Academic

Each semester, first-time entering students are required to attend a New Student Orientation session prior to entering the college. Special orientation sessions are arranged for part-time and night students.

The Orientation programs are designed to assist the student in making the transition into college a rewarding educational experience. The programs at these sessions include placement testing, group and individual academic advising, registration for courses, and general orientation to college life.

Three orientation sessions are held during the summer for new students who enter fall semester. The student is given an opportunity to select the session to attend. Additional sessions are held prior to spring and summer semesters.

A non-refundable orientation fee is charged for each student to cover the costs of housing, meals, and other services.

COURSE LOAD AND ATTENDANCE

The normal course load for a full-time student is 15 semester hours per semester, plus physical education as required. Ordinarily this course load will consist of five courses of three semester hours each, which meet either two or three days per week. The upper limit is 18 semester hours. A student with a cumulative Institutional GPA of 3.0 or better may carry additional course work.

COLLEGE POLICY ON CLASS ATTENDANCE

Abraham Baldwin College expects each student to conduct himself/herself in a responsible manner as an adult who understands that he is accountable for the choices he made as a student. A student is expected to attend all class meetings scheduled in the courses for which he/she is registered. Instructors are expected to maintain an accurate written record of student attendance in class. At the end of each semester, instructors will record absences for all students on the official grade sheets. Absence from class for whatever reason does not excuse a student from full responsibility for class work or assignments missed. A student will be allowed to make up work only if the instructor excuses the absences. Class attendance and grades are directly correlated, and a student must understand the importance of regular participation in classroom and laboratory activities. The college believes that all class meetings are important and requires that a student abide by the attendance policies adopted for individual classes by instructors or divisions. The attendance policy will be presented in writing to the students at the beginning of the semester. A student missing more than ten percent (10%) of the scheduled meetings may be withdrawn by the Registrar upon recommendation by the instructor. One withdrawn before the conclusion of one-third of the course(s) will receive the grade of “W;” one withdrawn between the one-third point and midterm will receive either the “W” or “WF,” at the instructor’s discretion; one withdrawn after midterm will receive a “WF.”

INSTITUTIONAL ABSENCE

A student who serves as an official representative of the college is defined as one who:

is authorized to use the college name in public relationships outside the institution;

regularly interacts with non-college individuals and groups over an extended period of time (at least one semester);

represents the college as a part of a group and not as an individual;

represents the college under the direct supervision of a college faculty or staff member; and

is authorized in writing, in advance, by the President of the college.

Such a student is in no way released from the obligations and responsibilities of all students, but will not be penalized with unexcused absences when absences result from regularly scheduled activities in which he/she represents the college.

As a professional courtesy, any staff or faculty member taking a group of students away from the campus during regularly scheduled classes will notify the instructors involved of pending absences far enough in advance to allow the students and instructors involved to make alternative arrangements for the work missed.

Further, it is the responsibility of each student to contact instructors prior to the absence and to make arrangements to make up any work that will be missed, in a manner acceptable to the instructor. Advisors of activities will schedule off-campus activities in a manner that does not unduly disrupt the learning process for a student.

WITHDRAWALS

Dropping Classes: If a student needs to reduce his/her course load during a particular semester, that student may officially withdraw from a class with a grade of “W,” provided he/she takes this action before the mid-point in the semester (see the college calendar) or if very unusual circumstances require the withdrawal after the mid-point. After midterm, a student withdrawing from a class will receive a “WF” unless significant mitigating circumstances exist and the student is passing the class at the time of withdrawal. The student who wants to withdraw from a course must first see his/her academic advisor for permission to withdraw. At that point the advisor completes a drop form and the student follows the steps outlined on the form and submits it to the Registrar’s Office. Official withdrawals can be made only if the student has not already abandoned the course and been dropped from the course with a penalty.

A student who simply abandons classes may be withdrawn by the instructor according to the following schedule: between the beginning of the semester and the conclusion of one-third of the semester, a student will be withdrawn by the instructor with a grade of “W.” Between the one-third point and mid-semester, the grade will be a “W” or “WF” at the instructor’s discretion. After mid-semester, the grade will be a “WF.” See the “Change of Schedule” section below for further information. Although a “W” has no impact on the GPA, the student should be aware that there are possible negative Financial Aid ramifications in withdrawing from any class.

Withdrawal from the College: Any student who voluntarily withdraws from the college must first consult the Registrar’s Office. A student who withdraws from the college prior to mid- semester will receive a “W” in all classes in which he/she is enrolled. A student who withdraws from the College after mid-semester will receive a “WF,” unless significant circumstances occur which are completely beyond the student’s control.

Withdrawal from Learning Support Courses: A student who wishes to withdraw from a required learning support course or is withdrawn by the instructor based on the college policy on class attendance must also withdraw from any college-level courses in which he/she is enrolled. This requirement does not apply to Regents’ remediation courses.

