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 that are eligible for a course waiver due to test scores must make up the waived credit in general elective.  A waiver does not grant academic credit.

Students who have completed the admission process will receive an instructional email 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.

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 jump-start 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.

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

In accordance with Title 38 US Code § 3679 subsection (e), this school adopts the following additional provisions for any students using U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Post 9/11 G.I. Bill^® (Ch. 33) or Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Ch. 31) benefits, while payment to the institution is pending from the VA.  This school will not:

• Prevent the student’s enrollment;
• Assess a late penalty fee to the student;
• Require the student to secure alternative or additional funding;
• Deny the student access to any resources (access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities) available to other students who have satisfied their tuition and fee bills to the institution.

However, to qualify for this provision, such students will be required to:

Provide the enrolling institution with a copy of his/her VA Certification of Eligibility (COE) - A “certificate of eligibility” can also include a “Statement of Benefits” obtained from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) website; eBenefits; or a VAF 28-1905 form, for chapter 31 authorization purposes.

Academic Policies: Syllabi

Grading Scale

SEU MISSION AND VISION STATEMENTS

Mission Statement

Equipping students to discover and develop their divine design to serve Christ and the world through Spirit-empowered life, learning, and leadership. 

Vision Statement

Southeastern University is anchored by Spirit-empowered education in a Christ-centered, student-focused learning community. Southeastern’s global impact is marked by a deep commitment to transforming minds and engaging culture through the integration of faith, learning, and service. Each student’s divine design is nurtured and unleashed through the investment of faculty and staff, relationships within the community, the rigor of scholarship, diverse learning experiences, and the discipline of spiritual formation, which propels students into a lifetime of serving the world in the Spirit of Christ.

In addition to our mission and vision statement, we hold fundamental truths about the Christian faith that include the following:

The Scriptures are inspired by God and declare His design and plan for mankind. There is only one true God who is revealed in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (commonly known as the Trinity). Jesus Christ, as God’s son, was both fully human and divine.

We are proud of our affiliation with the Assemblies of God and our Pentecostal tradition. We are also proud to be a welcoming community for students from all Christian backgrounds and denominations. Our campus includes many Baptists, Presbyterians, Methodists, etc., as well as nondenominational students. Everyone shares a strong commitment to knowing Christ and making Him known, and we celebrate our theological similarities while appreciating our differences. Refer to Human Sexuality for additional details related to What We Believe.

Title IX Statement

Southeastern University is committed to creating an environment for every student to thrive academically spiritually and socially. An aspect of creating this culture is providing avenues for students to discuss and report any activity that may compromise this commitment.

Under a federal law known as Title IX, “no person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance” (Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972).

While students should feel comfortable approaching faculty with issues they may be struggling with or concerns they may be having, students should know that all faculty and staff are required to report certain information about Sexual Misconduct and certain crimes to University administration, in order to help keep the University community safe and to connect students to all of the resources and reporting options that are available.

For example, if you inform faculty or staff (in private or during class discussions) of an incident of Sexual Misconduct, that individual will keep the information as private as possible but is required to bring it to the attention of the institution’s Title IX Office. If a student would like to talk to the Title IX office directly, they can do so by e-mail at smpowell@seu.edu, by phone at 863-667-5236, or in person at Pansler U210. For more information about Title IX reporting options at Southeastern, please go to https://www.seu.edu/about-southeastern- university/title-ix/.

If you are struggling with an issue that is traumatic, unusually stressful, or results in disruptive behavior, faculty and staff will likely inform the Care Team. If students would like to reach out directly to the Care Team for assistance, they can do so at the Campus Counseling Center (https://my.seu.edu/services/counseling-health-

wellness-services/campus-counseling-services/) located in Esperanza 303, by phone at 863-667-5205, or by e-mail at care@seu.edu.

Student Services

Student Conduct:

The office of Student Conduct believes that every student has a journey. That journey is either taken alone or with others. When you enter the disciplinary process, we assess your individual situation and connect you with resources through our campus and outside the community so that they too, may journey alongside you. 

P: (863)667-5486 E: studentconduct@seu.edu

Safety & Security:

Campus security officers are available at the office 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can obtain a parking permit, report suspicious behavior or request an escort across campus after dark. Questions about parking violations should be directed to this office.

P: (863)667-5190 E: security@seu.edu

Retention:

The Office of Student Success and Retention is committed to guiding and supporting students who may be navigating a variety of life transitions impacting their ability to continue their studies at Southeastern University.

P: (863)667-5668 E:  retention@seu.edu

ADA:

Academic and Auxiliary Services (ADA) offers a variety of support services to increase students’ academic success

P: (863)667-5286 E: adaservices@seu.edu

ACE:

The goal of ACE is to help you succeed academically and to enrich your learning experience. ACE personally invites you to come receive encouragement and acquire the tools you need to maximize your ability as a student at Southeastern.

P: (863)667-5137 E: ace@seu.edu

Class Participation

Students are required to log in regularly to the course. The instructor will monitor student activity and participation through MyFIRE. Students are also required to participate in all class activities such as discussion board posts and responses, chat, or conference sessions, and group projects.

Official Email

You are expected to check your SEU webmail account daily during the course term. All written correspondence between instructor and student must be handled through the SEU email system.

MyFIRE Use

Please, make it a habit to always check your MyFIRE account as messages; assignments, grades, and other important related materials may be posted. It is the student’s responsibility to check grades and notify your instructor

if you have questions.

