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Student Manual

2013-2014

School of Arts and Sciences


School of Medicine
School of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate Studies Program

Welcome to St. Georges University. This Manual has been designed to clearly articulate
the rules, regulations, and administrative policies of the University in general, and the more
specific policies of the individual Schools and programs in particular. All administrators,
faculty members, and students should familiarize themselves with the content of this Manual
and adhere to the policies and procedures herein.

St. Georges University


St. Georges University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
General Policies for All Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Registration and Matriculation Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Acceptance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Pre-Registration Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Registration Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
MD/DVM Clinical Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Late Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Change in Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Financial Obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Billing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Late Payment Penalties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Required Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Health Insurance Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Health History Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Disabilities Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
MCAT Consent Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Permanent Address Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Personal Contact Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Student Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Absence Reporting Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Course And Instructor Critique Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Leave Of Absence (Loa) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Permission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Intent to Return from LOA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Financial Aid and LOA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Refund Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Return of Financial Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Transcripts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
St. Georges University Privacy Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Notice Of Directory Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Administrative Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Letters of Good Standing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Letters of Recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Student Policies, Procedures, and
Nonacademic Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
University Code Of Conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Student Comportment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
University ID Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Building Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Library Code of Conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17


Study Space Code of Conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Service Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Non-Service Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Control of Animals on St. Georges University Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Campus Motor Vehicle Rules and Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Student Security and Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Honor Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Enforcement of the University Code of Conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Plagiarism Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Penalties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Sexual Harassment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
University Drug And Alcohol Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
University Tobacco Use Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
University Examination Policies And Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Unprofessional Behavior During an Examination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Procedure in case of unprofessional behavior: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Disciplinary Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Informal Hearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Formal Hearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Use Of Media By The University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

St. Georges University

General Policies for All Students


This section describes the general University rules, policies, and regulations. Students
registration each semester or term constitutes an agreement to comply with the
requirements and provisions of the University as published or amended in the entire
Student Manual and each Schools catalogue, and supersedes the previous years
Student Manual and Schools catalogue. It is the responsibility of all students to educate
themselves on the contents of this Manual, and to adhere to the policies and provisions
as stated herein. Ignorance of rules and regulations clearly outlined and defined within
this Manual is no excuse for noncompliance.
The particular School or program rules are in addition to and supersede these rules. For
those students matriculated in the Doctor of Medicine program, additional requirements
and provisions will be found in the School of Medicine Clinical Training Manual. Students
fulfilling degree requirements at another institution are responsible for familiarizing
themselves and complying with the rules and regulations of the affiliate university.
The privileges of the University and bona fide status as a student is available only when
students have completed registration, are on a designated vacation period or an
approved leave of absence, and are in good financial standing with the University. It must
be expressly understood and agreed that should any difference between the University
and a student arise, the local law of Grenada will be applied.
The University, it Schools and Programs, reserve the right to update and make changes
to their respective Manuals at any time.

Registration and Matriculation Policies


Acceptance
The Committee on Admission grants students acceptance into the University upon
the presumption that all statements made by applicants during the admission process,
whether oral, written, or in submission of academic documentation, are true and
accurate. If it is subsequently discovered that false, misleading, or inaccurate information
was submitted, the University may nullify a candidates acceptance; if a student is
registered, dismiss the student; or, if a degree has been conferred, rescind the degree.

St. Georges University

Welcome to St. Georges University. This Manual has been designed to clearly articulate
the rules, regulations, and administrative policies of the University in general, and
the more specific policies of the individual Schools and programs in particular. All
administrators, faculty members, and students should familiarize themselves with the
content of this Manual, and adhere to the policies and procedures herein.

Registration
Pre-Registration Procedures
Students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, or professional programs are required to
meet with their faculty advisors during the designated pre-registration period. Scheduled
appointments are recommended. After consultation with an advisor, the advisor will submit
students official pre-registration forms. The registration process is completed when students
are financially cleared. Students will be able to view and print their registration status and
course schedule from their student self-service account. Students will receive a validation sticker
for their SGU identification card when they complete registration check-in. Students will be
able to view in student self-service if there are holds on their account which prevent registration
completion. These procedures will be distributed prior to the pre-registration period.
Registration Procedures
All students must complete registration for all coursework to be attempted within the
upcoming academic period during the official registration period. The registration period
includes the late registration period. Students are not considered enrolled until they have
formally completed the registration requirements during the designated registration period,
which is on or before the first day of scheduled classes in a term or semester.
Registration procedures will be distributed immediately before the start of classes. The times
for registration will be posted on campus and published on the University website.
No services, including on-campus housing, study-group help, or participation in academic
activities will be offered to non-registered students. Students who fail to register by the end
of the seventh day of a new term, as outlined in the late registration period, and who have not
received approval for an official leave of absence, or have not officially withdrawn from the
University will be dismissed for failure to register effective on the eighth day of the term.
MD/DVM Clinical Registration
MD: There is no formal registration period during clinical rotations in the Doctor of Medicine
program. The Office of Clinical Studies schedules clinical rotations for the School of Medicine.
Attendance on the first day of rotation is equivalent to registration. Clinical students in the
Doctor of Medicine program are required to be present on the day and time indicated for the
assigned rotation.
DVM: The final year of clinical training of the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program takes
place on the campus of one of the affiliated universities. The final year of the program is
scheduled through the School of Veterinary Medicine. Students must appear at the assigned
educational institution as advised and follow the course registration procedures of that
particular institution. This registration is communicated immediately to the SGU Office of the
Registrar. Students are simultaneously registered at St. Georges University while registered
at affiliated universities.
Late Registration
All students, except for clinical students in the Schools of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine,
are required to register on or before the first day of classes as scheduled by the Office of the
Registrar.

The late registration period ends at 5:00 pm on the seventh day following the date of the
end of the registration period (for example, if registration ends on a Monday, the late
registration period will end at 5:00 pm on the following Monday). Fees are charged for
each day late. No students may register beyond this time.

Change in Registration
To alter their registration, students must submit the appropriate, completed Add/Drop,
Administrative Adjustment, or Withdrawal forms to the Office of the Registrar within the
time period allotted for the particular School or program.
Financial Obligations
All students are responsible for settling any financial obligations to the University before
registering for a new term. Financial clearance from the Office of Student Finances is
required for registration. If financial clearance cannot be achieved, it is the responsibility
of students to obtain approval for provisional registration or an official leave of absence
by the end of the late registration period.
Billing
Students will be billed approximately one month before the applicable due date. In the
event that students do not receive a timely tuition bill, it is their responsibility to contact
the Office of Student Finances to ensure that the tuition bill is paid before the due date.
All students are responsible for payment of tuition and fees by the due date, which is
approximately one month before the start of each term or academic year depending
on the program. Payments must be postmarked by the due date indicated on the
tuition invoice or statement of account. Tuition and fees are published in the University
catalogues and are subject to change.
Late Payment Penalties
Late payment penalties are assigned from the designated due date at a rate of 18%
per annum on any unpaid balance. Students are not considered to be students in good
standing if they have any unpaid balances. Students will not receive any University
services or records until their good standing status is restored. These include transcripts,
diplomas, bona fide student letters, and letters of recommendation.

Required Documentation
Health Insurance Form
All students attending at least half-time and who are not covered by the Universitysponsored health insurance program must carry comparable health insurance, and are
required to submit documented proof of such coverage on an annual basis. Grenadian
students may wish to enroll in the University-sponsored health insurance program;
however, it is not required during any period of an academic program during which they
are residing in their home country.

St. Georges University

Students should note that if they register and begin classes late, they will miss important
academic concepts and their grades may suffer. Late registration will not be considered
a mitigating factor for poor academic performance.

Health History Form


All matriculated students must complete a Health History form prior to registration and meet
the requirements stated on the form. This form will give a record of previous illnesses and
immunizations.
Throughout students matriculation, Health History forms must be current and verification
must be provided, as determined by the University. Students who fail to fulfill these
requirements may have their matriculation status suspended. Medical records will be
kept confidential and used only for valid University purposes. If a student is seeking
accommodation for a disability such as extra time on an examination, she/she must follow the
procedures below.
Students returning from a medical leave of absence must submit documentation of their
health status for review by the Director of University Health Services one month prior to
their intended return to the School. They should receive written clearance from the Dean of
Students to return prior to arriving at the University.
Disabilities Form
Students who have physical or learning disabilities may seek reasonable accommodations
from the University, such as extra time on examinations. It is the responsibility of student
to notify the University of a disability and to provide the documentation deemed necessary
by the University. This documentation will be submitted to the Dean of Students Office. The
Dean of Students Office will submit the information to the Committee on Learning Disabilities
for consideration. If a disability is suspected after enrollment, it is the students responsibility
to obtain appropriate documentation of this disability from a certified specialist as requested
by the University and submit it to the Dean of Students. The University may require students
to submit to an examination by a health care provider of the Universitys choosing.
Students will be informed of decisions regarding approval for accommodation for students
disabilities by the Committee on Learning Disabilities.
The policies and procedures for documenting disabilities and requesting accommodations in
the School of Medicine are found in the Medical Program section, and supersede the above.
MCAT Consent Form
All students entering the Doctor of Medicine must sign a waiver granting permission to
the University to release MCAT scores of US citizens and permanent residents to the US
Department of Education
Permanent Address Form
All students must maintain an accurate record of their permanent address, emergency, and
immigration information, including citizenship and passport or immigration number, with the
Office of Enrolment Planning. The permanent address on file with the University is the only
place to which the University will send ALL correspondence when students are not on campus.
A change of address during a term, between terms, or while taking clinical clerkships must
be filed in writing with the Office of the Registrar. It is especially important for medical and
veterinary medical students on clinical clerkships to notify the Office of the Registrar of any
change of permanent address during clinical rotations.

Personal Contact Information


Telephone: Students must maintain current local and permanent phone numbers
where they can be reached both when school is in session and during holidays with
the Office of the Registrar.

Website: The University from time to time may broadcast general University
communications via the University website. Students may not use the public website
for general communications. There are sites within the Members Center, SGU Talk,
and SGU Post where students may post general announcements or messages.

Student Housing
In Grenada, all entering students must live on campus for at least one term. Medical,
veterinary medical, and graduate students are required to live on campus for the first
term only. Undergraduate students, including those in preprofessional programs, must
live on campus for one year. Exceptions to this policy include students in the Charter
Foundation Program, married students, and students from Grenada who live at home.
After the required residency period, on-campus housing is not guaranteed in Grenada.
All students wishing to live on campus must enter a lottery. The lottery is held during
March/April for the Fall term and October/November for the Spring term.
Information on off-campus housing can be obtained from the Housing Office. All
matriculated students on the Grenada campus must live in approved housing, either on
or off campus, at the discretion of the University. Students are reminded that no pets are
permitted in University housing on the True Blue campus. The University reserves the
right to require students to live on campus.
For those students enrolled in the Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Veterinary
Medicine programs, housing opportunities vary at different clinical centers, affiliated
hospitals, and veterinary clinical locations. In all cases, during the medical and veterinary
clinical years, housing is the responsibility of students. Some affiliated hospitals in the
United Kingdom provide single accommodation for students. Students are responsible
for the cost of these accommodations.

