Undergraduate Academic Policies

Admission

Admission to Andrews University is available to any student who meets the academic and character requirements of the university and who expresses willingness to cooperate with its policies. Because Andrews University is operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the majority of its students are Seventh-day Adventists. However, no particular religious commitment is required for admission. Any qualified student who would be comfortable within its religious, social, and cultural atmosphere may be admitted. The university does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, creed, disability, national or ethnic origin, sex, marital status or handicap.

Admission to one of the schools of Andrews University does not guarantee admission to a specific department or program within a given school. Transfers from one school to another may be made when the student meets the admission requirements for that school and has the consent of the deans involved.

How To Apply

• Request application materials

Telephone: 800-253-2874 toll free
Web: www.andrews.edu/undergrad/
Email: undergrad@andrews.edu
Postal Address:

Office of Undergraduate Admissions
Andrews University
4150 Administration Dr
Berrien Springs MI 49104-0740

• Return a completed Undergraduate Application with the $30 (non-refundable) fee by the following admissions deadlines, or an additional non-refundable $20 late application fee will also be applied:

• Request official transcript(s) to be sent directly to Andrews University from the high school and any and all colleges attended.
• Take the ACT or SAT test and arrange to have the results sent directly to Andrews.

Apply Early.

• Domestic and International students are required to complete the application, and submit all the requirements before the deadlines above, to allow for processing.
• Some departments may have different deadlines. Consult departmental sections of this bulletin for details.

Freshman students are encouraged to apply before their final high school transcript is available. A preliminary transcript with a cumulative GPA (through the 11th grade) and ACT or SAT test scores are reviewed by the Undergraduate Admissions Committee for a decision. All students must submit a final high school transcript and ACT or SAT scores before they can attend classes.

Admission Standards and Requirements

Undergraduate students are expected to meet minimum general admission standards. Individual schools or departments may set additional standards for entry into particular programs. These standards are often higher than those listed in the Undergraduate Admissions Requirement chart below.

Home Schooled Students. Andrews University welcomes and encourages students who have completed their high school education in a home school setting to apply for admission. Home school students should submit the following documentation along with the regular undergraduate application and $30 fee:

• ACT (or SAT) test results
• Detailed transcript* with a cumulative GPA or GED certificate
  * Should be completed and signed by the person who directed the program.
• Call 269-471-3854 for more information.

Note: Andrews University School of Distance Education operates Griggs International Academy (GIA), a secondary education program. GIA will work with home school students who take a minimum of their last three high school courses through Griggs International Academy to develop and grant a high school diploma. Contact GIA at 800-782-4769.

Community Values Agreement. Each prospective student must sign a statement on the Undergraduate Application form agreeing to respect and abide by the rules and standards of the university.

English Proficiency Requirement. Students whose first language is not English must demonstrate adequate proficiency in English to succeed in the academic setting. A minimum score of 550* on the paper-based TOEFL(ITP), 80* on the internet-based TOEFL (iBT), 80* on the MELAB, 6.5* on the IELTS Academic exam or 54 on the PTE Academic exam demonstrates such proficiency, and with no component lower than specified below. Exam must be taken within two years prior to enrollment.

Students who score below these levels may complete language requirements by enrolling in Intensive English Program courses (ENSL) on campus and passing the Exit Exam for English as a Second/Foreign Language.

Language proficiency must be met before enrolling full–time in regular course work.

The ENSL course work for a student is formulated on the basis of the results of MELAB (Michigan English Language Assessment Battery), TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), or PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English) and placement test results, and the student’s course load is adjusted accordingly. Students are required to take English language studies until English language skills are at an acceptable level. Students who need to take ENSL courses will need to budget for additional costs.

Students with a score on the TOEFL ITP (paper-based) of 500-549 (or the equivalent on any of the four other exams) may be eligible for the Language Bridge Program which allows students to take a limited number of degree program courses while completing language proficiency requirements in Intensive English Program courses.  Students in the Language Bridge Program must demonstrate language proficiency within three semesters in order to continue in the degree program.  Not all degree programs allow students to participate in the Language Bridge program.  Please contact the Center for Intensive English Programs (CIEP) for additional information.  Degree programs with higher admissions requirements will also have higher requirements for participation in the Language Bridge Programs.