Technical Difficulties

Southeastern University is committed to providing a reliable online course system to all users. However, in the event of an unexpected server outage or any unusual technical difficulty that prevents students from completing a time-sensitive activity or assessment, students should report any problems to the instructor and also contact SEU’s 24x7 Support Center via the various links provided on every homepage (available options: chat, email, phone). Be sure your computer system complies with all SEU Technical Requirements. These requirements are listed within MyFIRE and a Browser Checker is provided under the Need Help? drop-down to ensure the browser you are using is compatible with MyFIRE.

Technical Support

If you have questions or need assistance, you can reach out to our 24/7 Support Center at 1-888-889-6599 or click here to submit a support ticket via email.

Note: Email response is within 24 hours.

If immediate assistance is required, please contact support via phone/chat. To chat LIVE! with a Support Representative, click here.

Disability Statement

Southeastern University is committed to the provision of reasonable accommodations for all students with learning and/or physical disabilities, as defined in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. This legislation guarantees educational rights for the physically and learning disabled.

Students with medical diagnoses that qualify them for accommodations must contact ADA services at (863) 667-5283, or e-mail ADAservices@seu.edu. Once medical documentation is provided and confidential consultation is completed, the student will then be responsible to provide the director of academic and auxiliary services with a list of his or her current professors and their e-mails.

Contact with the Office of Academic and Auxiliary Services is mandatory for each new semester. For more information, visit the SEU students with disabilities page on our website.

Academic Honesty

Plagiarism is considered a serious academic offense at Southeastern. It undermines the educational process and, when done intentionally, violates the integrity of the community.

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.

Examples of plagiarism include:

• 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

Widely known facts do not require citation and do not count as plagiarism so long as they are communicated in the writer’s own words. Ideas and observations original to the writer also do not require citation.

Work already submitted for a grade in another course may not be resubmitted unless the professor specifically states otherwise.

For more information, visit the SEU Plagiarism page on our website.

Course Evaluation

In order to help us to assess the effectiveness of our courses and instructors, please complete the course evaluation. If you receive a course evaluation for this course, you are required to complete it.

Official Withdrawal

To officially withdraw from this course please contact the registrar’s office. 

Netiquette

General Rules of Netiquette:

• Make your messages easier to read by making your paragraphs short and to the point.

• DO NOT SHOUT BY TYPING IN ALL CAPS.

• Utilize humor in appropriate forms. Avoid hostile, abusive, libelous, or rude comments. No vulgar, sexist, racist, biased, or other objectionable language will be tolerated.

• Reinforce others in the course (e.g., “Good presentation!” or “Thanks for the feedback.”). Valid criticism is acceptably expressed in the form of thoughtful alternatives. Do not insult or “flame” others.

• Think twice and send once. The old carpenter adage to measure twice and cut once holds great value here. Once you send something not well-thought-out you will find it difficult and time-consuming to recover. Think about what you want the group and the professor to think about you.

• Use spell-check and grammar-check. The little errors commonly accepted in email or text messaging with friends and family are distracting and inappropriate in a college discussion forum.

• In an online discussion forum, a debate is welcome, but be tactful in responding to others. Remember that there’s a person (or a whole class) at the receiving end of your post.

• If you quote a previous post (by using the reply function for example), quote only enough to make your own point

• If you want to get in touch with only one person in the class, send a message to that individual’s e-mail address, not to the entire discussion list.

The Academic Year

Traditional Programs

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

The fall and spring semesters are normally 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 summer semester typically consists of study abroad and internship opportunities over a 16 week semester.

Traditional students are permitted to take up to two courses in the online program per fall and spring semester and up to four courses in the online program per summer semester. Courses will be billed according to the traditional student tuition rate in the fall and spring, but the reduced rate will be billed in the summer term.

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 29 hours
Sophomore 30 to 59 hours
Junior 60 to 89 hours
Senior 90 or more hours

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.
  • Academy Program - student taking annual courses to obtain certification, licensing, or ordination with the Assemblies of God.
• 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.

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 Office of International Student Services and Enrollment 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. Regular activities are designed to foster community, cultural awareness/education, and support within the family of international students.

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 canceled classes without incurring fees. Students are responsible to check the web site, their student web access, and visit 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.

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 the open advising period. 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, ADA, 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.
• 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 web pages. 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. 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 Policy

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 semester for all traditional courses, as designated in the Academic Calendar. 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 complete the SEU Student Acknowledgement to access the content within the course by the drop/add deadline. Students who do not complete the SEU Student Acknowledgement may be removed from the course. . This does not absolve the student from responsibility to 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.

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.

Financial Aid is based on the total number 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 by contacting the Office of the Registrar during that same semester.   

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 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 one online course in a normal semester if their GPA is 2.5 or above, as part of their total 12 – 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.

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 other contributing factors. A class that has been attempted cannot be dropped without an approved written appeal.

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 four hour sessions or one eight hour session without penalty.  A professor may take the same actions described above if a student misses more than this 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.

Semester Continuance Policy

Semester Continuance Policy:  Medical

A student may occasionally have an issue or life event that prohibits him/her from finishing a semester successfully within the 15 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 coursework. Reasons can be varied and unexpected. Various triggers for continuation may be identified as medical, such as an accident resulting in an injury or hospitalization due to an unexpected illness or  emotional and psychological issues due to a personal trauma or criminal attack.  Requested semester continuation for any of the above listed reasons will be coordinated by the Director of Academic and Auxiliary Services.

