EIU Graduate School

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Graduate Courses
Courses numbered 4750 or higher are graduate courses for all post-baccalaureate students. These courses (including Study Abroad and National Student Exchange courses) constitute “graduate credit” and are used to calculate the graduate GPA on the student’s transcript. There are restrictions on the number of hours of courses numbered 4750 to 4999 that graduate students may apply to degree or certificate programs. Students are advised to consult the sections of the Graduate Catalog that outline specific degree and certificate requirements for these restrictions.

Undergraduate Courses
All courses numbered below 4750 are undergraduate courses for all post-baccalaureate students. While such courses may be required to make up deficiencies, meet required prerequisites, meet the requirements for an additional baccalaureate degree, or fulfill teacher certification requirements, these courses are not available for graduate credit and will not be included in the calculation of the graduate GPA. Students are advised to consult the sections of this catalog titled “Academic Standing for Degree & Certificate Candidates” to review how undergraduate courses are recorded on transcripts.

Courses Numbered 4750 to 4999 for Undergraduate and Graduate Students
Courses numbered 4750 to 4999 are available to junior and senior baccalaureate students and are counted as undergraduate credit when completed by undergraduates. Courses numbered 4750 to 4999 may be taken by EIU seniors for reserve graduate credit with approval of the Graduate School. The criteria and approvals required to exercise this study option are described in the section of the Graduate Catalog titled “Graduate Study Options for Seniors at EIU.” Undergraduates earning reserve graduate credit and graduate students enrolling in courses numbered 4750 to 4999 are required to achieve a level of understanding and performance above that expected of those enrolling for undergraduate credit.

Courses Numbered 5000 to 5999 for Undergraduate Students

Courses numbered 5000 to 5999 may be taken by EIU seniors and by students as specified in accelerated graduate programs only with the approvals required to exercise this study option as described in the section of the Graduate Catalog titled “Graduate Study Options for Seniors at EIU.” Undergraduates, regardless of classification or GPA, may not enroll in any graduate courses numbered 5990 (independent study), 5980 (internship), 5950 (thesis), or any capstone graduate experience.

Special Courses for Graduate Credit
https://www.eiu.edu/adulted/schedulehome.php: This web site provides a list of course offerings. Students may access off-campus and special courses through the School of Extended Learning. The courses are numbered 4985 through 4999 and are offered off-campus or on-campus under the Special Courses provision. Degree and certificate program candidates should review the section of the Graduate Catalog titled “Requirements for Degree and Certificate Programs” for restrictions on the number of hours of special courses that may be applied to a degree or certificate program.

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)

Some graduate programs at EIU choose to offer course credit for prior learning and professional experiences undertaken prior to a student’s graduate studies. Graduate students may utilize Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) portfolios to earn credit within the graduate programs which offer this option. For more information, graduate students should reach out to the Graduate Coordinator of their program to determine the availability of CPL, and the processes by which it is granted. All EIU Graduate School Programs will utilize the following CPL guidelines: 

• Students who wish to utilize CPL portfolios must be accepted into a participating graduate program.
• Portfolio content should reflect the primary content contained in the course syllabus and should demonstrate achievement in meeting the course learning objectives. Portfolios may include evidence of prior learning through previous participation in professional development courses, experiential learning, writing samples, and samples of work experience. Consideration of any other professional experience examples should be addressed with the Graduate Coordinator prior to portfolio creation.
• Students must consult the graduate program coordinator for guidance on whether CPL is appropriate for the course selected and on the creation of a portfolio. 
• Submission of a portfolio does not guarantee credit will be awarded for a graduate course.
• Students will earn either the grade of Credit or No Credit for all approved CPL submissions.  Partial credit for existing graduate courses will not be awarded.
• All students must pay all fees associated with the CPL submission and review process regardless of whether credit is awarded. No waivers may be applied to any CPL fees. 
• Graduate programs may award no more than 9 hours of credit through prior learning assessment portfolios.  
• Graduate programs must receive approval from the Council on Graduate Studies for the courses offered in their CPL option(s). 
• Credits earned through CPL are considered residential credits.  Programs may elect to limit the number of CPL and/or transfer credit hours applied to the degree study plan beyond existing catalog policies.

Advancing scholarship through original research and creative activity are hallmarks of graduate education at Eastern Illinois University. Research and creative activity are reflected in requirements for graduate theses, research courses, independent study programs, and related research activities with graduate faculty members who mentor graduate candidates through the process of scholarly inquiry and expression in their academic disciplines. The following courses and programs are designed to promote and support graduate research.

Graduate 
A thesis is a required component of some master’s and specialist degrees or options. The thesis is a scholarly contribution to knowledge in the candidate’s selected area of study. Thesis research is conducted by degree candidates in consultation with a thesis committee and under the direct supervision of the thesis director who must be a regular member of the graduate faculty.

The Thesis Committee:
http://www.eiu.edu/graduate/facstaff_faculty.php: This web site provides a current member list of graduate faculty. Thesis committees are typically composed of three members of the graduate faculty including the thesis director who serves as chair. The number of committee members may vary. Degree candidates enrolled in degree programs or options which require a thesis should identify a prospective member of the graduate faculty who will serve as the thesis director. The candidate, in consultation with the director, should identify other qualified members of the graduate faculty who will serve on the candidate’s thesis committee. 

Thesis Approval by the Institutional Review Board and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee:
www.eiu.edu/grants/ It is the joint responsibility of the faculty sponsor and the graduate student conducting research involving human or animal subjects to obtain compliance committee approval prior to initiating the research. Contact the department’s Graduate Coordinator or the Compliance Coordinator in the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs for information regarding protocol review forms and the protocol review process. Instructions, forms, and information are available on the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs web site listed above. 

Thesis Format and Style:
http://www.eiu.edu/graduate/students_thesisresearch.php: This web site provides The Manual for Master’s and Specialist’s Thesis and instructions for depositing the thesis.  The Manual provides basic guidelines of style and rigor required of the graduate thesis established by the Graduate School and Council on Graduate Studies. Candidates are advised that programs may establish additional guidelines for completing a thesis and should consult with advisors regarding these requirements.

Thesis Credit Hours: A maximum of six semester hours of thesis may be applied to a degree and a maximum of nine semester hours of credit in a combination of independent study, research, or thesis may be applied to a degree. Candidates typically register for thesis hours during the semesters or terms in which they pursue the thesis; however, candidates are advised to consult with programs regarding specific procedures for thesis registration. During the time that the thesis is in progress but not yet completed, the thesis director should submit a grade of “DC” or Deferred Credit. Upon completion of all requirements for the thesis and the deposit of the completed thesis in the library, the thesis director should request that the grades of “DC” be changed to grades of “CR” or “Credit.” If the candidate does not successfully complete all of the requirements for the thesis or if the thesis project is deemed of unacceptable quality by the thesis director, then the grades of “DC” should be changed to grades of “NC” or “No Credit.”

Graduate Independent Study
Graduate independent study is an advanced, individualized study of a topic or topics selected and self-directed by the graduate student under the supervision of a member of the graduate faculty. Graduate independent study is a commitment of the student to a rigorous plan of investigation that adds value and focus in a unique area of interest to a degree program or to a post-baccalaureate area of development. Graduate independent study proposals are typically submitted by students who have completed a significant number of graduate courses and have developed the background needed to pursue a topic independently. Proposals for an independent study include a statement of the goals of the project and a description of the intended final product of the project. Proposals must be on file in the department and be approved by the faculty advisor and coordinator of graduate studies or department chair prior to registration for the course. Students should consult the Graduate Catalog for departmental requirements for independent study. A maximum of six (6) semester hours may be applied to a degree and a maximum of nine (9) semester hours in a combination of independent study, research, or thesis may be applied to a degree.

Graduate Research Courses
Graduate research courses may be a required component of some degree programs. Candidates should consult the Graduate Catalog for program requirements for graduate research courses. A maximum of six (6) semester hours may be applied to a degree and a maximum of nine (9) semester hours in a combination of independent study, research, or thesis may be applied to a degree.

Resources to Support Graduate Research/Creative Activity
http://www.eiu.edu/graduate/students_awards_competitivestudent.php: This web site provides guidelines, timelines, selection procedures, and award levels. The Graduate School sponsors a broad range of competitive awards programs to promote and support graduate research/creative activity. All candidates selected for any of the Graduate School research awards are encouraged to present their proposal or completed projects during the Annual Graduate Student Exposition.

