School of Graduate Studies

A student must submit a completed Graduate Application Form including a statement of academic objectives. The deadlines for the various graduate programs are as follows:

College of Liberal Arts and School of Library and Information Sciences

November 1 for spring admission; June 1 for fall admission

School of Business

November 1 for spring admission; June 1 for fall admission

School of Education

November 1 for spring admission; March 1 for fall admission

Special Graduate Student Status

November 1 for spring admission; June 1 for fall admission

To qualify, with the exception of Special Student Status, a student must submit the following items with the completed application form:

1. One official, original sealed transcripts of the student’s academic record from all institutions of higher education attended.
2. Two completed Applicant Evaluation/Recommendation Forms from two different individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic work.
3. GRE scores: required for applications to the College of Liberal Arts, College of Science and Technology, College of Behavioral, Social Sciences the School of Education, and the School of Library and Information Sciences.
4. GMAT scores: required for applications to the School of Business.
5. School of Education applicants for the programs of Curriculum & Instruction, School Administration; and Educational Technology: a copy of the current teaching license.
6. School of Business and Master of Public Administration applicants: a current resume.
7. International applicant: TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores. This is required for those who have graduated from institutions of higher learning outside the USA in non-English speaking countries
8. International applicant: proper Visa clearance and documentation.
9. A record of all immunizations and completed Medical History Form. The law requires that an immunization record for each newly admitted North Carolina Central University student is on file at NCCU prior to enrollment.
10. Public Administration applicants are required to file a statement of

Registration

Students use the Eagles Online (EOL) website to access Banner Self Service (SSB). Students complete the registration process via Banner SSB. Banner SSB is available for registration during the period of time regulated by the Academic Calendar for each semester. Additionally, Banner SSB affords the opportunity for students to register, to view class schedules, institutional (NCCU) transcripts, student account information, financial aid information, grades, and to track their academic progress.

Students are required to meet with their advisors to discuss curricula plans and course schedules. The Alternate PIN is used during the registration process. The Alternate PIN is the property of the University and faculty members and advisors are not required to give them to students. The Alternate PIN is changed each semester to insure security and to encourage students and advisors to meet at least twice each academic year to review the students’ progress.

As designated by the Academic Calendar, the registration period officially ends on the day designated as the last day of late registration and schedule adjustments. At this time course schedules will be canceled for students who have not made satisfactory payment arrangements. Late fees for registration are imposed on the date indicated on the Academic Calendar. Classes may not be added or dropped after the last day for schedule adjustments as indicated in the Academic Calendar.

CAUTION: Carrying less than a full-time course load may affect financial aid eligibility. Students who plan to take less than a full-time load should check with the donor of their aid or with the NCCU Office of Scholarships and Student Aid. Aid may be withdrawn if the academic load is less than fulltime, and the students will be responsible for the payment of any tuition and/or fees.

Changes in Registration

During the late registration period students may drop and/or add courses with the approval of the faculty advisor and the dean of their college or school. After the fifth class day, students may add classes only with a drop/add card signed by the advisor and instructor and presented to the Registrar’s Office before the end of the last day of the drop/add period. Students may still drop or add online until 4 p.m. of the last day of the drop/add period. After the end of the drop/add period, students may not add or drop a class. Also, they will not receive a refund or adjustment in the amount owed for classes dropped. Students may withdraw from individual classes with the permissions of the academic advisor and the dean by presenting a Withdrawal Form to the Registrar’s Office until the last day for students to withdraw from classes without penalty; however, there will be no adjustment in bills if classes are dropped during this period. The grade received for these dropped courses will be “WC.” Graduate students may not drop courses after the last day of classes as designated in the Academic Calendar. Students who “unofficially withdraw” from courses by not attending classes will receive the grade of “NF,” which computes the same as “F.”

CAUTION: Dropping courses may affect eligibility for financial aid, regardless of the grade assigned to the dropped course. Students should check with the donor of their aid or with the NCCU Office of Scholarships and Student Aid before withdrawing from a course.

Tuition and Expenses

Scholarships and Financial Aid

The University offers financial assistance in several forms.

Graduate Assistantships, Graduate Tuition Awards and Graduate Remission: One must provide some form of service (Federal Work-Study, University Work-Aid or a Graduate Assistantship) of at least $1,000.00 per semester to qualify for Graduate Tuition Remission and Awards.

Graduate Tuition Award: Pays for the cost of instate tuition only and is offered to North Carolina residents.

Graduate Tuition Remission: Pays for out-of-state tuition cost only and is offered to out-of-state residents.

Special Talent Award: To be eligible, one must be an out-of-state student and be recognized by the University as having a special talent. Graduate and professional students are awarded the difference between the cost of out-of-state tuition and instate tuition (fees are excluded). Graduate and professional students are recommended by the Dean of the appropriate college or school.

North Carolina Veterans Scholarship
Award is available, upon application, to qualified children of certain deceased or disabled veterans as well as veterans who have been listed as POW/MIA. Veteran must have been a legal resident of North Carolina and resided there continuously. Full scholarships provide for four academic years of free tuition, room and board allowances, and mandatory fees at statesupported institutions. Limited scholarships provide free tuition and mandatory fees. Awards may be used for either undergraduate or graduate study. More information concerning this scholarship may be obtained from the North Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs at (919) 733-3851.

