- Page 1 - 2003-2004 BULLETIN OF THE GRADUATE PROGRAMS CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY A Baptist University of Arts, Sciences and Professional programs TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION TO CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY............................................................ 3 UNIVERSITYPROFILE ................................................................................................................... 3 HISTORY....................................................................................................................................... 3 PURPOSE ANDOBJECTIVES........................................................................................................... 5 RECOGNITION, CERTIFICATION, ANDACCREDITATION................................................................. 5 THESETTING................................................................................................................................ 6 GOALS AND DISTINCTIVES OF GRADUATE PROGRAMS AT CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY ............................................................................................................................... 7 ADMISSION TO GRADUATE PROGRAMS AT CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY .............. 8 APPLICATION STEPS AND STANDARDS FOR THOSE SEEKING COURSES AS NON-DEGREE SEEKING STUDENTS..................................................................................................................................... 8 ADDITONALAPPLICATIONSTANDARDS FOR THOSE SEEKING TO ENTER A DEGREE PROGRAM....... 8 APPLICATIONSTEPS FORADMISSION TOGRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS.................................... 9 STANDARDS OFCONDUCT.......................................................................................................... 10 FINANCIAL DETAILS ............................................................................................................. 10 UNIVERSITYFINANCIALOPERATINGPOLICY............................................................................. 10 STUDENTCOSTS (AS OFNOVEMBER2002.)................................................................................ 11 ESTIMATEDANNUALCOSTS (FALL2003) .................................................................................. 11 FINANCIALREGISTRATIONPOLICY............................................................................................. 11 NOTIFICATION OF THEUNIVERSITYBILL.................................................................................... 11 FORMS OFPAYMENT................................................................................................................... 11 PAYMENTPENALTIES................................................................................................................. 11 INTERESTRATES......................................................................................................................... 11 PAYMENTOPTIONS..................................................................................................................... 12 WITHDRAWALREFUNDS: TUITION ANDCOURSEFEES............................................................... 12 FEDERALREFUNDPOLICY.......................................................................................................... 12 VETERANSTRAININGBENEFITS ANDDEPENDENTS EDUCATIONALASSISTANCE ...................... 14 FINANCIAL AID........................................................................................................................ 14 STUDENTRIGHTS........................................................................................................................ 14 STUDENTRESPONSIBILITIES....................................................................................................... 15 SUMMER HOUSING INFORMATION.................................................................................. 15 RESIDENCEHALLS ..................................................................................................................... 15 Revision as of 8/21/2003 GRADUATE PROGRAM GOVERNANCE............................................................................ 15
- Page 2 - DIRECTOR OFGRADUATEPROGRAMS ........................................................................................ 16 GRADUATEPROGRAMCOMMITTEE............................................................................................ 16 GRADUATEADMISSIONSCOMMITTEE........................................................................................ 16 ACADEMIC INFORMATION ................................................................................................. 17 ACADEMICADVISING................................................................................................................. 17 ACADEMICCOURSELOAD.......................................................................................................... 17 ACADEMIC PROBATION AND SUSPENSION................................................................................... 17 ACADEMICMISCONDUCT........................................................................................................... 18 ADDING ANDWITHDRAWING FROM ACOURSE........................................................................... 18 ATTENDANCE IN CLASS .............................................................................................................. 19 CONTINUATION AS AN ACTIVE STUDENT..................................................................................... 19 CLASSIFICATION OFSTUDENTS................................................................................................... 20 CONTROLLINGBULLETIN........................................................................................................... 20 GRADINGSYSTEM...................................................................................................................... 21 GRADEPOINTS ANDPOINTAVERAGES....................................................................................... 21 GRADUATIONREQUIREMENTS.................................................................................................... 22 INDEPENDENTSTUDY................................................................................................................. 23 REGISTRATION FOR CLASSES...................................................................................................... 24 REPEATINGCOURSES ................................................................................................................. 24 SECONDGRADUATEDEGREE..................................................................................................... 24 STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY.......................................................................................................... 24 TRANSFERCREDIT...................................................................................................................... 25 TRANSIENTSTUDY..................................................................................................................... 25 WITHDRAWING FROM THEUNIVERSITY...................................................................................... 25 MASTER OF EDUCATION ..................................................................................................... 26 DEGREESUMMARY.................................................................................................................... 26 DETAILEDCOURSEREQUIREMENTS........................................................................................... 26 SCHEDULING.............................................................................................................................. 28 SPECIALCONSIDERATIONS FOR THEM. ED. DEGREE................................................................. 28 MASTER OF EDUCATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS..................................................... 29 Revision as of 8/21/2003
