KAPLAN UNIVERSITY CATALOG ADDENDUM. Published: March 11, 2009

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1 KAPLAN UNIVERSITY CATALOG ADDENDUM Published: March 11, 2009 Previously Issued: January 30, 2008; April 16, 2008; August 27, 2008; October 13, 2008; November 5, 2008; December 18, 2008; December 24, 2008; January 5, 2009; January 28, 2009 (the curricular changes in this Addendum, unless otherwise noted, are effective for the Davenport, Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Des Moines, Lincoln, Mason City, and Omaha campuses January 28, 2009); February 13, 2009 Addenda are published on a regular basis and reflect changes to policies and programs based on decisions made by the University during the previous term.

2 Table of Contents POLICY INFORMATION University Information Accrediting Agencies, Approvals, and Memberships Admissions Information General Policies International Applicants Prior Learning Assessment Student Technology Requirements for Online Courses Student Information and Services Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Problem Resolution, Student Complaints, and Grievance Procedures...10 Academic Information Definition of an Academic Year Academic Standards Academic Grading System Academic Appeals Policy Honors and Awards Incomplete Grades Pass/Fail Option Repeated Courses Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards Financial Information Enrollment Status Refund Policy Scholarships UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS Policy Information Progression Requirements Program and Course Changes General Education Program College of Arts and Sciences Programs School of Business and Management Programs School of Criminal Justice Programs School of Health Sciences Programs School of Information Systems and Technology Programs School of Legal Studies Programs School of Nursing Programs Discontinued Programs Discontinued Courses Revised Course Titles/Numbers Revised Course Credits Course Prerequisite Changes Undergraduate Course Descriptions Course Prerequisite Changes Graduate Course Descriptions CONCORD LAW SCHOOL Concord Law School Information Program Objectives The Curriculum Admissions Equipment, Internet Connection, and Technological Competency Transfer Credit for Prior Law Studies School Policies Academic Standards and Academic Dismissals Attendance Policy Cancellation and Refund Policy Dismissed Students Grading and Examination Transfer Policy, JD to EJD Program Tuition and Fees Course Descriptions Concord Law School Administrators and Faculty KAPLAN UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATORS AND ACADEMIC LEADERSHIP 166 OTHER INFORMATION Ownership Kaplan Higher Education Campuses GRADUATE PROGRAMS Policy Information Alternative Admissions Procedures Graduation Requirements Program and Course Changes School of Business and Management Programs School of Criminal Justice Programs School of Higher Education Studies Programs School of Information Systems and Technology Programs Graduate School of Legal Studies Programs School of Nursing Programs School of Teacher Education Programs Discontinued Programs Discontinued Courses Revised Course Titles/Numbers

3 Kaplan University Contact Information ONLINE ONLINE REGISTRAR S OFFICE 550 West Van Buren Street, 7th Floor Chicago, IL Tel: (Toll Free) Fax: (Toll Free) ONLINE PROGRAMS/ADMISSIONS 6301 Kaplan University Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL Tel: (Toll Free) Office for Returning Students Tel: , ext (Toll Free) 4646 East Van Buren Street Phoenix, AZ Tel: (Toll Free) ONLINE SUPPORT CENTERS 6301 Kaplan University Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL West Van Buren Street, 7th Floor Chicago, IL Tel: (Toll Free) techsupport@kaplan.edu PRIOR LEARNING ASSESSMENT CENTER 550 West Van Buren Street, 7th Floor Chicago, IL Fax: (Toll Free) CONCORD LAW SCHOOL Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 1200 Los Angeles, CA Tel: Fax: North Andrews Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL Tel: (Toll Free) Ingenuity Drive Orlando, FL Tel: (Toll Free) CAMPUSES MAIN CAMPUS Davenport 1801 East Kimberly Road, Suite 1 Davenport, IA Tel: Tel: (Toll Free) Fax: IOWA Cedar Falls 7009 Nordic Drive Cedar Falls, IA Tel: Cedar Rapids 3165 Edgewood Parkway, SW Cedar Rapids, IA Tel: Council Bluffs 1751 Madison Avenue, Suite 750 Council Bluffs, IA Tel: Des Moines st Street Des Moines, IA Tel: Mason City Plaza West th Street, SW Mason City, IA Tel: NEBRASKA Lincoln 1821 K Street Lincoln, NE Tel: Omaha 3350 North 90th Street Omaha, NE Tel: When confirming accreditation, please note that Kaplan University s main campus is located in Iowa. Business Offices 6301 KAPLAN UNIVERSITY AVENUE 6600 NORTH ANDREWS AVENUE FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (ONLINE) FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (ONLINE) CHICAGO, IL (ONLINE) DAVENPORT, IA (ONSITE) PHOENIX, AZ (ONLINE) ORLANDO, FL (ONLINE) Academic Advising X X X X X Admissions X X X X X Financial Aid X X X X X Online Registrar s Office X Support Services X X 3

4 Kaplan University Program Offerings PROGRAM Online Davenport Cedar Cedar Council Des Lincoln Mason Omaha Falls Rapids Bluffs Moines City PROFESSIONAL LAW DEGREES Juris Doctor (JD) Executive Juris Doctor (EJD) X X MASTER S DEGREES Master of Arts in Teaching Master of Business Administration Master of Science in Criminal Justice Master of Science in Education Master of Science in Higher Education Master of Science in Information Technology Master of Science in Legal Studies Master of Science in Management Master of Science in Nursing X X X X X X X X X BACHELOR S DEGREES Advanced Start Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Business Administration X X X X X X X X X Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Communication X X Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice X X X X X X X X Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Health and Wellness X Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Health Science X Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Information Technology* X X X X X X X Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies X X Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science X Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies X X Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies X Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Psychology X X Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Science in Accounting X X Bachelor of Science in Business Administration X X X X X X X X X Bachelor of Science in Communication X X Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice X X X X X X X X Bachelor of Science in Health and Wellness X Bachelor of Science in Health Science X Bachelor of Science in Information Technology* X X X X X X X Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies X X Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies X *Enrollment for this program will begin April 15, 2009, for the Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Lincoln, and Omaha campuses. 4

5 PROGRAM Online Davenport Cedar Cedar Council Des Lincoln Mason Omaha Falls Rapids Bluffs Moines City Bachelor of Science (continued) Bachelor of Science in Nursing Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies X X Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies Bachelor of Science in Psychology X X X X X ASSOCIATE S DEGREES Associate of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies X X X X X X X X X Associate of Science in Nursing (offered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida only) X Associate of Applied Science in Accounting X X X X X X X X Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration X X X X X X X X X Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems X X X X X X X X X Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice X X X X X X X X X Associate of Applied Science in Global Travel and Hospitality Management X X X Associate of Applied Sciences in Health Information Technology X Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting X X X X X X X X X Associate of Applied Science in Medical Office Management X X Associate of Applied Science in Medical Transcription X X Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies X X X X X X X DIPLOMA PROGRAMS Dental Assistant Diploma X Massage Therapy Diploma X Practical Nursing Diploma X X X X X X CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS Computer Systems Technician Certificate X X X X X X X Corrections Certificate X Crime Scene Technician Certificate X Global Travel and Hospitality Management Certificate X Information Technology Pathway Certificate X X Internet and Website Development Certificate X X Introduction to Computer Programming Language Certificate X X Legal Secretary Certificate X Management and Supervision Certificate in Criminal Justice X Medical Transcription Certificate X X Office Management Certificate X X X X X X X X Pathway to Paralegal Postbaccalaureate Certificate X X Private Security Certificate X Private Security Management Certificate X Professional Development for Teachers X Teacher Intern Certificate X Enrollment for this program will begin April 15, 2009, for the Council Bluffs campus. 5

