Academic Policies and Procedures

Planning an Educational Program

Students are responsible for selecting the particular educational program they choose to pursue. Faculty and staff are available to advise students in selecting programs and courses. For those students who are unsure of a program or area of study, faculty and staff will assist them in making career choices based upon the students’ interest and aptitude. Each student is assigned a faculty advisor. Additional help is also available from the Career Services & Vocational Discernment Office or the Office of the Registrar and Academic Advising in Colonial Hall.

Academic Majors

A major is the area of study that a student chooses to pursue in greatest depth. It consists of a set of courses designed to prepare the individual to enter the job market or to pursue further study in graduate or professional school. A major at MMC consists of a minimum of 30 hours of coursework; all students are required to complete an approved major in order to receive a baccalaureate degree. Some majors lead to a specialized vocation while others are broader in scope and prepare students for a variety of vocations. To learn more about a particular major, the student should consult the program coordinator for that major. In addition, each major includes a four-year suggested course of study listed in the Catalog. Within a major, there may be emphasis areas in which a student may specialize (e.g., Accounting in the Business Administration major). However, in the Catalog, the terms “major” and “program area” are used interchangeably.

Academic Minors

A minor, a minimum of eighteen credit hours, is a grouping of courses in a particular academic field of study designed to provide students with expanded knowledge and competency in an area outside the major. To ensure appropriate advising and planning, students who are considering a minor should discuss it with their assigned faculty advisor and consult the appropriate program coordinator for the minor program.

Emphasis Area or Area of Concentration

An emphasis area, or area of concentration, within a major allows students the opportunity to explore a particular area of interest within the major in greater depth. An emphasis area typically requires more credit hours than a minor (e.g., Exercise Science, Accounting, General Psychology).

Pre-Professional Programs

The College offers a number of pre-professional programs in various fields of study. These programs are designed to prepare students to meet the minimum requirements for admission to a professional or graduate school. Because the requirements for admission to various professional programs differ according to the program and to the professional school, students should be familiar with the requirements of the school they wish to enter and plan their curriculum accordingly. Students who wish to pursue health-related and legal careers should be aware of the high level of competition for admission to these programs and should recognize the need for hard work, high academic achievement in all course work attempted, and demonstrated aptitude on the required professional school admission test (MCAT, DAT, LSAT, etc).

Advising for pre-professional programs is assigned to specific academic advisors within certain academic divisions. Students should refer to the designated academic division to learn more about these programs. For information on pre-professional programs in the health sciences, see program information in the Division of Mathematics and Sciences or Nursing and Health Sciences; for pre-law, see the Division of Social Sciences; for pre- physical therapy see either the Program Coordinator for Human Performance and Physical Activity or the Division of Mathematics and Sciences.

Academic Advising

The faculty and staff of Martin Methodist College want every student to have a successful college experience and are committed to providing them the best academic advisement possible. Each student who enters the college is assigned a faculty advisor who assists with schedules and academic concerns. For first year students, the academic advisor is the FYE instructor in coordination with an advisor in the discipline and the Director of Academic Advising. Undecided majors work with faculty and career services. It is the immediate responsibility of all students, including Evening Program students, to make contact with their assigned advisor or the Director of Academic Advising in person, by phone, or by e-mail in order to ensure proper scheduling of the academic program of study while at Martin.

Generally, new first-time freshmen or transfer students are advised and may register during summer orientation. During the initial semester of enrollment, all students are assigned a faculty advisor as assigned by the Director of Academic Advising. All students are encouraged to meet regularly with their advisor throughout their stay at Martin Methodist College. Should there be a need to change advisors, students may complete a Change of Major/Advisor form available in the Registrar’s Office or electronically.

Additionally, the Director of Academic Advising works closely with faculty and students providing degree audits upon request, checking to ensure that students are registered for appropriate courses each semester , and sending degree audits each semester to the student and advisor beginning the junior year. Effective academic advising is vital to the success of students; however, the ultimate responsibility for enrolling in appropriate classes lies with the student.

First Year Experience

First-time entering freshmen are required to participate in a year-long First Year Experience Program, which begins just prior to the start of the Fall semester and continues through the end of the Spring semester. During FYE, students are introduced to the campus community, the academic program, and student life. Placement testing, if needed, occurs during this time to help identify strengths and weaknesses in prior academic training. Based upon these results, students may be advised or required to take one or more courses designed to help them overcome prior academic deficiencies or accelerated to reflect academic strengths. First Year Experience (FYE) covers a variety of topics designed to promote a successful transition to college as well as using the YouScience evaluation to explore aptitude and interests and how that translates to major and career choice. First year students are mentored by their FYE instructors in coordination with faculty in the student’s chosen major. The typical first year student will enroll in 13-16 hours per semester.

Disabilities and Accommodations

Reasonable accommodations are individualized and based on the nature of the documented disability and the requirements of specific courses. Accommodations are designed to meet the needs of students without fundamentally altering the nature of the College’s instructional programs. Below are examples of commonly requested accommodations:

• Extended time on exams

• Testing in a distraction-limited environment

• Use of computer for in-class written work

• Preferential classroom seating

• Permission to record lectures to supplement note-taking

• Housing access accommodations

• Services for students with temporary conditions, such as concussion, broken leg/arm, or surgery recovery.

