Any exceptions to the following Academic Regulations must have the Vice President for Academic Affairs approval.
The College’s course offerings and requirements are analyzed, scrutinized and revised for currency and quality. This catalog shows the offerings and requirements in effect at the time of publication. They may be changed or revoked. Adequate and reasonable notice will be given to students affected by any substantive changes.
This catalog is not intended to state contractual terms and does not constitute a contract between the student and the institution.
The institution reserves the right to make changes as required in course offerings, curricula, academic policies and other rules and regulations affecting students to be effective whenever determined by the institution. These changes will govern current and formerly enrolled students. Enrollment of all students is subject to these conditions.
“Academic Fresh Start” is a plan of academic forgiveness provided for undergraduate students who have demonstrated academic responsibility following their return. The Academic Fresh Start allows the calculation of the quality point average and credit hours toward graduation to be based on previously passed and courses completed after returning to the college..
For more information, contact the Office of Academic Affairs.
All honors recognition at commencement is based on the college-level GPA and all work completed at the end of the fall term before the commencement exercise.
Chattanooga State recognizes exceptional degree seeking students by granting honors at commencement as follows:
| Summa cum laude Magna cum laude Cum laude | 3.900 - 4.000 GPA 3.700 - 3.899 GPA 3.500 - 3.699 GPA |
Honors recognition at commencement is based on the college-level work completed through the fall semester preceding commencement. Honor status or higher honor status achieved after the final semester of study will be reflected on the diploma. Participation in no way confirms completion of requirements or official graduation.
Students completing 12 or more hours of college level work with a GPA of 3.50 or higher will make the Dean’s List for that semester. (Dean’s List recognition is based on calculations at the end of the semester and cannot be updated later to reflect grade changes, such as removal of incompletes.)
A prospective Early College student must:
For Humanities and Social/Behavioral Science courses
ACT/PLAN English score of 18
ACT/PLAN Reading score of 19
SAT Writing score of 450
ACCUPLACER/Writing scores at college-ready level
(ENGL1010/1020 open to seniors only)
For Math & Engineering courses
ACT/PLAN Math score of 19 (21 for MATH 1720, 25 for MATH 1910)
ACT/PLAN Reading score of 19
SAT Math score of 460 for MATH 1720, 570 for MATH 1910
ACCUPLACER Math and Reading scores at college-ready level
For Science courses
ACT/PLAN Science score of 19
ACT/PLAN Reading score of 19
ACT/PLAN English score 18
ACCUPLACER Math and Reading/Writing scores at college-ready level
Collegiate High - (Hamilton County Collegiate High at Chattanooga State) - Collegiate High, grades 9-12, is a dual-enrollment high school and is located on the Chattanooga State main campus. The school is a collaboration between Chattanooga State and the Hamilton County Department of Education. Upon acceptance, students take college courses and receive high school and college credit simultaneously. Students enroll as full-time Chattanooga State and Hamilton County students. All classes are housed on a Chattanooga State campus (main campus or satellite campus). Collegiate High students have the opportunity to graduate with a high school diploma and an Associate Degree.
Each Collegiate High student will have a unique schedule of courses that meets high school state graduation requirements. College level courses are taught by Chattanooga State professors. English I, II, III, and Algebra I, II, and Geometry are taught at Chattanooga State by certified Hamilton County teachers. The application process includes:
Students must complete a Credit for College application and score a minimum of 70% on the relevant End of Course assessment while in high school. Course credit will be awarded upon being officially admitted and enrolled at Chattanooga State Community College. The college course, credit hours and a grade of “Pass” will be shown on the Chattanooga State transcript. The grade will carry no quality points and will not count in the calculation of the grade point average. Transfer of this dual credit to other institutions is at the discretion of the receiving
institutions. Credit must be applied for and issued within two (2) years of high school graduation; once credit is issued the students will retain credit.
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) (TCAT) offers dual enrollment opportunities for select high school juniors and seniors on a space-available basis. Students will earn clock-hours toward a TCAT diploma or certificate. Dual enrollment students may apply to receive funds from the Tennessee Dual Enrollment Lottery Grant. Once high school graduation is complete, students may continue their enrollment in the TCAT program and access the Wilder-Naifeh Technical Skills Grant.
Student submits Technology Center Diploma and Application for Articulated Credit to Dean of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT). The dean will award warranted credit and submit to Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs for approval. Upon approval, application information will be entered in a database for escrow and accountability which the dean maintains then will be forwarded to the Records Department for assigning credit on Banner. The credit will be assigned an AP grade and will not count towards GPA calculation. Credit must be applied for and issued within two (2) years of TCAT graduation; once credit is issued the students will retain credit.
