Academic Policies

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.

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General Academic Policies and Procedures

Academic Policies

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 for master’s and doctoral programs. 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.

Academic Advising

Upon acceptance into a graduate program, each student will be assigned an individual with expertise in the chosen field to serve as the student’s academic advisor. The student is responsible for corresponding with the academic advisor based on program protocol during enrollment in the program. The academic advisor’s role is to assist the student in academic program planning.

Declaration of Degree and Changing Programs

Every student who is accepted for enrollment as a degree-seeking graduate student must declare their degree on the admission application specific to that program. Any changes in graduate degree following initial enrollment must be arranged and approved by the student’s academic advisor and the chair, director, or coordinator of any new degree program in advance of any semester being considered for this change. Descriptions of specific enrollment requirements for any graduate program are available in the Programs of Study on the website. Any approved changes in degree may then be officially entered by completing a Doctoral Program Declaration form with the Office of the Registrar. 

The forms can be obtained through the chair, director, or coordinator of the program. Change of program may place a student under different catalog requirements.

Academic Integrity

Southeastern University seeks to foster a spirit of honesty and integrity in students. The University expects graduate 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 program-appropriate scholarly references and citations.

“Academic dishonesty” refers to plagiarism or cheating (regardless of intention) (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 (see “Appeals”) are to be utilized should a student seek an appeal of any decision rendered under the Academic Integrity policy.

Doctoral - Procedure for Dealing with Violations of Academic Integrity

When students attain the level of doctoral studies, the expectation is that they understand academic integrity and plagiarism. Doctoral students are expected to maintain the highest level of academic integrity in all their academic work. 

This policy applies to all doctoral coursework and comprehensive exams, as well as drafts and final versions of the dissertation/capstone and/or sections of the dissertation/capstone submitted to professors and to graduate writing support.

Academic Dishonesty Report

In each instance of academic dishonesty, the professor will (a) determine the level of the offense and the appropriate consequences according to the guidelines listed below; (b) communicate with the offending 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 Office of Academic Success and to the department chair, director, or coordinator.

The academic dishonesty report should include:

• Name and ID number of the offending student

• Professor, course, and term

• Description of the academic dishonesty (plagiarism or cheating), indicating the level of offense (Level 2 or 3 as outlined below)

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

• Copy of the plagiarism report (for example, from Turnitin.com), if available

• A copy of the plagiarized work, if applicable

• Any other supporting documentation

• An indication of the consequences already assigned

Doctoral - Consequences and Levels of Offense

The consequences for plagiarism vary according to the extent of the plagiarism and according to whether the instance is a student’s first or subsequent offense. Three levels of offenses and corresponding consequences are outlined below.

The Office of Academic Success and the department chair, director, or coordinator will keep records of plagiarism offenses. The professor should check with the academic success coordinator with ACE to find out whether a given instance of plagiarism is a first or subsequent offense. The professor is responsible for determining the extent of the plagiarism. Plagiarism detection tools (such as Turnitin.com) may be used as an aid in this process.

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

Level 1 

Level one is used only for undergraduate students.

Level 2 

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

• The first instance of plagiarism in a submission for a doctoral student; OR

• The first instance of cheating in a submission for a doctoral student.

Consequences for a Level 2 offense are assigned at the programs chair’s, director’s, or coordinator’s discretion with input from the professor, considering factors such as the extent of the academic dishonesty and the nature of the assignment. When students are allowed to correct plagiarism for a graded submission, the course professor will determine the due date for resubmission. 

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

• Completing a Graduate Academic Integrity (GAI) course. The student must successfully complete the course prior to registering for additional doctoral courses or continuing the dissertation/capstone process. Failing the GAI course will result in dismissal from the program. A copy of the complete record must be submitted to the professor and the department chair before a student may continue in the doctoral program; AND 

• Receiving a grade penalty in the course (for non-dissertation submissions); AND

• Receiving a Z grade annotation (may only be removed by successful completion of the GAI course). (Students may not withdraw from a course in order to avoid consequences for academic dishonesty)

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

• Correcting the plagiarism in the assignment for a grade reduction; AND/OR

• Receiving a failing grade for the submission with no option for resubmission; AND/OR

• Failing the course; AND/OR

• Being placed on academic probation. 

Additional consequences for dissertation or capstone students may include any or all of the following:

• Suspension of up to one subsequent semester. The student will not be allowed to communicate with members of the dissertation or capstone committee or enroll for dissertation or capstone credits until the suspension is completed.

• Re-assignment of dissertation or capstone committee;

• Suspension of the Graduate Writing Support services until reinstated.

Level 3 

Academic Dishonesty will be considered a Level 3 offense when:

• The offense is the second instance of plagiarism or cheating in the student’s doctoral program; OR

• The offense is an instance of plagiarism or cheating deemed egregious by the professor and department chair, director, or coordinator; OR

• Cheating occurs on the comprehensive exam; OR

• The offense consists of most of the assignment or dissertation/capstone section; OR

• The student becomes defensive or belligerent when any level of academic dishonesty is addressed.

Consequences for the student for a Level 3 offense are determined according to the program chair’s, director’s, or coordinator’s discretion with input from the professor, considering factors such as the extent of the plagiarism, the nature of the assignment, and the number and levels of any prior offenses. 

Consequences for Level 3 offenses must include the following: 

• Completing a Graduate Academic Integrity (GAI) course (if not taken previously). The student must successfully complete the course prior to registering for additional doctoral courses or continuing the dissertation/capstone process. A copy of the complete record must be submitted to the professor and the department chair before a student may continue in the doctoral program; AND

• Receive a zero for the submission (the student will have no option to rewrite course submissions and the student will receive no credit for the assignment); AND

• Receiving a Z grade annotation (required, see below); (Students may not withdraw from a course in order to avoid consequences for academic dishonesty).

Additional consequences for dissertation or capstone students may include any or all of the following:

• Suspension of up to one subsequent semester. The student will not be allowed to communicate with members of the dissertation or capstone committee or enroll for a dissertation or capstone credits until the suspension is completed

• Re-assignment of dissertation or capstone committee

• Suspension of the Graduate Writing Support services until reinstated

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

• Failing the course; AND/OR

• Expulsion from the University

Doctoral - 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);

• “submission” is defined as all doctoral coursework, GAI assignments, 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 is considered a serious academic offense at Southeastern University. Plagiarism undermines the educational process, and when done intentionally, violates the integrity of the community.

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. 

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 if the facts 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 following:

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

• Interacting with another person or source in any manner during an assessment.

• Submitting work the student has not personally completed.

• Submitting the same paper or assignment, or material portions thereof, for more than one course (except by both professors’ approval and in accordance with established criteria).

• Falsifying research data.

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

• Using electronic devices to store or share information or materials that are not authorized by the professor.

Other violations

Other violations may include:

• Failing to follow any explicit regulation or expectation announced by the professor, and/or circulated to each student, including failure to use surveillance equipment or software as required by the professor. Students are responsible to confer with the professor if procedures are unclear.

• Falsifying a signature on an official university document.

• Altering any official university document.

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

Doctoral - Z Grade Annotation 

When a professor, program chair, director, coordinator, or college dean conclude that cheating has occurred (plagiarism or some other form of cheating), the student’s course grade will be preceded by the letter Z (ZB, ZC, ZD, ZF, with +/- designations as appropriate). The transcript key will indicate that the Z grade annotation is assigned in cases of cheating. If the student has withdrawn from the class in which the cheating occurred, he or she should be added back to the roster and assigned a Z grade annotation. When submitting final grades, an 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, program chair, director, coordinator, or college dean involved in this process.

After the first cheating offense in the student’s SEU career, the student must successfully complete a required integrity course prior to enrolling in another course. Upon receiving documentation of successful completion of the assigned integrity course and fulfilling any other requirements imposed by the professor, the academic success coordinator will instruct the Registrar to remove the Z from the student’s transcript. After the second or subsequent cheating offenses, the Z grade annotation cannot be removed. This penalty may be applied at the professor, chair, director, coordinator, or dean level. 

Master’s - Consequences and Levels of Offense 

Level 1

Level 1 is only used for undergraduate students.

