General Regulations Information

Location: 112 Foote-Hilyer Administration Center
Email: registrar@famu.edu
Web: www.famu.edu/registrar

The University Registrar is the official custodian of academic records and the keeper of the university seal at Florida A&M University. The general functions of the University Registrar are to assist in planning and executing academic policies and programs; provide for administration of policies and regulations pertaining to the academic status of students; provide for planning and executing orderly registration and graduation of students; develop the academic calendar, semester schedule of classes and final examination schedules; maintain and secure student records; and assist the Office of Veterans Affairs in providing counseling and certification for students and dependents of veterans receiving veteran benefits.

The specific responsibilities of the office include to collect and maintain academic information; conduct registration for regular degree-seeking, non-degree seeking students process the graduation of degree-seeking students; grading, change of grades, and transfer credits; prepare and release transcripts; maintain accurate academic, historical, biographical, and directory information; provide information and data for use and review by college deans, planning office, directors, vice presidents, the President, the Board of Governors, U.S. Department of Education, and other authorized personnel and agencies.
 

Registration Requirements and Procedures

FAMU registration policies and procedures, including final examination schedules are published on the University website.

Registration Dates are listed in the university calendar section on the Registrar website. Students are responsible for complying with all regulations governing registration, change-of-schedules (drop/add), tuition payment, and other requirements described either in this catalog or advised by the administration. Every registrant must arrange a class schedule with an academic advisor or a faculty advisor at the time and place designated.

Web Registration:  Students are encouraged to take advantage of the university’s web registration system iRattler via www.famu.edu.  Students are able to register for classes from home or anywhere in the world. Students may consult the schedule of class section of the website at www.famu.edu for detailed instructions.

Failure to register for a course or courses by the close of the formal registration period (The registration period prior to the first day of classes) will result in the assessment of a late registration fee of $100.00. No student will be permitted to register after “the last day to register,” as listed in the university calendar, unless appropriate approval is granted.

The payment of all expenses and fees is a part of registration. Students are not officially enrolled or registered until all necessary fees are paid and validated by the Office of Student Financial Services.  Students are fee liable if they fail to drop or withdraw from classes on or before the end of add/drop.  See the current university calendar at the Registrar’s web page (www.famu.edu/registrar).

No student will receive credit for any course(s) for which the student is not properly registered as described above.

Registration Holds - A student’s registration is placed on hold based on a variety of financial and administrative reasons. Students are notified of registration holds on their student self-service center (iRattler) prior to each registration period and are required to clear all holds before being allowed to register. Please see the University website for a detailed description of all hold codes.  Students can view the holds applied to their records in iRattler (www.famu.edu) by clicking on the ‘Details’ link on the Student Center to obtain additional information.

Auditing Course(s) - A student may register to audit a course(s) on a space available basis. Admission to Florida A&M University is not required, and no credit will be given for audited course(s). However, you must complete the Non-Degree Seeking Application to register to audit the course(s).   At least two forms of IDs are required for Florida Residency.    The student must (1) fill out an academic advisement form and enter an “A” in the “AUD” column of the form and (2) obtain the approval of the instructor of the course(s). The instructor must sign in the permission/signature column opposite the course(s). The student must register and pay the appropriate fees for the course(s). Registration for the audit may not be changed from audit to credit, or vice versa, after the first week of classes.

Class Schedule Changes (Add/Drop) - Changes in class schedules may be made only with consent of the academic advisor, department chair, and dean of the college or school in which the student is registered. No changes in class schedules may be made after the date stipulated in the calendar for making changes. The time limit for adding or dropping a course is published in the University calendar.  After the published date for add and drop students are fee liable for registered course(s).

Academic Load - Some colleges/schools have a maximum or minimum load which is stated in the respective curriculum sections of this catalog. The normal load for a student is 15-18 credit hours.

Academic Status - For the fall and spring terms, undergraduate students are considered full-time if they are enrolled for 12 hours or more. For the fall and Spring terms, graduate students are considered full-time if they are enrolled for 9 hours or more. During the summer term, undergraduate students are considered full-time if enrolled for 9 hours or more; graduate students are considered full-time if enrolled for 6 hours or more.

All students who are recipients of financial aid may be required to maintain a full-time load as indicated above. The minimum load for full-time benefits from the Veterans Administration is 12 credit hours.

Non-Degree Registration

An individual interested in taking course(s) but not working toward a degree may register as a Non-Degree seeking student provided he or she has not been denied admission to the university. A Non-degree seeking Student Application must be completed and submitted before registration (See University Calendar). The Non-Degree seeking student is required to follow the regular registration procedures and pay the same fees as other students.  A Non-Degree seeking undergraduate students is limited to earning 30 credit hours and non-degree seeking graduate students is limited to earning 12 credit hours. Registration is on a space available basis.

Credits earned by non-degree students are not considered degree credits. In order to receive degree credits, the student must submit an application for admission and the required application fee, and qualify for admissions to a degree program. To qualify, all non-degree seeking students registering for undergraduate courses must have graduated from a high school or received a G.E.D. Exceptions will be considered on an individual basis.

Class Attendance Regulations

Students are expected to make the most of the educational opportunities available by regularly attending classes and laboratory periods. The university reserves the right to address individual cases of non-attendance. A student will be permitted one unexcused absence per credit hour of the course he or she is attending. A student exceeding the number of unexcused absences may be assigned the grade of “F.” Class attendance regulations apply to all students.

Students are responsible for all assignments, quizzes, and examinations at the time they are due and may not use their absence from class as a plea for extensions of time to complete assignments or for permission to take make-up examinations or quizzes.  Absence from class for cause: (a) participation in recognized university activities, (b) personal illness, or (c) an emergency beyond the student control must be properly documented.

Summer Term Attendance Rules

Students entering Florida A&M University with fewer than 60 semester credit hours shall be required to earn at least 9 semester hours prior to graduation by attending one or more summer sessions. The University president or designee may waive the application of this regulation in cases of unusual hardship to the student. [BOG 6.016]

Summer terms may consist of two or more sessions. Courses offered during the summer sessions are organized to make them equivalent in content, method, and credit to those of a full semester. During summer term the university supplements the regular instructional program with credit and non-credit activities such as institutes, workshops, and conferences.
 

Dual Enrollment 

High School Dual Enrollment Registration- The dual enrollment program is the enrollment of an eligible secondary student or home education student in a FAMU course creditable toward high school completion and/or an associate or baccalaureate degree (F.S. 1007.27; State Board of Education Rule 6A-10.241 FAC). Students who are eligible for dual enrollment pursuant to this section may enroll in dual enrollment courses conducted during school hours, after school hours, and during the summer term. However, if the student is projected to graduate from high school before the scheduled completion date of the FAMU course, the student may not register for that course through dual enrollment. Such a student may apply to FAMU and pay the required registration, tuition, and fees if the student meets the admissions requirements under F.S. 1007.263.

To be eligible for dual enrollment, the student must be currently enrolled in a secondary school operated by Leon or Gadsden County School Board. The student must possess a grade point average of 3.0 or better, appropriate test scores, and be classified as a high school junior or senior. Students will be enrolled at no cost to either the student or the district. To remain eligible, the student must obtain a 2.0 grade point average in university course work. Students in Leon or Gadsden County public high schools interested in dual enrollment course work should consult their guidance counselor for additional information

Florida College System Dual Enrollment -  The student must obtain approval from the designated representatives of the institution. Florida College System students must have degree seeking status at the home college and possess at least a 2.00 grade point average. The student will be expected to follow prescribed registration procedures for Non-degree seeking at Florida A&M University.

Florida A&M University and Florida State University Cooperative Program

Florida A&M University and Florida State University are participants in a cooperative program (COOP) that permits students enrolled at either institution to take a limited load at the other institution as follows:

• Permission is granted by the academic advisor and dean of the student’s home university and by the chairperson of the department in which the course is to be taken at the host university.
• No more than half of the credit hours taken by a student during a given term may be taken at FSU
• Whenever possible within FAMU policy, courses taken at FSU may be graded or S-U grading basis
• Courses taken at FSU should be those not offered at FAMU
• Student credit hours generated by students taking courses at FSU are treated the same as credits taken at FAMU
• All fees are paid at FAMU.  Students will not be required to pay additional registration fees for courses taken at FSU (with the exception of online course(s))

FAMU student joint enrollment at FSU - Procedure

1. Complete the FAMU/FSU Cooperative Program Application available on FAMU website; www.famu.edu/registrar, and click on forms
2. Search for course(s) at www.fsu.edu and access the FSU Registrar’s website under Registration Tools.  Complete the ‘Requested Classes portion of the COOP form.
3. Take completed form to your FAMU academic advisor and obtain the Dean’s signature. The Dean’s signature gives you permission to take classes at FSU.
4. Obtain the signature of the FSU department chair or instructor for the course.
5. Obtain a copy of your immunization record from the FAMU Health Center and take to The Wellness Center at FSU to receive clearance for registration on FSU campus.
6. Obtain a financial clearance from Student Financial Services at FSU (equivalent to our Student Accounts) to ensure that you do not owe FSU any fees.
7. Submit the completed form, stamped immunization records, and financial clearance to FAMU Registrar’s Office, Foote-Hilyer Administration Center Room 112
8. The Registrar’s office representative will complete the COOP registration with FSU representative.  Registered course(s) from FSU will appear on your iRattler class schedule
9. ALL drops and withdrawals are done through the FAMU Representative. Please see FAMU academic calendar for deadline.
10.   Student must submit FAMU Attendance Recording Form to FHAC Room 112.
11.  No special arrangement is required with the Financial Aid Office.  However, your attendance must be reported for funds to be disbursed.

Note:  Additional fees may apply if you chose online classes at FSU (See course information on FSU website.

1.   Grades will be posted at the end of the term and will be recorded on student’s transcript in iRattler. All grades will be calculated into the FAMU grade point average (G.P.A.).

FSU Student joint enrollment at FAMU - Procedure

Florida State University students entering the FAMU/FSU COOP program for the first time MUST: 

1. Complete the COOP application in its entirety, and obtain signatures from instructor or department chair at Florida A & M University (FAMU departmental information may be found at www.famu.edu/, select Students, listing of majors, colleges & schools) and your FSU academic dean.
2. Pick up a copy of your immunization records from The Wellness Center. Take immunization records to FAMU’s Student Health Services office in the Foote-Hilyer Building and obtain FAMU’s health clearance form.
3. Bring the completed COOP application and FAMU’s health clearance form to the representative in FSU’s Registrar’s office, 3900 UCA. You may reach the FSU COOP representative at (850) 644-1050.

 FSU students continuing in the FAMU/FSU COOP program MUST: 

1. Complete the registration form in its entirety and obtain approval signatures from instructor or department chair at FAMU and your FSU academic dean.
2. Bring the completed registration form to the co-op representative in FSU’s Registrar’s office, 3900 UCA. You may reach the FSU co-op representative at (850) 644-1050.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS: 

• If problems arise with your registration at FAMU or FSU, you will be contacted using the information provided on the registration form. Please report any changes in contact information to the COOP representative at your home institution.
• DO NOT ALTER your COOP registration. To drop a COOP course contact the COOP representative in the Registrar’s office at your home institution. All drop and add must be done through the Registrar’s office. The deadline for dropping and adding are the same as for other classes at your host institution. 

State Employees with Fee Waivers

All State Employees who are granted fee waivers are welcome to Florida A&M University to register for six credit hours on a “space available basis only.”  (F.S. 1009.265)

All State Employees must obtain and complete a “State Employee Tuition Waiver Registration” form by the published deadline. (See University Calendar)

State employees may only register for course(s) approved by their immediate supervisor, agency head, and the University.

Fee waivers may not be used for thesis, dissertation, applied music course(s), internship, course(s) requiring directed individual instruction, course(s) offered in the colleges and schools of Architecture, Journalism, Nursing, Online Courses for Distance Learning, and Pharmacy.