The Global Scholars Program is Chattanooga State’s Academic Honors Program and is open to qualified students in any major. With a guiding principle of Challenge Yourself. Change the World., its purpose is to give students the opportunity to gain a global perspective and awareness through a deeper and more connected, contextualized college experience. The honors faculty at Chattanooga State strives to unlock student’s personal strengths so they can leverage these strengths with their desire to make a difference in the world.
As Chattanooga State Global Scholars, students prepare to transfer to top-tier universities and/or enter the highly competitive job market. Class sizes are small, which allows for in-depth discussion with professors and other honors students who share a passion for learning. With the opportunity to study abroad, the GSP encourages students not only to explore the world, but to understand their place in it.
Program Requirements
The Global Scholars Program is open to students who meet at least one of the following minimum criteria:
*Candidates must meet all college-readiness benchmarks in math, reading, and writing.
Students must maintain a minimum cumulative college GPA of 3.25 to maintain good standing in the Global Scholars Program. This requirement will be based solely on grades earned at Chattanooga State, will apply to all students admitted to the program, and cannot be waived.
In order to graduate with recognition as a Global Scholar, students must be continuously enrolled for at least 12 credit hours each term and must also accumulate 15 honors credit hours.
Upon written recommendation of a dean, a student may be admitted into the GSP, notwithstanding the testing/GPA requirements above. International and out-of-state students may be eligible for in-state tuition.
Phi Theta Kappa is the international two-year college honor society to recognize outstanding academic achievement and provide opportunities for developing leadership, service, fellowship and continued academic excellence.
All full-time and part-time degree students who have completed 12 college-level credit hours with a cumulative GPA of 3.50 are eligible for membership. Invitations are sent to eligible students each fall and spring semester. Members pay a one-time fee and must maintain a college level GPA of 3.25 or higher to remain in good standing. Graduating members may purchase a Phi Theta Kappa stole to wear at commencement.
Members of Alpha Beta Mu, the college chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, work with members of the Honors Program as a part of Chattanooga State’s Scholars on the River. Together the students participate in enrichment activities as well as college and community service.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Students
The National Technical Honor Society recognized outstanding student achievement in career and technical education. All students who have earned and maintain a GPA of 90% or greater are eligible for membership. Prospective members must be nominated by an instructor; attendance must be at 91% and have no disciplinary actions. Invitations are made in the fall and spring semesters. Members must pay a one-time induction fee.
Who’s Who Among Students In American Junior Colleges
Full-time students with 30 college-level completed hours and a GPA of 3.30 or higher may apply for Who’s Who. Applicants are screened by a committee and reviewed by faculty members before the final selection is made.
Definition: The total semester hours of credit for all courses taken during the semester. Also referred to as “credit load,” “course load,” or “class load.”
Full-time Students
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Students
A full-time load for a Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) student is 30 or more clock hours per week. For immunization requirement purposes only, 357 or more clock hours per term will determine documentation requirement.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) enrollments are limited to enrollment in one program per term.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) students who wish to take credit courses while enrolled in a Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) program may do so subject to the following restrictions:
Requests for concurrent registration must be submitted before registration in either division takes place.
Academic standing is based on the student’s grade point average and is posted at the end of each semester. The standing designation becomes part of the permanent record and does not change even if the GPA changes due to repeated courses or grade changes.
1. The minimum grade point average required to achieve the associate degree is a 2.0 GPA.
2. In addition, a student who fails during any term to attain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 for the credit hours attempted will be placed on academic probation for the subsequent semester.
3. At the end of the next semester of enrollment, a student on academic probation who has failed to attain a 2.0 GPA for that semester will be suspended for a minimum of one semester. The summer semester may not be counted as the semester of suspension unless institutional policies provide for multiple semester suspension.
4. The College has developed specific readmission policies to enable the suspended student to appeal for readmission. The policies shall be based on factors of extenuating circumstances and hardship.
Any student on academic probation who fails to attain either the cumulative standard or a 2.0 GPA for the current semester will be suspended for the next semester. The summer semester cannot be counted as the semester of suspension, nor can a suspended student enroll in summer school.
A student who re-enrolls at Chattanooga State after an academic suspension will be placed on post-suspension probation. If the student earns:
Students on post-suspension probation cannot register for the next semester until grade processing is complete.
Note: Transfer students who enter on probation (or academic suspension via the appeal process) must make a 2.0 GPA during the first semester of enrollment or will be suspended for one year. Students who enter on appeal must meet all other conditions of the appeal as well.
Note: Grades of W (withdrawal), S (satisfactory), N (no credit), and AU (audit) are not used in calculating GPA for probation/suspension purposes.
A student may appeal his/her academic suspension. Suspension appeal forms, which include the procedures for an appeal, are available in the Student Support Center. Students’ academic suspension appeal hearings are scheduled the week prior to the start of semester classes. Students should ask about suspension appeals as early as possible.