Level 2

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

• The first instance of plagiarism of up to 50% for a master’s student; OR

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

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

• Completing a Graduate Academic Integrity (GAI) 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 GAI course).

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

• Correcting the plagiarism in the assignment for a grade; AND/OR

• Failing the course; AND/OR

• Losing eligibility to take certain types of courses for the remainder of their careers at Southeastern.

Level 3

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

• The second (or higher) instance of plagiarism in a master’s level student’s career at Southeastern; OR

• Is the second instance of cheating on a test or assignment

Consequences for Level 3 offenses must include the following:

• Receiving a grade penalty in the course; AND

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

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

• Note: Students with a level 3 offense may not withdraw from a course or will be added back to the roster

Additionally, consequences may include any or all the following:

• Failing the course; AND/OR

• Losing eligibility to take certain types of courses for the remainder of their careers at Southeastern; AND/OR

• Expulsion from the University at the discretion of the Provost

Master’s - Definitions 

Plagiarism

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

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

Some examples of plagiarism include but 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 as original work written entirely by someone else

Cheating

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

• 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 done him- or herself. This includes papers, projects, homework assignments, computer programs, etc.

• 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.e. computer equipment or databases.

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

Other violations may include:

• 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 the contents and/or intent of any official university document.

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

Invalid Attempt

The program coordinator and department chair or college dean reserve the right to differentiate between cases of cheating and invalid exam attempts. If an invalid attempt incident is determined, the student is not required to take the academic integrity course, nor given a “Z” grade. Re-attempting the submission or assignment is permitted at the professor’s discretion.

Master’s - Z Grade Annotation 

When a professor, program coordinator, and department chair or college dean conclude that cheating has occurred (plagiarism or some other form of cheating), the student’s course grade will be preceded by the letter Z (ZB, ZC, ZD, ZF, with +/- designations as appropriate). The transcript key will indicate that the Z grade annotation is assigned in cases of cheating. If the student has withdrawn from the class in which the cheating occurred, he or she should be added back to the roster and assigned a Z grade annotation. When submitting final grades, an 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, program coordinator, and department chair or college dean involved in this process.

After the first cheating offense in the student’s SEU career, the student may complete a required GAI course, normally prior to the start of the next 8-week term. At the discretion of the professor of the course in which cheating occurred, the student may be required to retake the academic course the next time it is offered to replace the grade. Upon receiving documentation of successful completion of the GAI course and, if required, the retaken academic course, the professor assigning the Z (or academic dean, if the professor is no longer at SEU) will instruct the Registrar to remove the Z from the student’s transcript. After second or subsequent cheating offenses, the Z grade annotation cannot be removed. This penalty may be applied at the professor, coordinator, chair, or dean level. 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.

Violation of Federal Copyright Laws 

“102. The 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.

Academic Progress Standards

The term “academic progress standards” refers to the minimum standard of progress that Southeastern University expects graduate students to achieve as they work toward their educational goals. Students who maintain the minimum academic progress standards will ensure they graduate with the required cumulative grade point average (GPA). A satisfactory level of academic progress is determined based on the student’s cumulative GPA calculated based on all graduate work attempted. A student meets academic progress standards only if his or her cumulative grade point average is 3.0 or higher. To be eligible for continued enrollment in good standing, a student must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Students who fall below the minimum GPA will be placed on academic probation and may be suspended.

Additionally, the maximum number of C grades (C-, C or C+) allowed in a graduate program is two. If a student earns a grade of D-, D, D+ or F in a course, the student will be placed on probation or suspension depending on the circumstances. Courses in which a student receives a grade of less than C- will not be counted toward degree completion. If the course is required for degree completion, the course must be retaken with a minimal grade of C-. A course may be repeated only once for a grade.

A student must meet academic progress standards to be eligible for federal financial aid programs at Southeastern University. Refer to the chapter on Financial Aid Information for additional criteria that may apply.

Appeals Process

Appeal for Course Registration Decisions

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 award, 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.

The appeal of Final Grade

Section A: Graduate students have a right to appeal only a final grade. The grade assigned by the instructor is assumed to be correct. An instructor’s professional judgment in assigning a specific grade will not be considered during an appeals process. 

Graduate students may appeal a final grade under the following circumstances:

1. Course work was assessed according to a grading policy that differed from the announced and established course grading policy.

2. Grading procedures were applied inaccurately or with error.

3. An alleged deviation from the University syllabus policy that could have impacted the final grade occurred.

Section B: Students must initiate an appeal of a final grade within thirty (30) business days of the final grade posting and must follow the steps of appeal enumerated as follows:

1. Step 1. The student must contact, in writing, the instructor who issued the final grade to appeal the final grade. The instructor has ten (10) business days to respond to the student’s appeal and render a decision. If the student wishes to appeal the instructor’s decision, or if the instructor is not available, the student will proceed to Step 2. However, there are the following two exceptions.

1. If the course instructor is also the department chair, the student will skip Step 2 and proceed to Step 3. The dean of the college will render the final decision for the appeal.

2. If the course instructor is also the dean of the college in which the course is housed, the student will skip Step 2 and follow the exception clause in Step 3. In only this case, the final appeal level is the provost (see Step 3 exception).

2. Step 2. If the student wishes to appeal the instructor’s decision and the instructor is not the department chair or the dean of the college in which the course is housed, the student must contact the department chair in writing within five (5) business days of receiving the instructor’s final grade appeal decision. The written appeal sent to the department chair must identify which of the enumerated circumstances in Section A form the basis of the final grade’s appeal. The student must provide all relevant information to support the case for appeal when contacting the department chair. The department chair will make reasonable efforts to work with the instructor and the student to understand the issue before rendering a decision on the final grade’s appeal. The written decision of the department chair will be forwarded to the student and the instructor within twenty-one (21) business days from the date of receiving the student’s initial written appeal. If the student is dissatisfied with the outcome, the student may proceed to Step 3 of the process, which is the final level of appeal. 

3. Step 3. This final level of appeal must be initiated by the student within five (5) business days of receiving the department chair’s decision. The student must contact, in writing, the dean of the college in which the relevant course is housed to appeal the department chair’s decision. The dean will review all documentation and consider the student’s concerns. The dean may request additional documentation from the instructor, the department chair, and the student. The dean will issue a written decision, including a concise and explicit written statement that explains the basis for the decision, within twenty-one (21) business days of receiving the student’s written appeal or any additional relevant documentation requested by the dean. The dean’s decision is final, and no additional level of appeal is available to the student. 

Step 3 exception: If the dean is also the course instructor, the final appeal will be addressed by the provost. The provost will review all documentation and consider the student’s concerns. The provost will issue a written decision, including a concise and explicit written statement that explains the basis for the decision, within twenty-one (21) business days of receiving the student’s written appeal or any additional relevant documentation requested by the provost. The provost’s decision is final, and no additional level of appeal is available to the student. 

Appeal for Readmission under Academic Suspension

The University recognizes that extenuating circumstances may occur which are beyond the student’s control and which contribute to the student’s poor academic performance. A student may appeal an academic suspension to the dean of the college in which the program is offered. The student must submit a written appeal with supporting documentation for review. A readmitted student must agree to a set of conditions that must be met for continued enrollment. If the student fails to meet one or more of the conditions, a dismissal notice will be issued. The dean of the college in which the program is offered will inform the student of the decision within five workdays of receipt of the appeal.

Appeal for Transfer Credit Decisions

A student may appeal a transfer credit decision to the dean of the college in which the program is offered. The student must submit a written appeal with supporting documentation for review. The student must submit an appeal within five working days of receiving notice of the transfer credit decision. The dean of the college in which the program is offered will inform the student of the decision within five working days of receipt of the appeal.

Student Appeal and Complaint Policy 

A student who has an unresolved issue in a course or program after communicating with the professor or academic advisor directly and has not received satisfactory answers related to degree completion, transfer of credit, advising questions, or non-response may appeal to the program chair, director, or coordinator regarding the matter. If the issue is still unresolved following the meeting with the program chair, director, or coordinator, the student may appeal to the dean of the college for a resolution. The decision of the dean is final.

