ACADEMIC REG'S & GRADUATION REQ'S

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Page Last Revised on 01/23/2008

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Students are held individually responsible for meeting the require­ments outlined in this catalog.  Cal State San Marcos will make every effort to adhere to these require­ments for students subject to this catalog; particularly important is the “Graduation Requirements” section.  All parts of the catalog are subject to change from year to year as University rules, policies, and curricula change. Failure to keep informed of such changes will not exempt students from whatever penalties they may incur.

Enrollment

All students who register at Cal State San Marcos for either the Fall or Spring semester must first be admitted to the University by the Office of Admissions.

Concurrent Enrollment

Cal State San Marcos provides opportunities for students to enroll concurrently at other colleges and universities. This privilege has some limitations, and students interested in concurrent enrollment should keep in mind that their study load in the proposed com­bined program may not exceed the maximum number of units authorized by the University for each term. Interested students should consult with their academic advisor before initiating concurrent enrollment procedures.

Enrollment Within the CSU System

Students enrolled at Cal State San Marcos may enroll concurrently at other CSU campuses. Such enrollment is at the discretion of authorities from both campuses. Applicants should satisfy the following requirements: (1) have completed at least one semester at Cal State San Marcos as a matriculated student and earned at least twelve [12] semester units, and (2) main­tained a grade point average of 2.0 [C] in all work completed at the University, and be in good academic standing.

Enrollment Outside The CSU System

Students enrolled at Cal State San Marcos may enroll concurrently for additional courses at another institution outside The CSU system with advance appro­val from the student’s advisor. However, the study load in the pro­posed combined program of study may not exceed the maximum number of units authorized at this University.

Further information regarding concurrent enrollment and deadlines may be obtained from the Office of Registration and Records.

Enrollment as a Visitor

Cal State San Marcos encourages its students to experience a wide variety of teaching and learning environments. As a part of this emphasis, the University provides opportunities for students to visit other campuses in the CSU system. While on visitor status, Cal State San Marcos students are fully enrolled at the host campus. Since programs and courses may vary within the system, students are required to review their proposed course of study with their academic advisor.

Declaring (or Changing) a Major

Work in a major field of study is designed to afford students the opportunity to engage in intensive study of a discipline.  Students may declare a major at the time of admission, or students may enter the University with an “undeclared” major.  Students entering the University as “undeclared” or those changing their majors must process a Change of Major Form through the Enrollment Services Information Center. Undeclared major students with bachelor degrees, who are completing credential requirements or preparing to enter credential programs, receive their advising in the College of Education. All other undeclared students receive advising in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Definition of Terms

Continuous Attendance

Continuous attendance/enrollment, as it refers to attendance by a stud­ent at any campus of The California State University, means enrollment in at least one course for at least one regular semester in each calendar year.

Out-One Term

An “out-one term” for a student is a regular semester (either spring or fall) of any calendar year in which s/he does not enroll in any course or withdraws from all courses by the end of the add/drop period, and which immediately follows a semester in which s/he was enrolled in at least one course beyond the add/drop period.  A student maintains catalog rights during the out-one term.

 

Course Expectations

Course expectations and requirements will be communicated in the course syllabus, which will be made available to students no later than the first class meeting, and which will be placed on file in the program/department office and/or the Dean’s office, by the fourth week of classes.  Each syllabus will also contain a statement on the instructor’s scheduled office hours.

Course Information

The course descriptions, found begin­ning on page 221 of this catalog, briefly describe the content or subject matter to be covered and provide addi­tional information such as units of credit (number in paren­thesis after the course title), level of instruction (see course numbering system), and prere­quisites and/or corequisites (courses in which the student must enroll simultaneously).

Course Numbering System

The first digit in each course designation is intended to indicate the level of the course. In addition, the first digit also roughly indexes the student’s year of study at the University.

Courses numbered 001 to 099 are non-baccalaureate developmental courses. Courses numbered 100 to 299 are lower-division. Courses numbered 300 to 499 are upper-division.

Courses numbered 500 to 599 are graduate level, and may be taken by advanced upper-division, postbacca­laureate, or graduate students for undergraduate or graduate credit.

Courses numbered 600 to 699 are graduate level.  These courses may be taken by undergraduate students only on an individual basis, and only with prior, case-by-case approval of the program director of the program offering the course (or his/her designee).

Students should consult relevant sec­tions of this catalog, as well as college and program advising staff, in order to determine which courses are appropri­ate for their level of study, and which courses satisfy degree requirements for various programs of study.

Grading System

Grades are assigned in accordance with the following policies.

Definitions of Letter Grades

A (Excellent): Performance of the student has been at the highest level, showing sustained excellence in meeting all course objectives and exhibiting an unusual degree of intellectual initiative.
 
B (Good): Performance of the student has been at a high level, showing consistent and effective achievement in meeting course objectives. 
 
C (Satisfactory): Performance of the student has been at an adequate level, meeting the basic objectives of the course.
 
D (Passing): Performance of the student has been less than adequate, meeting only the minimum course requirements.
 
F (Failing): Performance of the student has been such that minimum course requirements have not been met.

Plus/Minus Grading

A=4.0
A-=3.7
B+=3.3
B=3.0
B-=2.7
C+=2.3
C=2.0
C-=1.7
D+=1.3
D=1.0
D-=0.7
F=0

Nontraditional Grading

Courses are graded on an A through F basis, as described above, except those specifically designated as follows:

CR/NC (Credit/No Credit): Credit (CR) is awarded for grades equivalent to C or better. No credit (NC) is awarded for grades equivalent to C- or less. Grades of CR and NC are not included in the calculation of grade point averages.

Courses graded Credit/No Credit, whether taken at this or at another institution, may not be used to satisfy requirements for the major, except for specific courses designated by the discipline (refer to the course section of this catalog). General Education courses may not be taken at Cal State San Marcos with a Credit/No Credit option. A maximum of nine (9) semester units may be taken at CSUSM with a Credit/No Credit option and applied toward an undergraduate degree.

When a student does not complete a course, and does not officially withdraw from it, the following grading symbols may be assigned by the faculty:

    I           Incomplete Authorized
    RP        Report in Progress
    WU      Withdrawal Unauthorized

   

I (Incomplete Authorized): An incomplete grade indicates that a portion of required coursework has not been completed and evaluated in the prescribed time period due to unforeseen, but fully justified, reasons and that there is still a possibility of earning credit. It is the responsibility of the student to bring pertinent information to the instructor and to determine from the instructor the remaining course requirements which must be satisfied to remove the Incomplete. A final grade is assigned when the work agreed upon has been completed and evaluated.

