Misericordia University

Catalog - Table of Index

Academics
A Misericordia University Education

The Trinity of Learning
An education at Misericordia University combines quality academics, professional preparation, and service leadership—our Trinity of Learning. The Trinity of Learning prepares students for a lifetime of learning and achievement.

Student Satisfaction
According to recent national surveys, 97% of our first-year students said they were satisfied or very satisfied with their university experience, compared to about 87% of students in other schools in the survey. They cited greater contact with faculty; orientation, advisement, and academic assistance; financial aid services; computer, classroom, library, health and recreational facilities; and housing as major reasons why they felt comfortable and supported.

Part-time students and others enrolled in our adult learning programs ranked us at the top for student satisfaction, citing access to advisement, instructor effectiveness, and overall customer service.

Undergraduate Educational Goals In fulfillment of its mission, Misericordia University provides a learning community which prepares its baccalaureate graduates to:

Reflect the values of mercy, justice, and hospitality in their actions.
Contribute to their communities through service and leadership.
Consider ethical issues and values and make reasoned judgments about them.
Think independently and creatively, analyze information critically, and solve problems.
Respect and understand cultural differences.
Understand global perspectives.
Communicate and interact effectively.
Understand and appreciate the arts, humanities, science, and technology.
Succeed in their academic disciplines.
Pursue life-long learning.

Academic Policies and Procedures

Academic Advising

Students are assigned an academic advisor, ordinarily within the department in which a student is majoring. Advisors will also be assigned to students who are undecided about a major. The academic advisor is the student’s liaison with other university offices. Advisors should be consulted often for guidance and advice. In addition to offering academic guidance, advisors can provide information on where to obtain and how to complete necessary forms pertaining to academics. Advisors must approve student schedules and all other academic paperwork. Students meet with advisors individually for pre-registration consultation each semester.

Academic Honors

The dean’s list, which is issued at the close of each semester, recognizes students who have completed a minimum of 12 graded credit hours and have earned a grade point average of 3.55 (on a 4.0 system) for the semester. Part-time students will be eligible for the dean’s list after they have completed 12 credits at Misericordia University, and earn six or more undergraduate credits in a given semester. The dean’s list is an award earned at the end of each semester.

Undergraduate students are awarded baccalaureate degrees with distinction for exceptional academic achievement. Honors are awarded as follows:

Distinction	Grade Point Average at Graduation
Summa Cum Laude	3.90 and above
Magna Cum Laude	3.70-3.89
Cum Laude	3.50-3.69

A student must have completed at least 60 credits at Misericordia University to qualify for these honors. The class valedictorian is determined by the full-time matriculated student with the highest cumulative undergraduate average who has completed all course work at Misericordia University with the exception of the 12 credits allowed through off-campus requests or any advanced placement credits.

Students who complete the Misericordia University Honors Program while achieving a GPA of 3.25 or higher will be awarded an honors degree (see page 48 for a description of program requirements).

Academic Integrity

Any form of cheating or dishonesty, including plagiarism, is a fundamental violation of the nature and purpose of Misericordia University. Such behavior will not be tolerated and will result in at least lowered grades, possibly failure in a class, program dismissal, and, in the most serious cases, dismissal from the university.

Plagiarism is using someone else’s ideas or words and claiming them as one’s own. Students who use another person’s words must copy them accurately, enclose them in quotations marks, and identify the source clearly. If another person’s ideas are used in a student paper, the source must still be identified and the author of the ideas given credit. Students are responsible to make sure they are using sources properly and documenting them properly.

The responsibility for maintaining personal integrity and honor in academic activities rests with the student. Each faculty member will provide information on academic integrity to students in the course outline at the beginning of the semester, including any necessary explanation of violations, possible infractions of academic integrity and the scope of sanctions, e.g., warning, lowering of the grade on the assignment or course, course failure, or dismissal from the program or university.

Should a violation of academic integrity occur, the faculty member must inform the student of the violation before imposing any sanction. Should the violation be considered serious enough to merit any grade of “D” or lower on any major assignment, or a more serious penalty, such as course failure or dismissal from the program, the faculty member must notify the Vice President of Academic Affairs (VPAA) and supply any supporting evidence. In the case of multiple violations, the VPAA will discuss this issue with the student and may impose additional sanctions up to and including dismissal from the university. In a case where dismissal from the university is contemplated, the VPAA will consult with the faculty member, student’s advisor, department chair/program director, and college dean.

In cases where the student contests the accusations of academic dishonesty, the student may file a grievance under either the undergraduate or graduate grievance procedure, whichever one is applicable.

Academic Restart Policy

Undergraduate students who have been academically dismissed or have been withdrawn for at least two academic years from Misericordia University may apply for readmission to the university one time under the academic restart policy. Readmission to Misericordia University under this policy will be granted at the sole discretion of the Vice President of Academic Affairs. In order to qualify, a student must not have attended Misericordia University for 24 months following the dismissal or withdrawal date, or must have completed at least 12 credits approved in advance by the Misericordia University Registrar earning a “C” or better in each course. He/she will be academically advised by the registrar for at least the first semester of their return.

Students admitted under the academic restart policy will have their cumulative index reset to 0.00 at the time of their readmission. Courses taken and grades earned before the restart will remain on the student’s transcript (permanent record), but they will be treated as the equivalent of transfer credits. Any required courses which were taken at Misericordia University earning a grade below a “C-“ will not be awarded credit and will need to be retaken. Students admitted under this policy are not automatically readmitted to any given program.

Academic Standing

All students must maintain an acceptable cumulative grade point average to remain in good academic standing. Failure to do so will result in either academic probation or academic dismissal as noted below. Some majors have academic performance criteria which are program specific.

