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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Alphabatized Index to Question Topics

1. What is the Academic Calendar and where does a student get one?
The Academic Calendar is a yearly calendar published at the beginning of each fall semester. It shows all the important dates such as when classes begin, last day to Add/Drop a class, change from credit status to audit status, official holidays, recesses, beginning of exam week, etc. It can be obtained from the Office of the Registrar, the Information Desk (located in the Student Center), or most Academic Offices.

2. What is an Academic Change form?
An Academic Change form is used to change and/or add the following: degree, major, teaching field, advisor, minor, or concentration. A sample of the Academic Change form can be found in Section VII (Beige pages) of this Handbook.

3. What are the consequences of plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty?
Cheating in all its forms, including plagiarism and cheating on visual work, is considered an academic matter to be controlled and acted upon by the individual faculty member. However, a pattern of academic dishonesty (two or more instances), cases beyond the reach of a single professor, and severe cases may be referred to the Office of Student Affairs as academic dishonesty is a violation of Section VII of the Student Code of Conduct. Penalties for academic dishonesty range from failure of an assignment, failure of a course, suspension or expulsion from Shepherd, et alia. Refer to the Catalog and the Shepherd University Student Handbook for specific guidelines and regulations regarding Academic Dishonesty.

4. What is the MedSTEP Program?
The MedSTEP program (Medical Students in the Eastern Panhandle) is an innovative program available to incoming freshman. It is specifically designed for students with a desire to attend medical school and provides dual admission to Shepherd and West Virginia University medical school. The MedSTEP program is a highly selective program that assures that bright, dedicated students attending Shepherd University may automatically continue their training to become physicians at WVU Medical School. The program is open to students who are committed to becoming physicians in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. The following items are needed for your application:

• Completed application form specific to MedSTEP program;
• High School total GPA greater than or equal to 3.6 (send hard copy transcript);
• ACT score greater than or equal to 24; or SAT scores greater than or equal to 1100 (send copy);
• Letter of recommendation from your high school science teacher (our form);
• Letter of recommendation from your high school principal or guidance counselor (our form);
• Letter of recommendation citing your communication skills from a community leader;
• Personal statement of your interest in the program;
• Personal interview.

5. What is the PharmSTEP Program?
The PharmSTEP (Pharmacy Students in the Eastern Panhandle) program is for incoming freshman at Shepherd University. It is specifically designed for students with a desire to attend the pharmacy school and provides dual admission to Shepherd and West Virginia University School of Pharmacy. The PharmSTEP program is highly selective and is designed to assure that bright, dedicated students attending Shepherd University may automatically continue their training to become pharmacists at WVU School of Pharmacy. The program is open to students who are committed to becoming pharmacists in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. The following items are needed for your application:

• Completed application form;
• High School total GPA greater than or equal to 3.6 (send official school transcript);
• ACT math score greater than or equal to 26; or SAT math scores greater than or equal to 600 (send official copy of scores);
• Letter of recommendation from your high school science teacher (accompanied by recommendation form);
• Letter of recommendation from your high school principal or guidance counselor (accompanied by recommendation form);
• Letter of recommendation from a community leader (accompanied by recommendation form);
• Personal statement describing your interest in becoming a pharmacist and in entering the PharmSTEP program.

6. What is the DentSTEP Program?
The DentSTEP program (Dental Students in the Eastern Panhandle) is an innovative and highly selective program, co-sponsored by West Virginia University School of Dentistry and Shepherd University. This program is available to incoming freshman. It is specifically designed for students with a desire to attend the dental school and provides dual admission to Shepherd and West Virginia University School of Dentistry. The DentSTEP program assures that bright, dedicated students attending Shepherd University may continue their training to become dentists at WVU School of Dentistry. It is open to students who are committed to becoming dentists in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. The following items are needed for your application:

• Completed application form;
• High School total GPA greater than or equal to 3.25 (send hard copy transcript);
• Minimum ACT score greater than or equal to 22; or SAT scores greater than or equal to 1000 (send copy);
• Letter of recommendation from your high school science teacher (DentSTEP);
• Letter of recommendation from your high school principal or guidance counselor (DentSTEP);
• Letter of recommendation citing your communication skills and/or community service;
• Personal statement of your interest in the program;
• Personal interview.

7. What should students do if they become active duty?
The student should contact the registrar's office.

8. May any student participate in a music ensemble?
Yes. All ensembles offered by the Department of Music are open to all students. Some ensembles, however, are auditioned, so students interested in a specific group should contact the ensemble director for more information.

