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.

Admissions to Andrews University does not guarantee admissions 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.

Application Process for All Undergraduate Students

Applicants to the Berrien Springs main campus and online programs are strongly encouraged to apply online at andrews.edu/apply.  Applicants to Andrews University programs on affiliated campuses follow the application process communicated by their campus. (See Off-Campus Programs  for site and contact information.)

Applications must be submitted by:

• First time applicants to any undergraduate certificate, associate or baccalaureate program
• Continuing AU student who has not been enrolled during the previous two academic terms (excluding summer)
• Applicants to a second baccalaureate program

Apply Early

Applications for admissions, the non-refundable $30 fee, and all required documents should be submitted by the following priority deadlines. Deadlines are for the Berrien Springs main campus only:

Applicants may request changes to the entry term of a submitted application for up to one semester.  If changes to the entry term is for two or more semesters, a new application and fee will need to be submitted.

Freshman Admission Requirements

Students who will attend college after high school graduation are encouraged to apply before their final high school transcript is available. A preliminary 6-semester transcript (through the 11^th grade) with a cumulative GPA and ACT or SAT test scores are reviewed by the Undergraduate Admissions Committee for a decision. All students are required to submit a final official high school transcript and ACT or SAT scores before they can attend classes.

Note to Home Schooled Students. Andrews University School of Distance Education operates Griggs International Academy (GIA), an accredited online secondary education program. GIA will work with home school students who take a minimum of their last six high school courses through Griggs International Academy to obtain a fully accredited high school diploma. Contact GIA at 800-782-4769 or enrollgia@andrews.edu.

Transfer Student Admission Requirements

Applicants who have attended any type of institution of higher learning after high school graduation are considered Transfer Students. All transfer students are required to submit a final official high school transcript and official college transcripts before they can attend classes.

Transfer of Credits

Students who have attended any college or university classes are required to have transcripts sent directly to Andrews University Undergraduate Admissions.  Official transcripts must be requested at the time of admissions in order to ensure a timely evaluation of the credits.

In order for college-level courses to be accepted at Andrews University, they must have been taken at an accredited institution and have received a grade of C- or higher.

Transfer credits will not appear on an official Andrews University transcript.

Documents Needed for Transcript Evaluation

• Official and complete college transcripts from each institution attended.
• The University reserves the right to request a student to provide an external evaluation of international transcripts from a credential/transcript evaluation agency (e.g. WES).  
• Additional student documents may be needed for international transfer.

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/precollege courses are not acceptable for transfer.
• ESL/EFL/ELL 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 Freshman students. 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 committee as appropriate. On occasion, Andrews University may create an articulation agreement with an unaccredited institution based on 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.

International Student Admission Requirements

Language of Instruction. Students admitted to a university program must be able to fully participate in the program in the designated language of instruction.  The language of instruction is defined as the language of primary content delivery, assessment and evaluation.  English is the main language of instruction on the main campus of Andrews University and for online courses.  At times, individual programs may be offered in languages other than English. In these cases, the language of instruction will be identified in the program description both in the bulletin and on the program’s website. Students seeking admission to programs offered in languages other than English must demonstrate adequate language of instruction proficiency prior to being admitted. Once a student begins a program, they may not change to the same program offered in another language of instruction.

English Proficiency Requirement. The table below shows the minimum requirements for the different English Proficiency Exams accepted, including the requirements for the minimum components. Exams must be taken within two years prior to enrollment on any campus.

* Paper-based TOEFL is only accepted when administered by our Center of Intensive English Programs (CIEP) or through a partner institution that holds an official agreement with Andrews University.

Language proficiency must be met before enrolling full time in regular course work. 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. Degree programs with higher admissions requirements may also have higher English proficiency requirements.

Students with a score lower than the required minimum may be eligible for the Pathway Program which allows students to take a limited number of degree program courses while completing language proficiency requirements in the CIEP courses. Students in the Pathway Program must demonstrate language proficiency by successfully completing the CIEP courses in order to continue in the degree program. Not all degree programs allow students to participate in the Pathway Program. Please contact the CIEP for additional information at 269.471.2260 or ciep@andrews.edu.

The ENSL course work for a student is formulated on the basis of the results of Duolingo English Test, TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English), or CIEP English Placement Test, 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.