Institutional policies require that all research conducted by faculty, staff, and students that involves human or animal subjects must be approved by the appropriate EIU compliance committee. Research involving living human subjects or data collected from living human subjects must be reviewed and approved by the EIU Institutional Review Board (IRB). Research involving the use of living animals must be reviewed and approved by the EIU Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). It is the joint responsibility of the faculty sponsor and the graduate student conducting research involving human or animal subjects to obtain compliance committee approval prior to initiating the research. Contact the department Graduate Coordinator or the Compliance Coordinator in the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs for information regarding protocol review forms and the protocol review process. Instructions, forms, and information are also available on the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs web site:  www.eiu.edu/grants.

Advancing professional achievement through applied learning is another hallmark of graduate education at Eastern. The applied experiences described below may be requirements or electives in many degree programs.

Graduate Internships
A graduate internship is a discipline-specific opportunity for a degree candidate to apply graduate knowledge and skills in professional practice at an on- or off-campus site under the supervision of qualified professionals.

Graduate students may be placed at internship sites only when the Board of Trustees of Eastern Illinois University and the agency, specified by its legal name, have signed a written agreement. The agreement must be signed by the Office of the Vice President for Business Affairs, the agency representative, and the program representative. An original copy of the agreement must be on file in the Vice President’s and agency’s offices, with copies of the agreement on file in the sponsoring department. An internship agreement requires the following information:

• An outline of the responsibilities, commitments, and supervision requirements of both the University and the agency.
• Specification of the intern’s duties, expectations, and required range of weekly contact hours; student performance evaluation procedures; completion of a final written student report of the internship
• Specification of the qualifications of the on-site supervisor and supervisor evaluation procedures
• Specification of the role of the on-campus liaison, required site visits, and internship site evaluation procedures
• Time limits of the agreement and procedures for reviewing and updating the agreement to ensure that the quality and nature of the experience are consistent with program goals, objectives, and standards.

Graduate internships require appropriate graduate study and preparation prior to internship placement in order to meet the expectations of the on-site agency. Internships are typically planned to be taken after the mid-point of the degree program is completed. A minimum of one week of full-time experience is required for each semester hour of credit. Full-time experience requires minimally 40 clock hours of experience each week. The majority of hours are expected to be hours on-site in the internship; however, some hours may also be devoted to instruction (class time) and homework directly related to the internship experience. Degree programs may require more than the minimum number established by the Graduate School. The Graduate School requires that a minimum of 21 semester hours be completed in courses exclusive of internship and other variable credit experiences as independent study, research, thesis, and special courses and workshops. Programs may restrict the number of semester hours of internship that may count toward the degree program.

Graduate Study Abroad
The study abroad curriculum includes both opportunities to experience the University’s courses at an international site or to engage in an exchange program for a full term or year of study abroad. Candidates should consult with program advisors regarding study abroad applications to degree programs and with the Office of Study Abroad to determine study abroad options.

http://www.eiu.edu/graduate/facstaff_faculty.php: This web site provides an updated list of regular, associate and adjunct graduate faculty members. The Council on Graduate Studies has established a policy that all courses in which students receive graduate credit are taught by members of the faculty who have been awarded regular, associate, or adjunct graduate faculty status. Regular members of the graduate faculty meet the criteria established by the Council and may teach graduate courses, advise degree-seeking candidates, serve as thesis study directors or as members of a committee for a degree candidate, and serve on university-level graduate committees. Associate members of the graduate faculty are EIU professors who do not meet the criteria for regular membership but who are appointed for a one-year term when regular members, due to sabbatical, leave, or other reasons, are not available to teach a specific graduate course. Adjunct members of the graduate faculty are professionals from outside of the University whose expertise is required to teach a specific graduate course. Adjunct members are appointed for one, two or three-year terms. Criteria for graduate faculty nomination and a list of members are available at the web site above.

Oral English Proficiency
Eastern Illinois University has adopted a program of Oral English Proficiency Assessment for all instructional staff. Students who have difficulty understanding an instructor should, if possible, first consult with the instructor. In the event that the difficulties are not resolved, the student should address his/her concerns to the chair of the department in which the instructor is teaching. Subsequent appeals may also be possible through the dean and then to the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Credit
The unit of measure is the semester hour. One semester hour approximates the effort expended in 50 minutes of class work and 100 minutes of study during each week of the semester. One semester hour also approximates the effort expended in at least a 50 minute laboratory or other scheduled class activity per week (for example, art studio). Laboratories or other scheduled class activities often require more scheduled instruction and fewer minutes of study outside the time scheduled; therefore, laboratories or other scheduled class activities may be scheduled for more instructional minutes for one semester hour of credit depending on the discipline and nature of the laboratory. Any exception to these policies requires approval of the Council on Graduate Studies; exceptions will appear in the course descriptions approved through the established curricular process.

Grades

Grades of A and B
Grades of A and B reflect the level of competence that is acceptable for graduate credit.

Grades of C
Grades of C are limited for graduate level credit. Grades of C may be used to fulfill the requirements for a degree program; however, a graduate candidate receiving more than nine semester hours of graduate level credit with a grade below a B is disqualified from degree candidacy. Disqualified candidates are automatically reclassified as non-degree post-baccalaureate students.

Grades of D, F or NF
Grades of D, F, and NF are unacceptable for graduate-level credit. Courses in which a graduate candidate earns a grade of D, F, or NF may not be used to fulfill any requirements for the degree program. A graduate candidate receiving more than nine semester hours of graduate-level credit with a grade below B is disqualified from degree candidacy. Disqualified candidates are automatically reclassified as non-degree post-baccalaureate students.

Credit/No Credit
Certain graduate courses such as thesis, independent study, field study, or internship, may be designated by a department or program as “credit/no credit.” Students who successfully fulfill the requirements for a course designated credit/no credit receive a “CR” on their transcript. Students who do not successfully fulfill the requirements receive an “NC” for the course. The credit/no credit designation is only available to those courses so designated.

Grades of I, DC, and X
Students may not be certified for graduation so long as a grade of I, DC or X remains on their academic record. Students also should be aware that changing an I, DC, or X to another grade may affect their grade point average and thus the awarding of their degree and/or graduation honors. If a Grade Correction Form is not submitted, then any “X” or “DC” grades remaining on the transcript will be changed to “NC” or “F” at the time the degree is completed. Students also should be aware that changing an “X” or “DC” to another grade may affect their grade point average and thus the awarding of their degree and/or graduation honors.

Incomplete for Courses
The grade “I” or “incomplete” for graduate courses in which letter grades are earned is given only when, because of illness or other valid reason, a student’s progress in a course is delayed so that not all requirements for the course are fulfilled by the official closing date of the term. Procedures for assigning and removing incomplete grades are outlined below.

• Assignment of Incomplete and Default Grades: Instructors who assign a grade of “I” are required to submit the Assignment of Incomplete/Alternate Grade Form to the Records Office. This form specifies a default grade for the incomplete work at the time that the grade of “I” is recorded. A grade of “F” shall be the default grade if the instructor fails to provide a default grade. The instructor also completes Step 1 of the Assignment and Removal of Incomplete Grade Procedures Form available at the Graduate School web site and provides a copy to the program chair or graduate coordinator.
• Submission of a Completion Plan: The instructor and student complete Step 2 of the Assignment and Removal of Incomplete Grade Procedures Form and develop a completion plan. Copies are submitted to the program chair or graduate coordinator no later than the mid-term date published in the Class Schedule of the next term the student is in residence or no later than mid-term one calendar year from the end of the term in which the grade of “I” was received.
• Decision on Completion of the Required Course Work: Students receiving a grade of “I” must execute the completion plan no later than the Last Class Day published in the Class Schedule of the next grading period in which the student is in residence but not later than the Last Class Day one calendar year from the end of the term in which the grade of “I” was received. The instructor completes Step 3 of the Assignment and Removal of Incomplete Grade Procedures Form and provides a copy to the program chair or coordinator. If the work is successfully completed, the instructor also submits a Grade Correction Form to the Records Office no later than four days prior to the official close of the term. Students who fail to implement the completion plan by the stated deadline will be issued the instructor supplied default grade or a grade of “F” if no default grade was issued. Instructors should notify students who fail to implement the completion plan that the default grade will be issued. Graduate students admitted on or after the Fall of 2003 may not be certified for degree completion if any grades of “I” remain on the transcript.