Students requesting academic accommodations are directed to file their documentation with the Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. That office maintains the files and shares the appropriate or recommended accommodations to the faculty teaching the student, with the student’s permission. The Vice President of Student Affairs and the Provost/VPAA consult with each other regularly to make sure the student is being served appropriately. Information regarding accommodations is also placed on every syllabus published by the College.

RedHawk Ready

If by the RedHawk Ready Day at the beginning of each semester students have not completed the requirements below, they will be required to attend this event in order to complete any unfinished business. Students registering after this date are charged a late-registration fee. Each semester a registration period is designated in the Academic Calendar during which students may predetermine their courses for the upcoming semester. This process requires consultation with the student’s faculty advisor before the student registers. Students complete the registration process by completing all requirements to be RedHawk Ready (please check your MMC email to ensure you have completed each step). Students are not officially enrolled until they have completed all requirements for admission, (2) have completed any testing that may be required for student placement, and (3) have paid all fees or made satisfactory arrangements with the Business Office for fee payment. Students should complete requirements well in advance of RedHawk Ready Day.

Late Registration

Following the regular registration period, students are allowed a period of one week (see Academic Calendar for exact dates) during which they may register late. Students registering after the seventh day of classes, or the first class of the summer or evening sessions, may do so only with the permission of the Provost. Students registering late will be charged a late registration fee (see fee schedule for amount), and may be counted absent for each class period they have missed.

Change of Schedule

After the registration period has ended for a given semester, permission to drop, add, or change a course must be obtained by completing a Drop/Add form and processed by the Registrar’s Office. Each change in schedule is governed by the following regulations:

A fee of $25.00 will be assessed against the student for changing, adding, or dropping from one course/section to another after the free drop/add period.

No change in schedule from one course/section to another will be permitted after the seventh calendar day in a semester or the first day of class in a summer or evening session.

A student who stops attending a class, but does not officially drop the course, will receive a grade of “F” in the class.

In order to officially drop or add a course after the registration period, a Drop/Add form must be completed with the appropriate signatures and processed by the Registrar’s Office. The $25.00 fee will be charged.

Course Loads, including Overload

The unit of academic credit awarded by the College is the semester hour, which represents the equivalent of a one-hour period of class work or at least one two-hour period of laboratory work each week of the semester. The normal full-time student academic load is 15-16 semester hours per week, 13-16 for a first-year student, exclusive of physical education activity courses. Lighter loads are sometimes required or recommended based on a student’s previous academic record. Students must register for at least 12 semester hours to be considered full-time. Students who elect to take fewer than 12 hours are classified as part-time, which carries financial aid implications. Students who wish to take more than 18 hours may do so by completing an Overload Request form with appropriate signatures and final permission granted by the Provost. To take an overload, the student must have a 3.0 GPA or above. Additional overload fees apply. The Office of Academic Affairs monitors student class loads.

Directed Study

All efforts should be made to take classes in the regular schedule. Students should check the listing of classes in the Catalog to see which courses will be offered each semester. A directed study may be taken by students who have extreme and/or mitigating circumstances that prevent their taking regularly-scheduled classes. Students must complete a Directed Study Form with appropriate signatures and final approval granted by the Provost. There is a limit of nine (9) semester hours that any student may take by directed study during their academic career at Martin Methodist College. This total limit may not include more than three (3) hours of lower-level courses nor more than nine (9) hours of upper-level courses. Registration for directed study courses must be during a scheduled registration period. Permission to take a class by directed study is contingent upon the student having a 3.0 GPA or above, along with approval of the faculty member involved and the Provost. A Directed Study fee of $200 is charged for each hour of credit, along with regular tuition charges for the class. A student may not take a course by directed study if he/she has previously taken and failed the course. Change of major, a desire for early graduation, and/or an addition of a minor or second major are not considered sufficient reasons for a directed study.

Auditing

A person may audit a course with permission from the Provost. In that case the course is recorded on the student’s permanent record, but it is marked “audit.” A grade of “AU” is indicated on the record. Fees apply. The outcome of an audited course has no bearing on a student’s GPA.

Cancellation of Classes/Change of Class Delivery Systems

The College reserves the right to cancel classes that do not meet established criteria relating to availability of qualified instructors or sufficient enrollment. Some classes may be moved to virtual or totally online delivery because of issues related to the pandemic. Students will be notified through their MMC email accounts.

Course Placement

ACT scores and/or placement scores for first-year students will be evaluated to determine placement in writing, mathematics, or science classes. Placement in writing classes is also based on a diagnostic essay administered and evaluated by members of the English faculty. Should a student dispute his/her placement in one of these classes, the objection must be submitted in writing to the program coordinator for English within one week of the placement, upon which time a second diagnostic essay will be scheduled. This essay will be evaluated by three independent members of the English faculty. Students who are placed into a developmental or remedial course must make a C- or better in order to continue on to the next course in the sequence or to use the course as a prerequisite for another course. Final placement is mandatory.