An Incomplete must normally be made up within one calendar year immediately following the end of the term in which it was assigned. This limitation prevails whether or not the student maintains continuous enrollment (see definition under Definition of Terms section). Failure to complete the assigned work will result in an Incomplete being changed to an IC symbol, unless

RP (Report in Progress): The RP symbol is used in connection with courses that extend beyond one academic term. It indicates that work is in progress but that assignment of a final grade must await completion of additional work. Except for graduate degree theses and projects, work is to be completed within one calendar year immediately following the end of the term in which the RP was assigned. Failure to complete the coursework within the pre-scribed time period will result in the RP being changed to an F (or NC, if the class was taken for Credit/No Credit). In graduate thesis and project courses, the RP grade will not change to an F or NC until the student has exceeded the time-to-degree limit of the graduate program.

WU (Withdrawal Unauthorized): The symbol WU indicates that an enrolled student did not withdraw from the course and also failed to complete course requirements. It is used when, in the opinion of the instructor, completed assignments or course activities or both were insufficient to make normal evaluation of academic performance possible. For purposes of grade point average and progress point computation this symbol is equivalent to an F.

The following administrative grading symbols are assigned by the Office of Registration and Records:

    AU       Audit
    IC         Incomplete Charged
    RD        Report Delayed
    W         Withdrawal

 

AU (Audit): The AU symbol is used when a student audits a course. Enrollment as an auditor is subject to the permission of the instructor provided that enrollment in a course as an auditor shall be permitted only after students otherwise eligible to enroll on a credit basis have had an opportunity to do so. Auditors are subject to the same fee structure as credit students and regular class attendance is expected. Once enrolled as an auditor, a student may not change to credit status unless such a change is requested no later than the last day to add classes. A student who is enrolled for credit may not change to audit after the last day to add classes. An auditor is not permitted to take examinations in the course; therefore, there is no basis for evaluation or a formal grade.

IC (Incomplete Charged): The IC symbol is used when a student who received an authorized incomplete fails to complete the required coursework within the allowed time limit. The IC replaces the I and is counted as a failing grade for grade point average and progress point computation. Note that the IC is not used if the course was taken for Credit/No or if the faculty member assigns a specific letter grade at the time the Incomplete is assigned (see Incomplete Authorized).

RD (Report Delayed): The RD symbol is assigned when the instructor has not reported a grade. It is replaced when the instructor assigns the grade. An RD is not included in the calculation of grade point averages.

W (Withdrawal): The W symbol indicates that the student was permitted to withdraw from the class after the add/drop deadline published in the Class Schedule with the approval of the instructor and appropriate campus officials. It carries no connotation of quality of student performance and is not used in calculating grade point average or progress points.

Before the 2002-2003 academic year, the following grading symbols were in use at Cal State San Marcos:

    SP        Satisfactory Progress
    U          Unauthorized Incomplete

 

These symbols are no longer in use, but will still appear on transcripts indicating coursework completed prior to the start of the fall 2002 semester.

SP (Satisfactory Progress): The SP symbol is used in connection with courses whose work extends beyond one academic term. It indicates that work is in progress and that has been evaluated and found to be satisfactory to date, but that assignment of a precise grade must await completion of additional work. Except for graduate degree theses and projects, work is to be completed within one calendar year immediately following the end of the term in which it was assigned. Failure to complete the additional work within the pre- scribed time period will result in the SP being changed to an F (or NC, if the class was taken for Credit/No Credit). In graduate thesis and project courses, the SP grade will not change to an F or NC until the student has exceeded the time-to-degree limit of the graduate program.

U (Unauthorized Incomplete): The symbol U indicates that an enrolled student did not officially withdraw from the course and failed to complete course requirements. It is used when, in the opinion of the instructor, completed assignments or course activities, or both, were insufficient to make normal evaluation of academic performance possible. For purposes of grade point average, this symbol is equivalent to an F.

Grade Changes

The University recognizes the prerogative of the faculty to set standards of performance and to apply them to individual students.  The University will seek to correct injustices to stu­dents, but at the same time, believes that the instructor’s judgment at the time the original grade is assigned is better than a later reconsideration of an individual case. Equity to all students is of fundamental concern.  The following policies apply to changes of grades, except for changes of Incomplete Authorized and Unauthorized Incomplete symbols.

  1. In general, all course grades are final when filed by the instructor in the end-of-term course grade report. Students may obtain their grades through the SMART system. These grades become a part of the official record.
  2. A change of grade may occur only in cases of clerical error or where the instructor reevaluates the ori­gi­nal course assignments of a stu­dent and discovers an error in the original evaluation. A clerical error is an error made by the instruc­tor or an assistant in calculating or recording the grade. A change of grade shall not occur as a conse­quence of the acceptance of additional work or reexamination beyond the specified course requirements.
  3. A request for a change of grade shall be initiated by the student affected and shall be directed to the instructor within sixty (60) calendar days of the first day of classes of the regular semester following the award of the grade.  If the instructor determines that there is a valid basis for the change, a Change of Grade form shall be used to notify the Office of Registration and Records. Forms are not to be handled by the student. If the instructor determines that there is not a valid basis for the change, and denies the student’s request, the instructor’s decision is final. The student may file a grie­vance through the Student Grievance Committee in cases where the student believes a grade was issued on the basis of capricious or prejudicial treatment by the instructor.

 

Incomplete Grades for Graduating Students

If it is possible for a student to graduate with an “I” grade in a course because that course is not required for graduation, and if the student has sufficient credit units to graduate without the course, the “I” grade becomes permanent.  No further action will be taken to alter the student’s record for purposes of that degree.

Grade Point Average

The grade point average (GPA) is a measure of academic scholarship and performance. The grade point average is computed by multiplying the number of units earned by the quality-point value of the grade assigned. The total quality points are then divided by the number of units attempted, subject to application of the Repeat of Undergraduate Courses policy described in this catalog.

