Academic Policies

The Academic Council, a committee of faculty, administrators, and students, is responsible for developing the academic policies of the University. The Teacher Education Committee is responsible for Teacher Education policies. The Graduate Committee sets policies for graduate programs, and the Graduate Teacher Education Committee sets policy for the graduate Teacher Education programs. The items listed below describe academic information, policies, and procedures for undergraduate programs.

General Academic Information

Curriculum Decisions

All department majors and minors are approved by the University's Academic Council or Teacher Education Committee and published with their credit-hour requirements in the Trevecca Nazarene University Catalog.

Registration

All presently enrolled students are expected to submit a pre-registration schedule of courses to the Office of Academic Records on assigned dates specified in each year's school calendar during the fall and spring semesters. This schedule is submitted electronically by the student with the assistance and approval of the faculty advisor.

The last day to add classes is five days after school starts in any semester including the first day of classes.

Summer School

The University operates on the basis of two semesters during the regular school year (August-May). In addition, summer terms are available with regular courses and selected special course offerings. Two 2 1/2 week mini-terms of morning classes are offered, one in May and one in June. Classes that span the length of both mini-terms are offered in the afternoon. Evening and online courses are offered in both summer time periods.

Academic Advising

Students are advised by faculty in the major field of study chosen by the student. The successful planning and completion of the requirements for graduation are the joint responsibility of the student and the advisor. To change a major and/or advisor, the student must submit a request through the Office of Academic Records.

Degrees

Trevecca Nazarene University grants five baccalaureate degrees: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and Bachelor of Science in Social Work. Two associate degrees, Associate of Arts and Associate of Science, are also offered. General requirements for completion of a degree program are listed below. Degrees are awarded only with approved majors. A list of degrees with approved degree majors is provided in the section "Programs by Schools and Departments."

Policies

Limitation of Student Load

The average load is 15 hours; the maximum is 18 hours. Students may not register for more than 18 hours unless their grade average for the preceding semester was a "B" and they have the approval of the school dean. Students who work should limit their academic loads according to the number of hours they work and their level of ability.

Second Major

In place of a minor, some students may have the option of completing a second major by completing all of the specific requirements which are unique to that major, including general education coursework, with the exception of a supporting minor. If the student chooses to meet requirements for a second major, that student must declare an approved degree major as defined above. The degree major will be listed as such on the official transcript and will be the degree included on the student's diploma. The second major will be listed as "second major" on the student's official transcript.

Second Degree

A second Bachelor's degree may be obtained with a minimum of 30 hours of coursework which is in addition to the requirements for the first degree, including meeting all general education, major coursework, and minor coursework requirements for a second major. In no case will more than one degree be conferred upon a candidate on any one conferral date. Second degree candidates are eligible for graduating honor ranks, Honor Society and Dean's List, but not for membership in Phi Delta Lambda.

Definitions

Classification

Students are classified at the beginning of each semester on the basis of work already completed as follows:

Full-time: Students carrying 12 hours or more each semester. Participation in intercollegiate athletics, University traveling groups, academic scholarships, student government scholarships and most financial aid programs require this minimum academic load. Students should be aware that completing only 12 hours per semester will not enable them to graduate in eight semesters and that some programs may require more than eight fifteen-hour semesters to complete.

Part-time: Students currently enrolled for fewer than 12 hours of work for college credit.

Course Numbering System

In course listings, numbers enclosed within parentheses opposite the course number and name represent the number of credit hours awarded for the course.

Approved Degree Majors

A degree major at Trevecca Nazarene University is a prescribed coursework plan within a broader curricular area (e.g., Religious Studies Major in the curricular area of Religion and Philosophy). Majors offer students an opportunity to focus their learning on theories, skills, and applications relevant to their course of study and the broad curricular area from which the major is offered. The Undergraduate Curriculum Chart provides a list of majors and minors offered. Specific requirements and a recommended schedule for completing the requirements for a major are listed under each department in this catalog.

A number of majors offer a Major Core—courses required by all students in the major—and further require a choice from a list of concentrations, professional minors, minors, or electives from courses offered in the major area. Some majors require support courses—an additional set of courses which provide necessary skills for the majors.

Concentrations, Professional Minors, or Electives from Major Area

Concentrations, professional minors, or required electives from the major area are provided to students as areas of emphasis in some majors as an addition to a major core. Concentrations, professional minors, or required number of electives of 18 hours or less permit minor specialization in the broad area of the major while those of more than 18 hours allow for focused study in the professional area.

Minors

Minors allow for additional areas of study. Some are required with particular majors; most are options which may be added to any major, creating options for personal enrichment or career enhancement.

Requirements for Graduation

The degree of Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or Bachelor of Science in Social Work is conferred upon successful completion of a major, at least one minor, and 51-54 (or prescribed variation) hours of General Education courses which must be taken by the end of the junior year (except REL 4000). These General Education Core Courses have been selected to give a broad liberal arts training as a foundation to students majoring in any field.

The following provisions apply to all 4-year degrees. Appropriate exceptions are noted in applicable statements for 2-year degrees:

Completion Requirements:

1. The candidate must complete a total of at least 120 (60 hours for associate degrees) semester hours of credit with a 2.00 grade point average. Some programs may require more than 120/60 hours.
2. The senior year must be taken in residence at Trevecca Nazarene University, with a minimum of 25% of the total semester hours required for a bachelor's degree or an associate's degree. A summer graduate must be within 6 hours of graduation and have a workable plan for completing his or her degree by the August conferral date in order to participate in the May graduation ceremony. No student may graduate with less than 25% of the degree hours (exclusive of testing, PLC, and military credit) earned at Trevecca.
3. A student is to graduate under the terms of the catalog at the time of his or her graduation or the one immediately preceding.
4. A candidate must make application for graduation by the following dates:

   December 2011 candidates	September 30, 2011
   May 2012 and August 2012 candidates	December 31, 2011

5. The graduation fee will be billed at the beginning of the semester and will be due along with the student's other charges.
6. All work must be completed and grades recorded in the Office of Academic Records prior to the specified conferral date: December 31, 2011; May 5, 2012; or August 15, 2012. In the event requirements are not met by the specified conferral date, the candidate must reapply to graduate at the next conferral date.