Medical Withdrawal: Prior to mid-term, medical withdrawals are the same as any other official withdrawal from the college. The student will receive “W’s” in all classes. After mid-term, a student seeking a medical withdrawal must submit medical documentation from a physician to the Registrar’s Office. This documentation will be forwarded to each of the student s instructors. A grade of “W” or “WF” will be assigned, at the instructor’s discretion, based on the circumstances up to the time of the withdrawal. For example, if a student is passing the class at the time of withdrawal, a “W” will be assigned. In all cases, the student should make every effort to keep the instructor informed of any situation which affects class attendance.

CHANGE OF SCHEDULE (DROP/ADD)

A student is discouraged from changing schedules after classes begin. However, consideration is given to every request for a change in a student’s program, and recommendations are made in accordance with the educational goals and the individual needs of the student.

If, after registration, a change in schedule becomes necessary, all changes should be made at the beginning of the semester during the official drop/add period. The official drop/add period is published in the official college calendar. No refund will be made for a dropped course after the official drop/add period. The student must first confer with his/her academic advisor to secure drop/add forms. Changes in an original registration by additions or withdrawals require the permission of the student’s advisor, the instructor, and the division chair.

A change in schedule is not officially recorded until a student files the drop/add form at the Registrar’s Office. The student must attend all classes in which he/she originally enrolled until the requested change is officially authorized.

See the college calendar for change of schedule days at the beginning of each semester.

ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

Because Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College has the dual responsibility of educating students and helping them mature into worthy citizens who take their place in the larger community, it has adopted a code for dealing with academic irregularities.

Academic irregularities include, but are not limited to, giving or receiving of unauthorized assistance in the preparation of any academic or clinical assignment; taking or attempting to take, stealing, or otherwise obtaining in an unauthorized manner any material pertaining to the education process; selling, giving, lending, or otherwise furnishing to any person any question and/or answers to any examination known to be scheduled at any subsequent date; fabricating, forging, or falsifying lab or clinical results; plagiarism in any form related to themes, essays, term papers, tests, and other assignments; breaching any confidentiality regarding patient information.

Due Process for Academic Dishonesty Cases

Step 1. When a faculty member suspects that a student has engaged in academic dishonesty, the faculty member will call the student into a private meeting in the faculty member’s office. (The division chair will be notified of and will approve any action.)

Step 2. The faculty member will confront the student with the evidence of dishonesty and/or academic irregularity. The faculty member and the student will discuss the specifics of what occurred. If the student confesses and accepts responsibility for academic dishonesty, then the faculty member will ask the student to sign in his/her own handwriting, a statement which makes clear that the student admits responsibility for the academic dishonesty. The faculty member will then consult with the division chair. The faculty member is then free to reprimand the student, to give a failing grade for the assignment, or to require the student to resubmit the assignment in question. With approval of the division chair, the faculty member can increase the penalty up to and including a “WF” for the course if the incident(s) merit this severe penalty.

Step 3. If the student refuses to sign a statement accepting responsibility for the act(s) of academic dishonesty, then a full hearing on the matter must be held. The faculty member and chair will document this incident and schedule a meeting with the student. This information will be turned over to the Academic Dean, who will make the determination of charges against the student and notify him/her in writing. The charges will be mailed by the Academic Dean to the student along with a notice to appear at a hearing, and, if the student wishes, to bring witnesses. At least three days notice is necessary unless the student waives the notice in writing.

Step 4. If the student requests a hearing, the Academic Dean has the option of hearing the case for administrative adjudication, convening a special hearing panel, including faculty and students, or of referring it to the Student Life Hearing panel which handles all other disciplinary matters on campus. The committee will provide its recommendation to the Academic Dean. The Student Life Hearing Panel, when hearing cases of academic dishonesty, will include two faculty members, two students (one of who will be the SGA president and the other an associate justice,) and the Director of Student Life, who oversees campus discipline and the Code of Conduct. The Chief Justice of the SGA chairs the panel. The Vice President and Dean of Student Affairs will serve as advisor to the panel for all academic dishonesty cases. In general, the decision of the Academic Dean or his/her designee will not be appealed to the Student Life Hearing Panel. An appeal of the Dean’s decision will go directly to the President who may choose to use the Student Life Hearing Panel to make a recommendation to him.

Step 5. The student has a right to appeal the decision of the hearing officer or hearing panel within ten calendar days of the decision. The appeal will be to the President or his designee. The President’s decision is final. The President reserves the right to review all disciplinary cases and the judgements made during the process.

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS

Resident credit is defined as credit earned at Abraham Baldwin. In order to be eligible for a transfer degree (Associate of Arts or Associate of Science) from Abraham Baldwin, the student must complete at least 20 semester hours toward the degree in residence at ABAC. To be eligible for any career-technological degree (A.A.S), the student must complete at least 30 hours toward the degree in residence at ABAC. Transfer, CLEP, and Advanced Placement credit do not count as resident credit.

FRESHMAN SEMINAR COURSE

The College offers first-time entering students a freshman seminar course. This course is required of all first-time entering first year students and covers information considered essential for the transition to a college environment. Among the topics considered are study skills, cultural diversity, time management, career development and identification of various college resources. Students transferring in 20 or more semester hours will not be required to complete this course.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

All first-time entering students will be required to take two one-hour activity courses and the two-hour Health & Wellness class (PHED 1100C.) The Health & Wellness class is a graduation requirement for all students except those graduating in the ADN Nursing program. The Health & Wellness requirement applies even if the student is exempt from activity courses. A student should select two different activity courses to fulfill the physical education requirement.