State employees using fee waivers must: 

1. Present the completed “State Employee Tuition Waiver Registration” form signed (approved) by their supervisor to the registration representative.
2. Complete the one-page Non-Degree Seeking Student Application form. The form may be obtained from the Registrar’s website at www.famu.edu/registrar. This form is not necessary if you are admitted to a degree program or have been previously enrolled at FAMU.
3. You may enroll in your classes online if your access to iRattler has been setup
4. Print and complete the late registration waiver.  The form may be obtained from the Registrar’s website at www.famu.edu/registrar
5. Submit your completed State Employee Tuition Waiver Registration form to FAMU Registrar’s Office or email to registrar@famu.edu
6. Go to Student Accounts to pay your applicable fees. If your fees are not paid by the deadline date you will be assessed a $100.00 late payment fee. 

Please contact the Registrar’s Office at (850) 599-3115 if you have questions or need additional information.

Tuition-Free Courses for Persons 60 Years and Older

Individuals who are 60 years of age and older and are residents of the State of Florida are permitted to take course(s) on a tuition-free basis. All fees are waived for this group of citizens who attend credit classes for non-degree purposes. Registration will be processed upon presentation of a proof of residency and proof of age. The non-degree seeking application must be completed.

Under this option, registration is allowed on a space available basis only and does not include thesis, dissertation, applied music courses, internship, courses requiring directed individual instruction,  courses offered in the colleges and schools of Architecture, Journalism, Nursing, Online Courses for Distance Learning, and Pharmacy. Certain courses require permission from the department for enrollment. Individuals who wish to register in permission courses must go to the department offering the class and get a permission/signature prior to registration.

Registration dates and procedures are the same as those listed for State Employees and Non-degree seeking students.

 
Repeat course surcharge

A student enrolled in the same undergraduate college credit course more than two times shall be assessed a repeat course surcharge equal to 100 percent of the full cost of instruction and shall not be included in calculations of full-time equivalent enrollments for state funding purposes (240.124 F.S.). The purpose of this surcharge is to encourage students to pass the course during the first two attempts and to prevent students from repeating courses unnecessarily

Calculations of the full cost of instruction shall be based on the system wide average of the prior year’s cost of undergraduate programs for the Florida College System and the State University System. The University may make exceptions for individualized study, elective coursework, courses that are repeated as a requirement of a major (i.e. courses that are designed to be repeated with departmental authorization/permission), and courses that are intended as continuing over multiple semesters. The repeat of coursework more than two times to increase grade point average or meet minimum course grade requirements is excluded.

Exception include;

• Any course(s) taken or repeated prior to Fall 1997
• Courses identified as repeatable (to the limit allowed)
• Courses designed to take multiple semesters to complete
• Withdrawals or dropped courses that do not result in fee payment

Students may appeal the fee if extenuating circumstances or severe financial hardship exist.  Extenuating circumstances are those determined to be exceptional and beyond the control of the student.  These include serious illness or medical conditions preventing course completion, death of an immediate family member, etc. Severe financial hardships are also those determined to be exceptional and beyond the control of the student such as bankruptcy, loss of income, documented qualification for Federal need-based aid, etc.  A student is liable for paying all surcharge fee(s) associated with repeated courses along with their regular tuition on or before the term’s deadline date. After the Repeat Course Surcharge Committee meets to determine the outcome of the appeal (if approved), the repeat surcharge fee is returned to the fund or the student’s FAMU account.

Excess Credit Hours

Students who exceed the hours required to complete their baccalaureate degree programs are required to pay an excess hour surcharge for each credit hour in excess. The excess hour surcharge shall become effective for students who enter the university for the first time and maintain continuous enrollment as follows:

(a) For the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 academic years, an excess hour surcharge equal to 50 percent of the tuition rate for each credit hour in excess of 120 percent.

(b) For the 2011-2012 academic year, an excess hour surcharge equal to 100 percent of the tuition rate for each credit hour in excess of 115 percent.

(c) For the 2012-2013 academic year through the 2019 spring term, an excess hour surcharge equal to 100 percent of the tuition rate for each credit hour in excess of 110 percent.

(d)    For the 2019 summer term and thereafter, an excess hour surcharge equal to 100 percent of the tuition rate for each credit hour in excess of 120 percent

For example; students whose majors require 120 credit hours and who entered Florida A&M University in;

(a) 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 academic years, an excess hour Surcharge equal to 50 percent of the tuition rate will be accessed for each credit hour in excess of 144

(b) 2011-2012 academic year, an excess hour surcharge equal to 100 percent of the tuition rate will be accessed for each credit hour in excess of 138

(c) 2012-2013 academic year and thereafter, an excess hour surcharge equal to 100 percent of the tuition rate will be accessed for each credit hour in excess of 132

(d) 2019 summer term and thereafter, an excess hour surcharge equal to 100 percent of the tuition rate for each credit hour in excess of 144.

Any First-time-in-college student who completes a baccalaureate degree program within 4 years after his or her initial enrollment and was assessed excess hour surcharge, shall receive a refund up to 12 credit hours.

All credit hours for courses attempted at Florida A&M University for which the student is seeking a baccalaureate degree will be considered when calculating the credit hours for the surcharge, including:

• Failed courses
• Courses that are dropped or withdrawn from after the university’s advertised last day of drop/add period except for courses from which a student withdrew due to reasons of medical or personal hardship
• Repeated courses, except those for which the student has paid the full cost of instruction (Repeat course charge applied)
• All credit hours earned at another institution and accepted for transfer by Florida A&M University and applied toward the student’s baccalaureate degree program; and
• Graduate credit that is attempted for completion of a baccalaureate degree. Credit that is used solely for the graduate degree will not be included

Credit hours that will not be calculated in the tuition surcharge for excess hours include;

• College credits earned through an articulated accelerated mechanism, such as AP, AICE,CLEP, IB, DLPT, DSST, Excelsior, or Dual enrollment
• Credit hours earned through internship programs
• Credit hours required for certification, recertification, or certificate programs
• Credit hours in courses from which a student must withdraw due to reasons of medical or personal hardship
• Credit hours earned by a returning student seeking a second baccalaureate degree so long as the student began the first baccalaureate program before fall 2009
• Credit hours taken by active-duty military personnel. Students will be required to submit documentation of their active duty status
• Credit hours required to achieve a dual major taken while pursuing a baccalaureate degree
• Remedial and English as a Second Language credit hours. This includes foreign language courses taken by a student in order to meet State University System requirement
• Credit hours earned in military science courses that are part of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program

Students are advised to meet with their academic advisor to discuss their academic work.  If a student believes he/she is charged in error, the student should contact the registrar’s office at 850-599-3115.
 

Residency Requirements for Tuition Purposes
For the purpose of assessing registration and tuition fees, students will be classified as “resident or nonresident.” A “resident” for tuition purposes is a person who qualifies for the in-state tuition rate; a “nonresident” for tuition purposes is a person who does not qualify for the in-state tuition rate.

At Florida A&M University there are two offices responsible for the initial review of residency for tuition purposes under Florida Statute 1009.21. These offices are: The Office of Admissions and The Office of the University Registrar. The first office determines residency for all first-time-on-campus students; the Office of the University Registrar is the only office to which students can apply for changes in residency once they are enrolled. First-time-on-campus students will be classified in accordance with the information on their applications, including the “Florida Resident Affidavit” on the last page of the application, providing no other information is available calling into question the information on the application.

Reclassification of residency for Tuition Purposes

Who Qualifies?

To qualify as a Florida resident for tuition purposes, the student (dependent or independent) must be a

1.  U.S. Citizen, or
2. Permanent resident alien or a legal alien granted indefinite stay by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) (This is the government agency that oversees lawful immigration to the United States) and
3. Person who established physical and legal residence in Florida for at least one year. “Evidence of legal residence and its duration shall include clear and convincing documentation that residency in this state was for a minimum of 12 consecutive months prior to a student’s initial enrollment in an institution of higher education (F. S. 1009.21.  Students who do not meet this requirement cannot be classified as residents for tuition purposes.

Determination of Status - Independent or Dependent

An independent student will be required to submit his or her own documentation of residency while a dependent student will be required to submit his or her parent’s  spouse’s or legal guardian’s documentation of residency. 

Independent Student

A person who meets any one of the following criteria shall be classified as an independent student for the determination of residency for tuition purposes: 

• The student is 24 years of age or older by the first day of classes of the term for which residency status is sought at a Florida institution
• The student is married
• The student has children who receive more than half of their support from the student
• The student has other dependents who live with and receive more than half of their support from the student
• The student is a veteran of the United States Armed Forces or is currently serving on active duty in the United States Armed Forces for purposes other than training
• Both of the student’s parents are deceased or the student is or was (until age 18) a ward/dependent of the court
• The student is working on a master’s or doctoral degree during the term for which residency status is sought at a Florida institution
• The student is classified as an independent student by the Financial Aid Office
• The student is homeless as determined by the student’s high school or school district liaison,
• The student is a foster care/ward of the court as determined by a court in the student’s state of legal residence
• Student submits documentation that he or she provides fifty (50) percent or more of the cost of attendance as defined by the financial aid office (federal, state, and institutional aid or scholarships are not included) for independent, in-state students.   Clear and convincing evidence must be submitted to Florida A&M University.

Dependent Student

All other students who do not meet the above definition of an independent student shall be classified as dependent students for determination of residency for tuition purposes.  A dependent child who is a United States citizen may not be denied classification as a resident for tuition purposes based solely upon the immigration status of his or her parent

Residency Documentation

Documentation establishing legal residence in Florida by one of two means (must be dated at least one year prior to the first day of classes of the semester for which resident status is sought)

• Proof of purchase of a permanent home in Florida in which the student has resided for at least one year prior to the first day of classes
• Proof that the student has maintained residence in Florida for the preceding year (e.g., rent receipts, canceled checks or notarized statement from a landlord); AND

Establishment of Domicile

Documentation establishing bona fide domicile in Florida which is not temporary or merely incidental to enrollment in a Florida institution of higher education must be dated at least one year prior to the first day of classes of the semester for which resident status is sought. The following documents will be considered evidence of domicile;

Note:  No single criteria will be considered as conclusive evidence of domicile

1. The documents must include at least one of the following:

1. A Florida voter’s registration card.
2. A Florida driver license.
3. A State of Florida identification card.
4. A Florida vehicle registration.
5. Proof of a permanent home in Florida which is occupied as a primary residence by the individual or by the individual’s parent if the individual is a dependent child.
6. Proof of a homestead exemption in Florida.
7. Transcripts from a Florida high school for multiple years if the Florida high school diploma or GED was earned within the last 12 months.
8. Proof of permanent full‑time employment in Florida for at least 30 hours per week for a 12‑month period.

2. The documents may include one or more of the following:

1. A declaration of domicile in Florida.
2. A Florida professional or occupational license.
3. Florida incorporation.
4. A document evidencing family ties in Florida.
5. Proof of membership in a Florida‑based charitable or professional organization.
6. Any other documentation that supports the student’s request for resident status, including, but not limited to utility bills and proof of 12 consecutive months of payments; a lease agreement and proof of 12 consecutive months of payments; or an official state, federal, or court document evidencing legal ties to Florida.

No Contradicting Evidence

Students should not have conflicting evidence establishing or maintaining residence elsewhere.

Change of Residency Status

A person who is classified as a nonresident for tuition purposes may become eligible for reclassification as a resident for tuition purposes if that person or, if that person is a dependent child, his or her parent presents clear and convincing documentation that supports permanent legal residency in this state for at least 12 consecutive months rather than temporary residency for the purpose of pursuing an education.  Such documentation may include but not limited to evidence of full-time permanent employment for the prior 12 months or the purchase of a home in this state and residence therein for the prior 12 months while not enrolled in an institution of higher education.