Curricular Requirements

1. The candidate must have completed a department-approved major with 2.0 average or better in the major field. A minimum of C- is required of courses counting on a major. Each major must include at least 25% of courses at the 3000/4000 level with their prerequisites.
2. The candidate must also present an approved minor or a second major. Careful selection of electives will allow a second major and expanded career opportunities. Only grades of C- or above will count toward minors and concentrations. Programs may specify a higher standard for their programs by approval of the Academic Council and statement in their Catalog section.
3. Courses used for one major or minor may not be counted as part of another major or minor.
4. Course substitutions and waivers for majors, minors, and concentrations must be approved on the appropriate form by the advisor, the chair of the department and school dean where the course is taught, and the Registrar. General Education substitutions are approved by the Registrar. Transfer students need to be diligent about this follow up to their transfer evaluations.
5. The candidate must take a minimum of 12 hours of courses in the major at Trevecca.
6. A student is limited to 60 hours (30 for associate degree) credit for work not listed as course work in the Catalog with the following limits by category within the 60 hours:

   45 hours (22 associate) of testing (AP, CLEP, DANTES)

   32 hours (15 associate) PLC

   32 hours (15 associate) military

7. On a degree program, the candidate is limited to 12 hours of directed study, 6 hours of internship (exclusive of Student Teaching), and 4 hours of practicums.
8. A teacher candidate must meet licensure requirements under the guidance of the director of teacher education.

Basic Skills Competency Requirements

A candidate (including a transfer student) who fails to establish competency through ACT scores in the areas of math and English may be required to establish competency by taking the required developmental courses.

Students are allowed only four semesters to complete competency. INT 0950 and INT 0960 will be in addition to the 120 hours required for graduation:

*Students with Math ACT score of 17 and below will take both Elementary Algebra (INT 0950) and Intermediate Algebra (INT 0960).

**Students with Math ACT scores of 18 and 19 will be placed in Intermediate Algebra (INT 0960).

***Students with English ACT scores of 17 and below will be placed in an Introduction to Rhetoric/Lab (ENG 1010L) component taken concurrently with the ENG 1010 (Introduction to Rhetoric) course. The course carries regular University credit and is graded on an S/IP/U basis.

****Study Skills carries regular university credit, a letter grade, and is required of students enrolled on academic restriction.

Freshman Leadership Course Requirement

All first-time freshmen (those enrolling with less than 24 hours) are required to enroll in this course that will introduce them to Trevecca Nazarene University. The course curriculum is designed to empower students to make a successful transition from high school to college and discover their unique calling and purpose.

INT 1100 Life Calling and Purpose (3)

General Education Curriculum

The candidate must meet the following General Education requirements which should be taken during the freshman and sophomore years but no later than the junior year, with the exception of REL 4000.

Please note that some general education requirements may vary for a significant number of majors. Students should consult the major program listings in the Catalog and an advisor for the program to ensure accurate registration for general education courses.

Varsity athletics do not count toward this requirement.

General Education Waiver and Substitution in Major or Minor

Course work can count toward the completion of a major or minor and simultaneously satisfy a general education requirement. This can be done by: (a) waiver of a general education requirement when the completion of a course listed as part of the general education core directly contributes to the fulfillment of a major or minor, as approved by the department; (b) substitution of one or more courses completed to fulfill a major or minor for a course in the general education core in the same field, as approved by the Academic Council.

Requirements for the AA or AS Degree

Trevecca offers the Associate of Arts degree and the Associate of Science degree in selected paraprofessional programs of study. These 2-year programs are career-oriented and require approximately one year in general education including six hours of required religion courses. The balance of the program is in the specialty area selected. The University requires 60 semester hours of work with a 2.00 grade point average for graduation with the AA or AS degree. The residency requirement for the AA or AS degree is 25% of the total degree hours required (exclusive of testing, PLC, and military credit). Additional requirements for curriculum and degree completion for graduation that apply to baccalaureate and associate students are listed under Requirements for Graduation.

Developmental Education

Trevecca's Developmental Education Program is for students who are required to take specific courses based on their ACT scores or granted admission on academic restriction.

Math

Students with math ACT scores of 19 and below will be placed in developmental mathematics courses INT 0950 Elementary Algebra and INT 0960 Intermediate Algebra and encouraged to take them their first semester. The courses are graded on an S, IP, U, and F basis and do not count toward graduation. They do count as institutional credit in the areas of financial aid and athletic eligibility.

• Students with Math ACT scores of 18 and 19 will be placed in INT 0960 Intermediate Algebra.
• Students with Math ACT score of 17 and below will be placed in both INT 0950 Elementary Algebra and INT 0960 Intermediate Algebra.

English

Students with English ACT scores of 17 and below will be placed in ENG 1010 Introduction to Rhetoric and ENG 1010L Introduction to Rhetoric/Lab, a component taken concurrently with ENG 1010. Both courses carry regular University credit. ENG 1010 is graded on a regular letter grade basis, and ENG 1010L is graded on an S/IP/U basis.

Study Skills

Students granted admission on academic restriction will be required to take INT 1010 Study Skills, which carries regular University credit and is graded on a regular letter grade basis.

The Academic Restriction Program includes the following components:

• Students will be assigned a faculty advisor from Academic Services in the Center for Leadership, Calling, and Service.
• During the initial interview, students will be required to sign a contract with the Academic Services advisor agreeing to abide by the performance standards which would lead to being removed from academic restriction.
• Students will be required to enroll in a study skills course.

Students required to take these courses may not withdraw from them without permission from the associate director of academic services unless they are withdrawing from all University courses. Any variation in the requirements must be approved by the Academic Services Committee.

