Academic Affairs

Southeastern University is a Christ-centered institution of higher learning. The educational programs of Southeastern University are designed to foster successful academic achievement in order to equip students to discover and develop their divine design, to serve Christ and the world through Spirit-empowered life, learning, and leadership. We are committed to equipping the next generation of leaders so that they can go into the world as influential servants in their careers and their communities.

This catalog gives general information on the academic regulations and degree requirements. In upgrading all areas of the university, Southeastern University reserves the right to change the rules regulating admission, instruction, graduation and any other activity affecting the student body, including prospective students and currently enrolled students.

Click on a link to be taken to the entry below.

Academic Policies and Procedures

New Students

New students must complete all of the Admission process before they may register for classes. New students must submit:

• A high school transcript with the graduation date listed by the beginning of the semester. Transfer students with at least 60 earned credits on a college or university transcript that are eligible for transfer will not need to submit the high school transcript.
• Test scores (ACT, SAT, COMPASS, PERT) in order to be placed in the correct Math and English courses. Developmental courses are designed to assist students in acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills for college level learning and successful academic performance. Check with the Office of the Registrar for test scores that are required to waive developmental courses.

Students who have completed the admission process will receive an instructional letter from the Registrar’s office that includes all of the needed information for new student registration. Students needing assistance may call or email the Registrar’s office or the Academic Advising office.

The Academic Year

Southeastern University operates their traditional campus-based programs on a fall and spring semester system with two summer sessions.

The fall and spring semesters are 16 weeks in length. Class sessions during the regular semesters are scheduled so that they equate to 15 fifty-minute sessions per credit hour, although they may vary depending on the nature of the instruction and schedule. Hybrid classes, mixing online and individual study with face-to-face sessions, are also held, as well as some online delivery courses, structured for campus-based students.

The two summer sessions are intensive one-week and three-week sessions. Course delivery during summer sessions also varies, but they are designed to be comparable to the semester sessions. The academic calendar outlines the main events including the beginning and ending dates of each semester and summer sessions.

Class Times

Classes at Southeastern University are scheduled Monday through Saturday between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.

Class Attendance

Students are both expected and encouraged to attend classes regularly. The lack of attendance may affect a student’s grade.

For traditional fall and spring semesters, a student may miss a class without penalty equal to the number of times a class meets per week as follows:

• If the class meets once a week, a student may miss one class.
• If the class meets two times a week, a student may miss two classes.
• If the class meets three times a week, a student may miss three classes.

If a student’s absences exceed the number of times a class meets per week, a professor may:

• Subject the student to a penalty of not more than one letter grade based on attendance alone.
• Recommend to the Registrar that a student with excessive absences be withdrawn from the course.

For a summer term, a student may miss two days without penalty.  A professor may take the same actions described above if a student misses more than two days in a summer term. 

Program directors must provide lists of students participating in authorized university activities or field trips to the Office of the Provost.  Once approved, program directors must provide copies of the lists to the participating students for submission to the students’ instructors.  Faculty must take this information into account as they log attendance and not consider it an absence.

Working within the framework of the above guidelines, faculty will clearly articulate their attendance policy in the course syllabus.

Prolonged and/or unusual absences not covered by the policy may be appealed to the Office of the Registrar by either the professor or the student. Appeals must be submitted in writing.

Classification of Students

A student is classified as a degree seeking or non-degree seeking student.

Degree Seeking

Definition of Degree Seeking: A student who is systematically pursuing a degree program and is classified by the number of earned semester hours of credit. The minimum qualifications for each class are:

Freshman 0 to 31 hours
Sophomore 32 to 63 hours
Junior 64 to 95 hours
Senior 96 or more hours

International Students

The Department of International Students serves to assist international students in maintaining their international student (F-1 visa) status as well as adjusting to the culture of  the United States, and Southeastern University. International students are required to report to the Director of International Students at the beginning and end of each semester. In order to maintain F-1 status, all students must be enrolled in at least 12 hours of undergraduate courses and 9 hours of graduate courses. Only three online hours can apply to the full time status of 12 undergraduate or 9 graduate hours, the remaining hours must be on campus hours. International students are allowed to work on campus ONLY. Working off campus may result in loss of F-1 status. Required internships are permitted to be done off campus with proper Homeland Security approval. The student must meet with the Director of International Students in order to do so.

In addition to assisting students in maintaining F-1 status, the Department of International Students assists students in adjusting to a new country by having regular activities on and off campus as well as in the homes of various staff members. We facilitate regular activities that contribute to fostering community, cultural awareness/education, and support within the family of international students.

Non-degree Seeking

A student who is not pursuing a degree program.

• Audit status - The student is enrolled in a course for which he or she will not earn credit. An audit student may enroll for a class during the regular registration period, but the enrollment will be held until students taking the course for credit have been placed.
• In-service Teacher status - The Polk County teacher-employee taking courses to meet requirements for certain state certifications.
• Special status - An individual taking any course for personal or professional reasons without the intent of acquiring a degree.
• Transient status - The student classified as a degree candidate from another institution who enrolls for the purpose of transferring credits back to his or her original school. A transient student must present an official statement attesting to good standing at his/her institution, and approval of courses to be taken at Southeastern University generally in the form of a transient letter.
• Dual-Enrolled status - The high school student taking courses to gain both high school and college credit. Courses taken must be approved through the student’s high school guidance counselor.

Students Seeking a Second Bachelor’s Degree

Any student with an earned bachelor’s degree from any school including Southeastern University may apply for a second bachelor’s degree. The transferring degree is evaluated on a course-by-course basis, according to the credit transfer policies described in the credit transfer policies section of this catalog. The student may have the unofficial transcript evaluated by submitting it to his/her Admission Counselor prior to admission. The student must complete all degree program requirements that have not been met by transfer or other acceptable credit granting means as described in the credit transfer policies of this catalog. The student must take a minimum of 25% of the program requirements in pursuit of the second degree at Southeastern. These students are generally admitted at the senior level, when the transferred credit was earned from a regionally accredited institution.

Permission to enroll in a graduate course is not recognized as admission into the graduate program. The student may subsequently apply for a graduate degree program by completing the Graduate Application and meeting all requirements for admission.

Course Schedules and Registration

The class schedule is developed with the degree seeking student in mind. Certain courses are offered every semester. Others are offered during alternate semesters or as needed. The university reserves the right to regulate the number of students in a class and to cancel any class with insufficient enrollment to justify its continuance.

Students may use the drop/add period to adjust their schedules due to cancelled classes without incurring fees. Students are responsible to check the web site, their student web access, and the Office of the Registrar during the drop/add period for class cancellations and additions, room relocations, class enrollment fluctuations, and assigned faculty changes.

In registering for specific courses, students are expected to note prerequisites or other special requirements. Students are not permitted to register for courses without completing prerequisites unless special permission is obtained from the chair of the department or Dean of the college which offers the course.

The four digit numbering of courses represents the level of enrollment: freshman-1000; sophomore - 2000; junior - 3000; senior - 4000. The credit value of a course is listed with the description of the course in this catalog and appears in the Student Information System under the course offerings each term.

Appeals that concern enrollment and registration may be submitted to the Registrar.

Educational Testing Services (ETS) Proficiency Profile

Southeastern University students are required to take the ETS (Educational Testing Services) Proficiency Profile assessment twice, in order to assess learning. New students with 18 or less transfer credits are required to take the ETS before they begin their freshman year. SEU undergrad students take the exam again to be assessed on General Education competencies in their junior year. This national ETS exam is mandatory and necessary for SEU’s continued accreditation, programs and coursework. Students may not graduate without fulfilling this requirement. Students will be notified once achieving 64 earned  credit hours or more in order to take the ETS Proficiency Profile online.

Registration

There are three registration periods: pre-registration, regular registration and late registration. Pre-registration is available to continuing students only. All other registration opportunities are available to newly admitted students, readmitted former students and students continuing at Southeastern. 

Pre-Registration

• Is preceded by approximately 10 days of advising. Students are encouraged to discuss their academic plans with advisors. Although advisors are available to guide students in course selection and degree fulfillment, the student is ultimately responsible for his or her own educational choices, by following the four year plans and degree program schedules.
• Is scheduled based on class level. Seniors, athletes and honors students will have first registration preference. Registration is then opened to juniors, then sophomores, then freshmen and all others. This begins regular registration.

