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C O N T E N T S
Academic Hardship
A student who experiences extraordinary, unforeseeable circumstances beyond their control may file a request to be granted a retroactive withdrawal from the University. A committee comprised of members of the academic, financial, and student affairs functions of the University renders decisions on such hardship requests on a periodic basis. Hardships under consideration by the committee typically fall into one of two categories: a major health crisis in the life of the student or a death or catastrophic illness in a student’s immediate family.
Students granted a retroactive withdrawal due to an extraordinary hardship are granted W grades in all classes for the given semester. It is important to note that the effective date of a student’s withdrawal and the unique details of that student’s financial aid and payments to date will determine the degree to which the student’s tuition and housing charges can be refunded. In the event that the University grants a retroactive withdrawal, the University is required to refund all federal aid that was received on the student’s behalf for the given semester. Therefore, any student who receives a tuition refund check for overpayment in the semester for which they are seeking a retroactive withdrawal must be aware that any and all distributed moneys will be rescinded as a result of the retroactive withdrawal, and thus may require repayment.
To Apply for Academic Hardship
A hardship request must be filed with Student Affairs no later than the end of the semester following the semester in question and must include the following:
- Personal Statement of Hardship: the student must submit a narrative account of his or her hardship conveying accurate details including relevant dates and a description of how the circumstances impacted the courses in which he or she was enrolled at the time.
- Supporting documentation from official, qualified professionals: typewritten correspondence on official office letterhead from a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist or other relevant, objective, licensed healthcare professionals must accompany the hardship request. The death of a parent/guardian requires submission of a death certificate and/or published obituary.
To appeal a decision made by the committee, the student must submit all related materials to the Vice President for Academic Affairs within 90 days of the decision.
Policy: Academic Hardship |
Policy Administrator: Student Affairs |
Policy Last Revised: June 2018 |
Attendance
Full participation is expected of all UArts students and is necessary to fully benefit from and succeed in the University’s programs of study. All students are expected to attend classes regularly and promptly, and for the duration of the scheduled instructional time. Absences from class and habitual lateness may result in a lowered grade or failure of the course, depending on the attendance policies stated by the instructor on the course syllabus. It is the responsibility of the student to arrange with their instructor(s) to make up all missed work. Failure to do so will affect the student’s grade.
In the event that absences are the result of extraordinary, documented circumstances, and are numerous enough that it is impossible for the student to qualify for advancement, the student may be advised to withdraw from the course.
Spring 2020 Semester, COVID-19 Policy Adjustment:
The “throughout the term” policy for distance education courses that follows applies to all courses being offered remotely during the Spring 2020 Semester.
Distance Education Courses
Students enrolled in distance education courses are expected to maintain ongoing course engagement. In an online environment, “attendance” is more than just logging into a course or the Learning Management System (LMS). Online attendance is measured by academic engagement with the course content, tools, the instructor, and other students.
First Week of Class
All online courses begin on the first day of the term. Students are expected to login to the LMS and access online courses during the first week of class.
Throughout the Term
As the term progresses, students are expected to maintain an ongoing presence in their courses by participating in course related activities. This may include, but is not limited to reading announcements, taking exams, participating in group work, participating in synchronous class sessions, posting to discussion forums, submitting assignments and carrying out the requirements set forth by the instructor.
Course additions after the start of a term
Students who add a course after a term begins will not be penalized for class meetings missed before they were officially enrolled in the course. Students are required to make up everything that was missed.
Policy: Attendance |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: N/A |
Catalogue Year
Curriculum at the University can change from year to year. To provide each student with a fixed set of academic requirements needed to graduate students are assigned a catalogue year upon matriculation. Each new catalogue year begins with the fall semester. For example, students matriculating into the University in fall 2017, spring 2018, or summer 2018 will be assigned a 2017 catalogue year.
- Change of Major: Students who change their major retain the catalogue year assigned to them at matriculation.
- Leave of Absence: Students who return from a leave of absence retain the catalogue year assigned to them at matriculation.