For more details please access the Florida Statutes website at

http://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2016/1009.21

Procedures

Students must submit completed application no later than the published last day to be considered for in-state status for that semester or session. Please see the university academic calendar for specific dates.  

Step 1: To apply for reclassification you must have attended Florida A&M University for at least one semester.  You may apply during your first semester if an error/omission was made in the initial determination

Step 2: Download and complete the RESIDENCY RECLASSIFICATION FOR TUITION PURPOSES FORM.  This form will be submitted to the Registrar’s office with your supporting documentations.

Step 3: Obtain all supporting documentation: 

No single document will be considered as conclusive

Step 4: Submit the completed and signed form to Residency Staff (Room 103 FHAC) or scan and email to registrar@famu.edu (original documents may be requested for review)

Your submission will be reviewed by the Residency Staff, and you will be notified of your determined eligibility. 

Credit Definitions

Florida A&M University adopts the Federal definition of a credit hour as interpreted by theSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Credit is a unit of measure assigned to courses or course equivalent learning. Credit is awarded if the learning activity it represents is part of, or preparatory for, an organized and specified program leading to

a postsecondary certificate or degree. Credit is a device which indicates to the learner, to educational institutions, to employers, and to others how much of the program the learner has completed. The credit awarded may be independent of where the learning occurs. If a learning activity does not meet these requirements, credit shall not be awarded. The only types of postsecondary credit authorized are:

(a) College Credit

College credit is the type of credit assigned to courses or course equivalent learning that is part of an organized and specified program leading to a graduate, baccalaureate, or associate degree. Consistent with the Federal definition, one (1) college credit is based on the learning expected from the equivalent of a fifty-minute period of classroom instruction and a minimum of two (2) hours per week of non-classroom instruction including group and independent study, outside assignments, and other activities, for approximately fifteen (15) weeks. Where the aforementioned does not hold true, such as laboratory instruction, internships, clinical experiences, studio practice, practicums, or student teaching, the maximum number of credit hours may be significantly less than the weekly number of fifty-minute contact periods. For programs with required external standards, such as accreditation or licensure requirements, credit is awarded in compliance with the respective agency.

(i) For courses taught in a “modular” classroom format taking only a portion of a I5-week semester, the number of credits to be assigned is obtained by prorating the guidelines above. These courses are prorated so they contain the same number of hours as if the course were scheduled for a full semester.

(ii) For courses taught in an electronic and/or asynchronous format, when there is an analogous course taught in a traditional or modular format the number of credits is computed from the traditional or modular format. When there is no analogous course taught in a traditional or modular format, the instructor is required to write a syllabus describing the structure of the course in a traditional format. The maximum number of credits is then computed as in a traditional format.

(iii) In on-line, blended hybrid courses, for each one (1) semester credit hour awarded, it is expected that students will spend fifty minutes directly engaged with the course material using either synchronous and/or asynchronous methods for the equivalent of fifteen (15) fifty-minute periods of classroom instruction. Students will also engage in a minimum of two (2) additional hours of “out-of-class” work for each one credit hour that is to be awarded.

(b) Developmental Credit.

Developmental credit is the type of credit assigned by the University to courses that provide degree seeking students who wish to enroll in college credit courses with additional academic preparation determined to be needed pursuant to Statute 1008.30. These credits do not count toward graduation requirements. One (1) developmental credit is based on the learning expected from the equivalent of fifteen (15) fifty-minute periods of classroom instruction.

Students are expected to engage in a minimum of two (2) additional hours of ‘out of class” work for each one credit hour that is to be awarded. Developmental courses provide competency-based instruction to develop college entry competencies in the communication and computation skills described in Rule 6A-l0.0319, FAC.

(c) Noncredit.

Noncredit is a term indicating that credit, as defined herein, is not awarded. It applies to the instructional classifications of noncredit continuing education. The unit of measure is hours of instruction.

Course Designation
Courses are identified with an alphabetic and numeric coding system. The alphabetic abbreviation (which is composed of three letters) identifies the FAMU academic subject area (i.e., ENC = English), and the numbers have the following meaning: 1000 series-freshman level courses; 2000 series-sophomore level courses; 3000 series-junior level courses; 4000 series-senior level courses; 5000 series and above- professional or graduate level courses.
 

Curriculum Changes - Catalog Year

In response to changes in education and consistent with occasional changes in certification requirements, the curriculum of one or several divisions or departments may change; such changes may extend the normal time of course requirements for a degree. A student who has been in regular attendance and has taken and passed the prescribed program of work each term may expect to obtain a degree normally in eight semesters. Any other student may be required to spend longer periods of time and must meet any added requirements introduced in the curriculum, including but not limited to non-credit requirements, grade point average and total number of credit hours required

The curriculum in the catalog of the year in which the student enters the university or a Florida public college is the one under which he or she should normally obtain the degree if there has been no break in enrollment, referred to as continuous enrollment. A student who breaks continuous enrollment by not enrolling in two consecutive terms (fall and spring semester) is subject to the program/policy requirements in place upon the student’s return. Exception is at the discretion of the chair of the academic department and the college or school dean.  Summer registration may be used to maintain continuous enrollment. Students are encouraged to consult their academic advisor and chair of the department for more information.
 

Classification of Students

Undergraduate students not enrolled as Non-degree seeking students are grouped in four classes according to total credits earned in semester hours on their record in the Office of the University Registrar:

1. Freshman-earned 0 to 29 semester hours
2. Sophomores-earned 30 to 59 semester hours
3. Juniors-earned 60 to 89 semester hours
4. Seniors-earned 90 or more semester hours
5. Professional students must be fully admitted to the pharmacy and law program
6. Graduate Students-earned the bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and/or meet the university’s requirements for admission to graduate studies (for further details, see graduate admissions requirements elsewhere in this catalog for admission to the department.
7. Non Degree Seeking-those not admitted to a regular degree program.

Major and Minor Fields of Study

Every student fulfilling the requirements for a degree from the university is required to earn a “major.” The major must meet the approval of the department in which it is earned. Students seeking double majors must meet the requirements of both departments. Courses to be counted for the minor must be approved by the division chairperson and the dean of the school.

Online Program

Florida A&M University offers several online courses for undergraduate students that may apply to their general education requirements. Undergraduate course offerings are available to students who are also non-degree seeking.  FAMU also offers graduate online programs for students who have completed their undergraduate studies and are ready to pursue a graduate degree in Nursing, Business Administration and Public Health.  Students are encouraged to pay particular attention to program pre-requisites, costs, anticipated time to graduation/completion and prospective careers listed in the programs and more. Students may be charged additional test proctoring fees for proctored tests taken at off-campus proctoring sites. 

Major Changes

Students may transfer from one department to another or from one school to another with the written approval of the department chairs and deans. A student must have attended Florida A&M University for at least one semester before applying for major change.  If a student intends to change his/her major within his present School/College or to a different School/College, he or she must;

1. Meet with his current academic advisor and complete a change of Major Form. 
2. Meet with an academic advisor in the department of his/her intended new major to discuss the major change
3. If accepted by the new College/School, the new Dean or his designee will complete the Change of Major form. 
4. The designated Major Change person in the new academic area will complete the process in iRattler system. 
5. If the student is yet to be accepted into the new department by registration time, the student must seek advisement from his/her current academic advisor.

The list below shows academic areas and requirements for a change of major;

Double Major

Students are permitted to declare double majors by obtaining a memorandum from the second major department signed by the department chair indicating that the student has been accepted in the program.  Students must satisfy requirements for graduation in each major in order to receive degrees in both majors.

Procedure:

1. Student meets with his/her academic advisor to review student’s academic work.  The academic advisor would determine if the student can successfully complete two majors.
2. Student seeks approval from the department that he/she wishes to seek a second major.
3. A memorandum from the chair of the second major department is sent to the appropriate person at the student’s primary major for their record

1. A copy of the completed memorandum stating the approved second major must be sent to the Registrar’s Office for update on the student’s record in iRattler

Levels of Academic Standing for Undergraduate Students

This Regulation follows the academic standards of the University and requires the maintenance of grade point averages and reasonable conformance to a program of study (BOT 4.012).

1. Good Academic Standing. Florida A&M University considers a student in good standing if he or she is eligible to continue or to re-enroll at the University.

1. Academic Warning. Academic warning occurs when a student’s cumulative grade point average (GPA) is below 2.0 for the first time during their enrollment. A student on Academic Warning will have a hold placed on the student’s registration until he or she has met with an academic advisor and developed an academic plan of study to improve their GPA.

1. Academic Probation. When a continuing student who was previously placed on Academic Warning fails to achieve a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or greater, or whose cumulative GPA again falls below a GPA of 2.0, the student will be placed on Academic Probation. A continuing student is a student enrolled in his or her second semester or thereafter at the University. Students who have been placed on Academic Probation may not register for more than fifteen (15) semester hours. In addition, a hold is placed on the student’s registration until the student has met with an advisor and developed an academic plan of study to improve his or her cumulative GPA to 2.0 or greater.

         A student who is on probation must earn a minimum term GPA of 2.0 for each semester after being placed on probation until the student’s FAMU cumulative GPA reaches 2.0 or greater.  Failure to reach a minimum term GPA of 2.0 will result in Academic Suspension for the following semester.

1. Academic Suspension.

A student on Academic Probation whose term GPA is below a 2.0 at the end of the current semester in which he or she is enrolled will be placed on Academic Suspension. A student on Academic Suspension is not in good academic standing at the University. The student will receive written notice of the Academic Suspension.

1. Reinstatement. All petitions for reinstatement are reviewed by the student’s academic department.  The department or student may determine that the student should “change majors” in order to meet university degree progression standards.  In this case, the student will petition the new program for reinstatement. 
2. Reinstatement Petition. During the student’s Academic Suspension, the student will be required to fulfill the following conditions in order to be reinstated:
3. Suspension for at least one semester, which may include summer semesters;
4. A student must file a petition for reinstatement to the academic department at least 10 working days prior to the beginning of any semester in which they are eligible to return. The petition must be completed and returned to the college/school appeals committee representative;
5.  Enroll and successfully complete a FAMU online academic success course as specified by the FAMU Undergraduate Student Success Center;
6. Meet with an academic advisor to develop an individualized academic plan of study designed to return the student’s cumulative GPA to 2.0 or greater;
7. Have a mathematical possibility of earning a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or greater in 24 or fewer semester hours;
8. An academic department or college may specify additional academic standards and suspended students are responsible for observing these regulations.

1. Approval of Reinstatement.  If the petition for reinstatement is approved by the academic department, the student is placed back on Academic Probation and is eligible to re-enroll at the University. The student must adhere to the individualized academic plan to maintain satisfactory academic progress. 

Colleges, Schools and/or Departments may deny continuation in a degree program if the student fails to maintain reasonable academic progress, as specified by the college, school or department.  If denied for this reason, a student may seek a new program for reinstatement.

1. Readmission. Inactive students must apply for reinstatement with the academic department as part of the readmission process.

1. Acdemic Dismissal. Academic Dismissal occurs when a student who was previously on Academic Suspension was reinstated but the student failed to maintain a term GPA of a 2.0 or greater. Students who have been placed on Academic Dismissal are not allowed to re-enroll at FAMU. However, a student who had not earned an Associate of Arts (AA) degree from a Florida College System (FCS) institution (also known as “community college”) prior to entering FAMU, has the option of applying for readmission to FAMU by attaining an AA degree at a FCS institution. After successful completion of the AA degree, the student may apply for readmission at FAMU.

As part of the readmission process, students may request from the Registrar’s Office that their cumulative GPA be reset upon re-enrollment. The new cumulative GPA will begin immediately upon re-enrollment. All previous grades will remain on the student’s transcripts; however, they will not be calculated into the student’s cumulative GPA. Students are required to check with the Office of Financial Aid to determine if any additional criteria are required in order to retain/maintain their eligibility for financial aid. 

