Gratz College Student Handbook by Gratz College

GRATZ COLLEGE STUDENT HANDBOOK

7605 Old York Road Melrose Park, PA 19027 (215) 635-7300 www.gratz.edu

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

General Information The Gratz College campus is situated in Melrose Park, Pennsylvania, ten miles north of Philadelphiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center City. The College is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm and 9:00 am to 3:00 pm on Fridays.

Accreditation and Recognition Gratz College is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 3264 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104 (267-284-5000). The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. This handbook contains information, policies, procedures, regulations, and requirements that were correct at the time of publication. In keeping with the educational mission of the College, the information, policies, procedures, regulations, and requirements contained herein are continually being reviewed, changed, and updated. Consequently, this document cannot be considered binding and must be solely used as an informational guide. Students are responsible for keeping informed of policies and procedures and meeting all program requirements. The College reserves the right and authority at any time to alter any or all of the statements contained in this publication. The provisions of this publication are subject to change without notice and nothing in this publication may be considered as setting forth a contract between a student or prospective student and Gratz College.

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

TABLE OF CONTENTS Empower Students Program

Important Contacts

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Security Policy and Procedures

Academic Policies and Procedures

Financial Policies and Procedures

General Policies

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

EMPOWER STUDENTS PROGRAM Inspired by the words of Pirke Avot, “Ha’amidu Talmidim,” meaning “Raise up students,” the Office of Student Life developed the Empower Students Program in 2006 to formalize this commitment. The seven Empower Students principles spell out Gratz College’s pledge to respect, mentor, and elevate our students.

EMPOWER STUDENTS PRINCIPLES: • • • • • • •

Excellence in Service Mentoring Personal Relations Open Communication Willingness Energy Respect

The College is dedicated to assisting students in obtaining academic support, financial and institutional aid, professional resources, internships, housing, and medical insurance. In partnership with the student body, the College offers a wide variety of student programs, including Shabbat dinners, workshops, and other social activities.

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

IMPORTANT CONTACTS AT GRATZ COLLEGE (215) 635-7300 FRONT DESK Lenore Brian Wayne Marquis x 100 lbrian@gratz.edu; wmarquis@gratz.edu

OFFICE OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Richard Scaldini Interim Dean for Academic Affairs x 137; rscaldini@gratz.edu Hope Matles Administrative Assistant x 172; hmatles@gratz.edu

OFFICE OF DISTANCE LEARNING Debbie Aron Director x 115; daron@gratz.edu

OFFICE OF ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT Maria Silvester Director of Admissions x 140; msilvester@gratz.edu Administrative Assistant x 150; admissions@gratz.edu

OFFICE OF FINANCIAL AID Joseph Henderson Director x 185; finaid@gratz.edu

OFFICE OF DISABILITY SERVICES Andi Oxman Director x 222; disability@gratz.edu Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

BUSINESS OFFICE Sheila Weeks-Brown Director of Finance and Administration x 158; @gratz.edu Karen West Student Financial Services Advisor x 163; kwest@gratz.edu

TUTTLEMAN LIBRARY Eli Wise Director x 159; ewise@gratz.edu

TRANSCRIPTS Lovisa Woodson x 156; studentrecords@gratz.edu

CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION Joy W. Goldstein President & Chief Operating Officer x 131; jgoldstein@gratz.edu

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Suzette Martinez-Quiles Director x 174; helpdesk@gratz.edu

FACULTY Joseph Davis x 142; jdavis@gratz.edu Jerry Kutnick x 137; jkutnick@gratz.edu Ruth Sandberg x 168; rsandberg@gratz.edu Michael Steinlauf x 144; msteinlauf@gratz.edu Saul Wachs x 139; swachs@gratz.edu For contact information for current adjunct professors, contact Hope Matles in the Office of Academic Affairs: x 172; hmatles@gratz.edu.

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION Gratz College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, national and ethnic origin, creed, age, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by law in its admission to, or in the administration of, its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, or other schooladministered programs. The school’s CFO is the coordinator of Title IX, the Educational Amendments Act of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. All inquiries or complaints under the sex discrimination provisions of Title IX should be directed to the school’s CFO. The school’s CFO must act equitably and promptly to resolve complaints and should provide a response within seven working days. Students who feel that the complaint has not been adequately addressed should follow the institution’s grievance procedure.

STUDENT RECORDS AND FERPA Gratz College handles information regarding a student’s personal, academic, financial, disciplinary, and other student records in accordance with The Family Educational Rights Act of 1974 (FERPA). In general faculty and staff may not disclose personally identifiable information from a student or applicant’s record except with the student’s written consent. Some of the most common exceptions to this rule are: •

• •

To school officials with a “legitimate educational interest,” in other words, where the information is required or would be helpful in the performance of the school official’s duties, or in the pursuit of an enterprise sanctioned by the college; To parents, if the parent properly documents that the student is a dependent for tax purposes; In cases of alcohol and drug violations (if the student is under 21 or if the student is listed as a tax dependent regardless of age) or when the student poses a danger to him- or herself or others;

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

•

As required by other law (e.g., if the College receives a subpoena, court order or other legal papers soliciting student records.)

The Office of Academic Affairs at Gratz College maintains the academic records of all current students and determines the access and distribution of those records based on state and federal laws. The Office of Enrollment Management at Gratz College maintains the application records of prospective students. The Office of Student Records maintains the transcripts of students previously or currently enrolled in Gratz College. The Office of Student Records determines the access and distribution of those records based on state and federal laws. Students have a right to review their student records. Students also have a right to seek correction of records by submitting a request in writing with the information to be corrected and the reason why to the responsible official. If the request is denied, Gratz College will notify the student of the decision. If the student chooses, he or she may appeal the decision in accordance with the grievance policy.