A student’s overall GPA is based on the record of all baccalaureate-level and/or postbaccalaureate-level courses attempted by that student.  A student’s institutional (or Cal State San Marcos) GPA is based on the record of all baccalaureate-level and/or postbaccalaureate-level courses attempted by that student at Cal State San Marcos. Some degree programs may require students to achieve a minimum GPA in courses applied toward major requirements, or a minimum grade in each of these courses.

Maximum Number of Units

A student whose academic record justifies a study program in excess of nineteen (19) units may be allowed to enroll for extra units.   Undergradu­ates who request to enroll for more than nineteen (19) units must obtain the approval of their academic advi­sor. If such requests are denied, appeals may be made to the appro­priate college dean. In general, only students with superior academic records and a demonstrated need for such excess enrollment will be allowed to enroll beyond the nineteen (19) unit limit.

Student Classification

Students who have complied with all the admissions requirements and who have received an official notice of admission will be ad­mitted to the University under one of the following classifications.

Freshman. A student who has earned a total of zero to twenty-nine (0 to 29) semester units inclusive.

Sophomore.  A student who has earned a total of thirty to fifty-nine (30 to 59) semester units inclusive.

Junior. A student who has earned a total of sixty to eighty-nine (60 to 89) semester units inclusive.

Senior. A student who has earned a total of ninety (90) or more seme­ster units.

Graduate/Postbaccalaureate.  A student who has earned a bache­lor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
 

Repeat of Undergraduate Courses and GPA Adjustment Policy

When students repeat a course for the sake of improving upon an earlier unsatisfactory performance, they may, under certain circumstances, request to have their earlier grade ignored in the computation of their grade point average (GPA).  The following policy, applying only to coursework completed at Cal State San Marcos, outlines the circumstances under which undergraduate students may request adjustment of the GPA.

  1. If an undergraduate student has received a grade of C- (1.7) or less in a course, has repeated the course in a subsequent term, and has earned a better grade, then an Undergraduate Student GPA Adjustment Request Form may be submitted to the Enrollment Services Information Center.  All requests should be submitted in consultation with the student’s academic advisor.  Any request confirmed as complying with this policy will be granted.
  2. When a request is granted, one prior grade earned in the course is ignored for the purpose of calculating the GPA.  However, all grades for a given course will be maintained as a part of the student record and will appear on the student’s transcripts.
  3. A maximum of five (5) different requests may be filed by a student over the course of the undergraduate career.  Only one request may be filed for any single course.
  4. Since CR/NC grades do not enter into the GPA calculation, it is not necessary to submit this form when repeating a course in which a grade of NC was earned.  If a course previously taken for a grade is repeated CR/NC, the original grade(s) will continue to be calculated in the GPA.
  5. Unless the student submits an Undergraduate Student GPA Adjustment Request Form to the Enrollment Services Information Center, all grades earned in repeated enrollments in the course will be used to calculate the student’s GPA.
  6. A request may not be filed until the student has completed the repeat, and may not be filed if the student received a grade of CR, NC, F, I, RD, SP or U the last time that the course was repeated.
  7. If a student wishes to repeat a course for the sake of filing a request, and the course is not scheduled to be offered during the student’s expected time to degree, then the program director (or designee) of the program offering the original course may approve substitution of a similar course to be repeated instead.  If a course with variable topics is repeated, then with the pair of exceptions stated immediately below, the same topic (identified by specific course number and suffix) must be repeated in order to omit the earlier grade from the GPA calculation.  If the topic has been converted to a new course, and is identified as such in the catalog description of the new course, then the new course may be taken to repeat the topic.  If the same topic is not scheduled to be offered again within the term of the student’s expected time to degree, the program director (or designee) of the program offering the course may approve substitution of a similar topic offered under the same course number.  The substitute course (or topic) must be taken after completion of the original course.

 

Student Course Load

Since every undergraduate degree requires a minimum of 120 units, a student who intends to graduate after eight semesters of study will need to average at least fifteen (15) units every semester.  For this reason, a normal course load in a semester is fifteen (15) units.  Undergraduates who are taking at least 75% of the normal load, that is, at least twelve (12) units in a regular fall or spring semester, are classified as full-time students.  Students enrolled in nine (9) units or more in a summer term are classified as full-time.  Undergraduates who are enrolled in fewer units are classified as part-time students.

Note that classification as a full-time or part-time student is different from the two levels of State University Fees: up to 6.0 units, and above 6.0 units (see page 39).  For questions about course load requirements related to student financial aid, contact the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office, (760) 750-4855.  For questions about course load requirements related to Veterans Benefits, contact the veterans representative in the Office of Registration and Records, (760) 750-4808.

Undergraduate international students on non-immigrant visas must carry and complete a mini­mum of twelve (12) units per semester unless a reduced load is authorized by the University. Reduced unit loads may be granted for substan­tial academic or compelling personal reasons beyond the control of the student. Failure to secure such authoriza­tion results in violation of student status under Immigration and Naturali­zation Service (INS) and State Depart­ment regulations, war­ranting discontinuance of enroll­ment.

Student Attendance and Administrative Withdrawal

Students registered in a class must be present at the first class session to guarantee a place in the class.   Administrative Withdrawal is a procedure that offers instructors the option of making enrollment in a course contingent upon the stu­dent’s attendance at the first meeting.  Stu­dents absent from the first meeting may be administra­tively dropped from the class at the instructor’s request.  In addi­tion, instructors may stipulate that attendance at other specified class meetings on or before the add/drop deadline is required for stu­dents to remain enrolled in the class.  (For example, in some sci­ence laboratory courses, student attendance at safety instruction sessions is mandated by state law.)

Students who are unable to attend the first class meeting, or class meetings where attendance is required for enrollment, must contact the instructor in advance to make sure the instructor is aware that the student wishes to remain enrolled in the course.  Notification of the instructor may not be suffi­cient to ensure enroll­ment in the course; students may be administra­tively dropped from courses for failure to attend first class meetings or other mandatory meetings, even when the instructor is given prior notification.

Instructors are not required to drop students for absence; therefore, students should not assume that they will be dropped for absence, and should confirm their registration status before the add/drop deadline.

Where students have been admini­stratively dropped from a class, and where the absence or inability to contact the instructor was caused by mitigating circumstances, students should appeal to the instructor in seeking to regain enrollment in a class. Students who have been admini­stratively dropped from a class may be reinstated, upon consent of the instructor, by filing a Schedule Adjustment Form in the Enrollment Services Information Center.

