Delaware State University Hornet Experience Guide Fall 2023

FALL 2023

First Year and Beyond

Welcome!

FROM THE ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT

Thank you for your interest in Delaware State University. On behalf of the Office of Student Success (OSS), we extend heartfelt greetings to you, the newest member of the Hornet family. You have made a very important decision that will impact the rest of your academic and professional careers.

Congratulations — Delaware State University is the best choice!

The relentless pursuit of excellence in the Office of Student Success is consistent with the University’s vision statement, “Delaware State University strives to become America’s most diverse, contemporary HBCU by expanding its capacity to provide a life-changing, high-quality, low-cost education to 10,000+ students; continuing our efforts to achieve R1 ‘very high research activity’ status; and having a significant, measurable impact on the social, technological, and economic challenges that face our State, the nation, and the world.”

OSS is the point of entry for all incoming freshmen and new transfer students. The Office of Student Success strives to provide a supportive student-centered environment in which students, faculty and staff work and study. Our Academic Advisors are excited to guide you on your educational journey from your first year through graduation. Our programs are designed to support your academic needs and to assist you in succeeding during your freshman year and beyond, as you persist toward graduation.

Our priority is to ensure that campus resources are fully accessible to you at every turn so that you can focus on the successful completion of your academic journey at Delaware State University.

The Office of Student Success offers:

 Professional Academic Advising

 Undergraduate Research, Experiential Learning and the Honors Program

 Individual Development Plans (IDP)

 Integrated academic support which includes:

 Tutorial Center

 Writing Studio

 Quantitative Reasoning Center

 Supplemental Instruction

 Academic Programs (Student Success Sessions)

 Academic Services for Student Athletes

 Library Services

This is an exciting time to be a student at Delaware State University as we continue to grow and enhance our programs to national eminence. Through internships, research and innovation, we are committed to challenging, mentoring and providing an exceptional learning experience for our students. I encourage students to fully embrace and take full advantage of the rich learning environment available at Delaware State University.

I enthusiastically welcome you to campus and look forward to supporting you in making your career dreams a reality.

Best Regards,

Dr. Jarso Jallah Saygbe

Associate Vice President | Office of Student Success | Delaware State University

The Office of Student Success’ main offices are located on the second floor of the William C. Jason Library with satellite offices in the Bank of America Building and the DSU Downtown Campus.

What to Expect During ORIENTATION

ACADEMIC ADVISING LEARNING OBJECTIVES

During New Student Orientation, you will:

 Review your course schedule with your Academic Advisor (your schedule will be completed by your Academic Advisor prior to New Student Orientation).

 Confirm that your degree program major is accurate in Delaware State University’s Banner system. If not, you will complete a change of major form.

 Understand the General Education curriculum requirements for the first year.

 Understand curriculum requirements for your selected degree program(s).

 Review your course request form for accuracy and sign.

 Have your course request form approved (signed) by an Academic Advisor.

 Review and confirm your course registration to ensure that you are enrolled in the required math course based on the ALEKS Placement Test results (See ALEKS Placement Scores, Page 7).

 Understand how to access my.desu.edu.

 Understand how to log in to Banner Self Service.

 Understand how to use your alternate PIN number to search for available classes and enroll in courses.

 Ensure that you are enrolled in a course load of 15 credit hours (minimum) and leave New Student Orientation with printed copies of your course schedule.

 Know how to contact your Office of Student Success Academic Advisor after New Student Orientation.

 Understand that your desu.edu email address is the official communication network of Delaware State University for communicating with University faculty, staff and administration.

ADVISING AND COURSE SCHEDULING

Departmental Visits

During departmental visits, you will have an opportunity to meet the individuals who will guide you through the next four years of your matriculation at Delaware State University. The college Dean, Chairpersons, Faculty Mentors and Academic Advisors are very excited to welcome you and be a part of your educational journey. You will gain a better understanding about specific majors/degree programs as well as what is required to be successful in selected majors, and you will learn about opportunities for student involvement early in your academic career.

Reviewing Your Class Schedule

Your schedule will be ready for you when you arrive at New Student Orientation. Academic Advisors will review your schedule with you, explaining important major and comprehensive educational requirements. If you have not yet taken the ALEKS Placement Test or turned in any previous college transcripts, you may notice a change in your schedule once this additional information becomes available. Academic Advisors will guide you through a step by step registration process using Banner Self Service. Starting with the first semester, our goal is for students to register in a minimum of 15 credit hours. The total number of credit hours that you take each semester is very important and will keep you on track to graduate in four years.

USING BANNER SELF SERVICE TO REGISTER FOR CLASSES

In the event that changes to your schedule need to be made, please follow the process below.

Access my.desu.edu

1. Visit www.desu.edu.

2. Click on Students tab (top).

3. Click Banner Self Service (right side gray panel box).

1. Enter your username which is your 9 digit Student ID; use a capital D.

Example: D10212345

2. Enter your PIN, which is your 6 digit date of birth.

Example: Your birth date is December 4, 1998; type in MMDDYY: 120498

If you need to reset your PIN, follow the prompts.

3. Select “Student Services” from the menu on the left side.

4. Select “Registration” from the menu.

5. Click “Select Term” to choose the term for which you would like to register.

Example: Fall 2022

Click “Submit.”

6. Select “Add or Drop Classes” from the menu.

7. Enter your Alternate PIN number and click “Submit.” Your Alternate PIN number will be provided by your advisor.

8. Search for classes by subject.

9. Scroll to the bottom of the screen and click “Class Search. ”

10. Identify a course that works with your schedule.

Write the following information on your Course Request Form to avoid time conflicts:

CRN #; Department/Course #/Section; Title of Course/; (CR: credits), Class Days, Start Time & End Time

M=Monday, T=Tuesday, W=Wednesday, R=Thursday, F=Friday

11. Check box on left of the class.

12. Scroll to the bottom of the screen. Select “Register ”

13. Repeat this process (steps 8-12) until your schedule is complete (minimum 15 credit hours).

14. Once your schedule is completed, click “Return to Menu. ”

15. Click “Student Detail Schedule”; review your schedule for accuracy.

16. Click “Submit Changes ”

Printing Your Schedule

1. Click on “Student Services.”

2. Select “Student Detail Schedule. ”

3. Select the appropriate printer.

4. Print two (2) copies of your schedule.

5. Confirm the courses listed on your course request forms are the same on your printed schedule.

Log Out/Exit Banner Self Service

1. Click “Exit” in the top right corner.

2. You should see the “User Logout” screen.

Understanding Registration Errors

If you get a registration error during the registration process, it may be due to one of the following reasons:

 Time Conflict

 Two classes overlapping, or two classes offered at the same time.

 Pre-requisite

Understanding the Course Scheduling Matrix

Abbreviation Class Day(s) M Monday T Tuesday

 One or more courses that must be completed or other knowledge, skills or standards that must be demonstrated before a student is permitted to take certain courses.