- Readmitted Students: varies, details are included in the readmission policy.
- Transfer students will be automatically be assigned a catalogue year in accordance with the aforementioned process. During the student’s initial advising session the student’s program director may, upon reviewing the coursework completed from the student’s previous institution, request the assignment of a former catalogue year. In no case may a catalogue year be assigned, which is more than three years old at the time of matriculation.
To request a change in catalogue year:
- A request must be sent in writing to the Office of the Registrar from the student’s program director. The request should include justification for the request.
Policy: Catalogue Year |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: N/A |
Class Cancellation or Instructor Absence
Every effort will be made to notify students of class cancellations prior to the start of class. In the absence of such notification (and if the instructor is not present), students should wait 10 minutes for an hour-long class and 15 minutes for those of longer duration. In the event that the instructor fails to appear within the 10-15 minute waiting period, a student representative is to report to the appropriate School or Program Director’s office and may then leave without penalty.
Policy: Class Cancellation or Instructor Absence |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: N/A |
Class Level
Class level is determined by the number of credits earned, regardless of the number of terms of enrollment or the student’s standing in their program. Class level is a factor in determining financial aid eligibility and is used to asssign registration appointment times.
Class Level |
Description |
Completed Credits |
G1 |
Graduate, first year |
0 - 17.5 |
G2 |
Graduate, second year |
18 - 35.5 |
G3 |
Graduate, third year |
36+ |
U1 |
Undergraduate, first year |
0 - 29.5 |
U2 |
Undergraduate, second year (sophomore) |
30 - 59.5 |
U3 |
Undergraduate, third year (junior) |
60 - 89.5 |
U4 |
Undergraduate, fourth year (senior) |
90 -122.5 |
U5 |
Undergraduate, fifth year (senior) |
123+ credits |
Policy: Class Level |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: June 2019 |
Class Roster Verification
Faculty are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of their class roster and resolving any discrepancies prior to the end of registration each term. This is necessary for the University to maintain compliance with federal student financial aid regulations and to ensure students are registered for courses they are participating in.
The University does not have a formal attendance policy. All classroom attendance and related grade policies are determined solely by the instructor of each course.
Students included on roster, but not attending
Students who appear on a class roster, but who do not attend must be reported to the Office of the Registrar, by submission of an Administrative Drop form, prior to the end of registration. Upon submission of the form, the student will automatically be notified via email. Students will be provided two business days to appeal. After two business days, non-attending students will be dropped from the class.
To report non-attendance
- Log into the portal
- Access the Forms & Request page from the Registrar’s Office Quick Links portlet
- Select Administrative Drop from the list of forms
- Select the semester and course section
- Enter the Student ID number, click get student, and verify the student name
- Click submit
Students attending, but not included on roster
If a faculty member discovers that a student is in class and is not on the updated official class roster, the student may be allowed to remain for that one class period at the faculty member’s discretion. No student should be allowed to attend any additional class meetings until they are registered. Students auditing a class must be registered in accordance with audit policy .
Faculty should direct students not appearing on their class roster to verify their enrollment via the self-service student planning module. Occasionally, a student is only waitlisted or may have planned but not registered for a course section. Students who are unable to self-register should immediately contact registrar@uarts.edu for registration assistance.
Requests for changes in registration after the close of registration will only be approved under exceptional circumstances.
Distance Education Courses
Attendance is measured by academic engagement with the course content, tools, the instructor, and other students. See the Attendance Policy for Additional Information.
Policy: Class Roster Verification |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: April 2020 |
Continuation of Thesis, Project or Capstone
Graduate students unable to submit their thesis, project, or capstone by the conclusion of their final term of study are required to enroll in continuation. During this time students maintain access to University services including the library, software, and the network.
The following policies apply to continuation
- Graduate students must enroll in continuation during each mandatory term of enrollment until their thesis, project, or capstone has been completed and accepted.
- Program requirements must be completed in accordance with degree completion time limits .
