General Program Requirements

Student Responsibility

Students are responsible for knowing their degree requirements and enrolling in courses appropriate for their chosen degree programs. Students also are responsible for knowing all university regulations regarding student affairs and coursework standards required for study undertaken in the university.

While this catalog was prepared on the basis of the best information available at the time, all information including statements of fees, course offerings, admissions and graduation requirements is subject to change without notice or obligation. The most recent information regarding degree requirements and academic standards may be obtained from the appropriate dean’s office. Student affairs information may be obtained by contacting the Office of the Dean of Students, or by contacting the individual student services offices.

Graduate Standing

Graduate standing is given to those students who have earned a bachelor’s degree and have indicated their intent to study at the graduate level or pursue teacher certification at UHCL by submitting a graduate studies application.

Degrees Offered

University of Houston-Clear Lake is authorized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to confer three doctoral degrees and six degrees in 48 graduate majors.

Degrees Offered by Colleges and Departments  

Enrollment Policies

In conjunction with academic performance standards, the policies listed below are utilized by the university in monitoring the academic progress of students.

Course Load

Students should be aware that academic work will be at advanced levels and should consider individual abilities when determining an appropriate course load. Course load limits may be set as terms of probation or readmission to the university after suspension. The university limits course loads to a maximum of 12 hours for graduate students during the fall and spring semesters, and nine for the summer semester.

In evaluating their ability to carry a certain course load, students should consider:

• Time available for class preparation.
• Whether an excessive load might endanger academic standing.
• Physical and mental stamina.
• Financial factors of commuting costs, tuition, fees and personal budget.

Under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations, international students are required to maintain full-time enrollment during each fall and spring semester. In addition, no more than three, online credit hours per semester may be counted towards full-time enrollment for F and J student visa holders.

Full-Time/Part-Time Status Course Load

A student’s enrollment status is determined by the number of credit hours for which the student is enrolled at UHCL each semester. Enrollment statuses are listed below:

For the summer term, all hours are added together between sessions to arrive at the total number of hours for the summer.

When enrolled in a cooperative education course, students will be considered full-time for purposes of enrollment verification. The above hours requirement may differ for financial aid purposes. Please review the section of the catalog on Financial Aid or contact the Office of Financial Aid.

Resident Credit

Resident credit is defined in two ways:

• Credit awarded for successful completion of academic work undertaken at UHCL

or

• Credit awarded for successful completion of academic work undertaken at another college or university provided that:
  • Students are candidates for degrees at UHCL and,
  • Students have written approval of their faculty adviser and their appropriate associate dean before undertaking academic work elsewhere.

Students should be aware that credits earned elsewhere without prior approval from UHCL are not considered credits “earned in residence” for the purpose of fulfilling general degree requirements.

Graduate Courses

Graduate courses are defined as those courses with course numbers in the 5000, 6000, 7000 and 8000 range. Courses in the 7000 and 8000 range are restricted to doctoral students.

Undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, and non-degree-seeking students are generally not eligible to enroll in graduate courses. Exceptions to this rule exist for students in dual degree programs, non-degree-seeking students admitted to graduate certificate programs, and undergraduate degree-seeking seniors.  Degree-seeking seniors at UHCL may qualify and enroll in 5000 and 6000 level courses subject to the following conditions:

• Students must be enrolled in their last six-hours of undergraduate work.
• Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.000 or greater.
• Approval of enrollment arrangement must be given by the associate dean of the college in which the student will pursue graduate coursework.
• If the graduate courses are used to fill undergraduate degree requirements, they may not be used to fulfill graduate degree requirements.

Graduate courses taken as an undergraduate will only calculate in the undergraduate hours earned and in the undergraduate GPA.  

Education Abroad Grade and Transcript Catalog Statement

Upon approval and receipt of the Education Abroad Course Approval Form, all courses and credits taken abroad will reflect on the student’s official University of Houston-Clear Lake transcript.  Courses taken abroad will not be factored into GPA.  

For all programs in which students receive a transcript (foreign or domestic), courses will be transferred and reflected with the grade and credit earned. Students on affiliated, partner providers programs and exchange study abroad programs may not elect for any of their credit or grades from abroad to be posted as credit/not credit. 

Students may only earn credit for a class once. Courses and actual grades will appear on the transcript.

30-Hour Residency Requirement:

Courses taken on an approved education abroad program may be considered in residence per the approval of the academic program and the college dean. A letter or email confirming and approving this exception must accompany the Education Abroad Course Approval Form or official UHCL Education Abroad application. 

Class Attendance

Regular class attendance is expected of all students. Financial aid regulations mandate that instructors report attendance at the beginning of each session up to and including the census date.  Whenever instructors determine that students’ absences have been excessive, they have the right to request that the appropriate associate dean withdraw the students from the course.

Dropping or Withdrawing from Classes

Drop/Withdrawal Time Frame

Students may drop one or all classes without a grade penalty through the census date of the semester or session. Classes that are dropped through the census date will not be posted on a student’s official or unofficial transcript. Students may drop classes online through their E-Services account. Please see the academic calendar at www.uhcl.edu/registrar for the census dates of the semester or session.

Students who drop a class or withdraw from all classes after the census date of the semester or session, but no later than the withdrawal deadline as stated in the academic calendar will receive one of the following grades: WQ (student-initiated drop, no evaluation) or WX (administrative drop or withdrawal, no evaluation). These grades imply no evaluation of students’ performance prior to the withdrawal. Students may retain auditing privileges with the instructor’s consent.

Student-Initiated Withdrawals

Once students have registered and paid tuition/fees for the course section, they are considered enrolled in the course(s) until they have officially dropped/withdrawn or received a grade. Nonattendance does not automatically terminate students’ enrollment in the course(s) and does not exempt them from any academic or financial responsibilities. Students who stop attending class without officially dropping/withdrawing from the course(s) will receive a final grade based on coursework completed.

If a student wishes to drop any or all of their classes, they are responsible for doing so online through E-Services by the deadlines stated in the academic calendar. Withdrawal requests in writing can also be made by mail and are effective on the date of receipt. Please contact the Office of the Registrar for additional assistance at registrar@uhcl.edu. The student assumes responsibility for written requests for drops/withdrawals that are delayed or not delivered. Drops/Withdrawal requests received after the deadlines stated in the academic calendar will not be processed. Student-initiated drops and withdrawals are irrevocable. Retroactive drops or withdrawals are not permitted. Students lose all university privileges on the date the withdrawal from the university is effective.

Course(s) dropped through the published census day will not appear on the transcript. Course(s) dropped after the census day and through the published withdrawal deadline will appear on the student’s transcript with a grade of WQ. Census day and withdrawal deadlines are published online in the academic calendar.

All outstanding bills and university obligations must be paid/fulfilled. These obligations include any payment plans or loan agreements issued by Student Business Services. Contact Student Business Services for additional information. Students receiving financial aid are advised to contact the Office of Financial Aid prior to making changes in their enrollment status. Reducing semester hours to zero is considered a withdrawal and the refund schedule will be followed. Please refer to the refund schedule on the Student Business Services’ website for information about deadlines.

Administrative Withdrawals

The university reserves the right to withdraw students from a class or all classes if, in the judgment of the appropriate university officials, such withdrawals are in the best interests of the students and the university. Students may be withdrawn for reasons of health, irresponsible financial conduct, unacceptable personal conduct, honesty code violations or other academic infractions, or disregard of official summonses to respond to official requests.

Students who are requesting a current semester medical withdrawal must submit a Student Appeal form to the Office of the Registrar, if they cannot withdraw themselves by the withdrawal deadline, within 9 weeks (45 business days) of the last class day of the semester for which the student is appealing, including mini sessions. Please refer to the academic calendar for more information regarding deadlines. A medical withdrawal formally drops all courses in a term.

Written appeal for a medical withdrawal should address each of the following:

1. Describe the medical condition/circumstances that required you to withdraw from the university.
2. Explain in detail how/why the medical condition/circumstances prevented you from completing the academic term.
3. Detail the dates of the onset of your medical condition/circumstances, along with the dates of any treatment you received, if appropriate.
4. If you stopped attending classes, explain why and when (please note: nonattendance does not exempt you from academic and financial responsibilities).
5. If you did not utilize the regular withdrawal process, explain why not.
6. Explain what relief you are seeking from this request. Be as specific as possible (note: Medical withdrawals do not refund tuition and fees).