- Page 3 - 2003-2004 BULLETIN OF THE GRADUATE PROGRAMS AT CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY A Baptist University of Arts, Sciences and Professional programs Information in this document is intended to accurately represent the philosophy and process of graduate education at Cedarville University. However, the University reserves the right to change, without notice, statements in this Bulletin concerning policies, fees, curricula, course offerings, and other matters. INTRODUCTION TO CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITYPROFILE Cedarville University is a Baptist university of arts and sciences of over 3,000 students. Since its founding, Cedarville has coupled a balanced liberal arts program with a conservative, theological position in regard to doctrine and patterns of conduct. All classes are taught by dedicated Christian professors who integrate the knowledge of their respective fields with a biblical worldview. HISTORY Cedarville College was established on January 26, 1887, through the vision of five godly men who dreamed of a university that would provide Christian young people with education that was offered within a spiritual framework. Affiliated with the Reformed Presbyterian Church, the College attracted many area students and built its first building, “Old Main,” now called “Founders Hall,” in 1895. Year after year, Cedarville attracted a record number of students and soon gained a reputation for not only its Bible teaching, but also for its liberal arts program. The turbulence of the first 50 years of the 20th century led to hard times for the College. Following one final attempt to become strong after the end of WWII, the trustees realized that the enrollment could not support expenses. The College would have to find another church group to assume its operation or close its doors. At that time the trustees of the Baptist Bible Institute of Cleveland, Ohio, were seeking a campus on which to expand. Hearing of Cedarville College, they visited the campus and were convinced that Cedarville was the site that God had for their school. Upon mutual agreement by both trustee boards, ownership of the College was transferred on April 4, 1953. Cedarville College became a Baptist university of arts and sciences. James T. Jeremiah, the pastor who first suggested the Baptist Bible InstituteCedarville College connection, was called to be the university's president. Soon the College was alive and flourishing. By 1959, the enrollment had grown to 255. Faculty, staff, and facilities were added. Six years later the student body had nearly tripled to 763. By the end of Dr. Jeremiah’s 25-year tenure as president in 1978, the university’s enrollment had grown to over 1,200 students. Revision as of 8/21/2003 Paul Dixon was then called to lead Cedarville College. Through his leadership, the University has continued to flourish in every area. The student body has grown to
- Page 4 - over 3,000 students. Several new facilities, including seven residence halls, the Athletic Center, Centennial Library, and the Miter Conference Center have been constructed since 1980. A new academic building for engineering, nursing, and science was completed in 1992. The Dixon Ministry Center, completed in 1996, includes a 3,400seat chapel and facilities for both the Division of Christian Ministries and the Department of Music and Arts. Construction was completed in the summer of 1998 to convert the original Jeremiah Chapel into the Apple Technology Resource Center, complete with state-of-the art classroom and computer laboratory equipment. A new student life center was completed in the Fall of 2000. Revision as of 8/21/2003 Many new academic and co-curricular programs also have been added. In 1987, Cedarville College celebrated its centennial, commemorating one hundred years in Christian higher education. In the 1998-99 school year, the College initiated its first graduate degree program. In April of 2000, the Board of Trustees voted to change the designation of the institution from college to university effective September 1, 2000. In 2002, the first students of the Master of Education program graduated. The future looks bright for Cedarville University!
- Page 5 - PURPOSE ANDOBJECTIVES The University is approved by the Ohio State Department of Education for the education and certification of both elementary and secondary teachers at both the undergraduate and masters levels. Since its establishment, the purpose of Cedarville University has remained the same: to offer an education consistent with biblical truth. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is accredited by the National League for Nursing. The Bachelor of Science in Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (EAC/ABET). The Social Work major is accredited by the Council of Social Work Education. To achieve this purpose, the University seeks to accomplish the following objectives: 1. To undergird the student in the fundamentals of the Christian faith, and to stimulate each student to evaluate knowledge in the light of scriptural truth. 2. To encourage growth in Christian character in each student and to help the student accept responsibility in faithful Christian service. The University holds membership in the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, Illinois 60602-2502, 312263-0456. This recognition signifies that the University is accredited for both undergraduate and masters-level degrees. 3. To increase the student’s awareness of the world of ideas and events which are influencing our contemporary culture, and to prepare the student to knowledgeably participate in our society. The University also holds membership in the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities, the Ohio College Association, the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Ohio, the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, the Association of Christian Schools International, and the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC). 4. To enable the student to develop sound critical and analytical reasoning. 5. To provide sufficient opportunities for students to practice the skills of communication. 6. To offer opportunities for academic specialization and preparation for graduate study, and to assist the student in selecting and preparing for a vocation. 7. To foster the student’s appreciation of, and participation in, wholesome a vocational and cultural activities. Information concerning accrediting agencies and respective accreditation requirements is available in the Office of the Academic Vice President. RECOGNITION, CERTIFICATION, AND ACCREDITATION The University is a four-year and graduate degree-granting institution chartered by the State of Ohio and certified by the Ohio Board of Regents. Revision as of 8/21/2003
- Page 6 - THESETTING Revision as of 8/21/2003 Cedarville University is located on almost 400 acres at the north edge of the village of Cedarville, Ohio, a town with a population of approximately 3,000. Though located in a rural community, Cedarville University is conveniently situated with easy access to shopping areas in the small cities of Xenia and Springfield. The University lies in the center of a triangle formed by three interstate highways, I-70, I-75, and I-71, and thus enjoys quick access to Columbus, Dayton, and Cincinnati.
