Undergraduate Academic Information

Types of Degrees

The University of Mobile offers majors in programs of undergraduate study leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree, a Bachelor of Music degree, and a Bachelor of Science degree. The University offers the Bachelor of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Minors, concentrations, and areas of teacher certification are also available in the bachelor’s program. 

The University offers the Bachelor of Arts degree in the following majors: art; athletic training; communication; English; history; human performance and exercise science; humanities; intercultural studies; music; political science; psychology; social science; sociology; and theology.

The University offers the Bachelor of Science degree in the following majors: accounting; athletic training; biology; business administration; communication; computer information systems; early childhood education; elementary education; environmental management; general studies; history; human performance and exercise science; leadership and cultural studies; marine science; mathematics; music (teacher certification); psychology; social science; sociology; theology; and worship leadership.

The University offers the Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance. The University offers the Bachelor of Business Administration. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree is offered in nursing. 

In addition to the baccalaureate programs, the University offers the Master of Arts degree in Christian studies, marriage and family counseling, and education, the Master of Business Administration, and the Master of Science in Nursing. The College of Arts and Sciences offers the marriage and family counseling degree. The School of Christian Ministries offers the program in Christian studies. The School of Education’s graduate program offerings include Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. (See appropriate section of this catalog for graduate degree requirements.)

Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

To graduate with a bachelor degree, the student must complete the following requirements.

1. File an application for a degree audit with the registrar’s office at least one academic period (semester) prior to graduation.
2. Pay the graduation fees.
3. Satisfactorily fulfill the following prescribed course requirements:
   1. a minimum of 127 semester hours of college work; (At least 32 of the last 38 hours must be taken in residence at the University of Mobile. If a transfer student elects to complete only the minimum 32 hours, 12 of these 32 must be in the major field of study; and 9 of the 12 must be at the 300 or 400 level.)
   2. a minimum of 42 semester hours of coursework at the 300 or 400 level;
   3. an overall GPA and a residential cumulative GPA of C (2.00) or higher based on total hours attempted; (Grades below C [2.00] will not be counted in the major or minor, or in supporting areas. Extraordinary circumstances will be reviewed by the advisor, dean, and the vice president for academic affairs.)
   4. a major of not less than 30 semester hours. Program specific requirements dictate the number of hours at the 300 or 400 level. In no case will the number of 300 to 400 level hours of major coursework be less than 18; and
   5. a minor of 18 semester hours, 6 of which must be at the 300 or 400 level. Two supporting areas of 12 semester hours each, with each supporting area having 3 or more 300 or 400 level hours, may be substituted for the minor. All majors require minors or supporting areas with the exception of those specifically designed to omit them.
4. Attend commencement (absence requires approval by the vice president for academic affairs).
5. Demonstrate competency in reading, writing, critical thinking, oral communication, and fundamental mathematical skills as a candidate for graduation (see appropriate section of this catalog for specific information).
6. Satisfactorily complete 12 semester hours in appropriate courses identified as Writing Intensive (WI) in the University of Mobile Catalog course description section and on the course syllabi. (See appropriate section of this catalog for specific information).
7. Language requirement. To fulfill the requirement for the Bachelor of Arts degree, students will normally complete 12 semester hours in the same foreign language. With special permission, students may complete the requirement in two different foreign languages if they are vocal music majors or if they take one year of a modern language and one year of a biblical language. Students entering with advanced placement or CLEP credit hours, high school credits, or foreign language experience outside the classroom may fulfill the language requirement by completing any modern foreign language course numbered 202 or above. This exception does not apply to courses in Hebrew or Greek as foreign languages or to courses in the modern foreign languages numbered 297, 298, 397, 398, 497, and 498 except when courses so numbered carry at least three hours credit. Please see the Modern Foreign Language  section of this catalog for language requirements for native speakers of French, or Spanish.
8. Complete non-credit chapel requirement (see appropriate section of this catalog for specific information).
9. First-time freshmen complete Freshman Seminar course. This course is designed to help students make the academic and social transition to college. In a small group setting, students are exposed to the skills and attitudes that contribute to success as a student at the University of Mobile. The subject matter of the course includes the value of a college education; improvement of study habits; use of University services and facilities; students’ responsibilities; study skills; and personal, social, and academic growth. This course is offered during the Fall academic period (semester) for entering first time freshman and transfer students with 24 hours or less. First time freshmen taking Success Strategies (SS100)  should also take Freshman Seminar in the Fall academic period.
   
   Students entering as first time freshmen in the Spring, and students who did not receive a passing grade in the Fall should also enroll in Freshman Seminar in the Spring academic period.
   
   Exemptions: First time freshmen may not be required to take this course if they meet one of the following exemptions:
   1. Twenty-one years old or older by the end of the first academic period (semester) at the University of Mobile;
   2. Enrolled in fewer than twelve hours AND reside off campus;
   3. An Independent Student - meeting the same criteria as required by the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
   4. Transfer transcript contains an orientation to college course with a grade of C or above.

