Academic Standing
A student’s status in the program is listed on the transcript under the category “Academic Standing.” In most cases, this notation will read “Good Standing.” Any change in status (academic probation, academic suspension, programmatic suspension, or programmatic dismissal) will be listed on the student’s transcript under this heading on the semesters for which that status applies.
Academic Probation, Suspension, Dismissal
Due to specific accreditation guidelines, students in the PA Studies Program must refer to their program handbook for specific guidance regarding probationary status. For all other graduate students, please refer to the following guidelines.
A student must have an average program GPA of 3.0 overall to be awarded a degree or a graduate certificate in the School of Graduate Studies. When the GPA falls below 3.0, the student is placed on probation. While on probationary status, the student must make a B or above in all courses for which they are registered. Students should keep in mind that a grade of B- = 2.67 and is detrimental to the overall GPA. Once a student’s overall GPA is 3.0, the student is returned to good academic standing. If a B or above is not earned while on probation, the student is suspended.
A student on academic probation who receives an “I” will not be allowed to register for additional courses until the “I” is replaced by a regular grade, at which time other probation and suspension rules will apply.
Additional information regarding grades and academic standing can be found in the Grades section of the catalog.
A student may receive no more than one suspension and have the opportunity to be readmitted. A second suspension results in academic dismissal from the program in which the suspension was received. Dual-degree-seeking students who are dismissed from one program may continue to pursue their degree in the other program.
Failure to make adequate academic progress or meet standards of professionalism detailed in a program’s student handbook may result in probation, suspension, or dismissal. In the event that a student is dismissed from a program during a term in process, the student’s final course grade(s) will be a "W" or a "WP"/"WF" if the date of dismissal is beyond the grading period for a "W."
Repeating Passed Courses
If a student’s mastery of a previously passed graduate course will be improved by retaking the course, he or she may do so with the permission of the program director/coordinator and the Dean/Chair of the School/Department who will inform the Registrar that permission has been granted. Only the higher grade will be counted in calculating the Gardner-Webb grade point average, although the lower grade will remain on the official transcript. Only the hours earned from the repeated course will be included in the calculation of hours to meet the degree requirements.