Supporting Documentation

You must include a letter from your health care provider(s) or other pertinent sources. The documentation should be on clinic letterhead and should address the following:

• Describe the diagnosed medical or psychological condition or circumstances, and indicate when treatment commenced.
• Explain how the severity of the condition completely prevents the student from attending classes and completing the semester.
• Address potential health/clinical consequences if a medical withdrawal is not granted.

Review Process

1. Submit all materials to the Office of the Registrar. Any missing or incomplete information may delay consideration of your request.
2. After the materials are received, your request will be evaluated by the Office of the Registrar and you will be notified when it has been approved or denied. You may be asked to provide additional information to assist the university in its evaluation of your request. The decision of the Office of the Registrar is final.
3. Please note that a medical withdrawal is granted in rare instances where a student is faced with a serious and unexpected condition that completely precludes him/her from being able to function as a student. If a request is approved, the student may be required to submit documentation from a health care provider to indicate his/her ability to function successfully prior to subsequent enrollment. Additional requests for a medical withdrawal are normally not granted for the same circumstances.
4. Withdrawal appeals should be submitted to the Office of the Registrar within 9 weeks (45 business days) of the last class day of the semester for which the student is appealing, including mini sessions.  Appeals submitted after this time period, will not be considered. 

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• International students, students with a disability, and students who are receiving financial aid, veteran’s and/or other benefits and who are considering withdrawing from the university must meet with the appropriate official (e.g., international student adviser, staff from Disability Services, financial aid counselor or veteran’s services) before withdrawing since there may be legal, certification, and/or repayment penalties associated with withdrawing.
• Medical withdrawal typically results in withdrawal from all classes. Students who are considering the medical withdrawal process and wish to drop some but not all of their classes for a term, should instead contact their academic associate dean’s office for information about administrative drops.
• Student Loans: Students who have borrowed from the Perkins or Direct Loan programs are federally required to schedule an Exit Counseling session. Contact the Office of Financial Aid for additional information.
• All outstanding bills and university obligations must be paid/fulfilled. These obligations include any payment plans or loan agreements issued by Student Business Services. Contact Student Business Services for additional information.
• Medical withdrawals do not provide for a refund of tuition and fees.

Final Exams

Final exams for the regular fall and spring terms must be scheduled the week following the last day of classes at the day/time indicated on the final exam schedule. Faculty teaching online courses during the regular fall and spring terms can schedule final exams anytime starting on the last day of classes until the end of the week following the last day of classes (the end of the regular exam week). The fall/spring eight-week sessions have final exams the last two class days.  During the summer sessions, final exams are held on the last day of classes. Students and faculty should refer to the academic calendar and final exam schedule found online at www.uhcl.edu/registrar for additional information. Students with exam schedule conflicts must work with faculty to resolve conflicts.

Missed Examinations and Assignments

Students are expected to be present at all announced examinations, including final examinations. Unless satisfactory alternate arrangements are made with instructors, missed examinations will be considered as failed. Students who must be absent from classes for the observance of a religious holy day (as defined by the Texas Education Code) will be allowed to take an examination or complete an assignment scheduled for that day within a reasonable time after the absence. Students needing to reschedule an examination or assignment for a holy day should submit a letter of request or appropriate form to each instructor within 15 days from the first class day of the semester. An instructor should acknowledge receipt where indicated on the form and return a copy to the student. A new date for taking an examination of completing an assignment missed for a holy day shall be set by the instructor. Should an instructor not honor the request for rescheduling examinations or assignments for holy days by setting reasonable new due dates, students may appeal the decision to their associate dean. The instructor or associate dean may require a letter of verification of the observed holy day from the religious institution.

Academic Appeals 

Academic appeals include those appeals related to grades and academic programs or degree requirements. Specific instructions are provided below for each type of academic appeal.  In all instances, the university expects that every attempt will be made initially to resolve such disputes informally through discussions by all relevant parties prior to initiating formal procedures.

Grade Appeals

Students must contact the instructor with the grade appeal within 10 days of grades being posted. If a satisfactory solution cannot be reached with the instructor or the instructor does not respond within 10 business days, the student may send a written statement detailing the grounds for the appeal to the chair of the department in which the grade was earned. The student must send the Academic Appeal form to the department chair within 10 business days of the date of response from the instructor or when a response from the instructor was due. The department chair must respond to the student and instructor within 10 business days of receipt of a timely appeal. If the student wishes to appeal a decision by the department chair, it is appealed to the Academic Appeal Committee within the college in which the appeal is based. Additionally, if the student does not receive a response from the department chair within 10 business days, they may appeal to the Academic Appeal Committee within the college where the appeal is based. The committee must review the grade appeal and any additional provided documentation and render a decision on the requested grade appeal within 10 business days of receipt of the materials from the associate dean and forward this decision to the student, instructor, department chair and associate dean.  If a student wishes to appeal a decision of the Academic Appeals Committee, they must notify the associate dean of the college within 10 business days of receipt of notification from the Academic Appeals Committee. Additionally, if the student does not receive a response from the Academic Appeals Committee within 10 working days of the date materials were provided to the committee, they may appeal. To initiate this appeal, the student must forward any written documentation and the written reason for their appeal within  10 business days to the associate dean of the college in which the grade was earned. The associate dean will forward the student appeal of the decision of Academic Appeals Committee and any provided documentation to the dean of the college for review and consideration.  The dean, or their designee, must review the grade appeal and any additional provided documentation and render a decision on the requested grade appeal within 10 business days of receipt of the materials from the associate dean and forward the decision to the student, instructor, and associate dean who will notify the Academic Appeals Committee. The dean’s decision (or the decision of their designee) is final on all grade appeals.

Appeals of Academic Program or Degree Requirements

All appeals relating to specific program requirements (e.g., residency requirements, master’s degree option decisions) require that students submit a written petition to the associate dean of the degree granting college detailing the grounds for the appeal. The associate dean will respond in writing with a decision. The student may appeal this decision in writing to the dean within 15 working days of notification. The dean’s decision is final.

Grading Policies

Description of Letter Grades

• Performance in the range of “A” represents exceptional scholarship and intellectual initiative in accomplishing graduate level course goals and objectives.

• Performance in the range of “B” represents competent achievement in accomplishing graduate level course goals and objectives.

• Performance in the range of “C” represents the minimally acceptable performance in accomplishing graduate level course goals and objectives.

• A “D” or “F” performance represents unsatisfactory or below minimally acceptable performance in accomplishing graduate level course goals and objectives.

Grades of “+” or “-” are refinements of the letter grades, represent grade point variations and may be used at the discretion of the instructor.

Grading System

WQ* Student Initiated Drop, No Evaluation

WX* Withdrawal or Administrative Drop, No Evaluation

NG* No Grade Submitted, Contact Instructor

I* Incomplete-No Credit, unless work is not completed on time, then an F is given

CR*+ Credit

NC*+ No Credit

IP*++ In Progress-No Credit

*These grades are not included in computing the grade point average

+CR/NC awarded only for CLEP, graduate option and TexES coursework

++IP awarded for graduate option coursework

Grade Point Average (GPA)

The grade point average is a measure of a student’s academic achievement. Grade point averages are computed by multiplying the grade point earned by the number of credit hours in each course, and then dividing the sum of all grade points obtained by the total number of hours attempted.

The cumulative grade point average is based on the grade points earned since admission to UHCL, excluding those hours for which grades are shown with asterisk (*) above. GPAs will round at three decimals. Grades earned for transferred courses are not calculated into grade point average at UHCL.

Incomplete Grade and Incomplete Grade Contract

A grade of Incomplete (I) may be given at the discretion of the instructor to students who are making satisfactory progress in a course. Incompletes are typically given for emergency situations, which occur after the withdrawal date but prior to the end of the semester; and, which prevent the student from completing course requirements. When assigning the grade of I, instructors provide students with an Incomplete Grade Contract that outlines the work to be accomplished before the I grade can be converted to a final grade, also specifying a deadline date. This contract constitutes an agreement between instructors and students. A grade of I must be resolved within the time limit set by instructors; however, such limits may not be extended beyond the grade submission deadline for the next long semester following the semester in which the I grade was assigned. Failure to resolve an I will result in its conversion to a final grade of F on students’ permanent records. A grade of I can be converted to a final grade only. A statement denoting the lapse will appear on the transcript.