Regular Registration

• To qualify for regular registration, the student must complete all requirements for admission or re-admission, and be accepted to the university.
• Incoming students may register for classes after receiving registration information from the Office of the Registrar. This indicates the student has met requirements for Admission.
• New students may use registration information sent to them, to guide them in the selection of courses. New students will be assisted by an Academic Advisor who will review or assist in selection of courses to meet their educational goals.
• A student should indicate their major or program of interest on their initial application. An advisor is assigned according to the indicated major or interest.
• The student’s advisor is listed in the JICS Student Information account under the Advising tab.
• Four Year Plans and Audit Sheets are available on Program Information webpages. Students can find these plans at the top right side of each program page. See your advisor for assistance.
• Those requiring testing for placement, vocal or instrumental auditions, faculty advising or department chair /advisor approval will be assisted with registration during an Orientation when faculty members are on campus.

Late Registration 

All students are expected to complete registration prior to the first day of class. However, schedule adjustments are permitted during the drop/add period without penalty. The drop/add deadline is posted in the Academic Calendar for each term. Late registration after that deadline is permitted only by the permission of the Registrar and requires a written appeal.

All students register themselves according to advisor recommendations, via the online JICS Student Information. New online students will have a schedule created for them. These students should watch for email communications from their support coach and/advisor. Instructions and assistance are available through the Office of Academic Advising or the Office of the Registrar. Technical issues should be reported to helpdesk@seu.edu. Academic Advisors are available to students year round, by phone, email or by appointment, as well as during Orientation. Faculty advisors are available by appointment throughout each semester.

Drop/Add Procedure

The Drop/add Period is designated as the first week of the traditional semester. Drop/add deadlines are one week after the start of the term for all traditional courses, and 3 days after the start of online and non-traditional courses, as designated in the Academic Calendar. The Drop/add period only takes place at the beginning of each semester, and covers the first and second 8 week session of the term. Schedules should be set in place for the entire term by the Drop/add deadline. Students may add, drop or make changes to their class schedule during this period. Students should see an academic advisor prior to making a scheduling change; however, the student is ultimately responsible for his or her educational choices, and following the course plan for his or her degree.

Students are required to attend all classes during the Drop/Add period to reserve their seats in classes. Students who do not attend or do not have a school-sanctioned absence will be reported as a No Show and will lose their seat in the class. This does not absolve the student from responsibility to add/drop from the class. The student will be charged for every class on their schedule.

The web registration permissions will be inactivated at 11:59 p.m. on the last day of the drop/add period. Failure to attend class or drop the course via your online account access is not proper procedure and may result in the recording of “F” grades. Technical difficulties on the final day of the drop/add period do not absolve the student from responsibility. Contact the Office of the Registrar for assistance.

The entry of the dropped course(s) will not appear on any permanent academic record, and full tuition refund is permitted within this period. The drop/add period ends after the first full week of classes, and no additional changes are normally permitted.

For Non-traditional programs (Online, Evening, Extension, and Graduate) the Drop/add period falls at the beginning of the semester as well. Financial Aid is based on the total of hours a student is enrolled in on the last day of Drop/add period. While some additions may be allowed mid-semester, drops are not permitted after the Drop/add deadline for this reason. Registration errors may be appealed to the Registrar during that same semester.

Course Registration Appeals

Course drops after a semester drop/add deadline are not allowed without a written appeal from the student to the Registrar. The appeal must contain reasons that justify such an exception to the deadline. The outcome of a student appeal request will be based on the student’s financial aid awarded, the point in time during the semester, and and other contributing factors. A class that has been attempted cannot be dropped without an approved written appeal.

Semester Continuance Policy

A student may occasionally have an issue or life event that prohibits him/her from finishing a semester successfully within the 16 week or 8 week term. This Semester Continuance Policy is designed to assist a student in completing a semester of courses successfully by extending the deadline for a specified time in order to complete required course work. Reasons can be varied and unexpected. Triggers for continuation may be identified as medical issues or events such as an accident resulting in an injury, emotional and psychological issues or events such as personal trauma or criminal attack, and death or serious illness of an immediate family member.

In order to be granted a semester continuance, a student must have successfully completed 60% of the course or courses, which is 10 weeks of a 16 week semester, or 5 weeks of an 8 week semester, with satisfactory progress in each course under consideration for an extension of the course work deadline. Continuance will be considered for each course separately, independent of the other courses in progress.

Requests for Semester Continuance are submitted to the Director of Academic Advising, and a response will be issued from that office. Submission of medical or other appropriate documentation will be required. A diagnosed disability should be reported to our Office of Academic Services. If the student has not yet completed 60% of the course and course work, it will be recommended that the student withdraw from the course. Depending on the situation and the amount of time that has been spent so far in the course or courses, a written appeal to drop the course or courses and financial charges or pro-ration of charges will be considered. The written appeal must be from the student rather than the parent, if the student is able to write an appeal. The appeal will be reviewed by the Registrar. Southeastern University is under no obligation to drop charges for any course that has been attempted past the drop/add deadline.

Professors of each course under consideration for an extension of the deadline will be consulted, and must be in agreement in order to offer the extension. The extension will be determined and documented in writing, with a definite list of expectations and the new deadline for all assignments to be submitted. Failure to finish the course work by the new deadline will result in the grade earned by the student. If satisfactory progress has not been made in a course at the point of the need for continuance, the professor and the Director of Academic Advising will recommend the student withdraw from the course. A grade of W will be posted, which does not impact the GPA. The student may appeal to have a late withdrawal granted after the 60% mark has passed. Arrangements and notifications to Housing and other departments of the university must be made by the student. The Director of Academic Advising will assist in notifications to all departments. A diagnosed disability should be reported to the office of Academic & Auxiliary Services (ADAservices@seu.edu).

Course Load

The normal academic load is 15-16 hours per semester. This enables the student to complete degree requirements in approximately four years. A student may register for up to 17 hours per semester after consultation with his or her academic advisor. To register for 18 to 21 hours, the student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher and permission from the Academic Advisor or the Registrar. The maximum course load permitted with special approval is 21 hours.

The minimum course load for full-time classification is 12 hours per semester. The student will be billed for hours fewer than 12 and more than 17 at the credit hour tuition rate. A student enrolled in the summer sessions may not exceed a total of (6) six hours per summer session. Traditional students are allowed to take two online courses in a normal semester if their gpa is 2.5 or above, as part of their total 17 – 21 hours. They may take more online courses in the summer, with the total of all credits not to exceed 21 in the summer. Students in the traditional campus program must fill out the Online Course Permission form to participate in online courses.

All courses will be billed according to the traditional student tuition rate or tuition package pricing, for traditional students.

Online Courses

Traditional students are permitted to take one class in the Online Program per semester. Courses will be billed according to the traditional student tuition rate.

Declaration of Major

Every student who is accepted for enrollment as a degree-seeking student should declare their major as soon as possible, for the best advisement and degree plan. We will honor your initial indication of a major or interest in a major when you apply. If no major has been indicated, a Declaration of Major form must be filed with the Office of the Registrar by the 48th earned hour, which is the end of the first semester of the sophomore year. A student may change his/her program of study by filing a new Declaration of Major form at any time during his/her period of enrollment, at no cost. Change of major may place a student under different catalog requirements. Counsel from academic advisors is strongly encouraged as students consider degree programs and vocations. Students may schedule an appointment with their advisor at any time throughout their period of enrollment.

If a student chooses to declare more than one major, any course transcripted by Southeastern University onto a student’s record can be used to meet any and all same requirements of the student’s declared majors and/or minors. This multiple-use policy has only one limitation and that is the student must meet the appropriate number of credit hours for his or her primary major, or major requiring the highest number of credit hours.

A student may not declare a minor which is in the same discipline as their declared major.  For example: Music Education and a Music minor are in the same discipline.

Final Examinations

The last four days of the fall and spring semesters are designated for final examinations. Comprehensive final examinations or unit examinations given in lieu of a comprehensive examination must be given in the designated examination week. Ninety (90) minutes are allowed for each examination. The Office of the Registrar publishes the Final Exam Schedule at the start of each semester. Students are required to take examinations at the designated time. If a student has more than three examinations scheduled for the same day, the student may petition the instructor and the department chairperson or Dean of the college to reschedule one of the student’s examinations. If a final examination is missed due to illness, death of a family member or a serious emergency, the instructor has the authority to permit the student to take a late examination. The instructor may request documentation to verify the absence. Final examinations for summer school are administered the last day of class.

Grades and Quality Points

The following scale of letter grades is used in recording a student’s academic progress:
 

Quality points are the numerical equivalent of the letter grades and are assigned for each credit hour earned as indicated by the above scale. For example, a three credit hour course with an earned A grade equals 12 quality points.