Attendance
Requirements
Students are expected to attend all classes and clinical rotations for which they have
registered. Although attendance may not be recorded at every academic activity,
attendance may be taken randomly. Students absence may adversely affect their

St. Georges University

Email: The University assigned email accounts are an official means of


communication between students and the University. Students should ensure
that their password remains confidential. Students must check their SGU email
accounts frequently. Important student information will be posted there. Students
are responsible for University information imparted via email. Any information
disseminated via email using students email accounts will be the responsibility of
students whether or not students claim to have actually sent the email.

academic status as specified in the grading policy.


If absence from individual classes, examinations, and activities, or from the University itself
is anticipated, or occurs spontaneously due to illness or other extenuating circumstances,
proper notification procedures must be followed.
A particular course may define additional policies regarding specific attendance or
participation.
Absence Reporting Procedures
Medical Excuse: There are specific medical excuse guidelines in each School or program.
Please check the appropriate section in this Manual.
Non-Medical Excuse: If, due to a catastrophic event or emergency, students are unable to
attend any mandatory activity, they must immediately notify the Dean of Students Office. The
Dean of Students Office will make a determination based upon information provided and
verification, and will notify the course instructor as to the validity of the absence, requesting
that the instructor provide remediation of the missed activity. The instructor will specify
the means through which students can resolve excused absences and inform the Dean of
Students Office.
Religious Observance: Students who miss an examination due to religious observance will
be allowed to sit a rescheduled examination within the term if the course instructor is notified
through the Dean of Students Office prior to the original examination.
There may be specific attendance rules in a given School or program. Please check the
appropriate section in this Manual.

Course And Instructor Critique Program


Course and Instructor Critiques: Students are expected to attend all classes and other
related academic activities as defined for each course by the course director. One such
academic activity is participation in the St. Georges University (SGU) Course and Instructor
Critique Program.
Student Participation in the Evaluation Process is Mandatory: When requested, students in
a course are expected to complete all required faculty and course evaluations. Failure to
complete all required course and instructor critiques will mean that students did not fulfill all
course requirements. The critiques coordinator notifies students when evaluation periods
have begun and sends periodic reminders to ensure that critiques are submitted within the
allotted time frame.
The Importance of Evaluation: Evaluation is a necessary component of any course. Just as
students anticipate a fair and accurate evaluation of their performance and achievement in a
course, SGU requires that faculty and course evaluations be completed each term. Continual
evaluation and assessment of faculty ensures that the instructional program not only remains
consistent, but also improves as students needs and expectations are considered.
Feedback: At the beginning of each term, course directors will address the class and
summarize the results of the course and instructor critiques from the previous term. In this
summary, course directors will report areas that students rated highly and areas that received

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the lowest ratings. For areas receiving low ratings, the course director details what
changes were made to address students concerns, thus ensuring that course evaluation
influences course design and delivery.

Permission
Due to schedule and curriculum changes, a leave of absence (LOA) may cause difficulties
upon re-entering an academic program. Degree candidates are still required to
complete their programs within the number of years specified by their degree programs.
Students utilizing US Title IV funding should refer to the Financial Aid and LOA section
that follows.
Students who must interrupt their studies for part of a term or longer are required to
receive written approval for a leave of absence (LOA) from the Dean of Students Office.
Forms can be obtained at the Dean of Students Office. It is the responsibility of students
to make sure that they receive written approval prior to leaving the University. These
forms require a reason for the LOA, the students signature, and a date. All forms must
be emailed to Enrollmentchanges@sgu.edu.
The Dean of Students must approve an extension of an LOA into another term; requests
must include an explanation of special circumstances. Students who do not return to
the University by the designated date and have not received an LOA extension will be
withdrawn from the University. Leaves of absence may be granted for up to one year
(only under special circumstances).
Please note: A student is allowed one Leave of Absence (LOA) or one term in the
Individual Advancement Program.
Intent to Return from LOA
All students on a leave of absence should contact the Office of the Registrar six weeks
prior to the end of the leave (no later than November 30 for a Spring term return or no
later than June 30 for a Fall term return) to clarify their future intention and confirm that
all documentation is in order, including medical and/or financial clearance, if required.
Students wishing to return early may only do so with written permission of the Dean of
Students.
Financial Aid and LOA
Students receiving financial aid should consult the Office of Financial Aid concerning the
financial implications of a leave of absence.
An LOA is considered approved for US federal financial aid purposes if:
1. Students are permitted to complete the coursework they began prior to the LOA; and
2. The number of days in the LOA, when added to the number of days in all other
approved leaves of absence, does not exceed 180 days in any 12-month period
(counting from the first day of the first approved LOA within a 12-month period).
If students resume attendance before a total of 180 days accumulate, they will maintain

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St. Georges University

Leave Of Absence (Loa)

eligibility for deferment of federal student loans and subsidy of subsidized Stafford loans.
Leaves of absence, which begin during a term in which students withdraw from all courses
and intend to repeat, are not considered approved for student financial aid purposes, and
students will be reported as withdrawn to the National Student Loan Data System. The
withdrawal date will be the first date of the LOA. An LOA will be considered approved for
students taking leaves of absence between clinical rotations if the 180-day criterion is met.
If students request extensions of approved leaves of absence, students will be reported as
withdrawn to the National Student Loan Data System if the extended LOA exceeds 180 days
within the 12-month period. The withdrawal date will be the first date of the LOA.
Leaves of absence, which are not approved for student financial aid purposes, will result in a
reported status of Withdrawn and will require action on the part of the student. As there will
no longer be eligibility for in-school deferment of loans, students must contact the servicers
of those loans to request forbearance status.

UNIVERSITY WITHDRAWAL POLICY


If students wish to withdraw from the University, they should provide written notice of their
intention to do so to the Dean of Students or the Office of the Registrar. Each School or
program of study has its own regulations regarding how withdrawn courses are noted on the
transcript. Students are advised to seek counseling from the Dean of Students and their faculty
advisors prior to withdrawal.
Refund Policy
Students who withdraw or take a leave of absence, fail to return from an approved leave of
absence, are dismissed, or otherwise fail to complete the term for which they were charged
will receive a refund of University charges based on a pro rata calculation. If students
withdraw during the first 60% of a term, University charges are prorated based on the
percentage of the term that has elapsed. If a withdrawal takes place after the 60% point, full
University charges remain due. The refund is determined by students effective dates of
separation.
Return of Financial Aid
In accordance with US Federal Title IV Regulations, the same pro rata schedule is used to
determine the amount of Title IV funds students have earned at the time of withdrawal.
Refunds made on behalf of financial aid recipients are distributed in the following order:
Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan
Subsidized Federal Stafford Loan
Federal GradPLUS
Private or institutional sources of aid
The student
Students who can demonstrate unusual and compelling reasons for leaving the University
may appeal for an exception to the refund policy by writing a letter to the Office of Student
Finances asking to apply for a William M. McCord Scholarship. These partial tuition
scholarships are awarded to students who withdraw from a term due to compelling personal

12

reasons, and when they return to resume their studies suffer undue financial hardships
which affect their ability to pay for their education.

Transcripts

A charge of $5.00 for each transcript request may be paid directly to the Office of
Enrolment Planning/Office of the Registrar. Checks should be made payable to
St. Georges University or University Support Services, LLC. If more than ten transcripts
are ordered on the same request form, the additional transcripts over ten will be billed at
$3.00 per transcript.
Requests for official transcripts can be submitted in writing by mail or in person:
Office of Enrolment Planning/Office of the Registrar
St. Georges University
Grenada, West Indies
Fax: +1 (473) 444-1770
OR
Office of the Registrar
University Support Services, LLC
35 00 Sunrise Highway, Building 300
Great River, NY 11739
Fax: +1 (631) 665-2047

St. Georges University Privacy Policy


The St. Georges University Privacy Policy affords students certain rights with respect to
their education records.
These rights include:
1. The right to inspect and review students education records within 45 days of the day
the University receives requests for access. Students should submit written requests
to the Office of the Registrar that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The Office
of the Registrar will make arrangements for access and notify students of the time
and place where the records may be inspected. If the Office of the Registrar does not
maintain the records, that official shall advise students of the correct official to whom
the requests should be addressed.
2. T he right to request the amendment of students education records that the
students believe to be inaccurate. Students may ask the University to amend
records that they believe to be inaccurate. They should write the University Official
responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed,

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St. Georges University

Grade reports including all completed coursework to date will be issued to students
four to six weeks after the completion of each academic term as long as students are
in good academic and financial standing. Official transcripts bearing the University seal
and validating signatures are not issued to students or other individuals, but are mailed
directly to institutions as confidential information, and only upon the written request by
students.

and specify why it is inaccurate.


If the University decides not to amend the records as requested by students, the University
will notify students of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding
requests for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be
provided to students when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained
in students education records, except to the extent that the SGU Privacy Policy
authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without
consent, is disclosure to School Officials with legitimate educational interests. A School
Official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory,
academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement, unit
personnel, and health staff); a person or company with whom the University has
contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person ser ving on the
Board of Trustees; a student ser ving on an official committee, such as a disciplinar y or
grievance committee, or assisting another School Official in per forming his/her tasks;
or a third par ty carr ying out an ac tivity, such as auditing financial aid or the financial
management of the school, relevant to the administration, ownership or management
of the school.
A School Official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review
an education record in order to fulfill his/her professional responsibility, or for the
evaluation of, management or administration of the school. Upon request, the
University discloses education records without consent to officials of another school in
which students seek or intend to enroll.
4. SGUs Privacy Policy and Rights guidelines are consistent with the US governments Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). US students have the right to file a complaint
with the US Department of Education concerning alleged failures by St. Georges
University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office
that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
US Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-5901

Notice Of Directory Information


The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) also requires that St. Georges
University, with certain exceptions, obtain written consent prior to the disclosure of personally
identifiable information from students education records; however,
St. Georges University may disclose appropriately designated directory information without
written consent, unless students have advised the School to the contrary in accordance with
School procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow St. Georges
University to include this type of information from students education records in certain
School publications.

14

Examples include:
School catalogue or bulletin, showing a students role in a school-related activity;
Annual yearbook;
Honor roll or other recognition lists;
Sports activity sheets, such as basketball, showing weight and height of team
members.
Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful
or an invasion of privacy, if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations
without students prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not
limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. If students do
not want St. Georges University to disclose directory information from their education
records without prior written consent, students must notify the Office of the Registrar by
September 1 of each calendar year.
St. Georges University has designated the following information as directory
information:
Students name
Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
Address
Telephone listing
Weight and height of members of athletic teams
Electronic mail address
Photograph
Degrees, honors, and awards received
Date and place of birth
Major field of study
Dates of attendance
Grade level
Most recent educational agency or institution attended

Administrative Letters
Letters of Good Standing
The Office of the Registrar issues Letters of Good Standing only when students are
in good academic, disciplinary, and financial standing. Requests can be made via an
Administrative Action form, which should be submitted to the appropriate Office of
Enrolment Planning/Office of the Registrar. No fee is charged. Allow a minimum of 48
hours for processing.
Letters of Recommendation
The University does not provide a Letter of Recommendation Service. Letters of

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St. Georges University

Graduation and other ceremony programs; and

Recommendation must be obtained directly by students from individual faculty members. The
Dean of Students Office stores all submitted recommendations; these letters are used for final
year Letters of Recommendation for residency positions for medical students and for Deans
Recommendation Letters for all Schools in the University.
Deans Letters
Students should contact the appropriate office directly to obtain Deans Letters.
School of Medicine:
Premedical Program: Dean of Students
Medical Program, Basic Sciences: Dean of Students
Medical Program, Clinical Years: Dean, School of MedicineThe Deans Letter
for postgraduate training applications is now known as the Medical Student
Performance Evaluation (MSPE)
School of Veterinary Medicine: Associate Dean, School of Veterinary Medicine
School of Arts and Sciences: Dean, School of Arts and Sciences
Graduate Studies Program: Dean, Graduate Studies Program
No fee is charged; however, please allow a minimum of two weeks for processing.