Developmental Education Suspension

• Students will have four semesters to complete all developmental education requirements.
• Students who do not successfully complete their requirements by the end of their fourth semester of enrollment (spring or fall) will be suspended for the following semester and until they submit a transcript from another college or university with a course equivalent to the developmental or college level course requirement.
• Students who exceed absence limits in developmental education classes during any semester will be suspended from all University classes for the following semester.
• Students may appeal their suspension if there are extenuating circumstances. Appeals for waiver of suspension must be submitted in writing to the Academic Services Committee.

Academic Probation and Suspension

To encourage and ensure satisfactory progress toward a degree, the Office of Academic Records and the Office of Academic Services administer the following system of probation and suspension. As a student advances in class, the minimum academic level increases according to the following scale to assure that the 2.0 minimum grade point average requirement is met for graduation.

Probation Limits by Student Classification

All students' records will be evaluated at the end of fall and spring semesters. Probation and suspension will be based on the cumulative grade point averages of each of these semesters. Transfer students with grade point averages below minimum standards will be entered on probation.

Probation: designation after a semester in which a student fails to achieve the minimum cumulative GPA for his or her class standing. Students on probation are required to have counseling and class schedule approval by a Center for Leadership, Calling, and Service counselor before they are allowed to register and are required to maintain a 2.0 average for courses taken during the semester of probation to avoid suspension the following fall term. Students must take INT 1150 Engaging Academic Success in the first semester of academic probation. Students who continue for more than one semester on academic probation are required to continue the class as INT 1155.

One-Semester Suspension: designation fall semester after a student fails to maintain a 2.0 for the courses taken during a spring semester of probation.

Two-Semester Suspension: designation the second time a student fails to maintain a 2.0 for courses taken during a spring semester of probation.

Right to Appeal Academic Suspension

If there were extenuating circumstances (illness or family emergency) during a semester previous to suspension, a student may appeal in writing to the Admissions Committee for waiver of suspension. The extenuating circumstances and their probable solution should be documented in writing by someone such as a doctor, parent, pastor, or appropriate school official. If a waiver is granted, failure to maintain a 2.0 for the term GPA in the semester in which the waiver is granted or any subsequent semester prior to being removed from probation automatically moves the student to the next suspension designation.

No student on academic or social probation will be allowed to fill any major office.* Students must have a 2.5 average to be approved for election to major offices.** Students serving the University as official representatives in any capacity, such as SGA officers, intercollegiate athletics, forensic team, and nonacademic musical groups, must not be on academic or social probation.

*All SGA members, class and club presidents, business managers of publications.

**If new freshmen, student must have an ACT Composite of 19 or above or an SAT total of 910 or above. Freshmen officers cannot be in developmental education.

Grading System

Grades Which Carry Quality Points

Grades Which Carry No Quality Points

Incomplete—I
Given for sickness or emergency reasons near end of term and must be approved by the professor, department chair, and school dean. May also be used for practicum-type courses when pre-planned activities extend over two different grading periods. Must be removed within the first seven weeks following the semester (including summer) or grade becomes a permanent F. Seniors expecting to graduate must have all I's removed prior to the conferral date.

Withdrawal—W
Granted to students who officially withdraw from a class by the calendar-scheduled last date to withdraw with a W. May be assigned by the school dean for extenuating circumstances after the last day to withdraw.

Satisfactory—S
Credit toward graduation, but no quality points. Courses numbered below 1000 carry institutional credit but no credit toward graduation.

In Progress—IP
No credit. Given in developmental courses and ENG 1010 and 1020 to students who need additional time to complete competencies. May be changed to F if student fails to register for the course the next semester he or she is enrolled.

Unsatisfactory—U
No credit.

Audit—N
No credit.

Minimums for Graduation

120 semester hours and a 2.00 grade point average are required.

Prior Learning Credit

This University recognizes the validity of prior learning and provides opportunity to receive academic credit for college-level learning from experience, professional schools, and training. Up to 32 semester hours of academic credits for a BA or BS degree and 15 semester hours for an AA or AS degree are allowable with proper validation and approval in accordance with American Council of Education guidelines or evaluation by qualified Trevecca faculty. Such credit will be awarded only after 12 semester hours have been completed at Trevecca. This program is administered through the Center for Leadership, Calling, and Service.

Military Service Credit

Credit may be given for military education. On presentation of a military transcript, credit is determined in accordance with American Council of Education guidelines by individual assessment according to Trevecca's guidelines.

Transient Credit from Other Colleges

Students are not permitted to register for courses in other institutions while attending Trevecca without the approval of the registrar. Approval forms are available on MyTNU. The University reserves the right to reject any courses submitted which were not first approved. Students who owe the University money or are on academic probation or suspension will not be allowed to take work at another college as an approved transient student.

Scholastic Honors

Dean's List. Each semester the Dean's List is composed of those students carrying 12 or more hours who achieve a 3.5 grade point average.

Graduating Honors. Students of high scholastic standing will graduate with honors, according to the following criteria for each honor rank:

With Distinction—representing a cumulative standing of at least 3.5 for AA or AS degree candidates only.

Cum Laude—representing a cumulative standing of at least 3.5.

Magna Cum Laude—representing a cumulative standing of at least 3.7.

Summa Cum Laude—representing a cumulative standing of 3.9 or above.

Phi Delta Lambda is the national honor society of the colleges and universities of the Church of the Nazarene. Each college or university maintains a chapter, the one at Trevecca Nazarene University being the Zeta chapter. Honor graduates are eligible for election to membership in this chapter. Elections are held each year by the faculty during the commencement season. Membership each year may not exceed 15 percent of the graduating class.

The Honor Society. At the end of each spring semester the Honor Society membership list includes those students (24 hours and above) who have a cumulative average of 3.5 for the previous fall and spring semesters. Members are inducted the following year. Transfer student requirements are outlined in the Honor Society Constitution. Students who have not completed all required developmental courses are not eligible for membership.