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

Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status (I-20).  International students who will be living in the US while studying online or on the main campus must provide all required admissions documents and receive admissions to Andrews University in order to begin the process of obtaining an I-20.  The following information is required in order to have an I-20 processed:

1. Academic acceptance into a degree program
2. Balanced estimated budget sheet
3. Support for all personal funds and/or sponsorship (bank statement or letter of sponsorship)
4. Current bank documentation (last three months)
5. One-time, non-refundable International Student Fee of $100.
6. Advance deposit of $3,000 (Citizens of Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada & Mexico are exempt from paying the international deposit)
7. Copy of Passport
8. Mailing Address (No P.O. Box Addresses) and telephone number

International students who reside in the US and have a current I-20 and wish to enroll in online or main campus classes for more than one semester must provide Andrews University with copy of the F1 or J1 visa, copy of valid passport and copy of current I-20 or DS-2019.

Adult Student Admission Requirements

Applicants who are (1) at least 25 at the time of application or (2) currently serving in the military or who are veterans, and (3) have not enrolled in a degree program in the last 2 years may apply for admission as an Adult Student.

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 attending the Main Campus must supply certain medical records to the school they plan to enter before registration can be completed.

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

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (German Measles) (MMR) Immunization. Any 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.

Dual Enrollment Status

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.

Non-degree Seeking Students

Non-degree students are individuals seeking temporary enrollment status for the purpose of participating in courses at Andrews University.   Enrollment as a non-degree seeking student is no guarantee of admission as a graduate or undergraduate degree seeking student.  Non-degree seeking student enrollment in some courses is available only by permission of the instructor. 

Guest Student enrollment status is valid for one academic year, unless the student is part of a formal program or consortium.  Non-degree seeking students who are not part of a formal program or consortium must submit an enrollment form each academic year they wish to attend.

Types of Non-Degree Seeking Students include 

• Non-degree seeking students who are part of a formal program (including CIEP and certification students).
• Consortium students attending as part of an agreement or defined program (including ACA, student exchange and MLS).
• High school students 
• Students who are degree-seeking elsewhere 
• Guest students  

International students who reside in the US and have a current I-20 and wish to enroll in online or main campus classes for more than one semester must provide Andrews University with a copy of the F1 or J1 visa, copy of valid passport and copy of current I-20 or DS-2019.

Limitation of Credits Taken as a Non-Degree Seeking Student

Non-degree seeking students who are not part of a formal program or consortium may enroll in up to two courses per semester.  Students who eventually apply and receive regular admission, may ask that up to 30 of the Andrews undergraduate credits taken as a non-degree seeking student be applied towards the proposed undergraduate degree. A minimum grade of C must be received in each course to be accepted for degree credit.

High School Students Taking College Classes 

High School students are eligible to take up to two courses per semester of 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 must also maintain a 3.0 GPA in their Andrews University courses.
• Students whose first language is not English or who have not completed the last four years in schools where English is the language of instruction 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.

Delivery of courses. 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.

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 Center. 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, 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, 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):

• Four 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 language other than English;
• 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.

Voluntary Leave of Absence

On occasion, a student may need to take a break from continuous enrollment at the university with the intent to return to their studies within a designated timeframe.  This break in enrollment may be requested for a variety of reasons, including personal, academic or financial.  Students may apply for a Voluntary Leave of Absence (VLA) for up to two consecutive terms, excluding the summer term for programs without expected summer enrollment.  Students enrolled in more than one university program may not request a VLA from one program and remain enrolled in the other(s). 

Approval of a Voluntary Leave of Absence (VLA) is based on the nature of the request and the feasibility of the student returning to their academic program without undue hardship on the student or department/school.  If a VLA is approved, the student’s status (including institutional aid and academic catalog year) is maintained upon return to the university.  Any registration hold(s) must be addressed prior to applying for a VLA.

Eligibility. Students wishing to apply for a Voluntary Leave of Absence (VLA) from the university must meet the following requirements:

• Be a degree-seeking undergraduate or graduate student.  Students enrolled in certificate programs are not eligible.
• Have completed at least one term at the university.
• Be enrolled in the term immediately prior to the start of the VLA (excluding the summer term for programs without expected summer enrollment).
• Not be on academic dismissal.
• Not have a hold that would prevent registration (e.g. financial, student life). 

Process. Students must submit an application for a Voluntary Leave of Absence (VLA) to the college dean at least two weeks prior to the beginning of the term for which the VLA is being requested.  Applications must be signed by the primary advisor and the department/school chair.  Additional signatures are required as applicable.  Students should consult their student financial aid advisor regarding any financial aid implications.  International students should also consult the Office of International Student Services regarding any visa/immigration implications.  Students are responsible for communicating the intended VLA with Student Financial Services, Residence Life and other campus offices as appropriate.

