School of Education Academic Policies

Trinity reserves the right to change, without prior notice, any policy or procedure, tuition or fee, curricular requirements, or any other information found on this web site or in its printed materials.

Student Status

Degree or matriculated students have been formally admitted to a degree program at Trinity.

Non-degree students have not been admitted to a degree program; they enroll for a limited period, often with the intent to transfer credit to a degree program. Non-degree students must complete appropriate application forms with the Office of Admission. Non-degree students must satisfy all prerequisites for courses. Credits earned at Trinity as a non-degree student may later be applied toward a degree. However, students may earn no more than nine undergraduate credits as a non-degree student. No additional course work may be undertaken prior to acceptance into a degree program at Trinity.

All degree and non-degree students School of Education graduate students must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Undergraduate education majors are admitted to the College of Arts and Sciences or the School for Professional Studies and formally apply to the School of Education after satisfactorily completing pre-requisite courses, as early as the second semester of their sophomore year.

Enrollment in courses as a non-degree student does not denote or imply admission to a degree program. No more than nine undergraduate or six graduate credits earned at Trinity as a non-degree student may later be applied toward a degree. Credits earned in professional development workshops may not be applied toward a degree (see below).

Students with non-degree status may apply for degree status by meeting all admission requirements; the student’s education advisor must approve in writing all credits earned as a non-degree student that will count toward the student’s degree.

Full-time and Part-time Status 

A School of Education graduate student or an undergraduate student entering the School of Education through the School of Professional and Graduate Studies is considered full-time when they are registered for 9 or more credits in a semester. An undergraduate student entering the School of Education through the College of Arts and Sciences is considered full-time when they are registered for 12 or more credits in a semester.

Undergraduate students entering the School of Education through the School of Professional and Graduate Studies may not register for more than 12 credits per semester, and undergraduate students entering the School of Education through the College of Arts and Sciences may not register for more than 19 credits per semester, without obtaining permission from the Dean of the School of Education.  No student entering through the School of Professional Studies may take more than 15 credits in any semester and no student entering through the College of Arts and Sciences may take more than 21 credits in any semester, including courses taken outside of Trinity.

A fee is charged for each credit over 18 credits per semester.

Students taking 6 or more credits per semester are eligible for Federal Student Aid.

Leave of Absence

A leave of absence is a voluntary leave from campus with the intention of returning to Trinity. Graduate students do not have to apply for readmission if they return within one year of taking leave, and undergraduate students do not have to apply for readmission if they return within two years of taking leave.

A leave of absence allows the student to continue an affiliation with the University. Unlike a withdrawal (see below), a leave of absence allows Trinity to keep the student on a mailing list and continue to send important information, such as registration materials.

Students should be aware that lenders perceive any non-continuous enrollment, including an official leave of absence, as a withdrawal. Students are responsible for all tuition associated with course registrations and any other fees associated with the University.

Students requesting a leave of absence should adhere to the following procedures:

• Student requests a leave of absence from the Dean; the approved Leave of Absence Form is distributed to the student’s advisor and Enrollment Services.
• If a leave of absence is requested to begin in the middle of a semester in which the student is taking classes, the student must first withdraw from all classes in accordance with the policy for course withdrawals (see below).
• The student meets with an academic advisor for an exit interview.

The student meets with a representative of Enrollment Services if the student is receiving or has received financial aid.

Student arranges payment for all outstanding bills with the Business Office.

Withdrawal from the University

A withdrawal from the University indicates that the student has no intention of returning to Trinity. If the student decides to return at a later date, the student must apply for readmission.

Since withdrawal from the University has immediate implications on financial aid, students must have an exit interview with a representative of Student Financial Services. Students are responsible for all tuition associated with course registrations and any other fees associated with the University.

Students who withdraw from the University should follow these procedures:

• Notify the Dean of the School of Education of intent to withdraw from the University.
• Withdraw from all classes in accordance with the policy for course withdrawals (see below) if the student withdraws from the University in the middle of a semester in which the student is taking classes.
• Meet with an academic advisor for an exit interview.
• Meet with a representative of Student Financial Services.
• Arrange payment for all outstanding bills with the Business Office.
• Order an official transcript and ensure that it indicates withdrawal from the University after the completed withdrawal request has been processed.

Intervention Policy (Graduate Students Only)

The deans, program directors, faculty and other administrators in the School of Education are deeply committed to the professional development of each student. Upon occasion, concern for the ability of specific students to function at the standard level expected within the profession is called into question. The educator’s role and obligation in maintaining the integrity of the educational profession is found in the ethical codes of the professional organizations for teachers, administrators, and counselors, as below.

The Code of Ethics of the Education Profession of the National Educational Association states:

Commitment to the Profession (Principle II)
The education profession is vested by the public with a trust and responsibility requiring the highest ideals of professional service. It is the belief that the quality of the services of the education profession directly influences the nation and its citizens, the educator shall exert every effort to raise professional standards, to promote a climate that encourages the exercise of professional judgment, to achieve conditions that attract persons worthy of trust to careers in education, and to assist in preventing the practice of the profession by unqualified persons.

In fulfillment of the obligation to the profession, the educator shall not assist any entry into the profession of a person known to be unqualified in respect to character, education, or other relevant attribute.

This policy is not intended to supersede actions that may be taken against a student by Trinity for unsatisfactory academic progress or for violations for the Trinity Honor Code and Honesty Policy.

Students will be evaluated throughout their degree programs in two areas:

• Academic Performance: Students must be in good academic standing (see Academic Standing below).
• Professional Dispositions (criteria as follows):

Commitment to the Profession and Equity
Demonstrates genuine interest and consistent self-application to the chosen profession and field training. Shows personal initiative to become informed and competent, including being dedicated to anti-racist pedagogy. Demonstrates commitment to equity and access for all within the profession.

Responsibility
Keeps appointments/logs, adheres to policies/deadlines; meets attendance requirements; is prepared for class. Initiates contact with instructor/supervisor(s) as problems arise.

Integrity & Ethical Conduct
Refrains from making false, misleading, or deceptive statements; Engages others honestly, strives toward gaining perspective and understanding, promotes confidence. Exhibits awareness/concern for ethical self-conduct (e.g., confidentiality) as determined by professional codes and other knowledge skills in the field.

Maturity & Professional Demeanor
Demonstrates constructive self-control (e.g., anger/impulse); any personal difficulties conscientiously addressed so as not to interfere with learning/performance. Accepts limitations as opportunities for growth.

Interpersonal Skills/Cultural Sensitivity
Relates well with others. Models tact, sensitivity, openness, acceptance, respect for the rights, dignity, and worth of others. Communicates directly, honestly; listens well.

Professionalism and Judgment
Displays (models) suitable professional judgment/decision making in conduct/appearance; exhibits awareness of beliefs, values, needs/limitations, and the potential effects of these on learning/practice.

Collaboration
Collaborates constructively; contributes to positive group performance; respects different styles/approaches to learning, leadership and communication. Appreciates that the field is a diverse field of ideas and viewpoints.

Reflective & Scholarly Practitioner
Reflectively conceptualizes/abstracts, accurately interprets information; seeks/accepts feedback and incorporates observations, discussions, and learning opportunities that developmentally enhance knowledge/skill. Displays concern for research/study of best practices; developing a solid understanding of theory/rationale for provision of effective and integrated school/community-based services and effective teaching and administrative services.

Academic Review

If a student is experiencing difficulty in meeting the assessments and/or standards of a particular course, the course instructor will notify the student in writing with a copy of the correspondence to the student’s academic advisor. As appropriate, a referral plan for assistance to campus services such as the Center for Research and Writing or the Center for Student Success may be written, or the instructor may provide remediation within the course.

