially cleared.We cannot fax transcripts from the University. All questions regarding transcript requests should be directed to the above mailing address or to 617.373.2199.

Transcript request forms are available in the Office of the Registrar. Unofficial transcripts are an in-person courtesy only. A student who is presently enrolled in classes at Northeastern University can print an unofficial copy of his/her record by accessing the myNEUWeb Portal or at any of the Student Services Kiosks on campus.

USA Patriot Act 
The USA Patriot Act provides law enforcement agencies access to confidential University records on students, faculty, and staff. The University must provide the requested information on being shown a warrant or court order executed under the Patriot Act. Under the provisions of this Act, the student, faculty, or staff member may not be notified of the request for and release of information. The USA Patriot Act takes priority over FERPA that is described above. All requests for information under the USA Patriot Act are handled by University Legal Counsel, 115 Churchill.

FERPA for Students—General Information
FERPA is a Federal law that applies to educational institutions. Under FERPA, schools must allow students who are 18 years or over, or attending a postsecondary institution:

• Access to their education records
• An opportunity to seek to have the records amended (see the Northeastern University Student Handbook for this procedure)
• Some control over the disclosure of information from the records

FERPA General Guidance for Parental Disclosure
When a student turns 18 years of age or attends a postsecondary institution, the student, and not the parent, may access, seek to amend, and consent to disclosures of his or her education records. If you are an undergraduate day student and you choose not to share information with your parents, Northeastern will, if asked, indicate that you have restricted access to your records.

Release of Directory Information
The primary purpose of directory information is to allow Northeastern University to confirm attendance for employers, health insurance companies, and loan agencies. Northeastern may disclose appropriately designated "directory information" without written consent, unless you have advised the University to the contrary in accordance with the procedures below. If you choose not to release directory information, all communications with all third parties and agencies will need to be done through your written request to the University or in person.

Northeastern Directory Information:
• College and major
• Dean’s List or other recognition lists
• Graduation degree(s) and honors
• Dates of attendance
• Sports activity participation, such as for soccer, showing weight and height of team members.
• A playbill, showing your role in a drama or music production

If Northeastern currently has permission to release data and you do not want the University to disclose directory information without your prior written consent, you must notify the University by coming to the Office of the University Registrar located at 120 Hayden Hall.

Notification of Rights Under FERPA
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within forty-five days of the day the University receives a request for access. Students should submit to the registrar, dean, or head of the academic department (or appropriate official) written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The University official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the University official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading. Students may ask the University to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the University official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the University decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the University will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interest. A school official is defined as a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit and health staff ); a person or company with whom the University has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a person assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. At Northeastern, the Office of the Registrar in 120 Hayden Hall administers FERPA.

Additional Information
Additional information can be obtained at: www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html

Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400Maryland Ave., SW,Washington, D.C. 20202-5920

Name/Address Change
If your name or address changes, you must report the change in writing to the Registrar's Office, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, 120 Hayden Hall, Boston, MA 02115. All name change requests must be accompanied by legal documentation. Address changes may also be reported via the myNEU Web portal.

Academic Honesty and Integrity Policy
Essential to the mission of Northeastern University is the commitment to the principles of intellectual honesty and integrity.

Academic Honesty/Anti-Plagiarism Policies
Academic integrity is important for two reasons. First, independent and original scholarship ensures that students derive the most from their educational experience and the pursuit of knowledge. Second, academic dishonesty violates the most fundamental values of an intellectual community and depreciates the achievements of the entire University community. Accordingly, Northeastern University views academic dishonesty as one of the most serious offenses that a student can commit while in college.

The following is a broad overview of what constitutes academic dishonesty, but is not meant to be an all-encompassing definition.

• Cheating - defined as intentionally using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, or study aids in any academic exercise.

Examples:
Unauthorized use of notes, text, or other aids during an examination.
Copying from another student's examination, research paper, case write-up, lab report, homework, computer disc, and so on.
Talking during an examination.
Handing in the same paper for more than one course without the explicit permission of the instructor.
Perusing a test before it is given.
Hiding notes in a calculator for use during an examination.

• Fabrication - defined as intentional and unauthorized falsification, misrepresentation, or invention of any information, data, or citation in an academic exercise.

Examples:
Making up the data for a research paper.
Altering the results of a lab experiment or survey.
Listing a citation for a source not used.
Stating an opinion as a scientifically proven fact.

• Plagiarism - defined as intentionally or knowingly representing the words or ideas of another as one's own in any academic exercise without providing proper documentation of source by way of a footnote, endnote, or intertextual note.

The following sources demand notation:
Word-for-word quotation from a source, including another student's work.
Paraphrase: using the ideas of others in your own words.
Unusual or controversial facts - facts not apt to be found in many places. Interviews, radio, television programs, and telephone conversations.

• Unauthorized collaboration - this refers to instances when students, each claiming sole authorship, submit separate reports that are substantially similar to one another. While several students may have the same source material (as in case write-ups), the analysis, interpretation, and reporting of the data must be each individual's.

• Participation in academically dishonest activities.

Examples:
Stealing an examination.
Purchasing a pre-written paper through a mail-order or other service, including via the Internet.
Selling, loaning, or otherwise distributing materials for the purpose of cheating, plagiarism, or other academically dishonest acts.
Alteration, theft, forgery, or destruction of the academic work of other students, library materials, laboratory materials, or academic records including transcripts, course registration cards, course syllabi, and examination/course grades.
Intentionally missing an examination or assignment deadline to gain an unfair advantage.

• Facilitating academic dishonesty - defined as intentionally or knowingly helping or attempting to violate any provision of this policy.

Examples:
Inaccurately listing someone as co-author of a paper, case write-up, or project who did not contribute.

Sharing with another student a take-home examination, homework assignment, case write-up, lab report, and so on, without expressed permission from the instructor.

Taking an examination or writing a paper for another student.

All members of the Northeastern University community - students, faculty, and staff - share the responsibility to bring forward known acts of apparent academic dishonesty. Any member of the academic community who witnesses an act of academic dishonesty should report it to the appropriate faculty member or to the director of the Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution. The charge will be investigated and if sufficient evidence is presented, the case will be referred to the Northeastern University Student Judicial Hearing Board. If found responsible for an academic dishonesty violation, a minimum sanction of deferred suspension will follow. If found responsible for a second violation, the student will be expelled from the University.