Veterans with 180 days or more active military duty must file a copy of their DD 214 with the Registrar to receive two hours of physical education activity course credit. Veterans exempting their activity requirement through military service are required to successfully complete PHED 1100C as a graduation requirement.

Most physical education courses (labeled PHED) meet twice a week and are assigned one (1) hour credit.

Physical education course grades are calculated in all grade point averages.

Students who have earned a Bachelor’s Degree from another institution will be considered to have met all Physical Education requirements for graduation from Abraham Baldwin College.

COMPETENCY REQUIREMENT IN HISTORY
AND CONSTITUTION

Every student who receives an associate degree from a University System of Georgia institution is required by the Georgia legislature to show competency in United States and Georgia history and a knowledge of the constitutions of the United States and Georgia. POLS 1101 fulfills the constitution requirements for both career-technology and college-transfer students. Successful completion of HIST 2112 fulfills the history competency requirements. A student who transfers American History and/or Political Science courses from institutions outside the state must also fulfill the legislative requirements in Georgia history and/or Constitution by examination.

COMPUTER COMPETENCY

A computer competent person understands the capability of computers, as well as the computer-related peripherals, and is able to apply that knowledge to solve problems (personal and professional) and to further his/her overall knowledge. Specifically, a person of minimal computer competency has a basic working knowledge of operating systems, word processing and information retrieval, which includes but is not limited to, use of the Internet, e-mail, on-line library services, and/or other remote services. In addition to level-one competencies, a person of moderate computer competence will have some mastery of the use of spreadsheets, database management, telecommunications, multimedia, and graphic applications. In addition to levels one and two, a person of advanced computer competence will also be proficient in the use and manipulation of specialized software such as statistical analysis packages and computer assisted drafting (CAD) programs, familiar with network concepts, and knowledgeable of a programming language such as Pascal.

Minimum computer competency, which is a requirement for graduation from the College, can be demonstrated through successful completion of, or exemption from, CISM 2201 or higher computer course. For exemption information, contact the Director of Technology at (912)386-3245.

SPEECH COMPETENCE

Minimum speech competence, a requirement for graduation, can be demonstrated through successful completion of, or exemption from, COMM 1000 or COMM 1100. For details of exemption procedures, contact the Chair of the Humanities Division.

PLACEMENT BY EXAMINATION

A student with high SAT/ACT math scores may exempt College Algebra. This enables him/her to begin in Pre-Calculus or Trigonometry if he/she exempts College Algebra. Trigonometry may be exempted by acceptable scores on CLEP or departmental examination. A student who scores below the college’s minimum level on the placement examination is required to take MATH 0099 before attempting, Mathematical Modeling, or other math courses.

CREDIT BY EXAMINATION

A regularly enrolled student may earn credit for any course offered by the college, at the discretion of his/her academic advisor and the division chair, by successfully completing a comprehensive proficiency examination. While rare, this method of receiving college credit can reward students who have experienced significant learning experiences through occupational or non-traditional means. Application for such examination must be made to the division chairperson for the course being challenged. Credit by examination cannot be earned for any course which has been previously attempted by the student. Credit earned by examination will be entered on the student’s record, will be counted as credit for graduation, and is transferable to other institutions in the University System of Georgia. Credits earned by examination are not included in computing grade point averages because a letter grade is not assigned.

COLLEGE LEVEL EXAMINATION PROGRAM (CLEP)

A student enrolled at Abraham Baldwin may earn full credit for certain courses by achieving acceptable scores on the College Level Examination Program tests. With a few exceptions, adequate test scores will match and substitute for specific courses in the current catalog. CLEP Tests are administered by the Student Development Center. All test results are evaluated by the Registrar’s Office, and if credit is earned, the results are recorded by course, course number, and semester hours earned. Successful CLEP tests are credited toward graduation but do not carry grades or quality points. CLEP credit is transferable within the University System of Georgia. Students interested in learning more about the College Level Examination Program should contact the Office of Student Development at (912)386-3231. Pre-registration and payment are required.