Professional Dispositions Review

The School of Education has established the following path as a working guide when questions regarding student retention due to not meeting professional dispositions arise:

• The individual faculty member meets with the student, expresses specific concern(s) to the student, and seeks to establish a mutually agreed upon plan to resolve the situation before more action is required.
• If a plan cannot be reached between the faculty member and the student, if the student fails to follow the agreement reached, or if the plan agreed on fails to resolve the concern, the faculty member is free to discuss the question of a student’s progress and/or competence with the student’s dean, program director, or academic advisor  This can be done in an informal discussion and may include other School of Education faculty members, as needed. The goal of this action is to resolve the situation with the input of other faculty and to formulate a reasonable corrective action plan.
• If the student objects to the plan resulting from step two or if the informal approach developed during step two fails to accomplish the desired goal, the issue will be forwarded for formal review by the School of Education Curriculum and Academic Policy committee (EDU-CAP).  The purposes of the formal review are: to determine if an actionable problem exists; if a specific plan to resolve the issue can be developed; and if the student should be retained in the program.

After reviewing the original concern and the student’s academic performance, interpersonal skills, and ethical behavior, the EDU-CAP will determine the student’s status in the program. The student and faculty member will be provided the opportunity to present any appropriate information.

A decision will be made which may include one of the following:

• The concerns raised by the faculty member do not warrant further action, and the student will be allowed to continue in the program without restriction.
• The student will be placed on “Professional Probation” with specific requirements for remediation. Procedures will be specified for progress to be monitored by the concerned faculty member, the student’s academic advisor, and the Dean of the School of Education. The Committee will also determine if and when the student may be removed from “Professional Probation.” While on “Professional Probation,” the student will not be allowed to enroll in Practicum or Internship courses, but may be enrolled in other courses, appropriate to the student’s program of study.
• The student may be terminated from the program and may not enroll in further course work in the School of Education at Trinity.

The student will be informed of the EDU-CAP’s decision through written communication within 10 days of the meeting. The student may appeal the Committee’s decision to the Provost; such an appeal must be in writing and must be dated no more than 10 days following the date of the written communication from the Committee. If no resolution is reached at the level of the Provost, the appeal may be forwarded to Trinity’s President. The decision of the President is final.

Undergraduate Class Status

The number of completed credits determines a student’s class status. Undergraduate students must have earned at least 36 credits in order to apply to the School of Education.

Students with 36 to 55 credits that can be counted toward a degree have sophomore status. Students with 56 to 87 credits that can be counted toward a degree have junior status. Students with 88 or more credits that can be counted toward a degree have senior status.

Cap and Gown Ceremony

To earn the privilege of wearing the cap and gown, a student must have earned at least 88 credits prior to the ceremony and be in good academic standing. A student who is on probation for the semester of the ceremony may not wear the academic regalia since his/her eligibility as a degree student is in question.

Commencement Participation

Only students who have fulfilled all requirements may participate in Commencement and related activities.
To participate in Commencement, students must adhere to the following procedures:

• Submit an application for graduation to Enrollment Services by the printed deadline.
• Receive financial clearance.
• Participate in an advisor audit. Advisors will provide a written audit of each student’s transcript and forward the signed transcript to Enrollment Services, indicating the student’s status for graduation.

Although a minimum of 120 credits is required for a baccalaureate degree, undergraduate students who have completed at least 111 credits and have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better at the time of commencement are eligible for limited participation in commencement activities and Senior Week.  For non-graduating students, participation in the actual commencement exercises will be limited; non-graduating participants will not wear the hood, their names will not appear in the program, and they will not be called forth to receive a diploma.

Non-graduating students who have earned at least 111 credits and wish to participate in Commencement must follow this procedure:

• The student submits a written request to the Provost for review.
• The request should indicate that the student will have acquired the requisite minimum of 111 credits and holds a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better.
• The request should indicate the student’s plans to complete graduation requirements by the end of the next term.
• The student may engage in limited participation in commencement exercises after the request is approved.

Students completing certificate programs do not take part in commencement events but will have the opportunity to participate in an alternative celebratory acknowledgement of certificate completion.  Students may be mailed their certificates and the date of completion will be recorded on their transcripts.

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Advising, Enrollment, and Registration

• Advising
• Registration
• Course Schedule Adjustments
• Audit
• Withdrawal from a Course
• Late Withdrawal from a Course

Advising

Advising for Degree Students

Students admitted to a degree program must meet with an academic advisor to discuss their career options and degree requirements; students and advisors collaboratively plan a Program of Study. Once a Program of Study is on file in the School of Education, students may register via Self-Service, Trinity’s online registration application.  The advisor or the appropriate academic Dean will verify the Program of Study and either approve or deny the registration based on the Program of Study. Once the course registrations have been approved, the student is officially enrolled for the semester. If students propose to deviate from their Program of Study (e.g. by taking an additional course or taking a course out of sequence), they must discuss the proposed revision with their academic advisor prior to submitting the course for approval in Self-Service.

Advising for Non-Degree Students

Students who have not been fully admitted into a degree program should be advised to take courses according to the sequences established by the appropriate program. Offices that perform advising functions should follow the recommended course sequences outlined by each program. To register, non-degree students must complete the non-degree application available from the Office of Admissions, indicating their course(s) of interest. Non-degree enrollment is contingent on the availability of seats in the course and is not guaranteed.

Advisor Assignment and Change of Advisors

Students are assigned academic advisors specific to their course of study. Only in extenuating circumstances may students change advisors if an option is available.

Registration

During the fall or spring registration period, matriculated students register for courses for the following semester according to their Program of Study.  (The fall registration period usually opens at the end of March in the previous spring semester; spring registration usually opens at the end of October in the previous fall semester.) After consultation with their advisor, each student must submit their registration via Self-Service, Trinity’s online registration platform. The courses will be approved or denied by the advisor, based on the student’s Program of Study.  Once course registrations are approved, the student is officially enrolled for the semester. Registrations will not be processed until all financial holds are cleared.

Adding or Dropping Courses during the Schedule Adjustment Period

Students may add or drop courses without academic penalty during the designated Course Schedule Adjustment period at the start of each semester. Official add-drop period deadlines are listed on the Academic Calendar. During the add-drop period students may also elect the “P/NP” (Pass/No Pass) grading option in certain courses (see Pass/No Pass policies below), elect to audit courses rather than receive a grade (in which case the designation “AU” will appear on the student’s transcript), or alter the number of credits in courses carrying variable credit. If a schedule change involves increased tuition and/or fees, payment arrangements must be made before the change will be processed.

Students seeking to add or drop courses prior to the course schedule adjustment deadline may submit the changes in Self-Service, where advisors will approve (or deny) added courses based on the Program of Study. Courses that are dropped during the add-drop period will not appear on the student’s transcript nor incur tuition fees.  For changes to course grading, credits, etc., students should visit the Enrollment Services Student Forms page. Students will be prompted to log-in with their Trinity credentials and should select the correct form for their request.

Audit

Formal audits

Classes audited on a formal basis will appear on the transcript, but they do not carry credits applicable toward a degree. Students in the School of Education must pay a fee per credit to audit a class. Students must obtain formal permission from their academic advisor to audit a class. An auditor must register for the course and attend class meetings regularly.

Informal audits

Informal audits of classes in the School of Education are not allowed; only enrolled students or formal auditors who appear on the class roster may attend classes. Children may not be present in classes with or without their parents (see below).

Withdrawal from a Course

Once the Course Schedule Adjustment period has passed students may not drop courses, but can still withdraw from courses at any time up to the deadline for withdrawal from all classes. Withdrawal dates are listed on the Academic Calendar each semester.  When a student withdraws from a course, a designation of “W” (Withdrawal) will appear on the student’s transcript. Students who fail to withdraw officially or to meet course requirements are liable to receive a grade of “F” (Fail).

Students are responsible for the full payment for courses from which they have withdrawn. Students should refer to the published course schedule for withdrawal and payment information. To withdraw from a course, students must visit the Enrollment Services Student Forms page. Students will be prompted to log-in with their Trinity credentials and should select the Course Withdrawal form for their request.  Once Enrollment Services processes the request, a “W” will appear on the course roster.

Late Withdrawal from a Course

Withdrawing from a course after the deadline to withdraw constitutes a late withdrawal; late withdrawal is a serious academic matter and an application for late withdrawal will be considered only in exceptional circumstances. Late withdrawals will not be considered after the last day of classes.

When a student withdraws from a course late, a designation of “W” (Withdrawal) will appear on the student’s transcript. Students who fail to withdraw officially or to meet course requirements are liable to receive a grade of “F” (Fail).