Students' Bill of Academic Rights and Responsibilities
This bill was drafted by the Student Senate, the Vice President for Student Affairs, and members of the Faculty Senate. It was passed in the spring of 1992.

Academic Rights
We, the students of Northeastern University, believe that a quality education is the paramount goal of all students. In order to fulfill this goal, the University must recognize certain rights, which are set down in this document.

Course-Related Rights
Article 1. Students have the right to instructors who attend scheduled classes on time.
Article 2. Students have the right to view work they submit to satisfy course requirements after it is graded.
Article 3. Students have the right to adequate access to instructors.
Article 4. Students have the right to receive a course outline, which includes a fair and explicit grading policy, at the beginning of each course.
Article 5. Students have the right to instructors who communicate the material pertaining to the course effectively in the English language, except in the case of foreign language instruction.
Article 6. Students have the right to participate in and have access to Student Government Association student teacher course evaluations.

Rights to University Academic Services
Article 7. Students have the right to adequate access to effective academic services, as described in the Student Handbook and other University publications, provided by the University.
Article 8. Students have the right to an environment conducive to learning.
Article 9. Disabled students have the right to be treated in a non-discriminatory fashion in accordance with the policies described in University publications and consonant state and federal laws.

Scheduling Rights
Article 10. Students have the right to non-conflicting final exam schedules.
Article 11. Students have the right to final exam schedules in accordance with established University policy.
Article 12. Students have the right to scheduled activities periods free from undergraduate academic commitments, such as scheduled classes and co-op meetings.
Article 13. Students have the right to be excused from academic commitments for a religious observance.

General Academic Rights
Article 14. Students have the right to be informed, in a timely fashion, of proposed or actual University action to be taken against them.
Article 15. Students have the right of access to their academic and financial aid records and maintenance of the privacy of these records, as provided by the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act.
Article 16. Students have the right to be free from harassment by other members of the University community.
Article 17. Students have the right to the redress of academic grievances.

Student Responsibilities
It is each student's responsibility to:
1. Contribute to a climate of open inquiry and honesty in all aspects of the University's academic life.
2. Commit sufficient time and effort for study and the use of library, studio, and computational facilities in connection with each course. 3. Contribute to the classroom/laboratory/studio learning environment through discussion and active participation.
4. Acquire the necessary prerequisites for full participation in each academic course.
5. Attend scheduled classes regularly and on time.
6. Obtain help with problems encountered in a given course by seeking out faculty and teaching assistants outside of class time.
7. Respect the concept of academic freedom of each faculty member.
8. Assist the University in its self-evaluation by responding honestly and conscientiously.
9. Provide permanent and local contact information to the University in order to allow for communication in emergency situations.

Student Rights to Copyrightable and Patented Materials
It is the general policy of the University that student papers or projects submitted in partial fulfillment of course requirements remain the property of the student authors. This policy does not apply to (1) "work for hire" as defined by intellectual property laws; (2) work derived wholly or in part from other patented or copyrighted material; (3) work done as part of external grants or contracts in which the contracting documents or regulations define ownership; (4) work in which the University or its agents or employees contribute substantial time or resources; or (5) work considered a thesis or dissertation.

The University owns the copyright to any work created or developed by one or more students with the significant use of funds, space, facilities, equipment, materials, or other University resources. With respect to such work, the University reserves the right to utilize anti-plagiarism software to analyze submitted course-related works. As part of this analysis, the University may retain, or cause to be retained, in a Northeastern database electronic versions of such work for the sole purpose of analyzing the originality of future student work.

The University will not normally construe the payment of salary from unrestricted funds or the provision of office and library facilities as constituting significant use of funds, space, facilities, equipment, materials, or other resources of or administered by the University. Use of laboratory and/or computer facilities or assistance from one or more faculty or staff members to a student author specifically pertaining to the work constitutes significant use of University resources. In all cases, the provost or his or her designee shall make a good faith determination concerning significant use, which shall be final and binding on all parties.

In the case of a thesis generated by research performed in whole or in part by a student in the course of or pursuant to an agreement for sponsored research or other written agreement, including an agreement between the author(s) and the University, or utilizing equipment or facilities provided to the University under conditions that impose copyright restrictions, ownership or control shall be determined in accordance with such agreement or restrictions. In the absence of such agreement or restrictions, copyright ownership in such a thesis shall reside in the student. However, the student, as a condition of a degree award, must grant the University the royalty-free right to reproduce and publicly distribute copies of the thesis for limited and non-commercial purposes.

Where necessary to secure to the University an ownership of copyright, students shall assign such rights of copyright, or grant the specified rights of reproduction and distribution, to the University. The University reserves the right to employ, at its discretion, the materials or portions of any work created or developed in the course of an author's relationship with the University, or otherwise covered by the University Patent and Copyright Policy, for promotional, professional, or non-commercial purposes on a royalty-free basis.

Certain courses taught at Northeastern University involve students in individual or group assignments or projects involving the creation of materials, objects, or techniques that may be patentable or copyrightable. These courses generally require extraordinary levels of faculty organization and participation and/or substantial University resources.

In accordance with University patent and copyright policies, in such courses the University is the owner of all rights in technology, computer programs, or other creative work that may be developed by the undergraduate or graduate student as part of the student's work in those courses. It is the University's intention, where applicable, to disclose and authorize the use of such technology, programs, or work to non-profit organizations and to government agencies without a fee. The University may also have the opportunity to license such materials to a commercial enterprise, and in this event, it is the University's intention to share any revenue from such a license with student contributors in an amount determined in accordance with the then-existing University policy or plan. Students are informed early in the semester if the course in which they are enrolled falls within this category and will be asked to sign a letter of agreement. Should the student decline to sign an agreement, he or she will be assigned to another course section - one in which such agreement is not required - or will be given alternative activities not involving such assignments or projects.

Copyrights and Patents
Any student who makes, as sole or joint inventor, an invention that involved significant use of University resources, including funds, space, facilities, equipment, or materials, or that is subject to terms of a sponsored research or other agreement between the University and another party, shall assign this invention and all associated applications and patents to the University or its designee unless the invention has been released to the inventor in accordance with the applicable provisions of the University patent policy. Any student, whether before or after terminating his or her association with the University, shall do whatever is necessary to enable the University or its designee to take out patents in any and all countries on such invention. The cost and expense of making such assignments and procuring such patents shall be borne by the University or its designee.