Additional Financial Aid Options
Graduate students may also be eligible for Minority Presence Grants, American Indian Student Legislative Grants, Bar Examination and Bar Study Loans, and other types of financial aid. For more information, students should contact the Scholarships and Student Aid Office at (919) 530-5152 or 5153.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy for Graduate and Law Students

Federal regulations require that students receiving financial aid maintain satisfactory academic progress from both qualitative and quantitative measures: cumulative GPA, hours earned compared to hours attempted and maximum length of study.

Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA)

Graduate students must maintain a 3.0 cumulative grade point average. Law students must have a cumulative grade point average of 1.8 at the end of the first year of enrollment and a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 for remaining years.

Hours Earned (Compared to Hours Attempted)

To remain eligible for financial aid, graduate and law students must earn at least 75% of yearly (fall and spring) hours attempted for previous enrollment period. For financial aid purposes, the following definitions and conditions apply:

To earn hours at NCCU, one must receive a grade of A, B, C (including “+” or “-“). All other grades, including F, I, W, WF, WC, NP, NU, or AU, do not earn hours. Classes from which a student withdraws after the drop/add period count as attempted but not earned hours. Therefore, withdrawing from classes after the drop/add period will negatively affect students’ ability to satisfy the hours earned standard. Audited courses count as attempted but not earned hours. Therefore, auditing classes will negatively affect students’ ability to satisfy the hours earned standard. When a student repeats a course, the total attempted hours will increase with each repeat, but the student may only earn hours for a successfully completed course once. Therefore, repeating courses may negatively affect students’ ability to satisfy the hours earned standard.

Accepted transfer credit will count as both attempted and earned hours.

Maximum Length of Study

To remain eligible for financial aid, graduate and law students must complete their degree requirements within 150 percent of the published length of their academic program. At NCCU, this means that students in programs requiring 32 hours for graduation will be eligible for financial aid during the first 48 attempted hours. Another example is students in programs such as Law that requires 82 hours for graduation. They will be eligible for financial aid during the first 123 attempted hours. All attempted hours are counted.

Annual Satisfactory Academic Progress Reviews

At the end of the final session of summer school, a year-end review is completed, and students who are out of compliance with one or more of the satisfactory academic progress standards become ineligible for further financial aid until all deficiencies are remedied.

The Scholarships and Student Aid Office sends written notification of ineligibility to students at their permanent addresses as listed in official university records in the Registrar’s Office. Satisfactory Academic Progress and eligibility for financial aid are determined each academic year after the summer school grades are available.

Regaining Eligibility for Financial Aid

Students who are meeting the standards are eligible for financial assistance for the next enrollment period. To regain eligibility for financial aid, a student may consult with a financial aid counselor to determine the appropriate alternatives. The following may be considered for regaining eligibility for financial aid:

1. Taking courses during the summer session(s)
2. Repeating failed courses
3. Removing incomplete grades
4. Reviewing repeat courses to ensure that highest grade has been computed.

Appeals

Federal regulations allow for certain special cases in which the university may waive the standards. Appeals for the waiver may be considered if a student’s failure to comply with one or more areas of Satisfactory Academic Progress is due to events beyond the student’s control. These events include a student’s extended illness, serious illness or death in the immediate family, or other significant life experience if such mitigating circumstances can be appropriately documented for the specific term(s) in which the deficiency occurred. Eligibility may be regained by appeal for a fall or spring semester. Student may contact the Scholarships and Student Aid Office to obtain an Appeal for Reinstatement of Eligibility form. This SAP policy was revised for graduate students June, 2003 and SAP will be measured by this policy at the end of Spring 2004 and replaces all previous SAP policies.

For further information regarding Satisfactory Academic Progress, the student should contact:

Scholarships and Student Aid Office
P. O. Box 19496
Durham, NC 27707
(919) 530-5152 or 5153
(919) 530-7959 (FAX)

Graduation with Distinction

Eligibility for graduation with honors by graduate students requires the following cumulative GPA:

• Summa Cum Laude: 3.92 - 4.0
• Magna Cum Laude: 3.85 - 3.919
• Cum Laude: 3.77 - 3.849

For law students, degrees with honors will be awarded as:

• Summa Cum Laude to students with a grade point average of 3.5 or higher
• Magna Cum Laude to students with a grade point average of 3.3 to 3.49
• Cum Laude to students with a grade point average of 3.0 to 3.29

Graduate Student Association

Mission Statement

The Graduate Student Association (GSA) is the governing body of North Carolina Central University’s graduate students. The organization represents graduate students at formal universitysponsored meetings and provides a forum for dialogue between graduate students and other campus units, including university faculty and administrators. The GSA also organizes events and programs designed to foster intellectual growth and interchange within the graduate community. The GSA office is located in the Taylor Education Building, Room 114. Additional information is available at the website: www.nccu.edu/Student Life/Student Organizations/gsa.html

Purpose and Organization

Graduate study at North Carolina Central University is designed to provide qualified holders of the bachelor’s degree with a broader, deeper, and more thorough acquaintance with scholarship and research in a chosen field. It aims to develop independent study, originality, and competence in research and/or in the application of critical thinking to professional problems.

The Graduate School is organized by subject matter departments which offer graduate instruction leading to advanced degrees. Its faculty is composed of the members of those departments which offer graduate degrees who have been approved by the Graduate Council.