Grade Processing Policies

Auditing Policy

Students may audit courses for an N (no credit) grade at a reduced fee. Although courses are usually audited only for no credit, they may be audited before or after they are taken for credit. Professors are not obligated to evaluate work, and students are not obligated to do assignments; however, assignments may be completed and evaluated by mutual consent. The registration status of courses may not be changed from audit to credit or from credit to audit after the initial drop/add period.

Grading Policy

Each regular course must have a minimum of two significant evaluative measures (preferably exams)—at least one by mid-term.

Change of Grade Policy

After a professor has assigned a grade in a course, changes may be made only for clerical error—never to allow a student to complete or do extra work. Changes must be approved by the associate provost and dean of academic affairs.

Course Repeat Policy

Students may repeat courses if the second course is equivalent in content to the first. The repeat grade is the grade recorded as part of the GPA. The registrar makes decisions about course equivalencies concerning general education courses. Decisions about major and minor courses are made by the registrar in consultation with the school deans and program directors. A failed course may not be repeated by directed study.

Permanent Record Policy

Permanent Record Defined: The permanent record of the student is comprised of the transcript, program of study, disclosure forms, and other pertinent academic records.

Retention and Disposal of Permanent Records: The student transcripts are filed permanently in the Office of Academic Records.

Transcript Policies

Official Transcripts: The transcript of a student's academic record will be released by the registrar only upon receipt of a student's written request. No degrees will be awarded and no transcript of credit will be issued until all financial obligations to the University are discharged in full and a student's academic file is complete in the Office of Academic Records.

Unofficial Transcripts: Currently enrolled students may obtain an unofficial student copy of their transcript from the Office of Academic Records and may view and copy an unofficial copy of their transcripts using their MyTNU web accounts.

Transcripts of Transfer Credit: A transcript of a student's record from another university or college is not forwarded to a third institution. The student should request another transcript from the original institution.

Course Policies

Appeals for Graduation Requirements, Course Equivalencies, Substitutions, and Transfer Credits

The registrar makes decisions about course equivalencies and substitutions concerning general education courses. Decisions about major and minor courses are made by the registrar in consultation with the school deans and program directors. These decisions are made following catalog and program policies, guidelines, and procedures. If students believe these processes have not been followed with their program of study, they may appeal in writing to the associate provost and dean of academic affairs who has the right to make a final decision or refer the matter to the Academic Council for resolution.

Academic Grievance Policy for Classes in Process

Students with grievances or problems with the way a particular course is conducted and how their grades are being assigned should submit their concerns in writing to their professor. If the professor's solution is not satisfactory, students may appeal to the professor's department chair in writing for a review of the professor's decision. If the department chair's solution is not satisfactory, students may appeal to the department chair's school dean for a final resolution. If a chair is the professor, the line of appeal would be to the school dean and to the associate provost and dean of academic affairs. If the professor is a dean, then the appeal would be to the associate provost and dean of academic affairs.

Face to face discussions with professors and department chairs about concerns are appropriate, but grievances and outcomes need to be in writing to ensure that all decisions are made with a mutual understanding of the issues.

If a final grade for the course has already been submitted to the Office of Academic Records, the Final Grade Appeal Policy procedure described below should be followed.

Final Grade Appeal Policy and Procedures

Trevecca Nazarene University recognizes a student's right to appeal decisions and practices that affect his or her academic status without fear of punishment or unfair treatment. A student can expect the University to deal with a final course grade appeal sincerely, objectively, within a reasonable time frame, and as appropriate, in confidence. Appeals will be heard when the student alleges that an arbitrary, capricious, or prejudiced evaluation or a mechanical error has occurred. The purpose of the appeal process is to treat all parties fairly and to alert all parties to the appeal procedure. During the appeal, the burden of proof is on the student, except in the case of alleged academic dishonesty, in which case the professor must support the accusation. The student may have an advisor or friend present during all meetings with faculty, administrators, and/or committees; he or she may counsel the student but may not speak for the student during the meetings. The grade appealed shall remain in effect until the appeal process is completed, or the problem is resolved.

Order of Appeal

Should a student feel there is concrete reason to appeal a course grade, these procedures should be followed sequentially:

1. The University supports and encourages responsive and respectful dialogue between faculty and students when there is a disagreement about a final course grade. Whatever the nature of the grade appeal, the student must make an effort to first discuss the matter with the faculty member. In order to begin the appeal process, students must initiate a complaint to the faculty member in writing or via e-mail within 15 calendar days of the posting of a final grade. The faculty member will provide a written response within 15 calendar days of receiving the letter or e-mail from the student.
2. If the student is not satisfied with the faculty member's response or lack of response, the student shall contact the person designated in the table as the second level of appeal (either the program director or department chair) within 30 calendar days of the posting of a final grade. The contact needs to be in writing. Upon receipt of the written appeal, the program director or department chair will communicate with the student within 30 calendar days to attempt to resolve the issue.
3. If after the meeting with the program director or department chair, the student is still not satisfied with the decision, the student may choose to file an appeal to the school dean in which the course under appeal is housed. This appeal must be in writing within 15 calendar days of the previous contact with the program director or department chair. The dean will contact the student within 15 calendar days of receiving the appeal in an attempt to resolve the issue. The dean may elect to include or consult with others in evaluating the appeal. The decision of the dean is final.

The following diagram illustrates the order of appeals for specific programs. In the event the professor happens to be a department chair, program director, or dean, the appeal will be submitted to the next higher academic officer. In other words, every student will have the right to have his/her appeal heard by the professor and two other academic administrators.

The student may elect to discontinue the appeal process at any level.

The failure of the student to proceed from one level of the appeal procedure to the next level within the prescribed time limits shall be deemed to be an acceptance of the decision previously rendered. All further considerations and proceedings regarding that particular appeal will cease at that point. Under unusual circumstances, deadlines may be extended.