When an invention is made by a student not involving significant use of funds, space, facilities, equipment, materials, or other resources of or administered by the University, the University will waive its rights, and the invention will be the exclusive property of the student, provided the student's rights in the invention are not altered by the terms of any financial aid received, including external sponsorship, scholarships, fellowships, traineeships, thesis expenses, or other assistance, whether or not administered by the University and provided the invention is not subject to third-party rights

Appropriate Use of Computer and Network Resources
The information systems of Northeastern University are intended for the use of authorized members of the Northeastern community in the conduct of their academic and administrative work. To protect the integrity of computer resources against unauthorized or improper use, and to protect authorized users from the effects of unauthorized or improper usage, the University reserves the right, with or without notice, to monitor, record, limit, or restrict any account holder's access and/or usage. The University may also monitor, record, inspect, copy, remove, or otherwise alter any data, file, or system resources. The University reserves the right to periodically check these systems and to take any other actions necessary to protect the computer and network facilities. The University also retains access rights to all files and electronic mail on its computing and network facilities. Anyone using these systems or networks expressly consents to such monitoring.

Any unauthorized, inappropriate, illegal, or illegitimate use of the University's computing resources, or failure to comply with these guidelines shall constitute a violation of University policy and will subject the violator to disciplinary action by the University up to and including termination of employment or relationship, and may result in legal action.

When a violation is identified, the appropriate system manager or unit head will undertake a review and initiate action in accordance with University policy. In addition, the University may require restitution for any use of computer or network services that violates these guidelines. The University may also provide evidence of possible illegal or criminal activity to law enforcement authorities.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this policy, authorization to access the information systems of Northeastern University ends at the termination of employment, end of a recognized role or relationship, or loss of sponsorship. Students may continue to use their Northeastern electronic mail account for up to one (1) year after graduation.

Any questions about this policy or the applicability of this policy to a particular situation should be referred to the Information Technology Security Manager or the Director of Internal Audit.

The University's information systems consist of all networking wiring, equipment, networks, security devices, servers, computer systems, computers, computer laboratory equipment, workstations, Internet connection, and all other intermediary equipment, services, and facilities. These assets are the property of Northeastern University. The Appropriate Use Policy describes how these information systems are permitted to be used.

1. Access to and use of Northeastern information systems is a privilege granted by the University to its faculty, staff, and students. Access for up to one academic year for others, including "sponsored" individuals whose relationship with Northeastern is a result of a University-recognized affiliation or relationship, must be approved by the authorizing unit's dean or vice president. Such access may not be renewed without the written approval of the senior Vice President for Administration and Finance. The University retains sole discretion over the extent to which access privileges are granted and/or extended.

2. Users may only use those computer accounts that have been authorized by the University for their use. Use of another person's account, security devices, and/or the presentation of false or misleading information or credentials for the purpose of obtaining access to information systems is prohibited.

3. Users are responsible for all use of information systems conducted under their user ID(s), and are expected to take all precautions including password security and file protection measures to prevent use of their accounts and files by unauthorized persons. Sharing of passwords is prohibited.

4. Users may not offer, provide, lend, rent, or sell access to University information systems. Users may not provide access to individuals outside the University community. Expansion or redistribution of Northeastern's networking service is not permitted. Personal, private, or departmental switches, routers, and wireless access points may not be connected to centrally managed network segments, except only as may be agreed to in writing between the device owner and Information Services. For security reasons, dial-up modems may not be in use on computers while they are connected to the University network, except only as may be required for bona fide academic or administrative purposes and where appropriate security measures are in place.

5. Use of University information systems for hosting non-University activities must have the explicit written authorization of the senior Vice President for Administration and Finance prior to the use.

6. While the University attempts to protect electronic communication and files from unauthorized access, this cannot be guaranteed. Users may not access, copy, or move files including, but not limited to, programs, data, and electronic mail that belong to another account, without prior authorization from the account holder. Files may not be moved to other computer sites without permission from the holder of the account under which the files reside.

7. Users may not use remote resources such as printer and file systems, regardless of location on or off the Northeastern network, unless the administrator of the remote resource has first granted permission to do so.

8. Northeastern information systems may be used for lawful purposes only. Users must not use their accounts or Northeastern information systems for unlawful purposes, including but not limited to, the installation of fraudulently or illegally obtained software, illegal dissemination of licensed software, sharing of content where the disseminator does not hold lawful intellectual property rights, or propagating chain letters, pyramid, ponzi, other unlawful or deceptive schemes, or for any purpose contrary to local, state, and/or federal law.

9. Use of University information systems must comply with the provisions of copyright law and fair use. Copyright law limits the right of a user to decrypt, copy, edit, transmit, or retransmit another's intellectual property, including written materials, images, sounds, music, and performances, even in an educational context, without permission, except where such use is in compliance with Fair Use or TEACH Act provisions.

10. Printed materials and storage media containing sensitive and/or protected information shall be handled in accordance with published Information Disposal Guidelines and Asset Disposition procedures.

11. Users are responsible for the timeliness, accuracy, and content/consequences of their web pages and other electronic writings. Posting of personal, family, or other identifying information is at the sole discretion of the user and is a discouraged practice.

12. University information systems may not be used for commercial purposes except only as permitted with explicit prior written approval of University Counsel and the senior Vice President for Administration and Finance.

13. Internet use must comply with the Terms of Service stipulated by our Internet service provider(s). These policies are incorporated by reference. In addition, the acceptable use, Terms of Service, and/or other policies of the system(s) also bind users of the Internet connection and resources to which they connect. At the time of writing, the Internet service providers for Northeastern University are Level 3 Communications (www.level3.com), and Verizon (www.verizon.com).

14. Users may not use information systems irresponsibly, wastefully, or in a manner that adversely affects the work or equipment of others at Northeastern or on the Internet.

15. Electronic messages pertaining to the official business of the University, including all academic and administrative matters, shall be sent from University-owned messaging systems. In cases where third-party messaging systems are used to originate a message, and/or where a party chooses to forward messages from a University-owned system to a third-party system, individuals using these systems shall be solely responsible for all consequences arising from such use.