If an appeal is granted, the student will be eligible to enroll that semester in post-suspension probation status and must meet the conditions set by the appeals committee. If the conditions are not met, the student will be suspended for twelve months. Students may not appeal during this twelve-month suspension.
Students enrolled in a post-suspension probation status will not be allowed to pre-register for the next semester. Grades will be reviewed during end-of-semester processing and registration eligibility will be determined at that time.
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) academic retention policy can be found in the “Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Programs” section of this catalog.
Submit a Registration and Drop/Add form to Enrollment Services or off campus site for processes not available online. Audit registration and changes to Audit Status can begin on the first day of the respective part of term and cannot be done after the last day to withdraw from that term. The Registration and Drop/Add form cannot be used to completely withdraw from school (see Withdrawal from College).
To repeat a course you have previously completed with a B or better, unless the class is listed as repeatable, secure your permission from Coordinator of Academic Integrity before submitting signed paperwork to Enrollment Services.
The academic calendar is published each semester indicates the deadlines for making various registration changes. The following policies apply:
Students can drop/add online according to the term calendar.
It is the student’s obligation to notify the Enrollment Services Office of any change in name, social security number, or address. The student’s mailing address will be updated when student mail is returned with a U.S. Postal Service forwarding address. Name and/or social security changes require documentation. Failure to do so can cause serious delay in handling student records and in notification of emergencies at home.
Any major change requires that all admissions requirements be completed before future registration. Change of Program forms must be submitted to the respective Academic Division.
Students are obligated for all the work that may be assigned and for regular class attendance. Absences, excused or unexcused, do not absolve him/her of this responsibility.
The instructor sets the attendance requirements for a class. At the beginning of the term, the instructor will distribute the class attendance policy, including an explanation of any grade penalties that result from failure to comply with the policy. An unsatisfactory attendance record may negatively affect the final grade as well as enrollment verification. It is each student’s responsibility to know the attendance policy in each of his/her classes. Please note: non-attendance will not result in an automatic drop/withdrawal from course(s) and can result in grades which negatively affect the student’s academic record.
Students who are members of school sanctioned organizations will not incur grade penalties for classes not attended or class assignments/exams missed while representing Chattanooga State at scheduled events. At the beginning of each semester, the student must present a letter of organizational membership and a tentative activity schedule that has been developed and signed by the organization sponsor. It is also the student’s responsibility to notify the teacher in advance of any class he/she will miss. The student must complete missed assigned work/exams. Scheduled completion time will be at the discretion of the instructor.
Unsatisfactory attendance may result in a repayment of any financial aid received. Financial Aid students must attend all classes for which they register. Faculty members are asked to report a last date of attendance when assigning a grade of F to a student who ceased attendance.
Note: If a student withdraws on or after the first day of class, but never attends the class, that class will not count when calculating financial aid eligibility and the student’s financial aid will be adjusted accordingly.
All veterans will be reported to the Office of Veterans Affairs when they have been excessively absent.
The College may cancel any class with fewer than the minimum number of students enrolled as set by the institutional guidelines; however, all courses are given the opportunity to make. Students enrolled at the time of cancellation will receive a full fee adjustment of money paid unless an alternative class is selected as a replacement.
A student is a freshman until he/she completes 30 semester hours in college level courses. Transfer credits are included in determining classification.
College credit may be earned through Chattanooga State’s Cooperative Education program and may apply toward graduation, with the following restrictions:
Chattanooga State uses a grading system designed to show the level of mastery the student has achieved in a course. Minimum acceptable achievement is what is deemed necessary to enter the next level course or, at the program level, to enter a four-year college, or to be qualified to work in a specific career. The letter grades below are based on documented mastery of a set of specific instructional competencies. The competencies and objectives for each course are listed in the course syllabus.
Note: Some program courses may require a higher than minimum average listed below - see course syllabus.