Students are responsible for the full payment for courses from which they have withdrawn late. To pursue late withdrawal from a course, students should first consult with their academic advisor regarding the impact of the withdrawal on their academic plan and future financial aid eligibility.  The advisor will assist the student with visiting the Enrollment Services Student Forms page. Students will be prompted to log-in with their Trinity credentials and should select the Petition for a Schedule Adjustment after the Registration Deadline.  Once the form is submitted, Enrollment Services will consult with the Dean, academic advisor, and, as appropriate, program faculty or other academic staff. Late withdrawals are typically approved in extraordinary circumstances that impact a student’s ability to complete a class.  A final decision is rendered regarding the appeal.  If the application is approved, a “W” will appear on the course roster.

Administrative Drops and Administrative Withdrawals

An administrative action may remove a student from a course in two distinct ways:

1. Administrative Drop: An administrative drop occurs during the enrollment verification process at the start of each semester, usually in the first two weeks.  If a student has not attended the course during enrollment verification, then the student will be removed from the course through an administrative drop.  There is no consequence to the student in terms of a transcript notation; the course does not appear on the student transcript.  The student may receive a refund for the course.  Full-time students should be aware that a drop may have an impact on financial aid and they should consult with their advisors accordingly.
2. Administrative Withdrawal:  After the enrollment verification period, if a student fails to attend class or does not submit required coursework, the student may incur an administrative withdrawal through the twelfth week of the course (for sixteen-week courses, or comparable percentage of time in an alternate-format course).  An administrative withdrawal incurs a “W” grade on the student transcript.  A “W” grade does not change the student’s grade point average but it does impact the number of credits attempted-but-not-completed, and this might affect the student’s satisfactory academic progress for financial aid purposes.  No tuition refunds are granted for “W” grades.  Students who incur “W” grades may appeal the decision to their deans.

After the twelfth week (or similar percentage of time for alternative format courses), students who stop attending class or fail to submit assignments may incur “F” grades for the course with no opportunity for refunds.  “F” grades may have significant impact on financial aid eligibility.  Students may appeal “F” grades through the academic appeals process.

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Attendance and Examinations

• Attendance
• Final Examinations
• Comprehensive Examinations and Assessments

Attendance

Students are expected to attend all class meetings. Class attendance means students are punctual and stay for the duration of the class. Advance notice of an absence should be given to instructors, and students are responsible for initiating a meeting with faculty to determine how all work will be completed.

Faculty have the right and obligation to monitor attendance, and absences are defined at the instructor’s discretion. Students are responsible for reviewing the attendance policy for each instructor as listed in the course syllabus. A student’s final course grade may be impacted by class attendance, at the instructor’s discretion, including the assignment of  “F” for students who do not meet the instructor attendance policy.  Students who do not show a record of attendance and/or who do not submit academic work as required by the syllabus may also be subject to administrative withdrawal (“W”) from the course. No tuition is refunded in the case of administrative withdrawal. Administrative withdrawal may be appealed to the Dean.

When possible, emergencies should be reported immediately to the Dean, Academic Advisor, and Center for Student Success, who will inform instructors. Only in an emergency may a student be absent during an assigned test, class presentation, or evaluation.

No children may attend classes or be left unattended anywhere on campus; childcare is the responsibility of the student. While Trinity understands that child care emergencies happen, Trinity is not in a position to provide emergency child care on campus. Trinity advises students, faculty and staff who have child care emergencies to choose to care for their children at home rather than to bring the child to campus.

Please also refer to Trinity’s institutional Course Attendance Policy for Students and Faculty.

Final Examinations

Course examinations or final assessments are held at the end of each semester at the discretion of each instructor.

Final examination dates are listed in the official Academic Calendar, and students’ travel plans must take the dates of scheduled exams into account. No student may reschedule a final examination in order to leave or travel early.

Students may resolve conflicts during the exam period (such as two exams scheduled at the same time or three exams on the same day) by filling out an Examination Conflict Resolution Request Form available through the Enrollment Services Forms page. If a conflict exists, some exams may be rescheduled at the discretion of Enrollment Services.

Comprehensive Examinations and Assessments

Comprehensive Examination for Candidates in Teacher Education

Prior to enrolling in Student Teaching, candidates in certification-leading teacher education degree programs must achieve qualifying scores on the appropriate exams, including Basic Skills Exams as appropriate as well as the relevant Subject Content Exams required by the D.C. Office of the State Superintendent of Education.  All students in teacher education programs should see their academic advisor, well in advance, regarding preparation and registration for the examination.

When a candidate is unsuccessful in achieving a qualifying score after three opportunities, the faculty reserves the right, on approval of the Dean, to not recommend the student for graduation, for endorsement for certification/licensure, or both. Student appeals must be filed with the Dean within four weeks of being notified of the third failure.

During the semester of student teaching all candidates complete a Content Portfolio, which is made up of unit plans in the various content areas required in these fields, along with context and reflection.  Many of these unit plans will have been submitted as assignments in previous coursework.  The University Supervisor will guide candidates through the requirements for the Content Portfolio

Candidates in the Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, and Special Education MAT programs must pass the Praxis II exam in their content area(s) prior to student teaching.  During the semester of student teaching all candidates complete a Content Portfolio, which is made up of unit plans in the various content areas required in these fields, along with context and reflection.  Many of these unit plans will have been submitted as assignments in previous coursework.  The University Supervisor will guide candidates through the requirements for the Content Portfolio. 

Comprehensive Examination for Candidates in Educational Administration

Students in the Educational Administration Program are required to earn a minimum performance rating of “Meets the Standard” on the Final Project, a standards-based portfolio. In addition, students in districts requiring state licensure may elect to take the external assessment, the School Leaders Licensure Assessment, in order to meet state qualifications. Students who do not demonstrate mastery of the Standards for School Leaders as evidenced in the standards-based portfolio must register to repeat EDAD 662 – Internship in Administration III in order to complete their program.

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Transfer Policies & Courses at Other Institutions

• Transfer Credits Satisfying Degree Requirements
• Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Program Transfer Policy
• Courses at Other Institutions
• Courses Through the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area
• Credit Through Non-College or Experiential Learning

Transfer Credits Satisfying Graduate Degree Requirements

Undergraduate Student Transfer and Matriculation

Students transferring to Trinity from another appropriately accredited institution of higher learning for a bachelor’s degree must earn a minimum of 45 of their final 60 credits through course work at Trinity, excluding credits for experiential learning.* Associations recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) or the Commission on Higher Education (CHEA) confer appropriate accreditation (“institutional accreditors”).

Additionally, students will be expected to satisfy General Education or Core Curriculum requirements as determined by the respective school into which they matriculate, as well as to meet all requirements of their major field(s), through the application of credits earned at Trinity or through transfer. As with all Trinity undergraduate students, transfer students must successfully complete any required Senior Assessments at Trinity.

Furthermore, transfer credits will only be accepted if they meet the student’s planned degree program. Completed credits in excess of the number of electives available within a degree plan will not be transferred, and any courses that must be completed on campus for a certain degree plan will not be transferred to Trinity. If a transfer student later selects a different major, any available course equivalencies and electives not previously applied may be retroactively applied at that point.

*Students who transferred to Trinity before Fall 2002 from another appropriately accredited institution of higher learning for a bachelor’s degree were required to earn a minimum of 32 credits through course work at Trinity, excluding credits for experiential learning.

Transfer Credits Satisfying Undergraduate Degree Requirements

Courses eligible for transfer must meet the following requirements:

• The course must have been completed at an appropriately accredited institution of higher learning. Associations recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) or the Commission on Higher Education (CHEA) confer appropriate accreditation (“institutional accreditors”).
• Courses taken as either Pass/No-Pass or Credit/Non-Credit are not eligible for transfer to Trinity.  NOTE: Due to the extraordinary circumstances of the COVID-19 crisis in Spring 2020, Trinity will accept courses taken as P/NP in transfer for terms with dates overlapping Trinity’s Spring 2020 term ONLY.  The courses must have been completed with a final grade of P.  These courses may satisfy general education and elective requirements; program directors will determine if the courses may satisfy prerequisite, major, or minor field requirements.
• Courses that have been audited are not eligible for transfer to Trinity.
• For transfer to undergraduate programs, courses must have been completed with a final grade of “C” or better, although certain academic programs require higher grades for major or minor requirements.
• Transfer courses taken at the undergraduate level must be applicable to Trinity’s liberal arts curricula. These courses may satisfy general education and elective requirements; program directors will determine if the courses may satisfy prerequisite, major, or minor field requirements.