LEARNING AND OTHER DISABILITIES Gratz College complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and state and local requirements regarding students with disabilities. In compliance with state and federal regulations, reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified students with documented disabilities. A request for accommodations is deemed reasonable if the request: • • •

is based on the required documentation as specified below, does not compromise essential requirements of a course or program, and does not impose a financial or administrative burden upon Gratz College or individual professors beyond that which is deemed reasonable and customary.

The essential requirements of an academic course or program need not be modified to accommodate an individual with a disability. Students whose accommodation requests are denied will not be discriminated against if

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

they appeal the decision, and an appeal will in no way impact their overall experience at Gratz College. Disability Accommodation Process It is the student’s responsibility to inform the College of the disability and submit any required documentation in order to receive accommodations, and therefore, the student should submit the request upon admission to Gratz College. This information will be kept in a locked file and kept strictly confidential pursuant to the Confidentiality of Information statement below. • •

No accommodations may be made prior to the notification of the disability and submission of documentation. Students must identify themselves to the Office of Disability Services and provide the required documentation specified below at least 30 days in advance of the start of the requested accommodations.

Steps for Requesting Disability Accommodations

•

• •

The student submits the following to the Office of Disability Services: o A written statement outlining his or her disability, and o The required documentation specified below in the “Documentation Requirements” section. The Office of Disability Services will review the documentation to determine whether the requested accommodations or any other accommodations might be reasonable. Once accommodations are approved, the Office of Disability Services will prepare a letter for the student to share with his or her professors. In addition, the student’s advisor and Dean for Academic Affairs will receive a copy of the letter.

Appeal Process Students whose disability accommodation requests are denied or adjusted may submit an appeal in writing to the Office of Academic Affairs. This appeal must be made within 15 days of the decision. Documentation Requirements The student must provide all necessary documentation to request Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

disability accommodations and will be made at the student’s expense. Documentation must follow the guidelines as follows: •

Age of documentation: o For students with a learning disability, the evaluation should be no older than three years if the student is under 21 years old. Older documentation may be considered for students who are over 21 as long as the testing was done when the student was at least 18 years old. o For students with a mental disability, the evaluation should be no older than six months. o For students with a physical disability, if the disability is a permanent condition, documentation of any age is considered. If the disability is based on a temporary condition, the evaluation should be no older than one year.

•

Necessary information on documentation: o Should include the professional credentials of the evaluator, including the training and experience the evaluator has had with the diagnosis and treatment. The evaluator should be a licensed professional in the appropriate field and qualified to diagnose adults. o Should include a specific medical diagnosis of the physical, mental, or learning disability. o Should include the names of all diagnostic tests used, evaluation dates, test scores, and interpretation of test results. o Should describe the specific ways in which the disability will impact the student’s academic experience. o Should include recommended accommodations that relate to the diagnosis.

Confidentiality of Information Gratz College will not release any information regarding a student’s individual diagnosis or documentation without his or her informed written consent or as required by law. A student is under no obligation to disclose the nature of his or her disability to a professor.

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

Contact Information For questions regarding the Office of Disability Services, contact Andi Oxman, Director, disability@gratz.edu, (800) 475-4635, ext. 222.

HEALTH/MEDICAL CARE Gratz College cares about the health and safety of its students. All students are strongly advised to have health insurance to cover the expenses of their health care and treatments in case of an illness or injury. Gratz College offers a health insurance plan for undergraduate and graduate students who are not covered by their own carrier. To enroll in this plan, students must fill out forms provided by the Office of Academic Affairs. If a student does not wish to take advantage of the college insurance plan, he or she must complete a health waiver annually. Students enrolled in an on-campus degree or certificate program at Gratz College are required to have up-to-date immunizations. Students who are off campus or not enrolled in a degree or certificate program (e.g., auditors) are strongly encouraged to update their immunizations and file them with the Office of Academic Affairs. FERPA forbids the college to release student health information without the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s consent. To receive a medical release form, contact the Office of Academic Affairs.

ACQUAINTANCE RAPE AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE POLICY Under Pennsylvania law, sexual activity or sexual conduct carried out under coercion, with the threat of a weapon, through the threat of bodily harm, through a position of authority, or when the victim/survivor is mentally handicapped or physically helpless, constitutes criminal sexual conduct, even if the perpetrator and victim/survivor had a previous relationship. Acquaintance rape is a form of sexual violence. For the purpose of this policy, acquaintance rape/sexual violence is defined as any act in which a person forces another with whom he or she is acquainted to engage in sexual activity against his or her will or without his or her consent. Assent shall not constitute consent if it is given by a person who, because of youth, mental disability, or intoxication is unable to make a reasonable judgment concerning the nature of or harmfulness of the activity. This policy applies to groups as well as individuals. Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

Gratz College expects that all members of the school will conduct themselves in a responsible manner that shows respect for others and the community at large. The same behavioral standards apply to all individuals. The College will do whatever possible to offer safety, privacy, and support to any victim/survivor of sexual assault. The school will assist the victim/survivor in contacting an appropriate agency to report the assault or for medical attention if such assistance is desired. If you are sexually assaulted on campus: â&#x20AC;˘

â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

If the assault takes place at the school, the victim/survivor should immediately contact the Office of Academic Affairs for assistance. The name of the victim/survivor will not be revealed unless he or she chooses to be identified. The Office of Academic Affairs shall, at all times, have readily available the name(s) of local law enforcement agencies and sexual assault centers that are to be called for immediate help. If the assault takes place outside the school, the victim/survivor should immediately contact, or have someone contact, 911, the appropriate local law enforcement agency, and hospital or sexual assault center. o It is helpful to have a written summary of what happened while the memory is still clear. o No attempt should be made to bathe, change clothes, or otherwise clean up prior to examination by a medical practitioner qualified to make determinations regarding sexual assault. o If possible, have a friend with you when talking to the police or sexual assault center officer.