Student Policies, Procedures, and


Nonacademic Standards
University Code Of Conduct
Students attending St. Georges University are expected to conduct themselves with integrity,
dignity, and courtesy, according to a code of conduct that defines the interests, reputation,
and stature of the University community. Learning experiences at St. Georges University are
not only meant to develop strong academic skills, but also to cultivate students with positive
professional attributes, who are well adjusted to the norms of social graces and good social
behavior.
The Code of Conduct includes student comportment and the honor code, as well as those
actions that warrant disciplinary action. The University reserves the right to take any action
that it sees fit to protect the rights of the student body, as well as the reputation of the
University.
Abuses of this Code, outlined below, will result in disciplinary action, which may include
suspension or dismissal. It is the responsibility of all students to know the University Code of
Conduct. It is required that all students abide by the terms of the University Code of Conduct.

Student Comportment
Civil and professional behavior toward all University personnel is expected at all times.

16

Dress Code
Students attending work placements, laboratories, and veterinary or hospital clinics must
dress in a professional manner appropriate to the teaching or professional facility. All
students who do not adhere to an appropriate dress code may face disciplinary action.
Specific dress code requirements may be imposed within the Schools or Programs of the
University, based upon health and safety requirements.
Building Usage
Smoking is not permitted in any University building. Eating or drinking (except water) is
strictly prohibited in any campus lecture hall, classroom, laboratory, or library.
Library Code of Conduct
1. Students are responsible for their own property at all times.
2. Smoking, eating, and drinking are all strictly prohibited in the library. Library and
security staff may confiscate food and drink openly brought into or in view in the
building.
3. Students must keep their University ID cards with them at all times and show it to
library or security staff on request.
4. Seat reservation by deposit of property in absentia is not permitted; after 20 minutes
of non-attendance, property may be removed at the owners risk.
5. The University will not tolerate antisocial behavior; this includes abusive language
and verbal harassment. Such misconduct will be dealt with under the Universitys
disciplinary procedures.
6. Silence must be observed in all study areas, including computer rooms. Those in
group study rooms must not disturb others nearby.
7. Cell phone and internet telephone use is prohibited throughout the study areas. Cell
phones must be switched to silent on entering the library building.
8. Deliberate removal (or attempting to do so) of library materials not checked out
to students is a serious matter and will be referred to a senior member of staff for
investigation and disciplinary action.
9. Students are responsible for library materials checked out to them (on or off campus);
students are advised to report immediately any loss or theft to library staff, so that
remedial action can be taken.
This Code applies to all library users and to all parts of Founders Library. Infringement of
the Code will be dealt with under the Universitys disciplinary procedures.

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St. Georges University

University ID Cards
Students are required to have their ID cards on their person at all times while they are
on campus. The ID cards are to be presented to security and administration personnel
whenever requested to do so. It is strongly recommended that ID cards be worn visibly
at all times. If students cannot present ID cards and the security personnel cannot verify
student status, students will be escorted to the Office of the Registrar for identification
and verification of status. In the event that the Office of the Registrar is closed, students
may be escorted to the Business Office. Repeated failures to produce ID will result in
further action from the administration, which may include disciplinary action.

Study Space Code of Conduct


The University has designated certain areas as Study Space. In these areas, the Study Space
Code of Conduct applies. The Code of Conduct has been formulated to foster private study.
Group study must be pursued elsewhere. Areas designated as Study Space will be clearly
marked.
1. Students are responsible for their own property at all times.
2. Smoking, eating, and drinking (except water) are all strictly prohibited in every study space.
Security staff may confiscate food and drink openly in view in the study area.
3. Students must keep their University ID cards with them at all times and show it to security
staff on request.
4. Seat reservation by deposit of property in absentia is not permitted; after 20 minutes of
non-attendance, property may be removed at owners risk.
5. The University will not tolerate antisocial behavior; this includes abusive language and
verbal harassment. Security staff is required to identify and report offenders.
6. Silence must be observed in all study areas. Music (and other sounds) generated from any
form of equipment is not permitted.
7. Cell phone and internet telephone use is prohibited throughout the study area. Cell phones
must be switched to silent on entering study space.
This Code applies to all users of a designated study space. Infringement of the Code will be
dealt with under the Universitys disciplinary procedures.
Service Animals
All students who require the use of a service animal during matriculation at the University
must inform the Office of Admission prior to initial registration, and the Dean of Students
once matriculated. Students seeking permission to have a service animal on campus are
required to supply appropriate documentation as deemed necessary by the University. If the
request for a service animal is approved, students will be required to carry a University permit
for the animal at all times the animal is on campus, and be prepared to display the permit if
so requested by security personnel and/or the University Administration. Service animals with
the appropriate permit must be tethered at all times and not permitted to run loose while
legally on campus. It is the responsibility of the student, entering Grenada with a service
animal, to comply with applicable Grenadian laws concerning registration and vaccination of
the service animal.
Non-Service Animals
Non-service animals are strictly prohibited in campus buildings.
Control of Animals on St. Georges University Property
The University has the responsibility to provide a safe, healthy, positive learning environment.
The uncontrolled and unsupervised presence of animals on campus compromises that
environment. This policy establishes and fixes the responsibility with the owner of the animal
and sets forth the manner in which the conditions of the policy will be administered.
1. All animals on University property, including athletic fields, playing fields, and intramural
areas, must be leashed and under personal control of the owner at all times. They are not to

18

be tied or secured to trees, posts, shrubs, and so forth, and left unattended.
2. Animals are not permitted in any buildings. Exceptions are service animals, campus
security dogs, animals under care and treatment in the veterinary medical complex,
research animals housed in University buildings, or animals used as part of an
academic program.

4. Animals picked up because they are found running loose or unattended will be taken
to the GSPCA building where they will be retained for 72 hours. If not claimed and
expenses paid by that time, appropriate disposition of the animal will take place.
5.Owners/Caregivers must clean any urine or feces produced by animals while in
buildings or anywhere on campus.
6. The University Veterinarian must approve areas in advance for unloading, exercising,
or tethering animals.
Campus Motor Vehicle Rules and Regulations
The operation of a motor vehicle on campus is a revocable privilege that may be
suspended or otherwise restricted. Ignorance of rules and regulations is no excuse for
improper adherence; therefore, students who drive motor vehicles on campus must
obtain a parking permit and a copy of the campus regulations from the Department of
Public Safety and Security on the west side of the Chancellery Building.
Student Security and Safety
In the event of a suspected or apparent on-campus or off-campus crime, students
should report matters immediately in the following sequence to the authorities:
1. Campus Security Emergency # 777; Who will follow the protocols appropriate to the
incident and will record the incident in a crime report
2. The appropriate police force or department;
3. The Business Administrator
4. The Dean of Students.
Upon receipt of the Crime Report from Campus Security, the Business Administrator
or other appropriate administrator will take any appropriate or required action with
the Police Commissioner. Interim inquiries from students (or their relatives) should be
directed to the Dean of Students.

Honor Code
Cooperation and collaboration are encouraged in all aspects of work and study which
can benefit from collective effort. Plagiarism and/or other forms of dishonesty are firmly
rejected in the SGU community. In accordance with these ideals, all students of the
University are required to adhere to the Honor Code.
The Universitys Honor Code must be signed by all students upon matriculation at the

19

St. Georges University

3. All animals on campus must have current registration and vaccinations, in compliance
with Grenadian Law, as evidenced by a tag on the animal or the vaccination certificate
in the possession of the owner.

University. The agreement is binding throughout students tenure at the University.


The text of the Honor Code is:
As a member of the student body of St. Georges University, which is an institution of
education dedicated to a high standard of ethics and academic achievement, and recognizing
that it is the duty of all of the University community members to nurture honesty and social
responsibility, I agree:
To adhere to the University policy of maintaining a high standard of honor and
academic integrity;
To refrain from violations of these ideals by breach of this Code of Conduct, for
example, cheating, plagiarizing, lying, or stealing; and
To accept the responsibility for reporting such wrongdoing upon witness.
It is understood that any breach of this Honor Code necessitates disciplinary action subject
to the discretion of University Officials. Once enrolled in the University, acquiescence to this
Code is in effect for the duration of my matriculation at the University.
Students must be above suspicion in all testing situations. When cheating is suspected, it
is not the obligation of the University to prove violation of this Code beyond a shadow of a
doubt, but rather by a preponderance of the credible evidence submitted.
Students are advised strongly to consider the following guidelines:
Students must not expose themselves to any situation that lends itself to a suspicion of
cheating, such as talking during an examination, looking at anothers examination paper,
or possessing notes during an examination;
Students found cheating are subject to dismissal from the University, pursuant to
applicable disciplinary procedures;
Students found helping, abetting, or acquiescing to an act of cheating by another
student are presumed to be equally in violation of this Code.
Enforcement of the University Code of Conduct
The University, through the Office of the Dean of Students, has the duty and corollary
disciplinary power to protect its educational purpose and objectives through the setting of
standards of conduct.
The disciplinary systems and procedures are substantially secondary to the use of example,
guidance, counseling, and admonition in the development of responsible student conduct.
When these preferred means fail to resolve problems of student conduct, procedural
safeguards allow for proper action while protecting students from unfair imposition of serious
penalties.
Examples of misconduct for which students are subject to disciplinary action by the
University are:
1. Dishonesty, such as cheating, plagiarism, or knowingly furnishing false information to the
University (subject to the Honor Code; see previous section). Violations of the Honor Code
that will result in disciplinary action include, but are not limited to:
a. Impersonation during an examination;
b. Possession of pertinent examination information, such as lecture notes and/or texts,

20

2. Forgery, alteration, possession, duplication, or misuse of University documents, keys,


records, or identification without consent or authorization. Theft of and/or damage to
property of the University, of a member of the University community, or of a visitor to the
University.
3. Unauthorized entry to, or use of, University facilities that are locked, closed to student
activities, or otherwise restricted in use.
4. Tampering with fire equipment, exit lights, fire alarms, or any other safety equipment
or structure.
5. Disorderly, lewd, indecent, or obscene conduct or expression on any property or site
utilized by the University for official University-sponsored or supervised activities.
6. A busive Behavior: Any action or situation which produces mental or physical
discomfort for any member of the University community, or which places the individual
or group in danger of physical or mental injury. This behavior includes, but is not
limited to:
a. Sexual Harassment: as defined herein under the Sexual Harassment section;
b. Harassment: conduct (not of sexual nature) that creates an intimidating, hostile,
or offensive environment that affects the education or working environment for
another person. This includes verbal, written, and electronic communications;
c. Physical Harassment: use of, or threatened use of, physical force or violence;
d. Stalking: to follow or otherwise contact another person repeatedly, so as to put
that person in fear for his/her life or personal safety.
7. Incurring financial obligations on behalf of a person, organization, or the University
without consent or authority.
8. Acting in a way that might bring dishonor or disrepute to the University community.
9. Students in a professional degree program are expected to act in the manner
appropriate to the profession, within the ethical standards defined for that profession.
10. Failure to comply with directions or a legitimate request of a University Official(s)
acting in the performance of his/her duties or obstructing assigned responsibilities
of appropriate officials. This shall include failure to give identity or to show University
identification card.
11. Forging, altering, possessing, duplicating, or using documents, keys, records, or
identification without consent or authorization.
12. Failing to comply with a disciplinary sanction, to include violation of specific
probationary statutes.