 Link Error: Registered for a science lecture, but did not register for the corresponding lab.

Example: You must register for a Biology lecture (01), and the linked lab (12). The lecture and lab may be on different days of the week.

Helpful Course Registration Tips

 Instructor or Building/Location indicates TBA = To be announced, or TBD = To be determined

 This means that once an instructor or classroom location is assigned, the information will be updated prior to the first day of class.

 Reminder: Print your schedule a day or two before the first day of class, in case the room assignment has changed.

How to access unofficial transcripts (transfer students)

Your unofficial transcript is available in Banner Web Self Service.

1. Click on “Student Records ”

2. Click on “Academic Transcript.”

ALEKS MATH PLACEMENT

ALEKS is an online artificially intelligent assessment and learning system. ALEKS uses adaptive questioning to quickly and accurately determine exactly what a student knows and does not know. The ALEKS Placement Assessment covers material from Basic Math through Pre-Calculus. After the assessment, the Prep and Learning Module targeting your specific math skills will be available for you to review and learn material.

If you score at least 45 points, then you are ready for college-level math courses. The chart below will show you the connection between the score you earned and the course you can take. In the event that you complete the ALEKS Placement Assessment after attending NSO, your advisor will help you select the right course for your major and will update your schedule.

Remember, you will not be permitted to take a math course above your readiness level even if you are just one point away. If you want to take a higher level course, use the ALEKS Prep and Learning Modules to improve your skills and retake the ALEKS Placement Assessment.

Minimum ALEKS Score Courses you are permitted to take

Less than 30

No equivalent course.

You cannot register for any math courses. To place in a math course, you must review the content in the Prep and Learning Module. Then, retake the placement test and earn a score of 30 or higher to place into a math course.

30 - 44 MTSC 110 – College Algebra A.

This course is equivalent to the first half of MTSC 121 – College Algebra. You must take MTSC 110 and MTSC 111 – College Algebra B to earn credit equivalent to MTSC 121.

30 - 100 MTSC 107 – Math and Data Analysis. All College of Health and Behavioral Sciences (CHBS) majors require College Algebra.

45 - 59 MTSC 121 – College Algebra

45 - 100 MTSC 105/201 – Mathematics for Teachers I

60 - 75 MTSC 122 – Trigonometry; or MTSC 125 – Finite Mathematics

60 - 100 MTSC 241 – Elementary Statistics

76 - 100 MTSC 251 – Calculus I; MTSC 261 – Calculus for Life Sciences; MTSC 225 – Calculus for Business and Social Sciences

Your ALEKS scores are valid for 9 months.

ADVISING Academic

ACADEMIC ADVISING EXPERIENCE

Academic advising at Delaware State University is designed to provide students with a collegial and academically enriched college experience. As a collaborative campus community, students are provided with guidance, support, planning tools and resources to make informed decisions that impact their academic success and career goals.

As a part of our core academic support services, the four-year student experience framework offers centralized advisement that is both proactive and holistic. Each student has an Individual Development Plan (IDP), which is a comprehensive student-planning tool that charts first-year steps toward identifying and establishing interests, goals, majors and career pathways toward academic success.

STUDENT OBJECTIVES FOR FIRST-YEAR SUCCESS

Students will:

 Become aware of University policies and procedures

 Understand curriculum requirements

 Identify campus resources

 Strengthen oral and written communication skills

 Participate in academic community and social engagement opportunities

 Engage in peer learning

15 STRONG TO COMPLETION

 The 15 Strong to Completion student outreach campaign is a primary component of the Office of Student Success’ framework for incoming freshmen and new transfer students.

 15 Strong to Completion promotes a standard that encourages students to complete a minimum of 15 credit hours of coursework per semester.

 If students complete 30 credit hours after their first year, they are more likely to persist toward graduation and complete their degree program in four years.

Freshmen start strong. Sophomores progress strong. Juniors continue strong. Seniors graduate strong.

FIRST YEAR ADVISING & BEYOND

The Office of Student Success is the point of entry for all first-year students.

The advising structure for first-year students is designed to:

1. Create a deeper understanding of academic policies and procedures.

2. Enhance the information flow with academic planning, alternate pathways (when appropriate) and early degree-program guidance.

During your freshman year, we will assist you in formulating an educational plan and introduce you to career goals that are closely aligned to your academic interests. Your Academic Advisor will partner with you to develop your Individual Development Plan (IDP) (more information on your IDP, Page 16). You will be actively engaged and on a solid path to graduate within four years.

Office of Student Success Academic Advisors work very closely with campus wide faculty and staff to ensure that you receive exposure to your desired degree program of interest and to facilitate your participation in co-curricular activities within your academic major.

See the full 4-year flow charts: Pages 28-29

TRANSFER STUDENTS

Once you have been admitted to a Delaware State University degree program, the University shall evaluate your college-level course credits submitted on an official transcript to determine if they shall be accepted in transfer and determine how the course credits will apply to program and graduation requirements. The process at Delaware State University involves at least three considerations:

1. The educational quality of your learning experience from the accredited intuitions from which you are transferring.

2. The content and level of the learning experience you received from the college or university.

3. Appropriateness and applicability of the learning experience to the programs offered by Delaware State University in light of your educational goals.

Academic Advising for Transfer Students

All transfer students will be assigned to two advisors:

1. The Transfer Advisor serves as the student’s primary advisor for the first year to ensure an effective credit evaluation, scheduling/registration, and advisement process.

2. In year two of matriculation, a Professional Advisor in the student’s selected degree program/major becomes the primary advisor. The Transfer Advisor will serve as a supplemental support advisor to all transfer students until graduation.

 Courses to be transferred must be equivalent to respective Delaware State University courses. Credits are evaluated according to the specific academic program.

 College course credits obtained within the last 10 years are not accepted automatically and will be at the discretion of the appropriate department.

 Course grades must at least be a “C” in order for the transfer credit to count. Grades of “C-” cannot transfer.

After acceptance by the Office of Admissions, you will consult with your designated Transfer Advisor. In consultation with your curriculum advisor, you will complete your curriculum mapping according to the major and follow an appropriate flow chart based on the number of transferred credits (See 4-year flow charts: Pages 28-29).

Wesley College of Health and Behavioral Sciences (WCHBS)

 Ms. Michele Rush

Director of Advising

 Mr. James Carter

 Ms. Taylor McIntosh

College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences (CHESS)

 Dr. Carole Kpota-Middleton

Director of Advising

 Ms. Angela Harper

 Ms. Amy Kellen

How to Schedule an Appointment

The Office of Student Success utilizes EAB’s Navigate for students to schedule appointments with their advisor or with a tutor. Students can access Navigate the following ways:

 Desktop via MyDESU at my.desu.edu

 Mobile devices, including phone and tablet, via DSU Hub (Google Play or Apple Store) or Navigate Student app (Google Play or Apple Store).

Log into Navigate using your DSU email credentials.