6 Policy Information UNIVERSITY INFORMATION ADMISSIONS INFORMATION The following changes to Kaplan University's Accrediting Agencies, Approvals, and Memberships in regards to Concord Law School are effective November 5, 2008; changes in regards to the Master of Arts in Teaching program are effective July 2, 2008; changes in regards to the Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program are effective January 1, 2009: Accrediting Agencies, Approvals, and Memberships The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs ( upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB): Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs 1361 Park Street Clearwater, FL Tel: Concord Law School is authorized to operate as a degree-granting institution in the state of California and is registered as an unaccredited law school in the distance learning category with the California Committee of Bar Examiners: 180 Howard Street San Francisco, CA Tel: Website: Concord s unique method of delivering its program utilizing the Internet without a fixed classroom facility places it in the distance learning category under California law. The California Committee of Bar Examiners registers distance learning schools, and if study is completed in conformance with Title IV, Division 1 of the Rules of the State Bar of California (Admission Rules) and all other requirements are met, graduates of the Juris Doctor program are eligible to sit for the California Bar Examination. The Iowa certification track of the Master of Arts in Teaching program is approved by the Iowa State Board of Education for the secondary teaching concentration area: Grimes State Office Building 400 East 14th Street Des Moines, IA Tel: The following changes to Kaplan University's general admissions policies are effective January 28, 2009: General Policies Listed below are general requirements and procedures that Kaplan University has established for all students seeking admission. Some programs have additional admissions and other requirements, which can be found in the individual school sections of the Catalog. 1. All applicants to the University must complete an Enrollment Agreement and all required documents and submit monies as outlined on the Tuition and Fees Schedule. The Enrollment Agreement must be signed by a parent or legal guardian if the applicant is under 18 years of age or under 19 years of age in the state of Nebraska. 2. All applicants must complete an informational interview. For campus interviews, parents or spouses are encouraged to be present. 3. All applicants are encouraged to tour the campus and/or online learning environment prior to starting classes. 4. All courses are conducted in English. Students must be able to speak, read, and write English fluently. English abilities will be determined through the University s admissions test or placement exam (if applicable), an interview, and the completion of any necessary documents. 5. Kaplan University is authorized under federal law to enroll nonimmigrant alien students. International students who wish to be admitted to any Kaplan University for-credit program must be 18 years or older, complete admissions requirements, and provide evidence of adequate financial resources. To ensure that international students are prepared to complete college-level coursework, they must demonstrate a command of oral and written English skills. Minimum required TOEFL or IELTS scores are as follows: IELTS Undergraduate 6 Graduate 6.5 TOEFL PAPER-BASED COMPUTER- INTERNET- BASED BASED Undergraduate Graduate All applicants must complete financial arrangements prior to starting class. If applicable, financial aid applications must be completed. 7. Prior to starting an academic program, undergraduate students may be required to participate in entrance assessments. A minimum performance score on these assessments may be required to begin an academic program at the University. This requirement may be waived for students who have prior college credit from an accredited institution. This waiver does not apply to Practical Nursing Diploma students. 6

7 If a student fails to meet the minimum score, they may be dismissed or be required to take foundational coursework. In the event that a student is required to take foundational coursework, she or he must earn a minimum grade of 2.0 in all reading and writing foundational coursework or will be dismissed from the University. All applicants to the Dental Assistant Diploma program are required to take the Wonderlic Scholastic Level exam prior to enrollment and attain a minimum score of 13. Applicants not accepted by the University or dismissed as a result of failing to meet minimum acceptable assessment scores shall be entitled to a refund of all monies paid. Students dismissed for failing to earn a minimum grade of 2.0 in any reading or writing foundational course will be responsible for all tuition and fees assessed while enrolled. 8. All applicants must complete any programmatic admissions requirements, if applicable. 9. Students enrolled in an advanced start program must furnish an official transcript indicating receipt of a comparable associate s degree or bachelor s degree from a college or university accredited by a regional or national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education by the end of their first term. If this document is not submitted by the end of the first term, the student will be blocked from future classes until such documentation is provided. If, for any reason, the transcript submitted is found to be false or untrue, the student will be subject to immediate dismissal from the University, all credits earned will be invalidated, and the University will take all other appropriate actions. 10. Prior to enrollment, students enrolled in a graduate program, unless otherwise noted, must submit an unofficial transcript indicating receipt of a bachelor s degree from a college or university accredited by a regional or national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. By the end of the first term (end of the second term for graduate business students), students must provide the University with an official copy of the transcript. If an official transcript is not submitted by the end of the first term (end of the second term for graduate business students), the student will be blocked from future classes, and the student s academic credentials will be withheld until such documentation is provided. If, for any reason, the student does not furnish a transcript or the transcript submitted is found to be false or untrue, the student will be subject to immediate dismissal from the University, all credits earned will be invalidated, and the University will take all other appropriate actions. 11. An applicant to the University s undergraduate programs must: a. Be a high school graduate, or b. Possess a General Education Development (GED) certificate, or c. Possess a Home Study certificate or transcript from a Home Study program that is equivalent to high school level and recognized by the student s home state, and be beyond the age of compulsory attendance in that state, or d. Be a high school senior eligible to apply and submit proof of high school graduation, or e. Be beyond the age of compulsory school attendance and demonstrate the ability to benefit (ATB). Ability to benefit does not apply to any candidates for admission to any associate s or bachelor s degree program, or the Massage Therapy Diploma or Practical Nursing Diploma programs. ATB students may only attend at a residential location and enrollment is at the discretion of the Campus President/Executive Director. Please note that some campuses may not offer this option. High school students may take individual courses at the University under special local and state programs. These students will be enrolled as nondegree-seeking students until they have graduated high school and are admitted to the University under regular admissions requirements. Evidence of high school graduation or equivalent must be presented to the University. Acceptable evidence includes a certified copy of an original high school diploma, a copy of a high school transcript indicating the date of high school graduation, a copy of a DD214 military record indicating the applicant is a high school graduate or equivalent, a GED certificate or official notification that a GED has been earned, a college transcript indicating the date of high school graduation, or proof of successful completion of an associate s degree from a nationally or regionally accredited instituting of higher learning. If applicants who currently reside in the United States but attended school in foreign countries are unable to produce the required documents, evidence may include certification from other official sources. Online students must attest to high school graduation or equivalent. Acceptable attestation for Kaplan University may be a Kaplan University Proof of Graduation Attestation Form, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), or any other document deemed acceptable by the University. If, for any reason, this attestation of high school graduation or its equivalent is found to be false or untrue, the student will be subject to immediate dismissal from the University, all credits earned will be invalidated, and the University will take all other appropriate actions. The statements made in this attestation are verified through a random sampling of students admitted to the University. If a student is selected for this verification, he or she will have 30 days in which to provide the University with such proof of graduation as is described above. If Kaplan University is required to obtain this proof of graduation on the student s behalf, there will be a $10 fee charged to their account. Title IV financial aid cannot be used to pay this fee. If this fee is charged, it must be paid by the student using his or her own funds. All graduates of foreign high schools must provide actual proof of graduation. If the attestation and/or documentation is found to be false or untrue, all Title IV financial aid or any state or institutional financial aid that was disbursed on the student s behalf must be refunded to the appropriate source, and the student will be responsible for payment of these funds to the original source or to Kaplan University, if the University is required to and has refunded such funds on the student s behalf. Fraudulent Diplomas: There are institutions and companies readily available across the country and online that will provide a high school diploma or certificate of completion for a fee with minimal or no student work required. Certificates and diplomas of this nature ARE NOT valid and students cannot be admitted based on such documentation. Please note that some programs require documentation that need not be submitted at the time of admission, but that is required for successful completion of the program. See the individual school listings in the University Catalog for additional information. The following changes to Kaplan University's admissions policies for international applicants are effective January 28, 2009: International Applicants The University is authorized under federal law to enroll nonimmigrant, alien students. In addition to the general requirements listed above, additional requirements apply to all international students. International students who wish to be admitted to any Kaplan University for-credit program must: 1. Be 18 years or older; 2. If applying to an onsite program, submit bank statement(s), with balance(s) converted into U.S. dollars, indicating that the student or parent/guardian has sufficient funds to cover the costs of tuition, fees, and/or living expenses for the entire program of study, or a certified government sponsor letter indicating that tuition, fees, and/or living 7