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. Additional career guidance and advocacy may be provided through the student’s department and/or college.

Classifications of Students

Advanced Standing Student 

Advanced standing may be available for graduate programs. See Program Descriptions for your program for availability and details. 

Audit Student 

An applicant applying for admission as an audit student must submit a Non-Degree Seeking Graduate Application. No record of previous academic work is required. An audit student will earn no University credit, nor will academic work be graded. Enrollment will be subject to the availability of space. Auditing a class requires approval from the instructor and the program chair, director, or coordinator.

Degree Seeking Student 

A degree-seeking student is one who has applied for admission to a graduate program and is systematically pursuing a degree. Degree-seeking students classified as regular standing or provisional standing.

Doctoral Candidate 

A student in any doctoral program at Southeastern University becomes a doctoral candidate after the following criteria are met:

1. All doctoral-level course work, except dissertation/project, is completed AND

2. All sections of the comprehensive exam have been successfully completed with a “P” (Pass) grade.

Comprehensive Exam Policy

During the last semester of program coursework, doctoral students will take a written comprehensive examination according to their program requirements. Students may take the comprehensive exam once (no repeats are allowed). However, if a student fails any portion of the written comprehensive exam, he or she may complete an oral defense of each failed portion of the comprehensive exam.

Oral Defense of Comprehensive Exam Time Limit

If a student wishes to complete an oral defense, the student is responsible to make arrangements with the program chair, director, or coordinator to schedule the oral defense of the failed portions of the comprehensive exam. A student will be required to complete an oral defense of each failed portion of the comprehensive examination within 30 business days of being notified of the written comprehensive exam results. A business day is defined according to the official university calendar. Specifically, weekends and university holidays are not considered business days. All failed sections of the written comprehensive exam must be defended during a single oral defense. A student is allowed only one attempt to defend any failed section of the comprehensive exam. A student who is unsuccessful in the oral defense of any portion of the comprehensive exam, or who does not complete an oral defense within 30 business days of notification of failure, will not be allowed to proceed to doctoral candidacy. A student who is unable to proceed to doctoral candidacy will be dismissed from the program. 

International Student 

International students applying for admission to any Southeastern University graduate programs must meet all normal requirements for admission for those programs.

Additional requirements are as follows:

1. Course-by-course transcript evaluation completed through a third-party such as www.jsilny.com or www.wes.org. This is required in order to confirm the completion of your undergraduate degree outside the United States.

2. Copy of passport

3. Copy of most updated visa is applicable

4. If you live in a country where English is not the primary language, we would then require either the TOEFL exam with an IBT: 76 or higher, or the IELTS with a band score of 6.0 or higher.

5. Affidavit of Support Letter

6. Supporting Financial documents (bank statements, proof of income, etc.)

An international student must have completed a program equivalent to the baccalaureate degree (for master’s programs) or master’s degree (for doctoral programs) in the United States. International credentials must be evaluated by an independent evaluation service. Certified translation of all documents must also be provided, if necessary. The cost for these services must be paid by the applicant. For a list of qualified evaluators go to http://www.naces.org/members.htm or contact the Admission Office. 

An I-20 for non-resident aliens will not be issued until all documents for admission have been received and approved. International applicants are expected to make applications well in advance of their projected enrollment date. In accordance with immigration regulations, international students must carry a full academic load each semester. Any changes in schedule must be approved by the International Student Coordinator.

Non-degree Seeking Student 

A non-degree seeking student is one who has earned at least a baccalaureate degree (for master’s level courses) or a master’s degree (for doctoral-level courses), has completed a Non-Degree Seeking Graduate Application, and has been accepted to take classes. The typical non-degree seeking student is a visiting student or is taking a course primarily for special interest. The student must submit a Non-Degree Seeking Graduate Application along with the application fee and official transcripts. Non-degree seeking students must demonstrate the same quality standards as degree-seeking students and must be approved by the chair, director, or coordinator of the program in which the course they are seeking is located. A non-degree seeking student is limited to a cumulative total of nine credit hours, unless otherwise stipulated herein by a college, without being admitted to a degree program. 

Degree-seeking students have priority over non-degree-seeking students if space is limited in any course. Non-degree-seeking students may be excluded from certain courses in specific programs.

After taking courses as a non-degree student, a non-degree seeking student may apply for admission to a graduate degree program by completing the Graduate Application and meeting all requirements for admission. However, the University is not obligated to accept a non-degree seeking student as a degree-seeking student, and there is no guarantee that coursework completed as a non-degree seeking student will fulfill degree requirements.

Provisional Standing Student 

Students who do not meet all the admission requirements may be accepted in a program with the classification of provisional standing student. To obtain provisional standing, the applicant must demonstrate to the faculty of the selected program that he or she is capable of graduate work by

• meeting most of the requirements for admission while providing an acceptable plan for completing any requirement(s) that is/are deficient AND 

• demonstrating the ability to do graduate-level work by completing twelve (12) credit hours of graduate study with a B (3.0) or better in each course AND

• satisfying other provisional requirements set at the time of admission (see specific program requirements).

If during the provisional period the student complies with all admission requirements and is ready to move from provisional standing to regular standing, the appropriate graduate faculty will notify the office of the Registrar. A Change of Standing Form will be forwarded to the Office of the Registrar.

The provisional student must comply with all general academic requirements expected of students with regular standing such as prerequisites, and amount and quality of work. Failure to meet any of the provisional requirements will result in the student being dismissed from the graduate program. If there are extenuating circumstances, the student may appeal (see “Appeals”).

The appropriate graduate faculty will review the grades of the provisional student at the end of each term until the student completes twelve (12) credit hours or according to other terms consistent with the provisional admission requirements. A student may remain on provisional standing for only twelve (12) credit hours unless special circumstances exist and permission for an extension is given by the appropriate program chair, director, or coordinator.

Regular Standing Student 

Students who intend to obtain a master’s or doctoral degree, and who have met all admission requirements without reservation, are classified as regular standing. Only those students who have regular standing are eligible for institutional or federal financial aid and may become candidates for a master’s or doctoral degree.

Students Seeking a Second Graduate Degree (for master’s degrees only) 

Each master’s degree must be a minimum of 30 unique hours with only six credits double-counted, subject to the following conditions:

• Both degrees are completed within the time allowed.

• Written approval from the second graduate program, or in the case of concurrent degrees, from both graduate programs.

Confidentiality of Student Records (FERPA)

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.

Credit Hours

Definition of Credit Hour 

One 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 credit hours typically occurs for instruction delivered in accordance with an institution’s standard calendar, it may also occur for instruction that may not follow the typical pattern, if 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 clearly state 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.

Degree Requirements (See Programs of Study)

See Programs of Study for specific degree requirements in this catalog for each graduate degree program.

Enrollment Information

Active Status

Students must maintain active status in a degree program. A student is considered active when registered for one or more courses each semester. If a student neglects to maintain active status, the student will be required to seek approval from the program chair, director, or coordinator prior to reenrollment.

Active Status during the Dissertation/Capstone Phase

Once a student enters the dissertation/capstone phase, the student must maintain continuous enrollment as defined by the program of study.

Course Load

Course Load: Master’s Level

The normal academic load is 6-9 hours per semester. Students must not register for more than 12 hours per semester except with the graduate coordinator’s approval. This exception is typically granted only for intensive schedule courses that do not conflict with the schedule of other courses. This restriction includes any coursework taken at other institutions. 

Course Load: Doctoral Level

The normal academic load is 6 hours per semester prior to the dissertation/capstone phase. Upon entering the dissertation/capstone phase, students must take the minimum number of credits required to maintain continuous enrollment as defined by the program of study. Students must not register for more than 6 hours per semester except with the program chair’s, director’s, or coordinator’s approval. 

Directed Study 

Directed Study is not acceptable for graduate courses at Southeastern University due to the nature of the course schedule and delivery methods. In extenuating circumstances, a student may apply for Directed Study through forms available in the Office of the Registrar. Directed Study must be approved, and appropriate signatures received, prior to registering for the course. A student cannot be on probation at the time of the Directed Study. An additional fee may apply. Directed Study may not be used to repeat a course. 

