ON-CAMPUS ADJUNCT FACULTY HANDBOOK

2015-2016

Table of ContentsInstitutional Documents.......................................................

Mission Statement...............................................................Core Institutional Values......................................................Philosophy...........................................................................Biblical/Theological Objectives............................................Liberal Arts Objectives.........................................................Professional Ministry Objectives..........................................Information Literacy Standards...........................................History of Davis College.......................................................Doctrinal Statement............................................................Code of Conduct..................................................................Notification of Disability Accommodation............................................................................................Notification of Sexual Harassment Policy............................................................................................Notification of Drug Free Campus Statement...........................................................................

Adjunct Faculty Obligations and Privileges.............................................................................

Responsibilities of the Adjunct Faculty Member...............................................................................Academic Freedom..............................................................Termination of Service.......................................................General Grievance Procedures..........................................Course Syllabi....................................................................Syllabi Components...........................................................Textbook Information Submission.....................................Student Learning Outcomes and the Assessment.......................................................................Class Notes........................................................................Course Evaluations............................................................Academic Affairs Committee.............................................Curriculum Committee......................................................Faculty Committee............................................................Assessment Committee.....................................................

Admissions Committee......................................................................................................Scholarship Committee......................................................................................................

Academic Policies and Procedures........................................................................................FERPA Policy......................................................................................................................Cancellation of Class..........................................................................................................Class Attendance...............................................................................................................Academic Integrity.............................................................................................................What is Academic Dishonesty?..........................................................................................Examination Policy.............................................................................................................Final Examinations.............................................................................................................Make-Up Examination Procedure.......................................................................................Final Grade Policy..............................................................................................................Academic Final Grade Grievance Policy..........................................................................................................................................Grading System.................................................................................................................Replaced Grades and Repeated Courses..........................................................................................................................................Request for Incomplete Coursework Policy.................................................................................................................................Request for Incomplete Coursework Procedure..........................................................................................................................Request for Independent Study Policy...............................................................................Request for Independent Study Procedure..........................................................................................................................Low Grade Reports and Academic Probation...........................................................................................................................Academic Probation and Dismissal Policy.................................................................................................................................Open Admissions Policy.....................................................................................................Foundational Studies.........................................................................................................Academic Success Center..................................................................................................Student Support Services..................................................................................................Classroom Conduct............................................................................................................Academic Petition and Appeal Process..............................................................................Add/Drop Policy.................................................................................................................

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Withdrawal from School.....................................................Graduation Requirements..................................................Second Baccalaureate Degree...........................................Diploma Exchanges...........................................................Scholastic Honors..............................................................Transfer Credit Policy........................................................

Credit by Examination.......................................................................................................Residency Requirement.....................................................................................................Policy for Life Experience...................................................................................................Request for Life Experience Credit Procedure..........................................................................................................................Additional Resources.........................................................................................................

Important note regarding terms:Throughout this handbook, the term “adjunct faculty” refers to those who have been contracted to teach a course or a number of courses as needed by the college without a full-time faculty contract from Davis College. The goal of this handbook is to assist the adjunct faculty member with understanding her or his privileges and responsibilities. It will be noticed in this document that there are instances when “faculty” is the term used (e.g. the section on faculty committees) and often this term is used to indicate that these are the privileges and responsibilities of the full-time faculty member. However, there may be an occasion where the same term is used (e.g. the notice of the drug-free campus) but this term should be considered interchangeable with “adjunct faculty”. If there is a question regarding applicability, please contact the Office of the Provost.

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This handbook may be amended at any time by the Office of the Provost.

Institutional DocumentsMission StatementDavis College is a Bible-centered higher education institution committed to making an impact upon the world for Jesus Christ by the fostering of Christian character and the equipping of students with the knowledge, competencies and skills needed in an ever-changing world for service and leadership within the church, Christian organizations and society.Core Institutional Values

1. A commitment to the inerrancy, authority, and sufficiency of the Scriptures.

2. A commitment to worship God and to pursue Christ-likeness in actions and attitudes.

3. A commitment to the practice of personal holiness, professional integrity and adherence to the highest spiritual and ethical standards.

4. A commitment to respect the worth and dignity of all of human-kind and to create a college representation of our society’s cultural, ethnic, and racial diversity.

5. A commitment to foster a cooperative and caring community that encompasses staff, faculty, and students and develops the potential of each.

6. A commitment to offer a relevant curriculum, quality instruction, serviceable facilities, and character-building activities for the personal and professional development of men and women called to serve in church and church-related ministries.

7. A commitment to an on-going assessment and planning process that will address current and future needs and developments that the programs of study offered will be practical and advance the kingdom of God worldwide.

8. A commitment to compassionately minister to the church, society, and the world in general.

PhilosophyDavis College is a private, undergraduate, coeducational Bible college within the conservative evangelical tradition that fosters the spiritual, professional, intellectual and personal development of students for ministry. Its philosophy views the direct study of the Bible as the primary means to a successful life and ministry. Its three-year diploma, A.A.S. and B.R.E. degree programs provide an integration of Biblical, general and professional studies. The one-year certificate programs focus primarily upon Biblical studies.

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As a Bible College, the Bible is the major curriculum component and the integrating factor of all other courses. General education is essential to a balanced, broad-based undergraduate education that gives the student a basic understanding of the world in which they live and minister. Professional studies develop the student’s competencies, skills, abilities and knowledge needed for service and leadership within church-related ministries. In its entirety, the educational and practical experience of the College is designed to enable students to know the Word of God, to apply it to every aspect of life and to minister it effectively to the world. In summary, Davis College provides students with the education and experience to develop a thoroughly biblical worldview and lifestyle.Biblical/Theological Objectives

1. To instill in students a commitment to the authority of the Word of God.

2. To give students a foundational knowledge of the Bible and theology.

3. To equip students with the tools and skills needed for a life-long study of the Scriptures.

4. To enable students to integrate the Word of God into life and ministry.

Liberal Arts Objectives 1. To enhance students speaking, listening and writing skills for

effective communication. 2. To provide students with a broad understanding of the history of

man, religion and culture. 3. To instruct students in the development of a healthy lifestyle. 4. To give students a general knowledge of the scientific and

quantitative aspects of the complex world created by God. 5. To introduce students to the creativity reflected in different forms of

artistic expression.Professional Ministry Objectives

1. To promote competent, godly leadership development for diverse ministry and marketplace careers.

2. To develop interpersonal skills for engaging with people according to the plans and purposes of God.

3. To provide supervised ministry experience through field opportunities in the church and community.

4. To encourage commitment and skill development in effectively communicating the Gospel.

5. To encourage evidence of Christian maturity, integrity, and a biblical worldview.

Information Literacy Standards1. The information literate student determines the nature and extent

of the information needed.5

2. The information literate student accesses needed information effectively and efficiently.

3. The information literate student evaluates information and its sources critically and incorporates selected information into his or her knowledge base and value system.

4. The information literate student, individually or as a member of a group, uses information effectively to accomplish a specific purpose.

5. The information literate student understands many of the economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information and accesses and uses information ethically and legally.

History of Davis CollegePractical Bible Training School emerged in 1900 from a series of Bible classes that were conducted in downtown Lestershire (Johnson City), New York, by a young evangelist, John A. Davis. These summer evening classes were engendered by the conviction that God would have a Bible institute, similar to Moody Bible Institute, established in the Binghamton area. With an attendance of more than a hundred people, it was agreed that a school should be permanently organized and that a new location should be secured. The school was incorporated on December 6, 1900, as Practical Bible Training School, with Evangelist Davis as the Superintendent and Hymnwriter John R. Clements as the President of the Board.

The first six years' classes were conducted during the summer months when renowned Bible teachers and evangelists lectured in an extensive summer conference program. An academic year schedule was adopted the fall of 1906, when the school began a two-year study program with resident teachers. This developed into a three-year program in 1912.

When the school outgrew its original quarters on Harrison Street, the Lord made possible the purchase of the White City Amusement Park, which consisted of some thirty acres, overlooking the Susquehanna River. After extensive renovations and alterations (many of the park's buildings were "converted" to holy purposes), Practical occupied the park in June of 1911. In October of the same year a United States Post Office was established at the school and was called Bible School Park, NY. Most of the original buildings have now been replaced by modern facilities.

On September 24, 1993, Practical Bible Training School became Davis College, and was authorized to grant the two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and the four-year Bachelor of Religious Education (BRE) degree. The college continues to offer a one-year certificate in Bible and a three-year diploma. A major in Bible/theology is maintained for all programs.

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From its inception, Practical has promoted preaching, evangelism, and missions, as well as other church ministries and Bible study. Being a gifted preacher and evangelist, John A. Davis was eager to train men and women for Bible-centered ministries with the result that many graduates are serving the Lord on nearly every mission field of the world.

In 2004, the college changed its name to Davis College, and the institution is accredited regionally through the Middle States Accreditation on Higher Education and professionally through the Association for Biblical Higher Education.