Graduate Student Transfer and Matriculation

Transfer Credits Satisfying Graduate Degree Requirements

A maximum of six transfer credits may be granted for transfer to a degree program. Courses eligible for transfer must meet the following requirements:

• The course(s) must have been completed at a college or university accredited by the appropriate regional higher education accrediting association.
• The course(s) must have been completed with a final grade of “B” or better.
• The course(s) must have been taken at the graduate level.
• Each course must have been completed no longer than five years prior to the date of matriculation to the School of Education (five-year rule).
• Requests for transfer credit must be relevant to the degree sought and must be approved by the student’s academic advisor.

Workshops, professional development, or continuing education courses taken at Trinity or elsewhere do not count toward a Trinity degree. Only under special circumstances may a student make a written appeal to his or her advisor and the Dean to request that a maximum of three credits of Continuing Education courses be transferred to a degree program.

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Program Transfer Credit Policy

• Transfer credits may be accepted for a post-baccalaureate certificate program if they meet the student’s planned degree program just as they are for graduate degree programs.  Students may transfer up to six total credits in alignment with the certificate curriculum.  All other Trinity transfer credit policies apply.
• Trinity certificate courses may be applied to degree programs depending on the graduate degree program.  Students enrolled in degree programs at Trinity may simultaneously pursue a certificate and these courses will count toward both credentials.

Courses at Other Institutions

While enrolled at Trinity, a student may earn credits on a limited basis at other accredited institutions. Associations recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) or the Commission on Higher Education (CHEA) confer appropriate accreditation (“institutional accreditors”). Students planning to take courses at another institution must first obtain approval for the number of credits and specific courses to be taken from their academic advisor and from the program director(s) for the proposed area of study, or the School of Education Dean, before they enroll in the course(s). A student who does not follow these procedures has no guarantee that the credits earned will apply toward the Trinity degree. Authorization from the academic advisor will be documented on the student’s Program of Study. Students should complete the Request to Take Courses at Another Institution available on the Enrollment Services Forms page.

Transfer courses will appear on a student’s transcript as “TR” and are not calculated into the student’s overall GPA. Generally, courses taken at Trinity in which the student did not earn the minimum grade to progress to the next level must be retaken at Trinity, except by appeal to the Dean in special circumstances.

Undergraduates may transfer a maximum of 75 credits that meet their Program of Study, and must take at least 45 of their last 60 credits at Trinity to meet residency requirements for a Trinity degree. Graduate students may transfer no more than six credits toward a Trinity degree (see above).

Courses Through the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area

Through the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area, full-time degree students at Trinity can enroll in courses offered by other member institutions during fall and spring semesters only.  Registration is limited to a needed course or courses that cannot reasonably be expected to be offered at Trinity.  The approval of the Dean is required for registration in any course offered through the Consortium.

Enrollment is subject to Consortium as well as Trinity regulations.  The following policies govern the participation of Trinity students in the Consortium:

• A Trinity student may enroll in a Consortium course only if the course is not available at Trinity during the semester in which the student is required to take the course in order to progress in their Program of Study.
• Only full-time degree students are eligible for Consortium privileges. Exceptions require approval by the Office of Enrollment Services.
• Students may not enroll in Consortium courses in their final semester before graduation, except in special circumstances with permission from the Dean.  In these special cases, students are advised that Consortium delays in reporting grades may prevent a student from graduating and/or participating in commencement activities.
• Students must demonstrate the relevance of proposed Consortium course(s) to their academic and post-College goals. This rationale must be submitted with the Consortium Registration Request form available on the Enrollment Services Forms page.
• Students must obtain approval from the appropriate Trinity Program Director in the subject area involved, or from the Dean for courses in subjects without corresponding programs at Trinity.
• Students on probation or carrying a grade of “Incomplete” should take Consortium courses only in extraordinary circumstances; approval is required from the Office of Enrollment Services and the Dean.
• Generally, students with full-time schedules at Trinity may enroll in up to two courses through the consortium in a given fall or spring semester. (For example, an undergraduate student admitted through the College of Arts & Sciences must be enrolled in 12 credits at Trinity to be approved for Consortium enrollment).  Only in special circumstances may students appeal to the Office of Enrollment Services and the Dean for exceptions to this policy.  Generally, students may not enroll in more than two Consortium courses in any given semester except in special circumstances and with approval from the Office of Enrollment Services and the Dean.
• All registrations for Consortium courses must receive final approval from the Dean of the School of Education.
• The final grade received in a Consortium course is recorded on the Trinity transcript and calculated into the student’s grade point average.
• Students participating in Consortium courses or programs must arrange for their own transportation.

Grades of “I” (Incomplete) may be given for courses taken through the Consortium.  Students who arrange grades of Incomplete at a visited institution should note that the time limits for making up the incomplete are not to exceed those of the home institution. However, a faculty member at the visited institution may require an earlier deadline.

Trinity is not responsible for delays in the reporting of grades from Consortium institutions; all grades must be recorded by the Registrar for a student to be eligible to receive credit. Students are responsible for checking with instructors at Consortium institutions to assure the timely report of grades to Trinity. Students who have been approved to enroll in the consortium in their final semester prior to graduation are advised that Consortium delays in reporting grades may prevent them from graduating and/or participating in commencement activities.

Credit Earned Through Study Abroad

Credits earned through approved study abroad programs may be counted toward a Trinity degree. Courses taken through a study abroad program may count to fulfill major, minor, and General Education Curriculum requirements only with the approval of the appropriate program chair; students are strongly encouraged to obtain all necessary approvals prior to departure. In all cases, students should retain textbooks, course syllabi, reading lists, and any major papers or other academic products produced for courses while abroad.

Student study abroad programs are approved on a case-by-case basis. Trinity’s study abroad partner is the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE).  Students may also elect to join study abroad programs offered through an appropriately accredited institution of higher learning. Associations recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) or the Commission on Higher Education (CHEA) confer appropriate accreditation (“institutional accreditors”). To initiate the Trinity application process, students should contact the Director of Career Services and Experiential Learning in the semester prior to the planned term for study abroad; significant time is necessary for consortium agreements to be processed.

To qualify for study abroad, students must:

• Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5.
• Have achieved sophomore status and completed two regular semesters at Trinity.
• Complete a Trinity Application for Study Abroad which includes:
  • A signed Release Form.
  • A transcript of all work completed at Trinity.
  • A two-page Statement of Purpose.
  • A Degree Completion Form signed by an academic advisor and the major program chair(s) indicating which courses will fulfill major requirements and/or curricular requirements.
  • Two recommendations from faculty members.
• Meet with a representative of Enrollment Services.
• Receive official approval from Trinity through the Office of Career Services and Experiential Learning.

Students are responsible for fulfilling all application requirements of CIEE or another sponsoring study abroad program.

Courses taken through a study abroad program appear on the transcript as “TR,” and are not calculated into the student’s GPA. Students who participate in an unapproved study abroad program or do not follow the correct application procedures have no guarantee that their course work will transfer for degree credit or fulfill major or minor requirements.

Students are responsible for meeting all financial obligations to Trinity as well as the sponsoring program. For students receiving financial aid, a consortium agreement must be completed through Enrollment Services.

Credit Through Non-College or Experiential Learning

Trinity recognizes that learning may occur in a variety of settings. Graduate students who can demonstrate by submission of a portfolio that they have already acquired the knowledge, skills, and competencies taught in a Trinity graduate program course may be eligible to receive credit for that course upon completion of academic requirements per below eligibility requirements.