Degrees Conferred

The Graduate School confers degrees through the Colleges of Liberal Arts, Behavioral and Social Sciences and the School of Science and Technology. The Master of Arts (M.A.), Master of Science (M.S.), and Master of Public Administration (MPA) degrees are conferred though the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences. Those who major in English, history, psychology, and sociology receive the M.A. degree through either the College of Liberal Arts or the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences. Those who major in biology, chemistry, criminal justice, earth science, human sciences, mathematics, physical education, and recreation receive the M.S. degree in one of the three aforementioned colleges and schools. The MPA is a professional degree for those who major in public administration.

The Graduate Council

The Graduate Council, assisted by its various subcommittees, formulates general graduate policy for the guidance of the several departments in the development and extension of their programs. Such policies must be consistent with overall institutional policies and accreditation standards of regional and national associations in which the institution or department holds membership. Policies formulated by the Council are subject to approval by the Chancellor of the institution. The Graduate Council is composed of the Associate Dean(s) or designated graduate program representatives of the College of Liberal Arts, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Science and Technology, School of Library and Information Sciences, School of Business, School of Education, and the Law School. The chair of each department offering graduate work, and the University Registrar serve as ex-officio members. The Council makes appointments to the graduate faculty upon recommendation by chairpersons and approval by the Dean of the College and the Graduate Council. The Dean of the Graduate School is responsible for the administration of the regulations and requirements for advanced degrees.

Graduate Teacher Licensure

In conjunction with graduate degree programs in the Behavioral and Social Sciences, North Carolina Central University offers graduate teacher licensure programs in family and consumer sciences and physical education. These programs are designed to meet the North Carolina licensure standards. Students seeking licensure in other states should inform themselves of the requirements of that state and discuss special licensure problems with the Dean of the School of Education.

All students wishing to qualify for graduate teaching licensure should express this intention when registering for the first time in the Graduate Division. They should also confer with the licensure officer in the School of Education to ascertain the education courses required for the licensure they desire.

General Graduate Regulations

Regulations governing graduate work at North Carolina Central University are classified as general and special. General regulations apply to all students and all degree programs.

Supplementing the general regulations are special regulations governing certain degree programs. The student must assume full responsibility for acquaintance with regulations governing graduate work. For additional information students should consult the Dean of the Graduate School.

Admissions

Procedures

1. Each application submitted to the Graduate Division must be accompanied by an application fee of $40.
2. The student’s application for admission, his/her official undergraduate transcript, recommendation forms, and a statement of academic objectives must be submitted to the admissions office of the Graduate Division by the deadline dates listed in the section under graduate admission requirements. A student who applies late or whose application has not been evaluated before registration may be permitted to enroll as a temporary degreeseeking student in the appropriate graduate department. Degree credit for graduate courses may not be granted, unless the student meets requirements for admission to the Graduate Division.
3. After evaluation of the student’s credentials, the Graduate Office will notify the student of the admission decision by letter.
4. The GRE is required for admission to all graduate programs in the School of Graduate Studies with the exception of Master’s of Social Work and Executive Master of Public Administration. Other exceptions can be made on an as needed basis.
5. A writing sample is required of all new graduate students. The writing will be done during the orientation session or a later time established by the Graduate School.
6. All new graduate students are required to attend the New Graduate Student Orientation Program the week before classes begin or during the first week of class.

Types of Admission

Unconditional Admission:

A student holding the bachelor’s degree from North Carolina Central University or any other accredited institution is eligible for unconditional admission to the Graduate Division under the following provisions:

1. The applicant’s overall undergraduate average must be at least “C” (2.7) and his record must show the completion, with an average of “B” (3.0) or better, of an undergraduate major of at least 30 semester hours in the area of the proposed graduate major or in a related area.
2. Applicants who intend to qualify for graduate secondary school teaching licensure must hold the initial high school licensure or its equivalent.
3. Most of the various departments which offer graduate work have departmental minimal requirements in addition to those listed above. These requirements are spelled out in the “Course Descriptions” section of the catalog for individual departments.

Conditional Admission:

With the approval of the department of his/her proposed graduate major and the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies conditional admission may be granted to the applicant who lacks course prerequisites or is judged on the basis of factors other than academic proficiency to need a trial period to qualify for unconditional admission. Such students may be required to complete prescribed prerequisite work without graduate credit. If the work is of graduate quality, the student may be given full graduate status. On the other hand, full graduate status may be denied due to low performance during the trial period. The trial period usually lasts one semester.

Probational Admission:

Probational admission is granted when the applicant is an academically high-risk student who does not meet the established minimum admission requirements, but is judged to be admissible on a trial basis. Such students will be required to complete prescribed work. If the work is of graduate quality, the student may be given full graduate status. Full graduate status may be denied, however, due to low performance during the trial period. The trial period usually lasts one semester.

Special Graduate Students:

The Graduate Division recognizes the admission classification of special graduate students. This designation is a temporary classification for persons who wish to take courses for licensure renewal, for transfer to another institution, or for personal satisfaction. This classification terminates on the date of the student’s completion of a successful application for admission to a program in the Graduate Division. Students admitted as special graduate students are not candidates for a degree. They may take courses for graduate credit but may not later request that more than nine semester hours apply to any program leading to a master’s degree. Up to nine credit hours earned while a student is designated as a special graduate student may later be applied toward the fulfillment of the requirements of a graduate degree program provided:

1. The action is recommended by the chairperson of the major department and approved by the dean;
2. The work is not more than two years old;
3. The amount of credit does not exceed nine semester hours;
4. The work is “B” level or better, and
5. The work has not been taken to remove deficiencies. Deficiencies are defined as qualifications needed in order to meet Graduate Division admission standards.