Today, the vision, leadership, and enthusiasm of Dr. Davis are personified in our current president. The Lord is doing great things through this ministry of teaching His people God's Word and of preparing them to use the Word effectively to evangelize the lost and disciple His people.Doctrinal StatementArticle I. The Scriptures – We believe that the original writing of the Holy Scriptures, both Old and New Testaments, are verbally, plenarily, and inerrantly inspired of God and that they constitute the absolute authority in all matters of faith and practice (II Timothy 3:16, 17; Psalm 119:105). We believe in the literal, historical, grammatical and contextual interpretation of the Bible, which reveals divinely determined dispensations defining man’s responsibilities under God in successive ages (Ephesians 3:2-10).

Article II. The Godhead – We believe in the Trinity - God the Father (Romans 1:7), God the Son (Romans 9:5), and God the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 3:16), being one God eternally existent in three persons (Matthew 28:19), equal in all their attributes (John 10:30).

Article III. The Person and Work of Christ – We believe in the deity and humanity of the Lord Jesus Christ (John 1:1, 14; I Timothy 2:5), one person possessing two natures making Him very God and very man. In His deity, He is Creator and Sustainer of the universe (Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:3). In His humanity, He was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary (Luke 1:34, 35), lived a sinless life (I Peter 2:22; I John 3:5), died a substitutionary death for sinners (Romans 5:8; I Peter 3:18), arose bodily from the grave (I Corinthians 15:1-4), ascended into heaven (Ephesians 1:20, 21), and is now seated at the right hand of the Father (1 Peter 3:22).

Article IV. The Holy Spirit – We believe that the Holy Spirit is the Third Person of the Godhead, who convicts (John 16:8), regenerates (Titus 3:5), indwells (John 14:16, 17), baptizes (I Corinthians 12:13), and seals (Ephesians 1:13) all believers in Christ and fills those yielded to Him (Ephesians 5:18). We believe that the Holy Spirit gives gifts to all believers (I Corinthians 12:11).

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Article V. Man’s Creation and Fall – We believe that man was made in the image of God (Genesis 1:26), a special creation of God (Genesis 2:7), and not a product of evolutionary development. However, man disobeyed his Creator and incurred spiritual death, total corruption, and divine condemnation (Genesis 3:1-6; Romans 5:12-19). Because of this, man is a sinner by nature and practice and is in need of Divine salvation (Romans 3:9-18).

Article VI. Salvation – We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ died and shed His blood to make atonement for the sins of all mankind (I John 2:2). On the basis of His substitutionary death and resurrection all who repent and believe receive God’s gift of eternal life (Acts 20:21; John 6:47).Because it is wholly given by grace the believer’s salvation is eternally secure (Ephesians 2:8-10; John 10:28). It is God’s design that all believers manifest their salvation by a life pleasing to God and set apart unto Him (Romans 12:1-2). Every believer is provided positional (I Corinthians 1:2) and progressive (II Timothy 2:21) sanctification and is promised ultimate sanctification in heaven (Ephesians 5:25-27).

Article VII. The Church – We believe that the universal Church is composed of all who are saved (I Corinthians 12:13, 27) and baptized by the Holy Spirit into one body from Pentecost to the Rapture (Acts 1:5; Acts 11:15). The Church serves as the body (Ephesians 1:22-23) and espoused bride of Christ (II Corinthians 11:2) of which He is the Head (Ephesians 4:15). We adhere to historic baptistic distinctives and believe that the local church is God’s designated instrument for service in the world. As an autonomous company of baptized believers the church meets regularly to worship God, to observe the ordinances of believer’s water baptism by immersion (Acts 2:41-47) and the Lord’s Supper, to edify itself (I Corinthians 14:26; Ephesians 4:11-12), and to evangelize the world through the preaching and teaching of the Word (Matthew 28:18-20).

Article VIII. Christian Life and Service – We believe that the fulfillment of the Great Commission is the responsibility of every believer, that the believer is to be a personal soul winner, that the believer is to disciple new converts, and that the believer is to enlist them in the life of the local church (Matthew 28:20; Acts 1:8). In the accomplishment of this commission we believe that one must be personally separate from sin (II Timothy 2:21) and be separate from religious apostasy and ecclesiastical ecumenism which denies the fundamentals of the faith (II Corinthians 6:14-18; II Timothy 3:1-5; Romans 16:17; I Timothy 6:3-5).

Article IX. Last Things – We believe in the imminent, pre-tribulational and premillennial return of the Lord to rapture His church (Titus 2:13). This event is followed in order by the seven-year tribulation period (Revelation 4-18), the second coming of Christ to the earth to rule for one thousand years

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(Revelation 19:11-15; 20:6), and the great white throne judgment of the lost (Revelation 20:11-15). This sequence of events will issue in the conscious states of everlasting punishment for the unsaved and everlasting bliss for the saved (Matthew 25:46).Code of Conduct As a leading institution preparing men and women for ministries of the Word, Davis College maintains a code of conduct based on the Scriptures. All Davis personnel must ascribe to this code as they are the principle influence on the growth and development of student spiritual and moral maturity. While this code is not designed to inhibit personal preferences or convictions, it does establish the parameters of conduct that is generally accepted among Evangelical Christians.

Davis College is a nonprofit Higher Biblical Educational Institution representing Jesus Christ throughout the evangelical Christian community. Davis College requires its employees to be Christians, serving as a Christian role model both in and out of school to students and fellow staff members in Christian living. Employees will conduct themselves in a way that will not raise questions regarding their Christian testimony.

Notification of Disability AccommodationDavis College is committed to complying fully with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and ensuring equal opportunity in employment for qualified persons with disabilities.All employment practices and activities are conducted on a non-discriminatory basis. Our hiring procedures have been reviewed and provide persons with disabilities meaningful employment opportunities. When requested, we will make job applications available in alternative, accessible formats, as well as provide assistance in completing the application. Pre-employment inquiries are made only regarding an applicant's ability to perform the duties of the position.Reasonable accommodation is available to an employee with a disability if the disability affects the performance of job functions. We make all employment decisions based on the merits of the situation in accordance with defined criteria, not the disability of the individual.Qualified individuals with disabilities are entitled to equal pay and other forms of compensation (or changes in compensation) as well as job assignments, classifications, organizational structures, position descriptions, lines of progression, and seniority lists. We make leaves of all types available to all employees on an equal basis.

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Davis College is also committed to not discriminating against any qualified employee or applicant because the person is related to or associated with a person with a disability. Davis College will follow any state or local law that provides individuals with disabilities greater protection than the ADA.This policy is neither exhaustive nor exclusive. Davis College is committed to taking all other actions necessary to ensure equal employment opportunity for persons with disabilities in accordance with the ADA and all other applicable federal, state, and local laws.Notification of Sexual Harassment Policy Davis College affirms its commitment to appropriate sexual behavior between all men and women who are members of its faculty, staff, and student body. Amorous behavior, even though consensual, which is inconsistent with the Word of God and Davis College’s standards, will not be tolerated. DEFINITION Sexual harassment, which is incompatible with biblical standards and violates federal law, is prohibited. Sexual harassment is any deliberate or repeated unsolicited verbal comment, gesture or physical contact of a sexual nature that is unwelcome. It includes, but is not limited to the following: unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favors, other verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature if (a) it is an attempt to coerce a person into a sexual relationship, (b) acceptance or rejection of the conduct affects the person’s academic or work evaluation, (c) the conduct interferes with the person’s academic or work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive academic or work environment. Sexual harassment constitutes a gross violation of the college’s spiritual, educational and professional standards as well as its objectives and goals; such misconduct will not be tolerated. REPORTING PROCEDURE Any student or other individual who wishes to report an incident of sexual harassment may do so by contacting the Student Development Officer or the person under whom the sexually harassed person works. Complaints about sexual harassment will be responded to promptly and equitably. The right to confidentiality of all members of the college community will be respected insofar as possible.

The Student Development Officer is to be available and is encouraged to assist in informal mediation and resolution of incidents of harassment. It is the responsibility of the Student Development Officer to use the mediation process in a way that minimizes the burden imposed on the person who has complained and that resolves matters in such a way that inappropriate behavior is discouraged.

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In any part of the process, both the accused and accuser is entitled to have a third party present for any discussions. If the accuser is an on-campus student, they may request changes in their academic and living situation. The Office of Student Development may provide accommodations that are reasonably available.

The Student Development Officer may employ warnings, sanctions or other appropriate disciplinary actions in achieving mediated resolutions of disputes. The Advisory Committee on Campus Safety will provide, upon request, all campus crime statistics as reported to the United States Department of Education.

When informal resolution is impractical or unsuccessful, individuals are urged to employ the formal procedure available concerning allegations of harassment. To institute the formal procedure, the person must submit a signed, written complaint regarding the misconduct to the respective Vice President. A description of all actions which have occurred, with specific details as to time and place, should be included in the complaint. The Officer involved and the Office of Student Development will investigate all complaints and determine the appropriate action.