Subject Examinations of the College Level Examination Program

Subject			Minimum Score for Awarding Credit	ABAC Course Number	Semester Hours Credit
Accounting, Principles of			45	ACCT 2101 & 2102	6
Algebra , College			46	MATH 1111	3
College Algebra-Trigonometry			45	Math 1111 & 1011	6
American Government			47	POLS 1101	3
Biology, General			46	BIOL 2107 & 2108	6
Business Law, Introductory			51	BUSA 2155	3
Calculus with Elementary Functions			41	MATH 2053	4
Chemistry, General			47	CHEM 1211 & 1212	6
French, College	Level 1		42	FREN 1001 & 1002	6
French, College	Level 2		45	FREN 1001, 1002, 2001, 2002	12
German, College		Level 1	36	GERM 1001 & 1002	6
German, College		Level 2	42	GERM 1001, 1002, 2001, 2002	12
History of U.S. I: Early Colonizations to 1877			47	HIST 2111	3
History of U.S. II: 1865 to Present			46	HIST 2112	3
Human Growth & Development			45	PSYC 2103	3
Information Systems & Computer Applications			52	CISM 2201	3
Macroeconomics, Principles of			44	ECON 2105	3
Management, Principles of			46	MGMT 2165	3
Marketing, Principles of			50	MKTG 2175	3
Microeconomics, Principles of			41	ECON 2106	3
Psychology, Introductory			47	PSYC 1101	3
Sociology, Introductory			47	SOCI 1101	3
Spanish, College		Level 1	45	SPAN 1001 & 1002	6
Spanish, College		Level 2	50	SPAN 1001, 1002, 2001, 2002	12
Trigonometry			50	MATH 1011	3

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM (AP)

Abraham Baldwin participates in the Advanced Placement (AP) Program of the College Entrance Examination Board. Through this program a high school student who plans to enroll at Abraham Baldwin can take AP examinations in several subject areas. Generally, if a student scores a “3” or higher on one or more examinations, the college will provide regular college credit in the subject areas of the exam(s), provided that the subject area(s) are taught by the college. In this way a high school student can get college credit and/or advanced placement at Abraham Baldwin before actually beginning the college freshman year. At present, AP exams are available in the following fields: art, biology, chemistry, English composition, American history, mathematics, music, physics, and Spanish.

Persons desiring further information about the Advanced Placement Program should contact their high school counselor.

STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM

Abraham Baldwin College students have an opportunity to participate in an international studies program. A student can register for ABAC credit for classes offered through a summer study program sponsored by the European Council of the University System of Georgia or can arrange other study-abroad opportunities through the campus International Coordinator. Financial aid is available for many of the programs. For further information, an interested student should contact the International Coordinator in the Division of Humanities office at (912) 386-3250.

AIR FORCE ROTC PROGRAM

A program available at ABAC through Valdosta State University’s Air Force Reserve Officer Training Course (AFROTC) offers students a course of study designed to complement their academic major. AFROTC is designed to commission young men and women as second lieutenants into the active duty Air force upon completion of a bachelor’s degree. The first two years of AFROTC training are available to ABAC students. Students take one academic aerospace studies course and a leadership laboratory each semester during the program. For more information, contact the Office of Evening and Off-campus Programs at (912) 386-7154, or the Valdosta State University AFROTC office at (912) 333-5954.

ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE CENTER

The Academic Assistance Center, located on the ground floor of the Carlton Center, provides tutoring free of charge to all currently enrolled ABAC students. The Math and Writing Centers are open on a drop-in basis between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily. Tutoring in other subjects is scheduled according to tutor availability and varies each semester.

GRADES AND FINAL EXAMINATIONS

Grades are based on performance by the student in the classroom and laboratory as shown through tests, oral responses and other class work, outside assignments, experiments, term papers, other acceptable academic procedures and final examinations. The grade is intended to reflect student progress toward objectives of the course.

Each student, including a candidate for graduation, is required to take final examinations in courses each semester in accordance with the published final exam schedule. No instructor shall deviate from the published schedule of final exams for a class or individual student without the written approval of the division chair.

THE GRADING SYSTEM

All institutions of the University System of Georgia shall use a 4.0 grade point average system. The following grades are approved for use in institutions of the University System of Georgia and are included in the determination of the grade point average:

A.................................................................................................... excellent (4.0)

B.......................................................................................................... good (3.0)

C............................................................................................... satisfactory (2.0)

D..................................................................................................... passing (1.0)

F......................................................................................................... failure (0.0)

WF................................................................................... withdrew failing (0.0)

The following symbols are approved for use in the cases indicated, but will not be included in the determination of the grade point average.

I — This symbol indicates that a student was producing satisfactory work, but for non-academic reasons beyond his/her control, was unable to meet the full requirements of the course. If an “I” is not satisfactorily removed after twelve months, the Registrar will change the symbol “I” to the grade “F.” “I’s” cannot be removed by re-enrolling in and completing a course.

W — This symbol indicates that a student was permitted to withdraw without penalty. Withdrawals without penalty will not be permitted after the mid-point of the semester except in cases of hardship as determined by the Registrar in consultation with the advisor and/or counselor.

S — This symbol indicates that credit has been given for completion of degree requirements other than academic course work. The use of this symbol is approved for dissertation and thesis hours, student teaching, clinical practicum, internship, and proficiency requirements in graduate programs. Exceptions to the use of this symbol for academic course work must be submitted to the Chancellor for approval.

U — This symbol indicates unsatisfactory performance in an attempt to complete degree requirements other than academic course work. The use of this symbol is approved for dissertation and thesis hours, student teaching, clinical practicum, internship, and proficiency requirements in graduate programs. Exceptions to the use of this symbol for academic course work must be submitted to the Chancellor for approval.

V — This symbol indicates that a student was given permission to audit the course. Students may not transfer from audit to credit status.

K — This symbol indicates that a student was given credit for the course via a credit-by-examination program approved by the respective institution’s faculty. (CLEP, AP, Proficiency, etc.)