 In order to be granted a semester continuance, a student must have successfully completed 60% of the course or courses, which is 9 weeks of a 15 week semester or 5 weeks of an 8 week semester, with satisfactory progress in each course under consideration for an extension of the coursework deadline.

 Requests for semester continuance are submitted to the Director of Academic and Auxiliary Services.  Submission of medical or other appropriate documentation will be required.  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 reparations 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. 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.  Again, 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 and Auxiliary Services 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, Financial Aid and other pertinent departments of the university must be made by the student.

Communication with parents or family members may take place as needed while guarding specific student academic records, based on the FERPA authorization that the student has made or not made. Protected information may include the courses in which the student is enrolled.

Semester Continuance Policy: Non- Medical

The coursework to be completed by the student will be determined by each professor based on the number of weeks that have passed and the progress made so far in each course. Every consideration should be given in order to assist the student to finish the course successfully within the guidelines described in the policy. The requirements for completion of the course will not be reduced or waived.

Once the Director of Academic and Auxiliary Services has determined a course of action based on the feedback from professors or the Registrar, Semester Continuance forms will be signed by the student. Professors will be notified that the semester has been extended for the student with a definitive deadline for all work to be submitted.

The following points should be understood and communicated to the student:

• A shorter extension will result in better outcomes. Financial aid for future semesters is impacted by having Incompletes in courses when a new semester begins. If the work can be completed within 30 days, agree to that time frame; however, the student may be given up to one full semester to complete all course work.
• The student must be advised that if the deadline is not met for all course work, the grade earned will be issued. The grade for non-completion will be F.
• Professors may not be accessible in the summer, since it is not a recognized semester. Agreement should be made in advance as to when the professor will be available.

The Director of Academic and Auxiliary Services will set a reminder to follow-up on the student’s progress in courses by contacting the student and the professors, as needed. Follow-up attempts and outcomes will be documented in the student’s record.

Withdrawal and Readmission

Former students who have not been in attendance of Southeastern University within one semester, or who withdrew during a semester for any reason, must submit a formal application for readmission, along with an updated Christian Character Reference.

Information pertaining to required or voluntary medical withdrawal may be located in our Student Handbook.

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.  Final examinations for graduating seniors may be scheduled one week in advance, depending on commencement scheduling.  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 on the last day of class.

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 Provost 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. The regular grading scale applies to courses completed by Directed Study.
7. 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.
8. Directed Study is restricted by faculty availability.
9. Directed Study may be utilized to pursue an area of study that can be individually designed by the professor in collaboration with the student.
10. 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.

Grades and Quality Points

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

GPA Calculation

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 major core course in which a grade of “F” was earned at Southeastern can be repeated only at Southeastern unless dean or department chair approval has been granted to take it elsewhere as transient.  The failed course will remain on the student’s transcript, even after the course has been repeated.

Academic Integrity

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, however, all attempts will be posted on the student transcript. Students may only attempt a failed course up to three (3) times total.  Should the student not pass the course with three attempts, the student must complete the course via transient, or petition the Chair or Dean for a course substitution.  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 major core course in which a grade of “F” was earned at Southeastern can be repeated only at Southeastern unless dean or department chair approval has been granted to take it elsewhere as transient.  The failed course will remain on the student’s transcript, even after the course has been repeated.

Southeastern University seeks to foster a spirit of honesty and integrity in students.  The University expects students at SEU to embody the same spirit of commitment to high ethical standards and academic integrity in all aspects of their participation within the program.

Therefore, any work submitted by a student must represent original work produced by that student.  Any source used by a student must be documented using appropriate scholarly references and citations.The university commonly uses MLA, APA, AMA, and Turabian citation and writing styles. Students may find additional information about these general styles by clicking on the following link: Steelman Library Citation Education and Resources

“Academic dishonesty” (regardless of intention) refers to plagiarism, cheating, and fabrication (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 Academic Center for Enrichment (ACE) by submitting an Early Alert (the Early Alert link is available through JICS). The intervention will be noted in the student’s file. University personnel will follow up assuring that all consequences dictated by the professor and university policy have been completed.  To effectively counter academic dishonesty, professors must follow these guidelines in all instances of plagiarism and cheating. The processes stated in the Student Appeal and Complaint Policy are to be utilized should a student seek an appeal of any decision rendered under the Academic Integrity policy. 

University Expectations

The university maintains a high expectation of student character and ethical conduct. The university expects students to apply critical thinking to ethical standards and to appropriately use summarizing, paraphrasing, quoting, and citation of all sources according to the writing style required by the professor. 

The university commonly uses MLA, APA, AMA, and Turabian citation and writing styles. Students may find additional information about these general styles by clicking on the following link: Steelman Library Citation Education and Resources

This policy applies to all coursework, assessments, and comprehensive exams.

Undergraduate - Academic Dishonesty Reporting & Procedure

In each instance of academic dishonesty, the professor will (a) contact the Academic Center for Enrichment to determine the level of the offense and the appropriate consequences according to the guidelines listed below; (b) communicate with the student to discuss the nature of his or her academic dishonesty, the academic integrity policy, and the consequences to be assigned; and (c) submit an academic dishonesty report to the Academic Center for Enrichment and, as appropriate, to the department chair or program director.