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St. Georges University

during an examination;
c. Possession and/or distribution of examination questions in advance;
d. Copying from another student or making information available to another
student during an examination;
e. Submission of work done wholly or in part by someone else;
f. Fabricating or falsifying laboratory data;
g. Preparation of an essay or assignment for submission by another student;
h. Alteration of transcripts or other official documents relating to student records;
i. Misrepresentation of ones credentials; and
j. Alteration of official Letters of Reference.

13. Purporting to be or representing another person, an organization, or the University


improperly without consent or authority.
14. Lying or perjuring self to University Officials including the Disciplinary Panel.
15. Being present during the commission of an act, which violates University policy,
constitutes permission, or condones the act.
16. Violating terms of the housing requirements, contract, or regulations.
17. Failing to take an active role in assuring proper behavior of guests, not limited to residence
halls.
18. Refusing to properly evacuate a University facility or moving from specified University
grounds during a fire alarm or emergency situation.
19. P
 ossessing, consuming, dispensing, or being under the influence of alcoholic beverages in
violation of the laws of the Government of Grenada, the United Kingdom, or of a specific
state in the United States where a student may be enrolled in a specific program (See
University Drug and Alcohol Policy).
20. Violating the University policy on tobacco use in specified facilities.
21. Soliciting/Selling for personal or organizational profit without proper consent of
University Officials.
22. Violating University motor vehicle policies.
23. Disruption of the normal activities of the Institution, including physical violence or abuse
of any person, or conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of persons,
acts of self-harm, the deliberate interference with academic freedom and freedom of
speech, and forcible interference with the freedom of movement of any member or guest
of the University.
24.On-campus possession or use of firearms, explosives, other weapons, dangerous articles,
or substances, including non-lethal weapons, such as pellet guns.
25. Violation of University policies or regulations governing student behavior and life on the
campus, and failure to inform personal guests of said policies and/or regulations.
26. Illegal Drugs: possession or use of illegal drugs and/or narcotics; distribution, delivery, or
sale of illegal drugs and/or narcotics; and the possession or use of drug paraphernalia in
accordance with the University policy on drugs and alcohol.
27. Violation of any local civil and criminal laws.
28. Violation of other published University policies, rules, or regulations:
a. Violation of the University policy on sexual harassment;
b. Violation of the University policy on alcohol and drug abuse;
c. Violation of the University standard for code of conduct.
29. Violation of published policies, rules, or regulations of other institutions:
a. Violation of hospital policies during medical clinical training;
b. Violation of affiliate university policies during veterinary clinical training;
c. Violation of policies at other sites during placement opportunities;
d. Violation of policies at other institutions or sites during research opportunities.

22

Plagiarism Policy

Plagiarism is regarded as a cardinal offense in academia because it constitutes theft of


the work of someone else, which is then purported as the original work of the plagiarist.
Plagiarism draws into disrepute the credibility of the Institution, its faculty, and students;
therefore, it is not tolerated.
Procedures
Students are instructed in protocols for the conduct of research and styles of referencing
to ensure that every statement that is NOT the product of their original thought is
appropriately and accurately cited. The University offers means by which a faculty
member might seek confirmation of a suspicion that student work is plagiarized.
Penalties
Penalties are transparent procedures to be followed where plagiarism is confirmed by
the faculty member and verified by colleagues. Penalties are intended to protect the
integrity of the work of students and faculty of St. Georges University, and the good
name of the University. The faculty members reserve the right to award a grade of F
for confirmed plagiarism, in addition to referring the matter to the Dean of Students for
disciplinary action.
Plagiarism is a serious offense to which St. Georges University is intolerant.
Sexual Harassment
All members of the University community must be allowed to work and study in an
environment free from any form of sexual harassment.
For the purpose of this policy, sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual
advances, request for sexual favors, or other verbal, written, and electronic
communications or physical conduct of a sexual nature from any person when:
1. Submission to such conduct or request is made either explicitly, or a term or condition
of an individuals status in a course, program, or activity, or of academic achievement;
2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct or request by an individual is used as a
basis of employment or academic decisions affecting such individuals; or
3. Such conduct or request has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an
individuals work or academic performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or
offensive environment for work or learning.
In determining whether alleged conduct constitutes sexual harassment, the record as a
whole will be considered, as well as the totality of the circumstances, such as the nature
of the alleged conduct and the context in which the alleged conduct occurred.

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St. Georges University

Definition
The Oxford Concise Dictionary, 9 ed., (1995: 1043) defines plagiarism as the act or
instance of plagiarizing, something plagiarized. The dictionary then defines plagiarize as
take and use (the thoughts, writings, inventions, and so forth of another person) as ones
own; pass of the thoughts, and so forth of (another person) as ones own.

Responsibilities
1. All members of the University community are responsible for ensuring that their conduct
does not sexually harass any other member of the University.
2. Reporting. The Universitys policy protects all members of the University community.
Consequently, the responsibility for reporting incidents of sexual harassment rest with all
members of the University community. Any employee, staff member, faculty member, or
student who has knowledge of incidents of sexual harassment and/or favoritism, or may
provide sufficient corroborative facts is strongly encouraged to report it to one of the
following designated sexual harassment advocates:
Dr. Zuri Amuleru-Marshall
Senior Associate Dean, Dean of Students Office
Bourne Centre, St. Georges University
True Blue Campus, St. Georges, Grenada, West Indies
Telephone: +1 (473) 444-4175; Fax: +1 (473) 444-2823
Email: zmarshall@sgu.edu
Dr. Sean Holroyd
Assistant Dean of Students, Dean of Students Office
Bourne Centre, St. Georges University
True Blue Campus, St. Georges, Grenada, West Indies
Telephone: +1 (473) 444-4175; Fax: +1 (473) 444-2823
Email: sholroyd@sgu.edu
Mrs. Dawne Buckmire
Business Administrator, Office of the Business Administrator
Chancellery Building, St. Georges University
True Blue Campus, St. Georges, Grenada, West Indies
Telephone: +1 (473) 444-4175, ext. 2470; Fax: +1 (473) 444-3019
Email: dbuckmire@sgu.edu
Reports will remain confidential, unless their release is specifically authorized in writing,
except for a confidential copy that will be supplied to General Counsel and the Dean of
Students. To avoid stale and outdated complaints, written complaints must be filed within 30
days of the act complained of, unless the acts are a part of a continuing course of conduct.
Members of the University community with supervisory responsibility who have knowledge of
sexual harassment within the University are required to report the matter to one of the sexual
harassment advocates.
Any member of the University who is found to have sexually harassed another member will be
subject to disciplinary action, including dismissal. The nature of the discipline shall be guided
by the seriousness of the offense.
Procedures
Complainants must sign complaints of violation of the Universitys policies on sexual
harassment or discrimination, unless sufficient, independent, verifiable facts exist to justify
action without the cooperation of the complainant.
On the advice of General Counsel, the appropriate dean will promptly cause a preliminary
investigation to determine the sufficiency of complaints, the explanation and/or position of
complainants, or the facts as revealed, and the party against whom complaints have been filed.

24

Confidentiality will be maintained to the fullest extent possible. It is the responsibility


of all employees and students to provide the fullest cooperation. Should there be
sufficient detail indicating a possible violation of University policy, it will be referred with
recommendations to the Dean of Students for a formal hearing. Either party may appeal
this decision as outlined in the Appeal Process.

If an investigation is warranted it will be conducted immediately and concluded within a


reasonable period.
At the conclusion of the investigation, the University may take one of the following
actions within the time frame stated above:
1. An informal hearing in which all parties will have an opportunity to be heard;
2. A
 t the conclusion of an informal hearing, a formal hearing may be required, or an
agreement entered into by the parties to resolve the issues;
3. A formal hearing;
4. A discussion with the claimant and resolution of the complaint; or
5. Local criminal authorities will be contacted, where appropriate and necessary.
At the conclusion of a formal hearing, one or more of the following take place:
1. Nonacademic dismissal;
2. Nonacademic probation;
3. Suspension;
4. Withdrawal from the University;
5. If an employee or faculty member, termination;
6. A settlement agreement by both parties;
7. A Restraining Order;
8. A finding that the claimant did not satisfy the panel and the complaint is dismissed.
All parties have the right to the Universitys appeal process.
NOTE: All members of the University community have the obligation to report any activity
that may rise to the level of sexual harassment. Faculty, in particular, have the obligation
of making a report to one of the designated sexual harassment advocates, whether or not
the faculty members believe the report or not, or even if the complainants request that
a report not be made. The University-designated sexual harassment advocates must be
given the opportunity to interview complainants and do what is in the best interest of both
complainants and the University community as a whole.

University Drug And Alcohol Policy


It is the policy of St. Georges University to maintain an environment free of drug and
alcohol abuse, and to comply with all laws and regulations that prohibit or otherwise

25

St. Georges University

Process
All students and faculty are referred to the section on disciplinary process for a
comprehensive review of the process.

control the manufacture, sale, distribution, use, and possession of drugs and alcohol. The
University will not shield from action by local law enforcement any employee, student, or
faculty member involved in the provision, merchandising, possession, or consumption of
illegal drugs.

UNIVERSITY TOBACCO USE Policy


St. Georges University discourages the use of all tobacco products and encourages all
members of the University community to be guided by the evidence of significant health
risks associated with such use to themselves and others. The risks associated with the passive
exposure to tobacco use demand that the health of non-smokers is protected.
Therefore, any form of smoking, including electronic, is prohibited indoors and outdoors on
the SGU campus and SGU properties except in officially designated areas - which are located
on the perimeter of the campus and other SGU properties.