- Page 7 - Goals and Distinctives of Graduate Programs at Cedarville University The primary intention of all graduate programs at Cedarville University is to provide educational programs characterized by four distinctives: • Biblical integration. Consistent with the University’s primary mission to “provide an education consistent with biblical truth,” all graduate programs seek to integrate the “knowledge base” of their disciplines with the principles and precepts of Scripture. Students are encouraged to develop a biblically-based faith and life perspective concerning material presented in all graduate courses. • Practical intervention. Graduate programs at Cedarville University are created to meet the needs of Christians as they wrestle with the opportunities and challenges presented in a variety of profit and non-profit career fields. Students are encouraged to focus on problem-resolving approaches to real issues in all graduate courses. • Personal interaction. Graduate programs at Cedarville University are designed to promote interaction among students and teacher as a “learning community” committed to articulating, assessing and acting on ideas. Students are encouraged to engage in team-based cooperation in all graduate courses. • Technological innovation. Graduate programs at Cedarville University build upon the capabilities provided by the University’s CedarNet computer network to empower both program participants and instructors to calculate, communicate, collaborate and contribute more effectively and efficiently. Students are encouraged to aggressively use computer technology in course assignments and educational teaching environments. Revision as of 8/21/2003
- Page 8 - Admission to Graduate Programs at Cedarville University Cedarville University invites applications for its graduate programs from college graduates who are able to present strong academic records and a clear testimony of faith in Jesus Christ. Admission to Cedarville University Graduate Programs is managed by the director of graduate programs. Some programs have distinctive requirements, but the application process is similar. All admissions are competitive and reflect the judgment of the Graduate Admissions Committee relative to the expectation that a student will successfully complete the particular program for which admission is sought. ADDITONALAPPLICATIONSTANDARDS FOR THOSE SEEKING TO ENTER A DEGREE PROGRAM The Graduate Admissions Committee admits students it believes are most likely to graduate and who offer the most potential to contribute positively to the university community. The Graduate Admissions Committee carefully considers each applicant’s total record, seeking to make admission decisions that will result in the best fit between the applicant’s interests and abilities and the University’s expectations and values. APPLICATION STEPS AND STANDARDS FOR THOSE SEEKING COURSES AS NON-DEGREE SEEKING STUDENTS Students with a bachelor’s degree or higher may receive permission to take up to twelve hours of graduate course credit without entering into an actual degree program. • Degree: Successful applicants to Cedarville University Graduate Programs typically have a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university, or an institution specially recognized by Cedarville University. (1) Complete and submit the Graduate Study Application along with a $20.00 nonrefundable application fee. (2) Complete and submit the Pastor/Church Leader Recommendation. • Undergraduate GPA: Successful applicants for the M. Ed. degree typically have a cumulative undergraduate grade-point average of 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale). Successful applicants for the MSA degree typically have a cumulative undergraduate gradepoint average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). Conditional acceptance may be offered in some cases where the overall gradepoint average in the last 60 hours of coursework is at least a 2.5. (3) Send a copy of the transcript where the student’s undergraduate degree was earned. The transcript must indicate the month and date the degree was earned. (4) International students must submit TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) test scores when English is a second language. Typically a score of at least 600 is required and the test must have been taken within the last five years, unless they completed an entire baccalaureate or graduate program in residence in the United States. Revision as of 8/21/2003 • Experience/licensure: Successful applicants to the non-education administrative-oriented graduate
- Page 9 - programs typically have a minimum of two years of successful full-time working experience beyond the conclusion of the baccalaureate degree. Successful applicants to the M. Ed. program typically have a minimum of two years of successful full-time teaching experience beyond the conclusion of the baccalaureate degree and a valid teaching certificate or the equivalent, such as an expired or out-ofstate license. • National exam scores: Successful applicants to Cedarville University Graduate Programs typically have received competitive scores on their program-appropriate nationally standardized exams. The organizations sponsoring these national exams explicitly discourage the use of absolute cutoff scores and urge all educational institutions to consider the scores within the context of the student’s entire application package. Accordingly, scores from nationally standardized exams will be considered along with other factors in making final admission decisions. Students seeking to enter the MSA program typically take the GMAT exam. Students seeking to enter the M. Ed. program typically take the GRE exam. ADDITIONALAPPLICATIONSTEPS FOR ADMISSION TOGRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS (1) Complete and submit the Degree Candidate Application accompanied by an application fee of $20. (2) Send official copies of (a) transcripts from all undergraduate and/or graduate programs attended and (b) the appropriate standardized test as required by the particular field of study for which you are applying taken within the five years prior to applying. • GRE for the M.Ed. degree program • GMAT for the MSA degree program • TOEFL (Applicants for whom English is