The following policies apply to Directed Study registration:

1. Registration for Directed Study must be completed during the regular on-campus registration period as stated in the University calendar.

2. Directed Study courses must be completed within one semester or term. 

3. The regular grading scale applies to courses completed by Directed Study.

4. The following additional conditions must be met for a Directed Study requested in a fall or spring semester.

   1. The course is required or prerequisite for the student’s program of study 

   2. The student has an approved exception.

5. Directed Study is restricted by faculty availability and approval is not guaranteed.

6. Directed Study may be utilized to pursue an area of study that can be individually designed by the professor in collaboration with the student.

7. 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.

Drop/Add Procedure

The drop/add period is the first 3 days of the semester for courses broken down into 8-week sessions, and it is the first week of the semester for full semester courses. The drop/add deadline is published in the academic calendar and is emailed to all students. Students may add, drop, or make changes to their class schedule during this period. Students should contact their program chair, director, coordinator, or academic advisor prior to making a scheduling change; however, the student is ultimately responsible for his or her educational choices. 

The web registration permission will be inactivated at 11:59 p.m. EST on the last day of the drop/add period. Failure to attend class or to drop the course via your web access may result in the removal from the course or recording of F or WF grades. 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. Technical difficulties on the final day of the drop/add period do not absolve the student from responsibility.

The entry of the dropped course(s) will not appear on any permanent academic record and full tuition refund is permitted within this period. Once the drop/add period ends, no additional course changes are permitted other than official withdrawal.

Course Registration Appeals

See “Appeals” section

Registration

Registration dates for each term are identified on the program schedule, and the dates and times for early registration will be published for each semester or term. Students are notified by SEU email when registration opens. Students must complete course registration for the semester before the end of the drop/add period. Late registration and changes of classes are allowed through the drop/add period of each semester. Students considering late registration should contact their program chair, director, or coordinator for program-specific details. 

All tuition and fees for the semester must be paid by the drop/add deadline unless other arrangements have been made. Financial arrangements are complete only when the student has reached an agreement with the Business Office regarding method of payment (payment in full, or a signed contract) for tuition and other related costs. The student cannot register for classes until financial arrangements are completed. Students are financially and academically responsible for all courses selected at registration.

Semester Continuance Policy

A student may occasionally have an issue or life event that prohibits him or her from finishing a semester successfully within the 16-week semester or 8-week term. This Semester Continuance Policy is designed to assist a student in completing a semester or term successfully by extending the deadline for a specified time in order to complete required coursework. Reasons can be varied and unforeseen and classified as medical or non-medical. Requested semester continuation for medical or non-medical reasons will be coordinated by the Director of Academic and Auxiliary Services in conjunction with the program chair, director, or coordinator.

In order to be granted a semester or term 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 term, with satisfactory progress in each course under consideration. 

Requests for semester continuance are submitted to the Director of Academic and Auxiliary Services after consultation with the program chair, director, or coordinator. Submission of medical or other appropriate documentation may 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 proration of charges will be considered. 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. 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 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.

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 Financial Aid and other pertinent departments of the university must be made by the student.

Communication with 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.

Medical Reasons

Semester continuation may be necessary because of medical reasons, such as an accident resulting in an injury, or hospitalization due to an unforeseen illness, or emotional and psychological issues due to a personal trauma or criminal attack.

Non-Medical Reasons

Semester continuation may be necessary because of non-medical reasons, such as the death or serious illness of an immediate family member.

Procedure to Obtain Semester Continuance

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 to assist the student to finish each 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 or term has been extended for the student with a definitive submission deadline for all work.

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

1. A shorter extension will result in better outcomes. Financial aid for future semesters is impacted by having Incomplete (“I”) grades in courses when a new semester or term 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 (for 16-week courses) or term (for 8-week courses) to complete all course work.

2. The student must be advised that if the deadline is not met for all coursework, the grade earned will be issued. The grade for non-completion will be F.

3. The 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.

For further details on withdrawal procedures, please refer to the Withdrawals section.

Transient Credit

Transient Enrollments – General Policy (Master’s Degree Only)

Transient enrollment assumes that a degree-seeking student (master’s degree level only) is enrolled at a secondary school with the intention of transferring credits to Southeastern University. A request for a transient letter from Southeastern University to the second school is required for credits to be considered for transfer.

Students enrolled at Southeastern University must submit the transient letter to the program coordinator for approval 30 days prior to the enrollment at the other institution. Transient letters are issued by the Office of the Registrar. Transient and transfer hours combined are typically limited to 25% of the credit hours required for degree completion in master’s degree programs. However, upon evaluation of special circumstances, a program coordinator, in collaboration with the registrar, may approve transfer credits in any amount up to 50% of the total credits required for completion of the degree in that program. 

Southeastern University places a maximum on the number, of course, hours for which students may enroll during any term to discourage students from overextending themselves. Students should pursue coursework outside of Southeastern University only with notice and approval by the graduate coordinator for their SEU program. This provision is only meant to limit students to the maximum number of credit hours allowed at SEU in all concurrent coursework regardless of the institution and does not increase the residency requirement at SEU. Students found to have enrolled beyond the maximum permitted at all institutions may be suspended for the remainder of the semester or until coursework at other institutions has concluded, and the student has requested re-enrollment and agreed to refrain from enrolling in more than the maximum number of hours permitted by the SEU graduate degree program. 

Some programs do not allow transient credit. Refer to program-specific policies.

Transient credit – Master’s Level

Transient approval is required prior to enrolling in coursework elsewhere to be transferred to SEU. The student should project his/her own timeframe to complete the program of choice based upon the pace at which the student chooses to advance in the program. Students employed full-time are encouraged to carefully consider limiting their course load during any semester or term. (Pro-rated financial aid may be available for part-time students. See the Business Office for details).

Transient credit - Doctoral level

No transient credit is accepted at the doctoral level.

General Policies

Academic Year

Each graduate program follows the general SEU Academic Calendar, but exact delivery methods, dates, and times vary by program. 

The general academic policies and procedures presented below are applicable to all Southeastern University graduate students (master’s and doctoral levels). Please refer to the information in Programs of Study section for the program of choice (Chapter 5 for master’s programs and Chapter 6 for doctoral programs) or program supplemental manuals to view program-specific guidelines and requirements.

Each student is responsible to follow the program schedule for his or her graduate program. 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. In registering for specific courses, students are expected to abide by prerequisites.

Class Attendance 

When attending on-campus classes, please be aware that attendance and participation throughout each day are mandatory. Students must make preparation in their schedules and travel arrangements (if applicable) to stay throughout the entire time. 

In an online environment, classroom attendance is reflected through regular log-ins, participation in discussion forums, and timely submission of course assignments.

Prolonged and/or unusual absences are covered by the Semester Continuance Policy. Any extended absences not covered by the Semester Continuance Policy may be appealed to the Provost by either the professor or the student. 

Legal Name Changes 

Students and former students/alumni may submit documentation of a legal name change to the Office of the Registrar. A court order or marriage certificate is required. Current students submit the documentation through Student Information System; alumni submit the documentation to the Alumni Office.

Veterans Education 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 contact a veterans service office for information, procedures, and forms as early as possible. The Office of the Registrar at Southeastern University is responsible for enrollment certification. A request to initiate, change, or renew benefits must be filed with the Office of the Registrar.

Students must be enrolled for 6 or more hours per semester (16 weeks) to be eligible for full-time benefits. A student cannot receive educational benefits for audit courses. Veterans Administration 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 Academic Progress Standards.

Veterans benefits will be terminated for students who fail to make satisfactory progress, or who receive dismissal for academic or disciplinary reasons.

The Office of the Registrar notifies the Veterans Administration of reported changes in enrollment or withdrawal. However, the student is responsible for notifying the certifying official of the college and the Veterans Administration Regional Office of any enrollment changes or termination of enrollment. The student is responsible for any overpayment of benefits resulting from a change in enrollment. The Veterans Administration toll-free number is 1-800-827-1000.