University Examination Policies And Procedures


The St. Georges University Examination Policies and Procedures detailed below, govern all
written examinations and evaluations administered at SGU.
All students are responsible for knowing and complying with the Universitys Code of
Conduct and the guidelines listed below. Students must read and then sign the Honor Code
statement at the start of examinations to indicate that they will comply with the University
Code of Conduct. The guidelines that follow may not specifically cover every possible
situation. The chief examination proctors for examinations/evaluations have the authority to
make interpretations at their discretion for situations not specifically detailed below, and to
determine if a report of unprofessional behavior should be submitted.
Computer Based Examination Administration Guidelines
The following guidelines supplement the general guidelines outlined in the University
Examination Policies and Procedures in the SGU Student Handbook. Each examinee is
responsible for reviewing and adhering to these policies.
All SOM and SVM examinations will be offered only in the computer-based format. There will
be no paper alternative.
Prior to Exam Day:
Each student is required to have a laptop for the purpose of taking computer-based
examinations (e-Exams) at SGU. Students must ensure that their laptops meet the current
minimum system requirements prior to exam day:
1.

Examinees must use their MY SGU Member Center username and password to access
the Custom Home Page (www.examsoft.com/sgu) created by ExamSoft for the University.

2.

Examinees are responsible for downloading and registering the latest version of SofTest
on their laptop prior to exam day. Once SofTest has been successfully downloaded,
examinees are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the software by
downloading and taking practice exams.

3.

Examinees will be notified via MyCourses, of all exam related information. Email

26

notifications will also be sent from ExamSoft Support to examinees, notifying them
of examinations available for downloading.
4.

Examinees experiencing difficulties with their laptop are encouraged to visit the IT
department for assistance prior to exam day. Examinees needing a laptop must visit
the Office of Institutional Advancement (OIA) to request an exam loaner.

1.

All examinees scheduled to sit a computer-based exam are required to bring their
laptops and all necessary accessories, (mouse, Ethernet cable and power cord/
battery charger), for use on exam day.

2.

Examinees must reset the clock on their laptops to the correct local time and time
zone (Atlantic Standard Time - AST).

3.

Students are permitted to download exams only in the examination venue and not
in advance. The start of the exam is defined as the beginning of the download
time, as it will be an essential part of every examination. No student shall be
permitted to enter the exam venue after the download password has been given.

4.

An examinee who is experiencing a computer problem should notify a proctor


immediately. Students whose computers fail to start at the beginning of the exam
or crash during the exam will be directed to an alternative venue to sit the exam or
may be required to sit a completion exam at a later date. This will be recorded as an
exam irregularity on each such instance.

5.

All examinees who present themselves to sit a University examination are required
to display a current SGU student identification card in order to gain access into the
exam venue. The SGU ID is the only acceptable form of ID. Any examinee who fails
to present this ID will be required to complete a Missing/Lost Identification Form
and present a government issued photo ID in order to gain access into the exam
venue.

6.

Students will consult the examination seating list posted outside the examination
venue to find their assigned seat. Examinees may only sit in their assigned seat. Any
discrepancies or seating problems will be reported to the Chief Proctor/Course
Director as unprofessional behavior.

7.

No wristwatches of any type will be allowed in the examination halls, either on the
arm or on the table.

8.

Examinees eyes must be visible at all times. Hair long enough to cover the eyes and
ears must be pulled back. Hats or headwear with brims or bills or which cover the
eyes or ears are prohibited.

9.

No communication of any kind is permitted between examinees after entering the


examination room.

10. Examinees arriving after the published examination time will not be allowed to
enter the examination venue if the exam password has been announced.
11. Examinees are not allowed to write notes on the white boards prior to the official
exam start time.
12. Examinees are not allowed to use a telephone or other communication device at
any point during the examination.

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St. Georges University

On Exam Day:

13. A restroom break is the only allowed break during an examination. Examinees may
not eat, smoke or communicate with anyone other than an assigned proctor during
a restroom break. Examinees must sign out and back in (and be accompanied by a
proctor), if permitted to leave the room during the examination for a rest room break.
Once an examinee leaves the examination area without signing out and back in as
stipulated, he/she will be considered to have concluded the examination.
14. To start the exam, the Chief Proctor/Course Director will provide examinees with the
exam password. Examinees SHOULD NOT start the exam until instructed to do so by the
Chief Proctor/Course Director.
15. Students will be allowed to exit the venue when they have completed their exam and
displayed the Congratulations! Your answer file(s) uploaded successfully, screen to a
proctor. During the last ten minutes of the exam, examinees must remain seated until
dismissed.
16. Examinees found violating any of the Examination Policies and Procedures including
attempting to disable or tamper with SofTests security features will be subject to
academic disciplinary action.
17. Permitted Items - only the following items will be allowed into the exam venue:

Laptop and accessories

SGU ID

Completely clear (see-through) bottle of plain water

Items specified by Course Director or permitted by Dean of Students (DOS) office

* No other personal belongings will be permitted.


Paper Based Examination Administration Guidelines
1. All students who present themselves to sit for any University examination are required to
display their valid SGU identification card. This is the only accepted form of identification.
Individuals who fail to present this form of identification will not be admitted into the
examination unless they present a properly completed Missing/Lost Identification form. Any
other non-SGU identification, such as a drivers license, will not be accepted.
2. Students may not bring any personal belongings into the examination seating area.
All electronic devices and devices capable of storing or transmitting information are
also prohibited, except for medical devices needed to maintain health. If any personal
belongings are brought to the examination site, they must be stored outside of the testing
area. No wristwatches of any type will be allowed in the examination halls, either on the
arm or on the table. The University assumes no responsibility for any personal belongings
stored outside the testing area.
3. Students will consult the examination-seating list posted outside the examination venue to
find their assigned seat. Examinees may only sit in their assigned seat and must ensure that
their examination and Scantron (if used) matches their assigned number. Any discrepancies
or seating problems will be reported to the chief proctor as unprofessional behavior.
4. Only examination/test books, answer sheets, pencils with eraser, current SGU ID cards,
and materials specifically permitted by the course director/instructor will be allowed on
students desks or laps. Clear water bottles will also be allowed.
5. Students eyes must be visible at all times. Hair long enough to cover the eyes must be

28

pulled back. Hats and headwear with brims or bills are prohibited.
6. No communication of any kind is permitted between students after entering the
examination room.

8. Students are not allowed to use a telephone or other communication device at any
point during the examination.
9. A restroom break is the only permitted break during the examination. Students may
not eat or smoke during a restroom break. Students may not communicate with
anyone other than an assigned proctor during a restroom break. Students must sign
out and back in (and be accompanied by a proctor) if permitted to leave the room
during the examination for a restroom break. Once students leave the examination
area without signing out and in as stipulated, they will be considered to have
concluded the examination.
10. Students may not remove or dismantle any portion of pages of the examination, or
leave the examination room with any written notes of the examination content unless
specifically allowed by the chief proctor.
11. Time announcements will be made approximately halfway through the testing period,
just prior to the end of the allowed time (approximately ten minutes remaining), and
at the end of the period.
12. Once the last time remaining announcement has been given (approximately ten
minutes remaining), students must remain seated until a proctor has collected their
examination materials. As a minimum, the Scantron will be collected while students
may be allowed to keep the examination for a review period.
13. Students must immediately stop writing when time is called at the end of the
examination period. All examination-related activities, including filling out the answer
sheets, must be completed within the specified examination period.
14. Students found violating any of the examination policies will be subject to academic
disciplinary action. (See Unprofessional Behavior During an Examination)
Unprofessional Behavior During an Examination
Unprofessional behavior includes any action by examinees or others when solicited by
an examinee that subverts or attempts to subvert the examination process. If students
have information or evidence indicating that any type of unprofessional behavior or
any infringement of legal rights has occurred, they should submit a written report to
or telephone the applicable course director, department head, and/or the Dean of
Students. Failure to adhere to any of the examination administration guidelines listed
above constitutes unprofessional behavior.
Specific examples of unprofessional behavior include, but are not limited to,

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St. Georges University

7. E xaminees arriving after the published examination start time must wait outside the
examination area until all of the pre-examination instructions have been given and the
examination started. Late arrivals will then be given the examination and be seated.
Late arrivals will not be given any additional time to complete the examination. After
the first student has completed the examination, late arrivals will not be allowed
to start the examination, and will be considered to have failed to appear for the
examination (See Class/Examination Attendance).

the following:
1. Seeking and/or obtaining unauthorized access to examination materials;
2. Taking an examination for which one is not eligible or attempting to do so, impersonating
an examinee, or engaging someone else to take the examination on ones behalf;
3. Giving, receiving, or obtaining unauthorized assistance during the examination or
attempting to do so (for example, copying from another examinee);
4. Communicating with another examinee during the examination period;
5. Making notes of any kind during an examination except on the examination booklet or
materials provided by the chief proctor;
6. Failing to adhere to any SGU policy, procedure, or rule, including instructions from
examination proctors prior to, during, and after the examination;
7. Disruptive behavior at the examination location;
8. Possessing unauthorized materials, including photographic equipment, communication, or
recording devices, including electronic paging devices and cellular telephones, during an
examination;
9. Any unauthorized reproduction by any means, including reconstruction through
memorization, and/or dissemination of copyrighted examination materials;
10. Providing or attempting to provide any information, including that relating to examination
content that may give or attempt to give unfair advantage to individuals who may be
taking the examination;
11. Failing to sit in the assigned examination seat or moving examination papers from one seat
to another, unless authorized by the chief proctor;
12. Eating or smoking during an examination;
13. Communicating with anyone other than an assigned proctor;
14. Any other behavior, which is deemed as unprofessional.
Procedure in case of unprofessional behavior:
If the chief proctor observes or receives information, which suggests that unprofessional
behavior has occurred, all pertinent information, supporting materials, and statements from
any witnesses will be gathered, and a written report accompanied by a signed complaint
submitted to the Dean of Students. Implicated students will be advised of the alleged
unprofessional behavior and they will have an opportunity to provide information that they
consider relevant to the evaluation of the allegation. The SGU policies and procedures
regarding violations of the University Code of Conduct are outlined in the disciplinary
process, which describes in detail the process for reaching final decisions regarding
unprofessional behavior. If it is determined that students have engaged in unprofessional
behavior, information regarding this determination becomes part of their student record.
Students may be asked to sign the University Code of Conduct statement below, prior
to any or all University examinations:
As a student at St. Georges University, I am expected to conduct myself with integrity,
dignity, and courtesy according to the University Code of Conduct by which I agreed to
abide at the time of my enrollment. I must not expose myself to any situation that lends itself
even to a suspicion of cheating, such as talking during the examination, looking at anothers

30

Disciplinary Process
The University judicial system permits all members of the University community (student,
faculty, administrator, or staff member) to submit a complaint against a student or
student organization (undergraduate, graduate, or professional) with the Dean of
Students. Should the Dean of Students receive information from any source that there
may have been a violation of the Honor Code, the Code of Conduct, or for medical
students, of professionalism, the Dean of Students may begin an inquiry to determine
if a complaint should be filed. The Dean of Students will, upon receipt of information,
determine the validity of the information. The Dean of Students will advise General
Counsel of any and all complaints and information. The disciplinary process commences
with the filing of a written and signed complaint. All students, faculty members, and
employees must cooperate fully with the Dean of Students.
The Dean of Students may determine that counseling measures will suffice, or that a
formal hearing must be held to review the complaint and consider if a violation has
occurred.
Two Boards exist to formally address disciplinary matters involving SGU students:
The Judiciary Board has discretion to handle any disciplinary case for which there
is governing faculty legislation, such as the Honor Code, the Code of Conduct,
and, for medical students, professional standards, and for which there is precedent
for interpreting and applying the rules and standards of conduct of the University.
The Student-Faculty Judiciary Board handles only minor disciplinary cases,
including those for which there is no clear governing precedent, policy, or
University legislation.
The disciplinary system is not a criminal process; however, basic due process rights
will be protected. Hearings will be conducted in Grenada unless the Dean of Students
determines there are extraordinary circumstances that warrant another location.
Students will be given an opportunity to present information, including any witness,
during a fair and impartial hearing. All pending complaints or hearings must be resolved
prior to students graduation.
All complaints found to be false, intentionally dishonest, or malicious are subject to
University discipline up to and including dismissal. The nature of the discipline shall be
guided by the seriousness of the offense.
The Dean of Students Office, in consultation with General Counsel, decides whether an
informal or formal hearing is necessary. When two or more individual cases stem from

