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Academic Program Policies & Particulars
More than the simple accumulation of 128 credit hours, the Buena Vista University curriculum is designed to present an integrated intellectual experience that challenges students and gives them the tools necessary to learn for a lifetime. Liberally educated persons have amassed significant breadth and depth of knowledge, and engage with joy in the pursuit of knowledge. Students gain depth in mastering the methodologies and content of one specific field (or major) through a combination of focused study, research, and exploration. The examination of general principles, major theories, differing viewpoints, and significant focus areas results in a cumulative body of knowledge. More significantly, learning skills are refined and respect for knowledge is heightened. In future careers, many graduates will use the factual information learned in their major, but all graduates will use their enhanced information gathering and critical reasoning skills. The purpose of Buena Vista University’s general education program is to expose students to the broad array of ideas, perspectives, and experiences that exist in various disciplines. General education is intended to provide students the opportunity to acquire and improve their skills in the areas of reasoning, critical thinking, and communication; develop an understanding and appreciation of our rich and diverse cultural heritage in order to foster tolerance of difference and openness to change; and identify and nurture a value system requisite for intelligent judgment and decision-making. Liberally educated individuals can better appreciate, critique, and reform the many and varied facets of the society in which they live. Graduation requirements must be met by all Buena Vista University students who seek an undergraduate degree, with appropriate variations made for transfer students reflecting existing articulation agreements. Centers students are exempt from ACES requirements, first-year seminar, and interim. Graduation requirements include all of the following:
This catalog is designed to assist the student and academic advisor in planning and scheduling a degree program. Each student should keep in mind, however, that he or she is ultimately responsible for understanding and fulfilling all degree requirements. Students are responsible for their own degree plans and for the completion of all requirements for the degrees that they seek. Credits and Honor PointsA minimum of 128 credit hours must be completed for graduation. Sixty of these hours must be earned at a four-year baccalaureate institution. The final 30 credit hours must be completed at BVU. All transfer students must complete 12 credit hours of upper division courses in the major from BVU. All students must meet the university’s General Education program requirements; however, an associate of arts degree from a regionally accredited institution satisfies the general education foundation and Exploration Requirements. An overall cumulative grade point average of 2.0 is necessary for graduation. Some programs require a higher cumulative grade point average. For example teacher licensure requires a grade point average of 2.5 for the total program, as well as each major, minor, and area of concentration. A minimum of 6 credit hours in each certification area must be taken at BVU. Check with the specific academic major for specific GPA requirements. MajorsStudents earning an undergraduate degree must complete at least one major, which typically ranges from 32-64 credit hours. General Education Program Graduates of Buena Vista University must complete all general education requirements, including:
Graduates are required to complete a distribution of at least 72 credit hours outside the major discipline. At least 36 credit hours outside the major school are required for graduation, not counting ACES or first-year seminar. Residency A student who is registered for courses at Buena Vista University is considered to be “in residence.” A minimum of 30 credit hours must be completed in residence, of which a minimum of 12 credit hours in the declared major must be 300-level or above. Students must spend their senior year in residence unless otherwise approved by the academic advisor, the appropriate School Dean, and the Academic Dean. Advanced written approval must be secured by students desiring to enroll off-campus with the intent of applying credits earned to a Buena Vista University degree program through summer study at a different BVU site, extension courses, other institutions, correspondence study, or study abroad. General Education Requirements For Graduation The Buena Vista University General Education program acknowledges that a well-educated person has experiences, skills, and knowledge that transcend the preparation for a career or training within an academic discipline. Undergraduates will devote approximately a quarter of their studies at BVU to courses within science, social science, fine arts, and the humanities in order to become broadly educated. Enrollment in the General Education program at BVU begins the first semester and continues throughout a student’s program of studies.The Intellectual Foundations of General Education “Successful completion” in each of the four Intellectual Foundations requirements means passing the indicated course(s) with a grade of “C” or better. Foundation courses may not be taken P/NC. Mathematics Foundational Requirement The Intellectual Foundations requirement in mathematics is designed to provide students with a basic understanding of mathematical reasoning, techniques, thought processes, and perspectives. All students entering Buena Vista University will take a Diagnostic Mathematics Examination once, prior to registering for their first-semester classes. The results of the examination place each student into one of three categories:
In the case of entering students with a strong mathematics background who complete the Diagnostic Mathematics Examination and place as Category Three students, an examination is available to test out of the final mathematics requirement. Storm Lake campus students should see the Associate Dean of Faculty for test-out details. Centers students may inquire at the Center Director’s Office for more information. Written Communication Foundational Requirement The Intellectual Foundations requirement in written communication is designed to ensure that Buena Vista University students develop the ability to write and conduct research at the college level. All students entering BVU will be placed according to ACT English scores. The results of the scores will place each student into one of three categories:
Humanities (nine credit hours from three of the following disciplines):
Science (nine credit hours from three of the following disciplines):
Social Science (nine credit hours from three of the following disciplines):
Designated Writing Requirement
First-Year Seminar Students at Buena Vista University are involved in just one course during the three-week period in January known as “Interim.” Freshmen are required to complete a January Interim course. All students are encouraged to try a course outside their major, to travel, or to seek an internship during January. The chance to concentrate on one subject offers new challenges and opportunities for students, often offered outside the walls of the university classrooms in non-traditional ways. Academic and Cultural Events Series (ACES) A requirement for Storm Lake campus students only, the Academic and Cultural Events Series exposes students to some of the finest lecturers and performers in the world through the Academic Events (a lecture/program series) and the Cultural Events (a concert/performance series). ACES contributes to the university’s mission by enriching the solid liberal arts foundation of the University, enhancing the curriculum through experiential learning opportunities, and by promoting an awareness of the diversity of cultures and perspectives that exist in the global community. ACES Credits Required for Graduation. To graduate from Buena Vista University at the Storm Lake campus, all full-time students must register for .5 credits of ACES each semester beginning in their first year until successfully completing the required number of credits based upon the formula outlined below. These credits shall be graded on the P/F scale. Non-fulfillment of the ACES requirement for a given semester will result in a grade of “F.” on the student’s transcript. ACES Requirements For Full-Time Students. For students entering as freshmen, four semesters graded at “P” are required. For transfer students, ACES requirements are based on number of transfer hours accepted by the Registrar’s office based on the following:
Non-degree seeking students and part-time students at the Storm Lake campus are not required to fulfill ACES requirements, nor are students at the BVU Centers.