Students should not re-register for a course to complete a grade of I. Incomplete grade contracts are submitted to the appropriate associate dean’s office.

Students on academic probation, who have outstanding I grades, will remain on probation until all incompletes are resolved. I grades are not calculated in the GPA. An I grade, which has been changed to a grade, or has been converted to a grade of F will be recorded and academic action taken during the semester of the grade change.

In Progress Grade

Master’s Thesis, Project, Dissertation, and Residency require continuous enrollment. A grade of In Progress (IP) will be recorded until final grade assignment for completion of the master’s option or dissertation. Not all internships require continuous enrollment, but those that do are eligible for IP grades. The IP grade will not automatically convert to a grade of F if not resolved within a specified time. At the time final grades for graduate option coursework are assigned, outstanding IP grades will be converted to Credit (CR) or No-Credit (NC). If the final grades are C or better, six hours of the letter grade assigned will be recorded, and the remaining IP grades will be converted to CR. If the final grades are C- or below, six hours of the letter grade assigned will be recorded and the remaining IP grades will be converted to an NC. Faculty, with the approval of the associate dean, may change an additional three hours of IP to a final letter grade. Students enrolled in master’s option coursework or a dissertation are automatically enrolled in the same course each fall and spring semester until a final grade is assigned. Students must complete an application for graduation by the stated deadline during their last semester of enrollment. Failure to do so will result in a delay of graduation to a future semester.

Grade Changes

Grade changes are allowed for only one of the following three reasons:

• Removal of an incomplete grade
• Result of a formal grade appeal or hearing process
• Correction of instructor error

Other than removing an incomplete, grades will not be changed on the basis of extra work submitted after final grades are assigned.

Only the course instructor may assign grades for students in a course. Grade changes may be made by the instructor or the associate dean in the absence of the instructor. After one long semester, a grade change submitted by an instructor must be approved by the associate dean for the program in which the course was taught. Grade changes must be filed in the Office of the Registrar within one year after the original grade is posted. Grade changes resulting from the completion of In Progress (IP) or Incomplete (I) work may only be initiated by the instructor of record or the associate dean. Academic action that results from a grade change will be taken during the semester of the grade change. The changed grade will be the final grade used to compute the GPA.

Repeated Courses

If students repeat a course, it is with the understanding that the last grade earned in the course is the one counted toward fulfillment of degree requirements and hours earned. Only the hours and grade points earned on the last attempt will be counted in the Grade Point Average (GPA) calculation and in determining academic standing However, the original grade earned at UHCL will remain a part of the academic record. Courses repeated at other institutions are treated as transfer credit. They will not be considered resident credit and will not be included in the UHCL GPA. Only grades earned on repeated courses taken at UHCL will be counted in the UHCL GPA.

Note: While the last grade earned will be used to calculate GPA and academic standing for the most recent term, academic standing history will not change. In addition, some courses are repeatable for credit and repeating a course will not change the GPA (i.e.,. For example, each attempt of Special Topics courses will count towards the GPA.

Grade Reports

Students can access their semester grades online at www.uhcl.edu/eservices. The student’s password is required for this confidential access. Grades can also be obtained by requesting a transcript. Grade reports are not mailed.

Academic Standards

The university expects students to meet certain standards of academic performance in order to maintain good standing and degree candidacy. The academic performance standards stated in this catalog apply to all students regardless of the catalog under which they entered the university.

Graduate Academic Status

Graduate students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.000 or better in coursework at UHCL. Each college may establish standards beyond the university’s minimum cumulative GPA requirement. A minimum of 3.000 cumulative GPA is required to graduate. The last attempt of all coursework taken as a graduate student will be used in calculating the grade point average and determining academic status even when those courses are not counted toward degree requirements.

Academic Probation

Graduate students whose cumulative GPA falls below 3.000 will be placed on academic probation. Students who are on academic probation must earn a minimum 3.000 semester GPA on coursework each subsequent semester until the grade point deficiency is removed. Students will be removed from Academic Probation when their cumulative grade point average is at or above 3.000. Only coursework taken at UHCL will be applied toward the grade point deficiency. Students on academic probation, whose cumulative GPA meets minimum requirements will remain on probation until all incompletes are resolved. Students who leave the university on academic probation will be readmitted on academic probation. Academic probation will be noted permanently on students’ academic records.

Mandatory Probation Counseling - International Students

In order to avoid the consequences of academic suspensions on an international student’s immigration status, an international student placed on academic probation will be placed under mandatory academic counseling until such time that the student returns to good academic standing (cumulative GPA of 3.0). The academic probation counseling program is a comprehensive program that requires the student to meet with the Student Success Center to evaluate the academic support needs of the individual. The Student Success Center, in collaboration with the student’s academic adviser will assist the student in developing an academic plan that guides the student’s return to good academic standing.

Academic Suspension

What is Academic Suspension?

If you are on academic probation and your semester GPA falls below the required 2.0 for undergraduates or 3.0 for graduate students, you will be placed on academic suspension. Reinstatement from academic suspension is not automatic. You must petition the administrator indicated below in order to request consideration for reinstatement from suspension. If you are suspended, until you are reinstated, you will not be able to enroll, audit, or visit classes for a period of time, as follows:

•  First suspension - one semester
•  Second suspension - one year
•  Third suspension - after one year

When can you return to UHCL?

Reinstatement Process for First or Second Suspension 

After serving your suspension period, before you can apply for reinstatement to UHCL, you must:

Determine if you will remain in the degree program that you were previously enrolled in. If you are not seeking to change majors upon your return, you will need to submit a request for reinstatement to the associate dean of your college. If you intend to change your degree program, you will need to make your reinstatement petition to the associate dean of your desired program.

Your written reinstatement petition should address:

1. the circumstances that led to your academic difficulties
2. how your circumstances have changed and,
3. what steps you intend to take to improve your academic performance if you are reinstated.

If you took courses at another institution while under suspension at UHCL, you should attach a copy of transcripts showing your academic activity. Be sure to ask institutions you have attended during your absence from UHCL to send your transcripts to the UHCL Office of Admissions. You may also be asked to provide additional documentation to support the identified circumstances that led to your academic difficulties. If you are applying for reinstatement after a year of non-enrollment at UHCL, once you are reinstated, you will need to submit a new admissions application and pay the appropriate application fee.

Reinstatement decisions will be made by the associate dean of your college or of the college to which you wish to transfer to in consultation with the department chair and designated program faculty. The international student adviser should be notified of the decision, if applicable. In addition to consultation with the faculty, the associate dean will consult with any and all appropriate offices who could have knowledge of the student (Ex: academic advising, student success, etc.). Decisions made by the associate dean may be appealed in writing to the dean of the college within 15 calendar days of the associate dean’s communication of the reinstatement decision.

Reinstatement Process for Third Suspension

If you have been suspended for a third time, you may petition for reinstatement by writing to the associate dean of your college, or the college you are transferring, after a year of sitting out from your work at UHCL. Reinstatement is not automatic. The gravity of the circumstances and the academic history will be considered in determining if the petition should be granted. You may not apply for early reinstatement after the second suspension.

Your written petition should address:

1. the circumstances that led to your academic difficulties
2. how your circumstances have changed and,
3. what steps you intend to take to improve your academic performance if you are reinstated.

If upon reinstatement you wish to change majors, you must include a completed Academic Record Change form with your petition. If you took courses at another institution while under suspension at UHCL, you should attach a copy of transcripts showing your academic activity. Be sure to ask institutions you have attended during your absence from UHCL to send your transcripts to the UHCL Office of Admissions. You may also be asked to provide additional documentation to support the identified circumstances that led to your academic difficulties.

The final decision to reinstate after the third suspension will be made by the Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs in consultation with your program faculty, college administrators and all appropriate offices who could have knowledge of your situation.

Reinstatement Process for Early Reinstatement 

If extenuating circumstances beyond your control affected your academic performance, you may submit a petition in writing for early reinstatement to the associate dean of your college or the college to which you are transferring. You may only apply for early reinstatement after the first or second suspension. No early reinstatement will be considered for the third suspension. Early reinstatement is not automatic. The gravity of the circumstances and the academic history will be considered in determining whether the petition should be granted. The final decision to grant early reinstatement will be made by the Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs in consultation with your program faculty, college administrators and all appropriate offices who could have knowledge of your situation.