8 expenses will be paid in advance of each term. If enrolled in English language course(s) at another institution, bank statement(s) or a certified government sponsor letter proving sufficient funds for the entire University program can be submitted along with the Enrollment Agreement; 3. Demonstrate a command of oral and written English skills to ensure they are prepared to complete the college-level coursework. Minimum required TOEFL or IELTS scores are as follows: TOEFL PAPER-BASED COMPUTER- INTERNET- BASED BASED Undergraduate Graduate IELTS Undergraduate 6 Graduate If applying to an onsite program, submit an enrollment fee of $ U.S. with the Enrollment Agreement, which will exempt the student from paying administrative, application, and registration fees stated on the Tuition and Fees Schedule, if applicable. The application fee is fully refundable if the applicant decides not to complete the enrollment process or is not accepted by the University; 5. If applying to an onsite program, submit a registration fee of $ U.S. Upon receipt of the Enrollment Agreement, the University will issue the appropriate paperwork to students attending a residential campus in order to apply for a student visa. If enrolled in English language course(s) at another institution, final acceptance will be contingent upon the above-referenced TOEFL/IELTS score and sufficient funds to cover the costs of tuition, fees, and/or living expenses for the entire University program; and 6. Submit a high school or official college transcript (as required by the program of application). Transcripts from foreign institutions must meet the same requirements as domestic institutions. Foreign transcripts must be translated into English along with an explanation of the grading scale, and evaluated for equivalency to a United States high school or college diploma by an authorized school official, appropriate outside agency, or approved foreign credential evaluator and submitted prior to enrollment. Evaluation documents must include U.S. equivalency of the degree and/or diploma, and a courseby-course equivalency evaluation if the student desires to receive credit for individual courses. Any costs incurred as a result of this service will be the responsibility of the student, and may range from approximately $50.00 to $ U.S. The following changes to Kaplan University s general Prior Learning Assessment policy and guidelines for the Experiential Learning Portfolio are effective January 7, 2009; changes to the General Guidelines for Graduate Programs are effective January 28, 2009: Prior Learning Assessment All students who possess prior learning are encouraged to submit evidence of such and apply for credit evaluations. Those who receive veterans benefits through Kaplan University must submit documentation of previous education for review. The University may award credit for various forms of prior learning, including courses taken at other institutions, experiential learning, military credit, and others. These are described in detail and guidelines for evaluation are given in the University Catalog. All prior learning is reviewed on a case-by-case basis and credit is awarded ultimately at the discretion of the University. Prior learning credits are not used in calculating the cumulative grade point average. Applicants who are denied credit may present a written appeal for reconsideration to the Academic Dean (online) or the Campus Academic Dean (onsite). To be considered, official transcripts and exam scores should be sent to the Office of the Registrar of the student s campus. Please refer to the address listings at the front of the Catalog. Online students should send their documentation to the following address: Kaplan University Prior Learning Assessment Center 550 West Van Buren Street, 7th Floor Chicago, IL To pursue credit for experiential learning, online students must enroll in EL 200: Prior Learning Assessment Part I and EL 205: Prior Learning Assessment Part II. The courses must be taken in sequence. Students are strongly encouraged to enroll in these two courses during their first two terms at Kaplan University. GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR GRADUATE PROGRAMS The following guidelines apply to students enrolled in all graduate programs. Certain programs may have additional policies governing the application of prior learning credit, which can be found in the individual school sections of the Catalog: 1. A student may apply as many as three courses earned at another college or university toward the total number of credits required for graduation at Kaplan University. 2. Students enrolled in the Master of Business Administration or Master of Science in Management programs may apply Challenge Exam credit toward GB 512: Business Communications. Students in the Master of Business Administration program may apply Challenge Exam credit toward GB 513: Business Analytics. All other graduate students may only apply transfer credit into their degree programs and are not eligible for other kinds of prior learning credit. 3. Courses must have been completed prior to matriculation. 4. Courses must be relevant to the degree in which the student is enrolled. 5. Graduate transfer work completed more than 5 years prior to admission to Kaplan University will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis in order to determine the applicability of the coursework. TYPES OF CREDIT Experiential Learning Portfolio Portfolios demonstrate prior learning from work or other experience. Online students who wish to submit a portfolio to obtain experiential learning credit must enroll in EL 200: Prior Learning Assessment Part I and EL 205: Prior Learning Assessment Part II. The courses must be taken in sequence. Onsite students who wish to obtain experiential learning credit must meet with the Campus Academic Dean, and, if appropriate, will be assigned a Program Advisor. Portfolios will be evaluated to determine equivalency to college-level coursework. Equivalency to related coursework may be determined by submission of supporting documentation such as a job description, a description of equipment used, a description of the work environment, verification of employment by the supervisor or employer on the employer s letterhead, and/or various other appropriate forms of documentation verifying employment or work learning. Online students must document the fulfillment of course objectives based on the chosen course syllabus and must follow the portfolio development process embedded in EL 200 and EL 205. Onsite students must follow the process outlined in the Experiential Learning Portfolio Submission Manual. A key criterion in the evaluation of the portfolio is the student s ability to organize and present verifiable evi- 8