Graduate degree-seeking students who have completed nine credit hours at Trinity with a grade point average of at least 3.0 may apply to request a maximum of six credits for experiential learning with approval of their academic advisor.  The student is required to submit a portfolio through their academic advisor or a Dean for review by an appropriate faculty member.  The portfolio must provide evidence that the student has acquired the competencies required to pass the course for which they are requesting credit.  If the portfolio is approved, this credit may be applied toward the requirements of a Master of Arts, Master of Arts in Teaching, Master of Education, or the Master of Science in Administration degree. All cases involving experiential learning credit will be considered on an individual basis by the student’s academic advisor and the office of the Dean of the School of Education. All portfolios must be completed and presented for approval prior to the semester in which the student plans to graduate.

Graduate students applying for experiential learning credit must follow these procedures:

• All students who wish to apply for experiential learning credit must discuss their experiences with their academic advisor prior to applying. This will give both parties an indication of whether the experiences are credit-worthy.
• After meeting with the advisor, the student may apply to develop an experiential credit portfolio. The student will fill out an experiential learning application form and submit the application to their academic advisor.
• Once approved, the student will produce one or more portfolios with materials that document and show evidence of the student’s prior learning based on verifiable learning outcomes applicable to academic learning in the professional program.
• The portfolio(s) must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to challenge a particular course in the student’s Program of Study.
• The Dean will determine the most appropriate faculty member with subject matter expertise to be given the portfolio for review.
• The faculty reviewer will notify the advisor and the Dean as to the acceptance or rejection of the portfolio, and the award of credit. The Dean’s office will forward a copy to the Registrar and the student’s file in the School of Education.
• Submission of a portfolio does not guarantee awarding of credit. Credit will be awarded on the basis of the merit of the portfolio.
• A $150 per credit fee is assessed for each credit awarded for experiential learning.  This fee is separate from the tuition a student is assessed for regular enrollment.

Undergraduate degree-seeking students may apply a maximum of 30 credits earned through any combination of approved examinations of college-level experiential learning to a Trinity degree, including through Trinity’s TELL program, which must be in addition to the minimum 45 credits taken at Trinity. Earned credits must be demonstrably equivalent to college-level learning.

Undergraduate students applying for experiential learning credit must follow these procedures:

• Students must meet with their academic advisor and a Dean to determine eligibility for prior learning credit.
• Eligible students go through a rigorous assessment of their prior learning experience in a 3-credit course (the TELL Seminar – GST 301). Students may enroll in the course for credit or may formally audit the course. Tuition is assessed for this course.
• During and after the seminar, students produce one or more portfolios with materials which document and show evidence of the student’s prior learning based on verifiable learning outcomes applicable to academic learning in the liberal arts or professional programs.
• The portfolio(s) must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to challenge a particular course in the general education, core, major, minor, or elective sequence of a student’s Program of Study.
• Evaluation of the final product is done by faculty experts in the subject matter who may award or deny credit based on the quality of the portfolio and demonstrated learning. Portfolio submission does not automatically guarantee that a student will receive experiential learning credit.
• If a decision is made to award credit for a particular course based on the portfolio, the faculty member notifies the Dean, who prepares a memo for Enrollment Services specifying the number of credits to be awarded. Generally, credits appear on the transcript as TELL Experiential Learning and are assigned the grade of P. Letter grades are not awarded.  Credits earned may count toward the total required for a Trinity degree, but are not calculated into a student’s GPA.
• A fee is assessed for each credit awarded for experiential learning.  This fee is separate from the tuition a student is assessed for regular enrollment.

NOTE: In the portfolio, students are required to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and values attained as a result of experiences and meeting certain criteria for competencies, including but not limited to the following:

• The knowledge should be publicly verifiable. Students should be able to document and demonstrate to an expert in the field that they possess the knowledge, skills and values typically associated with course learning outcomes.
• The knowledge should be equivalent to college-level work in terms of quality. Prior knowledge and experience should be related to courses in the catalog or to the requirements for graduation.
• The knowledge or experience should have an academic subject matter or knowledge base. Credit will not be given for manual skills nor for a narrowly prescribed routine or procedure.
• The learning should have general applicability outside of the specific situation in which it was acquired. For example, credit will not be awarded for knowledge of specific personnel procedures and application which apply to only one company.  However, credit might be awarded for knowledge and experience in the principles of human resource management, of which personnel applications is one small component.

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Degree Requirements

• General Requirements for the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
• General Requirements for the Bachelor’s Degree (B.A.)
• General Requirements for the Second Baccalaureate Degree (B.A.)
• General Requirements for the Master’s Degree (M.A.T., M.Ed., M.S.A.)
• Capstone Projects, Practica, and Student Teaching
• General Requirements for the Bachelor of Arts/Master of Arts in Teaching Degree (B.A./M.A.T.)

General Requirements for the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate

Students must meet three general requirements to complete and be awarded a post-baccalaureate certificate:

• Have successfully completed all program requirements (refer to the Trinity Catalog for specific requirements).
• Be in good academic standing (see Academic Standing below).
• Carry a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or better.
• Have earned no more than one “C” in a course counting toward the certificate.  No student may count more than one course in which a “C” was earned toward a degree.

General Requirements for the Bachelor’s Degree (B.A.)

Students must meet five general requirements to graduate and receive a bachelor’s degree:

• Successful completion of a minimum of 120 credits.
• For students matriculating after Fall 2002, 45 of the final 60 credits, excluding credits for experiential learning, must be completed at Trinity (“residency requirement”).
• Fulfillment of the General Education Curriculum.
• Conclusion of a major program’s course of study, including the senior assessment.
• Completion of all credits with a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0.

Grades in Courses Counted Towards Major

To fulfill requirements for the major, undergraduate students enrolled in degree programs intended to lead to licensure are required to earn a minimum grade of B (3.0) in all education courses (EDCC and EDTE), except for courses only offered on a “P/NP” (Pass/No Pass) basis, such as practica and internships. Courses taken “P/NP” (Pass/No Pass) do not otherwise count toward the fulfillment of major requirements. This includes both pre-acceptance EDCC and EDTE courses and all courses taken as major requirements In addition, majors must earn an overall G.P.A. of at least a 3.0.

Declaration of Major and Declaration or Change of Minor

Upon acceptance to the School of Education, the student officially declares their education major via the Change of Major or Minor form on the Enrollment Services Student Forms page.  Transcripts will be updated to reflect the major once electronic forms have been processed.

Students in the School of Education may elect to complete a minor area of study. Requirements for minors are determined by individual academic programs and are listed with other program information in the university catalog. The maximum number of minors a student may declare is two. Courses taken “P/NP” (Pass/No Pass) do not count toward the fulfillment of minor requirements except when indicated by individual academic programs.

To declare a minor, students likewise access the Change of Major or Minor form on the Enrollment Services Student Forms page.  Transcripts will be updated to reflect the minor once completed forms have been processed. To pursue the B.A./M.A.T. program, the student must meet with an education advisor or a Dean in the School of Education.

Senior Assessment

Trinity students are expected to achieve a sophisticated level of synthesis in their major field that reflects more than just mastery of course content. The Senior Assessment is a requirement for the Trinity degree, and a student must pass the Senior Assessment to be eligible for the degree.

• The Senior Assessment for undergraduate School of Education students may be the InTASC Portfolio, the Content Portfolio, or both.
• Only credits earned at Trinity, excluding credits earned through experiential learning, may fulfill Senior Assessment requirements.

General Requirements for the Second Baccalaureate Degree (B.A.)

A graduate of Trinity or any other appropriately accredited institution of higher learning may earn a second baccalaureate degree from Trinity by meeting the following criteria:

• Hold a baccalaureate from Trinity or any other appropriately accredited institution of higher learning at the time of matriculation for the second baccalaureate at Trinity. Associations recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) or the Commission on Higher Education (CHEA) confer appropriate accreditation (“institutional accreditors”).
• Complete a minimum of 32 additional credits at Trinity.
• Fulfill all requirements for graduation, including all specific major requirements and Senior Assessment for the second degree.

A second baccalaureate should not be confused with a double major.

Once admitted to the second baccalaureate degree, the student is governed by all academic policies pertaining to undergraduate students in the School of Education.

General Requirements for the Master’s Degree (M.A.T., M.Ed., M.S.A.)

Students must meet three general requirements to graduate and receive a Master’s Degree:

• Successfully complete all program requirements (refer to the appropriate catalog page for specific requirements).
• Successfully complete the capstone, final project, student teaching or internships, as appropriate to the program (see below).
• Be in good academic standing (see Academic Standing below).

The minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) required to graduate is 3.0.  No student who has more than 3 credits below a “B“ on their transcript may graduate and receive a degree.

All degree requirements must be completed within five years of matriculation as a degree candidate (the “five-year rule”). Any request for an extension must be made in writing to the Dean of the School of Education.

Capstones, Practica, Student Teaching, and Internships

Near the end of their degree program, all graduate students must complete a capstone project, practicum, student teaching, and/or internship, which provides them with the opportunity to apply, synthesize, and evaluate knowledge and skills acquired during their graduate study. Students should consult their faculty advisor for a description of options and guidelines.

Admission into a degree program does not automatically guarantee admission into capstone projects, practica, student teaching, or internships. To qualify for admission into these courses, students must meet the requirements of their specific program.

Students should register for the capstone in the semester in which they plan to complete the project. Students who require more than one semester to complete the capstone project will be charged a continuation fee for each subsequent semester until the project is completed.

The Bachelor of Arts/Master of Arts in Teaching Degree

In the Bachelor of Arts/Master of Arts in Teaching (B.A./M.A.T.) teacher preparation program, students are required to major in one of the liberal arts and complete a structured and sequenced minor in education. Upon completion of the bachelor’s degree, the student must apply and be admitted to the master’s program in an area of specialization: early childhood, elementary, or special education. Once admitted to the master’s program, the student is governed by academic policies pertaining to graduate students in the School of Education.

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Grading System

• Grades and Grade Point Average (GPA)
• Pass/No Pass Grading (Undergradaute Students Only)
• Incomplete Grades
• Grades for Work In Progress
• Grades for Withdrawals
• Grade Changes
• Grades for Repeated Courses

Grades and Grade Point Average (GPA)

A student’s grade point average (GPA) is determined by the average of grade points earned in a semester.

The School of Education uses the following system to assign grades to graduate students:

The School of Education uses the following system to assign grade to undergraduate students:

Designations carrying no grade points include:

AU	Audit	TR	Transfer Credit
I	Incomplete	U	Unsatisfactory
IP	In Progress	W	Withdrawal
S	Satisfactory	[ ]	Repeated Course

Pass/No Pass Grading (Undergraduate Students Only)

With advisor approval, students may elect to take a maximum of two courses on a “P/NP” (Pass/No Pass) basis during the first 60 credits at Trinity and a maximum of two courses on a “P/NP” basis during the second 60 credits at Trinity. (Courses with “P/NP” as the only grading option are exempt from this policy.) The quality of work in all classes graded “P/NP” must be equivalent to a “D” to receive a passing grade, and a “P/NP” grade is not calculated in determining a student’s GPA.

Following the Schedule Adjustment period (“add-drop” period), students may elect the P/NP option for a course until the date for withdrawal. Once the P/NP option is declared, students may not elect to revert to letter grading for the course.  Courses taken “P/NP” generally do not count toward the fulfillment of major or minor requirements (except for internships, practica, or other courses already graded P/NP, or with program chair or Dean approval).

Incomplete Grades

A grade of “I” (Incomplete) is recorded only where the instructor deems circumstances to be sufficiently serious to warrant an extension on coursework, exams, or other academic products. Incompletes are assigned only when the student has attended at least two-thirds of the course, and completed at least two-of the coursework, at the discretion of the instructor.  In all cases, the instructor and student must clearly communicate to determine the work to be completed and the date by which the work is completed.  Once the terms of the incomplete are stipulated, the instructors must file the Request for Incomplete – Undergraduate Students or the Request for Incomplete – Graduate Students available on the Enrollment Services Faculty/Staff Forms page.  The form must be submitted no later than the date when final term grades are due in the semester in which the incomplete grade will be assigned.

Graduate students must complete all work as specified in the Request for Incomplete before the end of the subsequent full semester (Fall, Spring, or Summer), whether they register for courses in that semester or not. Undergraduate students must complete all specified work within four weeks after the last day of the final examination period for Fall and Spring incompletes, and within four weeks after the last day of class for Summer incompletes. Students must submit work sufficiently in advance of the end of the semester to allow instructors time for grading, and instructors must submit a valid grade within 72 hours of the end of the incomplete period. Extensions of the Request for Incomplete require the approval of the EDU-CAP Committee.

Grades that are still incomplete after the deadline are changed from “I” to “F” on the student’s transcript. For Incomplete Grades in Consortium courses, see above.

Grades for Work In Progress (Graduate Students Only)

The grade of “IP” (In Progress) is recorded only in cases where a graduate student has not completed the Practicum, Internship, or Capstone Project during the semester in which the student initially registered for the course(s). Students who receive a grade of “IP” for a course must register for one credit in their program’s Directed Research course for each subsequent semester until the project is completed. Directed Research courses are graded as “S”/”U” (Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory) and are not calculated in a student’s GPA. Once all required work has been submitted for evaluation, the supervising faculty member will replace the grade of “IP” with the letter grade earned in the course. Grades of “IP” are exempt from the 120-day limit for grade changes (see below), although students must still complete all work for their degree within the five-year time limit.

Grades for Withdrawals

A designation of “W” (Withdrawal) will appear on the student’s transcript if the student withdraws from the course after the Course Schedule Adjustment deadline and before the deadline to withdraw from a class in a given semester.  A designation of “W” will also appear on the transcript if an Administrative Withdrawal is assigned. Withdrawals are not used to calculate a student’s GPA. There are no tuition refunds in the case of a withdrawal. The process for withdrawal from a course is described above.

Grade Changes

Faculty, at their discretion and only after serious consideration, may change a student’s grade. All grade changes must be approved by the Dean of the School of Education. Any grade change must be finalized with Enrollment Services no later than one hundred twenty calendar days following the last day of the academic term in which the original grade was posted. To appeal a grade received in a course, refer to the section on Academic Appeals below.

Grades for Repeated Courses

Students may repeat courses in which they have failed to earn passing grades or the minimum accepted grade in a course.  Graduate students may repeat a course only once. Transcripts will indicate all semesters in which the course was taken, but only the most favorable grade will be reported and used to calculate the GPA. The notation “[ ]” will appear on the transcript around the repeat grade to indicate that the course has been repeated; the original grade remains on the transcript, but is not calculated into the student’s GPA. If a student fails a course at Trinity, they must repeat that course at Trinity and may not transfer in credits for that course.

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Academic Standing

• Good Academic Standing
• Academic Honors
• Academic Watch
• Academic Probation
• Academic Dismissal
• Readmission

Good Academic Standing

Undergraduate Students:
Good academic standing for students in the undergraduate Education Programs constitutes maintaining a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0.  To remain in good academic standing, students must also complete two-thirds of their attempted credits. The determination of good academic standing is made following fall and spring semesters.

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Students:
Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the post-baccalaureate certificate program and may count no more than one course in which a “C” was earned toward meeting the post-baccalaureate certificate requirements. Courses in the certificate programs are repeatable. Satisfactory academic progress is a criterion for the award of financial aid. Students not making academic progress will be referred to their academic advisor for academic counseling. All other Trinity academic policies and procedures apply to certificate courses.

Master’s Degree Students:
Good academic standing for graduate students in the Education Programs constitutes maintaining a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0. Students receiving a grade of “F” in a course are not considered to be in good academic standing regardless of their GPA and may be dismissed from the University (see below). 

Academic Honors for Undergraduate Students

Dean’s List (Undergraduate Students)
The Dean’s List identifies full-time undergraduate students who have successfully earned 12 credits (see Student Status above) and who have attained a GPA of 3.5 or above for the current semester with no incomplete or failing grades. The 12 credits must be in courses carrying letter grades (A, A-, B, B-C, etc.). P/NP grades are not included. The Dean’s List is announced at the end of the fall and spring terms.