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St. Georges University

paper, or possessing notes or other unauthorized materials. I am also not to aid, abet,
or acquiesce to an act of cheating by another student. Furthermore, I agree that I have
not sought and/or obtained access to unauthorized examination materials prior to this
examination; that I have not impersonated an examinee, nor engaged a proxy to take
the examination; that I possess no unauthorized materials, photographic equipment,
or recording devices during this examination, and that I will not alter or misrepresent
examination scores. I understand that for any of these acts I am subject to dismissal from
the University.

the same incident, those cases should normally be heard by the same Judiciary Board.
Informal Hearing
The Dean of Students can conduct the informal hearing, unless the Dean of Students appoints
any other member of the faculty/administration to conduct the hearing.
1. The University does not automatically call witnesses to support the issues to be reviewed,
although the Dean of Students may gather any additional information needed, including
the interview of witnesses;
2. Students will be informed of any additional information gathered by the Dean of Students
or designee;
3. The responding student may call witnesses and present evidence;
4. The hearing is scheduled at the convenience of the responding student and the Dean of
Students or designee;
5. Normally there is no attorney or advisor present;
6. Brief written decision (with or without a findings of fact) will serve as the record and will be
communicated within ten days of the final meeting with the student.
Formal Hearings
The Judiciary Board hears serious violations of the Honor Code and Code of Conduct. For
students in the School of Medicine, violations of the principles listed in the Clinical Training
Manual entitled Professional Conduct and Responsibilities are handled by the Judiciary
Board. The procedures and policies of the Judiciary Board and the Student-Faculty Judiciary
Board can be found in St. Georges University Judicial Disciplinary Process.
A copy of St. Georges University Judicial Disciplinary Process can be found in MySGU at
https://apps.sgu.edu/members.nsf/JudicialDisciplinaryProcess.pdf.

Use Of Media By The University


St. Georges University reserves the right to use photograph(s), videotape(s), digital media
and sound bite(s) taken of or lawfully obtained from individuals, groups and/or students on
campus and/or at St. Georges University-sponsored events for the purpose of promoting,
publicizing, recruiting or public relations involving the University. Further, the University
reserves the right to utilize said media for both informational and commercial purposes.
Use by St. Georges University may be in the form of print or electronic media, which include
but are not limited to such uses as the University Web site, University publications (printed
admissions packages, brochures, magazines, catalogues, video productions, televisions/radio
broadcasts, newspapers, newsletters, social media, etc.) and/or fundraising publications for
University clubs or organizations.
These images may be used, without further notification, permission or compensation, at any
time to publicize and promote St. Georges University.
By entering St. Georges University campus, all individuals and groups are deemed to give
their consent to St. Georges University to use these materials for any lawful purpose as
detailed above and waive any right to object or limit the use of this media by St. Georges
University. Photograph(s) and video footage may be obtained from both informal and formal
settings. All images - electronic, digital, photographic negatives and positives, together with
the prints and raw footage, are the exclusive property of St. Georges University.
32

School of arts and sciences


School of Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Program . . . . . . . . 35
Administrative Policies and Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Admission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Matriculated Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Non-Matriculated Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Semester Credit Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Matriculated Student Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Declaration of Major . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Change of Major . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Placement Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Provisional Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Late Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Add/Drop Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Course Withdrawal Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Academic Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Undergraduate Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Other Transcript Notations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Examination Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Examination Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Enrollment Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Transfer and Award of Academic Credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Award of Credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Advanced Standing/Transfer Credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Exemption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Challenge Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Waiver of Course Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Transient Credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Plagiarism Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
The Three Pillars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Penalties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards and Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Full-Time Student Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Academic Progress Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Quantitative Standard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Qualitative Standard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Academic Progress Review And Prescribed Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Quantitative Deficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Qualitative Deficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Appeal Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Requirements For Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

33

Graduation Eligibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Applications for Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Graduation Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Honors Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

34

School of Arts and Sciences


Undergraduate Program
All students registered in the School of Arts and Sciences undergraduate programs are
subject to the policies and regulations of both the School of Arts and Sciences and St.
Georges University.

Admission
Matriculated Students
All applicants to St. Georges University who meet established admission criteria for
degree programs in the School of Arts and Sciences are matriculated into the specific
degree program as stated in their Letter of Acceptance. Matriculation status assures
students that the requirements for a particular degree will remain in effect until they
graduate. Matriculated students may attend classes on a full-time (12 or more credits)
or part-time (11 or fewer credits) basis.
Non-Matriculated Students
Non-matriculated status is granted to students who wish to take classes at the University
and are not seeking a degree. Students can continue to take courses for a variety of
educational, occupational, and/or recreational reasons for as long as they wish.
Non-matriculated individuals who are not currently admissible to a degree program
and wish to earn acceptance as a matriculated student must successfully complete at
least 15 credit hours of General Education requirements, including the Oral and Written
Communication requirement.
It is essential that such non-matriculated students carefully select courses in consultation
with an academic advisor to assure that the courses taken will be applicable to the
degree program desired. If students pass courses and earn an overall GPA of 2.00 or
better, they should submit an application to the Office of Admission for full matriculation.
Semester Credit Load
Full-time, matriculated students are limited to a maximum of 18 credits per semester;
however, with the permission of the degree director and the Dean of the School of Arts
and Sciences, matriculated students with a grade point average of 3.00 or higher in the
preceding semester may be allowed to enroll for more than 18 credits in the following
semester. Non-matriculated students may take a maximum of 11 credits in any
semester. During the Summer session, the credit load is one-and-one-half credits for
each week of the particular session. Students may not complete more than 12 credits
during a Summer session.

35

School of Arts and Sciences

Administrative Policies and Process

Matriculated Student Status


Students are responsible for being fully aware of their academic program structure and
enrolling in courses that will satisfy their graduation requirements.
Declaration of Major
Students are responsible for being fully aware of their academic program structure and to
enroll in courses that will satisfy graduation requirements. Students should review the degree
audit (available from the program chair), the description of the degree program (as found
in Your Guide to Choosing Courses at St. Georges University available from the Office of
Enrolment Planning), and course descriptions published by the School of Arts and Sciences.
In addition, students should meet with the department chair of the degree program to
discuss their career goals and academic plans. The degree audits should be reviewed by
students, in consultation with the department chair, throughout matriculation to ensure that
they are progressing in a timely fashion toward their degree. Any additional queries should be
directed to the School of Arts and Sciences Associate Registrar.
Change of Major
Students may change major with permission of both their original and new department chairs
to ensure the proper credits can be met within the necessary time frame. In order to effect a
change of major, students must submit a Declaration of Major form, signed and approved by
the chairs of the new and original majors, to the Office of the Registrar.
If students wish to be admitted into the premedical or preveterinary medical program, they
must submit an application to the Office of Admission, and the School of Medicine or School
of Veterinary Medicine. An interview conducted by the SGU Committee on Admission may
be required. They must receive a recommendation from the Dean of the School of Arts and
Sciences in order to process the application.
Placement Tests
The School of Arts and Sciences requires students to take English and Math Placement
Tests. Placement Tests are offered once per semester in the week before teaching begins.
The English Placement Test is designed to assess the level of reading and writing skills of
students who have not been assigned potential transfer credits for Introduction to College
Writing (ENGL 104) or Introduction to College Reading (ENGL 106), so that they can be
placed in appropriate courses. The Math Placement Test is designed to assess the levels
of computation, data analysis, and problem-solving skills of students who have not been
assigned potential transfer credits for Mathematics for Critical Thinking (MATH 130).

Registration
All students are required to register prior to the first day of the semester. New students
will obtain registration materials from the Office of the Registrar and determine their
academic program under the guidance of the director of the degree program (generally the
department chair). For returning students, this is generally done during pre-registration with
their academic advisor (generally the department chair).
The registration process is not final until the Office of the Registrar has verification of financial

36

clearance.

Late Registration
The Late Registration period starts the first day of classes and continues throughout the
first teaching week, until Friday at 5:00 pm. Returning students who register during that
time will be charged a late fee according to the following schedule:
Monday EC $25.00
Tuesday EC $50.00
Wednesday EC
$75.00
Thursday EC $100.00
Friday EC $125.00
Students should note that if they register and begin classes late, they will miss important
academic concepts and their grades may suffer. Late registration will not be considered
a mitigating factor for poor academic performance.
Add/Drop Policy
Students are permitted to add or drop courses until Monday at 5:00 pm of the second
week of classes. Dropping courses does not result in any transcript notation. Students
should consult with their department chair or program director prior to adding or
dropping courses.
To add or drop a course, students and advisors must complete the Add/Drop form
available in the Office of the Registrar. It is the responsibility of students to submit this
form with all required signatures by the add/drop deadline. No record of the dropped
course will appear on the transcript. Non-attendance does not constitute dropping a
course. The only way students registration may be adjusted during the first week of the
semester is for them to file the Add/Drop form with the Office of the Registrar.
In no case will students be allowed to add or drop courses after the end of the add/drop
period. No refund or credit will be granted for any courses that are not officially dropped
by the appropriate deadline.
Course Withdrawal Policy
After the add/drop period has closed, students may withdraw from a course and
be guaranteed a W any time up to the point when two-thirds of the semester has
been completed (for example, withdrawal must be in place by Friday at 5:00 pm of the
eleventh week of a 16-week semester). After this point, students may choose to take a
leave of absence, in which case they will receive a W in all courses.

37

School of Arts and Sciences

Provisional Registration
Students may not register for classes unless their tuition and fees are paid in full.
Provisional registration can be obtained with the written consent of the Office of Student
Finances. If students have paid in full for all previous academic terms, but have not yet
paid for the upcoming/current term, students will be reviewed by the Office of Student
Finances and may be approved for a payment plan. If approved, students are permitted
to register for classes.