9. Are tutorial services available to students?
Yes, the Academic Support Center is located in 114 Knutti Hall, and tutorial services are free. The Writing Center is also in 114 Knutti Hall. Appointments can be made online by going to www.shepherd.edu/ascweb/.

10. Where can a student get academic help?
The student should first go to the instructor. If additional help is needed, the student should go to the Academic Support Center located in 114 Knutti Hall.

11. When is the ADD/DROP period?
During the first five days of a regular semester or the first two days of each summer session, students are permitted to change their original schedule. The adding and dropping of classes will be permitted via RAIL during this time period. See posted signs for the designated area to process time conflicts and overrides.

12. How are advisors assigned? How do I change my advisor?
Department Chairs are responsible for assigning all advisors. If a student wishes to change his/her advisor, the student should contact the Chair of the Department of his/her major. This change can take place anytime after the third week of a semester. The student must complete and return an Academic Change form available in the Office of the Registrar. A sample of the Academic Change form can be found in Section VII (Beige pages) of this Handbook.

13. Does Shepherd University offer any Associate's Degrees?
No.

14. How does a student graduating from a two-year program get accepted into a Bachelor's degree program at Shepherd?
A student must apply for admission into the four-year program. Contact the admissions office.

15. Will a course taken through the Community & Technical College apply to a four year bachelor's degree?
Generally, yes. Shepherd University students must receive prior approval (on the blue Consortium Registration form) to take transfer coursework at the Community and Technical College. The CTC is a separate institution and is unrelated to Shepherd University. Registration at the CTC will result in transfer hours on the student's record. Those hours will be included in the 72-credit transfer limit from two-year colleges. See also question 95.

16. What is the class attendance policy?
Attendance policies are determined individually by each professor. The attendance policy is usually outlined in the syllabus which is generally handed out the first day of classes.

17. How can a student Audit a class?
The student may register for the class for Audit during the regular registration period or, in accordance with the University Calendar, go to the Office of the Registrar, located in Ikenberry Hall, and change the registration from credit status to audit status. The deadline to make the change is listed in the Academic Calendar Note: A student may not be able to audit a class within his/her own major/degree.

18. How does a student who has been Home Schooled attain admission to Shepherd University?
Students who have been home schooled must submit scores for the General Educational Development (GED) Test to be considered for admission as freshmen. Applicants will be considered for admission if they attain a standard score of 40 on each of the five parts of the GED and have an average standard score of 45 or above on the entire test. Copies of the applicantsÕ home schools transcript, ACT or SAT scores, and the GED test scores must be sent directly to the Office of Admissions by the school and testing centers.

19. What are limited Enrollment Programs?
Certain degree programs at Shepherd University have limited enrollment due either to enrollment capacity limitations or to special academic requirements. The University reserves the right to establish limited enrollment for additional programs at any time. When enrollment is limited due to capacity constraints, the University will take in-state residency into consideration as a preferred criterion, but not as a controlling criterion. Applicants will be evaluated by the department faculty and interviews or auditions (in the case of performing arts programs) may be required. See individual programs in this catalog for specific details on admission requirements.

20. Is there a Career Development Center on campus?
Yes. The primary purpose of the Career Development Center is to aid students in developing, evaluating, and effectively initiating and carrying out career plans. The CDC, located on the ground floor of Gardiner Hall near the Financial Aid Office (rear entrance), includes the following offices: Career Services, Cooperative Education, Washington Semester, and the Washington Gateway Program. A comprehensive web site is available at http://www.shepherd.edu/jobweb for up-to-date services and program information. Information regarding graduate examinations (GRE, LSAT, MCAT, etc.) is available.

21. Is it possible for a student to challenge/or receive credit for a course by examination?
The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) is a testing program for students who feel their experience and knowledge of a particular subject field are such that they could waive course credit through examination. Credit for a limited number of subjects is available through CLEP testing. For more information see the CLEP coordinator in the Career Development Center (located in Gardiner Hall). Individual departments may also have policies to allow students to receive credit for courses through an examination process. Contact the individual instructors or department chairs for more information.

22. How many courses may a student challenge via CLEP?
CLEP examinations are offered in only certain subject areas. For more information, contact the Director of Career Development Center located on the ground floor of Gardiner Hall.

23. Where does a student go to change name/address and/or SS#?
A student wishing to change his/her name, address, and/or correct a SS# should complete a Personal Information Change form available in the Office of the Registrar, Ikenberry Hall. A sample of the Personal Information Change form can be found in Section VII (Beige pages) of this Handbook.

