STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
The statements set forth in this catalog are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as the basis of a contract between a student and this institution. While every effort will be made to ensure accuracy of the material stated herein, Georgia Southwestern State University reserves the right to change any provision listed in this catalog, including but not limited to academic requirements for graduation, without actual notice to individual students. Every effort will be made to keep students advised of such changes. Each student is assigned a faculty advisor who will assist the student in interpreting academic regulations and in planning a program of study chosen by the student. However, final responsibility of selecting and scheduling courses and satisfactorily completing curriculum requirements for any degree rests with the student.
Information regarding academic requirements for graduation is available in the offices of the Registrar, Deans of Schools and Chairs of Departments, and the Vice President for Academic Affairs. It is the responsibility of each student to keep himself or herself apprised of current graduation requirements for a degree program in which he or she is enrolled.
DIRECTORY OF CORRESPONDENCE
| For Information on | Contact |
|---|---|
| Gifts, Bequests, and Scholarship Donations | President |
| General Information and Graduate Admissions | School of Education (229) 931-2170 School of Computer & Information Sciences (229) 931-2100 School of Business (229) 931-2091 |
| Financial Aid, Scholarships, Student Employment | Student Financial Aid Director |
| Housing | Vice President for Student Life |
| Fees, Expenses, and Method of Payment | Vice President for Business and Finance |
| Course Offerings, Academic Reports, and other Scholastic Matters | Vice President for Academic Affairs |
| Transcripts and Records of Former Students | Registrar |
| Publicity | Director of Public Relations /td> |
| Alumni | Director of Development/Alumni Affairs |
GRADUATE DEGREES
| Areas of Study | Master of Business Administration | Master in Education | Master of Science | Specialist in Education |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration | X | |||
| Computer Science | X | |||
| Curriculum and Instruction | X | |||
| Learning and Leading | X |
Graduate Course Descriptions
The descriptions of the courses offered by each school and department follow the information section and listing of degree programs for each school and department. Numbers following the description of the course indicate the number of weekly class hours, the number of weekly laboratory or practicum hours or other type of required contact hours, and the credit-hour value of the course expressed in semester hours. For example, (3-2-3) following the course description means three class hours, two laboratory or other hours, and three semester hours of credit.
CALENDAR*
| SUMMER TERM 2009 | |
| Last Day to Apply for Graduate Admission | March 13, 2009 |
| Last Day to Apply for Undergraduate Admission for May Term | March 13, 2009 |
| Last Day to Apply for Undergraduate Admission for Summer Term | April 20, 2009 |
| Last Day to Apply for Re-Admission (Full-Term and Summer I) | June 4, 2009 |
| Last Day to Apply for Re-Admissions (Summer II) | June 25, 2009 |
| Residence Halls Open for May Term - 1:00 pm | May 10, 2009 |
| May Term Registration | May 11, 2009 |
| May Term Classes Begin | May 11, 2009 |
| Midterm for May Term | May 18, 2009 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Class without Penalty for May Term | May 21, 2009 |
| Classes Will Not Meet | May 25, 2009 |
| Last Day of Class for May Term | May 28, 2009 |
| Final Exams for May Term | May 29, 2009 |
| Residence Halls Close for May Term | May 30, 2009 |
| Residence Halls Open for Regular Summer Term | May 31, 2009 |
| Registration/Orientation | June 1, 2009 |
| Classes Begin | June 2, 2009 |
| No Registration or Class Change after This Date | June 4, 2009 |
| Midterm for Summer I | June 12, 2009 |
| Last Day to Withdraw without Penalty for Summer I | June 16, 2009 |
| Last Day of Class for Summer I Session | June 24, 2009 |
| Final Exams for Summer I Session | June 25, 2009 |
| Midterm for Full Session | June 25, 2009 |
| Registration for Summer II Session | June 29, 2009 |
| Summer Session II Classes Begin | June 29, 2009 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Class without Penalty for Full Session | July 1, 2009 |
| No Classes will meet 6:00 pm and later | July 2, 2009 |
| Classes Will Not Meet | July 3, 2009 |
| Regents' Examination | To Be Announced |
| Midterm for Summer II | July 09, 2009 |
| Last Day to Withdraw without Penalty for Summer II | July 13, 2009 |
| Fall 2009 registration (for students enrolled summer 2009) | July 7-9, 2009 |
| Last Day of Class for Summer II Session and Full Session | July 21, 2009 |
| Final Examinations | July 22-24, 2009 |
| Residence Halls Close 5pm | July 24, 2009 |
| FALL TERM 2009* | |
| Last Day to Apply for Graduate Admission | June 30, 2009 |
| Last Day to Apply for Undergraduate Admission | July 22, 2009 |
| Last Day to Apply for Re-Admission | August 19, 2009 |
| Faculty Planning | To Be Announced |
| Residence Halls Open for Freshmen (Move-In Day) | August 15, 2009 at 8:00am |
| Residence Halls Open for Upperclassmen | August 15, 2009 |
| Orientation/Testing | To Be Announced |
| Registration/Orientation | August 17, 2009 |
| Classes Begin | August 18, 2009 |
| No Registration or Class Change after This Date | August 20, 2009 |
| Classes Will Not Meet | September 7 , 2009 |
| Midterm | October 09, 2009 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Class without Penalty | October 19, 2009 |
| Spring 2010 Registration (for Students Enrolled Fall 2009) | October 26-November 13, 2009 |
| Regents' Examination | To Be Announced |
| Fall Break | October 12, 2009 |
| Thanksgiving Holidays | November 26-27, 2009 |
| Registration for Learning Support Students | December 2-3, 2009 |
| Last Day of Class | December 4, 2009 |
| Final Examinations | December 5-10, 2009 |
| Residence Hall Move-Out Day (by 5:00pm) | December 12, 2009 |
| Graduation | December 12, 2009 (Saturday) |
| SPRING TERM 2010* | |
| Last Day to Apply for Graduate Admission | October 16, 2009 |
| Last Day to Apply for Undergraduate Admission | December 10, 2009 |
| Last Day to Apply for Re-admission | January 11, 2010 |
| Residence Halls Open | January 3, 2010 after 1:00pm |
| Registration/Orientation | January 6, 2010 |
| Classes Begin | January 7, 2010 |
| No Registration or Class Change after This Date | January 12, 2010 |
| Classes Will Not Meet | January 18, 2010 |
| Midterm | March 02, 2010 |
| Spring Break | March 08-12, 2010 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Class without Penalty | March 16, 2010 |
| Regents Examination | To Be Announced |
| Summer/Fall 2010 registration (for students enrolled spring 2010) | March 29-April 16, 2010 |
| Registration for Learning Support Students | April 28-29, 2010 |
| Last Day of Class | April 29, 2010 |
| Reading Day | April 30, 2010 |
| Final Examinations | May 1-6, 2010 |
| Residence Halls Close | To Be Announced |
| Graduation | May 8, 2010 (Saturday) |
| SUMMER TERM 2010* | |
| Last Day to Apply for Graduate Admission | March 14, 2010 |
| Last Day to Apply for Undergraduate Admission for May Term | April 25, 2010 |
| Last Day to Apply for Undergraduate Admission for Summer Term | May 15, 2010 |
| Last Day to Apply for Re-Admission (May Term) | May 10, 2010 |
| Last Day to Apply for Re-admission (Full-Term and Summer I) | June 03, 2010 |
| Last Day to Apply for Re-Admission (Summer II) | June 28, 2010 |
| Residence Halls Open for May Term | To Be Announced |
| May Term Registration | May 10, 2010 |
| May Term Classes Begin | May 10, 2010 |
| Midterm for May Term | May 17, 2010 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Class without Penalty for May Term | May 19, 2010 |
| Last Day of Class for May Term | May 25, 2010 |
| Final Exams for May Term | May 26, 2010 |
| Residence Halls Close for May Term | To Be Announced |
| Classes Will Not Meet | May 31, 2010 |
| Residence Halls Open for Regular Summer | To Be Announced |
| Registration/Orientation | June 1, 2010 |
| Classes Begin | June 2, 2010 |
| No Registration or Class Change after This Date | June 7, 2010 |
| Midterm for Summer I | June 14, 2010 |
| Last Day to Withdraw without Penalty for Summer I | June 16, 2010 |
| Last Day of Class for Summer I Session | June 24, 2010 |
| Final Exams for Summer I Session | June 25, 2010 |
| Midterm for Full Session | July 02, 2010 |
| Registration for Summer II Session | June 28, 2010 |
| Summer Session II Classes Begin | June 28, 2010 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Class without Penalty for Full Session | July 12, 2010 |
| Classes Will Not Meet | July 5, 2010 |
| Regents' Examination | To Be Announced |
| Midterm for Summer II | July 09, 2010 |
| Last Day to Withdraw without Penalty for Summer II | July 14, 2010 |
| Fall 2010 registration (for students enrolled summer 2010) | July 12-13, 2010 |
| Learning Support Registration | July 19-20, 2010 |
| Last Day of Class for Summer II Session and Full Session | July 21, 2010 |
| Final Examinations | July 22, 23, 24, 2010 |
| Residence Halls Close | To Be Announced |
*Correct at date of release; subject to change
Confidentiality of Student Records: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
GEORGIA SOUTHWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
Georgia Southwestern State University is a senior unit of the University System of Georgia. The University was founded in 1906 as the Third District Agricultural and Mechanical School. In 1926, it was granted a charter authorizing the school to offer two years of college work and to change the name to Third District Agricultural and Normal College. The name was changed to Georgia Southwestern College in 1932, at which time it was placed under the jurisdiction of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. In 1964, the College became a senior unit of the University System, conferring its first baccalaureate degrees in June of 1968. Graduate work was added to the curriculum in June of 1973. In July 1996, the Board of Regents authorized state university status, and the institution became Georgia Southwestern State University.
Georgia Southwestern State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, telephone number 404-679-4501) to award bachelor, master and specialist degrees.
The School of Education is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (2010 Massachusetts Ave NW, Suite 500, Washington, D.C. 20036, telephone number 202-466-7496) and all initial teacher education programs are recognized and approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (http://www.gapsc.com).
The Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (3343 Peachtree Road, NE, Suite 500, Atlanta, GA 30326; 404.975.5000) and has the full approval of the Georgia Board of Nursing (237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, GA 31217-3858; 478-207-1300 or 1640).
The School of Business Administration is accredited by AACSB International - The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. AACSB accreditation is the hallmark of excellence in business education and has been earned by less than five percent of the world's business schools. AACSB International is located at 777 South Harbour Island Boulevard, Suite 750, Tampa, FL 33602-5730 USA, telephone number 813-769-6500 and fax number 813-769-6559 (www.aacsb.edu).
The University is located on 250 acres of improved wooded land in the community of Americus, Georgia, 135 miles south of Atlanta. The attractive campus includes recreational areas, a spring-fed lake, and thirty-five buildings.
Georgia Southwestern State University is a dynamic community of learning on a residential campus, offering students personalized and challenging experiences in preparation for successful careers, productive citizenship, and a satisfying quality of life. The respected faculty demonstrates intense dedication to teaching and offer outstanding professional degree programs of study with a foundation in the liberal arts and sciences. Learning is strengthened by an effective student-oriented staff committed to the optimal development of each student. The location, atmosphere, and relationships of the University create a stimulating environment for intellectual inquiry in pursuit of truth and knowledge.
Georgia Southwestern State University shares with the other state universities of the University System of Georgia the following core characteristics and purposes:
- a commitment to excellence and responsiveness within a scope of influence defined by the needs of an area of the state, and by particularly outstanding programs or distinctive characteristics that have a magnet effect throughout the region or state;
- a commitment to a teaching/learning environment, both within and beyond the classroom, that sustains instructional excellence, serves a diverse and college-prepared student body, promotes high levels of student achievement, offers academic assistance, and provides developmental studies programs for a limited cohort;
- a high quality general education program supporting a variety of disciplinary, interdisciplinary, and professional academic programming at the baccalaureate level, with selected master and educational specialist degrees, and selected associate degree programs based on area need and/or inter-institutional collaborations;
- a commitment to public service, continuing education, technical assistance, cultural offerings, and economic development activities that address the needs, improve the quality of life, and raise the educational level within the University's scope of influence.
- a commitment to scholarship and creative work to enhance instructional effectiveness and to encourage faculty scholarly pursuits and a commitment to applied research in selected areas of institutional strength and area need.
Georgia Southwestern State University endorses the following mission statement for the University System of Georgia and envisions its own mission within the context of the principles adopted by the Board of Regents.
The mission for the University System of Georgia is to contribute to the educational, cultural, economic, and social advancement of Georgia by providing excellent undergraduate general education and first-rate programs leading to associate, baccalaureate, master, professional, and doctorate degrees; by pursuing leading-edge basic and applied research, scholarly inquiry, and creative endeavors; and by bringing these intellectual resources to bear on the economic development of the State and the continuing education of its citizens.
Georgia Southwestern State University academic advising is a teaching and learning process dedicated to student success. Academic advising engages students in developing a plan to realize their educational, career, and life goals and provides a mechanism for monitoring and guiding students' completion of their goals in a timely and efficient manner.
Georgia Southwestern State University shares the following characteristics with other institutions in the University System of Georgia:
- a supportive campus climate, leadership and development opportunities, and necessary services, all to meet the needs of students, faculty and staff;
- cultural, ethnic, racial, and gender diversity in the faculty, staff, and student body, supported by practices and programs that embody the ideals of an open, democratic, and global society;
- technology to advance educational purposes, including instructional technology, student support services, and distance education; and
- a commitment to sharing physical, human, information, and other resources in collaboration with other System institutions, State agencies, local schools, and technical institutes to expand and enhance programs and services available to the citizens of Georgia.
The programs and educational opportunities at Georgia Southwestern State University are characterized by the following distinctive features: As a residential, comprehensive university, Georgia Southwestern serves a diverse student body, primarily drawn from southwest Georgia, with programs leading to bachelor, master, and education specialist degrees. A growing number of students from across the state as well as international and out-of-state students are also attracted by programs in a number of different areas. For example, international students are attracted to Georgia Southwestern State University's Asian Studies Center, which develops and delivers instructional programs in language and culture. In addition, mature learners are drawn from the region as well as across the nation to the Center for Elderhostel Studies, the second largest Elderhostel program in the U.S.
As a community of learning, Georgia Southwestern faculty and staff are dedicated to creating an environment, work-study appointments, and practicum experiences in a number of businesses and community agencies, including the international headquarters of Habitat for Humanity, are vital elements in creating this environment for learning.
