Benedictine University

Undergraduate/Adult Accelerated Undergraduate

	Academic Requirements and Policies	General Policies
	Core curriculum	Semester credit hours
	Goals	Student classification
	Majors and degrees	Course loads
	Degree status	Advising
	Student-at-Large (SAL)	Repetition of courses
	Future Scholars program	Grades and reports
	Second Major program	Academic Honesty Policy
	Summer session	Quality point system
	Graduation requirements	Dean's List and Dean's Recognition List
	Transfer students	Student academic standing
	Degree Completion and Adult Programs	Probation and dismissal
	Second Major Program	Academic Amnesty Policy
	Second Baccalaureate Degree Program	Administrative Drop Policy
	Pre-Baccalaureate Certificate Programs	Withdrawal from the University
	Scholars Program	Student leave of absence
		Application for graduation
		Graduation honors
		Student records and disclosures
		University Promotional Photos
		Educational Records: Disciplinary and Counseling
		Student Right-To-Know Act
		Freshman Admissions
		Dual Credit
		Transfer Admissions
		International Admissions
		Continuing Studies
		Financial Policy
		Financial Aid




Academic Requirements and Policies

Rationale
The purpose of the following academic requirements, regulations and policies of Benedictine University is twofold:
1.	To establish and secure an academic standard for all students that determines the value and quality of the associate's and bachelor’s degrees for all graduates; and
2.	To protect both the student’s and the University’s interests by assuring maximum accuracy in all academic records.

Advisors are provided to assist in planning students’ academic programs. They are not authorized to change established policy of the University. The final responsibility for satisfying University and major requirements rests with the student.


Core curriculum
At Benedictine University, at the heart of the College of Liberal Arts is our institution's Core program, and at the center of the Core program is our Cultural Heritage Sequence. Students take a sequence of five historically oriented, primary-text based, reading and writing intensive, seminar-conducted courses. These Courses include: Person in Community: Writing Colloquium (WRIT 101), Mediterranean World (HUMN 220, The Origins of Humanity to approximately 350 C.E.), Baptism of Europe (HUMN 230, approximately 350-1500 C.E.), Converging Hemispheres (HUMN 240, approximately 1500-1850 C.E.), and Contemporary World (HUMN 250, approximately 1850 C.E. to the present).

The courses are a combination of standard selected world civilization materials, significantly enriched with culturally critical "Core Text" additions. The students are asked to internalize the basic chronology and geography of selected world history, in addition to reading and addressing a very significant sampling of the "Great Texts" associated with this development of the Catholic intellectual tradition. In addition, the Core Program deems a number of themes to be especially crucial to the understanding and heritage of this history. These include: the relationship of the individual person to his or her community; the contributions of religious faith and philosophical thought to the understanding of this person in community; the relationship of the individual to society; the history, methods and impact of the natural sciences on individual persons, their communities, their societies and their environment; and finally, the artistic and literary heritage of world civilization. The courses are staffed by Benedictine faculty across all disciplines and curricula.

One particular feature that makes the Benedictine University Liberal Arts Core Program distinctive is its reliance on the resources of the Catholic and Benedictine traditions, and the relationship of these traditions to the development both of human culture and civilization. An overall aim of the program is to offer students a particular vision of the individual in community, a vision which respects and promotes personal freedom and social harmony, while providing an understanding of the means necessary to secure both. The overall goal is to prepare students for a lifetime of continued learning, a holistic understanding of human knowledge, and active and responsible citizenship.


Goals
Through the Core program and curriculum, students completing the program will/should accomplish all of the following learning goals:
1.	Demonstrate an effective level of cognitive, communicative and research skills;
2.	Achieve a college level of computational skills and an ability to understand and interpret numerical data;
3.	Acquire a knowledge of the history and heritage of western civilization to include:
	a.	the contributions of religious faith and philosophical thought to understanding the individual in community;
	b.	the relationship of the individual to society: membership and participation in groups and institutions;
	c.	scientific literacy through a knowledge of the history, the methods and the impact of science on the individual, society and the environment;
	d.	artistic and literary heritage;
4.	Develop an understanding of global society: cultural diversity, mutual relationships, interdependence of peoples and nations;
5.	Apply liberal learning in problem solving contexts as preparation for active participation in society; and
6.	Make informed ethical decisions that promote personal integrity, the legitimate rights and aspirations of individuals and groups, and the common good.


Majors and degrees
Students may earn the following degrees by choosing a major program (see below).

The University offers professional programs approved by the State of Illinois in teacher education in the following areas: biology, business/marketing/management, chemistry, elementary education, English, mathematics, physics, social science, Spanish and special education.

In addition, pre-professional education is available in dentistry, engineering, law, medicine, occupational therapy, optometry, pharmacy, physical therapy, podiatry and veterinary medicine.


	Majors

Bachelor of Arts:	Bachelor of Business Administration:	Bachelor of Science:
Bilingual Journalism	Accounting	Biochemistry/Molecular Biology
Biology	Business and Economics	Biology
Communication Arts	Business with Science Applications	Chemistry
Economics	Finance	Clinical Laboratory Science
Elementary Education	Health Administration	Computer Information Systems
Engineering Science	Management and Organizational Behavior	Computer Science
English Language and Literature	Marketing	Environmental Science
Global Studies		Health Science
History		Diagnostic Medical Sonography
International Business and Economics		Mathematics
International Studies		Nuclear Medicine Technology
Management		Nursing (R.N.s only)
Medical Humanities		Nutrition
Music		Physics
Organizational Leadership		Radiation Therapy
Philosophy
Political Science
Psychology
Social Science
Sociology
Spanish
Special Education
Studio Art
Theology
Writing and Publishing

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Degree status
Degree status is the recognition accorded a student who is formally admitted through the admissions process described in the section, “Admission to Benedictine University.” Any student who does not have degree status is designated a student-at-large. A student may receive only one bachelor's degree from Benedictine University but other majors for which requirements have been completed may be listed on the transcript.


Student-at-Large (SAL)
A student-at-large is either a full- or part-time student who does not have degree status. The SAL is taking courses for his or her own enrichment and is not working toward a degree. Interested persons may contact the New Student Advising Center. All academic policies and institutional regulations apply to the SAL, except that the student is not identified with any class year. The SAL may later request admission to degree status through the formal admission process. Admission and acceptance of credits completed is subject to the discretionary approval of the University.

Courses taken as an SAL do not count toward the residency requirement if the SAL student is later admitted to degree status. SAL credit may fulfill other graduation requirements, with the approval of the program chair. Regardless of status, all courses taken for credit will become part of the student’s official record at Benedictine University. The graduation requirements a student must meet are those in effect at the time of admission to degree status, which may be different from those in effect during the SAL period. SAL status is not available to students denied regular admission to Benedictine, those who have recently been dropped by the University for poor scholarship, or those who have been dismissed from the last institution of attendance within the previous 12 months.


Future Scholars program
As “Future Scholars,” superior high school students may take regular University courses, prior to their graduation from high school, and receive a special scholarship. Courses are available during the regular school year and the summer session. Credits earned will be posted on a Benedictine University transcript and will apply toward a degree at Benedictine or may be transferred to another college. Students will normally be limited to one course per semester and must maintain a “C” average to have the scholarship renewed.


Second Major program
This program is designed for people who already have a baccalaureate degree in one area and would like to gain expertise in another. The primary benefit of this program is that the focus is on the requirements of the major, allowing students to concentrate on courses that will be most beneficial. The entrance requirement is a bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year university. Please note that financial aid is not available to students who are completing a second major. A certificate will be awarded upon completion. For those who have earned a degree from Benedictine University some stipulations may apply.

Second Baccalaureate Degree Program
This program is designed for persons who already have a Bachelors degree in one area and would like to gain expertise in another. Students with a Benedictine University degree will not be eligible for this program. See Second Major option. Students interested in this option must apply for admission to the University and submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities in which they were previously enrolled. Students must complete all coursework on the second degree within seven years of admission to the program. Students must be enrolled in at least on course per term. Life experience credit, transfer and CLEP exam credit may be counted toward the program requirements, if appropriate, as determined by each department. However, at least 12 hours of 200/300-level classroom courses must be completed at Benedictine University. Applicability of courses taken as Student-At-Large prior to admission to the second degree program will be determined upon admission to the program.

Dual Credit Policy
Benedictine University will articulate, with limitations, coursework completed in a dual credit or dual enrollment program while enrolled in high school if the course is transcripted as college level on a college transcript and meets the criteria set by the Transfer Credit Policy. Coursework with a potential to count towards basic skills or major requirements is subject to review by the appropriate department chair/program director and might not be considered transferable. Coursework completed in this manner and deemed transferable will be posted on the transcript indicating completion prior to high school graduation.

Summer session
These sessions are offered to regular students and residents of the community. The University offers a broad range of courses during the 10-week summer session.