GRADE POINT AVERAGES

The cumulative Regents grade point average (RGPA) in each institution of the University System of Georgia will be calculated by dividing the number of hours scheduled in all courses attempted in which a grade of A, B, C, D, F, or WF has been received into the number of grade points earned on those hours scheduled. Only grades earned in courses numbered 1000 or higher are included in the RGPA, and if a course is repeated, all grades are included in the RGPA calculation.

Institutional Courses. These are courses which are numbered below 1000 and are, therefore, not bound by the Uniform Grading System. The main difference is that a non-punitive grade of “IP” may be assigned if a student strives but fails to progress sufficiently enough to earn a “C” or higher grade. An “IP” indicates considerable progress was made but not sufficient for a “C” or better. A “F” is appropriate if the student fails to put forth sufficient effort through lack of class attendance and participation.

The institutional grade point average (IGPA) is similar to the RGPA except that all credits, including institutional (Developmental) credits, are included and only the most recent grade earned for repeated courses will be used in the IGPA calculation. The IGPA will be used to determine academic standing at ABAC. However, other institutions may use the RGPA for determining the admission status for transfer students. In addition, only the RGPA will be utilized for determining academic Honors status at the College.

The graduation grade point average (GGPA) is calculated at the time of graduation. The GGPA will include only the grades earned in courses which satisfy degree requirements. If a course is repeated, this GPA includes only the grade earned in the most recent attempt.

THE REPORTING OF GRADES

Mid-term deficiencies are reported to a student who has a “D” or “F” in any class. These grades are not entered on the student’s permanent record. Mid-term deficiencies are mailed to the student.

Final grades are reported by the instructor to the Office of the Registrar within twenty-four hours following the end of the examination schedule. The Registrar’s Office then mails a list of final grades to the student.

Final grades submitted by the instructor cannot be changed subsequently except when special circumstances merit. A formal grade change request must be submitted to the Registrar by the instructor and approved by the chair of his/her division. The Registrar may accept the proposed change, or he may request that it be reviewed and approved by another college authority.

APPEAL OF GRADES

A student who wishes to appeal or contest a grade assigned in a course must first appeal the matter in writing to the instructor(s) who taught the course. The instructor(s) will respond to the student in writing within ten working days of the date of the appeal. Should this response not satisfy the appeal, the student will appeal in writing within ten working days from the date of the instructor’s response to the chair of the academic division or department in which the course was taught. The chair may conduct a conference including the chair, the student, and the instructor. The chair may convene an impartial committee in the discipline to review pertinent documents. Within ten working days from the date of the student’s appeal to the chair, the chair will respond to the student in writing. Should this procedure fail to resolve the appeal, the student must provide a written appeal to the Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs within ten working days from the date of the division chair’s response. The Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs will then take the appeal to the Academic Review Committee, where further hearings may be conducted. Should this procedure fail to resolve the appeal, the student must provide a written appeal to the President of the college within ten working days of the Academic Dean’s response. The judgment of the President will be considered the final and binding decision on the matter.

The appeals process is intended to provide a venue whereby a student may voice a claim of discrimination, capricious or unfair dealings, or denial of due process.

ACADEMIC PROBATION

The college recognizes three categories of academic standing: Good Standing, Academic Probation, and Academic Suspension. Each student’s academic standing will be determined by academic performance as reflected in the institutional grade point average, calculated each semester.

A student is required to maintain a minimum institutional grade point average (IGPA) to remain in good academic standing. Minimum standards are related to total credit hours attempted by the student. These minimum standards are:

Total Hours Attempted Minimum Cumulative IGPA

0-12 1.5

13-24 1.6

25-36 1.7

37-48 1.8

49-60 1.9

60+61 2.0

A student with a cumulative IGPA below the minimum standard will be placed on Academic Probation. A student on Academic Probation is restricted to enrollment in a maximum of 14 semester hours and is required to seek assistance through the Academic Intervention Management Program (AIM). In addition, students placed on Academic Probation must successfully complete ABAC 0095. Students on Academic Probation may be in jeopardy of losing financial aid.

ACADEMIC SUSPENSION

A student not attaining minimum academic standards subsequent to being placed on Academic Probation will be suspended from the college. The minimum standards for avoiding Academic Suspension are related to total hours attempted by the student. These standards are:

Total Hours Attempted Minimum Cumulative IGPA

0-24 No minimum

25-36 1.5

37-48 1.6

49-60 1.7

60+61 1.8

Any student with an IGPA below the above minimum levels will be suspended from the college. The first suspension will be for one semester; subsequent suspensions will be for one calendar year (3 terms). A student may appeal academic suspension by notifying in writing the Vice-President and Dean of Academic Affairs. Appeals must be filed no later than noon on the day prior to registration day for the semester in which the student wishes to re-enroll.

LEARNING SUPPORT SUSPENSION

If a student does not complete requirements for an area in twelve semester hours or three semesters, whichever occurs first, the student will be suspended. The student may not be considered for readmission within three years of the suspension.