Georgia Southwestern fulfills its commitment to research and public service through the individual efforts of an outstanding faculty and the focused activities of specific centers, which rely heavily on external funding. The Rosalynn Carter Institute serves as a regional and national focal point for research and public service in the area of care giving. The Center for Business and Economic Development conducts research on regional economic issues and facilitates development activities in the region. The program in Third World Studies has served as the guiding force in the development of a professional association and journal contributing to Georgia Southwestern's international reputation. The Center for Community Based Theater, a unique, emerging partnership with the City of Americus, provides opportunities for students, faculty, and community members to explore topics and develop dramatic productions that are drawn from the culture of the community.
Georgia Southwestern State University aspires to become recognized nationally as a state university, which is committed to learning and is responsive to the educational, social, and cultural needs of the region.
General Education in the University System of Georgia
From the origins of intellectual study to the present, general education has been a key to fulfilling life of self-knowledge, self-reflection, critical awareness, and lifelong learning. General education has traditionally focused on oral and written communication, quantitative reasoning and mathematics, studies in culture and society, scientific reasoning, and aesthetic appreciation. Today, general education also assists students in their understanding of technology, information literacy, diversity, and global awareness. In meeting all of these needs, general education provides college students with their best opportunity to experience the breadth of human knowledge and the ways that knowledge in various disciplines is interrelated.
In the University System of Georgia, general education programs consist of a group of courses known as the Core Curriculum as well as other courses and co-curricular experiences specific to each institution. The attainment of general education learning outcomes prepares responsible, reflective citizens who adapt constructively to change. General education programs impart knowledge, values, skills, and behaviors related to critical thinking and logical problem solving. General education includes opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and the experiences that increase intellectual curiosity, providing the basis for advanced study in the variety of fields offered by today's colleges and universities.
@2005 Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia
Confidentiality of Student Records: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
- Georgia Southwestern State University is covered by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), as amended, which is designed to protect students' rights in regard to education records maintained by the institution. Under the Act, students have the following rights:
- the right to inspect and review education records maintained by the institution that pertain to you;
- the right to challenge the content of records (except grades which can only be challenged through the Grade Appeal Process) on the grounds that they are inaccurate, misleading or a violation of your privacy or other rights; and
- the right to control disclosures from your education records with certain exceptions.
- Any student who is or has been in attendance at Georgia Southwestern State University has the right to inspect and review his or her educational records within a reasonable period of time (not to exceed 45 days) after making a written request. However, the student shall not have access to:
- Financial records of parents.
- Confidential letters of recommendation placed in record prior to January 1, 1975.
- Letters of recommendation concerning admission, application for employment or honors for which the student has voluntarily signed a waiver.
- Directory information will be treated as public information and be generally available on all students and former students, at the discretion of the university. Directory information includes the student's name; telephone number; major field of study; dates of attendance; degrees, honors and awards received; level, and full or part time status. Participation in officially recognized sports; height, weight, age, hometown and general interest items of members of athletic teams is also included in Directory Information.
- Requests for Education Records should be made in writing to the Registrar, Georgia Southwestern State University. "Education Records" means generally any record maintained by or for Georgia Southwestern State University and containing information directly related to the students' academic activities.
- Students who challenge the correctness of student educational records shall file a written request for amendment with the Registrar. The student shall also present to the Registrar copies of all available evidence relating to the data or material being challenged. The Registrar shall forward the information to the custodian of the record who will consider the request and shall notify the student in writing within 15 business days whether the request will be granted or denied. During that time, any challenge may be settled informally between the student or the parents of a dependent student and the custodian of the records, in consultation with other appropriate University officials. If an agreement is reached it shall be in writing and signed by all parties involved. A copy of such agreement will be maintained in the student's record. If an agreement is not reached informally or, if the request for amendment is denied, the student shall have the right to challenge through the Grievance Procedure outlined in the Student Handbook.
- Release of protected information in the student's educational record without consent will be allowed to:
- Institutional personnel who have a legitimate educational interest.
- Officials of other schools where the student seeks to enroll or transfer credit. Information for students in joint degree or dual degree programs will be released as requested by participating institutions. Efforts will be made to notify the student of the release of such information.
- Representatives of Federal agencies authorized by law to have access to education records, and state education authorities.
- Appropriate persons in connection with a student's application for or receipt of financial aid.
- State and local officials to whom information must be released pursuant to a state statue adopted prior to November 19, 1974.
- Organizations conducting studies for the institution.
- Accrediting organizations.
- Parents of a dependent student, as determined by the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended.
- Persons necessary in emergency situations to protect health and safety.
- Persons designated in subpoenas or court orders.
- If a request for Education Records is not covered by the Annual Disclosure Statement provided by the Registrar, the written request for release of information should be submitted to the Registrar and contain the following information:
- Specific records to be released.
- Reasons for such release.
- To whom records are to be released.
- Date.
- Signature of the student.
- Records will be released in compliance with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena. However, reasonable efforts will be made to notify the student in advance of compliance.
- Students have the right to obtain copies of official transcripts provided all financial obligations to the University have been met. Students will be charged at the prevailing rate for each certified transcript obtained. Copies of other information in the student's education record will be provided at a cost of $0.25 per page of copy.
- Students who feel that their rights have been violated under the provisions of the Family Educational and Privacy Act should write to the following office: Department of Education, 330 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20201.
- Georgia has an Open Records Act. All records kept by Georgia Southwestern State University, except those protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, are subject to public open records requests. Requests for public open records should be submitted in writing to the Director of Human Resources, Georgia Southwestern State University.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
- BUSINESS REGULATIONS
- SEMESTER COSTS
- REFUND OF FEES
- TEXTBOOKS AND SUPPLIES
- AUDIT (NON-CREDIT) FEE
- OTHER FEES AND CHARGES
- CLASSIFICATION OF STUDENTS AS RESIDENTS AND NON-RESIDENTS
- OUT-OF-STATE TUITION WAIVERS
- WAIVER OF MANDATORY FEES
- FINANCIAL AID TO STUDENTS
- SCHOLARSHIPS
- EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
- FINANCIAL AID POLICIES
- VETERANS' BENEFITS
In accordance with regulations of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, all matriculation charges, board, room rent, or other charges are subject to change at the end of any semester.
Georgia Southwestern State University, as a unit of the University System of Georgia, receives the major portion of its operating funds from the State of Georgia through appropriations.
The academic year is divided into two semesters of approximately fifteen weeks and a summer term.
Certain regulations must be observed to conform to the policies of the Board of Regents. Fees and charges are due and payable at the beginning of each term at the time of registration. Registration is not complete until all fees have been paid. Students should not begin the registration process without having sufficient funds to pay all fees.
A student who is delinquent in his or her financial obligations to the University may be administratively withdrawn from classes for the term that is unpaid. If this action is necessary, the student is not allowed to remain in class or participate in online classes. The procedures for reinstatement are as follows: 1) submit payment in full to the Student Accounts Office: 2) request reinstatement in each course and ask the instructor to email the registrar that the reinstatement is approved. Submission of payment does not ensure reinstatement.
A student who is delinquent in his or her financial obligations to the University, or to any facet of the University community, will not be allowed to register for the next term, to transfer credits to another school, to receive academic transcripts, or to graduate from the University. In some instances the financially delinquent student may be enjoined by the appropriate University official from attending classes for which enrolled and/or from taking final examinations.
A student with outstanding financial obligations to the University, or any facet of the University community, must submit payment in cash for these obligations prior to the release of any refund and/or payroll check(s). Such penalties will accrue in addition to the penalties described above.
Fulfillment of financial obligations restores the student to one's prior status as a member of the University community, except for academic losses which accrue as a normal result of the prior financial irresponsibility.
If any check is not paid on presentation to the bank on which it is drawn, a service charge of $15 or 5 percent of the face amount of the check, whichever is greater, will be charged. When two checks have been returned by any student's bank without payment, check cashing privileges will be suspended.
The health service fee provides for limited medical care in the University Health Center and is charged all students taking three or more semester hours of on-campus classes.
The student activity fee is assessed to all students taking three or more semester hours of on campus classes. It provides financial support for a broad program of literary, dramatic, musical, and social activities and defrays most of the expenses of publishing the newspaper and other University publications.
The athletic fee is charged all students taking three or more semester hours of on campus classes. It contributes to the financial support of inter-collegiate athletic activities.
A student residing on-campus and enrolled for one or more semester hours at any location is required to pay the health service fee, student activity fee, athletic fee and postal fee.
The technology fee and institutional fee are assessed to all students. These fees allow GSW to provide state of the art technology and instructional services to students.
FEE PAYMENT DEADLINES FOR 2009-2010
Fall - August 7, 2009
Spring - December 17, 2010
A late payment fee of $50.00 will be assessed to students not paid in full by the deadline.
Matriculation charges, board (meal plans), fees and other charges are assessed on a term basis. Housing costs are assessed either by term or by month depending on the contract on file in Residence Life. All matriculation charges, board, room rates, and other charges are subject to change. The fees rates in effect as of Fall Semester 2009 can be found at http://www.gsw.edu/~admissions/ResidentTuitionandFees.shtml for students who are considered residents of Georgia. Fee rates that are in effect beginning Fall Semester 2009 for students who are not considered residents of Georgia can be found at http://www.gsw.edu/~admissions/NonResdientTuitionandFees.shtml. Each application for admission (including re-admission), graduate and undergraduate, must be accompanied by a $25 non-refundable application fee. Undergraduate students are required to pay an additional $45 deposit after they have been notified of their acceptance. This deposit may be refunded if an applicant cancels his/her application prior to twenty days before registration. The deposit will be credited toward matriculation fees at the time the student enrolls.
Food Service Rates:
GSW offers several dining options to help meet our students' busy lives. All students housed on campus with less than 60 credit hours will purchase a meal plan. No refund will be made on any meal plan purchases unless the student withdraws from the University. Off-campus students may purchase a meal ticket if desired. More information concerning meal plans and food services can be found at http://www.campusdish.com/en-US/CSS/gswdining.
Residence Hall Rates - Per Semester
Southwestern provides students with modern housing to compliment their college experience. Specific information concerning these options can be found at http://www.gsw.edu/~reslife/.
A $50 application fee and a $250 damage deposit must be submitted with the student-housing contract. The deposit, less any charges, which may accrue due to damage, improper checkout, etc., will be refunded after the termination of the final housing contract.
Parking Fees: (All students who plan to operate a vehicle on campus)
| Annual: Fall-Summer | $18.00 |
| ($11 Spring-Summer, $7 Summer only) |
Other Fees:
| Postal Fee | $8.00 |
| Applied Music Fee - 1 hour per week instruction | $120.00 |
| Lab Fees may be assigned to specific courses |
Matriculation Fee and Deposit
Each application for admission, graduate and undergraduate, must be accompanied by a $20 non-refundable application fee. Undergraduate students are required to pay an additional $25 deposit after they have been notified of their acceptance. This deposit may be refunded if an applicant cancels his/her application prior to twenty days before registration. The deposit will be credited toward matriculation fees at the time the student enrolls.
A seventy-five dollar ($75) residence hall deposit, $250 for apartments, must be submitted with the student housing contract. The deposit, less any charges which may accrue due to damage, improper check-out, etc., will be refunded after the termination of the final housing contract.
Students who formally withdraw from the University prior to passing the 60% point in time during the term are eligible for a partial refund of fees. Refunds are made only when a student completely withdraws from the University, and no refunds are made when a student of his or her own volition reduces the course load after the add/drop period. Students may receive a refund resulting from a reduction of their course load during the add/drop period. No refunds for withdrawals will be made after passing the 60% point in time during the semester. It is the student's responsibility to withdraw officially in accordance with University regulations.
Forms for withdrawal from the University are available at http://www.gsw.edu/~aaf/student_forms/withdraw_school.pdf. The completed form should be submitted to the First Year Advocate located in the Nursing Building room 126 (229-931-7010) or faxed to 229-931-2277. A refund of tuition and fees, in accordance with federal, state, and institutional policies, will be issued within 30 days of receipt of completed withdrawal forms by the Business Office.
Students who formally withdraw from the institution on or before the first day of class are entitled to a refund of 100% of the tuition and fees paid for that period of enrollment. (First day of class is defined as "classes begin" date published in the GSW Bulletin.)
Students who formally withdraw from the institution after the first day of class but before the 60% point in time during the term are subject to guidelines established by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. This policy states:
- The refund amount for students withdrawing from the institution shall be based on a pro rata percentage determined by dividing the number of calendar days in the semester that the student completed by the total calendar days in the semester. The total calendar days in a semester includes weekends, but excludes scheduled breaks of five or more days and days that a student was on an approved leave of absence. The unearned portion shall be refunded up to the point in time that the amount equals 60%.
- Students that withdraw from the institution when the calculated percentage of completion is greater than 60% are not entitled to a refund of any portion of institutional charges.
- A refund of all matriculation fees and other mandatory fees shall be made in the event of the death of a student at any time during the academic session. (BR Minutes, 1979-80, p.61; 1986-87 pp. 24-25; 1995, p.246)
The University is required to determine how much student financial aid was earned by students who withdraw during the term. If students have 'unearned aid' because they were disbursed more than they earned, it may be necessary for the unearned portion to be returned to the appropriate student financial aid fund. If the students have 'earned aid' that they have not received, they may be eligible to receive those funds.
Textbooks, Tradebooks, Software, General Merchandise (including GSW items), and school supplies are available in the Campus Bookstore. The Bookstore is located in the Marshall Student Center next to the Campus Post Office. The cost of books and supplies will vary with the courses selected by the individual student. A fair estimate of this cost is from $400 - $600 per semester. The Campus Bookstore buys back textbooks for cash three times a year during finals week at the end of each semester for up to 50% of the original purchase price.
Refunds for textbooks will not be given without the following:
- Cash register receipt dated within current term.
- Valid student I.D.
Fees for attending class on an audit or non-credit basis are calculated on the same schedule as regular academic fees.
LATE REGISTRATION FEE:
| Failure to submit fee payment on specified date | |
| Undergraduate (non-refundable) | $50.00 |
| Graduate (non-refundable) | $50.00 |
RETURNED CHECK FEE:
| For each check | $15.00 |
| OR 5 percent of the face amount of the check, whichever is greater. | |
TRANSCRIPT FEE:
| Initial Request (One Copy) | No Charge |
| Each Official Request Thereafter | $5.00 |
GRADUATION FEE:
| Certificate | $15.00 |
| Associate Degree | $30.00 |
| Bachelor's Degree | $30.00 |
| Master's Degree | $50.00 |
| Specialist Degree | $50.00 |
TESTING FEES:
| Independent Study Testing Fee | $30.00 |
| GMAT Testing Fee | $50.00 |
RE-APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION FEE:
| Per re-admit term | $25.00 |
CLASSIFICATION OF STUDENTS AS RESIDENTS AND NON-RESIDENTS
A student is responsible for registering under the proper residency classification. A student classified as a non-resident who believes that he/she is entitled to be reclassified as a legal resident may petition the Registrar for a change of status. The petition must be filed no later than thirty (30) days before the term begins in order for the student to be considered for reclassification for that term. If the petition is granted, reclassification will not be retroactive to prior terms. The necessary forms for this purpose are available in the Registrar's Office or click here.