ACT scores in English for placement in writing classes are as follows:

ACCUPLACER Score Ranges for MMC Writing Placement are as follows:

ACT scores for Mathematics placement are as follows:

ACCUPLACER Score Ranges for MMC Mathematics Placement are as follows:

Students who enter the College with basic deficiencies in reading, writing, mathematical or study skills may be required to take classes designed to help them overcome these deficiencies and to prepare them to succeed in college-level composition or mathematics courses (ENG 100, ENG 100L, MAT 100, FYE 100, and ESL courses). These courses do not count toward graduation requirements, and the grades earned are not included in the grade point average (GPA).

Course Exemptions/Exceptions to Policy

Students who are medically or physically disabled may be exempt from the one-hour physical education requirement. A physician’s statement is required and should be brought to the Office of Academic Affairs. Exemption from the physical education requirement does not reduce the total number of hours required for graduation.

Students who have had prior military service may receive two hours of physical education credit for basic training or its equivalent, upon review of official military transcripts. To obtain credit, students should submit to the Registrar’s Office a copy of their American Education Council Education transcript.

Additional exceptions to policy may be made with an approved Exception to Policy with final approval from the Provost.

Transfer Credits

Martin Methodist College accepts transfer credits from other regionally accredited institutions or those which otherwise meet the requirements for transfer credit as defined by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Credit will be given for those courses in which a grade of “C-” or better was earned. Courses that are clearly vocational or occupational in nature will not be accepted as credit towards the associate degree or baccalaureate degree. Students who complete all courses listed for a particular Tennessee Board of Regents Tennessee Transfer Pathway and who hold an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree from a Tennessee Community College or from a senior institution within the state that meets the Transfer Pathway will be admitted with junior standing and will have satisfied the General Education core requirements for the B.B.A., B.S., B.S.N., and B.A., except for courses required for their major. Students who have not followed an approved Transfer Pathway and who hold an A.A. or A.S. degree, or students holding an applied degree (e.g., A.A.S.), must have their transcripts evaluated on an individual basis, and recognized courses will be credited toward graduation. The final determination of acceptability of courses will be made by the Registrar and the Provost. Following enrollment at Martin Methodist College, only grades earned in coursework at Martin will be used in determining satisfactory academic progress, graduation honors, and grade point average.

Transient Classification

A person currently enrolled in good standing at another college or university may enroll for credit by applying for admission and by presenting to the Registrar a statement from the first institution giving permission to take course work at Martin Methodist College. This person will be classified as a transient.

Non-Degree Seeking Classification

Individuals who do not wish to pursue a degree may apply as non-degree seeking students. Non-degree status is usually used for applicants who are practicing professionals in the field and who wish to take one or more courses for professional development.

Special Dual-Enrollment Classification

A student completing the sophomore year of high school with an accumulated grade point average of 3.00 or better may be admitted as a special dual-enrolled student. This classification applies to students who wish to take classes during the summer between their junior and senior year in high school, and to those students who wish to take special college-level classes on a dual enrollment basis in their high school or on the MMC campus. Special dual-enrolled students must obtain permission of their high school principal and guidance counselor. The grades may also be transferred to other colleges or universities in accordance with the regulations of those institutions. To continue in the program, dually enrolled students must maintain a MMC grade point average of 2.75. See Dual Enrollment handbook for additional information.

Transfer Procedures

Once a student has enrolled in a program on campus, he/she must complete a Transfer Credit Request form with the appropriate signatures before registering for any courses at other institutions if planning to transfer the courses to Martin Methodist College. Failure to obtain prior written approval may render the courses non-transferable. Full instructions are available on the form.

Students who academically have not performed satisfactorily during the fall term are not allowed to take correspondence or other forms of distance learning courses prior to the beginning of the spring semester to maintain eligibility for scholarships that require minimum GPAs, for participation in college-sponsored performing groups, athletic teams, etc., or to overcome academic probation or suspension.

Courses taken at another institution do not affect the MMC grade point average (GPA).

Evening College

Martin Methodist College offers a full evening program leading to the Associates or Bachelor’s degree in certain academic areas. Evening, hybrid, and online classes are convenient and affordable ways for working adults to earn a two- or four-year degree while maintaining a full-time job. Bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration: Management, Elementary Education (K-5), Behavioral Sciences, and Criminal Justice are offered completely in the evening or online. With this program, students generally only have to attend classes two nights per week, sometimes only one depending on the use of hybrid (online) coursework. Classes typically run in eight week modules fall, spring, and six week modules in summer. The amount of time spent in each class is the equivalent to that spent during a regular semester in a day class. Many courses in the evening college program are taught as hybrids. There are six terms within a year. For students over the age of 21, the ACT exam is not required and the GED is accepted. Placement testing may be required.

Many students who attend the Evening Program may receive some type of financial aid to assist with expenses. Students may apply for federal Pell Grants, state grants, and federal student loans. Also, some employers have tuition reimbursement plans for their employees. Inquiries about the program should be directed to the Office of Admissions.