9 dence of college-level learning through proper documentation and a course narrative. Based upon faculty review of the portfolio, students may be awarded college credit. Credit earned through Experiential Learning Portfolios will be awarded the grade of EC. The portfolio is evaluated by instructors who teach related courses. All Experiential Learning Portfolios must be submitted and evaluated prior to the start of the student s final term. For online students, a review fee will be charged for Experiential Learning Portfolios. The following changes to Kaplan University's Student Technology Requirements for Online Courses are effective January 28, 2009: Student Technology Requirements for Online Courses As part of the admission process to Kaplan University, students are required to attest to certain competencies in the use of technology. Students must have the following skills: Ability to use to correspond with faculty, staff, and students Ability to access, create, and save documents in Microsoft Office formats. At a minimum, students must be familiar with Microsoft Word Ability to browse the Web, including downloading and installing common plug-ins (listed below) and configuring common browser options Ability to configure and run applications, including an antivirus application, to ensure that the student's system is secure and transmitted files are virus free To enroll in classes online, all Kaplan University students must have access to a computer with the following minimum requirements: HARDWARE A PC running Windows XP or Vista, or Mac OS X with the operating system s minimum requirements for processor, memory, and hard drive (See the Microsoft or Apple website for minimum requirements) At least 10.0 GB of free hard-drive space (additional space may be needed for multimedia files) 1024 x 768 monitor with a 16-bit or greater video card (24-bit preferred) DVD-ROM drive or CD-ROM drive Sound card with speakers and microphone (for selected courses) SOFTWARE Microsoft Windows Operating System (XP or Vista) or Mac OS X Microsoft Office 2003 or later* A current antivirus and antispyware application that is updated regularly Internet Explorer 6.0 or later, Firefox or later, or Safari 2.0 or later Adobe Reader 7.0 or later (free download) Adobe Flash Player 9.0 or later (free download) Sun Java 2 SDK (Java 1.3.1) or later for PC (free download)/classic Java (MRJ 2.2.5) or later for Mac (free download) AOL Instant Messenger (free download) Some courses and programs may have additional software and hardware requirements. * Microsoft Word is required to submit all assignments. Some classes require the use of additional software such as Microsoft Office Students are responsible for ensuring that they have the licensed software required and should not enroll in courses for which they do not have the necessary licensed software. INTERNET/ An Internet service provider (ISP) A dedicated, reliable 128 Kbps or faster Internet connection; An address and account will be issued to all Kaplan University students for use within their courses By enrolling, students understand and acknowledge that Kaplan University will communicate with students via their Kaplan University issued account. Please note that the University may also send communications to an alternate account provided by the student upon enrollment. To be part of Kaplan University's online program, students will need an Internet service provider (ISP). An ISP supplies access to the Internet for a fee. In many areas, cable television and digital Internet services offer high-speed Internet access. Kaplan University online education does not provide access to the Internet as part of its agreement. STUDENT INFORMATION AND SERVICES The following changes to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act are effective November 5, 2008: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords eligible students and their parents certain rights with respect to their education records including: Online student records are maintained for a minimum of 6 years from the end of the award year aid was last awarded or award year students last attended. Campus student records are retained for a minimum of 5 years from the end of the award year aid was last awarded or award year students last attended. Academic transcripts are maintained indefinitely. Students have the right to inspect and review their education records during normal school hours with an appointment within 45 days of the day the Campus President/Executive Director receives a written, dated request for access. The University does not permit students to inspect or review confidential student guidance notes maintained by the University, nor financial records, including any information those records contain, of their parents or guardians. Students have the right to request the amendment of education records that they believe are inaccurate, misleading, or a violation of privacy. Students requesting amendment of an education record should submit a written, dated request to the Campus President/Executive Director, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate, misleading, or a violation of privacy. If the University decides not to amend the record, the University will notify the student of the decision and the student s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing. Students have the right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without prior consent from the parents or the eligible student, as applicable. The University may neither release nor disclose personally identifiable information contained in the student s education records to outside employers, agencies, or individuals without first securing a written release from the parent or eligible student, as applicable, unless permitted by the Act. One exception to the above student record release policy permits disclo- 9

10 sure without consent to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff) or a person or company with whom the University is affiliated or has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent). A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill a professional responsibility. Upon request, the University discloses educational records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. Students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue SW Washington, DC The rights accorded to, and consent required of, parents under this Act transfer from the parents to the student once the student becomes eligible. The following changes to the Review Committee section of the Problem Resolution, Student Complaints, and Grievance Procedures are effective November 5, 2008: Problem Resolution, Student Complaints, and Grievance Procedures THE REVIEW COMMITTEE The Review Committee has the responsibility of reaching a decision that is in the best interests of both the student and the University. The Committee is comprised of senior managers from all departments in the University. Students must follow steps one through three of the grievance process before submitting an appeal to the Review Committee. Students wishing to submit a complaint must follow the procedure below: Submit an message requesting a General Report/Compliance Form to reviewcommittee@kaplan.edu, addressed to the Kaplan University compliance staff. Complaints are to be filed within 180 days of the most recent incident in question, unless the student can show good cause for a later filing. The complaint must include sufficient information to permit fact-finding and investigation. A compliance coordinator will contact the student if additional background is needed. Students will be contacted in writing with the Committee s decision within 5 business days after the meeting. Students who appeal the Committee decision must do so in writing within 10 business days of the decision, and must submit additional details that have changed or surfaced that would provide additional insight for the Committee. Appeals that do not include additional information will not be heard by the Committee, and the student will be notified. In the event that the Committee cannot resolve the complaint, a compliance coordinator may recommend that the Appellate Review Board convene to mediate the issue. The Appellate Review Board s decision will be final and binding. Retaliation against any student using this complaint process is strictly prohibited. A complaint of retaliation will promptly be investigated, will constitute separate charges, and will be handled in the same manner as discrimination and other grievance complaints. For Arizona residents only: If the student complaint cannot be resolved after exhausting the University s grievance procedure, the student may file a complaint with the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education. The student must contact the Board for further details. Their address is: 1400 West Washington, Room 260 Phoenix, AZ Tel: Website: For Wisconsin residents only: Any questions or concerns about this school that have not been satisfactorily answered or resolved by the school should be directed to the Wisconsin Educational Approval Board. Their address is: 20 West Mifflin Street, 9th Floor P.O. Box 8696 Madison, WI Tel: EABmail@eab.state.wi.us ACADEMIC INFORMATION The following changes to Kaplan University's Definition of an Academic Year are effective July 2, 2008: Definition of an Academic Year UNDERGRADUATE The University defines an academic year as a period of time in which a full-time student is expected to complete three terms of instructional time. A full-time student is expected to complete at least 36 credit hours within the academic year. GRADUATE Master of Science in Criminal Justice, Master of Science in Education, Master of Science in Higher Education, Master of Science in Information Technology, Master of Science in Legal Studies, Master of Science in Nursing, and Master of Arts in Teaching The University defines an academic year as a period of time in which a full-time student is expected to complete 24 credit hours in 33 weeks. Nonstandard Graduate Programs Given the accelerated pace of nonstandard graduate programs, the University defines an academic year as a period of time in which a student is expected to complete 20 credit hours in 30 weeks. STUDENT COURSE LOAD Students can register for no more than 18 credits per term without approval from the Dean of their program. A credit overload may result in changes to tuition charges and financial aid awards. Certain programs may have their own specific policies governing student course loads, which can be found in the individual school sections of the Catalog. 10