24. How are students classified?
First-year status: 24 semester hours or less; Sophomore status: 25-56 semester hours; Junior status: 57-91 semester hours; Senior status: 92 or more semester hours.

25. What is a full-time student?
Shepherd University defines a full-time student as one taking 12 or more credit hours per fall/spring semester. A student taking 6 hours in one summer session is defined as full-time.

26. What is a part-time student?
Shepherd University defines a part-time student as one taking 11 or fewer credit hours per fall/spring semester. A student taking fewer than 6 hours in one summer session is defined as part-time.

27. Does a student need a computer account?
Yes. Many professors make assignments based on a studentÕs ability to email answers and questions to the instructor; correspondence is expected via the student's official Shepherd email account, not a personal email account. All Shepherd University students are assigned a computer account at the beginning of their university career. They should visit the Computer Lab on the 2nd floor of White Hall, Room 204, to set up a student account.

28. Is there a Counseling Center on campus?
Yes. The Counselor's office is located on the ground floor of Gardiner Hall, and appointments may be made by calling ext 5276. Appointments may also be made by stopping by or calling the Health Center, ext. 5161. The Health Center is also located on the ground floor of Gardiner Hall. Counseling sessions are both confidential and free.

29. Where does a student with a physical or learning disability go for assistance?
The Director of Multicultural Student Affairs and Disability Services is located in 201 Student Center, 876-5453, and is available to assist students with physical and learning disabilities.

30. Can an international student or a non-native speaker be exempted from ENGL 101 & ENGL 102/103/104?
No. All students must satisfy the General Studies requirement for ENGL 101 & ENGL 102.

31. Can a student place out of ENGL 101 into ENGL 102/103/104?
Yes, the student should contact the Career Development Center located on the ground floor of Gardiner Hall to arrange for CLEP examination. Students can also place out via the Advanced Placement Examination taken in high school; contact the Admissions Office for details.

32. Does Shepherd offer an Engineering Degree?
There is an engineering concentration in mathematics and students interested in engineering should enroll as a mathematics major, which qualifies them for financial aid. They would follow the two year engineering curriculum and be able to transfer after two years to a four-year engineering program, or they could chose to remain at Shepherd and get a four year degree in mathematics. Two-year degrees are no longer offered at Shepherd University.

33. May an instructor give an "early" final exam?
No. However, exceptions may be granted with the approval of the Vice President of Academic Affairs.

34. Where does a student go to inquire about/apply for financial aid (scholarships, grants, etc.)?
A student should go to the Financial Aid Office located on the ground floor of Gardiner Hall.

35. Is there an academic progress requirement for a student receiving Financial Aid?
Yes. Academic progress is measured once each year to determine that a student is making progress toward completion of his/her academic program. Federal regulations require the student to successfully complete a given percentage of the courses for which he/she is registered. A complete description of the requirement is sent to each student receiving financial aid and is printed in the Catalog in the Scholarships and Student Financial Aid section.

36. What Study Abroad Programs are available to students?
For study abroad information on Shepherd University trips and non-Shepherd programs, visit http://www.shepherd.edu/university/studyabroad.

37. What is the Academic Forgiveness Policy?
Any student who is returning to university with less than a 2.0 GPA and has not been enrolled as a full-time student during the past five years may apply for Academic Forgiveness after the student has earned 12 credit hours that apply toward graduation with a minimum GPA of 2.0. During the first semester of re-enrollment, a student desiring academic forgiveness must complete a written request form and submit it to the Office of the Registrar. A sample of the Academic Forgiveness form can be found in Section VII (Beige pages) of this Handbook.

38. Are all first-year required to take the First-year Experience course (FYEX 100)
No, the course is an elective. However, first-year students are encouraged to register for the class.

39. What is the General Studies program?
The General Studies program is required for all bachelor's degrees (except the R. B.A. degree, which requires only 36 semester hours in General Studies courses). General Studies courses are usually taken during the student's first two years of university work and are designed to give the student a foundation in the humanities, life or physical sciences, mathematics, social sciences, and physical education. A total of 47 semester hours of course work is required. A list of required General Studies courses can be found in the Academic Information section of the University Catalog and in Section IV of this Handbook.

40. Is there a General Studies foreign language requirement at Shepherd University?
Students in the B.A. program (not including education) are required to complete 12 hours in the same foreign language, except music students whose requirements must be approved by the chairs of the Music and English and Modern Language departments.