To register as a legal resident of Georgia at an institution of the University System, a student must establish the following facts to the satisfaction of the Registrar:
- If a person is 18 years of age or older, he or she may register as an in-state student only upon showing that he or she has been a legal resident of Georgia for a period of at least 12 months immediately preceding the date of registration.
Exceptions: - A student whose parent, spouse, or court-appointed guardian is a legal resident of the State of Georgia may register as a resident providing the parent, spouse, or guardian can provide proof of legal residency in the State of Georgia for at least 12 consecutive months immediately preceding the date of registration.
- A student who previously held residency status in the State of Georgia but moved from the state and then returned to the state in 12 or fewer months.
- Students who are transferred to Georgia by employer are not subject to the durational residency requirement.
- No emancipated minor or other person 18 years of age or older shall be deemed to have gained or acquired in-state status for tuition purposes while attending any educational institution in this state, in the absence of a clear demonstration that he or she in fact established legal residence in this state.
- If a parent or legal guardian of a student changes his or her legal residence to another state following a period of legal residence in Georgia, the student may retain his or her classification as an in-state student as long as he or she remains continuously enrolled in the University System of Georgia, regardless of the status of his or her parent or legal guardian.
- In the event that a legal resident of Georgia is appointed by a court as guardian of a nonresident minor, such minor will be permitted to register as a in-state student providing the guardian can provide proof that he or she has been a resident of Georgia for the period of 12 months immediately preceding the date of the court appointment.
- Aliens shall be classified as nonresident students, provided, however, that an alien who is living in this country under an immigration document permitting indefinite or permanent residence shall have the same privilege of qualifying for in-state tuition as a citizen of the United States.
According to 704.041 of the Board of Regents Policy Manual, An institution may award out-of-state tuition differential waivers and assess in-state tuition for certain nonresidents of Georgia under the following conditions:
- Academic Common Market. Students selected to participate in a program offered through the Academic Common Market.
- International and Superior Out-of-State Students. International students and superior out-of-state students selected by the institutional president or an authorized representative, provided that the number of such waivers in effect does not exceed 2% of the equivalent full-time students enrolled at the institution in the fall term immediately preceding the term for which the out-of-state tuition is to be waived.
- University System Employees and Dependents. Full-time employees of the University System, their spouses, and their dependent children.
- Medical/Dental Students and Interns. Medical and dental residents and medical and dental interns at the Medical College of Georgia (BR Minutes, 1986-87, p. 340).
- Full-Time School Employees. Full-time employees in the public schools of Georgia or Technical College System of Georgia (BR Minutes, October 2008), their spouses, and their dependent children. Teachers employed full-time on military bases in Georgia shall also qualify for this waiver (BR Minutes, 1988-89, p. 43).
- Career Consular Officials. Career consular officers, their spouses, and their dependent children who are citizens of the foreign nation that their consular office represents and who are stationed and living in Georgia under orders of their respective governments.
- Military Personnel. Military personnel, their spouses, and their dependent children stationed in or assigned to Georgia and on active duty. The waiver can be retained by the military personnel, their spouses, and their dependent children if
- the military sponsor is reassigned outside of Georgia, and the student(s) remain(s) continuously enrolled and the military sponsor remains on active military status;
- the military sponsor is reassigned out-of-state and the spouse and dependent children remain in Georgia and the sponsor remains on active military duty; or
- Active military personnel and their spouse and dependent children who are stationed in a state contiguous to the Georgia border and who live in Georgia. (BR Minutes, February 2009)
- Research University Graduate Students. Graduate students attending the University of Georgia, the Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and the Medical College of Georgia, which shall be authorized to waive the out-of-state tuition differential for a limited number of graduate students each year, with the understanding that the number of students at each of these institutions to whom such waivers are granted, shall not exceed the number assigned below at any one point in time:
University of Georgia 80 Georgia Institute of Technology 60 Georgia State University 80 Medical College of Georgia 20 - Border County Residents. Students domiciled in an out-of-state county bordering Georgia, enrolling in a program offered at a location approved by the Board of Regents and for which the offering institution has been granted permission to award Border County waivers (BR Minutes, October 2008).
- Georgia National Guard and U.S. Military Reservists. Active members of the Georgia National Guard, stationed or assigned to Georgia or active members of a unit of the U.S. Military Reserves based in Georgia, and their spouses and their dependent children (BR Minutes, October 2008).
- Students enrolled in University System institutions as part of Competitive Economic Development Projects. Students who are certified by the Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development as being part of a competitive economic development project.
- Students in Georgia-Based Corporations. Students who are employees of Georgia-based corporations or organizations that have contracted with the Board of Regents through University System institutions to provide out-of-state tuition differential waivers.
- Students in Pilot Programs. Terminated October 2008.
- Students in ICAPPĀ® Advantage programs. Any student participating in an ICAPPĀ® Advantage program. .
- International and Domestic Exchange Programs. Any student who enrolls in a University System institution as a participant in an international or domestic direct exchange program that provides reciprocal benefits to University System students (BR Minutes, October 2008).
- Economic Advantage. As of the first day of classes for the term, an economic advantage waiver may be granted to a U.S. citizen or U.S. legal permanent resident who is a dependent or independent student and can provide clear evidence that the student or the student's parent, spouse, or U.S. court-appointed legal guardian has relocated to the State of Georgia to accept full-time, self-sustaining employment and has established domicile in the State of Georgia. Relocation to the state must be for reasons other than enrolling in an institution of higher education. For U.S. citizens or U.S. legal permanent residents, this waiver will expire 12 months from the date the waiver was granted.
As of the first day of classes for the term, an economic advantage waiver may be granted to an independent non-citizen possessing a valid employment-related visa status who can provide clear evidence of having relocated to the State of Georgia to accept full-time, self-sustaining employment. Relocation to the state must be for employment reasons and not for the purpose of enrolling in an institution of higher education. These individuals would be required to show clear evidence of having taken legally permissible steps toward establishing legal permanent residence in the United States and the establishment of legal domicile in the State of Georgia. Independent non-citizen students may continue to receive this waiver as long as they maintain a valid employment-related visa status and can demonstrate continued efforts to establish U.S. legal permanent residence and legal domicile in the State of Georgia.
A dependent non-citizen student who can provide clear evidence that the student's parent, spouse, or U.S. court-appointed legal guardian possesses a valid employment-related visa status and can provide clear evidence of having relocated to the State of Georgia to accept full-time, self-sustaining employment is also eligible to receive this waiver. Relocation to the state must be for employment reasons and not for the purpose of enrolling in an institution of higher education. These individuals must be able to show clear evidence of having taken legally permissible steps toward establishing legal permanent residence in the United States and the establishment of legal domicile in the State of Georgia. Non-citizen students currently receiving a waiver who are dependents of a parent, spouse, or U.S. court-appointed legal guardian possessing a valid employment-related visa status may continue to receive this waiver as long as they can demonstrate that their parent, spouse, or U.S. court-appointed legal guardian is maintaining full-time, self-sustaining employment in Georgia and is continuing efforts to pursue an adjustment of status to U.S. legal permanent resident and the establishment of legal domicile in the State of Georgia. (BR Minutes amended October 2008.) - Recently Separated Military Service Personnel. Members of a uniformed military service of the United States who, within 12 months of separation from such service, enroll in an academic program and demonstrate an intent to become domiciled in Georgia. This waiver may also be granted to their spouses and dependent children. This waiver may be granted for not more than one year (BR Minutes, June 2004, amended October 2008).
- Nonresident Student. As of the first day of classes for the term, a nonresident student can be considered for this waiver under the following conditions:
- Dependent Student. If the parent, or U.S. court-appointed legal guardian has maintained domicile in Georgia for at least 12 consecutive months and the student can provide clear and legal evidence showing the relationship to the parent or U.S. court-appointed legal guardian has existed for at least 12 consecutive months immediately preceding the first day of classes for the term. Under Georgia code legal guardianship must be established prior to the student's 18th birthday (BR Minutes, October 2008).
- Independent Student. If the student can provide clear and legal evidence showing relations to the spouse and the spouse has maintained domicile in Georgia for at least 12 consecutive months immediately preceding the first day of classes for the term. This waiver can remain in effect as long as the student remains continuously enrolled (BR Minutes, October 2008).
If the parent, spouse, or U.S. court-appointed legal guardian of a continuously enrolled nonresident student establishes domicile in another state after having maintained domicile in the State of Georgia for the required period, the nonresident student may continue to receive this waiver as long as the student remains continuously enrolled in a public postsecondary educational institution in the state, regardless of the domicile of the parent, spouse or U.S. court-appointed legal guardian (BR Minutes, June 2006, amended October 2008). - Vocational Rehabilitation Waiver. Students enrolled in a University System of Georgia institution based on a referral by the Vocational Rehabilitation Program of the Georgia Department of Labor (BR Minutes, October 2008).
Waiver of Mandatory Fees for U.S. Military Reserve and Georgia National Guard Combat Veterans
Board of Regents Policy 704.043 provides a waiver of mandatory fees for U.S. Military Reserve and Georgia National Guard Combat Veterans.
- Eligibility. Eligible participants must be Georgia residents who are active members of the U.S. Military Reserves and/or the Georgia National Guard and were deployed overseas for active service in a location or locations designated by the U.S. Department of Defense as combat zones on or after September 11, 2001 and served for a consecutive period of 181 days, or who received full disability as a result of injuries received in such combat zone, or were evacuated from such combat zone due to severe injuries during any period of time while on active service. Additionally, eligible participants must meet the admissions requirements of the applicable USG institution and be accepted for admission.
- Benefits. Eligible participants shall receive a waiver of all mandatory fees charged by USG institutions including, but not limited to, intercollegiate athletic fees, student health services fees, parking and transportation (where such fees are mandated for all students), technology fees, student activity fees, fees designated to support leases on facilities such as recreation centers, parking decks, student centers and similar facilities, and any other such mandatory fees for which all students are required to make payment. Students receiving this waiver shall be eligible to use the services and facilities these fees are used to provide. This benefit shall not apply to housing, food service, any other elective fees, special fees or other user fees and charges (e.g., application fees).
Students who are not regularly admitted to a graduate degree program are not eligible for financial aid.
The University provides loan programs to assist students who have financial need. Scholarships, loans, and part-time work constitute the types of financial aid. It is preferable that financial aid applications for the next academic year be filed by April 15th. Detailed information and appropriate forms may be secured by contacting the Financial Aid Office, Georgia Southwestern State University. All awards are contingent on funds being available.
Most types of financial aid are awarded on the basis of a student's academic progress and proven financial need. As used in relation to financial aid, the term financial need means the monetary difference between the total cost of attending the University and the computed amount of financial resources which the student and the family can contribute toward the total cost. The total cost of attending the University include tuition and all fees, room and board, books and supplies, personal expenses, and allowable transportation costs.
Financial need is computed by a standard need analysis system using confidential information submitted by the parents or the independent student. The need analysis system used by Georgia Southwestern State University is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) administered by the Federal Government. The analysis of a family's financial resources includes consideration of current family income, assets, family size, and number in college. Federal aid programs, state aid programs and many college programs do not permit aid awards that exceed the computed financial need. Thus, the information on all sources of aid must be provided to the Financial Aid Office. The amount of a student's computed financial need is the total cost of attending Georgia Southwestern State University minus the computed family resources.
Procedures for Applying for Financial Aid
Students should complete FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1. Application for financial aid at Georgia Southwestern State University includes the following steps:
- Make application for admission to the University. Applicants for financial aid need not be accepted for enrollment before an award is packaged but must be accepted in an eligible academic program before aid is disbursed. Transfer students from other colleges must have a transcript and an admissions application on file at the time of application for financial assistance.
- Complete the FAFSA either on-line (www.fafsa.ed.gov), list GSW Code 001573. The paper application for financial aid is available from the Financial Aid Office, Georgia Southwestern State University.
- Listing GSW school on the FAFSA will mark GSW as a recipient of the student's financial information, which will be received electronically. Until this information is received by the institution electronically, the student's file cannot be processed.
Financial aid is not automatically renewed. Continuing students must reapply for financial aid each year, as soon after January 1 as possible. All application information received after April 15th will be processed, but awards will be made as funds permit.
Scholarships are monetary gifts which usually do not require repayment. They are awarded on the basis of academic performance and other specific criteria stipulated by the agency or person(s) funding the scholarship. The amount of the awards may vary according to the established need of the scholarship recipient. In order to remain eligible to receive most academic scholarships, a student recipient must be enrolled for at least 9 credit hours each term, earn a 3.0 cumulative grade point, and remain in good judicial standing.
HOPE Teacher Scholarship (Graduate)
To be eligible for a HOPE Teacher Scholarship, the student must:
- Be a Georgia resident.
- Be enrolled in a graduate program in a critical field.
- Commit to teach/serve in his or her critical field in a Georgia public school to repay scholarship.
Critical Fields include the following (subject to change):
- Middle Grade Education (Grades 4-8) with primary concentration in one of the following:
- Math
- Science
- Math and Science
- Mathematic Education (Grades 7-12)
- Education of Exceptional Children (Grades P-12)
- Behavioral Disorder
- Interrelated Special Education
- Foreign Language Education (Grades P-12)
- French
- Spanish
- Business Education (Grades 7-12)
- Industrial Arts/Technology Education (Grades 7-12)
- Trade and Industrial Education (Grades 7-12)
- Agriculture Education (Grades 7-12)
- Science Education (Grades 7-12)
- Broad Field Science
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Earth/Space
- Physics
Several types of part-time employment are available through Georgia Southwestern State University.
Graduate Assistantships
A limited number of graduate assistantships are available in some departments. Interested students should contact the Director of Graduate Studies or the appropriate school or office. For additional information, see the section on Graduate Studies.
Part-Time Employment
The Career Services Office maintains a list of jobs available in the community. Any student interested in part-time work should file an application.
Georgia Southwestern State University administers its financial aid program in compliance with all applicable Federal and State laws and regulations. Specifically, the financial aid policies are listed below:
- To receive any Federal financial aid, a student must maintain satisfactory progress toward a degree as determined by Federal standards. Among other requirements, Federal standards generally define "satisfactory progress toward graduation" as passing 67% of all academic work attempted during an academic year. For students who fail to meet these standards, their financial aid will be terminated. They will not be eligible to receive further aid until such time they have corrected the deficiency at their own expense.
- To receive Federal aid, the student must not owe a refund on previous Federal grants or be in default on a Federal student loan.
- Refunds are made in accordance with the schedule in the current University Bulletin. Any refund from a Federal source will be returned to that fund in the appropriate order.