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 inappropriate forms. Avoid hostile, abusive, libelous, or rude comments. No vulgar, sexist, racist, biased, or other objectionable languages 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.

Grades and Quality Points

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

Calculating Grand Point Averages

Quality points

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 GPA. Courses (excluding dissertation/capstone courses) may be repeated only once. The comprehensive exam at the doctoral level may not be repeated. 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.

Grade Forgiveness Policy

Graduate students must repeat courses in which they do not obtain at least a “C-” letter grade. If a student receives more than two “C” grades (C+, C, or C-) during their program, they must repeat those courses over the allowable two. The higher-grade will be the grade that contributes toward the cumulative grade point average. The original grade for the repeated course will remain on the student’s transcript, even after the course has been repeated. A course may be repeated only once (the comprehensive exam in doctoral programs may not be repeated).

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 unforeseen circumstances (refer to the Semester Continuance policy for the procedure to obtain semester continuance).

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 subsequent 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 should be aware that an incomplete course may hinder the award of financial aid in a subsequent semester.

Repeating Courses Policy

In order to maintain the minimum GPA to graduate, students may repeat a course. A graduate course in which a grade of C-, C, or C+ was earned may be repeated one time; a student must repeat any graduate course taken for which a grade of D-, D, D+, or F was earned. A course may be repeated only once. While a course may only be repeated once for a grade, if a student withdraws from a repeated course, the course may be taken again. In situations where the course needing 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. However, the student’s ability to retake a course may be limited by curricular changes or academic policy changes. Regardless of the GPA, a student will not be allowed to graduate with a final grade of less than C- in any course. The student must understand that courses are usually offered in a specific sequence; therefore, any repetition of a course may result in a significant delay in completion of the student’s degree program. Directed Study may not be used to repeat a course. 

See Dissertation Progression Policy in your program of study for courses related to dissertations and capstone projects.

Graduation

Application for Graduation

Degree requirements are based on the catalog in effect at the time the student first enrolls as a degree-seeking student. Students may elect to complete the requirements in effect at the time of first enrollment as a degree-seeking student, or they may elect to complete the requirements of the current catalog. The degree requirements of the current catalog will be applied to all students who are readmitted to degree-seeking status after an absence.

A degree candidate must file a formal written application for graduation with the Office of the Registrar. This application must be submitted along with the graduation fee in force at the time of application in the semester or term of expected graduation by the deadline published in the program schedule. Applications for graduation are available in the Office of the Registrar.

If a student applies for graduation and pays the graduation fee, but subsequently fails to meet degree requirements, a new application must be submitted by the deadline for the semester or term in which the degree requirements are completed. The original graduation fee will be applied to the new application.

Candidates must clear all incomplete grades in courses required for graduation and provide transcripts of all transferred coursework needed for graduation at least three weeks prior to the end of the semester or term of graduation.

A satisfactory program audit form and exit and/or comprehensive exam scores must be on file with the Office of the Registrar, all financial obligations with the University must be satisfied, and all degree program requirements must be met prior to graduation clearance. A student on academic probation or otherwise academically deficient will not be eligible to apply for the degree or graduation until the condition of probation or deficiency is removed.

Application for Graduation Process

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

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

3. After the request form is filed, an official graduation audit will be processed and completed by the student’s advisor and forwarded to the department or program chair, director, or coordinator, or dean (where appropriate) for signature. 

   1. The student will receive an email from the advisor directing him/her to contact or visit them to review the degree audit with an emphasis on identifying final degree requirements for the student. 

   2. All final academic requirements specified on this audit must be completed for the student to graduate. 

4. When meeting with the student’s advisor to review the Graduation Degree Audit, the student will sign, and the advisor will forward the Graduation Degree Audit to the Office of the Registrar. 

NOTE: A student is not classified as a candidate for graduation until the graduation application has been received, and an official degree audit is processed, reviewed, signed, and approved by the Office of the Registrar.

Graduation Degree Audit Policy 

Students who have earned the appropriate number of credit hours and are within one semester of graduation must file an Application for Graduation form with the Office of the Registrar. An approved Graduation Degree Audit signed by the student’s advisor, program chair, director, or coordinator, or college dean (per department policy) must be completed and filed with the Registrar prior to the deadline published by the Registrar.

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 the graduate requirements. The audit is a valuable tool in guiding students in the right direction towards academic planning, course selection, and degree completion.

Graduation Requirements

To receive a graduate degree from Southeastern University, students must meet the minimum graduation requirements set forth by the University along with specific requirements established by the degree program. Each individual degree may specify additional requirements; the University Catalog lists these requirements under the respective degree programs.

The student is responsible to know and comply with the regulations and requirements contained in the catalog(s). Graduate academic advisors are helpful in preparing degree plans and assisting students in their degree progress, but the primary responsibility is the student’s. The following are the minimum requirements for all programs:

1. Completion of an approved program of study (programs are described in Programs of Study)

2. For master’s degree: completion of all undergraduate prerequisites or co-requisites as applicable to the program of study with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0.

3. Successful completion of required hours for the chosen graduate program with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale computed on all graduate work taken at Southeastern University or transferred. 

   1. No grade of less than C- and no more than six semester hours with the letter grade of C-, C or C+ earned at Southeastern University will be accepted as credit for any graduate degree. 

   2. No course with the grade of less than B (3.0) will be accepted as transfer credit. 

   3. Any course in which a grade of C- or less was received may be repeated no more than one time.

4. Completion of all degree requirements, which were in effect at the time of the student’s initial entrance into the program or which are currently in effect – within a period of seven years for master’s programs and six years for doctoral programs.

5. Approval by the graduate faculty for graduation as certified by the dean of the college in which the program is offered by completion of an approved Graduation Degree Audit and filing the audit report with the Registrar.

6. Discharge of all financial obligations to the University. All financial holds must be cleared.

7. The filing of all necessary forms including the Application for Graduation in accordance with the timetable provided in the program schedule.

8. For master’s degrees: successful completion of the graduate program’s comprehensive examination(s), if any. These examinations are taken in the final semester or term of the program.

9. Successful completion of the graduate program’s specific thesis, dissertation, or capstone project requirements, if any, including the successful completion of the oral defense of the thesis, dissertation, or project, if required.

10. Successful completion of the residency requirement, if required.

Hooding and Commencement

Graduates will be hooded at the Commencement service, which is held at the end of the fall and spring semesters of each academic year, or in a separate hooding ceremony prior to commencement. Candidates are encouraged to attend the appropriate exercises. Each program has its own policies about whether a student may walk in graduation ceremonies with any requirements remaining to be completed.

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. There are no honor cords or medallions for students in doctoral programs. Graduation stoles, decorations, or other adornment are not permitted other than appropriate graduation hoods presented by the student’s college either at a separate hooding ceremony or at commencement. 

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.

Institutional Review Board

Purpose 

The Southeastern University Institutional Review Board (SEU IRB) was established to safeguard human subjects in research by protecting their rights and promoting the ethical and responsible treatment of research subjects. SEU IRB policy requires that all research involving human subjects conducted under the auspices of SEU must be reviewed and approved by the IRB before the data-gathering phase may commence. The SEU IRB upholds and applies the ethical principles of The Belmont Report and operates in compliance with federal law outlined in the Code of Federal Regulations Title 45 Part 46 (45 CFR 46) in compliance with state laws and college policies.

All research involving human subjects that is conducted at or sponsored by Southeastern University (SEU), whether funded or unfunded and whether conducted by SEU faculty or others, must comply with applicable policies for the protection of human subjects. Under a formal assurance made by SEU and approved by the federal Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP), and per federal regulations, the Institutional Review Board (IRB) is given broad authority and wide-ranging responsibilities for ensuring the ethical and legal conduct of human subjects research at SEU. The IRB follows widely accepted ethical principles, legally binding federal regulations, campus policies, procedures, and practices, and other guidelines in carrying out this important responsibility. 