Gratz College will provide resources to support victims/survivors and will investigate reports of sexual violence with appropriate jurisdiction. College sanctions will be imposed in accordance with appropriate College processes upon persons found to have violated this policy. These sanctions can include but are not limited to suspension, expulsion, dismissal, and/or separation from the College. In addition, an individual charged may be subject to prosecution by the Office of the District Attorney under Pennsylvania law.

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY Sexual harassment is against the law. It violates Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, The Pennsylvania Human Rights Act, the City of Philadelphia Human Rights Ordinance, the Pennsylvania Civil Rights Ordinance, and the policies and procedures of Gratz College. Teachers and Students The relationship between teacher and student is central to the academic mission of the College. No non-academic or personal ties should be allowed to interfere with the integrity of the teacher-student relationship. Consensual sexual relations between teacher and student can adversely affect the academic enterprise, distorting judgments or appearing to do so in the minds of others, and providing incentives or disincentives for student-faculty contact that are equally inappropriate. For these reasons, any sexual relations between a teacher and a student during the period of the teacher/student relationship are prohibited. The prohibition extends to sexual relations between a graduate or professional student and an undergraduate, when the graduate or professional student has some supervisory academic responsibility for the undergraduate, to sexual relations between department chairs and students in that department and to sexual relations between graduate group chairs and students in that graduate group. In addition, it includes sexual relations between academic advisors, program directors, and all others who have supervisory academic responsibility for a student, and that student. Sexual Harassment Defined The term “sexual harassment” is defined as “unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal/non-verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature” and that: • • •

Involves a stated or implicit threat to the victim’s academic or employment status; Has the purpose or effect of interfering with an individual’s academic or work performance; and/or; Creates an intimidating or offensive academic, living, or work environment.

The use of a position of authority to seek to accomplish any of the above constitutes sexual harassment. Sexual harassment may be physical, verbal, and/or non-verbal in nature. One incident or the aggregation of a

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series of incidents (even when a single incident would not necessarily be considered to be harassing) may constitute sexual harassment whether it occurs on or off campus or during working or non-working hours. Although sexual harassment has typically involved a female victim, members of either sex can harass both males and females. Although sexual harassment typically involves a person in a superior position as the offender, people in subordinate or equal positions also may be offenders. Sexual harassment may occur in a variety of ways, e.g., harassment of a student by a student, or of a faculty/staff member by a staff member, or of a student by a faculty/staff member, or of a staff member by a student. Examples of Sexual Harassment • • • • • • •

An offer for a higher grade for sexual favors; Suggestions or threats that refusal of sexual favors might hinder one’s academic, social or professional standing; Constant efforts to change a professional relationship into a personal one; Unwanted sexual looks or gestures; Persistent and offensive sexually oriented jokes and comments; Social or professional comments demeaning to a particular gender; and Unwanted physical contact such as patting, pinching, or touching.

Sexual harassment can cause emotional and/or physical damage. Faculty, staff, and students of Gratz College who believe they have been the victims of sexual harassment should contact the Office of Academic Affairs for assistance. The individual has the option of making a formal or informal complaint according to the procedures outlined below. No retaliatory actions may be taken against any person because he or she makes such a complaint or against any member of the school who serves as an advisor or advocate for any party in such a complaint. Incidents should be reported within 30 days, if possible, and all information will be kept confidential if requested by the person making the complaint. At any time during the procedures, both the person bringing the complaint and the person against whom the complaint is made may have a representative present in discussions with the Office of Academic Affairs.

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

Informal Complaints Any student or employee may discuss an informal complaint with the Office of Academic Affairs. If the person who discusses an informal complaint with the Office of Academic Affairs is willing to be identified to other school officials, but not the person against whom the informal complaint is made, the Office of Academic Affairs and/or other school officials will make a confidential record of the circumstances and will provide guidance about various ways to resolve the problem or avoid future occurrences. If the person bringing the complaint is willing to be identified to the person against whom the complaint is made and wishes to attempt informal resolution of the problem, the Office of Academic Affairs and/or other school officials will make a confidential record of the circumstances (signed by the complainant) and suggest and/or undertake appropriate discussions with the persons involved. If a number of people report incidents of sexual harassment that have occurred in a public context (for instance, classroom situation) or when the designated school official receives repeated complaints, he or she may inform the person complained against without revealing the identity of the complainant. Formal Complaints A formal complaint of sexual harassment must include a written statement signed by the complainant specifying the incident(s) of sexual harassment. The statement may be prepared by the complainant or by an advisor as a record of the complaint. The complaint should normally be addressed to the Office of Academic Affairs. Formal complaints will be investigated in the following manner: â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

The Office of Academic Affairs and/or other school officials will decide whether circumstances in the complaint warrant a formal investigation. If the circumstances warrant an investigation, the person complained against is notified of the complaint and the substance of the complaint. The investigation will be limited to what is necessary to resolve the complaint or make a recommendation. If it is necessary for the Office of Academic Affairs and/or other school officials to speak to people other than those directly involved in the complaint, the complainant and the person complained against will be notified.