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Graduation requirements - Bachelors Degree

1.	Liberal arts core requirements:
	a.	Skills requirements:
		Unless a student can demonstrate proficiency, he/she must complete 12 credit hours in Basic Skills. A student must receive a “C” or better in each of these courses to meet this requirement. The Basic Skills courses and the ordinary methods of demonstrating proficiency are as follows:
		1)	Person in Community: Writing Colloquium: writ-S101; Research Writing: WRIT-S102; or by passing HNRS-190 and HNRS-191.If WRIT-S101 is satisfied by AP Credit, credit in WRIT-104 is required .
		2)	Speech Communication: RHET-S110 Proficiency: by passing HNRS-191 or proficiency by examination.
		3)	Quantitative Skills: MATH-S105, S108 or S110 Proficiency: by earning CLEP credit in College Algebra; by placement above MATH- S105, S108 or S110 on the Math Placement Test; by passing MATH-111, 115, 170, or any 200- or 300- level math course.

	b.	Cultural Heritage Series..............12 credit hours This interdisciplinary series consists of four courses covering successive periods in history: HUMN-220: The Mediterranean World HUMN-230: The Baptism of Europe HUMN-240: Converging Hemispheres HUMN-250: The Contemporary World [Required of all students]

		The courses highlight the origins and development of western civilization, including both the way other cultures have influenced the west and how they have been impacted by it. Drawing upon the resources of the Catholic and Benedictine traditions, the overall approach is historical, with various components of human thought and expression emphasized throughout the series, including religion, philosophy, art, music, literature, social institutions and approach to nature. Because they are organized in chronological sequence, the courses should be taken in order.

		The Cultural Heritage courses are described in this Catalog under the HUMN course descriptions. Courses required to meet state or national accreditation requirements may supersede institutional policies as approved by the Registrar.

	c.	Core Electives:
		Arts and Humanities...............12 credit hours 3 credit hours in Fine Arts/Music, 3 credit hours in Literature/Foreign Language Literature, 3 credit hours in Philosophy and 3 credit hours in Religious Studies/Theology. Core elective courses are labeled with a “C” in the Catalog and in the Course Schedule.

		Natural Sciences.......................9 credit hours At least three credit hours must be taken from the specified courses in Physical Sciences and at least three credit hours from the specified courses in Life Sciences. Core elective courses are labeled with a “C” in the Catalog and in the Course Schedule.

		Social Sciences.......................9 credit hours 3 credit hours in Psychology or Sociology 3 credit hours in Economics or Business 3 credit hours in either Anthropology or Political Science. Core elective courses are labeled with a “C” in the Catalog and in the Course Schedule.

		Courses required to meet state or national accreditation requirements may supersede institutional policies as approved by the Registrar.

			Note: Transfer, Degree Completion and Adult Program students see below for exceptions to the above requirements.

	d.	Writing Intensive (WI) Courses:
		WI courses are designed to emphasize writing process and writing instruction in classes distributed throughout a student's time at Benedictine University. As part of Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC), students will take the following two WI courses:
		I.	HUMN-250: The Contemporary World - WI
		II.	WI course in the major

		Transfer students who have completed all of their Core electives or who have already taken the course in their major that is designated WI may be exempted from the WI course in their major.

2.	A student must earn 120 credit hours to qualify for graduation and must maintain a “C” average (2.00) in all Benedictine University coursework.
	•	Courses with a number below 100 do not count toward the 120 credit hours required for graduation.
	•	University-level courses completed to fulfill a condition of admission count toward the 120 hour graduation requirement, but do not satisfy University Core requirements.

3.	a.	A student must select a major field of study before completing 60 credit hours, and must complete the requirements set forth in the catalog under the heading for the selected major. Only courses in which a student has received a “C” or better may be applied to the major requirement.

	b.	A major field of study requires at least 36 credit hours, of which a minimum of 24 credit hours must be completed at the 200-level or above, of which at least nine credit hours must be at the 300-level or above.

	c.	Students are encouraged to supplement their major and core programs with appropriate minors. The minor can be used to round out a program of study by complementing the required major. For example, a student who selects a major in a technical or professional area might select a minor in the liberal arts to gain additional analytical and communication skills and vice versa.

	d.	A minor consists of at least 21 and no more than 30 credit hours of courses completed from the specified list for the minor program. At least 12 credit hours at the 200-level or above, including at least three credit hours at Benedictine at the 300-level, must also be completed. Only courses in which a student has received a grade of “C” or better may be applied to the minor. Any credit hours completed for a minor may be used to fulfill core or major requirements. Successfully completed minors are designated on the transcript following graduation.

	e.	A concentration is a grouping of courses within a student’s major. This grouping consists of at least 12 semester hours of required or recommended courses designed to focus on a particular aspect of a major, and/or to focus on a particular career opportunity for graduates of that major.

4.	At least 55 of the 120 credit hours for graduation must be completed at a four-year regionally accredited college and at least 30 of the final 45 credit hours must be completed at Benedictine University, including at least 12 credit hours at the 200-level or above in the major. Courses completed at Benedictine prior to formal admission to degree status may not be used to fulfill this academic residency requirement. Such credit may fulfill other graduation requirements with the approval of the department and division chairpersons.

	Note: Students who qualify for the Degree Completion Program and the Adult Program are exempted from the 45 credit hour academic residency requirement. See Degree Completion Program.

5.	A maximum of 30 credit hours earned through any one or combination of external credit programs may be applied with the approval of the University toward the 120 credit hours required for the bachelor’s degree. These credits will not normally satisfy the academic residency requirement. Applications may be obtained in Benedictine Central or the Office of the Registrar.

	a.	The Advanced Placement Program — ETS tests are offered to high school sophomores, juniors or seniors once a year and the scores are sent to Benedictine. Students who score three, four or five are given credit in the appropriate course area.

	b.	CLEP Tests — CLEP is an acronym for the College Level Examination Program which gives students the opportunity to show that they have the knowledge necessary to gain course credit without actually taking the course. CLEP credits are not acceptable as transfer credits from other institutions, but evidence of CLEP scores will be evaluated for credit toward the Benedictine University degree. The applicant must submit an official copy of the grade report sent by Educational Testing Service. CLEP tests should be taken in the freshman or sophomore year. Students may not receive CLEP credit in a subject area in which they have completed course work. CLEP credit in major courses must be approved in advance by the department chair.

	c.	Work/Life Experience Credit — Work/Life experience credit represents attainment through work or other non-academic experiences, of the same degree of competence in a subject (of at least a “C” level) that University undergraduates obtain in the classroom. Application for life experience credit must be for a course specifically described in the University Catalog.

	d.	ACT PEP Test — PEP is an acronym for the Proficiency Examination Program. At Benedictine, PEP allows BS nursing students to be examined in the three nursing areas of Maternal and Child Nursing, Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing, and Adult Nursing. Successful completion of all tests results in 24 credit hours. These 24 hours are not considered external credit and therefore do not count toward the 30 credit hour limit.

	e.	Other External Credit — Benedictine University allows students to apply, toward the 120 credit hours required for the bachelor’s degree, acceptable hours which have been earned through military experience and/or courses.

6.	A student may apply internship credit towards graduation credit as follows: Humanities, 12 hours; Business Programs, 12 hours; International Business & Economics, 12 hours; Political Science, 12 hours; Health Care, 3 hours; Nutrition, 12 hours; Sociology/Psychology, 6 hours; Computer Science, 12 hours; Mathematics, 12 hours; Biology, 12 hours.

7.	Waivers of University or program requirements may be made for sound cause acceptable to the University when extenuating circumstances arise. Three graduation requirements which are never waived are the 120 credit hour minimum, the minimum grade point average of 2.00, and the minimum credit hour residency. The student begins a request for a waiver by seeking the approval of his/her academic advisor. The number of additional approvals depends on the nature of the waiver.

8.	A student must earn the recommendation of the faculty of his or her major program for graduation. Normally this recommendation is based upon fulfilling the program requirements, including a comprehensive examination or other integrating experience.

9.	One must be in good standing and have settled all financial accounts with the University to qualify for graduation.

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Transfer students

Credits to be transferred from other institutions are evaluated on the basis of their equivalent at Benedictine University. This determination is made by the Office of Transfer Credit Evaluation and Articulation coordinator of transfer credit evaluation and the appropriate department chair program director upon receipt of application and official transcripts. Transfer grades are not counted in the cumulative grade point average earned at Benedictine University.