The following table illustrates the specific person to whom an appeal is directed, depending upon the academic program in which the course under appeal is offered. The three levels of appeal must be followed sequentially.

Traditional Undergraduate

Criminal Justice

Management and Human Relations

Computer Information Technology

Health Information Technology

Graduate Education

Graduate MSM/MBA/MBAIT

Graduate Organizational Leadership

Graduate Physician Assistant

Graduate Psychology

Graduate Religion

Career Internships

A career internship is a credit-bearing course which places a student in a professional setting in his or her career field. The student is under the contract supervision of a professional for one semester. The purpose is to provide the student an introduction to job search skills, a clarity of career focus, an apprentice learning experience, and networking opportunities for future career employment.

Guidelines

• The student must be a junior or senior with a GPA of 2.5.
• The internship must be in the student's major or career field.
• The student must be in good standing with the University.
• The internship site must enter into a learning contract with Trevecca.
• The student must register for the internship during the semester of participation in the internship.

Career Internships, only offered in majors where professional experience is not already built into the required curriculum, are coordinated by the coordinator of junior year programs (Center for Leadership, Calling, and Service) and require a faculty sponsor within the academic department. Career Internship planning should be initiated the semester prior to the internship and must be done according to processes described in Trevecca Internships Guidelines. A total of six credit hours may be earned. Two internships are recommended prior to graduation.

Class Attendance

Regular class attendance is expected of all students. Each professor includes his or her attendance policy in the class syllabus at the beginning of each semester. Absences for any reason may be taken into account in the evaluation of a student's work.

Students are allowed only three weeks of absences (excused and unexcused) during a semester. Absences in excess of three weeks may result in disenrollment from the course without credit and the possibility of a grade penalty of F. The detailed processes of this policy follow:

1. Attendance counts from the first day of class whether students are registered or not. Registering late may be an excused absence.
2. Students need to save their 3-week allowance of absences (excused count as well as the unexcused) for illness, necessary trips home, work related problems, and weather related problems.
3. Students need to keep careful count of their absences and inform professors of tardiness immediately after class.
4. As soon as students decide to stop attending a class, they should submit a drop form (available on MyTNU) to their advisor who will submit it to the Office of Academic Records. Withdrawal grades and refunds are based on the date of drop forms. A student's failure to submit a drop form through the advisor to the Office of Academic Records may result in an F grade in the class. Students may not withdraw from developmental classes unless they are withdrawing from all classes.
5. Each professor will keep accurate attendance records and report excessive absences to the Office of Academic Records using the disenrollment form on MyTNU when the number has exceeded 3 weeks. Professors also must report the last date of attendance for each W and F on the grade rolls to the Office of Academic Records.
6. Each professor determines whether the absence is excused or not except for extended illness verified by a doctor and travel with an official University group verified by the Office of Academic Affairs.
7. Disenrollment—If class meets 3 times per week, the student may be disenrolled on the 10th absence. If class meets 2 times per week, the student may be disenrolled on the 7th absence. If class meets 1 time per week, the student may be disenrolled on the 4th absence. Students cannot be disenrolled from developmental classes but will be suspended from all University classes the next semester if they have more than 3 weeks of absences.

   If the disenrolling absence is before the last day to withdraw with a W, as published in the school calendar in the Catalog, the grade will be W. If it is after the published date, the grade will be F unless a W for extenuating circumstances is assigned by the school dean in consultation with the professor and/or department chair or program director.

   Excused absences will require one of the following evidences:

   1. a note from the University clinic saying the student has been treated in the clinic and is unable to attend classes.
   2. a note from a physician saying the student has been treated in his or her office and is unable to attend classes.
   3. an excused absence recorded by the professor.
   4. excused absences for official functions of the University sent out by the Office of Academic Affairs.

   Work related absences are not considered excused absences. If students are disenrolled for absences, they may apply for reinstatement within a week of the disenrollment. The application must be made to the school dean and include proofs of the excused absences and absence and grade reports from the professor. A committee composed of the school dean, the student's advisor, and the student's professor will make the decision concerning the student's reinstatement. The reasons for all absences are considered, not just the last disenrolling absence.

   However, students in the Honor Society will be allowed unlimited cuts in a course where the nature of the course does not depend on class participation. The professor of the course will decide whether the allowance will be granted or not.

Please consult the school dean concerning any questions about the policies and how they apply to a particular situation.

Class Schedule

A schedule of classes and examination times is published each year for the next school year. The University reserves the right to cancel a class with fewer than ten students enrolled and to make necessary changes in schedules and programs.

Directed Study

A limited amount of directed study is available for students to do individual research, special problems, and further study in a particular subject area. Regular courses are not to be taken by directed study except in cases regarding unavoidable class schedule conflicts with graduation requirements in the senior year. Students are expected to arrange their work schedules to accommodate class schedules and should not request directed studies to accommodate work schedules. When regular courses are taught by directed study, they must have essentially the same requirements as those taught in the classroom, including exams. A student is limited to one course of directed study per term and a total of 12 hours credit by directed study. Students on academic probation are not permitted to take any courses by directed study. A failed course may not be repeated by directed study. Directed studies require the approval of the professor, the professor's department chair and school dean. A fee is charged for a directed study. Post Baccalaureate students must pay regular tuition rate plus the directed study fee.

Examinations

A minimum of a mid-term and final exam are required in regular courses, although some courses may have three or four exams. Final examinations must be taken at officially scheduled times. Permission will not be given to take final examinations early. All exceptions for finals given at a later time must be approved by the school dean who schedules the course. Final exam schedules are available online and on class syllabi the first day of class. Therefore, students are responsible to ensure that all travel arrangements are made so that all exams can be completed as scheduled.