- Continuation is charged at .5 credits of the graduate per credit hour rate published on the tuition and fees page.
- Student who do not maintain continuous enrollment will be administratively withdrawn from the University and will be required to apply for readmission.
To enroll in continuation
- Students should self-register via Student Self-Service for:
Policy: Continuous Enrollment Requirement |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: N/A |
Degree Program Definitions
A degree program is a set curriculum leading to a degree at the graduate or undergraduate level. Degree programs at the University may require the declaration of an emphasis or provide the option of pursuing a concentration. Undergraduate degree programs can be supplemented by the addition of a minor.
- Concentration: A concentration is an optional alteration to a degree program, which enhances the standard method of inquiry or develops a field of application, may be interdisciplinary, and provides for a more well-rounded degree. Students who opt to pursue a concentration must declare the concentration through the Office of the Registrar. Completion of a concentration may reduce the number of general electives allotted to a degree program. Enrollment in and completion of a concentration is documented on the academic transcript.
- Emphasis: An emphasis is a required component to a degree program, which enables a student to focus on a particular discipline. Students are required to declare area of emphasis through the Office of the Registrar at the time of matriculation. Enrollment in and completion of an emphasis is documented on the academic transcript.
- Focus: Enables a student to focus on a particular discipline within a degree program, without formal requirements. Programs that include focuses are flexible by design and support multiple paths to degree completion. Due to the inherent flexibility of a focus and lack of formal requirements it is not declared by the student and is not documented on the academic transcript.
Policy: Degree Program |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: N/A |
Degree Program Change
Students may request a change of major through the Office of the Registrar. Students are advised to initiate the process prior to advising and registration for the upcoming semester. As part of the review process students may be required to present a portfolio or to audition. Acceptance into a new program may be contingent upon the successful completion of the courses in which the student was enrolled at the time the application to was submitted. Therefore, approval to change majors may be rescinded based on the result of that semester’s coursework.
After completion of a change of major, students are advised to review their degree program requirements with their new academic advisor.
To request a Change in Degree Program:
- Download the Change in Degree Program form from the Forms & Requests page in the portal.
- Obtain the necessary approvals, as articulated on the form.
- Submit the approved form to the Office of the Registrar for processing.
Policy: Degree Program (change or declaration) |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: N/A |
Deregistration for Non-Payment
Student accounts must be paid in full by the Tuition Payment Deadline published in the Academic Calendar . Failure to remit payment will result in cancellation of student class registration, on-campus housing, and meal plans.
The following policies apply:
- Students must fulfill outstanding financial obligations to the University by the associated term’s tuition payment deadline. This includes, but is not limited to, tuition, housing, meal plans, and fees.
- Failure to satisfy outstanding financial obligations, both past due and current charges, will result in cancellation of student class registration, on-campus housing, and meal plans.
- Students will not be permitted to move in (or return to) residence halls unless they have fulfilled their financial obligations by the associated term’s deregistration date.
- Students deregistered for non-payment are not permitted to attend classes.
- Students deregistered for non-payment must satisfy outstanding balances before being permitted to re-register for classes.
- Deregistered students are responsible for creating a new class schedule. Class availability is not guaranteed.
How are students notified of an outstanding balance?
Students are notified prior to being deregistered by the following methods:
- Student Self Service: Students with an outstanding balance will see a notification after logging into Student Self Service.
- Email: Students with an outstanding balance will receive an email notification
- Telephone: SFS, Admission, and Residential Life call students with an outstanding balance.
When are students deregistered for non-payment?
The deregistration date is listed in the Academic Calendar . Students who have not cleared their accounts with SFS by noon the Tuesday before the start of a term are subject to deregistration by the Office of the Registrar.
How to register for classes if you have been deregistered:
- Arrange for payment of outstanding charges with SFS. Once approved, SFS will end the financial hold preventing registration.
- Students can then self-register via self-service.
- Students should contact the Advising Center or their Program Director for guidance if they are unable to re-register for a required course.