Academic Progress - Undergraduate

In order to meet or exceed Florida A&M University (University) and the State University System (SUS) academic performance standards, this Regulation authorizes the University to implement appropriate procedures to facilitate the continued academic progress of students and their graduation success.

Academic Progress: The University shall promulgate policies and procedures to facilitate students’ academic progress towards their degree completion. In extenuating circumstances where students wish to continue in a major in which adequate degree progress is not being achieved, or to continue earning excess credits in a non-degree earning posture, this Regulation will enable Academic Affairs to assist students with a favorable student outcome.

1.  The Division of Academic Affairs will make operational modifications within the Registrar’s Office, the Office of Student Academic Support Services, Colleges and Schools, and other appropriate University departments.
2. University policies and procedures may include:

i. Restructuring of the graduation process;

ii. Revising degree completion schedules/checklists;

iii. Limiting the maximum number of “D”, “W”, and/or “F” grades in courses required for a degree;

iv. Setting new guidelines for student academic support services to ensure continued progress toward degree completion; and

v. Awarding degrees when degree requirements have been met.

1. The President or the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs shall publish such procedural changes.  (BOT 4.108)

Honors - Undergraduate

Honor Roll-The Honor Roll listing includes students who are enrolled full-time in college-level degree credit earning courses, who earn grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 or above, and cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better.

Dean’s List-The Dean’s List includes students who are enrolled full-time in college-level degree credit earning courses, who earn a 3.5 or above semester GPA and who’s cumulative GPA is 3.0 or above.

President’s List-The President’s List includes students who are enrolled full-time in college-level degree credit earning courses, who have attained a perfect 4.0 semester GPA and whose cumulative GPA is 3.5 or above. 

Eligibility for Academic Honors- Undergraduate students (only) are eligible for academic honors.  A student may appear on only one of the academic honors listing each semester. A student who receives a “U” during the semester is not eligible to receive an academic honor.

Academic Progress - Graduate
Graduate students are required to maintain a grade point average of 3.00 “B” or better. Failure to maintain the required “B” average could result in termination of a graduate student’s status. Monitoring of academic progress of graduate students occurs in the academic department.

Undergraduate Transfer Credit

A student who has attended any regionally accredited college or university and has earned 12 or more semester hours of transferable college credit since receiving a standard high school diploma or its equivalent is considered a transfer student upon admission to Florida A&M University (FAMU).

1. Transfer students are required to have submitted complete official academic transcripts from previous institutions on file in the Admissions Office prior to evaluation.
2. Each transcript;
3. Shall list all courses for which the student was enrolled each term, the grades for each course at the end of the term, and credits awarded,
4. Shall contain a statement explaining the grading policy of the previous institution.
5. Should also specify any college credits the student earned through accelerated mechanisms.
6. Transfer students are required to be in good standing and eligible to return to the last postsecondary institution attended as a degree-seeking student and have a grade point average of at least 2.00 on a 4.00 scale on all college-level academic courses attempted.
7. To meet graduation requirements for the baccalaureate degree, a transfer student must earn at least 25 percent of the number of credit hours required to graduate in the major at FAMU. 
8. Credits are transferred based on the following:
   1. The institution from which the student wishes to transfer is regionally accredited.  (credit can be transferred from a non-regionally accredited institution that participates in the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System, per Florida Statute)
   2. The overall grade point average is at least 2.00 on a 4.00 scale on the transfer transcript. 
   3. The grades of individual courses to be transferred are “C” or better, or “S” or “P.”
   4. Transfer credit grades are not factored into FAMU grade point average
9. College credits earned by high school or college students on the basis of the College Entrance Examination Board’s College Level Examination Program (CLEP) subject examination, College Board Advanced Placement Program examination (AP), Advanced International Certificate of Education examination (AICE), International Baccalaureate examination (IB), and other examinations shall be accepted for transfer provided the scores attained by the student on these examinations meet the standards determined by the Articulation Coordinating Committee (ACC) Credit-By-Exam Equivalencies as adopted by the Board of Governors (www.fldoe.org/articulation

FAMU will award credit for specific courses for which competency has been demonstrated by successful scores on any of the examinations listed above unless the award of credit duplicates credit already awarded. Students may be exempt from courses based on the award of credit if competencies have been so demonstrated.

1. The University subscribes to the Articulation Agreement as outlined in (1007.23 F.S.) Under this agreement, graduates of Florida College System institutions who received the Associate of Arts(AA) degree  shall be awarded
   1. At least sixty (60)semester hours of academic work exclusive of occupational courses and courses not accepted in FAMU; to include
   2. Approved general education competencies and core courses credit hours in communication, humanities, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, and university-specified general education courses as determined in f.s 1007.25.
2. Transfer students are required to have completed 2 units of one foreign language in high school or the equivalent at the postsecondary level.  Transfer students not meeting this foreign language requirement upon admission must fulfill the foreign language requirement prior to completion of the baccalaureate degree (BOG Regulation 6.004). 

A student who received an Associate in Arts degree prior to September 1, 1989, or who enrolled in a program of studies leading to an Associate degree from a Florida College System institution prior to August 1, 1989, and maintains continuous enrollment shall be exempt from this admissions requirement. Any other Associate in Arts degree graduate admitted without meeting the foreign language requirement must earn 6-8 credit hours of one foreign language course prior to graduation from FAMU.

Beginning with students initially entering a Florida College System institution or state university in 2014-2015 and thereafter, coursework for an associate in arts degree shall include demonstration of competency in a foreign language pursuant to s. 1007.262.

1.  Courses within an associate in applied science degree program may be accepted toward a baccalaureate degree program on an individual or block basis as authorized in inter-institutional articulation agreements with FAMU.
2.   Any transfer student with a disability shall be eligible for reasonable substitution or modification as provided by BOG Regulation 6.018.
    

Transient Students:

A Transient student is a currently enrolled student who registers for approved course(s) at another institution temporarily.  There are two types of transient students - outgoing and incoming.

Outgoing:  An Outgoing Transient student is a currently enrolled FAMU student who registers for course(s) at another institution for one term with the intention of applying the credit toward his/her degree program at Florida A&M University.  Transient students must receive approval from their academic advisors before taking a course at any other institution. Completing and submitting an approved transient form lets the other college or university know that you are a degree-seeking student at FAMU. It also helps you decide, with your advisor, what courses can be taken that will be accepted with your current degree track at another institution.

Incoming:  An Incoming Transient student is a student currently enrolled at another institution who wishes to register for course(s) at Florida A&M University for one term.  Incoming Transient students from any Florida Public Institution (State University System (SUS) and Florida College System (FCS)) should receive approval from their home institution before registering for a course at Florida A&M University.

Students who attend other institutions without permission from their academic area may not have their credits accepted.  Transient requests are approved based on the following;

• The institution the student wishes to attend is regionally accredited or includes requirements as stipulated above
• Student is in good standing at FAMU (G.P.A. 2.00 or better; not administratively suspended)
• Student has no financial obligation to the university (not on cashier’s hold)
• Transient application is processed prior to term for which the student is applying
• Pre-approved transient course a student completes with a grade of “C” or better will be accepted by FAMU

Outgoing and Incoming transient students as defined above will begin their request for approval online at www.flvc.org. for all Florida Public Institutions. A transient student form completed on the FLVC site is automatically routed to your advisor, Department Chairperson, Dean, and to the Office of the University Registrar within three to seven business days for processing.

Instructions

1. Before applying online, you MUST see your advisor prior to submitting your application through the Florida Virtual Campus (FLVC) Website.
2. Select your College/School (Example: College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Education)
3. Select Major (Elementary Education, Music Education, Math, Criminal Justice, etc.)
4. Select Classification (Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior, Graduate, and Professional). Note: Classification is based on earned hours for undergraduate students.  (Example: 0-29 freshmen, 30-59 sophomores, 60-89 Junior, 90-120+ Senior.)
5. Enter Student ID or SS# (if requested)
6. Select Institution you will be attending (Example: Daytona Beach State College)
7. Review information entered for accuracy
8. You MUST be in good standing at FAMU (no Judicial Hold or No outstanding Financial Obligation)
9. You MUST have a 2.0 overall GPA
10.  Student must be enrolled in a degree program and is eligible to re-enroll
11. Student must have a Student Health form on file indicating the required Measles and Rubella immunities.
12. Know your residency classification for tuition purposes (Florida or Non-Florida)
13. Know the prefix, course number, hours, course title, and FAMU course equivalent when selecting a course to take from another institution.

For additional information, please contact the Registrar’s office at registrar@famu.edu or 850-599-3115

Credit for Online Courses Prior to Initial Enrollment (BOG 6.020)

Undergraduate students who completed online college level courses and are admitted to Florida A&M University may request that the university evaluate that work to determine if credit might be awarded. These may include, but are not limited to, massive open online courses (MOOCs).  Beginning fall 2015 this request must be made prior to the student’s initial term of enrollment in undergraduate education.

A. Online coursework completed prior to the initial term of enrollment must be reviewed to determine whether the online course fulfills a general education or major course or degree program requirement and, if deemed equivalent, may be applied as such.  Students wishing to have such online coursework evaluated for the purpose of receiving credit should inform the Office of Admissions as soon as possible but prior to enrolling in classes at FAMU.

Award of credit for such work must meet the following conditions:

1.            FAMU faculty in the specified subject area have determined the online course content and learning outcomes to be comparable to a course offered at the institution;

2.            The online courses meet the quality and accreditation standards intended for a transfer course pursuant to Florida Statute 1007.24; and

3.            The subject area faculty at FAMU have determined that the online course is relevant to the student’s intended program of study.

              4.            Completed evaluation is sent to the Registrar’s Office by the FAMU subject area faculty.

B.  If credit for the online coursework was awarded by another regionally accredited institution of higher education the student must submit an official transcript reflecting the award of credit and the transferability of that work will be determined with the same processes and criteria for other transferred courses.

C.  If the online college coursework did not result in credit awarded by the institution offering the online course the student must provide the following information for evaluation by qualified faculty at FAMU:

1.            A syllabus for the course;

2.            Credentials of the faculty teaching the online course;

3.            Course objectives and learning outcomes for the course; and

4.            Other information requested by the FAMU subject area faculty in order to determine demonstrated mastery of course learning outcomes

Students will be notified if the credit sought has been approved. Students may appeal the decision of the faculty by completing the academic appeals form and forwarding it to their academic dean’s office.

Credit awarded for online coursework completed prior to the initial term of enrollment shall be noted on the student’s transcript.

Acceleration Programs

Florida A&M University encourages students to take advantage of opportunities to reduce the usual length of time it takes to complete a degree program. The university has established several avenues which permit a reduction in the normal amount of time required to complete the requirements for a baccalaureate degree. Each baccalaureate degree program is so designed that students are afforded an opportunity to complete a minimum of twenty-five percent of degree requirements through acceleration mechanisms. These programs include dual enrollment, credit by examination, early admission to the university, the year-around calendar, and any combinations of the above acceleration mechanism.
 

These opportunities include the following:

1. Dual Enrollment
   The dual enrollment program is the enrollment of an eligible secondary student or home education student in a FAMU course creditable toward high school completion and an associate or baccalaureate degree (F.S. 1007.271).  See additional information elsewhere in the catalog

1. Credit by Examination
   Students who are enrolled or plan to enroll at FAMU may earn credit for certain introductory courses through the following credit by examination programs:
   1.   Advanced Placement Program (AP)
   2.   Advanced International Certificate of Education Program (AICE)
   3.   College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
   4.   International Baccalaureate Program (IB)
   5.   DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests)
   6.   Defense Language Proficiency Test (DLPT)
   7.   UExcel (Excelsior College Exams)
   8.   Military Service School

Experiential Learning:  

FAMU grants credit for formal site-based learning experiences that are part of the curriculum of a degree program, such as internships, clinical courses, cooperative education and practicum. These experiences are supervised and evaluated by program faculty at the various colleges and schools in collaboration with supervisors at the internship/clinical site if credit is to be awarded. 