16. The University's information systems, and the messages, e-mail, files, attachments, graphics, and Internet traffic generated through or within these systems, are property of the University. They are not the private property of any University employee, faculty, staff, contractor, student, or any other person. No user of University systems should have an expectation of privacy in their electronic communications. All electronic communications, files, and content presented to and/or passed on the Northeastern network, including those to, from, or through Internet connection(s), may be monitored, examined, saved, read, transcribed, stored, or re-transmitted by an authorized employee or agent of the University, in its sole discretion, with or without prior notice to the user. The University reserves and intends to exercise the right to do so. Electronic communications and content may also be examined by automated means. Northeastern reserves the right to reject from the network or block electronic communications and content deemed not in compliance with policies governing use of information systems at the University. The University may make appropriate disclosures of written and/or electronic information or data from the University's information systems, including with respect to an investigation of alleged misconduct or wrongdoing and/or to law enforcement, pursuant to lawful inquiries and/or legal process. By accessing Northeastern information systems, users give Northeastern permission to conduct each of the operations described above.

17. The confidentiality of any message or material should not be assumed. Even when a message or material is deleted, it may still be possible to retrieve and read that message or material. Further, the use of passwords for security does not guarantee confidentiality. Messages read in HTML may identify the reader to the sender. Aside from the right of the University to retrieve and read any electronic communications or content, such messages or materials should be treated as confidential by other students or employees and accessed only by the intended recipient. Without prior authorization, students and employees are not permitted to retrieve or read electronic mail messages not sent to them.

18. Notwithstanding the University's right to audit or monitor its information systems, all users are required to observe the confidentiality and privacy of others' information accessed through Northeastern information systems, including information pertaining to University programs, students, faculty, staff, and affiliates. Without proper authorization, University system users are not permitted to retrieve or read electronic mail messages not sent to them. With proper University authorization, the contents of electronic mail or Internet messages or materials may be accessed, monitored, read, or disclosed to others within the University or otherwise.

19. The University strives to maintain the security and privacy of electronic communications. All use, dissemination, and disclosures of student information must comply with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974. University FERPA policies are available at www.northeastern.edu/registrar/ferpa.html. All use, dissemination and disclosures of protected health information must also comply with the provisions of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996. University HIPAA policies are available at www.northeastern.edu/admin/HIPAA_Privacy_Practices.pdf.

20. The University reserves its right to use manual and/or automated means to assess materials submitted as academic work submitted electronically for signs of plagiarism or other form(s) of academic dishonesty.

21. The University reserves the right at any time, without prior notice or permission from the user or users of a computer or other Northeastern-owned computing device, to copy or have copied any and all information from the data storage mechanisms of such devices, as may be required in the sole discretion of the University, in connection with investigations of possible wrongdoing.

22. By accessing and/or using any of Northeastern's information systems, including its network, e-mail, or Internet services, the user agrees and expressly consents to the terms of this policy, and gives Northeastern permission to conduct each of the operations, monitoring, or oversight practices described in this policy including, but not limited to, those in sections 15 through 19.

23. The Appropriate Use Policy specifically prohibits the use of Northeastern University's information systems to:

• Harass, threaten, defame, slander, or intimidate any individual or group;
• Generate and/or spread intolerant or hateful material, which in the sole judgment of the University is directed against any individual or group, based on race, religion, national origin, ethnicity, age, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic makeup, or disability;
• Transmit or make accessible material, which in the sole judgment of the University is offensive, violent, pornographic, annoying, or harassing, including use of Northeastern information systems to access and/or distribute obscene or sexually explicit material unrelated to University-sanctioned work or bona fide scholarship;
• Generate unsolicited electronic mail such as chain letters, unsolicited job applications, or commercial announcements;
• Generate falsely identified messages or message content, including use of forged content of any description;
• Transmit or make accessible password information;
• Attempt to access information systems and/or resources for which authority has not been granted by the system owner(s);
• Capture, decipher, or record user IDs, passwords, or keystrokes;
• Intercept electronic communications not intended for the recipient;
• Probe by any means the security mechanisms of any resource on the Northeastern network, or on any other network through a connection to the Northeastern network;
• Disclose or publish by any means the means to defeat or disable the security mechanisms of any component of a Northeastern University Information System or network;
• Alter, degrade, damage, or destroy data;
• Transmit computer viruses or malicious/destructive code of any description;
• Conduct illegal, deceptive, or fraudulent activity;
• Obtain, use, or retransmit copyrighted information without permission of the copyright holder;
• Place bets, wagers, or operate games of chance; or
• Tax, overload, impede, interfere with, damage, or degrade the normal functionality, performance, or integrity of any device, service, or function of Northeastern information systems, content, components, or the resources of any other electronic system, network, service, or property of another party, corporation, institution, or organization.

The above enumeration is not all-inclusive. If there is a question as to whether a specific use is appropriate or acceptable under this policy, the University's sole determination shall prevail.

24. Use of Northeastern University information systems must comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws, including, but not limited to, the following, which are incorporated herein by reference:

• Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, Sections 33(a) and 120(f), which imposes sanctions for, among other acts, destroying electronically processed and stored data or gaining unauthorized access to a database or computer system.
• United States Code, Title 18, Sec. 1030 et seq., Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, which imposes sanctions for, among other acts, knowingly accessing a computer without authorization or in excess of authorized access, knowingly causing damage to protected computers, or trafficking in password information.
• United States Code, Title 18, Sec. 2510 et seq., Electronic Communications Privacy Act, which imposes sanctions for, among other acts, interception of wire, oral, or electronic communications.
• United States Code, Title 18, Sec. 2701 et seq., Stored Wire and Electronic Communications and Transactional Records Act, which imposes sanctions for, among other acts, intentionally accessing without authorization, a facility through which electronic communication service is provided, or intentionally exceeding authorization to access a facility, and thereby obtaining, altering, or preventing authorized access to a wire or electronic communication while it is in electronic storage.

The University reserves the right to change this policy or any portion of the policy, at any time, without prior notice. Changes to this policy are effective upon posting at www.help.neu.edu, where the most current version resides.

Smoking
All University administrative and classroom buildings are smoke-free and tobacco-free. The policy relates to all campuses. The sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products is prohibited on campus.

Laptop Computers, Cell Phones, or Other Transcribers or Recorders
Students may not use mechanical or electronic transcribing, recording, or communications devices in the classroom without the instructor's consent. Students with disabilities who need such equipment in the classroom may make arrangements through the Disability Resource Center, 20 Dodge Hall.

Academic Progress - All Students
Students should plan to meet in person or on the phone with an Academic and Student Support Specialist at least once per term to review their academic progress.