Summer School

The College operates a summer session consisting of two six-week terms with day classes meeting Monday through Thursday and evening classes typically meeting two nights a week, for the benefit of students who wish to begin their college work early or continuing students who wish to take additional courses or repeat courses. The summer sessions also provide a trial period for academically marginal students as indicated in the admission section of the Catalog. Online courses are also available. The typical summer load is six hours per session.

During the summer terms, the College reserves the right to cancel any class with fewer than six students registered. The schedule of classes for the summer terms will be posted on the College’s website approximately 6 weeks prior to the opening of the summer session and made available in the Registrar’s Office.

Honors Program

The W. Garie Taylor Honors Program of Martin Methodist College promotes a community of scholars through the development of challenging curricula, cultural enrichment, and face-to-face interaction with guest speakers who are leaders in the religious, political, academic, business, scientific, and arts arenas. The program fosters community through participation of academic scholarship winners; small class interaction with Honors Program professors; visits to museums or to places of historical, ecological, scientific, economic, or artistic importance; and community service. Guest speakers expose program participants to ideas of both new and historic significance.

The Taylor Honors Program is open to all students with a 25 ACT and a minimum 3.0 GPA in high school. Students invited to join the program will be required to complete an honors section each of the first four semesters they attend Martin Methodist College. Students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA in order to continue in the Honors Program.

Students who do not meet the above requirements may participate in the Honors Program if they have a cumulative 3.0 GPA after their first semester of at least 15 hours at Martin Methodist College. Students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA in order to continue in the Honors Program.

Transfer students may enter the Martin Methodist College Honors Program by:

1. graduating from an honors program at a two-year college, or
2. completing honors classes at another college and having a transcript evaluation upon matriculation to Martin Methodist College.

Students admitted to the Taylor Honors Program at Martin Methodist College take a minimum of 15 hours of honors courses. These hours can be met in the core and/or in existing upper-level Honors classes. Additionally, a student can arrange with an instructor to have an existing upper-level course count for Honors credit through a course contract. Students who contract for Honors credit will work with the professor of the course to design and implement an independent research project appropriate to the subject matter of the course and the interests of the student. The project will culminate in the student’s presentation of research to the campus community in his/her senior year. A minimum grade of B- in the course is required for Honors credit. Graduating students who complete a total of fifteen hours of honors courses will be recognized with honors diplomas indicating such at graduation.

International Studies Program

Martin Methodist College offers multiple opportunities for students to participate in credit-bearing travel study and study abroad programs around the globe. With a focus on academics, global travel and multicultural fun and adventure, participating in ISP programs can be a highlight of the MMC college experience.

Study Abroad programs are summer or semester-term programs for language immersion, academic exchange, or international internships. These programs usually carry 6-18 hours of credit. Martin Methodist has partnerships with colleges, universities, and language institutes in far-flung places around the world. Our partnerships with the Methodist International Student Exchange Network (MISEN) and Irish American Scholars Program expand our global reach. Martin Methodist students have completed programs in France, Argentina, Zimbabwe, Mexico, England, Bulgaria, Columbia and Greece, just to name a few. Please check with the ISP office for a list of officially recognized programs.

Students wishing to participate in Study Abroad programs should schedule a visit with the International Studies Office personnel to review potential program options. After a potential program is selected, the student should then consult with his or her academic advisor about timing and fit of the specific program. It is recommended that students consider Study Abroad in their sophomore or junior years. Tuition and travel fees vary by type of program. Approved academic exchange programs are often the most cost-effective Study Abroad option.

Events highlighting international studies, students, and activities occur throughout the year.

The Spring Breakaway Series offers students short-term study abroad and domestic study away opportunities during the week of spring break. The Spring Breakaway is an international or domestic field experience that is a part of a regular spring-semester course. The offerings will vary from year to year. The Spring Breakaway in spring semester 2020, for example, featured a trip to Washington, DC to visits art museums and view theatrical performances. To participate in the Spring Breakaway, a student must be enrolled in the parent course. The experience carries an additional course fee. Students interested in the Spring Breakaway Series should schedule a visit with the International Studies Office.

For information concerning any International Studies Program, please contact Dr. George Cheatham.

Continuing Education Program

The purpose of the Continuing Education Program at Martin Methodist College is to assist the College in achieving its mission “to serve the region and church through educational, spiritual, social, and cultural programs.” Non-credit courses are offered periodically for personal and professional enrichment. These courses are available to serve special needs or interests within the community. Inquiries about the program should be directed to the Office of Admissions or the Office of Academic Affairs.

Online Classes

Martin Methodist College offers online and hybrid courses available to students both on- and off- campus. The policies and procedures described in this Catalog apply to students enrolled in online courses as well as to those enrolled in classes offered in the traditional classroom setting. Online students may be either degree- or non-degree seeking students who are enrolled in classes that are taught in an online format. The MBA and MS in Criminal Justice are offered as a hybrid programs. Students may attend class either in person or virtually via Teams.

Academic Standards of Conduct

As an institution of higher learning affiliated with the Tennessee Conference of the United Methodist Church, Martin Methodist College strives to provide an environment for students, faculty, and staff in which members of a diverse community can live together, interact, and learn from one another in ways that protect personal freedom and community standards.