| Letter Grade | Quality Points (Per Semester Hour) | |
| A | 4.0 | Indicates consistently superior performance. Mastery level should be a minimum average of 90. |
| B | 3.0 | Indicates consistently above-average performance. Mastery level should be a minimum average of 80. |
| C | 2.0 | Indicates satisfactory performance. Mastery level should be a minimum average of 70. |
| D | 1.0 | Indicates less than mastery level performance with a minimum average of 65. A course in which a “D” grade has been earned cannot be used as a prerequisite for another course. Note: A grade of “C’ or better is required in all prerequisite courses and in all courses specified by course numbers in the summary of required hours. Any program-directed or technical electives, all Allied Health programs, Associate of Science in Teaching (AST), and Technical Certificates require “C” or better in all course work. |
| F | 0.0 | Indicates failure to achieve minimum standards. |
| FA | 0.0 | Indicates failure due to attendance. |
| I | 0.0 | Incomplete. Given at the instructor’s discretion to students who have not fulfilled all course requirements at the end of the grading period. Counts as an “F”, both in computing the GPA and for purposes of satisfying course prerequisites. The deadline for removing an Incomplete is determined by the instructor, but must be no later than two weeks before the end of the next semester. An exception to rule is anyone who has filed an Intent to Graduate. If incomplete grades in courses satisfying degree or certificate requirements are not removed within two weeks of the end of the term, the student’s degree or certificate will not be posted until the following-term. Note: If course requirements are not satisfied by the deadline, the “I” grade is changed to “IF” on the student’s transcript. |
| IF | 0.0 | Incomplete/Failure. Indicates student failed to complete the requirements of a course in which he/she had received an Incomplete. |
| W | Withdrawal. Indicates the student has withdrawn from the course. Does not count in the GPA. | |
| AU | Audit. Indicates that the student elected to enroll in the course for no grade or credit. Audits do not replace previous grades. | |
| CE | Credit by Examination. This designation is used for both institutional and national exams (AP and-CLEP). | |
| CL | Credit for Life Experience. Is not counted in the GPA. | |
| S/N | Satisfactory/No Credit. Selected courses may be offered on a competency based grading system. If the student satisfactorily meets the minimum competencies, credit (S) will be awarded. Students not meeting minimum competencies will not receive credit (N). |
A student who successfully completes the college-level course with a “C” or better has satisfied all required student learning outcomes in the learning support course, regardless of the modules or competencies competed. If a student does not complete or fails the learning support course while successfully completing the co-requisite college-level course with a “C” or better, the student will be considered college-level in that particular discipline. However, the grade earned in the learning support course will remain part of the student’s academic record. Note: While an earned “D” in the college-level co-requisite course also satisfies the learning support requirement, the student may be required to repeat the college-level course to satisfy prerequisite or graduation requirements.
Calculation of Grade Point Average (GPA)
Chattanooga State transcripts indicate two grade point averages-an “institutional” average and an “overall combined” average. The institutional only GPA consists of hours taken in college level courses. The combined GPA includes hours taken in both college level and learning support courses. The institutional only GPA is used to calculate the GPA required for graduation and to determine honors. The combined GPA is used to determine suspension, probation, eligibility for financial aid, and athletic eligibility.
The GPA for the Tennessee Education Lottery Scholarship is calculated to determine potential scholarship eligibility. All grades including transfers after 2002, repeats, and withdrawals are used to determine eligibility. This GPA is available to the student by viewing the lottery GPA in Self-Service. Otherwise transfer credits are not used in computing a student’s GPA at Chattanooga State, but are counted in earned hours and shown under “Transfer Combined”.
Note: Grades of “W” are shown on the online unofficial transcript under Attempted Hours; and are not used in calculating GPA. But, they may affect a student’s financial aid eligibility.
Repeating a Course
For increasing mastery or GPA (and only for these purposes), students may repeat courses in which their final grades are “C” or lower.
Students with a previous grade of A or B (or a C in a learning support course) may only repeat a course with the approval of the Vice President for Academic Affairs. After obtaining this approval, these students must register in person at the Enrollment Services Center.
When a course is repeated, only the last grade received is calculated in the cumulative GPA and is used to determine completion. However, if a course is repeated more than twice, the third and all later grades are included in computing the cumulative GPA.
Note: For graduation and prerequisite purposes, only the last grade (A, B, C, D, F, I, IF) will l be used to determine satisfactory completion.
A grade of “C” or better is required in all prerequisite courses and in all courses specified by course numbers in the summary of required hours. Any program directed or technical electives, all Allied Health programs, Associate of Science in Teaching (AST), and Technical Certificates requires “C” or better in all course work.
When reviewing your transcripts, be sure to check the last column (R) for any indication of a repeat process.
ABBREVIATIONS, SYMBOLS, AND TERMS APPEARING ON THE ACADEMIC TRANSCRIPT
Transfer credits are not used to calculate GPA but may be excluded or included to satisfy degree requirements.
R (Repeat) Designation:
First attempt - E, Second attempt - I
F irst attempt - E, Second attempt - E, Third attempt - I
First attempt - E, Second attempt - E, Third attempt - A, Fourth attempt - I
Student Final Course Grade Appeal Request
Student Name: ___________________________________________________________
Student ID (A#): _____________________
Student’s email Address: ________________________________________________________
Cell Phone No.: _________________________
Prior to requesting a hearing by the Student Academic Appeals Committee for a final course grade appeal, the student should read the following statement about final course grades and reasons grade appeals will be considered.