Add/Drop and Withdrawal Policy

Adding Courses

There will be no adding of classes on the first day of the academic term.  Students who wish to add classes may do so, using a Schedule Adjustment Form, beginning the second day of the term until the published add/drop deadline. The Schedule Adjustment Form, with the instructor's signature (or that of the instructor's designee), must be submitted to the Enrollment Services Information Center (where blank forms are available).  Beyond the add/drop deadline, students may add courses only with signature approval of the course instructor and the Dean of the College offering the course (or designee); a late fee will be assessed.

Dropping Courses

Students who wish to drop classes may do so by following the procedures outlined in the table on page 76.  (Students who wish to drop all their classes should also follow the procedures for University Withdrawal, below.)  These procedures are under revision as the catalog goes to press.  Students should consult with advisors, the Office of Registration and Records, or the Class Schedule for current course withdrawal procedures.  Failure to follow formal withdrawal procedures will result in the assignment of a grade other than a "W" for the class.  Before the first day of the semester students may drop classes either by using the SMART system or by submitting a completed Schedule Adjustment Form.  No registration activity is permitted on the first day of the semester.   After the first day of classes and until the Add/Drop deadline, as detailed below, students may drop classes either by using the SMART system or by submitting a completed Schedule Adjustment Form to the Enrollment Services Information Center; signature approval is not required, and no record of the course will appear on the student’s transcript.

After the Add/Drop deadline, students must submit a Course Withdrawal Form to the Enrollment Services Information Center.  Signature approval is required for withdrawing from classes, according to a series of deadlines staggered throughout the academic term, as detailed below.  To gain approval, students must present sufficient reason(s) for withdrawing from the class.  Given approval, the grade of "W" ("Withdrawal") appears for the class on the student’s transcript.  Grades of "W" are not included in the calculation of the student’s GPA.  Where such approval is not granted, students who withdraw from a class will receive a grade other than "W."

 

Procedure for dropping or withdrawing from courses
 
These procedures are under revision as the catalog goes to press.  Students should consult with advisors, the Office of Registration and Records, or the class schedule for current course withdrawal procedures.
Deadlines* Requirements and Procedures
On or before the Add/Drop deadline: end of the second week of semester (end of approximately 10% of the academic term).
  • student may use the SMART system or submit a Schedule Adjustment Form to the Enrollment Services Information Center. 
  • No record of the course appears on student records
  • no signiture approval required.
After the Add/Drop deadline, and on or before mid-term (end of the eighth week of the semester or approximately 50% of the academic term).
  • Dean of the college offering the course (or designee) must sign the Schedule Adjustment Form..
  • Student must present serious reason(s) for dropping the course.  Inadequate academic preparation for the course is sufficient justification.
  • Given approval, grade of "W" appears on the student records.
  • After obtaining signiture approval, student student must submit a Schedule Adjustment Form to the Enrollment Services Information Center.
After mid-term, and on or before the last day of the twelfth week of the semester (end of approximately 75% of the academic term).
  • Dean of the college offering the course (or designee) must sign the Schedule Adjustment Form.
  • Student must present serious or compelling reasons for dropping the course.  Inadequate academic preperation for the course is no longer sufficient justification for the drop, unless compounded by other aggervating circumstances.
  • Given approval, grade of "W" appears on student records.
  • After obtaining signiture approval, student must submit a completed Schedule Adjustment Form to the Enrollment Services Information Center.
Beyond the last day of the twelfth week of the semester (beyond the end of approximately 75% of the academic term), until the deadline for instructor submission of grades.
  • Course Instructor and Dean of the College offering the course (or designee) must sign the Schedule Adjustment Form.
  • Student must demonstrate that the need to drop the course is due to circumstances beyond the student's control, as in the cases of serious illness accident, family emergency, ect., and that a grade of "I" (where acceptable to the instructor) is impratical, given these circumstances.
  • Given approval, grade of "W" appears on student records.
  • After obtaining signiture approval, student must submit a completed Schedule Adjustment Form to the Enrollment Services Information Center.
Up to one year after the end of the term.
  • Student may  petition for retroactive dropping of single courses by following the procedures outlined in the preceding section of this chart.
  • Student may petition for retroactive dropping of all courses attempted during the term by submitting a written request to the Dean of Students.
  • In this petition, the student must present serious and compelling reasons for the retroactive drops. 
  • The petition is reviewed by a committee consisting of the Dean of Students (or designee), the Dean od the College of the student's major (or designee; Aarts and Scinces in the case of undeclared majors), and a faculty member from the Student Affairs Committee (SAC).  (When this faculty member os unavalible, a replacement may be appointed on an ad hoc basis by the Dean of the College, from amoung the College faculty.)
  • Given approval by the review committee, the Dean of Students will sign off on the petition; grades of "W" will appear on student records for all courses attempted during the term.
*Deadlines are strictly enforced.  Students wishing to petition for an exception to a deadline based on circumstances beyond their control may do so in writing on a petition form avalible in the Office of Registration and Records.

 

Retroactive Course Drops

Up to one year after the end of the academic term, under extraordinary circumstances students may petition for retroactive withdrawal of any or all courses attempted during the academic term, as detailed below.  Given approval, the  grade of "W" will appear on the student's transcript for the course(s) addressed by the petition. 

Withdrawing from the Institution

To minimize possible financial penalties, students who wish to withdraw all classes at any point in the academic term (without adding others for the same term) must also officially withdraw from the University.   Students who find it necessary to withdraw from Cal State San Marcos after enrolling for any academic term are required to follow the official withdrawal procedures.  Failure to follow formal withdrawal procedures may result in the assignment of failing grades in all courses and the need to apply for readmission before being permitted to enroll in another academic term. During the academic term, permission to withdraw all classes must be sought according to the deadlines, requirements and procedures detailed below.  Where such permission is not granted, students who withdraw from the University will receive grades other than "W" for all classes attempted during the term.  Grades will be determined on the basis of coursework completed during the term. Information on withdrawal procedures is available from Office of Registration and Records at (760) 750-4814.

In addition, students must submit a completed University Withdrawal Form Enrollment Services Information Center.  (Forms are available at the Enrollment Services Information Center and the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students.)  To obtain approval for the University Withdrawal, students must obtain a series of clearances from various University offices, independent of permission to drop all classes. 

Details of the University Withdrawal process are outlined on the University Withdrawal Form.