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

•

The Office of Academic Affairs and/or other school officials will complete an investigation within 60 days and will either: o Resolve the complaint to the satisfaction of the complainant and the person complained against and report the findings and resolution to the College President. o Report the findings with appropriate recommendations for corrective action to the College President. o Report to the College President that there is not sufficient evidence to support the complaint. College sanctions will be imposed in accordance with appropriate College processes upon persons found to have violated this policy. These sanctions can include but are not limited to suspension, expulsion, dismissal, and/or separation from the College. In addition, an individual charged may be subject to prosecution by the Office of the District Attorney under Pennsylvania law.

If a student feels that the college administration has not adequately addressed the complaint, the student may then appeal the decision to the Board of Governors of Gratz College. If the student is not satisfied with the decision of the Board of Governors, the student may contact: Pennsylvania Department of Education, 333 Market Street, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17126-0333; (717) 787-3787, ostatbd@psupen.psu.edu.

DRUG-FREE SCHOOL POLICY As an educational institution participating in various federal financial aid programs, Gratz College and its employees and students are subject to the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, 34CFR Part 86, Subpart B (collectively, the “Acts). Both the Acts and Gratz College policy prohibit the misuse, illicit use, unlawful manufacture, possession, sale, or other illicit activity involving controlled/illegal drugs and intoxicating beverages by any student on school property or on premises used for school functions. Any student found possessing illegal drugs, misusing intoxicating beverages, or selling controlled/illegal drugs on school property or at any school function will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion, and the matter may be referred to the proper authorities for possible prosecution. School property is defined as: Gratz College property (including desks, Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

lockers, offices, restrooms, classrooms, break areas, etc.), that is made available to students for school-related purposes only. School property may be subject to search or inspection at any time, without the studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; consent or knowledge. Disciplinary Procedures A student suspected of any violation of this policy will be informed, either orally or in writing, of the charges and of the evidence to support these charges. The student will then be given the opportunity to respond to the charges. The school may take additional investigative actions, as necessary. If warranted, the school officials will take disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion from school. In those cases where the violation is of a nature such that expulsion from school may be warranted, the student will be notified in writing of the specific charges against him or her, which, if proven, would justify expulsion. The student will then be given the opportunity to present a defense against the charges and to produce witnesses or testimony on his or her behalf. Seeking Help for a Drug or Alcohol Problem Gratz College values the health and safety of its members and encourages students with an alcohol or drug problem to seek help. The Office of Academic Affairs is available to students and can assist in providing appropriate referrals.

NON-ACADEMIC EXPULSION If a student is expelled from school for any non-academic reason, he or she has the right to appeal that decision. The student must initiate the process by submitting a written request for re-admittance to Gratz College to the Dean for Academic Affairs that indicates the reasons or extenuating circumstances that could justify re-admittance.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE Students are entitled to bring grievances regarding, but not limited to, issues of discrimination, academic concerns, financial assistance, disabilities, and disagreement with school policies.

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• •

•

If possible, students seeking to resolve problems or complaints should first contact the person or persons with whom they have the conflict. If unresolved, the student seeking to resolve the problem may contact his or her advisor or the Dean for Academic Affairs. The student may be asked at this point to put the complaint in writing. If still unresolved, the student will put the complaint in writing and submit it to the President of the College. The President will attempt to resolve the conflict. If a student feels that the President of the College has not adequately addressed the complaint, the student may then appeal the President’s decision to the Academic Committee of the Board of Governors. If the student is not satisfied with the decision of the Academic Committee of the Board of Governors, the student may contact: Pennsylvania Department of Education 333 Market Street Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17126-0333 (717) 787-3787 ostatbd@psupen.psu.edu Middle States Commission on Higher Education nd 3624 Market Street, 2 Floor Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104 (215) 662-5606

Any attempt by a person accused under these procedures to intimidate, harass, or punish an individual bringing complaint will result in disciplinary action. The right to confidentiality of all members of the college community will be respected in both informal and formal procedures, in so far as possible.

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

SECURITY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES SECURITY The Gratz College Maintenance Department, in conjunction with the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, maintains the building and grounds with a concern for safety and security. Reports of potential safety hazards, such as broken windows, should be made to the Maintenance Department at (215) 635-7300, ext. 166 or the Reception Desk at ext. 100. There are fire alarms throughout the building and should be used in the event of an emergency. During times when the facility is closed, the building is monitored by ASG Security.

CAMPUS LAW ENFORCEMENT Students are encouraged to report all on-campus crimes to the Business Office (215) 635-7300, ext. 158 during the day. In the event that the Business Office is unoccupied or closed, or during evening hours, students should report all on-campus crimes directly to the receptionist at the Front Reception Desk. Where appropriate, crimes will be reported to local enforcement agencies.

CRIME ON CAMPUS In compliance with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College and University Security and Information Act 73 of 1988, Gratz College is required to report the incidence of crime on campus for three years proceeding each September 1st. As of the date of this printing, there has been no criminal activity on campus. A complete copy of this report is on file in the office of the CFO and is available for inspection.

WEAPONS ON CAMPUS No students, faculty, staff, or visitors to the facility are authorized to possess weapons on campus. In the event security personnel are hired for a particular event, or in response to a particular issue, only trained and licensed professionals are authorized to possess weapons.

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ACADEMIC POLICIES ADVISEMENT AND SELECTION OF COURSES Students develop individualized programs, including advanced placement and transfer credits where appropriate, in consultation with faculty advisors.