11 ACADEMIC STANDARDS The following changes to Kaplan University's Academic Grading System are effective January 28, 2009: Academic Grading System UNDERGRADUATE The grading system listed below is used for all undergraduate courses. The Practical Nursing Diploma program employs a unique grading system, which can be found in the Practical Nursing Program Student Handbook. Letter grades are used for transcripts only. Students should be aware that grades are based in part on participation in onsite class discussions and the online class discussion boards. GRADES POINTS DEFINITION A 4.0 Superior A- 3.7 Superior B+ 3.3 Above Average B 3.0 Above Average B- 2.7 Above Average C+ 2.3 Average C 2.0 Average C- 1.7 Average D+ 1.3 Below Average D 1.0 Below Average F 0.0 Failure AU Audit CC Credit by Examination EC Experiential Credit I Incomplete P Pass R Repeat S Satisfactory TC Transfer Credit U Unsatisfactory W Withdrawal NR Not Required NR Not Required. Students receive a NR if they are not obliged to enroll in a course to complete their degree requirements. This grade has no impact on the CGPA. The following changes to the Academic Dishonesty Appeal Procedures section of Kaplan University s Academic Appeals Policy are effective January 30, 2008; changes to the Grade Appeals section are effective January 28, Academic Appeals Policy ACADEMIC DISHONESTY APPEAL PROCEDURES Undergraduate Step 1: Within 10 days following notification of action for academic dishonesty, a student who wishes to appeal must first contact the faculty member of the class in which the incident occurred. The student should explain their reasoning for reconsideration. If the faculty member and the student agree to a resolution, the faculty member notifies the Provost s Office/Campus Academic Dean s Office. Step 2: If the problem has not been resolved and the student wishes to pursue the appeal, the student must complete and send the Academic Appeal Form to the Provost s Office/Campus Academic Dean s Office. The appeal will be forwarded to the Plagiarism Review Evaluator, an impartial expert on plagiarism. The Evaluator will consult academic department chairs and/or subject matter experts as needed. The Evaluator will review the documentation and share his/her opinion with the student. Step 3: If the student wishes to pursue the appeal, he/she must notify the Provost s Office/Campus Academic Dean s Office within 10 days of the Evaluator s decision. Notice of the appeal will be sent to the faculty member and the Dean of the program in which the student is enrolled, and the appeal will be forwarded to the Academic Appeals Committee, which will review the case and make a decision. Step 4: If the student disagrees with the Academic Appeals Committee s decision, he/she must send a written letter of appeal to the Provost s Office/Campus Academic Dean s Office within 10 days of the Committee s decision. The Provost/Campus Academic Dean will review the material presented and make a final ruling. School of Business and Management Graduate Programs, School of Criminal Justice Graduate Programs, School of Higher Education Studies, Graduate School of Legal Studies, School of Nursing Graduate Programs, School of Information Systems and Technology Graduate Programs, and School of Teacher Education Step 1: Within 10 days following notification of action for academic dishonesty, a student who wishes to appeal must first contact the faculty member of the class in which the incident occurred. The student should explain their reasoning for reconsideration. If the faculty member and the student agree to a resolution, the faculty member notifies the Provost s Office. Step 2: If the problem has not been resolved and the student wishes to pursue the appeal, the student must complete and send the Academic Appeal Form to the Provost s Office. The Provost s Office will forward the appeal on to the Plagiarism Review Evaluator, an impartial expert on plagiarism. The Evaluator will consult academic department chairs and/or subject matter experts as needed. The Evaluator will review the documentation and share his/her opinion with the student and send their written evaluation to the Provost s Office. Step 3: If the student does not agree with the decision, the student will notify the Provost s Office within 10 days of the Evaluator s decision. The Provost s Office will forward the document to the Dean of the graduate program in which the student is enrolled. The Dean or their designee will review the appeal and either approve or deny the appeal. Results of this decision will be sent to the Provost s Office. Step 4: If the student does not agree with the Dean s decision and wishes to pursue the appeal, he/she must notify the Provost s Office within 10 days of the Dean s decision. The Provost s Office will send notice of the appeal to the faculty member and the Dean, and the appeal will be forwarded to the Academic Appeals Committee, which will review the case and make a decision. A copy of the Committee s decision will be sent to the Provost s Office. Step 5: If the student disagrees with the Academic Appeals Committee s decision, he/she must send a written letter of appeal to the Provost s Office within 10 days of the Committee s decision. The Provost will review the material presented and make a final ruling. GRADE APPEALS Undergraduate Step 1: A student who alleges unfair grading practices for an assignment or course must first communicate with the faculty member of 11

12 the class within 10 days of grades being posted online. The burden of proof is on the student and the student shall provide evidence that unfair grading practices occurred. Step 2: If the faculty member and the student agree to a resolution, the faculty member corrects the grade or the grade stands. If the problem has not been resolved and the student wishes to continue with an appeal, the student will send the Academic Appeal Form to the Provost s Office/Campus Academic Dean s Office within 10 days of the decision by the faculty member. The Provost s Office/Campus Academic Dean s Office will forward the appeal to the faculty member, the Dean of the program in which the student is enrolled, and the Academic Appeals Committee, which will review the case and make a decision. Step 3: If the student disagrees with the Committee s decision, he/she must send a written letter of appeal to the Provost s Office/Campus Academic Dean s Office within 10 days of the Committee s decision. The Provost/Campus Academic Dean will review the material presented and make a final ruling. School of Business and Management Graduate Programs, School of Criminal Justice Graduate Programs, School of Higher Education Studies, Graduate School of Legal Studies, School of Nursing Graduate Programs, School of Information Systems and Technology Graduate Programs, and School of Teacher Education Step 1: A student who alleges unfair grading practices for an assignment or course must first communicate with the faculty member of the class within 10 days of grades being posted online. The burden of proof is on the student and the student shall provide evidence that unfair grading practices occurred. Step 2: If the faculty member and the student agree to a resolution, the faculty member corrects the grade or the grade stands. If the problem has not been resolved and the student wishes to continue with an appeal, the student will send the Academic Appeal Form to the Dean of the program in which the student is enrolled within 10 days of the faculty member s decision. The Dean or their designee will either approve or deny the appeal and send a copy of their decision to the Provost. Step 3: If the student disagrees with the decision, the student will notify the Provost s Office within 10 days of the decision by the Dean. The Provost s Office will forward the appeal to the Academic Appeals Committee, which will review the case and make a decision. A copy of the decision will be sent to the Provost. Step 4: If the student disagrees with the Committee s decision, he/she must send a written letter of appeal to the Provost s Office within 10 days of the Committee s decision. The Provost will review the material presented and make a final ruling. The following changes to Kaplan University s Honors and Awards policy for graduate students are effective November 5, 2008: Honors and Awards GRADUATE Term Completion Honors Kaplan University will no longer issue term completion honors to graduate students. Students enrolled prior to November 5, 2008, will be eligible for these term completion honors should they meet the requirements set forth below: Following the completion of each term, graduate students who earn certain grade point averages are recognized for their achievements by becoming part of the Dean s List or President s List. To be eligible for the Dean s List, a student must be enrolled in at least 8 credit hours for that term and attain a GPA. To be eligible for the President s List, a student must be enrolled in at least 8 credit hours for that term and attain a GPA. Degree Completion Honors Kaplan University will no longer issue degree completion honors to graduate students. Students enrolled prior to November 5, 2008, will be eligible for these degree completion honors should they meet the requirements set forth below: Students earning a master s degree are eligible to receive academic honors according to the following criteria: Magna Cum Laude: Students graduating with a cumulative grade point average. Summa Cum Laude: Students graduating with a cumulative grade point average. The following changes to Kaplan University s Incomplete Grades policy are effective January 30, 2008: Incomplete Grades UNDERGRADUATE Students receiving an incomplete in an online course must complete the course requirements and submit these to the course instructor within 10 days of the term end date. Students receiving an incomplete in an onsite course will have from the published end date of the term until the day prior to the start of the next term to submit incomplete coursework. GRADUATE Students receiving an incomplete in a course must complete the course requirements by the end of the following grading period. Under extenuating circumstances, and with the approval of the Dean of the student s program, an extension of one additional academic term may be given for the incomplete grade to be reconciled. In addition to the general guidelines, the School of Nursing may in certain circumstances provide an Incomplete grade to students in the Master of Science in Nursing program making sufficient academic progress and experiencing extenuating circumstances. Sufficient academic progress is defined as having approximately 75 percent of coursework completed. Students may choose to discuss the need for an Incomplete with their Academic Advisor or Dean. In all cases, the student should initiate such a request directly with the faculty member. The following changes to Kaplan University's Pass/Fail Option for graduate courses are effective July 2, 2008: Pass/Fail Option PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR TEACHERS (PDT) Participants enrolled in the Professional Development for Teachers program may elect to take courses on a pass/fail basis. Participants must elect to take a course pass/fail by the Tuesday of the second week of the term. Participants who must submit grades to employers, funding agencies, or other academic programs, or who anticipate transferring to another institution, should consult the appropriate offices before electing the pass/fail option. Participants enrolled in the PDT program may not transfer credits earned on a pass/fail basis into any other degree or certificate 12