ACES events attended in one semester may not be carried over to another semester to earn credit except in the following situation.
This ACES requirement applies only to the Buena Vista University Storm Lake campus. Majors
Secondary Education Licensure available in many areas. See specific majors. Interdisciplinary (Distributive) Major For students whose academic interests do not coincide with a single department or discipline, the interdisciplinary major offers an exciting student-designed alternative. To be eligible to propose an interdisciplinary major, a student must have earned a minimum cumulative average of 2.0. Students who wish to opt for this opportunity must submit proposals prior to, or during, their junior year. The interdisciplinary major proposal should be carefully constructed with the assistance of at least two faculty or academic advisors. The major should consist of no fewer than 32 and no more than 64 credit hours from at least two disciplines. The proposal must represent a coherent educational goal with attention given to the nature of introductory, middle-level, and culminating work in the proposed major. Each such major should include a theory course appropriate to the field of study and a culminating activity, such as a senior seminar or independent project that pulls together the experience of the interdisciplinary major. To propose an interdisciplinary major, a student may obtain the support of one of the school deans or the center director. The student will confer with an appropriate school dean or center director about developing the proposal and choosing appropriate advisors. Following the above guidelines for coherence of program content, the student and advisors submit the proposal to the appropriate school dean(s) or dean for centers for approval. Once approved, the academic advisors and the appropriate school deans or dean for centers must approve any changes to the proposed course of study. When the proposal has been approved, the Registrar will provide a copy of the approved program and any subsequent changes to the student. Students who elect to complete an interdisciplinary major must satisfy all other requirements for graduation, including hours outside the major/school and grade point average. Prerequisites will not be waived to facilitate course enrollment. Minors Minors generally require the completion of between 18-24 credit hours. A few minors have additional prerequisites and supporting work requirements. In some cases students are required to apply for admission to the specific program. Minor fields may be selected from the following:
each site. Endorsement Programs For students seeking a teaching license, a number of endorsement programs beyond the majors and minors are available. Primary endorsements include: Instructional Strategist I: Mild/Moderate K-6 and 7-12, Teaching English as a Second Language, Reading K-6 and 7-12 and Coaching Authorization K-12. Interdisciplinary (Distributive) Minor Student who wish to design their own interdisciplinary program must develop a program composed of 21 to 24 credit hours, distributed between two or three disciplines. In developing their program, students will work with at least two faculty or academic advisors to develop a program using the same general guidelines outlined in the student-designed interdisciplinary major. Internships Internships are professional experiences and are ideal for acquiring “hands-on” experience in a particular field. A maximum of 15 credit hours of internship may be applied for graduation unless specific major restrictions limit the maximum credits possible. No single internship experience may be greater than 12 credit hours. A maximum of 3 credit hours of internship may be applied to the major or minor unless otherwise specified. Credit hours are typically determined by the equation: 40 credit hours of meaningful engagement in an internship equals one credit hour. Typically students have minimally achieved junior standing (have earned a minimum of 56 credit hours) at the time application for an internship is made. See specific program descriptions for possible variations. Degrees Offered The bachelor of science degree is conferred upon students selecting majors from the sciences and/or mathematics. The bachelor of arts degree is conferred upon students meeting requirements for degrees in all other major fields. Only one degree will be conferred upon any one individual. Second Degree. Students who have previously earned a B.A. or B.S. degree from a different institution may be eligible to earn a second degree from Buena Vista University. Guidelines are available from the Registrar. Credit for Prior Learning The university also permits superior students to enroll in certain advanced courses in foreign languages, and upon earning a “B” or better, receive a maximum of six hours of credits for appropriate preceding courses. Life Experience Credit Life Experience Credit petitions are produced only after consultation with the faculty advisor or Center director. These petitions must be supported by a rationale and documentation of the experience, and clearly state the hours of credit requested. Life experience credit must be requested no later than the beginning of the senior year. Guidelines can be obtained from the Center director or the school dean. A total of 20 hours of course credit may be earned through examinations and/or life experiences. No more than nine hours may be earned through life experience credit. Life experience credit is elective credit only. Financial aid cannot be used to cover the cost of life experience hours. College Level Examination Program(CLEP) and Advanced Placement (AP) Program CLEP and AP are nationally recognized programs that offer students an opportunity to earn university credit by examination. CLEP and AP exams are available in a variety of general and specific subject areas. Credit will be awarded according to the American Council of Education (ACE) guidelines to a student who earns a CLEP score of “C” equivalent or better (as determined by CLEP) and AP score of 3 or higher. Credit will be applied toward earned hours toward graduation. Certain restrictions may apply. See the Registrar’s Office for more information. Independent Study Independent study offers an opportunity to explore an area of study not included in the catalog listing of approved courses. The topic of an Independent Study should be selected and carefully designed by the student in cooperation with his/her faculty instructor, the appropriate school dean and the Associate Dean of Faculty. The student will be expected to have earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.00 or above, have junior or senior status, and possess the appropriate background and interest to pursue the proposed area of study. A Proposal for Independent Study form may be obtained from the Registrar’s web page or Center director. Students may take no more than one Independent Study course per semester, and no more than four courses during the course of his/her academic career. Independent Study courses are assigned numbers 399 or 499 depending on the level of the course. Independent study will be graded P/NC. Directed Study Under exceptional circumstances, a course listed in the university catalog may be granted to a student on an individual basis. To be considered for a directed study, the student must have junior or senior status. The details of the Directed Study must be agreed upon by the faculty sponsor and the student, and approved by the school dean and the Associate Dean of Faculty or center director no later than