An individual who is found guilty of a charge of sexual harassment will be subject to action ranging from counseling to dismissal or non-issuance of a contract. Civil action for any offense which violates the law will be taken. The college is genuinely concerned about allegations of sexual harassment and strongly encourages students to report any such misconduct.Notification of Drug Free Campus StatementDavis College is required by law to provide the following information to faculty, employees and students.

Davis College prohibits the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by faculty, employees and students on its property or as part of its activities. Faculty, employees and students found in unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and possession of alcohol will face legal sanctions under local, state, or federal law as well as sanction under Davis policy. Davis College will assist local, state and federal law enforcement agencies by providing information on the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol by its faculty, employees or students. As a condition of their employment, faculty and employees of Davis College must notify the institution of any criminal drug or alcohol statute conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace no later than five days after such conviction. The general rule is, because faculty and employees sign an agreement not to participate in the unlawful use or abuse of illicit drugs or alcohol, any employee who participates in the unlawful use or abuse of illicit drugs or

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alcohol or the lawful use will be dismissed from Davis College. However, the institution may review each offense on an individual basis providing counseling and the opportunity for rehabilitation programs.

Any student who participates in the unlawful use or abuse of illicit drugs or alcohol may be dismissed from Davis College for a period of one year. The student would then have the option of petitioning the college for re-admittance after having participated in counseling or a substance abuse rehabilitation program.

Additional information is provided in the Student Handbook to aid the faculty, employee or student to recognize and understand the health risks associated with substance abuse. Any faculty, employee or student involved with substance abuse has the option of contacting the OSD for assistance or approaching one of the referral agencies directly.

Adjunct Faculty Obligations and Privileges

Adjunct faculty are contract employees hired on a course-by-course and semester-by-semester basis to meet certain curricular needs. Although generally referred to as adjunct "professors," adjunct faculty do not participate in rank and promotion.

Adjunct faculty are remunerated on the basis of course and student enrollment. Preparation time is assumed in the salary scale that is set.

Adjunct faculty must meet the adjunct faculty education requirements (minimum of M.A. degree).

Adjunct faculty are expected to be in agreement with the College's Doctrinal Statement and to abide by the College's Code of Conduct.

Responsibilities of the Adjunct Faculty MemberIndividuals who accept appointment to the adjunct faculty of Davis College agree to the following obligations and responsibilities.

1. To subscribe to the Doctrinal Statement of the College as well as its spiritual standards and goals and to exemplify them by word and conduct.

2. To faithfully pray for and support the College however possible.3. To know and implement the educational purposes, objectives

and policies of the College.4. To promote the interests and purposes of the College and to

cooperate sympathetically with its administration.

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5. To unite with a local church that is in harmony with the doctrinal position of the College and to attend faithfully.

6. To respect the rights of students by meeting all classes and appointments regularly and punctually, by maintaining classroom discipline, by challenging any form of academic dishonesty, by evaluating the work and status of students fairly and equitably, and by assisting students cheerfully and responsibly.

7. To maintain high academic standards in accordance with expectations by accrediting agencies.

8. To perform the routine duties associated with classroom management, keeping up-to-date and accurate academic records on each student.

Academic Freedom1. The Christian adjunct faculty member views academic freedom as the

fulfillment of responsibility to God, to oneself, to students, and to the College. Within the framework of the Doctrinal Statement, which is affirmed annually, the adjunct faculty member has the freedom to use techniques and materials which still stimulate clear thinking and thorough inquiry. The Davis College adjunct faculty member has freedom to exercise initiative and to introduce innovations in his or her work with students. Within this freedom the adjunct faculty member has the responsibility to include the Christian world and life view among his or her working assumptions. He or she recognizes personal areas of competence and does not attempt to speak with authority outside of these areas.

2. The adjunct faculty member is free to witness to this commitment and to consider data in the light of his or her Christian faith. He or she should be considerate of other students’ viewpoints.

3. The adjunct faculty member is encouraged to engage in scholarly research toward improving his or her work in the classroom, the participation in scholarly discussion with colleagues and students, and the development of materials for publication. Each adjunct faculty member is expected to conduct himself or herself in the light of Biblical standards and in relation to his or her Christian commitment.

When expressing personal opinion, the adjunct faculty member should make every effort to indicate that he or she is not an institutional spokesperson.

Termination of ServiceA teaching appointment may be terminated in a number of ways and for a variety of reasons. The College distinguishes between the following: 1) non-renewal of contract, 2) release, and 3) dismissal.

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Dismissal is mandatory in cases where the doctrinal beliefs or Christian standards of the individual have changed so as to be irreconcilable with those of the College.

1. See Doctrinal Statement in the “Institutional Documents” section2. Dismissal

a. Dismissal denotes termination of service at the instigation of the College through the fault of the adjunct faculty member.

b. The College recognizes the following grounds for dismissal: i. Inefficiency and irresponsibility (failure or unwillingness to

perform academic and professional duties credibly);ii. Insubordination (habitual and/or persistent failure or

refusal to cooperate);iii. Spiritual delinquency, doctrinal deviation, or moral conduct

obviously contrary to the best interest of the College or to the terms of the contract with the College.

c. In the event that it becomes necessary to take formal action relative to the dismissal of a member of the adjunct faculty, he or she may appeal the decision and should do so by following this procedure:

i. Submit a written appeal to the Provost. If no satisfactory conclusion is reached,

ii. Appeal to the President.iii. All decisions made by the President will be final and

binding. In the event of disagreement with an action or policy of the administration or adjunct faculty member, one is free to seek change through proper channels and in accordance with the teaching of Matthew 18:15-17. One must keep in mind that unity is imperative at Davis College.General Grievance ProceduresThe procedure to handle grievances is as follows:

1. The adjunct faculty member with a grievance should first go privately to the person responsible for the policy or action to seek a resolution to that problem. The adjunct faculty member with the grievance should not discuss the matter with others at this point, nor seek the counsel of other College personnel.

2. If the adjunct faculty member with a grievance is not satisfied with the resolution of the problem, the adjunct faculty member may then take the grievance to the Provost. Communication generally should follow organizational lines of authority.

3. If the adjunct faculty member with the grievance has not found satisfaction concerning a resolution, the matter may be presented to the President in person or in writing. The President will hear all sides and render a decision. The President’s decision will be final.

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Course SyllabiCourse syllabi serve several purposes. Primarily, they function as a contractual agreement between the adjunct faculty member and the student. In this capacity, the parameters of the course and the means of evaluation are declared. Both the adjunct faculty member and the student are obligated to abide by the agreements in the syllabus for the duration of the course, unless modified by mutual consent. Each student should receive a copy of the course syllabus during the 1st class.In addition, syllabi are also used by internal and external agencies to monitor the educational process. Syllabi are also useful for future reference to determine what has been done in particular courses.

A syllabus is required for every course, and all course syllabi must follow the format given in this adjunct faculty handbook or by direction of the Provost between published editions of the handbook. Each major point must be adequately addressed. In some instances the same bibliography may be used for more than one course.

All syllabi must be submitted electronically to the Office of Academic Affairs. The course instructors are responsible for reproducing syllabi for their students. Syllabi ComponentsEach Davis College syllabus is to follow a template as provided by the Office of Academic Affairs.

College's logo, as approved by the Marketing Department Catalog course number, course name Semester and year and days scheduled Course instructor’s name, contact information, and office hours Catalog description of the course College’s mission statement Linkage of the course to the mission statement of Davis College Division objectives (for all applicable divisions) and linkage of the

course to the objectives Information literacy standards and linkage of the course to the

standards Student learning outcomes

o Core student learning outcomes are to be determined by division and/or concentration chairs

o Student learning outcomes in addition to the established core student learning outcomes may be added as appropriate for the course modality with division and/or concentration chair approval

Assessment of student learning outcomes Course evaluation and assignments Course schedule

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o Daily breakdown of topicso Weekly breakdown of topics

Grading Scale Attendance Policy (for onsite modality) or Davis Online Learning

Participation Policy (for online modality) Academic Integrity Policy Textbooks required Access to student information system information Required software information Bibliography Rubrics to assess the students’ work throughout the semester

o These may be attached to the syllabus or provided in class. Textbook Information SubmissionCourse instructors are to submit textbook information to the College’s bookstore prior to the opening of the preregistration period for a subsequent academic semester, as published on the academic calendar. The textbook title, author name, and ISBN for all required and recommended textbooks and supplemental materials for each course is to be forwarded to the College’s bookstore. If a required textbook has not been chosen prior to the opening of a preregistration period, the course instructor may forward the note, “To Be Determined,” to the College’s bookstore. Student Learning Outcomes and the AssessmentStudent learning outcomes and related assessments are components of all course syllabi. Concentration chairs review the student learning outcomes and their assessments for each course within their concentration. Training is provided by the Office of Academic Affairs during faculty meetings so that student learning outcomes and assessments may be written in accordance with the concentration’s goals. Adjunct faculty members may also schedule appointments with the concentration chair to review student learning outcomes, assessment, and reporting schedule for their courses. Class NotesAll class notes exceeding ten (10) pages in length are to be sold to the students through the College bookstore. Contact the bookstore manager for information regarding the submission of class notes. Course EvaluationsCourse evaluations are to be administered before the final week of the semester. It is recommended but not mandatory that the student evaluations be conducted at the beginning or middle of a regularly scheduled class when at least sixty (60) percent of enrolled students are present. Students should be given ample time to complete the evaluation, and no student should be dismissed until all evaluations have been returned to the proctor.