Technology Policy

The Trevecca Nazarene University computer network (TNUnet) exists to further the University's academic, research and spiritual goals. Anyone who accesses resources on TNUnet is expected to practice common sense, decency and courtesy to all Trevecca Nazarene University (TNU) students, faculty, staff, and administrators. Acceptable Use Policies have been established for TNUnet, e-mail, internet, and wireless access. By using the technology provided by Trevecca Nazarene University, you agree to abide by these policies. Any violation of these University policies may result in disciplinary action, including the termination of your network, e-mail, and/or internet access.

The Acceptable Use Policies can be found at the following location: http://its.trevecca.edu/acceptable.use.policies

Withdrawals from Courses

A student withdrawing from a course will receive a grade of W in a class anytime up to the calendar-scheduled last day to withdraw with a W. After that published date, students who withdraw will receive a grade of F unless they appeal to the school dean who schedules the course, who may approve a W for extenuating circumstances. No student may withdraw during the week and a half before finals. If the student withdraws from any course without following the proper procedure with the Office of Academic Records and Office of Student Accounts, the grade in the course will be recorded as F. Students may not withdraw from required developmental courses.

Withdrawals, especially if student status drops to part-time, may affect financial aid, athletic eligibility, veteran status, insurance benefits, and graduation plans. Students should consult appropriate advisors prior to processing withdrawals.

A student who finds it necessary to withdraw from all of his or her courses must secure the proper forms from the Office of Student Development and complete them to ensure accurate grades and financial arrangements.

Student Rights and Responsibilities in the Academic Area

Every student at Trevecca Nazarene University has the right to:

1. Respect as an individual; to forthright, friendly, tactful, and helpful treatment; and the right to ask sincere questions and receive polite answers.
2. Expect that the course material reflect the current state of learning in the field.
3. Be informed in a printed syllabus of student learning outcomes, requirements, evaluation procedures, and attendance policy.
4. Be informed by the teacher at regular intervals of his or her individual progress in courses.
5. Expect assignments back within a reasonable period of time, including corrections and criticisms of student work either orally or in writing.
6. Personal consultation with teachers and advisor during regular posted office hours.
7. Withdraw from any course (except developmental courses) anytime up until the calendar-scheduled last day to withdraw with grade of W.
8. Due process for appeals using the Academic Grievance and Grade Appeal Policy and Procedures outlined in the Course Policies section of this Catalog.
9. FERPA—The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 guarantees each student the right to know what information the University maintains about individual students and the right to ensure the accuracy of that information.
10. Employ Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act if it applies to him or her.

Every student at Trevecca Nazarene University also has the responsibility to:

1. Attend classes regularly according to prescribed attendance policies and participate in class discussions.
2. Complete all assignments on time to the best of his or her ability.
3. Know the academic policies of the University as stated in the Trevecca Nazarene University Catalog and annual class schedule, including requirements for graduation.
4. Know and live within the University behavioral expectations as outlined in the Student Handbook and housing contract for residential students.
5. Check campus-assigned e-mail account and mailbox regularly for correspondence from faculty and administrators that may address particular applications of policies and procedures to his or her academic classes and records as well as individual financial or student development issues.
6. Consult with his or her faculty advisor each semester regarding academic planning for the next semester.
7. Plan extra-curricular activities and work schedule so they do not interfere with academic work or chapel attendance.
8. Maintain honesty and integrity in all academic work.
9. Take proper care of equipment and materials used in academic work, science labs, and library.
10. Maintain appropriate conduct in the various areas of the campus, such as the classroom, chapel, and the library.
11. Maintain a standard of professional conduct off-campus in areas such as student teaching, practicums, internships, clinical training, field trips, forensics, music group performances, athletics, and outreach ministry.
12. Self-identify as an individual with a disability and follow published procedures for obtaining information, services, and reasonable accommodations if such conditions apply and accommodations are desired.
13. Comply with "Human Subjects" or "Research Requirements." All research involving human subjects must be approved prior to initiating data collection in accordance with guidelines and procedures available from the Institutional Review Board. This information can be accessed on the Institutional Review Board web site: www.treveca.edu//academics/research/index.html/IRB.html

FERPA

FERPA—The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 guarantees each student the right to know what information the University maintains about individual students and the right to ensure the accuracy of that information. A copy of the written institutional policy may be obtained from the Office of Academic Records.

PRIVACY—Trevecca Nazarene University informs students annually through the Student Handbook of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended. This act, with which the institution intends to comply fully, was designed to protect the privacy of education records, to establish the right of students to inspect and review their education records, to provide guidelines for the correction of inaccurate or misleading data through informal and formal hearings, and to establish guidelines for the release of or access to student records. Students also have the right to file complaints with the Family Educational Right and Privacy Act Office (FERPA) concerning alleged failures by the institution to comply with the act.

ACADEMIC HONESTY

Academic honesty is expected of all students at Trevecca Nazarene University.

It is an integral part of the educational process where learning takes place in an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect. Each student is responsible to maintain high standards of academic ethics, personal honesty, and moral integrity. Dishonest academic behavior as described in the following list will be dealt with fairly and firmly.

1. Plagiarism, using another's statements or thoughts without giving the source appropriate credit.
2. Cheating on an exam.
3. Unauthorized multiple submissions of papers.
4. Submitting for credit a borrowed or purchased paper.
5. Defacing or unauthorized removal of course materials either from the classroom or library.
6. Dishonesty in reporting reading.
7. Signing the roll for someone who is not present in class.

Specific guidelines for dealing with dishonesty are outlined in the Student Handbook. To appeal a decision regarding academic honesty, students should follow the grade appeal process.

Identity Fraud

Committing identity fraud is considered particularly serious and could have legal as well as institutional implications. Any student who has another individual impersonate or in any other way commit identity fraud in any course, assignment, exam, or any type of academic exercise will be permanently suspended from Trevecca Nazarene University.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS POLICY

This policy is meant to encourage and support faculty, staff, and student research; to protect the rights and interests of university constituents as well as the university itself; and to provide university constituents with information that will guide understanding of intellectual property and its application at Trevecca Nazarene University. All full-time or part-time faculty, administrators, and staff, student employees, and students, as well as non-employees who participate or intend to participate in teaching and/or research or scholarship projects at Trevecca Nazarene University are bound by this policy.