Academic Progress - All Undergraduate Students Receiving Financial Aid
The satisfactory academic progress (SAP) of an undergraduate student in the College of Professional Studies will be reviewed based on the following standards.

Qualitative Standard
For qualitative purposes, satisfactory academic progress requires a cumulative Quality Point Average (QPA) of 2.000 or better at the end of a student's second academic year of attendance at an institution. After the second year of study, all students will be checked at the beginning of each academic year to assure that they are meeting the cumulative 2.000 QPA requirement. Students who fail to meet this standard will not be awarded federal aid until the cumulative 2.000 QPA is achieved.

Quantitative Standard
Each term, a student's academic progress will be measured by comparing the number of attempted credit hours with the actual number of credit hours earned (i.e., received a grade of A, B, C, or D). Students must meet the following percentages in order to maintain SAP:

Number of Credits Attempted        % of Attempted Courses That Must be Completed

Maximum Time Frame Standard
You will not be eligible to receive financial aid once you have attempted more than 150% of the normal credits required for your degree or certificate program. At Northeastern, this means that students in programs requiring 76 credits for graduation will be eligible for financial aid during the first 114 attempted credits. For programs requiring 160 credits for graduation, students will be eligible for financial aid during the first 240 attempted credits. All attempted hours are counted, including transfer hours, whether or not financial aid was received, or the course work was successfully completed. For students in majors with significantly greater credit hour requirements, the maximum time frame will be adjusted accordingly.

Academic Progress - All Graduate Students Receiving Financial Aid
A graduate student’s satisfactory academic progress will be reviewed based on the following standards.

Qualitative Standard
For qualitative purposes, satisfactory academic progress requires a cumulative Quality Point Average (QPA) of 3.000 or better. At the end of the spring term of each academic year, the qualitative standard will be checked for all students. If, at the end of the Spring term, a student does not have a 3.000 or better QPA, he/she will not be eligible for federal aid in the upcoming academic year. Students who fail to meet this standard will not be eligible for federal aid until the cumulative 3.000 QPA is achieved.

Quantitative Standard
After the spring term each year, a student's academic progress will be measured by comparing the number of attempted credit hours with the actual number of credit hours earned (i.e., received a grade of A, B, or C). Students must earn passing grades in at least 50% of their courses during the academic year in order to maintain SAP.

Please note that the following is considered when evaluating a student's satisfactory academic progress:

• A grade of “IP” (“In Progress”) is considered to be a successful grade for students enrolled in thesis or dissertation continuation courses.

Maximum Time Frame Standard
Students will not be eligible to receive financial aid once they have attempted more than 200% of the normal credits required for their degree or certificate program. All attempted hours are counted, including transfer hours, whether or not financial aid was received or the course work was successfully completed. In addition, students must complete their program of study within the maximum number of years permitted by their College.

Academic Progress - For Both Undergraduate and Graduate Students Receiving Financial Aid Important Considerations
The following are considered when evaluating a student's satisfactory academic progress:

• Withdrawals, incompletes, not enrolled and failures (W, I, NE, *, F) are considered attempted but not earned hours.
• Passing credits received for pass/fail courses are considered attempted and earned credits; failing grades in pass/fail courses
are considered attempted but not earned.
• Repeated courses are included in the calculation of both attempted and earned hours. A student is allowed to repeat a course only twice.
• Transfer credits, including those received during consortium study, are included in the completion rate calculation.

Appeals
Students who appeal their ineligibility due to not making satisfactory academic progress have the right to have their situation reviewed by Student Financial Services. Approval of a student’s financial aid appeal will be based on extenuating circumstances outside the normal school activities that have an impact on the student’s ability to achieve the minimum standards of satisfactory academic progress. Cases to consider may fall into the following categories:

• Student becomes seriously ill
• Student is severely injured
• Student’s relative dies
• Student’s relative or close friend commits suicide

Other cases may be considered if they are determined to have caused physical or psychological stress on a student. Each situation
is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. These requirements, stating time-frame and consequences must be submitted in writing by the student and documented in their file. A student’s eligibility for all aid will be lost in the next term if the student does not meet the requirements in the period stated.

Regaining Eligibility
Students may regain eligibility for aid during the academic year if they reach the minimum standards of satisfactory progress within the same period of enrollment. Students may continue to attend courses at Northeastern University without the assistance of federal, state or institutional funding. In addition, students may be able to attend classes elsewhere in order to demonstrate eligibility for reconsideration of aid. Students are determined to be eligible for funds based on the timing in which they reach the minimum standards. The Department of Education’s standards outline different eligibility criteria for students who meet satisfactory progress standards within the current period of enrollment versus those who regain eligibility in a later period. Student Financial Services will award appropriate aid as specified by the Department of Education.

The Grounds for Student Academic Complaints
Student academic complaints originate on a variety of grounds that can be grouped under three general headings.

The first of these is delivery of the course. Such complaints have to do with the student’s perception that the course was not taught as described in the syllabus, or was not taught competently or in a timely manner.

The second of these is course policies. Such complaints have to do with the student’s perception that the policies laid out on the syllabus were not consistently adhered to, or that such policies were adhered to with a rigor disadvantageous or harmful to a student’s grade, or that such policies failed to take into account unique or special circumstances in a given instance.

The third of these is the grading of the course. Such complaints have to do with the student’s perception that the grade received did not reflect the true level or value of the work submitted, or that the grade was miscalculated, or that the grade penalized the student for circumstances beyond his/her control.

Above all, this list of the grounds for academic complaints should be understood to be illustrative rather than exhaustive, for there are variants on the grounds above, and there are most likely other grounds omitted altogether.

Pathway for the Resolution of Student Academic Complaints
1. As the first step in the complaint resolution process, a student should, whenever possible, attempt to resolve the complaint directly with the instructor. Some complaints—grade disputes, most notably—are easier to resolve at this level than others are.

2. In cases in which it is not possible to resolve the complaint with the instructor, or when a student feels uncomfortable about the prospect of doing so, the student should approach his/her assigned Academic and Student Support Specialist and/or the program director in which the course is housed. At this level, the initial task is to establish the facts of the matter. What is the course? Who is the instructor?What is the specific complaint?What is the evidence? And what is the specific remedy sought?

The answer to the last of these questions must be guided by the College of Professional Studies faculty/staff member’s understanding of what sort of remedy is possible or appropriate. For example, only in the rarest of instances is it possible to consider changing an instructor’s grade without the instructor’s consent.