Latin Honors (Undergraduate Students)
Latin honors are conferred on graduating undergraduate students who have achieved the following minimum cumulative grade point averages:

• cum laude 3.5
• magna cum laude 3.7
• summa cum laude 3.9

Phi Beta Kappa (Undergraduate Students)
The Epsilon Chapter of Phi Beta Kappa at Trinity annually elects eligible juniors and seniors to membership based on their fulfillment of the requirements established by the Chapter and by Phi Beta Kappa. Members-in-course are elected on the basis of scholarly achievement, broad intellectual interests, and good character. All students must have demonstrated knowledge in mathematics and of a second language as appropriate to an education in the liberal arts. In order to fulfill the language requirement, all students must acquire no less than intermediate college-level knowledge in a foreign language.

To be considered for election as a junior, a student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.75 in at least 75 credits of course work in the liberal arts, 45 of which must have been in residence at Trinity. To be elected as a senior, a student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 in at least 90 credits of course work in the liberal arts, 45 of which must have been in residence at Trinity.

All students must be nominated by a member of the faculty in order to be considered for election. Course work in applied or professional studies and grades earned in such work cannot be counted toward the credits required in the liberal arts. The number of graduates elected to Phi Beta Kappa from any class may never exceed 15% of the number of students receiving diplomas.

Academic Watch

Undergraduate students maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 remain in good academic standing even if their GPA for one term or semester falls below 2.0, but these students are placed on academic watch. Academic watch indicates that, while the student’s academic progress is satisfactory, the student may experience future academic difficulties. Students placed on academic watch must meet with representatives of the Center for Student Success and may have to satisfy other conditions as determined by a Dean in the School of Education.

Academic Probation

Students who are not in good academic standing are placed on academic probation. Graduate students may be placed on academic probation if their semester or cumulative GPA falls below 3.0 or if they have completed less than two-thirds of their attempted credits. Undergraduate students may be placed on academic probation if their semester or cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 or if they have completed less than two-thirds of their attempted credits. All courses, except audits, that appear on a student’s transcript constitute attempted credits. Courses for which the student has earned grades of “F,” “I,” or “W,” are considered attempted credits that have not been completed.

Academic probation indicates that the student is no longer in good academic standing, and the student’s eligibility to continue studies at Trinity is under question. Graduate students and undergraduate students taking courses in the evening and weekend program format are limited to two courses comprising no more than six credits during the semester for which they are on academic probation. Undergraduate students taking courses in the day program format are limited to four courses comprising no more than twelve credits during the semester for which they are on academic probation. Undergraduate students placed on academic probation are not eligible to participate in athletics or other intercollegiate activities that require students to maintain good academic standing.

For part-time undergraduate students on probation, the completion of nine credits (even taken over the course of several terms) constitutes a semester, and a part-time student’s academic standing is reassessed after the attempt of every nine credits following the fall and spring semesters.  Full-time undergraduate students on academic probation are required to meet with representatives of the Center for Student Success and to access academic support services. To the extent possible, students must retake courses in which they received a grade below C as soon as the course is next available.

Undergraduate students may remain on probation for no more than two semesters. Undergraduate students may be removed from academic probation once their cumulative GPA is raised to the minimum standard of 2.0.  Failure to raise the GPA to the minimum standard of 2.0 during a student’s semester on academic probation may result in academic dismissal from the University (see below). 

Graduate students may remain on academic probation for no more than one semester. Graduate students may be removed from academic probation once their cumulative GPA is raised to the minimum standard of 3.0. Failure to raise the GPA to the minimum standard of 3.0 during a student’s semester on academic probation may result in academic dismissal from the University (see below). 

Academic Dismissal

Graduate students may be dismissed from Trinity for academic reasons, including:

• Carrying a GPA below 3.0 after spending one semester on academic probation.
• Earning a final grade of “F” in a graduate course.
• Violating the Honor System in an academic matter, as detailed in the Trinity Honor Code and Procedure Manual.

Undergraduate students may be dismissed from Trinity for academic reasons, including:

• Carrying a cumulative GPA below 2.0 in a semester following two consecutive semesters on academic probation.
• Violating the Honor System in an academic matter (refer to Trinity’s Academic Honesty Policy).
• Carrying a cumulative GPA of 0.0 for at least two consecutive semesters.

While academic standing is assessed every fall and spring semester, dismissals are assessed in May, at the end of the academic year.

Trinity reserves the right to dismiss students because of poor academic performance or unsatisfactory conduct. Trinity reserves the right to dismiss students because of academic standing or unprofessional conduct.  To appeal decisions regarding probation and dismissal, students may submit a written request to the School of Education Dean (see below).

Readmission following Academic Dismissal

Students who have been dismissed from Trinity for academic reasons may reapply after one year following the dismissal by making a written appeal to the Dean of the School of Education presenting compelling evidence for why they should be readmitted. Following the Dean’s approval, students must then apply for readmission through the Office of Admissions and be reaccepted to Trinity before attending classes.  If the student is readmitted, she or he will receive an acceptance letter from the Office of Admissions that details specific provisions and conditions of their readmission.  A copy of the acceptance letter will become a part of the student’s permanent academic record.

If a student was dismissed for academic reasons, the following policies apply:

Undergraduate students intending part-time status:

The student may apply for readmission as a part-time student after completing two semesters of six credits or more in each semester at an appropriately accredited institution of higher learning and earning a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Associations recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) or the Commission on Higher Education (CHEA) confer appropriate accreditation (“institutional accreditors”).

Undergraduate students intending full-time status:

The student may apply for readmission as a full-time student after completing two semesters of twelve credits or more in each semester at an appropriately accredited institution of higher learning and earning a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Associations recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) or the Commission on Higher Education (CHEA) confer appropriate accreditation (“institutional accreditors”).

In all cases, the readmission process should proceed as follows. The student must reapply through the Office of Admissions by submitting a completed application for readmission, including the following materials:

• Transcripts from all academic institutions attended since leaving Trinity.
• A personal essay analyzing the reason(s) for academic dismissal, what academic and/or personal experiences the student has had since leaving Trinity, what the student has learned from these experiences, and what has changed in the student’s life or approach to academic work that will ensure academic success.
• The student may be required to have an interview with a representative from the Center for Student Success regarding academic support and financial responsibility before the reapplication process proceeds further.

Before evaluating application materials, the Office of Admissions will consult with Enrollment Services to identify financial holds and/or payments due to Trinity. No applications will be processed until all financial holds are removed.

After all financial holds are removed, the student’s application materials will be reviewed by Academic Affairs and Student Affairs.  University officials will consult other relevant administrators such as the Deans, Health and Wellness Services, or academic advisors about the student’s qualifications and readiness for readmission to Trinity.  A recommendation will be made to grant admission, grant admission with special provisions, or deny admission.

For students readmitted after academic dismissal, conditions for readmission typically include a mandatory semester on academic probation, although other conditions may also apply.  Failure to comply with the provisions and conditions of admission may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal.

Graduate Students

Graduate students who have been dismissed from Trinity for academic reasons may reapply after one year following the dismissal by making a written appeal to the Dean of the School of Education presenting compelling evidence for why they should be readmitted. Following the Dean’s approval, students must then apply for readmission through the Office of Admissions and be reaccepted to Trinity before attending classes.

If the student is readmitted, she or he will receive an acceptance letter from the Office of Admissions that details specific provisions and conditions of their readmission. A copy of the acceptance letter will become a part of the student’s permanent academic record.  For students readmitted after academic dismissal, conditions for readmission typically include a mandatory semester on academic probation, although other conditions may also apply.

Failure to comply with the provisions and conditions of admission may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal.

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Academic Appeals

• General Policy for Appeals
• Appealing a Final Grade in a Course Below a “B” (3.0), Excluding Grades of “F”
• Appealing a Final Grade of “F” in a Course
• Appealing an Academic Dismissal
• Other Academic Complaints

General Policy for Appeals

Graduate students may appeal only grades lower than a “B” and separate procedures should be followed for appealing grades of “F” (see below). Undergraduate students may appeal only grades of “F.” Such appeals will only be considered when the student alleges that the grade does not reflect appropriate academic criteria, such as achievement and proficiency in the subject matter, or there is an error in the calculation of grades as described in the course syllabus.  Appeals regarding academic probation or dismissal should be directed to the School of Education Dean.

Requests for an exception to an academic policy stated in the Trinity Washington University Catalog or in Academic Policies should be directed to the EDU-CAP Committee.