The College has certain basic expectations regarding both social and academic behavior of faculty, staff, and students, and expects these to be actively supported within the College community. The expectation is based upon a firm understanding of and commitment to the following values: respect for the individual, the importance of truthfulness, intellectual honesty, academic and personal integrity, and respect for the educational process.

Because these are values fundamental to academic and social success within the college community, it is anticipated that each student will actively subscribe to the College’s Honor Code. Anyone who violates the Code will be held accountable. See Student Life Code of Conduct, online or in print in the Student Handbook.

Academic Honor Code

See also Academic Honor Code, online or in print in the Student Handbook.

Academic Integrity

Students are responsible for proper conduct and integrity in all scholastic work. This includes following a professor’s instructions as to the completion of tests, quizzes, homework, and laboratory reports, and asking for clarification if the instructions are not clear. Students should not give or receive aid when taking exams, unless the professor specifies that this practice is appropriate. In addition, students should complete work within the time limitations specified by the professor. Described below are violations of these basic academic expectations and their consequences. Certain academic divisions reserve the right to set even more stringent standards of academic integrity. In addition, students have the responsibility to review and abide by syllabi for all courses.

Cheating: Cheating is the use of any unauthorized source in the completion of assignments or tests. Students must complete all tests and examinations without help from any unauthorized source; they may not use, offer, or solicit unauthorized information, materials, or help without the explicit consent of the professor. Cheating offenses include, but are not limited to, looking at another student’s paper, an open textbook, a notebook, online, or a “cheat sheet” during a test; talking to another student during a test; the sharing of information between students who have taken a test and students who have not; and using or soliciting unauthorized test copies as study aids. Collusion--working together in an unauthorized or fraudulent way--is also cheating. Students may not collude on homework, papers, tests, or any other type of classwork without the express consent of the instructor(s). The student who knowingly shares information or supplies material to another student has also committed an offense and can be charged under this section. These rules apply to take-home exams as well as any other assignments unless the professor explicitly says otherwise. Students must check with the professor and syllabus to clarify what is acceptable. Cheating also includes the use of an instructor’s copy of a textbook. Those textbooks are not allowed in any class. The professor also has the right to confiscate any and all unauthorized materials used in the completion of academic work.

Plagiarism: Plagiarism, according to Hodges’ Harbrace Handbook, 14th ed., is “the use of another writer’s words or ideas without acknowledging the source. Akin to theft, plagiarism has serious consequences and should always be avoided” (788). Plagiarism can be blatant or incidental. Blatant plagiarism includes copying a passage without giving proper credit to the source, downloading all or part of a paper from the Internet, summarizing or paraphrasing another’s ideas without indicating where they came from, or submitting someone else’s work as one’s own. Incidental plagiarism includes careless omission of quotation marks around a passage that was copied word for word and otherwise cited correctly, or minor errors in documentation when quoting, summarizing, or paraphrasing another’s words or ideas. Both forms of plagiarism are serious. A student must avoid both kinds of plagiarism. Any student who does not understand how to paraphrase or document appropriately should see his or her professor or make an appointment or email the Student Resource Center.

Academic Misrepresentation: Any act of dishonesty committed for academic advantage is misrepresentation. Violations include, but are not limited to, lying about reasons for absences or late work, forging an academic document (e.g., a drop/add form), or submitting work not prepared by the student.

Multiple Submissions of Work: Students may not, without the prior consent of all instructors involved, submit the same work for credit in two or more courses or for a repetition of the same course, nor may they submit work previously completed at any other institution without the prior written consent of the current instructor.

Failure to Comply with the Honor Code or Honor Council: Members of the College community who are notified of Honor Code action which involves them and who fail to attend a scheduled meeting or hearing may be subject to disciplinary action at the discretion of the Honor Council. Witnesses are required to testify when called. Students convicted of an Honor Code violation who fail to comply with any penalties set by the Council may be subject to further disciplinary action. Cooperation consists of telling the truth. Failure to do so may produce additional honor code violations.

Guidelines for Assigning Consequences for Above Actions

Below are guidelines the Honor Council uses in assigning consequences for the academic violations described above. The Honor Council has the authority to change any sanction to fit the severity of the offense as deemed necessary. For more information including a full discussion of Policies and Procedures, see MMC Student Handbook, 2020-2021.

Class Attendance Regulations

The faculty and administration expect students to attend class regularly and to develop effective study habits. College policy dictates that students must attend a minimum of 80% of class meetings for each class in which they are enrolled. Successful students may not accrue absences in excess of three times the number of class meetings per week in the regular day semester, or a total of three absences in the Evening Program. Each individual faculty member will establish reasonable consequences for absences and publish these in the course syllabus. When a student misses more than the allowed absences for any class the professor is empowered to assign a grade of “F.” No student may be penalized for work missed due to required attendance at a school sanctioned function. However, it is the student’s responsibility to notify the instructor, generally in advance of attendance at such an event, and to arrange to complete any makeup work in a timely manner. It is the individual professor’s right to set terms and deadlines for makeup work.

