Traditional

Academic Affairs

The Provost of the University is the chief academic officer of the University. Under his direction, a number of offices work to facilitate student learning and complement the work of the faculty in classrooms, laboratories, practice rooms, and the library. These professionals work closely with the faculty and staff of the University to provide students with every opportunity to accomplish their educational goals.

Office of The Provost

The Provost and his staff manage the academic life of the University. He works closely with Deans, Department Chairs, and faculty committees to ensure the very highest quality of course offerings and instructors. His office is responsible for academic ceremonies, such as Convocation, Awards Day, and Commencement.

Institutional Effectiveness & Research

The Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Research collects and analyzes data, reporting the results for both internal and external consumers. The office manages the University webpage and many of the surveys given at various times throughout the year, in addition to overseeing the assessment and quality improvement process for the University.

Registrar

The Registrar’s Office is located in ST-102 and maintains academic records for current and former students of Shorter University. For more information, please visit www.shorter.edu/registrar.

Library Facilities and Services

The Shorter University library is maintained to support Shorter University’s educational mission. The library provides the university with a means to meet its various informational needs for lifelong learning and living by being a pedagogical unit and an intellectual asset of the university. The library provides access to a sufficient range of resources and services in support of the school’s curriculum and augments the student’s classroom experiences with independent learning. By providing these resources and services, the library develops the student’s understanding of how recorded knowledge is organized and structured so that they become self-directed, information literate, lifelong learners in the liberal arts tradition.

Access to the collection and to information is facilitated by the online catalog and electronic indexes to online books, periodicals, and newspapers. The library belongs to OCLC (formerly Online Computer Library Center), Georgia’s Private Academic Libraries (GPALS), and Georgia Library Learning Online (GALILEO), which provide access to remote databases offering electronic articles, proceedings, and books as well as interlibrary loan sources. The library’s online catalog provides students, faculty, and staff immediate information on the availability of resources. Qualified library staff assist students in their use of the online catalog, electronic resources, and locating resources within the library.

Introduction to College Life and Christian Worldview

Academic and personal development starts in the freshman year through the Introduction to College Life and Christian Worldview (FCS 1010 ), a one-credit-hour course. Students take FCS 1010  during their first semester at Shorter. The topics covered in the course are intended to guide students in the transition to higher education and life at Shorter University. For further descriptions of the Introduction to College Life and Christian Worldview course, see the course description section for FCS 1010  in this catalog. Students who enter Shorter with 12-23 hours of non-dual/joint enrollment transferable credit may be exempt from FCS 1010 . The student’s transferred courses will be evaluated by the Registrar to determine exemption status. Students who enter Shorter with 24 or more hours of non-dual/joint enrollment transferable credit are exempt from the FCS 1010  requirement. Students who enter the university that are 22 or older are exempt from the FCS 1010  requirement.

Student Professional Organizations

Many academic areas increase their faculty-student interaction through organizations related to their area. Each group is open to any student interested in increasing understanding and personal and professional development within his/her anticipated field. Such organizations include:

• Allied Health Club
• American Chemical Society
• Eta Pi Sigma (history)
• Georgia Music Teachers Association Student Chapter
• Music Educators National Conference Student Chapter
• Shorter Student Nurses’ Association
• Student Art League
• Student National Association of Teachers of Singing
• Student Professional Association of Georgia Educators

Fine Arts Performing Organizations

Performing organizations in the fine arts are prominent in Shorter life. Some of those organizations include:

• Shorter Chorale, a select voice ensemble of 22-30 serving as the University’s touring choir. The group performs secular and sacred music from all style periods and has frequently traveled internationally.
• Shorter Mixed Chorus, performing sacred and secular music from all historical periods, is open to all students seriously interested in choral singing.
• Shorter Marching Hawks performs at athletic events, local parades, and various other venues throughout the fall semester. The Marching Hawks includes brass, woodwinds, percussion, color guard, and majorettes. Membership in the Shorter Marching Hawks is open to any student who qualifies through audition.
• Shorter Symphonic Winds performs literature of the highest quality from the repertory of both traditional and contemporary compositional styles. Concerts are given in both the fall and spring semesters. Membership in the Shorter Symphonic Winds is open to any student who qualifies through audition.
• Shorter Jazz Ensemble performs jazz, Latin, funk, pop instrumental, and other music for big band and small combos (piano, bass, drums, saxophones, trumpets, trombones, and guitar). Membership in the Shorter Jazz Ensemble is open to any student who qualifies through audition.
• Shorter University Theatre mounts at least four productions per year, including traditional plays, musicals, and operas. Any student may audition.

Honor Societies

Groups which recognize excellence and foster achievement, whether in general academics or in a professional field, include:

• Alpha Chi, National Society admits students from all academic disciplines. The Shorter University chapter, Georgia Theta 304, has been named a Star Chapter, indicating that it is in the top 10% of chapters nationally. Juniors and seniors of good character who rank in the upper 10% of their classes are inducted in Fall and Spring terms.
• Tri-Beta, Kappa Alpha Chapter, is a national honor society for biologists, open to superior students of biology and allied sciences.
• Lambda Pi Eta, Mu Chi Chapter, is the international communication honors society open to outstanding communication majors and minors.
• Kappa Delta Pi is an international honor society in the field of Education.
• Pi Kappa Lambda, Epsilon Beta Chapter, is a national music honor society whose new members are selected each spring by members of the music faculty from the top 20% of graduating seniors.
• Pi Gamma Mu, Georgia Epsilon Chapter, the international social science honorary society, has superior students in the areas of social sciences and business as its elected membership.
• Sigma Tau Delta, Beta Psi Chapter, is the national honor society for English majors. Members are selected by the English department on the basis of grade-point average and recommendation of faculty.
• Theta Alpha Kappa, Alpha Beta Omega Chapter, is the honor society for religious studies and theology. To be eligible for membership, students must have completed at least 12 hours in religion with a minimum 3.5 GPA in those courses and have at least a cumulative GPA and standing in the upper 35 percent of the class.
• Sigma Beta Delta, Shorter University Chapter, is the honor society for business, management, and administration. Members are business students who rank in the top 20% of the junior or senior class.
• Alpha Psi Omega, Shorter University Chapter, is the honor society for theatre students. The national organization is one of the largest in the country and sponsors clubs at both the high school and collegiate level.

Alpha Chi, Pi Kappa Lambda, Pi Gamma Mu, Sigma Tau Delta, Theta Alpha Kappa, Sigma Beta Delta, and Alpha Psi Omega are members of the Association of College Honor Societies.

Shorter Honors Academy

Sigma Eta Alpha or SHA (Shorter Honors Academy) is the official name of Shorter University’s prestigious Honors Program. The Shorter Honors Academy offers a challenging environment for talented and intellectually gifted students who seek an enhanced education. The aim of the academy is to challenge students to cultivate strong habits of critical thinking and creativity in a community of scholars. The Shorter Honors Academy provides an enriched curriculum for students who want to go beyond regular undergraduate requirements and creates an intellectually charged and engaged community of students and faculty. It promotes a distinctive educational experience that challenges students to cultivate depth and breadth in critical and creative thought, as well as facilitates students’ interdisciplinary contributions to intellectual life and the community. No matter what program of study a student desires to pursue, the Shorter Honors Academy can enhance the quality of that educational experience. Honors students at Shorter may take up to 21 hours per semester without incurring overload fees.

Preparatory Department

The Shorter University Preparatory Department offers piano, voice, and instrumental instruction. Lessons are offered for students of all ages and levels through private instruction. These lessons do not carry University credit. For further information, please contact the Preparatory Department Coordinator.

Endowed Lectureships

Whitworth-Muldrow Lectureship is a memorial to Sara Whitworth, 1969 alumna of Shorter University and Frances Muldrow, Professor of Languages, 1966-69. Originally established in 1970 as a scholarship in foreign languages, the fund was converted to a lectureship in 1984. The theme of the lectures has not been specifically designated, but the intent is that they will be particularly appropriate to the Christian liberal arts institution. The inaugural lecture was given in April 1985 by Dr. Gordon Kingsley, President and Professor of Religion and Literature, William Jewell College. Lewis Lipps Ecology Lectureship was established in honor of Dr. Emma Lewis Lipps, Distinguished Professor of Biology and Earth Science, who taught at Shorter from 1944 to 1989. The lectureship focuses on ecological issues of contemporary concern. The inaugural lecture was given November 14, 1991, by Dr. Hal R. DeSelm, Professor of Botany/Ecology, Retired, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Dr. Lipps’ dissertation advisor.

Global Citizenship

Global citizenship is the responsibility to participate publicly in the life of the global community in order to make the world a better place. The entire educational experience at Shorter University is established upon the premise that every student should take seriously the opportunities and obligations of global citizenship. For this reason, students engage the world from the very first moment that they set foot on the university’s campus. The university’s curriculum on both the foundation and major levels introduces students to the diversity of cultures that make up the global community. Faculty offer courses that focus upon global issues related to politics, ethics, history, religion, the sciences, literature, communication arts, sociology, and a whole range of other disciplines.

Significant numbers of international students and faculty members from Africa, Asia, Europe, and South and Central America study and teach at Shorter University and become conversation partners in expanding the global perspectives of American students. The University supports an extensive array of Christian programs that embrace and promote our institution values by instilling the values of respect and tolerance for differences with a Christ like mindset. Ongoing programs include the Global Perspectives Forum, an International Film Series, and a host of activities during International Education Week. Shorter University students are encouraged to bring a passport with them as they enter school so that they can take advantage of the vast international study opportunities that are available throughout their university careers. All students have the opportunity to participate in a myriad of study abroad opportunities on every continent of the world. They can choose to do an independent program or to travel with Shorter University faculty and other students on summer programs. Faculty advisors and the Office of International Programs work closely together to make sure that a student can take full advantage of these short-term and semester-long experiences.

Optional Study Opportunities

Berry and Shorter Cross-Registration

Full-time students above the freshman level may elect to take a course at Berry College during the fall and spring semesters (Shorter students wishing to take Berry courses in the summer may apply as a transient student). The student must pay any course-specific fees. The student must be in good standing and meet all prerequisites for the course. He/she may take one course per semester (up to 4 hours credit) with a maximum credit of 18 semester hours over the entire program. Courses excluded are “capstone courses,” internships or practica, student teaching, and graduate courses. Application forms and complete regulations are available in the Registrar’s office. To ensure financial aid, the student must maintain full-time status between the two institutions.

Granting Credit for Study Abroad

Students are encouraged to begin their planning early for study abroad. Though the normal time for students to study abroad is sophomore level and above, it is recommended that the process begin with discussions during the freshman year with the student’s advisor and with the Office of Student Affairs and the University Registrar. During this time, assistance can be given in helping the student decide on the best locations for study in his/her major field. Acceptance for study abroad is based on a number of factors, including recommendations regarding ability, character, and motivation, and recommended minimum 3.0 GPA. The student preparing for study abroad should take the following steps:

1. Discuss plans with the Office of Student Affairs and the advisor or major professor.
2. Obtain from the Office of Student Affairs information about deadlines and required paperwork.
3. Confer with the advisor or major professor to select courses that are needed in his/her curriculum and those that might be adequate substitutes for required courses on the home campus.
4. Complete the appropriate application for the host institution and the necessary paperwork.
5. Work closely with the Office of Student Affairs to ensure that all paperwork has been completed according to the stated deadlines.

Each of the institutions abroad with which Shorter University has formal agreements provides listings of faculty, their credentials, and course descriptions. These help to determine proper courses and credit to be awarded.

Student Affairs

The Office of Student Affairs provides opportunities and programs for the development of Christian and personal values, effective interpersonal relationships, community and social responsibility, and positive health and wellness habits among students. It offers personal and career counseling to individuals and groups. In cooperation with the faculty, it helps students gain the skills to make the most of their university experience and to plan for a future career.

All University regulations and policies concerning student life can be found in the Student Handbook, The Pinnacle.

Orientation

New students begin their academic career at Hawk Orientation. This one-day campus experience is held several times during the summer to accommodate incoming freshmen. Hawk Orientation provides exciting, informative sessions to learn more about campus services and is where students get their first semester schedule. A similar summer program has been developed for new transfer students. Transfer Hawk Orientation allows incoming students who transfer from another institution to meet with their advisor and register for classes. Camp Hawk is the next step in a smooth transition to Shorter University for incoming freshmen. It is a great opportunity for new students to get to know more about Shorter, meet other new students, and begin the transition from high school graduate to college student. Campus wide events are sponsored by campus organizations, following Camp Hawk.

Student Engagement and Success

Academic advising and academic support services are housed in The Office of Student Engagement and Success (SES). New students begin their academic career at Hawk Orientation, and academic advising is an important part of that experience. Freshman advisors are specially selected and trained to assist freshmen in the exploration of academic and career areas, and the freshman advising relationship is continued for the remainder of the freshman year. At the end of the freshman year, students are placed with an appropriate major advisor for their chosen field of study. Transition to this new advisor is made in the summer between the freshman and sophomore years. Academic support is available to traditional students through the peer tutoring center. The Tutoring Center offers individual and group peer tutoring for students seeking assistance in a large variety of classes as well as academic success skills tutoring and writing skills tutoring. Writing tutors assist with all stages of the writing process for any class, not just English. Students who have earned top competitive academic scholarships serve as peer tutors. Other peer tutors are selected by department chairs and are outstanding students in their fields of study. In addition, SES offers support for students who are Conditionally Admitted, on Academic Probation, or on Academic Warning. Plans are designed to help students identify and integrate strategies to improve their grades and enhance their academic success. The Office of SES is located on the second floor of the Sheffield-Thompson building in the Bailor Suite.

Student Support Services

Student Support Services coordinates and provides supportive services to students so that they may be better equipped for success during their tenure at the University. Support services include personal counseling, disability services, and career development services. This office is located in the Fitton Student Union.

Counseling Services

Short-term individual counseling services are offered by a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) to assist enrolled students in overcoming personal and academic difficulties. Counseling appointments are confidential are available throughout the business week (9:00am - 4:00pm M-Th and 9:00am - 3:00pm F). Shorter University Counseling Services is not a substitute for psychiatric or medical intervention, though these may be recommended as adjuncts to, or in lieu of, counseling. Referrals to community professionals will be made for long-term counseling issues.

Career Services

The Career Center, located in the suite with Student Support Services, provides material and online resources, as well as one-on-one assistance for Shorter students and alumni. The Director of Student Support Services works with students in choosing majors and minors, exploring career options, finding part- and full-time jobs, applying for internships and graduate schools, and completing necessary documents for such endeavors, such as professional résumés and cover letters. This office works with state consortium groups to join with major job fairs during fall and spring terms, brings recruiters to campus, and holds workshops on job related topics. Job postings, as well as personal interest assessments and job search aides, are posted on the Career Center page of the University website.

Disability Services

Shorter University strives to provide access to programs and services to all qualified students with disabilities and is committed to adhering to the guidelines of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (PL 93-112 Section 504) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. The office of Student Support Services is responsible for the coordination of services to students with disabilities.

Each student is responsible to voluntarily identify him/herself as disabled to the Director of Student Support Services in order to receive services. Upon presentation of acceptable documentation, the Director will address the needs of each student on an individual basis. Documentation of disability is kept confidential. Students are encouraged to become self-advocates.

Accommodations Grievance Procedure

If a student with a disability feels that he or she has not received the accommodation(s) he or she is entitled to, the following information may be helpful:

• The ADA requires that accommodations be developed in a give-and-take dialogue process between the institution and the person with a disability. The student may need to meet with the Director of Student Support Services to discuss and explore appropriate, reasonable accommodations more completely. Students may need to meet with their professors, as well.
• Universities are not required to provide the requested or preferred accommodation. They are required to provide reasonable, appropriate, and effective accommodations for disabilities which have been adequately documented and for which the accommodation has been requested. The question, therefore, should be asked, “Is the accommodation that has been offered reasonable and effective?”

If reasonable accommodations are not implemented in an effective or timely manner the student should contact the Director of Student Support Services. The Director works with students with disabilities and University personnel to resolve disagreements regarding recommended accommodations. If no resolution is obtained, students who believe they have been discriminated against on the basis of disability may choose to file a written grievance with the Disability Services Committee. Once the Director of Student Support Services receives such a written request, the Director will call a meeting of the Disability Services Committee for such a review and determination. The Director will inform the student in writing of the Committee’s decision within 48 hours of the Committee’s meeting.

If the student believes he or she is entitled to accommodations not approved by the Director of Student Support Services, the student may request in writing to the Vice President for Student Affairs for the Disability Services Committee to review his or her documentation and the request for accommodation for reconsideration. Once the Vice President for Student Affairs receives such a written request, a meeting of the Disability Services Committee will be called for such a review and determination. The Vice President for Student Affairs will inform the student in writing of the Committee’s decision within 48 hours of the Committee’s meeting.

A student may, at any time, choose to file a formal complaint with the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) instead of or in addition to requesting a review by the Director of Student Support Services and/or the Disability Services Committee:

OCR Atlanta Office
U.S. Department of Education
61 Forsyth St., SW, Suite 19T70
Atlanta, GA 30303-6350
Voice: 404-562-6350 TDD: 404-331-7236
Fax: 404-562-6455
Email: OCR_Atlanta@ed.gov
https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html?src=mr

Student Health Services

The purpose of the Student Health Services is not only to provide quality first-aid care for students but also to teach awareness of health habits which may help maintain wellness, to work with individual students and groups of students in long- and short-term health plans, and to educate students as consumers of health services. There is no cost for routine treatment; however, there is a nominal fee for screenings and to see the campus physician. The cost of prescription medicine, special treatment, or tests ordered by the physician is the responsibility of the student. Student Health Services will make appointments with physicians, specialists, or make other referrals as needed.

Focus and Scope of Practice

In an effort to promote health and wellness on our campus, Shorter University became tobacco free on June 1, 2012.