No matter which is the point of entry—the Academic and Student Support Specialist or the program director—the faculty/staff member at this level who acts on the matter should communicate his/her action to the other person at this level, to insure that any second attempt to resolve the matter take the form of appeal rather than a replay.

3. If the student decides to appeal, he/she should send the materials and arguments developed at the entry level, along with any additional materials and arguments, to the Assistant or Associate Dean of the academic program, who will investigate the complaint and render a decision on it.

4. If the student decides to take the appeal to the highest level possible within the College of Professional Studies, he/she should send the materials and arguments developed at the entry level, along with any additional materials and arguments developed at the second level, to the Assistant Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, who will place the matter before the Academic Standing Committee for its consideration.

5. A student who decides to pursue a given academic complaint to the University level must do so in conformity with the appeals procedures set forth in the current Northeastern University Undergraduate Student Handbook/Planner or the current Northeastern University Graduate Student Handbook.

Academic Standing Committee
The Committee considers student academic grievances and appeals related to the academic policies and procedures, such as faculty grading decisions. The Committee also makes decisions concerning academic probation and dismissal. Requests for exceptions or appeals should include specific details and rationale for the appeal or grievance and should be addressed to: Academic Standing Committee, 280 Ryder Hall.

Academic Probation for Undergraduate Students
An undergraduate student is placed on academic probation if he/she has accumulated 33 or more quarter hours (QH) in the College of Professional Studies and has a cumulative quality point average (QPA) below 2.000. An undergraduate student on academic probation has three active, full academic terms in which to get off probation and be reinstated in good standing by bringing his/her QPA up to a minimum of 2.000.

The Senior Associate Dean will notify the student if he/she is on academic probation.While on probation, the student is required to consult with an Academic & Student Support Specialist to complete a probation assessment to determine the causes of poor academic performance. A goal of this meeting will be to develop options and provide support and recommendations for services for the student to improve his/her academic standing. Student has the option to refuse the recommendations without concern of the ramifications. Regardless of whether or not the student agrees to and abides by the terms of the probation assessment, he/she will be dismissed if his/her QPA is below 2.000 for three consecutive quarters.

This action will appear on the transcript at the end of the third probationary quarter. A student may appeal this decision to the College of Professional Studies Academic Standing Committee. A student may appeal academic standing status if he/she can provide documented evidence supporting an appeal. Generally, a student on probation may be granted no more than one additional full-term academic quarter to meet the criteria for good academic standing.

Academic Probation for Graduate Students
A graduate student is placed on academic probation if he/she has accumulated 12 or more quarter hours (QH) in the College of Professional Studies and has a cumulative quality point average (QPA) below 3.000. A graduate student on academic probation has two active, full academic terms in which to get off probation and be reinstated in good standing by bringing his/her QPA up to a minimum of 3.000.

The Senior Associate Dean will notify the student if he/she is on academic probation.While on probation, the student is required to consult with an Academic and Student Support Specialist to complete a “probation assessment form” to determine causes of poor academic performance. A goal of this meeting will be to develop options and provide support and recommendations for services for the student to improve his/her academic standing. A student has the option to refuse the recommendations with concern of ramifications. Regardless of whether or not the student agrees to and abides by the terms of the probation assessment, he/she will be dismissed if he/she mathematically cannot complete the program requirements with a QPA of 3.000 or better, or if he/she earns more than two grades below “B-.”

This action will appear on the transcript at the end of the second probationary quarter. A student may appeal this decision to the College of Professional Studies Academic Standing Committee. A student may appeal academic standing status if he/she can provide documented evidence supporting an appeal. Generally, a student on probation may be granted no more than one additional full-term academic quarter to meet the criteria for good academic standing.

Leave of Absense (Medical and Non-Medical)
Students whose studies will be interrupted for one or more terms may elect to take a leave of absence. Students should speak with their Academic and Student Support Specialist for more information.

In absentia Status
If an admitted undergraduate student moves beyond a reasonable distance from the school or its branch campuses, has completed 125 or more hours of credit (at least 80 quarter hours of which must have been taken at the College of Professional Studies), and has made every attempt to complete the requirements through the College’s online course offerings, the Senior Associate Dean of Academic and Faculty Affairs or designee will consider a petition to allow the student to complete his or her requirements for a College of Professional Studies degree at another approved college. At least 12 of the 80 quarter hours earned at the College of Professional Studies must be in the candidate’s major field of study. The remaining courses must be completed within two years of the date of official absentia status approval. The student must submit course descriptions to the Senior Associate Dean for approval prior to taking the courses. In absentia status is not available for students pursuing an associate degree or undergraduate certificate.

If an admitted graduate student moves beyond a reasonable distance from the school or its branch campuses, has completed 20 or more quarter hours of credit, (at least 11 quarter hours of which have been taken at the College of Professional Studies), and has made every attempt to complete the requirements through the College’s online course offerings, the Senior Associate Dean of Academic and Faculty Affairs or designee will consider a petition to allow the student to complete his or her requirements for a College of Professional Studies degree at another approved college. The remaining courses must be completed within two years of the date of the official in absentia approval. The student must submit course descriptions to the Senior Associate Dean or designee for approval prior to taking the courses. In absentia status is not available for students pursuing a graduate certificate.

Senior Status
Approximately three months prior to graduation, an academic audit of all seniors uncovers academic issues such as incompletes, missing grades, missing courses, or validation problems. If these problems remain unresolved, seniors are notified that they have failed to qualify for their degree.

Graduation
The requirement for graduation from the College of Professional Studies undergraduate degree programs ranges between 160 and 174-186 quarter hours (depending on the particular program) for a bachelor’s degree and 80-87 quarter hours for an associate degree, with attainment of an overall grade point average of 2.000 (C)*, while meeting the minimum residency requirement. Graduation requirements for graduate degree programs are specified by the programs individually. In all graduate programs, students must maintain at least a cumulative grade point average of 3.000 to graduate.
(*Or as outlined by the specific program.)

Credits and grades earned by transfer students count toward fulfillment of credit graduation requirements within residency limits but are not included in the grade point computations for graduation.

Graduation with Honor
Graduation with honor is reserved for bachelor’s degree candidates who have completed a minimum of 72 quarter hours of work (with the exception of the RN to BSN Program which requires 65 quarter hours) at the College of Professional Studies and who have demonstrated distinctly superior academic achievement as evidenced by the following quality point averages:

• Graduation with Honor (cum laude) 3.250 to 3.499

• Graduation with High Honor (magna cum laude) 3.500 to 3.749

• Graduation with Highest Honor (summa cum laude) 3.750 to 4.000

Transfer credit is not considered in determining the grade point average for Honors.