Use Nagivate App to Make an Appointment with Your Advisor:

 MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

 To schedule appointments using Navigate, click the purple “Appointments” icon on the left navigation menu and answer questions about your preferred service date, time and location.

 OTHER APPOINTMENT OPTIONS

 You can also view available drop-in times or request appointment times for your preferred service.

 APPOINTMENT INVITATIONS

 Your Success Team (e.g., assigned advisors, instructors) may also request you meet with them. When this happens, you receive an appointment invitation where you only need to choose a time that works for you.

Use My.desu.edu to Make an Appointment with Your Advisor:

 VISIT MY.DESU.EDU

 Click on the teal button labeled “Office of Student Success Schedule an Advising or Tutorial Appointment” on the righthand side.

 Log in using your DSU student email credentials and you will be taken to your home page.

 Click on the “Get Assistance” button at the top right.

 Fill out the “New Appointment” form to find available times. Answer questions about your type of appointment, the service/reason for the appointment and an approximate date. Click “Find Available Time” to view open times for your selected appointment.

 Select the time you will prefer and then continue to confirm the appointment details before a final submission to lock in your appointment.

 Here you can also add additional information needed or pertaining to your appointment or meeting.

College of Business (COB)

 Ms. Tamekca Faria-Frisby

Director of Advising

 Dr. Jordan Denson

College of Agriculture, Science and Technology (CAST)

 Dr. Marcel Poe

Director of Advising

 Dr. Leroy Hawkins

 Ms. Lynae Spratley

 Mr. Franck Yehiri

FACULTY MENTORS

Upon matriculation into Delaware State University, all students will be assigned a Faculty Mentor and a Professional Advisor. The Faculty Mentor is a faculty member of the student’s major department. This individual will assist the student in developing career awareness and readiness in the student’s chosen field of study. Faculty Mentors will meet with their assigned students at least once a semester.

Some of the functions of the Faculty Mentor are:

 Serve as a resource for career options within a given major.

 Guide students in making the connection between academics and career.

 Build relationships with majors in their disciplines, providing a meaningful contact point for students for their academic training at the University.

 Assist students in clarifying career goals.

 Discuss options for adding value to the degree, including experiential learning, internships, research, study abroad, volunteering, professional credentials, etc.

 Explore the benefit of graduate study.

 Support Department Chairs with completing graduation audits .

SAMPLE COURSE REQUEST FORM

Sample Course Request Form

I am aware of my responsibility to check my schedule from BANNER web prior to the start of each semester. I understand that if I am not able to attend any of the above courses, I must officially drop the course(s). If I am unsuccessful in any course, I am aware that I must see my advisor. Student Signature: Date: Advisor Signature: _____________________________________ Date:

RESOURCES Student Success Programs &

HONORS PROGRAM

The goal of the Delaware State University Honors Program is to provide talented and motivated students opportunities for intellectual growth and achievement in small, challenging classes that encourage active intellectual participation, discussion and collaboration in the search for knowledge.

Admission Criteria

Incoming Freshmen and Transfer Students

Incoming freshmen and transfer students may apply for admission into the Delaware State University Honors Program at the same time they apply for admission to the University. Candidates for the Honors Program may apply by simply completing a short Honors Program application and sending all other application materials to the Honors Program.

A prospective honors student must have:

 Admission to Delaware State University without conditions;

 A GPA of 3.25 or higher (on a 4.0 scale);

 An SAT combined score of at least 1050 in Mathematics and Critical Reading, with at least 450 in each section; OR an ACT composite score of at least 22 in Mathematics and Critical Reading.

Application Materials

To apply, visit www.desu.edu/academics/honors-program and submit the following materials to the Honors Program at honors@desu.edu:

 An official high school or college transcript (current Delaware State University students may submit an unofficial Delaware State University transcript);

 Copies of official SAT scores (for incoming freshmen only);

 Two (2) letters of recommendation from high school or college instructors;

 A typed 400-600 word essay explaining the desire to be admitted into the Honors Program; and

 A list of academic and extracurricular achievements/awards.

Benefits of Membership

 Specialized classes and smaller class sizes

 Cohort classes — Freshmen, sophomore, junior and senior courses/activities

 Priority advising period/registration

 Graduate school preparation: LSAT, MCAT, GMAT, GRE

 Summer research experiences for undergraduates

 Opportunities to attend and present at scholarly workshops and conferences

 Access to leadership development

 Inclusion in the Honors Program Living-Learning Community for freshmen

 Membership in the Honors Students Association

The mission of the Center for Disability Resources (CDR) at Delaware State University is to provide equal opportunities and equal access to education, employment, programs, goods and services for students, faculty, staff, and campus guests with disabilities. In achieving this, the CDR collaborates with and empowers individuals who have documented disabilities by working together proactively to determine reasonable and appropriate accommodative measures under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) and other current legislation.

As a community partner, the CDR also provides advisement, consultation, professional development, and training on disability-related topics, including but not limited to legal and regulatory compliance, access and equity, the proactive application of universal design, physical and electronic accessibility, the high school to college and college to career transition, and disability scholarship. Training, workshops, and resources are available to the University and community. The CDR proudly works with University and Community Partners to foster a welcoming, diverse, engaging, respectful, and inclusive community for all.

Potential areas of accommodation include, but are not limited to:

 Classroom adjustments

 Testing adjustments

 Adaptive technology

 Physical accessibility

 Interpreters and other auxiliary services

 Flexibility adjustments

 Housing and dining

Students with disabilities who would like to request reasonable accommodations must contact the CDR and complete the CDR Registration Process:

1. Submit medical/mental health documentation and Student Request for Accommodations Form (available online).

2. Submitted materials are reviewed by the CDR Coordinator.

3. Meet with the CDR Coordinator to discuss any barriers to access in the educational environment experienced by the student.

4. Receive the Accommodation Letter (if approved) and provide copies to each individual facilitating the accommodations. a. Please note: Accommodations are not retroactive.

5. Renew the Accommodation Letter each semester using the online CDR renewal form.

Point of Contact for the Center for Disability Resources:

 Dr. Ann Knettler, Director of the Center for Disability Resources | 302.857.7042 | 302.992.7841 | aksmith@desu.edu

 Ms. Juliana Senyk, Student Accommodation Coordinator | 302.857.7060 | 302.272.9268 | jsenyk@desu.edu

TESTING SERVICES AND PROGRAMS

The mission of the Testing Services and Programs Office is to assist Delaware State University students and the surrounding communities in assessing their knowledge, skills and abilities by providing a variety of programming that engages and promotes student success and professional credentialing certifications. This is accomplished through written, computerized exams (CBT/IBT), testing instruments and programming. TSP provides integrated testing services that will serve our Delaware State University community and surrounding areas in the Atlantic Region. Our customized career readiness platforms based on credentialing certifications and study sessions enable participants to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing and highly competitive global workforce economy. Areas targeted are professional, technical and health industries, academic and test prep study sessions and soft skills acquisition through work keys assessment.