Your written petition for early reinstatement should address:

1. the circumstances that led to your academic difficulties
2. how your circumstances have changed
3. the basis for your request to return from academic suspension early and,
4. what steps you intend to take to improve your academic performance if you receive early reinstatement.

If upon early reinstatement you wish to change majors, you must include a completed Academic Record Change form with your petition. If you took courses at another institution while under suspension at UHCL, you should attach a copy of transcripts showing your academic activity. Be sure to ask institutions you have attended during your absence from UHCL to send your transcripts to the UHCL Office of Admissions. You may also be asked to provide additional documentation to support the identified circumstances that led to your academic difficulties and reason for early reinstatement.

After Reinstatement

Once you are reinstated, your academic standing will change from academic suspension to academic probation. You will be placed under mandatory academic counseling until you return to good standing. This designation means that as long as you are on probation you will have a registration hold that will require you to meet with your academic adviser in order to register for classes. The administrator authorizing your reinstatement may also stipulate additional conditions until you return to good standing, such as limiting the number of hours you may take, specifying courses that must be completed, or designating the course delivery mode for classes to be taken.

If students are allowed to enter the university after academic suspension, they enter on academic probation and will remain in that status until their cumulative GPA meets the minimum requirement of 2.000 for undergraduate students. A student who is reinstated must undergo mandatory advising and a registration hold will be placed on their record until such time that they return to academic good standing. Disciplinary suspensions are not covered by this policy. For details of the UHCL disciplinary policy, see the Student Handbook.

Academic Policies

Academic Honesty Policy

I. GENERAL PROVISIONS OF POLICY

Preamble and Code

Academic honesty is the cornerstone of the academic integrity of the university. It is the foundation upon which the student builds personal integrity and establishes a standard of personal behavior. The University can best function and accomplish its mission in an atmosphere of the highest ethical standards. The University expects all students, faculty, and staff to contribute to such an atmosphere by observing all accepted principles of academic honesty. This policy is designed to encourage honest behavior and outlines the processes and actions pertaining to any violation of the Academic Honesty Policy and Honesty Code.

Honesty Code

The Honesty Code is the university community’s standard of honesty and is endorsed by all members of University of Houston-Clear Lake academic community. It is an essential element of the University’s academic credibility. The Honesty Code states:

I will be honest in all my academic activities and will not tolerate dishonesty.

Rationale.

University of Houston-Clear Lake expects and encourages all students, faculty, and staff to abide by the Honesty Code. However, it is recognized that any university may include a few students who do not understand, appreciate, or choose to practice the accepted principles. As a consequence, alleged cases of academic dishonesty will inevitably occur. The following procedures are designed to handle these cases in fairness to all concerned: the accused student, the faculty, and University of Houston-Clear Lake.

General Jurisdiction.

Matters relating to academic honesty are within the general jurisdiction of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost.

Questions Regarding Applicability of Policy.

All questions regarding the applicability of University of Houston-Clear Lake policy, code, or special provisions of either shall be determined finally by the Provost.

Compass of Actions Taken Against Students.

Actions taken against students are university-wide in their effect, unless otherwise specified.

Student Responsibility.

Students are expected to maintain complete honesty and integrity in all academic work attempted while enrolled at the University including following the Academic Honesty Policy. Each student acknowledges, by the mere act of turning in work for a grade, that they have honored the Honesty Code. Students shall have the responsibility of reporting incidents of alleged academic dishonesty to the instructor involved, or to the appropriate authority if the alleged act is not associated with a specific class, or if necessary, to the Dean of Students.

Teaching Assistant Responsibility.

Teaching assistants, including proctors, will have the responsibility of reporting incidents of alleged academic dishonesty to the instructor involved.

Instructor Responsibility.

Instructors are responsible for knowing the principles and procedures of the Academic Honesty Policy, and for enforcing the policy when academic honesty violations occur. Instructors must also remind students of the Academic Honesty Policy and help them comply with it.

Purpose of Procedures.

The purpose of these procedures is to provide for the orderly administration of the Academic Honesty Policy consistent with the principles of due process. Reasonable deviations from these procedures will not invalidate a decision or proceeding unless the Provost determines, upon written appeal from the accusing and/or accused parties, that the deviation will result in prejudice to one or more of the parties involved, including the student or instructor.

Notification.

All required written notices shall be addressed to the student via their UHCL email. It is the responsibility of the student to regularly check (at least once per week) their UHCL email. A notice properly addressed and so sent shall be presumed to have been received by the student.

Retaliation.

University of Houston-Clear Lake prohibits retaliatory action against persons who report incidents of alleged academic dishonesty under this policy, who are suspected of having reported incidents of alleged academic dishonesty under this policy, who are identified to serve or have served as witnesses in any academic honesty proceeding, or who are identified to serve or have served on a hearing panel. Any acts of retaliation will be referred to the appropriate office for review and response.

Academic Honesty Panel.

The Academic Honesty Panel is a group comprised of faculty, students, and academic administrators that conducts hearings in matters of academic dishonesty. It is the charge of the Academic Honesty Panel to uphold the Academic Honesty Policy of the University of Houston­ Clear Lake and to ensure that the policy process herein has been followed The Academic Honesty Panel includes one faculty member from each college, one student from each college, and an Associate Dean of the college in which the student is not enrolled.

The Student Government Association Executive Council will select a pool of students for each college. Each college Dean will select a student representative and an alternate from the college’s pool of students. Members of the Academic Honesty hearing panel for a specific case will not include a member involved in the case of violation of the Honesty Code. Members are selected prior to the beginning of each academic year for a one-year term to begin September 1 through August 31 and they may serve consecutive terms. The Panel shall hold a hearing within ten working days of being notified by the Dean of Students.

II. PREVENTATIVE PRACTICES

Student Practices.

University of Houston-Clear Lake students may be required to participate in training on academic honesty and acknowledge their acceptance of the policy. Students will be provided with evidence of completion of training, which must be submitted to instructors as requested. Students are encouraged to read the Academic Honesty Policy and review as needed.

Instructor Practices.

Instructors can help students comply with the Academic Honesty Policy by noting the Honesty Code on the course syllabus and providing course-specific guidance. Instructors will use reasonable security precautions in the preparation, handling, and administering of graded work.

Instructors can help students comply with the academic honesty policy by minimizing temptation to act dishonestly. Measures instructors should consider are:

1. Maintaining adequate security precautions in the preparation and handling of tests;
2. Structuring the type and sequence of examination questions so as to discourage dishonesty;
3. Providing ample room for proper spacing of students during examinations, when possible;
4. Monitoring examinations, especially in large classes and in classes where not all students are known to the instructor or the assistant;
5. Making clear to their students the rules concerning the use of electronic devices;
6. Making clear to their students, in writing, what constitutes academic dishonesty, particularly in those classes where group activities (laboratory exercises, generation of field reports, etc.) are part of the instructional process;
7. Requiring students to submit their own work and defining for their students particular aspects of dishonesty, such as plagiarism and self-plagiarism;
8. Requiring students to show a picture ID and sign major assignments and exams; and
9. Helping raise consciousness of the issue of academic honesty by asking students to sign an honor pledge in the first week of class and to write a short honor pledge in their own hand on their major assignments.

University Practices.

The University will help students comply with the Academic Honesty Policy by informing students about academic honesty. Information about the Academic Honesty Policy will be provided to students at the time of admission and highlighted during orientation programs. The University shall establish guidelines to monitor that students and faculty follow the guidelines set forth in II.A and 11.B. Additional awareness efforts can be made at the College- and University-level that engage all members of the University community, with a particular focus on informing students and instructors about the Academic Honesty Policy each academic year.

III. CATEGORIES OF ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

Application of the Academic Honesty Policy.

This policy applies to those acts of dishonesty committed by a student while enrolled at University of Houston-Clear Lake.

Academic Dishonesty Prohibited.