the end of the second week of classes in the semester/term in which the Directed Study is to occur. The Directed Study form must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office at that time. Forms may be obtained from the Registrar’s web page or center director. In Directed Study, the student and the professor communicate on a regular basis. Students may take no more than one Directed Study course per semester or term and no more than four such courses during the course of his/her academic career. A Directed Study is graded according to the grading system identified for the course in the course description. Center listingsBVU Centers website. Academic Sessions (Storm Lake Campus) Semester DesignationsAcademic sessions at Buena Vista University are based on the 4-1-4 system, with a fall semester, a January Interim, and spring semester. The fall and spring semesters are approximately 14 weeks in length, and the Interim is approximately three weeks. Interim Interim courses are commonly 3 credit hours. A three-credit course meets the full three weeks for 150 minutes each day. Internships and trips are commonly 3 credit hours. Credit hours are typically determined by the number of 40-hour weeks contained within the travel or internship experience. A three-credit internship, for example, typically requires three 40-hour work weeks. Classes meet daily. Grading is determined by the instructor and indicated in each course description. If student option is indicated, the student may choose between P/NC (Pass/No Credit) or letter grade (ABCDF). All travel courses and internships are P/NC. There will be no tuition, board and/or room refunds for full-time students who elect not to participate in Interim, nor will students who have failed to register for or participate in Interim courses be permitted to remain in the residence halls during the January term. Students enrolled in courses that require them to be off campus may apply for a refund of meal plan fees for the semester/term during which they are required to be off campus. See the Associate Dean’s Office for deadline information. In order to be eligible to participate in Interim, students must either complete the Fall semester as a full-time student or plan to enroll full-time for the spring semester. Part-time students have the option of participating in Interim. Tuition will be charged on a per-credit-hour basis for part-time students. Similarly, students on tuition exchange attending Interim only will be charged a pro-rated room and board fee. Persons with questions regarding the billing process should contact the Business Office. Some courses, such as travel courses, have special charges associated with them. In case of cancellation of the course by the university, the special fees will be promptly refunded. If a student cancels registration in such a course, no refund of the special fees can be guaranteed. Students from other 4-1-4 institutions are welcome to participate in BVU’s Interim. Application should be made to the Associate Dean’s Office, 610 W. Fourth Street, Buena Vista University, Storm Lake, IA 50588. Summer Sessions The university offers a limited number of undergraduate summer classes, including a pre-session of two weeks in late May, and two, four-week sessions in June and July. Students are permitted to enroll for one class in pre-session and two classes each other session. Credit may also be earned through special workshops, short courses, and independent study offered in the summer. Academic Enrichment Opportunities Center for Academic Excellence (CAE)The Center for Academic Excellence is the university’s academic support unit and as such provides services that enhance the teaching-learning experience for the University community. Disabilities Accommodations The CAE works with students who, due to a disability, are seeking academic accommodations. BVU policy, in accordance with state and federal guidelines, calls for reasonable accommodations to be made for qualified students. To assure that this policy is upheld the Director of the CAE serves as coordinator for the appropriate and reasonable accommodations and is available to assist students in the Student Accommodation Process. Mathshop and Writing Lab The CAE houses the Mathshop and the Writing Lab, which accommodate drop-in visits or pre-arranged appointments to help students with coursework. The Mathshop provides tutoring for students in science, math, and business courses. The CAE also offers one-on-one tutoring upon request for specific courses other than those covered by the Mathshop’s regular schedule. The tutors at the CAE are BVU students who have been chosen because of their academic and teaching skills. The Writing Lab has adopted the motto “continuous improvement, not instant perfection” and provides tutors who guide students through the writing process from brainstorming a topic to creating an outline to revising a completed draft. Students use this service while enrolled in writing courses or while taking courses that require a variety of papers. CAE Skills Courses The CAE also works with students to improve certain academic skill areas, such as vocabulary building and speed reading, or to build general study skills, including test preparation, time management and scheduling, note-taking and listening, critical thinking and reading, and basic learning strategies. Each semester, the CAE offers semester-long courses designed to improve students’ skills regardless of their current level. Students register for these courses just as they would for any course at the university, and then in the first week of classes, students arrange a meeting time with the director to go over the syllabus and discuss the work and schedule for the semester. Courses of a developmental nature numbered below 100 will not be counted toward graduation but will count toward semester enrollment. All CAE courses are graded Pass/No Credit. Classes offered in the Center for Academic Excellence are:
Honors Program Japanese Program. Buena Vista University believes that personal integrity and academic honesty are fundamental to scholarship. We strive to create an environment where the dignity of each person is recognized and an atmosphere of mutual trust exists between instructors and students. Accordingly, honesty in all academic matters is expected from all students. Actions contrary to academic integrity will not be tolerated. Any attempt to cheat, misrepresent someone else’s work as one’s own, receive credit for work one did not do, obtain an unfair advantage over other students, or aid another student to do the above will be considered a breach of academic integrity. The faculty have confidence in the integrity of students and encourage students to exercise good judgment in fulfilling this responsibility. Activities that have the effect or intention of interfering with learning or fair evaluation of a student’s work or performance are considered a breach of academic integrity. Examples of such activities include, but are not limited to:
Any violation of this policy will be treated as a serious matter. The instructor has primary responsibility over classroom behavior and maintaining academic integrity. Instructors are encouraged to specify clearly at the beginning of each course what constitutes violations of academic honesty and the consequences for academic dishonesty. In cases of repeated or flagrant violations, a student may be dismissed from the university. Depending on nature and severity of the offense, the university reserves the right to exact maximum penalty, even in the case of a first offense.