The academic dishonesty report should include: 

• Name and ID number of the student

• Professor, course, and term

• Description of the academic dishonesty (plagiarism or cheating), indicating the level of offense (See Academic Levels and Outcomes Chart)

• Documentation of each step of the academic integrity procedure that has been followed

• Copy of the TurnItIn plagiarism report, if applicable

• A copy of the plagiarized work, if applicable

• Any other supporting documentation

• An indication of the consequences already assigned (See Academic Levels and Outcomes Chart for outcomes that may be determined by the professor).

Outcomes

When an allegation of academic dishonesty has been made, the university and students will follow the process listed below to resolve the case:

1. Professors (mandatory case reporters) will submit the case to the academic integrity program facilitated by the Academic Center for Enrichment and, as applicable,  to the department chair or program director.

2. The Academic Success Coordinator will contact the student to schedule a hearing to research the case. If the hearing aligns with the professor’s report, the case will progress according to the outcomes assigned to the level of the case. 

   • If a student is placed in the Academic Integrity course a hold will be placed on the student’s account until the final grade is posted.

3. Students may appeal the findings or outcomes of a case by submitting an appeal to the Academic Integrity Committee. All decisions of the Academic Integrity Committee are final.

   • The processes stated in the Student Appeal and Complaint Policy are to be utilized should a student seek an appeal of any decision rendered under the Academic Integrity policy. 

If an allegation of Academic Dishonesty has been confirmed by the university, students must comply with the following policies:

• Complete an assigned Academic Integrity course (if not taken previously). 

  • The student must successfully complete the course prior to registering for additional courses or continuing the dissertation/capstone process. 

  • The Z grade annotation may be placed on the student’s transcript if the Academic Integrity Course is not completed successfully.

• Students may not withdraw from a course in order to avoid consequences for academic dishonesty. 

• Complete any plagiarism and ethics education/tutoring assigned by the university. 

• Complete all requirements prescribed by the university according to level assigned to the individual case.

  • A case may be escalated to a Level 3 at any time if the student becomes defensive or belligerent when any level of academic dishonesty is addressed.

Please refer to the Academic Levels and Outcomes Chart for additional details.

Undergraduate - LEVEL 1

Level I is only used for undergraduate students. 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 

Outcomes for a Level 1 plagiarism offense must include one or more of the following:

• Completing an Academic Integrity (AI) course that includes strategies for avoiding plagiarism and cheating.

  •  Failure to complete the course may result in a “Z” annotation on the student’s transcript. 

  • The course must be completed prior to registration for additional courses.

• Complete any plagiarism education or tutoring assigned by the university. 

Additional outcomes may include one or more of the following

• Correcting the plagiarism in the assignment for a grade.

• Receiving a grade penalty up to the total grade value of the assignment.

Undergraduate - 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 cheating.

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

• Completing an Academic Integrity (AI) course that includes strategies for avoiding plagiarism and cheating (required if not already taken); AND

• Receiving a grade penalty in the course; AND

• Receiving a Z grade annotation (may only be removed by successful completion of the AI course).

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

• Correcting the plagiarism in the assignment for a grade

• Failing the course

• In the first instance of cheating, 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 course grade.

• Students may lose eligibility to take online courses for the remainder of their careers at Southeastern.

Undergraduate - 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

• Is the second instance of cheating.

Consequences for Level 3 offenses must include the following:

• Receiving a grade penalty in the course; AND

• Completing an AI course that includes strategies for avoiding plagiarism and cheating (required if not taken previously); AND

• Receiving a Z grade annotation (required, see below);

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

For the purpose of this policy, 

• “professor” is defined as any person providing academic support or assessment of a student’s work.  These persons include course instructors, mentors, writing support professors, and members of the dissertation/capstone committee (chair, methodologist, content specialist, and third reader), and

• “submission” is defined as all coursework, comprehensive exams, as well as drafts and final versions of the dissertation/capstone projects and/or sections of the dissertation/capstone project submitted to professors and to graduate writing support. 

Plagiarism

Plagiarism occurs when a writer (regardless of intent) 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

The policy also applies to incidents of self-plagiarism, resubmission, or multiple submissions (the use of a single project in two or more academic settings either at Southeastern University or another academic institution). Work submitted in another course may not be resubmitted unless both professors specifically state otherwise.

Some examples of plagiarism include, but are 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 work written by someone else

• Allowing another student to submit their work to use as his or her own when that individual had not done the work

Widely known facts do not require citation and do not count as plagiarism as long as they are communicated in the writer’s own words. Ideas and observations original to the writer also do not require citation.

Avoiding Plagiarism

Professors at Southeastern University work diligently to help students understand and avoid plagiarism. However, the responsibility ultimately rests on students to make sure that their work does not contain plagiarism. Students can avoid plagiarism by properly citing and quoting, paraphrasing, and summarizing all material they use from sources.

Common forms of citation include parenthetical citations, footnotes/endnotes, and attributive statements such as “According to Smith and Rodriguez…” 

Quotations include entire sentence(s), key phrase(s), or specific term(s) that match a source word for word.  All quotations must be cited using the appropriate quotation format.  

Paraphrases and summaries include material (usually information or ideas) taken from a source and put into a writer’s own words.  All paraphrased and summarized materials must completely rephrase the original source and be properly cited. 

The bottom line in avoiding plagiarism is that students must clearly indicate the material in their writing that is original to them and the material taken from sources.