Cancellation of Classes

Individual class cancellations are posted by the Vice President of Academic Affairs as they are reported. Students may call (570) 674-6311 for information regarding the closing of the university. If the university is to be closed, open for part of a day or to be placed on compressed schedule because of weather or other unforeseen events, the decision will be made as soon as possible and posted on the portal and relayed promptly to local radio and television stations. Individual class cancellations are posted by the Vice President of Academic Affairs as they are reported.

Change of Academic Major

Students who wish to change from one major program to another will consult with their assigned academic advisor. The student must secure approval for the change from the department chair of the major program into which the student wishes to transfer. Forms which must be completed in order to change one’s major may be obtained in either the registrar’s office or the Center for Adult and Continuing Education. The change of major does not take place until the appropriate form is properly executed and filed with the registrar.

Change of Name/Address

Students are responsible for notifying the registrar’s office in writing of any change in name and/or address. It will then be appropriately processed throughout the university.

Change in Resident Status

Each residential student must sign the campus housing agreement. This agreement is binding for the entire fall and spring semesters and states that the student will remain in residence for the duration of this agreement. Any release from this agreement is permitted only under the conditions of academic withdrawal, dismissal, verified medical reasons or other extreme extenuating circumstances, and only with the written approval of the director of residence life. Any request for release must be submitted in writing to the director of residence life and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. A student wishing to leave campus housing and move home (with their immediate family) must petition, in writing, for a release from their campus housing agreement for the spring semester by December 1, to the office of residence life. Percentage of refund of room and board fees will be determined by the actual date of departure established by officially checking out and returning all keys to the residence life office.

Change of Status

Students who wish to change from full-time to part-time status are required to consult with their academic advisor and to submit the appropriate form with all requisite signatures to the Vice President of Academic Affairs Office for processing. Students considering such a change should also consult with the director of financial aid for information about the implications of the decision on financial aid eligibility. Students will then be referred to the Center for Adult and Continuing Education for registration information.

Students who want to change from part-time to full-time status must address a letter to the director of admissions stating their intention.

Class Attendance

It is the responsibility of the student to be aware of the attendance policy of each faculty member in whose classes they are enrolled. It is the responsibility of the student to consult with the appropriate faculty member prior to a necessary absence to determine and confirm arrangements for make-up work.

Course Repeat/Grade Replacement Policy

Students can only receive credit for a course once. Students are eligible for a maximum of five grade replacements. However, the same course can be repeated only one time for the purpose of grade replacement. The student must indicate his/her intention of replacing the old grade with the new one by filing the appropriate form with the registrar at registration. All grade replacement courses must be taken at Misericordia University. The repeated course will appear on the transcript twice. The original grade will be replaced with an "R." Only the new grade, even if it is lower than the original, will be used in calculating the student's grade point average (GPA). A directed study may not be used as a grade replacement without the permission of the chair of the department offering the course and the approval of the Vice President of Academic Affairs.

If a student has grade replaced a course and receives a second unacceptable grade, and is required to pass the course to achieve their degree, he/she may request the opportunity to take the course a third time. This must be approved by the department chair of the program offering the course. The second unacceptable grade will remain on the student’s transcript and be calculated into the student’s GPA.

Once a student has graduated, the student's record prior to graduation is not subject to change through this policy.

Contract Learning

Two types of contract learning are available at Misericordia University: (1) directed study and (2) independent study. Student must be formally admitted to the university to register for contract learning. A student can earn no more than 15 credits via the contract learning option. A maximum of six contract learning credits may be carried in a semester. Contract learning (i.e., either independent study or directed study) will be delivered to the student at no additional cost above the regular tuition fees.

Credit Load Full-time

A Misericordia University Baccalaureate Degree requires a minimum of 120 credits. A maximum semester load is 17 credits. Students who wish to take 18 credits in one semester must have a minimum GPA of 2.75, and are encouraged to discuss it with their academic advisor. Students who wish to take 19 or more credits must also receive written permission from their college dean prior to registration. Students will pay an additional per credit charge for every credit taken over 17 (see tuition and fees). No student may take more than 21 credits in one semester.

Credit Load Part-time

Ordinarily, students who are classified as part-time may take no more than 12 credits in any combination of traditional, accelerated, or weekend formats in any one semester period while being charged the per credit tuition rate.

Directed Study

When a student must take a specific university course in a given semester but it is not part of the offerings in that semester, the student may petition for a directed study. Students may apply for directed study only in exceptional situations. Students may not use a directed study to repeat a course or for a grade replacement. Students who wish to apply for a directed study must have at least a 2.5 GPA.

A student interested in this option must first discuss this possibility with his/her advisor, and then approach the appropriate department chairperson and college dean sponsoring the course under consideration. If the contract is approved at that level, the student will approach the appropriate faculty member to determine his/her availability. Faculty retain the right to decline a request for a directed study. Final approval of this arrangement is made by the Vice President of Academic Affairs. A written contract is required between the instructor and the student. The minimum number of times that a student and instructor are to meet will be included in this document. Copies of the contract are to be forwarded to the Vice President of Academic Affairs, the student's advisor, the instructor, and the registrar. The student must register prior to the beginning of a semester for a contract learning directed study. Ideally the contract should be completed during the previous semester. Students will be expected to assume the majority of responsibility for actually writing the contract. Forms are available in the offices of the registrar and Center for Adult and Continuing Education.

Drop/Add

Students should consult the academic or adult education calendars for the dates of the drop/add period, during which time schedule changes may be made with the Registrar. Drop/add forms are available in the registrar’s office and the Center for Adult and Continuing Education. The drop/add form must be signed by the student’s advisor before it may be processed. Drop/add is not official unless the form is received and processed by the registrar or the Center for Adult and Continuing Education during the drop/add period.

Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (Buckley Amendment)

Misericordia University adheres to the rights accorded to students with regard to their educational records as set forth in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 and as subsequently amended. Educational records are all records that contain information that is directly related to a student and are maintained by an educational agency or institution or by a party acting for the agency or institution. This federal legislation protects the confidentiality of students’ educational records. It also affirms the student’s right to inspect the contents of his/her educational records, to seek to have the records amended, and to have some control over the disclosure of information from the records. Educational records are maintained in the offices of the registrar, student financial services, financial aid, academic departments and/or advisors.

Misericordia University reserves the right to release “directory information” as defined by FERPA. The university releases the following directory information: name, class, hometown and state, major field of study, participation in the officially-recognized sports, degrees, awards and honors achieved in the curricular and co-curricular life of the university, the most recent previous educational institution attended by the student, and individually identifiable photographs of the student solicited by or maintained directly by Misericordia University as part of the educational record.

A full copy of the university policy with regards to FERPA and forms for consent to release and request to withhold release of directory information are available in the registrar’s office. Students have an opportunity to complete these forms during the check-in process every fall and may request in writing to release or withhold specific information annually. This policy is subject always to the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and as subsequently amended.

Grading System

The grade point average (GPA) is computed by dividing honor points earned by credits attempted. Any courses failed will be charged as credits attempted through the final calculation of a student’s grade point average. A minimum of a 2.0 cumulative grade point average both overall and in the core curriculum is required to graduate with a baccalaureate degree.

Some majors require a higher cumulative grade point average for graduation and program retention. Students should consult individual academic program descriptions for major requirements.

Grades	Honor Points Per Credit Hour
A	4.0
A-	3.7
B+	3.3
B	3.0
B-	2.7
C+	2.3
C	2.0
C-	1.7
D	1.0
F	0.0
I - Incomplete	0.0
AU - Audit	Not calculated
W - Withdrawn	Not calculated
IP - In progress	Not calculated
S - Satisfactory: pass	Not calculated
U - Unsatisfactory: fail	Not calculated

Please note the following implications of this grading system:

A grade of “W” is given to students who withdraw prior to the end of the withdraw period. As noted in the university calendar, no academic penalty is incurred.Withdrawal forms may be obtained from the registrar’s office. The date on which the form is received by the registrar’s office is considered as the date of withdrawal and the refund of the tuition and grade assigned are based on this date (see refund policy).
If a student does not officially withdraw from a course and ceases to attend it, a grade of “F” is incurred, except in extenuating circumstances.
It is the responsibility of the undergraduate student to contract with the instructor in writing to apply for a grade of incomplete “I.” An “I”must be removed within six weeks after the end of the semester or an earlier date determined by the faculty member and agreed upon by the student or the incomplete becomes a grade of “F.”
Incomplete Grades for Graduate Program
The grade of “I” will be issued only for those courses in which a student has not completed the necessary requirements for graduate courses (500 and 600 level courses) because of extenuating circumstances.
Should conditions arise that prohibit the student from completing required course assignments by specified due dates, the student must negotiate with the course professor for a grade of incomplete (“I”). The student must contact the course professor and file an incomplete contract grade form with the professor at least two weeks prior to the date semester grades are due to the registrar. The form is signed by the student and the faculty member and a copy is retained by the student. The course professor has the right to determine the length of time for completion of the course requirements within the maximum time limits allowed. The grade of “I”must be removed within a maximum of one semester or the “I” automatically becomes an “F.”
Emergencies may arise which do not allow a two-week notice. In that event, the student must contact the Dean of the Center for Adult and Continuing Education who will, in turn, inform the course faculty involved.
A grade of “IP” (In Progress) will only be issued for profession contribution courses. The “IP” must be removed within a maximum of one calendar year or the “IP” automatically becomes an “F.”
Note: A student who will be negotiating a grade of “I” or “IP”must obtain an incomplete contract grade form from the registrar’s office.
Pass/Fail grading is limited to those courses designated in the university catalog to be on a S/U basis. The letter grade of S (satisfactory) or U (unsatisfactory) will be assigned to these courses. S and U grades are listed on the transcript but are not calculated in the grade point average. Credits for these courses are not included in the 12 graded credit hours required for the dean's list.

Graduation Requirements

The minimum number of credits required of a baccalaureate degree from Misericordia University is 120 credits. To obtain a baccalaureate degree a student must complete the minimum hours of credit required by the declared major program even if that number exceeds 120 credits. A transfer student must complete a minimum of 30 credits at Misericordia University for any given degree. That number may exceed 30 contingent on the number of credits a student is allowed to transfer into the university. Students should consult individual program descriptions.

A degree application form, available from the registrar's office, must be completed in the year of graduation by the student and advisor. This form is to be submitted to the registrar's office during the fall semester prior to spring graduation. All bills must be paid in advance for a student to be eligible to graduate. Failure to do so in a timely manner many delay the date of receiving a diploma.

Only students completing all academic requirements in May or August will be permitted to process in the May ceremony of that same year. Example: Students completing all requirements in May or August 2007 will be eligible to walk in the May 2007 ceremony. Students completing all requirements by December of 2007 will be eligible to participate in the May 2008 ceremony.

Independent Study

Independent study is the special investigation of a selected topic. It may be undertaken by a junior or senior student whose academic requirements cannot be met by regular catalog offerings. Independent study may not be taken simply to accrue existing course credits. Only elective credits may be used for independent study. Depending on the depth and scope of an independent study, anywhere from one to six credits may be earned (determination of assigned credits is made by the appropriate department chair and faculty member).