The Counseling & Testing Center in Bell Hall offers the Internet–based TOEFL and MELAB by appointment. The Center for Intensive English Programs (CIEP) in the College of Arts & Sciences offers the Institutional paper–based TOEFL (ITP).   

These test results may not be required when the applicant has completed all education from at least the ninth through the twelfth grades or equivalent in an educational institution where English is the language of communication and instruction. * Some programs require higher scores.

Required Medical Records. In accordance with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control, the Michigan Health Department and the American College Health Association, all first-time students must supply certain medical records to the school they plan to enter before registration can be completed.

Tuberculosis Screening. Students with a previous positive TB skin test must submit a report of a chest X-ray taken anytime within 12 months before registration. All other students must submit proof of a negative TB skin test taken any time within the six months before registration.

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (German Measles) (MMR)

Immunization. Each student born after December 31, 1956, must show proof of immunity to the diseases by one of the following means:

• Two MMR vaccines received after 12 months of age
• One MMR vaccine received within the two years before registration
• A blood test proving immunity to the diseases.

Admission of Transfer Students

Transfer students who have earned 25 or more semester credits before applying to Andrews are evaluated on the basis of their cumulative college GPA and not their high school GPA.  ACT/SAT scores are recommended, but not required.

Students who have already attended a community college or other post-secondary school since graduating from high school, completing less than 25 credits, are admitted based on the same admission standards required of FTIAC students.

Students who have attended any college classes are required to have transcripts sent directly to Andrews University Undergraduate Admissions.  College or University transcripts issued in languages other than English must be accompanied by an authorized English translation.  Transfer students must have a minimum college cumulative GPA of 2.5 (USA standard).

A transfer student who does not meet admission standards may apply.  The student’s application materials will be reviewed by the Undergraduate Admissions Committee using recommendations from the academic dean of the college or school in which admission is sought.  After the review, the student will receive a letter outlining the conditions for admission or indicating that admission has been denied.

Transfer of Credits

Students enrolling at Andrews University may transfer credits to their current program.  Requests for transfer of credits must be made only at the time of admission to the university for recognition of credits earned.

Documents Needed for Transcript Evaluation

• Complete official transcripts from each institution attended.  Transcripts must be accompanied by an authorized English translation if the official transcript has been issued in a foreign language.  Registrars of these institutions should send transcripts directly to the Andrews University Office of Undergraduate Admissions.
  • Submission of official high school transcripts
  • Submission of official college or university transcripts
• Additional student documents may be needed for international transfer.  Contact Undergraduate Admissions for more information.

Transcript Evaluation

All credits presented for transfer must meet the following requirements:

• Come directly from the accredited institutions attended.
• College level courses with grades of C- or higher.

Transfer credits appear in iVue. Transfer credits do not appear on an official transcript.

Limit on Number of Transfer Credits.

• The university allows up to 70 semester hours to be transferred from two-year institutions and applied to a baccalaureate degree. More may be approved by the dean as part of a major course of study.
• Remedial and ESL/EFL courses are not acceptable for transfer.

Transfer of Credits from an Unaccredited School. Students who have attended an unaccredited post-secondary institution are admitted based on regular admission criteria for FTIAC students (first-time in any college). Transfer credits may be accepted as elective credits based on an evaluation of the institution issuing the credits. The credits may then be applied to a program of study when approved by the department chair/program director and/or ACE director as appropriate. On occasion, Andrews University may create an articulation agreement with an unaccredited institution based on our prior history with the success of students from the institution.

Review of Credit for Prior Learning Granted by Other Institutions. Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) credits on transcripts are not transferable. Students may present the original documentation (transcripts, certifications, portfolios) to the Prior Learning Coordinator for evaluation in accordance with Andrews University CPL policies and procedures.

Dual Enrollment Status

Students attending high schools who take undergraduate courses, or students who take graduate courses while completing undergraduate programs, have negotiated dual enrollment status. 

Undergraduate - Graduate Dual Enrollment.

Dual enrollment status is available to advanced undergraduate students who wish to begin work on a graduate program. However, taking graduate courses does not guarantee or imply future admission to a degree program.

Dual enrollment will affect your financial aid package. Be sure to speak to a financial aid advisor prior to a dual enrollment semester.