The SEU IRB, while performing administrative functions of the IRB, also serves as the official oversight office for human subjects research. The chair of the IRB is the central point of contact for investigators, research subjects, and regulatory agencies. The IRB Office is responsible for organizing and documenting the IRB review process, monitoring research regulations, producing educational programs and materials for faculty and staff, and providing assurance that SEU is in compliance with federal, state, and campus policies. The IRB Chair is appointed by the office of the university Provost. The Chair of the IRB is the federally authorized institutional official charged with overseeing human subjects research and IRB functions at SEU. 

This IRB policy applies to any human subjects research activity that is conducted by any SEU employee or agent, or otherwise conducted at or sponsored by SEU, irrespective of the risks, scope, funding, or location of the research. The policy is applicable to research involving living human beings whose physical, emotional, or behavioral conditions, responses, speech, tissues, or fluids are investigated for research purposes. It is applicable to the use of interviews, tests, observations, and inquiries designed to elicit or obtain nonpublic information about individuals or groups. It also applies to the study of existing records where the identity of individuals is known or could be readily ascertained – if the information was provided by the individual(s) under the reasonable expectation that it would not be made public (e.g., a medical record). 

The IRB policy is applicable to research undertaken on either a large or small scale, whether it is externally funded, internally funded, or not funded, and regardless of where it occurs. Pilot projects, student research projects, student theses, and independent study projects must follow this policy if they involve human subjects. 

Southeastern University recognizes its basic responsibility to ensure the protection of human subjects. To this end, it has adopted the following statement of policy applicable to all research involving human subjects that is conducted at or sponsored by the SEU or conducted by any SEU employee or agent: 

1. Anyone responsible for such research must: 

   1. adhere to the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, and justice embodied in the Belmont Report, a statement of basic ethical principles governing research involving human subjects issued by the National Commission for the Protection of Human Subjects in 1978; 

   2. adhere to all SEU policies and procedures related to human subjects research; the policy and IRB Submissions can be downloaded from https://www.seu.edu/irb/ 

   3. adhere to the policies, principles, and procedures set forth in the SEU’s Federalwide Assurance, on file with the Chair of the IRB at SEU; and 

   4. adhere to all applicable federal, state, and local requirements for the conduct of human subjects research. 

2. The decision of human subjects to participate in research governed by this policy must meet the standards of informed consent. If children are involved as subjects and are capable of assent, their assent to participate must be solicited in addition to the consent of their parents. The decision to participate must be: 

   1. voluntary—it must occur as the result of free choice, without compulsion or obligation; 

   2. based on full disclosure of the information needed to make an informed decision about whether to participate; and 

   3. based on the subject’s comprehension of the information provided. 

3. The selection of research subjects must be fair. Subjects should not be selected for potentially beneficial research based on favoritism, nor should risky research be targeted to subjects who are less powerful. 

4. The procedures for recruiting subjects must protect their privacy and be reasonable in terms of their conditions or circumstances. No coercion, explicit or implicit, should be used to obtain or maintain cooperation. 

   1. Any payment made to subjects should not be so large as to constitute excessive inducement for participation. 

   2. When access to subjects is gained through cooperating institutions or individuals, prior commitments made to the subjects about the confidentiality or other terms of the primary relationship should not be abridged. 

5. Risks to subjects must be minimized and should be justified by the anticipated benefits to the subject or society. 

6. Adequate provision must be made to protect the privacy of subjects and to maintain the confidentiality of identifiable information. 

7. Proposed research involving human subjects must be reviewed by the SEU Institutional Review Board (IRB). 

8. Researchers must submit the Request for IRB Review of Research Involving Human Subjects form to the IRB for review and approval. 

9. Prior to submitting a proposal to the IRB, the Responsible Principal Investigator [RPI] and all investigators must complete the tutorial on research with human subjects located at https://www.seu.edu/irb/citi-training. A copy of the completion certificate must be included with the IRB 1 for non-exempt research or the IRB E for exempt research. 

10. Approval for conducting research with human subjects must be obtained prior to any involvement of subjects. All approved projects must be periodically re-evaluated. 

11. If the researcher is a student, his or her department chair or research advisor will be responsible for reviewing the exempt proposal and submitting it as an electronic copy and hard copy to the Chair of the IRB for Human Participants. The proposal should be submitted at least 2 weeks prior to the proposed beginning of the study. Researchers are not authorized to proceed with the proposed study until they receive notification from the IRB Chair. 

12. This policy does not generally apply to routine course, workshop, or curriculum development using accepted educational practices sponsored by the Southeastern University or services provided by professionals to their clients.

Composition Policy

The Institutional Review Board (IRB) at Southeastern University (SEU) will consist of a minimum of five primary voting members sufficiently qualified through experience to promote respect for its advice and counsel in safeguarding the rights and welfare of human subjects. The University will make every effort to have a diverse IRB through consideration of profession/discipline, race, ethnicity, cultural background, and gender.

Exempt Policy

Southeastern University’s policy for the Protection of Human Subjects in Research, requires that, prior to initiation of any human subjects research related activities (i.e. prior to recruitment of subjects and data collection), all research involving human beings as subjects of research, including research with human material (e.g., pathological and diagnostic specimens) obtained from living individuals, be reviewed and approved by the IRB. 

Research activities in which the only involvement of human subjects will be in one or more specific categories, which are listed in section 1.1 of the Exempt Policy, may qualify for exempt status review. Determination of exempt status must be based upon regulatory and institutional criteria and the exemption decision must be documented. Determination of exempt status must be conducted by one or more of the Permanent Members (PMs), or their designee. No investigator or department shall have the authority to make this decision. 

Exempt research must be of minimal risk to the subjects, have a sound research design, and be conducted ethically, meaning that at a minimum the principles outlined in the Belmont Report must be met. The IRB members making the exemption determination may require protections to meet these principles, including informed consent appropriate to the research, or review at a convened meeting of the IRB. No research involving, or potentially involving, prisoners as subjects may be classified as exempt under the categories listed in the Exempt policy. Refer to the Exempt policy on the SEU IRB webpage.

Expedited Policy

An expedited review procedure consists of a review of research involving human subjects by one or more of the Permanent Members (PMs) of the IRB and one or more reviewers designated by the Chair from among members of the IRB without convening a meeting of the full IRB. The IRB Chair or Co-Chair will disseminate the applications based on the experience and expertise of the respective IRB members. The categories of research that may be reviewed by the IRB through an expedited review procedure include research activities that (1) present no more than minimal risk to human subjects, and (2) involve only procedures listed in one or more of the categories authorized by 45 CFR 46.110 and listed in section 1.1 of the Expedited Policy. For more information, refer to the Expedited Policy on the SEU IRB webpage.

Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative

Completion of the appropriate training course via the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) Program is a prerequisite for IRB review. Students are encouraged to complete training immediately. The entire application process will be much easier if students complete the training course before working on the request for review.

Guiding Principles and Applications from The Belmont Report

Southeastern University is committed to the ethical conduct of research and has adopted the ethical standards of The Belmont Report. The principles and applications found in The Belmont Report excerpted below to provide context for understanding the need for review. The report articulates ethical principles to be applied in the human subjects research setting and explains in a general way how the principles apply.

Principle: Respect for Persons

Incorporates at least two ethical convictions: first, that individuals should be treated as autonomous agents and, second, that persons with diminished autonomy are entitled to protection. The principle of respect for persons thus divides into two separate moral requirements: the requirement to acknowledge autonomy and the requirement to protect those with diminished autonomy.

Application: Informed Consent

Respect for persons requires that subjects, to the degree that they are capable, be given the opportunity to choose what shall or shall not happen to them. This opportunity is provided when adequate standards for informed consent are satisfied.
 

Principle: Beneficence

Persons are treated in an ethical manner not only by respecting their decisions and protecting them from harm but also by making efforts to secure their well-being. Such treatment falls under the principle of beneficence. The term “beneficence” is often understood to cover acts of kindness or charity that go beyond strict obligation. In this document, beneficence is understood in a stronger sense, as an obligation. Two general rules have been formulated as complementary expressions of beneficent actions in this sense: (1) do not harm and (2) maximize possible benefits and minimize possible harms.