41. May courses in the General Studies curriculum satisfy requirements in the major/minor?
Yes, in most cases.

42. How are mid-term grades distributed?
Mid-semester grade reports are available for all students on RAIL. First-year university students' and High School seniors' grades are also mailed to a student's permanent address. Academic advisors are given a copy of their advisees' grades, as well.

43. How does a student receive a grade of W?
A student receives a grade of W by withdrawing from any class after the first five days of class (Add/Drop period) through the Friday of the 12th week of classes. See the Academic Calendar for the specific date each semester. The form used to withdraw from a class is available from the Academic Advisor or Department Chair. The form must be signed by the Academic Advisor and the instructor of the dropped class and then turned into the Office of the Registrar by the deadline listed in the Academic Calendar. A sample of the Permission to Withdraw from Classes form can be seen in Section VI, (Beige pages) of this Handbook.

44. What are the grades awarded at Shepherd University?
A = Superior; B = Good; C = Average; D = Below Average (lowest passing grade); F = Failure; I = Incomplete; W = Withdraw; P = Pass; IF = Failure due to irregular withdrawal; AU = Audit; CR = Credit only awarded

45. What are Quality Points?
Quality Points are point values assigned to each semester hour of credit. A = 4; B = 3; C = 2; D = 1; F = 0; IF = 0. A three credit hour course in which a student earns an A would earn 12 Quality Points for that class.

46. What is the Grade Point Average (GPA)?
The GPA is determined by dividing the number of hours attempted into the number of quality points earned.

47. Under what circumstances would a student receive a grade of I?
A grade of I may be given to a student who has completed the majority of requirements for the course but because of extenuating circumstances may be unable to complete all stated requirements of the course.

48. How does a student request a grade of Incomplete (I)?
A student must communicate with the professor of the class for which the student wishes to request an Incomplete. If the professor is in agreement, the professor will submit the proper form to the Office of Registrar with the final grade roster containing the Incomplete grade. A sample of the Grade of Incomplete form can be found in Section VII (Beige pages) of this Handbook.

49. How does a student have an Incomplete (I) removed?
Students must submit work required to complete the course to the instructor at least ten days prior to the date that final grades are due for the following regular semester. (For example, fall semester incomplete work would be due prior to the end of the following spring semester.) When the work has been evaluated, the instructor must return all copies of the incomplete grade form to the Office of the Registrar with the new grade, no later than the date that final grades are due for the current semester. If the Incomplete grade is not made up according to schedule, it automatically becomes an F. When an incomplete grade is changed, the student's grade point average is recomputed.

50. When is a student given a grade of IF?
An IF is received if a student does not attend class and does not officially withdraw from a class by the deadline listed in the Academic Calendar. A grade of IF is computed as an F in the student's GPA.

51. May a student take courses on a Pass/Fail basis and what is the process?
Courses that are deemed general electives may be taken on a pass/fail basis. General Studies courses, required courses and electives in the major, or required courses and electives in the minor may NOT be taken for a pass/fail grade. Students must complete and return a Pass-Fail Option form to the Office of the Registrar by the dates listed in the Academic Calendar. A sample of the Pass Fail Option form can be found in Section VII (Beige pages) of this Handbook.

52. How is a student named to the Dean's List?
Effective for students entering Shepherd University in Fall 1999, to be named to the Dean's list, a student must carry at least 15 credit hours of work or be in the professional teaching block and must maintain a 3.4 average for the semester.

53. How does a student appeal a final grade?
A student must offer convincing arguments that good cause exists for changing a grade. (See the Student Handbook for definitions of good cause.) As Step 1, the student should confer with the professor who gave the grade. If the professor decides the grade should not be changed, the student should proceed to Step 2, which is an appeal to the Department Chair. If necessary, the student should proceed to Step 3, which is an appeal to the appropriate Academic Dean, and finally to Step 4, an appeal to the Appeals Committee. See the Student Handbook for the procedures to follow in Steps 1-4.

54. Are graduate programs offered through Shepherd University?
Yes. Students who are interested should contact Dean Michael Austin or visit the Graduate Studies Web site.

55. What are the credit hour requirements for graduation with a bachelor's degree?
The minimum number of semester hours for a baccalaureate degree includes 128 semester credit hours of Shepherd University courses numbered 100 and above. (This may include transfer credits that have been evaluated by Shepherd University as courses numbered 100 and above.) Of the 128 credit hours required, 45 hours must consist of upper level courses numbered 300 and above.