Deferred Credit
Graduate courses designated as credit/no credit such as field-experience, independent study, thesis, or research and requiring work of a continuing nature over several terms before the final project is completed may receive the grade “DC” or “Deferred Credit.” Deferred Credit designates that the student remained enrolled for credit throughout the term and that the project is continuing into another term. Upon completion of the final project, the instructor will file a Grade Correction Form with the Records Office no later than four days prior to the official close of the term published in the Class Schedule. If a Grade Correction Form is not submitted then any “DC” grades remaining on the transcript will be changed to “NC” at the time the degree is completed or within the six year time limit or approved time limit extension. Graduate students admitted on or after the Fall of 2003 may not be certified for degree completion if any grades of “DC” remain on the transcript.

No Grade Submitted
The designation of “X” indicates that a grade was not submitted to the Records Office for the course. Students should consult with the course instructor, program chair, or graduate coordinator regarding this designation.

Withdrawal from a Course

1. During a Fall or Spring Semester, a student may withdraw from a course on or before the 10th class day and not receive a grade.
2. From the 11th class day until the close of business on the Friday of the 11th class week of the semester, a student may withdraw from a course with a grade of “W.” After the Friday of the 11th class week or equivalent a student may initiate a withdrawal from a course or the University through the late withdrawal process. Cutoff dates for intersession and summer terms are reduced proportionately. Specific withdrawal dates are established for each term. These dates are published in the class schedule for the appropriate term.

   Withdrawal from the University
   Rules governing grading practices upon withdrawal from the University are the same as those listed above for withdrawal from a course. A student who wishes to withdraw completely from the University before the end of a semester or summer term should drop all classes using PAWS or contact the Registration Office. The Registration Office shall notify appropriate departments and agencies of the withdrawal. The student is responsible for making sure all obligations to the University have been met. Notice of intention to withdraw should be made in person, although a letter addressed to the Registration Office declaring intention to withdraw and postmarked within the stated period is deemed equivalent to a notice submitted personally. Policies governing withdrawal because of a call to active military duty are administered by the Registrar. Upon the written recommendation of a licensed physician or a licensed mental health professional, and with the concurrence of the Director of the Health Service or the Director of the Counseling Center, a student may be granted permission to officially withdraw from all courses from the University.

   Late Withdrawals
   A student may request a late withdrawal through the course instructor when a documented illness or extraordinary circumstance prevents withdrawal from a course by the established deadlines. Failing a class is not an appropriate reason to seek a late withdrawal. Students who are failing a course should follow the “Repeating Courses” policy stated in the catalog. The deadline to file for a late withdrawal for fall semester is March 15th for the immediately preceding fall semester and October 15th for the immediately preceding spring or summer semester. Students will be assessed a non-refundable $25 late withdrawal fee per late withdrawn credit with a maximum of $100 per occurrence. The Office of the Registrar and Enrollment Management will forward all appeals of the Registrar’s determination of Late Withdrawal to the Appeal Committee, whose decision is final and not subject to further appeal. Procedures for submitting/responding to late withdrawal requests are available at: http://www.eiu.edu/registra/latewithdrawalpolicy.php

Audit
With permission of the instructor, graduate candidates may enroll for a class as an auditor. Courses that are audited cannot be included as part of a degree program. Students must obtain an audit card from the Registration Office and return the completed card signed by the instructor of the class to the Registration Office. Deadlines to submit audit requests are listed in the Class Schedule published each semester. If the student satisfies the audit requirements established by the course instructor, then the “AU” designation will appear on the transcript. If the course instructor determines that the student’s performance did not meet the audit requirements, no grade entry will appear on the transcript. Courses taken under the audit category are considered part of the maximum load. Tuition and fees for auditing courses are the same as courses taken for credit.

Repeating Graduate Courses
Graduate students may repeat graduate courses in which a grade of D, F, or NC was received. Both the original grade and the repeated grade will be recorded on the transcript and will be included in the computation of the graduate GPA. If the grade earned for the repeated course is a C or better, the course and the semester hours may be applied to the degree or certificate program. If the grade for the repeated course is less than a C, neither the course nor the semester hours may be applied to the degree or certificate program. With prior approval of the academic program, graduate students may repeat any course numbered 4750 or above in which a grade of A, B, C, or CR was previously earned and which is not normally repeated. Both the original grade and the repeated grade will be recorded on the transcript and included in the calculation of the graduate GPA; however, the repeated course credit will not count toward degree requirements. Courses repeated at the post-baccalaureate level will be subject to the undergraduate repeat policy (refer to the Undergraduate Catalog).

Transfer Credit
http://www.eiu.edu/graduate/pdf/transfercredit.pdf Candidates may request that graduate courses completed at another institution be considered for transfer to a graduate degree program at Eastern Illinois University. All courses accepted for transfer credit must meet the criteria outlined below. Approval for transfer credit by Eastern Illinois University prior to completion of the courses in order to verify that the courses meet the transfer criteria is recommended but not required. If prior approval is not obtained, there is no guarantee that the transfer work will be accepted for application to a degree program. Approval Process: Approval for transfer credit is a four step process guided by the Graduate Transfer Credit Approval Form accessible at the web site listed above.

• Candidates obtain written documentation from the Graduate School at the transfer institution that the course meets the criteria specified below.
• The documentation is reviewed and approved by the appropriate EIU coordinator of graduate study or program chair.
• The documentation is reviewed and approved by the certification officer in the Graduate School. Non-authorized verbal or written agreements of prior-approval between candidates and coordinators of graduate study, program chairs or program advisors are not recognized by the Graduate School.
• Credit for the course is documented upon completion of the course by providing official transcripts to the Graduate School by the Last Class Day published in the Class Schedule.

Transfer Criteria Policy: To be acceptable for transfer to Eastern Illinois University as graduate credit applicable to a degree program, transfer courses must meet the following criteria:

• The courses must be earned from an accredited institution approved by Eastern Illinois University.
• A copy of the “Transcript Guide” provided on the back of official transcripts, or an equivalent document, must be on file with the Graduate School to document that the course number is equivalent to graded graduate credit applicable to a degree program at the transfer institution
• The course must be offered for graded credit equivalent to an “A” or “B” and not “CR” or “Credit”, “Pass” or any other form of non-graded credit.
• The course must be approved by the program as acceptable for transfer to a degree program. Some EIU graduate programs publish lists of courses that are acceptable for transfer credit and restrict acceptance to specific institutions and courses.
• The course must be approved by the certification officer in the Graduate School as acceptable for transfer to a degree program.

Transfer Credit Restrictions: Courses that may not be used for transfer to Eastern Illinois University as graduate credit include the following:

• Courses taken prior to the receipt of a baccalaureate degree at another institution may not be counted toward a graduate degree program at EIU.
• Courses taken to meet the requirements of a master’s or doctorate degree at a transfer institution may not be counted toward a master’s degree program at EIU. Candidates should review the section of the catalog titled “Requirements for the Specialist’s Degree” and “Requirements for Graduate Certificate Programs” for information on previous graduate credit that may be applied to a specialist’s degree or graduate certificate program. Courses taken to meet the requirements of a post-baccalaureate certificate program at a transfer institution that have not been used toward a master’s degree at a transfer institution may be counted toward a master’s degree program at EIU.
• Correspondence courses may not be used for graduate credit in a degree program at EIU
• Continuing professional development units (CPDUs) that are offered to meet continuing education requirements and that are not applicable to degree programs at the transfer institution may not be used for graduate credit in a degree program at EIU
• Transfer credit is subject to the six-year time limit on master’s and specialist’s degrees established by the Graduate School
• The student must earn a grade of “B” or better to be accepted for credit.
• A maximum of 12 semester hours of graduate course work may be considered for transfer to a degree program

Courses Completed without Prior Approval: Candidates may request that graduate courses completed at another institution be considered for transfer to a graduate degree program at Eastern Illinois University by submitting official transcripts to the Graduate Coordinator. The Graduate Coordinator determines if the courses are acceptable for meeting content requirements in the degree program. The transcripts are then reviewed by the certification officer in the Graduate School to determine if the courses meet the Transfer Criteria Policy. All courses accepted for transfer credit must meet the criteria outlined previously.
If prior approval was not obtained, there is no guarantee that the transfer work will be accepted for application to a degree or certificate program.