FAMU does not award credit for job related or experiential learning.

Military Transfer Credit

Military Transfer Credit may be awarded for undergraduate students who served in the United States Military. The undergraduate courses may be used toward a degree program, if applicable. Students submit official Army American Council on Education Registry Transcript System (AARTS) or Sailor/Marine American Council on Education Registry Transcript (SMART) to the Office of the University Registrar. FAMU recognizes recommendations from the American Council on Education (ACE) based on the student’s military experiences, training and coursework. ACE recommendations for vocational or technical credits are not accepted as transfer credits.

Professional Certificate
Academic departments in the College of Education may offer students who did not graduate from a teacher education program opportunities to receive professional certificate in Educational Leadership or school counseling. Such students must hold a master’s degree or higher from an accredited institution of higher education and hold current teaching and other professional certificates to be eligible to apply. Students admitted to these programs follow prescribed curriculum.

Departmental Examinations /Deans Waiver

Academic departments may offer students opportunities to receive credits through departmental course examinations. Individual departments determine if and when a student can take advantage of this opportunity. Academic deans may determine if course/courses may be waived or if credit may be awarded for students based on professional certification and documented proficiency in an area of study. Such waiver and/or credit must be approved by the academic Department Chair, Dean, Registrar, and Provost. 


Transfer Credit - Graduate/Professional Students

FAMU accepts transfer credits for graduate level courses as determined by the individual academic departments. A maximum of six graduate level credit hours with a grade of “B” or higher may be accepted from a regionally accredited institution.  Additional six credit hours of elective credits may be granted to students who are fully admitted to graduate degree status in the College of Education for possession of National Board Teacher Certification. The maximum permissible transfer at the PhD level is 12 hours.

The request for transfer credit is submitted to the chair of the graduate program, and must be approved by the graduate program coordinator, faculty admissions committee, department chair and academic dean. The Academic Review Committee (ARC) of the Graduate Council reviews petitions for exceptions to the limits on accepting transfer credits, and final approval is granted by the graduate dean. To ensure knowledge of these policies, faculty and staff members are made aware of the Graduate Studies Policies and Procedures which encodes these policies

Grading Policy

BOT 4.101)

The University supports its grading system which is based upon the integrity of a grade earned in a course. The University Registrar is the official custodian of student grades and is responsible for recording approved grade change requests.

Assignment of Grades

1. Grades are assigned at the end of the term in which the student was registered for the course.
2. Due to extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the student, a grade of “I” may only be assigned if the student is passing the course, but has not completed all of the required work by the end of the term. Grades of “I” may not be assigned in any course that a student withdraws from, has excessive absences in, or fails to attend.
3. A grade of “PN” will be assigned when a student is passing a course, but is not proficient. The use of the “PN” grade is only approved for courses in the Physical Therapy Graduate Program.
4. A student receiving an “I” or “PN” grade should not re-enroll in the course until after the “I” or “PN” grade has been permanently changed to a letter grade.

Change of Grade

Changes of grades may only be accomplished under special circumstances and are governed by the following guidelines:

1. Grade changes pertaining to a grade of “I” or “PN” must be submitted by the end of the next term in which the student is enrolled.  An “I” grade that is not changed by the specified time will revert to an “F”. A “PN” grade that is not changed by the specified time will revert to the grade earned by the student at the time the “PN” was assigned.                                   
2. All grade changes resulting from a grade appeal must be submitted within one semester of the issuance of the grade.
3. Any other grade changes must be made within one semester of when the grade was initially assigned.

Procedure Governing the Process of Changing Recorded Grades

Grade changes can only be made for the following reasons:

     1. When it is determined that a grade was recorded in error;

     2. When removing “I” or “PN” grades; or

     3. As a result of a student’s successful appeal of a grade.

Academic units wishing to request grade changes must submit a “Grade Change and Academic Record Update Form” to the Registrar’s Office for processing. The form must contain the signature of the respective academic Dean in order to be processed.

Grading System and Grade Point Average

The quality of work done by students is indicated by the letter of the alphabet as follows:

A (Exceptional)

B (Superior)

C (Average)

D (Passing but poor)

F (Failure)

S (Satisfactory)

N (No grade reported)

U (Unsatisfactory)

I (Incomplete)

IP (In Progress)

X (Audit)

TP (Thesis pending)

DP (Dissertation pending)

P (Pass),

PN (Passing, Not Proficient)

W (Withdrew)

WF (Walked-away failure)

Calculation of Grade Point Average

The Student Information System (PeopleSoft) is coded to calculate a student’s term GPA by dividing the number of grade points earned by the number of hours attempted for GPA. Similarly, the cumulative GPA is determined by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of hours attempted for GPA. The system performs this function automatically each time any change is made to a student’s grade in PeopleSoft.

A grade of “A” earns four grade points for each hour of credit; “B” earns three grade points; “C” earns two grade points; “D” earns one grade point; “WF” and “F” earn no grade points; and “X” earns no grade points.

Procedure for Assigning Incomplete Grades

Due to extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the student, an incomplete grade may be assigned if the student was passing as determined by the instructor.

A student who is passing a course but has not completed all of the required work due to extenuating circumstances by the end of the term may, with the permission of the instructor, be assigned a grade of “I”. Grades of “I” are not assigned to any course that a student fails to attend

Before an incomplete grade is assigned, the Instructor determines exactly what work remains to be completed and inputs this information in the system when he/she assigns the grade. FAMU has established a grade control operation such that when an instructor enters final grades at the end of the semester, and selects incomplete grade, the system prompts him/her to select the reason for the incomplete grade and to enter additional information in a provided field (comment box) briefly describing the work to be completed by the student in order to have the incomplete grade converted to a letter grade.

A student should not re-register for a course(s) in which incomplete grades have been received.

Incomplete grades will not count as hours attempted in computing cumulative grade point averages. It is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements with the instructor for the removal of an incomplete grade.

At the end of the semester after grades are posted, the Registrar’s office runs a report listing all incomplete grades assigned, reasons for assigning them, and outstanding work for the student as stated by the instructor. This will assist the academic deans and department chairs in tracking and monitoring grade changes.

Other Grade Notes
The grade of “W” is used only to denote that a student withdrew (or was withdrawn) from the course or from the university.

Certain courses may be approved by the academic dean for satisfactory-unsatisfactory (S-U) grades. Such courses would normally be outside a student’s major and minor fields and would not be included in the grade point average.

An “N” grade will be changed to a permanent grade upon receipt of an official grade from the instructor.

Graduate students who are writing a thesis or dissertation may receive the grade of “TP” (Thesis Pending) or “DP” (Dissertation Pending) if approved by their major professor. Once the Thesis or Dissertation is successfully defended, the assigned grade must be an “S” (Satisfactory).

A graduate student in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program who is preparing for Clinical Education may receive the grade of “PN” (Passing, Not Proficient) approved by the instructor of record if he/she is passing the course but have not achieved proficiency necessary to participate in the clinical experiences. The “PN” is a temporary grade. Once it is determined that the student has successfully achieved acceptable proficiency level, the appropriate grade must be recorded.

GPA Reset

Undergraduate Student

1.  An undergraduate student, who is in poor academic standing (GPA less than 2.00) or who has been academically dismissed from the University may petition to be reinstated after earning an Associate of Arts degree from a Florida College System institution.  An undergraduate student’s petition for reinstatement/readmission is considered on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions Committee and the academic department.

As part of the reinstatement, the student may request that the cumulative GPA be reset after re-entry. The new cumulative GPA will begin upon enrollment after the student is reinstated.  All previous grades will remain on the student’s transcript; however, they will not be calculated into the student’s cumulative GPA.A student’s GPA may be reset only once during the student’s undergraduate academic career.

This option is not available for students, who have already earned the Bachelor’s or Associate of Arts degree prior to being dismissed from the University, or for students, who earned the Associate of Arts degree from Florida A&M University.

1. An undergraduate student, who has completed a degree program at Florida A&M University and who has been admitted to a second bachelor’s degree program may request that the cumulative GPA be reset upon enrollment.  This option is not available for students in double majors who plan to graduate in the majors at different semesters.   A student whose GPA has been reset for the second bachelor’s degree, is not eligible for graduation honors.

Graduate Student

A graduate student, who has been academically dismissed from an academic program, may apply to another degree program.  A previously dismissed student, who has been accepted into a new academic program, may have his graduate GPA reset upon recommendation by the new program director or academic dean to the dean of the Graduate Studies.  The student’s permanent academic record will be annotated to indicate that the GPA has been reset.  All prior course work and grades will remain on the student’s transcript.

 A student’s GPA may be reset only once during the student’s graduate academic career and this option is not available for degrees already earned.

Undergraduate Course Forgiveness Policy
 

An undergraduate student may improve his/her grade point average at Florida A&M University by repeating an undergraduate course (1000-4999 level).  Only the grade and grade points received in the final attempt shall be used in computing the student’s cumulative grade point average.  A student must petition to have this policy applied.  Only three such requests are available to the student during the student’s undergraduate career.   A student may apply the forgiveness policy to the same course up to the limit of three times or apply the forgiveness policy to three different courses. Under extenuating circumstances, with compelling justification, a student’s academic dean may recommend an exception (limited to two additional attempts).  All grades earned after exceeding the repeat limits will be used in computing the student’s cumulative grade point average.  All attempts for a given course and all grades will remain on the student’s transcript.  Pursuant to Section 1009.285, excess credit hour fees are calculated on all attempted hours, including those for which the grade is forgiven.

Engineering students may not use grade forgiveness for courses with engineering prefixes.

The forgiveness policy cannot be applied for students:

• Taking courses with numbers 5000-8999 (graduate level courses)
• After the degree has been conferred. 

(See Graduate Student Handbook for graduate student forgiveness policy).
 

UNIVERSITY AND COURSE WITHDRAWALS

Withdrawal from the University

(Regulation of Florida A&M University 2.007)

(1) A student who desires to voluntarily withdraw from the University must report to his or her assigned academic advisor and explain the circumstances which he/she feels necessitates the withdrawal. If the request is approved, a Request for Withdrawal Form (Official University Withdrawal Form), which is incorporated herein by this reference, will be completed and signed by the student, academic advisor, academic department chair and academic dean. The Withdrawal forms are available at the Registrar website

(2) Once the withdrawal process has been initiated, the student is required to complete the Housing and Rattler Card Office cancellation forms. The student must relinquish all residence hall keys to the Residence Hall Director and his/her meal plan card to the Office of Auxiliary Services after completing the appropriate cancellation forms. The withdrawal form must then be submitted to the Office of the Registrar. Advisors should also refer students to the Office of Financial Aid for an exit interview if the student receives Financial Aid.

(3) No student will be permitted to file a Withdrawal Form within the last five weeks of the semester without receiving failing grades, unless unusual circumstances, as determined by the University Withdrawal Committee, are established.

(4) Any student who voluntarily withdraws from the University during the registration or late registration period will not receive grades at the end of the semester. Those who officially withdraw after the last day to register will receive a grade of “W” at the end of the semester. A grade of “WF” for each course will be assigned to any student who leaves the University without filing the Withdrawal Form with the University Registrar.

(5) Advisors should refer students to Counseling Services for post-enrollment service if the student shows signs of distress.

Withdrawal from a Course(s)

A student may withdraw from a course, some, or all of their classes during the add/drop period. Courses dropped during this period do not appear on a student’s transcript and no grades are assigned to such courses.  A grade of “W” will appear on a student’s transcript, class roster, and grade roster for all courses from which a student withdrew.  Withdrawal from a course must be accomplished prior to the published deadline. There is no refund of fees for withdrawn courses. Students are not permitted to withdraw from more than five (5) courses throughout their undergraduate career at the university. This excludes retroactive term withdrawals. The withdrawal limit only applies to courses taken fall 2015 or later.  Course withdrawals processed prior to fall 2015 do not count toward the limit.  Students are encouraged to meet with their academic advisor to discuss the possible impact of the withdrawal prior to initiating the process.