Prior to suspending a student who has not exited a Learning Support area within the twelve semester hour or three semester limit, an institution may allow the student to appeal for one additional course. The student must:

1. be individually evaluated and determined to have a reasonable chance of success.

2. be in an exit level course.

3. have reached the limit in only one Learning Support area.

If granted the additional course, the student may enroll in only the Learning Support course.

ACADEMIC RENEWAL

The Academic Renewal policy allows ABAC degree-seeking students who have experienced academic difficulty to make a fresh start after an absence of five calendar years from Abraham Baldwin College. A student returning after the break will be able to start with a new Academic Renewal Grade Point Average (ARGPA). No grades earned prior to the break will be included in the ARGPA, but courses in which a grade of “C” or better was earned will count toward the degree and will not have to be repeated. For more information regarding the Academic Renewal policy, contact the Registrar s Office.

INSTITUTIONAL POLICY UNDER THE FAMILY
EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS
AND PRIVACY ACT OF 1974

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. They are:

(1) The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the college receives a request for access.

Students should submit to the Registrar written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The Registrar official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

(2) The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading.

Students may ask the college to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the college official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.

If the college decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the college will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

(3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the college in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the college has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

(4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the college to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20202-4605

With limited exceptions, including “directory information,” no personally identifiable information from the education records of a student will be disclosed to any third party by any official or employee of the college without written consent of the student. “Directory Information” includes the student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, full-time or part-time status, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received and the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student. A student has the right to prohibit the release of “directory information” pertaining to himself or herself by completing a form in the Registrar’s Office.

TRANSCRIPTS AND TRANSFER OF RECORDS

A transcript is a document containing the student’s permanent academic record. It contains a minimum amount of personal data about the student and a chronological account of the student’s academic achievements.

Any student or former student who wishes to have a transcript of his/her record at the college released must make the request in writing to the Registrar’s Office one week prior to the date the transcript is needed. This request may be submitted by mail or in person and must include complete name and address of the individual or agency to receive the transcript. The request must be signed and dated by the student. A statement describing the purpose for which the transcript is to be used may save the student time and money, since some agencies have special regulations for receiving transcripts.

PRESIDENT’S HONOR LIST

Superior achievement in academics is recognized each semester by the publication of a President’s Honor List, which includes those students who complete 12 or more academic hours (non-Learning Support) with a Regents’ grade point average of 4.0.

The President’s Honor List is provided to the hometown newspapers of those students whose names appear on the list.

DEAN’S HONOR LIST

Excellence in scholastic achievement is recognized each semester by the publication of a Dean’s Honor List naming those students who complete all academic work for which they are registered during the semester with a minimum Regents’ grade point average of 3.3, and who carry at least 12 hours of academic (non- Learning Support) work.

The Dean’s Honor List is provided to the honor students’ hometown newspapers.

DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT LIST

The Distinguished Achievement List, published at the end of each semester, recognizes excellence in scholastic achievement among part-time students. To be included on the Distinguished Achievement List, a student must have completed between three and eleven semester hours of academic (non- Learning Support) course work with a term Regents’ grade point average of 3.3 or higher.

HONORS PROGRAM

The Abraham Baldwin Honors Program is a combination of special experiences during the freshman and sophomore years which together provide a more meaningful college career for academically talented students than would otherwise be the case.

The Honors Program consists of four Honors Seminar courses and certain specifically modified Core Curriculum courses. Honors Program students take two of the Seminar courses and two of the Core courses each year. These courses are scheduled alongside other courses required for completion of the student’s degree.

Upon completion of the Honors Program, a student should be better prepared to undertake junior and senior level work at institutions to which he or she transfers after leaving ABAC.

Normally, membership in the Honors Program is gained by invitation from the Honors Coordinator. A student with excellent academic background may petition the Honors Program Committee, through the Coordinator, for membership.

For further information, contact the Honors Program Coordinator at 912-386-3250.

HONORS DAY

Honors Day was introduced to give public recognition to students who achieve high scholastic records. A student is selected for honors on the basis of the following criteria:

1. completing 15 non-institutional semester hours at Abraham Baldwin with a 3.2 cumulative Regents grade point average qualifies a student as an Honor Student.

2. completing 15-45 non-institutional semester hours at Abraham Baldwin with a 3.75 cumulative Regents grade point average qualifies a student as a Superior Honor Student.

3. completing 45 non-institutional semester hours at Abraham Baldwin with a 3.75 cumulative Regents grade point average qualifies a student as a Distinguished Honor Student.

REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION

Associate degrees in Arts, in Science, and in Applied Science are awarded in a graduation ceremony at the end of the Spring and Fall Semesters to those students meeting requirements. Participation in the graduation ceremony is encouraged.

In order to meet the graduation requirements at Abraham Baldwin, a student must:

1. complete the required courses and credit hours outlined in this catalog for the degree and major for which he/she is a candidate.

2. have a 2.0 or higher graduation grade point average and have completed a minimum of 60 semester hours of academic work plus physical education courses.