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Course evaluation forms and/or website links will be provided to each course instructor by the Office of Academic Affairs. Course evaluations will be conducted every semester. Results are to be reviewed by the division and/or concentration chair with the course instructor, which should then generate recommendations for course improvement.

Committees

Academic Affairs CommitteePurpose: Overall supervision of internal academic concerns relating both to faculty and students.Personnel: Director of Student Support Services, Registrar, Student Development Officer, Enrollment Management Officer, and two (2) full-time faculty members appointed by the Provost.Responsibilities:

1. Handle academic petitions.2. Handle all matters relating to Academic Affairs tasked by the Provost.3. Review and evaluate student grades for the purpose of determining

probationary status, academic dismissal, or limiting activities.4. Review and evaluate prospective student grades for the purpose of

determining probationary status when accepting applicants. 5. Make recommendations at the faculty meetings regarding student

academic concerns.6. Advise the Provost on graduation policy such as requirements, transfer

credit, student course load.7. Monitor the progress of students.

Reports to: ProvostCurriculum CommitteePurpose: Overall supervision of the College curriculum.Personnel: Chairperson of: the Professional Studies Division, the Bible/Theology Division, the Liberal Arts Division, Registrar, and LibrarianResponsibilities:

1. Maintain supervision of the College curriculum through review of course offerings, additions, deletions, and departmental organization.

2. Make recommendations to the faculty concerning curriculum revisions based on assessment results.

3. Review curriculum needs.17

4. Assist in the writing of syllabi for courses in each division.5. Oversee the evaluation of courses/faculty within the division.6. Evaluate the courses in each division as it relates to fulfilling the

mission of the College.Reports to: ProvostFaculty CommitteePurpose: Oversee faculty concerns.Personnel: Three (3) full-time faculty members [one (1) of which is chair] and a minimum of one (1) academic staff with faculty statusResponsibilities: Faculty Concerns/Faculty Welfare

1. Faculty EvaluationRefine and improve evaluation policy and procedures.

2. Faculty SalariesRecommend changes to the Provost one (1) month prior to budget approval.

3. Fringe BenefitsMonitor existing fringe benefits in light of current economic conditions.Recommend changes in fringe benefits when deemed necessary.Represent the faculty in matters concerning fringe benefits.

4. Professional Development and Graduate Study Grants for FacultyPeriodically review guidelines that are beneficial both to the faculty member and the College.Periodically review applications and make recommendations for financial assistance in regard to Faculty Aid to Education (advanced/terminal degrees) and Professional Development Fund (professional growth).

5. Faculty HandbookPeriodically review the Faculty Handbook.

6. Faculty ResponsibilitiesPeriodically review the responsibilities of the faculty.

Reports to: Provost

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Assessment CommitteePurpose: To plan, coordinate, and assist in the development of assessment activities and processes.Personnel: The committee includes representatives from all departments of the institution: Representatives from Academic Affairs, Faculty, Business Office, Computer Services, Student Development, Enrollment Management, Student Body, and Administration Responsibilities:

1. To guide the assessment process throughout the College community.2. To inform the campus community of assessment accomplishments and

findings.3. To make assessment-based recommendations to the campus

community.4. To assist in the implementation of outcomes-based assessment into

the College’s planning process.5. To address and advance the topics of resources and support for the

assessment process.6. To evaluate the College’s assessment process, plan, and activities.7. To assist campus personnel with assessment procedures, plans, and

activities.8. To recommend professional development activities on assessment for

the campus community.Reports to: President’s Executive Cabinet

Admissions CommitteePurpose: Overall supervision of internal enrollment management concerns relating to new student admission.Personnel: Enrollment Management Officer, Admissions Coordinator, Student Development Officer, Director of Student Support Services, Registrar, Director of Financial Aid, Director of Health ServicesResponsibilities:

1. Handle applications red flagged for academic or behavioral concerns. 2. Handle all matters relating to applicant admission as tasked by the

Provost.3. Review and evaluate prospective student admission files for the

purpose of determining acceptance or denial status.

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4. Make recommendations to the Enrollment Management Office regarding applicant acceptance or denial status.

Reports to: ProvostScholarship CommitteePurpose: To award the scholarships available to students as described in the College catalog.Personnel: Enrollment Management Staff Member, Librarian, Director of Financial Aid, and the Student Development Officer.Responsibilities:

1. Encourage students to apply for scholarship money available.2. Review applications for scholarships collected by the Director of

Financial Aid.3. Review the scholarships available and select scholarship recipients

from the pool of applicants.4. Forward awards to the Provost to announce in Awards Chapel.5. Meet as necessary to discuss scholarship matters.

Reports to: Provost

Academic Policies and ProceduresFERPA Policy The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the information of students and alumni. An education record is defined as a record maintained by an educational institution and includes information that makes a student personally identifiable. Davis College will permit students to inspect and review their education records. It will not disclose education records about students nor allow inspection of student records without a written request.

Davis College will also release educational records to parents of students only upon receipt of a written request from both the student and parent. Davis College will maintain a record of each request for access to and each disclosure of personally identifiable information from the education records of each student. The College at its discretion may disclose directory information, but students may protect all or part of this data from disclosure. When an individual requests student information from Davis College, the College will respond in accordance with FERPA guidelines.

Personally Identifiable InformationDavis College will not disclose personally identifiable information from the student’s education records except with the written consent of the student. Examples of personally identifiable information are:

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The name of the student’s parent or other family member The address of the student or student’s family A personal identifier such as the student’s Social Security Number or

another student identifier Other information that would make the student’s identity easily

traceable

Prior consent, in the form of a signed and dated document, must be provided by the student to the Office of the Registrar to authorize Davis College to disclose personally identifiable information. The consent:

Must specify records that may be disclosed. Should state purpose of disclosure. Must identify party or class of parties to whom disclosure may be

made.

Primary ExceptionsIn relation to postsecondary institutions, prior consent is not required to disclose personally identifiable information to

S school official who has a legitimate educational interest, To Federal, State, and local authorities involving an audit or evaluation

of compliance with education programs , In connection with financial aid (such as the administration or

continuation of aid), To regional or professional accreditation organizations, To parents of a dependent student, To comply with a judicial order or subpoena. A reasonable effort must

be made to notify the student beforehand—unless ordered by the subpoena not to do so.

Directory InformationDirectory information is defined as information that would not generally be considered harmful to the student or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. Directory information may be released at the discretion of College officials without written permission of the student. Consistent with federal law, Davis College has defined directory information as including, but not limited to:

Name, address, phone number, date of birth Enrollment status including dates of attendance, program of study,

grade level Participation in officially recognized activities and athletics

Additional information regarding the College’s complete FERPA Policy is published in the College Catalog.

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Cancellation of ClassIn the event of inclement weather Davis College may implement a delay schedule. The normal way of notifying students is via TV (WBNGChannel 12; WBGH-Channel 34), posting at www.davisny.edu, email, or Davis Facebook. In cases of extreme emergency driving conditions classes will be cancelled. The student is responsible for checking these methods of notification for class delays/cancellations due to inclement weather. A delayed class schedule is published by the Office of Student Development.

If a course instructor cancels a class, the he or she is to contact the Assistant to the Provost regarding the class cancellation, and the information will be distributed to the students by the Office of the Provost. Class AttendanceStudents are expected to attend all classes regularly. Attendance at all sessions of a course, both credit and audit, is expected and required. There are no excused absences. All absences for any reason (College sponsored activities, illness, family emergencies, cuts) are counted as absences without consideration for the reason. After a student exceeds the permitted absences in a course, points will be deducted from the final grade. The number of points deducted is at the discretion of the instructor. Generally, a failing grade will be given to a student who is absent for more than twenty (20) percent of the course. Deadlines for papers, projects and other class assignments must be complied with even if absent. If, because of an absence, a student misses an exam, quiz, or other graded exercise, it must be made up at the instructor’s convenience. An instructor may assign an extra assignment to a student who has missed a class. When the student completes the assignment the absence will be dismissed. The number of permitted absences is summarized as follows:

3 credit hours meeting 3 times per week: 6 absences. (20% is 9 or more)3 credit hours meeting 2 times per week 4 absences. (20% is 6 or more)3 credit hours meeting once a week: 2 absences. (20% is 4 or more)3 credit hours meeting 5 weekends per semester: 3/4 absence. (20% is 1 or more) 2 credit hours meeting 2 times per week: 4 absences. (20% is 7 or more)1 credit hour meeting 1 time per week: 2 absences. (20% is 4 or more)1 week module: 20% is one day or more.2 week module: 20% is two days or more.

Tardiness, stepping out and leaving early will be noted. Missing 15 minutes of a class counts as an absence. Three (3) tardies will count as one (1) absence.