Graduation Procedures
Degrees are conferred three times each academic year: January,May, and August. Degree conferral is when the diploma will be issued. There are two Commencement Ceremonies each year:May and August. Students may opt to receive their diploma at the Commencement Ceremony or in the mail. Students who have their degrees conferred in January have the option of receiving the diploma in the mail or to have it presented to them at theMay Commencement ceremony.

In the fall term of each year, the Registrar’s office will send an email to students who may be eligible to graduate that academic year to register for commencement. Eligibility is based on number of earned credits at the beginning of the fall term. This email notification informs and instructs students to input their information in myCommencement, accessed through the myNEU portal. Students will be prompted to provide critical information (e.g., spelling of student name on the diploma, intent to participate in the Commencement Ceremony, mailing address). For general information about the Commencement ceremonies, please visit http://www.northeastern.edu/commencement/index.html.

CERTIFICATE COMPLETION – UNDERGRADUATE AND GRADUATE
Certificates are issued by the College of Professional Studies two times each year: January and July. Students in their last course of the certificate need to complete the “Declaring Certificate Completion” form that can be downloaded from the web: www.northeastern.edu/cps. This form asks students to provide critical information (e.g., spelling of student name on the certificate, intent to participate in the Certificate Presentation Ceremony, mailing address).

Students will receive their certificates at one of the two Certificate Presentation Ceremonies. Students who are unable to attend will receive their certificates in the mail approximately two weeks after the event. Students who have completed their certificates and are awaiting their certificates may request a verification letter of certificate completion through the Office of Academic and Student Support Services. Please contact your designated Academic and Student Support Specialist for information and assistance.

In order to help you succeed, your grades are audited at least once each academic year, usually after the end of spring term, by the Office of Enrollment and Student Services.

You will be notified and informed of options, possible action, and available assistance if as a non-degree student, undeclared major, and non-admitted student, your grade point average falls below 2.000. If an undergraduate student's grade point average falls below a 2.000, he/she is referred to the Academic Standing Committee for review and recommendations that may include probation and dismissal from the School. Similarly, if a Graduate or Certificate student's grade point average falls below the minimally satisfactory level for that program, the student may be placed on probation or dismissed from the program. STUDENT ACADEMIC COMPLAINT PROCEDURES

The Grounds for Student Academic Complaints
Student academic complaints originate on a variety of grounds that can be grouped under three general headings.

The first of these is delivery of the course. Such complaints have to do with the student’s perception that the course was not taught as described in the syllabus, or was not taught competently or in a timely manner.

The second of these is course policies. Such complaints have to do with the student’s perception that the policies laid out on the syllabus were not consistently adhered to, or that such policies were adhered to with a rigor disadvantageous or harmful to a student’s grade, or that such policies failed to take into account unique or special circumstances in a given instance.

The third of these is the grading of the course. Such complaints have to do with the student’s perception that the grade received did not reflect the true level or value of the work submitted, or that the grade was miscalculated, or that the grade penalized the student for circumstances beyond his/her control.

Above all, this list of the grounds for academic complaints should be understood to be illustrative rather than exhaustive, for there are variants on the grounds above, and there are most likely other grounds omitted altogether. Pathway for the Resolution of Student Academic Complaints

1. As the first step in the complaint resolution process, a student should, whenever possible, attempt to resolve the complaint directly with the instructor. Some complaints—grade disputes, most notably—are easier to resolve at this level than others are.

2. In cases in which it is not possible to resolve the complaint with the instructor, or when a student feels uncomfortable about the prospect of doing so, the student should approach his/her assigned Academic and Student Support Specialist and/or the program director in which the course is housed. At this level, the initial task is to establish the facts of the matter.  What is the course?Who is the instructor? What is the specific complaint?What is the evidence? And what is the specific remedy sought?

The answer to the last of these questions must be guided by the College of Professional Studies faculty/staff member’s understanding of what sort of remedy is possible or appropriate. For example, only in the rarest of instances is it possible to consider changing an instructor’s grade without the instructor’s consent. No matter which is the point of entry—the Academic and Student Support Specialist or the program director—the faculty/ staff member at this level who acts on the matter should communicate his/her action to the other person at this level, to insure that any second attempt to resolve the matter take the form of appeal rather than a replay.

3. If the student decides to appeal, he/she should send the materials and arguments developed at the entry level, along with any additional materials and arguments, to the Assistant or Associate Dean of the academic program, who will investigate the complaint and render a decision on it.

4. If the student decides to take the appeal to the highest level possible within the College of Professional Studies, he/she should send the materials and arguments developed at the entry level, along with any additional materials and arguments developed at the second level, to the Assistant Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, who will place the matter before the Academic Standing Committee for its consideration.

5. A student who decides to pursue a given academic complaint to the University level must do so in conformity with the appeals procedures set forth in the current Northeastern University Undergraduate Student Handbook/Planner or the current

Northeastern University Graduate Student Handbook.

Academic Standing Committee
The Committee considers student academic grievances and appeals related to the academic policies and procedures, such as faculty grading decisions. The Committee also makes decisions concerning academic probation and dismissal.

The Committee convenes at least once each month. Requests for exceptions or appeals should include specific details and rationale for the appeal or grievance and should be addressed to: Academic Standing Committee, 280 Ryder Hall.

Academic Probation/Dismissal/Appeals
Students who fail to meet the criteria for good standing described above will be placed on academic probation effective for the following quarter. The action will appear on the internal record, but not on the transcript. Students who remain on probation for two full-term academic quarters will be dismissed from the University. This action will appear on the transcript at the end of the second probationary quarter. Students may appeal this decision to the CPS Academic Standing Committee. Students may appeal academic standing status if they can provide documented evidence supporting an appeal. Generally, a student on probation may be granted no more than one additional full-term academic quarter to meet the criteria for good academic standing. Students may appeal to the Academic Standing Committee to review probation and dismissal cases.