3. earn at least 20 semester hours at Abraham Baldwin which are applicable to the A.A. or A.S. degrees and 30 hours at Abraham Baldwin which are applicable to the A.A.S. degree for which he/she is a candidate. Courses numbered less than 1000 do not count toward graduation requirements, with the exception of ABAC 0098 (Freshman Seminar).

4. satisfactorily complete all parts of the Regents’ Exam as required by the specific program requirements.

5. satisfy minimum computer competency through successful completion of, or exemption from, CISM 2201 or equivalent.

6. satisfy speech competence requirement through successful completion of, or exemption from, COMM 1100.

7. comply with the Georgia law which requires a minimum level of competence in Georgia and U.S. History and in Georgia and U.S. Constitution through examination or through specified courses.

8. complete required physical education or have a specifically approved exemption filed with the Registrar (see PHYSICAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS section on page ##).

9. successfully complete Freshman Seminar (ABAC 0098 or ABAC 1000) or any Honors Seminar in addition to HNRS 1101. HNRS 1101 alone will not satisfy the Freshman Seminar requirement.

10. meet all financial and other obligations to the college.

11. file for graduation with the Registrar at least one semester in advance of expected graduation.

12. pay graduation fee one semester in advance for May or December graduation.

A student who is a candidate for a certificate must:

1. complete the required courses prescribed in the catalog for the certificate for which he/she is a candidate.

2. have a 2.0 or higher graduation grade point average.

3. earn at Abraham Baldwin a minimum of 30 semester credit hours applicable to the certificate.

4. meet all financial and other obligations to the College.

5. file for the certificate with the Registrar one term in advance of expected completion.

6. pay graduation fee one semester in advance for participation in the May or December graduation ceremony.

7. comply with the Georgia law which requires a minimum level of competence in Georgia and U.S. History and in Georgia and U.S. Constitution through examination or through specified courses.

A student may fulfill the graduation requirements of the ABAC catalog which was in effect at the time of initial enrollment or the catalog in effect during the semester of graduation. A student may not choose from among the degree requirements from both catalogs but rather must meet all of one or all of the other. There will be no exceptions unless specifically approved by the appropriate division chair, the Registrar, and the Vice-President and Dean of Academic Affairs.

STATUS OF GRADUATES

The Associate Degree is awarded to students who fulfill a two-year organized curriculum of college work either in a career program or in a parallel or transfer program. The degree, however, does not in itself entitle a student to transfer to advanced standing in a four year college or university. Each institution prescribes its own admission requirements. A student who wishes to transfer to a higher-level institution must satisfy the course and grade requirements of the college to which he/she intends to transfer.

REGENTS’ TESTING PROGRAM

An examination to assess the competency level in reading and writing of each student enrolled in undergraduate degree programs in University System institutions shall be administered. The following statement shall be the policy of the Board of Regents of the University system of Georgia on this examination.

Each institution of the University System of Georgia shall assure the other institutions, and the System as a whole, that students obtaining a degree from that institution possess certain minimum skills of reading and writing. The Regents’ Testing Program has been developed to help in the attainment of this goal. The objectives of the Testing Program are: (1) to provide System-wide information on the status of student competence in the areas of reading and writing; and (2) to provide a uniform means of identifying those students who fail to attain the minimum levels of competence in the areas of reading and writing.

Students enrolled in undergraduate degree programs leading to the baccalaureate degree shall pass the Regents’ Test as a requirement for graduation. Students must take the test in their first semester of enrollment after earning 30 credit hours if they have not taken it previously. (Institutions may not prohibit students who have earned at least 30 credit hours from taking the test for the first time.) At an institution’s discretion, students may be permitted to take the test during a semester in which they are not enrolled.

Each institution shall provide an appropriate program of remediation and shall require students who have not passed both parts of the test by the time they have earned 45 credit hours to take the appropriate remedial course or courses each semester of enrollment until they have passed both parts.

Students with 30 or more semester credit hours transferring from outside of the System or from a System program that does not require the Regents’ Test should take the test during their first semester of enrollment in a program leading to the baccalaureate degree. Those who have not passed before their third semester of enrollment are subject to the remediation requirement.

The Regents’ Test is not a requirement for an Associate of Applied Science degree or an Associate of Science degree in an allied health field, although institutions may choose to require the test for these degrees.

A student holding a baccalaureate or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education will not be required to complete the Regents’ Test in order to receive a degree from a University System institution.

Each institution of the University System of Georgia shall assure the other institutions, and the system as a whole, that students obtaining a degree from that institution possess literacy competence, that is, certain minimum skills of reading and writing.

The Regents’ Testing Program has been developed to help in the attainment of this goal. The objectives of the Testing Program are: (1) to provide System-wide information on the status of student competence in the areas of reading and writing; and (2) to provide a uniform means of identifying those students who fail to attain the minimum levels of competence in the areas of reading and writing.

Passing the Regents’ Test is defined as having passed all components of the Test by scoring above the cutoff score specified for each component. The Test may be administered either in its entirety or as one or more components depending on the needs of the students. If one component of the test is passed, that component need not be retaken; this provision is retroactive to all students who have taken the test in any form since the inception of the program.