More information on financial aid may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office, Room 207, Sanford Hall. Office hours are from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Summer hours may vary. Please call 229-928-1378 to determine schedule for summer hours.
Georgia Southwestern State University is approved for the educational training of veterans and certain eligible spouses and dependents of veterans. The institution serves only as a source of certification and information to the Veterans Administration as all financial transactions and eligibility determinations are handled directly between the student and the VA. Veterans and other eligible persons interested in obtaining educational benefits must meet all applicable requirements for admission as outlined in this bulletin. After being officially admitted to the University, the veteran or eligible person should contact the Veteran Certifying Official in the Registrar's Office for information concerning application procedures and educational benefits. Additional information about eligibility may be obtained by calling the Department of Veteran Affairs at 1-800- 827-1000.
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ACADEMIC REGULATIONS
- ACADEMIC STANDARDS
- STUDENTS UNDER REVIEW
- RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS
- GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS
- ADVISEMENT
- ACADEMIC LOAD LIMITATIONS
- GRADING SYSTEM
- RE-EXAMINATION FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS
- ATTENDANCE
- SCHEDULE ADJUSTMENTS
- POLICY ON ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
- ADMINISTRATIVE WITHDRAWAL FROM A COURSE DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF CLASSES
- RAIN (Registration and Academic Information Network)
- THE SEMESTER SYSTEM
- SEMESTER HOURS OF CREDIT
- NUMBERING OF COURSES
Students pursuing a Master's degree must maintain the following standards:
- A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better
- Only two courses with grades of C can be applied to the degree
- No course with a grade below a C will be applied toward a degree
- In any graduate degree program, all requirements, including course work at Georgia Southwestern State University, transfer credit and transient credit course work, must be completed within seven (7) calendar years from the date of initial enrollment in course work, without regard to the initial admission status and without regard to credit hours earned.
Graduate students pursuing the Specialist degree must maintain the following academic standards:
- Maintain an overall graduate GPA of 3.25
- No course with a grade below a B will be applied toward the degree
- Only one course with a grade of C may be repeated one time
- Degree requirements must be completed within seven (7) calendar years from the time of first enrollment.
Please review other requirements for the School of Education. Students under review or dismissed will follow the same procedures as for the Master's degree.
Each School with a Graduate Program may have other academic requirements; please check the School web site or the appropriate section of the current Bulletin.
Graduate students who fail to maintain academic standards will be placed under academic review at the end of the semester in which their status falls below the required standards.
- Students who have been placed under review will have early registration cancelled for the following semester. These students will not be able to register on-line and must report to their advisor.
- The Registrar will send the names of students under review to the Director of Graduate Studies, the Deans of each School, the Department Chairs with graduate courses, and the graduate advisors.
- Students under review must meet with their advisor to develop an Individual Remediation Plan (IRP) to demonstrate how the student can be returned to good standing. The plan will be forwarded to the Dean of the School for his or her signature before being placed in the student's file. A copy of the form will also be sent to the Director of Graduate Studies and the Registrar's Office.
- At the end of the probationary semester, if the student is not successful in returning to good standing, the Dean of the School, in consultation with the Director of Graduate Studies, will send a certified letter of dismissal to the student with a copy to the student's advisor, the Director of Graduate Studies, and the Registrar's Office.
- Graduate students who are dismissed from the School may write a letter of appeal within ten class days from the receipt of the dismissal letter to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Students re-admitted on appeal will have one additional semester to return to good academic standing.
- Re-admitted students who do not return to good standing after the initial probationary semester will be dismissed from the program and the university.
- Dismissed graduate students may re-apply for admission to the program after three calendar years. If the student is re-admitted, he or she must meet all requirements for the degree program at the time of re-enrollment. The years completed prior to dismissal will count towards the total seven (7) years to complete the degree. Re-admission is not automatic. Each application will be considered individually.
All graduate programs offered at Georgia Southwestern State University require 50% of the course work be completed in residence.
A limited number of Graduate Assistantships are available within the Academic Affairs Division. Application forms are available by contacting the Director of Graduate Studies, Georgia Southwestern State University, 800 Georgia Southwestern State University Drive, Americus, GA 31709-4379. E-mail: acadaff@canes.gsw.edu
Applications should be submitted by April 15 in order to be considered for the following year. Students must be fully admitted to a degree program before Graduate Assistantships can be awarded. International students must hold appropriate visas before applications for Graduate Assistantships can be processed. In addition, Graduate Assistantships may be awarded during an academic year if vacancies occur and if funding is available. Applications are therefore encouraged throughout the year but most will be processed in April.
Graduate Assistants will be assigned to particular Schools or Departments that will specify and supervise responsibilities. They will be expected to maintain a minimum load of nine graduate credit hours each semester. Graduate Assistants will be evaluated each semester, a copy of the evaluation will be sent to the Director of Graduate Studies, and the continuation of the assistantships will depend on satisfactory evaluations.
Assistantships are also available in the Departments of Athletics, Student Affairs, Office of Information and Instructional Technology, and interested students should make direct application to those Departments
Upon admission to the Program of Graduate Studies, each student is assigned an advisor. Advisors in the Master of Education and the Education Specialist programs are assigned by the Dean of the School of Education.
Academic Advisors in the Master's of Business Administration programs are assigned by the Dean of the School of Business. Advisors to students in the Computer Science Master's programs are assigned by the Dean of the School of Computer and Information Sciences.
Students in degree programs should enroll for courses only with the advice and approval of their advisors.
Application for Graduation - Graduate Students
The Application for Graduation for graduate students must be completed one full semester prior to the academic term in which the degree is expected.
| Graduation Term | Apply no later than the date below of the prior semester |
|---|---|
| Fall | May 1 |
| Spring | August 1 |
| Summer | January 1 |
Transfer Credit
In any graduate program a maximum of 9 semester hours of graduate credit may be transferred from another accredited institution under the following conditions:
- No grade less than a B (3.0) may be transferred.
- Work must have been completed within the seven-year period allowed for the completion of degree requirements.
- Work accepted in transfer to teacher education programs must have the approval of the Dean of the School of Education.
- Work accepted in transfer to the Master of Business Administration must have the approval of the Dean of the School of Business.
- Work accepted in transfer to the Master of Science in Computer Science must have the approval of the Dean of the School of Computer and Information Sciences.
- Work accepted in transfer to the Specialist in Education Degree programs must have been completed by the student while fully admitted as a regular student in a sixth year or doctoral degree program at an accredited college or university and must have the approval of the Dean of the School of Education.
- Grades in transfer credits will not be used in calculating the grade point average and do not reduce residence requirements.
Experiential Learning Credit
GSW grants no graduate level credit for experiential learning except under the supervision of the institution.
Correspondence Credit
Under no circumstances may credit earned through correspondence work be used to satisfy graduate degree requirements.
TRANSIENT CREDIT
With approval, a student may take courses as a transient student at another accredited institution and receive credit towards the degree for these courses. Approval is not guaranteed. The "Transient Permission" form found at http://www.gsw.edu/~aaf/student_forms/ must be completed with the appropriate signatures and turned in to the GSW Registrar's Office prior to course enrollment for credit to be awarded. Core Area F and major courses to be taken as transient courses require the approval of the student's dean as well as the student's advisor/chair. Grades earned in courses taken at another institution will not be counted in the student's grade point average at GSW. [Note: Degree candidates may earn credit by correspondence, or through transient credit, but not more than ten hours in the major discipline and not more than thirty total hours of credit earned in this manner will count toward degree requirements.]
Readmission of Former Students
Former students in academic good standing who have not been in attendance for one calendar year or more must reapply through Graduate Admissions. Students who have attended another college since last attending Georgia Southwestern must submit an official transcript from that institution.
Students readmitted or reinstated will be evaluated for graduation from the catalog in effect at the time of readmission or reinstatement or any catalog in effect during subsequent periods of continuous enrollment.
Graduate students taking nine or more semester credit hours will be considered full-time. Graduate students may take a maximum of fifteen hours per term. Students taking less than nine semester credit hours will be considered part-time.
Grade Point Average for Graduate Students
The grade point average (GPA) for graduate students includes all attempts on all graduate courses. It is a true cumulative GPA.
Policy on Repeating Graduate Courses
Normally, a course is counted only one time for credit hours toward a degree. If a graduate student wants to repeat a course that falls into this category, the student may do so with the understanding that credit hours attempted and quality points earned in all attempts of the course will be counted in the student's grade point average (GPA).
The grading system for graduate courses is as follows:
| Grade | Achievement | Quality Points |
|---|---|---|
| A | Above Average | 4 |
| B | Average | 3 |
| C | Unsatisfactory | 2 |
| D | Poor | 1 |
| F | Failing | 0 |
| I | Incomplete | 0 |
| W | Withdrawn | 0 |
| WF | Withdrawn Failing (same as F) | 0 |
| WM | Withdrawn for Military Purpose | 0 |
| S | Satisfactory | 0 |
| U | Unsatisfactory | 0 |
| NR | No grade reported by instructor | 0 |
A grade of I may be given in extenuating circumstances. If a grade of I is not removed before the end of the following term, it automatically becomes an F.
Students enrolled for thesis or directed study credit will receive an S for satisfactory performance or a U for unsatisfactory performance.
Students who for non-academic reasons stop attending class prior to midterm should withdraw from the course. A grade of "I" cannot be assigned in this situation.
RE-EXAMINATION FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS
Graduate students will not be allowed a retest on any final examination.
Students are expected to attend all classes. If an absence is necessary, the student is responsible for reporting the reason to the instructor; in such cases, each instructor will take whatever action he or she deems necessary. Faculty members will make their absence policies clear to the students enrolled in their classes in writing and within the first week of the semester.
Penalties for excessive absences in each course are set at the beginning of each semester by the faculty member teaching that course. Students with excessive absences in a class may receive a grade of F for the course.
Change in Program
Before a graduate student may transfer from one Teacher Education degree program to another, a request for transfer must be approved by the Dean of the School of Education and the chair of the new program. Students wishing to transfer to or from the Master's of Business Administration or Computer Science Options of the Master of Science Program must have their request approved by the appropriate dean.
Adding or Dropping Courses
Following registration for the term, students may add or drop courses during the published add/drop period.
- Students must discuss adding or dropping courses with their advisors.
- Students who enter courses after the first day of class are responsible for making up missed assignments.
After the published add/drop period, students may adjust their schedules only by "withdrawal." (See below.)
Students registered for courses that have the first class meeting after the designated add/drop period will be subject to the withdrawal from class policy or the withdrawal from the university policy below. Any orientation session for online or off-campus courses is considered the first class meeting for the course.
Withdrawal from a Course
After the add/drop period, a student must officially withdraw from a course by completing the "Withdrawal from Class" form available on RAIN or in the Registrar's Office. This form must be returned to the Registrar's Office upon completion. The student is fully responsible for collecting the appropriate signatures and submitting the completed form to the Registrar's Office. The effective date of the withdrawal from class is entered as the received date by the Registrar's Office.
- Withdrawal from class without penalty requires the student to complete the Withdrawal from Class form and return it to the Registrar's Office by the published no-penalty date of one week after midterm. A student following this procedure will receive a grade of W (Withdrawn).
- Withdrawal from class without penalty will not be permitted after the published 'no penalty' date except for non-academic reasons. Documentation must be provided by the student to receive a W rather than a WF (Withdrawn Failing).
All withdrawals from class must be approved and completely processed before the last day of classes. A student who does not officially withdraw from a class will receive a grade of F in that course for the term.
Withdrawal from the University
Students withdrawing from all classes and exiting the University after the first day of classes must complete the Withdrawal Form available at http://www.gsw.edu/~aaf/student_forms/withdraw_school.pdf. The completed form should be submitted to the First Year Advocate or faxed to 229-931-2277. The First Year Advocate is located in Academic Skills, room 126. The effective date of the withdrawal from the University is entered as the date from the Student Withdrawal from the University form.
- Withdrawal from the University prior to the no-penalty date of one week after midterm will result in grades of W (withdrawn) for all courses.
- Withdrawal from the University after the no-penalty date will result in grades of WF (withdrawn failing) except for documented non-academic reasons.
All withdrawals from the University must be approved and completely processed before the last day of classes. The student is fully responsible for supplying all pertinent documentation to the Registrar's Office.
ADMINISTRATIVE WITHDRAWAL FROM A COURSE DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF CLASSES
Students registered for fall or spring or summer terms, which attend none of the class meetings during the first week of classes and do not inform the instructor of their intentions to remain in the course or do not drop the course within the published period, will be administratively withdrawn from the course. It is the responsibility of the faculty member to document such absences.
Students who do not login/participate in the online class by the instructor deadline will be withdrawn from the course and receive a grade of W for withdrawal. No refunds will be issued for nonparticipation withdrawals unless it results in a complete withdrawal from the University.
Instructors must take roll during the first week of classes, until the drop/add period had ended. The faculty member will inform the Registrar of any student who has never attended or participated in the class. This notification should take place during the first week of class.
Students will be contacted through campus email and informed of their withdrawal from the class. Errors are only corrected by emails from the instructor of the class. Students receiving financial aid should be aware that this could negative impact the amount of aid they receive for the term.
Students at Georgia Southwestern State University are expected to conform to high standards of intellectual and academic integrity. The University assumes as a basic and minimum standard of conduct that students be honest and that they submit for credit only the product of their own efforts. Scholastic ideals and the need for fairness require that all dishonest work be rejected as a basis for academic credit. They also require that students refrain from all forms of dishonorable conduct in the course of their academic careers.
Dishonest work will be treated as a serious offense by the faculty and administration of Georgia Southwestern. Multiple infractions may be cause for permanent expulsion from the University. An instructor who receives dishonest work from a student has several options. At a minimum, the work should be rejected as a basis for academic credit. At the discretion of the instructor, the student may be given a score of zero on the assignment in question, may be required to rewrite the assignment, may be given a grade of F in the course, may not be recommended for admission to Teacher Education or the Nursing programs, or may be penalized in some intermediate way. If a violation occurs before the last day to withdraw without penalty for the term, students in a course where the instructor's policy calls for a grade of F as the final grade will receive a grade of F for the class regardless of whether they attempt to withdraw. A student found guilty of submitting dishonest work will have this information and the instructor's course of action placed on file in the Office of Academic Affairs so that if future instructors receive dishonest work from that same student, the student may be penalized by the institution, resulting in possible expulsion. Academic integrity violations may be placed on the student's academic transcript. In the event that a student is suspended from the University for violations of academic integrity, courses taken at other institutions while a student is on Academic Suspension from Georgia Southwestern will not be accepted in transfer.
Given the serious nature of infractions of this policy, students have a right to know what constitutes academic dishonesty and have a right to a fair and consistent procedure before severe penalties are imposed. The examples given below are intended to clarify the standards by which academic integrity is judged. They are meant to be illustrative and are not exhaustive. There may be cases which fall outside of these examples and which are deemed unacceptable by the academic community.