“Academic dishonesty” means employing a method or technique or engaging in conduct in an academic endeavor that contravenes the standards of ethical integrity expected at University of Houston-Clear Lake or by a course instructor to fulfill any and all academic requirements. Any conduct or activity by a student intended to earn or improve a grade or receive any form of credit by fraudulent or dishonest means is considered an Honesty Code violation and deemed academic dishonesty. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. Plagiarism

Plagiarism can include, but is not limited to, the following acts:

a. Using the words of another author without indicating that these words belong to another author.

b. Summarizing the words of another author without indicating that the summary has been derived from another author.

c. Using the ideas of another author without indicating that these ideas belong to another author.

d. Engaging another writer, whether a professional, friend, or family member to write a document that the student writer is expected to be solely responsible for writing. Or, stealing, copying, purchasing, or “borrowing” the writing of another author for the purpose of submitting the work as the writer’s own.

e. Copying the organizational strategy of another author by presenting ideas in the text in exactly the same order as in the primary text.

2. Cheating

a. Openly cheating in an examination, such as copying from another’s paper;

b. Being able to view during an examination, quiz or any in-class assignment an electronic device that allows communication with another person, access to unauthorized material, access to the internet, or the ability to capture an image, unless expressly permitted by the instructor;

c. Using and/or possessing “crib notes,” as unauthorized use of notes or the like to aid in answering questions during an examination;

d. Giving or receiving unauthorized aid during or after an examination, such as trading examinations, whispering answers, passing notes, or using electronic devices to transmit or receive information;

e. Informing any person or persons of the contents of any examination prior to the time the examination is given;

f. Securing another to take a test in the student’s place. Both the student taking the test for another and the student registered in the course are at fault;

g. Providing answers for any assigned work when not specifically authorized by the instructor to do so;

h. Working with another person or persons on any assignment when not specifically permitted to do so;

i. Taking credit for work contributed by the group that was not done by the student;

j. Completing work for other students who receive credit;

k. Purchasing or otherwise obtaining unauthorized coursework solutions;

3. Fabrication, Falsification, and Misrepresentation

a. Changing answers or grades on a test that has been returned to a student in an attempt to claim instructor error;

b. Using another’s laboratory results as one’s own, whether with or without the permission of the owner;

d. Falsifying results in laboratory experiments;

e. Misrepresenting academic records or achievements as they pertain to course prerequisites or corequisites for the purpose of enrolling or remaining in a course for which one is not eligible;

f. Representing oneself as a person who has earned a degree without having earned that particular degree;

g. Misrepresenting one’s qualifications, forging signatures, or falsifying information on official documents for the purpose of academic gain;

4. Stealing and Abuse of Academic Materials

a. Stealing, as theft of tests or grade books, from faculty offices or elsewhere, or knowingly using stolen tests or materials in satisfaction of exams, papers, or other assignments; this includes the removal of items posted for use by the students;

b. Mutilating, destroying, concealing, stealing, or altering any materials provided to assist students in the completion of academic work, including library books, journals, computer files, microfilm and microfiche files, materials placed on reserve by the instructor, or any such materials as the instructor may provide or assign;

c. Copying of any data files or copyrighted computer program(s) for one’s own personal use or the use of others;

d. Sharing usernames and passwords with another to allow unauthorized access to restricted information or uploading course materials (e.g. exams, assignment solutions, graded work) to the internet;

5.Complicity in Academic Dishonesty

a. Failing to report to the instructor an incident which the student believes to be a violation of the academic honesty policy;

6. Academic Misconduct

a. Any other conduct which a reasonable person in the same or similar circumstances would recognize as dishonest or improper in an academic setting.

IV. ACADEMIC HONESTY ENFORCEMENT PROCEDURES

The instructor has primary responsibility and authority in the classroom. Since each instructor has specific responsibilities to inform students of the contents of the Honesty Code, encourage compliance with the Honesty Code, and enforce the Honesty Code in the classroom, it is incumbent upon the instructor to administer the Academic Honesty Policy in a fair and judicious manner in all instances of alleged academic dishonesty.

Course Level Resolution

When an instructor has evidence that a violation of the Honesty Code may have occurred, whether through their personal witness or through a report made by another person, the instructor should immediately investigate the alleged violation to determine the facts. If a student or other member of the University community suspects that another student has committed an act of academic dishonesty, that person shall notify the instructor in the course in question.

The instructor shall notify the student, via UHCL email, of the allegation and proposed sanction. The instructor will include the Department Chair on the notification email. Once informed of the alleged violation, the student has ten working days to respond and, if desired, meet with the instructor to discuss the alleged violation. The meeting represents an opportunity for the student to present a defense on their own behalf.

After the ten-day period, and after consideration of any new evidence, the instructor will notify the student and Department Chair of their decision regarding the alleged violation with the proposed sanction. If it has been determined that a violation has occurred, the following will occur:

1. The instructor will document the violation and sanction on the Honesty Code Violation Form, and email the completed form to the student, Department Chair, and Dean of Students. This form must be completed for all instances of violation of the Academic Honesty Code, regardless of the severity of the alleged violation or the sanction imposed.
2. The Honesty Code Violation Form will include notification to the student that the decision may be appealed to the Academic Honesty Panel, and that, to appeal the decision, the student must contact the Dean of Students by email, with a copy to the instructor and Department Chair, within ten working days of receiving the completed Honesty Code Violation form.

a. If the decision is appealed, the Academic Honesty Panel Resolution procedures will be followed as outlined below.

b. If the decision is not appealed, the Dean of Students will advise students with no academic honesty violations on record that the case is closed, unless the instructor requests sanctions beyond those available in a course.

Students with academic honesty violations on record or facing additional disciplinary action(s) will be required to appear in front of the Academic Honesty hearing panel.

c. The Dean of Students will advise the student that, in addition to academic sanctions by the instructor, the student may also be subject to disciplinary action. Such action may be imposed by the Academic Honesty Panel if evidence exists of repeated violations of the Honesty Code.

In the event a case of academic dishonesty is not resolved prior to the deadline for reporting final grades to the registrar, the student shall receive a grade of Incomplete (“I”) until the appropriate grade can be determined.

Academic Honesty Panel Resolution

An Academic Honesty Panel hearing will be held in the following instances:

The instructor determines that a student has committed an act of academic dishonesty and such act warrants sanction more severe than those available for a course (e.g. Suspension). In this case, the instructor must attach a copy of the complaint to request sanctions beyond the course level sanction to the Honesty Code Violation Form. The instructor shall recommend what they believe to be the appropriate sanction to the Academic Honesty Panel. The Dean of Students will initiate a formal hearing process as soon as possible but no later than thirty working days from receipt of the complaint from the instructor, notifying the student of the alleged violation and setting a date and time for the hearing before the Academic Honesty Panel.

The student has a pre-existing record of academic dishonesty. The Dean of Students will notify the student, instructor(s), and the Department Chair(s) of the series of alleged violations and set a date and time for a hearing before the Academic Honesty Panel.

The Dean of Students is timely notified within 10 working days that the student wishes to appeal a course level sanction. The Dean of Students will initiate a formal hearing process as soon as possible but no later than thirty working days from receipt of the appeal, notifying the student, instructor, and Department Chair of the date and time for the hearing before the Academic Honesty Panel.

Academic Honesty Panel Hearing

The Dean of Students or their designee, shall be required to convene these hearings to serve as the facilitator of the hearing(s). This individual shall not have a vote at the hearing or be present during the deliberations of the panel.

The hearing shall be held in two phases. The first phase is the determination of violation, followed if necessary, by the sanction phase.

The student may bring an advisor to the hearing for support and advice during the hearing. The advisor may attend the hearing but shall not directly participate in the hearing or enter into discussion with the parties present. Procedures for the Academic Honesty Panel hearing process are detailed in Appendix A.

If either party intends to have legal counsel attend the hearing, the Dean of Students must be notified at least three working days before the hearing. The hearing cannot be held with such counsel in attendance unless a representative from University of Houston System legal counsel is also present.

The student and instructor will have the opportunity to present their case during the hearing. This may include the introduction of documents and/or physical evidence as well statements of individuals who have knowledge of the circumstances.

If either party intends to have witnesses attend the hearing for such statements, the Dean of Students must be notified at least three working days before the hearing along with a written statement from the witness. The Dean of Students will provide the written statement(s) to both parties prior to the hearing.

If physical evidence or witness testimony is presented in the hearing, and if either party needs reasonable time to review the evidence and/or consider the witness testimony, either party may request a postponement of the the hearing. Decisions on postponement of the hearing will be made at the discretion of the Dean of Students or designee.