Liberal Arts Core Requirements for Transfer Students:
1.	Transfer students with more than 20 transferable hours:
	WRIT-S101, S102; SPCH-S110 or equivalent, or proficiency; MATH-S105 or S108, or S110 or proficiency [a student must receive a "C" or better in each course to meet the requirement]; three natural science courses with at least one from life sciences and one from physical sciences, for a total of at least nine semester hours; four arts and humanities courses for a total of at least 12 semester hours with at least one but no more than two from FNAR/MUSI, and at least one but no more than two from LITR/FRLG LITR, PHIL, RELS/THEO, the remaining two courses are to be chosen from COMM, FNAR, MUSI, FRLG, HIST, LITR, PHIL, RELS/THEO; three courses from the social sciences from at least two different disciplines. Equivalent transfer courses, if taken prior to admission, may meet these requirements. Any course taken to fulfill these requirements after admission to Benedictine must be a core elective course (labeled with a “C” in the Catalog and in the Course Schedule). (No further restrictions apply to the above courses.)

	Two of the Cultural Heritage courses must be taken at Benedictine University, of which one must be HUMN-250: The Contemporary World.

2.	Transfer students who have completed all of their Core electives or who have already taken the course in their major that is designated WI may be exempted from the WI course in their major.

3.	Transfer Students with 20 or fewer transferable hours or the equivalent of less than one full semester of transferable work will be responsible for taking or transferring all of the courses described in the Benedictine University Core Curriculum. The Cultural Heritage courses must be taken at Benedictine.


Degree Completion and Adult Programs

Degree Completion Program

The University provides an exception to the normal academic residency requirement of 45 semester hours for students who are eligible for the Degree Completion Program. A minimum of 15 of the 75+ transferable semester hours required for DCP status must be from a four-year regionally accredited college or university earned prior to the start of BU coursework. The determination of DCP status is made prior to entry. Credit earned later will not be used to reclassify a student to DCP status. Degree Completion Program students must: 1. Satisfy general entrance requirements; 2. Complete at least the last 30 credit hours of their undergraduate degree through coursework at Benedictine University as a degree status student; and 3. Complete at least 12 credit hours of coursework at the 200-level or above in their major field at Benedictine University. Degree Completion Program students may receive credit and/or waiver of course requirements through examination and experiential learning assessment, but these credits will not normally be part of the final 30 credit hours.



Liberal Arts Core Requirements for Degree Completion Program Students
1.	Successful completion of the skills courses WRIT- S101, S102; SPCH-S110 and MATH-S105, S108, or S110. A student must receive a grade of "C" or better in each course to meet this requirement.

2.	Successful completion of two natural science courses (at least six semester hours from at least two of the areas of math/computer science, physical sciences and life sciences); three arts and humanities courses (from at least two of the areas of communications, literature, foreign languages, fine arts, history, philosophy and religious studies); three courses from the social sciences (from at least two of the areas of business, economics, anthropology, political science, psychology and sociology). Any course taken to fulfill these requirements after admission to Benedictine must be a core elective course (labeled with a “C” in the Catalog and in the Course Schedule).

3.	Cultural Heritage Courses:
	Successful completion of the HUMN-250: The Contemporary World course, to be taken at Benedictine University.

Adult Program

The University provides an exception to the normal academic residency requirement of 45 semester hours for students who are enrolled in the Adult Program. Adult Program students must: 1. Satisfy general entrance requirements; 2. Complete at least the last 30 credit hours of their undergraduate degree through coursework at Benedictine University as a degree status student; and 3. Complete at least 12 credit hours of coursework at the 200-level or above in their major field at Benedictine University. Adult Program students may receive credit and/or waiver of course requirements through examination and experiential learning assessment, but these credits will not normally be part of the final 30 credit hours.

Liberal Arts Core Requirements for Adult Program Students
1.	Successful completion of the skills courses WRIT- S101, S102; SPCH-S110; and MATH-S105, S108, or S110. A student must receive a grade of "C" or better in each course to meet this requirement.

2.	Successful completion of two natural science courses (at least six semester hours from at least two of the areas of math/computer science, physical sciences and life sciences); three arts and humanities courses (from at least two of the areas of communications, literature, foreign languages, fine arts, history, philosophy and religious studies); three courses from the social sciences (from at least two of the areas of business, economics, anthropology, political science, psychology and sociology). Any course taken to fulfill these requirements after admission to Benedictine must be a core elective course (labeled with a “C” in the Catalog and in the Course Schedule).

3.	Cultural Heritage Courses:
		Successful completion of two Cultural Heritage courses to be taken at Benedictine University, one of which must be HUMN-250: The Contemporary World course.


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Second Major program
This program is designed for persons who already have a degree in one area and would like to gain expertise in another major. The courses focus on the requirements in the new major.

Second Major Program students must:

1.	Submit an official transcript indicating completion of a bachelor’s degree, from an institution which was an accredited four year college, in a major different from the new one being sought;

2.	Select one of the University’s major programs and complete all requirements for that major as listed in the catalog which is in effect at the time of admission to the program. (If a student enters the program the first semester after graduation from Benedictine University, then the requirements in effect will be those in the catalog of the original term of entry);

3.	Enroll for at least one course in the major each semester, or have a valid Leave of Absence form on file; and

4.	Complete all work on the Second Major within seven years of admission to the program.

Life experience credit, transfer and CLEP exam credit may be counted toward the program requirements, if appropriate, as determined by each department. However, at least 12 hours of 200/300- level classroom courses must be completed at Benedictine University.

Applicability of courses taken as Student-At-Large prior to admission to the Second Major Program will be determined upon admission to the program.

Courses taken in the Second Major Program are applicable to a second bachelor’s degree for graduates of other colleges. Those courses will also be counted toward the second degree’s residency requirement.

Upon completion of the program a notation on the transcript will be made that all requirements for a second major have been met. A certificate will also be awarded.


General Policies

Semester credit hours
One credit hour is counted for each clock hour of class or lecture time – or each two or three clock hours of laboratory work – per week during the semester. A three credit hour lecture course, for example, meets three hours per week. This format does not apply to adult format courses. The academic year is divided into two semesters from August through December and January through May.


Student classification
The classification of students is determined at the beginning of each semester according to the number of credit hours completed, as follows:

			Freshmen Less than 30 credit hours Sophomores 30 to 59 credit hours Juniors 60 to 89 credit hours Seniors 90 or more credit hours

Since students progress toward the completion of degree requirements at different rates, the classification will not necessarily coincide with a student’s class year.


Course loads
A full-time student is registered for a minimum of 12 credit hours. The normal course load is 15 credit hours per semester. No student may register for more than 18 hours of credit per semester without the permission of the faculty advisor. (An additional tuition fee is required of those students registering for more than 18 hours.)


Advising
At Benedictine University academic advising is grounded in Benedictine values and the University mission. It is an interactive process between the advisor and student and is supported by technology. The goal is to promote each student's academic, career and personal development. Faculty and staff are committed to creating a decision-making framework through which students can identify and realize their educational goals. Although academic advising is a collaborative function of both student and advisor, the final responsibility for satisfying University and major requirements rests with the student. The student actively participates in the educational decision-making process. Students will:
	Become knowledgeable of all the University's academic requirements, policies and procedures Develop and maintain a plan for a course of study Keep an accurate record of academic activities and documents Value the role of the advisor by preparing for and keeping advising appointments Initiate and maintain open and honest communication with the advisor Access additional University resources to facilitate the decision making process

The advisor listens to and guides the student through the educational decision making process. Advisors will:
			Foster the student's sense of responsibility for his/her academic progress Help the student obtain accurate information about educational and career options, academic requirements, policies and procedures Help the student plan and monitor an educational program consistent with individual interests and abilities Assist the student in maintaining an accurate record of course registrations and completions Be available on a scheduled basis for academic consultation and advice Refer the student to appropriate University resource

Approval to withdraw from a course or to change registration in any way can be processed by Benedictine Central or through BenUConnect. Not attending class does not constitute a legitimate withdrawal. A student may withdraw from a course before completion of four-fifths of the course by filing the proper form with Benedictine Central or by using BenUConnect. For reasons of a compelling personal nature, a student may request a course withdrawal after the completion of four-fifths of the course. A written statement from the student, including supporting documentation, must be submitted to the Associate Registrar to justify this late course withdrawal.

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Repetition of courses
For courses taken at Benedictine University, undergraduate students, both degree seeking and students-at-large, may repeat a course in which they received grades of W, D, or F no more than two times. Students may not repeat any course in which they receive a grade of C or better. When a course is repeated for credit, the earlier earned grade remains on the student's permanent record and will appear on all transcripts. Only the last enrollment and earned grade will be used in computing the cumulative grade point average and awarding of credit. If a student wishes to repeat a course originally taken at Benedictine University and in which an earned grade was received, the repeat must be a course at Benedictine University. A repeat may not be by independent study or by study at another institution. The Academic Standing Committee may provide exceptions to this policy. An earned grade is a grade of A, B, C, D, and F. Students who have graduated may not repeat a course for credit in which they earned a grade of A, B, C, or D previously. A student who has graduated may only audit a course in which they previously earned credit.

