The Academic Catalog and Academic Policies

The academic catalog is the University’s official record of undergraduate policies, programs, and requirements. It serves as the authoritative source that governs the relationship between students and the institution, establishing the expectations, standards, and procedures that shape academic life. While advising, course materials, and departmental guidance are important, the catalog is the final reference point for how policies are defined and applied.

Within these pages, students will find the core policies that structure their academic progress. These include degree requirements, credit hour expectations, grading systems, academic standing, registration procedures, transfer credit policies, and requirements for graduation. Policies addressing academic integrity, attendance, withdrawals, and appeals are also included, providing a framework for both opportunity and accountability. Together, these policies ensure consistency, fairness, and clarity across all undergraduate programs.

The catalog is not merely informational—it is operational. Academic decisions, from course enrollment to degree conferral, are made in accordance with the policies outlined here. This means that both students and faculty rely on the catalog to guide actions and resolve questions. When policies are unclear or situations are complex, the catalog provides the language and structure needed to make sound and equitable decisions.

For that reason, students bear an important responsibility: to become familiar with the policies that govern their academic journey. Taking the time to understand these expectations early—and revisiting them as needed—helps prevent misunderstandings and supports successful progress toward a degree. In a very practical sense, students who know the rules are better equipped to navigate the system, advocate for themselves, and make wise academic choices.