In cases of extenuating circumstances or excessive absences the student may make a written appeal to the Academic Affairs Committee. Some

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classes may have additional attendance requirements due to the nature of the course. These requirements will be stipulated in the course syllabus and explained by the course instructor.Academic Integrity

1. Definition of Academic Dishonestya. Plagiarism is one form of academic dishonesty. Plagiarism shall

include the submission of quoted or paraphrased ideas without proper documentation, submission of the work of others as one’s own work, and reuse of one’s own work without instructor authorization.

b. Academic dishonesty shall also include the receiving or giving of aid in connection with a quiz or examination.

2. Penalties for Academic Dishonestya. Whenever a student is found guilty of any kind of academic

dishonesty, the instructor must report this in writing to the student and to the Registrar’s Office. The report will become part of the student’s record. The Registrar will determine if any other such offenses already exist in the student’s record in order to assist the instructor with grading penalties.

b. The penalty for academic dishonesty related to a quiz or examination is at the discretion of the faculty member involved. Generally, a failing grade for the quiz or exam will be given.

It is recognized that there are various levels of plagiarism. Minimal plagiarism recognizes that the student has been careless or

forgetful in acknowledging the sources for various statements. At the discretion of the instructor, the student may be granted an opportunity to rewrite or correct the submitted assignment and will receive a lower grade.

When the plagiarism is substantial (determined by the instructor), the student may, at the instructor’s discretion, receive a grade of zero (0%) for the paper, or be required to rewrite the paper with at least a letter grade reduction for the assignment. The second offense of substantial plagiarism in any course will result in failure for the course. A third offense of substantial plagiarism in any course will result in disciplinary action which could result in academic dismissal.

In cases of complete or nearly complete plagiarism (determined by the instructor, but understood as flagrant, blatant, glaring), the student will receive a failing grade for the course for the first offense. There is no opportunity to redo the assignment. A second offense of complete plagiarism in any course will result in disciplinary action which could result in academic dismissal.

3. Appeal Process for Academic Dishonesty

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a. The student may appeal academic dishonesty penalties to the Academic Affairs Committee. The decision of this Committee may be appealed to the Provost, whose decision is final.

b. If one of the Committee members is the instructor who reported the plagiarism, the Provost will appoint an alternate faculty representative during that particular appeal.

4. Transcript Notationa. If a student is dismissed because of plagiarism, that action will

be recorded on the student’s transcript as “Academic Dismissal.”This policy is to be included in every Davis College course syllabus.What is Academic Dishonesty?Christian ethical principles of honesty and consideration for the rights of others, as well as a strong sense of scholarship, must be evident in the manner in which a student does his academic work. The following are considered forms of plagiarism:

1. Use of Reference Material Without Citing the Source.Plagiarism includes copying another person's writings directly without placing them in quotation marks and citing the source (direct quotation) and simply paraphrases the writings of another without mentioning the name and source from which those ideas have been appropriated (paraphrase).

2. Use of the Work of Others.Just as it is dishonest to submit the works of outside authorities without proper recognition, so it is equally dishonest to submit the work of a fellow student or that of some other person as one's own. This does not mean that one should not discuss his or her studies with other students, but it does mean one should treat the work of other students in the same way as he or she does the reference material cited above. If two or more students work together on an assignment, it should be only with the consent of the instructor and with all names appearing as authors of the report.

3. Re-Use of One's Own Work.In the course of a student's college career it is frequently possible to take papers prepared for one course and to use them in a second course. Inasmuch as the assignment of a paper is usually intended to provide a new learning experience, the student must always request permission of the instructor before using a paper prepared previously for another course or when using similar material for papers in two courses taken simultaneously.

4. Looking on Someone Else's Test Paper.

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The action of looking on someone else's test while a test is in progress is academic dishonesty. Even if no answer was copied down, the action is breach of testing integrity and should be addressed as academic dishonesty.

5. Books/Notes Open During a Test.Unless permission has specifically been granted by the instructor, no student is to have any books or notes open until his or her test materials have been collected. If the instructor elects to do so, permission may be restricted until all test materials have been collected.

6. Communication with Other Members of the Class during a Test.From the time examination materials have been distributed until materials are collected, talking among students is prohibited. Likewise, the passing of notes during a test session is prohibited.

7. Studying Old Examinations or Quizzes.Unless permission has been given by the instructor, no student is permitted to review tests used in other sections of the same course or in previous years in the same course. Instructors are to guard their use of test questions to insure that no student has an unfair advantage by prior access to test questions through old examinations. For this reason test instruments should not be reused until the students of a particular class have graduated.

Examination PolicyExaminations are to be utilized as having the following purposes:

As a measuring device to determine a student's progress. As a teaching device to inform the student of his or her strengths and

weaknesses as well as points of emphasis in the course. As a disciplinary device to help the student organize his or her study of

the course material within a specified time limit. As an evaluation device to assess the quality of instruction and

learning. As a learning device to help the student become aware of

interrelationships and put the course material together in a new way.Major examinations should fulfill several, if not all of the above purposes. Minor exams may focus on fewer purposes. Major examinations will have representative coverage of the material and will tax all the resources of a student in evaluating not only the memorizing capacities of the "crammer" but also the analytical, synthesizing, evaluative, and creative thinking capacities of the true student.

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Instructors must be careful that an exam has validity, that is, that the exam genuinely tests for the qualities to which an instructor will be applying a grade. The language in the question should be constructed in fashion which is clear and understandable to the student. If not, the examination tests vocabulary, not subject content. Likewise, an examination administered in less than adequate time may test the ability of the student to work quickly or perform under stress, not the student's level of comprehension. These and similar factors must be taken into consideration when constructing and grading an examination.The student's final grade in a course should be based on several testing and evaluation instruments. No single instrument should account for more than one-third of the final grade. It is recommended that a final grade be based upon a variety of evaluative instruments.All adjunct faculty members are expected to serve as proctors of their own exams. The instructor should actively proctor his or her examinations and not use the time primarily for reading, grading papers, and so forth.Generally, the instructor should ask that all written materials be put away prior to the exam and that students be cautioned that they are expected to avoid all appearance of giving or acquiring information.Periodic examinations including unit tests, quizzes, and so forth are to be administered in the classroom at the discretion of the instructor. The nature and frequency of such examinations should be determined in light of the course content. These examinations may be scheduled in advance, announced immediately prior to the time given, or administered without announcement.Examinations may be reused if major revisions are made.No exam should ever be given to a student to duplicate or transport to another location.Final ExaminationsFinal examinations are to be given in all courses unless permission is received from the Provost. The final examination may be a unit examination, a comprehensive exam, or a creative or analytical writing assignment.Final examinations are scheduled by the Registrar during the final week of the semester. Regular classes do not meet during final examination week. Final examination periods are twelve (12) hours in length.With permission of the Provost, adjunct faculty members may schedule the final examination during an earlier, regularly-scheduled class and utilize the final examination period for review of the final exam, discussion, evaluation, or other educational activity. Adjunct faculty members who elect to have the exam early should devise a significant grade penalty for those who "cut" the last class during final exam week.

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Failure to take a final examination will result in an "F" for the examination.Make-Up Examination ProcedureAt the discretion of the instructor, a student may make-up a missed examination. Full-time faculty schedule and proctor make-up exams with their students. Adjunct faculty may schedule make-up exams through the Director of Student Support Services according to the following procedure:

1. The course instructor emails the examination materials to the Director of Student Support Services and should identify the course prefix and title, course assignment name, and student name.

2. The Director will then contact the student to schedule an appointment for the student to take the examination.

3. The Director will proctor the examination with the student. 4. The Director will forward the completed examination to the course

instructor. Final Grade PolicyFinal grades are due to the Office of the Registrar at the close of each term. Final grades must be posted in the current Student Information System by the course instructor by the following deadlines:

Fall Semester: by 4:00 p.m. on the Wednesday after the last class of the semester.Winterim Module: by 4:00 p.m. three (3) weeks from the date the last class has met.Spring Semester: Final grades for May graduates are due by 4:00 p.m. the Wednesday before Commencement. Final grades for non-graduates are due by 4:00 p.m. two (2) weeks from the date the last class has met.Summer Modules: by 4:00 p.m. three (3) weeks from the date the last class has met.Davis Online Learning Terms: by 11:59 p.m. one (1) week from the final date of the term.

Students who fail to complete course work are to receive final grades based on an "F" grade for any work not submitted by the end of the course. Extensions due to severe illness or emergency must be approved according to the current policy for obtaining a “Request for Incomplete.”

Final grades submitted by instructors at the close of the course are considered permanent. Under no circumstances will a grade be altered unless the student can produce evidence of an error in the calculation or recording of the grade. No student will be permitted to complete additional work in an attempt to improve a final grade.

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If an instructor discovers that he or she posted an incorrect final grade, the instructor should submit written notification to the Office of the Registrar that the grade should be changed. The instructor may submit the change via email only if using a Davis College issued email account.