Disciplinary Dismissals
The University may dismiss students for disciplinary reasons. In such cases, students will automatically receive withdrawal grades for all classes in which they were enrolled at the time of dismissal unless the dismissal occurs after the withdrawal deadline, in which case the student will receive failures for all classes. For more information on disciplinary action, please refer to the Student Code of Conduct.
Policy: Disciplinary Dismissals |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: N/A |
Double Major
Matriculated undergraduate students may simultaneously pursue two majors in different disciplines that lead toward the same degree.
The following policies apply to double majors
- Available to matriculated sophomore, junior and senior undergraduate students, with a 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA
- The second major must be in a different discipline.
- Completion of a double major typically requires additional credits beyond the minimum number required to complete a single major.
- Major requirements for both majors must be completed.*
- Discipline history requirements for both majors must be completed.*
- Additional Critical Studies coursework beyond that required of a single major is not required.
- General elective requirements are satisfied through the completion of the major requirements of the second major.
- A single diploma will be issued, which will include both majors.
- The academic transcript will include both majors.
- Graduation applications must be submitted for each major, a single degree conferral fee will be charged.
* When a course is required by both majors it can be taken once to fulfill the requirements of both majors, i.e. if both majors require completion of AHST*101 the course only needs to be completed once to fulfil the requirement of both.
Financial Considerations
Students who receive financial aid should consult with Student Financial Services prior to declaring a second major.
- Completing one major prior to completing the second may result in the loss of federal aid eligibility. Students are considered to have earned a Bachelor’s degree if they have completed all of the requirements for that degree, even if they have not received their diploma.
- University aid is available to undergraduate students for a maximum of 8 semesters. Students may appeal to Student Financial Services for additional assistance on the basis of need.
- Federal aid is available up to the maximum lifetime limits. Generally equivalent to 6 years or 12 semesters.
To enroll in a double major
- Download the Degree Program Change form from the Forms & Requests page in the portal
- Discuss financial implications with Student Financial Services. (Recommended)
- Obtain approval from both current and future program directors. (Required)
- Return the completed form to the Office of the Registrar
Policy: Double Major |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: February 2019 |
Dual Degree
Matriculated undergraduate students may simultaneously pursue two degrees of different types, i.e. a B.S. and a B.F.A.
The following policies apply to dual degree programs
- Available to matriculated sophomore, junior and senior undergraduate students, with a 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA
- The second degree must be in a different discipline.
- Major requirements for both degrees must be completed.*
- Discipline history requirements for both degrees must be completed.*
- Additional Critical Studies coursework beyond that required of a single degree is not required.
- General elective requirements are satisfied through the completion of the major requirements of the second degree.
- Requires the completion of a minimum of 144 credits
- A diploma will be issued for each degree.
- The academic transcript will include both degrees.
- Graduation applications must be submitted for each degree, a single degree conferral fee will be charged.
* When a course is required by both degrees it can be taken once to fulfill the requirements of both degrees, i.e. if both majors require completion of AHST*101 the course only needs to be completed once to fulfil the requirement of both.
Financial Considerations
Students who receive financial aid should consult with Student Financial Services prior to declaring a second degree.
- University aid is available to undergraduate students for a maximum of 8 semesters. Students may appeal to Student Financial Services for additional assistance on the basis of need.
- Federal aid is available up to the maximum lifetime limits. Generally equivalent to 6 years or 12 semesters.
- Completing one degree prior to completing the second may result in the loss of federal aid eligibility. Students are considered to have earned a Bachelor’s degree if they have completed all of the requirements for that degree, even if they have not received their diploma.
To enroll in a dual degree
- Download the Degree Program Change form from the Forms & Requests page in the portal
- Discuss financial implications with Student Financial Services. (Recommended)
- Obtain approval from both current and future program directors. (Required)
- Return the completed form to the Office of the Registrar
Policy: Dual Degree |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: February 2019 |
Enrollment Status
Enrollment status is calculated for active matriculated students by totalling the number of credits a student is registered for during a given term. Enrollment statuses vary by program and term, as defined below.