The cases presented to the panel must be made by the accusing individual and the accused student. The instructor or other individuals who reported the alleged misconduct shall present the relevant information, including statements by witnesses. The accused student shall then present his/her statement and relevant information, including statements by witnesses. Neither party shall ask questions of or solicit answers directly from the other party or its witnesses. Where it appears that there are matters of disputed fact, the Dean of Students shall request the panel to ask appropriate questions of either or both parties and/or their respective witnesses so as to clarify the points in dispute. The panel shall have the right to question any and all witnesses and to examine documentation presented.

At the conclusion of the first phase of the hearing, the panel shall meet in a closed session to render a decision. The Academic Honesty hearing panel deliberates and renders a vote.

A student is found in violation of the academic honesty policy by a vote of 6 or more members of the panel present at the hearing. In order for the hearing to proceed, at least 8 out of the 9 members of the panel must be present for the hearing. Upon reaching a decision in either phase, the phase shall reconvene with all parties present and inform all parties of its decision.

After resolution of an alleged violation, the Dean of Students will email the final decision to the student, instructor, Department Chair, and Academic Dean (or the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs if the student is non-degree seeking) within five working days of receipt of the panel’s judgment.

The decision of the Academic Honesty Panel should be considered final, unless there are specific grounds for appeal (see IV.E).

The hearing shall have an audio recording. The parties involved may obtain a copy of the recording from the Dean of Students at the expense of the requesting party.

Sanction Phase

During the sanction phase of the hearing, the student will have an opportunity to present relevant information regarding misconduct, including witness statements, documents and other information in accordance with hearing procedures.

The faculty and student will have an opportunity to present a sanction statement. The panel shall have the right to ask questions of both parties.

If the panel decides that a violation has occurred, then the instructor’s recommended sanction will be considered before a final decision is rendered by the panel. If repeated violations of the Academic Honesty Policy are documented, then the panel may impose additional penalties beyond the instructor’s recommended sanction. These may include, but are not limited to:

1. Grade: A grade penalty of “F” or “zero” for the course or for the academic assignment, respectively;
2. Probation: The student shall not represent the University in any extracurricular activity or run for office in any University sponsored group or organization. Additional restrictions or conditions may be imposed;
3. Suspension: Separation of the student from the University for a definite period of time, after which the student is eligible to return. Conditions for re-admission may be specified. When suspended, a student may not attend class or participate as a student in any University activity;
4. Expulsion: Permanent separation of the student from the University.

Provost Appeal and Resolution

Within five work days of the panel’s decision, either party ( i.e. student or instructor) may file an appeal for review with the provost or that officer designated by the provost. The appeal shall be in writing and shall specifically address the issues to be reviewed based on one or more of the following grounds:

1. Significant procedural error inconsistent with the processes as outlined in this policy
2. Discovery of any new information unknown or not reasonably foreseeable at the time of the hearing that was material to and could have reasonably impacted the disciplinary decision.
3. The sanction(s) determined by the panel was significantly disproportionate to the violation.

If an appeal is submitted, the other party and Dean of Students will be notified by the Provost and will receive the appeal documentation prior to an appeal decision. The other party may submit a response within five working days. The Provost shall consider the appeal and deliver a decision within 15 working days of receipt of such appeal, except where adherence to such time period would be impracticable, in which case such time period shall be extended as warranted by the particular circumstances. If the other party submits a response to the appeal within 5 working days, the provost will have 20 working days to deliver their decision from initial receipt of the appeal. Any additional delays will be communicated via UHCL email to the parties, Department Chair and Dean of Students.

Actions Which the Provost May Take:

The Provost may decide to:

1. Approve the findings and/or sanctions of the panel.
2. Reverse the findings and/or sanctions of the panel.
3. Return the case back to the Dean of Students to provide a new proceeding, or allow the party to have the case handled beginning at any specific stage of the Academic Honesty Hearing Process.
4. In rare cases, return the case to the Dean of Students to provide a new proceeding with a different panel.

The Provost’s or designee’s written decision, and when applicable justification, will be sent to the parties, Department Chair and Dean of Students within the articulated time period.

Once the Provost has issued a decision, the matter shall be considered final and binding upon all involved.

Group Violations of the Academic Honesty Policy.

In instances where two or more students are alleged to be involved in the same infraction of the Academic Honesty Policy, at the discretion of the Dean of Students and in consultation with the relevant instructor, the case against the whole group will be heard by a single Academic Honesty Panel. The facts common to all cases will be presented, with all students allegedly involved, in attendance. Each student shall be allowed to present their case and/or statements to the panel separately. If requested by the presenting student, such statements shall be presented independently without the other accused student(s) in the room.

V. RECORDS

Records of Academic Honesty Proceedings.

The Dean of Students shall retain a copy of all Honesty Code Violation Forms. If the sanction imposed is a final grade penalty, suspension, or expulsion, the registrar’s office is notified, and a record of the notification is maintained in the registrar’s office according to the prescribed operating procedures of that office.

Records of proceedings under this policy are considered a student’s educational record in accordance with Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

Notations on a Student’s transcript.

If the student is found in violation of the Honesty Code and the penalty is anything except suspension or expulsion, the form does not become a part of the student’s permanent record or transcript. Instead, it is retained by the Dean of Students. If the student is found in violation of the Honesty Code and the penalty is suspension or expulsion, the record becomes part of the student’s permanent academic file and the notation of “Disciplinary Suspension” or “Disciplinary Expulsion” is placed on the transcript. In the case of suspension, the notation will be removed at the conclusion of the specified suspension period at the written request of the student. In the case of expulsion, the entry is noted permanently.

VI. DEFINITIONS

Working Days.

Working days, for purposes of this policy, are defined as days the University of Houston­ Clear Lake is open (excluding Saturdays and Sundays) as posted in the university academic calendar.

Academic Record.

Academic record includes documents, forms, copies, reports, statements, recordings, etc. that are acquired while a student attends University of Houston-Clear Lake. The information is available to outside sources according to the procedures established by the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act.

Sanction.

Sanction means the penalty assessed for a violation of the Academic Honesty Policy.

Instructor.

Instructor refers to a faculty member, lecturer, teaching assistant, adjunct instructor, or teaching fellow in charge of the course section in which an alleged violation of this Academic Honesty Policy has occurred. Such individuals will typically be the instructor of the course section in question. In instances where this is not the case, instances of alleged cheating should be reported to the instructor.

Student.

Student refers to any individual who has ever registered and paid (made a complete payment or has made at least one installment payment) for a course, or courses, at University of Houston-Clear Lake. This definition would normally include undergraduate students, graduate students, doctoral students, post-baccalaureates, professional school students, and individuals auditing courses.

Textbook and Educational Material Policy

1. POLICY

The following principles pertain to the role and responsibilities of faculty in the development and selection of instructional materials at University of Houston-Clear Lake:

1.1 The selection and production of educational materials by faculty members and instructors is essential to providing quality instruction.  Therefore, the decision on the use of such materials properly rests with individual faculty members, instructors and/or faculty units, consistent with policies of the department, college and University.

1.2 The practice of contributing to a body of knowledge by faculty members and instructors in their chosen fields of study through the development of educational materials, e.g., textbooks, case studies, custom books, workbooks, is a practice that is not only acceptable, but actively encouraged by peers, department chairs, and deans.

1.3 In the case of educational materials produced by faculty members or instructors such that the materials are self-published by the faculty member or instructor; or are reproductions, custom books, or other materials, produced for the course; or are published by entities wholly or substantially owned by the faculty member or instructor or by a member of their family, then such materials shall be made available to students at University of Houston-Clear Lake at the cost to produce.  Similarly, the case where departments or other instructional units produce educational materials, the items shall be available to students at no cost or at a cost no more than the cost to produce such material. Textbook and educational materials, published through learned societies, professional organizations and/or professional publishers, must be made available to students at a reasonable price consistent with national norms and selected according to national standards of scholarship.  In no case should students be charged for information that normally is available without charge, e.g., a course syllabus, practice exams.

1.4 Any instructional material utilized in the classrooms shall be aligned with the content of the course and the respective required curriculum.