Grades and reports
The student’s final grade is determined by the instructor. The system of grading is as follows (quality points are in parenthesis):
			A — Excellent (4.00) B — Good (3.00) C — Satisfactory (2.00) D — Passing (1.00) F — Failure (0.00) I — Incomplete* W — Withdrawal* P — Pass* X — Deferred* IP — In Progress*

	*Note: The grades are not calculated in academic G.P.A.

Academic grade reports for all students are available upon completion of each course through MyBenU. A change of grade is permitted only for clerical errors. Grade appeals must be initiated before the end of one semester after the course in question has been completed. The final grade is recorded on the permanent record.

A course is considered to be successfully completed if a grade of “A,” “B” or “C” is achieved. The grade point average used for all purposes at Benedictine University, including graduation honors, the Dean’s List, and the Dean’s Recognition List is based only upon courses taken at Benedictine University.

A grade of “I” may be requested by a student for a course in which he or she is doing satisfactory work, but, for illness or other circumstances beyond the student’s control, as determined by the instructor, the required work cannot be completed by the end of the semester. To qualify for the grade, a student must have satisfactory academic standing, be doing at least “C” work in the class, and submit a written request with a plan for completion approved by the instructor stating the reason for the delay in completing the work. Arrangements for this “I” grade must be made prior to the final examination. One may not receive an “Incomplete” in a semester in which he or she is already on academic probation.

An “I” is a temporary grade. Failure to complete the course work and obtain a final grade within 180 days from the end of the term in which the “I” was received will result in the “I” automatically becoming an “F” grade.

A grade of “W” is recorded to indicate that a student has withdrawn from a course. The student may continue to attend the class (without credit) to the end of the term, except for labs, with the instructor’s approval.

A grade of "IP" is recorded to indicate that the course is in progress when the term in which the course has been scheduled ends. The "IP" grade will be replaced when the course ends and the permanent grade is earned.

Students are invited to enrich their programs by auditing courses with the permission of the instructor and registrar. Auditors are entitled to participate in class activities to the extent the instructor permits. No attendance or achievement records are kept for auditors, and no entry is made on the permanent record. A student may change from credit to audit or audit to credit only during the first week of class. Audited courses are not available for later credit or proficiency by examination. If a course has stated enrollment limits, students taking the course for credit will be enrolled before students auditing the course.

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Academic Accommodation for Religious Observance
A Student whose religious obligation conflicts with a course requirement may request an academic accommodation from the instructor. Students must make such requests in writing by the end of the first week of the class. Upon receiving such a request, the instructor will offer reasonable academic accommodations, whenever feasible, and communicate this to the student. However, the course requirements listed in the syllabus remain in effect if accommodations cannot be offered.

Academic Honesty Policy
The search for truth and the dissemination of knowledge are the central missions of a university. Benedictine University pursues these missions in an environment guided by our Roman Catholic tradition and our Benedictine Heritage.

Integrity and honesty are therefore expected of all University students. Actions such as cheating, plagiarism, collusion, fabrication, forgery, falsification, destruction, multiple submission, solicitation, and misrepresentation are violations of these expectations and constitute unacceptable behavior in the University community.

To access the complete Academic Honesty Policy, which includes student responsibility, responsibility and authority of faculty, violations, reporting and communicating, responsibilities of the provost, appeals, composition of the academic appeals board, procedures of the academic appeals board, and records, please select the following link: www.ben.edu/ahp.

Administrative Drop Policy
Drop for Non-Attendance: Undergraduate Students may be dropped from a class for non-attendance by a departmental administrative drop by the end of the first week of the class. The primary intent of the Administrative Drop Policy is to ensure full enrollment in classes in which demand for seats exceeds supply. The purpose is to free seats held by non-attending students in such classes so that students who wish to take the class may be able to do so. *Classes in the Moser College for Adult and Professional Studies are not impacted.

Quality point system
Final grades in each course are converted to quality points according to the following schedule: A grade of “A” in a course is converted to four quality points for each credit hour. Thus in a three credit hour course, an “A” is worth 12 quality points; a grade of “B” is worth three quality points per credit hour; a grade of “C” is worth two quality points per credit hour; a grade of “D” is worth one quality point per credit hour; other grades receive no quality points. The quality point or grade point average is computed by dividing the total number of quality points earned, at Benedictine University, by the total number of credit hours attempted, at Benedictine University.


Dean’s List and Dean’s Recognition List
The Dean’s List is computed and published once each semester. To qualify, a student must be enrolled full-time and must have at least a 3.5 semester average with a grade of at least “C” in each course and must not have received any “I” or “X” grades.

The Dean’s Recognition List is also computed and published once each semester. To qualify, a student must be enrolled for a minimum of three semester hours and must have at least a 3.5 semester average with a grade of at least “C” in each course and must not have received any “I” or “X” grades.

	Note: The Dean’s Recognition List is intended for students who are not enrolled full time.


Student academic standing
Satisfactory academic standing for all students is a 2.00 cumulative grade point average (G.P.A.) as determined at the end of each semester (or other designated grading period). Students who do not achieve satisfactory academic standing will be placed on academic probation or dismissed for poor scholarship.


Probation and dismissal
Students are required to maintain satisfactory academic standing during their university careers. If a student fails to achieve satisfactory academic standing at the end of a semester (a cumulative G.P.A. of 2.00), that student will either be placed on academic probation during the following semester (if the term G.P.A. was at least 1.00), or will be dismissed for poor scholarship (if the term G.P.A. was below 1.00). If a student fails to achieve satisfactory academic standing at the end of the probationary period, the student is dismissed from enrollment because of poor scholarship.

Any student dismissed for poor scholarship may submit an appeal to the Committee on Academic Standing seeking a one semester reinstatement. Criteria that the Committee on Academic Standing will consider include:
	•	Current semester grade point average (G.P.A.)
	•	Cumulative G.P.A.
	•	Likelihood that the student is capable of achieving “satisfactory academic standing” before graduation
	•	Recommendation from the Dean of Students
	•	Student’s explanation for prior G.P.A. and plan to remedy the situation.

In the event that the Committee on Academic Standing is unable to approve the appeal for extension of the probationary period, the student’s enrollment will be terminated for poor scholarship. Such a student may be readmitted at a later time for enrollment, provided evidence is presented which in the judgment of the University indicates that there is improved potential for academic success. The period of dismissal will be for a minimum of two academic semesters. Academic semesters are fall or spring semesters and do not include summer school or interim sessions.

All probation and dismissal policies apply in the same way to part-time and full-time students.


Academic Amnesty Policy
Students who have left the University with a cumulative grade point average less than 2.00 may have the option to reenter under the academic amnesty policy. The conditions for readmission under amnesty include:
1.	An absence of at least five years from the last term in attendance and
2.	Approval by the Admissions Committee which will require an interview and a written personal history. Intervening transfer course work must be at least at the 2.00 G.P.A. level.

The implications of readmission under academic amnesty are:
1.	The new Benedictine University cumulative grade point average will be calculated based only on courses taken subsequent to re-entry. All courses taken and grades earned previously will appear as a separate entity on the transcript;

2.	Academic probation will be a condition of admission;
3.	“Re-entry Under Amnesty” will appear in the Remarks section of the transcript;
4.	Amnesty may be used only once by a student;
5.	Students must earn a minimum of 30 semester hours after re-entry to be eligible for graduation;
6.	Graduation honors eligibility will be based on grades after re-entry amnesty; and
7.	The Catalog of reentry will be followed for graduation requirements.

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Withdrawal from the University
A student who wishes to withdraw from the University during the semester begins by contacting the Student Success Center. The student who plans to return within two full academic years should complete the leave of absence form. (See the Student Leave of Absence section.) The student who does not intend to return to Benedictine University must complete the withdrawal form. An exit interview is required as part of the withdrawal process.

If the student has not applied for a leave of absence and later decides to return, application must be made through the admissions office. The student’s record will be re-evaluated and the student is responsible for completing all new graduation requirements according to the University Catalog in effect at the time of readmission.

The amount of financial credit for withdrawal from all courses during the semester is determined by the date the completed form(s) is/are returned to Benedictine Central. (See General Refund Information.)

Students receiving financial aid of any kind must also consult Benedictine Central.


Student leave of absence
Any full- or part-time traditional student in satisfactory academic standing who must interrupt a degree program may apply to the Student Success Center for a leave of absence for two full academic years or four consecutive semesters (not including summer terms). The student’s files will remain active both in the Office of the Registrar and with the faculty advisor for the period of time requested. At the end of the leave of absence period, the student must notify the registrar and/or faculty advisor of his or her intention to register. (Application through the admissions office is not required.) The student on leave may take advantage of early registration along with regularly enrolled students.