Academic Policies
Undergraduate Grading
The University uses the following letter grades to indicate the record of achievement in
courses completed:
Letter Grade
Grade Point
Score (Percent)
A+ 4.00 100
A 4.00 9099
B+ 3.50 8589
B 3.00 8084
C+ 2.50 7579
C 2.00 7074
D 1.00 6569
F 0.00 <65
Other Transcript Notations
I Incomplete
Students who are unable to complete the semesters work due to serious mitigating
circumstances, such as illness or family emergency may receive an I as an interim
grade. The Office of the Dean of Students must approve the reason supporting the
receipt of the I grade.
NOTE: The instructor must file a Change of Grade form upon students completion
of course requirements within 30 days of the regular subsequent semester or the I
will be changed to an F.
W Withdrawal
After the add/drop period has closed, students may withdraw from courses any
time up to the point when two-thirds of the semester has been completed and
receive a W. After this point, students may choose to take a leave of absence, in
which case they will receive a W in all courses.
AU Audit
Students wishing to audit courses must register at the onset as an audit student. For
those courses and grades, AU will automatically be recorded on the grade rosters.
S/U Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
These grades are to be used only for special courses as stipulated in course
descriptions.
CC Continuing Course
The CC grade is issued only for courses that extend beyond one semester. The
credit hours and grade will appear on the transcript in the final semester of course
participation.
NG No Grade
No grade reported by the course director for registered courses.

38

Examination Policies

Enrollment Requirements
Students must complete a minimum of 60 credits at St. Georges University to earn an
undergraduate degree from the University. Of these 60 credits, the number of credits
required in the major field is determined by each department. The total number of
credits students may accrue via transfer or other types of awarded credit is 60. Once
students reach this maximum, no further transfer credit will be accepted.
Transfer and Award of Academic Credit
The transfer or award of credit for learning achieved outside of St. Georges University
comes in several forms. The evaluation of such credit involves comparability of the nature,
content, and level of credit offered at SGU and the prior learning; and the appropriateness
and applicability of the credit earned in light of current educational goals.
Award of Credit
Students receive specific course credit (for example, ENGL 104 - 3 credit hours) or
categorical credit (for example, 3 credit hours for Written CommunicationGeneral
Education requirement) for prior coursework performed at a tertiary educational level,
such as A Levels, Advanced Placement, and International Baccalaureate, or for prior
coursework performed at another post-secondary institution (for example, college or
university).
A notation of the advanced standing/transfer credit, the course or category, denoted
by T, and the credit hours received, will appear on the SGU transcript. The credit hours
may be utilized to fulfill graduation requirements; however, no grade is earned. Thus,
such credit does not impact the SGU grade point average (GPA). Students must request
via the Transfer/Advanced Standing Credit Request form that coursework be evaluated
for credit, specifying the nature of the work involved.
Advanced Standing/Transfer Credit
Requests for advanced standing/transfer credit will be evaluated on an individual basis
in accordance with the advanced standing/transfer credit policy. Only courses with a
grade obtained of a C or better will be considered for transfer credit. A Level or CAPE

39

School of Arts and Sciences

Examination Attendance
All matriculated students are expected to attend all assigned academic activities for
each course currently registered. Medical excuses will be based on self-reporting by
students. Students who feel they are too sick to take an examination or other required
activity on a specific day must send an email to the Course Director and the Career
Guidance Center of the School of Arts and Sciences. The email must state that the
student does not feel well enough that day to take an examination or participate in
another required educational activity. Students should realize that the faculty and
administration expect this to be an infrequent occurrence. Students are only allowed two
such excuses a year. The third excuse will result in a mandatory medical leave of absence.
The policies regarding make-up examinations are at the option of the Course Director.

courses may also be considered for transfer credit as determined by the Office of Enrolment
Planning. Diagnostic tests set by the School of Arts and Sciences are required to confirm
transfer credit for Introduction to College Writing (ENGL 104) or Introduction to College
Reading (ENGL 106). Diagnostic tests are offered once per semester in the week before
teaching begins. Transfer credit is not awarded for 300- and 400-level courses in the School of
Arts and Sciences.
Each candidate is responsible for ensuring that all related documentation, including official
transcripts, grading policy, and official course descriptions are sent directly to the Office of
Enrolment Planning. If these documents are not in English, they must be accompanied by a
certified English translation.
Following receipt of the official documentation and course descriptions from a secondary
institution, the credit will be evaluated by the Office of Enrolment Planning.
Transfer credit from our academic partner, T. A. Marryshow Community College, will follow a
similar albeit streamlined process due to the inter-institutional collaboration.
Exemption
Under rare circumstances students who have significant prior learning acquired through
academic or nonacademic experience may wish to receive transfer credit. Following
consultation and approval of the department chair of the degree program, students may
prepare a portfolio with rigorous supporting documentation. The department chair, Dean
of the School of Arts and Sciences, and the Dean of Enrolment Planning will review this
portfolio. A maximum of 18 credit hours may be received via exemption (denoted by T* on
the transcript).
Challenge Examinations
Students with prior knowledge equivalent to an SGU course may apply to sit a challenge
examination. The challenge application must be approved by the course instructor, the
department chair, and the Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences. This examination is
prepared by the course instructor and is equivalent to a comprehensive examination for that
course.
Students will not be allowed to take more than three challenge examinations in a semester,
to be sat ONLY within the first week of the semester. A non-refundable $100.00 USD
administrative fee will be charged for each challenge examination.
The grade earned for a challenge examination is recorded on the transcript; both credit hours
and grades are awarded. Students are only allowed to take this examination once for each
course. A course cannot be challenged after students have failed the course. In the event that
students fail a challenge examination, they will be allowed to register for the course in the
current semester. Taking a challenge examination counts as one attempt at a course.
Waiver of Course Requirements
Students with prior knowledge equivalent to an SGU course may request that a waiver be
granted. Generally this applies to courses for which no exemption examination is offered. The
instructor, with consultation of the department chair, performs this evaluation on a case-by-case
basis using evaluative tools, which may include placement examinations or other diagnostics.

40

Waiver of Course forms must be requested by the student and approved by the
instructor and chair. Forms must then be submitted to the Office of the Registrar. A
notation will appear on the transcript; however, neither credit hours nor a grade is
awarded. A waiver fulfills a prerequisite or a degree requirement.

Approval must be received prior to registration or attendance at another university.


Students must have an official transcript (or grade report) sent by the university to the
SGU Office of Enrolment Planning/Office of the Registrar. Students must receive a
grade of C or better in the course(s). Students will receive credit hours (but no grade)
that will contribute to the overall grade point average (denoted by T* on the transcript).
Students may not receive more than 18 credit hours of transient credit.

Plagiarism Policy
Definition
All assignments and examinations submitted to a course are expected to be students
own work. Students must be very careful to distinguish their own ideas and knowledge
from information derived from published or secondary sources. Plagiarism is regarded
as a cardinal offense in academia because it constitutes theft of the work of someone
else which is then purported as the original work of the plagiarist. Plagiarism draws into
disrepute the credibility of the institution, its faculty, and its students; therefore, it is not
tolerated.
Procedures
The policy on plagiarism in the School of Arts and Sciences is based on three pillars:
the Honor Code, Avoidance, and Detection. Students are instructed in protocols for
the conduct of research and styles of referencing to ensure that every statement that is
NOT the product of students original thought is appropriately and accurately cited. The
University offers means by which faculty members might seek confirmation of suspicion
that students work is plagiarized.
The Three Pillars
Honor Code: New students are asked to sign an Honor Code upon admission to the
University (this includes part-time students reading a course for the first time). Integral
to the Honor Code is a promise by the students that they will not engage in any act of
plagiarism.

41

School of Arts and Sciences

Transient Credit
Following matriculation at St. Georges University, students may request approval to
take coursework at another university for specific and legitimate reasons. Students
must submit a completed Transient Credit Approval form accompanied by the course
description(s) of the course(s) they wish to take. Evaluation of the request will include not
only credibility and equivalency of course content, but also justification for taking
the course(s) at another university.

Avoidance: Students will be taught correct citation in all English courses, as well as in the
course, Introduction to University Life. These classes will emphasize the following procedures:
Quotations must be placed properly within quotation marks and must be cited fully;
All paraphrased material must be acknowledged completely; and
In instances where ideas or facts are derived from students reading and research, or
from students own writings, the sources must be clearly indicated. The responsibility
for learning the proper forms of citation lies with the student. Styles of writing are
department-specific and will be covered by faculty in respective departments.
Detection: The School of Arts and Sciences faculty members utilize a number of methods
of ensuring that materials submitted are not plagiarized. These include the use of search
engines, websites, software dedicated to identifying plagiarized work. Faculty members also
act as blind markers and second markers for colleagues.
Penalties
Transparent procedures will be followed where plagiarism is confirmed by the faculty member
and verified by colleagues. Penalties are intended to protect the integrity of the work of
students and faculty of St. Georges University, and the good name of the University. Faculty
members reserve the right to award a grade of F for confirmed plagiarism, in addition to
referring the matter to the Dean of Students for disciplinary action.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards


and Process
Full-Time Student Status
A full-time undergraduate student is one who is registered for a minimum of 12 credits in the
current semester.
Students who were registered for the previous two semesters as full-time students, but
have not successfully completed 24 credits in the previous 12 months are not eligible:
1. To participate in recognized student activities, including University-sponsored athletics;
2. To hold office in recognized student organizations; and
3. For student employment.
The Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences may waive any or all of these conditions if
students failure to complete the 24 credits in the previous 12 months was due to extenuating
circumstances such as medical conditions, family emergencies, or other circumstances
beyond students control. The Deans waiver is to be accompanied by a written agreement
between the student and the Dean outlining the course of action to be taken by the student
to remedy the deficiency.
The Dean shall review students progress with their department chair and may also consult
with other appropriate persons. The Dean shall communicate the resulting decision to
students in writing.

42

Academic Progress Standards


All students accepted to baccalaureate programs are expected to maintain the qualitative
and quantitative standards of the School of Arts and Sciences. Students who do not
meet the minimum standards may be placed on academic probation. While on academic
probation, the students academic performance must improve or they are at risk of dismissal.

Full-time undergraduate students are expected to complete their degree program


requirements in four years; however, degree requirements may be completed within a
maximum of six years. Part-time undergraduate students are expected to complete
their degree requirements within 12 years. A particular program or major may require
that specific coursework be completed during the final years of matriculation to ensure
current knowledge of the subject.
Coursework for major requirements must be completed in the final three years of
enrollment. Students may petition the Dean for an extension if medical problems,
family obligations, changes in program, or other significant factors make it impossible
to complete their degree within the applicable time frame.
The expected schedule for full-time students is:
First Year (Freshman):

Students who have completed fewer than 30 credits

Second Year (Sophomore): Students who have completed at least 30 but fewer than
60 credits
Third Year (Junior): Students who have completed at least 60 but fewer than
90 credits
Fourth Year (Senior):

Students who have completed 90 or more credits

Students are eligible for graduation if they have satisfactorily completed the General
Education course requirements, the core course requirements for their major, double
major, and minor, when applicable, and adequate electives to equal a total of 121 credits
of satisfactorily passed coursework.
Qualitative Standard
The qualitative standard refers to the percentage of satisfactorily completed coursework,
the satisfactory completion of specific course requirements for students major, General
Education, and elective coursework, as well as students overall grade point average (GPA).
1. Students are in good academic standing if the cumulative GPA is 2.00 or greater at the
end of each semester.
2. Students must pass with a grade of C or better in all required coursework in the
major in which they are enrolled.
3. Students must pass with a grade of D or better in all required General Education
coursework.