Dues to the specialized nature of some program requirements (e.g., laboratories, practica, internships, clinicals), programs may of necessity deviate from this policy by establishing more stringent guidelines.

Class Attendance Regulations for Online Courses

Classes at MMC may be taught online or on Teams in addition to face-to-face. Classes taught via Teams may be taught at the assigned day and time or recorded and listened to at the student’s convenience. Students must follow the course syllabi in all cases and contact course instructors or the Director of Academic Advising if they have questions. It is the policy of the College that students will demonstrate attendance in an online course by completing their work in a timely manner and participating in a substantive way in course content. To this end, students will be required to:

• Prior to beginning coursework, students must complete the brief, online orientation

• Check the course site at least once a week

• Communicate with classmates and the instructor periodically

• Complete work periodically

As with any course, a student cannot miss several weeks of online classes and expect to be successful in the course. There may be deadlines for assignments, and there may be requirements for students to log-in at particular times to participate in group discussions or other activities. Students should consult each course syllabus for specific requirements.

Students who fail to log into their online course within the first seven calendar days from the start of the sixteen-week session/term or the first day of an eight- or six-week session/term will automatically be withdrawn from the class. Logging into an online class without active participation, such as (but not limited to) completing an assignment, does not constitute attendance in the course and is considered as a student never attending class and will be treated as such. Students should notify their professors immediately if they have trouble logging on to their online classes. If a student chooses to withdraw from an online class, they may contact the Director of Academic Advising or The Registrar’s Office. The withdrawal will be effective from the date of the email notification. A Course Withdrawal Form will be emailed to the student who should complete the form and return it by mail, fax, or scanned and emailed. Failure to withdraw will result in a grade of “F” in a course.

Class Attendance During Inclement Weather

It is the College’s policy for the Provost, Vice President of Student Affairs, and President to determine if classes will be canceled due to existing or predicted weather conditions. Students will receive a text message and an email alerting them of the cancellation of classes. The cancellation will be posted on the College’s website as soon as this decision is made. Local radio stations, 3PTV, and Nashville and Huntsville television stations will be notified of the cancellation. Because weather conditions sometimes vary widely within the surrounding area, students are advised to use their own discretion in attempting to attend classes during inclement weather. Students are advised to contact their instructors about such absences, but normally will not be penalized if they are unable to get to campus during adverse weather conditions.

Since online courses generally are not affected by inclement weather, assignment due dates and times will remain fixed throughout the semester and will not be rescheduled due to weather. Students should contact the instructor by phone, on Teams, or email if weather becomes a concern.

Administrative Withdrawal Because of Attendance

Students who stop attending classes, or who miss all or most of their classes excessively, may be subject to being dismissed from school and will receive a grade of “W” or “WF” depending upon the date at which the withdrawal becomes final. In addition, there may be financial ramifications. Students who are administratively withdrawn will not be allowed to continue living in residence halls, nor will they be allowed to continue representing the College in any public manner, such as participating in music ensembles or drama productions or on athletic teams, etc.

Tests and Examinations

A student who is absent from an announced test because of unavoidable circumstances should notify faculty immediately, before the absence, if possible, and may make up the test by presenting to the instructor written certification to that effect from the Provost. These instances should be rare. Students who miss a test or examination and are not permitted to schedule a makeup will receive a grade of “F” on that exam.

Final examinations are given in each academic subject at the end of the semester. Permission to be absent from a final examination must be obtained from the instructor and the Provost. Approved absences from a final examination will entail a grade of “I”, and the Incomplete Policy will apply. Failure to receive prior permission to miss a final examination may result in a grade of “F” in the course. Final exam schedules are posted each year. Please ensure that any flights or other plans are scheduled to ensure that you do not miss a scheduled final examination. Note: Students taking exams online may need Respondus.

Withdrawal from a Course

Students may withdraw from courses with the grade of “W” during the first four weeks of day classes or first two weeks of evening and summer sessions by completing a Drop/Add Request form with appropriate signatures (the form is also available electronically). After that time, a Drop/Add Request with appropriate signatures must be completed, and instructors assign a grade of “WP” or “WF,” as appropriate. Course withdrawal is not permitted during the last two weeks of the semester prior to the first day of final examinations or during the last week of a session in evening or summer sessions. Remember, dropping below 12 hours may carry financial aid implications, so students should check with the Financial Aid Office and the Business Office before dropping or withdrawing from a course. A student who stops attending a class without officially withdrawing will receive a grade of “F” in the course.

Withdrawal from the College

If a student finds it necessary to leave school during the course of a semester, he/she must officially withdraw from the College in order to remain in good standing. A student who leaves the College without completing an official withdrawal form in the Registrar’s Office will receive a grade of “F” in each course scheduled. If students complete the official withdrawal form and if there are satisfactory reasons for their leaving the school (e.g., serious illness), the official record sheet will show a grade of “WP” in subjects which they were passing at the time of withdrawal and a grade of “WF” in those which they were failing. Sometimes, occasions arise that merit a grade of “W” for all classes. To withdraw from the College, a student should observe the following withdrawal procedures:

• Obtain a Withdrawal Form from the Registrar’s Office, and complete an exit interview,

• Secure clearance from all offices specified on the Withdrawal Form,

• Return the completed form to the Registrar’s Office.