The primary focus of the Student Health Service facility is to promote the health and wellness of each student. This is accomplished by providing a variety of services related to maintaining good health and promoting wellness. Services include, but are not limited to:

• Consultation with a registered nurse during hours of operation.
• The well-equipped clinic provides first-aid treatment, a self-care center, health screening by a healthcare professional, specified lab screenings and treatments, off-campus referrals, and medical record keeping.
• Low cost CLIA-waived screenings including Strep A, mono, blood glucose, HBG, HcG (pregnancy), and urinalysis are available in the clinic.
• Students should read the online information about Meningitis and receiving the Meningitis vaccine. Please consider this seriously. A student should also consider receiving the HEP A and HEP B series. The required immunizations to attend Shorter University are: Two (2) MMR and TD/TDAP (Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis) within the past 10 years. A printed verification of current immunizations from a medical facility or health department must be scanned and accompany the online health history when submitted by the incoming student. Failure to comply with Shorter University’s immunization requirements will result in losing your campus housing privileges and delay registration for classes. No exemptions are allowed for the MMR and TD vaccines, however a blood titer showing immunity to MMR or a note from a doctor that shows the level of immunity to Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) and to Tetanus and Diphtheria (TD) are acceptable. Download the letter into the online registry. Any questions regarding this should be discussed with Director of Student Health Services by calling 706-233-7278 or emailing lwilliams@shorter.edu.
• Physicians from Floyd Medical Center’s Family Medicine Residency Center conduct clinical rotations one afternoon each week. Students are charged a low fee to see the campus physician. This fee is charged to the student’s account in the Business Office.
• Suture removal, wound care, residence hall directors (RDs) first-aid supplies, over-the-counter medications and supplies are available through Student Health Services. Equipment such as crutches heating pads are available on loan.

Educational resources on nutrition, exercise, stress management, disease prevention, self-care information and health-related pamphlets are available in the clinic. Wellness-education information sheets are made available to patients in an effort to inform the patient on the care of particular illnesses. Any off-campus health services or procedure is the student’s financial responsibility.

Once your deposit is made, you will be forwarded to online forms. The Student Health Services Health and Immunization Form ensures confidentiality of health records and consent is required. This is especially important when students are seeking immunization records for graduate school. Students should keep a copy of their immunizations in a safe place for easy retrieval.

There are no overnight accommodations available in Student Health Services. When a student is especially ill and unable to care for his or her own physical needs, it is advised that a parent/guardian be called, and the student leave the campus to go home. We believe that the student is better able to make a full and speedier recovery in his or her home environment whenever possible.

The staff for Student Health Services includes:

• Faculty physician from FMC’s Family Medicine Residency Clinic (part-time)
• Resident physician (part-time)
• Director of Student Health Services (full-time registered nurse)
• Certified nursing assistant (part-time)
• Student workers

Office hours for fall and spring semesters are Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4 PM unless otherwise posted. The clinic is closed at night and on weekends. Student Health Services does not have overnight accommodations. The clinic telephone number is (706) 233-7323 and the confidential fax number is (706) 236-1518.

Insurance Information

The University recommends that each student have personal health insurance coverage.

Student Athletic Insurance

Athletic insurance for both domestic and international athletes is mandatory and is offered through the Athletic Department. All athletes must sign up for it in the Athletic Department in the Winthrop-King Centre prior to playing their college sport. More information on the athletic insurance can be found by going to the New or Returning Athlete Packet at https://goshorterhawks.com/sports/2013/6/20/GEN_0620131458.aspx

Domestic Student Insurance

Shorter University does not supply a domestic health insurance policy for students. Students may be covered by a parent’s insurance, a personal policy, or insurances such as Medicaid and Peachcare. For students seeking insurance coverage, we recommend either a private personal policy or checking the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The Affordable Care Act (ACA) and what it means for most college students:

https://www.shorter.edu/wp-content/uploads/affordable_healthcare_act_flyer.pdf

http://www.HealthCare.gov

http://www.acha.org/Topics/Affordable_Care_Act/ACA_Updates.cfm

Shorter University is not liable for accidents or injuries occurring anywhere on the University campus. Shorter University will only be financially responsible for the payment of medical bills/expenses that result from injuries occurring during supervised athletic trips, practices, or games. However, Shorter University will pay the balance of these bills only after each bill has been filed with and processed by the primary and/or secondary insurance company of the student-athlete. We will make payment on the balance of these bills only after we receive notification that the primary/secondary insurance company has paid their maximum eligible amount, or that insurance has denied the payment of the bills. The exact procedure for handling these medical bills is outlined on the Medical Expense Payment Procedure page of the Shorter insurance letter found under Shorter University Sports Medicine at www.shorter.edu. Neither the Business Office nor Student Health Services file insurance claims; that is the responsibility of the student and the healthcare provider.

Campus Safety

The primary responsibility of Campus Safety is to provide a safe and secure environment so that the University community can achieve its purposes. Campus Safety patrols and monitors the campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The office supervises emergency procedures, traffic flow, and crowd control. The gatehouse officers monitor vehicles entering the campus. The office is also responsible for enforcing regulations, registering vehicles, the distribution of decals and scheduling the campus shuttles. Campus Safety provides an annual uniform crime report and works closely with local law enforcement officials.

Residence Life

Residence halls at Shorter provide the opportunity for students to experience living in a Christian community, to develop important relationship skills, and assume leadership roles. Because of the value the University places on the residential experience, all full-time students are required to live on campus unless married, living with parents, or 23 years of age. Rare exceptions to this policy due to special circumstances may be made by the Vice President for Student Affairs. The Office of Residence Life gives careful consideration to the selection of roommates. Using the information provided by students on the Housing Questionnaire, every effort is made to match students with compatible roommates. Resident students are required to participate in a meal plan. Freshmen are required to purchase the unlimited meal plan. Residents living in apartment-style housing may request a reduced meal plan of 10 meals per week. Other students may choose either a 15-, or unlimited-meal plan. Exemptions are granted only in rare cases where special dietary needs cannot be met by the food service staff.

Residence Life Staff

The members of the Residence Life staff report directly to the Director of Residence Life. They are responsible for enforcing and encouraging compliance of the University’s residence life and student conduct policies. Residence Advisors (RA’s) in each building are responsible for providing and maintaining a living-learning environment that enhances the growth and development of each resident of Shorter University. Through daily management of the physical environment and through the programming of social, cultural, spiritual, and educational activities, the members of the Residence Life staff intend to create for each student who lives in our residence halls a personal sense of belonging and community. The Residence Life staff is chosen in the spring of each year; its members are rising sophomores, juniors and seniors who have lived on campus for at least two semesters. Students interested in applying should possess a minimum 2.5 GPA. Applications are available in January in the Office of Residence Life.

Student Life

Student organizations at Shorter provide avenues for socializing, learning, and leading. Active membership in student organizations enhances a student’s success at Shorter and as a whole person. The wide variety of organizations and activities enables participation in a range of interest areas including music, clubs and honor societies in several academic areas, service groups, fraternities, sororities, religious groups, and student publications. A complete, annually updated list of organizations and their functions is published in the Student Handbook, The Pinnacle.

Student Government Association

The Student Government Association is composed of two senators elected by each class. Rising senior, junior, and sophomore elections will be held in the spring prior to the end of classes. Freshmen senator elections will take place in September once classes are back in session. The Fitton Activities Board will also have a representative in the Student Government Association. SGA is the student voice on campus.

Fitton Student Board

The Fitton Activities Board (FAB) is responsible for providing a wide range of activities for students. FAB sponsors dances, Big Screen Movie Nights, traditional events, musicians, and other special events on campus to stimulate and fulfill the social needs of students.

Christian Organizations

The activities of the Christian groups at Shorter are designed to nurture and develop spiritual life. They provide an opportunity for fellowship, service, discussion of religious topics, and expression of faith. Christian Leaders on the Hill, Baptist Collegiate Ministries, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes present a variety of programs including Christian Focus Week, weekly services, mission trips, programs, and service projects. Students of all faiths are encouraged to participate in the life of the church of their choice.

Greek Organizations

The fraternities and sororities at Shorter serve a variety of functions: a family away from home, a place to learn leadership skills, an environment for close personal relationships, an atmosphere of academic achievement, an opportunity for community service, and the preservation of traditions. New member and recruitment activities occur each fall.

Special Interest Groups

Shorter Orientation Staff is comprised of current students who assist new students and parents in their transition to University life. The SOS staff plans and facilitates Hawk Orientation and Camp Hawk. Staff members are selected through an interview process.

Shorter Ambassadors is a service group whose members are selected on the basis of academic achievement, personality, and leadership at Shorter. They provide guided tours and serve as overnight hosts to student representatives and other campus visitors who attend various University functions.

International Students

“You also much love the foreigner, since you were foreigners in the land of Egypt” (Exodus 22:21).

International students are a vibrant component of Shorter’s life. We have students from over 20 countries, and more are expected as a result of increasing partnerships with foreign institutions and numerous initiatives for international recruitment. As they pursue their interests in sports or music, and their major degree programs in business, biology, communication, mathematics, or psychology, they find themselves asking and answering many questions in conversations with fellow students. In a recent focus group, the international students commented that their fellow students had been very helpful as well as interested in other cultures. They also noted that the small-university environment helped them to adjust and thrive.

International Programs

Shorter University develops global citizens by promoting intercultural understanding and encouraging students to study and live abroad. The integration of biblical faith and learning is vital for all international programs offered at Shorter University. Our institution is proud to offer a wide variety of study abroad programs all over the world. This selection includes outstanding Christian based programs that provide a wholesome experience to our students. Students may study abroad for a semester or a few weeks in the summer, immersing themselves in the culture and interacting with the local population. Most programs are taught in English, while others offer courses in the host language. The Office of International Programs evaluates faculty study proposals and helps students who wish to study abroad.

Partners

Annual Summer Programs

Periodically, faculty lead short-term study abroad programs. These programs occur in May, June and July and the number of credit hours awarded for such programs are flexible. The costs of all required activities and most meals are included. As with all university programs, all annual summer programs have a strong integration of biblical faith and learning in their educational experiences. In the past, Shorter has led groups to Central or South America (AMERICAS program) and such programs focused on Spanish language and culture. Past locations have included Mexico, Ecuador, and the Galapagos Islands. Exotic destinations are not foreign to Shorter, as we have traveled to Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Myanmar, China, Japan, Thailand, Russia, and the Philippines (ASIA program). Students are eager to know the “Old Continent” so periodically we lead a group to Europe (EUROPE program). The program usually visits England and another European country. Past locations have included Scotland, Ireland, France, Italy, Sweden, Russia, Germany, and the Netherlands. We have also ventured to the Middle East and have traveled to Israel and Palestine (MIDEAST program).

Consortium for Global Education

Shorter is a member of this association of U.S. colleges and universities which offers summer language programs in Beijing or Changsha, China, or in Amman, Jordan. Chinese and Arabic are among the most in-demand languages today, and these programs offer intensive language study ranging from four to ten weeks. These programs include excursions to historic and cultural sites and are geared toward beginning language students.

Institute for American Universities

Shorter University is affiliated with this organization in the beautiful Provence region of southern France. IAU offers liberal arts and sciences in Aix-en-Provence, as well as the Marchutz School of Art. Students may attend during the fall, spring, or summer semesters. Students are required to study the French language while at IAU. Housing will be provided with a local French family, enabling students to fully enjoy the traditional French culture.

Rome With Purpose

Based in Rome, Italy, this program allows students to experience Italy in a Christian community while earning credits taught from a Christian worldview. Students will participate in field trips in Rome, Florence, and Pompeii. Weekly Italian cooking classes and optional 3-week independent travel are built into this program.

Salzburg College

Students may spend their summer or one semester in Salzburg, Austria, studying a variety of liberal arts and visual/performing arts. Salzburg College is particularly suited for students wanting to further their study of the German language and desiring to live with a host family. Located in the heart of the city, Salzburg College provides close vicinity to public, education, and cultural institutions allowing for easy integration of classroom study and onsite experience.

Spanish Studies Abroad

This agreement enables students to study at SSA sites in Seville, Alicante, Barcelona Spain, Córdoba, Argentina, Cuba, and Puerto Rico during the fall, spring, and summer terms. A wide variety of liberal arts, language, and culture courses are taught in Spanish for the beginning, intermediate, or advanced Spanish speaker. English taught classes are also offered in a wide variety of disciplines. Students are housed either with a local family or in a dormitory. This arrangement allows for full immersion in the Spanish language. Integrated programs in local universities are also available. Generally, the SSA programs include excursions to sites of cultural or historical importance.

Veritas - Christian Study Abroad

Through this program, Shorter students will be able to enroll in universities in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, England, France, Italy, Peru, South Korea, and Spain. While they are earning college credit, they will have the opportunity to work with local missionaries and be fully immersed in the local community.

Spring Break Programs

Occasionally, an international spring break is offered to Shorter students. These 10-day programs provide an opportunity to experience the culture, history, and people of another country for a brief visit, along with Shorter faculty and students. Past programs have visited Israel, England, and Austria.

Contact

For more information about studying abroad call the Office of International Programs (706-233-7409) or visit FSU 235.

Intramurals

The Office of Student Life sponsors a varied intramural program in both group and individual sports. Intramural Sports is comprised of organized sport leagues, tournaments, and other special events for the Shorter University community. All Shorter University students, as well as faculty and staff are encouraged to participate. The program offers activities such as Basketball, Flag Football, Soccer, Tennis, Volleyball, Dodgeball, and Ultimate Frisbee. Intramurals also offers special programs like three-point shooting contests and wiffle ball home run derbies.

Varsity Sports Organizations

Grievance Policy/Student Complaints

Situations may arise in which a student believes that he or she has not received fair treatment by a representative of the University or has a complaint about the performance, actions, or inaction of staff or faculty. The procedure for bringing these issues to the appropriate person or body is outlined below.

Students are encouraged to seek assistance from their advisors or another member of the faculty or staff in evaluating the nature of their complaints or deciding on an appropriate course of action. A complaint should first be directed to the person or persons whose actions or inactions have given rise to the problem within three weeks of the incident.

For complaints in the academic setting, the student should talk personally with the instructor. Should the student and instructor be unable to resolve the conflict, the student may then turn to the Chair of the involved department for assistance. The Chair (or Dean) will meet with both parties, seek to understand their individual perspectives, and, within a reasonable amount of time, reach a conclusion, share it with both parties, and reach a final resolution. See the policies related to academic procedures in the Academic Policies section of this catalog.

Students having complaints outside the academic setting, and who have been unable to resolve the matter with the individual directly involved, should process the complaint in a timely manner through the administration channels of the appropriate unit. Students uncertain about the proper channels are encouraged to seek advice from faculty advisors, Deans’ offices, or the office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.

Complaints that rise to the level of a grievance may be heard, as a final appeal, before a committee, chaired by an appropriate person chosen by the President and including a representative of the faculty and a member of the student body. The grievance must be filed in writing. Grievances not deemed frivolous by the committee will be heard. The student may be assisted during the hearing by a member of the University community. The complaint/grievance process outlined above is meant to answer and resolve issues arising between individual students and the University, and its various offices, from practices and procedures affecting that relationship. In many cases, there are mechanisms already in place for the reporting and resolution of specialized complaints (sexual harassment for instance), and these should be fully utilized where appropriate. Violation of student conduct rules should be addressed through the Student Conduct process designed for that purpose.

Complaints and grievances related to non-academic employees of the University should be made to the supervisor of the employee or the Vice President for that area. Complaints and grievances related to student life, residence life, student support services, health services, campus safety, or campus ministry should be made to the Vice President for Student Affairs. Complaints and grievances related to admissions practices and recruitment should be made to the Vice President for Enrollment Management. Complaints and grievances related to financial aid, accounts payable, or the business office should be made to the Vice President of Finance. Complaints and grievances related to athletics should be made to the Athletic Director. Complaints and grievances related to program accessibility for individuals with disabilities should be made to the Director of Student Support Services. Grievances unresolved at this level may be forwarded to the Vice President for Student Affairs. Complaints and grievances related to sexual harassment involving faculty should contact the Provost, if involving staff, the Vice President of Finance or if involving students, the Vice President for Student Affairs. Please refer to the sexual harassment section of the Student Conduct and Community Standards under Residence Life.

Registering Student Complaints

In most cases, complaint procedures require the student to exhaust all complaint avenues internal to the institution before a grievance can be filed at the State or accrediting agency level. Shorter University students are advised to attempt to resolve complaints with the Shorter University faculty and administration.

Registering A Complaint With SACSCOC

Shorter University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, and master’s degrees. Contact the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call (404) 679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Shorter University.

Complaints about the University may be filed with SACSCOC via the SACSCOC complaint process which can be found at this link: www.sacscoc.org/pdf/081705/complaint%20form.pdf

Registering A Complaint With A State Board Or Commission Of Higher Education

In accordance with federal law, Shorter University identifies the processes by which students may file complaints about the University with each U.S. state governing board or commission that governs University educational activity. If you have a complaint about Shorter University’s distance education programs, for example, contact the appropriate authority in your state of residence. Below is a link of available complaint process information to all states for your convenience.

https://www.shorter.edu/state-contact-information/

Admissions

General Admissions Policies

Shorter University strives to enroll a diverse student body so that the best possible learning environment will be provided. The University does not obligate itself to admit all students who meet admission requirements. In determining admissions, consideration is given to the compatibility of the student’s purpose and interests with the basic philosophy of the university as a Christian liberal arts institution, as well as to the student’s ability to benefit from a university education at Shorter.

The Admissions Staff makes admissions decisions in accordance with the guidelines set by the Admissions Committee at the beginning of each academic year. Each candidate’s application is reviewed by a member of the Admissions staff before the final decision is made. Final admissions decisions are made by the Director of Admissions, or if required by policy guidelines, by the Admissions Committee.

The application is considered an application for admission and for basic academic scholarship.

Admissions decisions are based on a combination of the following, depending on the candidate’s prospective classification (freshman, transfer, etc.): the candidate’s academic course curriculum; academic grade-point average; the compatibility of the student’s purpose, interests, and character with institutional values; and SAT or ACT scores (this is now optional for regular admission but required for certain scholarships). Other information which may be considered in individual cases includes class rank, the recommendation of a guidance counselor or other appropriate official, TOEFL scores (international students only), the results of a personal interview if required, and the recommendation of the Shorter Admissions staff. Files are reviewed as soon as all required credentials are collected. Decisions and offers of admission for fall semester will be communicated to applicants beginning September 1 of the year prior to the applicant’s enrollment. Rising high school seniors may apply as soon as the junior year is completed. A student who is denied admission by the Admissions Committee may appeal this decision through the Provost’s Office.

Types of Undergraduate Admission

Regular Admission

When an applicant meets all guidelines as set by the Admissions Committee, he or she is admitted unconditionally. The Admissions Committee reserves the option to offer other types of admission based on the merits of the individual applicant.

Conditional Admission

Offered to students who do not meet regular admission standards, but who in the opinion of the Committee demonstrate the potential for academic success at Shorter. This is a full admission to the University with the requirement that an academic condition be satisfied; typically, the student is limited to 15 academic semester hours during the first term and must earn no less than a 2.0 grade-point average. The student must also participate in a success plan implemented by the Office of Student Engagement and Success. The Admissions Committee reserves the right to adjust the conditions for the individual applicant in question.