Students who wish to apply for an independent study must have at least a 3.0 GPA. The student must have demonstrated the ability to pursue independent work. To apply for independent study, students must (a) define the topic or issue to be pursued; (b) discuss their plan with their advisor; (c) contact the chairperson of the appropriate department/program to request approval of their proposal; (d) if the independent study is approved, the student will approach a faculty member in the department that sponsors the independent study to serve as a mentor. Faculty are free to choose whether or not to mentor a student for independent study.

Part of the intent of an independent study is to foster self-directed learning. Therefore, after a student has specified the content area to be studied and has diagnosed his/her learning needs, the mentor and student will jointly negotiate course objectives; learning resources and methodology; and procedures for evaluation. The minimum number of meeting times will also be specific. A written contract, which includes these areas, is to be drafted and signed by both parties. Copies are to be forwarded to the Vice President of Academic Affairs, the student’s advisor, the mentor, and the registrar.

Independent work is not governed by the academic calendar. A project may be started and ended at any point during the semester. Students should register for an independent study when their work is initiated; if the project extends beyond the end of a given semester, an in progress (IP) can be issued.

Independent study application forms may be obtained from the offices of the registrar and the Center for Adult and Continuing Education.

Intellectual Property

Misericordia University supports the development, production, and dissemination of intellectual property by members of its community. For those members of the community interested in creating intellectual property as part of their work or learning experience, please be advised that the University’s Intellectual Property Agreement can be found at:

http://www.misericordia.edu/misericordia_pg_sub.cfm?sub_page_id=1107&subcat_id=114&page_id=389

Off Campus Courses

Off-campus courses are defined as those not sponsored by Misericordia University or by our consortium partners, Kings College and Wilkes University (see Consortium Programs page 50). Students may complete a maximum of 12 credits in approved off-campus courses, of which no more than six credits may be in core courses.

Once matriculated at the university, transfer students may not transfer more than six additional credits in approved off-campus courses, of which no more than three credits may be in the core. A student who has completed 60 credits of academic work, whether on campus or in transfer, must take all additional transfer credits at an accredited four-year institution.

All off-campus courses must be evaluated and approved as to their equivalency to Misericordia University courses. This determination will be made in consultation between the department chair in the discipline which sponsors the course at Misericordia University and the registrar.

Off-campus course approval forms are available in the registrar’s office.

Probation/Dismissal

The academic status committee meets each semester promptly after grades are run to deliberate the standing of students relative to the probation/dismissal policy. Academic probation is the automatic and minimum penalty for failing to maintain an acceptable cumulative grade point average. Students failing to maintain an acceptable grade point average are also subject to dismissal from the University.

Acceptable Cumulative Grade Point Average:

12 to 23 credits 1.75
24 to 37 credits 1.90
38 credits and above 2.0
Transfer students 2.0

Students will also be placed on academic probation for failure to maintain an acceptable cumulative grade point average in courses taken to fulfill the core curriculum requirements. Students who have attempted 30 credits or above will be placed on academic probation if their cumulative grade point average for core requirements is below 2.0.

Students on academic probation are required to carry a restricted academic load. A student on academic probation is prohibited from representing the university in any official capacity. This prohibition includes, but is not limited to, holding an elected or appointed office or seat in student government, or on the executive board of student government, serving as a resident advisor, or participating in intercollegiate athletics. Furthermore, students may have their participation in non-prohibited extracurricular activities curtailed if in the judgment of the Vice President of Academic Affairs such activities interfere with their academic performance.

Academic probation will begin with the first class meeting of the semester (Fall, Spring or Summer) following the decision to place a student on academic probation. Students who are placed on probation will normally have one semester to raise their cumulative grade point average to 2.0. Failure to make satisfactory academic progress will result in academic dismissal. Students who have been removed from academic probation must maintain a 2.0 (GPA) status throughout the remainder of their academic program. A student who is academically dismissed will not be permitted to attend classes on a non-matriculating basis.

Registration

All registration will be done online by current class status. Students must make an appointment with their advisor to approve course selection prior to registration. Please check your status on the portal and resolve any conflict with the registrar’s office prior to registration.

Second Degree

Students who wish to obtain a second baccalaureate degree may do so if they meet the following conditions:

The student must be officially admitted into the major program in which the second degree is desired.
The student must meet all of the curriculum requirements of the second degree.
The student must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours in addition to the credits taken in the first degree program.
For the purposes of a second degree, the core curriculum is waived with the exception of those courses required for the major.

Second Major

Graduates of Misericordia University who wish to return for a second major may do so by completing only the requirements necessary for the second major. The Registrar will post a statement on the official transcript stating “requirements completed for a second major in ….” Student cannot declare second majors in Interdisciplinary Studies or Professional Studies. See individual department policies regarding standards for second majors.

Students with Special Needs

The university, through the dean of students and the Alternative Learners Project (ALP), coordinates its efforts to integrate students with disabilities into all areas of campus life. All academic support services/accommodations needed for classroom/clinical/field experiences are coordinated through the Alternative Learners Project. Services from the ALP are provided based on provision and acceptance of specific documentation requirements.

The dean of students, whose office is located in the Banks Student Life Center, coordinates all non-academic services. Should a student with a disability feel that he/she is a victim of discrimination based on ability, he/she can file a grievance through the dean of students office.

Misericordia University does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to its programs, services, in access to them, in treatment of individuals with disabilities or in any aspect of their operations. The university also does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its hiring or employment practices.

This notice is provided as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Questions, complaints or requests for additional information regarding the ADA and Section 504 may be forwarded to the Dean of Students who is the designated ADA and Section 504 compliance coordinator.

This notice is available from the ADA and Section 504 compliance coordinator in large print, on audio tape and in braille.

Undergraduate Academic Grievance

The university provides a uniform method by which students can pursue grievable issues. Grievable issues are either complaints about alleged violations of the institution’s academic policies or about unfairness in the application of policies.