**Freshmen who earn transferable credit at another accredited institution through dual-enrollment are considered first-time freshmen.

A candidate seeking to earn a second bachelor’s degree must already have earned one baccalaureate degree (from UM or another accredited university). For a second bachelor’s degree the candidate must complete at least 30 hours of additional coursework and must meet all requirements for the second degree - not required to take core courses, chapel or CMS 310 .

Please see appropriate section of this catalog for information on graduation under a specific catalog.

Graduation Requirements

A student, with no interruption in enrollment, must meet all requirements for graduation as set forth in the University of Mobile Catalog in effect at the time of his or her entrance into the program, provided the catalog is no more than six years old. A student whose enrollment has been interrupted is to follow requirements for graduation as set forth in the catalog in effect at the time of readmission to the University. Please see appropriate section of this catalog for more information about graduation under a specific catalog.

Graduation Information and Fee. A candidate for a degree will receive a final checklist of graduation requirements from the registrar’s office upon filing the application for graduation prior to his or her final academic period (semester). The office of the vice president for academic affairs will provide additional information about graduation to each candidate during the Spring academic period (semester). The graduation fee should be paid in the business office prior to or at the beginning of the spring academic period (semester). Information about ordering regalia is available through the University Bookstore.

Graduation Attendance. The University’s commencement service is held at the end of each Spring academic period (semester). All candidates completing degree requirements in the Spring academic period (semester) or in the previous Fall academic period (semester) are expected to be present at the service. Requests to be absent from the commencement service should be addressed to the office of the vice president for academic affairs.

Eligibility for Participation in Graduation. Students are eligible to participate in the commencement service if all degree requirements have been completed prior to the service. Students who are within nine semester hours of degree completion may be eligible to participate in the commencement service as summer candidates. In order to participate as summer candidates for graduation, students must be able to complete the required courses during the summer terms and provide documentation of registration for these courses by April 1.

Academic Advisement

All entering students are assigned to academic advisors in their major areas of study. Advisement and counseling sessions usually occur before registration, after grades are received, during degree auditing, and at other times as requested by either the student or advisor. All students are strongly encouraged to consult frequently with their advisors. Selection of a major, long-term career goals, educational problems, and questions about additional educational opportunities are among the topics students should discuss with advisors. Advisors monitor and assist students throughout their college careers at the University of Mobile.

Although faculty and staff can provide valuable assistance and guidance for students, the ultimate responsibility for devising appropriate schedules, meeting degree and program requirements, and complying with all academic regulations belongs to the student. Therefore, students must be familiar with the University’s requirements, their major and other program requirements, this catalog, and their own academic transcripts.

Assessment

The University of Mobile routinely utilizes evaluations, surveys, and testing to gauge student achievement and attitudes/opinions. Students may be asked to take one or more tests designed to measure achievement in the major or in general education. Results of these tests remain confidential and are used for improvement of the University and its programs. Students will be asked to complete certain evaluations, such as course evaluations, advising evaluations, and student opinion surveys at various stages in their college career. Alumni surveys are also administered on a regular basis. The purpose of the evaluations and surveys is to identify areas of improvement for the University.

General Education (Basic Course) Requirements

Chapel Requirements

In keeping with the stated mission of the institution, the purpose of chapel is to offer students well-planned programs providing for Christian growth and maturation. Chapel ZCH 007  is required for all enrolled students. Chapel requirements are based on student classification.

1. Students entering as freshmen (0-29 hrs.) complete 4 semesters.
2. Students entering as sophomores (30-59 hrs.) complete 3 semesters.
3. Students entering as juniors or seniors (60 or more hrs.) complete 1 semester.
4. Students who transfer to the University of Mobile from an institution that requires chapel may transfer credit from that institution. The amount of credit will be determined by the registrar.

Chapel services are conducted during dedicated hour(s) on Wednesday. Although there is no charge for chapel, students receive a satisfactory/unsatisfactory grade recorded on the transcript. Students must register in order to receive credit. Students are expected to attend all chapel services; if more than one chapel session is missed, no credit is awarded.

Center for Adult Program students are exempt from chapel.

University-Sanctioned Events

Attendance at all classes and laboratories is expected. Students are excused from regular lectures and laboratories for approved, college-sponsored activities such as intercollegiate athletic competitions and special events approved by the Vice President of Academic Affairs. Though participating students are excused from class, they are not relieved of the responsibility for the information or work missed during their absence. Students participating in university-sponsored activities will be allowed to make up assignments and examinations missed while representing the university; however, it is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements with instructors for completing work missed. Exceptions to the policy include, but are not limited to, nursing clinicals, student teaching, internships, and coursework in accelerated delivery formats.

Travel-Based Courses

Travel-based courses are defined as for-credit courses which require student travel as a component of the course requirements. Examples include but are not limited to mission trips, Catalyst, and music ensemble tours.