Provisional Admission

A student may be admitted on a provisional basis if all credentials have not been received. Students are admitted with the provision that the required documents are received and approved by the Office of Admissions, no later than one week after the last day of the drop/add period of the student’s beginning semester. Failure to provide the necessary documentation will result in the loss of tuition and fees and dismissal from course(s) the provisionally admitted student is attending. Provisional students are not fully admitted, and may not receive institutional, federal, or state funded financial aid until the required documents are received and approved.

Early Admission

High school students who have completed their sophomore year and have at least a 3.25 academic GPA (academic units only) with a 21 ACT (composite) or 1060 SAT (ERW & Math) may be considered for early admission (TESTS ARE OPTIONAL). Students attending a public or private high school must have a letter of approval from the applicant’s high school guidance counselor or administrator sent to the Office of Admissions verifying the courses in which the student plans to enroll for each term.

Degree-Seeking Applicants: Definitions

Traditional Freshman

An applicant who has had no previous college or university course work, other than courses completed through dual enrollment while still in high school, and who completed high school less than five years before application to Shorter.

Non-Traditional Freshman

An applicant like the above, with no previous University courses, but who is older than the traditional freshman, typically 23 years old or more, and who completed high school three or more years before application to Shorter. Some of the academic requirements for admission may be waived at the discretion of the Admissions Committee. An interview and placement testing may be required.

Home-Schooled Freshman

An applicant who has received all or part of his/her secondary schooling at home and who therefore has not received a traditional college preparatory high school diploma. Each applicant will be reviewed individually according to the materials submitted. A personal interview with admissions personnel and/or the Admissions Committee may be required before a decision is reached.

Traditional Transfer

An applicant who has been enrolled at another institution after high school graduation and wishes to seek a degree at Shorter.

Non-Traditional Transfer

An applicant who has been enrolled at another institution, but who is older than the typical transfer; at least three years have elapsed since the nontraditional transfer’s last college or university enrollment. Some of the academic requirements for admission may be waived at the discretion of the Admissions Committee. An interview may be required.

Advanced Freshman

A transfer student (see above) who has earned less than 24 transferable University semester hours or equivalent.

International Student

An applicant who is not a citizen or permanent resident of the United States. The United States government makes special requirements in addition to Shorter’s admissions requirements.

Readmission Student

A student wishing to return to Shorter, who has been absent for one or more semesters, excluding summer must apply for readmission through the Office of Admissions. Students who withdrew or were academically, socially, or judicially suspended or administratively withdrawn from the previous semester must also apply for readmission.

Admission Of Degree-Seeking Students Without Previous College Work: Please Note Tests Are Now Optional3

Traditional Freshmen

The applicant must provide:

1. A completed Shorter University application.
2. An official high school transcript or official GED score, embossed, stamped, and signed as official by the high school guidance office. The final high school transcript must signify the completion of at least a standard diploma or include an official graduation date.
3. Official SAT or ACT scores.
4. High school students who have completed their junior year are recommended to have at least a 2.5 academic GPA (academic units only) or 19 ACT (composite) or 990 SAT (ERW & Math) to be considered for admission. Applicants that do not meet these requirements will be presented to the Admissions Committee for review.

Additional information which may be required at the discretion of the admissions staff or committee:

1. A written personal statement which reflects compatibility between the student’s goals and the mission and goals of the University.
2. An essay written by the student discussing topics as determined by the admissions staff or committee.
3. A recommendation from the high school guidance counselor or principal or other appropriate official approved by the admissions staff or committee.
4. Interviews with officials as deemed necessary by the committee.

An academic GPA is computed as follows: A’s receive 4 points, B’s receive 3 points, C’s receive 2 points, and D’s receive 1 point with 0 points given for F’s. Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Dual-Enrollment, Gifted, and Honors courses will be given one-half extra quality point per unit when evaluating academic GPA.

Before determining an admissions decision, Admissions staff will check for a completed application, official high school transcript, SAT or ACT scores, etc. as outlined above. After the application is evaluated, a letter will be sent notifying the applicant of his or her status. If the applicant is accepted, an “Admissions Checklist” form is sent, along with other applicable forms pertaining to financial aid, scholarships, and the like.

Non-Traditional Freshmen

The applicant must provide:

1. A completed Shorter University application.
2. An official high school transcript or official GED scores, embossed, stamped, or signed as official by the high school guidance office.

The SAT/ACT requirement is waived for nontraditional freshmen. The procedure for evaluating applications is the same as Traditional Freshmen, except for SAT/ACT scores.

International Freshmen

The credentials which are required from an international student include:

1. Official documents or certified copies of transcripts in English (documents issued by high schools, colleges, or universities listing the courses taken with grades), or nationally accredited examinations (i.e. Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) results, etc.).
2. Official Test Scores
   1. Scores from approved English proficiency test. An English proficiency test is required of all international students whose native language is not English. Students living in a foreign country, who attended English speaking secondary schools, are NOT exempt from this requirement. If the native language is not English, ONE of the following kinds of evidence of English ability must be provided to Shorter University.
      1. Official SAT scores with a minimum score of 450 in each section (ERW & Math).
      2. An official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score report showing an internet-based score of no less than 61, a paper score of not less than 500 or a computer-based score of not less than 173.
      3. International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 5 or better.
      4. An official report showing a Michigan Test Battery score of 80 or better.
      5. Certification of Level 700 completion from ELS Language Centers.
      6. A transcript from a United States high school or equivalent.
      7. In unusual cases, a written essay to be reviewed by the English faculty.
      8. Pearson Test of English (PTE) of 44 or more.
      9. A Cambridge English Scale score of at least 160 for undergraduates or 170 for graduates (Cambridge English Exams: First, Advanced or Proficiency).
      10. iTEP- International Test of English of at least 3.0-3.4 for undergraduates or 3.5-3.9 for graduates.
   2. Students whose native language is English are required to submit official SAT scores with a minimum score of 450 in each section (ERW & Math).
3. Official documentation verified by a banking institution as evidence that the prospective international student, or families or sponsors are financially able to support the student while attending Shorter. This may be in the form of a letter from the sponsor’s bank, a statement from the sponsor’s employer, a report from a commercial rating concerning the sponsor’s business, or an account of investments owned by the sponsor. Acceptability of this documentation is at the discretion of the Primary Designated School Official.

If an international student is already in the United States on any visa other than a tourist/business visa (B-1/B-2) the above steps may not be necessary. The Primary Designated School Official will review such situations.

Placement Credit: Mathematics & Foreign Language

Mathematics

Based on SAT/ACT scores and High School grades, a student may be recommended to take Calculus. If a student is placed in Calculus I and earns an A or B, he or she may petition the department chair for 3 hours of credit in MAT 1110 - College Algebra . If the student completes Calculus II and earns an A or B, he or she may petition the department chair for 3 hours of credit in MAT 1120 - Precalculus Math .

Foreign Language

Students may request to take a placement exam administered by the English, Modern Languages & Liberal Arts department to earn a maximum of 9 credit hours of French or Spanish. Credit earned and foreign language placement are determined by the standardized exam. A completed and signed Foreign Language Placement Exam Reporting Form must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office by the administering professor for the credits and placement to be processed. Details on exam requirements are available from the English, Modern Languages & Liberal Arts department. For regulations regarding foreign language minors for International Students, please see individual minor sequences. See additional policy information on pages 222 or 251.

Admission of Students With Previous College Work

Traditional Transfers

The applicant must provide:

1. A completed Shorter application.
2. An official high school transcript or GED transcript, embossed, stamped, or signed as official by the high school guidance office, UNLESS the applicant has earned 24 or more transferable University semester hours.
3. An official University transcript from EACH institution previously attended, embossed, stamped, and signed by the appropriate official. Failure to inform Shorter University of all institutions previously attended, regardless of status upon leaving those institutions, may result in denial of application, or dismissal from Shorter University.

Additional information which may be required at the discretion of the admissions staff or committee:

1. A written personal statement which reflects compatibility between the student’s goals and the mission and goals of the University.
2. An essay written by the student discussing topics as determined by the admissions staff or committee.
3. A recommendation from the appropriate administrator at the last University attended.

For information regarding the acceptance of transfer credit, see the Traditional Academic Policies section. For unconditional acceptance as a transfer student, the applicant must have a University grade-point average, based on grades from transferable courses, of not less than 2.0 on a 4-point scale through at least one year (24 or more transferable semester hours) of enrollment at an accredited postsecondary institution. Before making an admissions decision, Admissions staff will check for a completed application, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, official high school transcript (if required), recommendation, and SAT/ACT scores (if required). Admissions staff will send special applications to the applicant as required for certain majors. The Registrar’s Office will evaluate all post-secondary transcripts for transferable credit. After the application is evaluated, a letter will be sent notifying the applicant of his or her status. If the applicant is accepted, an “Admissions Checklist” form is sent, along with other applicable forms pertaining to financial aid, scholarships, and the like.

Advanced Freshmen

If an applicant with previous post-secondary work has earned less than 24 semester hours of transferable post-secondary credit, he or she is considered an advanced freshman and must also furnish SAT/ACT scores and high school transcript. Evaluation of the high school transcript is as Traditional Freshmen.

Non-Traditional Transfers

The applicant must provide:

1. A completed Shorter application.
2. An official University transcript from EACH institution previously attended, embossed, stamped, or signed as official. As with Non-Traditional Freshmen, Non-Traditional Transfers may not be able to satisfy all the academic requirements for admission. Each case will be handled on its own merits. Aside from this, admissions procedure, including evaluation of University transcripts by the Registrar, is as described under Traditional Transfers.

International Transfers

International students transferring from another United States postsecondary institution with 24 or more transferrable hours should follow the application process for traditional transfer students.

These students will also need to have an official evaluation of transcripts completed by Shorter University’s Registrar’s Office. Shorter University independently evaluates foreign credentials for credit towards a degree. However, international students also have the option of obtaining credit by contacting World Education Services at info@wes.org or 212-966-6311. Applicants that elect to utilize evaluation services from an outside agency are responsible for the costs of this service. Once the University has received an official copy of that formal evaluation, the Registrar’s Office will determine transfer course equivalencies. International students transferring to Shorter University with less than 24 transferrable hours will additionally need to submit the documentation required of international freshman applicants.

1. The Shorter University Transfer-In form must be completed once a student is accepted to move forward in the process.

All international students must submit official documentation verified by a banking institution as evidence that the prospective international student, families, or sponsors are financially able to support the student while attending Shorter. This may be in the form of a letter from the sponsor’s bank, a statement from the sponsor’s employer, a report from a commercial rating concerning the sponsor’s business, or an account of investments owned by the sponsor. Acceptability of this documentation is at the discretion of the Primary Designated School Official.

If the student holds another United States nonimmigrant visa and is transferring from another United States postsecondary institution, a petition to change visa status may or may not be necessary. The Primary Designated School Official will review such situations.

Readmission Students

A student wishing to return to Shorter, who has been absent for one or more semesters, excluding summer must apply for readmission through the Office of Admissions. Students who withdrew or were academically, socially, or judicially suspended or administratively withdrawn from the previous semester must also apply for readmission. The applicant must provide:

1. A completed Shorter University application for readmission (no application fee is required - other fess may apply), which includes a written personal statement indicating a) reasons for returning to Shorter, and b) current activities during the time he or she was not enrolled at Shorter.
2. Official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended since leaving Shorter, embossed, stamped, or signed by the appropriate official.

Students cannot be readmitted if terms of suspension have not been met, whether that suspension was at Shorter or another institution. If a student who was on academic probation or suspension when he or she left Shorter is readmitted, this readmission will be on academic probation regardless of performance at the interim institution. Even though courses from other institutions may count towards graduation requirements, they may not be used for purposes of removal from probation or suspension. All readmitted students must meet the graduation and major sequence requirements in effect for the academic year in which he or she is readmitted. Students may petition the Registrar for an exception. The cumulative University grade-point average, as computed by the Registrar, determines readmission status:

1. If the University GPA is 2.0 or higher, the student will be readmitted unconditionally.
2. If the University GPA is below 2.0 but meets GPA requirements for acceptance on probation, the student may be readmitted on probation.
3. If the University GPA is less than 1.40, the student will not be readmitted unless the Admissions Committee finds that there are circumstances which warrant an exception and acceptance on probation.

Admission To Major Specific Programs

The following apply to all degree-seeking students, whether freshmen or transfers:

Admission to Music Major

Shorter University is a member of the National Association of Schools of Music. Entrance requirements are in accordance with the published regulations of that body. Admission to the University does not assure that a student may major in music. In addition to the general requirements for admission to the University, students majoring in music must meet the following requirements: (1) an audition of his/her major performance medium, and (2) diagnostic tests in music theory, ear training, and piano. Specific requirements for auditions are stated on the music application forms. Students transferring University credit should contact the School of Fine & Performing Arts about additional audition requirements. In some cases, circumstances make it practical to hold an audition before admissions procedures have been completed for the student in question. In such cases, successful audition does not guarantee admission to the University

Admission to Theatre Major

In addition to the general requirements for admission to the University, all students majoring in Theatre must perform an audition or reading and conform to other requirements of the Theatre faculty. Specific requirements for auditions are stated on the theatre and musical theatre application forms.

Admission to Teacher Preparation Program

Criteria for admission and re-admission to the Teacher Preparation program may be found in the Special Program section of this catalog.

Admission to the Nursing Program

Admission to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program requires a separate application to be submitted to Shorter University Brady School of Nursing. Criteria for admission to the BSN program may be found under the special programs section of this catalog.

Non-Degree Seeking Students: Definitions And Requirements

All are required to submit a completed application. Tuition and fees apply as detailed in this catalog.

Transient Student

A student enrolled in another postsecondary institution who wishes to take course work at Shorter is considered a transient student. Such students are limited to a total of 24 semester hours at Shorter.

Required Credentials:

1. Completed application.
2. Statement of Good Standing from home institution signed by the appropriate academic official.

Special/Non-Degree Student (For Credit)

A person who wishes to take courses for credit, but who does not plan to seek a degree.

Required Credentials:

1. Completed application.
2. Official transcript from last school attended or from institution issuing degree. In the case of students seeking teaching certification only, transcripts from all schools attended are required.

Auditor

A person who wishes to take courses on a non-credit basis.

Required Credentials:

1. Completed application.
2. Permission of the faculty member teaching the course.

Dual Enrollment

High school students entering their junior or senior year may be admitted as joint or dual enrollees. The Admissions Committee will also consider sophomores. Students should have at least a 3.0 GPA, with a 21 ACT (composite), 1060 SAT (ERW & Math) or 1100 PSAT, or a letter of approval from the applicant’s high school guidance counselor or administrator sent to the Office of Admissions verifying the particular courses in which the student plans to enroll for each term. The ACT/SAT test score requirement will be waived for high school students that have at least 24 hours of transferable college credit. Additionally, students must complete a Dual-Enrollment Registration form to register for courses. Applicants that are not in this classification should contact the Office of Admissions for specific admission requirements. Dual enrollment students may not exceed 30 credit hours per student per academic year.

Military Service Members

The following would qualify as Military Students: Current service members who have completed basic training, veterans who have received an honorable/general discharge, Department of Defense employees, and spouses of Military students. Pursuant to Article I. Section IV. Paragraph I of the Constitution of the State of Georgia only the union of man and women shall be recognized as marriage.

Tuition: Online Courses

Tuition rates for online classes for all Military Students pursuing an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s level programs are discounted by 20%. Note that service members cannot receive the discount while simultaneously receiving other military benefits.

Residency Requirements

Shorter University limits academic residency to no less than twenty-five percent of the degree requirements for all undergraduate degrees for active-duty service members. Academic residency can be completed at any time while active-duty service members and Reservists, and National Guardsmen on active duty are enrolled.

Transfer and Alternate Credit

For information regarding the acceptance of transfer and alternate credit, see the Acceptance of Transfer Credit policy located in the Traditional Academic Policies section.

Military Credit Evaluations

Shorter University evaluates credits for prior military experience based on the recommendations of the American Council of Education (ACE) guidebook, Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services. Military students who want their military work and experience evaluated for possible credit should submit military transcripts, certificates of completion, diplomas, or documentation from their branch of the service. Active-service members should submit Form DD295. Non-active service members should submit form DD214.You can order your military transcript from your branch of the military below:

Army AARTS Transcript Requests may be mailed, faxed, or submitted online. Phone: 1-866-297-4427 (TOLL-FREE) Fax: 1-913-684-2011

Navy/Marine Corps SMART Transcript Requests may be mailed or faxed. Phone: 1-877-253-7122 (TOLL-FREE) Fax: 1-850-452-1281

Air Force CCAF Transcript Requests accepted by mail only. Phone: 1-334-953-2794 E-Mail: registrar.ccaf@maxwell.af.mil Web: www.maxwell.af.mil/au/ccaf/

Coast Guard USCG Transcript Requests accepted by mail only. Phone: 1-405-954-0072 Web: www.uscg.mil

Prior Learning and Experience

In addition to credit for military training, Shorter University gives credit for other forms of prior learning. These forms of credit include the following:

• College-level examination program (CLEP)
• Credit for Military Training [See paragraph above]

Military Deployment Policy

Students who cannot attend school due to military service should:

• Contact the instructor to see if they are able to continue and to complete their coursework while deployed.
• Contact their advisor to discuss how a deployment may impact their education and to provide information on their options.
• An academic plan will be put into place for the student prior to deployment.

Students who are deployed may request an administrative withdrawal that will note the reason of the withdrawal as military. Military personnel that need to repeat a course due to deployment will not be charged for the repeated course.

Students who withdraw for deployment reasons will be guaranteed readmission under the following conditions:

• The student must give written or verbal notice of such service to his or her academic advisor, military liaison, or the registrar. This notice may come from the student or from an appropriate officer of the U.S. Armed Forces or from a U.S. Department of Defense official. Notice is not required if precluded by military necessity. The requirement to give notice may be fulfilled at the time that the student seeks readmission by submitting an attestation that the student performed the service.
• The student must give written or verbal notice of their intent to return to Shorter University to his or her academic advisor, military liaison, or the registrar within three years after the completion of the period of service. A student who is hospitalized or convalescing due to an illness or injury incurred or aggravated during the performance of service must notify the school within two years after the end of the period needed for recovery from the illness or injury.
• The cumulative length of the absence and of all previous absences from Shorter University for military service may not exceed five years. The student’s cumulative length of absences period does not include any period of service that is specified in 34 CFR 668.18 (e).
• The student cannot have received a dishonorable or bad conduct discharge or have been sentenced in a court-martial.
• Students who meet these conditions will be re-admitted on the following terms:
• Students will receive student account credit toward the course from which they withdrew, allowing them to retake those classes without charge. If that class is no longer offered, the student will receive a credit toward any course considered most similar to the original course by the institution.
• The student is eligible to re-enroll in the same program in which he or she was enrolled at the time of withdrawal. If that program is no longer offered, the student may enroll in or any other program offered at time of readmission, granted program requirements have been met.
• If re-admitted to the same program, the student’s tuition and fees for the first academic year in which the student returns will be the same as those that would have been charged during the year that the student left the school.
• Any re-enrollment fees or deposit requirements will be waived.