Credit By Examination (CBE)

CLEP and DANTES are national recognized programs that are designed to assist students in achieving their college goals by testing them on course content they already know. To learn more about CLEP offerings, visit www.collegeboard.org/CLEP. To learn more about DANTES (DSST) exam offerings, visit www.getcollegecredit.com

Get Connected For Student Success

Testing strategies, career exploration assessment and college readiness programming targets student specific needs throughout their academic enrollment.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

Delaware State University is a testing center for the College Level Examination Program (CLEP). CLEP exams help students achieve their college goals by testing students on course information that they already know. Learn more about CLEP offerings and earning college credit by visiting clep.collegeboard.org/overview/collegecredit

DSST Exams

Delaware State University is a testing center for the DSST Program. This program is nationally recognized and helps students receive college credits by offering more than 30 exams. For more information and to find out about exam offerings, visit www.getcollegecredit.com.

Point of Contact for the Office of Testing Services and Programs:

 Dr. Darren Blackston | 302.857.6144 | testing@desu.edu

The General Education Program is the University’s commitment to providing breadth and depth to students’ academic, cultural, social, moral, ethical and physical development during their undergraduate experience. The goals of the General Education Program are divided into those areas of study that best describe the experiences that all students are required to complete in order to complement those experiences that the specialized curriculum in each major program of study provides.

Components of the General Education Program

The General Education Program at Delaware State University consists of Core, Breadth Areas, Senior Capstone Experience and Across-the-Curriculum Learning Outcomes.

Core

Courses that are essential to the mission of Delaware State University and are fundamental to learning. Completion of core courses with a grade of “C” or better is required of all students. The Core provides students with the knowledge and habits of mind that they will need in order to accomplish their academic goals in all major programs.

Breadth Areas

Categories of courses from which students must choose a designated number of credit hours that provide breadth and the well-roundedness of a liberal education in the arts, history, literature, other humanities, natural sciences, mathematics and social sciences. Minimum grade requirements for breadth courses vary by major program.

Senior Capstone Experience

Designed to integrate General Education and the major program, this experience may take the form of senior seminar, internship or student teaching with a seminar. The Capstone serves as the culmination of the student’s undergraduate education. It enables students to make “real world” connections to their discipline and to other disciplines as well. The Senior Capstone Experience brings General Education and major programs of study together, providing an opportunity for students to demonstrate their becoming “the educated person.”

Across-the-Curriculum

Concepts that are integrated throughout the General Education Program and major curricula which produce the desirable learning outcomes in students are the following: 1. Reading, Speaking and Listening Across-the-Curriculum (RSL) 2.

For more information, please visit www.desu.edu/academics/general-education

Quantitative Reasoning Center (QRC)

 The Office of Student Success Quantitative Reasoning Center provides FREE tutoring, workshops and Socratic Seminars to strengthen students’ mathematical and critical thinking skills in math courses ranging from Developmental Math to Calculus I.

 Our mission is to promote a holistic approach to tutorial sessions — reinforce course concepts, develop study skills and test-taking strategies, and work collaboratively with other students.

 The QRC is located in the William C. Library, Room 212. Our hours of operation are Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

 Point of Contact: Anna Cortese, Director, Integrated Academic Support Services | 302.857.6387 | Library, Room 206 | acortese@desu.edu

Tutorial Center

 The Office of Student Success Tutorial Center provides FREE tutoring and workshops to strengthen students’ critical thinking skills in various courses.

 Our mission is to promote a holistic approach to tutorial sessions — reinforce course concepts, develop study skills and test-taking strategies, and work collaboratively with other students.

 The Tutorial Center is located in the William C. Library, Room 206. Our hours of operation are Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

 Point of Contact: Anna Cortese, Director, Integrated Academic Support Services | 302.857.6387 | Library, Room 206 | acortese@desu.edu

Supplemental Instruction (SI)

 The Office of Student Success Supplemental Instruction provides FREE study group sessions facilitated by SI leaders who utilize multiple learning strategies to engage students to work collaboratively in historically difficult courses.

 Our mission is to promote a holistic approach to study group sessions — reinforce course concepts, develop study skills and test-taking strategies, and work collaboratively with other students.

 Point of Contact: Anna Cortese, Director, Integrated Academic Support Services | 302.857.6387 | Library, Room 206 | acortese@desu.edu

Writing Studio

 The Office of Student Success Writing Studio provides FREE tutoring service in writing for all students attending Delaware State University.

 Our mission is to help students strengthen their skills in writing for any course across the curriculum. Our writing consultants assist in various modes of composition (comparative, exemplification, argumentative, etc.), as well as with brainstorming, thesis development, mechanics, organization, MLA and APA format, Senior Capstone and personal statements.

 Tutoring services conducted by Writing Studio consultants are offered individually and in small groups through scheduled appointments or walk-in consultations.

 The Writing Studio is located in the William C. Library, Room 205. Our hours of operation are Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

 Point of Contact: IASS@desu.edu

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS AND WORKSHOPS

Academic programming is designed to enlighten and inspire students to succeed academically. These programs address the overall student need for educational development in a variety of areas. At the end of each program, participants are given a short evaluation that collects basic demographic information and assesses the participants’ understanding of the program.

UNIVERSITY SEMINAR

The Office of Student Success is devoted to enhancing the first-year experience for freshman students at Delaware State University by serving as the premier resource for connecting incoming students with the academic components of the institution, faculty, staff and campus-wide resources. The Office of Student Success provides the guidelines and oversight of University Seminar I & II.

University Seminar is a two semester, General Education comprehensive core course requirement that focuses on assisting first-year students in a seamless transition from high school to college, and in becoming familiar with Delaware State University. University Seminar is specifically designed to develop academic skills including critical reading, thinking, listening, writing and speaking, as well as using the academic library and pertinent technology. As a result of this course, each student should come to realize that the University is a unique culture grounded in tradition and history and guided by shared assumptions and expectations of students, professors and administrators. The strands and goals of the General Education Program are embedded in the class activities, providing each student with the opportunity to cultivate the critical thinking skills and knowledge necessary to become globally competitive.

TOOLS Other Success

INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN (IDP)

What is an IDP?

An Individual Development Plan (IDP) is a comprehensive student planning tool that charts our students’ steps in the first year and beyond, through identifying and establishing interests, goals, majors and career pathways toward academic success. Embedded with ongoing relationships with advisors, faculty, staff and peers, each Delaware State University student will be able to personalize their University experiences as they develop attitudes and behaviors reflective of the University Core Values.

What is the purpose of the IDP?

In the context of the first-year student, the purpose of the IDP is to chart the first-year steps of our students’ interests, goals and majors toward academic success. The IDP creates an environment to begin developing a relationship with the advisor/faculty that fosters student success.

What is the process?

