Wednesday, November 25, 2009

NEW Drop and Withdrawal Policy Fall 2009

Beginning Fall quarter 2009, undergraduate students may not exceed 28 quarter units of withdrawals (grade of "W"). Withdrawals completed prior to Fall 2009 are not included in that total. This limit applies only to courses taken at CSUSB, including courses taken through Open University, the College of Extended Learning and special session. The policy for all undergraduate students will be available at www-ugs.csusb.edu/advising. For credential, post-baccalaureate, and graduate students, the policy can be found on page 351 of the current Bulletin.

Census Date. Census Date (also known as Census Day) refers to two very important deadlines:
1.Last day a student can add a class (by Permit since it is the 3rd week of classes)
2.Last day a student can drop a class without a record on the student’s transcript.

Specific Census dates for each term are listed in the “Calendar” section of this Bulletin and in the Class Schedule. Census Date usually falls on the last day of the 3rd week of the Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer (Regular) Session 1, or the beginning of the second week of classes of Summer Session 6W1 and Summer Session 6W2.

Dropping Classes:
A drop is defined as a withdrawal prior to the Census date. Drops do not produce a record on the student's transcript.

Students should read this section carefully to understand fully when and for what reasons they may drop a course themselves. Students transferring from other institutions should note that the last day to drop a class without a record of enrollment (i.e. Census Date) takes place much earlier at CSUSB than they may have been accustomed to at other institutions.
It is the students’ responsibility to verify their schedule prior to the Census Date. A grade will be assigned for every course in which they are officially registered. It is also the students’ responsibility to drop by the Census Date any class which they do not plan to attend and complete. While an instructor may drop a student for non-attendance during the first three weeks of classes (see “Administrative Drop Policy”), the student should not assume this will be done.

Dropping classes through the Census date. During the Open Enrollment and Schedule Adjustment period (see Class Schedule for specific dates) students may drop classes by following the Registration Instructions detailed in the Class Schedule. Students may drop a class during the first three weeks of the Fall, Winter, or Spring quarters (i.e. from the first day of instruction through Census Date), and the course will not appear on their permanent records; however, a refund will not be granted if the drop is beyond the refund deadline date. See the Class Schedule for specific dates for each quarter, including Summer.

Administrative Drop
Faculty members may initiate an administrative drop of a student in their courses based on any one of the following criteria:

Lack of attendance. Students who fail to attend two consecutive class meetings during the first three weeks of the quarter without contacting the faculty member or making special arrangements may be dropped. Students in on-line or hybrid classes who fail to make contact with the instructor either in person or electronically (via e-mail or Blackboard) within the first four days of the start of the quarter may also be dropped during the first three weeks of the quarter.

Prerequisites not met. Students who are unable to show completion of required courses or who do not have the background needed to succeed in the course may be dropped.

Declared majors. Students who have not been formally admitted to certain major programs may be dropped from courses that are open only to declared majors in that program. To remain in such classes, permission of the instructor may be required.

Students should not assume they are automatically disenrolled. Instead, they are strongly encouraged to check their MyCoyote to confirm course enrollment and drops every quarter.

If the administrative drop reduces the student's unit load below 6.1 units, the student may be eligible for a refund of certain fees. However, it is the student's responsibility to file a request for a refund of fees by the deadline printed in the Class Schedule. Ques-tions regarding refunds should be addressed to the Accounting Office at 909-537-5153.

Dropping classes to zero units: Once classes begin, you may not drop below .05 units through MyCoyote. Dropping to zero units is considered a term withdrawal and must be done in person in the Registration Office (UH-171). Call 909-537-5200, option 5 for more information. You will need a picture ID to complete your withdrawal.

Withdrawal from classes after the Census Date. A course dropped after the Census Date is defined as a withdrawal and a grade of “W” will be posted to the student’s record if the withdrawal is approved. Beginning Fall quarter 2009, undergraduate students may withdraw from no more than 28 quarter units during their entire undergraduate academic career at CSUSB.