In determining a grade point average (GPA):
Total number of quality points earned divided by total number of semester hours attempted for which quality point values are assigned = GPA.

Grades for all attempted courses will remain on the student’s permanent record. If a course is repeated, the highest of the grades will be computed in the student’s grade point average (GPA). Students who wish to appeal a grade must do so within the immediate succeeding semester. Otherwise, the recorded grade is permanent and can be changed only by repeating the course. No grades, GPA or test scores may be changed or added after the degree and diploma are awarded.

Incomplete Grades

An “I” grade indicates incomplete course work and may be recorded when a student is passing but cannot complete the course due to illness or serious personal emergency. The student is required to initiate consultation with the professor and the Department Chair or Dean of the college by filing a written request for an “I” grade. Supporting documentation must accompany the written request which must be submitted to both the Professor and the Department Chair or Dean of the college. An “I” may be recorded for a maximum of one semester and is not computed in the student’s GPA. If an “I” is not changed by the end of the immediate succeeding semester, the grade automatically converts to an “F” and is recorded on the student’s permanent record. An “F” grade is computed in the GPA. Students with an incomplete in a previous semester may not register for more than 17 hours including the current semester and the previous incomplete hours. Students should be aware that an incomplete course may hinder the award of financial aid in a subsequent semester.

Grade Forgiveness Policy

In order to improve their knowledge of a subject and cumulative grade point average, students may elect to repeat a course in which they have earned a less than satisfactory grade, especially a “D” or an “F.” The higher grade will be the grade that contributes toward the cumulative grade point average. In situations where the course needed to be repeated is no longer available or offered, a similar course may be substituted with the approval of the Dean of the college and the Registrar. A course in which a grade of “F” was earned at Southeastern can be repeated only at Southeastern.

Transcripts

The official academic record for each student is maintained in the Office of the Registrar. Signed authorization from the student must be received before an official transcript can be released as is required by law. Students should request a transcript through the seu.edu website by clicking on the link at the bottom of the page, under Academics, Transcript/Verification, which leads to our transcript ordering service through Credentials, Inc. Manual transcript requests are also accepted in the Office of the Registrar with cash payment or money order only. The student may submit a transcript request in person or through the web service found on the university’s web site. Transcripts are normally processed within five days upon receipt of the request. A transcript cannot be released if the student has financial obligations to the university or other account holds. This includes past due payments on financial aid. Some of these hold types are listed below:

To order a transcript from Southeastern University’s site:

• Go to www.seu.edu
• Go to the Office of the Registrar page.
• Click on “Transcript Request”
• Choose the first link for ordering a transcript or the second link for checking on the status of your transcript order

You may also order a transcript from this alternate site:

• Go to www.credentials-inc.com
• Click on “Order a Transcript”
• Choose Southeastern University, Lakeland, FL, in the list of schools
• To check transcript order status, click on “Check the Status of My Transcript Order”

The Credentials, Inc. web service will require the following information:

1. Full name including maiden if married; student’s current mailing address
2. Social security number and date of birth
3. Name and complete address for recipient of transcript
4. If not automatically authorized, student’s signature and date
5. Number of copies requested
6. Make sure you get a transcript order number after clicking the “submit” button
7. Check your email or fax machine for updates on your transcript request, as you may be sent an authorization form to sign and return to us
8. Payment for transcripts ($7.00 per copy — no personal checks accepted)

A rush option is normally available, except during the Christmas holidays. To make sure all grades are included for a semester, check your Student Information account to see if the grades have been posted. Current semester grades are posted approximately two weeks after final exams end.

Withdrawal from a Course

Students may withdraw from a course without academic penalty through the withdrawal deadline, which is the 60% mark of the course. The official course withdrawal date will be the date the Course Withdrawal form is filed with the Office of the Registrar. A grade of “W” will be recorded on the student’s record. Complete withdrawal from the university is not part of this policy. Forms for course withdrawal are available in the Office of the Registrar and on the Southeastern University web site. There is no refund for a course withdrawal. Too many “W” grades will hinder academic progress and financial aid coverage. Withdrawn courses are also not covered by Veteran’s benefits

Withdrawal from the University

Withdrawing from your existing college may affect your class credits and financial aid. In order to make a well-informed decision we recommend that you contact our Retention Office to get the facts as they pertain to you. Contact the Retention Office by phone at 863.667.5999 or fill out a submission form by logging into My SEU, click on Services, and select Retention Office. The Retention Coordinator will contact you within 24 hours to schedule an exit interview.

A student who is registered for classes is financially and academically obligated to follow withdrawal policy. A student must obtain and complete a withdrawal form from the Retention Office and complete a short exit interview with the Retention Coordinator to officially withdraw from the university. Withdrawing from all classes and/or not attending classes does not constitute an official withdrawal and could result in a grade of “F” for each course. Professors have the right to recommend administrative withdrawal for students who do not attend class. This does not absolve the student from responsibility to follow proper withdrawal procedure.

Failing to properly withdraw obligates the student to tuition and other fees incurred. A grade of “WD” will be recorded for official withdrawal. The date of official withdrawal will be the date the completed form is filed with the Retention Office. The policy on refunds is described in the Financial Information chapter.

Directed Study 

Directed Study is a regular course taken by special arrangements under the supervision of an instructor. A student enrolled as a degree-seeking candidate may apply for Directed Study. Forms for Directed Study are available from the Office of the Registrar. Directed Study must be approved by the supervising instructor, advisor, department chair, and Registrar prior to registration.

The following apply to Directed Study registration:

1. Students may earn a maximum of 12 hours through Directed Study. Of these, only six can be in their major.
2. Directed Study is available only for 3000 and 4000 level courses.
3. Students must have at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA and at least 64 earned credit hours (junior status) to apply.
4. Registration for Directed Study must be completed during the regular on-campus registration period as stated in the university calendar.
5. Directed Study courses must be completed within one semester. Extensions must be requested and approved in the same manner established for classroom-based courses (see university policy on incompletes).
6. Students may register for up to six hours of Directed Study during a summer.
7. The regular grading scale applies to courses completed by Directed Study.
8. The following additional conditions must be met for Directed study requested in a fall or spring semester:
   1. The course is required for the student’s major.
   2. The student has an unavoidable scheduling conflict.
   3. The course will not be offered again before the student’s scheduled graduation date.
9. Directed Study is restricted by faculty availability.
10. Directed Study may be utilized to pursue an area of study that can be individually designed by the professor in collaboration with the student.
11. The professor and the student should not proceed with the course of study until the registration is approved, entered, and reflected on the student’s official course schedule.

Transient Policy

Transient enrollment means a degree seeking student is enrolled at a second school with the intention of transferring credits to Southeastern. A request for a transient letter from Southeastern University to the second school is required for credits to be considered for transfer. Transient letters are issued by the Office of the Registrar. Students who have earned an associate degree or 64 semester hours may not enroll at the junior college level unless they are deficient in specific general education courses. Students are responsible for the applicability of courses taken elsewhere to their Southeastern program. Students are strongly encouraged to obtain written advisor, department chair, or college dean approval for major core course transiency.

 Transfer credit on the college level is accepted according to the following guidelines, from regionally accredited schools:

Up to 62 general education credits are accepted with a State of Florida AA degree in order to cover our general education core. AS and AAS degrees are evaluated on a course-by-course basis for acceptance into the general education core.

Up to 96 transfer hours can be accepted when a student comes to SEU, but there will be no other transient credits approved during the student’s tenure at SEU.

 Transient status is allowed for current students, with specific limitations, including the following:

1. Transient credit must be taken at a regionally accredited school.
2. The Transient Status form, available on the MySEU website, must be submitted and approved by the Office of the Registrar in order to consider any course for transfer while you are a student at SEU.
3. Seniors will not be approved for transient credit unless SEU does not offer the course required for the degree program. Major core requirements must be done at SEU. Any exception made must be approved by the Registrar, Department Chair, or College Dean over the degree program.
4. Once a student is accepted at SEU, he or she may not take transient courses if they have transferred in 80 hours or more. For example: if we accept 65 credits as a transfer student, the student may take 15 transient credits while at SEU, for a total of 80 maximum transferred credits allowed.

If a student initially transfers:        The student may take as a transient student while at SEU:

0 - 65 credits                                              15 credits

68 credits                                                    12 credits

71 credits                                                    9 credits

74 credits                                                    6 credits

77 credits                                                    3 credits

80 – 96 credits                                           zero credits

5. Students are responsible for the applicability of courses taken elsewhere to their Southeastern program.  A transient course must receive a grade of “C” or above to be considered for transfer to SEU.
6. Students must obtain written Department Chair or College Dean approval for financial aid coverage of the transient registration.