In cases of emergency, a student may need to withdraw, but there is not sufficient time or ability to complete paperwork. These will be examined on a case-by-case basis, will require documentation, and must be approved by the Provost.

This policy also applies to online students; they should email their instructors and the Registrar’s Office to initiate the process. Bottom line: Failure to withdraw will result in a grade of “F” in all courses. All withdrawals may have financial ramifications.

Grade Reports

Reports of each student’s scholastic achievement are available to the student through the College’s administrative software system. Grades are posted at mid-semester and at the end of each semester. The student who receives a deficiency on a mid-semester report is invited and expected to consult with the instructor and his or her faculty advisor who will take action appropriate to the individual case.

Academic Honors

At the end of each semester, the College recognizes those students who have distinguished themselves academically. These students’ names are published as follows:

President’s List – full-time students (12 hours or more) who achieve a semester GPA of 3.9 to 4.0.

Dean’s List – full-time students who achieve a semester GPA of 3.5 to 3.9, with no grade of “F” or “I.”

The Grading System

Students at Martin are graded in their academic achievements according to a system of letter grades. To facilitate computation of averages of students’ grades, the College assigns numerical values called quality points to all letter grades of passing quality. Below are various letters used in grading, their meaning, and quality point value:

A+ — denotes work of superior quality and is assigned four (4.0) quality points for each semester hour.

A — denotes work of superior quality and is assigned four (4.0) quality points for each semester hour.

A- — denotes work of superior quality and is assigned 3.7 quality points for each semester hour.

B+ — denotes work of above-average quality and is assigned 3.3 quality points for each semester hour.

B— denotes work of above-average quality and is assigned three (3.0) quality points for each semester hour.

B- — denotes work of above-average quality and is assigned 2.7 quality points for each semester hour.

C+ — denotes work of average quality and is assigned 2.3 quality points for each semester hour.

C— denotes work of average quality and is assigned two (2.0) quality points for each semester hour.

C- — denotes work of average quality and is assigned 1.7 quality points for each semester hour.

D+ — denotes work of below-average quality and is assigned 1.3 quality point for each semester hour.

D— denotes work of below-average quality and is assigned one (1.0) quality point for each semester hour.

F— denotes failure and zero (0.0) quality points are assigned for this grade.

P— denotes pass. Hours count towards graduation requirements, but no quality points are awarded (used only in special circumstances such as labs, credits earned through by-pass tests, and some practica).

I — denotes incompleteness. This temporary grade must be replaced by a permanent one within the first four weeks of the following semester of enrollment. Failure to complete the course work within this period of time will mean that the “incomplete” becomes a permanent grade of “F.” When computing quality points for an average, the “I” is counted as an “F” until a permanent grade has been earned. Most of the work in a class should be finished before a grade of I will be given.

W — indicates that the student was permitted to withdraw from the course within the first four weeks of a semester or within the first two weeks of an evening or summer session. For purposes of computing grade point averages, the “W” is treated as though the student had never enrolled in the course; however, it does count toward attempted hours.

WP — indicates that the student was permitted to withdraw from the course after the deadline for awarding the “W” and that course work was of passing quality at the time of withdrawal. For purposes of computing grade point averages, the “WP” is treated as though the student had never enrolled in the course; however, it does count toward attempted hours.

WF — indicates that the student was permitted to withdraw from the course after the deadline for awarding the “W” and that course work was not of passing quality at the time of withdrawal. Zero quality points are assigned, the grade is included in determining the student’s grade point average (counts as an “F”), and it counts toward attempted hours.

In all instances except administrative failures (i.e., a failure assigned by the Provost for excessive absences or for violations of the Honor Code), all grades are assigned by the instructors.

Repeated Courses

Students may repeat courses unless that privilege is denied by the Provost. The grade received in the repeated course supersedes all previous grades and is credited only in the semester in which the course is repeated. All hours attempted count toward Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). In addition, some majors require grades of B or C in certain courses in order to progress in the major. These requirements may have financial aid implications. Students should carefully check the requirements for their specific major and also check with the Financial Aid Office to learn about all financial implications.

Academic Standards

A student at Martin Methodist College, whether full-time or part-time, is expected to maintain a satisfactory level of achievement to remain in good standing. The required levels are:

In addition, to continue financial aid, a student must have successfully completed the following number of hours in the following time frame:

An eligible Tennessee state resident may receive a Tennessee Student Assistance Award for a maximum of eight semesters.

Academic Probation, Suspension, and Readmission

The student who, at the end of any semester of attendance, fails to meet the necessary cumulative grade point average (GPA) as indicated above will be placed on academic probation for the following semester and will be required to take a reduced course load. At the end of the probationary semester, the student who has achieved the required cumulative GPA will be returned to good standing. The student who has not achieved the required cumulative GPA but who has earned a minimum 2.00 GPA for the semester on a minimum of twelve hours attempted will be continued on academic probation for the next semester.