Withdrawals after Census date and through the end of the eighth week of the quarter are permitted only for serious and compelling reasons. See the Summer Class Schedule for withdrawal dates during the summer terms. The student will be required to submit a petition with documentation to support the request to withdraw from the course(s). Poor performance or poor attendance in the course is not an acceptable reason to withdraw from a course during this period.

Petitions to withdraw after census are available in the offices of the five Colleges for declared majors and in Advising and Academic Services (UH-380) for undeclared students. Withdrawals during this period will require written documentation along with the signature of the instructor, the department chair of the class, and the Dean of the College of the student’s major. Courses officially withdrawn during this time period will show a grade notation of “W” (withdrawn) on the student’s transcript for the dropped course(s). Students receiving a “W” are still subject to fees for the courses. In certain circumstances, withdrawals after the Census date may qualify for an exemption to the 28 unit maximum. Such requests must meet the same standard and be processed in the same manner as described in the next section of this policy.

Withdrawal from classes in weeks nine through the last day of instruction shall not be permitted except in cases, such as accident or serious illness, where the cause of withdrawal is due to circumstances clearly beyond the student’s control and the assignment of an Incomplete is not practicable. Withdrawals of this sort may involve total withdrawal from the campus or may involve one or more courses. Before submitting a petition to withdraw from class, students are strongly advised to discuss with their instructor(s) the possibility of getting an Incomplete. In cases in which sufficient work has been completed to permit an evaluation to be made, a grade and credit or an Incomplete may be assigned to allow the student to retain credit for work which would otherwise be lost due to complete withdrawal.

Requests for permission to withdraw in weeks nine through the last day of instruction must be made by petition with documentation to support the request to withdraw. These requests will be processed by the Director of Advising and Academic Services (UH-380). If approved, such withdrawals will not count against the 28 units students are allowed to withdraw. 

Excessive or Unauthorized Withdrawal. Students who do not officially withdraw or who exceed the 28 unit maximum will receive a grade notation of WU (withdrawal unauthorized) in the course, which for purposes of grade point averages is equivalent to an “F.” Students receiving a “WU” are still subject to fees for the courses. Failure to follow formal university procedures may result in an obligation to pay fees as well as the assignment of failing grades in all courses not officially dropped, and the need to petition for readmission before being permitted to enroll in another academic term.

Term Withdrawal
Students who find it necessary to cancel their registration or to withdraw from all classes after enrolling for any academic term are required to follow the University’s official Term Withdrawal procedures outlined in the Class Schedule. Failure to follow formal University procedures may result in an obligation to pay fees, as well as the assignment of failing grades in all courses, and the need to petition for readmission before being permitted to enroll in another academic term.

Students who receive financial aid funds are strongly encouraged to consult with the Financial Aid Office prior to withdrawing from the University regarding any required return or repayment of grant or loan assistance received for that academic term or payment period. If the recipient of student financial aid funds withdraws from the institution during an academic term or payment period, the amount of grant or loan assistance received may be subject to return and/or repayment provisions.

Term Withdrawal through Census Date. During the Open Enrollment and Schedule Adjustment period (see Class Schedule for specific dates) students may withdraw from the University by following the Registration Instructions detailed in the Class Schedule during the first three weeks of the Fall, Winter, or Spring quarters (i.e. from the first day of instruction through Census Date) and will have no record of enrollment listed on their permanent record. A refund will not be granted if the withdrawal is beyond the refund deadline date. See the Class Schedule for specific dates for each quarter, including Summer.

Retroactive Term Withdrawal. Requests for Retroactive Term Withdrawals shall be permitted for serious and compelling reasons, such as accident or serious illness, where the cause of withdrawal was due to circumstances clearly beyond the student's control and an Incomplete was not assigned. Extenuating circumstances must be shown to have prevented withdrawal in a more timely fashion. Documentation is required. Poor performance or poor attendance in the course is not an acceptable reason to withdraw after the term. Employment-related reasons are also unacceptable. Lack of awareness of the withdrawal procedure is not an extenuating circumstance. All courses must be withdrawn and will be noted with a “W” on the permanent record. If approved, such withdrawals will not count against the 28 units students are allowed to withdraw.