In all cases, formal grievances must be filed and resolved within one semester of the occurrence of the event being grieved. Summer enrollment period is considered as a semester.

A student who has a grievance must attempt to resolve it by using the following procedures:

Prior to initiating a formal grievance, the student must attempt to resolve the matter on an informal basis by speaking to the person with whom the complaint rests.
If unable to reach a resolution, the student must discuss the matter with the program director or department chair who supervises the person against whom the complaint is lodged to attempt to resolve the matter.
If the matter is not resolved at that level, the student proceeds to the dean of the college in which the grievance resides.
If the matter is not resolved at that level, the student proceeds to the Office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs where a formal grievance may be filed.

To initiate the formal grievance process the student informs the Vice President of Academic Affairs in writing of his or her intent to seek formal redress through the grievance procedure, indicating the nature of the complaint.

Within 14 calendar days of receipt of the written complaint, the Vice President of Academic Affairs will convene the academic grievance committee and provide the chair of the committee with the student’s statement of complaint. The academic grievance committee is composed of one administrator and one faculty member appointed by the Vice President of Academic Affairs, and the academic affairs coordinator of student government.

At least two days in advance of the hearing, the chair of the committee will notify the grievant and the individual charged with the complaint of the date, time and place of the hearing, the specification and nature of the complaint, and the composition of the committee.

The grievance hearing is an internal review and, as such, shall be private. The grievant may be assisted by a faculty representative. However, persons external to the university shall be excluded. The use of outside counsel is prohibited.

Both the grievant and the person being grieved have the right to be present when charges and evidence are presented to the committee, and to provide evidence in support of their respective positions. Committee members may question witnesses to evaluate all the relevant facts of a given case.Witnesses shall be excluded except for the period of their questioning.

The report and recommendation of the committee shall be in writing, including the committee's rationale for the decision; the report may include any dissenting opinions. Only those committee members who have heard all testimony and evidence in a given case may vote on the committee's recommendation.

The committee's report and recommendation shall be forwarded to the Vice President of Academic Affairs within 10 calendar days of the hearing. The Vice President of Academic Affairs will make the final determination and formally advise the parties involved in the grievance. Penalties for violations of the university’s academic integrity policy range from a warning to dismissal from the university. The university reserves the right, depending upon the severity of the conduct, to dismiss a student for a single violation of the university’s academic integrity policy. In cases where a student previously has been found to have violated the university’s academic integrity policy, for which he/she received a penalty less than dismissal from the university, and the student is subsequently found to have violated the policy once again, the Vice President of Academic Affairs may take more severe action for the subsequent violation than that previously imposed for the prior violation(s), up to and including dismissal from the university.

Students who wish to grieve circumstances that prohibit immediate continuation in a program or in a sequence of courses (e.g. dismissal from a program or a failing grade), will not be permitted to sit in on program or sequenced courses unless and until the grievance is favorably resolved. Under such circumstances, the student must file a grievance immediately upon receipt of the grade or of the dismissal notification. An expedited grievance process is then followed, and the process must be completed before the end of the Add Period.

Withdrawal from the University

Students who wish to withdraw from the university must go to the coordinator of retention management office, located in the Learning Resource Center, Alumnae Hall to begin the withdrawal process. Generally, students who are in good academic standing both in their program and institutionally at the time of withdrawal, are granted a period of up to one calendar year from the time of withdrawal to return to the institution. In extraordinary circumstances, students may request an extension of this time period. Requests for an extension must be submitted in writing to the coordinator of retention management who will consult with the appropriate department chairs.

This policy does not bind the institution to offer the student’s curriculum or major program, which may have been discontinued or substantially altered during the period in which the student was not enrolled.

The following must be completed before an official withdrawal can be granted:

Return books to the library.
Return residence hall keys to a member of the residence life staff.
Return parking permit, student ID, and mailbox key to the coordinator of retention management.
Clear student balance in student financial services, located on the 1st floor of Mercy Hall
Complete withdrawal form and exit interview.

The date of withdrawal will be determined by the completion of the above. That date will determine if any refund of tuition is warranted. Cancellation of charges will depend on the date that the withdrawal is official (see refund policy).

Withdrawal from a Course

A student may withdraw from a course from the end of the fourth through the eighth week of the semester (see academic calendar for specific date) only with the signatures of both the instructor and the student’s academic advisor(s). A grade of “W” will be issued for the course at that time. A student may withdraw from a course for medical reasons, supported by a written excuse from a physician, or for other serious circumstances, approved by the Vice President of Academic Affairs in consultation with the course instructor.

The student is responsible for initiating the withdrawal process by obtaining a withdrawal form from the registrar’s office, having it signed by the appropriate personnel, and returning it to the registrar’s office within the eight week period described above. A grade of “F” will be assigned by the instructor and recorded for all courses in which no official withdrawal has been completed by the student. Note: Students taking classes exclusively on weekends may contact the Center for Adult and Continuing Education for assistance in completing these requirements.

Special Programs

The Alternative Learners Project

Students with disabilities may apply to participate in the Alternative Learners Project, which provides selected students with training to use learning strategies and accommodations. Support is provided through individualized programs of accommodations based on academic schedules for the school year. Information is available from the admissions office or from the Alternative Learners Project staff. Students participating in ALP will be charged a fee of $500 per semester.

First-Year Experience

The First-year Experience Program (FYE) at Misericordia University is a two-part program designed primarily to orient first-year students to the institution and to help them integrate themselves into the university community. Its secondary purpose is to help students assess their potential for leadership and to encourage them to seek opportunities to develop leadership skills. Through an introductory session at orientation and subsequent weekly classroom workshops in the first semester, all first-year students have the opportunity to become familiar with key offices, services and resources on campus. FYE provides first-year students with an opportunity to develop a support network consisting of fellow students, student service personnel, and faculty. The leadership component is offered during the second semester of the academic year.