Students who miss the published deadline for withdrawal should petition the Academic Appeals Committee for retroactive course withdrawal no later than the end of the semester. The Academic Appeals Committee department representative will forward the student’s petition to the Academic Appeals Committee for consideration

Administrative Withdrawal- A student may be administratively withdrawn with fee liability from a course(s) by the academic department if the student registered for the course without appropriate signature or permission. Students who are administratively withdrawn from the University for violation(s) of the University’s Student Code of Conduct are not entitled to any refund from any fees paid during the semester in which there is cause for withdrawal.

Involuntary Administrative Withdrawal - A student will be subject to involuntary administrative withdrawal from the University, or from University housing, if it is determined by the Dean of Students that the student is suffering from a mental disorder as defined by the current edition of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and as a result of the mental disorder. (Regulation 2.007).

University Withdrawal Committee- Student may petition the University Withdrawal Committee for a retroactive (after the published term withdrawal deadline) term withdrawal based on documented circumstances beyond the student’s control within 12 months after the end of the term for which the withdrawal is sought. Students seeking retroactive course withdrawal should report to the Registrar’s Office for further direction. Students should be aware that requests for withdrawal and retroactive term withdrawals will negatively impact the award of current and future financial aid as well as enrollment status for the affected term. Additionally, withdrawals are considered attempts and may incur excess credit surcharges. Please see Excess Credit Hours information elsewhere in this publication.

Return of Tuition funds

Regulation of Florida A&M University 3.009 (5)

Tuition refunds are calculated on a course by course (per credit hour) basis. Students who are enrolled and then withdraw may not receive a refund. Refunds will be computed based on the actual withdrawal date certified by the Office of the Registrar. Refunds will not be made to students who do not attend class and have not completed the required withdrawal procedure. Terms in the student housing contract will determine the refund of room rent; whereas board will be prorated based on the approved date of cancellation. Please click Office of Student Financials for additional information. 

Academic Regulation Appeals Committee Petitions

The Academic Regulation Appeals Committee considers petitions from undergraduate students seeking exceptions to the academic regulations stated in the FAMU Catalog. The following type of appeals may be filed:

• Late or retroactive course withdrawal (limited to one year after course enrollment)
• Late add or registration (limited to the end of current semester)
• Late application for graduation (limited to four weeks after the published term deadline)

NOTE: Supporting documentation must accompany all appeal petitions.

Appeal requests must be picked up from college/school of your major. Non-degree seeking students must petition through the Registrar’s Office. Colleges are not responsible for petitions that are not submitted directly to and discussed with the proper college representative. The Academic Regulation Appeals Committee normally meets monthly. In order for a petition to be reviewed by a college/school and to be heard at a regular meeting, it must be submitted by the end of the first week of each month.

Graduation Requirements and Procedures for Awarding Degrees

Florida A&M University awards degrees to candidates who have completed all requirements for graduation.  The University may award the degrees at the end of any academic term - fall, spring, or summer. If an undergraduate student has completed his or her degree requirements (BOG 6.017), the academic Dean of the student’s program will confirm that the student is eligible to be awarded the degree.  The University reserves the right to award the degree.

Grade changes should be submitted prior to the posting of the degree. “Incomplete” grade changes or any other changes or withdrawals for coursework that apply to an awarded degree may be considered only in cases of documented University error or in cases where the courses are documented as applying to a degree that is still in progress.  Once a degree has been awarded, all coursework leading to that degree is considered final and not subject to change.

Students pursuing double majors must formally declare their intent. See procedure for declaring double majors elsewhere in this publication.  Undergraduate students pursuing dual degrees must obtain formal approval from their academic dean, following established University procedures for such approvals.

Once a degree is awarded, student is placed on hold and must be readmitted to the University in order to enroll in any courses

Associate Degree Requirements

Florida A&M University students may request an associate in arts certificate if they have successfully completed the minimum requirements for the degree associate in arts. The requirements are;

1. A minimum of 60 semester hours of college credits which includes 36 semester hours of general education coursework.
2. Demonstration of competency in a foreign language (1007.262 F.S.)
3. Demonstration of competency in civic literacy for students initially entering the university in 2018-2019 and thereafter
4. Last 30 semester hours must have been earned at FAMU
5. Student submits a request (Student Intent to Graduate form) to the office of Undergraduate Student Success Center.  This form is available on the Registrar website

Please note that any FAMU student who has not graduated from the university has the option to request an associate in arts certificate if that student has completed the requirements but has not reenrolled at the university in the subsequent fall semester and thereafter. (1007.25(11) F.S.)

Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

To qualify for a bachelor’s degree in an academic discipline specified in this catalog, the student must have;

• Earned a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average of 2.00
• Completed Gordon Rule requirements (see list of approved courses elsewhere in this publication)
• Completed General Education competencies and core courses (see approved list elsewhere in this publication)
• Completed Foreign Language requirement (see suggested courses elsewhere in this publication)
• Completed Civic Literacy (see suggested courses elsewhere in this publication)
• Satisfied the Summer term attendance requirement -  minimum of 9 semester credits

Completed at least 30 semester credit hours at FAMU.  At least 25% of the credit hours required for an undergraduate degree program must be earned through instruction offered by FAMU. The university requires at least two semesters completed in residence for any degree and the last 30 hours must be earned in residence. If the term of residence is only two semesters, that period must be the student’s senior year, provided at least 30 semester hours are earned at FAMU during this period.

Petitions for a waiver of up to six hours of the last 30 hours in residence, due to a documented hardship or unusual circumstance, may be submitted through the student’s academic advisor, chair or program leader to the dean or director for consideration. Only waivers approved by the dean or director are valid. Courses taken while on university sponsored study abroad programs count as residency requirement for graduation purposes.

General and specific degree requirements are listed elsewhere in this catalog.

• Students must complete the “Student Intent to Graduate” form and submit to the department or division Chairperson immediately prior to or at the beginning of the term in which degree requirements are expected to be met.
• Successful applicants must have earned at least a “C” average in all work attempted toward the degree.
• The applicable degree with the appropriate major will be awarded, upon the recommendation of the faculty, department and the dean of the college or school in which the student is enrolled.
• Student must have completed a minimum of 120 semester required hours, which must include satisfactory completion of all State of Florida, institutional undergraduate requirements, and curriculum requirements.

Note: Some academic areas require more than 120 hours for graduation. In addition, a student who changes his or her major may have to earn more than 120 hours in order to meet requirements for graduation. 

Important:  Excess credit hours may incur extra charges.  See information on Excess credit hours surcharge in this publication or on the Registrar web page (www.famu.edu/Academics/Registrar/)

Bachelor of Arts Degree Requirements

To qualify for a Bachelor of Arts degree all requirements listed above under the bachelor’s degree requirement must be met, in addition to completing 12 semester hours of the same foreign language.  Contact your academic department for details.

Second Bachelor’s degree

A student who wishes to receive two baccalaureate degrees in the same semester must (1) declare double majors, (2) complete the prescribed degree requirements of each program, and (3) complete a minimum of 150 semester hours (30 hours must be taken in residence). Departments and colleges may have additional requirements. Students are advised to consult their academic advisor or department chair for departmental requirements. Students must complete an application for graduation online for each major. If a student holding a bachelor’s degree from FAMU wishes to obtain a second bachelor’s degree the student must earn a minimum of 30 semester hours after the requirements for the previous bachelor’s degree.

Foreign Language Requirements

All undergraduate students are required to have two years of Foreign Language study prior to graduation with a bachelor’s degree from Florida A&M University. Two years of Foreign Language study is defined as 2 units in high school or college equivalent semester hours (6-8) in one Foreign Language or American Sign Language - French, Spanish language and Literature, Arabic, Japanese, German, Chinese, and American Sign language at Florida A&M University or  another accredited College/University. Students may meet this requirement by successfully demonstrating equivalent foreign language competence on the basis of scores determined by the Articulation Coordinating Committee (ACC) Credit-By-Exam Equivalencies as adopted by the Board of Governors; or demonstrating equivalent foreign language or American Sign Language competence through other means approved by the university.  A student who demonstrates proficiency in a native language other than English may be exempt from the requirement of completing foreign language courses (1007.262 F.S.).

This requirement will not apply to transfer students (a) who received Associate in Arts degree prior to September 1, 1989, or (b) enrolled in a program of study leading to associate degree from a Florida College System institution and maintained continuous enrollment until they are admitted to a university prior to August 1, 1989.

Students who earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited post-secondary institution prior to enrollment as students seeking second bachelor’s degree are exempt from this requirement.

Civic Literacy (BOG 8.006)

Students who are admitted to Florida A&M University (FAMU), a State University System (SUS), or Florida College System (FCS) institution as degree-seeking undergraduate students, for the first time

1. Fall 2018 - Summer 2021, must satisfy the civic literacy requirement before earning a baccalaureate degree from FAMU.  Students can demonstrate competency in civic literacy by completing either a civic literacy course or by achieving a passing score on an approved assessment (Florida Civic Literacy Exam)

Successfully complete

1. POS 2041 American Government or
2. AMH 2020 U.S. History 1865 to Present or 
3. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Naturalization Test - Civics (U.S. history and government) with supplemental questions (score 60 or better

    b.  Fall 2021 and thereafter students must demonstrate competency in civic literacy by completing both a civic literacy course and achieving a passing score on an approved assessment

  Successfully complete

1. POS 2041 American Government or AMH 2020 U.S. History 1865 to Present; and  
2. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Naturalization Test - Civics (U.S. history and government) with supplemental questions 

For additional information please go to Florida Statute 1007.25(4)(a)(b)

Application for Graduation- A student who wishes to apply for graduation is encouraged to complete the ‘Student Intent to Graduate’ form and take it to his/her academic advisor, at least one semester prior to the one in which the student intends to graduate. Students will complete, print/forward “Student Intent to Graduate” form to their academic advisors prior to applying for graduation via iRattler on their Student Center page…  This form is available at www.famu.edu/Registrar, click on Forms and Student Intent to Graduate.  Students applying for the Associate in Arts Degree should forward completed “Student Intent to Graduate” forms to the Office of Undergraduate Student Success Center.

Upon receipt of the “Student Intent to Graduate” form the academic advisor reviews student’s academic record for graduation purposes.  The department’s business process for graduation reviews should be followed. If student is determined eligible to apply for graduation, the department Coordinator with appropriate access places a Positive Service Indicator ETA (Eligible to Apply) on the student’s record.  This enables student to submit the application online via iRattler prior to or at the beginning of the term in which a student expects to complete all requirements for a degree. Deadline dates are published on the university calendar. If a student fails to graduate, he or she should consult with his/her department, division chairperson or dean and reapply for a subsequent term.

The University may exercise the right to award a degree once a student has completed all requirements for the degree, based on confirmation from the academic Dean.  Upon notification, the student may choose to appeal this decision with compelling reasons to postpone the graduation.   Financial aid, student activities participation, or access to student services are not legitimate reasons.    If the student can demonstrate that continued enrollment is necessary to achieve his or her academic goals, the appeal may be granted.

Procedure for Appeal:

1.  Student must submit a written request to the student’s academic dean no later than ten work days from receipt date of the notification that the University is invoking its right to award the degree.

2.  The appeal will be reviewed by a committee comprised of the student’s primary academic dean, the department chair and the University Registrar. The committee must find evidence to support the student’s claim of a legitimate academic need in order to grant permission to continue taking courses at the University.  The committee decision is final.

3.   Student will receive notification of the committee decision within 10 work days from receipt of the student’s written appeal.