Cheating

Cheating is attempting to present (regardless of intent), 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:

• The sharing of unauthorized information regarding specific content of assignment/examinations or using books, notes or other material without the instructor’s permission.

• The discussion of any aspect of the assignment/examination before all students have completed it.

• Speaking or otherwise communicating with one another in English or any other language or manner during an examination.

• Submitting work the student has not personally completed.

• 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).

• Falsifying of research data.

• Preventing student or faculty access to course material. This includes mutilating or stealing materials provided by the university for the examination, and/or disabling and interfering with required equipment (i.g. computer equipment or databases.

• Using electronic devices such as cell phones or calculators to store/share information or materials that are not authorized by the instructor.

Fabrication

Fabrication is (regardless of intent) falsification or creation of false data or information.  If fabrication is discovered, the case level may be escalated at any time. 

Other violations may include:

• Failing to follow any other explicit regulation or expectation announced by the instructor, and/or circulated to each student.  This includes failure to use surveillance equipment or software as required by the professor. It is the responsibility of the student to confer with an instructor when procedures are unclear.

• Falsifying a signature on any official university document.

• Altering any official university document.

• Intentionally helping or attempting to help another student to violate any provision of this policy.

Undergraduate Z Grade Annotation

When a professor, Academic Integrity Committee, or Academic Deans conclude that academic dishonesty has occurred (plagiarism or some other form of cheating), the following will occur:

• A report will be submitted to the Academic Integrity office for processing.

• The student will be informed of the report and the university policies that apply to the report.

• The student may submit an appeal to the Academic Integrity Committee (See Student Appeal and Complaint Policy for the complete process)

• When submitting final grades, the intervention coordinator will inform the Registrar’s Office, which will affix a “Z” in front of the grade. 

• The intervention coordinator will also inform the faculty and appropriate college personal involved in this process.

• 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. 

After the first cheating offense in the student’s SEU career:

• The student may complete a required AI 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 course grade.

•  Upon receiving documentation of successful completion of the AI course and, if required, the retaken academic course, the intervention coordinator will instruct the Registrar to remove the Z from the student’s transcript. After a second or subsequent cheating offenses, the Z grade annotation cannot be removed. This penalty may be requested at the professor, coordinator, chair, Academic Dean for the College of Unrestricted Education, Executive Director for the College of Unrestricted Education, or Academic Integrity Committee level. All requests will be processed by the Academic Integrity Office according to university policies.   The processes stated in the Student Appeal and Complaint Policy 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. 

Violation of Federal Copyright Laws 

“102. Subject matter of copyright: In general

(a) Copyright protection subsists, in accordance with this title, in original works of authorship fixed in any tangible medium of expression, now known or later developed, from which they can be perceived, reproduced, or otherwise communicated, either directly or with the aid of a machine or device.” (https://www.copyright.gov/title17/92chap1.html).

“506. Criminal offenses

(a) Criminal Infringement.—

(1) In general.—Any person who willfully infringes a copyright shall be punished as provided under section 2319 of title 18…” (https://www.copyright.gov/title17/92chap5.html).

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

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 Parchment. The student may submit a transcript request through the web service found on the university’s website. Transcripts are normally processed within three business 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 follow these steps from any computer:

1. Go to www.seu.edu.
2. Go to the bottom of the page.
3. Under “Academics”, click on “Transcripts/Verification”.
4. Scroll down, click on “Transcript Requests”.
5. Choose the link to for either starting a transcript order or checking the status of a transcript order.
6. Make sure you get a transcript order number after clicking the “Submit” button.
7. Check your email for updates on your transcript request, as you may be sent an authorization form to sign and return to us (SEU).

You may also access information directly from the Credentials website:

1. Go to www.credentials-inc.com/tpo.
2. Click on “Order a Transcript” or “Check the Status of My Order”.
3. Choose “Southeastern University” in the list of schools.
4. Read the introductory information “Transcript Ordering Overview” and click “Next”.                   
5. Make sure you get a transcript order number after clicking the “Submit” button.
6. 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 (SEU).

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, Credential’s will require a signature authorization form will need to be emailed to registrar@seu.edu or faxed to 863.667.5200 to our attention
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 ($8.00 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, or select “Hold for grades to be posted” when submitting the request. Current semester grades are posted approximately two weeks after final exams end.

Withdrawals

Withdrawal from a Course

Students may withdraw from a course without academic penalty through the withdrawal deadline, which is notated on the academic calendar and occurs at the 60% point 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 website. 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

A University Withdrawal occurs when a student officially communicates with the Office of Student Success and Retention that he/she wishes to withdraw from all courses and exit the institution. University Withdrawals happen after the add/drop period through the withdrawal period (60% mark of the term/semester). Upon completion of the University Withdrawal process, a grade of “WD” will be recorded for each current course as a final grade. The “WD” has no impact on a student’s cumulative or term GPA.

Withdrawing from the University may impact financial aid and could result in a balance owed, as students will remain financially responsible for all tuition and fees incurred. Any refunds for which the student is eligible will be processed in accordance with the refund policy described in the Financial Information section of the catalog. 

The Office of Student Success and Retention will guide students throughout the process to ensure informed decision-making.  Students who wish to pursue a University Withdrawal will initiate the process by contacting the Office of Student Success and Retention by emailing retention@seu.edu for assistance. Communication will be directed to the student’s official @seu.edu email account. It will be the student’s responsibility to check this account for information and/or documentation regarding the University Withdrawal process.