Definitions and Examples of Dishonest Behavior
Plagiarism
It is a violation of academic honesty to submit plagiarized work. Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, asking someone to write part or all of an assignment, copying someone else's work (published or unpublished), inadequately documenting research, downloading material from electronic sources without appropriate documentation, or representing others' works or ideas as the student's own.
The student is responsible for understanding the legitimate and accurate use of sources, the appropriate ways of acknowledging and citing academic, scholarly or creative indebtedness, and the consequences of violating this responsibility.
Cheating on Examinations
It is a violation of academic integrity to cheat on an examination. Cheating on an examination includes, but is not limited to, giving or receiving unauthorized help before, during, or after an in-class or out-of-class examination. Examples of unauthorized help include using unauthorized notes during an examination, viewing another student's exam, and allowing another student to view one's exam.
Unauthorized Collaboration
It is a violation of academic honesty to submit for credit work which is the result of unauthorized collaboration. It is also a violation to provide unauthorized collaboration. Unauthorized collaboration includes giving or receiving unauthorized help for work that is required to be the effort of a single student, such as the receiving or giving of unauthorized assistance in the preparation of any academic or clinical laboratory assignment.
Falsification
It is a violation of academic honesty to falsify information or misrepresent material in an academic work. This includes, but is not limited to, the falsification of citations of sources, the falsification of experimental or survey results, and the falsification of computer or other data.
Multiple Submissions
It is a violation of academic honesty to submit substantial portions of the same work for credit more than once without the explicit consent of the instructor(s) to whom the work is submitted for additional credit. If a work product is to be substantially revised or updated, the student must contact the instructor in advance to discuss necessary revisions. The faculty member may require a copy of the original document for comparison purposes.
Obligations to Report Suspected Violations
Members of the academic community (students, faculty, administration, and staff) are expected to report suspected violations of these standards of academic conduct to the appropriate authority: the instructor, department chair, academic dean, or Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Evidence and Burden of Proof
In determining whether or not academic dishonesty has occurred, the standard which should be used is that guilt must be proven by the instructor with a preponderance of evidence. That is, it should appear to a reasonable and impartial mind that it is more likely than not that academic dishonesty has occurred.
Procedures for Resolving Matters of Academic Dishonesty
When an instructor believes that academic dishonesty has occurred, the instructor will inform the student that academic dishonesty is believed to have taken place. The instructor will explain to the student what the penalties will be should the guilt be proven by a preponderance of evidence. If the student maintains that academic dishonesty did not take place, the student should discuss the matter with the instructor and present evidence (if possible) demonstrating that the work was done in an honest manner. Should the instructor and student not resolve the matter, then they will bring the matter to the Department Chair. If the matter is not resolved at this level, then the matter will be brought to the Academic Dean. If the matter is still unresolved, it will be brought to the Vice President of Academic Affairs. The decision of the Vice President may be appealed to the President, who would then refer it to the Committee on Academic Grievance for its recommendation before rendering a decision. The President's decision is final and binding.
RAIN (Registration and Academic Information Network)
The Registration and Academic Information Network (RAIN) allows students to access their academic and financial records on-line. Students can view holds, midterm grades, final grades, academic transcripts, registration status, class schedules, curriculum sheets, as well as their Financial Aid status, Account Summaries and Fee Assessments. RAIN provides a convenient method for students and faculty to obtain information via the web. It is a secured site which is continually expanding to provide 24 hour access to all students. Information is routinely added to RAIN, including term-specific notices and deadlines. Students must access RAIN to receive grades for all courses since grade mailers are no longer produced. Instructions for access to RAIN can be found at www.gsw.edu or in the Registrar's Office.
The academic year is divided into two semesters (terms) of 15 weeks each and a summer term. New courses are begun each semester; hence, it is possible for students to enter the University at the beginning of any term.
Credit in courses is expressed in semester hours. Normally, a semester hour of credit represents one class hour of work per week for one semester, or an equivalent amount of work in other forms of instruction such as laboratory, studio, or field work. Most of the courses offered by the University meet three times per week for one semester and therefore carry three semester hours of credit.
Each academic course is designated by numerals. Courses are numbered according to the following plan:
| Freshman and Sophomore | 1000-2999 |
| Junior and Senior | 3000-4999 |
| Graduate | 5000-8999 |
| Courses numbered 0001 to 0999 are institutional credit courses. | |
GRADUATE STUDIES
- GRADUATE PROGRAMS AND ADMISSIONS
- APPLICATION DEADLINES
- TYPES OF ADMISSION
- INFORMATION FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
- SCHOOL OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
- THE MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM
- SCHOOL OF COMPUTING AND MATHEMATICS
- THE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE PROGRAM
- ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE
- SCHOOL OF EDUCATION
- THE MASTER OF EDUCATION PROGRAM
- THE SPECIALIST IN EDUCATION PROGRAM
- CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS
- NOT-FOR-PROFIT (NFP) CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
- ONLINE GRADUATE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM IN COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS (CIS)
GRADUATE PROGRAMS AND ADMISSIONS
Students wishing to make application to a graduate program at Georgia Southwestern State University must submit a complete admissions packet. Incomplete application packets will not be reviewed for admissions. Each school may have additional admission requirements as listed on the respective application check lists. The complete admissions packet is comprised of the following:
- Application for admission
- Non-refundable $25 application fee
- Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities*
- Official test scores
- Proof of immunizations
- Letters of recommendation
Students applying for a Master's Degree in Business or Computer Science who already hold a Master's Degree in another area may submit an application packet without test scores. Admission will be granted based on the grade point average earned for the previous Master's Degree. International students in this category must submit TOEFL scores.
Students applying for a Master of Education degree must also include:
- Proof of eligibility for T-4 certification
Applications to the Education Specialist degree must also include:
- Proof of eligibility for T-5 certification
* International students must meet additional requirements and should refer to the section below on International Student Admissions
Complete application packets for the following terms must be received by the deadlines listed below:
| Fall admission | May 31 | |
| Spring admission | October 15 | |
| Summer admission | March 15 |
Georgia Southwestern graduate programs provide advanced study in management, accounting, computer science, and education. The degrees of Education Specialist, Master of Education, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Science in Computer Science may be earned.
Students may earn the Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction with the following tracks: Early Childhood, Special Education and General Content. The Education Specialist degree in Learning and Leading offers the following tracks: Early Childhood, Special Education, and General Content.
The Master of Science in Computer Science degree offers a concentration in Computer Science or Computer Information Systems.
The Master of Business Administration offers the options of taking elective courses in accounting, management, or a combination of courses approved by the MBA advisor.
Admission to graduate studies is a prerequisite for enrollment in graduate courses. Courses numbered 5000 and above are graduate level courses. Education courses numbered 5000-5999 are for certification only. Education courses numbered 6000 to 7999 may be used in fifth year programs. Courses numbered 8000 and above are open only to fully admitted sixth year students. Students lacking the necessary preparation in business must take the appropriate 5000 level courses prior to beginning the Master's program in Business Administration. These courses may not be used to satisfy degree requirements for these programs.
Applicants who do not enroll in the term indicated on the application must inform the appropriate school of their plans and indicate a new date of entrance.
There are six general types of admission to graduate studies at Georgia Southwestern State University: Regular (without conditions or with conditions), Personal Development, Post Baccalaureate, Transient, and Certificate Program only. The six types are described below.
- Regular Admission (without conditions).An applicant in this category has completed all the requirements for admission to a specific degree program.
- Regular Admission (with conditions).An applicant who does not meet all the requirements for admission to a specific degree program may be admitted with the condition that he or she must complete nine (9) hours of graduate credit with a grade no lower than B. At the time the conditions are met, the student's record will be updated to reflect the change to regular admission without condition. If the conditions are not met (a grade lower than B in those nine hours), the student will be expelled from the graduate program.
- Personal Development.An applicant in this category must have a baccalaureate (undergraduate) degree from an accredited college or university. Graduate courses taken under this category cannot be applied towards a master's degree.
- Post Baccalaureate. An applicant in this category must have a baccalaureate (undergraduate) degree from an accredited college or university. This type of admission allows one to take graduate courses for credit without pursuing a graduate degree, i.e. satisfying graduate level pre-requisite course requirements, enrolling in coursework to increase the undergraduate grade point average, renewing teacher certification, or pursuing a graduate level certificate which is not a part of degree program. Students who wish to have certificate courses apply toward a degree program must meet admission requirements without condition. Under no circumstances can more than nine semester hours taken under post baccalaureate status be used in a master's degree program.
- Transient. An applicant who is currently admitted to full graduate standing at another recognized institution may be admitted as a graduate transient student, with permission from the home institution once official transcripts have been received. An applicant for transient admission must submit an application, application fee, official transcripts from the home institution and a letter of transient permission from the appropriate dean of the student's home institution.
- Certificate Program. An applicant seeking one of the certificate programs offered by the School of Business Administration or the School of Computing and Mathematics must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university, or the foreign equivalent thereof. Click the appropriate certificate listed under the school for specific admission requirements.
INFORMATION FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Georgia Southwestern State University welcomes applications from international students to its graduate degree programs.
In addition to requirements for admission to a graduate degree program listed elsewhere in this section, international students must submit the following items:
- Certified English translation of original transcripts from each institution previously attended. In cases where there is only one original copy, GSW will inspect the original copy, make a photocopy for the institutional records, and return the original to the applicant. A university/school official, embassy official, the University of Education or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, must certify English translations. Transcripts cannot be witnessed or verified by a notary public. Photocopies or faxes of evaluations or transcripts are not acceptable.
- All official international transcripts must have a foreign credential evaluation completed in English. Applications for this service can be obtained from the Graduate Admissions Office or from the following website: http://www.gsw.edu/international/index.html
- Certified copies of original diploma, degrees awarded and English translation of diploma, degrees awarded. The issuing institution must certify the degree certificate.
- An official report of scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A minimum score of 193 on the computerized test (523 on the paper test) is required for all types of admission to all graduate programs. Applicants who have received degrees from accredited institutions in the U.S. or from institutions in countries where English is the primary language are not usually required to submit TOEFL scores.
- A pre-entrance medical form (supplied by the University) completed by the student and a physician.
- Proof that the student is covered by a health and accident insurance plan annually.
- Upon acceptance into a graduate program, a certified statement from the student's family, bank, or government that finances are available to cover educational expenses for the international student. This statement must be received by Graduate Admissions in order for an I-20 visa to be issued. There are assistantships available to be awarded on a competitive basis to qualified students.
F-1 International Students
Georgia Southwestern State University is part of the Department of Homeland Security's Student Exchange and Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Through this system, the university has become a liaison between GSW international students and a number of government agencies. To meet federal obligations imposed by these agencies, Georgia Southwestern State University is required to report certain personal, academic, and employment related data on international students and scholars to the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration.
Georgia Southwestern State University is dedicated to enabling international students to accomplish their educational goals on our campus so long as the student maintains visa status and abides by the policies of the university. In an effort to assist students with immigration matters, each international student has been assigned a Designated School Official (DSO). All F-1 international students must consult a DSO before making any changes that will affect their immigration status. These changes include, but are not limited to, a change of major, a change of degree program, a change of address, a change of school, etc.
| Classification | Designated School Official (DSO) |
|---|---|
| Graduate Students | Mrs. Lois Oliver, Assistant Registrar |
F-1 international students will be required to attend an international student orientation session at the beginning of each semester. The orientation session will inform and remind students of general international regulations that may affect their stay in the United States. As part of the orientation, students will be issued an International Student Handbook to use as a reference for international questions and concerns.
Maintaining F-1 Visa Status
In order for international students to maintain a valid F-1 Visa status, the following conditions must be met:
- Maintain a valid passport at all times.
- Attend the University that the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration (BCIS) has authorized you to attend by stamping your I-20 when you entered the U.S., or by being notified of your transfer to another school.
- Continue to carry a full course of study (12 hours for undergraduate students, 9 hours for graduate students) each regular semester (fall and spring).
- Apply with your Designated School Official promptly for an extension of stay if you are unable to complete your program of study by the ending date on your I-20.
- Apply with your Designated School Official for proper documentation to notify BCIS of a change of education level and/or a change in major.
- Do not change schools without first contacting your Designated School Official for proper documentation.
- Do not engage in any employment without proper authorization.
- Limit on-campus employment to 20 hours per week while school is in session.
- Report a change of address to the DSO and the Registrar's Office within 10 days of the change.
- Carry approved health insurance coverage.
- Request travel documents from your DSO in advance of leaving the U.S.
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
The School of Business Administration is accredited by AACSB International - The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. AACSB accreditation is the hallmark of excellence in business education and has been earned by less than five percent of the world's business schools. AACSB International is located at 777 South Harbour Island Boulevard, Suite 750, Tampa, FL 33602-5730 USA, telephone number 813-769-6500 and fax number 813-769-6559 (www.aacsb.edu).
The School of Business Administration has also received accreditation from the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The Association is located at 7007 College Boulevard, Suite 420, Overland, KS 66211, USA, telephone number 913-339-9356, and fax number 913-339-6226.
VISION STATEMENT
A premier School of Business Administration within the University System of Georgia offering undergraduate and graduate programs in business.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the School of Business Administration is to provide its diverse student population quality undergraduate and graduate-level educational programs that produce graduates with the knowledge and skills to help them excel in their business careers, further academic studies, and fulfill their personal potential. The School strives to enhance students' academic experience through relevant faculty teaching activities, community service, applied scholarly endeavors relevant to the southwest Georgia region, and professional activities. This commitment includes abiding by the following standards:
- Honesty and integrity in interactions and undertakings
- Respect for the rights, differences, and dignity of others
- Accountability for personal behavior
THE MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM (MBA)
The MBA program has strong business training that integrates knowledge from various functional areas, the expertise of our faculty and the real-world experience of our students. It reinforces strong values, ethics and service and acknowledges the multicultural influences driving today's market. Our program is based on developing key competencies that will help build a lifetime of success. The MBA degree program in business educates students in a broad range of knowledge and skills including finance, ethics, international business, management and marketing as a basis for careers as successful managers. Students achieve knowledge and skills for successful performance in a complex environment requiring intellectual ability to organize work, make and communicate sound decisions, and react successfully to unanticipated events. The program has been designed to promote career development and help students build personal and leadership skills.
The academic program consists of a minimum of 30 graduate semester credit hours in business-related courses. The curriculum consists of eight core courses and two elective courses. In addition, there are several prerequisite foundation courses. For applicants whose undergraduate degrees were in business-related fields, these foundation course prerequisites will typically already have been met.
Applicants whose academic record does not include the foundation courses will be required to complete these prerequisites before being admitted into the MBA program.