A maximum of nine (9) semester hours of credit in Travel-based courses may be applied toward fulfillment of a bachelor degree. Additional hours of Travel-based course work in excess of the nine (9) hours policy will be added to the transcript as free electives but cannot be applied to fulfill the required number of hours for graduation.

Exceptions to the nine (9) hour limit of Travel-based course work for graduation fulfillment require approval of the vice president for academic affairs and the academic affairs committee prior to registering for the additional Travel-based course.

Dual-Degree Program

The University of Mobile offers a dual-degree program in engineering with the University of South Alabama. This program enables the student to earn degrees from both the University of Mobile and the University of South Alabama. Normally, the student spends three years pursuing a liberal arts education (normally a mathematics major) at the University of Mobile in preparation for the professional phase of the program that is completed at the University of South Alabama.

Pre-Professional Programs

The University offers courses of study to prepare students for entry into professional health-related programs and into schools of medicine, dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, physical therapy, veterinary medicine, and law, as well as into seminaries. Students in pre-professional programs of study typically pursue a bachelor degree in an established academic area while at the University of Mobile.

Scholastic Standards

Unit of Credit

The semester hour is the unit of measure for credit at the University of Mobile.

Definition of Credit Hours

One credit hour is equivalent to fifteen hours of faculty instruction and a minimum of thirty hours of student reading and work on other assignments in addition to class time. Online classes involve equivalent amounts of time for instruction and coursework.

Normal Load and Overloads

The normal full-time student course load for each academic period (semester) is twelve to seventeen semester hours. No student may take more than eighteen hours in any academic period (semester) without the permission of his or her advisor and the vice president for academic affairs. A 3.00 GPA or higher average must be documented for the preceding academic period (semester) in order for permission to be granted for a student to enroll in more than eighteen semester hours. [A student registering for fewer than twelve semester hours in a given academic period (semester) is considered a part-time student.]

Double Majors

The University of Mobile allows students to earn double majors. Students may double major in a given subject area only when at least 50% of the coursework for the second/double major is coursework that is not shared in the major area and department of the first major. Advanced-level courses from one major area may serve as program electives for the other. For purposes of record keeping, applicants are asked to indicate the first and second major. If the majors are in different degree areas, students must also specify which degree they intend to earn. Up to two majors will be recorded on the diploma provided both majors are in the same degree area.

Double Degrees

Students whose double majors are in different degree areas (B.A., B.B.A., B.S., B.M., or BSN) may elect to work for double degrees by taking a minimum of 150 hours including all requirements for both degrees/majors. Two diplomas will be granted―one for each degree. Students majoring in two degree areas who do not choose to work toward double degrees must indicate which degree is to appear on the diploma. Two diplomas are not granted for double majors with the same degree.

Minor/Supporting Area

All majors require minors or supporting areas with the exception of majors specifically designed to omit them. Minors are normally eighteen semester hours in a specialized area, at least six of which must be at the 300 or 400 level. The degree audit will reflect the courses required for the minor. Two supporting areas of twelve semester hours each may be approved in lieu of a minor. Three hours of 300- or 400-level courses must be completed in each supporting area.

Academic Integrity and Conduct Code

Students attending the University of Mobile are expected to reflect a high standard of academic integrity and conduct in accord with basic Christian principles and the mission of the University. Any student found to be disruptive in class, or copying, plagiarizing (with or without an intent to deceive), cheating, engaging in unauthorized use of a test, forging, or lying to a faculty member in order to complete an assignment will be subject to disciplinary action.

Each faculty member has the responsibility of defining his or her academic expectations at the beginning of the academic period (semester) in writing on the course syllabus. If a faculty member discovers a student violating the academic integrity code, he or she must either 1) assign a grade of “0” for the test or assignment; or 2) refer the incident to a faculty committee appointed by the faculty member’s dean. After the grading or ruling by committee, the incident, along with the evidence, is to be reported in writing to the vice president for academic affairs with a copy mailed to the student.

The office of the vice president for academic affairs determines whether the incident is the student’s second offense and, if so, requires the student to appear before the academic affairs committee for disciplinary action. A student found guilty of a second offense is subject to academic suspension for up to one academic year. A third offense will result in academic dismissal. The student is entitled to appeal any case involving allegations of academic dishonesty or misconduct, in keeping with the appeal process outlined in the student handbook.

Grading Standards

The grading system of the University is based on a 4.00 scale. Final course grades are determined by the instructor. The interpretations of grades and grade points are as follows:

A student is strongly discouraged from requesting an incomplete. However, an incomplete (I) can be awarded with the approval of the instructor, adviser, and the academic affairs committee when extenuating circumstances justify the granting of additional time for completion of work. It may be removed if all work is completed by a time indicated by the instructor. A student must register (in the term in which the I is to be completed) for a course in which an I is pending. The student must write “incomplete coursework” on the trial schedule. An incomplete not made up by the indicated deadline is automatically changed to the grade designated by the instructor on the application.