The probationary student who has not achieved the required cumulative GPA and has not earned a 2.00 average for the semester on a minimum of twelve hours attempted will be suspended from the College. In addition, the student enrolled in six or more hours who fails all course work in any semester, except for one-hour courses such as P.E., FYE, Choir, etc. will be suspended regardless of academic standing prior to that semester.

For students currently enrolled in developmental courses, all developmental classes are calculated into the GPA to determine probation/suspension.

Following suspension, a student who wishes to be readmitted to the College must file, with the Office of Admissions, an application for readmission, and must submit a letter of appeal to the Provost, who will present it to the Admissions and Financial Aid Appeals Committee. The letter should explain why he/she should be readmitted. The submission of a letter of appeal does not guarantee the student the right to return. If the application is approved, the student will be allowed to return to classes, but will have certain stipulations placed upon him/her by the committee and will be on academic probation for the next semester. The readmitted student will be required to meet with an academic coach regularly.

Students readmitted after their first academic suspension must achieve the required cumulative GPA or maintain a semester GPA of 2.0 or higher. Those who fail to live up to this minimal standard will be suspended a second time. Readmission to the College is possible, but requires the approval of the Admissions and Financial Aid Appeals Committee. If the student is readmitted, he/she will be required once again to achieve the required cumulative GPA or maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher in the first semester of work after his/her return to school. Failure to maintain this minimal standard may result in permanent suspension.

A student who is suspended may enroll in a community college. Martin Methodist College encourages these students to take college transfer courses, with grades of A, B, or C, with no D’s or F’s, and then to reapply after a successful semester. Students are encouraged to complete a Transfer Credit Request form with the Registrar’s Office to ensure that these courses will transfer back to MMC and count toward the student’s degree if readmitted. Note: Students wishing to retake courses to raise their grade point averages at MMC must retake those courses at MMC. A course taken at another institution does NOT affect the grade of the course taken at MMC.

Students who register but withdraw from classes repeatedly are also considered to have failed to make Satisfactory Academic Progress and will be reviewed routinely by the Financial Aid Office. While these individuals may not be suspended, there are certain financial aid restrictions for any individual who exhibits a pattern of frequent withdrawals from classes.

Martin Methodist College notifies all students who have been suspended for academic reasons in multiple ways: by placing a notice on the student’s transcript, by email, and by a letter that is mailed to the student’s permanent address (as indicated in official College records). The letter provides an explanation of the reason(s) for the suspension and informs the student of the date on which he/she may appeal for readmission at Martin Methodist College.

It is the responsibility of the student to supply Martin Methodist College with an accurate permanent mailing address and telephone number. The College cannot be held responsible for failure to notify a student regarding suspension if the student has not supplied the College with an accurate and complete mailing address and telephone number.

The Director of Academic Advising also monitors freshman and sophomore students whose GPA falls below a 2.0 but are not considered on probation.

Classification of Students

Freshman: 0-24 semester hours. All full-time students must have completed or be currently enrolled in English Composition or Developmental Writing.

Sophomore: 25-59 semester hours

Junior: 60-89 semester hours

Senior: 90 or more semester hours

Student Records and FERPA

Student records are maintained under the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), as amended. Transcripts and information from the student’s permanent records, other than directory information, are released only upon the written request of the student. Students who wish to inspect their academic record may do so online via the College’s administrative software system. Students who wish to inspect other records may do so by making a formal request to the appropriate office. Students have the lawful right to challenge the content of their educational record if the record contains any material which the student deems inaccurate or misleading. Concerns should be discussed with the appropriate College officer. If matters cannot be resolved in this manner, the student may request a formal hearing. The College protects the privacy of all students, including those enrolled in distance education courses in alignment with the FERPA 1974. Directory information is considered public information unless the student requests in writing to the Registrar that all or part of such information not be published. Directory information includes: name, dates of attendance, major field of study, degrees and awards, participation in recognized activities, organizations or sports (including weight and height). MMC email addresses are available to all of the MMC community. Students should provide a password to the Registrar’s Office for themselves and anyone they grant access to so that we may verify their identify over the phone.

Transcripts

Current or former students may receive copies of their academic records (transcript) or have them sent to other institutions, agencies, or firms by requesting these from the Registrar. Requests may be made through the College website and the National Student Clearinghouse. Fax, email, or phone requests will not be accepted. A fee of $7.00 will be charged for each official transcript, and students and alumni may access unofficial transcripts through the College’s administrative software system. Transcript requests will not be honored for any student whose financial account with the College has not been cleared.

Program Assessment

Students may be required to complete one or more questionnaires or surveys and to take one or more standardized tests to determine general educational achievement or overall knowledge of the major field as a prerequisite to graduation. The results of such testing will be used to assess overall program effectiveness and to enhance program quality in the future. Unless required in a particular program, no minimum score or level of achievement is required for graduation. Failure of students to participate in such testing, or taking the test and performing in a frivolous manner, may result in some form of sanction including fines, suspension, and/or failure to graduate, or a lesser penalty until such tests are completed properly. All students should consult the capstone and assessment requirements listed within this catalog for their major.