56. Does Shepherd University require a student to pass a comprehensive exam as a graduation requirement?
No. The University does not require such an exam; however some programs may.

57. What is the forty-five hour rule?
Students must have 45 hours of upper level courses (those numbered 300 and above) to graduate.

58. When does a student apply for graduation?
The student must apply for graduation at the beginning of his/her senior year. To do so, a student must pick up a graduation packet from the Registrar's Office; this contains step-by-step procedures and deadlines.

59. Are graduating seniors exempt from final exams?
Final semester seniors (graduating at the end of either the fall or spring semester) with a quality point average of 3.0 or better in a given course may be excused from the final examination at the option of the professor. This policy does not include General Studies courses and does not apply to courses taken during summer sessions.

60. What if a student misses the deadline to apply for graduation?
The student should go to the Registrar's Office immediately for instructions. The student may be required to petition the Admissions & Credits Committee.

61. Can a student graduate with 2 degrees simultaneously?
Yes. A student can earn two different Bachelor's degrees(BA, BS, BSW, BME, etc) by meeting all the requirements listed in the Catalog for both degrees. Students may NOT earn two BAs, two BSs, etc. Students attempting to earn two degrees need to take General Studies courses only once. Students receiving both a Bachelor's of Science and a Bachelor's of Arts must take four semesters of foreign language to fulfill the requirements of the BA. Additionally, in order to receive two degrees, the student must apply for both degrees when applying for graduation.

62. What is Shepherd's Academic Residency requirement?
A student must complete at least 32 semester hours of course work at Shepherd University to graduate with a bachelor's degree. The last 12 hours of course work must be completed at Shepherd University. The Admissions and Credits Committee must approve any exceptions to these requirements. Non-teaching degree candidates must earn a minimum of 15 hours of major field credits at Shepherd University. Teaching degree candidates must earn a minimum of 8 hours of major field credits at Shepherd University (the student should contact the Education Department).

63. What GPA is required to graduate?
The GPA required for graduation is a 2.0 minimum in these areas: overall GPA (transfer work and Shepherd work), Shepherd University GPA, major field GPA, and minor field GPA. Higher minimums are required for some majors.

64. Are health services available to students on campus?
Yes. The Health Center is located on the ground floor of Gardiner Hall. See http://www.shepherd.edu/safweb/health/index.htm regarding services. The Health Center is free to all students, paid for by the student health fee. Some special services require additional fees.

65. What is the Honors Program?
The Shepherd University Honors Program provides a variety of honors level courses to students who meet its high academic standards of eligibility and provides a mark of distinguished academic achievement for students who complete the Honors curriculum. The Honors Program invites students with a 3.6 or higher high school GPA at the time of application to Shepherd University to apply and interview with the Honors Program Director. A student may also be invited to apply to the Honors Program upon the recommendation of his/her professor during or just after his/her 1st semester at Shepherd University. The Honors Center is located on the ground floor of Miller Hall.

66. What is a major?
A major is a concentration of courses in an academic curriculum of study. In order to obtain a bachelor's degree, a student must declare a major field of study.

67. What is a minor?
Unless the student is participating in a program with a comprehensive major, the student must also choose a minor field of study. The minor is a curricular program that requires fewer courses than the major and that usually complements the chosen major.

68. What if a student wishes to pursue a major that is not available at Shepherd University?
A student wishing to pursue a major that is not available at Shepherd University can take General Studies classes. The student should then investigate other schools to transfer the credits earned at Shepherd University.

69. How does a student change a major/minor or teaching field?
A student may change his/her major or teaching field(s) at any time he/she chooses, but the student should be aware that a change of major or teaching field may postpone the graduation date until all new requirements are met. The Academic Change form is available in the Office of the Registrar or the Chair of the Department in which the new major is located. A sample of the Academic Change form can be found in Section VII (Beige pages) of this Handbook.

70. What is a double major?
A double major, one degree, is satisfied with two major fields in the same degree category; the Office of the Registrar will not evaluate an additional minor field.

71. Is there a Veteran's Service Office?
Yes. An administrator in the Student Affairs Office serves as the certifying official for veterans who are entitled to benefits. The Student Affairs Office is located in the Student Center, ext. 5214.

72. Is ROTC available to Shepherd students?
Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) is available to Shepherd University students through an agreement with the University of Maryland at University Park. For more information about AFROTC at Shepherd, refer to the Catalog.