Military Support Office

The Military Liaison Office at Shorter University serves as the point of contact for service members, veterans, and family members seeking information about academic counseling, financial aid counseling, and student support services. The military liaison may be reached at financialaid@shorter.edu. See below for more contact information for our VA Coordinators.

Military and Veteran Benefits Counselor

Shorter’s benefits counselor provides student guidance on any military and veteran benefits for military students and ensures benefits are processed swiftly and smoothly. The benefits counselor can be reached at financialaid@shorter.edu.

VA Coordinators

Bethany Brady - University Registrar - bbrady@shorter.edu or Scott Howard - Controller - showard@shorter.edu.

VA Educational Benefits

Shorter University has been approved by the State of Georgia as a training facility for veterans applying for VA Educational Benefits. The following VA Educational Benefit programs are in place at Shorter University:

• Chapter 30: (active duty or veteran status) must have served in the United States Armed Forces and participated in the GI Bill® program. In most instances, veterans must also have been honorably discharged.
• Chapter 1606: (selected guard and reserves) must have completed all initial entry training (IET) and are now assigned to a Reserve and/or a Georgia National Guard Unit.
• VA Vocational Rehabilitation/Chapter 31: (service-connected disabled veterans) must make application with local VA caseworker to have rehabilitation plan developed indicating a Shorter University degree plan.
• REAP/Chapter 1607: (reservists who were activated for at least 90 days after September 11, 2001).
• Post 9/11 Chapter 33: must have active duty service on or after September 11, 2001. Benefit is based on service credits.
• Survivors and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program/ Chapter 35 (dependents and spouses of 100% disabled or deceased Veterans).

Specific information on each chapter can be found on the Veteran’s website: https://benefits.va.gov/gibill/.

Getting Started

After applying for admission to the university, students should complete the Veterans Enrollment Data Sheet. The following documents should be included with the Veterans Enrollment Data Sheet when making application for VA benefits:

• NOBE (Notice of Basic Eligibility) for the Select Reserves and Georgia National Guards
• DD Form 214
• Kicker/Buy Up documentation
• College Fund documentation
• Veterans Enrollment Data Sheet

University Charges

Students are responsible for paying all university bills. Shorter University and the VA do not have an agreement to process tuition/fee waivers; therefore, failure of the VA to pay students in a timely manner does not eliminate or delay a student’s financial responsibility to the University. It normally takes the Atlanta VA processing center 6-8 weeks to process new educational claims, so please plan accordingly.

The University will not impose any penalty, including the assessment of late fees, the denial of access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities, or the requirement that a covered individual borrow additional funds, on any covered individual because of the individual’s inability to meet his or her financial obligations to the institution due to the delayed disbursement of funding from VA Chapter 31 or 33.

1. Veteran Education Benefits that are being received by any registered student at Shorter University must complete the VA Educational Benefit form and return to the VA Coordinator: Bethany Brady prior to the certification process.

Veterans’ Education Benefits

The University is on the approved list of the Georgia State Approving Agency for the training of veterans, disabled veterans, and the children and widows of deceased/disabled veterans who are eligible for benefits.

Students using Chapter 33 (Post 9/11) benefits are required to pay (by the Final Payment Deadline) any tuition and fees not covered by the VA. The VA does not pay tuition and fees to Shorter University for students using Chapter 30, Chapter 1606, or Chapter 35 benefits. These students are responsible for payment of their tuition and fees by the payment deadline since they are paid benefits directly through Veterans Affairs.

Students using VA Chapter 33 or VA Chapter 31 education benefits will be allowed to attend and participate in their course of education provided they have submitted to their Veteran Certifying Official a current Certificate of Eligibility or Statement of Benefits “eBenefits” (for Chapter 33) or a current VA Form 28-1905 (for Chapter 31). If the VA delays in submitting funds to Shorter for these students, these students will have full access to their classes, libraries, and other institutional facilities. They will not be required to borrow funds and will not have penalties or late fees imposed because of the VA’s delay.

Shorter University and the VA do not have an agreement to process tuition/fee waivers; therefore, failure of the VA to pay students in a timely manner does not eliminate or delay a student’s financial responsibility to the University. Each VA beneficiary should make financial preparation for at least one semester because benefit checks are sometimes delayed.

Eligible veterans and the children and widows of veterans must make application for the benefit to their regional Veterans Affairs. The Military and Veteran Services Office can assist with the application process. Veterans who wish to use VA Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation benefits must contact the VA Regional Office to be assigned a counselor to help with the application process. All other benefits can be applied for online at www.vets.gov. Students in training under Chapter 31 are responsible for making sure their counselor has provided a current VA Form 28-1905 for their benefit, and should check with the University Business Office regarding the handling of their account for fees, supplies, etc.

Students can receive VA benefits only for those courses required in their program of study. Courses taken for audit are not payable by the VA. Such students must maintain Shorter University standards for academic performance. Those students who are academically dismissed from school will have their benefits interrupted. Upon readmission and re-certification for benefits at Shorter, the VA will decide if further benefits may be paid for continuation of the program in which the academic deficiency occurred. Current VA standards require that students attend class and that benefits be terminated when the student has stopped attending or has been suspended for academic or disciplinary reasons. Since VA regulations are subject to periodic change, it is the student’s responsibility to keep up to date on requirements for VA benefits while in attendance at Shorter University.

Any veteran or dependent wishing to use the Veterans Education benefits must contact their VA Certifying Official. The offices of the VA Certifying Officials are located in the Registrar’s Office in the Sheffield-Thompson administration building.

Students using VA education benefits must submit their letter of eligibility to their Veteran Certifying Official no later than the first day of the course of education. Students who do not have the full Chapter 33 benefit (less than 100%), or who enroll in classes not required for their degree program, or who have other financial obligations to Shorter University, are still responsible for their portion by the payment deadline. Failure to pay non-VA covered charges are subject to deletion of classes and late fees.

Veteran Students’ Responsibilities

Veteran students at Shorter University have ongoing responsibilities to the VA. The University VA Coordinator closely monitors each student’s enrollment status and academic program. The student’s entitlement is based upon the number of credit hours for which they are enrolled. Current pay rates can be viewed at: www.gibill.va.gov.

Veteran students must notify the VA Coordinator of any of the following:

1. change of degree program
2. change of address
3. out more than three semesters
4. when a veteran does not want a semester certified.

Chapter 30, 1606, and 1607 Monthly Verification

All students who are receiving Chapter 30, Chapter 1606, and Chapter 1607 benefits must verify their monthly enrollment on the last day of each month or after. The benefit (monetary award) will not be released by the VA until this is done. Enrollment verification can be accomplished by calling the VA at 1.877.823.2378 or by using the WAVE feature found on the VA website www.gibill.va.gov.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.”

Academic Policies

Foundations

The General Education/Foundations supports the mission of Shorter University as a Christian liberal arts institution. General Education is committed to excellence in student development and service, as well as engages students in a holistic, comprehensive approach to education, which prepares them to think and operate for their major, life, and career.

The following categories of General Education/Foundations courses are required for students as part of their work for an undergraduate degree:

General Education Student Learning Outcomes, as they align with these categories, are assessed over a five-year period. The assessment process is overseen by the General Education Assessment Committee (GEAC). The following are the General Education Student Learning Outcomes:

Foundations of College Success

Students will be able to apply the tools learned in FCS 1010  to help make informed decisions for academic and personal success.

Effective Communication

Students will develop their abilities in collegiate research, writing, public speaking, and literary and rhetorical analysis in order to analyze and create effective, strategic texts. Student proficiency in reading and expression encourages academic, spiritual, and professional growth to impact culture in conscientious, biblically truthful ways.

Biblical Perspective

Students will establish an understanding of biblical worldview through the application of biblical content to all areas of life that informs spiritual growth, Christian leadership, and service to others. The biblical admonition to love God with all of one’s heart, soul, and mind supports the institution’s emphasis on academic excellence.

Historical & Social Perspective

Students will apply historical and social perspectives to provide the contextual framework necessary for understanding the societies that make up our world. Therefore, these perspectives supply foundational components to advancing academic excellence, Christian leadership, and global service within the context of a biblical worldview.

Artistic Expression

Students will develop their creative capacity, sensitivity, and appreciation for artistic expression through art, dance, music, or theatre within the context of a biblical worldview.

Quantitative & Scientific Reasoning

Students will demonstrate the ability to understand mathematical and scientific problems, apply the correct strategies and methods to solve them, and to communicate these solutions with academic excellence and in accordance with the University’s mission.

Writing in the Major

Students will be able to communicate as part of a continual process of drafting and revising for a variety of audiences. (Although this outcome is not a general education outcome, GEAC measures Writing in the Major to assess if general education skills continue to be implemented and improved upon in students’ majors.)

Registration

Students desiring to take courses for university credit or audit must register prior to the beginning of each semester.

Academic Advising

Students are required to confer with a faculty advisor prior to online registration. Freshmen meet their faculty mentors and receive their first semester schedules at Hawk Orientation sessions during the summer prior to their first enrollment. They will be assigned a freshman advisor during the fall semester.

Students enrolled as freshmen remain with the freshman advisor for the entire freshman year. After that, academic advising is arranged with a faculty member in the department or school of the student’s major. The Registrar and faculty advisor assist in arranging a program of study, but the student is responsible to become familiar with and fulfill all requirements for his or her degree. At least one Hawk Orientation session for transfer students is scheduled during the summer. Transfer students meet with an advisor from their prospective major field and register for classes at this session.

Undergraduate Schedule Load (Full-Time)

Twelve to 19 credit hours constitute a normal semester course load. A program of 12 or more semester hours is considered full-time. Students who desire to carry more than 19 credit hours may seek approval from the Provost. There are additional tuition charges for credit hours over 19.

Drop/Add

Registration changes may be made during the drop/add period. Faculty advisors should be consulted before making schedule changes.

Pre-Requisite Requirements

Students who unsuccessfully complete a pre-requisite course are subject to be dropped from the course for which the pre-requisite is required. The student will receive an email notification to their Shorter University assigned email address, from the Office of the Registrar at the time the course is dropped with instructions on how to proceed with registration.

Course Withdrawal

Students may withdraw from individual courses after the drop/add period and until the last two weeks of the semester. Proper forms must be filed in the Registrar’s office to accompany any withdrawal. All students remaining on the course roster should receive the letter grade they earned in the course at final grade entry.

Withdrawal from Shorter University

A student choosing to withdraw from the university during a semester must complete the necessary paperwork obtained from the Director of Student Engagement and Success. No refund of fees will be calculated until the withdrawal process is complete. Withdrawal becomes effective only when the form is signed by the Registrar. Withdrawal grades are described under the Non-Credit Grades section.

The University reserves the right to request, at any time, the withdrawal of a student who does not maintain the required standard of scholarship, or whose continued attendance would be detrimental to the student’s health or the health of others, or whose behavior is out of harmony with the Christian philosophy of the university. For regulations regarding nonacademic or disciplinary suspension, see the Shorter University Student Handbook.

A student completing the semester but not intending to return to the university the following term must complete the online End of Semester Withdrawal form located on SCHOLAR. Withdrawal becomes effective only when the online form is completed and all final grades for that semester have been received.

Student Class Standing

Shorter University officially recognizes four classes: freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior. A student’s classification is based upon earned hours.

Grades, Credit, and Quality Points

Shorter University defines the term “credit hour” as the amount of credit awarded for one hour of classroom instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class student work per week for one semester of approximately fifteen weeks or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time. This definition applies to any academic activities for which credit is awarded, including laboratory work, internships, practica, studio work, and independent studies, as well as courses offered in accelerated and/or nontraditional formats.

A student’s standing in any course may be determined according to the following grades:

The designation H following a grade denotes a class taken for the Honors Program. The designation R following a grade indicates a course was repeated. Except in cases of clerical error, a faculty member may not change a grade which has been forwarded to the Registrar’s Office. Grades may only be changed as the result of an appeals process as described below.

Grade-Point Average

A student’s academic grade-point average (GPA) is obtained by dividing the number of quality points earned by the number of credit hours scheduled (except grades of “W”, “WA”, “WP”, “P”, “S”, “U”, or “I”).

Course Repeats

A student will have a maximum of two repeats after the first attempt of a course to increase a grade from a “D” or an “F.” Therefore, a student may attempt a course for a total of three times before accepting the highest grade in the amount of course attempts. If the student is unsuccessful in the third attempt of a required major course, he or she may be required to change his or her major to one that does not require that major course. If the same course is repeated after January 1, 2013, the highest grade will be used in the calculation of the student’s GPA. Exceptions may be made, with permission from the Registrar, for a student to retake a course resulting in a final grade of “C.” Repeating a course may affect a student’s financial aid or athletic eligibility.

Non-Credit Grades (W, WP, WA, I, AU)

Students may withdraw from a course and receive a grade of “W” until the mid-point of the term. After the midpoint of the term, students wishing to withdraw may do so, but will receive a grade of “WP” or “WF”, assigned by the professor based on the grade in the course at that time. The withdrawal period will end approximately two weeks before the end of the semester. Withdrawals are not accepted after the withdrawal period. All students remaining on the course roster should receive the letter grade they earned in the course at final grade entry. A grade of “WA” will be assigned in cases in which a university administrator initiates a student withdrawal due to, but not limited to, disciplinary or academic issues. An incomplete grade of “I” can be assigned by the instructor only when a deficiency exists in a relatively small portion of the course. A student with a grade of “I” should work closely with their instructor to complete the deficiency. Doing so enables the instructor to submit a grade change form on SCHOLAR before the deadline on the academic calendar. A grade of “I” remain after the deadline will default to a failure grade of “F”. After the incomplete deadline and “I” grades are changed, academic standing will be re-calculated for students with previous “I” grades. See the Undergraduate Academic Progress section later in this catalog for academic standing details.

The grade of “AU” denotes a course taken as an audit. Auditors receive no credit, and they participate in the course at the option of the instructor.

Institutional-Load Courses

Some courses bear institutional load credit only (i.e. ENG 0990 /ENG 0991 , MAT 0990). Credit hours for these courses count toward term totals, but they are not factored into the student’s career totals.

Official Transcript & Enrollment Verification Requests

Shorter University has authorized National Student Clearinghouse for transcript ordering and credit card payment through a secured internet transaction. A $3.00 processing fee will be charged per recipient in addition to Shorter’s transcript fee. Visit http://www.shorter.edu/registrar/ for more information.

Transcripts and enrollment verification letters may also be requested in writing with the signature of the student. E-mail, fax and telephone requests will not be honored. Request forms are available at the Registrar’s Office location in Sheffield Thompson and on SCHOLAR. All transcript requests must be prepaid with a fee of $5.00 for regular service or $10.00 for immediate service, when available.

Official transcripts will not be issued for those who are delinquent in their financial obligations to the university. In addition, official transcript requests will not be processed for students with transcript holds on their records from any Shorter University department. Current grade transcript requests are held two weeks before the end of each semester until all final grades are posted for that semester.

Guidelines For Changing/Appealing Course Final Grades

Grade Changes/Appeals

Based on individual student circumstances, a professor may change a final grade within the six-month period following the end of the course. Between six months and one year the Provost must also approve the grade change. A grade change after one year must be due to clerical error.

Appealing a Final Course Grade

1. The first level of appeal for a student who is dissatisfied with a grade received is to the professor assigning the grade. The student should contact the professor to explain the basis of dissatisfaction and the professor should explain the basis for the grade. This meeting should be face to face; however, the professor may allow other forms of communication (via telephone or email, for example). The student must request this interview in writing to the professor within 10 days of the posting of the final grade. Once the faculty member has received the request, the interview (or other communication) must be scheduled within normal working hours (8 a.m. - 5 p.m.), Monday through Friday within 10 days of the student’s request (unless the request does not fall within a major term; see paragraph D below). Failure by the faculty member to respond to the student’s request within the established time will be considered a violation of the University policy. Failure of the student to appear at the scheduled interview ends the appeals procedure. If the student has not been contacted by the professor within 30 days of mailing the appeal, the student should file the appeal directly with the department chairperson.
2. If the student wishing to appeal a final course grade is still dissatisfied after an interview (or other agreed upon communication) with the professor, the student should then submit a written statement to the chair of the department within 10 days of the interview. This should contain the reasons for dissatisfaction and the specific changes the student regards as fair and desirable. The burden of proof lies with the student in such a case to show that an error of malfeasance has occurred. Within 10 days of receiving the written appeal, the department chair will notify in writing both the professor and the student of the chair’s decision (as noted in Paragraph D, this deadline is extended when the appeal is not lodged during a major semester). When, in the opinion of the department chair, the student fails to show reasonable cause for further investigation, the chair may deny the appeal without taking further action.
3. When, in the opinion of the department chair, a student’s appeal raises reasonable doubt as to whether a mistake or malfeasance has occurred, the chair shall appoint within 10 days a committee of three faculty members whom the chair considers most nearly competent in the subject matter. This committee will meet and issue a decision in writing to the department chair, professor, and student within 10 days of the request. Both the professor and student should be asked to bind themselves in advance to accept the committee’s decision. Neither may be required, however, to bind themselves.
4. If the student files the initial request at a time other than during a major term (fall or spring semesters) and if the professor or department chair are not available during that time, all of the foregoing deadlines begin to run with the first day of class in the next major term.
5. Any student who has exhausted the remedies open under the procedures outlined above may appeal the entire matter to the Faculty Appeals Committee. The student should be advised by the department chair that the Faculty Appeals Committee will not alter a grade under these circumstances, but if the student can show compelling evidence that the procedures outlined above have been violated, the Committee may recommend that a reexamination or other appropriate assignment be given to the student, that the appropriate academic dean investigate the entire matter or other appropriate action be taken.
6. All results from these proceedings of the Faculty Appeals Committee should be reported to the appropriate academic dean and Provost as information.

Transient Study

Students may take a limited number of courses at another institution as a transient student, usually during the summer. Transiency does not break a student’s affiliation with Shorter University or establish permanent admission to the host institution.

