This grade may be issued only for research, internship, thesis, dissertation or other specifically designated courses. Grading policy in some courses may change during the period covered by this catalog. Grading policy for each course each semester is printed on the instructor's class roll. Students should verify grading policy with the instructor at the beginning of each semester. It is the obligation of the student, in attempting to resolve any student grievance regarding grades, first to make a serious effort to resolve the matter with the individual with whom the grievance originated.
Individual instructors retain primary responsibility for assigning grades.
The instructor's judgment is final unless compelling evidence shows discrimination, preferential treatment or procedural irregularities. However, before considering a grievance, the department chair or program director will refer the issue to a departmental or program committee of graduate faculty. If the committee cannot reach a decision acceptable to the parties involved, the department chair or program director will issue a decision on the grievance. If students are dissatisfied with the chair or director's decision, they may appeal the case to the academic dean. If they are dissatisfied with the academic dean's decision, they may appeal it to the Dean of Graduate Studies.