73. Is there an office responsible for multicultural concerns and issues on campus?
The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, located in 201 Student Center, provides counseling and support services to ethnic minority students and to all students regarding diversity awareness. It conducts multicultural education workshops, forums, and programs. It administers the Multicultural Leadership Scholarship. The Director of Multicultural Student Affairs administers this office. International students are welcome to spend time in this office; in addition, international students have a contact in the Student Affairs Office, 101 Student Center, and in the Admissions Office.

74. What is PASS?
The Performing Arts Series at Shepherd plans quality performances, exhibitions, and lectures that are relevant to and consistent with the goals of higher education. These performances are of national and international renown and are open to the public. The PASS office and its director can be found in the Student Affairs Office located in the Student Center, Room 101, 876-5214. PASS events are free to students.

75. How does a student write for the university newspaper?
Students interested in writing for The Picket can call The Picket office ext. 5377.

76. What does it mean to be placed on Academic Probation; and how does a student get off Probation?
First-year/New Transfer Students: If a student fails to earn a 2.0 GPA in the first semester of attendance, a letter will be sent stating that the student is on Academic Probation. To be removed from probation, the student must attain BOTH a 2.0 Shepherd University and cumulative GPA (includes course work attempted from other institutions).

77. When is a student placed on Academic Probation?
A student is placed on Academic Probation when the student's Shepherd University and/or cumulative average falls below a 2.0 GPA.

78. How does a student get a copy of his/her current class schedule?
A schedule of classes will be sent with the student's bill. A student may also access RAIL web using his/her PIN number to secure that information.

79. What is a subject/course number?
A subject/course number is a number that represents a specific course within the appropriate department. For example, the subject/course number for Written English I is ENGL 101. Students use this number during the registration process. Courses numbered 300 and above are referred to as upper division courses. Generally, 100 level courses are for first-year students; 200 level courses are for sophomores; 300 level courses are for juniors; and 400 level courses are for seniors.

80. What is a CRN?
CRN refers to course request number. This five-digit number is found at the far-left column of the Shepherd University Schedule of Classes. It is an identification number for each section of a course and required for RAIL or in-person registration.

81. What is RAIL?
RAIL stands for Remote Access Information Line. RAIL provides web based services, enabling students to register online, add and drop classes during the Add/Drop period, access their class schedule, access final grades, access their financial aid information, et alia.

82. What is a PIN?
The login PIN stands for Personal Identification Number and is the student's birthdate--unless previously changed. A student's advisor during academic advisement provides an alternate pin after the student's schedule has been approved. A student will not be able to register without a login PIN and an alternate PIN.

83. What is the Regents Bachelor of Arts (RBA) degree?
The RBA degree is an external degree offered at Shepherd University and nine other public universities in West Virginia. It is a very flexible degree program designed to encourage mature persons with some university credits or no prior university credits on record to return to university and complete baccalaureate degree studies. There is no major or minor requirement in this program.

84. If a student misses the November/April registration, how does he/she register for classes?
A student who misses the November/April priority pre-registration session may login to RAIL and register at any time after his or her assigned time, through the first five days of classes (add/drop period). A late registration fee may apply.

85. Where does a student get a Schedule of Classes?
Copies of the Schedule of Classes are available at the Information Desk in the University Center. The schedule is also available at the Shepherd University website http://www.shepherd.edu/register/schedule.html The website will indicate the number of available spaces remaining in each class.

86. When is late registration?
Late registration usually begins via RAIL on the evening of the final in-person registration session for a regular semester. Students may also late register during the ADD/DROP sessions which take place during the first five days of classes. Specific dates may be found in the Shepherd University Schedule of Classes. Late registration is for those returning students who missed registration in November/April (or new students who missed registration on their dates in January, June, July, and August). Contact the Registrar's Office for further details.

87. Can a student repeat a class (60-Hour Rule)?
Yes. A student may repeat any Shepherd class in which he/she received a D, F or IF within the first 60 hours of coursework attempted prior to receiving a baccalaureate degree. The student's grade point average shall be based on the subsequent grade, not the original grade of D or F. The original grade shall not be deleted from the student's record. If the student repeats a course taken after 60 hours, both grades will remain on the transcript and count in the overall GPA. The original grade will not be deleted from the transcript. A student may not repeat a course or courses to improve a GPA where the original grade was a C or better.