Appeal of Final Grades
It is the policy of the University that all students shall be treated fairly in evaluations made of their academic performance, standing, and progress. The University presumes that academic judgments by its faculty are fair, consistent, and objective. Students must understand that the substitution of a different academic judgment for that of the original evaluator is a serious intrusion upon teaching prerogatives. Nonetheless, the University believes it is essential to provide an appeals mechanism to students who believe that they were erroneously, capriciously, or otherwise unfairly treated in an academic or cooperative-education determination. This includes claims of misinterpretation or inequitable application of any academic provision of the University's CPS Catalog, Student Handbook, Faculty Handbook, or Cooperative Education Handbook.

In most cases, students should first discuss their concerns with the faculty member who taught the course to see if it is possible to reach agreement on the issue(s). If the student is not satisfied with the outcome of this discussion, or if the student is not comfortable discussing the issue with the instructor, the student should request a meeting with the department Consultant, the Program Director, or the appropriate Associate Dean (or his or her designee) to attempt a Unit-level resolution of the appeal. If these attempts to informally resolve the issue fail, the student can enter the formal procedure at College-level as follows.

Step 1
A student may appeal an academic determination by submitting a written statement (the 'Statement'). If the appeal concerns academic probation, it is submitted to the School official designated by the Vice President for Adult and Continuing Education to receive such appeals. All appeals of grades should be initiated and resolved before the student graduates. If a student wishes to dispute a grade in his or her final quarter, this must be done within forty-five days of graduation. The Statement must specify the details of the action or judgment and the basis for the appeal.

All parties shall cooperate and act expeditiously in processing the appeal to completion. Though students are always entitled to seek the advice of legal counsel, students may not be represented by a lawyer in the informal or formal academic appeal procedures. A student may consult with the Vice President or the vice provost or their designees at any point in these procedures for advice or assistance. University officials may take whatever steps they deem reasonably appropriate to achieve resolution of the problem at any stage of these procedures. The Statement should be submitted within twenty working days (four calendar weeks) of the day when the student learns of the academic determination in question. If a student feels that he or she has been the victim of harassment or of discrimination prohibited by law or by University policy, he or she should consult with the Office of Affirmative Action and Diversity as soon as he or she becomes aware of alleged prohibited harassment or discrimination and is not required to wait until a term grade or determination is received before seeking advice or redress. If the Office of Affirmative Action and Diversity is advised of such alleged prohibited conduct as part of an academic appeal (see below), the appeal shall be pursued and investigated through the Office of Affirmative Action and Diversity first. In such cases, the student should submit the appeal to the Vice President as described in this step, with a copy also given to the Office of Affirmative Action and Diversity. Following a resolution of the sexual harassment/ discrimination issues, any remaining academic issues will be addressed, at the request of the student, according to the academic appeals procedures.

Step 2
The Vice President's designee shall respond to the student in writing, including specific instructions for the student to seek an informal resolution to the matter, unless such course of action, as outlined by the student in his or her Statement, is demonstrably futile. These directions shall include discussing the matter with the person whom the student identifies as involved in the matter. If the student is not satisfied with the informal resolution, the Vice President's designee shall discuss the matter with the Consultant, Program Director, or Associate Dean (as appropriate) or equivalent supervisor, who shall attempt to effect an informal resolution. The student shall also have the right to discuss the matter with this academic supervisor. If the appeal involves allegations of prohibited harassment or discrimination, the Vice President's designee shall consult with the Office of Affirmative Action and Diversity before making this response, and shall, as part of this response, explain the role that the Office of Affirmative Action and Diversity will play in steps 2 and 3 of this procedure. A copy of this response shall be sent to the academic supervisor(s) supervisor of the appropriate unit.

Step 3
If the appeal cannot be resolved informally within thirty days of the student's original submission of his or her Statement to the Vice President's designee, or if he or she is not satisfied with the disposition of the matter at Step 2, the student may proceed with the appeal through the S.P.C.S. academic appeals procedure. The Academic Standing Committee must provide the student and the involved faculty member with a written report of its finding(s) and decision.

• This step involves a review by an Academic Standing Committee making the recommendation to the Vice President. The student may obtain a copy of the operating rules of the Academic Standing Committee from the Vice President involved.
• In appeals involving allegations of prohibited harassment or discrimination, the Academic Standing Committee shall receive a report of the findings of the investigation of the Office of Affirmative Action and Diversity for incorporation into its own report on matters left unresolved by that finding that were referred to it. The Committee shall be without authority to reverse or modify the Office of Affirmative Action and Diversity finding or resolution.

Step 4
If the student or the involved faculty member is not satisfied with the Vice President's disposition of the matter or if the appeal has not been resolved within thirty days after originally submitted to the Vice President's designee pursuant to Step 1, he or she may further pursue the matter by requesting in writing within fourteen calendar days that the University convene an academic appeals resolution committee to review the issue. Students may obtain information on this process in either the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs (104 Ell) or the Provost's Office (112 Hayden). This committee has been designated as the final authority on these matters. This request must be made within ten working days of the finding of the academic standing committee in Step 3.

1. The Academic Appeals Resolution Committee includes:

• the Vice President for Student Affairs or a designee;
• the student's faculty adviser, or in a case in which the faculty adviser is involved in the dispute, a faculty member from the student's major or program of specialization;
• two faculty members appointed by the Faculty Senate Agenda Committee); and
• a representative of the Office of Affirmative Action and Diversity (if the appeal had at any point involved a matter of sexual harassment/discrimination).
• The chairperson shall be elected from among the Committee's three faculty members, except that in the case where the student's faculty adviser agrees to sit on the committee, the adviser shall be ineligible to serve as committee chair.

2. Preliminary Matters
If the Academic Appeals Resolution Committee determines, by a majority vote, that the appeal is patently without substance or merit, it may dismiss the appeal.

3. Investigation
The Academic Appeals Resolution Committee shall investigate the matter under appeal as quickly as possible by studying the relevant documents, interviewing the parties (especially the student and the involved faculty member), and taking any other action it deems appropriate. At no time shall the Committee be bound by rules of evidence but shall at all times conduct itself in a manner that is not arbitrary or capricious. The Academic Appeals Resolution Committee may, but is not required to, hold a hearing prior to resolving the issues. However, in all instances, the student and the involved faculty member shall have the right to appear and testify separately and privately before the Academic Appeals Resolution Committee. The student shall have the right to have an advocate from the University community present during his/her testimony to the academic appeals resolution committee.

4. Authority to Act
The Academic Appeals Resolution Committee has been designated as the final authority on these matters. At the conclusion of its investigation, the academic appeals resolution committee shall by majority vote resolve the issue by either upholding the fin