Students seeking to exit the University between semesters/terms will initiate the process by contacting the Office of Student Success and Retention by emailing retention@seu.edu for assistance.

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 90 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 90 hours or more. For example: if we accept 65 credits as a transfer student, the student may take 25 transient credits while at SEU, for a total of 90 maximum transferred credits allowed.
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 Office of Academic Advising provides comprehensive services to help students achieve academic success. Academic advising is an interactive process in which the advisor helps the student set and achieve academic goals and make responsible decisions consistent with degree requirements. Advising is personalized to consider the needs of each student, which may include appropriate referral services. Academic advisors serve as a guide to students along their academic journey, but it is the student’s responsibility to know and meet the program requirements of their declared major.

Academic Advisor Assignment

All enrolled students are assigned a faculty advisor. The assigned faculty advisor is based on the student’s major selection. A student’s faculty advisor is the student’s first point of contact for course selection, career advisement, and academic mentorship. All students are assigned a secondary staff advisor who serves within the Office of Academic Advising. The staff advisor provides supplementary advising support including general advisement, major selection, degree audit support, and graduation evaluation. Staff advisors are also available for assistance with course selection when the faculty advisor is unavailable or when otherwise needed including, but not limited to summer.

Students can view their assigned academic advisors on the university’s student information system (JICS). New students will be notified of their assigned faculty advisor by the start of courses in their first semester. Upon change of major, a student will be assigned a new faculty advisor.

Academic advisors will help students plan an educational program consistent with their interests and abilities, assist students by monitoring their academic progress using the JICS degree audit, advise students on course selection which moves students toward graduation, refer students to university services as needed, and help students understand university policies and procedures.

Advising Meetings

Students are encouraged to meet with their faculty advisor each semester during Open Advising prior to Open Registration to prepare for course scheduling for the following semester.

Advising is required for all freshman and juniors each semester during the Open Advising period. An advisor hold is placed on all freshmen and juniors to prevent registration prior to an advising meeting. The advisor hold is removed once the student has successfully met with their assigned faculty advisor.

Degree Audit (JICS)

All enrolled students are provided an electronic degree audit within the university’s student information system (JICS). The degree audit is used as an internal document to communicate the student’s degree requirements to the student, faculty advisor, Office of Academic Advising, and Office of the Registrar.

The degree audit is a personalized document listing the student’s major/minor requirements based on their declared catalog year. The audit provides up-to-date course information listing in progress, met, and unmet requirements. On a regular basis, students should utilize the JICS degree audit, as an advising tool, to assist in registration planning, track course requirements, and monitor progress toward graduation.

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. The initial indication of a major or interest in a major based upon the admission application will be honored. If no major has been indicated, a Declaration of Major form must be filed with the Office of the Registrar by 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. Change of major may place a student under different catalog requirements, and may impact federal financial aid eligibility. Counsel from academic advisors and student financial services counselors is encouraged. 

If a student chooses to declare more than one major, course credits earned may be used to meet the same requirements of both declared majors.   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.  If a student chooses to declare a major and a minor within the same discipline, a maximum of six credit hours may be applied toward both the major and the minor; twelve or more unique credit hours must be earned in the minor separate from the major.

Academic Standing

Academic Standing is evaluated by the Office of the Registrar at the end of the Fall and Spring semesters. Students with a 2.0 or higher semester and cumulative GPA are considered to be in good academic standing. Students with a semester or cumulative GPA below a 2.0 are placed on academic condition status, as noted in the chart below.

Academic Conditional Process

At the end of each fall and spring academic semester, the Office of the Registrar reviews student academic progress.  Students that earn below a 2.0 semester GPA but retain above a 2.0 cumulative GPA will be placed on Academic Notice (AN).  Students that earn below a 2.0 semester GPA and cumulative GPA will be placed on Academic Probation (P1) and will have a limited load of 13 credits (LL) placed on their account. A second consecutive semester of Academic Probation (P2)  is granted if the student earns a 2.0 or better semester GPA but the cumulative GPA is below a 2.0. Students on P2 will have a limited load of 13 credits (LL) placed on their account. If at the end of Academic Probation (P1 or P2) a student’s cumulative and semester GPA is below a 2.0, the student will be recommended for Academic Suspension (SU).  Students on Academic Suspension have the option to appeal their suspension standing. If approved, the student will be permitted to return at the P2 level.

Academic Expulsion

Permanent separation, or expulsion, from the University are to be decided by the Academic Condition Committee.  Expulsions disallow future participation in University-wide academic programming.  The Committee will review each case and make a decision.  The student will be notified of the Committee’s decision through email.  Documentation of the expulsion will become part of the student’s permanent academic record at the University.  Expulsions will be considered based on factors that could include:

• repeated offense(s) of the University’s Academic Integrity policy
• severe offense(s) of the University’s Academic Integrity policy
• offense(s) with malicious intent or blatant disregard for the University’s Academic Integrity policy
• lack of compliance/follow through with suspension sanctions

Students have the right to appeal the expulsion decision within 20 days.  Appeals are submitted to the Committee then forwarded to the Provost for final decision.  The student will be notified of the appeal decision through email.   Documentation of the appeal decision and expulsion will become part of the student’s permanent academic record at the University.  