APPROACHES TO ASSURANCE OF LEARNING
There are three direct assessment methods to assure that the school is meeting the learning objectives: selection, course-embedded measurement, and stand-alone testing or performance.
The selection process in recruiting students in the School of Business Administration complies with the University standards.
The School of Business Administration uses the following assessment methods:
- course-embedded measurements
- standardized tests (ETS Major Field Test)
- EBI exit survey (indirect method)
GOALS
The learning goals describe the desired educational accomplishments of the MBA degree program. These goals will state the broad educational expectations for the MBA degree program and will specify the intellectual and behavioral competencies the program is intended to instill. By developing operational definitions of the goals and assessing student performance, the school measures its level of success at accomplishing the goals.
General knowledge and skills areas for the MBA program are:
- Business Knowledge
- Communication (Oral and Written)
- Ethical Reasoning
- Critical Thinking / Analytical Skills
- Globalization and Diversity
- Leadership and Teamwork
Based on these knowledge and skills areas the following goals and corresponding objectives are established. The learning objectives for each one of the goals establish the way the learning goals are achieved. At the same time, these objectives describe a measurable attribute of the overall learning goal.
LEARNING GOAL 1: Our graduates will have core business knowledge.
Corresponding Objectives:
- Our students will apply specific knowledge in business to solve a related problem.
LEARNING GOAL 2: Our graduates will be effective communicators.
Corresponding Objectives:
LEARNING GOAL 3: Our graduates will understand the importance of behaving ethically in their professional lives.
Corresponding Objectives:
LEARNING GOAL 4: Our graduates will demonstrate problem solving skills, supported by appropriate analytical, critical thinking, and quantitative techniques.
Corresponding Objectives:
LEARNING GOAL 5: Our graduates will have a global perspective.
Corresponding Objectives:
LEARNING GOAL 6: Our graduates will be able to work in teams and exhibit leadership.
Corresponding Objectives:
Admission Requirements
Admission to the graduate program in business administration is limited to holders of a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution. Admission will be granted only to students showing high promise of success in graduate study. The candidate's performance on the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) and the candidate's undergraduate academic record will be used to determine admission status.
The completed application packet, including all supporting documentation, must be received by the Graduate Admissions Office by the deadlines published in the University's academic calendar. Applicants may apply for admittance during any semester.
The formulas to determine the student's admission status are
- GMAT score + (200 x the student's undergraduate GPA*) or
- GMAT score + (200 x the student's GPA in all upper-division undergraduate courses) or
- GRE score + (200 x the student's undergraduate GPA*) or
- GRE score + (200 x the student's GPA in all upper-division undergraduate courses)
- *Grade Point Average (GPA) is based on a four point scale as reported on the official final transcripts from all institutions attended.
Students applying for a Master's Degree in Business or Computer Science who already hold a Master's Degree in another area may submit an application packet without test scores. Admission will be granted based on the grade point average earned for the previous Master's Degree. International students in this category must submit TOEFL scores.
Regular Admission (without conditions)
Students who score 950 or higher using formula (a) or who score 1,000 or higher using formula (b) or 1,300 or higher using formula (c) or 1,350 or higher using formula (d), and who have fulfilled the prerequisite course requirements will be admitted as a regular graduate student.
EXEMPTIONS: Applicants who have already earned a previous Master's degree are not required to take the GMAT or GRE for admission.
Regular Admission (with conditions)
Students who score 850 or higher using formula (a) or who score 900 or higher using formula (b) or 1,200 or higher using formula (c) or 1,250 or higher using formula (d) will be admitted as conditional graduate students.
To exit conditional status, students must have completed all undergraduate prerequisite course requirements and must have maintained a minimum grade point average of 3.00 with no grade below a "B" in the first 9 semester hours of master's level courses taken while classified as a conditional graduate student. The student may then be admitted as a regular student, subject to the approval by the Dean of the School of Business.
Click HERE to apply to the School of Business Administration.
Academic Standards
Students pursuing a Master's degree must maintain the following standards:
- A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better
- Only two courses with grades of C can be applied to the degree
- No course with a grade below a C will be applied toward a degree
- In any graduate degree program, all requirements, including course work at Georgia Southwestern State University, transfer credit and transient credit course work, must be completed within seven (7) calendar years from the date of initial enrollment in course work, without regard to the initial admission status and without regard to credit hours earned.
Each School with a Graduate Program may have other academic requirements; please check the School web site or the appropriate section of the current Bulletin.
Students under Review
Graduate students who fail to maintain academic standards will be placed under academic review at the end of the semester in which their status falls below the required standards.
- Students who have been placed under review will have early registration cancelled for the following semester. These students will not be able to register on-line and must report to their advisor.
- The Registrar will send the names of students under review to the Director of Graduate Studies, the Deans of each School, the Department Chairs with graduate courses, and the graduate advisors.
- Students under review must meet with their advisor to develop a remediation plan to demonstrate how the student can be returned to good standing. The plan will be forwarded to the Dean of the School for his or her signature before being placed in the student's file. A copy of the form will also be sent to the Director of Graduate Studies and to the Registrar's Office.
- At the end of the probationary semester, if the student is not successful in returning to good standing, the Dean of the School, in consultation with the Director of Graduate Studies, will send a certified letter of dismissal to the student with a copy to the student's advisor, the Director of Graduate Studies, and the Registrar's Office.
- Graduate students who are dismissed from the School may write a letter of appeal within ten class days from the receipt of the dismissal letter to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Students re-admitted on appeal will have one additional semester to return to good academic standing.
- Re-admitted students who do not return to good standing after the initial probationary semester will be dismissed from the program and the university.
- Dismissed graduate students may re-apply for admission to the program after three calendar years. If the student is re-admitted, he or she must meet all requirements for the degree program at the time of re-enrollment. The years completed prior to dismissal will count towards the total seven (7) years to complete the degree. Re-admission is not automatic. Each application will be considered individually.
Application for Graduation
Each student admitted to the MBA program must make application for graduation one semester prior to completing degree requirements. Application deadlines are as follows and application forms are available in the Registrar's Office as well as on RAIN.
CURRICULUM
Students pursuing the Master of Business Administration should refer to the attached curriculum sheet and program requirements.
Click HERE for Curriculum Sheet and Requirements.
NOT-FOR-PROFIT (NFP) CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
The certificate program in not-for-profit management is a graduate level certification program. The program intends to provide managers of not-for-profit organizations the management, leadership, and analytical skills necessary for effective management of these organizations.
Admission Requirements
Certificate program applicants may be admitted to pursue up to four (4) graduate courses designated for the NFP certificate program without being admitted to the MBA program at Georgia Southwestern State University. These students are categorized as Certificate Admission students.
To be granted Certificate Admission status, a student must have a U.S. bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university, or the foreign equivalent thereof. Certificate Admission students must continuously maintain a GPA of 3.0 or better to remain in the program.
To be admitted to the MBA program after completing a certificate program, a student must meet the admission requirements for the MBA. These students may use all four courses taken in the NFP certificate program to meet the requirements for the MBA program.
Students pursuing the NFP certificate should refer to the attached curriculum sheet and program requirements.
Click HERE for Curriculum Sheet and Requirements.
SCHOOL OF COMPUTING AND MATHEMATICS
THE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE PROGRAM
Georgia Southwestern State University grants the degree Master of Science in Computer Science with options in Computer Science and Computer Information Systems.
These Master of Science degree programs are designed to serve two purposes:
- As a "Professional" program allowing computer professionals in industry to upgrade their skills.
- As an "Academic" program allowing capable computer scientists to prepare for the terminal degree.
These programs are an excellent foundation for a career in industry or academia.
The academic program consists of a minimum of 36 graduate semester credit hours. The curriculum consists of eight core courses and four elective courses. Students will have the option of selecting their elective courses in computer science, computer information system, or a combination of the courses. In addition, there are several prerequisite foundation courses. For applicants whose undergraduate degrees are in computer related fields, these foundation course prerequisites will typically already have been met.
Applicants whose academic record does not include the foundation courses will be required to complete these prerequisites before being admitted into the graduate program as a regular student.
Admission Requirements
The completed application packet, including all supporting documentation, must be received by the Graduate Admissions Office by the deadlines published in the University's academic calendar. Applicants may apply for admittance during any semester.
Regular Admission (without conditions)
Students who meets following admission requirements and who have fulfilled the prerequisite course requirements will be admitted as a regular graduate student.
- An undergraduate degree from an accredited college.
- A minimum of 2.5 undergraduate grade point average (GPA) based on a 4.0 scale as reported on the official final transcripts from all institutions attended.
- A minimum of 3.0 GPA on all previous graduate work attempted.
- A minimum total of 800 on the verbal and quantitative subtests of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
- Three letters of reference.
EXEMPTIONS: Applicants who have earned a master's degree from an accredited university are exempted from a requirement of a GRE score and can be admitted into the program based on a graduate GPA.
Regular Admission (with conditions)
Students seeking a degree through graduate study who do not meet the requirements for regular admission without conditions may be admitted with conditions. Students who meet the following admission requirements will be admitted as conditional graduate students.
- An undergraduate degree from an accredited college.
- A minimum of 2.2 but less than 2.5 undergraduate grade point average (GPA) based on a 4.0 scale as reported on the official final transcripts from all institutions attended.
- A minimum of 2.75 but less than 3.0 graduate grade point average (GPA) based on a 4.0 scale as reported on the official final transcripts from all institutions attended.
- A minimum total of 800 on the verbal and quantitative subtests of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
- Three letters of reference.
To exit conditional status, students must have completed all undergraduate prerequisite course requirements and must have maintained a minimum grade point average of 3.00 with no grade below a "B" in the first 9 semester hours of master's level courses taken while classified as a conditional graduate student. The student may then be admitted as a regular student, subject to the approval by the Dean of the School of Computing and Mathematics.
EXEMPTIONS: Applicants who have earned a master's degree from an accredited university are exempted from a requirement of a GRE score and can be admitted into the program based on a graduate GPA.
ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE
The primary goal of this program is to provide opportunity to large numbers of students who wish to pursue master program and are looking for fully online degree program. Employees of a number of local and regional employers have sought convenience of attending university while taking a full time employment.
Admission Requirements
All requirements for admission to the Online Graduate Program are same as those mentioned above for the on-campus degree program.
EXEMPTIONS: Applicants who have earned a master's degree from an accredited university are exempted from a requirement of a GRE score and can be admitted into the program based on a graduate GPA.
ONLINE GRADUATE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM IN COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS (CIS)
The primary goal of this program is to give instructors from two-year colleges and technical colleges the opportunity to obtain 18 hours of graduate course work in their teaching field (CIS). The program was created for instructors, but not limited only to them. The certificate program includes courses like Data Mining, Distributed Web Applications, etc. which reflects a current industry trend.
Admission Requirements
All requirements for admission to the Online Graduate Certificate Program in CIS are same as those mentioned above for the on-campus degree program.
EXEMPTIONS: Applicants who have earned a master's degree from an accredited university are exempted from a requirement of a GRE score and can be admitted into the program based on a graduate GPA.
Click HERE to apply to any of the above programs in the School of Computing and Mathematics
Academic Standards
Students pursuing a Master's degree must maintain the following standards:
- A 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
- A maximum of 6 credit hours with a grade of "C" may be used to satisfy program requirements.
- No courses with a grade of "D" may be used to satisfy program requirements.
- In any graduate degree program, all requirements, including course work at Georgia Southwestern State University, transfer credit and transient credit course work, must be completed within seven (7) calendar years from the date of initial enrollment in course work, without regard to the initial admission status and without regard to credit hours earned.
Graduate students who fail to maintain academic standards will be placed under academic review at the end of the semester in which their status falls below the required standards.
Students under Review
- Students who have been placed under review will have early registration cancelled for the following semester. These students will not be able to register on-line and must report to their advisor.
- The Registrar will send the names of students under review to the Director of Graduate Studies, the Deans of each School, the Department Chairs with graduate courses, and the graduate advisors.
- Students under review must meet with their advisor to develop a remediation plan to demonstrate how the student can be returned to good standing. The plan will be forwarded to the Dean of the School for his or her signature before being placed in the student's file. A copy of the form will also be sent to the Director of Graduate Studies and to the Registrar's Office.
- At the end of the probationary semester, if the student is not successful in returning to good standing, the Dean of the School, in consultation with the Director of Graduate Studies, will send a certified letter of dismissal to the student with a copy to the student's advisor, the Director of Graduate Studies, and the Registrar's Office.
- Graduate students who are dismissed from the School may write a letter of appeal within ten class days from the receipt of the dismissal letter to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Students re-admitted on appeal will have one additional semester to return to good academic standing.
- Re-admitted students who do not return to good standing after the initial probationary semester will be dismissed from the program and the university.
- Dismissed graduate students may re-apply for admission to the program after three calendar years. If the student is re-admitted, he or she must meet all requirements for the degree program at the time of re-enrollment. The years completed prior to dismissal will count towards the total seven (7) years to complete the degree. Re-admission is not automatic. Each application will be considered individually.
Students pursuing a Master's Degree in Computer Science should refer to the attached curriculum sheet and program requirements.
Click HERE for Curriculum Sheet and Requirements for MS (Computer Science).
Click HERE for Curriculum Sheet and Requirements for Online MS (Computer Science).
Click HERE for Curriculum Sheet and Requirements for Online Graduate Certificate in CIS.
Application for Graduation
Each student admitted to the MS (CS) program must make application for graduation one semester prior to completing degree requirements. Application deadlines are as follows and application forms are available in the Registrar's Office as well as on RAIN.
| Graduation Term | Apply no later than the date below of the prior semester |
|---|---|
| Fall | May 1 |
| Spring | August 1 |
| Summer | January 1 |
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the School of Education is to prepare effective teachers who demonstrate the essential knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to promote student achievement.
The School of Education is committed to:
- Developing leaders in education who have the essential knowledge, skills, and dispositions to make skilled, reflective decisions and who view student learning as the focus for their work.
- Motivating life-long learning to adapt to the evolving needs of a global society and its diverse populations through high quality programs based upon exemplary instruction, knowledge of content, emergent technologies, and relevant research.
- Developing candidates who accurately assess, reflect and make appropriate decisions about instruction resulting in achievement for all learners.
- Professional collaboration with families, schools, community partners, and others to improve the preparation of candidates and the effectiveness of practicing teachers.
The School of Education endorses the mission statement of Georgia Southwestern State University and envisions its mission within the context of those principles.
Georgia Southwestern State University offers graduate study leading to the Master of Education degree for students seeking advancement in careers, additional study in a chosen field, greater personal satisfaction and financial rewards.
Holders of graduate degrees are in a favorable market for prime positions in education and education-related careers.
Student Learning Outcomes
The Master of Education degree program is designed to produce teachers who demonstrate:
- a commitment to pupils and pupil learning.