Students receive financial aid funds must consult with the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship prior to withdrawing from the University regarding any required return or repayments of grant or loan assistance received for that academic term. If a recipient of financial assistance, under federal Title IV financial aid programs, withdraws from the institution during a payment period, the amount of grant or loan assistance received is subject to return and repayment provisions as governed by federal law.

In extraordinary circumstances (including but not limited to serious illness, family emergency, call-up for military service, and other circumstances beyond the student's control), students may petition for retroactive University Withdrawal. 

Permission to drop all classes retroactively must be obtained according to the procedures outlined in the final row of the chart across, and a completed University Withdrawal form must also be submitted.  Details of the retroactive University Withdrawal process are outlined on the University Withdrawal Form.

Dean’s List Policy 

To qualify for the undergraduate Dean’s List at the conclusion of a semester, the student must have com­pleted a minimum of 12 units of graded Cal State San Marcos coursework (A, B, C, D, F) during that semester with at least a 3.50 grade point average.

Application for Graduation

Graduation is not automatic upon the completion of requirements. Students who intend to graduate must take the initiative to apply. Upon completion of 90 units, the student is eligible to file an appli­cation for graduation in the Enrollment Services Information Center.  The Class Schedule each semester specifies the filing date. 

The degree is granted upon comple­tion of all requirements by the graduation date. Candidates for graduation are eligible to register for terms subsequent to the graduation date only if an application for readmission as a post-baccalaureate or graduate student has been filed with the Office of Admissions.  Students not completing the require­ments must reapply for graduation. Graduation requirements will be determined by the continuous enrollment regulations defined in this catalog. After the degree is granted, no changes can be made to the under­gradu­ate record.

Catalog Rights for Degree Requirements

If a student does not graduate within ten (10) years from the beginning of his/her catalog rights, the major advisor may review all upper-division major courses for applica­bility.

Election of Regulations

An undergraduate student remaining in continuous attendance in regular sessions at any California State University campus, at any California community college, or at any combination of California community colleges and campuses of The California State University may, for purposes of meeting graduation requirements, elect to meet the requirements in effect at Cal State San Marcos either:

  1. at the time the student begins attendance at a California public community college or California State University campus, or
  2. at the time the student begins attendance at Cal State San Marcos, or
  3. at the time the student graduates from Cal State San Marcos.

The campus may require a student changing his or her major or any minor field of study to complete the major or minor requirements in effect at the time of the change.

For purposes of this section, “attendance” means attendance in at least one semester of a calendar year.

If a continuing student has attended a term and then does not enroll or attend any classes in the next term, the un-enrolled term is designated as an “out one” term and the student retains catalog rights.  After exhausting the “out-one” allowance, if a student does not enroll and attend a subsequent term, catalog rights are forfeited and the student must reapply for admission, unless the student is granted a leave-of-absence for a specific reason as defined in the section below.  Absence due to an approved educational leave or for attendance at another accredited institution of higher learning shall not be considered an interruption in attendance if the absence does not exceed two years. (12 months for graduate students)

Educational Leave of Absence

An undergraduate student who has exhausted their “out-one term” in the prior semester and who needs to remain un-enrolled for an additional semester may, under some circumstances and subject to certain restrictions, apply for an educational leave of absence.  Undergraduate students should contact the Office of Registration and Records for eligibility conditions and limitations.  Request for Undergraduate Educational Leave of Absence Forms may be obtained from the Enrollment Services Information Center during regular business hours.

Graduation with Honors

Undergraduate students who complete their first undergraduate degree requirements at Cal State San Marcos with exceptional scholastic averages will be eligible for bache­­lor’s degrees with Latin Honors. The following criteria are required for graduation with honors:

 

The University transcript includes two grade point averages.  The overall GPA is based on all coursework attempted, including transferable courses from other institutions.  The institutional GPA is based on Cal State San Marcos courses only.  The grade point average used to determine graduation with honors is the lower of the two. Recognition at commencement is based on coursework completed before the semester of the commencement ceremony.  If a student’s record qualifies for graduation with honors based on grades earned during the semester of commencement, the honors designation will be included on the student’s diploma and official University transcripts.

Final Examinations

Student achievement shall be evalu­ated in all courses. Students shall be fully informed of the manner of their evaluations as well as the require­ments and major assignments within the first three weeks of each semester. One method of summative evaluation is a final examination. If a final is given, it must be held at the time scheduled by the University, unless it is a take-home exam, in which case it shall be due no earlier than the day and time scheduled for the final exam for the class. Once established, the scheduled day and time for a final exam may not be changed unless approved by the dean of the college.  No make-up final examination will be given except for reason of illness or other verified emergency.  An instructor may not shorten the academic semester by scheduling an in-class final exam in lieu of a final exam before the week scheduled for the final. The dean of each college shall be responsible for ensuring that this policy is followed.

Academic Probation and Disqualification

In order to determine a student’s eligibility to remain enrolled at Cal State San Marcos, the University shall consider both quality of performance and progress toward successful completion of a student’s course of study. Eligibility shall be determined essentially by grade points and grade point average.

Cal State San Marcos will apply the following guidelines:

Students disqualified for academic deficiency may not enroll in any regular campus session without permission from the Executive Director of Enrollment Services and may be denied admission to other educational programs operated or sponsored by the University.

Academic Renewal Policy

According to California State University policy, a student whose graduation will be delayed by a grade point average deficiency may petition to have up to two semesters or three quarters of previous college study (at any collegiate-level institution) disregarded from all considerations associated with requirements for the baccalaureate degree.  All coursework attempted during the term(s) approved for academic renewal will be disregarded in computing the student’s cumulative GPA.  In addition, any coursework successfully completed during term(s) approved for academic renewal will no longer count toward fulfillment of any degree requirements.  Students may not selectively eliminate course­work.  When such action is taken, the student’s perma­nent academic record is annotated to show the adjusted grade point average, but all coursework will remain legible on transcripts.

Academic renewal is intended only to facilitate graduation from Cal State San Marcos.  It does not apply to indi­viduals who already possess a bacca­laureate degree or who are able to meet graduation requirements in a timely manner without the approval of a petition for academic renewal. 