A student’s enrollment in a SEU-approved program of study at a different college or university may be considered for the purpose of applying for financial aid assistance through SEU.  Please see the Registrar’s Office for more information, or you may visit the Student Financial Services department.

Academic Advising

The Academic Advising Office provides advising services such as the assignment of advisors during a student’s first semester, the evaluation of advisor effectiveness based on confidential student surveys, accountability supervision for students with academic difficulties, and the coordination of campus services to support academic success of students.

Students are assigned advisors based on their declared majors. Undeclared students will be assigned advisors who specifically work with general education requirements. Students will be re-assigned at the time a major is declared. The faculty member assigned as the major advisor is available throughout the student’s entire course of study to assist with course recommendations, to discuss plans of future employment or ministry and to assist with academic challenges. The faculty advisor advises, but the student must assume responsibility for fulfilling all degree requirements.

Academic Conditional Process

Academic Probation
The Office of Academic Advising will recommend that students in the following groups be placed on academic probation: 1) Students who complete one semester without sufficient academic progress as evidenced by the student’s cumulative G.P.A., and 2) Students who are under sanction and fail to meet the minimum G.P.A by the end of the second semester of sanction. Thus students will generally have two semesters of academic probation before being placed on academic suspension.

I.  Academic Probation – Level  1

A career GPA of less than 2.0 after having attempted 12 credits at SEU will result in a student being placed on Academic Probation 1. While on Probation 1 status, the student will be placed on a limited load registration status and may not register without advisory clearance.  Other requirements designed to improve GPA may also be placed on the registration, depending on the individual student GPA. 

The student will remain on Academic Probation 1 status for one semester.  The following terms will apply:

       1.)   If the student GPA is raised above a 2.0 at the end of the Probation 1 semester,  Probation  status will be removed and the student may proceed through regular registration.

       2.)   If after receiving advisory clearance and recommended improvement strategies the student does not make academic progress by the end of the Probation 1 status, the student will be recommended for  academic suspension.

       3.)   If the student is following required strategies and making academic progress but does not reach the required 2.0 GPA by the end of the Probation 1 semester, the student may be placed on Probation Level 2 at the discretion of the academic progress committee.

II. Academic Probation - Level 2

 A.)   If a student is placed on Academic Probation level 2, he/she will be allowed that term to continue efforts to raise the GPA to 2.0. Failure to follow required strategies and/or make academic progress while on Probation Level 2 will result in academic suspension.

III.Academic Suspension

        1.)   The student will be placed on academic suspension if he or she does not make progress during Probation Level 2 and/or fails to follow required strategies for any two consecutive terms
        2.)   The period of suspension is for one regular term
        3.)   If a student is placed on academic suspension, he or she may not attend SEU for one regular term (a regular term is defined as spring, summer or fall)

IV.  Readmission after Suspension

Students must reapply to Southeastern University through the Admission office after one regular term of suspension. If admitted, the student must follow the appeal process as described below under Appeal Process. The student must agree to a set of conditions that must be met for continued enrollment until the student has successfully raised the G.P.A. to the minimum of 2.0. If the student fails to meet one or more of the conditions, a dismissal notice will be issued. For additional readmission procedures, refer to Readmission of Former Students in the Admission section of this catalog.

V. Appeal Process

A student may appeal an academic suspension to the Academic Progress Committee if there are valid extenuating circumstances that contributed to the poor academic performance. The student must submit a written appeal with supporting documentation addressed to the Academic Progress Committee Chairperson in care of the Registrar within one week of notice of pending suspension. If the appeal is granted, the student will be allowed to continue enrollment without a period of suspension or will be readmitted after the student has completed a period of suspension. The student must agree to a set of conditions that must be met until the student has successfully raised the G.P.A. to the minimum of 2.0. If the student fails to meet one or more of the conditions, a dismissal notice will be issued.

Southeastern University offers two developmental studies programs:

1. University developmental courses designed to assist the student in developing the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in university learning.

2. Developmental skills courses designed to assist the student in demonstrating college-level competencies on the ETS Proficiency Profile.

The goals of the developmental program are to help under-prepared students acquire necessary knowledge and skills for college-level learning and successful academic performance. They also assist students in developing self-confidence and acquiring self-esteem. Students scoring below the minimum required scores on the E-ACT or SAT must register for university preparatory courses offered by Southeastern University. Southeastern University reserves the right to place a student in the appropriate level math if necessary. Minimum required scores are:

• E-ACT Reading 18 Sentence Skills 17 Beginning Algebra 16

• SAT Verbal 440 Math 440

Students who score below the minimum required scores on the E-ACT or SAT must take the appropriate preparatory courses in English and Mathematics (a series of two or three courses) from the following courses:

ENGL 1033 - COLLEGE READING AND WRITING
MATH 1053 - DEVELOPMENTAL MATH STUDIES I
MATH 1063 - DEVELOPMENTAL MATH STUDIES II
MATH 1073 - INTERMEDIATE ALGEBRA

In addition to the developmental courses which satisfy designated deficiencies, students may concurrently register for college-level courses which are not restricted. Failure to pass with a score of “C” or higher in any of the developmental courses requires registration for the same course the following semester. Grades of “C” or higher in these courses allow students to move into college-level English and mathematics courses.

Students receive general elective credit for completion of all developmental courses. All developmental requirements must be completed within three semesters. Faculty members are available to advise students regarding their proper placement in developmental courses.

Developmental Education - Math

A student entering Southeastern University with a current (5 years or less) ACT score of 19 or an SAT score of 475 may enroll in any of the entry-level general education math courses. Any student enrolling in Southeastern University without a current ACT or SAT score must take Developmental Math. However, if a student’s SAT or ACT score should fall below the minimum of 475 or 19 respectively, then the following rules apply:

• Students scoring below the minimum required score on the ACT (Math 19), the SAT (Math 475) must enroll in Developmental Math the first semester of their freshman year.  Developmental Math counts toward general elective credit requirements. If the student successfully completes the series of courses with a “B” or better he/she may then enroll in Liberal Arts Math I or II

Advising Conditionally Accepted Students

If an applicant is accepted under the conditions of developmental studies, the student is identified during the admission process and referred to the Registrar and Academic Advising offices. The student will be enrolled in the appropriate developmental course (Math and/or English). To remain academically eligible, students should satisfactorily pass all developmental/remedial courses, demonstrate measureable academic progress and satisfy programmatic requirements.

All students who enroll in a developmental course are required to participate in the following activities: (1) CLAS 1000 – College Learning Skills and Academic Strategies – This is an 8-week course designed to introduce students to college-level study skills. Satisfactory completion of the course results in a “P” on the student’s transcript. Students who do not satisfy the requirements of the course receive an “F” on their transcript. (2) Students are required to attend tutoring for all developmental courses.

Willingness to participate in developmental studies on the part of the student will be considered in the probation/suspension process.

Academic Intervention Initiative

The Office of Academic Advising, in collaboration with the Academic Center for Enrichment (ACE), administers a process in which students in jeopardy of failing courses or having an unsatisfactory attendance record are identified and referred . This intervention initiative occurs during the mid-term of each semester. Students who are identified in the initiative will be required to attend tutoring for subjects that directly relate to their status and are required to meet with their academic advisor.

Willingness to participate in the Academic Intervention Initiative on the part of the student will be considered in the probation/suspension process.

Academic Center for Enrichment (ACE)

The Academic Center for Enrichment (ACE) is located in Mod 5. The Center provides tutoring, academic coaching, success seminars, and subject specific workshops to enrich our students’ academic learning experiences. Students may access tutoring services through several options which include walk-in, online, and recurring appointments.

ACE also partners with faculty to offer subject specific supplemental instruction workshops in math, science, accounting, music, history, and other content areas. Along with our professional team of Academic Success Coaches, tutoring sessions and workshops are conducted by peer facilitators who receive certified tutor training and are assigned mentors who complement the training hours. Trained facilitators are expected to carry a minimum 3.5 Grade Point Average in their majors and must be able to efficiently apply that knowledge. Interested students are encouraged to contact the office and follow the application process.

ACE also works cooperatively with the Office of Academic Services to provide facilitators for students who are in need of accommodations. The Center is also equipped with a Kurzweil Reader/Scanner, reader assistant technology.

Tutoring sessions may range from 25 to 50 minutes per session. Multiple sessions can be scheduled when needed. Success Workshops and subject specific workshops are scheduled on demand.