Graduate Programs
Fall & Spring Semesters
Program |
Less than Half-time |
Half-time |
Full-time |
All Graduate Certificates |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Book Arts + Printmaking, MFA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Dance, MFA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Devised Performance, MFA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Education Program Design, MEd |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Educational Technology, MEd |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Jazz Studies, GD |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Jazz Studies, MM |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Museum Studies, MA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Museum Education, MA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Museum Exhibition, Planning + Design, MFA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Music Education, MAT |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Product Design, MDes |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Visual Arts, MAT |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Studio Art, MFA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
N/A |
4.5 credits |
Summer Terms
Program |
Less than Half-time |
Half-time |
Full-time |
All Graduate Certificates |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Book Arts + Printmaking, MFA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Dance, MFA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Devised Performance, MFA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Educational Program Design, MEd |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Educational Technology, MEd |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Jazz Studies, GD |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Jazz Studies, MM |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Museum Studies, MA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Museum Education, MA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Music Education, MM |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Museum Exhibition, Planning + Design, MFA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Music Education, MAT |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Product Design, MDes |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Visual Arts, MAT |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
4.5 - 8.5 credits |
9 - 18 credits |
Studio Art, MFA |
.5 - 4.0 credits |
6 - 11.5 credits |
12 - 18 credits |
Undergraduate Programs
Fall, Spring, and Summer Terms
Program |
Less than Half-time |
Half-time |
Full-time |
All Undergraduate Programs
|
.5 - 5.5 credits |
6.0 - 11.5 credits |
12 - 18 credits |
Craft + Material Studies, CER |
.5 - 5.5 credits |
6.0 - 11.5 credits |
12 - 18 credits |
International students must normally maintain full-time status during mandatory terms of enrollment for visa purposes. See the Director of International Student Affairs for specific information concerning all visa policies.
Policy: Enrollment Status & Course Loads |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: June 2019 |
Leave of Absence
Matriculated students are expected to maintain continuous registration in accordance with their degree program’s mandatory terms of enrollment. If it becomes necessary for a student to interrupt their studies they must either Withdraw from the University or request a Leave of Absence (LOA).
Eligibility
- LOAs can be requested for a maximum of one term during a 12-month period.
- LOA requests for a term already in progress must be submitted by 5PM on the course withdrawal deadline. See academic calendar .
- LOAs can only be approved when students intend on resuming their studies.
- Students on an LOA cannot live in university housing, attend or be enrolled in classes, or maintain employment as students at the University.
- Graduate students are permitted a maximum of two non-consecutive LOAs during their course of study.
- Graduate students under the continuous enrollment requirement are not eligible for an LOA.
Academic Considerations
- Degree requirements (program & catalogue year) are retained during an LOA; students returning from an LOA are held to the same degree requirements as prior to their leave.
- LOA requests submitted for a term in-progress will be processed as follows:
- Before the end of registration: Student will be dropped from all courses. Dropped coursework is not recorded on transcripts.
- During the withdrawal period: Student will be withdrawn from all courses. Coursework will be recorded on the student’s transcript. Courses will be evaluated with a grade of withdrawn (W).
Registration Considerations
- Timing: Students taking an LOA should register for classes when registration opens for their planned semester of return. For example, a student taking an LOA during the spring semester should register for fall semester classes on or after their registration appointment time in April.
Financial Considerations
Students should contact Student Financial Services to discuss the impact to their bill and financial aid prior to requesting a leave of absence.
- Refunds: Tuition refunds are not approved after the standard refund period has passed. See tuition refund policy .
- Loan Deferment/Repayment: An LOA does not certify a student as enrolled for purposes of loan deferral. Therefore, student loan repayment is not deferred during an LOA. However, loans typically include a grace period that is longer than a single semester leave. Students considering an LOA should confirm if a grace period is available for their loans prior to submitting the request.