Requirements for Undergraduate Students Dual Enrollment. To be eligible for dual enrollment status the student must satisfy all of these requirements:

• Be an undergraduate student at Andrews University
• Be within 12 credits of finishing an undergraduate degree
• Be in the process for admission to a graduate program and meet all other regular admission standards for a graduate program
• Be enrolled in no more than 12 credits (combined graduate and undergraduate) each semester.
• Be sure to see your Financial Aid advisor, this may affect your award eligibility.

Limitation on Graduate Credits. The limitations on graduate credits taken while a student has dual enrollment status are the following:

• Credits may not be used to satisfy undergraduate requirements.
• A maximum of 16 credits of graduate courses may be reserved and applied to a subsequent graduate degree at Andrews University.

Guest Student Status

Guest Student is a temporary enrollment status, not an admission category. Enrollment as a guest student is no guarantee of admission as an undergraduate degree seeking student. Guest Student enrollment status is valid for one semester and students must submit an enrollment form for each semester they want to attend. International students that enroll on our campus for more than one semester must have an I-20 with Andrews.

Qualifications for Guest Student Status. Guest Student status is assigned to any of the following:

• Guest students who are already regular students at another school but wish to take courses at Andrews without being admitted.
• Persons who need certain courses to qualify for certification or admission to a program of study.
• Adult students in off-campus classes who do not wish to enroll for a degree program
• Gifted high school students enrolled in Grades 10, 11 or 12 who seek academic enrichment
• Adult students and or Denied students taking classes to gain admittance to an undergraduate degree program 

High School Students Taking College Classes

High School students are eligible to take Courses Approved for High School Registrations if they meet the following criteria:

• Students are enrolled in Grade 10, 11 or 12 or equivalent education levels.
• Students have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 from an accredited high school.  If a transcript from an accredited high school cannot be submitted, standardized test scores are required.
• Students whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English proficiency.
• Signed approval is required from a parent and the school registrar (unless home schooled).

Financial limitations apply:

• To qualify for the high school tuition rate, a student must register for and start the course(s) prior to graduating from high school or taking the GED or equivalent high school completion test.
• A maximum of two courses per semester will be approved at the high school tuition rate.  Students must meet any prerequisites.

Students will be responsible:

• As each school makes its own decision about whether university courses fulfill high school diploma requirements, the student is responsible for clarifying credit status with their school counselor before registering.
• High school students taking Andrews University courses are held to the same academic policies, procedures and deadlines as university students. These students will be personally motivated and responsible for their college level studies, requesting support as needed.

Andrews University college courses are available to eligible high school students in the following formats:

• On-campus courses taken by an individual student or by groups of students through the Berrien RESA or area high schools, taught by Andrews University faculty or adjunct faculty.
• Interactive online courses taken by individual students or by groups of students through Adventist Academies or Griggs International Academy affiliate schools, taught by Andrews University faculty or adjunct faculty.
• Concurrent enrollment courses taken by groups of students attending an Adventist Academy, taught by approved academy teachers who serve as Andrews University adjunct faculty.

More information for high school students, parents and advisors, as well as schools interested in concurrent enrollment, is available through www.andrews.edu/precollege

Limitation of Credits Taken on Guest Student Status. Students who eventually apply and receive regular admission, may ask that up to 30 of the Andrews undergraduate credits taken as a Guest Student be applied towards the proposed degree. A minimum grade of C must be received in each course to be accepted for degree credit.

Admission of International Students

International students are required to complete the application, and submit all the requirements for admissions and I-20 approval before the deadlines below, to allow for processing the immigration documents:

International students must pay an advance deposit and a housing deposit is required for those living in campus housing. Such students are also required to present a satisfactory budget for financing their studies and living costs (see the financial section of this bulletin).

Only after the above provisions have been met will an I-20 Form be issued to enable a student to obtain the necessary entry visa to the U.S. International students with guest student status that enroll on Andrews campus for more than one semester must have an I20.

International students that have college or university transcripts issued in languages other than English must be accompanied by an authorized English translation.

Students Accepted with Prescribed Intervention

Some freshmen who do not meet regular admissions standards but whose high school performance or test scores indicate a possibility of success may be accepted. They are advised through the Student Success office. They will receive skills assessments and will be placed in classes selectively to enhance their academic success. Many will be required to take skills building classes. Our goal for students accepted with intervention is to have them improve skills deficits and achieve satisfactory academic performance to progress in their academic program.