During the summer, advisors begin creating a preliminary strategy that outlines a plan of action to utilize academic support services needed beginning in the fall semester. At the beginning of the fall semester, advisors and students must schedule their first advising appointment to begin utilizing their IDP. Students will meet with their advisor during the fall semester to review and adjust the IDP during the following time frames:

Week 1-4

Week 6-7 Midpoint Review and Adjust Plan

Week 11-13 End of Semester Review and Adjust Plan

Note: IDPs should be reviewed at every advisement session.

Is the IDP a requirement?

YES! This tool is used to help students become successful from the freshman year to graduation and beyond. Additionally, the IDP is to help augment the usage of Degree Works (see more information, next page)

Who will review the IDP?

Students, Professional Advisors, Faculty Mentors and the Registrar will have access to review IDPs as they will be an essential tool connected within EAB Navigate, Banner, Degree Works and Blackboard (see more information, next page) as students progress toward completing their degree.

Student Learning Outcomes

Student Learning Outcomes will form as a result of what students learn through academic advising, utilization of resources, support services and interventions. The retention intervention is advisement — more specifically, their IDP advisement session.

As a result of the IDP session with their Academic Advisor, students will be able to:

 Access EAB Navigate and DegreeWorks to help manage their progress toward degree completion

 Identify and use their course curriculum guide as a checklist

 Prepare a class schedule using EAB Navigate (Academic Planner), DegreeWorks and course curriculum guides

 Identify the need for tutoring and utilize academic support service

 Identify strategies to improve mid-semester grades

 Evaluate and develop individual career goals in the selected major program

EAB Navigate is a student success management system created by the Educational Advisory Board (EAB). Navigate is an online tool to connect students to faculty, staff, and campus resources. The system links DSU faculty, staff and students in a coordinated network designed to help students as they “navigate” their way through college.

Using EAB Navigate, students can:

 Schedule advising and other types of support appointments

 Request support

 Connect with key campus services such as advising, counseling services, tutoring and others

 Review Individual Development Plans (IDP), advising notes and other information provided by advisors

DEGREE WORKS

Degree Works is an academic student planning tool that allows students to academically track their progress toward degree completion.

For students, Degree Works:

 Provides real-time advice and counsel

 Speeds time to graduation

 Provides intuitive web access to self-service capabilities

 Streamlines the graduation process

 Allows direct access to multiple related services and advice through hyperlinks to catalog information, class schedules, transcripts, help desk services and FAQs

BLACKBOARD

Blackboard is a virtual learning environment and course management system.

How do I access Blackboard as a student?

Students can access Blackboard from any computer that has an Internet connection. Go to https://dsuonline.blackboard.com and enter the username and password.

 Username: This is the same username used to access a student email account.

 Password: This is the same password used to access a student email account.

Example: Username: jdoe13@students.desu.edu / Password: {student email password}

I logged in but I have a course not showing or a course that needs to be removed.

 The system will automatically update Blackboard with a student’s courses from Banner. The updates occur several times during the day. Any course changes in Banner should be automatically reflected on Blackboard within 24 hours.

Assistance:

 For log-in assistance, please contact the IT Help Desk at 302.857.7028 or stop by the IT office located in the Bank of America Building, Room 313.

 For all other issues with Blackboard, please contact Distant Education and Learning Technologies at blackboard@desu.edu or stop by the Education & Humanities Building, Room 205.

ACADEMIC Policies and Procedures

CHANGE IN MAJOR OR PERSONAL DATA CLASSIFICATION OF STUDENTS

Students must submit their change of major and personal data (address or telephone number) changes on the appropriate forms available in the Office of Records and Registration as often as necessary.

 0-29 Hours Freshman

 30-59 Hours Sophomore

 60-89 Hours Junior

 90 Hours and above Senior

 A grade is reported for each course in which a student is enrolled. The grade is an indication of the quality of the student’s performance in a course.

 Mid-semester and final grades will be issued to all students for all courses enrolled.

 Final grades become a part of the student’s permanent record and are used in computing grade point averages.

 If a student repeats a course, the highest grade in the course is calculated in the grade point average (GPA). The lower grade earned in the course is disregarded when calculating the GPA, but is not deleted from the student’s record. On the student’s transcript, an “E” placed next to a course indicates the repetition of a course excluded from the GPA and an “I” indicates the repetition of a course included in the GPA.

 The GPA is computed by dividing the total number of quality points by the total number of GPA hours earned. Nontraditional grades including grades of I, W, WA, AU, S, U, and P are not computed in the GPA.

Delaware State University’s Grading System

I (Not Computed in GPA)

W (Not Computed in GPA) Withdrew

WA (Not Computed in GPA)

AU (Not Computed in GPA)

S (Not Computed in GPA)

U (Not Computed in GPA)

Administrative Drop

Audit - Not Taken For Credit

Satisfactory

Unsatisfactory

P (Not Computed in GPA) Pass

The minimum course load for full-time status is 12 credit hours per semester; however, 15 credit hours is strongly recommended for each semester.

Regular class attendance is a vital part of the educational process. Students are required to attend all classes. If a faculty member chooses to evaluate attendance as part of a grade for a course, such a policy must be written in the syllabus, which is distributed at the beginning of a course. The policy must state what part of the course grade is based on attendance and how individual absences will be assessed. If a faculty member declines to integrate attendance as part of a course grade, under no circumstances may a student’s final grade be reduced solely because of class absences.

The Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs issues excuses for students who are absent from classes due to participation in official University-related activities or on University-related travel. In all other cases, only the instructor can approve a student’s request to be excused from class.

Definition

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is the standard college students must meet to remain eligible for Title IV Federal Student Aid (FSA) as well as some state, institutional and private financial aid funds. To remain eligible for federal financial aid money — grants, work-study funds and student loans — college students must meet certain standards in the classroom. In financial aid speak, those standards are called Satisfactory Academic Progress.

When SAP is Reviewed

At Delaware State University, Satisfactory Academic Progress is monitored at the end of each fall, spring and summer semesters. Students MUST meet both components of Satisfactory Academic Progress as stated in the criteria below. This requirement is different from a non-Title IV recipient who may enroll in the next summer session or semester without intervention of an appeal.

SAP GPA Criteria

Good Academic Standing (Qualitative Component)

Students must earn a minimum cumulative grade point average that meets the requirements for continuing enrollment and graduation as defined by the University.

 Undergraduate Students: 2.0 cumulative GPA

Delaware State University’s SAP calculation will include all hours attempted.

Academic progression (Quantitative Component) — Pace of Completion

Students must progress toward their education goal by earning credits at Delaware State University at the minimum rate. Students are evaluated on pace of completion, meaning students must complete 66.67% of the credit hours in which they are enrolled beyond the last day of add/drop. Courses in which students receive an “F”, “W,”“WF” or “AW” grade do not count as earned hours but will count in the attempted hours as well as repeated courses. Only courses in which students receive grades of “A,”“B,”“C” or “D” count as earned hours. Audit coursework does not count. The formula used to determine the pace of completion consists of taking the credit hours completed and dividing that number by the credit hours attempted. This number must be equal to or exceed 66.67%. Advance standing hours (e.g., transfer and AP) that are accepted for credit are counted in both the hours attempted and hours completed. Incompletes and withdrawals are attempted, but not completed, credit hours and will decrease a student’s pace of completion. Redemption and duplicate credits are counted as completed credit hours only once and will also decrease a student’s pace of completion.