Grade Correction Request/Grade Appeal

Grade Corrections. The faculty member determines the final grades of students in each course. To correct a grade recorded in error, a change in grade report must be filed by the faculty member with the office of the registrar before the end of the following academic period (semester). Exceptions require approval of the academic affairs committee.

Grade Correction/Appeal. The student who questions the accuracy of a grade in his or her semester grade report should ask the faculty member of the course to check for possible errors. One who still believes the grade is inaccurate or unjust may then appeal to the departmental chairman and, if necessary, to the dean of the center, college or school. If the student still believes the grade to be inaccurate or unjust, an appeal form may be secured from the academic affairs office; and the written appeal must be submitted to the vice president for academic affairs who will schedule a review with the academic affairs committee. Following the review, the academic affairs committee will either uphold the faculty member’s grade or make other related determinations, and notify the student of the committee’s action. A final appeal may be made in writing to the president of the University. Such written appeals must be made before the end of the following academic period (semester).

Grade Point Average (GPA)

Residential cumulative grade point averages for all coursework completed at the University are computed by dividing the sum of the student’s quality points for all work attempted at the University by the total number of hours attempted. Courses in which the student has earned grades that do not carry quality points are excluded. Overall cumulative GPA’s are computed by dividing the sum of the student’s quality points for all work attempted at all institutions (including the University of Mobile) by the total number of hours attempted.

Course Forgiveness (Repetition) Policy

The purpose of academic forgiveness at the University of Mobile is to allow a baccalaureate student who has courses with grades of D or F to request to have a maximum of four courses removed from his or her grade-point average. To apply for course forgiveness, a currently enrolled student must file an application in the office of the registrar. Guidelines are as follows.

1. The courses were originally taken at the University of Mobile.
2. Course forgiveness cannot be requested for upper level courses (courses numbered 300 or 400). Forgiveness of courses cannot be applied on associate degree transcripts.
3. Course forgiven grades, to a maximum of four courses, will no longer be calculated into the students’ grade-point average and will not be included in cumulative earned hours.
4. Forgiven grades remain on the transcript and a special notation is added explaining course forgiveness.
5. Course forgiveness can be granted only one time per course.
6. Course forgiveness, when granted, applies only to University of Mobile undergraduate courses.

Notes:

1. Course forgiveness may not be recognized by another college or university.
2. FS 100  is excluded for course forgiveness.

Academic Status of Students Suspended for Disciplinary Matters

A student who receives disciplinary suspension from the University is withdrawn from classes and receives no academic credit for work attempted or completed during the academic period (semester) of the suspension. The student will receive a withdrawal in each class on the date of suspension. Exceptions to this policy will require approval of the academic affairs committee. Disciplinary suspension will be recorded on the transcript.

Academic Bankruptcy for University of Mobile Credits

The University of Mobile will permit a student to apply for academic bankruptcy after an absence of three or more calendar years for the purpose of omitting all grades and credits earned at the University. The academic affairs committee must approve the written request for academic bankruptcy before or at the beginning of the first academic period (semester) of re-enrollment. If bankruptcy is approved, all prior grades and credits earned at the University of Mobile will be omitted from the GPA calculations and will not count toward graduation requirements. After completion of one semester of enrollment, academic bankruptcy will be confirmed on the transcript. A student may request academic bankruptcy only once during his or her academic career at the University of Mobile. The student’s choice of catalogs is limited to the one in effect at the time that he or she declares academic bankruptcy or any future catalog published during his or her enrollment at the University of Mobile as long as the catalog is not more than six years old.

Academic Bankruptcy from Other Institutions

The University of Mobile will honor academic bankruptcy granted by another accredited institution of higher education, provided that an official transcript from the granting institution documents the bankruptcy. The transcript documenting academic bankruptcy should be received prior to admission to the University. All grades for the bankruptcy period are omitted from the calculation of GPA.

Transient Credit from Other Institutions

A student in good standing at the University of Mobile may be granted permission to take coursework at another institution under the following conditions. “Good standing” is defined as a minimum GPA of 2.0 in University of Mobile course work.

1. The maximum credit allowed is twelve semester hours of coursework. No more than six of the twelve hours may be required courses. Required coursework includes any coursework required for core curriculum, competency requirements, major, minor or concentration. For a second undergraduate degree the maximum credit allowed is three hours of coursework.
2. Application and approval must be obtained in advance from the advisor and the deans of the center, colleges or schools both in which the course is listed at the University of Mobile and in which the student’s major falls. Applications for summer transient course work should be submitted no later than April 15. The application must include the course numbers and names for the transfer credit as well as the equivalent courses at the University of Mobile. Transient application is not required when the student has not enrolled at the University of Mobile for two consecutive fall or spring terms.
3. Courses taken at community colleges or courses at the 100-200 level may not transfer as 300-400 level courses.
4. No more than 6 hours (two courses) of transient credit is allowed during the last 38 hours of study.
5. Only courses in which the student earns grades of C or better will be accepted for graduation.
6. An official transcript must be sent to the registrar’s office upon completion of this credit. It is the student’s responsibility to request an official copy of the transcript and to assure the transcript is received by the registrar’s office. A student in good standing will be allowed one academic period (semester) to obtain these documents.
7. Transient coursework is not calculated in the University of Mobile GPA. It is considered transfer work, recorded in the overall cumulative GPA.
8. Exceptions to the policy require approval of the vice president for academic affairs and the academic affairs committee. When approval is granted for a student not in good standing, the transcript must be received prior to registration for the next academic period (semester).