Credit for Courses in Pursuit of National Board of Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Certification:   Graduate credit on a transcript from Eastern Illinois University in pursuit of NBPTS certification will be issued only under the following conditions: The student was enrolled in National Board of Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) courses approved for credit at Eastern Illinois University. Eastern offers EDU 5800 NBPTS/Professional Portfolio Development Seminar and EDU 5801 NBPTS/Professional Portfolio Development II for this purpose. These courses meet the standards for graduate credit required by our academic councils and appear on EIU transcripts when completed.

Prior Approval Process: http://www.eiu.edu/graduate/pdf/transfercredit.pdf Approval for transfer credit by Eastern Illinois University prior to completion of the courses in order to verify that the courses will meet the transfer criteria is recommended but not required. Approval for transfer credit is the responsibility of the graduate candidate and is a four step process guided by the Graduate Transfer Credit Approval Form accessible at the web site listed above.

• Candidates obtain written documentation from the Graduate School at the transfer institution that the course meets the Transfer Criteria Policy.
• The documentation is reviewed and approved as acceptable for meeting content requirements in the degree program by the appropriate EIU coordinator of graduate study or program chair.
• The documentation is reviewed and approved as meeting the Transfer Criteria Policy by the certification officer in the Graduate School. Non-authorized verbal or written agreements of prior approval between candidates and coordinators of graduate study, program chairs or program advisors are not recognized by the Graduate School.
• Credit for the course is documented upon completion of the course by providing official transcripts to the Graduate School by the Last Class Day published in the Class Schedule.Undergraduate Deficiencies When undergraduate preparation is inadequate in the major field of study or when deficiencies in an area of concentration are identified by the program, students will be required to take additional undergraduate course work to achieve the required level of competence. Undergraduate deficiencies must be made up without credit toward the graduate degree or certificate program.

Full-Time Enrollment Fall, Spring, and Summer
Graduate students are considered academically full-time during the fall, spring, and summer terms and meet the full-time enrollment requirements for student loan deferments and good student discounts when enrolled for nine semester hours of course work that may include any combination of undergraduate or graduate courses. All courses in which the student registers apply including graduate courses (4750 or higher), undergraduate courses (below 4750), audited courses, and continuing education courses.

Enrollment Limitation for Fall, Spring, and Summer
Graduate students may enroll for a maximum of 16 semester hours of graduate courses (courses numbered 4750 or higher) during the fall or spring term. Graduate students may enroll for a maximum of 13 semester hours of graduate courses (courses numbered 4750 or higher) during the summer term. Graduate credit on- and off-campus continuing education courses are included in the limitation. The enrollment limitation for graduate courses may not be waived or appealed.

Enrollment Requirements for International Graduate Students
International graduate students are considered academically full-time during the fall and spring semesters and meet full-time enrollment requirements to maintain F-1 immigration status when enrolled for nine semester hours. Summer enrollment is optional if the international candidate was full-time during the fall and spring terms and is returning for the next academic year. All courses in which the international student registers apply, including graduate courses (4750 or higher), undergraduate courses (below 4750), audited courses, and continuing education courses. 

Enrollment Requirements for Graduate Assistants
http://www.eiu.edu/graduate/students_assistantships.php: This web site provides a copy of the Graduate Assistantship Regulations. Graduate assistants fulfill the terms of their assistantship contracts during the fall and spring terms when enrolled for a minimum of nine semester hours or a maximum of sixteen semester hours of graduate courses (courses numbered 4750 or higher) or required prerequisites. Graduate assistants are advised to consult the section of the Graduate Catalog titled “Graduate Assistantships” and to consult the Graduate Assistantship Regulations for a full review of policies governing assistantships. Graduate assistants fulfill the terms of their assistantship contracts during the summer term when enrolled for a minimum of  three semester hours or a maximum of thirteen semester hours of graduate courses (courses numbered 4750 or higher) or required prerequisites during the summer term; however, enrollment in nine semester hours is required to be certified as academically full-time for student loan deferments and good student discounts.

Grade Point Average and Hours for Courses Numbered 4750 or Higher
Graduate courses for all graduate students are courses numbered 4750 or higher and both the semester and cumulative graduate grade point averages are calculated only for those courses. The graduate grade point average is used to determine academic standing for all graduate students including degree and certificate candidates and students enrolled in post baccalaureate options. The number of grade points for a grade in a given graduate course is found by multiplying the grade-point value by the number of semester hours which may be earned in the course. The graduate cumulative grade-point average is computed by dividing the total number of grade points which a student has earned in all courses numbered 4750 or higher which were taken for a grade at EIU (excluding courses in which a student has a grade of “I,” “DC” “CR,” “NC,” “W,” “WP,” “WF,” “AU,” or “X”) and dividing by the total number of semester hours. On the graduate transcript, the “Graduate Program Hours” refers to the number of semester hours for courses numbered 4750 or higher and the semester grade point average is calculated only for courses numbered 4750 or higher. At the end of the transcript, a summary that includes the graduate cumulative hours, grade points, and grade point average appears and includes only those courses numbered 4750 or higher.

Grade Point Average and Hours for Courses Below 4750
Graduate students may be required to enroll in courses numbered below 4750 to make up undergraduate deficiencies or prerequisites while pursuing a graduate degree, to complete requirements toward an additional bachelor’s degree, or to meet teacher certification requirements. All graduate students who complete courses numbered below 4750 will receive credit for the courses but the semester hours will not be counted toward the total number of graduate hours and the grades earned will not be used in the calculation of the graduate grade point average. On the graduate transcript, the grade points for courses below 4750 will appear in brackets. A separate grade point average will be calculated for courses below 4750 and will appear at the end of the transcript with a summary titled “Post Undergraduate Hours.” This summary includes the cumulative number of semester hours, grade points, and grade point average for courses below 4750. This grade point average for courses below 4750 is not used to determine graduate standing, but may be used by programs to determine the academic standing of post-baccalaureate options including a second bachelor’s degree program or teacher certification programs.

Good Standing
Graduate students admitted to degree or certificate candidacy are required to be in good graduate standing. Good graduate standing is defined as maintaining a graduate cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher for all graduate course work.

Academic Warning
Graduate degree and certificate candidates may be in academic warning when their cumulative GPA is below 3.00 but higher than 2.50. Candidates in academic warning may be afforded the opportunity to raise the cumulative GPA to the required 3.00 during the next semester in which they are enrolled. It is the candidate’s responsibility to monitor academic standing. Candidates who fail to make the required progress toward good standing may be notified by the Graduate School when they are in academic warning.

Loss of Graduate Degree or Certificate Candidacy

• GPA: If a degree or certificate candidate in academic warning fails to return the cumulative GPA to the required 3.00 level during the next term in which he/she is enrolled, degree and/or certificate candidacy may be lost and the student may be reclassified as a non-degree graduate student. It is the candidate’s responsibility to monitor the GPA.
• Grades Below B: A degree or certificate candidate receiving nine or more semester hours of graduate credit with a grade below B may be disqualified from degree or certificate candidacy and may be reclassified as a non-degree graduate student upon recommendation of the program or the Graduate School. 
• Other Reasons: Academic programs may rescind degree or certificate candidacy for other reasons not specified in this catalog, which may include violations of academic integrity and plagiarism, research misconduct, and violations of established professional expectations within the graduate program. It is the candidate’s responsibility to be in compliance with university and program policies.
• Non-degree Requirements: Non-degree students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.50 or higher to continue to pursue graduate course work. It is the candidate’s responsibility to monitor the GPA.

Restoration of Graduate Degree or Certificate Candidacy
Restoration of graduate degree or certificate candidacy requires a petition to the Council on Graduate Studies. A degree or certificate candidate who is reclassified as a non-degree student because of a low GPA, an excess number of credits below B, or for other reasons may continue to take graduate courses as long as a GPA of 2.50 or higher is maintained. Some programs have policies that restrict access to certain graduate courses for non-degree students; therefore, a student reclassified as non-degree may no longer have access to all graduate courses even though he/she maintains a GPA of 2.50 or higher. If the student restores the cumulative GPA to 3.00 or higher he/she may request reinstatement to degree or certificate candidacy. Similarly, students who have an excess number of credits below “B” or who have been reclassified for other reasons, but who maintain or restore the cumulative GPA to 3.00 or higher, may request reinstatement to degree or certificate candidacy. Degree and certificate candidacy reinstatement may be requested to the original program or to a new degree or certificate program. There is no guarantee that a student reclassified as non-degree can be reinstated as a degree or certificate candidate in the original program or in a new program. Students initiate reinstatement of candidacy through the Graduate School waiver and appeals process. Students should consult the section of the Graduate Catalog titled “Graduate Waiver and Appeals Process” for guidelines.