To apply to take a course at another institution as a transient student, must complete a request from the Registrar’s Office. The academic advisor should be consulted when selecting classes to take as a transient student. Once the completed application is approved in the Registrar’s Office, a transient letter is sent from the Registrar to the chosen host institution granting permission to study specific courses and indicating the Shorter equivalent courses. Transient letters will only be granted to students who are in good academic and financial standing with the University.

Any student who completes transient work must request a transcript from the host institution be sent to Shorter upon completion of the course(s). Any student who does not provide a transcript for transient work will have a hold placed on his or her account prohibiting registration until the transcript is received. For information regarding how transient courses will be accepted for credit at Shorter University, see the next section, Transfer Credit Policy. Courses previously taken at Shorter that were not successfully completed may not be taken at another institution as a transient student.

Transfer Credit Policy

Shorter University (SU) accepts undergraduate transfer credit from other institutions of higher education based on the following policies. These are effective for students entering the university beginning with the 2016-17 academic year and previously enrolled students who submit transfer or transient work for evaluation after 5/2/2016:

• Official final transcripts from ALL institutions attended must be received at SU before a transfer credit evaluation can begin through the Registrar’s Office. Failure to submit official transcripts from ALL institutions attended prior to enrollment at SU may lead to academic dismissal. For status updates pertaining to transfer credit evaluations, prospective students should contact Admissions; currently enrolled students should contact the Registrar’s Office.
• Current students planning to take coursework at another institution during any term must receive prior permission from the SU Registrar’s Office in order for it count as SU credit.
• Transfer credit evaluations performed by the SU Registrar’s Office are performed at no cost.
• Courses in which the student earned a grade of “C” or above may be accepted for transfer credit.
• Accepted transfer credit quality points will not be used for calculating the cumulative academic GPA.
• Accepted transfer credits will be counted as earned hours towards a degree.
• Shorter University may accept a maximum of 60 earned credit hours from two-year schools for credit and no more than 90 earned credit hours will be accepted from four-year schools.
• Technical school three-digit course codes of 190 and above and four-digit course codes of 1100 and above will be accepted for transfer credit unless otherwise stated in an articulation agreement. Technical school course codes below 190 or 1100 are not eligible for transfer credit unless otherwise stated in an articulation agreement.
• Transfer students who have completed an Associate Degree, excluding Associate of Applied Science degrees, from an accredited institution will usually be admitted to Shorter University with Junior class standing. Those students will have met Foundation requirements, with the exception of the two Christian studies courses and any specific general education courses prerequisite to or required for a given major.
• A maximum of 30 credit hours of alternate credit (AP, IB, CLEP, DSST, etc.) may be accepted for credit at SU. For information regarding which alternate credit organizations are eligible to receive credit and minimum scores, please contact the Registrar’s Office. Credit by examination for AP, CLEP, and IB can be viewed at www.shorter.edu on the Registrar’s page.
• Each quarter credit hour counts as 2/3 of a semester credit hour. For example, 5.00 quarter hours is equal to 3.33 credits of semester credit.
• Remedial course work is deemed unacceptable for transfer credit.
• English as a second language, practicum, internships, clinical experiences, and orientation courses may transfer in for credit towards major or elective credit depending on specific details on each course.
• Courses transferred in may be matched with equivalent SU courses or may be given elective credit if no SU course match can be found as long as the above policies are followed.
• Articulation agreements and previously evaluated courses by school can be viewed at www.shorter.edu on the Registrar’s page.
• SU independently evaluates foreign credentials, however, international students may utilize World Education Services or Josef Silny and Associates for transfer evaluations for credit towards a degree.
• Institutional and governmental regulations followed by other SU administrative and academic departments to calculate a GPA may differ from the cumulative academic GPA calculated by the Registrar’s Office.

Inclusion of Previously Enrolled SU Students

Students currently enrolled or those who readmit on 05/02/2016 or later whose transfer work was evaluated according to the prior transfer credit acceptance policies may petition the Registrar’s Office in writing to registrar@shorter.edu to have their transfer work reevaluated under the current policy. Students should take special note that once a petition has been submitted and the reevaluation has been completed, the student is ineligible to return to the prior credit acceptance policies and no reversal of the evaluation may take place.

Special Study Courses Regulations

Special Study includes the following: Independent Study, Internship or Field Work. Department Chairs, Deans, and the Provost must approve Special Study Courses.

Independent Study

Independent Studies are catalog courses taken independently. Three further regulations govern Independent Studies:

1. A student may take no more than two Independent Studies at one time.
2. A student may take a maximum of four Independent Studies in a degree program.
3. A student earning a grade of “D” or “F” in a regular classroom course may not repeat it as an Independent Study.
4. There must be a compelling reason for allowing a student to take an Independent Study: the course was not offered in its regular rotation; the course was cancelled due to low enrollment and will not be offered again in its regular rotation before the student graduates.
5. Only catalog courses can be offered as Independent Studies.
6. The course in question must be part of the degree requirements for the student’s major or minor.

Internship

Internships at Shorter are semester-long, supervised work experiences related to a student’s major and for which the student earns academic credit. Internships cannot be taken to fulfill requirements (elective or otherwise) for a student’s minor area of study. The internship experience may be paid or unpaid, on or off campus. An internship combines supervised work experiences with academic activities. It allows a student to augment classroom learning by working in a social, business, political, cultural or community organization.

By completing suitable academic work under the direction of a faculty member, students may earn course credit for internships. Note: this definition excludes EDU 4211 -EDU 4212 , EDU 4221 -EDU 4222 , and EDU 4231 -EDU 4232 , all of which follow separate guidelines given by the State Department of Education.

The following are some of the regulations governing internships:

1. Students must register for internships during the semester in which the internship begins. If an internship extends beyond the semester registered, the hours will be sub-divided according to the percentage of the internship scheduled for each semester. A grade for both semesters will be submitted at the conclusion of the second semester after the full internship is completed.
2. Faculty supervision includes advisement on choice of internship, contact with the work supervisor, and assignment of a written report.
3. Students must work in a career field off campus unless special permission is given by the Provost.
4. Students must have a minimum overall GPA of 2.75 and permission of the department chair to participate in an internship. If the GPA is below 2.75 overall, the student must obtain permission of the dept. chair and dean.
5. Students must have earned at least 60 hours (Junior status) to participate in an internship.
6. Students must work a minimum of 112 hours on site.
7. If the work is done in the summer, it must be done over 15 weeks.
8. All students requesting an internship must submit an internship form and an internship description to the Registrar’s Office no later than the last day of drop/add. Any requests received after drop/add closes will be deferred to the following semester.
9. The maximum number of credit hours that a student may take for an internship is 6, unless their degree specifically requires more. Any exceptions must be approved by the Provost.

Traditional Students In Online Courses:

Traditional students including Student-Athletes and F1 Visa Holders are given the opportunity to enroll in one online course per semester if they meet the following criteria:

• Freshmen (0-26.99 earned hours) may not enroll in Fall or Spring online courses.
• Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors (27+ earned hours) may enroll in three credit hours of online courses per semester (Fall and Spring only). Permission to enroll in these courses may be granted per the Registrar’s Office after all necessary paperwork has been submitted. Not all requests will be approved, especially if an on-ground option that works with the student’s schedule and degree program is available.
• GPA requirement of 3.0 must be confirmed by the Registrar’s Office for a Traditional Student to participate in an online course - exceptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis, according to a student’s needs.
• Students accepted into the School of Nursing may enroll in required nursing courses not offered on ground.
• F1 Visa Holders, Student-Athletes and general Traditional students MUST be enrolled in 12 credit hours on-ground to be considered for an Online Request. Exceptions will be made based on the student’s degree program and extenuating circumstances.
• Requesting an Online course in lieu of an on-ground course due to athletic practices, rehearsals, or any extracurricular activity will not be accepted.

Please note that a $150 fee will be charged per online class approved. The University Registrar will approve or deny all requests based on published Academic Policies. Any appeals or potential exceptions will go to the Office of the Provost for final review.

Traditional students may receive the opportunity to take an online course if it is needed for their major and/or minor and assists with moving forward in their degree completion. If a traditional student has an academic violation and/or unsuccessfully completes the course, they will be denied all future online requests. Other options will be made available for the students to complete the courses required for their degree.

Class Attendance

By the act of enrollment:

1. The student is responsible for all coursework.
2. The student is expected to attend regularly and punctually all classes, laboratories, and any other academic meetings required by the university.
3. Courses delivered in part or fully online have special requirements. Consult the department and/or the instructor for details.

The instructor will automatically drop the student from a class with a grade of “FA” (Failure for Absences) when the student has missed 25 percent of the class meetings (excluding the Final Exam Period), as listed in the instructor’s course syllabus. This includes all classes scheduled during the “add/drop” period at the beginning of the term, and any classes missed due to late registration. The examples below show the number of absences for typical classes during the fall and spring semesters. The following reflects the number of absences at which you will receive the grade of “FA”:

• Classes meeting three times/week: 11
• Classes meeting two times/week: 7
• Classes meeting one time/week: 4

An absence is defined as non-attendance for any reason, whether illness, emergency, or official leave. There are no excused absences.

Make-up tests and assignments will be given only upon written explanation of sickness from a physician (or other pertinent documentation related to the particular situation). Students scheduled to represent Shorter at a university sponsored/sanctioned activity (athletic event, musical program, etc.) on the date of an exam must make arrangements with the professor prior to the exam date in order to reschedule the test.

Three instances of tardiness are equal to one absence. Should a student arrive to class after the roll has been taken, it is the student’s responsibility to inform the professor at the conclusion of the class of his or her presence. If a student arrives more than 10 minutes after the class is scheduled to start, the student will then be considered absent (and not tardy).

When the instructor’s records indicate that a student’s absences have reached 25 percent, the instructor will inform the Office of the Registrar using appropriate form (Notice of Excessive Absences); the student and appropriate university departments will then receive notification regarding the “FA”. [Note: prior to a student reaching the point of FA, the instructor should make every possible effort to assist the student. This will include notifying the Department of Student Engagement and Success when a student places himself/herself at risk by accruing an inordinate number of absences.]

Courses that include a lab are subject to the Shorter University attendance policy (ex: lab science courses, communication lab courses). If a grade of FA is earned in either lab or lecture, the same grade will be assigned to both the lab and the lecture sections of the course.

Graduate students taking undergraduate prerequisites are subject to the above attendance policy.

Academic areas (such as the School of Education and the School of Nursing) requiring accreditation from organizations/agencies in addition to SACS may have stricter attendance policies in order to comply with the standards demanded by those agencies.

In compliance with federal law, professors must notify Student Engagement and Success (SES) when a student is absent from school for 14 consecutive calendar days. SES will in turn inform the office of Financial Aid (and any other office requiring this information) of the situation.

Class Attendance by Veterans

The Department of Veteran Affairs requires that institutions of higher learning immediately report when a student discontinues attendance for any reason. Faculty must report to the Registrar’s Office the absence of a veteran student as soon as it is known that the veteran student will not be returning to class. Generally, this should be reported after one week of absences and not later than two weeks of non-attendance by a veteran student.

Semester Examinations

Two series of final examinations are held during the academic year at the end of each semester (exam week). No student may be exempted from an end-of-semester examination or experience by any faculty member. No faculty member may hold an examination or experience at other than the scheduled time without the approval of the faculty member’s Dean and the Provost. Students must complete examinations or experiences at the scheduled time except in an emergency as approved by the faculty member teaching the class in question, the Dean, and the Provost.

Requirements Outside of Courses

Assessment Testing and Surveying

Shorter University’s commitment to its mission and goals requires conducting regular evaluations of progress in achieving those goals. Testing and surveying of students at matriculation, during studies, and after completion of studies is an essential part of this evaluation program. In addition, students may expect to be asked to cooperate in various surveys, interviews, focus groups, and other data-collection efforts conducted by the Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Research.

Since the goals of Shorter University are directed to the education of the whole person, their achievement can be measured only by evidence concerning the whole person. To protect confidentiality of data, the Office of Institutional Research never releases personal information about individuals and, wherever possible, avoids attaching names to personal data during analysis.

Chapel Attendance

The following requirement begins with the 2023-2024 Academic Year. All full-time, undergraduate students must complete four semesters (usually the first four semesters at Shorter) of Chapel for each traditional degree program at Shorter University. To receive a semester’s Chapel credit, a student must register for Chapel (a zero credit-hour course) and attend six of the regularly scheduled Chapel Services during each semester. Failure to attend six Chapel Services in a semester will result in an Incomplete “I” for the semester. If a student earns an Incomplete for a semester, then the student may attend the requisite number of Chapel Services the following semester for the Incomplete to be changed to a Passing grade “P”. Failure to do so, or failure to do it by the deadline for changing Incompletes, will result in a Failing grade “F”. Chapel Services attended to change an Incomplete from a previous semester will not count toward the current semester. Chapel attendance exemptions or reductions must be approved by the Office of the Provost.

Chapel Services are held on Wednesdays at 11:00am (EST) in Brookes Chapel. The first Chapel Service of the year is Convocation and is held at the Winthrop King Center (WKC). All students registered for Chapel are required to attend Convocation as one of their Chapel credits. Chapel provides our academic community an opportunity to gather for worship, encouragement, and a regular hearing of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Shorter University believes the local church is central to the spiritual life of Christians and does not consider chapel or other university programs to be replacements for local church involvement.

Convocation Attendance

All students may be required to attend special convocations such as the annual awards day in the spring.

Undergraduate Academic Progress

Dean’s List

Any full-time, degree-seeking student who earns a minimum GPA of 3.5 on 12 credit hours or more during the Spring or Fall semesters (without any grades of “Incomplete” and excluding remedial courses) will be placed on the Dean’s List for that semester.

Academic Standing & Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

It is important to note that academic standing is separate from financial aid SAP. Academic standing pertains to whether or not a student is eligible to enroll in courses. SAP pertains to whether or not a student is eligible to receive financial aid. These use different criteria and require independent appeals for suspended students. See the financial aid section for more information on SAP.

Academic Good Standing

Good standing is defined as being eligible to continue as a student at Shorter University the following academic term.

Academic Standing Regulations

Academic Warning, Suspension, and Probation regulations apply to any student enrolled in a part time status or higher. Even though courses accepted from other institutions may count toward graduation requirements, they may not be used for purposes of removal from Warning, Suspension, or Probation.

Academic Warning

A student will be placed on Academic Warning at the end of any Fall/Spring semester in which the student’s Cumulative GPA is below the minimum GPA to avoid Academic Warning (see table below). The minimum GPA the student must meet is based on the student’s number of Attempted Hours at Shorter (also referred to as Attempted Local Hours).

A student on Academic Warning may be prohibited from participating in any extracurricular activity or representing Shorter University. A student on Academic Warning is also required to enroll in FCS 2000 the following Fall/Spring semester that they are enrolled at Shorter University. Enrollment in FCS 2000 is still required the following Fall/Spring term even if the student completes courses in the interim term that changes his or her GPA.

Academic Suspension

A student on Academic Warning who does not successfully bring their GPA above the minimum GPA to avoid Academic Warning the immediately following Fall/Spring semester will be placed on Academic Suspension. The minimum GPA the student must meet is based on the student’s number of Attempted Hours at Shorter (also referred to as Attempted Local Hours).

First-time Suspension: Students suspended at the end of a Fall semester will be eligible to apply for readmission for the following Fall semester. Students suspended at the end of a Spring semester will be eligible to apply for readmission for the following Spring semester. An academic suspension hold (AS) will be applied in order to prevent registration. It will be removed at the appropriate time if a readmission application is submitted from the student to the Admissions Office and fully approved.

Second-time Suspension: Only through written appeal to the Provost can permission to return to the university be granted. This appeal must be received 30 days prior to the registration date of the semester the student wishes to enter. A minimum of one calendar year must elapse before a student on second suspension may be readmitted. No student will be readmitted after his or her third suspension. A readmitted student will have two semesters, or one semester and a summer term, to reestablish the required cumulative GPA. The student must be enrolled full-time during these periods. A student who does not fully complete 12 semester hours for each of these semesters and does not obtain the minimum cumulative GPA after the second semester, will be subject to suspension.

Academic Probation

Students placed on Academic Suspension with significant extenuating circumstances may submit an Academic Appeal to the Appeals Committee for review. Students whose appeals are granted and are then allowed to re-enroll the following semester will be moved to Academic Probation. Students on Academic Probation will be required to meet with SES staff as a condition of their re-enrollment and create an academic plan. Students who do not adhere to their academic plan as created by SES staff may be withdrawn from their courses and returned to Academic Suspension status. When a student on Academic Probation has shown extensive progress, the (AP) hold will be removed from the students account.

Academic Dismissal

Academic dismissal may result from repeated failure to make academic progress and/or meet the academic requirements set forth in the catalog. Students will be subject to dismissal if they:

1. Incur a third academic suspension; or
2. Are unable to successfully complete a foundations course or general education course with an acceptable grade within three attempts. *

*A grade of “WF” is considered an attempt.

Disciplinary Suspension

Students may also be suspended from the university for disciplinary reasons. When a student receives a disciplinary suspension, he or she is automatically withdrawn from all courses, and will be assigned grades of “WA” for all courses at the time of withdrawal. For other rules regarding disciplinary suspension, see the Student Handbook.

Graduation Requirements

General

While the distribution of credit hours varies for the different degrees, all generally have the following consistent elements:

1. foundation courses
2. a major field
3. a group of related or supportive courses
4. electives

The list of candidates for graduation, after approval by the faculty, shall be recommended to the President and Board of Trustees for the conferring of degrees.

By vote of the faculty on December 2, 1993, no student will be allowed to march with a class or participate in any way in the graduation ceremony until all requirements are met. All financial obligations to the university must be cleared before graduation. This includes library fines, all other fines and fees collected by the Business Office, and the graduation fee. University approved regalia is required for ceremony participation.

Credit Hour and Grade Standards

For any degree, a candidate must have earned a minimum of 120 semester hours. Some degrees require hours above the minimum.

In order to graduate, a student must have a minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA. Some degree programs require a GPA above the minimum. All candidates must file an application for graduation and audit with the Registrar by the deadline indicated on the Academic Calendar and meet with their academic advisor to check progress toward completion. It is the students’ responsibility to see that all general and special requirements for their respective degrees have been met. The minimum acceptable grade in a course required of or applied to the major or minor is “C”. Transfer students must take at least 12 semester hours at 3000 level or above in the major at Shorter, and at least 6 hours in the minor if the student has a minor.