Maximum Time Frame

Undergraduate students must complete their degree in 150% of the time frame published in the University Catalog. The maximum time frame is measured by the average number of credit hours required to complete a degree multiplied by required percent (based on the undergraduate program). This is the maximum number of credit hours a student can attempt and maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress. Advance standing hours applied toward the student’s degree program (e.g., transfer, AP and pre-requisite) count in the maximum time frame.

Students who are aware of learning or other disabilities should immediately contact the Center for Disability Resources so that appropriate accommodations can be made. Students with documented disabilities and functional limitations are still held to the same academic expectations as other students. If the student has self-identified with the Center for Disability Resources and is receiving appropriate accommodations, the student should be able to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress for financial aid purposes.

Procedures

Each Title IV Federal Student Aid (FSA) recipient’s record will be evaluated at the end of each semester to determine if the student is meeting the standards described above. If the student has reached the maximum number of credits or completed all degree requirements without earning a degree, the student must be excluded from further participation in federal financial aid programs. In addition, if the student has reached or exceeded 150% (undergraduate) in total attempted credit hours for his or her degree program without earning a degree, the student must be excluded from further participation in federal financial aid programs.

NOTE: Federal regulations require that these standards apply to all students, even to first-time aid applicants who have previously enrolled at Delaware State University, or to those who have not been formally placed on probation.

Students initially deemed not to be making Satisfactory Academic Progress will be notified through their Delaware State University email. Students identified as not meeting SAP requirements are initially placed in a “Warning” status in which they remain eligible to receive Title IV funding for the following semester in which they enroll. Students receiving a “Warning” status email are not required to complete any necessary action. If a student is identified as not meeting SAP requirements at the end of the “Warning” status semester, the student is then placed in a “Unsatisfactory” category and the student loses financial aid eligibility until an appeal is submitted and approved or the student opts to attend without receiving federal or institutional financial aid while completing courses to meet SAP cumulative requirements and regain his or her SAP standing. The mere passage of time will not ordinarily restore eligibility to a student who has lost eligibility for failure to make Satisfactory Academic Progress.

Appeal Process

Students have the right to appeal a decision of ineligibility to continue to receive financial assistance. Appeals must be filed prior to the published deadline in order to be considered. The appeal may NOT be based upon need for the assistance OR lack of knowledge that the assistance was in jeopardy. An appeal must be based upon some extenuating circumstance which prevented a student from passing most of his or her courses, or which necessitated withdrawing from classes. The situation/condition must have taken place within the semester(s) the student did not meet Satisfactory Academic Progress. Examples of possible situations include documented serious illness, severe injury or death of an immediate family member, or family crisis.

Note: Students may only submit an appeal two (2) times within their academic program time frame. All appeals after will be automatically denied, with the exception of special extenuating circumstances.

For full information on Satisfactory Academic Progress, please visit www.desu.edu/satisfactory-academic-progress-sap

ADDING AND DROPPING CLASSES

Eligible students without financial holds are permitted to add and drop classes online at the University’s my.desu.edu website. The approval to adjust the course schedule online must be obtained from the student’s Academic Advisor prior to going online to adjust his/her schedule.

Adding classes

To add a class, students may go online after obtaining approval from their Academic Advisor or department Chair or follow the steps below:

1. Obtain a Notice of Class Change form (Drop/Add Slip) from the Academic Advisor.

2. Complete the student and class information parts of the form.

3. Obtain the signatures of the appropriate instructor and the appropriate Advisor/Chairperson.

4. Submit the completed form to the Office of Records and Registration. The effective date of the add is the date the slip is filed in the Records Office. The deadline for adding classes is outlined in the Academic Calendar. Exceptions to the deadline period set forth shall be allowed only in cases involving extraordinary circumstances. Such exceptions shall be at the sole discretion of the appropriate academic dean.

Dropping classes

To drop a class, students may go online after obtaining approval from their Academic Advisor or department Chair or follow the steps below:

1. Through the End of Late Registration:

a. Obtain the Notice of Class Change form (Drop Slip) from the academic department.

b. Have instructors and Advisors/Chairs sign and date the form.

c. Submit the form to the Office of Records and Registration. The effective date of the drop is the date the slip is filed in the Records Office. Courses dropped prior to the end of the Late Registration Period will not appear on the student’s grade report or transcript. See the Refund Policy statement to determine financial responsibility, if any, for courses dropped during this period.

2. After Late Registration through the Scheduled Last Day for Dropping Classes:

a. Obtain the Notice of Class Change form (Drop Slip) from the academic department.

b. Have instructors and Advisors/Chairs sign and date the form.

c. Submit the form to the Office of Records and Registration. The effective date of the drop is the date the slip is filed in the Records Office. The dropped course will appear on the grade report and transcript with a grade of “W” for “Withdrew.” See the Refund Policy statement to determine financial responsibility, if any, for courses dropped during this period.

3. After the Scheduled Last Day for Dropping Classes and up to the Last Week of Classes:

a. Obtain the Notice of Class Change form (Drop Slip) from the academic department.

b. Have instructors and Advisors/Chairs sign and date the form.

c. Students must obtain the signature of the dean of the school/college. The dean is the only University official who may approve the dropping of a class at this point in the semester. The appropriate dean shall permit students who officially request to drop specific classes from their academic schedules to do so only in cases involving extraordinary circumstances that are clearly beyond the control of the students making such a request. In no case shall a student be permitted to drop a class for any reason that relates exclusively to academic performance.

d. Submit the form to the Office of Records and Registration. The course will appear on the grade report and transcript with a grade of “WA” for “Administrative Withdrawal.”

ACADEMIC CALENDAR

FALL 2023 (202401)

August 7 (Monday)…… Fall Payment Due Date

August 21-26 (Monday-Saturday) ............................................. Residence Halls Open for All Students

August 25 (Friday)……………...…………………….………………………..Opening Institute (Virtual)

August 24-27 (Thursday-Sunday)…..………………………………………..……….……..…Welcome Days

August 27- September 2 (Sunday-Saturday)…………………………………………………I Love DSU Week

August 28 (Monday) .............................................................................................. Classes Begin @ 8:00am

August 28 (Monday)……………………………………………………………………..Late Registration Begins

September 4 (Monday)……………………………………………………………Labor Day (University Closed)

September 6 (Wednesday) Last Day for Adding Classes

September 6 (Wednesday) Last Day to Change Course(s) to Audit Status

September 6 (Wednesday) Late Registration Ends

September 6 (Wednesday)………………………………………… SAP Appeal Due for the Fall 2022

September 7 (Thursday) Effective date for $10 per drop processing fee

September 7 (Thursday) Effective date for receiving a grade of “W” for dropped courses