Application: Assessment of Risks and Benefits

The assessment of risks and benefits requires a careful arrayal of relevant data, including, in some cases, alternative ways of obtaining the benefits sought in the research. Thus, the assessment presents both an opportunity and a responsibility to gather systematic and comprehensive information about proposed research. For the investigator, it is a means to examine whether the proposed research is properly designed. For a review committee, it is a method for determining whether the risks that will be presented to subjects are justified. For prospective subjects, the assessment will assist in the determination of whether to participate. Furthermore, this benefit must outweigh the risks.

Principle: Justice Requires That People Be Treated Fairly 

Researchers should not take from research participants without giving back.

Application: Selection of Subjects

Just as the principle of respect for persons finds expression in the requirements for consent and the principle of beneficence in risk/benefit assessment, the principle of justice gives rise to moral requirements that there be fair procedures and outcomes in the selection of research subjects.

Important Factors

Based on the principles and applications of The Belmont Report and 45 CFR 46, a wide array of factors is considered by the SEU IRB during a review of the proposed research. Students will be asked to provide documentation regarding informed consent and the selection of subjects. One of the most important factors, related to the principle of beneficence, is the design or protocol of the research project. A key factor in the approval/disapproval decision by the SEU IRB is based on weighing the benefits of the research (as defined above) against the risks to participants. All research projects pose some risk of harm to participants, so the weight assigned to risk in any review is never zero. However, if the design of the research project is flawed, then hypotheses cannot be tested, research questions cannot be answered and no contribution to generalizable knowledge is possible. The benefit side of the benefit-to-reward ratio is given a weight of zero. In this circumstance, even though the risk to subjects is minimal, the proposed research will not be approved.

It is important that research proposals submitted for review clearly articulate the potential benefits of the research and provide sufficient information regarding the design of the research so that the capacity of the research to provide the benefit is established as well as that risks to subjects are clearly identified and addressed.

IRB Reviews

The IRB reviews proposals that constitute research, as defined by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Code of Federal Regulations and The Belmont Report. Research, according to The Belmont Report, “designates an activity designed to test a hypothesis, permit conclusions to be drawn and thereby to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge (expressed, for example, in theories, principles and statements of relationships). Research is usually described in a formal protocol that sets forth an objective and a set of procedures designed to reach that objective.” In the Code of Federal Regulations (45 CFR 46.102), research means a systematic investigation, including research development, testing and evaluation, designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge.

Human subjects, sometimes referred to as participants, are living individuals about whom an investigator or investigators (whether professional or student) in the course of research obtain (1) data through intervention or interaction with the individual or (2) identifiable private information.

Use the decision tree located at the SEU IRB website to help you determine whether your project requires an IRB review.

Levels of Review

The levels of review are exempt, expedited, and full.

Level 1:

Exempt Review

Certain research projects may be exempt from review. An experienced member of the IRB will conduct a review of the Request for Exempt Review and determine if the proposed research qualifies. There are two criteria the proposed research must satisfy in order to qualify for review via exempt procedures.

1. The research must not pose greater than a minimal risk of harm defined as the probability and magnitude of physical or psychological harm that is normally encountered in daily life or in the routine medical, dental, or psychological examination of healthy persons.

2. The research must be classified into at least one of the exempt categories defined by federal regulations and listed below.

• Education research

• Surveys, interviews, educational tests, public observations (that do not involve children)

• Studies of public officials

• Analysis of previously collected anonymous data

• Public benefit or service program

• Consumer acceptance, taste, and food-quality studies

If you believe your research satisfies one of the exempt categories above, you may indicate “exempt” for the type of review requested on the application form. The IRB will review requests for exemption and decide if the exemption is warranted. If the exemption is not granted, it will be necessary to apply for an expedited or full review.

Level 2:

Expedited Review

Expedited review as defined by federal regulations allows the IRB chairperson (or an experienced member or a subcommittee of the IRB designated by the chairperson) to evaluate and approve specific types of research. Reviewers conducting an expedited review may exercise all the authority of the IRB, except that they may not disapprove of a study. When a board member or subcommittee cannot approve the research under expedited review, the study is referred to the full committee for review.

In order to qualify for review via expedited procedures, two criteria must be met: (1) The research must not pose greater than minimal risk to participants, and (2) it must fall into at least one of the expedited categories defined by the federal regulations. An expedited review procedure is not applicable for research projects where identification of the subjects and/or their responses are reasonably construed to place them at risk of criminal or civil liability or be damaging to the subjects’ financial standing, employability, insurability, or reputation or be stigmatizing unless reasonable and appropriate protections will be implemented so that risks related to invasion of privacy and breach of confidentiality are no greater than minimal risk.

Federally defined expedited categories:

• Clinical studies of drugs and medical devices only when certain conditions are met

• Collection of blood samples by finger stick, heel stick, ear stick or venipuncture in certain populations and within certain amounts

• Prospective collection of biological specimens for research purposes by noninvasive means

• Collection of data through noninvasive procedures (not involving general anesthesia or sedation) routinely employed in clinical practice, excluding procedures involving X-rays or microwaves

• Research involving materials (data, documents, records or specimens) that have been collected or will be collected solely for non-research purposes

• Collection of data from voice, video, digital or image recordings made for research purposes

• Research on individual or group characteristics or behavior or research employing survey, interview, oral history, focus group, program evaluation, human factors evaluation or quality assurance methodologies

• Continuing review of research previously approved by the SEU IRB

If you believe your research satisfies one of the expedited categories above, you may indicate “expedited” for type of review requested on the application form.

Level 3:

Full Committee Review

Proposed human subject research which does not fall into either the exempt or expedited review categories must be submitted for full committee review.

Submission Deadlines 

Application submission deadlines are as follows:

• Full board review: 15th of every month

• Expedited or exempt review: 1st OR 15th of every month

See the SEU IRB website to access the application for requesting an IRB review.

Violations

IRB approval is required before any recruitment or data collection can occur. If a violation of this policy occurs, the IRB reserves the right to suspend the study and prevent the use of any data collected prior to approval.

Vulnerable Populations

Different rules apply to research with the general population versus research that may involve vulnerable populations, including children, pregnant women, prisoners, and the cognitively impaired. Contact the SEU IRB at irb@seu.edu if your research involves a vulnerable population.

Probation, Academic

Academic probation is imposed for one semester or term. The student will remain on academic probation until he or she attains a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher. Probationary status permits the student to continue in the program while working with his or her academic advisor to address deficiencies and take corrective action for improvement. The student will participate in an Academic Recovery Plan or a similar process as defined by the academic program. 

Academic Probation may be imposed when:

1. A student fails to attain a cumulative 2.75 average for the first 9 hours or less, OR

2. A student fails to attain a cumulative 3.0 average at any point beyond the initial 9 hours, OR

3. A student earns a D-, D or D+ in any course regardless of cumulative GPA, OR

4. A doctoral student violates the academic integrity policy during course work, but before the dissertation/capstone phase (see Academic Integrity, Doctoral – Consequences and Levels of Offense).

A master’s level student placed on academic probation may not enroll for more than 6 semester hours. 

Other remediations may be imposed at the discretion of the program chair, director, or coordinator.

Suspension, Academic

A student may be suspended from the program for one semester or term for failing to maintain academic progress standards. In this event, a letter of notification is issued to the student, and a permanent entry is recorded on the student’s transcript.

While suspended from the degree program on academic grounds, a student may only attempt to improve his or her cumulative grade point average (GPA) by repeating courses in which a grade of less than B- has been received. If the student’s cumulative GPA reaches 2.5 or higher, and any courses with an F have been repeated with a grade of at least C-, the student may apply for readmission to the degree program. Readmission is not guaranteed.

Academic Suspension may be imposed in the following circumstances: 

1. A student earns an F, OR 

2. A doctoral student violates the academic integrity policy during the dissertation/capstone phase (see Academic Integrity, Doctoral – Consequences and Levels of Offense). OR

if a student is on probation:

3. the student fails to attain a semester GPA of 3.0 by the end of a semester or term, OR

4. the student fails to attain a 3.0 in any course while on probation, OR

5. the student’s cumulative GPA falls below 2.5.

Appeal for Readmission Under Academic Suspension

See “Appeals” section.