Appeals Process for Academic Honesty
Governing Catalog Students are governed by regulations and requirements of the catalog under which they enter, unless a subsequent catalog is chosen. Changes in the catalog requirements that occur after a student enters the university as a result of curriculum revision and other faculty actions are not enforced retroactively; however, such changes do become effective as stipulated by faculty. While administrators and teachers are available to advise, each student is responsible for meeting the catalog requirements for graduation. Major and Minor Course of Study When a curriculum revision occurs, students may elect to meet course requirements for a major or minor as specified in the catalog in effect at the time of their admission or they may choose to meet the academic requirements in full of a subsequent catalog. Contact the Registrar or Center Director for the appropriate forms. NOTE: Education (teaching) students must meet the current requirements for teacher certification. Readmission to BVU A student whose course of study at BVU is interrupted for an extended period of time — two years or more — must meet the requirements of the catalog in effect at the time of re-entry to BVU. Registration for Academic Courses Typical Course LoadThe normal class load is 14-16 credit hours per semester in order to complete the minimum required 128 credit hours during a four-year period of study at Buena Vista University’s Storm Lake campus. Full-time status requires enrolling in a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester at the Storm Lake campus. In unusual circumstances, a student may be permitted to take more than 17.5 credit hours. In such cases, an Academic Action is required with the Dean of Faculty making the final determination. Additional fees will be assessed for anything beyond the 18th credit hour. Normal load and full-time status at BVU’s Centers is 6 credit hours per eight-week term. The university reserves the right to regulate class size, add, delete, or otherwise alter the published course listings. Adding Courses A student may add a course during the first two weeks of the fall or spring semesters or prior to the third class meeting in a summer session, half semester course and before the second class in an eight-week Center term. Students at the Storm Lake campus must obtain the signature of the instructor of the course and the faculty advisor on a “Add/Drop” form, which is available on the Registrar’s web page, if adding a course during the second week of classes in a fall or spring semster. Centers students can obtain the form at their center office. A student may drop or add a course the first day of Interim. After the first day no changes will be permitted in Interim. Dropping Courses Students may drop a course prior to the second class in Interim or eight-week center term, or during the first two weeks of a semester or equivalent period for other terms. Course changes are generally made via online registration. Courses dropped after online access is closed must be completed via paper form and advisor signature is required. Courses dropped prior to the deadline will not appear on the permanent record unless such drop results in a change of status (full-time/part-time) and/or a change in tuition/cost. Courses dropped after the deadline or result in a change as previously described will be processed as withdrawals and a “W” will appear as a grade on the permanent record. Withdrawal from Courses A withdrawal from a course or from the institution may be initiated by a student during the first two-thirds of the semester or an equivalent period for courses meeting less than a full semester. (See academic calendar for specific dates). A withdrawal grade of “W” will be recorded for students who officially withdraw from a course or from the university prior to the published deadline. A “W” grade is not used in the grade point average (GPA) calculation, but is counted toward hours enrolled. Repeating Courses A course may be repeated once at the discretion of the student. A subsequent repeat is allowed only upon prior approval through special academic action. Repeat of courses originally taken for a letter grade must be taken for a letter grade. Repeat of P/NC courses may be taken either for a letter grade or P/NC. For purpose of grade point average, the second and any subsequent grades for repeated courses will be used in the CGPA computation. Only the first grade will be omitted from the grade point average. All repeated grades will be shown on the transcript; however, only the last grade will be used to satisfy graduation requirements, including total hours earned. Courses taken at Buena Vista University must be repeated at Buena Vista University. Permission to Study Off-Campus Students desiring to enroll in another post-secondary institution with the intent of applying credits earned to a Buena Vista University degree program must secure written approval in advance of taking the course. Prior to the final 30 credit hours (senior year), the student’s academic advisor, school dean and Associate Dean of Faculty, or Center director must approve the request to transfer courses from another institution back into Buena Vista University. The dean of faculty must approve such transfer requests during the final 30 hours. Requests to take courses at other institutions will not be accepted when they are taken for the following purposes: failed BVU courses and/or BVU courses repeated in order to obtain higher grades. No more than 12 credit hours may be taken from another institution during a summer and no more than a total of 24 credit hours (summer coursework) may be used toward graduation. Juniors and seniors may not transfer two-year college credit into BVU, with one exception — required courses not offered at the Buena Vista University site of enrollment. Students enrolled at one BVU site who wish to enroll in courses at a second BVU site with the intent of applying credits earned to a Buena Vista University degree or endorsement program must secure written approval in advance of taking such an “off-campus” course. Storm Lake campus students must receive written approval of such “off-campus study” requests from the student’s academic advisor, the school dean, and the Associate Dean of Faculty. Students who wish to do such “off-campus study” at the Storm Lake campus, must secure written approval for such study from the student’s academic advisor, the school dean, and the Dean of Centers. Other BVU Center students must secure written permission in advance from their academic advisor and Center director to study at another Center campus. Note: Field experiences — such as those available to education majors — ought to be completed in the student’s “home” department. Exceptions require approval from the “home” department as well as the faculty and administration mentioned above. Withdrawal from the University A student who seeks to withdraw from the university may do so during the first two-thirds of the semester or an equivalent period for other terms. The academic record will reflect the term’s enrollment. A grade of “W” will be recorded for all courses. To initiate a withdrawal a student at the Storm Lake campus must inform student services staff, who initiates the withdrawal process and informs the appropriate offices within the university. Center students must inform the staff at the center of record who will notify appropriate offices. Failing grades will be recorded for students who withdraw after the deadline. Classification of Students
Numbering of Courses In the program descriptions and course descriptions sections of this catalog you will find comprehensive information regarding each of the majors offered by the university, including major and minor requirements and annotated course descriptions. In order to assist you in locating specific courses of interest to you, courses are numbered according to the following scheme: The credit hours (CR) indicated per course is the credit for each semester or term unless noted otherwise.