If a student suspects that an incorrect final grade was posted by the instructor, the student must follow the current policy for an Academic Final Grade Grievance. Academic Final Grade Grievance PolicyAny student disagreeing with the grade received in a course may appeal the grade. The student must follow the formal steps for contesting the grade.

1. The student must meet with the instructor within thirty (30) days of the beginning of the subsequent semester. If the instructor determines that the grade is in error,

2. He or she may submit a Grade Replacement Request to the Office of the Registrar.

3. If the instructor disagrees with the request, the student may formally appeal the decision in writing to the Academic Affairs Committee within ten (10) business days of the meeting with the instructor. The Academic Affairs Committee will have thirty (30) days from the receipt of the grievance to review the information and make a decision.

4. The Provost has the final decision regarding the grade grievance. Grading System

Grade

Grade Points

Non-Letter Grade

Interpretation

A 4.00 AU Audit (Pass)A– 3.67 AUF Audit (Fail)B+ 3.33 CR Taken for credit (Pass)B 3.00 NCR Taken for credit (Fail)B– 2.67 INC IncompleteC+ 2.33 R.F. Repeat CourseC 2.00 VWD Voluntary Withdrawal

(Simple)C– 1.67 VWP Voluntary Withdrawal

PassingD+ 1.33 VWF Voluntary Withdrawal

FailingD 1.00D– 0.67F 0.00

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Interpretation of Letter GradesA grade of “A” represents outstanding academic achievement both in quantity and quality. It signifies an unusual mastery of the subject and is a distinguished grade reserved to honor the select few who excel in the fulfillment of requirements. A grade of “B” indicates work and achievement that is superior. The student has intelligently fulfilled all requirements of the course and demonstrated superior understanding of the subject.A grade of “C” is average and indicates satisfactory fulfillment of all course requirements through average scholastic ability and initiative. It is the most common grade achieved in a normal college population.A grade of “D” represents accomplishment that is inferior in quality and/or quantity and demonstrates minimal understanding of the subject. A grade of “F” indicates failure to achieve the minimum competencies of the course. It is indicative of unacceptable work, and the course must be repeated for credit.An incomplete (“INC”) is granted by the Office of Academic Affairs only in extreme circumstances such as a major illness or emergency. Incompletes not satisfied within the time frame specified by the course instructor and approved by the Provost will result in an “F” for the course. This time frame is typically thirty (30) days from the end of a semester or two (2) weeks from the end of an online term.A grade of “R” indicates that the course was repeated for credit. Each attempt will show on the transcript, and the most recent grade earned is used in GPA calculations.Only “D” or “F” grades may be replaced.

Replaced Grades and Repeated CoursesA Replaced ("R") grade indicates that the course was repeated for credit, and the higher grade was used as a replacement of the lower in cumulative GPA calculations. Only "D" or "F" grades may be replaced. Both grades will remain on the official transcript, but only the higher grade will be computed in the cumulative GPA. The lower grade will be preceded by an "R" for "Replaced:” R.F, R.D-, R.D, or R.D+.

Students who re-take courses with grades of "C" or better will have both courses listed on their transcript without notation, and both grades will be calculated into the cumulative GPA.

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Academic probation students who have low grades should be strongly advised to retake these courses before taking additional courses, since replacement will improve the student's cumulative GPA much faster than simply adding courses.Request for Incomplete Coursework PolicyA final grade must be submitted for every registered student by the deadlines published in the current Final Grades Policy unless the Provost has granted permission for an incomplete.

An incomplete (“INC”) is granted by the Provost only in extreme circumstances, such as a major illness, death in the family, or similar emergency. Incompletes granted for any other reason will incur a minimum ten (10) percent reduction in the final grade. If an incomplete is granted, the instructor will set a due date that will not exceed thirty (30) days from the end of a semester or two (2) weeks from the end of an online term.

A student may request an incomplete by obtaining the appropriate form (one for each class where an incomplete is needed) in the Office of Academic Affairs, completing and signing the student portion, taking the form to his or her instructor for approval and assigned due date, and returning the form to the Office of Academic Affairs for the approval of the Provost.

No incompletes will be recorded in the Office of the Registrar without the approval of the instructor and Provost. Notification of reviewed incomplete forms will be distributed to the instructor and student. Email notifications will be sent to Davis College issued email accounts only. The original form will be kept in the Office of the Registrar.

All incompletes must be completed within the assigned due date. The instructor will track and record the grades with the final grade being submitted to the Office of the Registrar by the assigned due date. Failure to submit a final grade for the course at the appropriate time will result in the student receiving an “F” for the course. Request for Incomplete Coursework Procedure

1. The student should submit a Request for Incomplete Form when requesting consideration for an extended deadline for coursework to be submitted. (One form per request is required.)

2. An Incomplete is granted only in extreme circumstances such as a major illness or emergency. Incompletes granted for any other reason will incur a minimum ten (10) percent reduction in the final grade.

3. The student must complete Part I of the form and request instructor approval and the final due date (to be set within thirty (30) days from the end of a semester or two (2) weeks from the end of an online term).

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4. If the instructor grants his or her approval and completes Part II, the student must bring the form back to the Office of Academic Affairs for the approval of the Provost.

5. Upon the Provost’s review of the form and Part III, the Registrar will contact the student regarding the outcome of the request.

Request for Independent Study PolicyStudents may request approval to complete a course through independent study by completing and submitting the appropriate form. Independent study is an option in the following circumstances and will not be granted solely for student convenience:

1. If a required course is not available during the year the student will be graduating.

2. If the student needs two (2) campus courses that meet during the same course period and neither course is available through Davis Online Learning.

3. If the student lives more than an hour’s drive away from Davis College.Request for Independent Study ProcedureAn “Independent Study Request” Form must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar. Upon approval, the request will be forwarded to the student’s academic advisor. Upon the advisor’s approval, the request will be forwarded to the course instructor.

The following limits will be applied:1. A fee will be charged in addition to regular tuition charges. Tuition and

fee schedules are published by the Business Office. 2. Instructors who have misgivings about conducting a course through

independent study are not required to do so.3. A learning contract must be written between the student and the

instructor stipulating requirements and time limits for completion (not more than one semester).

4. The instructor will verify that a minimum of one hundred fifty (150) hours of work has been built into the independent study design for a three (3) credit hour course.

5. Generally, a non-graduating student who has completed less than sixty (60) credit hours will not be permitted to take a course by independent study.

6. A maximum of twelve (12) credit hours may be completed by independent study, and not more than two (2) independent study courses may be engaged at the same time.

7. Exceptions to these guidelines must be requested through the current Academic Petition process.

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Low Grade Reports and Academic ProbationAdjunct faculty are to submit low grade reports when requested by the Office of Academic Affairs at the end of the fifth (5th) and ninth (9th) weeks of the semester. Since these are distributed to students at the beginning of the following week, they are often referred to as Sixth (6th) Week and Tenth (10th) Week Grade Reports. Students whose academic progress is unsatisfactory should be listed on the report, along with their approximate letter grade and any brief comments that the instructor may wish to include. Students must follow-up these reports by a conference with the instructor to assess what needs to be done to improve performance.Low grade reports should be issued only to students who need intervention. Their purpose is to help students in trouble, not "scare" those who are making slower progress. Consequently, only students with D or F grades should be reported, and never more than twenty (20) percent of a class should be reported. If more than twenty (20) percent of a class has grades below C, then the instructor should seek remedial assistance to improve testing strategies.Adjunct faculty need to provide specific prescriptive measures when discussing student performance in the follow-up conferences. A general "study more" is unsatisfactory, since often these students do not know what to study. It is recommended that the instructor review quizzes and exams with the student to help the faltering student identify where he or she is having the most trouble. If there is a study group for the class, then the instructor should make sure the student joins it or finds an academically-successful friend for a study partner.Academic advisors receive a report of their advisees who have low grades also. Academic advisors need to seek these students out to encourage them and try to help them get back on target. Most struggling students will not seek help when it means revealing weaknesses, so academic advisors must take the initiative for discussion. The encouragement needs to continue beyond the week of the low grade reports if the student is to perceive of the academic advisor's interest as genuine.Report requests and submission instructions are coordinated by the Director of Student Support Services each semester. Academic Probation and Dismissal PolicyDavis College places the following types of full-time students on academic probation:

Any continuing student who has a cumulative GPA below 2.00 Any new transfer student with a cumulative GPA below 2.00

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Any new first-time student who has a high school GPA below 2.00 (or equivalent), class rank in lower twenty (20) percent, ACT Composite score lower than 15, or an SAT combined score below 1200

Any new student who is in danger of failing two (2) or more courses or returning student in danger of failing four (4) or more courses at the 5-week and 9-week periods

Part-time students are not placed on academic probation but are sent warnings and are still subject to dismissal.