Admission of International Applicants

For admission purposes, all applicants who are both non-citizens of the United States and are graduates of institutions of higher learning located outside the United States are defined as international applicants. In addition to providing academic credentials and letters (or forms) of recommendation, international applicants must fulfill the following requirements:

1. Demonstrate proficiency in the English language by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). An interview may be required. The TOEFL score (minimum of 500 required for admission) must be submitted directly to the Graduate Admissions Office, North Carolina Central University from TOEFL, Box 889, Princeton, New Jersey 08541-0008, U.S.A. Proficiency may also be demonstrated by passing a full academic year of college level freshman English (i.e., The equivalent of ENG 1110, ENG 1210) with a grade of “C” or better at an accredited institution of higher education in the United States, or by successfully completing the English Language Program at one of the many ELS Language Centers in the U.S. Exceptions will be made for those whose native language is English or whose medium of instruction has been English.
2. Generally, international applicants with academic credits from institutions outside the United Sates should have academic documents submitted directly by the institution to the graduate admission office. Where original documents are impossible to obtain, properly notarized documents will be considered. The notarization should be done by a proper government official or proper representative of the American Embassy in the country. If it is necessary for the graduate admission office to have the transcript translated and/or evaluated by an outside agency, the applicant must pay all costs involved.
3. International applicants are required to submit documentation certifying their capacity to meet the financial requirements necessary to complete the master’s degree program.

Finances

Fees and Expenses

The University requires all students to register for classes and to complete payment of all tuition, fees, and charges for the next academic semester by the last day of the designated payment period in the Academic Calendar. In cases where a student will not be able to pay the full amount for a semester or summer session, he/she should secure assistance far enough in advance to avoid delay in registering or payment of bills when due.

Postponements will not be granted in the payment of student bills as due. Students who do not register and complete payment by the end of the Registration and Payment Period listed in the Academic Calendar will be charged a $50 late registration fee. Complete payment of tuition, fees, and charges means the payment of any amount not covered by approved financial aid as listed on your financial aid awards letter.

The State Legislature and the UNC Board of Governors may approve adjustments in tuition and fees as conditions warrant during the academic year.

Tuition and Expenses

All graduate or law students who carry nine or more hours must pay full tuition and fees. Students who carry less than the full-time load must pay according to fee schedule.

Tuition payments and other required student fees meet only part of the total cost of the education of students enrolled. On average, for each full-time student enrolled in an institution of the University of North Carolina, the State of North Carolina appropriates $12,688 per year in public funds to support the education programs offered.

Financial Assistance

The Graduate School offers financial assistance in several forms, including a limited number of graduate assistantships.

Graduate assistantships involve supervised teaching, research, or service to the University. They are available in some departments offering graduate programs in the regular session. Students who are recommended to the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies by the departmental chairpersons are considered for appointment. Interested students should confer with the chairperson of their major department.

Students who are interested in serving as residence hall assistants should contact the Director of Residence Operations.

Registration

For information on registration, consult the introductory section in this catalog.

Registration in 4000-level Courses

Graduate students may take 4000-level courses as prerequisite courses ONLY. These courses will not be counted toward the academic program requirements and will not be counted in the student’s cumulative grade point average effective July 1, 2009.

Transfer of Graduate Credit

A maximum of six semester hours of course work may be transferred from another institution if

1. The course is graduate level at an accredited university;
2. The student earned at least a grade of “B” or equivalent in each course for which credit is to be transferred;
3. The advisor, department chairperson, and dean of the college approve the course as part of the student’s graduate program; and
4. The courses do not exceed the six year limit for completing the master’s degree program.

Withdrawal From a Course

All changes in course schedules after the close of registration require the signatures of the instructors involved, the student’s advisor, and the Dean of the College. The form for this purpose may be obtained from the major department and it must be delivered to the Office of the University Registrar. A student who stops attending a course without notifying the instructor, the dean and the registrar may receive a grade of “NF” in that course. If a student withdraws from a course or courses before the last day of classes for the semester but remains registered for other academic work, the course or courses dropped will be awarded a grade of “WC.”

Withdrawals From the University for the Term

Students at the graduate level must request withdrawal from the University through the Office of the Dean of Students in the Division of Student Affairs. Student fees are adjusted for any withdrawal based on the University’s regular policy governing refunds.

Residence Requirement

The term residence designates study and research on the campus of North Carolina Central University. Each student must earn at least two residence credits. Residence credit is calculated in the following manner:

Semester Hours Residence Credits

9 - 12 1
6 - 8 2/3
less than 6 1/3

The required residence credit may be earned either through continuous enrollment or through part-time, regular, or summer study.

The residence requirement must be fulfilled within a period of six years from the date of the student’s registration in his/her first course of degree credit. After the lapse of this period of six years, credits will be lost as they fall outside the six-year time limit according to the current policy on extension.

Grades and Credits

Grading System

The University recognizes the grades that follow in the evaluation of the performance of graduate students.