Course grades assigned by faculty members are final unless there is evidence that the grade was influenced by consideration of race, color, religion, sex, marital status, disability, national origin, arbitrary or capricious action, or other reasons not related to the academic performance of the student. In all cases, the student shall assume the burden of proof with respect to the allegations.
Step 1. The student must discuss his/her grade with the course Instructor if the student believes the final course grade is incorrect. The student has forty-five (45) calendar days from the day grades are due in the Records Office of the term in which the grade was earned to consult with the instructor in an effort to review the final grade assigned. If, for any reason, the instructor is unavailable, the student should contact the instructor’s supervisor to review the course grade.
If forty-five (45) calendar days have passed from the day grades were due in the Records Office of the term in which the grade was earned prior to the student completing Step 1, the final course grade stands.
If it is not possible to contact the instructor involved in the grade appeal after a good-faith effort has been made, the department chair/program director or division dean, will make sure the grade appeal proceeds in a timely manner as set forth in the appeal process. Efforts to contact the instructor should continue to be made.
STEP 1a. To Be Completed by the Student: The student MUST FIRST discuss their final course grade with their course instructor (or if the instructor is not available; the course instructor’s supervisor) if the student believes his/her final course grade is incorrect.
Course Name/Number/Section/Semester/Part of Term/Year: _________________________________________________________________
Detailed Reasons for Final Course Grade Appeal:
List and submit all supporting documents with this form. _____________________________________________________________
If additional space is needed to list attachments, list items on a separate sheet and attach them with documents.
Specific Action Requested by Student: ______________________________________________________________________________
Student Signature: ________________________________________________________________
(This date must be within 45 calendar days of the date that grades were due into the Records Office for that semester’s course.)
STEP 1b. To Be Completed By the Course Instructor: Following their discussion with the student regarding the student’s final course grade, the course instructor will indicate the academic disposition of this discussion.
Recommendation of Academic Disposition:
____ Grade remains as assigned by the course instructor.
____ Grade changed to: ______
Course Instructor’s Signature: ______________________________________________________
(This date must be within 10 calendar days of the Student’s Signature/Date from Step 1a.)
Step 2. Should further review be requested, the student has ten (10) calendar days from the date provided by the instructor (or supervisor) at Step 1b to present this form with the appropriate signatures and supporting documentation to the instructor’s Department Head/Program Director. The Department Head/Program Director shall discuss the appeal with the instructor and the student.
Step 4a. To be completed by the Student: The Student requests the Final Course Grade Appeal Request be further reviewed by the Student Academic Appeals Committee because:
Student Signature: ________________________________________________________________
Date of Request:__________________
(Date must be within 10 calendar days of the Course Instructor’s Signature/Date from Step 1b.)
Step 2b. To Be Completed By the Department Head/Program Director:
Date received: _________________
(Date must be within 10 calendar days of the Course Instructor’s Signature/Date from Step 1b)
Recommendation of Academic Disposition:
____ Grade remains as assigned by the course instructor
____ Grade changed to: ______
Department Head/Program Director’s Signature: _________________________________________
(Date must be within 5 calendar days of the Date received from Step 2b).
Step 3. Should further review be requested, the student has five (5) calendar days from the date provided by the instructor’s Department Head/Program Director at Step 2b to present this form with the appropriate signatures and supporting documentation to the appropriate Division Dean. The Division Dean shall discuss the appeal with the instructor, Department Head, and the student within fifteen (15) calendar days of the receipt of the Student Final Course Grade Appeal Request and supporting documentation. The Division Dean, in collaboration with the Department Head/Program Director, shall prepare a written decision regarding this grade appeal. A copy of the Division Dean’s written decision shall be provided to the student, course instructor and/or supervisor, Department Head/Program Director, Records Office (if the grade is changed), and the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Step 3a. To Be Completed by the Student: The Student requests the Final Course Grade Appeal Request be further reviewed by the Division Dean because:
Date of Request:__________________
(Date must be within 5 calendar days of the Department Head/Program Director’s Signature/Date from Step 2b.)
STEP 3b. To Be Completed by the Division Dean
Date received: ______________
(Date must be within 5 calendar days of the Department Head/Program Director’s Signature/Date from Step 2b.)
Recommendation of Academic Disposition:
____ Grade remains as assigned by the course instructor.
____ Grade changed to: ______
Division Dean’s Signature: ___________________________________________________________
Date: __________________
(Date must be within 15 calendar days of the Student’s Signature/Date from Step 3a.)
Step 4. Should a further review be requested, the Student has ten (10) calendar days to send a copy of his/her written request, the Student Final Grade Appeal Request form, the evidence, and any other supporting data, correspondence, and/or records to the Student Academic Appeals Committee (SAAC) Chairperson. The Student’s written request for a hearing shall state the facts of the appeal.
