Academic Misconduct
Student Academic Performance
The Office of the Dean of Students often receives inquiries regarding grades for courses and how to have them changed. Grades are an academic issue and the process for seeking an appeal is outlined in Policy 6-100 Instruction and Evaluation.
If a student believes that an action taken (e.g., a grade given) by a faculty member is arbitrary (unsupported) or capricious (impulsive), the student has twenty business days to discuss the action with the faculty member. If the faculty member does not respond, or if the student and faculty member are unable to resolve the disagreement, further steps are outlined for the student to appeal.
Please note that the Office of the Dean of Students does not have any authority in these matters, but can serve as a resource to students for understanding Student Rights and Responsibilities as outlined in Policy 6-400.
Academic Misconduct
A student who engages in academic misconduct (e.g., cheating, plagiarism, etc.) may be subject to academic sanctions including but not limited to a grade reduction, failing grade, probation, suspension, or dismissal from the academic program or the University. This process, including how to appeal, is outlined in Policy 6-410 Student Academic Performance, Academic Conduct, and Professional and Ethical Conduct.
Please note that the Office of the Dean of Students does not have any authority in these matters, but can serve as a resource to students for understanding Student Rights and Responsibilities as outlined in Policy 6-400.
Petitions for Exception to Academic Policy
Students are responsible for complying with all University regulations and deadlines, but the University has provided means for students to be granted exceptions to University policy in cases involving unusual or extenuating circumstances. Modification of the academic record for sake of appearance does not constitute justification for an exception to policy.
View information on requesting exceptions to University policy.
You will note that for most requests, students need to work through the college of their major for support of the petition. Students who have declared majors and pre-majors should submit petitions and supporting documentation to the Office of the Dean of their academic college. Undeclared and non-matriculated students should work with the Academic Advising Center. Students enrolled in workshops, short-term classes, or noncredit courses may petition the deadline to withdraw by submitting a petition and supporting documentation to the Academic Outreach and Continuing Education Office, 540 Arapeen Dr.
After you have confirmed what major you have declared (you can check this by logging into CIS), find the contact information for the Dean’s office of your college. The necessary forms and all supporting documentation must be received before your Dean’s Office will consider your petition.