13 program at Kaplan University. Professors are expected to evaluate participant performance without regard to grading status and give participants appropriate feedback regarding their performance throughout the term. A grade of P will be recorded on the official grade roster for those participants who have elected the pass/fail option and whose performance would otherwise be rated as A, B, or C. For participants who fail the course, professors will assign a grade of F. A grade of P will not be calculated into a participant s CGPA. A grade of F will be calculated into a participant s CGPA. All students should consider these criteria carefully before exercising the pass/fail option. The following changes to Kaplan University s Repeated Courses policy are effective November 5, 2008: Repeated Courses Students will only be allowed to repeat courses, as required by the University, due to academic problems or attendance violations. Undergraduate, non-nursing students may take a course three times as scheduling permits. Undergraduate nursing students may repeat a major or core course once as scheduling permits. Graduate students may repeat a course once as scheduling permits. The grade received on the last repeat becomes the final grade and will replace all other grades for that course in the CGPA calculation and will appear on the student s transcript. All other instances of the course will also appear on the student s transcript, but will be designated as R for repeated course. Students who repeat a course will be charged the current tuition for the course and must assume the responsibility for all associated fees. Repeating a course may interrupt the student s enrollment and may negatively impact financial aid eligibility and academic progress. Undergraduate students who take a required course three times without earning the minimum required grade will be dismissed from the program. Nursing and graduate students that fail a required course twice without earning the minimum required grade will be dismissed from the program. Students seeking to be readmitted into a program in which they have been dismissed for failing a required course must successfully complete the failed course at another accredited postsecondary institution. For the course to be accepted for readmission, it must meet the criteria established by Kaplan University for transfer of credit evaluations. The following changes to Kaplan University s Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards for undergraduate students are effective January 30, 2008; effective November 5, 2008, all undergraduate students are subject to the Academic Probation policy listed below: Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards Satisfactory academic progress standards apply to all students at the University. UNDERGRADUATE Maximum Time Frame All students must complete their program in a period not exceeding 1.5 times the length of the program as measured in credit hours attempted. For example, if a program requires successful completion of 60 credit hours, the student may not attempt more than 90 credit hours (1.5 x 60). To graduate, undergraduate students must successfully complete 100 percent of the required courses and obtain a minimum CGPA of 2.0 within the 1.5 maximum time frame. Bachelor s- and associate s-level nursing and health science students must complete, with a passing grade, all requirements for the program of study within the maximum time frame permitted and attain a minimum CGPA of 2.5 (nursing students) and 2.0 (health science students). Bachelor s- and associate s-level nursing students must also have no less than a C in any required major or core course. Bachelor s- and associate s-level health science students must have no less than a C in any required major course. Associate s-level nursing and health science students must also achieve a minimum of S (satisfactory) for the clinical components of nursing and health science courses. Any hours attempted, whether as a regular or extended enrollment student, will apply toward the maximum time frame permitted to complete a program. This includes courses with grades of W, WP, WF, R, P, S, U, or I. Remedial courses, if offered, will not affect satisfactory academic progress. Required Evaluation Schedule All students will be evaluated for progress at specific periods of time. Evaluation points and requirements are outlined below. If the evaluation points fall within a grading period, students will be evaluated at the end of that grading period. In addition to the evaluation points referenced in the charts, students will be evaluated at the end of the second and subsequent academic years to determine if it is possible to successfully complete the program within the maximum time frame permitted. If it is determined that it is impossible to successfully complete the program in the maximum time frame permitted, the student will be dismissed. These standards are not affected by an administrative leave of absence. The effects of withdrawals and incompletes are defined in the Academic Grading System section of the Catalog. All repeated courses, withdrawals, and incompletes are counted toward the hours attempted, and the grade received on the last repeat is used in the CGPA calculation. EVALUATION UNDERGRADUATE BACHELOR S/ BACHELOR S/ SUCCESSFUL POINT PROGRAMS, ASSOCIATE S- ASSOCIATE S- COMPLETION MINIMUM LEVEL HEALTH LEVEL NURSING OF HOURS CGPA SCIENCES PROGRAMS, ATTEMPTED PROGRAMS, MINIMUM MINIMUM CGPA CGPA 25% of % Program Attempted* 50% EVALUATION of 1.5 UNDERGRADUATE 2.0 BACHELOR S/ BACHELOR S/ 2.5 SUCCESSFUL 60% Program POINT PROGRAMS, ASSOCIATE S- ASSOCIATE S- COMPLETION Attempted* MINIMUM LEVEL HEALTH LEVEL NURSING OF HOURS CGPA SCIENCES PROGRAMS, ATTEMPTED 100% of PROGRAMS, MINIMUM % Program MINIMUM CGPA Attempted* CGPA 150% of % Program Attempted *See Academic Probation section in the University Catalog To be eligible for financial aid, continuing undergraduate students must maintain the academic standards and degree progress required for their program. Students whose academic standing or degree progress falls below the standard for their academic department will be ineligible to receive Title IV federal financial aid funds. ACADEMIC PROBATION Undergraduate Students not meeting standards at the 25 percent evaluation point will be placed on probation. They will have until the 50 percent evaluation point to achieve the minimum standards required for the 25 percent evaluation point. Students not meeting these requirements will be academically dismissed. 13