September 7-11 (Thursday-Monday)…………….………………Documentation for Non-Attendance Period

September 11 (Monday) ……………………….…..………………………… Academic Early Alert Period

September 14 (Thursday)…………………………………………………General Faculty Meeting (Virtual)

September 15 (Friday) (DSU Observed).………………………………………………….Constitution Day

September 22 (Friday)……………… Application & Audit for December and May Graduates Due

September 28 (Thursday).……………………………………………………………………….Convocation

October 11 (Wednesday)….……………………………………………………………Residency Status Audit

October 12 (Thursday)………………………………………………… Last Day to Remove Incompletes

October 16 (Monday)………..……………………………………………………………Mid-Term Grades Due

October 16- November 22 (Monday-Wednesday).……….………..…… Academic Advisement Period

October 23-24 (Monday-Tuesday)..…………………...………………………….Priority Pre-Registration

October 25-November 22 (Wednesday-Wednesday)..............Pre-Registration for Spring & Summer

October 21 (Saturday)……………………………………………………………………………….Homecoming

October 31 (Tuesday)…….………………………………………………………………………...Census Date

November 2 (Thursday)….……………………………………..….………Financial Aid 60% Completion Date

November 11 (Saturday)……… ……………………………………………………………………..Open House

Novem ber 19 (Sunday)… ……………..Exit Interview for December Graduates

November 20- December 7 (Monday-Thursday)….. Fall Course Evaluations

November 22 (Wednesday)…………………..…… ………………………Residence Halls Close @ 5 pm

November 23-26 (Thursday-Sunday) ……………………………………………………Thanksgiving Recess

November 26 (Sunday)……Residence Halls Re-Open for the Remainder of the Fall 202 2 Semester

November 29 (Wednesday) Last Day to Drop/Withdraw from the University

December 7 (Thursday)……………………………………………………………………..Last Day of Classes

December 8 (Friday) Reading Day

December 8 (Friday)..…………………………………………………………….Residency Status Final Audit

December 11-15 (Monday-Friday) ………………………………………………………….Final Examinations

December 15 (Friday)………………………………………………………..Winter Recess Begins (Students)

December 15 (Friday)…………………..………………………Residence Halls Close @ 5 pm for Fall 2022

December 15 Friday).…………….……………...………………...…… ………..Winter Payment Due Date

December 18 (Monday) ………………………………… Final Grades Due

December 19 (Tuesday)..….……..……………………….……Spring New Student Orientation (Virtual)

December 25-January 1 (Monday-Monday) Winter Recess (University Closed)

Last update: 2/24/2023

ACADEMIC CALENDAR

Refund Schedule for Course(s) Withdrawals

FALL 2023 (202401)

FALL/SPRING SEMESTERS

DOVER, WILMINGTON AND GEORGETOWN *** 8 WEEK ACCELERATED SESSIONS ***

ACCELERATED SESSION I

August 28, 2023 – October 20, 2023

August 24-27 (Thursday-Sunday)……...……………………….…………………….……………..Registration

August 28 (Monday)……………………………….….……………..………..…..….Classes Begin @ 8:00 am

August 28 (Monday)…………………...….……………….………….….…………….Late Registration Begins

August 31 (Thursday) Last Day to Add Classes

ACCELERATED/SUMMER

September 1 (Friday) ….……………………..Effective date for receiving a grade of “W” for dropped course

September 1-5 (Frida y-Tuesday)..………………………...…..….Documentation for Non-Attendance Period

September 4 (Monday)……………………….………………………...Labor Day Recess (University Closed)

September 11 (Monday) ………………………………………………..Academic Early Alert Period

September 14 (Thursday)..…………………………………….………Last Day to Drop Accelerated I Course

September 25 (Monday) …………………………………………………………………. Mid-Term Grades Due

September 28-October 22 (Thursday-Sunday)……………...………Registration for Accelerated Session II

September 29 (Friday)……………………..…………………………. Financial Aid 60% Completion Date

October 9-20 (Monday-Friday)……………………………………….…Accelerated I Fall Course Evaluations

October 9-20 (Monday-Friday)…………………………………… …Mid-Term Evaluations Administered

October 16-20 Monday-Friday) Final Examinations

October 20 (Friday)…………… Last Day of Classes

October 23 (Monday)……..…… Final Grades Due

ACCELERATED SESSION II

October 23, 2023 – December 15, 2023

October 19-20 (Thursday-Friday)………………………….………..…………………..……………Registration

October 23 (Monday)……………...……………….….…..……….………………….. Classes Begin

October 23 (Monda y)…………………………………….……….. ….………………...Late Registration Begins

October 25-November 22 (Wednesday-Wednesday)..............Pre-Registration for Spring & Summer

October 26 (Thursday)…..………………..…………...……………...………………..Last Day to Add Classes

October 27 (Friday) Effective date for receiving a grade of “W” for dropped course

*Subject to Change

October 27-30 (Friday-Monday)………….…..…………………..Documentation for Non-Attendance Period

October 31 (Tuesday)…………………………………….…….…………………………………….Census Date

November 6 (Monday) ………………………………………………….Academic Early Alert Period

November 17 (Friday)……….....…………………………………… Last Day to Drop Accelerated II Course

November 13-17 (Monday-Friday)………………………………………Mid-Term Evaluations Administered

November 20 (Monday) Midterm Grades Due

November 23-26 (Thursday–Sunday)……………………………..…………………..… Thanksgiving Recess

November 27 (Monday)……………………………………..….… Financial Aid 60% Completion Date

December 4-15 (Monday-Friday)…… …...……………..Accelerated II Fall Course Evaluations

December 11-15 (Monday-Friday)……………...……….……..……….…….……............Final Examinations

December 15 (Friday)…………………………….…..…..………………….…………......Last Day of Classes

December 18 (Monday)………………………… Final Grades Due

December 25-January 1 (Monday-Monday)

SESSIONS

Refund Schedule for Course(s) Withdrawals

Approved: 4/5/2022

Subject to Change

ACCELERATED/SUMMER SESSIONS

Last update: 2/24/2023

Quick Reference

Office of Student

Success | William C. Jason Library, Second Floor | 302.857.7527

College Deans and Department Chairs | 2022-2023 School Year

 Deans hold primary administrative roles. Although not uncommon for them to teach a course (or courses) while performing their roles or have extensive teaching experience, their primary duty as an administrator is to oversee an entire college within the University structure. Academic deans manage the department chairs within their respective college, set academic standards, perform community outreach, work on articulation agreements, and help maintain accreditation standards.

 Department chairs are faculty who hold teaching and administrative duties. Their administrative duties may include but are not limited to: reviewing curricula, scheduling faculty, mediating student and faculty challenges, interviewing potential new professors, reviewing potential transfer course substitutes, and auditing graduating seniors. Department chairs report to the respective dean of their college.

TERMS Academic Advising

Academic Advisor* | A department or college-based faculty or staff member who meets with students each semester to discuss and create an academic plan designed to meet students’ educational and career goals, review University resources and programs, review curricular choices and monitor progress toward achieving educational goals.