Quality Points

Quality points are assigned for the purpose of determining the cumulative grade point average as follows:

A = 4 credits
B = 3
C = 2
F = 0
NF = 0

Grades of W, WC, NP, PR, and AU do not compute into the grade point average.

Grade Point Average Requirement

A cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 is required for graduation and for the student to remain enrolled in the Graduate Division. The cumulative grade point average is computed by dividing the total number of quality points earned by the total number of hours attempted.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy

The purpose of this policy is to describe the conditions for continued enrollment in the School of Graduate Studies. It indicates the ways that admission status, the six-year limit on completion of degree program requirements, the grading system, and academic standing affect the time table that defines satisfactory academic progress.

Types of Admissions

The general requirements of this policy apply to all graduate students who have been granted unconditional, conditional, or probational admission. For those persons admitted as special graduate students, whether as a consequence of the regular admissions process or as walk-ins, this policy becomes applicable if regular admission is granted.

General Requirements

Time Limit for Completion of Degree Program Requirements

The time limit for the completion of graduate degree program requirements in all graduate degree programs is six years. The six-year limit begins on the date of the student’s registration in his or her first course for graduate degree credit at North Carolina Central University.

Review of Academic Progress

Academic progress will be reviewed at the end of each semester and each summer session in the Office of the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies.

Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA)

Students are required to maintain a GPA of at least 3.0 (“B”) and are expected to complete their degree program requirements within the six-year limit. The evaluation period is the school term, i.e., semesters and summer sessions.

Impact of GPAs Lower than 3.0

1. When the cumulative GPA falls below 3.0, the student is placed on academic probation and has one calendar year to raise the GPA to at least 3.0. Failure to accomplish this is cause for dismissal.
2. Students on academic probation are expected to complete their programs of study within the six-year limit.

Time Table for Satisfactory Academic Progress

Students are required to satisfactorily complete the following ratio of semester hours required for graduation based on his/her enrollment status:

Students must have completed this portion of the required hours.

Impact of Incomplete Grades

Although incomplete (“I”) grades are not considered in the calculation of a student’s GPA, they will be considered in making the determination of whether or not a student has satisfactorily completed the required ratio of work at the end of years one through six. For example, the graduate program in English requires 30 semester hours. At the end of year one, English major should have successfully completed at least one 3-hour course. If the student earned a grade of “I” in that course, and had not made a “B” in another graduate course in year one, he or she would not have made satisfactory academic progress.

Impact of Grades of F

A student who receives a grade of “F” may not continue as a graduate student unless the chair of the major department submits in writing an acceptable recommendation to the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies. If a student fails a second time, he or she is dismissed from the degree program. Any grade of “F” indicates that a student is not making satisfactory progress.

Reinstatement Procedure Following Dismissal for Receiving a Grade of “F”

1. The student should write to the department chair and request that he or she be permitted to continue in the program.
2. The chair will consult the student’s record and review the request.
3. The chair will express written recommendation to the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies.
4. The Dean will consult with the Graduate Council and convey to the student in writing the administrative decision regarding reinstatement.
5. The Dean’s decision may be appealed to the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs by making a written request.
6. In the interim, the student will be permitted to continue to take the courses in which he or she is officially enrolled, provided the session has already begun.
7. Enrollment in future terms will not be permitted if the student is not administratively reinstated.

Three Grades of “C”

A student who receives three grades of “C” will be placed on academic probation even if his/her GPA is 3.0 or better. Failure to improve the grade in one of the courses within one calendar year after the grade has been recorded is cause for dismissal.

Repetition

At the discretion of the major department, a student may repeat no more than two courses in which grades of “C” were earned for the purpose of improving his/her grade point average. The courses may be repeated once, and only once, for a higher grade. Although all grades earned will remain a part of the permanent record when courses are repeated, only the highest earned grade will be used in computing the grade point average. The repetition of courses may result in an improved grade point average but does not result in multiple credits for a repeated course. Students who repeat courses are expected to complete their work according to the established six-year time table.

Impact of Withdrawal

Instructors record grades of “W” when a student officially withdraws from a course(s) or from the University. Graduate students may withdraw at any time up to the last class day before the beginning of the final examination period for any term. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure that his/her instructors are aware of official withdrawal. Students who do not do this run the risk of receiving the “NF” grade, which counts the same as “F.” For financial aid purposes, the number of credit hours in which the student is enrolled on the day following the published last day to add a course will be used as official enrollment. Grades of “W” are not calculated in the GPA. However, they affect satisfactory academic progress in the same way as grades of “I.”

Impact of Non-Credit Courses

Non-credit courses are those a student is required to take in order to qualify for unconditional admission or otherwise to strengthen his or her academic preparation. Such courses do not count toward graduate degree program requirements. Non-credit courses affect students granted probational admission. They also affect students whose conditional admission stipulates prescribed prerequisite work without graduate credit.

The six-year time limit for students admitted conditionally or on probational status begins when they enroll in the first 5000-level course for graduate degree credit at North Carolina Central University. Thereafter, they must satisfactorily complete the appropriate ratios of semester hours by the end of each of years 1 - 6.

Impact of Transfer Credits

Any of the maximum of six semester hours of course work for which a student has been granted transfer credit will be counted in the ratios of semester hours required for graduation. (See “Time Table for Satisfactory Academic Progress.”) Transfer credits are not calculated in the GPA.