14 Students not meeting the standards at the 50 percent and 100 percent point (but above the requirements for the 25 percent point) will be placed on probation. Those placed on probation at the 50 percent and 100 percent point will have 20 percent of the total program length, as measured in credit hours attempted, to achieve the requirements of the 50 percent and 100 percent evaluation point as each applies. If 20 percent of the program falls within a grading period, the student will be evaluated at the end of that grading period. If the minimum standards for the 50 percent or 100 percent evaluation point are not achieved by the end of the probation period, the student will be academically dismissed. Students placed on probation will be notified in writing and will receive academic advising to assist them in grade improvement. Students on probation remain eligible for Title IV federal financial aid. If the Office of the Registrar determines that it is ultimately impossible for a student to obtain the required 2.0 CGPA at the end of the maximum time frame (1.5 times the normal program length), the student will be academically dismissed and will not be permitted to reapply in the same program. For students reentering in a different program, only courses that apply to the new program will be calculated in the 1.5 maximum time frame and the CGPA. Students receiving veterans benefits will have a maximum of two grading periods after falling below a 2.0 CGPA to obtain the required minimum 2.0 CGPA. Students failing to meet this requirement will be decertified from the veterans benefits program. Students placed on probation will be notified in writing and will receive academic advising to assist them in grade improvement. Students on probation remain eligible for Title IV federal financial aid. FINANCIAL INFORMATION The following changes to Kaplan University s enrollment status definitions for graduate students are effective January 28, 2009: Enrollment Status The University is required on different occasions to report the number of students in full-time or part-time status. A student s enrollment status can impact financial aid eligibility. Graduate Graduate Programs Full-time... 8 credit hours per term Three-quarter-time... 6 credit hours per term Half-time... 4 credit hours per term Nonstandard Graduate Programs Full-time... 4 credit hours per term Three-quarter-time... 3 credit hours per term Half-time... 2 credit hours per term The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs may have different definitions for full-time and part-time status. Students receiving veterans benefits should consult the Veterans Certifying Official. The following changes to the Cancellation of Enrollment Agreement and Withdrawal After Commencement of Classes sections of the Refund Policy are effective November 5, 2008: Refund Policy Applicants not accepted by the University shall be entitled to a refund of all monies paid. CANCELLATION OF ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT A student may cancel an Enrollment Agreement for the University without any penalty or obligation if requested in writing and delivered to the University management within 3 business days after signing the agreement. Onsite students who have not visited Kaplan University prior to enrollment will have the opportunity to withdraw without penalty within 3 business days either following attendance at a regularly scheduled orientation or following a tour of the University facility and an inspection of the equipment. After this period, the University will retain the enrollment fee. Wisconsin residents: See Customer s Right to Cancel Wisconsin Residents form, included with the Enrollment Agreement. WITHDRAWAL AFTER COMMENCEMENT OF CLASSES The effective withdrawal date for a student shall be when any of the following occur: 1. The date the student notifies the University of withdrawal or the date of withdrawal, whichever is earlier, 2. The beginning date of any term in which a student fails to start classes, 3. The first business day following any 21 consecutive calendar days of absences (not including breaks), 4. The date when the University terminates the student s enrollment, or 5. The date that the student is scheduled to return from a leave of absence and fails to do so. All refunds due will be made within 30 days of the student s effective withdrawal date. The last date of attendance is used in calculating any refund amount. Students who are continuing or restarting their enrollment at the University are subject to the Kaplan University Refund Policy. Under this policy, the percentages of refundable charges are as follows (Wisconsin residents: Refer to Wisconsin Enrollment Agreement): STUDENTS WITHDRAWING Prior to the first day of the term During the first 6 calendar days of the first term (first-time students only) During the first day through 10% of the term After more than 10% and through 25% of the term After more than 25% and through 50% of the term After more than 50% and through 100% of the term *Less $100 Administrative Fee The following changes to the information on Kaplan University s scholarships for onsite students are effective January 28, 2009: Scholarships Kaplan University awards scholarships, awards, and discounts for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to, merit, military service, need, and to assist students in acceleration of their academic program. Scholarships and awards have specific requirements that must be met. Not all scholarships and awards are available on a continuous basis or at all locations and all are subject to changes in criteria and funding. ONSITE REFUND 100% Tuition 100% Tuition 90% Tuition* 50% Tuition* 25% Tuition* 0% Tuition Interested students should see their campus representative for a full listing of scholarships, awards, and discounts offered at each location. 14

15 UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS Policy Information The following changes to the undergraduate Progression Requirements are effective April 16, 2008: Progression Requirements Once admitted, all new students are required to take an orientation class prior to entering courses in their first term. 15

16 Program and Course Changes GENERAL EDUCATION PROGRAM The following changes are effective November 5, 2008: Mission Statement The General Education program supports the academic, social, personal, and professional development of learners throughout their engagement with the University. It also provides a learning experience that is engaging, enjoyable, and applicable to students personal and professional lives, while preparing students to meet expectations in chosen fields of study. Kaplan University is committed to professional and career preparation for all graduates. As an institution and an educational community, we commit to graduating thinkers who can work and workers who can think. Outcomes and Requirements The primary goal of the General Education program is to help ensure that students are literate in each of the general education areas listed below. This means students understand and can apply the basic concepts of ethics, critical thinking, research, technology, arts and humanities, communication, mathematics, science, and social science. To help accomplish this goal, the General Education program includes six courses within the bachelor s degree programs in communication, mathematics, science, social science, and arts and humanities. These are interdisciplinary courses designed to introduce students to the basic concepts, terminology, and methodology of each area. Furthermore, each course at the University includes a writing assignment and the use of technology, reinforcing the communications and technology literacies. Each course also includes a unit of study based on one of the remaining seven literacies. These courses and units of study address practical issues and engage students in reflection on their personal experience. Through repeated practice and study throughout their program, students will understand the interrelationship of broad fields of human inquiry and how they apply to their personal and professional lives. ARTS AND HUMANITIES LITERACY Outcome: Recognize human potential through a study of human expressions. Requirement: One 300/400-level course in arts or humanities in bachelor s degree programs. A quarter of the elective courses offered at the University will include a unit that applies art concepts to the content of the course. COMMUNICATIONS LITERACY Outcome: Demonstrate college-level communication through a variety of media. Requirement : Two 100/200-level courses in communications in associate s and bachelor s degree programs. Each University course will also include a writing assignment that will be assessed using a common rubric. CRITICAL THINKING LITERACY Outcome: Apply critical thinking to real-life situations. Requirement : One-third of the required courses in each program will include a unit that teaches critical thinking and applies it to the content of the course. ETHICS LITERACY Outcome: Identify, apply, and evaluate ethical reasoning. Requirement : One-third of the required courses in each program will include a unit that teaches ethics and applies them to the content of the course. MATHEMATICS LITERACY Outcome: Apply quantitative reasoning to real-world situations. Requirement : One 100/200-level course in mathematics in associate s and bachelor s degree programs. A quarter of the elective courses offered at the University will include a mathematics unit that applies math concepts to the content of the course. RESEARCH AND INFORMATION LITERACY Outcome: Apply methods for finding, evaluating, and using resources. Requirement : One-third of the required courses in each program will include a unit that teaches research skills and applies them to the content of the course. 16