Transfer Credit

A student wishing to transfer to the University of Mobile must submit official transcripts of all previous college work. It is also necessary for a transfer applicant to submit one transcript of his or her high school record if he or she has completed fewer than twenty-four semester hours at an accredited college or university. An applicant who has completed less than one academic period (semester) at another university or college must present an official transcript and be eligible to return to the institution. Transfer students must be eligible to return to all institutions previously attended to be eligible for admission to the University of Mobile.

The amount of credit transferred will depend upon the accreditation standing of the institution at which the courses were taken, the nature of the courses, and the grades earned. Courses in which applicants have earned a grade of F are not accepted as transfer credit. Courses in which applicants have earned a grade of D are accepted only from Alabama community colleges for students transferring on or after July 19, 2010. Grades of D are not accepted as transfer credit for courses in the major, minor and competency areas. A maximum of 64 semester hours of credit may be transferred from two-year colleges to a bachelor degree program.

Coursework transferred in, or accepted for credit toward a degree, must represent collegiate coursework relevant to the degree, with course content and level of instruction equivalent to that of the University’s own undergraduate program. In most cases, coursework completed through a technical college or program is not equivalent to the University of Mobile’s undergraduate program.

Competency Requirements

All students are required to demonstrate certain competencies prior to graduation. These competency areas are oral communication, written communication, critical thinking, fundamental mathematical skills, and fundamental reading skills.

Oral Communication (OC)

The expected student outcomes for competency in oral communication include:

1. Student will demonstrate the ability to develop and deliver a logical and effective presentation.
2. Student will demonstrate the ability to hear, understand, and offer relevant responses in a variety of contexts (conversations, group discussions, and oral presentations).
3. Student will demonstrate the ability to analyze and respond to the body of tradition concerned with the art of speaking.

The University demonstrates that its students exhibit competency in oral communication by requiring each student to earn a grade of C or higher in one of the following courses designated as OC: COM 101 , PY 101 , NU 252 , NU 418 , NU 434 . An oral communication rubric is also utilized in selected senior capstone courses to measure competency in oral communication.

Written Communication (WI)

The expected student outcomes for competency in written communication include:

1. Formulate a thesis, develop an outline, and write an essay of a prescribed length utilizing effective grammar and vocabulary, varied sentence structure, well-developed paragraphs, and appropriate transitions.
2. Revise drafts of written assignments based on feedback from faculty, writing center staff, and peers.
3. Select, analyze, and incorporate appropriate supporting material.
4. Incorporate attention to context, audience, and purpose in writing assignments.
5. Follow expectations and writing styles appropriate to specific disciplines.

All baccalaureate students are required to satisfactorily complete twelve semester hours of coursework designated as Writing Intensive (WI), including EN 101 , CMS 310 , and six hours of coursework in the student’s major. 

The University demonstrates that its students exhibit competency in written communication by requiring each student to earn a grade of C or higher in EN 101 , CMS 310 , and the writing intensive (WI) courses in the major. The institution utilizes results of the ETS Proficiency Profile to demonstrate competency in written communication. Faculty members teaching Writing Intensive courses also use a written communication rubric to measure competency in writing.

Critical Thinking

The expected student outcomes for competency in critical thinking include:

1. Student will demonstrate the ability to recognize and comprehend discrete pieces of information.
2. Student will be able to understand relationships between pieces of information.
3. Student will be able to understand words and phrases in context.
4. Student will be able to distinguish between opinion and knowledge.
5. Student will be able to identify different forms of interpretation in literary works.

The University utilizes results of the ETS Proficiency Profile to demonstrate competency in critical thinking.

Fundamental Mathematical Skills

The expected student outcomes for competency in fundamental mathematical skills include:

1. Student will demonstrate a basic understanding of the number system.
2. Student will demonstrate the ability to perform basic arithmetic operations.
3. Student will demonstrate an understanding of the basic language of mathematics.
4. Student will demonstrate the ability to use mathematics to solve problems.

Every student is required to complete at least one mathematics course above the level of MA 101  with a grade of C or higher. The University utilizes results of the ETS Proficiency Profile to demonstrate competency in mathematical skills.