Students on academic probation must attend the Academic Success Center for three (3) hours each week (with the exception of online only students—online only students can request to have an assigned tutor by contacting Student Support Services). They must take a reduced course load of no more than thirteen (13) credit hours per semester. This will result in a delay in graduation but will allow the student to concentrate his or her efforts to improve grades. The reduced course load is not required but strongly recommended for new/transfer students in their first semester at Davis College. The student must receive written approval from the Student Development Officer before accepting on-campus employment in excess of fifteen (15) hours per week and comply with regulations specified in the Academic Probation Contract. Students are not permitted to take junior or senior level courses until all freshman and sophomore courses have been completed. Students are required to retake any failed courses being offered. Students on academic probation will only be eligible for extracurricular activities if they adhere to these guidelines. Students not fulfilling the terms of their contracts will be disqualified from extracurricular activities.

Continuing students will remain on probation until the cumulative GPA reaches the required minimum. First-time and transfer main campus students may have probation lifted during their first semesters if they are progressing satisfactorily at the 5-week and 9-week periods. First-time and transfer online only students may have probation lifted upon successful completion of online term A courses.

After two (2) consecutive semesters of academic probation with no marked improvement, a student will be asked to submit an appeal to defer his or her dismissal for an additional semester. Any student who does not petition will be academically dismissed for failure to comply with his or her academic contract. Any student subject to academic dismissal may be granted a deferral of dismissal of up to two (2) semesters to retake failed courses. During the deferment period, the student may take only foundational courses or retake failed courses. No new courses may be attempted. Courses may be retaken only once during the deferment period. If the minimum cumulative GPA is achieved during the deferment period, the academic dismissal will be canceled.

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If the minimum cumulative GPA is not achieved, the dismissal will go into effect, and the student cannot apply for readmission until one (1) semester has passed.Open Admissions PolicyDavis College does not refuse admission to any student based exclusively upon a fixed academic criteria. Students are not required to have a minimum high school GPA or rank or a minimum ACT/SAT score for admission; however, students with low GPAs (below a 2.00 on a 4.00 scale or an 80% on a 100 point scale) and scores will be reviewed by the Academic Affairs Committee and potentially recommended for acceptance on academic probation.

Because there is no "cut off" point on academic qualification, Davis College would be considered an open admissions college.

Admission to Davis College does not guarantee that the student will be able to achieve graduation, only that the student will be allowed a limited amount of time to demonstrate academic performance without prejudice or bias from prior educational experience or aptitude. Many students who would be rejected from selective colleges overcome their poor academic backgrounds by significant diligence, commitment, further maturity, and effort.

Adjunct faculty need to be cognizant of the nature of an open admissions college as it impacts instruction. The following guidelines will help the adjunct faculty member in presenting appropriate instruction and counsel:

1. It should not be assumed that all students are equally capable of doing college-level work or that all students are equally motivated to academic excellence.

2. It should not be assumed that chronological age equals maturity or that all individuals who are legally adults are ready to take on adult responsibilities.

3. It should be assumed that all students have worth and can attain success in some form of service to God. No student is a "wasted cause," unworthy of the adjunct faculty member's individualized help and encouragement.

4. It should be assumed that some students have weak and inadequate reading, writing, and study skills and that such students will need individualized attention and special assistance from adjunct faculty to gain the skills needed to function in a particular class. The College provides foundational studies and access to academic tutoring through the Academic Success Center. Adjunct faculty need to urge students to make use of these services.

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5. It should be assumed that a lowering of standards to help students succeed is demeaning and dishonest and that the help needed is encouragement, positive reinforcement, tutorial assistance, creative teaching, and patient direction so that students grow to meet the standards of the College.

Foundational StudiesEntrance assessments will be given during new student orientation prior to each fall and spring semester. Students who fail to take an entrance assessment at the scheduled time will be required to schedule a make-up exam at the convenience of the Office of Academic Affairs.

Students will not be considered matriculated in a program until entrance assessments have been completed. Students who are not matriculated in a program are not eligible for financial aid.

Foundational studies courses, except FOUN 3022 Career Development, are not awarded college credit and cannot be used to satisfy other program requirements (electives, Biblical/Theological Studies, Liberal Arts Studies or Professional Studies courses) or be counted toward academic awards.Academic Success CenterThe Academic Success Center (ASC) is open throughout the semester for students to receive free tutoring services on the second floor of the Library. The ASC is staffed by upperclassmen students. Students at teaching site locations and Davis Online Learning may request to be assigned a tutor by contacting the Office of Student Support Services. Student Support ServicesThe Office of Student Support Services is available to provide reasonable accommodations for students with properly documented learning-related disabilities. These accommodations pertain to classroom and testing needs as outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Students are required to provide proper recent documentation of their disabilities and recommended accommodations. There are no professionals onsite to evaluate students. Professors are informed of necessary classroom and testing accommodations.

Common accommodations may include: Note takers Readers Recording of course lectures Large-print text (if available) Braille text (if available) Testing accommodations scheduled through the Office of Student

Support Services

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Peer tutoring, available through the Academic Success CenterRequired Documentation - Any student wishing to receive personal accommodations must submit an IEP (Individualized Education Plan), 504 plan, or another official document completed by a professional with proper credentials. Documentation should be recent, preferably within the past five (5) years. Davis College reserves the right to deny accommodations if documentation is older than five (5) years with the exception of disabilities of permanent nature.

The Office of Student Support Services reviews documentation submitted and collectively makes a plan for accommodations with the student. Accommodations are assigned on a case-by-case basis depending on student need (not necessarily based on disability classification).

Student Rights - Students who provide proper documentation have the right to receive reasonable accommodations for their disability. The student has the right to not be discriminated against in regards to recruitment, admission, educational process, or treatment. Students will never be required to participate in any accommodations that they choose to decline.

Any complaints should be promptly directed to the Office of Student Support Services.

Davis College’s Rights - Davis College has the right to not lower its standards or fundamentally alter the programs offered. Davis College is not required to meet accommodations when they impose undue financial or administrative burden.Procedure:

1. Students need to submit proper documentation only once. 2. Students will be required to contact the Office of Student Support

Services at the beginning of every semester to complete an Accommodations Request Form.

3. The Office of Student Support Services will contact professors each semester to report required accommodations based on the completed Accommodations Request Form.

4. Students on campus with specific testing needs will need to schedule their testing with the Office of Student Support Services. They are responsible for requesting that course instructors forward testing materials to the Office of Student Support Services by the scheduled testing date.

5. Students must complete exams and quizzes by the deadlines set by the course instructor.

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Classroom ConductAdjunct faculty members have the right and responsibility to maintain a classroom environment that is conducive to learning. Adjunct faculty members may ask students to rearrange seating, restrict the use of electronics, or modulate volume in order to promote order in the classroom. Academic Petition and Appeal ProcessThe student should submit an Academic Petition Form when requesting consideration for any exception to an academic policy as applied to the student’s specific circumstance. (One form per request is required.)

1. The student must complete the top portion (of the form) with his or her academic advisor and submit the form to the Registrar.

2. The petition will be brought to and reviewed by the Academic Affairs Committee within ten (10) days of receipt of the form in the Office of the Registrar.

3. The form will be completed by the Chair of the Academic Affairs Committee according to the consensus of the Committee, and the Registrar will contact the student and academic advisor regarding the outcome of the petition.

4. The student may formally appeal the decision in writing to the Academic Affairs Committee within ten (10) business days. The Academic Affairs Committee will have thirty (30) days from the receipt of the appeal to review the information and make a decision.

5. The Provost has the final decision regarding an appeal to a decision made by the Academic Affairs Committee.

Add/Drop PolicyAdding and Dropping CoursesStudents may add or drop courses after registration has been finalized. This must be done by completing and submitting the appropriate form. The date of the drop/withdrawal is the date that the official drop form, complete with required signatures, is returned to the Office of Academic Affairs. Failure to attend class does not exempt the student from tuition charges, and reimbursements will be based on the official withdrawal date on the form according to the schedule found under the Refund Policy in the “Finances at Davis” section of the Davis College Catalog.

Unofficial withdrawals will result in an “F” on the student’s transcript. A “VWD” grade will be noted on the student’s transcript for any course dropped during the first three (3) weeks of the semester as published on the academic schedule for the last day to drop a course with a “W.” Grades of “VWP” (Voluntary Withdrawal – Passing) or “VWF” (Voluntary Withdrawal – Failing) will be noted on the student’s transcript for any course dropped from the fourth (4th) to tenth (10th) week as published on the academic schedule

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for the last day to drop a course with a “WP” or “WF.” The last day of the tenth (10th) week of the semester is the last day that a student may officially withdraw from a course.

Students enrolled in a course through Davis Online Learning (DOL) are expected to follow the Davis Online Learning (DOL) Participation Policy. A “VWD” grade will be noted on the student’s transcript for any course dropped by the tenth (10th) day of the DOL course. Grades of “VWP” (Voluntary Withdrawal – Passing) or “VWF” (Voluntary Withdrawal – Failing) will be noted on the student’s transcript for any course dropped by the last day of Week 3 within the course. The last day of Week 3 within the course is the last day that a student may officially withdraw from a course. Non-participation for twenty-one (21) consecutive days results in a failing grade for non-participation.