Forms for Retroactive Term Withdrawal by undergraduates are available only in the office of the Director of Advising and Academic Services in UH-380. Partial withdrawal of grades during a term is not permissible unless special circumstances exist and the Dean of the student’s major grants approval. Requests for Retroactive Term Withdrawal by unclassified post baccalaureate students, credential candidates and graduate students must be made in writing to the Dean of Graduate Studies, AD-127.

Friday, November 20, 2009

FAQ: Academic Support Services

1) I am struggling with my classes and I need help. Where can I go to get this help?
The university has a few academic support programs which can help. Click on the following link to view the various websites: Academic Support

2) Are there any tutors on campus?
Yes. Contact the Learning Center by visiting their website.  You can also check the academic departments.  Click the Colleges and Departments link.

3) Can I search for books and articles available in the Library on-line?
Yes. The Pfau Library has many resources available for you to use. Visit their website.

4) Is there an office on campus which can help me with my computer software problems?
Yes. Visit the Data Service Center website for help. You can sign-up for technical support.

If you have a question or are aware of another CSUSB service, please comment so it can be added.

FAQ: Petitions, Procedures & Policies

1) What forms and petitions are available on-line?
There are at least two different web sites you can visit: Records, Registration & Evaluation and Advising & Academic Services petitions.

2) What is a Leave of Absence?
If you are eligible, you can file a Leave of Absence for up to two years and return without giving up your catalog year requirements. You do not have to file a Leave of Absence petition if you plan to miss one or two quarters and if you do not attend another 4-year university.

3) I have a major and want to take 20 or more units? What do I need to do?
You will need to contact the dean of your college and major. Each dean's office has there own card or form. See the link to locate your college dean: College Deans & Majors

4) I am undeclared, can I take 20 or more units? If so, what do I need to do?
Yes. You must have a 3.0 minimum to qualify and file a Course Overload card available in Advising & Academic Services, UH-380.

5) What is a "retroactive withdrawal"?
It is a petition to withdraw a whole quarter filed after the term. It is only considered for documented medical, psychological or military reasons. Additional requirements, restrictions and approvals are needed for partial quarter withdrawals.

6) Can I substitute a General Education course requirement?
Yes. You can file a petition in UH-380. It is available on-line at: GE Course Subsitution

7) What do I do if two classes overlap in time and I can't register in Mycoyote?
You can file a Simultaneous Enrollment petition in UH-380. It is available on-line. Signatures from BOTH professors will be required.

8) I need to drop a class and Census Date has passed. I'm undeclared. What do I do?
You can file a peitition to Drop After Census Date. You will be required to provide documentation and get approvals from your instructor and the chair of the course department. There is a limit of how many courses you can withdraw.

9) I need to drop a class and Census Date has passed. I have a major. What do I do?
You can file a peitition to Drop After Census Date. You will be required to provide documentation and get approvals from your instructor and the chair of the course department. There is a limit of how many courses you withdraw.

10) I need more time beyond one year to finish an "I" grade. What can I do?
You can file an Extension of Time for an Incomplete University Waiver petition. Check the 2nd box. It must include the completion date & have the instructor's signature.

11) What is "academic renewal"?
Under specific circumstances, a student can have up to 2 semesters or 3 quarters of previous course work disregarded from all consideration associated with requirements for a baccalaureate degree. See page 53 of the 2009-10 Catalog (Bulletin of Courses).

12) I failed a class. Can I repeat it?
Yes. You can repeat a class with a "C-" or below and have the first grade not count toward your GPA. It was formerly a "Petition to Discount Repeated Grade". Beginning Fall 2009, the form is called a "Petition for Grade Forgiveness". There is a limit of 24 units which can be done as an undergraduate. You can pick one up in UH-171 or click on the web link.