Academic Dismissal of Graduate Degree or Certificate Candidates
Graduate students admitted to degree or certificate candidacy who complete 12 or more semester hours may be dismissed from the University if their graduate cumulative GPA falls below 2.50. Similarly, all degree or certificate candidates reclassified as non-degree students due to a low GPA or an excess number of grades below B may be dismissed from the University when their graduate cumulative GPA falls below 2.50 after completion of 12 or more semester hours of graduate course work.

Academic Standing for Graduate Assistants
Graduate assistants must meet the GPA, enrollment and other requirements in order to continue assistantship eligibility. Graduate assistants are advised to consult the section of the Graduate Catalog titled “Graduate Assistantships” for detailed information regarding these requirements.

Students admitted to the Graduate School to pursue an additional baccalaureate degree must meet two sets of criteria for academic standing. These include the criteria for graduate standing for courses numbered 4750 or higher and academic standing for courses numbered less than 4750.

• Graduate Standing: Students pursuing an additional baccalaureate degree remain in good graduate standing by achieving a 2.50 or higher graduate cumulative GPA upon completion of 12 or more semester hours of courses numbered 4750 or higher. Students may be dismissed as non-degree graduate students when their cumulative graduate GPA falls below 2.50 after completion of 12 or more hours of coursework above 4750.
• Good Standing for Courses Below 4750: In addition to retaining good graduate standing, post-baccalaureate students pursuing an additional baccalaureate degree must achieve the standards for good standing for a baccalaureate degree outlined in the Undergraduate Catalog for courses numbered less than 4750. Students enrolled for an additional baccalaureate degree are held to the conditions outlined for Academic Warning, Academic Probation, Academic Dismissal, and Reinstatement Following Academic Dismissal in the Undergraduate Catalog while completing the requirements for an additional baccalaureate degree.

Students admitted to the Graduate School to pursue post-baccalaureate teacher certification must meet two sets of standards for academic standing. These include the criteria for graduate standing for courses numbered 4750 or higher and academic standing for courses numbered less than 4750.

• Graduate Standing: For students pursuing post-baccalaureate Teacher Certification, good graduate standing is defined by achieving a 3.00 cumulative GPA upon completion of 12 or more graduate hours. Graduate hours are courses numbered 4750 or higher. Non-degree post-baccalaureate students pursuing teacher certification may be dismissed from the teacher certification option when their cumulative graduate GPA falls below 3.00 after completion of 12 or more hours.
• Good Standing for Courses Below 4750: In addition to retaining good graduate standing, post-baccalaureate students pursuing teacher certification must achieve a 2.65 GPA for all courses numbered less than 4750. Students may be dismissed from the teacher certification option when the GPA for post undergraduate hours falls below 2.65.

Non-degree students pursuing licensure, professional development, or personal goals are required to achieve a cumulative graduate GPA of 2.50 or higher for all graduate course work (courses numbered 4750 or higher) upon completion of 12 or more semester hours. Remaining in good standing is required to continue to pursue course work in the desired non-degree study option. Non-degree students may be dismissed from the University when their cumulative graduate GPA falls below 2.50 after completion of 12 or more semester hours of graduate course work.

Regardless of the type of graduate degree or academic program, all graduate degree and certificate candidates must meet the following requirements. Candidates hold final responsibility for knowing and completing these requirements.

• GPA: All candidates earning degrees or completing certificate programs must achieve and maintain a graduate cumulative 3.00 GPA (4.00 scale) for all courses numbered 4750 or higher taken for graduate credit at Eastern Illinois University and for all courses listed on the EIU Degree Audit. This requirement may not be waived or appealed.
• EIU Degree Audit: The graduate plan of study is the EIU Degree Audit, which all candidates for each degree or certificate program must have developed. The EIU Degree Audit serves as an unofficial summary of requirements for each degree or certificate program. Final authority for certifying that candidates have met all requirements for the degree or certificate rests with the certification officer in the Graduate School. There are two categories of requirements. The first category includes the standard set of degree or certificate requirements approved by the Council on Graduate Studies and published in the Graduate Catalog. The standard EIU Degree Audit is generated automatically at the time of degree or certificate candidacy. The second category of requirements includes modifications of the standard degree or certificate requirements (additions or substitutions). Modifications of the standard EIU Degree Audit are submitted by the graduate coordinator to the certification officer in the Graduate School at the time the modifications are approved but no later than 10 working days prior to submission of an application for graduation, this includes updating the candidate’s catalog of origin to a later version. It is the candidate’s responsibility to consult with the Graduate Coordinator to ensure that all degree or certificate requirements are met and adhere to the policies outlined in the Graduate Catalog.
• Time Limitation: Degree and certificate candidates must fulfill all of the requirements for graduate degrees or certificates outlined in the degree audit within six consecutive years. The six-year time limit ensures that the degree and/or certificate represent a well-sequenced, cohesive body of current knowledge that progresses over consecutive semesters of study. All the requirements in the Degree Audit Report including transfer credit, field experience, independent study, research, thesis, and internships, must be completed within the six-year time limit. The earliest term in which a course listed in the Degree Audit Report marks the beginning of the six year time period. Exceptions may be requested through the Graduate School Waiver and Appeals Process when progress toward completion of the degree or certificate is interrupted by obligations or circumstances which are beyond the control of the student.
• Time Limitation Exemption for Military Service: Students who are offered degree candidacy and who are in Good Academic Standing but are deployed for military service after admission are exempt from the standard six-year time limitation. Students in deployed status retain their degree candidacy during their deployment. Candidates must alert the Graduate School via electronic communication of their deployed status and anticipated re-enrollment. Candidates are eligible for immediate re-enrollment at the conclusion of military service. Upon return to the University, candidates contact the Graduate School to update their enrollment. The years of military service are excluded from the six-year limitation.

Application of Certificate Program Courses to Concurrent or Future Degree Programs or Application of Degree Program Courses Toward A Certificate Program

With departmental approval, candidates may apply some or all of the semester hours of coursework earned toward current or future graduate degree programs at Eastern Illinois University to an EIU certificate program.   With departmental approval, candidates may apply some or all of the semester hours earned in a certificate program at Eastern Illinois University toward a current or future degree program.  Departments have ultimate authority regarding acceptance of courses toward degree or certificate programs and certificate applicants are advised to consult with department advisors regarding department accepted course applications.  Any courses to be used toward any concurrent or future certificate program must be completed within the established six year time limit. 

Application of Certificate Program Courses to Concurrent or Future Additional Certificate Programs

Each separate certificate program must include 9 semester hours of new coursework that cannot be shared with a concurrent or future certificate program.  With department approval, up to 9 semester hours of coursework may be shared with a concurrent or future certificate program.  For example, a candidate who elects to complete 2 certificate programs concurrently must complete 9 semester hours of new course work for each separate program and, with department approval, may apply up to 9 semester hours of shared course work between the two concurrent programs resulting in a minimum of 27 semester hours to complete the 2 separate concurrent programs.  Certificate applicants are advised to consult with department advisors regarding department policies on shared courses.  Any courses to be used toward any concurrent or future certificate program must be completed within the established six year time limit. 

Certificate Program Admission and Admission to Degree Programs

Admission to and completion of a certificate program does not constitute admission to a degree program.  Candidates who complete certificate programs and then apply to degree programs are subject to the standard admission procedures used by the Graduate School and academic program which include, but are not limited to, verification of completion of a baccalaureate degree, documentation of the required grade point average and submission of required test scores.  Certificate applicants should consult the appropriate sections of the Graduate Catalog for detailed information regarding degree admission.

Certificate Programs and Financial Aid

Non-degree certificate candidates may not be eligible for financial aid.  Candidates are advised to consult with the Financial Aid Office regarding financial assistance for certificate candidates.  Certificate candidates do not meet the degree candidacy criteria required for graduate assistantship eligibility. 