Special Grade Standards

In addition to the above, certain degree fields have further requirements:

All degrees

A minimum grade of “C” must be earned in ENG 1010  and ENG 1020  or ENG 1030  and ENG 1040 .

Business (B.B.A.)

All ACC, BUS, CIS, ECO, MAT, MGT, MKT and SPM courses must be passed with a “C” or better. All prerequisites must be passed with an acceptable grade before the next level may be registered.

Education (all degrees)

Candidates for teacher certification must officially be accepted into the Shorter University Teacher Preparation Program through an application process. Application materials are located on the School of Education page of SCHOLAR. The GPA referred to in SOE documents is the “HOPE” GPA. Information is found in the Teacher Preparation Program Handbook. Due to state mandates, requirements are subject to change.

Music (all degrees)

A minimum acceptable grade of “C” is required in all music courses within a student’s degree program, including all applied music and music activities.

Natural Sciences

All required BIO, CHE, EAS, MAT, NAS, and PHY courses must be passed with a “C” or better.

Nursing

All courses must have a “C” or better and be completed prior to beginning the nursing sequence. An overall average of 3.0 in nursing prerequisite courses is required to be considered for admission into the nursing program.

Completion Requirements

Minimum Residence Requirement

A minimum of 25 percent of the credit hours required for any degree must be earned from Shorter University. At least 12 upper level hours (3000-4000 level) in the major and, if a minor is chosen, at least 6 upper level hours in the minor must be taken in residence. Any courses taken elsewhere, while a student at Shorter, must be approved in advance by the Registrar to guarantee transfer and proper application to the student’s program of study. A grade of “C” or higher is required for transient course credit.

Proficiency in Written Communication

Shorter’s Educational Goal III states that curriculum and the educational environment “ensures that students reach the levels of skill in written and oral communication…necessary to take full advantage of university coursework and that they continue to exercise and enlarge these skills.” Effective written communication at Shorter University will be measured by students successfully completing ENG 1010  and ENG 1020  with a “C” or better.

Majors

In contrast to the breadth of study provided by the general education requirements, the major provides a degree of mastery in a particular field of study. Total major sequence requirements are designed by the departments offering the majors, and requirements, which vary by degree and discipline, are described in the Catalog under discipline headings.

Declaration of Major

A Shorter University student should declare their major initially at the required Hawk Orientation. Any changes/adjustments to his or her major of choice should be submitted with the proper paperwork by no later than the end of your Junior, Spring semester.

Additional Credentials

Minors

Minors must be earned in most disciplines. A minor consists of at least 18 semester hours in a discipline, with specific requirements set by the department or school offering the minor.

Courses taken in the Major AND Minor

Students may minor in any area outside of their major, provided that the University offers the minor and that the student meets the prerequisites for and completes the requirements for the minor. Students majoring in one specific area may not also minor in the same area or in a concentration already studied in the major. However, students majoring in one area may minor in other categories within the overall academic discipline of the area; for example, a student majoring in Communication Studies with a concentration in Organizational Communication & Leadership may minor in Advertising/Public Relations but may not minor in Organizational Communication & Leadership, a student majoring in Marketing may minor in Management but may not minor in Marketing, or a student majoring in English may minor in Professional Writing but not in English.

The credits awarded toward the major (but not the Major Courses area in the B.A. in Liberal Arts/B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies) can also be used to fulfill the minor, but students must meet the minimum total credit hours for a degree. Where an overlap in specific course requirements occurs in the major and minor, approved substitutions can be taken. Students should consult the requirements for specific minors and any notes concerning the overlap of specific majors and minors in the academic catalog.

Courses taken to fulfill the foreign language requirement for a B.A. and the additional math and science requirements for a B.S. may also fulfill the requirements for a minor, if students complete approved substitutions to meet the minimum total credit hours for a degree.

Second Degrees and Majors

Occasionally, a student who already has a bachelor’s degree will choose to pursue a second bachelor’s degree. A second degree carries a different letter designation. If the student has a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and seeks a second bachelor’s degree from Shorter University, they must complete all courses within the major field and any necessary prerequisites for the program or the major courses. A minimum of 30 semester hours and 60 quality points must be earned at Shorter University beyond the first degree and the minimum residency requirement must also be met. Students may use courses completed during their first degree towards their second degree so long as the minimum 30 semester hours at Shorter and minimum residency requirement are still met. Students admitting pursuing a second bachelor’s degree are exempt from the Foundations courses apart from the Examined Life requirement (CST 1011  and CST 1012 ) and any Foundations courses that are required by the program (Ex: MAT 1110  for BBA degrees). They must also have obtained a C or better in ENG 1010  and ENG 1020  (or their equivalents as evaluated by the Registrar or Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences). Students admitting pursuing a second bachelor’s degree are also exempt from any required minors and general electives that are required outside of the major field courses since they have already completed a degree in a secondary area of study. Students who completed their first bachelor’s degree at another regionally accredited institution and seek a second Bachelor’s degree from Shorter University will be treated as transfer students.

A student pursuing two Bachelor’s degrees from Shorter University at the same time must earn a minimum of 30 semester hours and 60 quality points in the second degree beyond the requirements for the first degree, with any additional Foundations and all major field requirements satisfied. Students completing two Bachelor’s degrees at the same time are exempt from any required minors but must still complete all other courses and any prerequisites or requirements for each program.

A second major within the same degree does not require a minimum number of additional hours. A student pursuing more than one major within the same degree must complete only the necessary courses to complete the additional major (including any prerequisites or program related requirements). Double majors are exempt from any required minors.

Posthumous Degrees

In the event of a student’s death during his or her final term of study, a member of the student’s family will be invited to accept the diploma during commencement exercises. In order to receive a posthumous degree, the student must have been in the final semester of study - or within 15 credit hours of graduation - and expected to graduate.

Special Degree Requirements

All specific requirements for each degree and major are listed on its page in the Major Sequence Sheet section.

Degrees in Music

The following degrees are offered in the Music Department at Shorter University:

• Bachelor of Music, with majors in Voice, Piano, Piano Pedagogy, Music Education and Music & Worship Leadership
• Bachelor of Fine Arts, with a major in Musical Theatre.
• Bachelor of Arts, with a major in Music

Shorter University is a member of the National Association of Schools of Music. Requirements for graduation are in accordance with the published regulations of that body.

Although it carries no academic credit, satisfactory recital attendance is a requirement for graduation. Grading for recital attendance is Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory. Music majors signed up for Recitals must attend each recital class plus 10 additional concerts to receive the grade “S”; any student attending less than the required number of recitals will receive the temporary grade “U”. Grades of “U” must be removed the following term by fulfilling the requirement of that current term plus the deficiency from the previous term. Most degree programs require that a full-time music major be enrolled in recitals for four years or each semester enrolled at Shorter. See specific requirements in the Catalog under Major Sequence Sheets.

Degrees With Honors

Graduation with Honors

Candidates for a bachelor’s degree who during their university course maintain high academic standing, and who have not at any time been suspended, may receive recognition on their diplomas in one of the three degrees of honors: (1) cum laude; (2) magna cum laude; (3) summa cum laude. Students who have a local cumulative GPA of 3.5 - 3.749 will receive their diplomas cum laude; students who have a local cumulative GPA of 3.75 - 3.874 will receive their diplomas magna cum laude; students who have a local cumulative GPA of 3.875 - 4.0 will receive their diplomas summa cum laude.

Sigma Eta Alpha -The Shorter Honors Academy

The Shorter Honors Academy offers a challenging environment for talented and intellectually gifted students who seek an enhanced education. In order to receive an Honors Certificate upon graduation, a student must meet the requirements listed below. Students who complete the Honors requirements described below will be recognized at the graduation ceremony.

Shorter Honors Academy students may choose to take regularly offered Honors classes, including ENG 1030 , ENG 1040 , HON 2000 , and HON 3000 . Other classes that are often rotated in include COM 1010 , HIS 2XXX, and ENG 2XXX. Students may also opt to take Add-On classes. In this case, students negotiate with their professors to enhance the class so that it becomes the equivalent of an Honors class. For students to get credit for an Add-On class, they must fill out the Honors Add-On form and secure the proper signatures.

Along with completing a total of 18 hours of Honors courses, students must write an Honors thesis. Honors Thesis courses are recommended (two to four credit hours) if a student’s major does not include a written capstone. If a student’s major does include a written capstone paper, then the student must work with the Honors Director to ensure the quality is sufficient to warrant Honors Thesis credit. The thesis must also be defended to the Honors Director and major professor. The student’s overall GPA must be at least 3.5 upon graduation.

Rescinding A Degree

The University reserves the right to rescind any Shorter University degree obtained improperly, including but not limited to, as a result of misrepresentations, incomplete or false information, and/or in violation of university requirements.

Registrar’s Office Retention of Records

Shorter University requires that some specific types of records be retained for specific periods of time and in designated official repositories. The schedules attached to this policy list these records and the time of required retention for the Shorter University Registrar’s Office for students with enrollment history. The Shorter University Registrar’s Office is committed to effective records retention to preserve its history, ensure that critical records are available to meet business needs, comply with legal requirements, optimize the use of space, minimize the cost of record retention, and ensure that outdated and useless records are destroyed.

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

The University is aware that the cost of higher education is a major investment for a family and makes every effort to keep its charges as reasonable as possible, consistent with providing an opportunity for a first-class education. Because of support from earnings on endowment investments and gifts from friends of the University, the individual student is able to attend Shorter University for much less than the real cost of his or her education.

* Most rooms are designed to be shared by two roommates; basic charge is for such accommodations. For information about availability and cost of other accommodations, which carry a surcharge, inquiry may be made of the Student Life Office.

# Financial aid for which the student is eligible will be deducted from stated charges.

Tuition And Fees For Traditional Students Taking Online Classes

Other Charges

Art

Communication Studies

Education

Music

Natural Sciences

Graduation Application Fee

This application fee is posted to the student account at the time of their Application for Graduation and is due whether or not the student graduates or participates in Commencement Exercises. Fees for caps and gowns are in addition to the graduation application fee. For application deadlines, visit www.shorter.edu/calendar.

Special Tuition Provisions

Auditing

For part-time students, half the charge for a credit course; no extra charge for full-time students. Studio and laboratory courses may not be audited but may be attended on a noncredit basis upon payment of stated tuition.

Transcripts of Academic Record

Payment Options

The University recognizes the desire of many parents to be able to budget educational expenses and makes available the following plans to provide such services:

Option 1 - Remit payment in full to Shorter University each semester. Payments by Cash, Check, MasterCard, VISA, AmEx, and Discover are accepted. To pay online, visit us on the web at http://scholar.shorter.edu and select Pay My Bill.

Option 2 - Shorter University offers a payment plan. Payments are due the 10th of each month. If not paid by the 15th, a $35 late fee is added. The total balance must be paid by the end of each semester. The amount due per semester is based on preliminary financial aid and will be adjusted if the awarded amount is different. The website address for the payment plan will be available in the Business Office or online at www.shorter.edu/business-office.

Room & Board Charges

Board Plan

All on-campus residents are required to purchase the board plan unless they have a medically ordered diet which the food service is unable to accommodate.

1. Unlimited Meal Plan: $4,634
2. 15 Meal Plan: $3,502
3. 10 Meal Plan: $3,090 (only students living in apartment-style housing are eligible for this plan)

Room Charges

All full-time students are required to live in campus residence halls unless married, living with parents, 23 years of age, or having received written authorization from the Vice President for Student Affairs due to extenuating circumstances.

1. Roberts, Hazel, and Eubanks Hall: $5,046
2. Vanhoose and Cooper Halls: $5,150
3. Bass Housing Complex: $5,870
4. New Dorm: $5,870
5. Newman Hall: $5,870
6. Mallory, Gwaltney, & Townes: $5,870
7. Single Rooms: $5,362
8. Summer School/Maymester Room: $500 per month; summer school tuition and room charges are subject to change annually.

Refund Policy

All charges for tuition and fees for a class are refundable if the student withdraws from the class by the last day of add/drop; otherwise, the tuition and fees are non-refundable.

General Financial Stipulations

Students must have settled all financial obligations to the University in order to receive grade reports, have a transcript issued, or be granted a diploma.

Because of the uncertainty of economic conditions and changing prices of food and other costs, the University reserves the right to vary charges at any time, including during any session, without prior notice.

The registration of a student signifies the assumption of definitive obligations between that student and the University. It is an agreement on the student’s part and in that case of minors, the parents/guardians, to fulfill the terms of the contract for the semester and indicates acceptance of financial and general regulations of the current catalog.

Accounts for the semester are payable as specified in the schedule of payments and in full before completion of registration. The University may assess interest on unpaid balances.

Shorter University cannot assume responsibility for loss or damage of personal property on the campus. Ordinarily the insurance coverage of a parent automatically provides for this or can be extended for this purpose. The institution’s annual campus security report can be accessed at www.shorter.edu.

Bookstore Purchases

If a student has a credit balance on his or her account, Shorter University will allow textbooks and course materials (paper, pens, scantrons, bookbags, laptops, and tablets) purchased at the University Bookstore to be charged to the Shorter Student Account for a 4-week time frame.

The time frame is as follows: Two weeks before classes start, the week of drop/add, and the week following drop/add. After that time frame, no more bookstore charges can be charged to the student account. Choosing this method for purchasing books, authorizes Shorter University to deduct all bookstore charges from any funds posted on the student account, including Title IV financial aid. In the event the student does not receive enough funds to cover the balance due, he or she is responsible to pay these charges in full or a hold will be placed on the account. No student is required to use this service.

Student Athletic Insurance

Shorter University provides an Athletic Blanket Accident Insurance Policy to assist athletes with balances due for intercollegiate athletic injury after their primary insurance processes/pays.

Shorter requires athletes who do not have primary insurance (or who have an insurance that will not pay as primary in the presence of another insurance) to purchase a separate policy (UAP) which will only cover athletic injuries sustained during Shorter practices or games.

Medicaid (or any plan through Medicaid), Medicare, TriCare, Champs, Peach Care, Peach State, CHIP (or any plan through CHIP), and medical cost sharing plans (i.e. Medi-Share, etc.) do not pay as primary for athletic injuries in the presence of Shorter University’s Athletic Blanket Accident Insurance Policy. Athletes with these insurances will be required to purchase the UAP for covered athletic injuries but would use their other insurances for everything else.

The UAP policy will pay first for these athletes on covered athletic injuries, with the balance due being automatically forwarded to Shorter’s Excess Athletic Injury policy.

The premium is for the whole academic year and cannot be prorated. Athletes must have coverage for the entire academic year PLUS coverage for any sport that begins before the academic year or ends after the academic year.

International Athletic Insurance

Please contact the Business Office. All international athletes MUST purchase an insurance plan.

Communication Policy

Any digital communication, once a Shorter University student must be done using the assigned Hawk Mail account received upon registration.

Financial Aid

Shorter University has a long-standing tradition of assisting students in financing their college education. Financial aid is available from a variety of sources, including: the university, through its own funds and endowments; the state of Georgia; and the Federal Government.

The best source of information regarding financial assistance for educational expenses while enrolled in college is the financial aid office. This office seeks to enable all qualified persons to attend Shorter University by putting together the best financial aid package possible for each student applicant. Guidelines must be observed in order to make the financial aid program equitable and to provide financial assistance for as many students as possible. Please refer to our extensive website at www.shorter.edu/financial-aid/.

General Regulations

Students must apply for financial aid each year. The financial aid office will coordinate which documents are required for application and renewal each year. These processes are electronic. For need-based programs, proper need analysis must be used to determine eligibility for those programs by completing the FAFSA at www.fafsa.ed.gov each year. Shorter’s ID # for the FAFSA is 001591. Shorter University’s online financial aid system can be accessed at finaid.shorter.edu.

Once a student has been properly admitted to Shorter University, and the financial aid processes completed, a financial aid offer will be available to the student through Shorter University’s online financial aid system. Please review the financial aid policies and procedures regarding the receipt of financial aid.

The Shorter University financial aid office uses the Shorter University email system as its official means of documented communication. If any student prefers to receive printed correspondence, please let the financial aid office us know.

Upon being offered financial aid, an email notification is sent to the student stating that financial aid awards are ready for review. The financial aid will not be disbursed to the student’s account until the student is properly enrolled and attending classes for the specific period of enrollment. Financial aid will be credited to the student account one half of the total award each semester. Student work earnings are paid to the student monthly by direct deposit. Most financial aid is based on full-time enrollment status, which is defined as a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester for traditional programs. Any deviation from full-time status my result in re-calculation of financial aid awards.

A student’s eligibility to participate in the financial aid programs is contingent upon the student’s academic standing. Regulations regarding Satisfactory Academic Progress for financial aid are found in this section.

Students who are receiving institutional scholarships and wish for those scholarships to continue to the following year must complete the necessary financial aid forms, meet scholarship eligibility and satisfactory academic progress standards, and register for fall semester classes during the previous spring semester in order to maintain those scholarships.

Institutional Aid

Shorter University offers a wide variety of scholarships funded from the University’s own resources as well as from endowed contributions. Deadlines and criteria for these scholarship programs vary greatly, so students are advised to check with the financial aid office or the admissions office as far in advance as possible to apply for institutional scholarships. Institutional scholarships include, but are not limited to, competitive academic scholarships, music department scholarships, and athletic scholarships. Students may receive institutional aid for one undergraduate degree. Students enrolled in a second bachelor’s degree are not eligible for institutional aid, but may be eligible for a post baccalaureate scholarship. Students who wish to study abroad may with permission from the Director of Financial Aid and the Director of International Programs use academic institutional aid. Athletic

Students must be enrolled full-time to receive any institutional aid. A student may receive institutional financial aid if they are less than full time and in their final semester at the University. Institutional aid is available to transfer students based on the difference between the number of transferable credits received and the number of semesters required to complete a degree at Shorter. For example, if a student transfers in 60 semester hours, institutional aid would be available for the remaining four semesters. No institutional aid is available for summer enrollment unless the student is in their last semester and needs classes to graduate at the end of the summer term. Shorter University students, employees, and graduate assistants are eligible to use institutional financial aid toward their first undergraduate and/or graduate degree at Shorter. No institutional funds may be applied toward a second bachelor’s degree. Second bachelor’s degree seeking students may be eligible for a post baccalaureate scholarship offered by the Office of Admission.

NOTE: Shorter University reserves the right to adjust institutional aid when that aid in combination with other forms of aid exceeds the cost of tuition plus the federal allowance for books. Shorter University reserves the right to change all policies concerning the awarding of financial aid and scholarships without notice due to financial and regulatory considerations and changes.