CREDIT BY EXAMINATION Students may, with permission, take proficiency examinations and be awarded credit by examination in lieu of required courses.

REGISTRATION Students must register for classes with their advisor by the semester registration deadline listed in the academic calendar.

LATE REGISTRATION A student who wishes to register after the registration deadline must obtain all appropriate approvals, and may be subject to a late registration fee.

DROP/ADD PERIOD Students may drop and/or add courses by the deadline listed in the academic calendar with the approval of their advisor. Under normal circumstances, students will not be permitted to add a class after it has already met for two sessions.

UNDERGRADUATE COURSE REQUIREMENTS Candidates for the bachelor’s degree must complete a total of 120 credits, of which a maximum of 60 Liberal Arts and 21 Jewish Studies credits may be transferred. Courses may be completed online or on campus.

GRADUATE COURSE REQUIREMENTS Students must complete 18 credits for master’s level degree programs and 12 credits for certificate programs through Gratz College. Courses may be completed online or on campus. With the approval of the Graduate Equivalents Committee, a maximum of 18 graduate credits from other institutions may be transferred toward the master’s degree. Policies for the transfer of credits for graduate certificate programs are specified under the appropriate Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

program descriptions.

GRADES AND GRADE POINT SYSTEM The progress and quality of students’ work is measured by a system of letter grades and points. The meaning of each grade and its equivalent point value is as follows: Letter Grade

Grade Points per Credit Hour

A AB+ B BC+ C CD

4.0 3.7 3.33 3.0 2.67 2.33 2.0 1.67 1.0

0.0

FA P CR NC W INC IP TR

0.0

Description Excellent

Good

Fair Poor (not acceptable for graduate credit) Fail due to inadequate performance Fail due to absences Pass (“C” or better) Credit No Credit Withdrew Incomplete In progress Transfer Credit

Graduate students are expected to maintain at least a “B” average in their studies. Undergraduate students are expected to maintain at least a “C” average in their studies. Refer to the financial aid section for additional information about academic progress and maximum program completion standards.

PASS/FAIL POLICY Students in degree programs are permitted to take up to two courses on a pass/fail basis. Students in certificate programs are permitted to take Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

one course on a pass/fail basis.

SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS POLICY Students must be in good academic standing as reflected in the College’s academic progress table and must be making satisfactory academic progress by successfully completing at least 50% of all attempted credits. Students who fall within the Probationary GPA in the progress table will receive a warning probation letter. Students who fall within the Academic Suspension scale will lose their eligibility for financial aid. The Financial Aid Office (FAO) may make exceptions to the determination of ineligibility based on lack of progress, if the students complete an appeal process. If an appeal is approved, the FAO will waive determination of ineligibility for that semester. If the students do not complete the recommended credits during the exception semester with a grade of “C” or better, they may have to pay for courses on their own for future semesters to regain eligibility for financial aid. Generally, students will only be granted one semester of exception. The FAO monitors progress at the end of each term. Based on the number of credits attempted, the student must maintain a certain Grade Point Average (GPA) in order to retain eligibility for financial aid. The chart below outlines the GPA required based on number of credits attempted. Cumulative Credits Attempted

Academic Suspension Range

Academic Probation Range

Acceptable Progress Minimum Cumulative GPA

1-6

N/A

0.0-1.99

2.0

7-12

1.8-2.0

2.1-2.4

2.41

13-18

2.0-2.1

2.19-2.49

2.5

19-24

2.0-2.24

2.25-2.49

2.5

25-30

2.0-2.24

2.25-2.49

2.5

31-36

2.0-2.24

2.25-2.49

2.5

TIME LIMIT FOR DEGREE COMPLETION Typically, a student will complete the master’s degree in four years. Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

Students receiving financial aid cannot exceed 150% of the normal time allotted for completion of the degree. If a student is exceeding the 150% time limit, and wants to appeal in order to receive financial aid, the student must: • Complete the Financial Aid Academic Progress Appeal Form • Have the Academic Advisor/Dean write a recommendation • Attach documentation supporting the Appeal • Register for the number of academic credits recommended by the Academic Advisor

MAXIMUM PROGRAM COMPLETION TIME Full-time undergraduate students are expected to complete their degree programs within the defined maximum program completion time, which should not exceed 2 times the normal time frame. For Title IV federal loan students, completion time is 1-1/2 times the normal time frame. Gratz College defines the normal time frame as the length of time it would take an average student to complete the total program credits listed in the Academic Bulletin. The maximum program completion time for students who enroll less than full-time may be worked out individually through consultation with an advisor. Financial aid awards are limited to a maximum number of semesters based on the maximum program completion time. Complete information on maximum award semesters can be obtained from the Financial Aid Office.

INCOMPLETE POLICY Students have one term from the conclusion of a course during which they can finish incomplete work. Thus, all incomplete coursework for fall classes must be completed by May 1 of the following year; incompletes for spring classes must be completed by September 1; and coursework from summer classes is must be completed by January 2. Beyond that one-semester deadline, students must petition in writing to the Office of Academic Affairs (via email at oaa@gratz.edu or by regular mail, Office of Academic Affairs, Gratz College, 7605 Old York Road, Melrose Park, PA 19027) for a further extension. If no written request is made, students who do not complete their Incompletes by the end of the following semester will receive an “F". Students who have three or more Incompletes will not be able to register for further courses until they satisfy the requirements outlined Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