The Student Academic Appeals Committee will prescreen each Final Grade Appeal Request to determine if there is sufficient cause and/or new evidence presented for the Final Grade Appeal Request to warrant further review. Should sufficient cause and/or new evidence warrant a hearing, the Student Academic Appeals Committee (SAAC) Chairperson shall notify the student, the instructor (and/or supervisor), the Department Head/Program Director, the Division Dean, and the Vice President for Academic Affairs of the time and location of the hearing.
This hearing shall be held within 15 days of the receipt of the Student Final Course Grade Appeal Request and supporting documentation. The Student Academic Appeals Committee shall function as a review board. After a thorough review of the case, the committee shall prepare and submit a written recommendation regarding the Final Course Grade Appeal Request to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. The committee shall also provide all materials received for the case including but not limited to the Student Final Grade Appeal Request, all evidence and other supporting data, correspondence, and/or records from all parties to the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
1) The Final Course Grade remains as assigned by the course instructor.
2) The Final Course Grade is administratively changed to a new grade that may be higher or lower than the initial grade assigned by the course instructor.
Step 4a. To be completed by the Student: The Student requests the Final Course Grade Appeal Request be further reviewed by the Student Academic Appeals Committee because:
Date of Request:____________________
(Date must be within 10 calendar days of the Division Dean’s Signature/Date from Step 3b.)
Step 4.b. To be completed by the Student Academic Appeals Committee (SAAC) Chairperson
Date received: _________
(Date must be within 10 calendar days of the Division Dean’s Signature/Date from Step 3b.)
____ Recommend that the Grade Appeal Request warrants further review.
If further review is warranted, Date of scheduled Hearing: ___________
(Date must be within 15 calendar days of the receipt of the Student Final Course Grade Appeal Request and supporting documentation from Step 4b.)
If further review is not warranted or after the Hearing, SAAC’s Recommendation of Academic Disposition:
____ Grade remains as assigned by the course instructor.
____ Grade changed to: ______ New Grade
SAAC Chairperson’s Signature: _________________________________Date: ________________
(Date must be within 5 calendar days of receipt of recommendation and materials from the SAAC Chairperson from Step 4.b.)
Step 5. Upon receipt of the recommendation and materials from the Student Academic Appeals Committee, the Vice President for Academic Affairs shall review all documents received from the Student Academic Appeals Committee and shall prepare his/her written final decision regarding the grade appeal within ten (10) calendar days. If the Vice President of Academic Affairs is the instructor, his or her designee will review the appeal. Once this Final Course Grade Appeal Process has been completed, copies will be provided to: the student, course instructor and/or supervisor, Department Head/Program Director, Division Dean, Records Office (if the grade is changed), and the Student Academic Appeals Committee Chairperson.
Possible outcomes of the Final Course Grade Appeal are:
1) The Final Course Grade remains as assigned by the course instructor.
2) The Final Course Grade is administratively changed to a new grade that may be higher or lower than the initial grade assigned by the course instructor.
STEP 5. Final Decision by the Academic Affairs Office Date
(Date must be within 10 calendar days of the SAAC Chairperson’s Signature/Date from Step 4b.)
Recommendation of Academic Disposition:
____ Grade remains as assigned by the course instructor.
____ Grade changed to: ______New Grade
V.P. of Academic Affairs’ Signature: __________________________________________________
(Date must be within 10 calendar days of receipt of recommendation and materials from the SAAC Chairperson from Step 5.)
All requirements for degrees and/or certificates must be completed before the credential can be posted to the student’s transcript or a diploma awarded. This includes removal of any incomplete grades in courses needed to satisfy degree or certificate requirements. Incompletes not removed within two weeks of the end of the term will delay posting the credential until the following term.
All candidates for graduation for a given academic year (Fall, Spring, or Summer) may participate in Chattanooga State’s annual commencement exercise even though all requirements for graduation may not have been met. However, such participation in no way confirms completion of requirements or official graduation. Students not completing all requirements by the end of the summer term following commencement must reapply.
Diplomas earned from the credit divisions are mailed 6-8 weeks after each term’s graduation date. TCAT diplomas must be picked up from the TCAT division 6-8 weeks after each term’s graduation date.
Application
A student must submit an Intent to Graduate form to be considered a candidate for graduation.
Listed below are the deadlines for submitting an Intent to Graduate form:
GRADUATION TERM *COURTESY REVIEW DEADLINE FINAL DEADLINE
Fall (December) May 1 September 30
Spring (May) October 1 January 31
Summer (August) February 1 May 31
*If student misses the courtesy review deadline, then there is no guaranteed name in the commencement program, no guaranteed honors cord, no guaranteed walking with majors, and no guaranteed graduation analysis prior to the final semester before graduation. If submitted by final deadline, the student will be provided with a cap and gown and allowed to participate in the ceremony.