Refusal or Annulment of Admission

Applicants may be refused admission

• when they do not meet the admission standards
• when they submit transcripts or records found to be fraudulent. Admission status may be canceled or annulled
• when students do not meet the conditions specified for continuing enrollment
• when the admission status was based on documents later found to be fraudulent.
• when information that differs from the expectation of integrity agreed to in the Andrews University application is disclosed.

Undergraduate Academic Information

Planning Programs

Advisors. Students are assigned academic advisors based on the major chosen. Advisors function as academic guidance counselors to help students to schedule their courses, to learn how to follow academic rules and regulations, and to make decisions regarding their future. Although advisors assist students, the responsibility for meeting degree requirements and knowing the rules which govern academic matters always rests with the individual student.

Required Placement Tests. Before registration, all new students must take two placement tests for use in academic advising:

• ACT or SAT
  The ACT or SAT is required for admission and should be taken before arriving on campus. (International students studying outside the U.S. will be required to take the ACT/SAT if offered at their secondary schools.)
• TOEFL, MELAB, IELTS, or PTE International students that have not had four years of secondary school that was taught in English are required to take the TOEFL, MELAB, IELTS, or PTE.
• Mathematics Placement Test
  The Mathematics Placement Test is given on campus.

Direct questions concerning advising, tutoring and student success to the Student Success Center. (phone 269-471-6096, e-mail: success@andrews.edu).

Declaration of Major. Students are encouraged to declare their major field of study by the start of their sophomore year. Special advisors are assigned to students yet undecided. Assistance in exploring majors/careers is given through the Student Success Center and the Counseling & Testing Center.

How to be Well-Prepared Academically

If you want to be well prepared for your university studies at Andrews University, we recommend that you take the following courses during your high school/academy/secondary home school years (or the equivalent of grades 9 through 12 in the U.S. educational system):

• Three years of math, including algebra I and II;
• Three years of lab sciences courses, with biology, chemistry and/or physics recommended;
• Four years of English courses, including ones that emphasize writing and vocabulary;
• Two years of a foreign language if your plans include a Bachelor of Arts degree at Andrews;
• One year-long computer course, including development of skills in database, web page development and other advanced skills; and
• Two years of social studies courses, including world or U.S. history (or history for your country of residence) and geography.

If it’s available at your school, also plan to take a Bible/religion course each year. Music/fine arts, physical education and practical arts also help build a well-rounded secondary education.

To find out more on how to take the right academic steps to succeed when you attend Andrews University (as well as other information on attending Andrews), please consult www.andrews.edu/future/.

Class Standing

At the beginning of the autumn semester, undergraduate students are classified according to the number of semester credits earned.

Areas of Study

Specific requirements for majors, minors, and professional-degree programs are listed under each department section. Courses in other departments which are needed for a degree program also may be required as related cognate requirements.

All courses used to meet major requirements must be selected in consultation with the major professor or advisor.

Honor Lists

Dean’s List. Students with a minimum semester GPA of 3.50 are eligible to be on the Andrews University Dean’s List. They must carry a load of at least 12 letter-graded credits, have no letter grades below a B (3.00), and have no incompletes. Receipt of a DG does not affect eligibility for the Dean’s List as long as letter grades are earned in at least 12 credits, excluding those with a DG. Each semester this list may be published or posted.

Study-Work Loads

Course Load. The course load is expressed in semester credits. Each semester credit represents one fifty-minute class period or equivalent per week for one semester. Preparation time of approximately two hours for each class period is assumed. Thus a 4-credit class meets four times a week. A laboratory or practicum experience of 3 hours is considered equal to one regular class period unless otherwise noted in the course syllabus.

The normal undergraduate class load is 15 to 16 credits per semester. Those wishing to register for more than 17 credits must secure permission from their dean. If good scholarship has been demonstrated by the student, the dean may permit a freshman to register for a maximum load of 17 credits; sophomores, juniors, and seniors for 18 credits. Adding to the course load by receiving private instruction, by correspondence work, or by registering in another university or college while being currently registered at Andrews University is not allowed. Exceptions must have permission from the dean of the school in which the student is enrolled. If permission is granted, the total study load per semester must not be greater than the maximum load permitted in residence. A student is not permitted to earn more than 20 credits during one semester.