in an individualized education contract approved by their academic advisor. Students are required to contact their academic advisors within 15 days after receiving notice of three or more Incompletes to arrange for the individualized education contract. Failure of students to act on notification of three or more Incompletes may result in academic probation or suspension. Students may register for up to two additional courses if they have one or two Incompletes on their record at the time registration opens, as long as those Incompletes are within the one-semester deadline or the student has been granted an extension for the Incompletes. Students on a documented medical leave and/or students having a death in their immediate family can drop their courses without paying the post drop/add fee. Such students will receive a “W” (Withdrawal) rather than a failing grade. The “W” will not be computed in the student’s grade point average (GPA). If the student re-takes the course, the “W” will remain on the transcript but the new grade will be calculated in the GPA. The student will be responsible for any tuition charges that are incurred. For any grievances concerning an incomplete grade or any other academic issue, consult the Grievance Procedure in the Academic Bulletin, which can also be found on the Gratz College website. Students who owe work for more than one course should discuss the problem with their advisor to work out a timetable for completing outstanding work.

AUDITOR POLICY Students may audit courses, and are expected to complete all assigned readings and may participate in oral discussions but do not have to submit written assignments.

WITHDRAWAL FROM A COURSE Students who wish to drop a class after the drop/add period has ended must contact their advisor.

WITHDRAWAL FROM THE COLLEGE Students wishing to withdraw from Gratz College must notify their academic advisor.

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

LEAVE OF ABSENCE Circumstances may require students to take a leave of absence from their studies. All such students are required to inform their advisors in writing of the leave of absence. Students who do not register for new course work and who do not notify their advisors in writing will be presumed to have lost interest in pursuing their credentials and will be considered as withdrawn.

NON-MATRICULATING STUDENTS Students who wish to take courses but do not intend to pursue an academic credential through Gratz College at this time may do so through the College’s continuing education program. They may become degree candidates at a later date by submitting an official application for admission to Gratz College.

ATTENDANCE POLICY Online and on-campus students are expected to attend classes and online forums regularly. Students who must be absent from class should make every attempt to contact their instructor in advance. It is the student’s responsibility to make up missed material.

FOREIGN STUDENTS Gratz College welcomes applications from citizens of foreign countries who have a high school diploma or equivalent if applying for a bachelor’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university if applying for a graduate program. Students wishing to obtain a student visa from Gratz College must do the following: • • • •

Present proof that they have the funds to pay for tuition, fees, and living expenses for the first year of study at Gratz Pass the TOEFL exam if they are non-native speakers of English Enroll full-time while at Gratz and remain in satisfactory academic standing Pay a processing and service fee each academic year

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required for all non-native speakers of English, unless they have studied in an institution in which English is the primary medium of instruction. TOEFL registration information can be obtained through the Office of Admissions or by accessing the TOEFL website at www.toefl.org. Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

EARLY GRADUATE ADMISSION POLICY Students who are completing their bachelor’s degree requirements may, with the approval of the Dean for Academic Affairs, apply for admission to Gratz College graduate programs. Students who, with approval of the Dean for Academic Affairs, are admitted may be considered graduate students with the understanding that they are expected to complete the required courses towards their bachelor’s degree as soon as those courses are offered.

CHEATING AND PLAGIARISM Cheating and plagiarism are considered extremely serious offenses by Gratz College. Such offenses can result in disciplinary action as deemed appropriate, inclusive of suspension and/or expulsion from the College.

TEXTBOOK POLICY Students enrolled in Gratz College are entitled to have access to textbooks and other required materials. Faculty shall provide information on how to purchase all required texts.

RETRIEVING PAPERS AND EXAMINATIONS Within three weeks of the conclusion of the fall or spring semester, and by September 15th following the summer session, students may retrieve final examinations and course papers. Please note that materials not collected by the conclusion of the following semester may be discarded.

TRANSCRIPTS The Office of Student Records maintains the transcripts of students previously or currently enrolled in Gratz College. A transcript is the continuous, formal, and official record of a student’s work at a college. If the student has transfer credits from another college or university, it is the student’s responsibility to ensure that the transcript includes those courses. There is an additional fee for transferring credits in to apply toward a Gratz degree or certificate program. The transcript lists courses, grades, major, minor if applicable, and degree(s) awarded. Transcripts may be ordered by mail, by fax, or in person. Transcripts will be sent within 10 business days after all grades are submitted. Please note the College does not accept e-mail or phone requests for transcripts. Situations that will prevent the College from issuing a transcript include financial holds or outstanding obligations to the Business Office and/or an incomplete transcript request form, including problems with payment. Transcripts may Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

be held for the current semester’s grades or the next degree date. A student should not submit a transcript request if waiting for a grade change. ‘Unofficial’ or ‘Student Copy’ transcripts are for personal use. Official transcripts bear the Registrar’s signature and the College seal, and are stamped with “Sealed Official Transcript” on the front of the envelope and across the envelope seal. If another institution is requesting an official transcript, that institution will typically not accept the transcript if the seal is broken. There is a fee for each transcript ordered in accordance with the fee schedule printed in the current Academic Bulletin. Forms to request transcripts or change official names and/or addresses are found on the Gratz website, www.gratz.edu. For more information, contact the Office of Student Records at 215.635.7300 x 156.