Impact of Extension of Time

In exceptional circumstances, the Graduate Council may grant a student an extension of time beyond the six-year limit for completion of degree program requirements. During the extended time, a student will be making satisfactory academic progress if he or she remains in good academic standing and fulfills the conditions of the extension according to the manner and time table prescribed in the Dean’s written notification of extension. (See “Policy on Extension of Time” below.) A student who receives a grade of “NP” in Thesis Conference is not deemed to be making satisfactory academic progress.

Policy on Extension of Time

1. Students in graduate school are expected to complete all the requirements for the master’s degree within six years from the date they enrolled in the first North Carolina Central University course used for the degree.
2. An extension of the time for completion of the degree beyond the six-year limit may be requested in exceptional circumstances and granted with certain conditions.
3. Only students who have been admitted to candidacy may request an extension of time. All requests must be made in writing and addressed to the Chair of the Department or Director of a Program with a copy to the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies. A student must consult with his/her advisor before making a formal request for an extension of time. The request shall include
   1. the reasons for not finishing the degree program within the specified timeframe,
   2. the chronology of the progress made up to the date of the written request for extension,
   3. a statement of the work which remains to be done,
   4. the length of the extension requested.

   Guidelines for Reinstatement After Dismissal

   1. Favorable recommendation from the department chairperson or department representative plus supporting evidence are required. Whenever possible, the supporting evidence should include a written statement from each of the teachers who assigned a grade below “B.” The student is responsible for asking the instructors to send the statements to the Office of the Dean.
   2. An examination of the student’s record by the Graduate Council should reveal clear evidence of academic potential and industry. In making the decision in a particular case, the council will give more weight to grades earned in required courses than grades earned in electives.
   3. Basic competence in the fundamentals of English usage based on the judgment of the student’s advisor and teachers should be a primary consideration for reinstatement.

   Degree Requirements

   The general requirements for advanced degrees are set out below. For special departmental requirements, the student should consult the section on “Course Descriptions” section in this Catalog, which describes fields and courses of instruction for each department. The student must assume full responsibility for acquaintance with both the general regulations and the special requirements of the department in which he/she takes the major work.

   Graduation with Distinction

   Eligibility for graduation with honors by graduate students requires the following cumulative grade point averages:

   • Summa Cum Laude: 3.92 - 4.0;
   • Magna Cum Laude: 3.85 - 3.919;
   • Cum Laude: 3.77 - 3.849.

   Requirements For:

   MASTER OF ARTS
   MASTER OF SCIENCE
   MASTER OF MUSIC IN JAZZ STUDIES
   MASTER OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
   MASTER OF LIBRARY SCIENCE
   MASTER OF INFORMATION SCIENCE
   MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINSTRATION
   MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK
   MASTER OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
   MASTER OF EDUCATION
   MASTER OF ARTS IN TEACHING
   ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY

   A student does not become a candidate for the master’s degree in any department until he/she makes application for admission to candidacy for the degree he/she seeks.

   General admission to the Graduate Division is not the same as admission to candidacy for a graduate degree. For the latter purpose, formal application is necessary, and special forms for this application are supplied by the Dean’s Office. This application may not be filed earlier than the first week of the second semester of residence; it must be filed at least three months before the degree is conferred. All conditions must have been satisfied, the foreign language or statistics requirement met, a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher must have been earned, and at least one full semester or two summer sessions of graduate level work must have been accomplished before the Graduate Council will approve such an application. In addition, the application must be approved by the major department. The application must be accompanied by an orderly plan for a proposed thesis or research project and a program of studies in satisfaction of the requirements of the degree, both duly approved by the department of the student’s major.

   Undergraduate Preparation

   All students granted unconditional admission must have had an undergraduate major, consisting of 30 semester hours of work, in the field of study chosen for specialization. Eligibility to undertake studies for the minor will be determined by the student’s ability to meet the prerequisites of the courses selected for the minor.

   Majors and Minors

   The student must elect a major and a minor. This decision will depend upon the student’s preparation, but the final selection of courses composing each will be made in so far as may be compatible with the requirements of the Graduate Division, according to what seems to be in the best interest and needs of the student. The minor must be drawn, except in cases having the express approval of the Graduate Division, from a different department. Persons expecting to qualify for the North Carolina Master’s teaching licensure in a subject matter area should earn at least 18 semester hours in the subject area.

   The Student’s Special Committee

   The chairperson of the student’s department appoints an advisor or serves as advisor until the time the student is admitted to candidacy. After a student is admitted to candidacy, a special committee is appointed, composed of at least two members of the Graduate Faculty. The appointment is made by the Departmental Chair and faculty. The committee is the student’s advisory guide in the matter of research and study program. The director of the student’s thesis or research project is the chairperson of the committee.