Honors Program

The honors program is an interdisciplinary community of undergraduate students and faculty working together to create an intellectually stimulating and challenging environment for learning. Honors students take a common sequence of core curriculum courses in place of the regular core offerings, participate each semester in the Honors Explorations Seminar, and produce a professional quality paper or project as part of the Honors Capstone. The honors program also sponsors a variety of extra-curricular programs, such as travel to local and regional historical venues and cultural events, opportunities for presenting original research, and participation in conferences sponsored by the National Collegiate Honors Council and other colleges and universities. Program-related decisions are made and activities are planned with input from both honors faculty and students. Honors students also receive recognition on their transcript, at university awards ceremonies, and at commencement.

The academic portion of the honors program consists of three components. The first is an alternative 36-credit core sequence in the humanities and social sciences. All students must complete a core curriculum, but honors students take humanities and social sciences classes designed specifically for them (science and math requirements are taken as part of the regular core). Honors classes are not necessarily harder, but approach course material in different ways. They tend to be small and interactive, emphasize discussion and critical analysis, and use primary sources in addition to textbooks. Additionally, honors courses are interdisciplinary, linked by common principles and ideas. All honors core courses are listed as “Section 07” in each semester’s schedule of classes. In combination they include: two semesters of English, fine arts, history, philosophy, and religious studies, plus one semester of psychology and either sociology or economics. Elective honors courses in math, science, and the health sciences also may be offered.

The second academic component requires student participation in the non-credit Explorations Seminar (HNR 300), which meets three times per semester. Within this seminar, students and faculty together explore a theme or topic that often relates to issues being explored in the honors courses. While the seminar may take different forms, such as a debate, a roundtable, or a guest lecture, it always involves discussion among students and faculty.

The final academic component of the program is the Capstone Project (HNR 401) in which students create a professional-quality project that advances their research and presentation skills. Students develop their projects after a process of self-directed research and writing under faculty and peer guidance. The final projects are presented in a public forum to the university community and published in the honors journal Honorus.

Students are admitted to the honors program by application only. Admissions decisions for first-year students are based on high school academic record, involvement in extra-curricular activities, evidence of intellectual curiosity, and overall “fit” with the program. Application materials may be requested by any qualified, interested high school senior. In addition, current and transfer students can determine their eligibility for admission to the program by contacting the program director. To remain in the honors program, students must maintain a 3.0 GPA in their first and sophomore years, and a 3.25 GPA subsequently.

All honors courses are open to non-honors first-year students and sophomores with a 3.0 GPA or higher, and to juniors and seniors with a 3.25 GPA or higher, with the professor’s approval and assuming space is available.

Act 101 Program

ACT 101 is a Pennsylvania state grant funded program that provides academic and personal support to qualified students. Its primary goal is to assist students in developing strong academic skills, leadership potential, and positive study habits. Services provided by the program include academic support; peer tutoring; professional tutoring; personal counseling; peer support; leadership development; workshops; and career exploration. The ACT 101 Program is located in the Learning Resource Center, in the lower level of Alumnae Hall.

Early Alert

The Early Alert Program is a referral process used to enhance the retention of our students. Faculty, staff, students, or parents who are concerned about a student submit referrals to the coordinator of retention management for intervention assessments. After the initial assessment, the student will be directed to the appropriate service (i.e., academic support, tutoring, personal counseling, Insalaco Center for Career Development, writing/math labs, minority mentoring, etc.).

TARGET

TARGET is an academic support program sponsored by the Learning Resource Center. Designed for first-year students who are placed on academic probation after their first semester, TARGET is a required, semester-long intervention program. Students enrolled in TARGET will attend a variety of workshopsand small group meetings designed to explore and address both the academic and affective behaviors that contributed to their placement on academic probation. In addition to workshops and small group meetings, students will work with a learning specialist and peer learning assistants who will help them develop effective study and time management skills. The peer learning assistants also serve as tutors for the students enrolled in the program.

Consortium Programs

Students at Misericordia University may register for courses at King’s College and/or Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, if those courses are not part of Misericordia’s curricula. The program is reciprocal. Fulltime students in good academic standing who meet specific course prerequisites are eligible. Ordinarily, cross registration is available only to juniors and seniors who have received permission from their major department to participate in the program. Cross-registered courses are considered part of a student’s regular course load; no additional tuition fees are charged and courses carry full academic credit and grade value.

Study Abroad Programs

Misericordia University works with a multitude of study abroad programs across the country. Students may choose to study abroad for one or two semesters, normally in their junior year. Students must consult with their academic advisor regarding courses and numbers of credits to be taken at the institution abroad. Students who wish to use courses taken abroad to satisfy specific course requirements at Misericordia University, whether in the core or the major, must secure the approval in advance of the appropriate department chair. For more information, contact the Insalaco’s Center for Career Development.

All study abroad credits are treated as transfer credits. Students planning a study abroad experience must consult with the director of financial aid to determine appropriate financial responsibility.

Tutorial Assistance

Misericordia University offers a variety of tutorial options to assist students in achieving academic goals. Individual and group tutoring is provided in most core curriculum courses and some professional courses. Professional staff is available to assist those students who wish to improve their study skills. Tutorial services are provided by the Learning Resource Center which is located in the lower level of Alumnae Hall. All tutorial services are free of charge.

Air Force ROTC

Through cooperative programs with Wilkes University, Misericordia University students can take part in Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. The Air Force ROTC program is based at Wilkes University. Students who participate in ROTC at this institution do so without penalty to their full-time academic status at Misericordia University. Free elective courses are awarded by the University for ROTC participation. Tuition for ROTC courses is paid directly to the institutions offering the programs. More information about ROTC may be obtained from the registrar.