1.5 In order to implement items 3 and 4, and to manage any conflict of interest, a faculty member or instructor of record at University of Houston-Clear Lake, who receives revenue from the sale of instructional materials, must submit these materials for review by the curriculum committee of the college which offers the course where the material is used. After the review, the college curriculum committee will make a recommendation to the dean. Dean approval is necessary before requiring students to purchase educational materials that have been written, co-written or edited by the faculty member or instructor, and from which the faculty member or instructor shall receive royalties of any kind. Review and approval is necessary to ensure the material is consistent with the requirements in 3 and 4 above, along with the University’s conflict of interest policy.

University Degree Requirements

UHCL has established minimum requirements for graduate coursework leading to the Doctor of Education, Doctor of Health Service Psychology (Clinical Psychology/School Psychology), Master of Arts, Master of Science, Master of Business Administration, Master of Healthcare Administration and Master of Healthcare Administration/Master of Business Administration degrees. All graduate students must have an approved Candidate Plan of Study (CPS) that fulfills all university requirements and all degree program requirements. The university requirements for doctoral degrees are:

• Fulfillment of specific degree program requirements. Requirements are reported in the relevant school sections of this catalog.
• Courses selected from those numbered 7000 or higher (see specific requirements for numbers of hours in the relevant school section).
• At least six (6) hours of dissertation are required as specified in the relevant school section of this catalog.
• The residency requirement may be met by taking nine (9) or more hours in each of two consecutive long terms, in each of three consecutive summer terms, or in each of two consecutive summer terms and in one of the two intervening long terms.

Please see the College of Education  or the College of Human Sciences and Humanities  for the details of courses required in doctoral programs.

UHCL requirements for the master’s degree are:

• Fulfillment of specific degree program requirements. These requirements are reported in the college section of this catalog.
• Each master’s degree must require a total of no less than 30 credit hours. Each school within the university retains the right to set minimum hour requirements in excess of 30 hours for its degrees.
• At least 24 hours must be selected from courses numbered 5000 or higher.
• At least 18 of the final 30 semester hours must be taken in residence.
• Completion of three or more hours of one of the master’s degree option. The individual schools establish the options to be available and set the number of hours in each option.
• Colleges may allow no more than 25% of courses at the 3000 or 4000 level, exclusive of any foundation courses, or equivalent to apply toward the total number of hours required for a master’s degree.
• A minimum of a 3.000 cumulative grade point average on coursework taken at UHCL. No grade lower than a C is acceptable toward a graduate degree.
• Correspondence and non-resident credit may not be applied toward a graduate degree.
• Successful completion of at least one of the following requirements: comprehensive examination; thesis, project, residency or internship; or, extended coursework with a capstone course of a comprehensive nature.

University Certificate Requirements

Students may earn a certificate by satisfying certain requirements specified by the College.  See requirements listed in the certificate content area of the catalog. 

Assessment

University of Houston-Clear Lake may use educational assessment tools. “Educational Assessment” is defined as the systematic collection, interpretation, and use of information about student demographics, educational environments, learning outcomes, and professional success. These assessment tools will not affect student grades, but will provide faculty with confidential detailed information that will be used to improve student learning, courses, curriculum, and program accreditation.

Time Limitation on Past Coursework

Courses completed more than five years prior to the most current admission to graduate study at UHCL may not be counted toward fulfillment of the required number of hours unless approval is granted by the appropriate dean. It is the prerogative of the department chair, in consultation with the faculty member responsible for the corresponding rubric to determine whether the courses meet current standards of the discipline; and, whether students can demonstrate sufficient retention of the previous content. The department chair will forward the recommendation to the dean of the college.

Limitation on Courses in the College of Business for Graduate Students

Degree-seeking graduate students outside the College of Business must limit their programs of study to less than 50% of their coursework in the College of Business.

Dual Degrees: Bachelor’s to Master’s

The dual bachelor’s\master’s programs allow students to earn both degrees in five years. Students begin work on their master’s degree during the final year of their bachelor’s degree.

• Bachelor’s (minimum 120 hours) to master’s (minimum 30 hours) degrees provides students the opportunity to earn degrees at an accelerated pace. In this program undergraduates with 90 or more credit hours may be allowed to enroll in graduate classes, and count up to six graduate credit hours toward their bachelor’s degree. The same six graduate credit hours may also count toward a master’s degree.
• Graduate courses utilized for a bachelor’s degree cannot be utilized for a graduate degree outside of the accelerated bachelor’s to master’s degree program.
• No more than six graduate hours can be taken as an undergraduate.
• In the dual degree program, no more than six hours of graduate work may be counted toward the requirements of both degrees and at least 24 of the required 30 graduate hours must be taken at the 5000 level or 6000 level.
• Students must apply to the dual degree program the semester before completing their bachelor’s degree requirements.
• Students interested in this program must meet with a dual degree adviser in their college before enrolling in graduate courses.
• Students admitted to dual degree programs should have an overall GPA of 3.0 or better. Students with a GPA of less than 3.0 must take the GRE or GMAT (see individual college requirements for appropriate examination and for acceptable scores).
• A student who becomes ineligible to participate in or withdraws from the accelerated bachelor’s to master’s program cannot double count any courses for both bachelor’s and master’s degrees. However, courses successfully completed with a 3.0 or better may count toward the bachelor’s degree as appropriate substitutions.
• Students in dual degree programs receive the bachelor’s degree upon completion of the master’s degree.
• Students in dual degree programs not completing the master’s degree may apply for graduation with the bachelor’s degree.
• Dual degree program students must complete the undergraduate residency requirements.

Dual Graduate Degree Policy

(Simultaneous, Non-Simultaneous and Dual Degrees)

University of Houston-Clear Lake has approved a policy that permits schools to apply graduate credit earned at UHCL toward more than one UHCL graduate degree. Specific requirements and approvals are completed by the individual college.

Additional Master’s Degrees

Students possessing a master’s degree from UHCL or another accredited college or university may earn an additional master’s degree in a different degree program by satisfying the general requirements for the master’s degree. Under certain circumstances, credit from one UHCL graduate degree may be applied towards a second UHCL graduate degree. The following provisions apply only to master’s programs of 36 hours or more. Students should be aware that a course taken more than five years earlier cannot be applied towards a degree, unless approval is granted by the dean of the college. With respect to the provisions which follow, colleges choosing to offer additional masters degrees reserve the right to set additional requirements for degrees awarded by that college including the right to not offer such degrees. Students should be aware that the faculty of the individual colleges as set forth in the colleges’ procedures determine the approved Candidate Plan of Study (CPS) in all cases of graduate work.

Simultaneous UHCL Master’s Degrees

Students pursuing two master’s degrees simultaneously may earn both degrees by completion of a special “Simultaneous Master’s Degree CPS” subject to the following provisions:

• Fulfillment of all specific degree program requirements in each degree including a separate master’s degree option (i.e. comprehensive exam, thesis, residency, internship or extended coursework with a capstone course or a comprehensive exam) for each degree. These requirements are reported in the college section of this catalog.
• At least 60 hours must be selected from the 5000 or 6000 levels.
• At least 30 unique hours must be selected from courses from the 5000 and 6000 level or their equivalents in each degree.
• At least 48 of the final 60 semester hours must be taken in residence.
• Colleges may allow no more than 25% of courses at the 3000 or 4000 level, exclusive of any foundation courses, or equivalent courses, to apply toward the total number of hours required for each of the master’s degrees.
• A minimum of a 3.000 cumulative grade point average on coursework taken at UHCL in each degree. No grade lower than a C is acceptable towards a graduate degree.
• The faculty of the program areas will determine the appropriate CPS.

Note: Students with the Simultaneous Master’s Degree CPS, who wish to complete only one of the two degrees, must follow the basic university graduate degree requirements for that degree.

Non-Simultaneous UHCL Master’s Degrees

Students pursuing an additional master’s degree may earn the additional degree by completion of a special “Additional Master’s Degree CPS” subject to the following provisions:

• Fulfillment of all specific degree program requirements in each degree including a separate master’s degree option (i.e. comprehensive exam, thesis, residency, internship or extended coursework with a capstone course or a comprehensive exam) for each degree. These requirements are reported in the college section of this catalog.
• At least 24 unique hours must be selected from courses from the 5000 and 6000 level or their equivalents for the additional degree.
• At least 24 semester hours must be taken in residence.
• College may allow no more than 25% of courses at the 3000 or 4000 level, exclusive of any foundation courses or equivalent courses, to apply toward the total number of hours required for the additional master’s degree.
• A minimum of a 3.000 cumulative grade point average on coursework taken at UHCL in the additional degree. No grade lower than a C is acceptable toward a graduate degree.
• The faculty of the program areas will determine the appropriate CPS.