Independent and Directed Study courses may be taken according to the catalog guidelines and any other requirements determined by each school, the supervising professor and the school dean. Forms are available on the Registrar’s webpage or at the Registrar’s Office.
Class Attendance The value of a college education depends on full participation in the life of the college community. Because students are expected not merely to receive information passively or to pass examinations, but to participate actively in classes, it is important that unnecessary class absences be avoided. Faculty members have the responsibility to establish an attendance policy and inform students of the policy at the beginning of each course. Official Transcripts Students will receive a copy of their transcript upon graduation. Reasonable requests to release official transcripts will be honored. Each request must include the student’s written signature. The Transcript Request Form which details the Transcript Request Policy is available on the BVU Registrar’s web page. A financial obligation to the university will prohibit release of transcripts. Assessment Program Buena Vista University values student growth and development. As a consequence, the institution has developed a plan for longitudinal assessment of student academic achievement. Results of the assessment will be studied and used in an ongoing fashion to provide improvement of the academic programs of the university. Academic Standing Policy Introduction The Academic Standing Policy addresses the importance of students’ commitment to academic excellence and outlines the criteria for remaining in good standing academically at BVU. Faculty and staff members at Buena Vista University are committed to fostering and furthering the academic success of all students. While we recognize that sometimes students encounter difficulties in their academic pursuits, we also expect students to make satisfactory progress toward degree completion—see description below under “The Standards.” A minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 2.0 is required for graduation. Specific programs (such as school of education) may have higher CGPA requirements. See catalog program descriptions for details. Any student whose grade point drops below a 2.0, whether for the semester or as a cumulative grade point average, is in academic jeopardy and is encouraged to meet with an advisor and to seek assistance from the Center for Academic Excellence at the Storm Lake campus or, at the Centers, the Center Office staff. The Standards A student’s overall “academic standing” in the university is defined by two factors: (1) cumulative grade point average related to total number of credits earned and (2) satisfactory progress toward degree completion. Both of these factors are explained below: (1) Cumulative grade point average Because the transition to university learning is challenging, first and second year students are allowed time to build their CGPA to a 2.0 as they accumulate credits; by the time students have achieved junior status, either at BVU or as a transfer student entering as a junior, they must have achieved and are expected to maintain a 2.0 CGPA. A student is considered to be in good academic standing if the student in question meets the CGPA standard or if the student is in compliance with any stipulations placed on the student by Admissions or the Academic Standing Committee. Cumulative Credits Probationary status Earned Less than 24 ..................... less than 1.75 CGPA 24-55.99 ......................... less than 1.9 CGPA 56+ .............................. less than 2.0 CGPA (2) Satisfactory progress toward degree completion Adequate progress toward degree completion is measured by an appropriate ratio of credit hours earned in relationship with credit hours attempted. Students must complete 70 percent of the credit hours attempted to be eligible for financial aid and not subject to probation. For example, for each review period (semester for Storm Lake students or combination of terms at the centers) student records will be reviewed to determine if a student has completed 70 percent of the cumulative hours s/he attempted. Students are advised that withdrawing from courses, earning NC (no credit) and/or failing courses may ultimately result in failing to achieve the necessary 70 percent successful completion rate which allows students to graduate in the time limit allowed. See Standards for Financial Assistance on page 44 for further explanation. A student is considered to be making satisfactory progress if the student in question meets the 70 percent completion standard detailed above or if the student is in compliance with any stipulations placed on the student by Admissions or the Academic Standing Committee. All courses completed at BVU are included in the analysis of academic standing. BVU does not use incompletes as a grading option; students should be familiar with the change of grade contract process on page 20. Students also may choose to repeat courses they have failed or in which they earned a NC. The repeated attempt counts in the hours attempted by the student for purposes of calculating progress toward degree completion. See Repeating Courses on page 18. Extenuating circumstances (i.e. medical or family emergencies, etc.) may cause a student to completely withdraw from the university after a semester/term has begun but before its completion. In these cases, the withdrawal from courses will not be measured in the student’s determination of satisfactory progress. Process to Determine Academic Standing The Academic Standing Committee is chaired by the Associate Dean of Faculty and includes a representative from the Centers, a representative from the deans at Storm Lake, a representative from the Registrar’s Office, the Dean of Students, and Director of Financial Assistance. This committee reviews students’ progress twice during each academic year and notifies in writing those students whose academic records fall short of the standards for determining academic standing. For Storm Lake students, course work enrolled in during summer is reviewed in September, coursework enrolled in during fall is reviewed in January while coursework enrolled in during January and spring is reviewed in June. For students in the Centers’ programs, coursework enrolled in during Terms 5 and 6 is reviewed in September, course work enrolled in during Terms 1 and 2 is reviewed in January, while course work enrolled in during Terms 3 and 4 is reviewed in June. Students enrolled in coop programs through the centers will be evaluated in January and June. Based on the Academic Standing Committee’s review of cumulative grade point average and adequate progress toward degree, a student may be placed on academic probation, may be suspended from the university for one or more semesters/terms, or may be dismissed from the university. A student is considered to be in good academic standing and making satisfactory progress if the student in question meets the two standards detailed above or if the student is in compliance with any stipulations placed on the student by Admissions or the Academic Standing Committee. Academic Probation Academic probation is a warning that