To be eligible for a degree with distinction, a student must have completed at least 56 semester hours of course work at EIU, including at least 40 semester hours of graded courses (exclusive of work taken on the Credit/No Credit Option). The 56 semester hours at EIU and the 40 semester hours of graded courses may not be waived. Eligible students who have a cumulative grade-point average of 3.90 to 4.00 are graduated summa cum laude; those with a cumulative grade-point average of 3.80 through 3.89 are graduated magna cum laude; and those with a cumulative grade-point average of 3.65 through 3.79 are graduated cum laude. Students who qualify for degrees with distinction wear an appropriate chevron as part of their academic attire at commencement and their names appear in the commencement program as being awarded Degrees with Distinction. All grades earned at EIU are counted in computing the cumulative GPA. Grades earned during the final grading period are not used for compiling the tentative list developed for commencement. Transcript notations of graduating cum laude, magna cum laude, and summa cum laude are based on the student’s total cumulative grade-point average, including the final grading period.
Post-Baccalaureate Students: Post-baccalaureate students earning a second bachelors degree are eligible to receive a degree with distinction based on their post-baccalaureate grade point average if they meet the criteria stated above. All undergraduate and post-baccalaureate hours taken at Eastern will be used to determine if the completed and graded hours requirements have been met. Students may not have distinction applied retroactively to any previous degrees earned at Eastern.
Note: The calculation of GPA for degrees with distinction will be based only on work taken at EIU.

Masters’ degrees include the Master of Arts, Master of Arts in Teaching, Master of Science, Professional Science Master’s and Master of Business Administration degree. All masters’ degrees must meet the requirements and restrictions outlined below and the requirements specified by the academic program in the “Academic Program Requirements” section of the catalog. Candidates hold final responsibility for knowing and completing these requirements.

Requirements

• Total Semester Hours: A minimum of 32 semester hours of study is required for all non-thesis options. A minimum of 30 semester hours of study is required for all thesis options or the recital option for candidates in the Master of Arts in music program. Candidates are advised to review the Academic Program Requirements section of the catalog for minimum hours required by academic programs. This requirement may not be waived or appealed.
• Residency Semester Hours: A minimum of 20 semester hours of the 32 hour non-thesis option is required in residence. A minimum of 18 semester hours of the 30 hour thesis option is required in residence. Residence is defined as credit for courses taught by Eastern Illinois University faculty at on-campus or off-campus sites. This requirement may not be waived or appealed.
• 5000 Level Semester Hours: A minimum of 20 semester hours of the 32 hour non-thesis option must be in courses numbered 5000 or higher. A minimum of 18 semester hours of the 30 hour thesis option must be in courses numbered 5000 or higher.

Restrictions

• Research, Internship and Special Course Restrictions: A minimum of 21 semester hours of the 32 hour non-thesis option or the 30 hour thesis option must be completed in courses exclusive of independent study, research, thesis, internship, and special courses.
• 4750-4999 Hour Restrictions: A maximum of 12 semester hours of courses numbered 4750 to 4999 may be applied to degree programs.
• Research Hour Restrictions: A maximum of six semester hours of independent study may be applied to a degree. A maximum of six semester hours of research may be applied to a degree. A maximum of six semester hours of thesis may be applied to a degree. A maximum of nine semester hours in a combination of independent study, research, or thesis may be applied to a degree.
• Provisional and Non-degree Hour Restrictions: A maximum of 12 semester hours earned as a provisional or non-degree student may be applied to a degree. There is no guarantee that any credit earned as a provisional or non-degree student may later apply to a degree.

Students may earn a second master’s degree at Eastern Illinois University. With approval from the program’s Graduate Coordinator or Graduate Committee and Graduate Dean, students may apply shared credit course work toward the second master’s degree, under the following conditions.

1. The student must meet all admission requirements to the second graduate degree program.
2. All degree requirements must be met within the 6 year time to completion. Students may seek a waiver to this regulation due to extenuating circumstances.
3. A student may share no more than 12 graduate credit hours for the second degree.
4. Working in coordination with the first program’s graduate coordinator, a student’s plan of study for the second degree must be approved by the second program’s Graduate Coordinator or Graduate Committee, and Graduate Dean. The approved plan of study for the second degree must be on file with the graduate certification officer at the time the student is admitted into the second degree program.
5. Credit for culminating activities, including the master’s thesis or capstone experience, may not be counted as shared credit.
6. Previously earned shared credit courses in Accelerated Programs may not be used as shared credit courses in the second master’s degree.
7. The second master’s degree course acceptance form must be submitted by the Graduate Coordinator and approval received from the Dean of the Graduate School before the student is admitted into tht esecond master’s degree.

For incoming graduate students who seek to pursue two master’s degrees at the onset of enrollment, students are encouraged to consult with both graduate program directors to determine a plan of study.

The departments in the College of Education have established special procedures to insure that students seeking initial, standard, or additional teacher certification while completing graduate degrees comply with established certification standards. Students are advised to consult with both the department chair in the specified department and the Teacher Certification Officer in the College of Education to obtain information on admission, certification, and degree requirements. Similarly, students seeking special endorsements should initiate the endorsement application through the department chair in the specific department that offers the endorsement and the certification officer in the College of Education. Requirements and restrictions for the Master of Science in Education Degree are listed below.

Requirements

• Master’s Degree Requirements: All of the requirements specified for the Master’s Degree apply to the Master of Science in Education degree.
• Education Semester Hours: Six (6) to nine (9) semester hours must be chosen from the following courses. Candidates must consult department advisors for department specific selection requirements.
  EDF 5500 - Theory into Practice:  Curriculum Development. 3 sh
  EDF 5510 - Theory into Practice:  Social Foundations for Educational Practice. 3 sh
  EDF 5550 - Comparative and International Education. 3 sh
  EDF 5560 - Philosophy and History of Education. 3 sh
  EDP 5300 - Psychological Foundations for Educational Practice. 3 sh
  EDU 5520 - Supporting High Quality Instruction. 3 sh
  SPE 5675 - Students with Exceptionalities. 3 sh
• Discipline Semester Hours: A minimum of 16 semester hours must be selected in the discipline. The courses in this group constitute an area of specialization. The courses may be taken in a single department or in more than one program; however, the unifying principle is the relationship to the candidate’s field of teaching specialization. Candidates must consult program advisors for program specific selection requirements.
• Master’s Degree Restrictions: All of the restrictions specified for the Master’s Degree apply to the Master of Science in Education degree.

All specialist’s degrees must meet the requirements and restrictions outlined below and the requirements specified by the academic program in the “Academic Program Requirements” section of the catalog. Candidates hold final responsibility for knowing and completing these requirements.

Requirements

• Total Semester Hours: A minimum of 64 semester hours of study is required for all specialist’s degrees. Programs often establish minimum requirements of study above the minimum semester hour limits set by the Graduate School. Candidates are advised to review the Academic Program Requirements section of the catalog for minimum program requirements. This requirement may not be waived or appealed.
• New Semester Hours: Of the 64 semester hours, a minimum of 32 semester hours of graduate course work must be new course work earned within the six-year time limit. The remaining 32 semester hours may be hours earned for a previous graduate degree and are not required to fall within the six-year time limit. See the section on “Previously Earned Graduate Credit” in the Graduate Catalog. This requirement may not be waived or appealed.
• Residency Semester Hours: A minimum of 20 semester hours of study in residence is required for the new course work. Residence is defined as credit for courses taught by Eastern Illinois University faculty at on-campus or off-campus sites. This requirement may not be waived or appealed.
• 5000 Level Semester Hours: New course work for a specialist’s degree must be numbered 5000 or higher. 

A post-baccalaureate certificate program is a specified series of credit courses which define a set of learning objectives and competencies essential to a defined area of study. Post-baccalaureate certificates verify an area of competency that enhances the knowledge base of degree seeking candidates or defines a specific area of competency for post-baccalaureate students. Post-master’s certificates verify an additional area of competency beyond that required for the graduate degree.  Certificate programs are verified on university transcripts, but are not equivalent to external certification granted by state or national certification agencies.  Certificate candidacy is a post-baccalaureate enrollment option, therefore candidates are not eligible for assistantships or other forms of financial aid.

Requirements

• Total Semester Hours: A minimum of 18 semester hours of study is required for all certificate programs. Certificate programs often establish minimum requirements of study above the minimum semester hour limits set by the Graduate School. Candidates are advised to review the Academic Program Requirements section for minimum program requirements. The 18 semester-hour minimum requirement for a certificate may not be waived or appealed.
• Residency Semester Hours: A minimum of 9 semester hours in the certificate program is required in residence. Residence is defined as credit for courses taught by Eastern Illinois University faculty at on-campus or off-campus sites. This requirement may not be waived or appealed.
• 5000 Level Semester Hours: A minimum of 12 semester hours in the certificate program must be in courses numbered 5000 or higher.