Adjunct faculty will be notified of students who have officially dropped courses. Adjunct faculty are responsible for reporting students to the Office of Academic Affairs who are enrolled in a course but not attending. It should never be assumed that a student has dropped a course because he or she is not in attendance or has claimed to have dropped a course. Only students officially withdrawn should receive a "W" grade at the end of the semester. All others who fail to meet the course requirements should receive an "F" grade.

The last day to add or drop a course is published with each current semester schedule. Requests to add a course after the final “add” date has passed will not be approved. Withdrawal from SchoolStudents who find it necessary to withdraw from school (all classes) must complete an official withdrawal form. Forms may be acquired from the Office of Academic Affairs. Failure to officially withdraw will result in a loss of any financial rebate, plus failure of all courses for that semester.Graduation RequirementsAcademic Proficiency — Each student must demonstrate academic proficiency through satisfactory completion of each course requirement in his or her program, including the requirements of the concentration. In addition, a 2.00 cumulative grade point average (GPA) must also be achieved. The grades of all courses taken count toward the cumulative GPA and graduation, even if the courses are not in the student’s program of study and end up being extra courses. Specific course and credit hour requirements for each program are published in the Davis College Catalog.

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Academic Program Completion — Graduating students must complete all of their program requirements (including internships and independent studies) prior to participating in commencement and graduation. Permission to graduate will no longer be given to students planning to complete their remaining academic requirements within the following weeks or summer semester. Proficiency in Ministry — Each graduating student must demonstrate proficiency for ministry by satisfactorily completing the number of semesters of student ministry appropriate for the program:

One-Year Certificate Programs 2 semesters

Associates of Applied Science Degrees

4 semesters

Three-Year Diploma Programs 6 semesters

Bachelor’s of Religious Education Degrees

8 semesters

Full-time students must complete a semester of student ministry for every full-time semester enrolled. Part-time students must satisfy the number of semesters required for the certificate or degree. First-time students satisfy the student ministry requirement during their first semester by establishing a faithful relationship with a local church; subsequent semesters require participation in a specified ministry activity. Candidates for the BRE are required to complete an internship as a part of their concentration. Spiritual Formation/Christian Character — Davis College places a strong emphasis on spiritual growth and maturity. Regardless of age or circumstances, spiritual transformation and renewal is emphasized during the educational experience. Required church attendance, chapels, prayer times, and other student activities are all designed around the central purpose of giving students ample opportunity to develop Christ-like character.Financial Requirements — All financial obligations to Davis College must be satisfied before a student will be permitted to participate in graduation exercises or before a degree, diploma, or certificate is granted.Outcomes Assessment Requirements — Davis College constantly endeavors to improve its courses, programs, facilities, and student life activities as well as to measure overall institutional effectiveness. To aid

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in this process, graduating students are required to provide valuable feedback to the institution. The following is a list of outcomes assessment activities that graduating students are required to participate in, in order to graduate:

1. Participation in Career Development (FOUN 3022) — Graduating seniors should view this course as an opportunity to integrate their studies and to demonstrate how much they have learned as biblical/theological scholars, as college graduates, and as professionals entering the world of work. In addition to a variety of sessions that will prepare the candidate to enter the ministry or to continue education at the graduate level, this course contains several assessment activities that are useful to Davis’ outcomes assessment plan, including: the ABHE Knowledge Test and the CAAP Test (Collegiate Assessment of Academic Proficiency) (BRE candidates only).2. Noel-Levitz SSI (Student Satisfaction Inventory) — administered every other spring (all students).3. Senior Exit Interviews (BRE candidates only). 4. Graduating Senior Surveys (BRE candidates only).

Second Baccalaureate DegreeStudents that have already earned a Baccalaureate degree and wish to earn a second degree must satisfy the following requirements: declare a new concentration, fulfill any differences in the program’s academic requirements, and complete the professional studies course requirements in the new concentration.Diploma ExchangesThere may be instances in which a former graduate of this institution has either lost or wishes to obtain a new diploma. Details concerning exchanging diplomas can be obtained by contacting the Office of Academic Affairs.Scholastic HonorsStudents are publicly recognized for excellent work each semester if they are carrying twelve (12) or more hours of academic work in 1000-level or above and non-Foundational courses. Students are placed on the Dean’s List with a semester grade point average (GPA) of 3.50 to 3.85. Students are placed on the President’s List with a semester GPA of 3.86 to 4.0.

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Students having completed three (3) full-time semesters at Davis graduate cum laude with a cumulative GPA of 3.50-3.70, magna cum laude with a cumulative GPA of 3.71-3.85, and summa cum laude with a cumulative GPA of 3.86-4.00. This scholastic honor is added as a notation on the student’s final transcript.Transfer Credit Policy Credit will be accepted for courses taken through regionally or nationally accredited institutions whose associations hold membership in the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Only courses with a minimum grade of “C-” or above are transferable. Students transferring from non-accredited institutions or from institutions whose accrediting association does not hold membership in CHEA will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis using procedures determined by the Office of the Registrar. Exceptions to transfer policies can be made only by the Office of the Registrar or by the Academic Affairs Committee. Only grades received at Davis College will be used to calculate a cumulative GPA. Credit by ExaminationCollege Level Examination Program (CLEP)CLEP examinations are administered in different subjects. Credits are not awarded by the CLEP program itself; credits are awarded pending review of official scores by the Office of the Registrar. Davis College awards credit for CLEP examinations based on the recommended credit-grading scores developed by the American Council on Education. The recommended scores are provided at www.collegeboard.com.Advanced Placement (AP)Students that obtain a 3 or higher on advanced placement exams may waive the requirement to take corresponding Davis College courses. An official transcript must be sent by the College Board to the Office of the Registrar for review. American College Education (ACE)ACE allows students to take college courses taught by a college-approved instructor while still in high school. Classes are similar in content and scope to courses taught on college campuses, but they are approximately half the cost and can be transferred as college credit. The maximum number of transferable credits is twelve (12) and requires a minimum grade of C- or higher to be eligible. Students must have at least a junior standing in order to transfer credits, and a regionally accredited college must administer the course. Upon receipt of official transcripts, the Office of the Registrar will determine the number of credits that are transferable. Residency Requirement The residency requirement is the amount of credits a transfer student must complete at Davis College while working toward program completion of a

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certificate, an AAS degree, three-year diploma, or BRE degree. At least thirty (30) credit hours of an AAS degree, three-year diploma, or BRE degree program must be taken in residence. At least fifteen (15) credit hours of a certificate program must be completed in residence. Courses taken online and as independent studies are considered resident if they are administered by Davis College. Only the Office of the Registrar or Provost can make exceptions. Policy for Life ExperienceRealizing that some students will apply to Davis College after they have had many years of experience in the work force and/or Christian ministry, it is the College’s desire to reward that accomplishment with college credit for this life experience. In accordance, the following guidelines must be adhered to in order to maintain appropriate accountability.

Students who have work experience or Christian ministry experience and desire that to be applied to the academic curriculum should contact the Office of the Registrar for an individual appraisal. Credit may be granted by the Office of the Registrar in consultation with the instructor of the particular course related to the field of experience.

The following guidelines must be met in order to consider credit for life experience:

Student should submit a Request for Life Experience Credit Form and resume to the Office of the Registrar.

Student must be a minimum of twenty-five (25) years of age. (Military veterans under this age may apply for military-related experience.)

All experience must be comparable with current catalog courses. The student must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 for twelve (12) credit

hours before Life Experience Credit is approved for program requirements and grades issued.

Students must provide the Office of the Registrar with a portfolio of the work accomplished. (Description available upon request.)

No more than twelve (12) credits will be granted for life experience. The student must demonstrate that a minimum of one hundred twenty

(120) hours of work/ministry in the field, per three (3) credit hour course, was accomplished.

The student will pay an evaluation fee for each portfolio presented. A fee schedule is available at www.davisny.edu.

Courses would be listed on the transcript as Life Experience Credit and may not be accepted by other colleges or institutions if the student transfers out of Davis College.

Request for Life Experience Credit ProcedureThe student should submit a Request for Life Experience Credit (LEC) Form requesting consideration for LEC for a specific, current catalog course and a

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complete resume to the Office of the Registrar. Both a Request for Life Experience Credit Form and resume must be received to continue with this process.

1. The Request for LEC Form and resume will be reviewed by the Registrar.

2. Upon this review, the Registrar will contact the student regarding a potential course for which LEC might be pursued. A course LEC portfolio description will be forwarded to the student. LEC portfolio collection will be determined by the course instructor and will include but may not be limited to the current policy guidelines.

3. LEC may be awarded upon satisfactory portfolio completion. This will be determined by the Registrar in conjunction with the course instructor.

4. LEC will be applied to the student transcript by the Registrar upon satisfactory portfolio completion and payment to the Business Office for the associated fee stated in the current tuition and fees schedule.

5. LEC portfolio completion and associated fee should be received before the final day of the semester during which the LEC consideration was requested.

Additional ResourcesAdditional publications regarding the policies and procedures of Davis College may be found on the website at www.davisny.edu:

College Catalog Student Handbook Consumer Information Notification

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