- Academic Progress & Aid Eligibility: To qualify for financial aid, students must make regular academic progress and complete undergraduate degree requirements within 12 semesters. Students approved for an LOA after a term has started will be unable to meet the satisfactory academic progress requirements and will need to petition for their aid to be restored. See satisfactory academic progress policy .
- Federal Aid Recalculations: When students who receive federal aid withdraw from all classes before attending 60 percent of the semester the University is required to calculate the amount of federal student aid funds that must be canceled or returned. As a consequence, those receiving federal aid who withdraw completely in this time period may encounter a loss of financial aid, and therefore have an outstanding balance resulting from the mandatory return of funds to the government. The amount of federal aid retained (or “earned”) is calculated using a federal formula; federal assistance is generally earned on a prorated basis according to the withdrawal date and time in attendance.
Student Housing Considerations
- Students residing on campus are expected to move out of residence halls within approximately one week. Students should consult with the Director for Residence Life.
International Student Visa Considerations
- Notification & Maintaining Status: You must notify International Student Services of your intended leave. United States immigration law places responsibility upon the individual student to know and follow all relevant immigration regulations. Failure to comply with these regulations may have severe consequences for your ability to study, seek employment, or remain in the US.
Consequence of not Returning from a Leave of Absence
- In accordance with Federal Regulations (34 CFR 668.22), students who do not return from an LOA must withdraw or will be administratively withdrawn from the University; the withdrawal start date will be recorded as the date the student began the LOA, not the end date of the LOA.
To Request a Leave of Absence:
- Submit a Leave of Absence form. See Student Forms and Requests page.
- Requests will be reviewed by Student Financial Services, Program Director, Student Affairs, Office of the Registrar, and the University Library.
- The Office of the Registrar will notify students if the request is approved or denied.
Administratively Initiated Requests
When extraordinary circumstances prevent a student from submitting an LOA request, Student Affairs is authorized to submit a request on their behalf.
Students who are administratively approved for an LOA must confirm approval for administratively initiated LOA requests with the Office of the Registrar by emailing registrar@uarts.edu from their University email account as soon as possible. Students administratively placed on an LOA will have an LOA Request hold placed on their account which will prevent registration.
Returning from a Leave of Absence
- Students returning from an LOA should:
- Consult with their academic advisor during the advising period for their planned semester of return. See the Registration Overview & Academic Calendar for additional information.
- Consult with their financial aid counselor. Students who receive federal student financial aid must file their FAFSA annually.
- Check their registration appointment time for the term they are scheduled to return.
- Check for and resolve any registration holds on their record prior to their registration appointment time. Students on a medical leave of absence must submit medical documentation to the Office of Student Affairs prior to being permitted to register.
- Register for classes on or after their registration appointment time.
Policy: Leave of Absence |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: 20 February 2020 |
Mandatory Terms of Enrollment
Students matriculated into degree programs at the University are required to enroll during specific terms. If a student is unable to enroll during a mandatory term of enrollment they may petition for a leave of absence to maintain their enrollment. Failure to meet mandatory terms of enrollment requirements will result in administrative withdrawal from the University, see the Withdrawal from University policy for additional information.
Graduate Programs
Program |
Number of Terms Required per Academic Year |
Required Terms per Academic Year |
Art Education, MA |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
The Arts, GC |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Book Arts/Printmaking, MFA |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Educational Technology, GC |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Inclusion, GC |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Jazz Studies, GD |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Jazz Studies, MM |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Literacy, GC |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Museum Studies, MA |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Museum Education, MA |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Museum Exhibition, Planning + Design, MFA |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Music Education, MAT |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Product Design, MDes |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Visual Arts, MAT |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Educational Program Design, MEd |
1 |
Fall, Spring, or Summer 12 Week |
Educational Technology, MEd |
1 |
Fall, Spring, or Summer 12 Week |
Dance, MFA |
3 |
Fall, Spring, or Summer 12 Week |
Studio Art, MFA |
3 |
Fall, Spring & Summer 8 Week |
Music Education, MM |
1 |
Summer |
Undergraduate Programs
Program |
Number of Terms Required per Academic Year |
Required Terms per Academic Year |
All undergraduate programs |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Craft + Material Studies, CER |
2 |
Fall & Spring |
Policy: Mandatory Terms of Enrollment |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: N/A |
Matriculated Students
Matriculated students are those who have applied, been accepted, and enrolled in a degree program at The University of the Arts.