Restrictions

• Research, Internship and Special Course Restrictions: A minimum of 9 semester hours must be completed in courses exclusive of independent study, research, thesis, and internship, and special courses or workshops.
• 4750-4999 Hour Restrictions: A maximum of 6 semester hours of courses numbered 4750 to 4999 may be applied to certificate programs.
• Research Hour Restrictions: A maximum of 3 semester hours of independent study, research, and thesis may be applied to a certificate program.
• Non-Degree Hours: There is no restriction on the number of semester hours a non-degree student may apply to a certificate program. There is no guarantee that any credit earned as a non-degree student may later apply to a certificate program.

Comprehensive Knowledge and Examinations for Graduate Degree Candidates
Degree candidates are expected to achieve comprehensive knowledge in the area in which the degree is to be offered. Many programs require formal documentation of this achievement through the Certificate of Comprehensive Knowledge and/or completion of comprehensive examinations. Candidates should consult with graduate coordinators regarding the requirements for the certificate if it is part of the graduate degree program. Programs establish procedures that are used to examine the candidate’s comprehensive knowledge. Procedures may include written examinations, oral examinations, national or state examinations, or other assessments of knowledge. Upon the candidate’s successful completion of the required procedures, the coordinator of graduate study will document achievement of the Certificate of Comprehensive Knowledge. Some programs also record completion of comprehensive examinations on the graduate transcript. Programs may designate completion of the examination as “pass” or “pass with distinction.” The Deadline to Complete Academic Requirements is identified in the Academic Calendar http://www.eiu.edu/registra/acadcal.php

Application and Re-Application for Graduation and/or Certificate Completion
www.eiu.edu/paws/: Students must use the PAWS system to apply for graduation. The fees of $40.00 for graduate degrees and/or $15.00 for certificates will be posted on the student’s account. All degree and certificate candidates must apply and pay the required fee for graduation or certificate completion. Students must apply and pay the fee for each degree or certificate completed.  This deadline is published in the Class Schedule each semester. Candidates who fail to apply by the published deadline are not eligible for graduation or certificate completion until the next semester or term. Candidates are encouraged to run their own degree audit to monitor completion of requirements. The application for graduation or certificate completion automatically initiates a graduate degree or graduate certificate audit by the certification officer in the Graduate School. Candidates will be alerted to any deficiencies that must be completed in order to meet the requirements for the degree or certificate. If candidates fail to complete the requirements for the degree or certificate or fail to complete any identified deficiencies; candidates will be required to re-apply for graduation or certificate completion in a subsequent term. There is no additional fee for the re-application. The re-application is also accessed on the PAWS system. Students may apply any time prior to the Deadline to Complete Academic Requirements as identified in the Academic Calendar for the term in which they plan to complete the certificate.

Commencement
While degrees and certificates are granted at the close of the fall, spring, and summer terms, commencement exercises are scheduled only at the conclusion of the fall and spring terms. Students completing requirements during the summer term will automatically receive information regarding participation in the fall ceremony. Participation in commencement does not constitute completion of degree requirements. Degrees are conferred only when the certification officer determines that the student has met all of the requirements for the degree.

Transcripts
http://www.eiu.edu/registra/transcript.php: This web site provides information on ordering transcripts. The Records Office will make a transcript of the academic record of a student when requested to do so. Unless specific instructions are given to the contrary, it is understood that the Records Office has permission of the student to send his/her transcript to employing and certifying agencies, such as schools, boards of education, businesses, and the state department of education, when such an agency requests a transcript. All requests for transcripts must be in writing, either by letter or on the request form supplied by the Records Office or at the above web site. The time required for preparation and mailing of transcripts varies; during enrollment and at the end of grading periods there may be a delay of several days. A fee is charged for each transcript issued. Transcripts will be issued only for students whose records are clear.

Admission to Accelerated Programs
Undergraduate students interested in enrolling in accelerated graduate programs will need to gain early admission to a graduate program while still enrolled in undergraduate studies. Requirements include: a minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.25, the completion of at least 15 credit hours of the major or a complementary undergraduate degree, as determined by the graduate program. Undergraduates may not be admitted until the completion of a minimum of 60 hours of undergraduate course credit. Participants in accelerated graduate programs will remain under early admission into graduate programs until the completion of the undergraduate degree. Upon earning the undergraduate degree, a student will gain full admission status to the graduate program. These criteria are only the minimum qualifications for admission to an accelerated graduate program. Graduate program leaders may establish additional admission standards as deemed appropriate.

Tuition
Undergraduates enrolled in accelerated graduate programs pay undergraduate tuition rates and fees; all accelerated program students will be required to pay all course and special fees.

Shared credit guidelines

• “Shared course credit” is defined as course credit that will apply and count to both the undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. These courses will be clearly identified in plans of study for accelerated graduate programs. Retroactive enrollment in shared course credit is not permitted; students must be explicitly enrolled in accelerated graduate programs in order for shared credit to apply to degree requirements.

• In undergraduate majors with established core requirements at the 1000, 2000 or 3000 levels, shared coursework cannot count toward undergraduate degree requirements at these levels. 

• Shared coursework can be applied to undergraduate major core requirements, major elective options, or other university elective requirements for courses numbered 4000 and above.

• Only courses numbered 4750 or above may count as shared credit. As per current Graduate Catalog policy, all courses numbered 4750 to 4999 must have additional course requirements for the graduate students, and for any accelerated graduate program students.

• Undergraduate students taking courses in the accelerated graduate program must earn a grade of B or higher in these courses to remain in the program. If the accelerated course is a credit/no credit course, the student must earn credit to remain in the program.

• The undergraduate degree must be earned prior to the completion of the master’s degree, and cannot be awarded simultaneously.

• Accelerated program students may not enroll in graduate thesis credit hours prior to full admission to the graduate program, though they may enroll in any 5000-level course deemed appropriate by the graduate program.

• No more than 9 hours of combined shared credit in the accelerated program may be applied toward the graduate program of 35 credit hours or less. No more than 12 hours of combined shared credit in the accelerated program may be applied toward the graduate program of 36 credit hours to 42 credit hours. No more than 15 hours of combined shared credit in the accelerated program may be applied toward the graduate program of 43 credit hours or more.

Coordinated programs are created in response to accreditation requirements set forth by nationally recognized accrediting bodies to meet new and/or revised accreditation standards. These programs allow qualified undergraduate students to enroll in graduate coursework while still completing their undergraduate studies. Programs offering coordinated options have specific admission guidelines, and students should consult with the graduate coordinator or department chair to determine their eligibility to participate.

• Only courses numbered 4750 or above may count as credit in coordinated programs. As per current Graduate Catalog policy, all courses numbered 4750 to 4999 must have additional course requirements for the graduate students, and for any coordinated graduate program students.
   
• Undergraduate students taking courses in the coordinated graduate program must earn a grade of B or higher in these courses to remain in the program.
   
• The undergraduate degree must be earned prior to the completion of the master’s degree, and cannot be awarded simultaneously.
   
• Coordinated program students may not enroll in graduate thesis credit hours (if applicable) prior to full admission to the graduate program, though they may enroll in any 5000-level course deemed appropriate by the graduate program.
   
• Combined shared credit between the undergraduate and graduate level within a coordinated program may vary between coordinated programs. The amount of shared credit allowed within a coordinated program is approved by the Council on Graduate Studies, and may not exceed the Council’s determination.

​

Reserve Graduate Credit
Students must submit form to reserve the credit, please see the Graduate School web site for appropriate form. The reserve graduate credit option is based on the understanding that seniors who have demonstrated a record of academic achievement have the ability to pursue graduate scholarship. Reserve graduate credit requires that students pursue a level of understanding and performance through independent reading, research, and investigation equivalent to that of graduates throughout the time that the course is in progress; therefore the reserve graduate credit option must be approved prior to enrollment. An EIU senior may apply for permission to take graduate courses numbered 4750 through 5999 for reserve graduate credit. Senior classification is defined as having completed at least 90 semester hours of undergraduate course work at the time of enrollment. Seniors must have earned a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher to qualify for reserve graduate credit. Permission from the instructor of the course(s) and the Graduate Dean is required. The application form must be signed and on file in the Graduate School by the deadline to add courses as published in the Class Schedule. Reserve graduate credit is limited to a maximum of nine semester hours and cannot be used in any way for fulfilling the requirements for the undergraduate degree. Students enrolled in courses numbered 4750 through 4999 for reserve graduate credit are expected to meet the requirements for graduate credit. Undergraduates, regardless of classification or GPA, may not enroll in any graduate courses numbered 5990 (independent study), 5980 (internship), 5950 (thesis), any capstone graduate experience or any course numbered 6000 and above. This requirement may not be waived or appealed.