Time Limits for Degree Completion

Doctoral degree

Doctoral degree

Doctoral degree students have six years from the time of matriculation (first enrollment) to complete their doctoral degree program.

Dissertation/Project Phase Time Limits

Some university doctoral programs require a culminating project, thesis, or dissertation. These culminating efforts will be taken in a sequence of courses with the intent that the student completes the sequence in a timely manner. Standards for time for completion of specific degree programs are included in Programs of Study or program supplement guides.

Students may enroll in dissertation/capstone courses for no more than eight semesters (maximum of 16 credits of dissertation credits). If a student is unable to defend the dissertation/capstone project before the end of the eighth semester in the dissertation/capstone phase, he or she may petition for a one-semester extension.

Master’s degree 

Master’s degree students have seven years from the time of matriculation (first enrollment) to complete their master’s degree program.

Master’s Degree Culminating Activities Time Limits

Some Southeastern University master’s programs require or give the option for a culminating project, thesis, directed reading, or specific field experience hours for graduation. These culminating efforts will be taken as a regular course with the intent that the student completes the culminating effort in that term. In the event a student is unable to complete that culminating effort in the designated semester, the student must enroll in a zero-credit continuation course with an associated fee for each semester until the completion of the culminating project, thesis, directed research, or field experience. After three semesters of continuance (one year), the original course grade(s) will revert to an F.

Transcripts

The official academic record for each student is maintained in the Office of the Registrar. A signed authorization from the student must be received before an official transcript can be released as required by law. A student may submit a transcript request in person or through the web service found on the University’s website. Transcripts are normally processed within five days upon receipt of the request. A transcript cannot be released if the student has financial obligations to the University or other account holds. This policy includes past due payments on financial aid. 

To order a Southeastern University transcript:

1. Go to www.seu.edu.
2. Go to the bottom of the page.
3. Under the column “Academics”, click on “Transcripts/Verification”.
4. Scroll down, click on “Transcript or Replacement Diploma Requests”.
5. Click on the “Order Records” icon to start a transcript order.
6. Make sure you receive an order number after clicking the “Submit” button.
7. Check your email for updates on your transcript request.

The following information will be required to process a transcript request :

1. Full name including maiden if married; student’s current mailing address

2. The last 4 digits of the Social security number and date of birth.

3. Name and a complete address for the transcript recipient.

4. The number of copies requested.

5. Processed payment of $10.00 per transcript - personal checks are not accepted

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.

Transfer of Credit from Other Institutions

General Conditions for All Credit Transfer

For most graduate programs, up to 25% of the graduate credits required for the degree which are earned at regionally accredited universities may be transferred only for courses for which the student earned a grade of “B” (3.0) or better. Upon evaluation of special circumstances, a program chair, director, or coordinator, in collaboration with the Registrar, may approve transfer credits of any number less than 50% of the total credits required for completion of the degree in that program. Only those credits earned in the seven years prior to admission will be eligible to be applied in transfer to a graduate program. Master’s degree level courses will be not be considered for transfer credits at the doctoral level. Applicants with transfer credits must complete the total number of hours required in his or her program to meet graduation requirements. The Registrar, in conjunction with the appropriate program chair, director, or coordinator, will prepare a tentative evaluation of credit for each transfer applicant. An official evaluation will be issued after the applicant selects and registers in a degree program. 

Southeastern University requires all university-level work to be represented on an officially approved transcript from the originating institution with the transcript sent directly from the originating institution to the Office of the Registrar at Southeastern University.

1. New transferring students must submit an official transcript from all previous institutions by the end of the student’s first semester in order to have credits transferred. An official transcript is submitted in a sealed envelope from the college or university. Southeastern University will not accept an open transcript as official.

2. Once accepted into a master’s degree program at Southeastern University, a student must obtain a transient letter to have credits accepted from another institution. No doctoral program accepts transient credits once coursework at SEU has been started. 

3. All transfer credits must be approved by the end of the first semester in which the student is enrolled at Southeastern University. 

4. No master’s level courses will be considered for transfer credits for doctoral programs.

5. Credits accepted in transfer must be graded with a “B” (3.0) or higher.

6. Grades for courses accepted in transfer are calculated into the student’s GPA at the master’s and doctoral levels.

7. Southeastern University requires all college-level work to be represented on an officially approved and sealed transcript from the originating institution.

Transfer Practices

1. The Transfer Credit Practices of Designated Educational Institutions published by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admission Officers is referenced.

2. The University reserves the right to deny credit for specific courses from any college or university, regardless of accreditation.

3. Credits earned by degree-seeking students at an institution accredited by a regional accrediting association are transferred on an unconditional basis except for developmental, vocational, technical, or occupational courses.

4. Southeastern University will normally only accept in transfer those credits earned at an institution that is regionally accredited or complies with Article One of this transfer policy.

5. Students who are transferring from an unaccredited institution may petition the program chair, director, or coordinator for an exception to the policy by requesting that their credits be evaluated on a course-by-course basis. The student may petition by completing the Credit Evaluation Worksheet in its entirety and submitting it to the Office of the Registrar. The Credit Evaluation Worksheet is available in the Office of the Registrar. Southeastern University recognizes that quality instruction and learning can and does take place in non-traditional settings, but the University is also committed to the concept that coursework transferred or accepted for credit must represent collegiate coursework relevant to the degree being sought, with course content and level of instruction resulting in student competencies at least equivalent to those of students enrolled in Southeastern University’s own degree programs.

   1. To facilitate the evaluation of the student’s credits, he or she will be asked to supply the following documentation:

      •  an official transcript;

      •  full course descriptions 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). A positive evaluation is essential for the credit to be accepted.

   2. A maximum of 25% of the required program credit hours may be accepted in transfer at the approval of the program chair, director, or coordinator. Some programs have different requirements; please see the desired Program of Study for program-specific policies or exceptions.

   3. Only those credits earned in the seven years prior to admission will be eligible to be applied in transfer to a graduate program.

   4. Course-by-course petitions require the transfer of credit be held pending the documentation of successful work during the student’s first semester (9 credit hours maximum) of attendance at Southeastern University. Credits will not be transferred if the student fails to meet a minimum grade point average of 3.0 in the first semester at Southeastern.

6. International credits must come from a college or university recognized by the issuing 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 the independent evaluation service.

7. Southeastern University does not generally 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.

9. Some programs have specific requirements; please see the Program of Study for program-specific policies. 

Transfer Credit Appeals

See “Appeals” section.

Withdrawals

Withdrawal from a Course

Students may withdraw from a course without academic penalty by the course withdrawal date (stated in the SEU Calendar). The official date of withdrawal 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. Students administratively withdrawn from a graduate course will receive a grade of “WF.” Complete withdrawal from the university is not part of this policy. Withdrawal forms are found in MySEU under Academics/Registrar. Withdrawal forms must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar before the course withdrawal deadline. There is no tuition refund for a course withdrawal.

Withdrawal from the University

A student who is registered for classes is financially and academically obligated to follow the University withdrawal policy. Students contemplating withdrawal from the graduate program must arrange a conference with the program chair, director, or coordinator. If a student finds it necessary to withdraw from the graduate program during the academic term, an official withdrawal from all classes is necessary. A student must obtain a Withdrawal Form from the Office of the Registrar and have the form signed by the required departments to officially withdraw from the University. 

Dropping all classes and/or not attending classes does not constitute an official withdrawal and may result in a grade of “F” for each course. Professors have the right to recommend administrative withdrawal for students who do not attend class or to assign the “WF” grade. Failure to properly withdraw obligates the student to tuition and other fees incurred and may lead to future problems in transferring credits to other graduate institutions or when applying for readmission to SEU. A grade of “WD” will be recorded for official withdrawal from the University. The date of official withdrawal will be the date the completed form is filed with the Office of the Registrar. The policy on refunds is described in the Financial Information section.

Readmission after Withdrawal

Students who have not been in attendance more than one semester at Southeastern University, or who withdrew from the program during a semester for any reason, must submit a formal application for readmission to the program.

Students who either withdrew or were withdrawn from a graduate program (not just a course) for any reason must submit a formal application for readmission to the program.