*All students within their first year journey are assigned to Office of Student Success Academic Advisors.

Academic Probation | A student with a grade point average below 1.70 at the end of any semester will be placed on academic probation for the succeeding semester unless the student’s cumulative grade point average is 2.00 or greater.

Academic Suspension | A student on probation who fails to earn a 2.00 average the following semester will be suspended academically.

Academic Year | The part of the year that includes the fall and spring semesters.

Attempt Hours | All the courses a student was registered for after the add/drop period has ended.

Audit | Attend a course without receiving credit. The final grade of “AU” is assigned to the course and does not affect the grade point average.

Catalog | A resource of all academic policies and procedures, college and degree requirements, faculty, and course descriptions.

Classification | Level of progress toward a degree based on the number of semester hours passed.

College | An academic unit of the University. Each college represents an organization of related departments.

Commencement (also known as Graduation) | A formal ceremony in which colleges award degrees to graduating students. DSU has both Fall and Spring commencement or graduation ceremonies.

Common Final Exam | Common final is given to all sections of a course at a designated time (i.e. Common final in Math).

Contact Hours | The number of hours the class meets per week.

Core Courses | Classes that all students in a major program are required to take.

Course Load | The total number of credit hours taken in a semester. For example, the average course load for any semester is 15 to 16 credit hours. Students registered for at least 12 hours are considered full-time at DSU.

Course Request Form | A form used for requesting enrollment in courses.

Course Registration Number | A unique 5-digit number assigned to a class for registration purposes.

Curriculum | Specific degree program courses that are required by an academic college.

Credit | The number of credits assigned to a course is generally based upon the amount of time the class meets each week.

Dean | An official of high rank in a college or university who is responsible for the organization of a department or departments.

Degree Works | A software system that permits a student to see her/his academic progress toward specified degree, college and University requirements.

Department | A unit within a college representing a discipline.

Department Chair | The administrative head of a department of instruction in a college or university.

Discipline | An area of study representing a branch of knowledge, such as mathematics.

Dismissal | Academic Dismissal is the end result of a pattern of multiple semesters of grades below the University’s standards for Good Standing (2.00 or higher GPA).

Double Major | A student may elect to pursue two majors at one time.

Drop/Add | The process of adjusting a student’s schedule by dropping and/or adding courses after the semester’s first day of class.

Dual Degrees | A student may elect to pursue two degrees at one time.

Earned Hours | Credits attained from all courses a student has successfully passed (including transfer and AP credit).

FAFSA | Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is used to determine the need for financial assistance.

FERPA | Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. The act protects a student’s academic record within the post-secondary educational setting.

Final Exams | Tests or exercises given at the end of a term. A schedule for final exams is listed in each semester.

Financial Aid | Financial aid is designed to supplement family resources. Financial assistance at the University is made available through scholarships, grants, loans and part-time employment opportunities. Federal financial aid is assistance for educational expenses to include tuition, fees, room and board.

General Education Requirement | One of the requirements for a bachelor’s degree. It is a pattern of courses which students complete, regardless of their major, to ensure that they have a broad educational experience.

Grade Point Average (GPA) | A measure of scholastic performance. The GPA is obtained by dividing the number of grade points by the credit hours.

Hold | A block on a student’s account that will not allow the student to enroll in/drop/add classes (i.e. financial aid or registration holds).

Major | Concentrated study in a subject area of special interest.

Minor | A secondary field of study requiring fewer credits than the major.

Office Hours | Professors and advisors are usually required to hold office hours on a regular basis throughout the semester so that students are able to drop in or schedule an appointment to meet with them.

Office of the Registrar | The office that plans and oversees registration, academic record maintenance, transcript preparation, graduation, degree audit report system, curricular records and University catalogs.

Prerequisite | One or more courses that must be completed or other knowledge, skills or standards that must be demonstrated before a student is permitted to take certain courses.

Registration | The act of signing up for classes using Banner Web Self Service.

Removal for Non-Payment | Students’ housing/meal assignments and registration will be removed due to non-payment in accordance with the published date in the Academic Calendar and Course Schedule Guide.

Semester or Term | Semester and term are used synonymously to identify the designated period during which classes are scheduled. The fall semester begins in August and the spring semester begins in January.

Student ID Number or “D Number” | An eight-digit number generated for students upon admission to the University.

Syllabus | A course outline provided by the instructor to students that delineates course requirements, grading criteria, course content, faculty expectations, deadlines, exam dates, grading policies, class attendance requirements and other relevant course information.

Transcript (Official) | Certified academic record that contains an official seal from the Registrar’s Office.

Transfer Credit | Courses taken at another institution and transferred to DSU for institutional credit.

University Seminar | A form of small group instruction, combining independent research and class discussions, under the guidance of a professor in a student’s major. One-two credit hours: UNIV 191 (fall); UNIV 192 (spring).

Withdrawal | Dropping all the courses of enrollment for the current term (withdrawal from the University) or withdrawal from an individual course. There are deadlines affixed to either withdrawal.

SUCCESS Tips for First-Year Student

 Go to class!

 Meticulously read and review each course syllabus.

 Have the required textbook for each course.

 It is not optional, it is necessary!

 Perform like a pro.

 Go to class prepared and participate in class (e.g. stay awake, take thorough notes, answer questions).

 Serious about getting work done?

 Find a good location. Use the library, study rooms or empty classrooms.

 Make doing your coursework (e.g. assignments and reading) a habitual ritual.

 Turn in all assignments on time!

 Guidance and help exist.

 Set up your tutors before there is a problem.

 Write it down.

 Gather your syllabus from each class and plot major assignments, quizzes and exams on a monthly calendar.

 Take breaks to get energized.

 Eat, sleep, exercise and relax!

 Be a test preppie.

 Before a test, quiz yourself to see if you can recall information without looking at notes and textbooks.

 Get to know your professors and advisor.

 Visit them during their office hours and ask questions when needed.

 Set SMART goals.

S Specific goals have a much greater chance of being accomplished.

M Measure your progress to stay on track.

A Make your goals attainable. Plan your steps wisely.

R To be realistic, set goals which you are both willing and able to work.

T Your goal should be grounded within a time frame.

1ST YEAR FLOW CHART

Freshmen Incoming Transfer Students transferring 29 credits or less

2ND YEAR FLOW CHART

Sophomores

Incoming Transfer Students transferring 30 to 59 credits

*

3RD YEAR FLOW CHART

Juniors

Incoming Transfer Students transferring 60 to 89 credits

Professional Development, resume, Career services, Workshops, interviews, negotiation, leaderships, Application internships, OSS Experiential learning for

* Student Alert in the EAB system (Text EAB)

* Faculty drops the student on Banner for non-participation during the first 2 weeks.

* Student Alert in the EAB system (Text EAB)

* Faculty drops the student on Banner for non-participation during the first 2 weeks.