Fundamental Reading Skills

The expected student outcomes for competency in fundamental reading skills include:

1. Student will be able to distinguish between cursory reading and reflective reading.
2. Student will be able to appraise the implied and non-literal meanings of words and phrases.
3. Student will demonstrate understanding of various literary genres.

The University utilizes results of the ETS Proficiency Profile to demonstrate competency in reading skills.

Audits*

Auditing of courses is allowed upon recommendation of the instructor and of the dean of the center, college or school in which the course is offered. Classroom seating is open to auditing students on a space available basis only. Priority is given to degree seeking students. An auditor is not required to submit assignments or to take examinations and does not receive credit for the course. An auditor will not be permitted to take an examination or to pay the difference in tuition in order to earn credit for the course. After the last day to enter class without special permission, no course may be changed from credit to audit status. Refer to the University current year financial sheet for information on audit charges.

*All MUA courses are ineligible for auditing.

Directed Studies

A directed study is a catalog course offering taken in a non-classroom setting with the approval of the advisor, instructor, and dean of the center, college, or school and the vice president for academic affairs. Students may take no more than two courses or eight hours in directed studies. Directed studies may not be used to complete University of Mobile core requirements (Exceptions require the approval of the advisor.). There is a per hour fee for directed studies charged in addition to tuition. See the latest financial information sheet for the amount. Further requirements and details are explained on the contract available in the Office of the Registrar.

Independent Studies

A student with advanced standing may pursue an independent study or research project in his or her major area, with the approval of the advisor, instructor, and the dean of the center, college or school in which the student’s major falls. Prerequisites include completion of at least eighteen semester hours in the major with a minimum 3.00 GPA. Students may take no more than two courses or eight semester hours in independent studies or research projects.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme

Scores of four or higher in higher level courses on the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (a rigorous pre-university course of studies, leading to examinations) will be considered for credits for equivalent courses at the University of Mobile. Scores of three in higher level courses will be considered for placement purposes. No credit is awarded for subsidiary level courses.

Credit by Examination

The University of Mobile allows students the opportunity to earn course credit by examination in specified circumstances. A maximum of thirty semester hours of credit by examination may be awarded. Credit obtained in this manner will not be considered in the computation of GPA. Credit by examination may be awarded through a challenge examination, CLEP, AP, and/or DANTES.

More information about CLEP and credit by examination may be found on MyUM>Academic >Academic Information>CLEP and Credit by Exam.

Challenge Examination

With the permission of the instructor and of the dean of the center, college or school in which the course is offered, a student may request course credit by challenge examination. The student must then register for the challenge examination through the registrar’s office. Credit for the examination will be recorded on the transcript as challenge with the course number identified and pass/fail credit noted. No letter grade or hours attempted will be recorded.

Students who have failed a specific course may not apply to attempt a challenge examination for that course. Upon request, the academic affairs committee will review extenuating circumstances. In addition to an application fee, a fee per course will be charged for each challenge examination.

College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)

Satisfactory scores on the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) examinations are to be accepted as a substitute for and as successful completion of the corresponding courses at the University of Mobile. A satisfactory CLEP score will earn as many hours of credit without a letter grade as the course for which it substitutes carries. A test score that is five years old or older may not be recorded on a student’s transcript at the University of Mobile. Once a CLEP score has been recorded, however, it will be recorded as permanent credit. A student may not apply CLEP credit when this credit duplicates that which a student has already earned through coursework (including D’s and F’s).

No charges are made for credit granted under the CLEP Program; however, a fee is charged for recording a course on a student’s record. A mean score of 50 is accepted unless otherwise stipulated. Students must complete the registration-admission form in the University of Mobile registrar’s office.

Advanced Placement (AP) Examinations

Satisfactory scores on the Advanced Placement (AP) examinations are to be accepted as substitutes for and as successful completion of specified courses at the University of Mobile. A satisfactory AP score will earn as many hours of credit without a letter grade as the course for which it substitutes carries. A test score that is five years old or older may not be recorded on a student’s transcript, but once recorded, it will remain permanently.

No charges are made for credit granted under the AP Program; however, a fee is charged for recording a course on a student’s record through the office of the registrar.

Defense Activity for Traditional Education Support (DANTES)

The DANTES Program is a testing service conducted by Educational Testing Service (ETS) that makes use of the DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSSTs), a series of tests in traditional academic, vocational/technical, and business subjects. These DANTES tests are introductory college-level tests in more than 50 subjects, reflecting a wide range of fields and a variety of learning situations. The mission of DANTES is to help service members obtain non-traditional educational opportunities, including sponsoring and administering tests that provide military personnel with the opportunity to gain admission to college, obtain academic credit, and receive professional certification on the basis of independent study and on-the-job experience. Satisfactory DANTES scores are to be accepted as substitutes for and as successful completion of specified courses at the University of Mobile in cases in which the test content is determined to be the equivalent of the course at the University of Mobile.

Course Changes

Course changes are permitted if properly recorded in the registrar’s office.