Work Load. The course load of students who engage in part-time employment must be adjusted to provide a reasonable balance of work and study. In determining the proper balance, the student’s intellectual capacity and previous academic record are considered. Students taking 12 to 16 credit hours are recommended a maximum work load of 20 hours per week.

Students should consult with their advisors in planning a proper balance of study and work. Exceptions to the above guidelines require approval by the dean of the school in which the student is enrolled and the Employment Office before the work is undertaken. On-campus employment is limited as specified in the financial section of this bulletin.

Satisfactory Academic Progress

Students are expected to maintain the following minimum academic performance standards:

• Successfully complete at least 66% of all courses attempted following initial enrollment.
• Maintain an overall GPA of at least 2.00 (average grade of C).

If a student fails to maintain an overall GPA of 2.00 (on a 4.00 system), his/her enrollment category is changed to probationary.

Academic Probation Procedures

Academic Probation. A student is classified as on Academic Probation when one or more of the following three conditions apply:

1. the cumulative AU GPA falls below 2.00,
2. the semester GPA is 1.75 or below,
3. a combination in a semester of three or more of Withdrawals (W), Incompletes (I), or grades lower than a C. Students on academic probation are removed from probation when they successfully complete the requirements of their academic probation plan as prescribed by their dean.

Students on academic probation: (1) are expected to limit extracurricular activities and part-time employment; (2) may be required to take special courses (see below), and (3) may be restricted to taking no more than 12 credits per semester, including these special courses. This program ensures that students have ample time to concentrate on their courses and develop personal habits for greater success in future terms. Students on academic probation for any two semesters may not be permitted to re-register.

Students on academic probation may be required to take one or more of the following special courses:

• GNST 091 - Academic Tutorial Support —Peer-to-peer tutoring to help students in their currently scheduled Andrews University courses.  May also be used for academic or cognitive evaluations, and for individualized study skills help.
• EDTE 140 - Reading Vocabulary Development  and EDTE 160 - College Reading Efficiency —to improve the skills of those with reading problems.
• MATH 091 - Arithmetic and Algebra Review I  & MATH 092 - Arithmetic and Algebra Review II —to help students with poor mathematical backgrounds. Further information is available from the dean of each school offering undergraduate programs.

UG Academic Suspension/Dismissal. Students are subject to academic dismissal from the University in one of th:

• Earning during a given semester a GPA of 1.25 or less
• Two consecutive or three total semesters on academic probation
• Failure to meet Probation Student Guidelines for their personal academic probation program outlined by their dean
• Displaying academic irresponsibility in matters such as academic integrity, class attendance, and homework assignments.

Dismissal in December.

Students may be dismissed in December if they:

• Were admitted on academic probation as a transfer student from another institution, and were listed on academic probation at Andrews based on Fall Semester grades
• Were dismissed at the end of their most recent semester at Andrews and had their dismissal revoked on appeal, but failed to achieve Good and Regular Standing based on Fall Semester grades
• Were readmitted for Fall Semester after an academic dismissal but failed to achieve Good and Regular Standing based on Fall Semester grades

Dismissal in May.

Students may be dismissed in May if they:

• Have had two consecutive semesters, or three total semesters, on academic probation and failed to achieve Good and Regular Standing based on Spring Semester grades
• Were dismissed at the end of their most recent semester at Andrews and had their dismissal revoked on appeal, but failed to achieve Good and Regular Standing based on Spring Semester grades
• Were readmitted for Spring Semester after an academic dismissal but failed to achieve Good and Regular Standing based on Spring Semester grades
• Received notice in December that their academic probation status would result in dismissal at the end of Spring Semester unless their GPA improved significantly based on Spring Semester grades

Appeal Process:

• A dismissal that follows Andrews University policy will not normally be eligible for an appeal. Students who feel there are extenuating circumstances that override policy may appeal a dismissal decision to their Dean. Consultation with academic probation case managers, departments, and/or academic advisors may be necessary before appeal decisions are made.
• Deans will communicate decisions on appeals to students and copy these decisions to Student Success.

International Collegiate Programs

The following apply to transfer credit from institutions outside of the United States.

Evaluation of Transfer Credit

Transfer credits from institutions outside of the United States must be evaluated by the World Education Services International Credential Advantage Package (WES ICAP). Students are required to submit official transcripts in the original language accompanied by an authorized translation to the World Education Service for WES ICAP evaluation.