indicates that a student’s continued enrollment at BVU is in jeopardy. Academic probation would generally be the result during the first review period after which a student fails to meet either of the standards outlined above. Academic probation may be extended for a second, subsequent review period. For example, a student who has been placed on probation for a review period and whose CGPA would indicate suspension at the next review period, will generally not be suspended, but will be allowed to remain on probation if the most recent review period’s GPA shows sufficient progress toward achieving or restoring his/her CGPA to the standards noted above (normally meaning the student has earned at least a 2.0 in the most recent review period). A contract specifying steps a student must take for continued enrollment while on probation may be required at the discretion of the Academic Good Standing Committee. Usually, such a contract will limit the total number of credits a student may enroll in during a subsequent semester/term. Academic Suspension A student with two consecutive probation-level review periods is suspended from the university for one or more review periods. Under unusual circumstances, the university reserves the right to suspend a student who is not making satisfactory progress at the end of any review period. If a student is currently enrolled and attending when the letter of suspension is received, the student will be allowed to complete the semester/term in progress. The student will not be allowed to enroll in subsequent semesters/terms unless an appeal for readmission has been granted. Appeals are rarely granted but may be in the case of extenuating circumstances such as illnesses, family emergencies, etc. Students are considered to be making satisfactory academic progress if their cumulative grade point average and progress toward degree completion exceeds the suspension standards. A student who has been suspended may not enroll or attend classes at Buena Vista University for at least one semester at Storm Lake or term at a Center before being eligible to apply for readmission to the university. The process for readmission is outlined below. Process for Re-admission after Suspension Students suspended from the university because of failure to meet the academic standing requirements as outlined above wishing to apply for re-admission should:
Credit hours earned at another institution will be used in the determination of academic standing; however, grades earned at another institution do not calculate into a student’s CGPA at Buena Vista University. Students re-admitted after suspension may be re-admitted on probation. When appropriate, contingency plans will be written for re-admission to allow students sufficient time to restore their CGPA. For example, a student who was suspended may have earned sufficient credits so that s/he meets the 70 percent completion standard measuring progress toward a degree. However, because the required CGPA at BVU hasn’t yet been achieved, a plan specifying a specific period of time granted to the student to return his/her CGPA to appropriate levels will be written. In such cases, a minimum expectation is that students will achieve a semester GPA of at least 2.0 and will likely be required to achieve a semester GPA higher than the minimum 2.0 to return their CGPA to a minimum of a 2.0 in a reasonable time period.
transfer student who has ever participated in intercollegiate athletics, the student must have been academically and athletically eligible had he or she remained at the previous institution. Full-time status is defined as enrollment in 12 credit hours per semester. Students that drop or withdraw from a course during a semester, falling below the 12 hour minimum, shall be ineligible. A waiver of the minimum full-time enrollment requirement may be granted for a student enrolled in the final term of his/her baccalaureate program. Review of student academic progress occurs in January and June by the University’s Academic Standing Committee. In addition, NCAA student-athlete required consent forms shall be administered by the NCAA Compliance Coordinator. A complete list of NCAA Division III Eligibility Guidelines is available from the NCAA Compliance Officer. Student Appeal Process Undergraduate students having concerns in the academic area are encouraged to resolve these concerns through direct communication with the professor or administrative office involved, with school deans or with the vice-president for academic affairs. Often these concerns will involve a dispute over a grade. On those rare occasions when disagreements may not be resolved directly, the appeals process detailed below may be used. Students having academic related concerns should first consult with the faculty member involved. In the case of a grade, no grade may be changed after it has been filed in the Office of the Registrar except by action of the faculty member or the decision of an appeal by the Vice President for Academic Affairs. If a grade remains uncontested for a period of 6 weeks into a subsequent semester/term following the date published as the official end of the semester/term, it will be assumed to be correct and will not be eligible for change. For example, a grade from the spring semester must be appealed no later than six weeks into the following fall semester. Prior to a formal appeal, the student should discuss his/her questions with the faculty member involved. The appeal process is intended for those rare occasions when students and faculty cannot come to understanding of the faculty member’s assessment of the student’s work. Steps students must take in appealing a grade include:
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Access to Records by Students Students may inspect all education records pertaining to them that are maintained by Buena Vista University. Student education records are defined as records, files, documents, and other materials that contain information directly related to a student and are maintained by Buena Vista University or by an entity acting for the university. Student education records do not include records of instructional, supervisory, and administrative personnel, and ancillary educational personnel, that are in the sole possession of the maker and that are not accessible or revealed to any other person except a substitute. Other exclusions include:
Access to Student Records by Others