13) How do I calculate my GPA?
You can visit the following link and type in your units: GPA Calculator

14) Am I allowed to take classes at a community college while still attending CSUSB?
Yes. You will need to fill out a Concurrent Enrollment Form and get approval in UH-171. You can also download a copy through the link.

15) How can I add classes that are full?
You have to go to the class, take an add slip from the Registration Office with you and have the instructor sign it. The instructor has the option to add you or not.  Additionally, some departments have "waiting lists".  Contact the department of the class.

FAQ: Probation, Disqualification & Dismissal

1) If I’ve been disqualified because of poor grades, can I ever come back?
You must file a Disqualified Appeal petition in Advising & Academic Services. If the petition is approved by the dean of your major, you will be allowed to return. However, if you have already been re-admitted and signed a probation contract, you will need to meet with the Probation Contracts Coordinator to develop a plan of how you can return. You may be required to attend another college or take courses through Open University.  Due to CSUSB application deadlines, you may have to wait until the beginning of the academic year (Fall quarter) in order to be re-admitted.


2) What is a "Probation Contract"?
It is a signed agreement between a student and an advisor in Advising & Academic Services detailing what needs to be fulfilled during an academic quarter or quarters. Some of the requirements needed are a minimum quarter GPA of 2.3, repeated failed or low grade courses, meeting with a faculty advisor, limit in registered units, etc.

3) What does it mean to be on “Academic Probation”?
It means that your "CSUSB" or your "cumulative" GPA is below 2.0. It is a warning. There are minimum GPA levels based on your class levels.  Most often, you will be required to sign a probation contract with Advising & Academic Services. Click on the following link for more information; Academic Probation

4) How can I be on "academic probation" if my cumulative GPA in MyCoyote says tha I have a 2.6 GPA?
MyCoyote only initially lists your quarter and total college cumulative GPA.  Your academic status is based on your CSUSB total GPA.  To locate this GPA, you must go to your MyCoyote and login. Go to the "Student Center".  Then, click on the "other academic" box. scroll down to "unoffical transcript", verify it, then it will take you to you "unofficail transcript".  Go all the way down to the bottom of the page and you will find your current GPAs (Quarter, CSUSB & Cumulative).
If your CSUSB GPA is over 2.0.  Then, contact the Director of Advising & Academic Services and a correction on your academic status will be made. You can send an email to askcsusb@csusb.edu.
 

Thursday, November 19, 2009

FAQ: New Student Information

1) What do I need to do to apply to CSUSB?
You can contact the Office of Admissions & Student Recruitment at (909) 537-5188. Visit their website for more information by clicking the link above.

2) Where can I go for Financial Aid?
Click on the link for information about Financial Aid.

3) What placement tests am I required to take?
The English Placement Test (EPT) & Entry Level Math (ELM) exam. If you scored high enough on your SAT, ACT or AP, you can be exempt from taking these tests. Click the following link for our Student Academic Guide and go to page 21 for the the EPT & ELM exemption scores.

4) What is SOAR?
It is a mandatory 2-Day, overnight advising & orientation program for all new first-time-freshmen. SOAR stands for Student Orientation Advising & Registration. It is a colaborative effort involving Admissions, Advising & Academic Services, Records, Registration & Evaluation, Student Leadership & Development, Colleges & departments, etc. Students get advised by faculty, registered for classes and participate in a variety of student orientation activities. The event is primarily held during the summer in July.

5) What First Year Programs should I consider as a new Freshman?
The Freshmen Seminar course (USTD 100a, 100b) is available for all 1st-year students in their 1st quarter at CSUSB. See the course description by clicking the link.

6) I'm a new transfer student. What is the Academic Information Session?
It is a required Powerpoint presentation for new transfer students. It provides important academic and university information in order to prepare you for the first quarter at CSUSB. Call Advising & academic Services for more information at (909) 537-5034.  You can also click Academic Information Session.

7) How do I register for classes and what are the deadlines?
You can get the procedure on how to register and find out about important deadline information by going to MyCoyote.