Non-Academic Expulsions

Permanent separation, or expulsion, from the University is to be decided by the Student Development Assessment Committee.  Expulsions disallow future participation in University-wide programming.  The Committee will review each case and make a decision.  The student will be notified of the Committee’s decision either face to face, when possible or through email if necessary.

Documentation of the expulsion will become part of the student’s permanent transcript record at the University.  

Expulsions will be considered based on factors that could include, but are not limited to:

• repeated offense(s) of the University’s Conduct/Title IX policies
• severe offense(s) of the University’s Conduct/Title IX policies
• offense(s) with malicious intent or blatant disregard for the University’s Conduct/Title IX policies
• lack of compliance/follow through with previous sanctions assigned.

Students have the right to appeal the expulsion decision within 3 business days.  Appeals are submitted to the Committee then forwarded to the Executive Director of Student Development for final decision.  The student will be notified of the appeal decision via email.   Documentation of the appeal decision and expulsion will become part of the student’s permanent transcript record at the University. 

Academic Recovery

Federal regulations require students to maintain satisfactory academic progress in order to remain eligible to receive financial aid. Your academic probation/suspension may indicate you are also at risk for losing all or a portion of your federal, state, or institutional financial aid. To determine if you are at risk, please contact Student Financial Services (sfs@seu.edu) to ensure you have all the information you need for your next steps.

Developmental Studies

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.

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.

Math

For math placement, 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.

Students who score below the minimum required scores on the E-ACT or SAT must take the following courses:

MATH 131L - Mathematics Workspace

• Required of any student whose program requires Math 1313 and Math 1323 scoring below 440 on the SAT or 19 on the ACT or any student without a current ACT or SAT score.
• To be taken concurrently with MATH 1313 Topics in Mathematics.
• Registrar will automatically enroll students in Mathematics Workspace.
• This course may NOT be applied towards a general education math credit.
• Credit may be used as an elective credit.

MATH 1073 Intermediate Algebra

• Required of any student whose program requires MATH 1213, MATH 1413, or MATH 2144 scoring below 23 on the ACT or below 530 on the SAT
• Registrar will automatically enroll students in Intermediate Algebra.
• This course may NOT be applied towards a general education math credit.
• Credit may be used as an elective credit.

First Year Writing

For placement into the First Year Writing program, the FYW Coordinator will assess and place students into the most appropriate course based on their high school GPA, ACT/SAT scores, and their entrance essay. For students identified as needing additional writing support, they will be simultaneously enrolled in both ENGL 1133 Composition I and ENGL 1131 Writing Studio.

Additional Requirements

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.

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 First Year Writing). To remain academically eligible, students should satisfactorily pass all developmental/remedial courses, demonstrate measurable academic progress and satisfy programmatic requirements.

All students who enroll in ENGL 1131 Writing Studio are required to participate in the following activities (1) SEU 1051 College and Career Success.  This is a 16 week course designed to introduce students to college-level study skills. Satisfactory completion of the course results in a P on the students transcript.  Students who do not successfully complete the requirements of this course receive an “F” on their transcript. (2) Students are required to attend student success coaching and tutoring sessions.

Engagement in these requirements 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.

Appeals Process - Advising and Registration

Course Appeal

Courses: A student who has an unresolved issue in a course after communicating with the professor 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 or she 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.

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 Florida Articulation Coordinating Committee. 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 official AP scores directly from The College Board to Southeastern University for evaluation.  Transcripts received from the student will not be considered official.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

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

Southeastern University accepts all CLEP exams listed on www.collegeboard.com, with these exceptions:

• Intro to Educational Psychology (general elective credit only)
• College Composition Modular

For a detailed list of CLEP exams approved for credit through SEU, visit this link.

CLEP exams are offered through the SEU Testing Center. You do not have to be a Southeastern University student to utilize our Testing Center.  Contact the SEU Testing Center (testing@seu.edu) to schedule an appointment to take a CLEP exam. All SEU students must complete an eligibility form before an appointment can be scheduled. The form will be reviewed to determine if the student meets SEU guidelines for awarding CLEP credit. These guidelines are listed below. One form per CLEP exam must be completed.

SEU Guidelines for Awarding CLEP Credit

• Students who have completed more than 95 college credits are NOT eligible to take the CLEP.
• Official CLEP scores must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar before the student’s 96th hour of earned credit for evaluation.
• 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.  
• To receive credit for a qualified CLEP test, a student must not be currently enrolled in, have completed, or earned a “W” in an equivalent or more advanced course.
• CLEP credits combined with AP, IB, AICE, PLA, and military credit cannot exceed 45 college credits.
• Twenty-five percent of college courses must be earned through Southeastern University.
• Credit cannot be duplicated.
• For non-SEU students, please contact your host institution regarding CLEP eligibility.

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 official IB scores to the Office of the Registrar for evaluation.  Request transcripts from www.IBO.org.

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 an official 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.

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 Office of Testing and Proctoring Services.  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.

Hours earned through the Credit by Assessment method may not exceed 25% of any degree program.

Prior Learning Assessment

Students with significant experience in a subject area that could possibly be aligned with a course at a college or university may be able to gain credit through the prior learning assessment process. For guidance through the process, read the document, Prior Learning Assessment Instructions and the Prior Learning Assessment Handbook, located in the SEU catalog.  A maximum of 45 semester hours of credit may be earned through any combination of the following: AP, CLEP, IB, Military, Credit by Assessment, Credit by Examination or Specialized Training/Certification that are approved by the Registrar.  Students must earn 25% of their degree through Southeastern University courses, per SACSCOC regulations.  The 45 hour maximum of experiential learning credit may be reduced for transfer students in order to meet their 25% coursework requirement.