a second language must typically have a score of at least 600 on the TOEFL examination taken within the last five years, unless they completed an entire baccalaureate or graduate program in residence in the United States.) (3) Submit two recommendation letters • One from your current employer or supervisor, or someone else in a position to evaluate your career performance/potential • One from someone in a position to comment on your academic performance/potential (4) Complete a typed 600-word (maximum) essay. This essay will be used to assess both content and communication factors in evaluating your probable success in completing the graduate program. Your essay should address four issues: • How the graduate program fits your career plans • Your salvation experience and key events in your subsequent spiritual growth • The strengths and limitations you could bring to the graduate program • The support network (family, church, professional, personal) you have that will help you during your time in the graduate program Revision as of 8/21/2003 Applicants for graduate programs may be interviewed by the director of graduate programs and, where beneficial, by representatives from the particular graduate programs for which admission is being
- Page 10 - sought. The Graduate Office will be responsible for arranging these interviews. The processing of applications by the applications office cannot be completed until all application materials (including official copies of transcripts and test scores) are received. Applicants should feel free to contact the Graduate Admissions Office to check on the status of materials received. STANDARDS OFCONDUCT At Cedarville University we believe that the principles found in the Bible should govern our appearance, words and actions. We believe that our appearance, words and actions should honor and manifest godly qualities, recognizing that we have a responsibility to maintain a clear and compelling witness before unbelievers. Consequently, all students at Cedarville University are expected to handle issues of conduct and dress as mature Christians and working professionals. Some aspects of the commitment that faculty, staff and students make reflect biblical convictions; others reflect what we call “institutional preferences” and such preferences allow us to maintain an orderly Christian educational community on campus. Specifically, we all agree not to use alcoholic beverages, tobacco, or nonmedicinal drugs. We also agree not to participate in inappropriate dancing, gambling, use unwholesome media materials, or hold membership in secret societies. Most graduate courses are offered on Saturdays or during summer modules, so modest, dress-casual would be appropriate. We have a sincere respect for the Lord’s Day and ask all students to respect and honor that position. In all things we seek to serve Christ and avoid personal attitudes of distrust, dishonesty, selfishness, damaging criticism, disrespect, unethical conduct, and irreverence. All graduate students are expected to comply with the Cedarville University Standards of Conduct. The director of graduate programs, working with the appropriate campus officials and offices, is responsible for matters related to graduate student conduct. Students who are found to violate the University’s standards of conduct will be subject to corrective action up to and including expulsion from the University. FINANCIAL DETAILS UNIVERSITYFINANCIALOPERATING POLICY The tuition and fees are kept as reasonable as possible consistent with responsible operation of the University. The revenue from students does not cover the total cost of operation. The University is partially supported by individuals and churches who desire to have a share in the preparation of young people for effective Christian service as pastors, teachers, missionaries, evangelists, and dedicated Christians in all walks of life. Some funds are received from interested businesses, industries, and foundations. Student costs as stated are subject to change upon reasonable notification by the University. Revision as of 8/21/2003
- Page 11 - NOTIFICATION OF THEUNIVERSITYBILL STUDENTCOSTS (AS OFNOVEMBER2002.) Students who pre-register for classes will normally receive an invoice based on their pre-registration schedule 10 to 15 days before the semester begins or on the first day of class. A statement of the student account is generated each month that the account has activity. Invoices and account statements are directed to students at their current home residence. FORMS OFPAYMENT ESTIMATEDANNUALCOSTS (FALL2003) Students may pay their bill using cash, money orders, personal checks, certified checks, or checks drawn on a major credit card. Payments may be made at the Cashier’s Office or by mail. Tuition (based on 12 semester hours) $3300 Books and supplies (based on four courses per year) $600 Total Estimated Costs $3,900 PAYMENTPENALTIES FINANCIALREGISTRATIONPOLICY Students who do not make financial arrangements within the first two days of the semester will be charged a $20 late payment charge. To enable the University to be responsible in meeting its financial responsibilities, students must make provision for the payment of their bill at the beginning of each semester. A student’s registration for classes indicates a commitment to pay for related charges as stated in the University catalog. Students with unpaid balances at the end of a semester could be denied enrollment in the next semester, grade reports, transcripts, and/or a University diploma. They will also be responsible for any fees incurred in the collection of their past due account. Payment in full is required prior to the start of classes each semester. A student will not be considered officially registered until arrangements for payment have been finalized with the Cashier’s Office. Payment may be made by mail or in person. The Cashier’s Office is open from 8:30-4:00, Monday through Friday. Classes held at teaching points other than the main campus may pay balances by mail or in person at the teaching site prior to the start of the first class. Students who do not make financial arrangements for the payment of their bill will not be permitted to attend classes and may be asked to leave the University. INTERESTRATES An annual interest rate (currently 13% or 1.083% per month), will be charged from the beginning of Fall Semester to the end of Spring Semester on accounts of students enrolled in the current semester. An annual interest rate (currently 15% or 1.25% per month) will be charged during the academic year on accounts of students no Revision as of 8/21/2003 COSTS SU & FA 2003 Tuitionper semester hour $275 Fees: Application fee $20 Drop/add (course) fee $10 Reservation deposit (per course, applied toward tuition) $50 Late payment fee $20