Buena Vista University maintains, as part of the educational record of the student, a record of all requests for access (whether or not the requests were granted), with the exception of requests for directory information. This record includes the name of the party requesting the information, the date, and the legitimate interest this party had in requesting the information. Such records are not maintained when the student personally inspects his or her records, when disclosures are made at the request of the student, and when disclosures are made to Buena Vista University personnel or other parties with legal access. Rights to Inspection Students have the right to inspect and review their education records within 45 days of the day the University receives a request for access. Students should submit to the Registrar written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The Registrar will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. Questions About Record Accuracy: Challenges to Content Students have the right to request the amendment of their education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Students may ask the university to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the university official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the university decides not to amend the record as requested, it shall inform the student of its decision. The student then has a right to a hearing before the university and to challenge the content of the student’s educational record on the grounds that the information contained in the records is inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the privacy rights of the student. If, as a result of the hearing, the university decides that the information is inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the privacy rights of the student, it shall amend the record accordingly and inform the student in writing of the amendment. Conversely, if, as a result of the hearing, the university decides the information in the educational record is not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy rights of the student, it shall inform the student of his or her right to place a statement in the record commenting on the contested information in the record or stating why he or she disagrees with the decision of the university, or both. Note: The above policies and procedures are, to the best of our knowledge, consistent with the requirements mandated by Section 438 of the General Education Provisions Act, as amended (The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974—FERPA), and the regulations pursuant thereto as issued by the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, June 17, 1976. A student may file a complaint with the following governmental office regarding an alleged violation by the University of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). The complaint must be made in writing and addressed to: Family Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20202-4605. The complaint must contain specific allegations of fact giving reasonable cause to believe that a violation of FERPA has occurred. The complaint must be submitted within 180 days of the date of the alleged violation or the date the student knew or reasonably should have known of the alleged violation; the Family Policy Compliance Office may extend this time limit for good cause shown. Schools at Buena Vista University The various major study areas of the university are grouped within five schools, each of which is administered by a dean. These five schools and their respective major study areas are as follows:Harold Walter Siebens School of Business The Harold Walter Siebens School of Business offers majors in accounting, business economics, finance and banking, international business, management, management information systems (MIS) and marketing. A person majoring in a business area not only engages in an intensive study of at least one specialty field, but also receives a broad base of instruction in all areas of business. Specialized study is generally undertaken after having obtained a solid grounding in a variety of liberal arts disciplines. Major emphasis is on practical application of theories, tools, and concepts to solve business problems and make business decisions. The business majors assist in preparing students for roles in corporate management and to be entrepreneurs. School faculty: Scott Anderson, assistant professor of marketing; Denise Beebe, assistant professor of MIS; Dr. Richard Beebe, professor of MIS; Dr. Artegal Camburn, professor of management; Dr. Eric Eller, associate professor of economics and finance; Henry Hardt, professor of business law and finance; Dr. Cheri Maben-Crouch, assistant professor of management; Dr. Margaret Redenbaugh, associate professor of accounting; Dr. Steven Remington, professor of marketing; Dr. Stanton Ullerich, Dean of the School of Business and professor of economics; Dr. Lei Wen, assistant professor of finance; and Daniel Wubbena, assistent professor of Business. School of Communication & Arts The School of Communication and Arts offers majors in art, arts management, communication and graphic design, communication and performance studies, English, media studies, music, music production, and Spanish, as well as offerings in Japanese, Chinese, and German. The school is concerned with the many-faceted process of communication. From face-to-face interaction through speech and Spanish, to communication through art, music, drama, writing, or the mass media, the School of Communication and Arts focuses on the human need to interact. The approach is both pragmatic and creative, teaching students to practice the art of communication, as well as developing in each student an appreciation for the dynamic creative impulse that all men and women share. School faculty: Randy Becker, associate professor of graphic design; Jerry Bertrand, assistant professor of music; David Boelter, assistant professor of art; Paul Bowers, assistant professor of media studies; Sally Brecher, assistant professor of Spanish; Jamii Claiborne, assistant professor of media studies; Hollace Drake, assistant professor of English; Dr. Bruce Ellingson, professor of media studies; Dr. Annamaria Formichella Elsden, associate professor of English; Dr. Mary Gill, professor of communication studies; Jerry Johnson, assistant professor of media studies; Kathy Kapitan, instructor of English; Paula Keeler, assistant professor of music; Dr. David Klee, assistant professor of music; Dr. Elizabeth Lamoureux, professor of communication studies; Dr. Bethany Larson, assistant professor of theatre; Dr. James McFadden, associate professor of English; Mary Mello-Nee, assistant professor of art; Dr. Jon Paulson, assistant professor of communication studies; Dr. Jill Rhea, associate professor of communication studies; Dr. Scott Richey, associate professor of Spanish; Dr. Inez Schaechterle, assistant professor of English; Dr. Kay Siebler, assistant professor of English; David Walker, assistant professor of communication and performance studies; Cheryl Walstrom, assistant professor of English; and Dr. Michael Whitlatch, Dean of the School of Communication and Arts and professor of theatre. School of Education and Exercise Science The School of Education and Exercise Science offers programs in teacher education, exercise science and athletic training. Upon successful completion of a current teacher education program or exercise science program, the student may be eligible for certification by the State of Iowa to teach appropriate course work in elementary and secondary schools. Completing the athletic training program allows the student to be eligible to sit for the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) certification exam. In addition to majors in elementary education, exercise science with teaching emphasis, and in specific areas leading to secondary education licensure, a number of endorsement programs beyond the majors and minors are available for students seeking a teaching license. Primary