To qualify for academic renewal, a student must meet all of the following conditions:

    — at least 15 semester units with a GPA of 3.00 or higher
    or

    — at least 30 semester units with a GPA of 2.50 or higher

    or

    — at least 45 semester units with a GPA of 2.00 or higher

Petitions for academic renewal may be obtained in the Office of Registration and Records.  Final decisions on petitions are made by a review committee, consisting of two faculty representatives and the Executive Director of Enrollment Services.

Administrative Academic Disqualification

An undergraduate or graduate student may also be placed on probation or may be disqualified by the Executive Director of Enroll­ment Services for unsatisfactory scholastic progress, regardless of cumulative grade point average or progress points. Such actions shall be limited to unsatis­factory scholas­tic progress arising from repeated withdrawal, failure to progress toward an educational objective, and noncompliance with an academic requirement, and shall be consistent with guidelines issued by the Chancellor of The California State University.

Academic Freedom

Education depends upon the free expression and exchange of ideas in the search for truth. Academic freedom is the freedom to express any view, popular or unpopular, and to defend that point of view in open exchange. The University supports freedom of speech, inquiry, and expression for all members of its faculty, students, and staff in both curricular and cocurricular activities.  All members of the Cal State San Marcos faculty shall have full aca­demic freedom, and the University endorses the general principles of academic freedom outlined in the AAUP Statement (1940) of Principles of Academic Freedom and Tenure.

The principles of academic freedom require their application to both teaching and research. Research cannot fulfill its fundamental pur­pose of advancing knowledge unless it is done in an environment supportive of academic freedom. Academic freedom is essential to the classroom, as a protection of the rights of the teacher and of the student. All those engaged in research are entitled to full freedom in research and in the publication of results, legal requirements, and recognized standards of their profession. Teachers are entitled to freedom in the classroom in presenting material related to the content of the course, but shall refrain from insisting that students or others accept any controversial point of view as authoritative.

Cal State San Marcos members have the right to speak and write as citizens in any forum, free from institutional censorship or discipline.  However, they should apply the best standards of their profession and make every effort to indicate that they are speaking as individuals and not as representatives of the University. As  members of the academic community, they should also remember that freedom of expression and thought equally carry with them certain duties and obligations. Academic freedom does not extend, for example, to any kind of abuse or infringement of the rights of others. Academic freedom focuses on the obligation to ask difficult and meaningful questions and to pursue the truths of those inquiries wherever the pursuit of truth leads.  Academic freedom must not be trivialized nor equated with other freedoms of expression important and constitutionally guaranteed.

Graduation Requirements

Cal State San Marcos will make every effort to preserve the following graduation requirements for students subject to this catalog.

Unit Requirement

The number of semester units neces­sary for a bachelor’s degree is listed below.  At least forty (40) units shall be in upper-division credit and no more than seventy (70) units may be transferred from a community col­lege.  Six (6) units of physical acti­vity coursework and four (4) units of intercollegiate sports activity will be allowed towards a degree at Cal State San Marcos.

    Bachelor of Arts Degree120-124
    Bachelor of Science Degree120-132

Major or Minor Requirements

While individual programs have unique requirements, all majors must include twenty-four (24) units exclu­sive of units used to meet the General Education requirement. At least twelve (12) units in the major shall be upper-division courses; the maximum number of units shall be determined by the discipline. Please refer to the curricula section in this catalog for specific major or minor requirements.

Double Major Requirements

An undergraduate student may desire to complete the requirements for a second major before receiving a baccalaureate degree. The student shall declare the additional major with the appropriate discipline or program no later than the beginning of the student’s final year of study and shall seek an advisor for the second major. When applying for graduation, the student must desig­nate which is to be the primary degree major for purposes of graduation.

Students seeking double majors shall meet all degree requirements for each major. When approved by both disciplines, units may be double-counted above 27 mutually exclu­sive units (15 upper-division) in the bachelor of arts programs and 36 mutually exclusive units (18 upper-division) in the bachelor of science programs.

Second Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

In order to receive a second bachelor’s degree, students who hold a bachelor’s degree from Cal State San Marcos or another accredited institution of higher education must:

  1. Meet in an advising session with the advisor of the major in which the student seeks a second degree. During the advising session, the advisor and the student will develop an academic plan that considers any limitations and any overlap in units in both the first and second degrees.
  2. Complete the major requirements for the second degree. Units from the first degree may be counted, but a minimum of twenty-four (24) upper-division residence units in the major subsequent to earning the first bachelor’s degree is required.
  3. Complete a minimum of thirty (30) units in residence at Cal State San Marcos beyond the first bachelor’s degree. Of the thirty (30) units, twenty-four (24) units must be upper-division in the major.
  4. Complete requirements in U.S. History, Constitution and American Ideals.
  5. Complete the English Placement Test (EPT), Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR), and the Entrance Level Mathematics (ELM) if not already successfully completed at Cal State San Marcos or other CSU campuses as part of the first bachelor’s degree. If com­pleted elsewhere, written verifi­cation is required.
  6. Complete all other Cal State San Marcos graduation requirements in effect at the time of catalog selection.

Second bachelor’s degree candidates are required to achieve a 2.0 grade point average each semester to maintain good academic standing.

Second bachelor’s degree candidates who received their baccalaureate from Cal State San Marcos would have already met General Education requirements. Those with bachelor’s degrees from other institutions must comply with all Cal State San Marcos upper-division General Education requirements.

Residence Requirements

A minimum of thirty (30) units must be completed in residence at Cal State San Marcos, of which twenty-four (24) units must be upper-division and twelve (12) of these must be in the major.  Extension credit, including open university, credit by examination, and transfer credit, do not fulfill the residency requirement.

Grade Point Average Requirements

The following three grade point averages, each 2.0 (C average) or higher, are required for graduation:

  1. A cumulative grade point ave­rage, which includes both trans­ferred and Cal State San Marcos coursework;
  2. A Cal State San Marcos grade point average;
  3. A grade point average in the major, at Cal State San Marcos and in coursework accepted as transfer credit for the major from other institutions.

U.S. History, Constitution, and American Ideals Requirement (GV)

California law (Section 40404 of Title 5, Education, of the California Code of Regulations) establishes as a graduation requirement that students demonstrate competence in the fields of American history and government, the Constitution of the United States, and the processes of state and local government as established in California.  This requirement is embedded in the General Education Area, Area D requirement (See page 85).