17 SCIENCE LITERACY Outcome: Analyze how scientific principles are applied in real-word contexts. Requirement: One 300/400-level course in science in bachelor s degree programs. A quarter of the elective courses offered at the University will include a science unit that applies science concepts to the content of the course. SOCIAL SCIENCE LITERACY Outcome: Critically evaluate the social or psychological issues that impact human behavior. Requirement: One 300/400-level course in social science in bachelor s degree programs. A quarter of the elective courses offered at the University will include a unit that applies social science concepts to the content of the course. TECHNOLOGY LITERACY Outcome: Use information technology to solve real-world problems and communicate effectively. Requirement: Students will take a diagnostic test to assess skills in technology. Students will take a degree-specific technology course, or other remediation method, depending upon results of the assessment. 17

18 COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES The following changes to Kaplan University's College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program are effective July 2, 2008: The College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program Membership in the College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program is limited to online students. The College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program contributes to excellence in education by enriching and enhancing the degree programs of qualified students. The Honors Program emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills in both professional and academic arenas. To this end, the Honors Program promotes intellectual and personal development through curricular and co-curricular initiatives. Ultimately, the College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program reflects the University s stated missions of commitment to general education, applied scholarship, and student-centered service and support. GENERAL ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE HONORS PROGRAM Application to the College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program is voluntary, and qualification is based on evidence of academic achievement and leadership potential. Students who wish to enter the College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program must: Be enrolled in a College of Arts and Sciences degree program Have a minimum GPA of 3.5. Maintain at least a CGPA of 3.5 to remain in the Honors Program Successfully complete an Honors Program application Have completed their second term at Kaplan University Be in and maintain good standing with the University Honors students must maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.5 to remain in good standing in the College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program. Honors students falling below a CGPA of 3.5 will be placed on probation. Honors students on probation will have two terms to attain a CGPA of 3.5. Honors students who fail to raise their CGPA to 3.5 within the designated two terms will be dropped from the Honors Program. Students may reapply to the Honors Program when they have raised their CGPA to the required 3.5 minimum. Honors students reprimanded for an academic violation, such as plagiarism or inappropriate behavior or communication, will be immediately removed from the Honors Program. A complete list of academic violations can be found in the Catalog. SERVICE COMPONENT The service component of the College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program provides students with valuable real-world experience and skill application as they share their talents with others. Students will participate in at least one service project per year. Example service projects may be found in the Honors Handbook. The following changes to the College of Arts and Sciences Progression Requirements are effective April 16, 2008: Progression Requirements In addition to the general undergraduate student progression and satisfactory academic progress requirements, the College of Arts and Sciences has specific requirements for the following program: BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMMUNICATION Bachelor of Science in Communication students must achieve a minimum grade of C or better in both CM 107: College Composition and CM 220: College Composition II. If required to take the course, advanced start students in the Bachelor of Science in Communication program must achieve a minimum grade of C or better in CM 220: College Composition II. 18

19 The following program changes are effective November 5, 2008: XX. Bachelor of Science in Communication The Bachelor of Science in Communication program is designed to provide students with the skills needed to become effective communicators in today s competitive, global workplace. The interdisciplinary approach combines both theory and application, enabling students the opportunity to gain a critical understanding of social issues, new media, and effective writing and speaking skills. These critical skills, research abilities, and knowledge of social change are intended to prepare students for careers in technical writing, public administration, advertising, public relations, human resources, law, criminal justice, politics, ministry, social services, opinion and market research, fundraising, civil service, international business, management, marketing, and publishing. Two emphasis area options are available for the communication studies major: technical communication and organizational communication. This program is designed to prepare graduates to pursue employment in the field, or for jobs in related fields, the specific job titles of which may not be represented in the program title. Although the University will assist students with job placement, finding a job is the individual responsibility of the student. The University does not guarantee that any student will be placed in any particular job, or at all. While the program is designed to prepare graduates to pursue continued graduate-level education, the University cannot guarantee that students will be granted admission to any graduate programs. Kaplan University offers the Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Communication degree option for students who have earned an AAS, AS, AA, BA, or BS degree from a regionally or nationally accredited college. The advanced start degree option is an innovative program that combines the career-oriented focus of a 2-year degree with the academic curriculum of a 4-year program. Upon completion of an associate s degree, students have the option of joining the workforce while continuing toward a bachelor s degree. The combination of career courses and general education in the first two years of study allows students to join the workforce with the skills they may need to succeed, while pursuing their lifelong learning aims. Associate s and bachelor s degrees and credits considered to be remedial, occupational, or specialized may not be accepted for transfer under this option. Kaplan University has expanded the advanced start option to include students who have received a bachelor s degree, but wish to change careers, and receive a second bachelor s degree. Lower-level (100/200) coursework will be transferred as a block of 90 credits. Upper-level (300/400) coursework will be evaluated on a course-by-course basis and applied toward appropriate upper-level degree requirements. In addition to possessing an associate s or bachelor s degree, students applying for admission under this option must also complete all prerequisites required for the bachelor s degree courses. Thus, students may need to complete more than the minimum of 90 quarter credit hours to complete the advanced start Bachelor of Science degree option. The Bachelor of Science in Communication program consists of a minimum of 180 quarter credit hours. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be awarded a Bachelor of Science degree. (continued on next page) 19

20 (continued from previous page) Program Outcomes General Education Literacy Outcomes 1. Communications: Demonstrate college-level communication through a variety of media. 2. Mathematics: Apply quantitative reasoning to real-world situations. 3. Science: Analyze how scientific principles are applied in real-word contexts. 4. Social Science: Critically evaluate the social or psychological issues that impact human behavior. 5. Arts and Humanities: Recognize human potential through a study of human expressions. 6. Research and Information: Apply methods for finding, evaluating, and using resources. 7. Ethics: Identify, apply, and evaluate ethical reasoning. 8. Critical Thinking: Apply critical thinking to real-life situations. 9. Technology Literacy: Use information technology to solve real-world problems and communicate effectively. Curriculum Courses Credits BACHELOR S DEGREE REQUIREMENTS CORE REQUIREMENTS 100/200-level: Communication Course 5 100/200-level: Mathematics Course level: Communication Course 5 300/400-level: Arts and Humanities Course 6 300/400-level: Physical Science Course 6 300/400-level: Social Science Course 6 TOTAL CORE REQUIREMENTS 33 MAJOR REQUIREMENTS CS 116: Academic Strategies for the Communication Professional OR CS 121: Pathways to Academic Success* 5 CM 115: Communicating in the Twenty-First Century 5 CM 202: Mass Communications 5 CM 206: Interpersonal Communications 5 CM 214: Public Speaking 5 CM 240: Technical Communication 5 CM 270: Writing for Multimedia 5 CM 310: Communication and Conflict 6 CM 410: Organizational Communication 6 CM 460: Rhetorical Analysis of Nonfiction Writing 6 MM 207: Statistics 5 300/400-level: Major Electives 24 CM 498: Bachelor s Capstone in Technical Communication OR CM 499: Bachelor s Capstone in Organizational Communication 6 TOTAL MAJOR REQUIREMENTS 88 OPEN ELECTIVE REQUIREMENTS Open Electives 59 TOTAL OPEN ELECTIVE REQUIREMENTS 59 TOTAL PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS 180 (continued on next page) 20