This policy does not apply to students who have completed a semester or year abroad as part of their studies at a US institution.

Advanced Credit
Students who have attended schools in systems of education extending beyond the equivalent of 12 years of elementary and secondary school in the United States may be awarded advanced credit.

A-Level Passes. Students with A-level passes may be awarded up to 10 credits for each A-level pass. These credits may be used as applicable toward graduation requirements, including major, concentration, minor, Andrews Core Experience and general electives.

European Advanced Standing. Andrews University may grant varying amounts of advanced standing credits (0 to 32 semester credits) in general education only, to students graduating from countries with high school completion standards at the level of select European gymnasiums. Students are required to submit official transcripts in the original language accompanied by an authorized translation to the World Education Service for WES ICAP evaluation.

Cambridge Pre-U
Credit is awarded for Pre-U grades of M3 or higher.

International Baccalaureate Exam
A score of 4 (Higher Level) or better will be accepted for general education credits. A score of 5 (Higher Level) or better will be considered by departments for credit towards major requirements.

Credit For Prior Learning

Andrews University approves credit for prior college-level learning earned through recognized advanced standing, standardized and department exams, validation and portfolio assessments. Other options are reviewed by the Articulation Council.  For information about evaluation of transfer credits, see Bulletin Undergraduate Academic Policy: Transfer of Credits.

No form of credit for prior learning will be approved to replace grades earned through Andrews University.

In order for credit to be assessed and articulated:

1. The student must have matriculated and be in good and regular standing at the time prior learning credit is requested.
2. Prior learning credits must be evaluated prior to registration in the last 12 credits required for program completion.
3. The total of all credit awarded for prior learning, excluding credits transferred from accredited institutions must not exceed 30% of the total credits required for program completion.

Before first registration, students should discuss all prior college-level learning (documented and undocumented) with their academic advisor and the Prior Learning Coordinator.  Assessed prior learning is assigned a pass or fail grade.  Only passing grades are recorded as prior learning credit.

Advanced Placement Exams. Credits for advanced high school learning may be applied toward major, concentration, minor, core experience and elective requirements. The following options are currently recognized:

Cambridge Pre-U

See International Collegiate Programs policy.

College Board (AP)
Credit awarded for Math, Science and English scores of 4 or 5; credit awarded for scores of 3 or higher for all other subject exams.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

See International Collegiate Programs policy.

High School Advanced Standing

See International Collegiate Programs policy.

Standardized Exams. Recognition for prior learning may be achieved through credit by exams taken through standardized examining bodies such as College Level Exam Program (CLEP), DANTES Subject Standardized Test (DSST), and Excelsior College (UExcel).

CLEP – College Level Exam Program 
Transfer credit awarded for scores of 62 or higher in Science and Language subject exam; and scores of 50 or higher in all other subject exams.

DSST – DANTES Subject Standardized Test 
Transfer credit awarded for scores of 434 or higher in science and language subject exams; and scores of 400 or higher in all other subjects.

UEXCEL – Excelsior College
Transfer credits awarded for scores of B or higher on listed Language and Science exams; scores of C or higher will be accepted on all other approved subject exams.

Scores meeting departmentally established minima will be articulated as transfer credit with a passing grade.  

Students may take standardized exams at any approved testing center, including the Andrews University Counseling and Testing Center.

Departmentally Administered Assessments. In some programs, challenge or performance exams can be arranged to waive requirements, place into courses (meet prerequisites), or earn credits meeting program requirements. Departmentally-constructed tests may be written, oral or skill assessments, or external exams administered by the department for internal evaluation.  

Validation of Non-Traditional Learning. Professional certifications or performance exams may be evaluated for alignment to Andrews University course outcomes.  Credit awarded does not meet residency requirement. Andrews University recognizes college-level learning validated through entities such as the American Council on Education (ACE), the National College Credit Recommendation Service (NCCRS), and Joint Services Transcripts (JST).  Some transfer credits from unaccredited entities not recognized by American Council on Education may be approved by the Chair of the Department and the respective Dean.

Portfolio Assessment. When none of the above methods apply, prior learning may be validated and credit granted through review of a portfolio of evidence demonstrating achievement of a specific course’s learning outcomes. Students begin the prescribed portfolio process by contacting the Prior Learning Coordinator and their academic advisor. 