A student on leave does not qualify for special monetary loans or grants or other special arrangements which presuppose the status of a regular student.


Application for graduation
Students must apply to the registrar for graduation by the following dates: by December for August graduation; by February for December graduation; by September for May graduation. See the current academic calendar for specific deadline dates.


Graduation honors
Graduation honors are awarded to students who have achieved cumulative grade point averages for Benedictine University course work as follows:
			• 3.90 — summa cum laude • 3.75 — magna cum laude • 3.50 — cum laude
Eligibility for the above graduation honors is contingent upon completion of at least 55 undergraduate credit hours (not including external credit) at Benedictine. Graduation honors are awarded to students who earn 30-54 undergraduate hours at Benedictine University as follows: 3.50 - with honors

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Student records and disclosures
Benedictine University maintains an educational record for each student who is or has been enrolled at the University. In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended (hereafter “Act”), the following student rights are covered by the Act and accorded to all eligible Benedictine University students:

1.	The right to inspect and review information contained in the student’s educational records.

2.	The right to request amendment of the contents of the student’s educational records if believed to be inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights.

3.	The right to prevent disclosure without consent, with certain exceptions, of personally identifiable information from the student’s educational records.

4.	The right to secure a copy of the University’s policy.

5.	The right to file complaints with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Benedictine University to comply with the provisions of the Act.

Each of these rights, with any limitations or exceptions, is explained in the University’s policy statement, a copy of which may be obtained in Benedictine Central.

The University may provide directory information in accordance with the provisions of the Act without the written consent of an eligible student unless it is requested in writing that such information not be disclosed (see below). The items listed below are designated as directory information and may be released for any student for any purpose at the discretion of Benedictine University unless a written request for non-disclosure is on file:

			Category I: Name, address, telephone number, dates of attendance and class. Category II: Previous institution(s) attended, major field of study, awards, honors and degree(s) conferred. Category III: Past and present participation in officially recognized sports and activities, physical factors of athletes (height and weight) and date and place of birth.

Current eligible students may prohibit general disclosure of this directory information by notifying the registrar in writing, within 10 calendar days after the first scheduled class day of each fall term. The University will honor the request for one academic year only; therefore, the student must file the request on an annual basis. The student should carefully consider the consequences of any decision to withhold any category of directory information. Regardless of the effect upon a student, Benedictine University assumes no liability that may arise out of its compliance with a request that such information be withheld. It will be assumed that the failure on the part of a student to request the withholding of directory information indicates the student’s consent to disclosure.


University Promotional Photos
Benedictine University and its representatives on occasion, take photographs for the University’s use in print and electronic publications. This serves as public notice of the University’s intent to do so and as a release to the University giving permission to use such images as it deems fit.

If you should object to the use of your photograph, you have the right to withhold its release by contacting the Public Relations office at (630) 829-6090.

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Educational Records: Disciplinary and Counseling
Information from student disciplinary or counseling files is considered a confidential, educational record and is not available to unauthorized persons on campus. To comply with federal law, as well as for reasons of confidentiality, disciplinary records/files may not be released to anyone off-campus unless there is legal compulsion or in cases where the safety of persons or property is involved. A student’s disciplinary record/file may only be reviewed by the student within the confines of the Benedictine University campus and the guidelines designated by the appropriate university administrator. Only the student and authorized persons may have access to such records.

The University is not obligated under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (Buckley Amendment) to reproduce a student’s disciplinary records/files. The University is obligated to take all reasonable steps to insure that the confidentiality of student educational records is maintained.

Any questions concerning the student’s rights and responsibilities under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act should be referred to the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs or the Registrar.

Student Right-To-Know Act
In accordance with the Student Right-To-Know Act, the graduation/completion rate of new entry full-time freshmen into Benedictine University is available through the Office of Institutional Research.

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FRESHMAN ADMISSIONS

Freshman Candidates
Freshman candidates are defined as individuals who have earned a high school diploma, completed a home schooling program, or earned a General Educational Development certificate within six months of enrolling at Benedictine University.

Freshman Admission
Admission is based on a review of each student's total academic and extracurricular record. It is necessary for some applicants to complete additional materials or come to the University for further assessment. The Enrollment Center's philosophy is to select students who will perform successfully in our academic programs and become active members of the University community. Requests for admission are considered without regard to the applicant's race, religion, gender, age, national origin or disability.

How To Apply (Freshman Candidates)
Send all materials to: Enrollment Center, Benedictine University, 5700 College Road, Lisle, IL 60532-0900. A personal interview with an Admissions Counselor is generally advisable and occasionally required. Official transcripts bearing the signature of the Registrar and the institutional seal must be issued by mail from the institution to Benedictine's Enrollment Center. Consideration for admission will take place when all the necessary information is received. Applications should be submitted as early as possible during the senior year of high school. Admission can be granted on the basis of six semesters of high school credit. Admission can be revoked if satisfactory completion of senior year coursework is not obtained and restrictions can also be added should academic portfolio change post admission and prior to course enrollment.

Submit a completed application form and non-refundable, one-time application fee of $40.
a. Apply or download an application online.
b. Request a hard copy application by contacting us at: (630) 829-6300, toll free outside Illinois (888) 829-6363, or e-mail at admissions@ben.edu.
Submit official high school transcript. Home school transcripts should include letter grades, length of courses and texts used.
Submit official copy of ACT, SAT, TOEFL or IELTS test scores.
Submit high school guidance counselor recommendation form (see recommendation section on application) to be completed by high school guidance counselor.
Written personal statement (may be required of some candidates).

High School Academic Preparation
In conjunction with The Illinois State Board of Education, Benedictine University requires its students to complete the following high school curriculum. If a student enrolls at Benedictine University not having satisfied the requirements, the student will be required to do so while enrolled at the University. Courses with a number less than 100 do not count toward the 120 credit hours required for graduation. University-level courses (100 level or above) completed to fulfill a condition of admission will count toward the 120-hour graduation requirement, but do not satisfy the University Core requirements. NOTE: a unit, as identified below, is equivalent to one full year of study in a given subject area.

Four units of English (emphasizing written and oral communication and literature);
Three units of social studies (emphasizing history and government);
Three units of mathematics (introductory through advanced algebra, geometry, trigonometry or fundamentals of computer programming);
Three units of science (laboratory science); and
Two units of modern language.

Institutional Requirements for Pre-Baccalaureate Certificate
A certificate consists of at least 12 semester credit hours of designated coursework completed at Benedictine University. Additional requirements may exist at the discretion of the hosting department or program. Only courses in which a student has received a grade of “C” or better may be applied to a certificate. Any credit completed for a certificate may be applied to fulfill core, major, or minor requirements.

TRANSFER ADMISSIONS

Transfer Candidates
Transfer candidates are defined as individuals with college credit or students whose high school graduation or G.E.D. completion date is six months prior to the academic year of enrolling at Benedictine University; intending to enroll in the traditional daytime program.

Transfer Admission
Admission is based on a review of each student's total academic and extracurricular record. It is necessary for some applicants to complete additional materials or come to the University for further assessment. The Enrollment Center's philosophy is to select students who will perform successfully in our academic programs and become active members of the University community. Requests for admission are considered without regard to the applicant's race, religion, gender, age, national origin or disability.

How To Apply (Transfer Candidates)

Send all materials to: Enrollment Center, Benedictine University, 5700 College Road, Lisle, IL 60532-0900. A personal interview with an admissions counselor is generally advisable and occasionally required. Official transcripts bearing the signature of the registrar and the institutional seal must be issued by mail from the institution to Benedictine's Enrollment Center. Consideration for admission will take place when all the necessary information is received. If an applicant has 20 or more transferable semester hours:

Submit a completed application form and non-refundable, one-time application fee of $40.
a. Apply or download an application online.
b. Request a hard copy application by contacting us at: (630) 829-6300, toll free outside Illinois (888) 829-6363, or e-mail at admissions@ben.edu.
Submit official transcripts directly from each college or university attended.
Written personal statement (may be required of some candidates).

If the applicant has less than 20 transferable semester hours:

Steps one, two and three above;
Submit official high school transcript;
Submit official copy of ACT, SAT, TOEFL or IELTS test scores.

Tuition/Housing Deposits
To complete the admissions process, incoming freshman who will be commuting and not living on campus are required to submit a $200 tuition deposit. Incoming freshman who will be resident students are required to submit a $200 tuition and a $125 room and board deposit. Students are encouraged to submit their deposit as soon as possible. All deposits should be submitted to: Enrollment Center, Benedictine University, 5700 College Road, Lisle, IL 60532-0900.