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

FINANCIAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES TUITION AND FEES* The cost of attendance for the 2012-2013 academic year is as follows: MATRICULATED PROGRAMS Undergraduate Master of Arts** Doctorate

$2,150 per 3 credit course $2,500 per 3 credit course $2,775 per 3 credit course

NON-MATRICULATED PROGRAMS Undergraduate $2,150 per 3 credit course Graduate: Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s level $2,500 per 3 credit course Graduate: Doctoral level $2,775 per 3 credit course Auditor: on campus $300 per 3 credit course Gratz Alumni Auditor: online $499 per 3 credit course Full-time Educator $980 per 3 credit course OTHER EXPENSES (ESTIMATED) Books and Supplies Loan origination fee Miscellaneous expenses Room and Board (off campus)

$1,000 per year $400 per year $3,000 per year $10,750 per year

FEES Registration fee per semester Tech fee per online course Language placement Late registration fee Transfer credit (per credit) Comprehensive per exam for doctoral students Dissertation or Capstone Project fee per year Application fee Student life fee per semester for on-campus students International student I-20 processing fee Graduation fee

$70 $75 $100 $35 $10 $300 $600 $50 $30 $25 $125

*Gratz College reserves the right to change all fees without notice **$980 per 3 credit course discount for full-time educators in Educational Technology, Holocaust & Genocide Studies, Jewish Early Childhood Education, and Jewish-Christian Studies

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

PAYMENT OF TUITION AND FEES Tuition and fees are due by the registration deadline listed in the academic calendar. Registration will not be processed until all financial obligations have been fulfilled. Financial obligations can be fulfilled by a combination of loans (government subsidized and non-subsidized, or private), scholarship, Gratz College institutional aid, or a Gratz College payment plan (see below). Students will not be permitted to attend class until all financial obligations are met. By act of registration, students accept responsibility for charges of the entire semester. Fees are not refundable. Refund of tuition is allowable on the following terms: •

•

For all students except for M.A. Ed. students, refund of tuition is allowable on the following terms: o On-campus students may drop and add courses as required until the end of the drop/add deadline listed in the Academic Calendar. Individuals will be held financially obligated for those classes that are not dropped within the timeframe outlined above. Fees are not refundable. o If a student withdraws from one or more courses after the drop/add deadline but remains enrolled in at least one course, no refunds will be granted. If a student withdraws completely from all courses for the semester, the student will receive a refund according to the following schedule:  Before drop/add deadline – 100% tuition refund; no fees refunded  3rd or 4th week: 50% refund  After the 4th week: no refund  One-week intensive courses: no refund o The effective date of withdrawal is the date on which a written statement of withdrawal is received by the Office of Academic Affairs. Failure to attend class is not a withdrawal and students will not receive adjustment of charges if they do not attend class. For M.A. Ed. students only: o An initial $75 deposit is due per course at the time of registration. Tuition balances are due no later

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

than 2 business days prior to the start of the course. A $25 administrative charge will be assessed if the student’s withdrawal request is more than two business days in advance of the start of the class. No portion of the $75 deposit will be refunded after that class. No portion of the tuition will be refunded after the first four class hours.

Payment Plan To assist students in planning tuition payments for each semester, Gratz College provides a deferred payment plan. Additional information can be obtained by calling the Business Office at (215) 635-7300 x 163. Refunds Gratz College participates in the U.S. Department of Education’s student aid program and is required to comply with the Higher Education Amendments of 1992. This legislation requires the school to offer a refund policy that will provide the most beneficial refund to students. Any money due to applicants or students will be refunded within 30 days of cancellation, failure to appear on or before the first day of class, withdrawal, or termination. If a student has financed all or part of the program with a third party or government fund, refunds will be paid or credited to the student’s account. Refund computations will be based on the last date of attendance. The school does not require written notification of withdrawal as a condition for making refunds. Students who cancel prior to the start of scheduled classes will receive a refund for any refundable money paid to the school. Students who discontinue their education or are terminated by the school will not receive refunds for graduation fees or other non-tuition items.

FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM Gratz College awards fellowships to students chiefly based on financial need. There are limited funds awarded based upon merit. Fellowships are awarded based on the number of courses taken. If you take fewer courses than indicated on the application, your award will be proportionally reduced. You must take at least two courses each term to be eligible for a fellowship.

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

FINANCIAL AID State and Pell grants for undergraduates, as well as Federal loans and Gratz College institutional aid for both undergraduate and graduate students are available to incoming and current students in need who are in good academic standing. In order to apply for financial aid, a student must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). As most Gratz College institutional aid awards are based on need, the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s FAFSA information is used in determining the amount granted. To receive an application, contact the Financial Aid Office. A copy of the full Financial Aid Policy and Procedure Manual is available from the Financial Aid Office. For the most up to date Financial Aid information, please see the Director of Financial Aid. Class Year Defined by Credits for Financial Aid Purposes A studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grade level classification for financial aid is determined according to the number of credits he or she completes. Such classification is based on the following: For Undergraduates*: 0-23 credits 24-47 Credits 48-71 Credits 72+ Credits

Freshman Sophomore Junior Senior

For Graduates: 0-17 credits Graduate Level A 18-35 credits Graduate Level B 36-53 credits Graduate Level C 54+ credits Graduate Level D *Successful completion of a total of 120 credits is required for undergraduate graduation Satisfactory Progress To maintain eligibility for financial aid, students are expected to show satisfactory academic progress which entails meeting established credit requirements and minimum grade point averages in accordance with the Higher Education Act of 1965 and as amended by Congress in 1986. Refer to the Academic Policies and Procedures section for detailed information.