Limitations. While on a Voluntary Leave of Absence (VLA), students are restricted as follows:

• Students may not register for any Andrews University courses on the main campus, online or with any international partners.  Students may finish coursework for an Incomplete earned prior to the VLA.
• Students will not have access to university resources and services, including student insurance, library services, etc.
• Students may not participate in university activities (athletics, clubs, etc.) or live in campus housing.
• Students may not be degree-seeking at another institution.
• Students may not enroll in courses at another institution without an approved transient student request.

Return. It is expected that students on a Voluntary Leave of Absence (VLA) return to active student status by the deadline specified on their VLA application.  Students who wish to return in advance of the end of the VLA or extend the length should contact their college dean for consideration.  Prior to reinstating enrollment, students should do the following:

• Notify the Academic Records Office of their intent to return at least three weeks prior to the start of the next term.
• Meet with their academic advisor to discuss course options and receive permission to register.
• Contact other campus departments including Student Financial Services, International Student Services, and/or Residence Life as appropriate.

Students who do not return at the conclusion of their VLA will be fully withdrawn from the university.

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 their academic status changes to good academic standing.
• Part-time employment should be no greater than 12 hours per week and extra-curricular activities should be limited:
  • Students on academic probation status shall not be allowed to:
    • Be a member of Andrews Gymnics or Cardinals sports teams
    • Be a member of any performing group that requires frequent absences from campus
    • Hold an officer position in AUSA or any departmental club.

UG Academic Dismissal. Students are subject to academic dismissal from the University in one of the following ways:

• Earning during a given semester a GPA of 1.25 or less
• Two consecutive or three total semesters on academic probation
• Violations of the Academic Integrity Code as outlined in the Andrews University Academic Integrity Policy

Students may also be dismissed from a department or program if the specific requirements for a degree are not met by that individual.

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 Academic Standing based on Fall Semester grades
• Were readmitted for Fall Semester after an academic dismissal but failed to achieve Good Academic 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 status and failed to achieve Good Academic 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 Academic Standing based on Spring Semester grades
• Were readmitted for Spring Semester after an academic dismissal but failed to achieve Good Academic 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 (Deferred Dismissal)

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 Academic Dean. Consultation with the Director of the Student Success Center, departments, and/or academic advisors may be necessary before appeal decisions are made.
• Academic 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 will be evaluated to determine transferability to Andrews University degree requirements. The University reserves the right to request a student to provide an external evaluation of international transcripts from a credential/transcript evaluation agency (e.g. WES). 

Advanced Credit
Applicants 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. Up to 8 credits may be awarded for each Advanced Level grade of C or higher and 4 credits for each Advanced Subsidiary Level grade of C or higher. See the Equivalency Table

European Advanced Standing. Up to 32 ACE or general elective credits may be awarded to students earning secondary or high school credentials in countries that are members of the European Higher Education Commission that support the Bologna Process.
See By-Country Admission Criteria

Cambridge Pre-U
Credit may be awarded for Pre-U principal level grades of M3 or higher. See Pre-U Equivalency Table

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. For information about evaluation of transfer credits, see 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 120 semester credits must be earned and applied toward the degree.

Course Requirements

• Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degrees. The Bachelor of Arts and the Bachelor of Science degrees promote a liberal arts education that fosters distinct methodologies and intellectual capacities. Both degrees require focused study of the human experience and scientific inquiry.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).

  • The Bachelor of Arts is a liberal arts degree that explores the human experience and its meaning across a variety of disciplines. The degree includes second language proficiency at the intermediate level and often provides opportunities for a minor.

  • The Bachelor of Science is a liberal arts degree allowing for concentrated study in a particular field.

• 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 60 credits for baccalaureate programs must be earned through completion of Andrews University undergraduate level courses included in the academic bulletin.
• 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 for some programs must complete departmental assessment examinations administered by the Counseling and Testing Center. These testing experiences include major field exams for selected departments and majors. Departments may ask students to participate in additional assessment activities. 

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 credits for associate programs must be earned through completion of Andrews University undergraduate level courses included in the academic bulletin.
• 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

A student’s bulletin identifies the curricular requirements (major, minor, general education) that must be met to earn the degree.  Students are placed on the bulletin in effect at the time of their initial enrollment as a degree-seeking student.  All general education requirements, majors, minors, and certificates must be in the same bulletin.

After seeking the advice of their advisor, a student may choose to move to a subsequent bulletin year during which they are enrolled at the university, as long as the program or degree is still offered, and the bulletin was published no more than ten years prior to the planned date of graduation.  If a student is inactive for two or more consecutive semesters, they are placed on the bulletin for the year in which their student status is reactivated.  By changing bulletins, a student is responsible for fulfilling all the graduation requirements in their newly chosen bulletin year.  

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 more recent bulletin if they are working for certification/licensure by a governmental or professional agency.