Students must complete at least 12 credits in their current program prior to applying for Andrews University portfolio assessment. Portfolios may be assessed through the Council of Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL).  Credit that may be awarded does not meet residency requirement.

Credit for Off-Campus Study/Experience - After Admission to AU

In keeping with the Andrews mission statement, many opportunities are available for students to engage in changing the world during their degree program. Academic credit is available for some of these experiential learning commitments.

Adventist Colleges Abroad Studies. Andrews University co-sponsors Adventist Colleges Abroad, a program in which qualified students study overseas while completing requirements for graduation at Andrews. This language and cultural immersion is available in eight locations: Argentina, Austria, Brazil, England, France, Italy, Singapore, and Spain.

Andrews degree-seeking students earn Andrews University credit for courses listed in the current Andrews bulletin which are available on ACA campuses. Working with both Andrews and ACA advisors, students may be able to transfer additional credits offered by the ACA college which are not listed in the Andrews bulletin. More information is available at http://www.aca-noborders.com/ or https://www.andrews.edu/cas/inls/programs/aca.html

Educational Tours.Tours enrich required classes.

Internships/Practicum/Externships/OPT. Work opportunities may be offered for professional programs that require an internship for degree completion. They contribute to preparation to obtain a license. Externships may be arranged through departmental connections for new graduates. No grade is assigned.

Student missions. Students may volunteer to serve in another culture or state, breaking their full-time study for one or more semesters. In addition to co-curricular mission-preparation, students may arrange to complete one or more courses through distance learning or independent study at special tuition rates. Students may wish to discuss options with their academic advisor to maximize the global learning during this mission experience.

Transient credit. Students may take and transfer credit from another college or university after being admitted to an Andrews degree program. A transient form should be completed prior to taking courses elsewhere to ensure credits meet degree requirements.

Transferring Correspondence Courses from Another Institution. A maximum of 16 semester credits by correspondence, other than credits taken through Andrews School of Distance Education, is accepted toward a baccalaureate degree. However, correspondence credit may be applied on a major or a minor only with the approval of the department chair. Normally, students do not take correspondence courses while in residence. They may be allowed to do so because of a schedule conflict. Permission must be obtained in writing from the dean of the school in which the credit is to be accepted. Correspondence work is counted as part of the regular college load. Courses should be completed within six months from the time of enrollment.

Only 6 transfer credits, including correspondence credits, may be applied toward the last 36 semester credits of a baccalaureate degree. Correspondence courses cannot be used to replace failures or other low grades earned in residence. All transcripts for correspondence work must be in the Office of Academic Records at least 15 days prior to commencement weekend.

Baccalaureate Degree Requirements

The general requirements are the minimum required to receive a baccalaureate degree. Departments often have higher standards and additional requirements. The minimum, general standards are listed below.

Credit Requirement

• A minimum of 124 semester credits must be earned and applied toward the degree.

Course Requirements

• Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degrees. Students must complete required courses including the following: General Education requirements plus the requirements for a major, a minor (if required), and specified cognates (or related courses).
• Professional baccalaureate degrees. Students must complete all required courses including the following: General Education requirements plus the specific requirements for a degree as outlined in the appropriate section of this bulletin, including core, major, emphasis, and cognate requirements.
• All baccalaureate degrees. Students must complete a minimum of 30 semester credits from courses numbered 300 or above.

Residence Requirements

• A minimum of 30 of the last 36 semester credits applied to a baccalaureate degree must be earned on campus OR a minimum of 50% (62 credits) of undergraduate credit requirement. Before a student takes non-Andrews University courses for any part of the other 6 semester credits, the dean of the college/school in which the student is enrolled must approve.
• A minimum of one-third of the credits required for a major, and 3 credits required for a minor must be earned on campus and in courses numbered 300 or above.
• School of Business Administration students seeking a BBA must complete at least 50% of the core and major (33 of the total 66 credits) in residence.

Grade Requirements

• Overall GPA: A GPA of at least 2.00 (C) is required in all credits, and in credits earned at Andrews University. (Individual schools or departments may have higher minimum GPA requirements.)
• Major GPA: A GPA of at least 2.25 is required in all transfer credits, and in all credits earned at Andrews University that are counted for a major. (Individual schools or departments may have higher minimum GPA requirements.)
• Minor GPA: A GPA of at least 2.00 is required in all transfer credits, and in all credits earned at Andrews University that are counted for a minor. (Individual schools or departments may have higher minimum GPA requirements.)
• No course with a grade below C- may count toward a major or minor.