Applicable Catalog
A student may obtain a degree or certificate based on the requirements in the catalog in effect when he/she entered the College or under a later catalog in effect for any term he/she is enrolled. However, a student can only use one catalog.
Time Limitation. Counting from the first term covered by the catalog (fall), requirements for associate degrees and Technical Certificates of Credit remain in effect for a period of five years and Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) programs for two years.
Double Degrees
A student may earn, simultaneously or consecutively, multiple degrees only when the majors completed lead to different degrees, i.e., one leads to a career program (Associate of Applied Science) and the other to a transfer degree (Associate of Arts, Associate of Science. A student cannot earn multiple transfer degrees. All requirements for both degrees must be met, and the student must complete at least 25 percent of additional hours not included for the first degree. The cumulative grade point average (GPA) for all college-level work must be 2.0 or higher. However, some programs require a higher average.
Double Majors
A double major is the completion of two or more majors leading to the same degree. At Chattanooga State, double majors are available only in Associate of Applied Science career programs. All requirements for each major must be met. The second major must include at least 25 percent of additional hours not applied to the first major. The cumulative grade point average (GPA) for all college level work must be 2.0 or higher.
Note: Graduation with two or more concentrations in the same major is not considered a double major.
Multiple Concentrations
At Chattanooga State, multiple concentrations are available only in Associate of Applied Science career programs. Students may complete more than one concentration in the same major; however, all concentrations must be completed at the same time. Concentrations are not listed on the diploma.
Degree/Technical Certificate of Credit/Embedded Certificate
Students may receive both a degree and a Technical Certificate of Credit or an Embedded Certificate by completing all requirements listed in the SUMMARY OF REQUIRED HOURS for each. However, all Embedded Certificates must be completed before or at the same time as the degree in which the certificate is embedded. Embedded Certificates will not be awarded after the degree is awarded.
Double Certificates
All requirements for both Technical Certificates of Credit must be met and at least one-third of the hours required for the second certificate must not have been required for the first certificate.
Grade Point Average
Associate Degrees - The cumulative grade point average (GPA) for all college level work must be 2.000 or higher.
Associate of Science in Teaching Degree - The cumulative grade point average (GPA) for all college level work must be 2.750 or higher.
Technical Certificate of Credit-All courses required for the Technical Certificate of Credit must be completed with a grade of “C” or better.
Graduation Residency Requirements
1. For all Degrees, a minimum of 25% of the college-level semester credit hours must be completed at Chattanooga State.
2. *For A.A.S. degrees, a minimum of 12 college level semester credit hours must be in the major area of study.
Chattanooga State is a member of the Service-members Opportunity Colleges and offers flexible residency requirements to current service members. Graduation residency requirements may be reduced to no less than 25% of the academic program requirement. Any request for an exception to the above policy must be due to extenuating circumstances and approved by the Vice President for Academic Affairs prior to enrolling in the courses(s) at the other institution. This is usually limited to one or two courses and will not be approved if 25% of credit hours required for the degree were not taken at Chattanooga State as required by SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) as stated above.
Technical Certificate of Credit - A minimum of seventy-five percent (75%) of the required hours for a Technical Certificate of Credit must be completed at Chattanooga State. A maximum of twenty-five percent (25%) of the required hours for a Technical Certificate of Credit may be completed through approved alternative sources of credit (see Alternative Sources of Credit).
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Programs - Credit may be awarded for previous education or training as determined by the instructor and the approval of the Dean of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) or his or her designee. This must be done at time of enrollment in the program. As required by SACS, “at least 25% of the credit hours required for the degree/diploma are earned through instruction offered by the institution awarding the degree/diploma” (comprehensive standard 3.5.2).
*Does not apply to A.A.S. degree in Health Sciences. Revised: November, 2013
Exit Testing
All associate degree candidates are required to test for general achievement. Major testing may also be required in selected fields. These tests are used to evaluate Chattanooga State’s academic programs. Exit testing must be completed before the Records Office can post the degree or issue a diploma. Until the degree is posted, a student is not considered to have graduated. Be sure to submit the Intent to Graduate in a timely manner to insure notification of test dates (no summer testing).
Students should pay off any debts to the College as soon as possible. No diploma, certificate, or academic transcript will be issued to a student who has not settled outstanding College debts with the Vice President for Business and Finance. A student may be prohibited from attending classes or taking final examinations after the due date of any unpaid obligation.
Educational Records. Those records, files, documents, and other materials which (1) contain information directly related to a student, and (2) are maintained by Chattanooga State or by a person acting for the College. Educational records do not include (1) personal notes, (2) records available only to law enforcement personnel, (3) employment records.
Student. Any person who is or has been enrolled at Chattanooga State.
