In exceptional cases, outstanding professional experience and demonstrated contributions to the teaching discipline may be presented in lieu of formal academic preparation. Such cases must be justified by the institution on an individual basis. Stephen F. Austin State University is in compliance with this criterion. These guidelines are set forth in the Faculty Handbook and in the guidelines from both the Office of the Associate Vice President for Graduate Studies and Research and the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Graduate students serve in a mentoring program until they have accrued eighteen hours, after which they may be assigned to teach freshman level courses.
Exceptions are justified on an individual basis as follows.