Academic Scholarships

The Application for Admission to Shorter University is also the application for Academic Scholarships (Founders, Dean’s, Faculty, and Shorter University Grant), excluding Community Partnership and Competitive Scholarships.

If awarded a Dean’s Scholarship, a student must maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average on a four-point scale to be eligible to retain the scholarship. A student may receive Dean’s Scholarship for a total of 8 semesters. If awarded a Faculty Scholarship, a student must maintain at least a 2.75 grade point average on a four-point scale to be eligible to retain the scholarship. A student may receive a Faculty Scholarship for a total of 8 semesters. If awarded a Founders Scholarship, a student must maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average on a four-point scale to be eligible for the scholarship. A student may receive a Founders Scholarship for a total of 8 semesters. If awarded a Shorter University Grant, a student must maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average on a four-point scale to be eligible to retain the scholarship. If awarded a Community Partnership Scholarship, a student must maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average on a four-point scale to be eligible for the scholarship. Community Partner Scholarship recipients who enter Shorter during the 2023-2024 year are required to maintain a 2.75 grade point averge on a four-point scale to be eligible for the scholarship. A student may receive the Community Partnership Scholarship for a total of 8 consecutive semesters. Competitive Scholarships (Georgia Baptist Service, Eubanks, Presidential, Phi Theta Kappa, Alfred Shorter, and Provost) are awarded for a total of 8 semesters and are for undergraduate degrees only. A Eubanks or Georgia Baptist Service scholar must maintain a 3.5 GPA to retain the scholarship. A presidential scholar must maintain a 3.25 GPA. A Phi Theta scholar must maintain a 3.25 GPA. An Alfred Shorter and Provost Scholar must maintain a 3.0 GPA. One-half of the Academic Scholarship is applied to tuition charges at registration for fall semester, and the other half is applied to tuition charges at registration for spring semester. If a prospective student is eligible for more than one non-underwritten scholarship, scholarships which Shorter University finances from its own resources, only the larger scholarship will be granted, not a combination of the scholarships.

Scholarships are awarded for one year at a time. In order to establish eligibility, it is necessary for the student to have been accepted for admission to Shorter University. Renewal eligibility is determined at the end of spring semester each year once a student has re-applied and completed all necessary financial aid applications.

Regaining Instutional Aid

If a studnet fails to maintain the required grade point average for their respective institutional scholarship at the end of the spring semeter, they will have the opportunity to regain funds once the grade point requirement is met at the end of any future semester. Students are allowed to only lose and regain institutional scholarships once.

Ability and Special Scholarships

Shorter University offers scholarships in the areas of athletics, music, and in academic departments. Other scholarships are available to persons with special characteristics: children of church employees, etc. Please contact the financial aid office for more information.

Church-Related Grants

Students who are active members of churches within the Georgia Baptist Mission Board may be eligible for the Baptist Appreciation Scholarship. An application including a recommendation from a church pastor is required. Students planning to enter a ministerial-related vocation may be eligible for the Ministerial Vocation Grant. If the student does not enter a ministerial-related vocation after receiving this grant, the grant turns into a loan which must be repaid to the GBMB. Applications for church-related grants must be completed, certified by your minister, and submitted to the financial aid office. Applications are available from the financial aid office.

State Aid

Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant (GTEG) Under current regulations, qualified Georgia residents are eligible to receive the Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant (GTEG) to be applied directly to reduce the costs associated with college for full-time undergraduate students who attend private colleges and universities in Georgia. Application for the GTEG is made once by applying at www.gafutures.org or annually through FAFSA at https://studentaid.gov/. Residency status is checked each year to verify the students eligibility to renew and maintain the GTEG. GTEG recipients can currently receive the scholarship for up to 127 paid credit hours. GTEG awards are established each year by the legislature of the State of Georgia and are subject to change.

HOPE Scholarship

Initial HOPE scholarship eligibility is determined by the student’s official high school GPA. The GPA must be 3.0 or higher in all core classes and meet the State required academic rigor requirements. Application for HOPE is made once by applying at www.gafutures.org or annually through FAFSA at https://studentaid.gov/. HOPE scholarship recipients are reviewed by Shorter University for continued eligibility in the spring semester each year as well as at the 30th, 60th, and 90th attempted semester hour levels. Continued eligibility is based on the number of hours attempted and cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher. HOPE recipients can currently receive the scholarship for up to 127 attempted credit hours. HOPE awards and regulations are established by the legislature of the State of Georgia and are subject to change. For further information about the HOPE Scholarship, go to www.gafutures.org.

Zell Miller Scholarship (ZMS)

Students graduating from high school with a 3.7 HOPE GPA and 1200 on the math and reading portions of the SAT or 26 on ACT (both are single test scores, not best from multiple testing) and graduate from high school in 2007 or later are eligible. Students who graduated as Valedictorian or Salutatorian if they meet HOPE requirements (NOTE: only 1 each per high school per year) are eligible. Students who entered college between 2007-2010 and are currently in college with a 3.3 GPA at the most recent checkpoint (Spring 2013) and met all other high school graduation requirements listed above for the ZMS are eligible. Students must maintain the 3.3 GPA at all usual HOPE checkpoints; end of each spring semester and once completed 30, 60, and 90 attempted credit hours to maintain eligibility. If a student loses ZMS at any checkpoint, the student can still get HOPE, assuming all requirements, including the 3.0 GPA are met. For additional information go to www.gafutures.org.

Georgia College Completion Grant

Under current state regulations, the Georgia College Grant (GCCG) Program is available to Georgia residents who are within 80% of completing their baccalaureate program. Students must have completed a valid Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the current year (www.studentaid.gov), have an outstanding balance due to Direct Costs with the Business Office, and be in good standing with the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy. Male recipients are required to have registered for Selective Service (www.sss.gov) per state regulations. GCCG funds are awarded at the sole discretion of the Financial Aid Office with a lifetime award of up to $2,500. GCCG funds are limited and not refundable to students.

Student Access Loan (SAL) Program

The Student Access Loan (SAL) Program is administered through the Georgia Student Finance Authority (GSFA). Application is made directly thorough GSFA during a limited period each year. The SAL loan program is designed to be funding of last resort for college students who have a gap in their college financing. The interest rate on the loan is 1% and the repayment term is ten years after graduation. Interest payments are required while the student is enrolled. Loan funds may be used towards any part of the student’s cost of attendance. GSFA randomly selects recipients for the SAL loan. Successful applicants must complete a Promissory Note with GSFA prior to the loan being disbursed. For additional information go to www.gafutures.org. Shorter University reserves the right to deny a Student Access Loan (SAL) to a student who previously received a SAL loan and defaulted on Keep in Touch Payments due to Georgia Student Finance Commission.

Federal Aid

All Federal Student Aid programs are subject to regulations set forth by the US Department of Education and are subject to change or cancellation by Congressional action. Eligibility for Federal Student Aid programs is determined by a student’s submission of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA must be renewed each year. The FAFSA is available electronically at https://studentaid.gov/. For current information concerning Federal Student Aid programs, go to www.shorter.edu/financial-aid.

Pell Grants

Pell Grants are federal grants made available to undergraduate students who demonstrate sufficient financial need. As a grant program, the funds do not have to be repaid. Application for Pell grant eligibility is made with the submission of the FAFSA. A student is eligible to receive Pell for a total of 3 years for an Associate’s degree (150% of the length of the degree program) or 6 years for a bachelor’s degree (600% of the length of the degree program) whichever comes first.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)

FSEOG funds are provided by the US Department of Education for undergraduate students with exceptional financial need in connection with college expenses. As a grant program, FSEOG funds do not have to be repaid. FSEOG funds are limited each year. Recipients of FSEOG funds must also be eligible to receive Pell grant funds.

Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant (TEACH)

As of May 1, 2016, Shorter University no longer participates in the Teach Grant program. The TEACH Grant Program provides grants of up to $4,000 per year to students who intend to teach. In exchange for receiving a TEACH Grant, you must agree to serve as a full-time teacher in a high-need field in a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves low-income students. As a recipient of a TEACH Grant, you must teach for at least four academic years within eight calendar years of completing the program of study for which you received a TEACH Grant. IMPORTANT: If you fail to complete this service obligation, all amounts of TEACH Grants that you received will be converted to a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan. You must then repay this loan to the U.S. Department of Education. You will be charged interest from the date the grant(s) was disbursed. To apply you must complete a Shorter University TEACH grant application, a federal TEACH grant agreement to serve and complete online TEACH counseling. TEACH grant is available at Shorter University to students in the Teacher education program that have successfully passed transition point 1 (typically by your junior year) and are majoring in middle or secondary math education. Certification by the Dean of the School of Education is required.

Federal Work-Study Program (FWS)

The FWS program provides job opportunities to students demonstrating financial need so they can earn part of their educational expenses. Eligibility for the work-study program is determined by the financial aid office based on a student’s indication of interest, demonstration of financial need, and the availability of campus work-study positions. Work-study funds are limited, but are available to undergraduate, post- baccalaureate teacher certification and graduate students. Students are awarded a maximum of 10 hours per week. A student may be employed at two on campus work study positions. However, the student cannot exceed the maximum 10 hours per week between the two positions. Students can review available positions and apply for them by contacting the supervisor for an interview at the Shorter financial aid webpage, work study link. Students are paid monthly based on the hours worked. Prior to beginning work a student must submit required employment documents with Financial Aid and Human Resources.

Loan Programs

Shorter University participates in the Direct Loan program, the Direct PLUS Parent Loan program, and the Perkins Loan Program. Each of these loan programs is regulated by the US Department of Education. As loan programs, the funds must be repaid, and a variety of deferment repayment options exist. Application for these loan programs begins with the submission of the FAFSA each year.

Students and parents can apply for the Federal Direct and PLUS Loan funds by completing entrance counseling and a master promissory note (MPN) and parent PLUS loan request form at www.shorter.edu/financial-aid-forms/. Loan funds are available to undergraduate and graduate students.

Post-baccalaureate students returning to Shorter for teacher certification are eligible for Direct loans for one year.

Withdrawal From University

Traditional students who plan to withdraw from the university must notify the Office of Student Engagement and Success and the Registrar of the intent to withdraw. The Office of Financial Aid will review and determine based on federal return to Title IV regulations to portion of their aid the student is eligible to keep. Funds may be returned to the following sources: Loan (Unsub, Sub, and Plus), Pell, SEOG, Perkins, Teach. If a student fails to attend all classes for more than 14 days, the Office of Student Engagement and Success will work with the Registrar to Financial Aid to determine if the student has unofficially withdrawn from the university. If it is determined that the student has ceased attending and unofficially withdrawn, the University will process a Return to Title IV calculation to determine the portion of aid the student is entitled to keep. Funds may be returned to the following sources: Loan (Unsub, Sub, and Plus), Pell, SEOG, and Perkins.

At the end of every semester the University is required to determine if a student who did not earn any credit during the semester unofficially withdrew or earned Fs in all their classes. Earning an F is determined based on class attendance. Students who attended at least 60.1% of the semester earned the F. If a student attended less than 60.01% of the semester, then a Return to Title IV calculation must be performed. A Return to Title IV calculation determines updated federal funds eligibility.

Satisfactory Academic Progress For Financial Aid

For a Shorter University student to receive financial aid from federal assistance programs, the student must demonstrate satisfactory academic progress. Evaluation of satisfactory academic progress will be based on all courses at Shorter University and all previous credits transferred in and applied to the student’s degree program at Shorter. Hours attempted at previous colleges but not applied to the student’s degree program will not be included in the assessment of Satisfactory Academic Progress for financial aid. At Shorter University, satisfactory academic progress for financial aid will be evaluated by the Offices of the Registrar and Financial Aid according to the following schedule: Semester-based programs - at the end of the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

Per federal statute, satisfactory academic progress for continued receipt of federal financial aid is measured in terms of three components:

• a qualitative component (GPA)
• quantitative component (completion of attempted credit hours)
• length of time to complete the program.

Qualitative Component

Effective 05/01/2020, undergraduate students must have a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) based on the number of attempted hours. These standards apply to full-time and part-time enrolled students. Education degrees require a GPA of 2.5.

Quantitative Component

Full-time and part-time enrolled students must successfully complete 2/3 (67%) of their cumulative attempted coursework at the appropriate checkpoint for Satisfactory Academic Progress. Successful completion of courses means the student has received a grade of A, B, C, D, S or P. (Exception: some courses require a C or higher) Receipt of grades F, I, W, WF, WA, or NG (except labs) does not constitute successful completion. Incomplete grades will be assessed at the next check Satisfactory Academic Progress checkpoint (for example when I change to A, B, C, D, or F)

Timeframe Component

Students must complete their degree program within 150% of the normal timeframe. All attempted classes at all colleges that are attributable to your degree at Shorter University must be considered in this calculation. Normally 120 credit hours are required to earn a bachelor’s degree at Shorter University. Therefore, an undergraduate student shall be deemed in good standing and eligible to receive federal financial aid for up to 180 credit hours. If the degree requires more than 120 credit hours, the maximum timeframe to receive aid is 150% of the required hours for that program. If a student is seeking 2 concurrent degrees both degrees must be completed within 150% of the degree that requires the most credit hours. If both degrees require 120 credit hours, then both degrees must be earned within 180 credit hours. All semesters enrolled and credit hours attempted are counted toward the SAP maximum time allowance, regardless of whether or not a student received financial aid for the period of enrollment. All repeated courses, failed courses, withdrawals, and transfer hours will be counted as credit hours attempted toward the maximum time frame. Remedial courses are excluded.

An entering freshman will be understood to be maintaining satisfactory academic progress during the first semester of attendance; a transfer student with a GPA below 2.0 will be placed in an initial warning status for their first semester of attendance. They must successfully complete 2/3 or 67% of their attempted course work and achieve a 2.0- semester GPA. If a degree change is necessary, a maximum of one-year extension will be granted. These changes must be officially recorded in the Office of the Registrar, and the student must notify the Financial Aid office in writing. Incomplete coursework (“I” grades) will be used in calculating hours earned for satisfactory academic progress. In the case of a student who has an incomplete grade, the GPA will be calculated for that enrollment period with the “I” grade being used. The incomplete, when cleared to a letter grade, will be counted in the cumulative GPA and for completion. A re-evaluation of status will be performed at the next check point. If the student then becomes eligible for aid, it will be disbursed at that time. A course that is required to be repeated to fulfill graduation requirements or satisfy major field standards will be used in its repetition to calculate hours. (If a course is repeated which was previously passed successfully, but the student just desires to improve the grade, these hours will be used in the quantitative calculations for satisfactory academic progress or in calculating the cumulative GPA).

Transient work approved by the Provost or Registrar may be used to make up deficiencies. Transcripts of such work must be received by the Office of the Registrar before federal aid will be disbursed.

Traditional students not maintaining satisfactory academic progress will have only one warning period of enrollment (one semester) during which they may receive federal and/or state aid. This is an automatic extension with no appeal required. At the end of the warning period of enrollment, the student must have attained the required GPA for the number of hours attempted (2.5 Education) and successfully completed 2/3 or 67% of their attempted credit hours for that specific term in order to retain financial aid for future terms. If the student does not successfully maintain a required GPA (2.5 Education) during the warning period of enrollment, and complete 2/3 or 67% of their attempted credit hours, the student will be placed on financial aid Suspension. No financial aid will be made available to the student until he/she meets the appropriate requirements for Satisfactory Academic Progress based on GPA and completion OR files an appeal and is approved for continuation. Students may appeal their financial aid suspension twice. In order for a second appeal to be granted the circumstances must be different than the first appeal. A third appeal will not be considered. Specific circumstances must exist for an appeal to be considered. Students who experience mitigating circumstances, such as personal illness or injury, injury or death of an immediate family member, fire or violent crime which requires the student to withdraw temporarily from college, drop out, or receive grades of incomplete, may have an extension of time in meeting the foregoing requirements for satisfactory academic progress. To receive the extension, the student must appeal by providing a personal statement and other documentation detailing why they did not meet the requirements and what has changed in their situation to allow them to be successful. Specific documentation such as notes from a physician, death certificate, etc. to verify the life event is required. The Financial Aid Committee will have final decision. The student will be notified of the decision by email. If approved, the student may continue a warning status with progress to be evaluated each semester. An academic plan must be implemented with the Director of Student Engagement and Success to ensure the student can meet the required criteria by end of program. The student must achieve a semester GPA of 2.0 (3.0 for Graduate) or the required GPA for their major and successfully complete 2/3 or 67% of their attempted term credit hours in order to continue on the probationary status, until which time they have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or the required GPA for their major and complete the prescribed academic plan.

This statement of Satisfactory Academic Progress for financial aid supersedes all previous regulations regarding Satisfactory Academic Progress for financial aid at Shorter University.

Grade Forgiveness

All grades received at Shorter University will be included in grade point average calculation for determining eligibility for financial aid. Academic policies allow for grades to be forgiven. Financial Aid regulations do not allow for grades to be forgiven. Therefore, all classes with grades that have been forgiven will be included in the financial aid GPA.

Special Programs

Teacher Preparation Program

The Teacher Preparation Program (TPP) at Shorter University offers majors that are competency-based and practicum-based studies of the art and science of teaching. The foundation of the Teacher Preparation Program is the Conceptual Framework with its specific goals and objectives for teacher candidates to achieve. Guidelines and requirements of the program are based on this Conceptual Framework and the continually updated requirements for teacher certification in the State of Georgia.

The Shorter University Teacher Preparation Program is accredited by the Professional Standards Commission (PSC) of the State of Georgia to recommend Georgia teacher certification in Elementary (P-5), Elementary/Special Education (P-5), Middle Grades (4-8), History (6-12), Mathematics (6-12), and Music (P-12). Shorter’s Teacher Preparation Program also offers a Master of Arts in Teaching in Pedagogy-only. Candidates seeking this degree may choose from Middle Grades (4-8- English/Language Arts, math, science, or social studies), any 6-12 certification field, or any P-12 certification fields except special education. The Master of Arts in Teaching in Pedagogy-only leads to initial teaching certification.

Our Mission

Reflecting the mission of Shorter, the Conceptual Framework of the School of Education establishes the foundation upon which Shorter prepares teachers to think Learners First. Our mission is to provide exemplary classroom and field experiences for teacher candidates so they may become successful teachers dedicated to life-long learning, personal growth, collaborative effort, responsible citizenship, and community leadership in a global context. Upon successful completion of the program, Shorter graduates are expected to possess content,

pedagogical, and curricular knowledge. But, more importantly, it is expected Shorter graduates will demonstrate the professional dispositions to be caring professionals who are concerned for the needs of others, and able to assist others effectively in the learning process.