- Page 12 - longer enrolled and during the summer months on all student accounts. PAYMENTOPTIONS Payment in Full is the most popular payment plan. This plan involves paying the full amount due as indicated on the Student Invoice within the first two days of the academic term. Prepayment Incentive Credit Plan (PICPlan) enables students to earn interest on student accounts that have a credit balance of $500 or more. Interest earned is credited monthly. This plan operates automatically as soon as the student has a credit balance of $500 or more on the first day of a calendar month. Prepayments can be made anytime. All payments are credited immediately to the student’s account. The University reserves the right to limit the amounts deposited under the PIC-Plan. Interest rates are established on a semester basis beginning January 1, April 1, July 1, and August 1. Please call 937-766-7665 for the current rate. For more details please request a current PIC-Plan brochure from the Cashier’s Office. WITHDRAWALREFUNDS: TUITION AND COURSEFEES Students withdrawing from the University before the end of a semester may request a refund from the Cashier’s Office. Refunds may be requested anytime after the beginning of a semester. The effective date of the withdrawal from the University is the last day of class attendance as determined by the Academic Services Office. Processing of refunds will begin the third week of the semester. Tuition and course fee refunds for withdrawal are granted on the following schedule for courses offered on a regular semester basis (inquire at the graduate office for courses offered on a special term basis): Amount Dates 100% Last class day of the 1st class week 75% Last class day of the 2nd class week 50% Last class day of the 3rd class week 25% Last class day of the 4th class week None Anytime beginning the 5th class week and beyond Course offerings changed or deleted by the University entitle a student to a full refund of tuition and related course fees. Students withdrawing from a course or courses will be granted a full tuition refund to apply toward courses added. If the new total hours are fewer than the original total, the above refund schedule will apply. Other Fees All other fees are not refundable except for withdrawal within the first calendar week of the semester. FEDERALREFUNDPOLICY In addition to the overall institutional policy requirements, the following regulations mandated by the United States Department of Education are applicable. When a refund is due a student under Cedarville University’s refund policy and the student received financial aid under federal Title IV funds, a portion of the refund shall be applicable to the Title IV programs based on a federal formula, except the university work study program. Revision as of 8/21/2003
- Page 13 - Pro Rata refunds will be calculated for all students who withdraw before the expiration of 60% of the term of attendance. A federal refund and an institutional refund will be calculated on all other students who withdraw. Federal Refund Policy Program included: Federal Stafford Loans A portion of Title IV grant or loan funds, but not FWS funds, must be returned to the Title IV programs upon a Title IV recipient’s withdrawal from the school. Withdrawal date The day the student withdraws is the date (determined by the school): • The student began the withdrawal process prescribed by the school; • The student otherwise provided the school with official notification of the intent to withdraw; or • For the student who does not begin the school’s withdrawal process or notify the school of the intent to withdraw, the mid-point of the period of enrollment for which Title IV assistance was disbursed (unless the institution can document a later date). If the school determines the student did not begin the withdrawal process or notify the school of the intent to withdraw due to illness, accident, grievous personal loss or other such circumstances beyond the student’s control, then the school may determine the appropriate withdrawal date. Percentage of the payment period or period of enrollment completed The percentage of the period of enrollment for which assistance was awarded that was completed is determined by dividing the total number of calendar days comprising the period of enrollment for which assistance is awarded into the number of calendar days completed in that period as of the day the student withdrew. Calculation of Title IV assistance earned To calculate the amount of Title IV assistance earned by a student, the school must first determine the percentage of Title IV assistance the student earned. Up through the 60 percent point of time, the percentage of assistance earned is equal to the percentage of the period of enrollment for which it was awarded that was completed as of the day the student withdrew. If the student withdrawal occurs after the 60 percent point, then the percent is 100 percent. Calculation of Title IV assistance not earned The amount of the Title IV grant and loan assistance not earned by the student is calculated by determining the complement of the percentage of assistance the student earned and applying it to the total amount of grant and loan assistance that was disbursed (or that could have been disbursed) to the student, or on the student’s behalf, for the period of enrollment as of the day the student withdrew. Difference between amounts earned and amounts received Revision as of 8/21/2003 The school will follow the regulations for late disbursement if the student received less grant or loan assistance than the amount earned. If the student has received more grant or loan assistance than the amount earned, then the unearned funds shall be returned by the school or the student, or both.