Graduation Honors-Eligibility for graduation with honors for students seeking the Bachelors/Doctor of Pharmacy degree requires the following cumulative grade point averages: 3.70-4.00-Summa Cum Laude; 3.30-3.69-Magna Cum Laude; 3.00-3.29-Cum Laude. Transfer students must earn a minimum of 45 semester hours at FAMU in order to be eligible to graduate with honors. Students receiving the masters and doctor of philosophy degrees are excluded. The cumulative grade point average on file at the time of application for graduation (usually the term prior to the term in which the student intends to graduate) will be used to determine eligibility and designate graduation honors in commencement program.   However, the student’s final cumulative grade point average (usually the last term in which the student graduated) will be used to list the graduation honors on the student’s final transcript.

 Awarding Posthumous Degrees

A deceased student may be eligible for award of a posthumous baccalaureate or graduate degree under the following conditions;

1. The student is deceased
2. The student was in good academic standing/conduct at the time of death
3. The student had successfully completed a substantial portion (more than 75%) of his/her academic degree program requirement. 

2. The students’ academic dean will initially determine whether the deceased student may be eligible for award of a posthumous degree based on academic standing and completion of a substantial portion of the academic degree program. The Dean will notify the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.

3. The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs will review and confirm the student’s eligibility for a posthumous degree and then forward a recommendation to the Office of Communications and notify the Dean of his/her approval.

4.  The Office of Communications will notify the family of the deceased student to be awarded a posthumous degree and will also arrange for the degree to be conferred at the next regularly scheduled commencement unless the student’s family expresses objection.

5. The posthumous award will be indicated on the diploma, and the student’s transcript.

Transcript Release

Florida A&M University has authorized the National Student Clearinghouse to provide transcript ordering service online for our current students and alumni.  

• You can order and/or track your transcripts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• You may choose to pick up your transcript in-person at the Registrar’s Office - photo identifications will be required. 
• You may choose to write a letter to authorize the release of your transcript(s) to a third party for pick up
• Order updates will be emailed to you along with text messages if you choose
• You may choose to upload documents (in PDF only) to accompany your transcript. This option is available when you place your order. Examples include Admission Application forms (for Law, Nursing, Medical, Graduate Schools), and Scholarship Application forms.
• The following is required to order a transcript online; (a) valid major credit card Your credit card will only be charged when we send your transcript(s); (b) an email account, (c) your signed consent

Note:  The Clearinghouse does not have access to your academic history and does not print your transcript.

IMPORTANT:

1. All outstanding financial obligations to Florida A&M University must be satisfied before your transcript can be released.  You may contact Student Financials services at 850-561-2950
2. Transcripts may not be faxed due to security, data transmission, and privacy considerations
3. Allow up to three working days for processing, except during the peak periods of on-campus registration, grade processing, and graduation. Alumni records dating back to 2004 or earlier may require additional processing time.
4. The cost for each transcript is $10.00. 
5. Current Students:  If you expect adjustments (forgiveness policy, grade changes, grade post, endorsements, or degree comments) on your transcript, please wait until the changes are reflected on your iRattler record

Transcript requests should include the following information:

•           Name under which you registered

•           Years of attendance and/or graduation year

•           Number of transcripts desired

•           Mailing address (or addresses)

•           Contact telephone number and e-mail address

•           Alumnus/Alumna’s signature

Contact Information:

Please call our office 850-599-3115 Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm or e-mail (registrar@famu.edu) for additional information

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, most often referred to as FERPA, deals specifically with the education records of students, affording them certain rights with respect to those records. For purposes of definition, education records are those records which are:

• Directly related to a student, and
• Maintained by an institution or a party acting for the institution.

FERPA gives students who reach the age of 18 or who attend a post-secondary institution the right to inspect and review their own education records. Furthermore, students have other rights, including the right to request amendment of records and to have some control over the disclosure of personally identifiable information from these records.

FERPA applies to the education records of persons who are or have been in attendance in post-secondary institutions, including students in cooperative and correspondence study programs. FERPA does not apply to records of applicants for admission who are denied acceptance or, if accepted, do not attend an institution. Furthermore, rights are not given by FERPA to students enrolled in one component of an institution who seek to be admitted in another component of an institution.

The Policy

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) shall comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA, also known as the Buckley Amendment) - 20 U.S.C. ~ 1232g - of 1974, which gives enrolled students the right to:

1. Review and inspect their education records;
2. Challenge and seek to amend education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading;
3. Consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in their educational records, except to the extent that FERPA allows disclosures without consent; and
4. Complain to the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged violations by FAMU of any such rights.

Pursuant to FERPA requirements, some personally identifiable student information, designated by law as “directory information,” may be released to third parties by FAMU without prior consent of a student unless the student files a written request with the FAMU Office of the Registrar to restrict directory information access.

FAMU has designated the following as directory information:

• Name
• Address
• Telephone number
• Date and Place of Birth
• Major and Minor field of study
• Dates of attendance
• Enrollment status
• Classification
• School and/or College
• Graduate and Research Assistants and Associates
• Teacher Assistants and Associates
• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• Weight and height of athletes
• Degrees, honors, and awards received
• Most recent educational institution attended
• Student Images, including photographs, videos, or any other media containing a student’s image or likeness

The following information is not considered directory information and may not be released or disclosed in any way (except to a school official with a legitimate interest, or to a third party with signed and dated consent from the student or former student):

• Student Identification Number
• Social Security Number
• Ethnicity/Nationality
• Gender

An enrolled student may select Privacy (refuse to permit disclosure of “directory information’). To do so, the student must notify the Office of the Registrar in writing if he/she refuses to permit the University to disclose such information. The University will not release any further disclosures of directory information about the student without the student’s prior written consent except to the extent authorized by FERPA or other State or Federal laws.

All custodians of a student’s education records and all University employees/agents shall comply with FERPA and follow strict practice that information contained in a student’s education record is confidential and shall not be disclosed without the prior written consent of the student except as otherwise provided by FERPA. FERPA exceptions are outlined in the policy and procedures herein.

Regarding the disposition of records held pertaining to a deceased student, in accordance with FERPA, it is the policy of FAMU that the privacy interests of an individual expire with that individual’s death.

FAMU publishes annually a notice of primary rights for enrolled students.

All University employees who manage or have direct or indirect access to student education records are held responsible for reading and understanding the policy. Furthermore, all employees who manage or have direct or indirect access to student education records are responsible for following security practices established by the University, Colleges, or departments.

The University Registrar has been designated as the FERPA Compliance Officer for the University. Further information about FAMU’s policy and procedures with respect to privacy of student records may be obtained from the Office of the Registrar.

Location of Education Records

All information provided by a student to the University for the use in the educational process is considered part of the student’s education record. Information may fall into one of the following categories:

• Admission records are located in the Office of Admissions and Recruitment, and the custodian of such records is the Director of Admissions and Recruitment, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
• Cumulative academic records are located in the Office of the Registrar, Foote-Hilyer Administration Center, and the custodian of such records is the University Registrar, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Foote-Hilyer Administration Center, Room 112, Tallahassee, FL 32307.
• Financial aid records are located in the Office of Financial Aid, Foote-Hilyer Administration Center, and the custodian of such records is the Director of Financial Aid, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Foote-Hilyer Administration Center, Suite 101, Tallahassee, FL 32307.
• Student financial records are located in the Office of Student Financial Services, Foote-Hilyer Administration Center, and the custodian of such records is the Director of Student Financial Services, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Suite G-7, Tallahassee, FL 32307.
• Student placement records are located in the Career Center, Student Union Plaza and the custodian of such records is the Director, Career Center, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Student Union Plaza Suite 118, Tallahassee, FL 32307.
• College-based testing records are located in the Counseling and Assessment Center, and the custodian of such records is the Director, Counseling and Assessment, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, University Counseling Center, Tallahassee, FL 32307.
• College records are located in the college dean’s office and/or departmental offices of each college and in faculty offices at each college or department and the custodian of such records is the appropriate dean, department chairperson, professor, instructor or advisor.
• Disciplinary records are located in the Office of Judicial Affairs, Student Union Plaza, and the custodian of such records is the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, 308 FHAC, Tallahassee, FL 32307.
• Disability records are located in the Learning Development Evaluation Center, and the custodian of such records is the Director, LDEC, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical, Orr Drive, Suite 555, Tallahassee, FL 32307.
• International student records are located in the Office of International Services, HFFM, and the custodian of such records is the Provost, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, 301 Foote-Hilyer Administration Center, Tallahassee, FL 32307.

Excluded Records

While most student records maintained by the University are considered to be education records, those listed below are specifically excluded:

• Sole possession records or memory aids created and maintained for private use with limited access to anyone other than the creator;
• University Police records maintained solely for law enforcement purposes;
• University employment records for employment not dependent on student status and does not result in academic credit or a grade;
• Records created by a medical or mental health professional to be used only for providing treatment to a student;
• Alumni records if they contain only information related to an individual after the individual is no longer a student.

Records Legitimate Educational Interest

University officials shall have access to student education records for legitimate educational purposes when a need to know has been demonstrated by those officials who act in the student’s educational interest. This includes faculty, administration, student employees, clerical and professional employees and other persons who manage student records information. Any school official who needs information about a student in the course of performing instructional, supervisory, advisory or administrative duties has a legitimate educational interest.

Exceptions to Student Consent for Release of Records

All custodians of a student’s education records and other University employees/agents may not disclose student information to third parties without the student’s prior written consent except as provided in this section:

• Under the following circumstances, University officials may make disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records without the consent of the student:
• To officials of another college or university where the student seeks or intends to enroll on the condition that the institution makes a reasonable effort to inform the student of the disclosure unless the student initiates the transfer.
• To certain federal and state officials who require information in order to audit or enforce legal conditions related to programs at the University supported by federal or state funds.
• To parties who provide or may provide financial aid to the student.
• To an individual or organization under written contract with the University or FLDOE for the purpose of conducting a study on the University’s behalf for the development of tests, the administration of student aid, or the improvement of instruction.
• To an outside contractor who is a “party acting on behalf of the University and is performing a service which the University would otherwise have to perform for itself.”
• To accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions.
• To parents of an enrolled student if the parents claim the student as a dependent under the Internal Revenue code of 1954. The University will exercise this option only on the condition that the evidence of such dependency is furnished to the University Registrar
• To comply with a lawfully issued subpoena or judicial order of a court of competent jurisdiction. The University will make reasonable effort to notify the student before the disclosure - unless otherwise noted by the judicial document.
• The result of a disciplinary proceeding may be released to the victim on the student’s crime of violence.
• To comply with an ex parte order from the Office of the Attorney General (or designee)
• To state or local officials in compliance with state laws adapted prior to November 19, 1974.
• University officials are authorized to make necessary disclosures from student education records without the prior consent of the student in a health or safety emergency if the University official deems:
• The disclosure to be warranted by the seriousness of the threat to the safety or health of the student or other persons; or
• The information disclosed is necessary and needed to meet the emergency;
• Time is an important and limiting factor in dealing with the emergency.

All requests for disclosure under the above circumstances, where the University may disclose personally identifiable information without the student’s prior consent to third parties other than its own officials, will be referred to the University Registrar or the appropriate records custodian.

Parental Access

At the post-secondary level, parents have no inherent rights to inspect a student’s education records. The right to inspect is limited solely to the student. Records may be released to parents only under the following circumstances:

1. Through the written consent of the student
2. In compliance with a subpoena,
3. By submission of evidence that the parent declares the student as a dependent on their most recent Federal Income Tax form (IRS Code of 1954).

Written Consent

• University officials may not disclose personally identifiable information contained in a student’s education record except directory information or under the circumstances listed above, except with the student’s prior written consent. Written consent must include the following:
• A specification of the information the student consents to be disclosed
• The person or organization or the class of persons or organizations to whom the disclosure may be made;
• The purpose of the disclosure
• The student’s signature and date (within the last calendar year) of the consent.
• The student may obtain a copy of any records the University disclosed pursuant to the student’s prior written consent. The University will not release information contained in a student’s education records, except directory information, to any third parties except its own officials, unless those third parties agree in writing that they will not re-disclose the information without the student’s prior written consent.