The intent of this policy is that passing the Regents’ Test occur before the end of the student’s sophomore year, that is, before the completion of 60 hours of degree credit. Students who fail the test must retake and pass the Test. Each institution shall provide an appropriate program of remediation and shall require deficient students to participate in that program prior to retaking the test.

In order to implement effectively the goals of the Testing Program:

1. Students enrolled in undergraduate degree programs shall pass the Regents’ Test as a requirement for graduation. Students, including transfer students and/or readmitted students, may take the Test after they have completed the required basic core English courses. Students are required to take the Test in the semester after they have earned 30 hours of degree credit if the Test has not been taken previously.

2. All students who have not passed the Regents’ Test during the semester in which they will have earned 45 hours of credit shall take the appropriate non-degree credit course or courses in remedial reading and/or remedial writing in each semester of attendance until they have passed all components of the Test.

3. Passing the Regents’ Test shall not be a condition of transfer into an institution. All transferring students from within the System shall be subject to all provisions of this policy. Students from institutions outside the System who transfer into a System institution with 30 or more degree credit hours shall take the Test during the initial semester of enrollment and in subsequent semesters shall be subject to all provisions of this policy.

4. Students whose native language is other than English may be exempted from taking the Regents’ Test by the institution, provided appropriate local procedures are employed to certify the literacy competence of those students earning a degree.

5. For extraordinary situations, each institution shall develop special procedures for certifying the literacy competence of students. A written description of those procedures shall be submitted to the Chancellor for approval. A record of the action shall be reported by the Chancellor to the Education Committee of the Board of Regents. Such procedures shall include provision for remediation, if needed, and formal examination prior to certifying competency. Such examination shall equal or exceed the standards of the Regents’ Testing Program.

6. A student may request a formal review of his/her failure on the essay component of the Regents’ Test if that student’s essay received at least one passing score among the three scores awarded and if the student has successfully completed the courses in English composition required by the local institution. This review will be conducted in accordance with the Board-approved procedures.

7. These revised procedures shall be followed by all students effective January 1, 1980.

8. Remedial work as required under the above policy shall be in keeping with regulations in satisfaction of federal and state student financial assistance and such other eligibility programs.

9. These regulations shall not prohibit institutions from increasing requirements affecting the Regents’ Testing Program, provided such increased requirements are authorized by the Chancellor, and provided further that such requirements are published in the official catalog of the institution prior to implementation. Such additional requirements shall in no way affect the transfer of students from one institution to another or the readmission of students to University System institutions. (Minutes, April, 1972, pp. 554-55; November, 1972, p. 166; June, 1973, pp. 481-85; November, 1978, pp. 88-9).

10. A student who fails both parts of the Regents’ Test and who is required to participate in remediation shall be allowed to take the reading and essay portions of the test in separate semesters.

Stipulation Relating to Procedure for the Essay
Review Process—Regents’ Testing Program

1. The review will be initiated at the campus level, with procedural matters to be determined by the institution. The on-campus review, however, will be conducted by the three (3) faculty members designated by the institution as a review panel.

2. The on-campus review panel may (1) sustain, by majority opinion, the essay’s failing score, thus terminating the review process, or (2) recommend, by majority opinion, the re-scoring of the essay by the Regents’ Testing Program central office. The student will be notified concerning the results of the on-campus review.

3. If the on-campus panel recommends a re-scoring of the essay, that recommendation will be transmitted in writing, along with a copy of the essay, to the office of the System’s Director of the Regents’ Testing Program. The Director will utilize the services of three (3) experienced Regents’ essay scorers other than those involved in the original scoring of the essay to review the essay, following normal scoring procedures for the essay component of the Regents’ Test. The decision of this panel on the merits of the essay will be final, thus terminating the review process. The student will be notified, through the institution, concerning the results of the review.

For details of the review process at Abraham Baldwin College, contact the Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs or the Chair, Division of Humanities.

COLLEGE-WIDE COURSE DESIGNATION ABBREVIATIONS

ABAC Orientation/Study Skills HIST History

ACCT Accounting HMSR Human Services

AECO Agricultural Economics HNRS Honors

AENG Agricultural Engineering HORT Horticulture

AENT Agricultural Technology HRMT Hospitality Mgmt.

AGRI Agriculture HUMN Humanities

AGRP Agricultural Pest Mgmt. JRNL Journalism

AGRY Agronomy MATH Mathematics

ARTS Art MGMT Management

ASLH Animal Husbandry MKTG Marketing

BIOL Biology MUSC Music

BUSA Business Administration NURS Nursing

CHEM Chemistry PHED Physical Education

CISM Computer Information PHSC Physical Science

System PHYS Physics

COMM Communications PNUR Pre-Nursing

CRSS Criminal Justice POLS Political Science

CSCI Computer Science PSYC Psychology

ECON Economics READ Reading

EDUC Education REMM Remedial Math

ENGL English RGTR Regents Reading Rem

FACS Family and Consumer RGTE Regents Essay Rem

Sciences ROTC Air Force ROTC

FREN French SCIE Science

FRSC Forestry SOCI Sociology

GEOG Geography SPAN Spanish

GNDR Gender Studies THEA Drama