- Page 14 - Responsibility of the school The school shall return the lesser of the unearned amount of Title IV assistance or an amount equal to the total institutional charges the student incurs for the period of enrollment of which the assistance was awarded, multiplied by the unearned percentage of awarded Title IV grant and loan assistance. Responsibility of the student Students shall return unearned Title IV assistance minus the amount the school returns. Order of return of Title IV funds Excess funds returned by the school or student are credited to outstanding Title IV loan balances for the student or made on the student’s behalf for which a return of funds is required. Excess funds must be credited to outstanding balances in the following order: 1. Unsubsidized Stafford loans 2. Subsidized Stafford loans VETERANSTRAININGBENEFITS AND DEPENDENTS EDUCATIONALASSISTANCE Cedarville University is approved under Title 38, Chapters 30, 31, 32, 35, and 106 U.S. Code for Education of Veterans and their Dependents. Students under Chapters 30, 32, 35, and 106 are required to pay the school for all charges. The Veterans Administration in turn pays them a monthly allowance based upon their training load. Veterans under Chapter 31 are paid a monthly allowance and the Veterans Administration pays the school for tuition, fees, books, and supplies. Inquiries concerning eligibility should be directed to the Contact Office of a Veterans Administration Regional Office. Students planning to study under one of the education laws should receive approval prior to enrolling. A Veterans Administration training officer will contact the University in the case of disabled student's cases to accomplish this requirement for the student. Cedarville University students eligible for veterans’ benefits should contact the Graduate Office. Financial Aid Financial aid information can be obtained from the Financial Aid Office. The Financial Aid Office serves as a resource center to assist students and their families in exploring alternative sources of educational funding. All questions may be directed to the Financial Aid Office at 937-766-7866 or 1-800-444-2433. Visit Cedarville's financial aid website at www.cedarville.edu/dept/fa and the FAFSA website at www.fafsa.ed.gov. STUDENT RIGHTS • You have the right to know what financial aid programs are available at your school. • You have the right to know the deadlines for submitting applications for each of the financial aid programs available. • You have the right to know how financial aid will be distributed, how decisions on that distribution are made, and the basis for these decisions. • You have the right to know how your financial need was determined. This includes how costs for tuition and fees, room and board, travel, books and supplies, personal and miscellaneous expenses, etc., are considered in your budget. Revision as of 8/21/2003 • You have the right to know what resources (such as other financial aid,
- Page 15 - All schools must provide information to prospective students about the school’s programs and performance. You should consider this information carefully before deciding to attend a school. scholarships, your assets, etc.) were considered in the calculation of your need. • You have the right to know how much of your financial need as determined by the institution has been met. • You have the right to request an explanation of the various programs in your student aid package. SUMMER HOUSING INFORMATION • You have the right to know your school’s refund policy. RESIDENCE HALLS Residence hall housing for graduate students is available during the summer course schedule. University housing and meals are available with single-occupancy rooms. Each room is air conditioned, fully furnished (desk, bed, chair, dresser) and equipped with a phone, permitting students to dial and receive calls directly. Every residence hall room is equipped with a modern networked computer and ink jet printer (printer cartridges available in the University bookstore), enabling residents to take full advantage of the vast information resources of CedarNet, the University’s awardwinning network. Meals for graduate students may be purchased at the school cafeteria at staff rates. STUDENTRESPONSIBILITIES • You must complete all application forms accurately and submit them on time to the right place. • You must provide correct information. In most instances, misreporting information on financial aid application forms is a violation of law and may be considered a criminal offense which could result in indictment under the U.S. Criminal Code. • You must return all additional documentation, verification, corrections, and/or new information requested by either the Financial Aid Office or the agency to which you submitted your application. Graduate students living in the residence halls should plan to arrive from 3-5 p.m. or from 8:30 – 9:30 p.m. on the Sunday before their class begins. Students unable to arrive during these designated times, should contact the Student Services Office to make arrangements for a special arrival time. • You are responsible for reading and understanding all forms that you are asked to sign and for keeping copies of them. • You must accept responsibility for all agreements that you sign. • You must perform the work upon which you agreed in accepting a university employment award. Housing assignments are made by the Student Services Office. Contact Kirsten Gibbs, Associate Dean of Students, at 937766-7872 with any questions pertaining to housing. • You must be aware of and comply with the deadlines for application or reapplication for aid. • You should be aware of your school’s refund procedures. Revision as of 8/21/2003