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

Loan Management Receiving a loan is a great responsibility. Students should be sure to read about their rights and responsibilities in the loan application materials. Under certain circumstances, graduates may be able to postpone payment of their loans. However, graduates must contact their lender directly in order to postpone payment, and all regular payments should be continued until the lender approves postponement. After a student leaves school or drops to less than half-time, information will be sent about repayment. It is the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s responsibility to begin repayment on time, even if the information is not received. Loans must be repaid even if a student does not finish their education, does not get a job upon graduation or is unhappy with the education received. Efficient repayment of loans will establish a solid basis for a future credit rating. Contact your lender for additional information on loan consolidation or with any other loan repayment questions. All students are required to participate in exit counseling before leaving school. Students should make an appointment with the FAO to receive this counseling. If students have any questions concerning loans, they must contact the FAO. Students may also contact the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) at (800) 692-7392 for more information. Return of Title IV Funds If a student completely withdraws from the College and has utilized Federal Title IV Funds (e.g. Federal Pell Grant, Federal Stafford Student Loan, Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students [PLUS]) during the semester in which they withdraw, the College will observe the federally mandated process in determining what, if any amount of money must be returned to the federal program(s). Students who intend to withdraw from the College must complete the process as outlined earlier in the Academic Policies and Procedures section. In cases where a student has received federal financial assistance during that semester, the FAO will determine what, if any, adjustment must be made. This determination will be based on the formula prescribed in the federal regulations for the return of Title IV funds. This determination is made on the basis of the number of calendar days completed in the semester prior to the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

notification to withdraw, divided by the total number of days in the semester. If the resulting percentage is greater than or equal to 60%, no return of federal funds will take place. If the percentage is less than 60%, this percentage will be used to determine the portion of Title IV aid that has been “earned”. The remaining amount must be returned in the following order: • • • • • • • • • •

Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan Subsidized Federal Stafford Loan Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan Federal Perkins Loan Federal PLUS Loans Direct PLUS Loans Federal PELL Grant Federal SEOG Other Title IV Aid

Refunds as a result of official withdrawal or leave of absence will be made in accordance with the College’s refund policies. If the amount of money that must be returned to Title IV programs exceeds that which exists in the student’s account as a result of the College’s refund policy, the student will be notified as to the amount of any grant money that must be repaid. This repayment must take place in order for a student to re-establish eligibility to receive federal funds in the future. Any loan proceeds which must be repaid will become part of the normal repayment procedures for the loan program. Verification Verification is a requirement of the U.S. Department of Education and is the process of confirming information submitted on the various Federal Title IV Funds including the Federal Stafford Loan. Applicants should be aware that this federal regulation requires them to submit tax data and other requested information to the FAO before the processing of student loan applications and/or the awarding of funds. Students must submit the required information to complete the verification process no later than 45 days before the last day of the student’s enrollment. Items to be verified include: adjusted gross income from the IRS form, U.S. income taxes paid, number of family members for whom parents provide more than half of their support, the number of children in post-

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

secondary schools who are enrolled at least half time, dependency status, untaxed income, eligible non-citizen status, and any other item for which conflicting information has been submitted to the FAO. Documents Required •

For dependent students: W-2 forms and signed copies of prior year’s income tax returns (no schedules required) for parents and student

•

For independent students: W-2 forms and signed copy of the student’s (and spouse’s if applicable) prior year’s income tax return (no schedules are required)

•

If the student or parent did not file taxes, a signed non-tax filer statement and copies of all W-2 forms must be submitted. Non-taxable income verification such as VA benefits, Social Security Benefits for all household members, and Public Assistance letters must also be submitted to the FAO.

•

Gratz College Institutional Aid Application

Exclusions The FAO must identify and document in the aid folder why the student is not required to complete verification. Listed below are certain circumstances where students do not have to complete verification: • • • • • • • • •

The applicant died during the award year The applicant is a resident of Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands(Palau) The applicant is incarcerated Certain spouse or parent status information is unavailable Spouse or parent is deceased, or mentally or physically incapacitated A spouse or parent is outside the United States and cannot be contacted The spouse or parent cannot be located because the address is unknown and the applicant cannot obtain the address The applicant is a recent immigrant The applicant completed verification at a previously attended school in the same award year

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

â&#x20AC;˘

The applicant does not receive Title IV funds

Verification Time Frames When a student is selected for verification, they will be notified by the FAO of their selection. In general, the student will have forty-five days (45) days to provide the necessary documentation and complete the verification process. If there are unusual circumstances that delay the process, they must be noted in the student file. If the student does not comply with this time frame, any interim disbursements received will be returned to the source of the Title IV funds. If information from the verification needs to be corrected on the FAFSA, the student will be notified via email to go online and make the changes within thirty days (30) unless the student requests the FAO to make the changes for them. In the event that an award changes because of verification, the student will be notified via email of such changes and referred to the Department of Education if the student does not refund the overaward.

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12

GENERAL POLICIES KASHRUT POLICY Gratz College is used by all segments of the community and endeavors to maintain a Kashrut policy sensitive to the needs of all. Any food brought into the building must be pareve or dairy only. Food for public consumption, i.e., a class party or official function of the College, must carry an acceptable kosher certification or be catered by a kosher caterer approved by the College administration. Meat and meat products may not be brought into the building, except from a caterer on the approved catering list.

SMOKING As required by the Pennsylvania Clean Indoor Air Act of 1990, Gratz College maintains a smoke-free environment. Students who choose to smoke may do so outside the front door or on the campus grounds with an understanding that all litter must be placed in an appropriate container so as to eliminate the risk of fire.

INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY In the event of inclement weather, please check the following for notification of closings or late openings: â&#x20AC;˘

Gratz College main phone line, (215) 635-7300, to hear a recorded message

â&#x20AC;˘

Gratz College website, www.gratz.edu, for an announcement

Gratz College Student Handbook: Revised: 09/12/12