Additional Guidelines for Faculty

• The posting of grades by the student’s name, institutional student identification number or social security number is not allowed. Grades cannot be posted via paper source or electronic source unless the instructors and others who post grades use a system that ensures FERPA requirements are met.
• Prohibition on disclosure of personally identifiable information from an education record of a student applies to any kind of non-directory information. Examples include performance in class, grades, attitude, motivation, abilities and background that are conveyed in writing, in person or over the phone to third parties.

Challenge of Contents of Education Records
Florida A&M University provides any student with an opportunity to challenge and amend the contents of his/her education records which the student considers to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of their privacy or other rights. Challenge requests must be submitted to the University Registrar.

Protocol for Records Storage and Disposal
 

• Each person using electronic systems to access records must have a unique account with a password assigned for his/her own use. The account name and passwords used to access these systems must not be written down, told to others, or made available in any way for use by other persons. Account holders must change their passwords frequently
• Computers used to access electronic records systems must not be left unattended. Computers located in public areas must be positioned so that visitors cannot view.
  - Printers must not be publicly accessible and must be attended so that printed materials cannot be seen or taken by authorized persons. To reduce this risk, printed materials must be retrieved from the printer promptly.
• Printed or copies of records stored on electronic media must be kept in locked drawers or cabinets when not being used. Records being used must be returned to locked storage areas overnight. Central filing systems must be secured behind locked doors when they are not attended.
• Printed records must be shredded prior to recycling. Copies of records stored on electronic media, such as computer hard drives, CD-ROM, or diskette must be permanently deleted from these media before the media is disposed of. If this is not possible, the media itself should be destroyed and made unusable prior to its disposal.

Definition of Terms

Student - An individual for whom the educational institution maintains records. The term refers to a person who is or in the past has received academic credit from the University. “Student” does not include an individual who is or has been enrolled in noncredit, Continual Learning programs.

Enrolled Student - For the purpose of this document, this term refers to a student who has satisfied all the institution’s requirements for attendance in course offered for academic credit at the institution and is statistically represented in federal, state and/or local reports maintained by the educational institution.

Education Records (Academic Records) - Any records maintained by the University and employees/agents of the University which contain personally identifiable information directly related to a student record, and used herein, includes any information or data recorded in any medium, including but not limited to handwriting, print, magnetic tapes and disks, film, microfilm and microfiche.

Student Records - Any information or data collected, recorded, or maintained in any medium (e.g., handwriting, print, tapes, films, files, microfilm, microfiche, and any other form of electronic data storage).

Directory Information - Information contained in an education record of a student that generally would not be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. Items that can never be identified as directory information are a student’s social security number, citizenship, gender, religious preference, grades and GPA.

Personally Identifiable Information - Data or information which includes:

• The name of the student, the student’s parents, or other family members;
• The student’s addresses;
• A personal identifier such as a social security number or any generated student number; or
• A list of personal characteristics or other information that would allow the student’s identity to be traced.

School Officials (University Officials) - Those members of an institution who act in the student’s educational interest within the limitations of their “need to know.” Officials may include faculty, administration, clerical, and professional employees and other persons, including student employees or agents, who manage student education record information.

The University has also defined a school official to be any person currently serving as:

• A member of the Florida Board of Governors (FBOG);
• As a temporary substitute for a staff member or faculty member at FAMU for the period of his/her performance as a substitute member; and
• A member of the FBOG or under contract to the University to perform a special administrative task. Such persons shall be considered to be school officials for the period of their performance as an employee or contractor.

General Data Privacy Regulation (GDPR)

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University is committed to providing a world-class learning experience. From the University’s outstanding faculty and quality academic programs to opportunities for personal and professional growth, members of the University community have a strong environment in which they can thrive.

Florida A&M University emphasizes transparency as an institutional guiding principle. Any information collected or that you provide enabling consideration of your request for enrollment, employment or participation in University-sponsored initiatives or research through Florida A&M University will be used for that legitimate business purpose. For further information explaining how we use your personal information, please review our privacy guidelines.

Student Right to Know Act

To protect the rights of college students, the federal government has passed “The Student Right to Know Act.” A prospective or continuing student at Florida A&M University has the right to certain information the university is required to provide by law. The following is a list of departments that maintain data as mandated by the federal government in order to be in compliance with the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990 and the Higher Education Amendments of 1992 and 1998. The information on the sites is also contained elsewhere in this publication. Please visit the university website (WWW.FAMU.EDU), or departments for more information.

Center for Human Development
Learning Development and Evaluation Center
Athletic Department
Disability Services
Financial Aid
Institutional Research
University Registrar
Police Department


Articulation Agreement and Other Institutional Agreements - The University subscribes to the Articulation Agreement between the State University System and the Florida College System. Under this agreement, graduates of Florida’s public colleges are eligible for admission to non-limited access programs at a state university if the student has completed the university parallel program and has received the Associate of Arts degree. Additionally, the student will receive priority admission over out-of-state students. The agreement also ensures the transferability of courses that meet applicable requirements taken at the community colleges to the University.

The Articulation Agreement is overseen, monitored and assessed by the Florida Department of Education Articulation Coordinating Committee (ACC). The primary purpose of the ACC is to provide oversight to the articulation agreement by reconciling designated common prerequisite courses; building institution accountability for adhering to designated program prerequisites and advising students appropriately; surveying the faculty committees to determine the appropriateness of recommended changes in designated prerequisites; conducting a review of public institutions catalogs for verification of common program prerequisites; studying student participation in statewide agreements and conducting a review of current programs that may be candidates for statewide articulation. Additionally, the Office of Statewide Course Numbering System within the Florida Department of Education ensures that courses offered by all public institutions covered by the Articulation Agreement have similar course content and are taught by faculty who possess the appropriate credentials to teach the course.

Leon and Gadsden County High School Students Dual Enrollment Registration-The high school dual enrollment agreement between the Leon  and Gadsden County School Boards are reviewed annually by the County School Boards and the University. After review, the agreement must be signed by the Superintendent of the County School System and the President of the University. The term stipulated in the agreement that allows qualified high school students to enroll at no cost is relevant and consistent with the University’s purpose and educational mission.

FAMU-FSU Cooperative Program - The University and Florida State University have a reciprocal agreement that allows students to participate in a cooperative program that permits students to take a limited course load across all academic disciplines at either University. The students must obtain permission of academic officials at both schools before enrollment can occur. No more than half of the credit hours taken by a student during a given term may be taken at FSU.

Florida State University is a fully accredited institution by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) with comprehensive educational programs that have been certified and validated by the Florida Department of Education and many other equivalent agencies.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Entomology - The Division of Agricultural Sciences offers a Master of Science degree in Agricultural Sciences and the PhD degree in Entomology in cooperation with the University of Florida. This cooperation between the two Universities, in developing this innovative minority program, represents a historic achievement in the profession of entomology and a landmark in higher education for both Universities. The cooperative PhD in Entomology has received strong support from a number of state and national societies, government agencies and industrial leaders. The PhD is awarded by the University of Florida.
 

Academic Affairs -Gordon Rule and General Education

College-Level Communication and Computation Skills

Florida Administrative Code Rule 6A-10.030(2), commonly known as the “Gordon Rule” specifies that all state universities require in all baccalaureate degree programs, satisfactory completion of

1. Six (6) semester hours of English coursework and six (6) semester hours of additional coursework in which the student is required to demonstrate college-level writing skills through multiple assignments.
2. Six (6) semester hours of mathematics coursework at the level of college algebra or higher. For purposes of this rule, applied logic, statistics and other such computation coursework which may not be placed within a mathematics department may be used to fulfill three (3) hours of the six (6) hours required by this section. 
3. A grade of “C” or above is required for each course. 

Note: A student who enters Florida A&M University with an Associate of Arts degree from a Florida College System institution or State University is considered to have satisfied Gordon Rule requirements.

COMMUNICATION

Students are required to complete 6 semester hours of English coursework.

COURSEWORK WITH COLLEGE-LEVEL WRITING SKILLS

Students are required to complete 6 semester hours of additional coursework in which the student will demonstrate college-level writing skills through multiple assignments.

MATHEMATICS

Students are required to complete a minimum of 6 semester hours of mathematics coursework from the following approved course list:

Note: Any 3 credit hour college-level applied logic, statistics and other such computation coursework may be used.

General Education Competencies and Core Courses (fall 2015 to present)

The general education core course options are for students initially entering Florida A&M University fall 2015 to present.  Students must complete at least one course from the core list for each subject area - Communication, Humanities, mathematics, natural science, social science, and other general education requirement. “Completion of both the general education core and remaining university-specified general education courses are required for completion of an undergraduate degree” (8.005 BOG; 1007.25(3) F. S.).

Students are required to complete a total of 36 credit hours of general education as indicated below with a “C” grade or above, unless otherwise noted by the academic program in relation to natural science courses.
 

COMMUNICATION [6]

Students will demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively. Students will demonstrate the ability to analyze communication critically. 

Students must complete a total of 6 credit hours in the area of communication, of which one course must be chosen from the statewide core course list below

The additional course may be selected from the approved list below.

*Only honors students may select the honors courses

HUMANITIES [6]
Students will confirm the ability to think critically through demonstrating interpretive ability and cultural literacy.  Students will acquire competence in reflecting critically upon the human condition

Students must complete a total of 6 credit hours in the area of humanities, of which one course must be chosen from the statewide core course list below.

And

The additional course may be selected from the statewide core course list above or the approved list below.

MATHEMATICS [6-8]
Students will determine appropriate mathematical and computational models and methods in problem solving, and demonstrate an understanding of mathematical concepts. Students will apply appropriate mathematical and computational models and methods in problem solving.

Students must complete a total of 6-8 credit hours in the area of mathematics, of which one course must be chosen from the statewide core course list below.

And

The additional course may be selected from the statewide core course list above or the approved list below.

Note:  Any student who successfully completes a mathematics course for which one of the general education core course options in mathematics is an immediate prerequisite shall be considered to have completed the mathematics core.  Example; a student who completes Calculus II successfully has satisfied mathematics core because Calculus I is an immediate prerequisite to Calculus II. The student will still need to complete a total of 6 hours of general education mathematics.

NATURAL SCIENCES [6-8]
Students will demonstrate the ability to critically examine and evaluate scientific observation, hypothesis, or model construction, and to use the scientific method to explain the natural world. Students will successfully recognize and comprehend fundamental concepts, principles, and

Students must complete a total of 6 to 8 credit hours in the area of natural sciences, of which one course must be chosen from the statewide core course list below.

And

The additional course may be selected from the statewide core course list above or the approved list below.           

Note: Science majors are required to complete two courses with corresponding laboratory for each science course for a total of 8 semester credit hours.  Please see your academic advisor for appropriate science courses for your major.

Any student who successfully completes a natural science course for which one of the general education core course options in natural science is an immediate prerequisite shall be considered to have completed the natural science core. The student will still need to complete a total of 6 to 8 credit hours of general education science.

SOCIAL SCIENCES [6]
Students will demonstrate the ability to examine behavioral, social, and cultural issues from a variety of points of view. Students will demonstrate an understanding of basic social and behavioral science concepts and principles used in the analysis of behavioral, social, and cultural issues, past and present, local and global.

Students must complete a total of 6 credit hours in the area of social sciences, of which one course must be chosen from the statewide core course list below.

The additional course may be selected from the Social Science General Education list below.

University-Specified General Education Courses [3 - 6]

Students must complete 3-6 credit hours of university-specified general education of which one course must be chosen from the list of African American courses below.

The additional credits may be selected from the list below or any of the approved Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences and Humanities courses outlined in the General Education requirements.

NOTE:

1.  Each School/College requires students to be computer literate by requiring them to take an appropriate course or by certifying that the student has mastered certain computer competencies specified by the school/college.
2. Students are required to complete a total of 36 credit hours of general education.