Directory Information. The college reserves the right to release directory information without the student’s consent. Any student who does not want directory information disclosed must submit a written request to the Enrollment Services Office within ten days of registration.
The following information is directory information at Chattanooga State:
Access. To have access to an educational record is to be allowed to see the original record.
B. Release of personally identifiable student educational records
Chattanooga State shall not permit access to or the release of any information in the educational records of any student that is personally identifiable, other than directory information, without the written consent of the student, to any party other than the following:
C. Procedure for Accessing Educational Records
The student requests the custodian to allow him/her to pursue the educational record. The student may ask for an explanation and/or a copy of the given educational record. After consultation with the custodian, errors may be corrected at that time by that custodian. Thereafter, if the student believes the record to be accurate in content, he/she should acknowledge with his signature and the date; if the student believes the record content to be inaccurate, he/she then may submit a request for an informal hearing before the Appeals Committee. The request, and the challenge, must be presented in writing to the Records Office which will request a meeting of the Appeals Committee. The Appeals Committee Chairperson will acknowledge receipt of the challenge and notify the student of time and place for the first meeting convenient to the student. The Appeals Committee will convene with the student within forty-five (45) days from the date of the request allowing the student to present relevant evidence, and allowing the student to be represented by an individual of his/her choice at his/her own expense, including an attorney if so desired. The student will be afforded all of his/her rights under Due Process as delineated in the Student Handbook. The decision rendered by the Appeals Committee shall be based solely upon the evidence presented at the hearing. The decision must include a summary of the evidence and the reasons for the decision.
Note: This procedure does not provide for a hearing to contest an academic grade.
D. Right of Access Does Not Include:
E. Educational Records
Educational Records may be destroyed except that a student shall be granted access prior to destruction if such is requested.
F. Complaints
Students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Chattanooga State to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
The Office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
600 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
See “Academic Retention Standards” in this section.
The Records Office is required to maintain certain student records permanently. However, Registration and Drop/Add forms and Transcript requests will be maintained for only one year. Important reminder: Registration is considered final and changes to the semester record cannot be made after that time.
Methods to Request Your Transcript
National Student Clearinghouse
Chattanooga State has given the National Student Clearinghouse authorization to provide electronic transcript ordering via the web. These transcripts are processed immediately.
To place your order for a transcript, NSC
To track the status of an existing order, click check status. You will need your Order Confirmation Number to check the status.
All financial obligations to the College must be met and all records must be cleared of encumbrances before a transcript can be released.
The cost to students is free if they are sending their transcript to another college in Tennessee. For all other transcripts, the Clearinghouse charges processing fees between $2.50 and $3.50. Credit card payments only.
Once your transcript order is completed, you will receive an Order Confirmation number. Make a note of this number, as it may be needed for you to follow up on your order. An email will be sent to you, once your transcript has been sent.
If you have never attended Chattanooga State, do not request a transcript. Please request a letter of non-attendance by emailing records@chattanoogastate.edu.
In the email please include your full name, you need a letter of non-attendance, and where you would like the letter sent to.
Please contact the National Student Clearinghouse’s transcript ordering service if you need help or have questions about your transcript.
The College accepts transfer credits from other colleges. Official transcripts from each institution a student attended are evaluated in the Admissions Office for equivalent courses.
All grades will be transferred in; however; a course in which a “D” grade has been earned may/may not be used to satisfy degree requirements or prerequisites. A grade of “C” or better is required in all prerequisite courses and in all courses specified by course numbers in the summary of required hours. Note: Program Directed or Technical Electives, Associate of Science in Teaching (AST), all Allied Health programs and Technical Certificates require “C” or better in all course work. Transfer credits are not used in computing a student’s GPA at Chattanooga State, but are counted in earned hours.
Credits from non-regionally accredited institutions must be appealed for transfer on individual basis by department or validated by departmental examination. Appeal forms are available in the Admissions Office.
International students must provide certified English translation of all high school and post-secondary school transcripts.
The GPA for the Tennessee Educational Lottery Scholarship includes all courses to determine eligibility.
A release from enrollment from all classes becomes official only after completion of the withdrawal process in the Enrollment Services Office or after dropping all courses online. TCAT courses may not be dropped online. Students dropping their last class online will be withdrawn from the college the next day. Students are encouraged to seek assistance with the drop/add or withdrawal processes before attempting any online activity.
Failure to attend class or discontinued attendance is not official withdrawal. Not withdrawing officially will cause a student to fail and could jeopardize later re-enrollment.
The consequences of completely withdrawing from school depends on when the student withdraws. See the Academic Calendar for withdrawal deadlines.
For consideration of full refund, withdrawal must be prior to first day of the term. See Fee Payment Information Bursar’s online refund policies and refund calendar.