For more information call 863-667- 3157 or 863-669-4262, or e-mail ace@seu.edu.

Advising and Registration Appeals Process

Courses

Courses: A student who has an unresolved issue in a course is encouraged to appeal to the Chair or Dean of the discipline of the course. If the student is unable to meet with the Chair or Dean, he may meet with the Registrar to receive assistance in bringing a resolution.

Advising/Registration/Degree Completion: A student who has an unresolved issue and has not received satisfactory answers from his/her assigned Academic Advisor related to degree completion, transfer of credit, advising questions or non-response, may appeal to the Director of Academic Advising or to the Registrar. A meeting appointment will be set up promptly to consider the student’s unresolved issues, with the goal of successful degree completion. If the issue is still unresolved following the meeting with the Director of Academic Advising or the Registrar, the student may appeal to the Associate Provost for a resolution.

Students who are unsure of whom to contact regarding particular issues should direct their appeals for assistance to the Retention Coordinator, who will make sure the student is connected with the right person or office to receive a resolution.

Advising/Registration/Degree Completion

A student who has an unresolved issue and has not received satisfactory answers from his/her assigned Academic Advisor related to degree completion, transfer of credit, advising questions or non-response, may appeal to the Director of Academic Advising or to the Registrar. A meeting appointment will be set up promptly to consider the student’s unresolved issues, with the goal of successful degree completion. If the issue is still unresolved following the meeting with the Director of Academic Advising or the Registrar, the student may appeal to the Associate Provost for a resolution.

Students who are unsure of whom to contact regarding particular issues should direct their appeals for assistance to the Retention Coordinator, who will make sure the student is connected with the right person or office to receive a resolution.

Credit and Transfer of Credit

Definition of Credit Hour

One semester credit hour will be awarded for a minimum of 750 minutes (50 minute class x 15 weeks) of formalized instruction that typically requires students to work at out-of-class assignments an average of twice the amount of time as the amount of formalized instruction (1,500 minutes). It is acknowledged that formalized instruction may take place in a variety of modes.

While awarding of semester credit hours typically occurs for instruction delivered in accordance with an institution’s standard semester calendar, it may also occur for instruction that may not follow the typical pattern, as long as the criteria for awarding such credit is met. The expectation of contact time inside the classroom and student effort outside the classroom is the same in all formats of a course whether it be fully online, a hybrid or face-to-face contact with some content delivered by electronic means, or one delivered in lecture or seminar format. Courses that have less structured classroom schedules, such as research seminars, independent studies, internships, practicums, or any other academic work leading to the award of credit hours should state clearly learning objectives, expected outcomes and workload expectations that meet the standards set forth above.

This credit hour policy applies to all courses at all levels (graduate, professional, and undergraduate) that award academic credit (i.e. any course that appears on an official transcript issued by the University) regardless of the mode of delivery including, but not limited to, self-paced, online, hybrid, lecture, seminar, and laboratory. Academic units are responsible for ensuring that credit hours are awarded only for work that meets the requirements outlined in this policy.

Advanced Placement (AP)

Southeastern University awards college credit to students who participated in the Advanced Placement program in high school. Students receive college credit based on credit recommendations of the College Board. Details can be found at www.collegeboard.com. Most courses with a score of three, four or five earn three college credits. No grade or quality points are assigned for awarded credit. Applicants must submit original AP scores to the Office of the Registrar for evaluation.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

The College Level Examination Program provides opportunity for a student to earn college credit by examination.

We offer all CLEP exams listed on www.collegeboard.com, with these exceptions:

• Intro to Educational Psychology
• Freshman Composition
• College Composition Modular.

CLEP exams are offered through the Office of Academic Success. You do not have to be a Southeastern University student to utilize our testing center. Contact the Office of Academic Success for an appointment to schedule a CLEP exam.

Testing Conditions

To receive credit a CLEP test must be taken before a student earns credit in a comparable college/university course or subject area. Credit cannot be duplicated. To receive credit, a minimum scaled score at or above an established national percentile must be earned on each area tested. Details are available at www.collegeboard.com. Official CLEP scores must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar before the student’s 96th hour of earned credit for evaluation. Seniors are not allowed to receive CLEP credit. No grade or quality points are assigned for awarded credit. Students may earn up to 45 credit hours through a combination of CLEP, Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) and military credit.

International Baccalaureate Diploma

Students who have received the International Baccalaureate Diploma and have earned a score of four or better in the higher level and standard level examinations may qualify for credit for subjects taken. Without the earned diploma, a score of five is required and credit is only given for higher level examinations. No grade or quality points are assigned for awarded credit. Applicants may submit IB scores to the Office of the Registrar for evaluation. 

Credit for Military Education

Veterans who have successfully completed courses in the military service training program may submit a record of the courses to the Registrar for review. The amount of credit granted will not exceed that recommended by the American Council on Education in the “Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Forces.” No credit is awarded for technical or vocational training. No grade or quality points are assigned for awarded credit. A grade of “CR” is recorded. Students must submit a transcript available from the military. AARTS Transcripts are for Army and Army National Guard personnel and reservists.  Request transcripts from http://aarts.army.mil/. SMART transcripts are for Navy and Marine Corp personnel.  Request transcripts from https://www.navycollege.navy.mil/transcript.html.

A maximum of 45 semester hours of credit may be earned through any combination of AP, CLEP, IB, Military or other such examinations or courses that are deemed acceptable by the Office of the Registrar.

Credit by Assessment

Credit by Assessment is a means to gain credit for courses offered at Southeastern University by demonstrating knowledge of the course content. Students enrolled at Southeastern University who wish to attempt credit by examination or other appropriate assessments, or to challenge a course in which they are enrolled, may petition the Department Chair or Dean of the college for the opportunity to demonstrate competency in the usual material covered in the course. The petition must be approved by the Department Chair or Dean of the college. The Department Chair and/or Dean of the college will determine if a standardized test is appropriate. The testing instrument will become part of the student’s academic record.

For the successful petition, the examination or assessment will be scheduled at the convenience of the Academic Services office. At the equivalent minimum grade of “C” earned on the examination or assessment, a grade of “CR” will be recorded on the student’s academic record for the subject tested. Credit by Assessment fees must be paid prior to test administration. Credit by Assessment forms are available in the Office of the Registrar.

A maximum of 32 hours may be earned through the credit by assessment method.

Transfer of Credit from Other Institutions

Southeastern University participates in an articulation agreement with Florida community colleges. Students who transfer from a regionally accredited Florida community college with an Associate of Arts degree are admitted at the junior level. These transfer hours will satisfy the general education requirements and a portion of general electives for most degrees. The religion core credits required will be reduced in proportion to the number of transfer credits. Please consult the Office of the Registrar for specific guidelines related to the articulation agreement and the degree being sought.

Students transferring from a regionally accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor degree are admitted at the senior level into a program of study. The final 25 percent of their credits must be earned at Southeastern University. Former Southeastern graduates may apply for a second but different bachelor degree. They must complete no less than 25 percent of the new degree requirements to earn a second bachelor degree.

An applicant admitted in transfer must complete the total number of hours required in his/her program to meet graduation requirements. The Office of the Registrar will enter all transferred credits into the computer system. Students may access transfer information through their online accounts. Student aims representing the declared major will be added to the student’s online account once a major is officially declared with the Office of the Registrar. Major/Minor Declaration forms are available on the University website at the following link: http://www.seu.edu/admission/registrar/forms.php.

Transfer students have the right to appeal transfer credit decisions made by the Office of the Registrar. The student must write a letter of appeal accompanied by any additional documentation requested by the Office of the Registrar. The appeal will be reviewed by the appropriate academic department chair/college dean with additional documentation and the student will be notified of the decision rendered.

General Conditions for All Credit Transfer

• New transferring students must submit an official transcript from all previous institutions by the end of the student’s first semester in order to have credit transferred in. An official transcript is submitted in a sealed envelope from the college or university. We will not be able to accept an opened transcript as official.
• After a student has completed 75% of his program the university will not accept course work in transfer.
• The final 25 percent of credit for any program must be earned at Southeastern University.
• Once accepted into a degree program at Southeastern University, a student must obtain a transient letter to have credits accepted from another institution.
• Credits accepted in transfer must be graded with a “C” or higher.
• Courses accepted in transfer are calculated into the student’s GPA.
• Southeastern University requires all college-level work to be represented on an officially approved and sealed transcript from the originating institution.