   Language or Other Research Tool Requirements

   Candidates for a master’s degree will be required to demonstrate reading proficiency in a foreign language approved by the department or to successfully complete a course in either statistics or a modern computer language. The foreign language requirement, or the appropriate substitute, must be satisfied prior to admission to candidacy. Any course taken to fulfill the research tool requirement will not be counted in the hours required for the degree program. Specific departmental requirements are listed below:

   1. In biology, the student will be required to demonstrate reading proficiency in a foreign language approved by the department or to complete successfully a course in either statistics or computer science.
   2. In mathematics, the student will demonstrate reading proficiency in a foreign language approved by the department, or demonstrate competency in contemporary programming language or statistics. Competency in a programming language may be demonstrated either by examination or the completion (with a grade of “B” or above) of a programming language course (BASIC, FORTRAN, C++, Java) currently offered in the department.
   3. In history, the student will demonstrate reading proficiency in a foreign language approved by the department or complete successfully a course in computer science that requires demonstration of competency in the elements of one computer programming language.
   4. In English, sociology, and chemistry, the student will demonstrate reading proficiency in a foreign language approved by the department. Sociology students may be exempt from the foreign language requirement by passing, with a grade of “B” or above, a graduate level course in statistics.
   5. In psychology, the student may substitute for the foreign language requirement a demonstrated proficiency in the use of a computer language, a demonstrated proficiency in the use of a batch program or course work in advanced statistics.
   6. In human sciences, physical education and recreation, a course in educational statistics is required as a substitute for the foreign language requirement.
   7. In criminal justice, the student is required to complete a graduate level course in statistics and to complete CRIM 5450 , Techniques in Planning in Criminal Justice.
   8. In public administration, the reading proficiency in a foreign language is fulfilled by completing, with a grade of “B” or above, PADM 5130 , Methods of Public Administration Research.

   The student who takes the foreign language examination in French, German or Spanish should arrange a conference with the chairperson of the Department of Modern Foreign Languages who will give advice on how to prepare for the examination.

   International students whose native language is not English, who are seeking a master’s degree in which a reading knowledge of a modern foreign language is required, may not offer their native language in satisfaction of this requirement. They may offer a reading knowledge of what is to them a modern foreign language. They are eligible to undertake an examination in English composition and reading comprehension in satisfaction of the requirement of a reading knowledge of a modern foreign language.

   Comprehensive Examinations

   In addition to the individual course examination, graduate students who are candidates for the master’s degree are required to pass two comprehensive examinations. One of these is a comprehensive written examination covering the courses within the major. This examination may not be taken later than four weeks before the degree is conferred. The date of this examination is established in the academic calendar.

   The other examination is the final oral examination covering the thesis and its application in the major and minor subjects. A committee of examiners, representing both major and minor areas, administers this examination. A student failing to pass either of these examinations may, after the lapse of a semester, apply for and secure reexamination. Should a second failure occur, a third examination is possible upon recommendation of the major department in the case of a written examination or of the committee in charge of the oral examination and on a favorable vote of the Graduate Council. In the event of a third failure, the student has no recourse and his/her candidacy will be considered vacated.

   Thesis/Research Project

   Each candidate for the master’s degree must submit an acceptable thesis, internship paper (if in public administration), National Board of Certification portfolio, or research project. Credit equal to that of one full course (3 semester hours) will be granted when a thesis is accepted and successfully defended. Students must be enrolled in Thesis when working to complete theses. A maximum of six credit hours can be awarded for a thesis. Students will sign up for no more than one credit hour for Thesis each semester. In the semester in which a student finishes a Thesis, additional hours up to six may be given.

   The preparation of the thesis or research project is a research experience. It should show the capacity of the student under guidance to accomplish independent investigation, and it must demonstrate mastery of the technique of research. It is not expected nor required that the thesis or research project shall in every case be an original contribution to knowledge. The student, in the preparation of the thesis or research project, is concerned with the materials of knowledge and the evidential bases on which the knowledge rests. Various types of theses or research projects are required by different departments.

   The original and three copies of the thesis or research project must be inspected in the Graduate Office for compliance with the Graduate School’s requirements of form and style. Final approved documents must be deposited in the Office of Graduate Student Services not later than the date specified in the academic calendar. At that time the binding fee must be paid. A copy of the regulations regarding form, style, and physical requirements for theses and research projects may be obtained from the Graduate Studies Division of the College.

   All requirements - including the written examination, the thesis or research project, and the oral examination - must be completed by the date listed in the academic calendar for a student to receive his/her degree during the desired semester.

   General Sequence of Procedures Leading to:

   The Degrees of Master of Arts and Master of Science

   1. Request by the student for admission to a Graduate Program in the School of Graduate Studies. Applications for this purpose may be accessed on-line via the NCCU website.
   2. Writing sample at time of orientation.
   3. Conference with chairperson, or designated advisor, of the department of specialization with regard to program and special requirements.
   4. Fulfillment of language requirement or its equivalent. This requirement must be satisfied before the student can be admitted to candidacy. Language examinations will be given once each semester and once during the summer. Application for the same must be made to the School of Graduate Studies at least ten days prior to the examination.
   5. Approval of thesis or research topic and outline by department of specialization.
   6. Application for admission to candidacy must be submitted to the School of Graduate Studies to be approved by the Graduate Council. The student must have:
      1. Satisfied language requirement or its equivalent.
      2. Completed nine semester hours of course work, six of which must be in the field of the major, with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
      3. Removed deficiencies assigned at the time of admission.
      4. Received approval of thesis or research topic and outline by department of specialization.