endorsements include: Instructional Strategist I: Mild/Moderate K-6 and 7-12, Teaching English as a Second Language K-6 and 7-12, Reading K-6 and 7-12 and Coaching Authorization K-12. No activity is more productive or satisfying than that which assists children to grow intellectually, physically and spiritually in our public and private schools. Few careers offer the college student greater opportunities for significant contributions to the future than those in education and exercise science. School faculty and academic support staff: Larry Anderson, instructor of exercise science/baseball coach; Janet Berry, assistant professor of exercise science/head women’s basketball coach; Dr. Stanley Bochtler, professor of education; Dr. Kline Capps, Dean of the School of Education and Exercise Science and professor of education; Brett Carney, instructor of exercise science/head men’s and women’s track coach; James Day, instructor of exercise science/assistant athletic trainer; Steve Eddie, instructor of exercise science/head baseball coach; Dr. Beverly Edmondson, associate professor of educational psychology; Dr. Jon Hixon, professor of guidance and counseling; Lindsey Kruse, instructor of exercise science/head volleyball coach; Dr. Susan Kalsow, Director of Student Field Experiences and assistant professor of education; Dr. Ekaterina Koubek, assistant professor of ESL; Dr. Robbie Ludy, professor of special education; Dr. Rita McKenzie, Assistant Dean of the School of Education and Graduate Studies and associate professor of educational psychology and counseling; Alison Mosel, instructor of exercise science/assistant athletic trainer; Dr. Ann Petersen, professor of education; Mark Schwab, instructor of exercise science/head wrestling coach; Danelle Smith, assistant professor of exercise science/assistant athletic trainer; Christopher Todden, assistant professor of exercise science/director of athletic training; Brian VanHaaften, instructor of exercise science/head men’s basketball coach; Marjorie Willadsen, assistant professor of exercise science/head softball coach; and Dr. Ann Withrow, assistant professor of education. For coaching staff, please see page 237. School of Science The School of Science includes the fields of biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental science, mathematics, physics, and general science. Although varying in their methods of instruction and content, the fields of study have common aims in the development of liberal and professional education. They are designed to show students the problems involved in obtaining knowledge of the natural world, to furnish an understanding of the methods that have been proposed and used for solving these problems, to impart some skills in the use of these methods, to develop the ability to understand and evaluate the statements and publications concerning the subject matter of the science, and to provide knowledge of some accepted solutions to the problems posed by living organisms and the physical world. School faculty: Dr. Nasser Dastrange, professor of mathematics; Benjamin Donath, associate professor of mathematics and computer science; Dr. Robert Dunbar, assistant professor of biology; Dr. Timothy Ehler, associate professor of chemistry; Lanny Grigsby, associate professor of mathematics; Dr. James Hampton, professor of biology; Dr. Jonathan Hutchins, professor of chemistry; Dr. Richard Lampe, professor of biology; Dr. Brian Lenzmeier, assistant professor of biology; Timothy McDaniel, assistant professor of mathematics; Dr. Kenneth Schweller, Dean of the School of Science and professor of computer science and psychology; Dr. Peter Smith, professor of computer science; Dr. Shawn Stone, associate professor of physics; and Dr. Steven Tonsfeldt, associate professor of physics and general science. School of Social Science, Philosophy and Religion The School of Social Science, Philosophy and Religion draws together an interdisciplinary emphasis in the areas of history, political science, public administration, criminology and criminal justice, sociology/social work, social science, psychology, philosophy, and religion. The school challenges the student to gain an understanding of the past, a rapport with the present, and a sense for developing perspectives and priorities related to the future. The intellectual, social, historical, political, philosophical, psychological, and religious values of our globe are considered as the school seeks insight into the problems, frustrations, and potential solutions of all societies. The areas of philosophy and religion, in dealing with the great diverse themes of the mind and spirit, are a ministry to life. School faculty: Dr. Dixee Bartholomew-Feis, associate professor of history; Dr. Laura Bernhardt, assistant professor of philosophy and religion; Dr. Bradley Best, assistant professor of political science; Lisa Kesting Best, assistant professor of political science; Dr. Swasti Bhattacharyya, assistant professor of philosophy and religion; Dr. Robert Blodgett, professor of psychology; Dr. William Feis, associate professor of history; Dr. Robert Ferguson, professor of psychology; Dr. Wind Goodfriend, assistant professor of psychology; Ellen Holmgren, assistant professor of social work; Kathryn McKinley, assistant professor of social work; Amy Poland, assistant professor of criminal justice; Dr. Peter Steinfeld, professor of philosophy and religion; and Dr. Jeanne Tinsley, professor of psychology and Dean of the School of Social Science, Philosophy and Religion. Pre-Professional Programs (Storm Lake Campus) Buena Vista University offers a number of pre-professional programs. Specific course requirements vary with each particular professional and school area and are worked out in detail with the faculty advisor. The pre-professional programs offered at the University include:
Schools at Buena Vista University Ingeborg Stolee LectureEach year the School of Communication and Arts sponsors a distinguished visiting lecturer addressing a topic related to the various areas of the school. Staley Lecture The School of Social Science, Philosophy and Religion, in cooperation with the Staley Foundation, sponsors a series of lectures each year by a distinguished theologian. Reynolds Lecture Each year the School of Social Science, Philosophy and Religion sponsors a George F. Reynolds lecture featuring a speaker on some topic related to history. Tollefson Lecture The Robert and Barbara Tollefson Lectureship in Reformed Theology was established in 1992. It is named for long-time religion professor Robert Tollefson and his wife, Barbara, both of whom have contributed greatly to Buena Vista University and the Presbyterian Church. The inaugural lecture was presented by Dr. Charles Partee of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary in November 1992. William W. Siebens American Heritage Lecture This annual lecture series addresses American freedoms. Speakers have included George H.W. Bush, Jimmy Carter, Benazir Bhutto, Shimon Peres, F. W. de Klerk, Margaret Thatcher, Madeleine Albright, Gen. Colin L. Powell, Walter Cronkite, Carl Sagan, Sir John Marks Templeton, Bob Woodward, The Right Honorable Sir John Major, and David Gergen. |
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