Transfer Practices

1. The Transfer Credit Practices of Designated Educational Institutions published by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admission Officers is referenced.
2. The university reserves the right to deny credit for specific courses from any college or university, regardless of accreditation.
3. Credits earned at an institution accredited by a regional accrediting association are transferred on an unconditional basis with the exception of developmental, vocational, technical, or occupational courses.
4. Southeastern University will normally only accept in transfer credits earned at an institution which is regionally accredited or complies with article one of this transfer policy. However, students who are transferring from an unaccredited institution may petition the Office of the Registrar for an exception to the policy by requesting that their credits be evaluated on a course by course basis. The student may petition by completing the Credit Evaluation Worksheet form in its entirety and submitting it to the Office of the Registrar. The Credit Evaluation Worksheet is available in the Office of the Registrar. Southeastern University recognizes that quality instruction and learning can and does take place in non-traditional settings, but the university is also committed to the concept that coursework transferred or accepted for credit must represent collegiate coursework relevant to the degree being sought, with course content and level of instruction resulting in student competencies at least equivalent to those of students enrolled in Southeastern University’s own degree programs.
   1. To facilitate the evaluation of the student’s credits, he or she will be asked to supply the following documentation:
      • an official transcript;
      • full course descriptions form the awarding institution;
      • information regarding the credentials of instructors;
      • information regarding course contact hours;
      • information regarding textbooks used;
      • any other documentation deemed necessary by the Registrar or the department in which the course of study is being pursued, for example, exams, research papers, original course syllabus, and other relevant documents by which the rigor of the course may be determined by the appropriate faculty or evaluator at Southeastern University. A positive evaluation is essential for the credit to be accepted.
   2. A maximum of 32 credit hours may be accepted in transfer and are normally applicable to general education or electives in any given degree program. Courses may be applied to general education or major requirements upon the advice and consent of the appropriate department chair or dean of the college and the Registrar.
   3. Course-by-course petitions require the transfer of credit be held pending the documentation of successful work during the student’s first semester (12 credit hours minimum) of attendance at Southeastern University. Credits will not be transferred if the student fails to meet a minimum grade point average of 2.0.
   4. The student must provide scores from E-ACT or SAT to demonstrate the ability to work at the baccalaureate level.
5. International credits must come from a college or university recognized by the country’s department of education or ministry. Credits will only be reviewed after an official transcript has been submitted to the Office of the Registrar and an evaluation has been performed by an approved independent evaluation service. Contact the Office of the Registrar for a list of approved service providers. The student is responsible for the cost of this service.
6. Southeastern University does not generally accept credit given by one institution for another institution’s transferred credits.

Transfer Credit Appeals

Transfer students have the right to appeal transfer credit decisions made by the Office of the Registrar. The student must write a letter of appeal accompanied by any additional documentation requested by the Office of the Registrar. The appeal will be reviewed by the appropriate academic department chair/college dean with additional documentation and the student will be notified of the decision rendered.

Degree Requirements

A candidate for the bachelor’s degree must complete the required number of hours for his/her chosen degree program with an overall average grade of 2.0. Various colleges and departments within the university may require a higher GPA to qualify for graduation. Refer to the program’s section of the catalog for details. Each candidate for a degree must complete the required general education core, including 6 hours of college-level math and 6 hours of English Composition, unless ACT or SAT scores qualify the student for an exemption from English Composition I. Each candidate for a degree must complete the required general education core, discipleship/community service requirements and major requirements in the selected program of study. Students seeking teacher certification must complete requirements in appropriate professional education and teaching specialization courses.

Degree requirements are based on the requirements in effect at the time the student first declares a major. Students may elect to complete the requirements in effect at the time the student first declares the major or they may elect to complete the requirements of the current catalog. The degree requirements of the current catalog must be applied for all students who are readmitted to degree seeking status and have not attended Southeastern University for two or more semesters.

Candidates for the bachelor’s degree must complete the final 25 percent of their program of study at Southeastern University.

Confidentiality of Student Records

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children’s education records. These rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches the age of 18 or attends a school beyond the high school level. Students to whom the rights have transferred are “eligible students.”

• Eligible students have the right to inspect and review their education records maintained by Southeastern University. SEU is not required to provide copies of records unless, for reasons such as great distance, it is impossible for parents or eligible students to review the records.
• Eligible students have the right to request that SEU correct records which they believe to be inaccurate or misleading.
• Generally, SEU must have written permission from the student in order to release any information from a student’s education record. However, FERPA allows schools to disclose those records, without consent, to the following parties or under the following conditions (34 CFR § 99.31):

- School officials with legitimate educational interest;
- Other schools to which a student is transferring;
- Specified officials for audit or evaluation purposes;
- Appropriate parties in connection with financial aid to a student;
- Organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the school;
- Accrediting organizations;
- To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena;
- Appropriate officials in cases of health and safety emergencies; and
- State and local authorities, within a juvenile justice system, pursuant to specific State law.

Schools may disclose, without consent, “directory” information such as a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, honors and awards, and dates of attendance. SEU notifies students annually of their rights under FERPA.

Disclosure of Information in Health and Safety Emergency

Based on 34 FERPA CRF 99.36, an educational agency or institution may disclose personally identifiable information from an education record to appropriate parties, including parents of an eligible student, in connection with an emergency if knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals.

SEU may include in the education records of a student appropriate information concerning disciplinary action taken against the student for conduct that posed a significant risk to the safety or well-being of that student, other students, or other members of the school community;

SEU officials may disclose appropriate information to teachers and school officials within the institution who it has been determined have legitimate educational interests in the behavior of the student; or

SEU officials may disclose appropriate information to teachers and school officials in other schools who have been determined to have legitimate educational interests in the behavior of the student.

SEU officials may take into account the totality of the circumstances pertaining to a threat to the health or safety of a student or other individuals, in making this decision. If the institution determines that there is an articulable and significant threat to the health or safety of a student or other individuals, it may disclose information from education records to any person whose knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals.

Orientation

All new students are required to participate in the orientation sessions at the start of the first semester of enrollment. Opportunities for early orientation, known as Fast-track Orientation, are offered in June and July, and are advantageous to students who want to jumpstart their SEU experience, learn about university life, and review requirements, policies and services. Students who enroll for the first time during a summer semester must attend an orientation session. Required ETS Proficiency Exams are administered at this time.

Graduation

Application

In order to participate in commencement, a student must fulfill the following responsibilities by the deadline provided by the Office of the Registrar. Students gain a thorough understanding of these requirements in the published graduation documents in MySEU.

• Clear all incomplete grades in courses;
• Provide transcripts of all transferred courses by the semester deadlines that are 6 weeks before graduation;
• Have a satisfactory deportment record from the Office of Student Development;
• Complete required community service;
• Complete the exit exam required for student’s major;
• Complete the ETS Proficiency Profile with an acceptable score after 64 hours were earned;
• Have no departmental holds on the student’s account;
• Meet all academic requirements, non-academic, and program-specific requirements to graduate.

Students on academic probation or otherwise academically deficient will not be eligible to apply for graduation or participation in commencement until the condition of probation or deficiency is removed.

Senior Degree Audit Policy 

Students who have earned 96 credit hours and are within one year of graduation must file an Application for Graduation Form to the Office of the Registrar, located in Spence Hall. Graduation advisors in the Office of Academic Advising (OAA) use this application to process and complete a student’s graduation degree audit. The student and advisor (OAA) should meet to discuss which courses to schedule based on the final degree requirements.

A degree audit is an outline of degree requirements based on a specific catalog year that enables the student and his/her advisor to assess the student’s academic progress and additional coursework needed to fulfill specific minor, undergraduate and graduate requirements. The audit is a valuable tool in guiding students in the right direction towards academic planning, course selection and degree completion.

How to Complete an Application for Graduation

1. Obtain an Application for Graduation Form from the Graduation Information page on MySEU.

2. Submit the Application for Graduation Form by returning the document to the Office of the Registrar in Spence Hall; via e-mail at: registrar@seu.edu; by fax to ATTN: Office of the Registrar at (863) 667-5200 or U.S. Mail.

3. After the request form is filed, an official graduation audit will be processed and completed by a graduation advisor (OAA). The student will receive an e-mail from the advisor (OAA) directing him/her to contact or visit them to review the analysis of the degree audit, highlighting final degree requirements for the student. All final academic requirements specified on this audit must be completed in order for the student to graduate. 

4. When meeting with a graduation advisor to review the audit forms and summary, the student will sign and return the form(s) to the OAA where it will be processed and forwarded to the Office of the Registrar. A student is not classified as a candidate for graduation until the application has been received and an official degree audit is processed, reviewed, signed and approved by the Office of the Registrar.