- Page 16 - GRADUATE PROGRAM GOVERNANCE • one staff member chosen from among the following areas: • Admissions DIRECTOR OFGRADUATEPROGRAMS • Registrar • Student Life The director of graduate programs reports to the academic vice president. The director has administrative responsibility for graduate programs relative to the following: • Computer Services GRADUATEADMISSIONSCOMMITTEE • program design and modification • The Graduate Admissions Committee provides direction and oversight regarding admission to the various graduate programs. This committee is comprised of • admission to programs • evaluation of course transfer requests • acceptable progression within a graduate program • eligibility to graduate from programs • one faculty member from each department sponsoring a graduate program or career concentration (for the MSA program) This responsibility is exercised within the context of oversight of graduate program structure and implementation by a variety of groups: the Graduate Program Committee, the Graduate Admissions Committee, the Dean’s Council and, ultimately, the Cedarville faculty at large. • one staff member from the Enrollment Management Division • one staff member from the Student Services Division The director of graduate programs works with school deans and department chairs to facilitate the staffing of graduate courses. The director of graduate programs chairs two University oversight committees: GRADUATEPROGRAMCOMMITTEE Graduate programs themselves are approved by the Board of Trustees in accordance with directives from the Ohio Board of Regents. Curriculum design for all new graduate programs, and for those that undergo substantial change (as determined by the academic vice president) are submitted, through designated channels, to the faculty at large for confirmation. • The Graduate Program Committee provides direction and oversight regarding curricular and program policy issues. This committee is comprised of • a member of the Dean’s Committee (sitting as an ex-officio member) • one faculty member from each department sponsoring either a graduate program or a career concentration in the MSA program Teaching-oriented graduate programs offer the opportunity to meet licensure requirements of selected specialties for Ohio as specified by the State of Ohio Department of Education. • one at-large faculty member from the faculty not sponsoring either a graduate program or a career concentration in the MSA program • one faculty member from the Library Revision as of 8/21/2003
- Page 17 - ACADEMIC PROBATION AND SUSPENSION ACADEMIC INFORMATION The Cedarville University graduate academic program is designed to meet the professional, personal, and spiritual needs of adults who desire to honor God with their careers and lives. Truth from Scripture is integrated with the knowledge taught in each course to provide effective learning and enduring life values. The knowledge and skills learned from the curricular experiences provide adults with an excellent background for professional competence in their chosen fields. The minimum cumulative grade point average needed to maintain good academic standing is 3.0. At any point in a student’s academic work, any student whose cumulative grade point average falls below a 3.0 will be placed on academic probation. Students may be placed onacademic suspension if • at any time their cumulative grade point average falls below a 2.5 ACADEMICADVISING • they receive grades of less than B- for 25% or more of the total credit hours required for their graduate program (for example, 9 semester hours for the 36-hour MSA program) Each student is assigned to an academic advisor by the director of graduate programs working in concert with the appropriate department chair. The academic advisor offers counsel concerning course scheduling. Students are encouraged to consult their academic advisor prior to registration, whenever an academic problem is encountered, or when considering any changes in their educational program. • they remain on academic probation after completing 50% of the semester hours required of their graduate degree program (for example, 16 hours for the M.Ed. program) Academic suspension occurs upon evaluation by the director of graduate programs (in consultation with the departments sponsoring either the degree or the career concentration of a degree). ACADEMICCOURSELOAD Assuming that proficiency requirements have been satisfied, a minimum of 32 semester hours is required for graduation in the M.Ed. program. 36 semester hours is required for graduation in the MSA program. A student receiving veterans benefits who is on academic probation after ½ of the hours for a given degree program, or whose cumulative grade point average falls below a 2.5, will be reported to the Veterans Administration. The veterans’ benefits for such a student will be terminated unless the student is making progress toward meeting the minimum academic requirements for graduation. A student's academic load for any given term is subject to reduction or limitation by the director of graduate programs for poor scholarship or excessive work responsibilities outside of school hours. Students who wish to take more than 12 credit hours in a given term must obtain permission from the director of graduate programs. Revision as of 8/21/2003 A student on academic suspensionmay apply for readmission during any semester in the regular academic year following the
- Page 18 - semester of suspension. If a period of less than two years has transpired from the time of the suspension, the student may apply by simply sending a letter to the director of graduate programs requesting readmission. Before that letter is written the student must contact the director of graduate programs for information that must be addressed in the letter. If a period has transpired greater than two years since the time of suspension, the student will be considered as a new student and will be asked to complete all the materials required of first-time applicants. ACADEMICMISCONDUCT All forms of academic misconduct are prohibited by the character and standards of Cedarville University. Academic misconduct refers to dishonesty in assignments or examinations (cheating); presenting the ideas or the writing of someone else as your own (plagiarism); or knowingly furnishing false information to the University by forgery, alteration, or misuse of university documents, records or identification. Academic misconduct includes, but is not limited to, permitting another student to plagiarize or cheat from your work; submitting an academic exercise (written work, computer program or presentation) that has been prepared totally or in part by another (except for those using the services of someone to word process an original handwritten paper); acquiring improper knowledge of the contents of an exam; using unauthorized material during an exam; submitting the same paper in two or more