Graduation Writing Assessment and All-University Writing Requirements

All CSU students must demonstrate competency in writing skills as a requirement for graduation.  At Cal State San Marcos, students complete the graduation writing assessment through the All-University Writing Requirement.  This requirement mandates that every course at the University must have a writing component of at least 2,500 words (approximately 10 pages). The All-University Writing Requirement can be achieved in a variety of ways, depending on the course. 

Language Other Than English Requirement

Before graduating, Cal State San Marcos students must demonstrate proficiency in a language other than English in any one of the following ways:

Certain courses used to meet this requirement may be used to partially satisfy three (3) units of the lower-division General Education requirement in the Arts and Humanities area.

CSUSM accepts American Sign Language (ASL) in fulfillment of this requirement, but does not accept computer languages.  

Students are encouraged to contact the Language Proficiency Assessor at (760) 750-4197 regarding any questions about the requirement or to arrange for proficiency testing. A fee is required for proficiency testing. Please see page 41 for fee information.

Computer Competency Requirement (CCR)

An updated Computer Competency Requirement takes effect in the Fall 2002 semester. Students who have already satisfied the previous requirement are exempt from the new CCR, which applies to all other baccalaureate students, irrespective of major. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that students become competent in the basics of computer use early in their studies.  The "basics" comprise the following areas:

The Computer Competency Requirement must be fulfilled in the first or second semester of attendance as a matriculated student at Cal State San Marcos. After the second semester, registering for any further classes at Cal State San Marcos will be restricted until the Computer Competency Requirement is fulfilled.

Students are strongly encouraged to attempt to fulfill the Computer Competency Requirement by passing the CCR exam. There is no cost for taking the exam, and study materials are available for purchase at the bookstore. The CCR exam tests students’ competencies in the five areas listed above. Students pass the CCR exam and fulfill the Computer Competency Requirement by achieving a passing score in each area. Students may take the CCR exam multiple times until all of the modules are passed. Students only need to retake the failed modules; once a module is passed, a student need not retake it. The CCR exam is offered over many weekends (Friday – Sunday) throughout the year.  Seating is offered on a first-come, first-served basis with multiple testing times on exam days.  The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.  Exam schedules and meeting places will be posted in Academic Hall 202 and on the CCR web site www.csusm.edu/computer_labs/ccr.htm.

Transfer students may also satisfy the CCR by earning a C or better in an approved course taken at another institution prior to matriculation at Cal State San Marcos. A list of approved courses at other institutions can be found on the CCR web site www.csusm.edu/computer_labs/ccr.htm.  In particular, the following courses at San Diego County colleges meet the requirement:

Mesa, San Diego City, Miramar Community College:  CISC 181
Palomar College:  CIS 105, 120
MiraCosta Community College:  CIS 100

An off-campus course taken more than two years before the student’s first semester of attendance at Cal State San Marcos cannot be used to satisfy the CCR.

If a student doesn’t pass the exam (either in part or in its entirety) and wants instruction on the modules, he/she may sign up for CS 100. Students who are certain that they cannot pass the CCR exam may register for CS 100 before attempting the CCR exam.  This 1 unit, CR/NC course will provide instruction for each of the modules on the CCR exam.  Students pass the course by passing the CCR exam.

Any questions regarding the CCR should be directed to the Computer Competency Requirement Coordinator at (760) 750-4788. 

General Education Requirement

The General Education requirement is composed of fifty-one (51) units distributed in five areas of study. The required disciplinary and interdisciplinary courses reflect the values embodied in the University’s Mission Statement. The program provides education and training in the basic skills, information, knowledge, and attitudes that citizens require to make wise, informed, just, critical and moral decisions throughout their lives.

The General Education Program emphasizes:

The program is supported by comprehensive advising services and learning assistance services.

The nine (9) required units of upper-division General Education provide an opportunity for students to learn about areas of study outside their academic major.  Upper-division General Education courses assume satisfaction of lower-division General Education Requirements and develop upper-division skills. Designed for non-majors, these courses make explicit the basic assumptions, principles and methods of the disciplinary or interdisciplinary area of study.  These courses help students understand how disciplines, ideas, issues and knowledge are often interrelated, intersecting and interconnected.  They also provide students with a classroom environment that fosters independent, active, engaged learning and a genuine curiosity about the subject matter. The nine units of upper-division General Education must be completed at Cal State San Marcos and may not be applied toward major requirements (except for Liberal Studies majors, who may include these units in their major program).

 

Area A:  Basic Skills

Nine (9) units in basic skills distributed as follows.

A1 Oral Communication.

Students will gain an understanding of the psychological bases and the social significance of communication, with special emphasis on the roles of public communication in a free society. They will develop proficiency in composing and delivering extemporaneous public presentations on socially significant and intellectually challenging topics, and in critical and analytical listening. Students will understand and appreciate a range of public speaking styles and forms of eloquence representative of diverse cultural gender, and ethnic groups. Each student will develop a sense of the ethical responsibilities of the public speaker, will learn to respect the freedom of expression of all members of the community, and  will develop a sense of her or his own voice – which means speaking with confidence in public forums in ways that reflect her or his unique perspective and identity.

A2 Written Communication.

Each student will develop a writing style that is clear and correct, and will be able to give form and coherence to complex ideas and feelings. Students will gain an understanding of the writing process and the goals, dynamics, and genres of written communication, with special attention to the nature of writing at the university. They will understand and appreciate a range of writing styles and forms of eloquence. They will develop their rhetorical sophistication, their analytical and imaginative faculties, and college-level reading abilities.

A3 Critical Thinking.

Students will learn logic and reasoning, understand sound argument, and appreciate the value of applying these skills.  They will know how language is related to logic, how to analyze the validity of a statement or argument, and how valid arguments can be constructed.  Students will develop the critical habits of being open-minded and impartial, suspending judgment or taking a stance when warranted, and questioning their own views.  They will recognize that real world problems are complex and not solved with one simple answer.  They will be able to transfer their critical thinking skills to new situations in other courses and in their everyday lives.

Area B:  Mathematics and Natural Sciences

A minimum of twelve (12) units in mathematics and science, distributed as follows.  

B1 Physical Science.

This requirement, together with the B2 requirement below, provides students with a coherent and broad-based coverage of the fundamental principles governing the natural world. Students will use experimentation, logical reasoning and mathematics to extend these principles to new situations and applications. They will learn the ways in which science influences and is influenced by societies in both the past and the present, and they will become empowered to communicate effectively to others about scientific principles and their application to real-world problems. Students must clear the ELM requirement prior to enrollment in these classes.