Goals and Objectives

Teacher Preparation Program goals and objectives may be found in the program’s Conceptual Framework. The program’s Transition Points may be found in the Teacher Preparation Program Handbook. All documents are available online.

GOAL I. Teacher candidates will demonstrate subject matter knowledge appropriate to their grade levels and specializations.

Teacher candidates will:

1. demonstrate current knowledge of subject and theories of the discipline,
2. know and utilize diverse viewpoints and perspectives of experts in their field,
3. integrate knowledge across academic disciplines,
4. demonstrate skills required to practice the discipline effectively,
5. use appropriate, available technology for the academic subject, and
6. use the following elements of the learning process to master the discipline content: motivation, understanding, contextualizing, reflection, critical thinking, social interaction, and performance.

GOAL II. Teacher candidates will acquire and demonstrate pedagogical knowledge appropriate to their grade levels and specializations.

Teacher candidates will:

1. demonstrate knowledge of instructional strategies, activities, and educational theories for the disciplines taught,
2. implement curricula using their understanding of the learning process: motivation, understanding, contextualizing, reflection, critical thinking, social interaction, and performance,
3. develop assessments that consider the developmental stage and needs of the learner,
4. utilize assessment data to determine learning objectives, make instructional decisions, and revise curricula, and
5. employ a variety of technologies in their teaching.

GOAL III. Teacher candidates will address the psychological, social, and cultural needs of learners.

Teacher candidates will:

1. diagnose learner needs with appropriate assessments,
2. promote self-confidence in learners,
3. encourage cooperation among learners,
4. demonstrate multicultural and global awareness,
5. use community resources,
6. involve parents or guardians,
7. maintain a physical environment conducive to learning, and
8. plan and practice effective classroom management skills.

GOAL IV. Teacher candidates will demonstrate professionalism.

Teacher candidates will:

1. establish respectful relationships,
2. work collaboratively,
3. display professional demeanor and appearance,
4. base decisions and performance on high moral and ethical standards,
5. develop a teaching philosophy that reflects the ethics of the profession,
6. evaluate their own professional growth through reflection and synthesis of data from multiple sources,
7. demonstrate professional growth, and
8. value life-long learning.

Programs of Study

See the specific major and degree requirements in the current university catalog or an academic advisor for additional information.

Curriculum and Instruction

The major in curriculum and instruction provides course work, advisement, and practica leading toward the degree of Master of Education and Georgia certification in grades pre-kindergarten through twelve.

Elementary Education

The major in Elementary Education provides course work, advisement, practica, and Clinical Practice leading toward the degree of Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and certification in prekindergarten through grade five.

Middle Grades Education

The major in Middle Grades Education provides course work, advisement, practica, and Clinical Practice leading toward the degree of Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education and teacher certification in grades four through eight.

Music Education

The Music Department of the School of Fine & Performing Arts and the School of Education provide course work, advisement, practica, and Clinical Practice for candidates in the Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree and teacher certification in music education grades pre-kindergarten through twelve.

Secondary Education

The program of Secondary Education provides course work, advisement, practica, and Clinical Practice leading toward a Bachelor of Arts degree in History Education or a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics Education, and teacher certification in grades six through twelve.

Pedagogy-only

The major in pedagogy-only provides course work, advisement, practica, and clinical practice leading toward the degree of Master of Arts in Teaching: Pedagogy-only and teacher certification in a variety of fields.

Special Education Gen. Curriculum/Elementary Ed.

The major Elementary/Special Education provides course work, advisement, practica, and Clinical Practice leading toward the degree of Bachelor of Science in Elementary/Special Education and certification in general and special education in prekindergarten through grade five. 

Teacher Endorsement Programs in Education

The Dyslexia Endorsement

The Dyslexia Endorsement program, approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, provides professional learning for certified teachers by preparing them to work with students who struggle to read or have difficulties with language development. All courses are 100% online.

English as a Second or Other Language (ESOL)

The ESOL endorsement program provides professional learning to teachers and teacher candidates by preparing them to support the needs of ESOL students. The ESOL endorsement is an add-on to a current Georgia teaching certificate.

Endorsement candidates must apply and be accepted to Shorter University as a non-degree seeking student. Candidates must already have a teaching certificate prior to admission. Once admitted, candidates are required to maintain a 2.5 GPA and must earn at least a B in all required classes. 

Criteria for Admission

Candidates for teacher certification must officially be accepted into the Shorter University Teacher Preparation Program through an application process. Application materials are located on the School of Education page of SCHOLAR. Information is found in the Teacher Preparation Program Handbook. Due to state mandates, requirements are subject to change.

Credit for EDU 2110  

Students who have met the following requirements may earn credit for EDU 2110  with the approval of the Dean of the School of Education:

1. passed all three high school Education Pathway courses with a C or better in one of the pathways (Teaching as a Profession, Early Childhood Care and Education I, or Early Childhood Care and Education II)
2. passed the state approved end-of-pathway exam

It is the student’s responsibility to report Pathway course completion and exam score to Shorter University.

Ben & Ollie Brady School of Nursing

The professional baccalaureate degree in nursing (BSN), will qualify graduates to sit for the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The baccalaureate nursing curriculum prepares the graduate to apply knowledge, develop and use critical thinking skills, and demonstrate clinical reasoning in the areas of communication, assessment, cultural sensitivity, and leadership. The baccalaureate nursing graduate will build on the foundation of liberal arts courses such as English, Communication, Psychology, Sociology, Growth and Development, History, Religion, and Fine Arts as well as the in-depth knowledge acquired from courses in Physical and Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Statistics, to provide a foundation for practice in a diverse, complex health care environment. The extensive two years of pre-requisites are incorporated and serve as the foundation for the nursing course work.

School of Nursing Vision Statement

The Shorter University Ben and Ollie Brady School of Nursing will be known as an academic center committed to the pursuit of excellence in Nursing as demonstrated by the development of nursing graduates focused on scholarship, practice excellence, and leadership built on the Christian foundation of service.

Mission of the School of Nursing

The Mission of the School of Nursing is in accordance with the Mission of Shorter University and promotes an exemplary undergraduate nursing program that:

1. Integrates a strong curricular foundation infused with liberal arts and science studies.
2. Prepares professional registered nurses who:
   1. Assume the roles of a nurse generalist who provides patient-centered care that is safe, compassionate, and affirms Christian values.
   2. Deliver patient-centered care with an emphasis on evidenced-based practice, quality outcomes of care, and resource management.
   3. Practice nursing safely and compassionately in a variety of settings, with diverse populations, both locally and globally.
   4. Serve as a community leader, collaborative participant, and leader among disciplines providing care to consumers of health care.
   5. Participate in life-long learning.
3. Creates and sustains an exemplary learner-centered caring community that:
   1. Affirms academic and Christian integrity, values, and service.
   2. Promotes personal accountability in students by maintaining physical, spiritual, and emotional health, and well-being.
   3. Promotes personal accountability for actions and decisions.
   4. Utilizes integrative strategies for learning.

Program Learning Outcomes

At the completion of the program, the graduate of Shorter University School of Nursing will be able to:

1. Integrate knowledge from the sciences, arts, humanities, nursing science, and the understanding of human experience from birth to death, while providing patient- centered care.
2. Critically examine and advocate for improved safety and quality outcomes of patient-centered care.
3. Implement evidence-based nursing interventions, utilize critical thinking and clinical reasoning to manage acute and chronic care of patients and promote health across the life span.
4. Manage data, informatics, and technology to communicate effectively and provide safe and effective care, while maintaining confidentiality and right to privacy.
5. Participate in the analysis, critique, and reform of the political, social, cultural, economic, technologic, genetic, and ecologic issues that influence nursing and healthcare environments at the regional, national, and international levels.
6. Communicate effectively with patients, families, groups, population areas and collaborate with interdisciplinary health team members to improve quality, resolve conflict, negotiate change, and maximize positive outcomes of health care.
7. Participate in clinical preventions and population-focused interventions to promote health, prevent disease and injury, taking into account available resources, with attention to effectiveness, efficiency, cost effectiveness, and social justice.
8. Practice nursing within legal and ethical boundaries and accepts personal responsibility and accountability and incorporating altruism, autonomy, human dignity, social justice, patient advocacy, and service.
9. Provide patient-centered care that is safe, compassionate, affirms Christian values, and respects the diversity and uniqueness of the individual’s values, cultural, spiritual, and social differences.

General Information

1. Shorter University offers a traditional professional baccalaureate degree in nursing (BSN), offering graduates the opportunity to sit for the NCLEX licensing examination for registered nurses (RNs). Students interested in applying to the School of Nursing at Shorter University should apply directly to the Nursing school.
2. The most qualified applicants will be accepted based on overall GPA with an emphasis on science and math coursework and TEAS scores. Applicants may be required to interview.
3. Fees: Accepted students will incur fees for assessment evaluation, background screening, and/or drug screening. Fees will also be assessed each semester for supplies, computer learning programs, standardized exams, programs, and random drug screening.

Admission Criteria

1. Admission to the Nursing program requires a separate online application to be submitted to the School of Nursing. The first two years of general education prerequisites may be taken at Shorter University or any accredited college or university. Students may apply and be admitted while prerequisites are in progress toward completion. However, all courses must be successfully completed prior to entry into the Nursing School. The School of Nursing accepts applicants with the highest likelihood of success in the program.
2. Minimum overall university grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
3. Completion of 40 semester hours of the BSN core requirements at the time of application and 55 hours at the time of enrollment in the first clinical nursing course. All Science, Math, and English courses must have a minimum of “C” and be completed prior to beginning the nursing sequence for program consideration.
4. Admission to the BSN program is competitive and space is limited. Applicants for admission will be ranked according to overall GPA. All Science classes must be current within 6 years of application date.
5. Clinical institutions may deny access to the clinical practice area based on the results of background check/drug screening/physical examination. Clinical experience is a required component of the majority of nursing courses. A course cannot be completed without a passing grade in the clinical component of the course. Placement in healthcare facilities will require a background check and a drug screening for admission. Failure to be honest in the completion of the application question (below) regarding prior convictions may result in an honor code violation and could result in dismissal from the program. Results are reported to the clinical agency and the dean’s office at Shorter University Brady School of Nursing. If the clinical agency finds the results of the drug screening or criminal background check to be unacceptable, Shorter University BSON may not be able to provide further educational experiences, which could impede the student’s progression and completion of the nursing degree.
6. Admission and graduation from Shorter University BSON does not guarantee eligibility for licensure. (See Georgia Board of Nursing Rules and Regulation http://rules.sos.ga.gov/gac/410-2
7. Satisfactory physical exams completed by a health care provider within 3 months of entering the nursing program. Must be valid from August 1st to June 30th and renewed annually.
   1. Current physical exam
   2. TDAP within the last 10 years
   3. Proof of polio series
   4. Two doses of MMR vaccine or proof of positive immune Varicella titers. If Varicella results are negative or Low, then two varicella vaccines are required. Varicella vaccine is due two months after Varicella 1 vaccine.
   5. Hepatitis B vaccine positive titer (series of three) or up to six Hepatitis vaccines and two negative Hepatitis B titers and proof of immunity from healthcare provider.
   6. Tuberculosis (TB) clearance annually. The following documentation is acceptable for proof of TB clearance:
      1. Tuberculin Skin Test (commonly known as Mantoux or PPD skin test). Results must be read 48-72 hours after administration and the results must indicate millimeters of induration and not “negative” or “positive.” A licensed healthcare professional must sign any documentation of TB clearance. A two-step skin test at least 10 days apart is required if your TB test has expired.
      2. Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) blood test.
      3. Chest x-ray. If you have prior history of latent TB infection (LTBI) or active disease as determined through tuberculin skin test (Mantoux or PPD) or a blood test (IGRA) a licensed healthcare provider must provide a written report that shows student does not have active disease
      4. and copy of radiology report. The chest x-ray must be completed no earlier than 6 months before the first day of classes.
   7. American Heart Association Basic Life Support certification for the health care provider
   8. Proof of current flu vaccine
   9. Proof of current COVID vaccine may be required by clinical facilities.
   10. Current health insurance
   11. Demonstrate the ability to comply with the Core Performance Standards:

^{[Adapted from SREB Council on Collegiate Education for Nursing Task Force Publication (2008) source: http://www.sreb.org/publication/americans-disabilites-act]}

Students admitted to the nursing program must be able to meet the Southern Regional Education Board’s (SREB) Council on Collegiate Education for Nursing’s (2008) core performance standards for admission and progression. A student applying to the nursing program with an identified or perceived disability should contact Student Support Services for evaluation. Students who are not able to demonstrate ability to meet the above functional abilities and performance standards may not be able to meet learning objectives related to the clinical component of nursing courses and may be denied progression in the program. In addition, graduates of the BSN program unable to meet the required functional abilities and performance standards may be denied licensure by a state board of nursing.

Dismissal

Failure to achieve any of these standards shall constitute reason for the student to be dismissed from the program. The faculty and administration of the Brady School of Nursing reserve the right to dismiss any student enrolled in the program for unethical, dishonest, unprofessional, or illegal conduct that is inconsistent with the ANA Code of Conduct.

Re-admission

The School of Nursing acknowledges the responsibility of readmitting those students who, in the judgment of the Admission, Progression, Retention and Readmission Committee satisfies the requirements of scholarship, health, and professional suitability for nursing. Students requesting readmission must apply in writing to the School of Nursing Admissions, Progression, Retention, and Readmission Committee. Each student’s situation is reviewed on an individual basis. Readmission is not guaranteed to any student. Students following the curriculum plan without interruption have priority for course enrollment.

Specific guidelines for readmission include the following:

1. Course repetition policies:
   1. Only one (1) nursing course may be repeated.
   2. The course must be repeated successfully with a “B” or better (3.0) prior to taking other nursing courses.
   3. The course must be repeated within the next academic year.
   4. Students may appeal decisions based on course repetition policies in writing to the School of Nursing Admissions, Progression, Retention and Readmission Committee with the concurrence or recommendation of the academic advisor or course instructor. Decisions on appeal requests are the responsibility of the School of Nursing Admissions, Progression, Retention and Readmission Committee and may be approved or denied based on individual circumstances and an evaluation of the request.
2. Any student readmitted to the program will be required to:
   1. Meet university readmission criteria.
   2. Demonstrate a satisfactory level of knowledge from pre-requisite nursing courses.
   3. Successfully validate prior medication calculation competency and clinical skills.
3. A readmitted student must meet graduation requirements in effect at the time of readmission and follow the baccalaureate degree nursing policies in effect for that academic year.
4. A student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 for readmission consideration.
5. Students must complete all program admission requirements prior to readmission.

Sequential Progression Policies

1. Enrollment in entry level nursing courses will be permitted only if the student:
   1. completes all pre-requisite courses (BIO 1010 , CHE 1020 , BIO 3010 , BIO 3020 , BIO 3030  (including labs) ENG 1010 , ENG 1020 , English Literature Course, MAT 1110 , CST 1011 , CST 1012 , Statistics Course, PSY 1010 , PSY 2210, Fine Arts Elective, SOC 1010 , COM 1010 , HIS 1020 , HIS 2010 , HIS 2050  or HIS 2060 );
   2. earns a grade of C (2.0) or above in all required Natural Science, English, and Mathematics courses
2. Students may continue to progress according to the curriculum plan if they:
   1. complete all pre-requisite courses prior to enrollment in any nursing course; (60 hours)
   2. earn a grade of C (2.0) or above in all nursing major courses;
   3. demonstrate satisfactory performance of designated nursing skills;
   4. earn a satisfactory grade in both the theory and clinical components of the nursing courses; If the earned clinical grade is unsatisfactory, the course grade assigned will not be higher than the letter grade of “D”.
   5. pass the medication calculation competency test at 90% accuracy;
   6. demonstrate full compliance with all standards of the nursing profession as defined by the ANA standards of practice, the ANA Code of Conduct, and Georgia Nursing Practice Act; and
   7. maintain current health requirements/BLS.
3. If a student fails or withdraws from any nursing course, they must petition the Admission, Progression, Retention and Readmission Committee of the School of Nursing to be re-admitted.
4. Students having withdrawn from or earned less than a C (2.0) in one nursing course may be re-admitted to the program one time only.
5. Students are accountable to follow all policies in the current handbook.
6. All program requirements must be completed within five (5) years of first enrollment of the program.

Baccalaureate program policies that describe standards for progression are listed in detail in the Brady School of Nursing Student Handbook. The handbook is distributed at the beginning of each academic year. It is the students’ responsibility to obtain a copy of the policies and to be familiar with the policies. The policies are a guide as the student progresses through the program.

Graduation

Shorter University grants a Bachelor of Science in Nursing to those candidates who have completed the credit requirements as described in the nursing curriculum course plan and who have met all degree requirements of Shorter University. Nursing requires a competency score on standardized tests throughout the curriculum and in the capstone course. Students intending to graduate should file an application with the Registrar by the deadline posted on the Academic Calendar. The student is responsible for assuring that their academic record is in order.

Admission to and graduation from the Shorter University Brady School of Nursing does not guarantee eligibility for licensure (see Board of Nursing Policies). Additionally, all student financial accounts must have a zero balance.

The University subscribes to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination based on age, color, handicap, race, sex, and national origin in all of its programs and offerings. The University does not discriminate against any person or persons based on creed or religion in admissions policies or university-administered programs.

Board of Nursing Policies

After completion of the program and graduation, students are eligible to apply for licensure by examination (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses - NCLEX-RN). Licensure to practice as a Registered Nurse is granted by the Board of Nursing in the state of intended practice (See Georgia Board of Nursing Rules & Regulations 410-6-.02 http://sos.georgia.gov/plb/rn/). All new graduates must submit to a background check process as required by Georgia Law §46-26-7-4-(4) when applying for licensure in Georgia. An applicant who passes the licensing examination and is under investigation for possible violation of the Nurse Practice Act (arrested or convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation) may not be issued a license until the matter is resolved to the satisfaction of the Board. If the charges are substantiated, the license may be denied or sanctioned despite the applicant meeting all other criteria for licensure.

The Georgia Board of Nursing has the right to refuse to grant a registered nurse license to any individual regardless of his/her educational credentials under circumstances of:

1. Falsification of application for licensure.
2. Conviction of a felony or crime of moral turpitude.
3. Other moral and legal violations specified in Georgia Law.

Nursing Program Accreditation

The baccalaureate program in nursing at Shorter University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530, Washington, DC 20036, (202) 887-6791.