- knowledge of the subjects they teach and how to teach those subjects to pupils.
- a responsibility for managing and monitoring pupil learning.
- evaluation of their practice and learning from their experiences.
- their commitment as members of learning communities.
The Master of Education degree program requires a minimum of thirty-six semester hours of course work, including teaching field courses, professional core courses, seminars and practica.
Admission Requirements for the Master of Education Program
Students seeking a degree through graduate study must apply for regular admission. Individuals who already hold a master's degree must meet regular admissions requirements for a second master's degree. Requirements for regular admission follow:
Regular Admission (without conditions)
- Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university
- Eligibility for Clear Renewable Georgia T-4 teaching certificate.
- A minimum of 2.5 undergraduate grade point average as reported on the official final transcripts from all accredited institutions attended.
- Two confidential Administrative Recommendation Forms) one from a Supervising Principal and one from another school administrator (Assistant Principal, Department Chair, Lead Teacher.
Applicants meeting minimum requirements for regular admission (without conditions) will be considered. Acceptance is not guaranteed. The School of Education seeks the most qualified applicants to its graduate degree cohort programs.
NOTE: There is no Regular Admissions (with conditions) to the Master of Education degree program.
Those students denied admission may submit an appeal of the decision to the Dean of the School of Education.
Click HERE to apply to the School of Education
Academic Standards (Master of Education)
Candidates for the Master of Education degree must meet the following standards.
- A 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale is required in all courses attempted to satisfy degree requirements.
- Not more than 6 hours with a grade of C may be used to satisfy degree requirements.
- A grade of D may not be used to satisfy degree requirements.
- In any graduate degree program, all degree requirements must be completed within seven (7) calendar years from the date of initial enrollment in course work, without regard to the initial admission status and without regard to credit hours earned.
- A grade of I may be given in extenuating circumstances. If a grade of I is not removed before the end of the following semester, it automatically becomes an F.
Students under Review
Graduate students who fail to maintain academic standards will be placed under academic review at the end of the semester in which their status falls below the required standards.
- Students who have been placed under review will have early registration cancelled for the following semester. These students will not be able to register on-line and must report to their advisor.
- The Registrar will send the names of students under review to the Director of Graduate Studies, the Deans of each School, the Department Chairs with graduate courses, and the graduate advisors.
- Students under review must meet with their advisor to develop an Individual Remediation Plan (IRP) to demonstrate how the student can be returned to good standing. The plan will be forwarded to the Dean of the School for his or her signature before being placed in the student's file. A copy of the form will also be sent to the Director of Graduate Studies and to the Registrar's Office.
- At the end of the probationary semester, if the student is not successful in returning to good standing, the Dean of the School, in consultation with the Director of Graduate Studies, will send a certified letter of dismissal to the student with a copy to the student's advisor, the Director of Graduate Studies, and the Registrar's Office.
- Graduate students who are dismissed from the School may write a letter of appeal within ten class days from the receipt of the dismissal letter to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Students re-admitted on appeal will have one additional semester to return to good academic standing.
- Re-admitted students who do not return to good standing after the initial probationary semester will be dismissed from the program and the university.
- Dismissed graduate students may re-apply for admission to the program after three calendar years. If the student is re-admitted, he or she must meet all requirements for the degree program at the time of re-enrollment. The years completed prior to dismissal will count towards the total seven (7) years to complete the degree. Re-admission is not automatic. Each application will be considered individually.
Application for Graduation (Master of Education)
Each student admitted to the Master of Education program must file an application for graduation one semester prior to completing degree requirements. Application deadlines are as follows and application forms are available in the Registrar's Office as well as on RAIN.
| Graduation Term | Apply no later than the date below of the prior semester |
|---|---|
| Fall | May 1 |
| Spring | August 1 |
| Summer | January 1 |
Graduate Programs
MASTER OF EDUCATION IN CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION
The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction offers the following tracks: Early Childhood, Special Education, and General Content.
- Early Childhood Education Track. This track is for individuals who hold Clear Renewable Georgia T4 teacher certification in Early Childhood.
- Special Education Track. This track is for individuals who hold Clear Renewable Georgia T4 teacher certification in Special Education.
- General Content Track. This track is for individuals who hold Clear Renewable Georgia T4 teacher certification in fields other than Early Childhood and Special Education.
Click HERE for Curriculum Sheet and Requirements (Master of Education).
For positions of leadership in teaching, for advanced knowledge in the field, and personal and professional enrichment, the Education Specialist degrees provides an avenue for opportunities in public and private school systems, two-year colleges and various agencies.
Student Learning Outcomes
The Education Specialist degree program is designed to produce teachers who:
- are committed to pupils and their learning.
- know the subjects they teach and how to teach those subjects to pupils.
- are responsible for managing and monitoring pupil learning.
- think systematically about their practice and learn from experience.
- are members of learning communities.
The Education Specialist degree program requires a minimum of thirty semester hours of course work, including professional core courses, seminars, and practica.
Admission Requirements
- Master's degree from an accredited college or university.
- Eligibility for Clear Renewable Georgia T-5 teaching certificate.
- A minimum of 3.00 overall graduate grade point average as reported on the official final transcripts from all accredited institutions attended.
- A minimum of one year acceptable teaching experience.
- Submission of scores from the Graduate Records Exam (GRE). A minimum of 3.5 on the Writing portion is required.
- Two confidential Administrative Recommendation Forms (one from a Supervising Principal and one from another school administrator (Assistant Principal, Department Chair, Lead Teacher).
Applicants meeting minimum requirements for regular admission (without conditions) will be considered. Acceptance is not guaranteed. The School of Education seeks the most qualified applicants to its graduate degree cohort programs.
NOTE: There is no Regular Admission (With Conditions) to the Education Specialist degree program.
Those students denied admission may submit an appeal of the decision to the Dean of the School of Education.
Click HERE to apply to the School of Education
Academic Standards
Candidates for the Education Specialist degree must meet the following standards:
- A 3.25 grade point average on a 4.0 scale is required in all courses attempted to satisfy degree requirements.
- No grade less than a B may be used to satisfy degree requirements.
- A student who earns two grades of C or less will be dropped from the program.
- A course where the student earned a C or less may be repeated only once.
- In any graduate degree program, all degree requirements must be completed within seven (7) calendar years from the date of initial enrollment in course work, without regard to the initial admission status and without regard to credit hours earned.
Students under Review
Graduate students who fail to maintain academic standards will be placed under academic review at the end of the semester in which their status falls below the required standards.
- Students who have been placed under review will have early registration cancelled for the following semester. These students will not be able to register on-line and must report to their advisor.
- The Registrar will send the names of students under review to the Director of Graduate Studies, the Deans of each School, the Department Chairs with graduate courses, and the graduate advisors.
- Students under review must meet with their advisor to develop an Individual Remediation Plan (IRP) to demonstrate how the student can be returned to good standing. The plan will be forwarded to the Dean of the School for his or her signature before being placed in the student's file. A copy of the form will also be sent to the Director of Graduate Studies and to the Registrar's Office.
- At the end of the probationary semester, if the student is not successful in returning to good standing, the Dean of the School, in consultation with the Director of Graduate Studies, will send a certified letter of dismissal to the student with a copy to the student's advisor, the Director of Graduate Studies, and the Registrar's Office.
- Graduate students who are dismissed from the School may write a letter of appeal within ten class days from the receipt of the dismissal letter to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Students re-admitted on appeal will have one additional semester to return to good academic standing.
- Re-admitted students who do not return to good standing after the initial probationary semester will be dismissed from the program and the university.
- Dismissed graduate students may re-apply for admission to the program after three calendar years. If the student is re-admitted, he or she must meet all requirements for the degree program at the time of re-enrollment. The years completed prior to dismissal will count towards the total seven (7) years to complete the degree. Re-admission is not automatic. Each application will be considered individually.
Application for Graduation (Education Specialist)
Each student admitted to a Specialist in Education program must make application for graduation one semester prior to completing degree requirements. Application deadlines are as follows and application forms are available in the Registrar's Office as well as on RAIN.
| Graduation Term | Apply no later than the date below of the prior semester |
|---|---|
| Fall | May 1 |
| Spring | August 1 |
| Summer | January 1 |
Specialist Programs
EDUCATION SPECIALIST IN LEARNING AND LEADING
For positions of leadership in teaching, for advanced knowledge in the field, and personal and professional enrichment, the Education Specialist degree provides an avenue for opportunities in public and private school systems, two-year colleges and various agencies.
The Education Specialist Degree in Learning and Leading offers the following tracks: Early Childhood, Special Education, and General Content.
- Early Childhood Education Track. This track is for individuals who hold Clear Renewable Georgia T5 teacher certification in Early Childhood.
- Special Education Track. This track is for individuals who hold Clear Renewable Georgia T5 teacher certification in Special Education.
- General Content Track. This track is for individuals who hold Clear Renewable Georgia T5 teacher certification in fields other than Early Childhood and Special Education.
Student Learning Outcomes
The Education Specialist degree program is designed to produce teachers who:
- are committed to pupils and their learning.
- know the subjects they teach and how to teach those subjects to pupils.
- are responsible for managing and monitoring pupil learning.
- think systematically about their practice and learn from experience.
- are members of learning communities.
The Education Specialist degree program requires a minimum of thirty semester hours of course work, including professional core courses, seminars, and practica.
Admission Requirements
- Master's degree from an accredited college or university.
- Eligibility for Clear Renewable Georgia T-5 teaching certificate.
- A minimum of 3.00 overall graduate grade point average as reported on the official final transcripts from all accredited institutions attended.
- A minimum of one year acceptable teaching experience.
- Submission of scores from the Graduate Records Exam (GRE).
- Two confidential Administrative Recommendation Forms (one from a Supervising Principal and one from another school administrator (Assistant Principal, Department Chair, Lead Teacher).
Applicants meeting minimum requirements for regular admission (without conditions) will be considered. Acceptance is not guaranteed. The School of Education seeks the most qualified applicants to its graduate degree cohort programs.
NOTE: There is no Regular Admission (With Conditions) to the Education Specialist degree program.
Those students denied admission may submit an appeal of the decision to the Dean of the School of Education.
Click HERE to apply to the School of Education
Click HERE for Curriculum Sheet and Specific Course Requirements (Specialist in Education).
THE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF GEORGIA
The University System of Georgia includes all state-operated institutions of higher education in Georgia-4 research universities, 2 regional universities, 13 state universities, 15 associate degree colleges. These 34 public institutions are located throughout the state.
A 15-member constitutional Board of Regents governs the University System, which has been in operation since 1932. Appointments of Board members are made by the Governor, subject to confirmation by the State Senate. Regular terms of Board members are seven years.
The Chair, Vice Chair, and other officers of the Board of Regents are elected by the members of the Board. The Chancellor, who is not a Board member, is the chief executive officer of the Board and the chief administrative officer of the University System.
The overall programs and services of the University System are offered through three major components: Instruction; Public Service/ Continuing Education; Research.
INSTRUCTION consists of programs of study leading toward degrees, ranging from the associate (two-year) level to the doctoral level, and certificates.
Standards for admission of students to instructional programs at each institution are determined, pursuant to policies of the Board of Regents, by the institution. The Board establishes minimum standards and leaves to each institution the prerogative to establish higher standards. Applications for admission should be addressed to the institutions.
PUBLIC SERVICE/CONTINUING EDUCATION consists of non-degree activities, primarily, and special types of college degree-credit courses. The non-degree activities include short courses, seminars, conferences, and consultative and advisory services in many areas of interest. Typical college degree-credit courses are those offered through extension center programs and teacher education consortiums.
RESEARCH encompasses scholarly investigations conducted for discovery and application of knowledge. Most of the research is conducted through the research universities; however, some of it is conducted through several of the regional and state universities. The research investigations cover matters related to the educational objectives of the institutions and to general social needs.
The policies of the Board of Regents provide a high degree of autonomy for each institution. The executive head of each institution is the President, whose election is recommended by the Chancellor and approved by the Board.