B2 Life Science.

This requirement, together with the B1 requirement above, provides students with a coherent and broad-based coverage of the fundamental principles governing the natural world. Students will use experimentation, logical reasoning and mathematics to extend these principles to new situations and applications. They will learn the ways in which science influences and is influenced by societies in both the past and the present, and they will become empowered to communicate effectively to others about scientific principles and their application to real-world problems.

B4 Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning.

Students will learn a variety of methods, such as the use of abstract symbols, numeric techniques, logical reasoning, and geometry. They will learn to use mathematical language and formal reasoning in a variety of diverse disciplines, using a broad range of examples. Students will gain historical perspective on the role which the mathematical approach has played in the development of human knowledge and of our understanding of the world. Students must clear the ELM requirement prior to enrollment in these classes.

*Biology and chemistry majors must take BIOL 211; computer science and chemistry majors must take PHYS 201.

**Biological sciences, business administration, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, and students and students with appropriate backgrounds in mathematics are encouraged to select from these courses.  Students should consult with their advisor to determine which courses are appropriate for their degree program.

BB Upper-division Science and/or Mathematics.

Students will use reasoning skills characteristic of common scientific and mathematical practice to do one or more of the following: to solve problems, to interpret observations, to make predictions, to design experiments for the testing of hypotheses, or to prove theorems. Through a balanced picture of past successes and current uncertainties in science or mathematics, they will come to understand the cumulative, historical nature of the development of science and mathematics. The specific scientific or mathematical content of these courses can be useful to students, not only as "examples" of scientific or mathematical methods, but as knowledge which can enhance their lives outside the classroom or their studies in other subjects.

To count toward satisfaction of the BB requirement, a course cannot be taken before the term in which a student attains upper-division status (completion of 60 semester units). Courses used to satisfy this requirement may not be double-counted in any other category of the GE program nor in the student’s major.

Area C:  Arts and Humanities

Twelve (12) units in the arts and humanities, distributed as follows.

C1/C2 Arts and Humanities Core

Students will be expected both to analyze and to create. Within these courses, they will develop habits of analytical rigor, and they will explore their own creativity in an active fashion.  Students will appreciate the interrelationship of the intellect and the emotions, of mind and heart, and will explore the aesthetic, metaphysical and ethical linkages, as well as differences, among individuals and among cultures.  By perceiving, understanding and valuing the ideas, works of arts, philosophies and approaches to spirituality that represent the broad spectrum of men and women across the ages and in diverse cultures, students will explore the meaning of community from a personal and a global perspective, grow towards an understanding of global justice, develop the foundation for making wise personal choices and for transforming one's world, and nurture personal freedom, expression and responsibility. They will integrate their knowledge and make connections across disciplines.

C Third Arts and/or Humanities Course.

Through this requirement and the C1/C2 requirement (see above), students will develop a sense of the integrity of emotional and intellectual response. They will gain a better understanding of the interrelationship between the creative arts, the humanities, and the self.

[Exceptions: Independent study courses, internship courses, approved American history D6 courses, approved upper-division science and/or mathematics (BB) courses, and approved upper-division social sciences (DD) courses.]

Courses used to satisfy this category, if taken at the upper-division level, may not be double-counted in any other category of the GE program, but may be counted in the student’s major.

CC Upper-Division Arts and/or Humanities

Students will examine aesthetic, metaphysical, or ethical manifestations of the human intellect and imagination in diverse historical and cultural contexts. They will cultivate the cognitive and affective aspects of their minds through critical analysis or creative activity. Through a balanced picture of past and present approaches to spirituality, the arts, philosophy, or intellectual thought, these courses will enhance studies in other areas or the student’s life outside of the classroom.

To count toward satisfaction of the CC requirement, a course cannot be taken before the term in which a student attains upper-division status (completion of 60 semester units). Courses used to satisfy this requirement may not be double-counted in any other category of the GE program nor in the student’s major.

Area D:  Social Sciences

Fifteen (15) units of social sciences distributed as follows:

D6 American History.

Through a comprehensive study of American history and the development of American Institutions and ideals, students will acquire knowledge and skills that will help them comprehend the workings of American democracy and the society in which they live. 

D8 United States and California Government.

Students will engage in comprehensive study of American government including the historical development of American institutions and ideals, the Constitution of the United States and the operation of representative democratic government under that Constitution, and the processes of state and local government. The knowledge and skills they acquire will enable them to contribute to society as responsible and constructive citizens.

D7 Interdisciplinary Social Sciences.

Students will be able to identify the methods of inquiry for more than one social science discipline, summarize how the social science disciplines examined in these courses are inextricably interwoven, and explain the usefulness of an interdisciplinary approach for studying social phenomena and issues. They will be able to describe historical and contemporary perspectives of social issues and problems, and acknowledge both western and non-western contributions to current social issues and problems. Students will be able to demonstrate how and why race, class and gender are among the most important categories of social scientific analysis. 

D Discipline-Specific or Second Interdisciplinary Social Sciences course.

Students will be able to identify the prevailing principles and methods of social science in at least one discipline, and explain the usefulness of a disciplinary or interdisciplinary perspective and field of knowledge for social issues and problems. They will be able to describe historical and contemporary perspectives of social issues and problems, and acknowledge both western and non-western contributions to current social issues and problems. Students will be able to demonstrate how and why race, class and gender are among the most important categories of social scientific analysis.

Courses used to satisfy this requirement may not be double-counted in any other category of the GE program.

DD Upper-division social sciences 

Students will be able to analyze problems using social scientific reasoning, use acquired or refined skills to make informed decisions about the future of their community(ies), and/or understand the historical or social context of major political, intellectual, economic, scientific, technological, or cultural developments. They will explore how gender, ethnicity, class, regional identities, and global identities affect society and culture. The material in these courses makes explicit connections to other fields of inquiry and will enhance the lives of students outside the classroom and in their studies in other areas.

To count toward satisfaction of the DD requirement, a course cannot be taken before the term in which a student attains upper-division status (completion of 60 semester units). Courses used to satisfy this requirement may not be double-counted in any other category of the GE program nor in the student’s major.

Area E:  Lifelong Learning and Information Literacy

E

Students will be equipped for lifelong understanding and development of themselves as integrated physiological and psychological entities, in courses taught within the context of the modern library.