Army ROTC Military Science

Misericordia University offers students the opportunity to participate in Army ROTC at King’s College in nearby Wilkes-Barre through the Northeast Pennsylvania (NEPA) Reserve Officer Training Corps Battalion. The NEPA Army ROTC Battalion continually ranks in the top 10% of all ROTC programs nationwide and was ranked third in the eastern United States Army ROTC region in 2004. The NEPA Battalion has recently celebrated fifty years of commissioning outstanding officers for America’s military. Students who participate in this program do so without penalty to their full-time academic status. The University awards free elective credit for participation in any ROTC course. Any Misericordia University student may participate in any ROTC basic course program for two years without cost or obligation.

The primary objective of the Reserve Officer Training Program is to develop leadership capabilities in students and to train future officers for the active Army, US Army Reserve, the Army National Guard as well as leaders for the civilian community. The Army ROTC program can be tailored to fit any student’s schedule, particularly in the freshman and sophomore years. Military science instruction is offered at King’s College campus with two, three and four programs of study leading to a commission as an officerin one of the three components of the United States Army. To be commissioned as a second lieutenant, students must pass a physical examination and complete the two, three, or four-year program of military science courses. Students normally take one course per semester during their normal four-year course of study although there are numerous means to meet each student’s academic needs.

All students receiving ROTC scholarship benefits as well as sophomores, juniors and seniors that are contracted with the Army receive a monthly stipend. The stipend starts at $300 per month during their freshman year, increases to $350 during their sophomore year, $450 during their junior year and $500 during their senior year. The stipend is paid directly to the student each month that they are in school. The military science department provides all uniforms, equipment and textbooks required for the classes at no cost to the student.

In addition to academic classes, students may also participate on a voluntary basis in many additional training opportunities such as physical training and hands-on equipment training each week. Each semester there is a military social event and at least one optional weekend training session that includes such events as military marksmanship, cross country orienteering, military rappelling, leadership application courses and obstacle/confidence courses. During breaks and vacations students can volunteer for active army training such as military parachute operations, helicopter operations, military mountain climbing and training with active army units in the United States and overseas. There are also numerous academic internships with state and federal agencies available through Army ROTC. All training is cost free to the student and students are paid for some summer training courses.

The ROTC program consists of two primary programs, the basic course normally given during the freshman year and sophomore year consisting of MIL 211/212, MIL 221/222 and MIL 251/252. The advanced courses normally taken during the junior and senior years consists of MIL 231/232, MS 241/242, and MS 251/252. MIL 100 Physical Fitness Training is encouraged for all students participating in Army ROTC.

Students who have completed basic training in any U.S. service may qualify for placement into the advanced course. Additionally students who have not completed the ROTC basic course may qualify for the advanced course by attending a paid four week long leadership training course conducted each summer at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Freshman and sophomore students can compete for two, two and one half, and three year ROTC scholarships that pay up to $27,000 per year for tuition and up to $900 per year for books. Special nurse, Army National Guard and Army Reserve scholarships are also available.

The Army will commission successful graduates as a second lieutenant with a starting salary of over $33,000 per year plus medical and dental benefits as well as 30 days paid vacation per year.

For more information on the Army ROTC program at Misericordia University, contact the Military Science Department at 570-208-5900 ext. 5305 or ext. 5301.

Military Science Course Descriptions (MIL)

Center for Adult and Continuing Education

Misericordia University offers a variety of educational options for non-traditional students: those students who attend part-time, those who did not go to college right after high school and those with some prior college experience.

The Center for Adult and Continuing Education is sensitive to the alternative needs of student with families, full-time jobs, or both. Evening classes are held every semester and during the summer.Many non-traditional students find weekend and accelerated evening classes convenient. All of the university’s academic and student services facilities are available to students. Similarly, such students must comply with the university regulations. The adult learner can access a variety of academic and support services including individualized academic assistance; SIGI PLUS, a computerized career guidance system to help students determine vocational paths that best suit their work values, interests and abilities; periodic workshops on topics such as study skills, job search, and interview techniques; free tutoring; and a variety of credit options outside of the classroom (see Credit Option Outside the Classroom).

Flexible Schedules for Adults

Part-time Day and Evening

Flexible scheduling enables many students to work towards a degree without giving up full-time work or family care. The Center for Adult and Continuing Education is open while students are on campus, including weekends and evenings.

Accelerated Evening Classes on Campus

The accelerated evening classes are designed for part-time adult learners who must balance family and career responsibilities while pursuing their education. Classes meet in “terms” which consist of seven Monday or Thursday evenings (5:40 pm–9:40 pm). Two terms per semester are offered. Students may take up to two classes per term, which allows them to accelerate their course load.

Weekend College Classes on Campus

Weekend College is a special accelerated educational model for adult learners who must balance family and career responsibilities while pursuing their education. Students may earn credit toward a bachelor’s degree by attending classes every other weekend. The program emphasizes independent, self-motivated study.Weekend College classes meet seven times a semester on Saturdays or Sundays (8am–noon and/or 1pm–5pm).

For further information contact the Center for Adult and Continuing Education at (570) 674-6450 or 674-6451.

Expressway: Misericordia University at Luzerne County Community College (LCCC), Nanticoke and Hazleton Campuses; Northampton Community College (NCC), Monroe Campus; and Lackawanna College (LC) in Scranton

The Expressway Program is an accelerated bachelor’s degree completion program designed for students who have an associate’s degree and at least three years’ work or relevant life experience. Classes are held at LCCC in Nanticoke, Hazleton, NCC in Tannersville, and LC in Scranton one evening per week. Classes are also held in Nanticoke every third Saturday. Online classes also are available. Classes are scheduled in five-week or seven-week formats. Students can earn up to 12 credits in a 15-week semester. This program also is available for students who want to earn a second bachelor’s degree or a certificate.