88. What determines in-state residency?
In-state residency is determined by living a period of at least 12 months in West Virginia prior to the date of university registration. Consideration will be given to factors such as ownership or lease of a permanently-occupied home, full-time employment within the state, paying West Virginia property tax, filing West Virginia income tax returns, registering motor vehicles in West Virginia, possessing a valid West Virginia driver's license, and marriage to a person already domiciled in West Virginia. Catalog Residence Policy

89. What is the snow policy?
Shepherd University does not normally cancel or delay classes due to snow. However, in the event of severe inclement weather or other emergency, if a decision is made to cancel or delay classes, announcements are made on local radio and television stations. Refer to the Shepherd University Student Handbook, the Information for Students section, under the heading ÒSnow,Ó for a list of area radio and television station broadcasting such announcements. Students may also call 876-5000 for up-to-date information on weather cancellations.

90. If a student is on Academic Suspension, how does he/she enroll?
If this is the first time on Academic Suspension, the student may apply for readmission after sitting out one semester by completing an application for admission. If this is the second suspension, the student may apply for readmission after sitting out one full academic year by completing an application for admission.

91. When is a student placed on Academic Suspension?
The student is first placed on Academic Probation. The student on Academic Probation at the beginning of the fall semester must attain a 2.0 institutional GPA on the combined hours for fall, spring, and summer session(s) to be eligible to return the following semester. The student placed on Academic Probation at the beginning of the spring semester must attain a 2.0 institutional GPA on the combined hours for the spring and summer session(s) to be eligible to return the following fall semester. If the student does not meet the above stipulations, he/she is placed on Academic Suspension. A student suspended for the 1st time is not eligible to enroll for one semester. The student must re-apply to the university for readmission. A student suspended for the 2nd time is not eligible to enroll for a full academic year. The student must re-apply to the university for re-admission.

92. What is a transfer articulation agreement?
It is an agreement between Shepherd University and several community colleges in the Mid-Atlantic region to accept course work for transfer credit(s) that has been previously approved by the appropriate academic departments in which the course under question resides.

93. How are transfer courses evaluated?
Transfer courses are evaluated by using articulation agreements and course descriptions.

94. Who evaluates transfer courses?
The Office of Admissions and the Office of the Registrar share responsibility for evaluating the transcript and updating articulation.

95. Can a student take courses elsewhere after enrolling at Shepherd University?
A student wishing to take course work at another institution after enrolling at Shepherd must obtain permission before enrolling at another institution for courses. The Permission/Approval To Take Courses At Another Institution form (more commonly known as the ÒGreen formÓ) is available in the Office of the Registrar. When the appropriate signatures have been obtained, the form must be returned to the Office of the Registrar. Courses in a major or teaching field or courses failed or withdrawn from at Shepherd University may not be taken elsewhere. Please see the Shepherd University Catalog for more specific information regarding choice of courses. Current Shepherd University students enrolling at the Community and Technical College in Martinsburg must also receive prior approval to register for courses at the Community and Technical College in Martinsburg. For these students, the blue Consortium Registration form is used, rather than the "Green Form". Note that consortium registration at the CTC will result in transfer hours on the student's record. Those hours will be included in the 72-credit transfer limit from two-year colleges. A sample of the Permission/Approval To Take Courses At Another Institution form, and the Consortium Registration form can be found in Section VII (Beige pages) of this Handbook.

96. How does a student get a transcript of grades?
A student must fill out an application requesting an official transcript in the Office of the Registrar. The application is also available on line. The request must have the student's signature. Copies of transcripts will be available after three working days. The first copy is free; the cost for each additional copy is $5.00. When time is of the essence, a student may request a transcript to be available in 24 hours. The cost is $15.00. Unofficial transcripts are available on RAIL at no charge.

97. What are the tuition and fees for Shepherd University?
Tuition and fees may change from year to year. Current tuition and fees are listed in official University documents or may be obtained from the Cashier's Office located in Ikenberry Hall.

98. Who advises undecided students?
The Career Development Center located on the ground floor of Gardiner Hall advises undecided majors.

99. May first-year students and sophomores take upper division courses?
Yes, as long as all pre-requisites have been met.

100. Where does a student go to verify enrollment in university (for insurance, work, etc.)?
A student should go to the Office of the Registrar, Ikenberry Hall, and fill out an Enrollment Verification form (a printable certificate verifying official enrollment is available through RAIL beginning the third week of each semester). A sample of the Enrollment Verification form can be found in Section VII (Beige pages) of this Handbook.