Drops. A student may drop a course by the date indicated in the University calendar. When all courses are dropped, a withdrawal form must be processed. Please see the financial information  section of this catalog for withdrawal information.

A student must follow established procedures when dropping a class or withdrawing from the University. Otherwise, enrollment will continue and the student may be awarded a failing grade in the course(s). Any reduction in a student’s course load may result in an adjustment to his or her financial aid.

Adds. The last day to enter courses without special permission is:

1. Fall and Spring academic periods (semesters)-one week after the final date of scheduled registration.
2. Summer terms or special terms-the third day after the final date of scheduled registration.
3. Evening courses-the second week (or second class meeting) after the final date of scheduled registration.

The course change dates may vary with each teaching term. Dates are published in the University calendar. Please see the advisor or dean of the center, college or school for information about course changes.

Class Attendance

Students are expected to attend all classes in which they are enrolled. Class attendance is a vital part of the academic program. Attendance makes possible the dialogue that is the foundation of the educational process between the students and the teacher. Absence from class denies students access to the full measure of a college education. Attendance policies are published on course syllabi. In the event an absence is necessary, students are accountable for work missed.

Academic Advisor Approval of Schedule

Prior to course registration, students must have their schedules approved by their academic advisors. After approval, the advisor clears the student for online registration. Changes in enrollment also require approval from the advisor as well as from the dean of the center, college or school in which the student’s major falls.

Graduation Under a Particular Catalog (Time Limit)

A candidate for a degree may choose to graduate under the catalog in effect at the time of his or her first enrollment or under any subsequent catalog, provided the catalog under which the student wishes to graduate is not more than six years old. At any time after the conclusion of the sixth year following initial enrollment, the faculty of the department of major study may review the currency of the student’s program and may, with the concurrence of the dean and vice president for academic affairs, require the student to repeat certain courses or otherwise compensate for deficiencies. Students seeking certification with the State Department of Education should check currently approved programs. Approved program information may be obtained through the dean of the School of Education.

If the University changes requirements for graduation after the entry of a student into a program, and if those changes better meet the goals of the student, the student may qualify for graduation by meeting the newer requirements. In this case, the student will meet all requirements for graduation set forth in the later catalog. In no case may a student qualify for graduation by meeting various requirements set forth in two different catalogs.

Classification of Students

A regular student’s classification is determined by the number of semester hours earned, and the classification is 1) Freshman-twenty-nine or fewer semester hours; 2) Sophomore-thirty to fifty-nine semester hours; 3) Junior-sixty to eighty-nine semester hours; and 4) Senior-ninety or more semester hours.

Application for a Degree Audit

A baccalaureate degree student should apply for a degree audit through the registrar’s office after he or she has earned at least sixty semester hours. After receiving the degree audit from the registrar’s office, the student must meet with the advisor to review and discuss remaining degree requirements. The degree audit requires approval by the advisor and the Registrar. Once approved, a degree audit is considered official and should be kept by the student for future reference. Except for extraordinary circumstances, any adjustments or updates needed for a degree audit will not result in the processing of another degree audit.

Academic Discipline

To maintain acceptable academic standing and to graduate, a student must earn a minimum GPA of 2.00 in all coursework attempted at the University of Mobile. Students who do not maintain a residential GPA of 2.00 or higher are subject to academic disciplinary action. Academic discipline includes warning, probation, suspension, and/or dismissal.

Procedure for Academic Discipline

1. The record of each student whose GPA for credits earned at the University of Mobile is below 2.00 is referred to the registrar for review. The vice president for academic affairs reviews the record of each of these students and determines whether unusual cases with extenuating circumstances will be sent to the admissions committee for consideration and possible continuation of the probationary status.
2. Based on the review, one of the following disciplinary actions may be administered:
   1. A warning is the disciplinary action administered to a student who has been admitted unconditionally, and whose academic performance in a given academic period (semester) falls below a GPA of 2.00 for credit earned at the University of Mobile.
   2. A student whose academic performance falls below a GPA of 2.00 for credit earned at the University of Mobile is placed on academic probation. A student placed on academic probation must attain a GPA of 2.0 for credit earned at the University before the probationary status may be removed. If the probation is not removed within two consecutive academic periods (semesters), the student’s status is changed to suspension. The vice president for academic affairs reviews the record of each probationary student and determines whether an unusual case with extenuating circumstances will be sent to the admissions committee for consideration and possible continuation of the probationary status.
   3. A student is placed on academic suspension for one academic period (semester) if, at the end of the second academic period (semester) of academic probation, his or her GPA deficiency on credit earned at the University of Mobile has not been removed or the student has not been continued on academic probation by the admissions committee. Coursework taken at other institutions while on suspension from the University of Mobile must be validated before work can be considered as part of the student’s permanent record. Successful completion of 24 semester hours of coursework (twelve semester hours of the core curriculum and twelve semester hours in the major) at the University of Mobile with a minimum GPA of 2.00 validates otherwise acceptable credits earned while on suspension.
   4. A third suspension results in academic dismissal. Academic dismissal entails withdrawal of the privilege to register and is normally considered permanent. A student may apply for re-admission and, if permitted to re-register, is allowed a maximum of two academic periods (semesters) to remove all cumulative GPA deficiencies.