Policy: Matriculated Students |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: N/A |
Minors
Minors are optional programs that provide a coherence of coursework completed outside of a major at the undergraduate level. Enrollment in and completion of a minor are documented on the academic transcript.
The following policy applies to all minors:
- Students must meet eligibility requirements that may include a satisfactory grade point average, prerequisites, and/or portfolio review.
- A student may not major and minor in the same program, except where indicated.
- Courses completed in pursuit of a minor fulfill elective requirements, including critical studies electives if applicable.
- The requirements of the minor must be completed prior to graduation.
- A student pursuing a minor may be required to complete more than the minimum number of credits required to complete the undergraduate degree to also complete the minor.
- Minors are available only to undergraduate students.
- Enrollment in and completion of a minor is documented on the academic transcript.
To enroll in a minor:
- Download the Declaration/Change of Minor form from the Forms & Requests page in the portal.
- Obtain permission from both major and minor advisors.
- Submit the form to the Office of the Registrar for processing.
Policy: Minors |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: N/A |
Non-matriculated Enrollment
The University of the Arts permits individuals who have not applied to a degree program at the University to register as non-matriculated students.
The Following Policies Apply
- Students must provide an official transcript evidencing high school diploma, equivalent, or higher degree.
- Non-matriculated students may enroll for a maximum of 11.5 credits per semester.
- Non-matriculated students who are simultaneously enrolled, or have plans to enroll at another institution, may transfer credits to that institution, however, acceptance of those credits for transfer is subject to the approval of the other institution.
To Enroll as a Non-matriculated Student
- Download the Non-matriculated Student Application form.
- Select a course or courses that you would like to apply for from the available course section offerings.
- Request official transcripts from your high school or any colleges attended to be sent to the Office of the Registrar at the above address (hand delivered copies must be sealed).
- Contact the program director of the department that offers the course you wish to take and obtain approval to enroll.
- Prior to registering for the course(s) payment will need to be made in full to the Office of Student Financial Services.
- Register for the course(s) in the Office of the Registrar. Proof of payment as well as a completed application will need to be provided at the time of registration.
Policy: Non-matriculated Study |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: N/A |
Readmission
Former students who want to continue their studies at the University may apply for readmission through the Office of the Registrar. Readmission is granted at the discretion of the University, which reserves the right to require transcripts, letters of recommendation, and/or an additional portfolio review or audition.
Requests for readmission take up to four weeks for processing. Readmission decisions apply only to the semester listed on the readmission form. If the student is accepted and does not return for that semester, the student must reapply.
Returning After One Term Away
If you took one term away (excluding non-mandatory terms of enrollment) and did not continue your studies elsewhere:
- You do not need to reapply and may return under your former catalogue year and curriculum.
- Contact the Office of the Registrar (registrar@uarts.edu), from your UArts email account, to request to have your program reactivated.
Returning After Attending One Term at Another Institution
If you attended another college or university during your one term away (excluding non-mandatory terms of enrollment):
- Download the Request for Readmission form.
- Complete and return the form including the readmission fee to the Office of the Registrar.
- Submit transcripts from the other institution at the time of readmission for evaluation in accordance with transfer credit policy .
Returning After More than One Term Away
If you have been away more than one mandatory term:
- Download the Request for Readmission form.
- Complete and return the form including the readmission fee to the Office of the Registrar.
- Submit transcripts from other institutions attended at the time of readmission for evaluation in accordance with transfer credit policy .
- Once readmitted, you will return under the current catalogue year and be required to fulfill the curriculum requirements in effect at the time of your readmission.