101. Where does a student go to withdraw from Shepherd?
Complete withdrawal from the University is processed through the Office of the Registrar. The procedures on the Withdrawal form must be followed. Unauthorized withdrawals from school are reported as failures.

102. What is the tuition refund policy for students who drop a course or who withdraw from the University?
There is no refund for partial withdrawal after the Add/Drop period. There may be a refund for complete withdrawal from the University depending on date of withdrawal. The schedules for refund are located in the catalog under Section IV Expenses and Financial Assistance. For exact dates, please see the Shepherd University Fee Sheet or go to the Cashier's Window, 2nd Floor, Ikenberry Hall.

103. After withdrawing, must a student re-apply to the university to attend the next semester?
Students in good academic standing who must discontinue their studies for a brief time will be considered eligible to re-enroll in future semesters, as long as they return after no more than two consecutive regular semesters (not including summer sessions), and do not take courses at another institution during that time without prior approval from the University. (For procedures to take courses with permission during a time of absence, see Question 95. Students who are on suspension, who take courses at another institution without prior approval, or who are absent from studies for more than two consecutive regular semesters (not including summer sessions),must re-apply through the Office of Admissions. Students wishing to return after absence, and who do not need to re-apply through the Office of Admissions, should check the Semester Schedule of Classes for advisement dates, and make an appointment with their advisor.

104. Is there a deadline to withdraw from a course?
Yes. Deadline dates are listed in the Academic Calendar and are also published in the Record. If the Withdrawal form is not submitted to the Office of the Registrar by the deadline, the grade of IF will result.

105. Must a student offer any reason for withdrawing from a course?
No.

106. Where can a student get help with various kinds of harassment (including that based on race, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and socio-economic status).
The Campus Police located in Sara Cree Hall, 876-5374 weekdays of 876-5202 evenings and weekends.
The Student Affairs Office located in the University Center, Room 101, 876-5214.
The Multicultural Student Affairs Office located in the University Center, Room 201, 876-5453.
The Residence Life Office located on the ground floor of Miller Hall, 876-5172.
For sexual harassment involving an employee and a student, the Dean of Teaching & Learning/Ombudsperson, Byrd Center 212, 876-5461 (as well as the Campus Police and the Student Affairs Office).

107. Where can a student get help if he or she has been sexually assaulted?
A Sexual Assault Victim Advocacy Program is available at Shepherd University. Victim-advocates are designated University staff members who possess expertise in sexual assault issues, have extensive experience in sexual assault crisis intervention, and have received appropriate training in the medical and legal issues related to sexual assault. A current list of victim-advocates is available from the Dean of Students as well as the Student Affairs Office located in the Student Center.
Important Phone Numbers:
Shepherd University:
Police 304-876-5202/5374
Health Services 304-876-5161
Counseling Services 304-876-5276
Dean of Students 304-876-5478
Jefferson Memorial Hospital 304-728-1600
City Hospital (Berkeley Co.) 304-264-1000
Shenandoah Women's Center 304-263-8292 (24-hour Hotline)

108. How is one class substituted for another one?
All substitutions required the completion of a Substitution/Waiver form signed by the Academic Advisor and Department Chair of the required course. A sample of the Substitution/Waiver form can be seen in Section VI, (Beige pages) of this Handbook.

109. What is the difference between a Drop and a Withdrawal from a class?
A Drop must be completed within the first five (5) days of classes and will not be reflected on the transcript.

110. How does a student order and pick-up the cap and gown for graduation?
Students may order their cap and gown from the bookstore.

111. Is there a Graduation Ceremony for December and August graduates?
No. However graduates are encouraged to participate in the following May ceremony.

112. What are Learning Communities?
A learning community represents a group of students who take two (2) of the same classes, which are linked by theme or content. For more information and brochures, contact 876-5461.

113. Is there a computer literacy requirement for graduation? If there is, what is the nature of that requirement?
Yes, there is a requirement. General Studies Computer Literacy required for graduation consists of a mastery of four basic skills: email use, internet use, electronic library research, and word processing. There are three methods by which a student can demonstrate that he/she has met the requirement. They are outlined in Section VI (the beige pages) on Form VI-12. Form VI-12 must be submitted by the student to the Registrar prior to or with the Senior Evaluation Form.

114. Can a student enter a four-year program at Shepherd University without declaring a major, i.e., as an "undecided" student?
Yes. Professionals in the Career Development Center will advise BA/BS students who are undecided.

115. Is the Community and Technical College (CTC) still a part of Shepherd University?
No. The CTC and Shepherd University are now separate institutions.