A student placed on academic discipline may appeal the decision to the admissions committee.

Americans with Disabilities Act

It is the policy of the University of Mobile to provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities as defined in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The University coordinates support services for students with disabilities and is an accommodation resource for faculty and administration. Eligibility for services requires prior documentation of the disability. The office of enrollment services or registrar can provide additional information.

Confidentiality of Student Records

The University of Mobile is in compliance with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act of 1974, which provides that an institution maintain the confidentiality of students’ educational records. Students have the right to inspect and review information contained in their educational records and to challenge the contents. (The University will provide the requested information within 45 days as provided by the Act.) If the response to a challenge is unsatisfactory, a student may submit explanatory statements to be included as a part of the file.

The University may release directory information as provided by the Act to include: name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major, study load, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, previous attendance at other educational institutions, participation in officially recognized sports and activities, and weight and height of athletic team members. A student may withhold release of this directory information by notifying the registrar in writing within two weeks of the beginning of an academic period (semester). A detailed statement of policies and procedures is available upon request.

FERPA restrictions apply to all student records, whether the courses are taught in traditional classroom settings or delivered through online instruction. To assure the identity of students engaged in online coursework, all students must use University assigned RamsMail email for communication with other students and faculty through MyUM course pages. The University collects no private information from students enrolled in online courses except that information that students choose to make available. Personal information (other than that defined as directory information) is used only for those purposes specifically authorized by the student. When students choose to restrict the release of personal information, all restrictions apply equally to information shared on campus or in distance education courses.

Student Transcripts

A student may obtain an unofficial transcript of his or her academic work by making a written request and paying appropriate fees in the business office. Advisors may request transcripts for advisement purposes, and there is no charge for this service. Official transcripts may not be released to a student. All transcript requests will be processed within one week of clearance by the business office. During the processing of grades, registration, or graduation, two weeks are required to process transcript requests. More information regarding transcript requests may be found through the web interface to the student information system, MyUM.

The University of Mobile may withhold the issuance of a transcript record of any current or prior student if the student has certain outstanding obligations to the University. These obligations may be financial or non-financial. Financial obligations include traffic fines, student loan accounts, tuition and fees, insufficient checks, unreturned library materials, or any other financial obligation owed by the student to the University. Please see financial information  section for payment information. Non-financial obligations include the University requirements of a student imposed by published written policy or other written requirements.

Academic Distinctions

Students who have maintained high academic standing may be eligible for academic distinctions or honors. These honors include the President’s List; the Dean’s List; graduation with academic distinction; Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities; and awards presented at graduation.

The President’s List is published at the end of each academic period (semester) and indicates those students who have earned a GPA of 4.00 while enrolled in at least fifteen semester hours of coursework for the academic period (semester). Students enrolled in Center for Adult Programs majors qualify with 4.00 GPAs or higher while enrolled in at least twelve hours of coursework for the academic period (semester). The Dean’s List is published at the end of each academic period (semester) and indicates those students who have earned 3.50 GPAs or higher while enrolled in at least twelve semester hours of coursework for the academic period (semester). Students enrolled in Center for Adult Programs majors qualify with 3.50 GPAs or higher while enrolled in at least nine hours of coursework for the academic period (semester).

Graduation with Academic Distinction. Students earning the following distinctions are recognized at the graduation ceremony. These awards are 1) GPAs of 3.50-cum laude; 2) GPAs of 3.70-magna cum laude; and 3) GPAs of 3.90-summa cum laude. The GPA calculations for graduation with academic distinctions are based on the entire academic career, including coursework taken at other institutions.

Awards Presented at Graduation. There are several awards presented to students, who best exemplify the values consistent with the mission and goals of the University of Mobile. Selection is made by the faculty.

Area Awards. Each academic area presents certificates to outstanding students selected by faculty within the academic center, college or school. These include the center, college or school awards and departmental awards. Selection is made by vote of the area faculty based on the student’s service, scholarship, and other established criteria specific to the area. Additionally, an athletic award certificate is presented to an outstanding athlete. The recipient of the athletic award is selected by vote of the coaches and is based on the student’s service, scholarship, and other established criteria specific to the athletic area. The GPA used for area award recipients is based on the GPA earned on courses taken at the University of Mobile.

Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities. This is a national recognition program whereby the University of Mobile selects outstanding nominees. The University of Mobile guidelines for selection of junior and senior students for inclusion are 1) minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 for juniors and seniors and 3.50 for graduate students; 2) outstanding service to the University through campus leadership and use of special talents; 3) outstanding service to the community; and 4) portrayal of a positive image of American youth.