Graduate Courses for Undergraduate Credit
Students must submit form to reserve the credit, please see the Graduate School web site for appropriate form. The graduate course for undergraduate credit option is based on the understanding that, with appropriate advisement and planning, seniors who have demonstrated a record of academic achievement may enhance their undergraduate education with the addition of a more advanced course. An EIU senior may apply for permission to take graduate courses numbered 5000 through 5999 to apply toward an undergraduate degree. Senior classification is defined as having completed at least 90 semester hours of undergraduate course work at the time of enrollment. Seniors must have earned a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher to qualify for enrollment in graduate courses. Permission from the instructor of the course(s) and the Graduate Dean is required. Applications granting permission to take graduate courses are available in the Graduate School or at the above named site and must be signed and on file in the Graduate School by the deadline to add courses as published in the Class Schedule. Undergraduates, regardless of classification or GPA, may not enroll in any graduate courses numbered 5990 (independent study), 5980 (internship), 5950 (thesis), any capstone graduate experience or any course numbered 6000 and above. This requirement may not be waived or appealed.

Honors Students
Students must submit form to receive waiver, please see the Graduate School web site for appropriate form.  An EIU honors student who has less than 90 semester hours of completed course work at the time he or she wishes to register may apply to waive the 90-semester hour policy. Waiver of the policy will allow the honors student to enroll for the desired graduate level courses. In order to be eligible for this waiver option, the student must verify his or her status as an honors student. In addition, the student must provide evidence that he or she is currently enrolled in a sufficient number of semester hours to meet the 90-semester hour regulations at the conclusion of the current term. The student must meet the 2.75 GPA criteria as this policy may not be waived or appealed. If the waiver is approved, but the honors student fails to complete a sufficient number of semester hours in the current term to meet the 90 semester hour regulation, the Graduate School will remove the student from the approved courses after the 10th day enrollment roster is provided.

Waiver and Appeals Process
Students must submit form to receive waiver, please see the Graduate School web site for appropriate form. The Council on Graduate Studies, in consultation with the Dean of the Graduate School, establishes policies on graduate education to insure that graduate degree programs, graduate certificate programs, and graduate courses are rigorous and meet the highest standards of graduate scholarship. It is expected that all graduate students will remain in compliance with requirements for degrees, certificates, or post baccalaureate study options established by the Graduate School. It is the responsibility of the graduate student to understand and meet the established requirements and policies. On rare occasions, circumstances beyond the student’s control may warrant a variation from the established requirements. Any variation from the policies established by the Graduate School must be approved through the Graduate School waiver and appeals process. Students may obtain a Graduate Waiver Request form from the Graduate School, the graduate coordinator, or the above web site. The request must identify the policy to be waived, provide a rationale and supporting documentation explaining how the variation will not diminish the quality of graduate scholarship, and have the support of the program. All waivers must be approved by the Dean of the Graduate School prior to initiating the policy variation. Students may appeal waivers denied by the Dean to the Council on Graduate Studies Waiver Appeals Subcommittee. The Waiver Appeals Subcommittee will review the documentation and recommend a decision on the appeal for a vote by the Council on Graduate Studies which will appear in the Council’s Minutes.

Policies That May Not Be Waived or Appealed
Certain policies on graduate education may not be waived or appealed. These include:

• The 16 graduate semester hour load limit for courses numbered 4750 or higher for fall and spring
• The 13 graduate semester hour load limit for courses numbered 4750 or higher for summer
• The required 3.00 cumulative graduate GPA for graduate degree or graduate certificate completion
• The minimum number of semester hours for a master’s degree or certificate program
• The minimum number of semester hours of new course work for the specialist’s degree
• The minimum number of semester hours required for certificate programs
• The minimum number of semester hours in residency for all graduate degrees or certificate programs
• The 3.00 cumulative GPA for assistantship eligibility
• The restriction on undergraduate access to courses 5999 numbered or higher.

Grade Changes and Grade Appeals
Eastern Illinois University faculty members are responsible for assigning appropriate grades. The University will not review the judgment of a faculty member in assessing the quality of students’ work. If, however, a student believes that a faculty member improperly assigned a semester grade due to one or more of the Grounds for Grade Appeal described below, the student may appeal the grade by following the procedures detailed at http://castle.eiu.edu/auditing/045.php. Students are responsible for reading the Grade Appeal Policy and for complying with all procedures and meeting the deadlines established in the policy. All grade appeals are handled individually.
Grounds for appealing semester or term grades are:

1. A mathematical error in the calculation of the grade or a clerical error in recording of the grade that remains uncorrected;
2. The assignment of a grade to a particular student by application of more exacting requirements than were applied to other students in the course;
3. The assignment of a grade to a particular student on some basis other than performance in the course;
4. The assignment of a grade by a substantial departure from the faculty member’s previously announced standards.

Student Conduct Code
www.eiu.edu/judicial: This web site provides the Student Code of Conduct from the Office of Student Accountability & Support. As a community of scholars, Eastern Illinois University requires of its members a high level of ethical and academic integrity. The Student Code of Conduct specifies student rights and responsibilities both academically and behaviorally. Each student is held accountable for adhering to the Code, which can be accessed here. Individual copies of The Student Conduct Code are also available at the Office of Student Accountability & Support. Questions concerning student rights and responsibilities may be directed to the Office of Student Accountability & Support located in Old Main (217-581-3827).

Academic Integrity

The following policies apply to suspected incidents of classroom cheating or plagiarism. The instructor who has witnessed academic dishonesty or who has other evidence that academic dishonesty has occurred will confront the student to inform him/her of the allegation. Time permitting; the instructor will contact the Office of Student Accountability & Support prior to talking with the student. If the student admits the violation, the instructor will assess an appropriate academic penalty and will inform the Office of Student Accountability & Support using a Notation of Academic Misconduct form. If the student disputes the allegation, or if a sanction greater than a failing grade for the course is warranted, a hearing will be provided by the Office of Student Accountability & Support in accordance with the provisions of the Student Conduct Code. If as a result of the hearing the student is found responsible for the violation, the instructor will assess an appropriate academic penalty. Other sanctions such as disciplinary probationary status or separation from the institution can be imposed by the University’s disciplinary system. Full conditions and explanations are cited in the Student Conduct Code. A student accused of academic dishonesty in a course may not drop the course until such time as disciplinary action, if any, is concluded. A grade (A, B, C, D, F, CR, NC, I, DC, W, WP, WF, X, AU) may be changed to reflect the disciplinary sanction, if any, imposed as a result of academic dishonesty. In the event that the alleged violation occurs at the end of a term, no grade shall be assigned pending conclusion of the disciplinary process. All students are governed by the Student Conduct Code. 

Attendance Policy

Students are expected to attend class meetings as scheduled. When an absence does occur, the student is responsible for the material covered during the absence. When possible, the student should notify the instructor in advance of an anticipated absence. Instructors will grant make-up privileges (when make-up is possible) to students for properly verified absences due to illness, emergency, or participation in an official University activity; and such absences will not militate against students in classes in which attendance is used directly in determining final grades. It is the student’s responsibility to initiate plans for make-up work and to complete it promptly. If in the instructor’s judgment the duration or number of absences renders make-up unfeasible, the instructor may contact the Vice President for Student Affairs and the Department Chairperson to determine an appropriate action. Except for the above stipulations, each instructor sets his or her own policy with respect to class attendance and make-up work; and excuses for absences are handled between the instructor and the student. At the beginning of each grading period, the instructor shall announce, in writing, his or her own policy regarding absence, make-up and late work. Instructors planning to use attendance directly in determining final grades must have written department approval and must indicate this intention and the reason, in writing, on the first day of class.

Academic Integrity
Policies not specifically addressed within the Graduate Catalog may be found in the Internal Governing Policies of the university. Those policies are published at: https://castle.eiu.edu/auditing/igplisting.php