Transfer of Credit from Other Institutions

Association for Biblical Higher Education

General Conditions for All Credit Transfer

• New transfer 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 must be submitted in a sealed envelope or electronically delivered from the college or university. We will not accept an opened transcript as official.  Southeastern University requires all college-level work to be represented on an officially approved and sealed transcript from the originating institution in order to award credit for transferred courses.
• Credits accepted in transfer must be graded with a “C” or higher.
• Courses accepted in transfer are calculated into the student’s GPA.
• After a student has completed 75% of his or her program, not to exceed 90 credit hours, the university will not accept additional course work in transfer.
• The final 25% of credit for any program must be earned at Southeastern University.
• To take credits through another institution while enrolled in a degree program at Southeastern University, a student must obtain transient approval to have credits accepted from another 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 or the Association of Biblical Education 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.
5. Students who are transferring from an unaccredited institution may petition the Office of the Registrar for an exception to the policy by appealing to have their credits evaluated through a Credit Evaluation Worksheet.  The Office of the Registrar will send a Credit Evaluation Worksheet with the courses eligible for evaluation. The Credit Evaluation Worksheet must be returned with all requested information to the Office of the Registrar.  A positive evaluation is essential for the credit to be accepted. 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 from 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.

   2. A maximum of 32 credit hours may be accepted in transfer and are normally applicable to general education requirements 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. The transfer of credit awarded through a Credit Evaluation Worksheet will 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 ACT or SAT to demonstrate the ability to work at the baccalaureate level.

6. 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.

7. Southeastern University does not accept credit given by one institution for another institution’s transferred credits.

8. Credits eligible for transfer will not be removed at a student’s request.

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 foundational 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 foundational 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.

Dual Major vs. Dual Degree

A dual major is a program of study that meets the requirements of two distinct majors in a Bachelor’s degree. The program of study consists of courses required to meet the degree requirements for each of the two majors, together with the foundational core courses needed to meet the general education requirements for the degree. The minimum number of credit hours required for a dual major equals the total number of credit hours required for the major comprising the larger number of credit hours for the degree; however the student may be required to complete additional credit hours to fulfill the second major core when the major core exceeds the general elective core of the primary major. 

Dual major programs lead to a single Bachelor’s degree when both majors are the same degree type (ie. BS and BS).   Students who complete the requirements for a double major in the same degree type receive a single diploma that acknowledges both majors.

Dual major programs that lead to two Bachelor’s degrees upon completion (ie. BS and BA) will receive two separate diplomas acknowledging each major upon degree conferral.

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.

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 record from the Office of Student Development;
• Complete required community service;
• Complete the exit exam required for student’s major;
• Have no departmental holds on the student’s account. Having a hold will not keep you from participation, however if there is a Business hold diploma and transcripts cannot be released.
• 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 90 credit hours and are within one year of graduation must file an Application for Graduation Form to the Office of the Registrar. Graduation advisors in the Office of Academic Advising use this application to process and complete a student’s graduation degree audit. The student and advisor 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. Fill out the Application for Graduation JICS under the “Graduation” tab.
2. After the request form is filed, an official graduation audit will be processed and completed by a graduation advisor. The student will receive an email from the advisor directing him/her 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.
3.  A student is not classified as a candidate for graduation until the application has been received and an official degree audit is processed. 

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 Phi Sigma

Alpha Phi Sigma recognizes academic excellence of Undergraduate and Graduate students of Criminal Justice, as well as Juris Doctorate students.

The four goals of Alpha Phi Sigma are to honor and promote academic excellence, community service, educational leadership, and unity.

Alpha Phi Sigma is the only Criminal Justice Honor Society which is a certified member of the Association of College Honor Societies and affiliated with the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.

Southeastern University’s assigned chapter name is Pi Beta Kappa. This chapter has been organized to promote the highest standards of criminal justice practice and to recognize and promote the four goals of Alpha Phi Sigma.  

Student members must have declared a major in Criminal Justice and must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.5.

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.

Delta Mu Delta

Delta Mu Delta is a business honor society that recognizes and encourages academic excellence of students at qualifying colleges and universities to create a DMD community that fosters the well-being of its individual members and the business community through life-time membership.

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.

Military Honor Cord

A red/white/blue cord designates faculty or graduating students who are honorably discharged U.S. veterans, are currently serving in the U.S. military (active duty, National Guard, or Reserves), or will be commissioned upon graduation.

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 health care 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 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.

Sigma Tau Delta

Sigma Tau Delta is a recognized honor society in English. The organization was established in 1924 to confer distinction for high achievement in English language, literature, and writing. Its chapters are located in colleges and universities and is dedicated to fostering literacy and all aspects of the discipline of English.

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.

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 Requirement

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, with the exception of degree programs that embed the Community Service requirement into practicum coursework. 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.

Legal Name Changes

Students and former students/alumni may submit documentation of a legal name change to the Office of the Registrar. A color copy of the Social Security Card, Driver’s License, or passport indicating the new name is required. Current students submit the documentation through Student Information System; alumni submit the documentation to the Alumni Office.

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.