Readmission
Former Benedictine University students, not currently enrolled as degree-seeking students, may apply for readmission. An application must be submitted and will reviewed for an admissions decision. Applicants who experienced academic problems should be prepared to demonstrate to the committee sufficient reasons for reconsideration. If a student's enrollment has been terminated for poor scholarship, such a student may be readmitted after a minimum of two academic semesters, provided evidence is presented which, in the judgment of the University, indicates that there is improved potential for academic success. All college courses for which the student registered in his/her absence from Benedictine University must be presented in the form of official transcripts. For readmission under amnesty, see Academic Policies section.

General Admissions Policy
Benedictine University reserves the right to deny admission, continued enrollment or re-enrollment to any applicant or student whose personal history and background indicate that his or her presence at the University would endanger the health, safety, welfare or property of the members of the academic community or interfere with the orderly and effective performance of the University's functions. Some programs have special admissions standards. If you are considering a particular program, you need to determine the admissions standards for that program by reviewing the descriptions contained later in the catalog or by contacting the faculty responsible for the program. Failure to provide Benedictine University with a correct and complete academic history will result in revoking of acceptance and/or administrative withdrawal.

International Admissions

All prospective undergraduate students with citizenship other than that of the United States, and those who are not in "permanent residency" status, are considered international applicants. International students studying full time at Benedictine University require an F-1 visa. Students are encouraged to complete the application process prior to submission deadlines; applications are evaluated after all required documentation has been received.

Applications from international students should be received by Benedictine University no later than June 1 for the Fall term or by October 1 for the Spring term of the year in which the student plans to enroll. Students are encouraged to complete the application process prior to submission deadlines; applications are evaluated only after all required documentation has been received.

Recognizing the academic and cultural benefits of having international students in classes and on campus, Benedictine University is pleased to accept applications from this student group. International student applicants are evaluated by the same admissions standards as those established for American students. Requests for admission are considered without regard to the applicant's race, religion, gender, age, national origin or disability.

Language Proficiency

All international applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English-language proficiency as a term of admission to the University. Proficiency may be evidenced by:

Official test scores from either Test of English as a Second Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS);
Supplying an original U.S. high school transcript from the school from which the applicant graduated and completed two years of study without English as a Second Language instruction;
Completing two years of full-time study at a university where the language of instruction is English; or
Presenting formal assessment through Benedictine University’s International Programs Office.

Application Materials
International students applying for admission as freshmen or transfer students must have official transcripts (from all high schools and college-level schools enrolled) submitted directly to Benedictine University.

"Official" credentials are those issued by the school attended, printed in the original language that bear the school's official seal and signature of the appropriate official. Documents in a language other than English must be accompanied by an official translation; a translation agency or university language department can issue this documentation. The translation must appear on official stationary and the translator must attest proficiency in the original language; affirm accuracy of the translations; and list his or her name, address, and phone number.

Some student applicants must have all non-United States academic credentials evaluated by Educational Credentials Evaluators, Inc. (ECE): It identifies U.S. education that is equivalent to programs studied in other countries. ECE applications are included in the admissions packet, are available in the Enrollment Center and from ECE's website at http://www.ece.org/.

The following materials are required to complete the application process:

Benedictine University's International Application for Admission
A non-refundable application fee payable by personal check or money order of $40.
Official transcripts from your current University and/or high school, with an English translation.
Official ECE evaluation of any foreign country transcripts (may be required of some applicants)
Official results of any Standardized Test - ACT, SAT, TOEFL or IELTS.
Two letters of reference written by school officials or professors.
Evidence of high level English proficiency
Confidential Financial Statement of Support with official bank statement, letter of sponsorship or other supporting documents
International Student Health Form
Proof of insurance
Housing Preference Form (if applicable)

Undergraduate freshman and transfer admissions applications, document instructions, and general university information can be obtained from the Enrollment Center by calling (630) 829-6300 or e-mailing admissions@ben.edu. Graduate students should also contact the Enrollment Center to obtain more information regarding admission to Benedictine University’s graduate programs.

Adult Accelerated Undergraduate Programs

The Adult Accelerated Undergraduate Programs were created to best serve the needs of adult and returning students who are 22 years of age and older.

The Academic Programs - Adult Accelerated Non-Learning-Team Programs

Our adult programs were developed to provide an environment that supports adults in taking responsibility for their own learning and which values and uses the experience which an adult brings to the classroom. Rooted in the idea of responsible learning, the adult programs offer flexible scheduling, accelerated program options and credit for life learning. This model is built on the assumption that adults can engage in guided independent study outside the classroom. The classroom experience focuses on the integration of theory and practice and emphasizes application, analysis and synthesis of information through collaborative and cooperative learning. Degree programs offered in:

Bachelor of Arts

Business and Economics
Organizational Leadership
Psychology

Bachelor of Business Administration

Accounting
Finance
Health Administration
Management and Organizational Behavior
Marketing

Bachelor of Science

Computer Information Systems
Computer Science
Nursing (Degree Completion)

Adult candidates are defined as individuals with college credit whose high school graduation or G.E.D. completion date is prior to the academic year of enrolling at Benedictine University; intending to enroll in adult accelerated undergraduate non cohort program.

Adult Accelerated (Undergraduate Non Learning Teams Program Admission)

Admission is based on a review of each student's total academic and extracurricular record. It is necessary for some applicants to complete additional materials or come to the University for further assessment. The Enrollment Center's philosophy is to select students who will perform successfully in our academic programs and become active members of the University community. Requests for admission are considered without regard to the applicant's race, religion, gender, age, national origin or disability.

How to apply (Adult Accelerated Undergraduate Non Learning Teams Program Candidates)
Send all materials to: Enrollment Center, Benedictine University, Lisle, IL 60532. A personal interview with an admissions counselor is generally advisable and occasionally required. Official transcripts bearing the signature of the registrar and the institutional seal must be issued by mail from the institution to Benedictine's Enrollment Center. Consideration for admission will take place when all the necessary information is received.

If the applicant has 20 or more transferable semester hours:

Submit a completed application form and non-refundable, one-time application fee of $40;
a. Apply or download an application online.
b. Request a hard copy application by contacting us at: (630) 829-6300, toll free outside Illinois (888) 829-6363, or e-mail at admissions@ben.edu.
Submit official transcripts directly from each college or university attended (AABA and BAM applications)
Personal statement may be required of some applicants;
Letter(s) of reference from faculty and/or professional associates to evaluate the potential success of the candidate for the program may be required of some applicants; and
Complete the application for (or waiver of) financial aid (see financial aid section on the application).

If the applicant has fewer than 20 transferable semester hours:

Steps one, two and three above;
Submit official high school transcript; and
Submit official copy of ACT, SAT, TOEFL or IELTS test scores (may be required of some candidates).

The Academic Programs - Adult Accelerated Undergraduate Learning Team Programs
Our adult programs were developed to provide an environment that supports adults in taking responsibility for their own learning and which values and uses the experience which an adult brings to the classroom. Rooted in the idea of responsible learning, the adult programs offer flexible scheduling, accelerated program options and credit for life learning. This model is built on the assumption that adults can engage in guided independent study outside the classroom. The classroom experience focuses on the integration of theory and practice and emphasizes application, analysis and synthesis of information through collaborative and cooperative learning.

In a cohort format, a group of students take each prescribed class in the degree program together, from start to finish. Each four-hour class meets one night a week - and the same night of the week - for the duration of the program. Students within each cohort also form study groups to complete class assignments and enrich their learning experiences. Study groups must meet four hours per week.

Degree programs offered in: Associate of Arts in Business Administration; Bachelor of Arts in Management.

How to apply (Adult Accelerated Undergraduate Cohort Candidates)

Send all materials to: Adult Accelerated Cohort Programs, Benedictine University, P.O. Box 3503, Lisle, IL 60532. Official transcripts bearing the signature of the registrar and the institutional seal must be issued by direct mail from the institution to Benedictine's Cohort Programs Office. Consideration for admission will take place when all the necessary information is received.
1. Submit a completed application form and non-refundable, one-time application fee of $50.
2. Submit official high school transcript or copy of high school diploma (A.A.B.A. applicants)
3. Submit official transcripts directly from each college or university attended (A.A.B.A. and B.A.M. applicants)
4. Personal statement may be required of some applicants.
5. Letter(s) of reference from faculty and/or professional associates to evaluate the potential success of the candidate for the program may be required of some applicants.

Adult Advising
Our programs are designed for working adults. Students in these programs are highly self-directed with multiple demands on their time. Consequently, advising is designed to meet these needs. Often, all that is needed is a phone call to your advisor.

Financial policy

Benedictine University is a non-profit corporation. Its endowment primarily consists of the contributed services of the Benedictine monks who teach at the University. The annual income from a student's fees covers only a portion of the cost of his or her education. Therefore, to meet its educational objective, and in fairness to all students, the University must insist on the following regulation: Payments or financial arrangements must be made prior to the first day of the term.