Trevecca Nazarene University is committed to complying with all applicable laws regarding copyright and other forms of intellectual property. Furthermore, this policy shall not be interpreted to limit the university's ability to meet its obligations for deliverables under any contract, grant, or other arrangement with third parties, including sponsored research agreements, license agreements, and the like.

Questions of ownership, compensation, or other materials covered by this policy shall be resolved by the Executive Vice President (or his/her designee) in consultation with the University Provost and others, as appropriate.

COPYRIGHT, PATENTS, AND TRADEMARKS

A. COPYRIGHT

General Copyright Policy

Trevecca Nazarene University's policy is that all rights in copyright remain with the creator unless the work is a "work for hire," is commissioned by the university, or is otherwise subject to contractual obligations.

Definition and Scope of Copyright Protection

Under the federal copyright law, copyright subsists in "original works of authorship" that have been fixed in any tangible medium of expression from which they can be perceived, reproduced, or otherwise communicated, either directly or with the aid of a machine or device. These works include:

1. literary works such as books, journal articles, poems, manuals, memoranda, tests, computer programs, instructional material, databases, and bibliographies;
2. musical works including any accompanying words;
3. dramatic works, including any accompanying music;
4. pantomimes and choreographic works (if fixed, as in notation or videotape);
5. pictorial, graphic and sculptural works, including photographs, diagrams, and sketches;
6. motion pictures and other audiovisual works such as videotapes;
7. sound recordings; and
8. architectural works.

Scope of Copyright Protection

Subject to various exceptions and limitations provided for in the copyright law, the copyright owner has the exclusive right to reproduce the work, prepare derivative works, distribute copies by sale or otherwise, and display or perform the work publicly. Ownership of copyright is distinct from the ownership of any material object in which the work may be embodied.

Books, Articles, and Similar Works, Including Unpatentable Software

In accord with academic tradition, except to the extent required by the terms of funding agreements, Trevecca Nazarene University does not claim ownership to pedagogical, scholarly, or artistic works, regardless of their form of expression. Such works include those of students created in the course of their education, such as papers, theses, and articles. The university claims no ownership of popular nonfiction, novels, poems, musical compositions, unpatentable software, or other works of artistic imagination that are not institutional works (see below under "Work for Hire"). Copyright in pedagogical, scholarly, or artistic works to which the university disclaims ownership under this policy shall be held by the creators regardless of whether the work constitutes a "work for hire" under copyright law.

Ownership and Use of Course Materials (including class technology and videotapes of classroom activities)

All course materials, such as syllabi, videotapes of classroom activities, websites, and such, developed by a Trevecca Nazarene faculty member belong to the faculty member unless grant or other outside funding sources dictate otherwise. Faculty ownership of such course materials does not, however, entitle the faculty member to any additional compensation from the university as a result of appropriately enrolled students' use of such materials. Faculty ownership of such course materials also does not preclude the university from using such materials for internal instructional, educational, and administrative purposes, including satisfying requests of accreditation agencies for faculty-authored syllabi and course descriptions. Materials brought to Trevecca from other institutions are bound by any ownership constraints from the institution at which they were developed; barring none, they belong to the faculty member.

The use of images or materials of students for use outside of a currently enrolled class is not permitted without a signed release from students. This includes videotaping, website images, and class materials where the expectation of a student is that their purpose is for that particular course. If the purpose of the class is to create a website, video or other materials for future courses, this permission is not needed.

"Work for Hire"

"Work for hire" is a legal term defined in the Copyright Act as "a work prepared by an employee within the scope of his or her employment." For instance, work assigned to programmers is "work for hire" as defined by law, as is software developed for university purposes by students and staff working collaboratively. This definition includes works prepared by employees in satisfaction of sponsored agreements between the university and outside agencies. Certain commissioned works also are works for hire if the parties so agree in writing. The mere fact that multiple individuals have contributed to the creation of a work shall not cause the work to constitute an institutional work. Where a work is jointly developed by university faculty or staff or student employees and a non-university third-party, the copyright in the resulting work typically will be owned jointly by the university and the third party. In such instances, both the university and the other party would have nonexclusive rights to the work, subject to the duty to account to each other.

The university shall retain ownership of works created as institutional rather than personal efforts--that is, works created by administrators and staff for university purposes in the course of the creators' employment, university-commissioned faculty work, or works resulting from simultaneous or sequential contributions over time by numerous faculty, staff, and/or students. The employer (i.e., the university) by law is the "author," and hence the owner, of works for hire for copyright purposes; therefore, Trevecca Nazarene owns all rights, intellectual and financial, in such works. Administrators, faculty, and staff who gain professional expertise through such work, however, may engage in professional activities (conferences, consulting, and such) that may result in compensation.

Works of Non-employees

Under the Copyright Act, works of non-employees such as consultants, independent contractors, and such generally are owned by the creator and not by the university, unless there is a written agreement to the contrary. As it is the university's policy that the university shall retain ownership of such works (created as institutional rather than personal efforts, as described in "Work for Hire"), Trevecca will generally require a written agreement from non-employees that ownership of such works will be assigned to the university. Examples of works that the university may retain from non-employees are reports by consultants or subcontractors, computer software, architectural or engineering drawings, illustrations or designs, and artistic works.

Use of Copyrighted Material

Trevecca Nazarene University is committed to complying with all applicable copyright laws; consequently, students and employees are expected to comply with these laws. Distribution of materials protected by copyright without permission of the copyright owner may be a violation of federal or state law. It is the responsibility of those reproducing materials to make sure the reproduction is consistent with U.S. Copyright Law (http://www.copyright.gov/).