One Degree with Multiple Majors. Students may earn more than one major for a single degree. When more than one major is chosen, all the requirements for each major must be met to include all cognates for each major. If the majors represent more than one degree the student must specify which degree he/she wishes to receive (i.e., BA, BS or Professional degree) and complete the General Education requirements for that degree. A course may be used to fulfill the requirements for more than one major or minor if at least 75% of the major/minor credits are not also counted for another major/minor. A course may not be used to fulfill the requirements of more than one major or minor used for teacher certification. Any courses that fulfill cognate requirements for one major/minor may also be counted for another major/minor. One diploma will be issued for the single degree even if there are multiple majors.

Multiple Degrees. Students who earn more than one major and the majors are in different degrees may wish to earn a degree for each major (i.e., BA, BS or Professional degree). If more than one degree is chosen the General Education requirements for each degree must be completed. A General Education course may be used to fulfill the General Education requirements for multiple degrees. All the requirements for each major must be met to include all cognates for each major. A course may be used to fulfill the requirements for more than one major or minor if at least 75% of the major/minor credits are not also counted for another major/minor. A course may not be used to fulfill the requirements of more than one major or minor used for teacher certification. Any courses that fulfill cognate requirements for one major/minor may also be counted for another major/minor. One diploma will be issued for each degree earned.

Assessment (Evaluation) Requirements. Baccalaureate-degree candidates must complete general and departmental assessment examinations administered by the Counseling and Testing Center. These senior exit testing experiences include nationally normed standardized tests for all first-baccalaureate candidates and major field exams for selected departments and majors. In addition to the senior exit tests required for graduation, some departments may ask students to participate in additional assessment activities. Results from assessment experiences are reviewed by departments, the General Education Committee, and the Committee for University Assessment as part of the university’s commitment to continuous improvement of student learning.

Request for Graduation. Degree candidates must file an Undergraduate Graduation Application with approval of the advisor and Office of Academic Records.

Second Baccalaureate Degree Requirements

If a student wishes to earn a second baccalaureate degree, he/she must

• complete, in residence, 30 credits beyond those required for the first baccalaureate degree.
• meet all of the published requirements of the second degree major/professional component, including prerequisites, cognates, degree core, and General Education requirements specific to the program of study for the second degree.
• complete a minimum of 3 credits in religion if the first degree did not include a comparable General Education component in religion.

Associate Degree Requirements

Credit Requirement. A total of 62 semester credits must be earned and applied toward the degree.

Course Requirements. Students must complete the General Education requirements plus the specific requirements for the degree as specified in the appropriate section of this bulletin, including core, major, emphasis, and cognates as required.

Residence Requirements.

• A minimum of 15 of the last 21 semester credits applied to a degree must be earned in residence. Before a student takes non-Andrews courses for any part of the final 6 credits, the dean of the college/school in which the student is enrolled must approve.
• A minimum of 9 credits of the major must be taken in residence.

Grade Requirements. The grade requirements for an associate degree are the same as for a baccalaureate degree.

• Overall GPA: A GPA of at least 2.00 (C) is required in all transfer credits and in credits earned at Andrews University. (Individual schools or departments may have higher minimum GPA requirements.)
• Major GPA: A GPA of at least 2.25 is required in all transfer credits and in all credits earned at Andrews University that are counted for a major. (Individual schools or departments may have higher minimum GPA requirements.)

Request for Graduation. A degree candidate must file a request for graduation with approval by the student’s advisor and a designated records officer.

Student’s Governing Bulletin

Students may graduate under the bulletin for any school year they attend Andrews as long as that bulletin was published no more than ten years before the planned date of graduation. If students leave the university after earning at least 8 semester credits and then try to transfer more than 12 semester credits earned in the interim from another college, they are governed by the bulletin for the school year in which they return. The dean of the college in which the student is enrolled may permit exceptions.

The university reserves the right to require students (1) to take another course when a course required under an earlier bulletin is no longer offered, and (2) to graduate under a recent bulletin if they are working for certification by a governmental or professional agency.