Any other application for the redress of a student grievance that relates to academic procedures or policies must be addressed to the EDU-CAP Committee.

Appealing a Final Grade in a Course Below a “B” (3.0), Excluding Grades of “F” (Graduate Students Only)

The student first submits a written appeal to the course instructor in order to resolve the issue no later than three weeks after the beginning of the semester following that in which the grade was assigned. The instructor will respond to the student in writing within three weeks.

If the student and instructor do not resolve the matter, the student may appeal the grade in writing to their program director no later than one week after the date on the instructor’s response. The program director may mediate the issue for three weeks after the date on the instructor’s written response to the student.

The program director’s decision about the issue represents the final resolution of a dispute for grades below a “B,” excluding grades of “F”, unless the grade in question will lead to dismissal.

If the grade being appealed will lead to dismissal (even if the grade is not an “F”) and the program chair is unable to resolve the dispute, the student may appeal formally to the School of Education Curriculum and Academic Policy Committee (EDU-CAP) in writing; this appeal must be filed no later than nine weeks after the beginning of the semester following that in which the grade was assigned. 

Appealing a Final Grade of “F” in a Course

The student first submits a written appeal to the course instructor in order to resolve the issue no later than three weeks after the beginning of the semester following that in which the grade was assigned. The instructor will respond to the student in writing within three weeks.

If the student and instructor do not resolve the matter, the student may appeal the grade in writing to his or her program director no later than one week after the date on the instructor’s response. The program director may mediate the issue for three weeks after the date on the instructor’s written response to the student.

If the program director is unable to resolve the dispute, the student may appeal formally to the School of Education Curriculum and Academic Policy Committee (EDU-CAP) in writing; this appeal must be filed no later than nine weeks after the beginning of the semester following that in which the grade was assigned. The Committee decides either that the “F” will stand or that the “F” will be changed to a Pass. No other grade will be assigned. The EDU-CAP may resolve the dispute based solely upon the written appeal. The Committee informs the student, the program director, the Dean, and the Office of Enrollment Services of its decision in writing.

Appeals of Academic Dismissals

Grade appeals occur through the process described above, and the decision of the EDU-CAP Committee is final on all grade appeals. If the denial of a grade appeal results in the student’s academic dismissal from Trinity, or if the student incurs academic dismissal for failure to satisfy academic progress requirements, or failure to satisfy professional standards in the professional schools, then the student has the opportunity to appeal the academic dismissal according to this procedure:

• The student may write a letter of appeal requesting reinstatement to the Dean of the School of Education stating the reasons why she or he should not incur academic dismissal.
• The Dean will review the appeal with the director or chair of the student’s major academic program, and will consult with Academic Affairs.
• The Dean will inform the student and Academic Affairs in writing of the appeal decision.
• If the Dean denies the student’s request for reinstatement, the student may make a further written appeal to the Provost.
  The Provost will review the case and render a decision to the student.
• If the Provost denies the student’s appeal, the student may make a written appeal to the President. The President does not over-rule the academic judgment of the faculty, deans and provost as to the academic performance of the student. The President may over-rule the lower decisions and direct a different outcome only if she finds evidence of improper procedures or bias in the lower reviews of the case. The different outcome may include a new review of the case at lower levels or an alternative disposition of the case.
• The President’s decision is final and no further internal appeals are available.

Other Academic Complaints

If a student has a complaint about an academic matter that is unrelated to an appeal of grades or a dismissal, the process for registering and reviewing general complaints is as follows:

• The student should attempt to resolve the complaint directly with the staff person or faculty member concerned in the topic in question.
• If the student cannot resolve the complaint through direct discussion with the staff or faculty member, the student should register the complaint with the academic dean of the collegiate unit. Email directly to the Dean is the best method for registering the complaint since the written complaint gives the Dean the opportunity to review the complete set of facts clearly.
• The Dean will address the complaint with the student, orally or in writing as may be best, and will meet with the student if a meeting is appropriate.  Upon reviewing the complaint, the Dean may also ask another member of the faculty or staff to resolve the matter with the student.
• If the matter remains unresolved, the student may direct the complaint to the Provost, who will review the matter and direct the appropriate outcome. The Provost may direct another member of the faculty or staff to resolve the matter with the student.
• Students need to be aware that not all complaints result in a resolution in the student’s favor. Students have a right to be heard, to have the complaint taken seriously and reviewed for appropriate application of Trinity’s policies and procedures. Students do not have a right to a specific requested result.

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Student Information, Records, and Transcripts

• Disclosure
• Maintenance of Student Records
• Transcripts

Disclosure

The following categories of student information are designated as public or directory information:

• Category I information includes name, address, telephone number, dates of attendance, and class standing.
• Category II information includes previous institution(s) attended, major field(s) of study, awards, honors (such as Dean’s List), and degree(s) conferred.

Information from Category I or Category II may be disclosed by the institution for any purpose, at its discretion.

Under the provision of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, students may withhold disclosure of any category of information. To prohibit disclosure, students must provide Enrollment Services with written notification.

Trinity assumes that any student who does not specifically request the withholding of Category I or II directory information has indicated individual approval for disclosure.

Maintenance of Student Records

Trinity protects the reputation of its students by carefully maintaining the confidentiality of their official University records. To preserve privacy, the records are safeguarded from unauthorized access and disclosure. Trinity faculty, administrators, and staff are fully aware of the necessity to ensure integrity, accuracy, and confidentiality.

Accordingly, Trinity complies with the provisions set forth in Sec. 438 of the General Educational Provisions Act, 20 U.S.C. 1232 (g), entitled the Family Educational Provisions Act of 1974. This law guarantees the student’s right to examine her or his official educational records, as well as her or his right to privacy pursuant to the release of such records to third parties.

Trinity’s policy on the maintenance of student records is in accord with federal regulations. A copy of the policy is available from Enrollment Services , and this statement serves as notification of rights protected by law.

Transcripts

Current and former students of Trinity may request academic transcripts from Enrollment Services by accessing the electronic transcript request.  Transcripts will not be issued to a third party. Transcripts are generally released in about 24 hours.  There is a nominal fee for issuing a transcript which can be paid by credit, debit, or prepaid Visa or MasterCard gift card.

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Licensure and Certification Notification

EDU Teacher Preparation Programs Notification

The teacher education preparation program at Trinity Washington University is nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Successful completion of a teacher education academic program (BA in Early Childhood Education, BA in Elementary Education, MAT in Early Childhood Education, MAT in Elementary Education, MAT in Special Education, MAT in Inclusive Education Dual Licensure) at Trinity Washington University will meet the education requirements necessary to pursue teacher licensure and certification in the District of Columbia and most states in which a student intends to practice. Some states have additional requirements, including assessments, coursework, or experience. Students should contact the appropriate state licensing board to determine if the program at Trinity Washington University can lead to licensure in that state and what, if any, additional licensure requirements exist in that state. Trinity stands ready to assist with state licensure questions, and students should consult with their advisor, program director or Dean, in case of doubt.

You may access teacher licensure requirements by state, including information regarding state reciprocity here:

You may also access certification requirements and contact information for your state department of education at the Federal Department of Education here.

EDU Principal Preparation Program Notification

The principal preparation program at Trinity Washington University (MSA in Educational Administration) is nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Successful completion of the educational administration program at Trinity Washington University will meet the education requirements necessary to pursue the Administrative Services Credential in the District of Columbia and certification in most states in which a student intends to practice. Some states have additional requirements, including assessments, coursework, or experience. Students should contact the appropriate state licensing board to determine if the program at Trinity Washington University can lead to licensure in that state and what, if any, additional licensure requirements exist in that state. Trinity stands ready to assist with state licensure questions, and students should consult with their advisor, program director or Dean, in case of doubt.

Principal/administrative certification requirements by state, including information regarding state reciprocity can be accessed here.
Certification requirements and contact information for state departments of education can be accessed at the Federal Department of Education here.

Disclaimer

Trinity reserves the right to change, without prior notice, any policy or procedure, tuition or fee, curricular requirements, or any other information found on this web site or in its printed materials.

Questions may be directed to the Office of Academic Affairs at academicaffairs@trinitydc.edu.

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