Tuition
Tuition and fees are incurred at the time of registration. Tuition is due in full within seven calendar days after the first class meeting. Benedictine University has partnered with Sallie Mae to provide interest-free monthly payment plans through the TuitionPay Plan for those students seeking arrangements to balance their tuition payments over an extended period of time.

A "Statement of Accounts" is generated and mailed to your billing or home address once each month. This statement reflects only that activity which has taken place on your student account in the last billing cycle (similar to your checking/savings/credit card statements of account). Students are encouraged to view their account information online using MyBenU.

Payment Options

Payment in full - Benedictine University accepts cash, personal checks, money orders, Visa, MasterCard and Discover. PAYMENT DEADLINE: within seven calendar days after the first class meeting. Students may view and pay their accounts online at www.ben.edu/MyBenU from any on-campus computer or access MyBenU via BenUConnect at from off-campus. Instructions on how to make an online payment are found at http://www.ben.edu/MyBenU/Student_Financials_Self_Service_Navigation.pdf.
Beginning with the Fall 07 term, Benedictine University has partnered with Sallie Mae to provide interest-free monthly payment options through the TuitionPay Plan. Students may create budgets to manage their tuition costs annually or per term. Students may enroll online or call (800) 635-0120 to speak with a TuitionPay consultant. Be sure to have your estimated expenses ready when you call or visit the Web site.
- Annual budgets - For a fee of $50, students can make monthly payments toward their full-year's tuition balance (June - May).
- Single Term budgets - For a fee of $30, students can make monthly payments toward their tuition balance for a single term.
Tuition Planner
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Employer tuition reimbursement - For a fee of $30, students can arrange with Sallie Mae's TuitionPay, a single tuition payment plan due at the end of the term (plus a grace period) with proper documentation from their employer. Documentation of your employer's reimbursement policy must be submitted to the Student Accounts Office of Benedictine University prior to enrolling in this plan. An updated copy of the policy must be submitted every Fall term thereafter. Students may fax their employer’s policy to Student Accounts at (630) 829-6501. Please note that tuition is due in full according to the deferred due date specified by TuitionPay regardless of when individual employers reimburse their employees.

**Failure to meet Options 1, 2 or 3 by payment deadline will result in a late payment fee of $100 and a financial hold placed on the student’s account**

Student withdrawal and refunds
Students who withdraw after the first week of class will receive a "W" on both the grade report and the transcript. Students who do not withdraw properly will receive the letter grade of "F".

Students may drop from a course up to 7 calendar days after the first class meeting for a full refund.
Students may drop from a course 8 - 14 calendar days after the first class meeting for a 75% refund.
Students dropping from a course 15 - 21 calendar days after the first class meeting will receive a 50% refund.
Students dropping from a course 22 calendar days or more after the first class meeting will receive no refund.
Courses that have a condensed meeting schedule will have no refund available after the first class meeting.

All drops must be done in writing with the office where the student registered for the course. Notifying the instructor that you want to drop a course does not officially withdraw a student from a course. Non-attendance in a course will not constitute a drop. Students who do not officially drop a course in writing will be financially responsible for the entire cost of the course.
Students enrolled with full time tuition (12-18 hours) who make schedule changes during the add/drop period will receive a tuition adjustment only if their hours change to a different tuition category (part time tuition is assessed for schedules with less than 12 hours; overload fees are assessed for schedules with more than 18 hours.) Recipients of Federal financial aid who officially withdraw from the university will be subject to Federal Title IV refund guidelines. Students who are expelled or suspended from the University during the course of an academic term are responsible for all financial obligations.

SUMMER TERM

Students may drop from a course up to 3 calendar days after the first class meeting for a full refund.
Students may drop from a course 4 - 6 calendar days after the first class meeting for a 50% refund.
Students dropping from a course 7 calendar days or more after the first class meeting will receive no refund.
Courses that have a condensed meeting schedule will have no refund available after the first class meeting.

FEES

Late Registration Fee: $100 per course late fee registration for enrolling after the drop/add period.
Students involved in non-term based cohort programs may follow a modified refund policy. Your cohort director can provide you with a copy of such policy.

All tuition remission students and consortium students must pay applicable fees such as activity, graduation, health service, technology and lab fees. (Fees are subject to change without further notice.) Refund checks are issued to students when excess funds exist on their accounts after crediting Title IV funds.

All drops or withdrawals are dated as of the date in which they were submitted to Benedictine Central. No tuition charge will be assessed during the first seven calendar days after the first class meeting. Whether or not you attend classes, the period of attendance will be computed as the number of days from the scheduled date of opening class in each term to the date shown on the drop or withdrawal slip. See the "Financial Aid" section for information regarding the use of financial aid in the case of a withdrawal.

The boarding fee is pro-rated from the date of confirmation of registration to the day of withdrawal. Students who withdraw from campus housing within 30 days of the beginning of the academic term will be charged for room fees on a pro-rated basis. No refunds are given after 30 days of the term have expired.

Students who are expelled or suspended from the University during the course of an academic term will not be allowed any financial credit on tuition charges. Similarly, resident students who are expelled or suspended from campus housing and from the accompanying food service plan, either permanently or for a temporary period during the course of an academic term, will not be allowed any financial credit on room and board charges.

Courses which require the leasing of off-campus facilities from off-campus agencies require pre-payment in full. Therefore, NO refunds can be made of the tuition or lab fees for such courses.

Courses requiring professional liability insurance require the purchase of such insurance from off-campus agencies demanding pre-payment in full; therefore, NO refund can be made for the professional liability insurance charge.

For such programs as the Federal Student Loan and the State Monetary Awards, cash refund of credit balances will not be made until funds are received from the agency in question and the required procedures are completed.

Other policies

Enrollment shall be considered as signifying knowledge of all conditions, rules and regulations and shall be deemed as acceptance thereof.
The University shall not be responsible for any damage or loss of personal property from any cause whatsoever.
Bills for University services or monetary sanctions such as library fines, residence hall fines, parking fines or extra student health charges must be paid in full 10 days prior to final examinations for the semester.
Students are not entitled to receive recommendations, degrees, honors, grades or transcripts of credit until all bills are paid and National Direct/Defense Student loans and Perkins loans are in current status.
In the event of default in the payment of any amount due, and if the account is placed in the hands of an agency or attorney for collection or legal action, the student agrees to pay an additional charge equal to the cost of collection including agency and attorney fees and court costs.

Financial Aid

Benedictine University's Office of Financial Aid administers a variety of federal, state and institutional programs of student financial assistance. Each of these programs carries specific student eligibility requirements. In general, students must be formally admitted as degree-seeking and enrolled for a minimum number of credit hours. All financial aid recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress in accordance with the published, "Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy for Financial Aid Recipients."

The fundamental purpose of the financial aid program at Benedictine University is to make it possible for every qualified student to obtain a college education regardless of financial means. The process of financing an education is a partnership. Although the student and his/her family has primary responsibility for meeting college costs, Benedictine University, as well as the federal and state governments have a variety of financial aid programs available to students who need financial assistance.

Benedictine University will not unlawfully deny educational services to any otherwise qualified student on the basis of race, color, gender, age, national origin, disability or veteran status.

Application procedures
All students applying for financial aid are asked to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Students must reapply for financial aid each award year.

Types of aid
After completing the financial aid application process, the student will receive a financial aid award letter. The award letter will include the program(s) that the student is eligible to receive and the award amount(s).
Grants/Scholarships - Grants and scholarships are considered to be gift assistance. Gift assistance does not have to be repaid.
Loans - Loans are considered to be a form of self-help assistance. Loan programs provide funds for educational purposes and are paid back with interest.
Employment - Part-time jobs on campus are available to students through the University and Federal Work-Study program. Students working on campus receive a bi-weekly paycheck.

State and federal grants

Illinois State Monetary Award Program
Source: Illinois Student Assistance Commission
Eligibility: U.S. Citizens or eligible noncitizens, Residents of Illinois, Demonstration of need (FAFSA)

Federal Pell Grant
Source: Federal Government
Eligibility: U.S. Citizens or eligible noncitizens, Demonstration of need (FAFSA)

Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
Source: Federal Government
Eligibility: U.S. Citizens or eligible noncitizens, Demonstration of need (FAFSA)

Federal Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG)
Source: Federal Government
Eligibility: U.S. Citizens, Demonstration of need (FAFSA)

Federal National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant (SMART)
Source: Federal Government
Eligibility: U.S. Citizens, Demonstration of need (FAFSA)

Information on federal and state programs may be subject to change at any time due to changes in legislation.

Loans

Federal Perkins Loan
Source: Federal Government through Benedictine University
Eligibility: U.S. Citizens or eligible noncitizens, Demonstration of need (FAFSA)
Interest rate: 5%

Federal Stafford Loan
Source: Your local lending institution

Eligibility: U.S. Citizens or eligible noncitizens, Demonstration of need (FAFSA)
Registered for at least six semester hours
Variable interest rate; 8.25% cap.