Master’s and Doctoral Degree Options

All master’s and doctoral option coursework requires continuous enrollment until completion. See Automatic Enrollment - Graduate Option coursework. Students enrolled in at least three hours of graduate option coursework, excluding the capstone course, will be considered full time for purposes of enrollment verification for loan deferment, but not for purposes of determining eligibility for veteran’s benefits or financial aid. Students who plan to graduate at the end of their last semester of master’s option enrollment must file an application to graduate by the stated deadlines.

Option 1: Master’s Thesis

The master’s thesis requires continuous registration until completion for a minimum of six hours. Some programs may require more than six hours. If a student does not maintain continuous registration in the master’s thesis, previously accumulated master’s thesis credits will not count toward the master’s degree. A grade of In Progress (IP) will be recorded on the transcript until completion. For details, please consult the appropriate academic adviser. All students registering for thesis must submit a copy of both the “Steps in Completing a Thesis” and the “Thesis Preparation Guide.” These may be obtained from the associate dean of their college. Individual colleges may provide additional information regarding specific college requirements.

Objective

The master’s thesis must present evidence of:

• A thorough review and understanding of the literature.
• The ability to do independent research.
• The preparation of a manuscript that conforms to generally recognized standards of scientific and scholarly writing in the discipline. The dean of each college will provide, on request, a copy of the procedures for registering for thesis work, selecting an adviser and thesis committee, writing a proposal in advance of starting work, preparing the manuscript, presenting the thesis for approval and submitting the thesis in approved electronic format for archiving by Neumann Library. The Library will make the thesis freely available online through the UHCL institutional repository. Students may have hard copies of their thesis bound for personal use.

Option 2: Master’s Project

The master’s project requires continuous registration until completion, for a minimum of six hours. Some programs may require more than six hours. If a student does not maintain continuous registration in the master’s project, previously accumulated master’s project credits will not count toward the master’s degree. A grade of In Progress (IP) will be recorded on the transcript until completion.

Objective

The master’s project may be widely and variously conceived, but must present evidence of:

• A careful review and understanding of the relevant literature and other knowledgeable sources.
• The ability to do independent scholarship and/or field study: to carry out and/or assess a major practical application of theory or methods from the discipline.
• The preparation of a report and other materials, as appropriate, which conform to recognized professional and scholarly standards. The dean of the college will provide a copy of the procedures for registering for project work, selecting an adviser, preparing the proposal and the report and presenting it for approval. After approval, the project will be submitted in approved electronic format for archiving by Neumann Library. The Library will make the project freely available online through the UHCL institutional repository. Students may have hard copies of their project bound for personal use.

Option 3: Master’s Residency or Internship

• Graduate Residency: Requires continuous registration until at least six semester hours of residency have been completed. Some programs may require more than six hours. A grade of In Progress (IP) will be recorded on the transcript until completion. For details, please consult the appropriate academic adviser.
• Graduate Internship: Depending upon the program, a minimum of three semester hours will be required. A grade of In Progress (IP) may be assigned for internship programs. For details, please consult the appropriate academic adviser.

Objective

The master’s internship and residency are designed to provide important learning experiences complementary to the academic preparation gained in coursework. In general, the residency must represent application of master’s level instruction to materials or situations that are new to students. The internship should provide an opportunity for students to evaluate the relevance of theoretical or academic perspectives to the work environment.

Option 4: Extended Coursework

The extended coursework option requires at least six semester hours of coursework in addition to the minimum of 24 hours of coursework numbered 5000 or higher. Option 4 also requires successful completion of a capstone course or a comprehensive examination.

Option 5: Exhibition

The master’s exhibition requires continuous registration until completion for a minimum of six hours. If a student does not maintain continuous registration in the master’s exhibition, previously accumulated master’s exhibition credits will not count toward the master’s degree. A grade of In Progress (IP) will be recorded on the transcript until completion.

Objective

The master’s exhibition must present evidence of:

• The ability to work independently to develop, produce, and exhibit work that meets industry standards for distribution to arts organizations and placement in public arenas such as museums and galleries.
• The preparation of materials that meet or exceed discipline-specific professional and scholarly standards. These include: a digital portfolio; an artist’s statement, biography, and resume; an artist’s web presence; and, a reflective report on the exhibit. The dean of the college will provide a copy of the procedures for registering for exhibit work, selecting an adviser, preparing the proposal, and submitting the required work in approved electronic format to the student’s exhibit committee, the Office of the Dean, and the UHCL Neumann Library. The Library will make the work freely available online through the UHCL institutional repository. Students may retain rights to their work for later use.

Master’s Option Appeals

Students may appeal previous academic actions or decision by faculty members regarding master’s degree options 1, 2, 3 or 5 by following the academic appeals process.

Requesting and Repeating Comprehensive Examination

Students who have selected degree programs requiring comprehensive examinations are responsible for requesting the examinations in writing from the dean of the college by the deadline set by the college for the examination. Associate deans and/or chairpersons of students’ degree committees offer guidance concerning students’ readiness for the examination and the form of the request. Students who have been reported to a dean for failing a comprehensive examination may request a second comprehensive examination no sooner than the next semester after the semester in which the examination was failed. Normally, comprehensive examinations will not be administered more than two times. Appeals to this policy will follow the normal academic appeals process.

Graduation under a Particular Catalog

As long as students maintain continuous enrollment, they are entitled to graduate under the degree provisions in effect at the time the Candidate Plan of Study (CPS) is filed. Degree-seeking students should file a CPS during the first semester of enrollment at UHCL. Filing of the CPS is completed when it is signed and dated by the appropriate dean and is effective on that date. Failure to enroll in and satisfactorily complete at least one course in a 12-month period shall break continuous enrollment for the purpose of the CPS. The dean may require revision of the CPS of students who have not maintained continuous enrollment. The revisions may bring the plan into conformance with provisions of any catalog issued after that in effect when the plan was filed or last revised. Students may, with the approval of their adviser or dean, amend their CPS to comply with the provisions of catalogs issued after the initial filing of the CPS. Degree requirements must be completed within five years from the effective date of the CPS. Exceptions may be granted by the appropriate dean. Graduate students exceeding the time limit will automatically come under the provisions of a more recent catalog, the specific edition to be determined by the dean.

Applying for Graduation

Degrees are not awarded automatically upon completion of degree requirements. To be considered a candidate for graduation, the student must submit an online application for graduation via their student E-Services account. Degree candidates must officially apply for graduation within the first three weeks of the semester in which they plan to graduate, but no later than the date specified in the academic calendar. Please refer to the academic calendar for online graduation application dates and deadlines to avoid additional late fee charges.

To be eligible to apply for graduation, students must have completed or be enrolled in the final courses required to meet graduation requirements. A non-refundable fee is required of all students who intend to complete their degree regardless if they choose to participate in the commencement ceremony. Degree candidates, who are in two separate programs and anticipate completing the degree requirements for each program, must apply and pay separate non-refundable graduation application fees for each program. If students do not successfully complete their degree requirements at the close of the semester for which they have applied, they will be required to reapply and pay another fee during the subsequent semester in which they intend to graduate.

Students who elect to participate in the commencement ceremony must “walk” in the semester they graduate. As there is no commencement ceremony in the summer, students who graduate in August will be eligible to participate in the December ceremony. Diplomas are mailed after the final approval is received from the graduating student’s college. Diplomas are mailed to students 10 to 12 weeks after the end of the semester. Diplomas are mailed to the mailing address on record at the time of graduation. Students who graduate from UHCL must complete a new application and pay the applicable fee in order to continue taking classes.

Applying for a Certificate

Students must officially apply through their E-Service account for the award of certificate completion the semester in which they plan to earn the certificate. During their last semester of enrollment, students must complete an application for the award of certificate completion by the stated deadline, as specified in the academic calendar. Please refer to the academic calendar for online graduation application dates and deadlines.  If students do not successfully complete their certificate requirements at the close of the semester for which they have applied, they will be required to reapply and pay another fee during the subsequent semester in which they intend to complete.

Awards of the certificate will be posted to the official college transcript, but students will not participate in the graduation ceremony or receive a diploma.