- If you are readmitted after an absence of seven years or less, you may request approval to retain the catalogue year and curriculum assigned to you when last enrolled. Approval will be determined by the Program Director and Registrar.
- If you are returning after more than seven years, you may request approval to retain the catalogue year and curriculum assigned to you when last enrolled. Approval will be determined by the Program Director, Dean, and Registrar. Previously completed courses will be re-evaluated. Academic units may choose not to accept courses, regardless of when they were completed, for credit toward the degree.
Discontinued Degree Programs: Applications for readmission into programs no longer offered will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Dean and Registrar. Applicants may be required to select a new program.
Returning After Academic Dismissal
Students academically dismissed from the University may apply for readmission after two semesters (fall and spring):
- Petition the Academic Standards Committee for academic reinstatement as per the Academic Dismissal Appeals policy. The Academic Standards Committee will render a decision based on the submitted appeal; hearings are not held for academically dismissed students seeking readmission. Applicants must be academically reinstated before their readmission application will be evaluated.
- Download the Request for Readmission form.
- Complete and return the form including the readmission fee to the Office of the Registrar.
- Submit transcripts from other institutions attended at the time of readmission for evaluation in accordance with transfer credit policies.
Questions concerning readmission can be directed to the Office of the Registrar at 215.717.6420 or via email registrar@uarts.edu.
Policy: Readmission |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: June 2017 |
Withdrawal from the University
Withdrawn students may apply for readmission to the University.
Financial Considerations
To avoid unanticipated financial obligations students should consult with Student Financial Services prior to withdrawing from the University. The timing of a withdrawal occuring after the start of a term impacts the amount of aid that a student can retain versus the amount that must be returned to the federal, state, or local government, agency, or lender. See Tuition Refund policy and Financial Aid Retention policy .
Student Initiated Withdrawal
A student may withdraw from the University through the Office of the Registrar.
Requests to withdraw from a term received:
- before registration has ended*: Students are dropped from all course sections without academic penalty. See the tuition refund policy.
- after registration has ended and before the Course Withdrawal Deadline*: Students are withdrawn from all courses with a grade of W.
- after the Course Withdrawal Deadline*: Students are withdrawn from the University. Students will be graded based on work completed at the time of withdrawal.
*See Academic Calendar
To Withdraw from the University
- Submit the Withdrawal from University electronic form located on the Forms & Requests page in the Portal.
University Initiated Withdrawal
An administrative withdrawal is initiated by the Office of the Registrar under the following circumstances.
Non-Attendance
Students who have been administratively withdrawn by faculty from all of their courses for non-attendance will be administratively withdrawn from the University.
Unauthorized Absence
Students who have not registered for a required term of enrollment by the end of the term’s registration period will be placed on unauthorized absence and will be administratively withdrawn from the University. This includes students deregistered for non-payment who took no further action.
Medical or Mental Health Withdrawal
A medical or mental health withdrawal may be requested through the last day of the term. Requests should be submitted by the student, but may be submitted by Student Affairs if the student is incapacitated. Students approved for a medical or mental health withdrawal will be withdrawn from all courses with a grade of W.
See readmission policy for information on returning to the University from an approved medical or mental health withdrawal.
Students who take a medical or mental health withdrawal are subject to the same financial aid policies as students withdrawing from the university.
To Request a Medical or Mental Health Withdrawal from the University
- Submit the Withdrawal from University electronic form located on the Forms & Requests page in the Portal.
International Students
If an international student withdraws from the University prior to completing their program, the International Student Services must update SEVIS to indicate that the student has been authorized for early withdrawal. Once the SEVIS record is updated to reflect the withdrawal authorization, the student has a “grace period” of 15 days within which to depart the United States. Without approval from a Designated School Official for early withdrawal, the student has no grace period and must depart immediately.
Policy: Withdrawal from the University |
Policy Administrator: The Office of the Registrar |
Policy Last Revised: June 2019 |
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