Honors

Honors recognition is made at commencement based on the cumulative grade point average at the end of the penultimate semester. If the grades of the final semester change a student’s honors status, the correct status is noted on the official transcript.

A transfer student must complete a minimum of 45 semester hours of credit at Southeastern University to be considered for honors. In addition, the hours and quality points accumulated at previous schools will be averaged with the Southeastern GPA to determine the GPA for honors recognition.

A candidate for the bachelor’s degree will graduate with honors as follows:

• Cum laude (honors) -cumulative grade point average of 3.50-3.74

• Magna cum laude (high honors) -cumulative grade point average of 3.75-3.89

• Summa cum laude (highest honors) -cumulative grade point average of 3.90-4.00

Adornment

Honor cords and approved medallions are the only graduation adornment that graduates will be allowed to wear at official graduation ceremonies of Southeastern University. Graduation stoles, decorations, or other adornment are not permitted. Honor cords should represent high academic achievement by graduates as recognized through their respective departments and colleges. Membership in College and Department honor societies may also be represented by appropriate honor cords.

Recognition of Academic Excellence

Alpha Chi

Alpha Chi is a national honor scholarship society which promotes academic achievement, ethical character, and professional advancement. Members of this society must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher, comprise no more than 10% of junior and senior classes, and be elected to the society by the faculty. Alpha Chi sponsors forums, seminars, scholarships for students, and regional and national conventions for the exchange of scholarly papers and for professional networking.

Alpha Psi Omega

Alpha Psi Omega is a theatre honor society that seeks to honor hard work, community and a passion for theatre. Its mission statement, “To develop talents in all aspects of theatre, to foster the cultural values we believe theatre develops, and to encourage cooperation and collaboration among member chapters,” is the foundation for Alpha Eta Alpha, the chapter at Southeastern University.

Chi Sigma Lota

Chi Sigma Iota is an international honor society that values academic and professional excellence in counseling. Chi Sigma Iota promotes a strong professional identity through members (professional counselors, counselor educators, and students) who contribute to the realization of a healthy society by fostering wellness and human dignity. A students’ invitation to join the chapter at Southeastern University – Sigma Epsilon Upsilon, distinguishes them as an individual whose accomplishments are consistent with the mission of the international organization and of the Sigma Epsilon Upsilon Chapter. Eligibility for membership is extended only to those students who “have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better on a scale of 4.0, are deemed promising for endorsement as a professional counselor whose ethical judgment and behavior will be exemplary” (csi-net.org/bylaws, Article 4.1), and “who strive to serve Christ and the world through Spirit-empowered life, learning, and leadership” (Southeastern University Mission).

Dean’s Honor

Southeastern honors students who excel academically may qualify for the Dean’s Honor List. To qualify, a student must be enrolled for 12 hours or more and attain or surpass a scholastic average of 3.5 from the previous semester of enrollment. Letters of Achievement are awarded to honor students who demonstrate good Christian character, attitude, and sincerity in all areas of university life.

Kappa Delta Pi

Kappa Delta Pi, an International Honor Society in Education was founded in 1911 at the University of Illinois. Organized to recognize excellence in education, membership is elected based on ideals of scholarship, high personal standards, and promise in teaching and allied professions. High academic achievement required.

Kappa Mu Epsilon

Kappa Mu Epsilon is a specialized honor society in Mathematics. KME was founded in 1931 to promote the interest of mathematics among undergraduate students. Its chapters are located in colleges and universities of recognized standing which offer a strong mathematics major. The chapters’ members are selected from students of mathematics and other closely related fields who have maintained standards of scholarship, have professional merit, and have attained academic distinction.

Phi Alpha

The purpose of Phi Alpha Honor Society is to provide a closer bond among students of social work and promote humanitarian goals and ideals. Phi Alpha fosters high standards of education for social workers and invites into membership those who have attained excellence in scholarship and achievement in social work.

PHSO

The Pre-Health Service Organization is for those preparing for careers in the health profession. The primary objective of the organization is to take social action on campus and in the community, exhibit excellence in scholarship, provide practical field experience, and establish relationship between students committed to becoming outstanding healthcare professionals.

Psi Chi

Psi Chi, the national honor society in psychology, promotes excellence in scholarship and advancement in the science of psychology. Qualification for membership requires the completion of three semesters, or the equivalent, of college or university courses, completion of nine semester hours or the equivalent toward a declared major or minor in psychology, a 3.0 GPA in psychology courses, a cumulative 3.0 GPA, and rank in the upper 35% of their class in general scholarship.

Sigma Beta Delta

The purposes of Sigma Beta Delta are to encourage and recognize scholarship and achievement among students in business, management, and administration. Membership is the highest international recognition a business student can receive at a university. To be eligible for membership, a business student must rank in the upper 20 percent of the junior, senior or master’s class and be invited to membership by faculty officers.

Sigma Chi Pi

Sigma Chi Pi, the honor society for the Alliance for Assemblies of God Christian Higher Education, accepts into membership qualified graduates from Southeastern University. Nominations for membership are restricted to no more than seven percent of the graduating class and are made by the Registrar. Qualifications for membership require a scholastic average of not less than 3.5 on a four point system, or the equivalent, approved Christian character, and diligent servant leadership.

University Honors Scholar

Graduating seniors who have fulfilled extensive program requirements for the Southeastern University Honors Program, including the successful completion of an in-depth Honors Thesis, receive the designation of University Honors Scholar. They are noted by the Honors Program medallion worn at commencement.

Academic Integrity

“Academic dishonesty” refers to plagiarism or cheating (see definitions below). Should a professor suspect academic dishonesty of any kind, the professor will follow the guidelines below and will refer the student to the Office of Academic Advising (OAA). The OAA will note the instance in the student’s file and will follow up to make sure that all consequences dictated by the professor have been completed.  In order to have an effective policy in place to counter academic dishonesty, professors MUST follow these guidelines in all instances of plagiarism and cheating.

LEVEL 1—

Academic Dishonesty for undergraduate students will be considered a Level 1 offense when it is the first instance of plagiarism in a student’s career at Southeastern AND it consists of a small part (less than 25%) of the assignment. Consequences for the student for a Level 1 offense must include at least one or all of the following:

• Completing an ethics course that includes strategies for avoiding plagiarism and cheating; AND/OR
• Correcting the plagiarism in the assignment for a grade; AND/OR
• Receiving a grade penalty up to the total grade value of the assignment; AND/OR

• Being referred to the ACE to receive further instruction in plagiarism avoidance.

LEVEL 2—

Academic Dishonesty will be considered a Level 2 offense when it is:

• The second instance of plagiarism in an undergraduate student’s career at Southeastern; OR
• The first instance of plagiarism of up to 50% for a graduate student; OR
• Consists of a substantial part (between 25% and 50%) of the assignment; OR

• The first instance of cheating on a test or assignment.

 Consequences for the student for a Level 2 offense must include:

• Receiving a Z grade annotation (required, see below); AND
• Receiving a grade penalty in the course; AND
• Completing an ethics course that includes strategies for avoiding plagiarism and cheating (required if not already taken)

Additionally, the consequences may include any or all of the following:

• Correcting the plagiarism in the assignment for a grade; AND/OR
• Failing the course; AND/OR
• Losing eligibility to take online courses for the remainder of their careers at Southeastern.

LEVEL 3 —

Academic Dishonesty will be considered a Level 3 offense when it is:

• The third (or higher) instance of plagiarism in an undergraduate student’s career at Southeastern; OR
• The second (or higher) instance of plagiarism in a graduate student’s career at Southeastern; OR
• Consists of most (more than 50%) of the assignment; OR
• Is the second instance of cheating on a test or assignment for any graduate or undergraduate student

Consequences for Level 3 offenses must include the following:

• Receiving a Z grade annotation (required, see below); AND
• Completing an ethics course that includes strategies for avoiding plagiarism and cheating (required if not taken previously); AND
• Receiving a grade penalty in the course;

Additionally, consequences may include any or all of the following:

• Failing the course; AND/OR
• Losing eligibility to take online courses for the remainder of their careers at Southeastern; AND/OR
• Expulsion from the University at the discretion of the Provost

Definitions

Plagiarism

Plagiarism occurs when a writer uses someone else’s language, ideas, or other original material without acknowledg­ing its source.

Plagiarism includes unattributed use of any source, in any medium, published or unpublished.  Work already submitted for a grade in another course may not be resubmitted unless the professor specifically states otherwise.