Federal Parent Loan Program (PLUS)
Source: Your local lending institution
Amount: Cost of education less other financial aid
Eligibility: Registered for at least half-time

Employment

Federal Work Study (FWS)
Source: Federal Government through Benedictine University
Amount: Hourly wages up to 20 hours per week
Eligibility: U.S. Citizens or eligible noncitizens, Demonstration of need (FAFSA)

University Employment
Amount: Hourly wages up to 20 hours per week
Eligibility: Registered student

Satisfactory Academic Progress

Overview
Federal regulations require that Benedictine University establish standards of satisfactory academic progress for students receiving federal financial aid funds. Minimum standards of academic progress are established to encourage students to successfully complete coursework for which financial aid is received and to make progress toward a degree. The Illinois Student Assistance Commission has also instituted these same standards for recipients of the Illinois Monetary Award Program.

Financial aid programs included under this policy
All federal, state and Benedictine University financial aid programs are subject to this policy.

Students subject to this policy
All students currently receiving federal, state and/or Benedictine University financial aid funds are subject to this policy.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy for Financial Aid Recipients
Satisfactory academic progress includes three criteria:

Academic standing based on the student's cumulative grade point average;
The student's progress towards successful degree completion; and
Degree completion within a maximum time frame.

In order to maintain satisfactory academic progress, students must:

Remain in good academic standing or on academic probation as defined in the University catalog;
Maintain a completion rate of coursework equal to at least 67 percent of the total number of credit hours attempted; and
Complete their degree requirements within 150 percent of the required hours to complete their degree (180 credit hours).

Satisfactory academic progress review process
Satisfactory academic progress is reviewed at specified times during the award year. Academic standing (cumulative grade point average) is reviewed at the end of each term. Successful progression towards degree completion and maximum timeframe criteria are reviewed at the end of each academic year.

Probation: If a student fails to meet the requirements of satisfactory academic progress, the student will be placed on financial aid probation for one academic year.

Cancellation: If a student on financial aid probation fails to meet the minimum requirements of satisfactory academic progress, the student will be ineligible for continued assistance.

Reinstatement: A student may regain eligibility for financial aid once the student has met the minimum requirements of satisfactory academic progress.
If a student fails to make satisfactory academic progress at the end of an academic year and the student enrolls in summer school, the summer school credit hours completed will be considered in the student's eligibility for continued financial aid.
It is the student's responsibility to contact the Office of Financial Aid to request a review of his/her satisfactory academic progress for reinstatement of assistance.

Appeal procedure
Cancellation of financial aid due to student's failure to meet satisfactory academic progress may be appealed if extenuating circumstances (illness, family problems, death of a family member, etc.) led to academic difficulties. The student's appeal must be in writing and submitted to the Office of Financial Aid.

Definitions for Financial Aid Purposes
Completion of Courses: Hours completed are based on grades of A, B, C, D and P. Hours with an F (failure), W (withdrawal), I (incomplete), X (deferred), IP (in progress) are counted in the number of hours attempted, but not in the number of hours completed. Note: It is the student's responsibility to notify the Office of Financial Aid when an incomplete grade has been satisfactorily completed. Class repeats, transfer hours and developmental course hours are counted in the total number of hours attempted/completed.

Financial Aid Leave of Absence Policy - Learning Team Student
A leave of absence is a process designed to allow students to interrupt their academic program for a limited period of time without requiring them to reapply for admission to the University. During the period of the leave, the student is considered to be on active status with the University awaiting their return to study. A leave of absence is intended for future courses, but may be requested while a class is in session. However, a leave of absence is not the same as a request to withdraw from a single class. Students should not use the leave of absence policy to request a withdrawal from the class in which they are currently enrolled if the intent is to remain registered in the following course of the cohort program. The University's course withdrawal policy, which allows a student to withdraw from a course prior to two-thirds completion of the course, should be pursued in that instance.

Required Documentation
Students requesting a leave of absence must complete and sign an official Leave of Absence form and submit it to the Office of Financial Aid to be processed no later than the student's last day of attendance in the course immediately preceding the leave. Students may request a Leave of Absence form by contacting their academic advisor. Upon completion, forms may be sent to the Office of Financial Aid by mail, fax or delivered in person. When completing the Leave of Absence form, students should identify the future class(es) from which they request to be withdrawn. As a general matter of policy, students may not use the leave of absence policy to request a withdrawal from classes that are in process or have already ended.

Once the Office of Financial Aid has received the Leave of Absence form, the request will be processed and notification will be sent to, the student, Benedictine Central, Cohort Accounting Department and the student's academic advisor. Benedictine Central will withdraw the student from any future courses identified on the form.

If unforeseen, emergency circumstances prevent a student from providing a request for a leave of absence on or before the last date of class attendance as outlined above, the Office of Financial Aid, at its discretion, may approve the LOA retroactively. If not approved, the student may submit a written, signed and dated request to his/her academic advisor with appropriate documentation that substantiates the unforeseen circumstance that prevented the student from providing a leave of absence request on or before the last day of attendance. Unforeseen circumstances may include medical and family emergencies, unexpected business travel, and natural disasters. The academic advisor will submit the student's request to the Cohort Appeals Committee for approval. If approved, the student will be granted a leave of absence retroactive to the student's last date of attendance, the student will be notified by Financial Aid and the student's academic record will be adjusted accordingly. Further, if the Cohort Appeals Committee approves the student's request, no additional fees will be imposed when the student retakes the course.

Length of Approved Leave
The Office of Financial Aid may grant a qualifying student a leave of absence of up to 180 days in any 12-month period during which the student is considered on active status and no Title IV Return of Funds calculation is required. Time in excess of 180 days will not be approved.

As a matter of policy, the leave of absence period will be calculated from the student's last date of attendance. The count will be based on the number of days between the last date of attendance (LDA) and the re-entry date. The initial LDA is used when determining the start date for the 12-month period referred to above.

Request for Multiple Leaves of Absence
The Office of Financial Aid may grant multiple leaves at different times as long as all of the leaves added together do not exceed 180 days in a 12-month period. If students request a leave of absence that would exceed this time period, they will be contacted by the Office of Financial Aid and advised that either the request is denied or the student will need to officially withdraw from the program. Students who withdraw from the cohort program may reapply for admission to the University at a later date.

Completion of Coursework Upon Return
Title IV regulations indicate that upon the student's return from a leave of absence, the student can begin a new course. Therefore, Benedictine University extends to all students the ability to begin a new course within their academic plan.

LOA Returns Prior to the Scheduled End Date
Students, upon notification to their academic advisor, may return early from an approved leave of absence prior to the LOA end date as long as they are able to begin a new course within their program. The LOA will be shortened according to the student's return date and the 180-day limitation will be credited accordingly.

Failure to Return
If a student does not return from an approved leave of absence on the expected return date, the student will be considered as withdrawn from the University and a Return of Title IV Funds calculation will be processed.

Return of Title IV Funds
Title IV funds are awarded to a student under the assumption that the student will attend school for the entire period for which the assistance is awarded. When a student withdraws prior to completing 60% of the payment period, the student may no longer be eligible for the full amount of Title IV funds that the student was originally scheduled to receive.

If a recipient of Title IV grant or loan funds withdraws from the University after beginning attendance, the amount of Title IV grant or loan assistance earned by the student must be determined. If the amount disbursed to the student is greater than the amount the student earned, unearned funds must be returned. If the amount disbursed to the student is less than the amount the student earned, and for which the student is otherwise eligible, he or she is eligible to receive a post-withdrawal disbursement of the earned aid that was not received.

The amount of financial aid earned by the student is determined by calculating the number of days attended divided by the number of days in the payment period.
Institutional breaks of five or more consecutive days, excluding LOA's, are excluded from the calculation for purposes of determining the amount of Title IV Aid earned by the student.
Unearned aid percentage is calculated by subtracting the earned aid percentage from 100%.
Institutional charges include tuition and school contracted room and board charges.

The procedures followed when a Title IV recipient withdraws from school or requires an LOA that exceeds Federal requirements are:

Return of Title IV funds is calculated
Lender is notified of student's status change
Post-Withdrawal Disbursements are identified (if applicable)
Excess funds earned are offered to student (if applicable)
Refunds and balance due are identified (funds must be returned no later than 30 days from the date Benedictine University determined the student withdrew).
Exit Interview is conducted (by mail if necessary)

Refunds are applied according to the order of Return of Title IV Funds:

Unsubsidized Stafford
Subsidized Stafford
Federal Perkins Loans
Federal PLUS/Grad PLUS
Federal Pell Grant
Federal ACG
Federal SMART
Federal SEOG

The information contained on this page is from the 2009-2010 Undergraduate Catalog and is valid until August 1, 2010.

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