different courses without the knowledge and consent of your professors; or submitting a forged grade change form. In cases of academic misconduct, the faculty member has the authority to take action they deem appropriate up to and including failure in the course. Actions thus taken by a faculty member must be documented in writing to the director of graduate programs. Irrespective of the action taken by the faculty member, the director of graduate programs may make a determination to suspend the student. Students can appeal actions taken under this Academic Misconduct section of the Graduate Bulletin. • Students who wish to appeal a faculty member action would, after first appealing to the faculty member, make their appeal to the director of graduate programs. • Students who wish to appeal a decision made by the director of graduate programs would direct their appeal to the Graduate Program Committee. • Students who wish to appeal the decision made by the Graduate Program Committee would make their appeal to the academic vice president, whose decision would be final. ADDING AND DROPPING ACOURSE Revision as of 8/21/2003 Changes in the course schedule may be made through the drop/add process. Forms for course changes are available in the Academic Services Office. The form is to be signed by both the course instructor and the director of graduate programs. The student is required to make up any work missed due to late entrance, assuming that the instructor is willing to allow late entrance into his/her course. No courses may be added without the approval of the coordinator for the graduate program affected or the director of graduate programs and the faculty member teaching the course. Changes in a schedule caused by cancellation of courses will not result in financial penalty.
- Page 19 - CONTINUATION AS AN ACTIVE STUDENT Failure to properly drop a class will result in a grade of "Z." Graduate students who fail to take courses or otherwise to pursue their graduate education (for example, as a transient student at another college/university) for a period exceeding two calendar years will automatically be retired from the active files of the Graduate Office. Reapplication as a new student for admission will be required to reactivate the student’s records. When a course is dropped during the fall or spring terms, the action is recorded as follows: Week Course Is Dropped Action Before the end of the first calendar week No record on transcript Second full calendar week through fourth calendar week "W" (withdrawn) After the fourth week and before the week of final examinations “WP” or “WF" (Withdrawn Passing or Withdrawn Failing) Most graduate courses are handled on a special timing schedule. For instance, courses during the summer are offered in one or two week blocks. Some courses are offered on a weekend-only schedule. In these situations, please contact the Graduate Office for information about refund policies for those special situations. Course changes are complete when the Graduate Office receives the completed Course Drop/Add Form. The effective date of the course change is the date the Graduate Office receives the completed form. Refund information is listed in the financial information section of the bulletin. ATTENDANCE IN CLASS Regular attendance is necessary for the student to receive full benefit from the university experience. Because most graduate courses meet in modular or concentrated class offerings, any absence is considered to be a significant event. Official faculty policy allows each faculty member to determine and develop reasonable attendance standards which will meet the particular needs of the course. Revision as of 8/21/2003
- Page 20 - CLASSIFICATION OFSTUDENTS Graduate students are classified by the number of hours they are enrolled, as follows: • Full-time students are those who have met the requirements for admission as determined by the Graduate Admissions Committee, are enrolled in a degree program, and are carrying at least 8 semester hours of credit in that academic semester. • Part-time students are those who have met the requirements for admission as determined by the Graduate Admissions Committee, are seeking a degree, and are taking fewer than 8 semester hours. • Non-degree seeking students are students who are taking courses but not currently enrolled in a formal Cedarville graduate degree program. This status is granted by the director of graduate programs in consultation with the department sponsoring the degree program under which the course falls. In most cases students may take up to 1/3 of the number of hours required for a degree program on a “permission to take course” basis. Graduate students are also classified according to their relationship to formal programs, as follows: • Regular status: the student has met all the requirements for admission to the graduate program as determined by the Graduate Admissions Committee. • Conditional status: the student has applied for admission to the graduate program at Cedarville University but must meet some prerequisite of his/her graduate program, or must complete some part of the application process (the determination about whether to allow participation in the graduate program under conditional status is made by the Graduate Admissions Committee). • Transient status: the student is a properly qualified student in good standing in a graduate degree program at another institution, has written authorization from the appropriate officials at that institution to take graduate courses at Cedarville University, meets all the registration requirements for the course (for example, prerequisites), and has been accepted for transient status by the Graduate Admissions Committee. CONTROLLINGBULLETIN The Graduate Bulletin in use when a student first enrolls governs his graduation requirements unless that bulletin is over 5 years old, or that student has left and then sought to reenroll more than two years later. Consequently, that bulletin should be retained and used as a guide in case changes are made in the course or graduation requirements during the time the student is enrolled. A student may select a subsequent bulletin if the student wishes, but all requirements from that bulletin must be completed. Revision as of 8/21/2003
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