Trevecca Nazarene University does not permit the unlawful reproduction or distribution of commercially copyrighted music, movies, and software. The university is committed to taking reasonable steps to avoid misuse of its computer network. If violations are discovered or suspected, university personnel may report infringement to appropriate authorities or take other action, including, but not limited to warning the user, removing the material, or terminating access to the material.

Use of the University Name in Copyright Notices

The following notice should be placed on university-owned materials:

Copyright © [year] Trevecca Nazarene University. All Rights Reserved.

No other institutional or departmental name is to be used in the copyright notice, although the name and address of the department to which readers can direct inquiries may be listed. The date in the notice should be the year in which the work is first published, i.e. distributed to the public or any sizable audience.

Additionally, works may be registered with the United States Copyright Office using its official forms (http://www.copyright.gov/forms/).

Reconveyance of Copyright to Creator

When copyright is assigned to Trevecca University Nazarene because of the provisions of this policy, the creator of the copyrighted material may make a request to the Executive Vice President that ownership be reconveyed back to the creator. Such a request can, at the discretion of the Executive Vice President, be granted if it does not: (1) violate any legal obligations of or to the university, (2) limit appropriate university uses of the materials, (3) create a real or potential conflict of interest for the creator, or (4) otherwise conflict with university goals or principles.

B. PATENTS

Trevecca Nazarene University is an educational institution whose fundamental mission is to provide outstanding higher educational programs. The university recognizes that research, particularly that involving collaborative investigations with students and faculty, is a significant component of the educational process.

All potentially patentable ideas and inventions developed in whole or in part by university personnel in the course of their employment, or with more than incidental use of Trevecca Nazarene University resources, shall be disclosed in writing to the Executive Vice President. Written disclosure should include the (1) name of the inventor, (2) what was invented, (3) circumstances that led to the invention, and (4) the information as to what might be subsequent activities surrounding the invention. The Executive Team will then review the invention disclosure information submitted to decide if the university should seek a patent using university funds or to decline further action. If the university refuses to pursue application of the idea/invention, the inventor may then seek other aid outside the university to assess the patentability of the invention. If no action is taken, all patent rights revert to the inventor.

If there is positive action on an application, the university may wish to pursue evaluation of the invention from technical development consultants to ascertain whether there is sufficient interest and financial return that would make the acquisition of a patent feasible.

The remaining steps in the process are:

1. A patent is obtained or institutional steps are put into place to protect the invention as a trade secret. These steps may ensure that, in the event of not immediately applying for a patent, proper protection is maintained and limited disclosure and publication are delayed to a later date.
2. A patent, if any, is licensed and royalties are earned.
3. Legal enforcement of patent rights begins.

Sharing of Royalties

Royalty distribution will be as follows. First, 100 % will accrue to the university for recovery of costs associated with the patent/license development. This would include all fees for preparing and prosecuting patents. All marketing and licensing fees would also be included. Second, the remaining income would be distributed between the university (60% of gross royalties) and the inventor(s) or their heirs (40% of gross royalties). Under certain conditions, the university may agree to accept a negotiated percentage of equity in place of all or some portion of the license or royalty fee(s).

C. TRADEMARKS

Trade and service marks are distinctive words or graphic symbols identifying the original source of goods or services. Trade or service marks relating to goods or services distributed by the university shall be owned by the university. Examples include names and symbols used in conjunction with the university wordmark and logo and those names or symbols associated with university athletics, events, programs, software, or activities.

POLICIES FOR RESEARCH INVOLVING HUMAN SUBJECTS

Institutional Review Board

Trevecca Nazarene University's Institutional Review Board (IRB) is responsible for ensuring compliance with established federal and university procedural and ethical guidelines for research.

The mission of the Institutional Review Board is to:

1. Guard and protect the rights and well-being of human subjects,
2. Promote the integrity of researchers in demonstrating leadership and compassion in dealing with their research subjects,
3. Foster community respect for Trevecca's process in carrying out quality research while ensuring the dignity of research participants,
4. Ensure compliance with established federal and university procedural and ethical guidelines.

Responsibilities

The Institutional Review Board will review all research involving human subjects. The IRB may approve, modify, or disapprove any research project not meeting the principles and ethical constrains of governmental or the university's guidelines concerning treatment of human subjects.  The board will be responsible to review initial projects, projects continuing past a 12-month time frame, and any project where the methodology changes substantively.

Researchers under the auspices of the Institutional Review Board:

Everyone whose research involves human subjects should submit an application for approval:

1. All Trevecca faculty, staff, and administrators
2. All doctoral candidates
3. All students doing non-class related research (must be under the supervision of a faculty mentor)
4. All non-Trevecca persons applying to use Trevecca's students, faculty, staff, or administrators in their research
5. All faculty members requiring class-related research must submit a general outline of their students' projects to ensure the safety of human subjects and to establish accountability.

Training

Any research involving humans or human tissues conducted under the auspices of Trevecca Nazarene University must be reviewed by the Trevecca Nazarene University Institutional Review Board (IRB). Research with minimal involvement of human participants, such as surveys or questionnaires, require some procedural IRB review. Anyone whose research project requires IRB review must submit a completed certificate indicating that he or she has completed the training.

The following people may require training, depending on their research:

Doctoral students

Doctoral advisors

Students whose thesis research involves human subjects

Thesis advisors of students whose thesis research involves human subjects

Students conducting non-class-related research under the guidance of a faculty member

Researchers applying to use Trevecca Nazarene University's students, faculty, staff or administrators in their research

For further details and training instructions check Research on the Trevecca Web site: http://www.trevecca.edu/academics/research/index.html/IRB.html

Contact Information

For questions about the Institutional Review Board, human subjects research, or other research-related issues, contact the Chair in the Institutional Review Board via email at IRB@trevecca.edu or by regular mail at the following address:

Institutional Review Board
Office of Academic Affairs
Trevecca Nazarene University
333 Murfreesboro Road
Nashville, TN 37210