 Some examples of plagiarism include but not limited to:

• Quoting or paraphrasing material without attributing it to its source
• Copying segments from the work of others without giving proper credit
• Submitting as original work written entirely by someone else

Cheating

Cheating is attempting to present, as one’s own, work that one has not performed, or using improper means to pass an examination. Examples include, but are not limited to:

1. The sharing of unauthorized information regarding specific content of assignment/examinations or using books, notes or other material without the instructor’s permission.
2. The discussion of any aspect of the assignment/examination before all students have completed it.
3. Speaking or otherwise communicating with one another in English or any other language or manner during an examination.
4. Submitting work the student has not done him- or herself. This includes papers, projects, homework assignments, computer programs, etc.
5. Submitting of the same paper or assignment, or material portions thereof, for more than one course (except by both instructors’ approval and in accordance with criteria established by each of them).
6. Falsifying of research data.
7. Preventing student or faculty access to course material. This includes mutilating or stealing library material or disabling computer equipment or databases.
8. Using electronic devices such as cell phones or calculators to store information or materials that are not authorized by the instructor.

Other violations may include:

1. Failing to follow any other explicit regulation or expectation announced by the instructor, and/or circulated to each student. It is the responsibility of the student to confer with an instructor when procedures are unclear.
2. Falsifying a signature on any official university document.
3. Altering the contents and/or intent of any official university document.
4. Intentionally or knowingly helping or attempting to help another to violate any provision of this policy. 

For Level 2 offenses only, students who successfully complete the ethics course may have the Z grade removed from their transcripts upon petitioning the professor of the course.

Z Grade Annotation

When a Professor, Review Committee or Dean concludes that cheating has occurred (plagiarism or some other form of cheating), the student’s course grade will be preceded by the letter Z (ZB, ZC, ZD, ZF, with +/- designations as appropriate). The transcript key will indicate that the Z grade annotation is assigned in cases of cheating. If the student has withdrawn from the class in which the cheating occurred, he or she should be added back to the roster and assigned a Z grade annotation. When submitting final grades, the OAA will inform the Registrar’s Office, which will affix a “Z” in front of the grade. The OAA will also inform the faculty and dean involved in this process.

After the first cheating offense in the student’s SEU career, the student may complete a required ethics course, normally prior to the start of the next eight-week term. At the discretion of the professor of the course in which cheating occurred, the student may be required to retake the academic course the next time it is offered to replace the grade. Upon receiving documentation of successful completion of the ethics course and, if required, the retaken academic course, the professor awarding the Z (or his or her dean, if the professor is no longer at SEU) will instruct the Registrar to remove the Z from the student’s transcript. After second or subsequent cheating offenses, the Z grade annotation cannot be removed. This penalty may be applied at the Professor, Coordinator, Chair, Dean, Provost, or Review Committee level. The processes stated in the Student Appeal and Complaint Policy (under Academic Affairs in the Course Catalog) are to be utilized should a student seek an appeal of any decision rendered under the Academic Integrity policy.

Summary of Civil and Criminal Penalties for Violation of Federal Copyright Laws 

Copyright infringement is the act of exercising, without permission or legal authority, one or more of the exclusive rights granted to the copyright owner under section 106 of the Copyright Act (Title 17 of the United States Code). These rights include the right to reproduce or distribute a copyrighted work. In the file-sharing context, downloading or uploading substantial parts of a copyrighted work without authority constitutes an infringement. 

Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or “statutory” damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. For “willful” infringement, a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court can, in its discretion, also assess costs and attorneys’ fees. For details, see Title 17, United States Code, Sections 504 and 505. 

Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense. 

For more information, please see the website of the U.S. Copyright Office at www.copyright.gov.

Non-Traditional Programs

Southeastern University offers non-traditional programs to non-residential students through an online format, as well as evening classes that are 4 weeks and/or 8 weeks in length. Online and Evening Programs are designed for adult learners who desire to complete a degree while continuing with work and life activities. Online and Evening Programs feature a limited number of degrees, described under the Academic Programs section. Online courses are offered to Traditional students on a limited basis to assist in filling out their campus based schedules. Online courses are made available for all students to access from home during the summer, so that academic progress is possible while on summer break. Contact the Office of the Registrar for more information.
 

Southeastern University has established extension sites in a variety of locations throughout the United States. These sites consist of students who are enrolled in online and face-to-face courses in specific degree programs, and are facilitated by meeting with a face-to-face professor and a coordinator for the site. They are advised by our Office of Academic Advising.

Career Services

Career Services. Southeastern University’s career exploration office, COMPASS, THE CENTER FOR CALLING & CAREER,  exists to serve the University community – students, alumni, faculty, and staff – by providing professional recommendations and guidance related to continuing education and employment. We provide career assessments, career coaching, resume preparation, internship and job boards, professional networking and career workshops, church and career expos and recruiting events. These services are provided through career-focused courses, employability seminars, and group and individual sessions. Career assessment services are provided using the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® (MBTI®), Strong Interest Inventory®, along with an online job service, College Central Network.

Community Service Requirements

All Southeastern University students (non-religion majors) are required to perform two (2) semesters of community service/ministry as part of fulfilling their institutional graduation requirements. New incoming freshmen students must complete thirty (30) hours of community service/ministry per semester and a total of sixty (60) hours overall during the time of their enrollment at Southeastern. New transfer students are required to complete fifteen (15) hours of community service/ministry per semester and a total of thirty (30) hours overall upon graduation.

Each academic college or department requires declared students to complete a total of sixty (60) hours of community service to be certified as a graduation candidate. Community Service information, forms and documentation are available through the appropriate college or department personnel. All community service, files and student hours completed are evaluated, documented and monitored by each academic college or department. Prior to graduation, each candidate’s completed service hours must be reviewed and approved by the dean or department. Documentation is sent to the Registrar as part of the student’s graduation requirements.

Students in the College of Christian Ministries & Religion who are majoring in Church Ministries, Practical Theology, or Missional Ministries, are not required to complete community service hours as a result of their degree requirements for completing two semesters of Student Ministry Practicum. However, Interdisciplinary Studies majors, who are not required to enroll in such practicums, are to complete 60 hours of community service/student ministry in compliance with the standards for non-religion majors.

Veterans Benefits

Southeastern University is approved by the State Approving Agency of the State of Florida for the education and training of veterans and eligible dependents under public laws in effect. Students who are eligible for educational benefits under any Veterans Administration program should apply through the Veterans services website at  http://www.gibill.va.gov/. All information, instructions and procedures are found at that website. 

Students must be enrolled for 12 or more semester hours to be eligible for full-time benefits. A student cannot receive educational benefits for audit courses. VA regulations require that students take courses that are applicable to their degree program, make satisfactory progress toward their degree, and maintain satisfactory attendance for the degree program as stated in the Standard of Progress. Veterans’ benefits will be terminated for students who fail to make satisfactory progress or receive dismissal for academic or disciplinary reasons.

The VA Certifying Official notifies the Veterans Administration of reported changes in enrollment or withdrawal. However, the student is responsible for notifying the certifying official of the university, and the VA Regional Office of any enrollment changes or termination of enrollment. The VA student is responsible for any overpayment of benefits resulting from a change in enrollment

The VA Certifying Official notifies the Veterans Administration of reported changes in enrollment or withdrawal. However, the student is responsible for notifying the certifying official of the university, and the VA Regional Office of any enrollment changes or termination of enrollment. The VA student is responsible for any overpayment of benefits resulting from a change in enrollment. Southeastern University also participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program.

Three Easy Steps to receiving VA benefits at Southeastern University:

1. Apply for benefits on the VA website at www.gibill.va.gov
2. Submit a copy of your application or Certificate of Eligibility that you receive to the SEU Office of the Registrar
3. Our Certifying Official will certify your enrollment hours and tuition to the VA website within two weeks of the drop/add period for each semester that you are enrolled.

Southeastern University VA Representatives:

• Ivette Valentin, VA Certifying Official/Associate Director of SFS        863-667-5000          imvalentin@seu.edu

VA Certifying Official hours of operation:  Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Legal Name Changes

Students and former students/alumni may submit documentation of a legal name change to the Office of the Registrar. A court order or marriage certificate is required.

Constitution Day

Pursuant to federal regulations, (Division J of Pub. L. 108-447, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2005,” Dec. 8, 2004; 118 Stat. 2809, 3344-45 Section 111), Southeastern University sponsors a Constitution Day annually, open to students and members of the community, with political and government representatives as featured speakers. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to attend.