BOARD OF REGENTS
University System of Georgia
270 Washington Street, S.W., Atlanta 30334-1450
Members of the Board of Regents
| Term Expires | |
| Kenneth R. Bernard, Jr, Douglasville | 2014 |
| James A. Bishop, Brunswick | 2011 |
| Hugh A. Carter, Jr., Atlanta | 2009 |
| William H. Cleveland, Atlanta - Chair | 2009 |
| Robert Hatcher, Macon | 2013 |
| Felton Jenkins, Madison | 2013 |
| W. Mansfield Jennings, Jr., Hawkinsville | 2010 |
| James R. Jolly, Dalton | 2015 |
| Donald M. Leebern, Jr., Atlanta | 2012 |
| Eldridge W. McMillan, Atlanta | 2010 |
| William NeSmith, Jr., Athens | 2015 |
| Doreen S. Poitevint, Bainbridge | 2011 |
| Willis J. Potts Jr., Rome | 2013 |
| Wanda Yancey Rodwell, Stone Mountain | 2012 |
| Kessel Stelling, Jr., Alpharetta | 2015 |
| Benjamin Tarbutton III, Sandersville | 2013 |
| Richard L. Tucker, Lawrenceville | 2012 |
| Allan Vigil, Morrow - Chair | 2010 |
University System Office Administrative Personnel
of the Board of Regents
| Dr. Errol B. Davis, Jr., Chancellor |
| Ms. Demetra Morgan, Executive Assistant to the Chancellor |
| Mr. Rob Watts, Chief Operating Officer |
| Ms. Julia Murphy, Secretary to the Board |
| Ms. Lyndell Robinson, Associate Secretary to the Board |
| Mr. Ronald B. Stark, Associate Vice Chancellor, Internal Audit |
| Ms. Elizabeth E. Neely, Associate Vice Chancellor, Legal Affairs |
| Mr. J. Burns Newsome, Assistant Vice Chancellor, Legal Affairs (Prevention) |
| Mr. Daryl Griswold, Assistant Vice Chancellor, Legal Affairs (Contracts) |
| Ms. Dorothy Roberts, Interim Associate Vice Chancellor for Human Resources |
| Dr. Lamar Veatch, Asst. Vice Chancellor, Georgia Public Library Service |
| Ms. Linda M. Daniels, Vice Chancellor, Facilities |
| Mr. Peter J. Hickey, Acting Asst. Vice Chancellor, Design & Construction |
| Ms. Sharon Brittain, Acting Vice Chancellor, Design & Construction |
| Mr. Alan Travis, Director, Planning |
| Mr. Mark Demyanek, Director, Environmental Safety |
| Mr. William Bowes, Vice Chancellor, Office of Fiscal Affairs |
| Ms. Usha Ramachandran, Assistant Vice Chancellor, Fiscal Affairs |
| Mr. David Dickerson, Asst. Budget Director |
| Ms. Sherea Frazier, Executive Director, Human Resources, Payroll and Benefits |
| Ms. Debra Lasher, Executive Director, Business & Financial Affairs |
| Mr. Mike McClearn, Director, University System Purchasing |
| Ms. Shannon South, Assistant Director, Financial Systems & Services |
| Dr. Beheruz N. Sethna, Interim Senior Vice Chancellor, Office of Academic & Fiscal Affairs |
| Dr. Sandra Stone, Vice Chancellor, Academic Planning and Programs |
| Dr. Daniel W. Rahn, M.D., Sr. Vice Chancellor, Hlth & Medical Programs & President MCG |
| Dr. Bettie Horne, Interim Vice Chancellor for Faculty Affairs |
| Ms. Tonya Lam, Associate Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs |
| Ms. Marci Middleton, Director, Academic Program Coordination |
| Dr. Jan Kettlewell, Associate Vice Chancellor, P-16 Initiatives, Exec. Dir., USG Foundation |
| Dr. Dorothy Zinsmeister, Asst. Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs/Assoc. Dir. For Higher Education, PRISM Initiative |
| Dr. Richard C. Sutton, Senior Advisor for Academic Affairs and Director, International Programs |
| Dr. Cathie M. Hudson, Associate Vice Chancellor, Strategic Research & Analysis |
| Dr. Anoush Pisani, Senior Research Associate |
| Dr. Susan Campbell, Policy Research Associate |
| Dr. Tom Maier, Interim Vice Chancellor, Information & Instructional Technology,/CIO |
| Mr. Jim Flowers, Special Assistant to the CIO |
| Dr. Kris Biesinger, Assistant Vice Chancellor, Advanced Learning Technologies |
| Ms. Diane Chubb, Assoc. Director, Special Projects |
| Dr. Brian Finnegan, Director, Emerging Instructional Technologies |
| Dr. Catherine Finnegan, Director, Assessment & Public Information |
| Dr. Michael Rogers, Assoc. Director, Instructional Design & Development |
| Mr. David Disney, Director, Customer Services |
| Mr. John Graham, Executive Director, Enterprise Application Systems |
| Mr. Matthew Kuchinski, Director, System Office Systems Support |
| Mr. Ray Lee, Director, Information & Web Services |
| Ms. Merryll Penson, Executive Director, Library Services |
| Mr. John Scoville, Executive Director, Enterprise Infrastructure Services |
| Dr. Jessica Somers, Exec. Director, Academic Innovation |
| Ms. Lisa Striplin, Director, Administrative Services |
| Mr. Tom Daniel, Senior Vice Chancellor, Office of External Activities |
| Ms. Joy Hymel, Asst. Vice Chancellor, Office of Economic Development |
| Ms. Terry Durden, Director, ICAPP Operations |
| Mr. John Millsaps, Assistant Vice Chancellor, Media & Publications |
| Ms. Diane Payne, Director, Publications |
HEADS OF THE INSTITUTION
| 1907-1908 | W. C. Acree, Principal, Third District Agricultural and Mechanical School |
| 1908-1921 | John M. Collum, Principal, Third District Agricultural and Mechanical School |
| 1921-1934 | John Monroe Prance, Georgia Southwestern College |
| 1921-1926 Principal, Third District Agricultural and Mechanical School | |
| 1926-1932 President, Agricultural and Normal College | |
| 1932-1934 President, Georgia Southwestern College | |
| 1934-1948 | Peyton Jacob, President, Georgia Southwestern College |
| 1948-1950 | Henry King Stanford, President, Georgia Southwestern College |
| 1950-1963 | Lloyd A. Moll, President, Georgia Southwestern College |
| 1963-1978 | William B. King, President, Georgia Southwestern College |
| 1978-1979 | Harold T. Johnson, Acting President, Georgia Southwestern College |
| 1979-1995 | William H. Capitan, President, Georgia Southwestern College |
| 1996-1996 | Joan M. Lord, Acting President, Georgia Southwestern College |
| 1996-2007 | Michael L. Hanes, President, Georgia Southwestern State University |
| 2007- | Kendall A. Blanchard, President, Georgia Southwestern State University |
OFFICERS OF ADMINISTRATION
| Kendall A. Blanchard | President |
| Brian U. Adler | Professor and Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty |
| W. Cody King | Vice President for Business and Finance |
| Samuel T. Miller | Vice President for Student Affairs |
| Jaclyn E. Kaylor | Director of Athletics |
| Janet L. Siders | Director of Human Resources and Affirmative Action Officer |
| ADMINISTRATIVE PERSONNEL | |
| A. Randolph Barksdale | Special Assistant to the President |
| Richard C. Birkel | Executive Director of the Rosalynn Carter Institute |
| Annie Brown | Director of Student Health Services |
| Angela V. Bryant | Director of Student Financial Aid |
| Oris W. Bryant, Jr. | Director of Public Safety |
| Gaynor G. Cheokas | Director of the Center for Business and Economic Development |
| Arthur B. Clark | Director of Environmental Health & Safety |
| Kim Comer | Alumni Affairs Coordinator/Gifts Processor |
| Lisa A. Cooper | Director of Institutional Research |
| Joshua Curtin | Director of Campus Life |
| Sandra Daniel | Dean, School of Nursing |
| Brenda Davis | Staff Benefits Manager, Human Resources |
| Amber DeBaise | Director of Auxiliary Services |
| Robyn DeVane | Database Administrator |
| Timothy Faircloth | Systems Administrator |
| Etrat Fathi | Director of Career Services Center |
| Cara Lea Fowler | First Year Advocate |
| John Fox | Director of International Student Programs |
| David L. Garrison | Dean, College of Arts and Sciences |
| Katrina Guest | Postal Service Supervisor |
| Royce W. Hackett | Director of Information and Instructional Technology |
| Gaye S. Hayes | Vice President for Enrollment Management |
| Angela Hobbs | Director of Intramural and Recreational Sports |
| Karen Holloway | Director, Alumni Affairs and Continuing Education |
| LaKeisha Jackson | Director, Residence Life |
| Linda P. Jones | Director of Academic Skills Center |
| Alma G. Keita | Director of Counseling Services |
| John G. Kooti | Dean, School of Business Administration and Project Manager |
| Lynn P. Larsen | Director of Georgia Youth Science and Technology |
| Raymond P. Mannila | Theatre Technical Coordinator |
| Shawn A. McGee | Comptroller |
| Shaun M. Murie | Director of Professional Golf Management Program |
| Boris V. Peltsverger | Dean, School of Computing and Mathematics |
| Lynda Lee Purvis | Dean for Academic Services and Special Programs |
| Jan K. Rogers | Director of Student Accounts |
| Nancy Rooks | Director of Procurement |
| Darcy L. Schraufnagel | Assistant Dean of Students |
| George L. Smith | Director of Physical Plant |
| Krista P. Smith | Registrar |
| Stephen E. Snyder | Public Relations Director/Development Officer |
| John T. Spencer, Jr. | Director of Student Support Services |
| Michael D. Tracy | Associate Director Public Safety |
| Janis Warren | Director of Materials Management |
| Lettie J. Watford | Dean, School of Education |
| Vera Weisskopf | Dean of James Earl Carter Library |
FACULTY
| Simon S. Baev (2009-2010) | Assistant Professor, Computer Science |
| BS, MS, South Ural State University; MS, PhD, University of Alabama in Huntsville | |
| Ian M. Brown (2007-2012) | Assistant Professor, Biology |
| BS, PhD, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand | |
| Queen H. Brown (2008-2013) | Assistant Professor, Middle Grades |
| BS,MEd, Georgia Southwestern State University; EdS, Albany State University; EdD, Georgia Southern University | |
| Sandra D. Daniel (2009-2010) | Professor and Dean, School of Nursing |
| BSN, Georgia Southwestern College; MSN, Valdosta State College; PhD, Medical College of Georgia | |
| Bryan P. Davis (2007-2012) | Assistant Dean for Assessment, Curriculum and Special Projects, and Professor, English |
| BA, University of Dayton; MA, Wright State University; PhD, Ohio State University | |
| Julia J. Dorminey (2008-2013) | Associate Professor, Early Childhood Education |
| BS, MS, EdS, Valdosta State College; PhD, Florida State University | |
| Leisa R. Easom (2009-2010) | Department Chair and Professor, Nursing, RCI Eminent Scholar |
| BSN, MSN, Valdosta State University; PhD, Medical College of Georgia | |
| Margaret A. Ellington (2007-2012) | Department Chair and Associate Professor, English and Modern Languages |
| BS, Weber State University; MS, PhD, Utah State University | |
| McLowery Elrod (2009-2010) | |
| M. Michael Fathi (2007-2012) | Professor, Technology Management |
| BS, University of Jundi; MBA, University of Baltimore; DBA, Nova Southeastern University | |
| David L. Garrison (2007-2012) | Professor of English and Dean, College of Arts and Sciences |
| BA, Appalachian State University; MA, Baylor University; PhD, University of Minnesota | |
| Jeffrey Green (2009-2010) | Department Chair and Professor, Dramatic Arts |
| BS, MFA, Ohio University | |
| Richard C. Hall (2007-2012) | Professor of History |
| BA, Vanderbilt University; MA, PhD, Ohio State University | |
| Stephanie G. Harvey (2009-2010) | Assistant Professor, Biology |
| BA, Wesleyan College; MS, Georgia College and State University, Ph.D., University of Tennessee, Knoxville | |
| Greg M. Hawver (2007-2012) | Professor and Department Chair, Middle Grades and Secondary Education, Health and Human Performance |
| BSE, Georgia Southern University; MEd, Georgia Southwestern College; EdD, University of Mississippi | |
| Robert E. Herrington (2009-2010) | Department Chair and Professor, Biology |
| BA, University of Evansville; MS, Georgia College; PhD, Washington State University | |
| Curtis C. Howell (2006-2011) | Associate Professor, Accounting |
| BS, MAS, EdD, Northern Illinois University | |
| Charles M. Huffman (2009-2010) | Associate Professor, Psychology |
| BA, Buena Vista College; MS, Emporia State University; PhD, University of Southern Mississippi | |
| Nedialka I. Iordanova (2009-2010) | Associate Professor, Chemistry |
| MS, Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski; PhD, Pennsylvania State University | |
| John G. Kooti (2007-2012) | Professor and Dean, Business Administration |
| MS, PhD, Michigan State University | |
| Elizabeth A. Kuipers (2007-2012) | Associate Professor, English |
| B.A., Wesleyan College; M.A., Ph.D., Auburn | |
| Eric M. Laughlin (2009-2010) | Assistant Professor, Music |
| BM, University of North Alabama; MM, University of Memphis; DMA, University of South Carolina | |
| Jamie I. MacLennan (2009-2010) | Assistant Professor, Sociology |
| MA, PhD, Rutgers State University at New Brunswick | |
| Cecilia M. Maldonado (2009-2014) | Assistant Professor, Marketing |
| BS, Tecnologico de Monterrey; MS, Texas A & M; PhD, University of Texas, Pan American | |
| J. YeVette McWhorter (2007-2012) | Department Chair and Professor, Reading |
| BS, Austin Peay State University; MA, University of New Mexico; EdD, University of Georgia | |
| Samuel T. Peavy (2007-2012) | Department Chair and Associate Professor, Geology |
| B.S., McNeese State University; M.Sc., Memorial University of Newfoundland; Ph.D., Virginia Tech | |
| Boris V. Peltsverger (2007-2012) | Professor and Dean, Computing and Mathematics |
| M.S.E.E., Ph.D., Chelyabinsk State Technical University | |
| Arvind C. Shah (2007-2012) | Department Chair and Professor, Computer Science |
| M.S., Ph.D., University of Georgia | |
| Michele L. Smith (2009-2010) | Associate Professor and Chair, Chemistry |
| BS, Wilson College; PhD, Auburn University | |
| Judith W. Spann (2007-2012) | Assistant Dean for Accreditation and Professor, Special Education |
| BS, MEd, West Georgia College; PhD, Florida State University | |
| Gabriele U. Stauf (2007-2012) | Professor, English |
| BS, Texas Lutheran College; MA, Southwest Texas State University; PhD, Florida State University | |
| John S. Stovall (2008-2013) | Assistant Professor, Marketing |
| BS, MBA, PhD, University of Illinois at Chicago | |
| John J. Stroyls (2009-2014) | Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Mathematics |
| AB, West Virginia University; PhD, State University of New York at Buffalo | |
| Philip I. Szmedra (2008-2013) | Associate Professor, Economics |
| BA, Pennsylvania State University; MS, PhD, University of Georgia | |
| Anh-Hue Thi Tu (2009-2010) | Associate Professor, Biology |
| AA, Jefferson State Community College; BS, Baylor University; PhD, Texas A & M Health Science Center | |
| Dawn B. Valentine (2008-2013) | Associate Professor, Marketing |
| BS, University of North Alabama; MS, University of Alabama at Huntsville; PhD, University of Alabama at Birmingham | |
| Randall C. Valentine (2008-2013) | Assistant Professor, Finance |
| BS, Arkansas State University; MS, Mississippi State University, Ph.D, Mississippi State University | |
| Milton Jeffrey Waldrop (2007-2012) | Associate Professor, English |
| BA, MA, Florida State University; PhD, University of Mississippi | |
| Lettie J. Watford (2007-2012) | Dean of the School of Education and Associate Professor, Middle Grades and Secondary Education |
| BA, Tift College; MEd, Georgia Southwestern College; EdS, PhD, University of Georgia | |
| Thomas J. Weiland (2007-2012) | Professor, Geology |
| BS, East Carolina University; MS, PhD, University of North Carolina | |
| Mary E. Wilson (2007-2012) | Professor, Human Resources and Management |
| BA, MA, University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa; PhD, University of Alabama at Birmingham | |
| J. Thomas Wright (2009-2010) | Professor/Russell &Margaret Thomas Chair, Biology |
| BS, Columbus College; PhD, Emory University | |
| Chu Chu Wu (2008-2013) | Assistant Professor, Early Childhood Education |
| BA, Fu-Jen Catholic University; MS, Iowa State University; PhD, Syracuse University | |
| Feng Xu (2009-2010) | Assistant Professor, Management |
| BEcon, Sichuan University, China; MS, South Dakota State University; MBA, PhD, The George Washington University | |
| Chin-Wen Yang (2009-2010) | Assistant Professor, Special Education |
| BCom, University of Southern Queensland; Med, University of Missouri-Saint Louis; PhD, Saint Louis University | |
| Aleksandr M. Yemelyanov (2007-2012) | Professor, Computer and Information Sciences |
| MS, Moscow State University; DSc, Supreme Certification Board under the Council of Ministers of the USSR; PhD, Computing Center under the Academy of Science of the USSR | |
INDEX