      The Degree of Master of Public Administration

      1. Request by the student for admission to a Graduate Program in School of Graduate Studies. Applications for this purpose may be accessed on-line via the NCCU website.
      2. Conference with the Director of the Public Administration Program, or designated advisor, with regard to program and special requirements.
      3. Completion of 28 semester hours of core courses with a “B” or better including completing, with a grade of “B” or above, PADM 5130 , Methods of Public Administration Research.
      4. Approval of directed internship project, internship placement, or thesis topic by the Public Administration Graduate Faculty and Director.
      5. The student must have:
         1. Completing with a grade of “B” or above PADM 5130 , Methods of Public Administration Research.
         2. Completion of 28 semester hours of core courses with a “B” or better with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
         3. Removed deficiencies assigned at the time of admission.
         4. Received approval of thesis outline for students electing the thesis option, or received approval of the internship for students who elect to complete an internship paper. Thesis outlines and internships must be approved by the Public Administration Department Chairperson and Graduate Faculty.

         The Second Master’s Degree

         The program of graduate study of a student who wishes to earn a second master’s degree must conform to the following policy:

         1. Each candidate must satisfy all requirements for admission to the Graduate Division as detailed in this catalog.
         2. Each candidate must complete a minimum of 18 semester hours in addition to those completed for the first master’s degree. After having completed nine semester hours, each student’s performance will be evaluated by the department awarding the second master’s degree.
         3. In addition to the minimum 18 semester hour requirement, each candidate must complete a research project or thesis in the area in which he or she wishes to earn the second master’s degree.
         4. The department chairperson or department representative has the responsibility for recommending a program of study for each prospective candidate to the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies.
         5. The Dean has the responsibility for reviewing and approving each proposed program for a second master’s degree.
         6. The Graduate Council shall review all programs of study for second master’s degrees so that the graduate faculty will know the nature of the clientele being served.

         Academic Integrity Policy

         As a center of learning, teaching, and research, North Carolina Central University charges its members to maintain patterns of academic behavior which enable these essential functions.

         Academic Dishonesty Defined

         Academic dishonesty is defined as any conduct which is intended by the student to obtain for him/her or for others an unfair or false evaluation in connection with any examination or other work for academic credit. Cheating, fabrication, plagiarism and complicity are examples of conduct which is academically dishonest.

         Cheating is the unauthorized use of materials in connection with an examination or other work for academic credit, including, but not limited to:

         1. The use of books, notes, outlines, etc. during an examination where the instructor has not authorized use of such materials or information;
         2. Seeking unauthorized materials or information from others in connection with an examination;
         3. Giving or attempting to give unauthorized assistance to another person in connection with an examination;
         4. Obtaining or attempting to obtain unauthorized copies of examinations;
         5. Bringing to an examination, or attempting to use during an examination, unauthorized answers which have been prepared before the examination period;
         6. Copying or attempting to copy from the work of another student during an examination; and,
         7. Submitting for evaluation in a course, part or the whole of a work for which credit has been given previously.

         Fabrication is the invention, counterfeiting and/or alteration of quoted passages, data, procedures, experiments, sources or other information in connection with any academic exercise.

         Plagiarism is the use of the ideas, words, or works of another without attribution when the information provided is not common knowledge either in content or form and includes, but is not limited to:

         1. Quoting from the published or unpublished work of another without appropriate attribution;
         2. Paraphrasing or summarizing in one’s own work any portion of the published or unpublished materials of another without attribution; and,
         3. Borrowing from another’s work, data, and facts which are not in the domain of common knowledge.

         Complicity is the giving of assistance or the attempt to give assistance to another for the purpose of perpetrating academic dishonesty.

         Sanctions

         The penalties for conviction of the first offense of academic dishonesty may include the following and the penalties will be determined by the severity of the offense:

         1. Formal warning;
         2. Grade of “F” for the assignment;
         3. Grade of “F” for the course; or
         4. Suspension for a period ranging from one semester to a year.

         Conviction of a second academic dishonesty offense will result in expulsion from the University.

         Complete rules governing the Academic Integrity Policy and procedures for appealing any part of the policy may be obtained from the Office of the Dean of Graduate Studies, NCCU, Durham, NC 27707.

         Grade Appeal Policy

         1. If a student believes that he or she has been graded improperly by a faculty member, the student should write to the instructor requesting review and re-evaluation of the final course grade. The student should also request a conference to discuss the matter. These actions must be taken within 30 days after the Registrar’s Office has mailed the official grades.
         2. The instructor will respond to the student in writing within ten (10) class days after the initial meeting, and will send a copy of the response to the Program Director or Department Chair.
         3. If the student disagrees with the instructor’s decision, the student may make a written request that the Director or Chair review the record. This action must be taken within ten (10) class days after the date on the instructor’s written response.
         4. If the student is in a program within a department, the Director will review the student’s record and may consult with the student and the graduate faculty. The Directorwill then make a written recommendation to the student, with a copy to the Department Chair, within ten (10) class days after the date on the student’s written request.
         5. If the student disagrees with the Director’s recommendation, he or she may make a written request that the Department Chair review the record. This action must be taken within ten (10) class days after the date on the Director’s written response to the student.
         6. The Chair will review the record and may consult with the student and the graduate faculty. The Chair will then make a written recommendation to the student, with a copy to the Dean, within ten (10) class days after the date on the student’s written request.
         7. If the student disagrees with the Chair’s decision, the student may make a written request that the Dean review the record. This action must be taken within ten (10) class days after the date on the Chair’s written response to the student.
         8. After reviewing the student’s record, the Dean will consult with the Graduate Council as soon as practicable. The Dean will inform the student in writing of the administrative decision regarding the grade.
         9. The student may appeal the Dean’s decision by making a written request to the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. The student must make this appeal within ten (10) days after the date on the Dean’s response.