Understand the academic process.
A reference for independent study, mentorship, assessment, and changes to your learning plan.
This guidance summarizes the university materials supplied for this website. Confirm the current rules for your degree before enrolling.
Independent study and mentorship
Reliable internet, a computer, document preparation skills, and access to appropriate research materials support independent study. A Faculty Mentor helps clarify goals, identify resources, plan academic work, and review progress.
Your learning contract
The learning contract should connect the competencies recognized through assessment with the work still required. It may include study, research, a major project, a thesis or dissertation, or creative work appropriate to the field.
Changing a field of study
A new concentration may require prerequisite or corequisite competencies in addition to the usual program work. Discuss a proposed change with the Faculty Mentor and confirm how it affects the learning plan, time, and costs before proceeding.
Grading reference
The supplied instructional materials use the following grade values. Current pass marks, academic-standing requirements, reassessment rules, and graduation thresholds must be confirmed for the program.
| Grade | Grade points |
|---|---|
| A | 4.0 |
| B+ | 3.5 |
| B | 3.0 |
| C+ | 2.5 |
| C | 2.0 |
| C- | 1.5 |
| D | 1.0 |
| F | 0.0 |
Comprehensive examinations
The documented examination process follows completion of the relevant learning-contract competencies and readings. It uses an essay examination to integrate learning and demonstrate the ability to communicate it.
Before an examination, request written instructions covering the format, deadline, permitted resources and assistance, submission method, academic-integrity declaration, review process, and any further-attempt or appeal arrangements.
The source describes review by a Faculty Mentor and committee member, with further review where needed. Current examination and progression rules are set by the university; this page does not create a new entitlement to credit, candidacy, or reassessment.