Prior to invoking the use of the graduate grade appeal procedure, individuals should exhaust all informal means available to resolve questions concerning specific grades.

The graduate grade appeal procedure is designed to resolve questions regarding student grades when one or more of the following is at issue:

1. there is reason to believe that a mechanical error in calculating a grade has occurred;

2. there is reason to believe that a grade has been calculated in a manner which is inconsistent with the stated grading policy.

The appeal procedure may not be used to challenge a grade which results from a faculty member exercising usual and customary professional judgment in the evaluation of student work.

Step 1

Within ten working days of the availability of the grade in question, the student shall request in writing a meeting with the instructor. In the case of an end-of-semester grade, the student shall request such a meeting no later than ten working days after the beginning of the next semester. The instructor shall arrange to meet with the student within ten working days of the receipt of the request.

Step 2

If the matter is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student at Step 1, then, within ten working days of the meeting in Step 1, the student shall file a written request to review the matter with the appropriate Department Chair.

Step 3

If, within ten working days of the receipt of the request in Step 2, the Department Chair is unable to resolve the matter to the satisfaction of all parties, then either party may, within ten working days, file a written request to review the matter with the Dean of Graduate and Continuing Education.

Step 4

If, within ten working days of the receipt of the request in Step 3, the Dean of Graduate and Continuing Education is unable to resolve the matter to the satisfaction of all parties, then either party may, within ten working days, file a written request to review the matter with the Academic Vice President.

Step 5

Within ten working days of the receipt of the request in Step 4, the Academic Vice President shall inform the student, faculty member, Department Chair, and Dean of Graduate and Continuing Education of the results of the Vice President’s review.

The appeal process ends at this point.