Expressway faculty are professionals within a field of expertise and have been carefully selected and trained to facilitate adult learners in this innovative learning environment. For further information contact the Expressway Office at (570) 674-6791 or 674-3021.

Credit Options Outside the Classroom
Misericordia University recognizes that significant, meaningful learning often occurs in settings other than structured, university-sponsored courses. For adult students who would like to receive credit for knowledge they have already acquired, College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) permit them to translate their learning into college credit. No more than a total of 40 credits may be earned through credit options outside the classroom.

CLEP: College Level Examination Program
CLEP allows adult students to demonstrate their knowledge in a wide range of subject areas. CLEP examinations are standardized tests that measure a person’s knowledge of the material covered in introductory college courses. The knowledge may have been obtained through on-the-job experiences, professional workshops, classes at business or technical schools, volunteer activities, or a vocational pursuits. CLEP credit is treated as transfer credit and is awarded on a credit/no credit basis. Only passing grades appear on transcripts. Call the Center for Adult and Continuing Education at (570) 674-6450 for more information.

Contract Learning
Contract learning provides students the convenience of continuing their academic studies despite temporary work or family demands that prevent them from attending regularly scheduled classes. An independent study arrangement, contract learning can be set up for either course offerings from our catalog or for topics that students would like to study in more depth.

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Credits
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credits allow students with the opportunity to validate their relevant learning in a written document called a portfolio. The portfolio information is organized to correspond as closely as possible to comparable courses from Misericordia’s inventory of undergraduate offerings. Emphasis is placed on the satisfactory presentation of the student’s knowledge relative to each course’s learning objectives.

For each challenged course, a faculty assessor from each of the involved department will be selected by that college dean. The assessors will review the portfolio according to the following criteria: the learning will be demonstrated to be college level; the learning is current, particularly in quickly changing fields such as computer science and business; the learning must be able to be generalized and transferred, i.e., it can be applied outside of the specific context or situation in which it was acquired; the learning must be measurable; the learning must have a theoretical as well as a practical component; credits will be awarded for competence and actual learning—outcomes not merely the experience; the credits awarded will not duplicate other earned credits. This includes transferred credits, CLEP credits, Misericordia-awarded credits, ACT, PEP exams, etc.

Students who request assessment of their prior learning must:

Be matriculated at the university with a declared major;
Limit requests for assessment to those course areas that will fulfill degree requirements in their declared major;
Have had all transfer credits officially evaluated prior to attempting this credit option.

Students will not be required to have any previously earned university credits; thus there will be no minimum GPA requirements. Students who have been awarded Prior Learning Assessment credits at another institution will not automatically be awarded such credit in transfer. They will, however, have the opportunity to present their portfolios, with updated information, to the PLA committee. For more information contact the Center for Adult and Continuing Education at (570) 674-3022.

The option for prior learning assessment will be available only during fall and spring semesters. Students will attend an initial orientation session (free of charge) to familiarize them with the university policy and process of PLA. The credit-free workshop, portfolio requirements, and fee structures will be explained. For further information contact the Center for Adult and Continuing Education at (570) 674-3022.

Women with Children Program

The Women with Children Program is designed for academically qualified single mothers and provides the opportunity to live on campus with their children while attending classes.

Non-credit Programs

For individuals interested in professional and personal development, the Center for Adult and Continuing Education offers a variety of credit-free programs, classes and workshops.

The Fitness and Fun Program offers special programs, camps, non-credit courses and workshops for children, students, employees, alumni, and the community.

For further information, contact the Center for Adult and Continuing Education at (570) 674-6289.

Academic Program Definitions

Academic programs fall into six inter-related groups: majors, specializations, certificates, certifications, minors, and elective areas of study. These program areas are defined below.

Majors	Areas of study in a formal discipline for which a degree is awarded; for example, a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History, a Bachelor of Social Work Degree in Social Work, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics, or a Master of Science Degree in Occupational Therapy.
Minors	Focused programs of study which involve specific clusters of courses around a general area of study. Minors are not associated with particular degree programs and are therefore open to all undergraduate students. For example, minors are available in writing, philosophy, and religious studies.
Specializations	Specializations Specializations are focused programs of extended study closely associated with a specific degree program. Specializations are generally available only to students who have been accepted into the major for the specific degree, for example, BA, History (Pre-law) or BS, Biology (Pre-medicine).
Certificates	Certificates are awarded to students who complete specified coursework independent of a defined degree program. Certificate programs are offered in addictions counseling, child welfare services, gerontology, informatics and diagnostic medical sonography. A graduate level pediatric certificate is available for practicing occupational and physical therapists. NOTE: Completion of a Certificate Program does not equate to certification in any of the programs.
Certifications	Certifications are prescribed programs of study designed to meet requirements of official agencies which recognize the certification as a valid credential. For example, certifications are available in early childhood education which is recognized by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Elective Areas of Study	There are clusters of courses which are not as a group directly associated with a specific degree program. Elective courses are intended to augment the liberal arts background of any interested students. For example, electives are available in philosophy or sociology.

Academic Program Listings

Specific Degree Programs	In the academic program listings which follow, majors, specializations, and certifications are combined into one section and are listed alphabetically by program name. They have been grouped together by virtue of a common factor; each requires defined course sequences.
Minor Programs	Minors, which are open to all students, may be taken in association with any degree program. Minors involve 15 to 22 credits in specific areas.
Course Descriptions	Specific information regarding every course offered may be found in the Course Descriptions section.