8) Is there a student handbook or academic guide available?
Yes. Download your own copy by clicking here: Student Academic Guide, in Microsoft Word.  There is also an Acrobat PDF format available at PDF.

9) What is the 4-Year Graduation Pledge Program?
It is a program, if qualified, a student can get a guarantee from the university to graduate in 4 years. A student must fulfill specific unit loads, GPA and register early. 1st Priority registration will be provided. See page 10 of Student Academic Guide or Page 2 of the Bulletin of Courses (Catalog).

10) I'm a veteran. What do I need to do to attend CSUSB?
You can visiting the following website: Veterans Resources. There are several links on the page which can get you started.

11) I'm an international student, what services are available at CSUSB?
The International Center website can get show you what is available.

FAQ : Academic Advising

1) How do I get help picking classes if I am undeclared?
Contact Advising & Academic Services by calling (909) 537-5034 and set up an appointment with one of the advisors. Visit our website and see how we can help you.

2) How do I get help picking classes if I have a major?
Each major has a department. Contact their office to find out about their advising schedule. Click the Coyote eAdvising Guide by Majors for websites.

3) What is the S.T.A.R.S program?
It stands for Student Transition Advising & Retention System. It is a program to help new freshmen undeclared students transition from high school, find a major, and stay in good standing.

4) Is there on-line or Email advising available?
Yes, there is a Email advising where you can ask any question related to the university. Click askcsusb@csusb.edu

5) I need help with explaining what General Education is. Where can I go?
You can click on the following link and/or contact our office and meet with one of our advisors to help you explain the General Education requirements.

6) I am taking classes at the Palm Desert Campus. Who can I contact for academic help?
There are many departments and programs available. You can visit the Palm Desert website or email Darius Riggins: driggins@csusb.edu

7) I can't complete my remedial English and Math requirement within one year. What do I do?
You will need to contact Advising & Academic Services and discuss a plan. It may include that you attend a community college to complete your basic skills coursework. See page 46 & 66 of the 2009-10 Catalog (Bulletin of Courses)

8) How can I find out about all the courses I have taken and what requirements I need in order to get my degree?
Go to your MyCoyote and download your own copy of the PAWS which has the information you need.

9) I want to get a Teaching Credential. Where do I go?
You can visit the College of Education website.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

English and Math Remediation Update

CSUSB and the CSU university system have a Basic Skills policy which states that ALL entering students must complete pre-baccalaureate (remedial) coursework before the end of their first academic year. See page 44 of the 2009-2010 catalog, Bulletin of Courses.

If you are currently in Math 75a, 75b, 75c, 80, 90, or/and Eng 102a, 102b, or 105, it is critical that you pass each course and show progress in future quarters toward completing your basic skills. The university will place a registration hold and not permit you to continue at CSUSB if your pre-baccalaureate course work is not completed by the end of Spring 2010. Students in Math 75a will be given one extra quarter due the 4-quarter sequence. See Basic Skills: English and Math for the course sequence requirements.

If you started enrollment at CSUSB Fall 2008 or before (first-time-freshmen or transfer), you have been permitted for fall 2009 enrollment as an exemption to the policy. Make sure that you do all you can to pass the pre-baccalaureate course(s) this quarter to continue enrollment for winter 2010.

Contact Advising and Academic Services at (909) 537-5034 if you questions about your basic skills status and policy.

TIP #2
Pages 79 – 83 of your Winter Class Schedule 2010 provides General Education class section times and dates.

Advising and Registration for Winter 2010

We know that you are probably focused on getting ready for a mid-term or working with your class group on a project. We hope this post will help you. Winter quarter priority registration is going on right now through November 24. Schedule time in your calendar to meet with a faculty advisor in the department of your major. Check the Coyote eAdvising Guide for information of finding your department website. If you are undeclared, call our office.

Open enrollment will be from November 25 to December 11 with a pre-payment of fees required BEFORE you can register. There will be a $25 late fee after December 11.

TIP #1
Page 107 of your Winter Class Schedule 2010 has steps you can take which can maximize your academic advising experience with your faculty advisor.