43

School of Arts and Sciences

Quantitative Standard
The quantitative standard refers to students progression toward their degree to be
within an appropriate time frame and the percentage of satisfactorily completed
coursework. These standards do not excuse students from meeting more restrictive
course requirements of a department when they are published with the degree audit.

4. Students must pass with a grade of D or better in all elective credits that are to be
considered for their eligibility to graduate.

Academic Progress Review And Prescribed Policies


The academic progress of all students will be reviewed at the end of each semester.
Academic Probation
Academic probation is an internal marker placed in students progress files by the Committee
for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards (CAPPS) in consultation with
the chair of the department in which students are enrolled. It allows students who do not
meet the satisfactory progress guidelines to continue in the academic program according to
the policies set below. The Dean of Students will notify students of the specific conditions to
remedy their probation.
Students on probation may not:
Register for more than 12 credits in a semester;
Participate in recognized extracurricular activities, including athletics;
Hold office in recognized student organizations; or
Maintain student employment.
Quantitative Deficiency
Full- and part-time students who are not progressing toward their degree according to the
quantitative standard will receive a warning when it is apparent that they cannot graduate within
the allocated time frame at their current pace. Students may petition the Dean of Students for
an extension if medical problems, family obligations, change in program, or other significant
factors make it impossible to complete their degree within the applicable time frame.
Qualitative Deficiency
1. Students with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of less than 2.00 at the end of a given
semester will be placed on academic probation.
2. Students will be dismissed if their cumulative GPA falls below 1.00 after their second semester
in the School of Arts and Sciences, or if their cumulative GPA falls below 2.00 for three
subsequent semesters (not including their first semester in the School of Arts and Sciences).
3. Students must remedy all F and D grades in required coursework in their major. The
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards (CAPPS) may
allow students to take a re-sit or make-up of a comprehensive examination for the course
at the beginning of the following semester. Alternatively, CAPPS may require students to
repeat the course when it is next offered. If students do not take the make-up examination
at the start of the next semester, they forfeit that option, and must repeat the course at its
next offering. Students failing to remedy deficient grades may be dismissed.
4. Students must remedy all F grades in required General Education coursework. The
CAPPS may allow students to take a make-up of a comprehensive examination for the
course at the beginning of the next semester. Alternatively, CAPPS may require students
to repeat the course when it is next offered. If students are given the former option and do
not take it, they must take the latter.

44

5. Students may choose to remedy F grades in elective coursework. Students may


be allowed to take a re-sit of a comprehensive examination for the course at the
beginning of the next semester or may repeat the course when it is next offered. If
students forfeit these options, the F grade will be incorporated into the overall GPA.
In making their decision regarding how to remedy deficient grades, students
should be aware that:

If students choose to take a re-sit (or make-up) examination at the beginning of the
next semester, they can only receive C, D, or F grades. The highest grade
received by students will be used to compute cumulative GPA; however, all grades
for a course will appear on the transcript.
If students are not mandated to remedy a grade, they may choose to leave the D
or F grade unresolved. This will serve to lower the cumulative GPA to under the
minimum 2.00. Additionally, no credit from F grades can be considered to meet
graduation requirements.
Students who have been on academic probation for two consecutive semesters, or on
academic probation for four non-consecutive semesters, are at risk of dismissal.
Appeal Process
There is no appeal from placement on academic probation.
Students who are dismissed may request an appeal of this decision. Students who wish
to exercise this option must submit a request for an appeal to the Dean of the School of
Arts and Sciences prior to the start of the next semester. This request should describe
the grounds for consideration of this appeal. If the Dean grants this appeal, an Appeals
Panel hearing will be scheduled no sooner than the start of the following semester.
Students may request that the Appeals Panel hearing be deferred for up to one year.
Students are required to be present at the Appeals Panel hearing.
The decision of the Appeals Panel will be submitted to the Dean of the School of Arts
and Sciences for final adjudication. The Dean will inform students in writing of the final
decision within 24 hours of the hearing.

Requirements For Graduation


Graduation Eligibility
To be eligible for graduation, all candidates for the degree of Bachelor of Arts or
Bachelor of Science must:
Successfully complete the General Education course requirements;
Successfully complete the core course requirements for their major, double major,
and minor, when applicable;
Successfully complete adequate electives to equal a total of 121 credits of
satisfactorily passed coursework;

45

School of Arts and Sciences

If students repeat a course, they will receive whatever grade is earned, and only
the higher grade will be used to compute cumulative GPA; however, all grades for
a course will appear on the transcript.

Present a cumulative GPA of 2.00 for the total of all credits attempted;
Present a cumulative GPA of 2.00 for all credits counting toward the major and/or minor;
O f the 121 credits required for graduation, at least 60 must be taken at, or above the
200 level; and
Comply with any additional restrictions or requirements of the particular degree being
sought as defined on the degree audit for that major.
Applications for Graduation
During registration for their final year, students are required to report to the Office of the
Registrar to file an Application for Graduation form. Students will receive a current official
copy of the degree audit and should discuss any questions they may have concerning the
completion of the degree and graduation. Students should use this as a guide, in conjunction
with the advice from the department chair, for course selection to ensure that all degree
requirements are met by the anticipated graduation date.
Graduation Ceremony
Participation in the commencement ceremony is restricted to those students whom the
Office of Enrolment Planning/Office of the Registrar determines to be eligible for a degree, in
accordance with the requirements defined by the department. The University may also allow
students who are within six credits of degree eligibility and who have the requisite grade
point average to participate in the ceremony as space permits. Participation in the ceremony
does not constitute confirmation of eligibility for a degree.
Honors Designations
Valedictorian: The student with the highest grade point average in the graduating class, with
the Graduation Committees approval, shall be granted Valedictorian status.
Salutatorian: The student graduating with the second highest grade point average relative
to the Valedictorian, with the Graduation Committees approval, shall be granted Salutatorian
status. The Salutatorian shall assume the responsibilities of the Valedictorian under
extraordinary circumstances.
Chancellors List:* Students will be placed on the Chancellors List once they have achieved a
cumulative grade point average of 4.00.
Deans List:* Students will be placed on the Deans List having achieved a minimum
cumulative grade point average of 3.50 to 3.99.
Summa Cum Laude (with highest honors): Students graduating with a grade point average
ranging from 3.90 to 4.00.
Magna Cum Laude (with high honors): Students graduating with a grade point average
ranging from 3.70 to 3.89.
Cum Laude (with honors): Students graduating with a grade point average ranging from
3.50 to 3.69.
*NOTE: Only students who take a full credit load per semester (15 credits or more per term)
qualify for the Chancellors and Deans Lists.

46

School of Medicine
Premedicine Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Administrative Policies and Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Admission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Premedical Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Baccalaureate/MD Combined Degree Program (BS/MD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Registration Check-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Provisional Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Academic Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Enrollment Requirement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Transfer And Award Of Credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Premedical Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
BS/MD Combined Degree Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Examination Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Premedical Fundamental Science Diagnostic Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Premedical Science Comprehensive Examination (PMSCE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Examination Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards And Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Standards for Admission, Retention, and Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Academic Progress Review and Prescribed Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Academic Progress Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Nonacademic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Quantitative Deficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Qualitative Deficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Appeals Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Foundation to Medicine Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59


Administrative Policies and Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Admission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Foundation to Medicine Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Registration Check-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Provisional Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Academic Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Enrollment Requirement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
EXAMINATION POLICIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Premedical Science Comprehensive Examination (PMSCE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Examination Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards and Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Standards For Admission, Retention, And Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
General Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Quantitative Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

47

Qualitative Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Appeals Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Doctor of Medicine Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63


Administrative Policies and Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Registration Check-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Provisional Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Late Registration Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Clinical Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Criminal Background Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Enrollment Status and Vacation Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Bridge Time for Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Student Contact Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Program Commitment Policy For Students Matriculated Into the KBTGSP at NU . . . . . . 65
Faculty Advisor-Advisee Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Academic Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Class/Examination Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Medical Excuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Basic Sciences Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Clinical Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Examination Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Comprehensive Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
BSCE Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
BSCE 1 Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
BSCE 2 Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Final Clinical Competency Examination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Final Clinical Written Examination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
OSPE Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
OSPE I Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
OSPE II Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
The USMLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
USMLE Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Academic Progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Professional Commitment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
The Optimal Educational Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
August EntryOptimal Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
January EntryOptimal Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Alternate Pathway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Academic and Learning Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Satisfactory Academic Progress Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Standards for Admission, Retention, and Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
General Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Academic Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Quantitative Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Maximum Time Allocation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Quantitative Deficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

48

Professional Behavior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Grading for Students Who Matriculated Into First Term Prior to January 2011 . . . . . . . . . 81
Important Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Qualitative Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Qualitative Deficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Promotion Into Clinical Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Grading Effective for Students Who Matriculated Into First Term in
January 2011 and After . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Qualitative Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Qualitative Deficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Promotion into clinical program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
SOM Course Evaluation Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Withholding of Student Grades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Completion of Evaluations for Non-Compliant Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Academic Progress Review and Prescribed Policies Committee for
Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Academic Progress Review and Prescribed Policies Committees for
Academic Progress and Professional Standards and the Executive Committee
for Academic Progress and Professional Standards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional
Standards Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Nonacademic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Academic Appeals Process Dismissal and Appeals Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards and Impact on
US Federal Financial Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Graduation Assessment Board (GAB) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Requirements for Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Honors Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
Licensure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Nursing Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)/Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

49

School of Medicine
Premedicine Program
The premedical program is a three-year undergraduate medical program. The academic
policies, program, standards, and processes of the premedical program are set and overseen
by the School of Medicine; the content is delivered by the School of Arts and Sciences. All
registered premedical students are subject to the policies and regulations of the University,
the School of Arts and Sciences, the premedical program, and the School of Medicine;
however, should policies differ, the policies of the premedical program shall supersede all
other said policies.

Administrative Policies and Process


Admission
Premedical Program
Students in the premedical program have been reviewed and accepted by the Committee on
Admission of the School of Medicine into the premedical program. Though this is a three-year
program students are accepted and placed into the premedical program according to the
educational achievement documented by the Committee on Admission. The Committee also
evaluates achievement in standardized examinations, since medical students must frequently
demonstrate success in this area. If students are placed at an Advanced Level, the placement
does not result in the award of credit hours, grades, nor any transcript notation. Students
placement is in a specific year and term classification.
Baccalaureate/MD Combined Degree Program (BS/MD)
Premedical students, especially those admitted to the first year of the premedical program,
may choose to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in addition to the medical degree.
Students who wish to pursue the Baccalaureate/MD combined degree must notify the Office
of Enrolment Planning and the Premedical Program Office in writing during the first semester
of matriculation. Students may request the opportunity to simultaneously complete the
Bachelor of Science degree late in the program; however, they may be precluded from doing
so due to program and time restraints.

Registration
All students in the premedical program are required to complete registration check-in on or
before the first day of classes each term as scheduled by the Office of the Registrar.
Registration Check-In
In order to register for the premedical program, students must present official verification
of financial and academic clearance. Students who are not in good financial standing are
required to work with the Office of Student Finances to receive permission for provisional
or full registration. Students should not proceed to Grenada without financial and academic

50

clearance.
New students who are not pre-registered in specific courses must first meet with their
academic advisor to determine their course schedule.

Students choosing the provisional registration option must be aware that there will be a
financial charge of one-and-one-half percent per month on any unpaid balances.

Academic Policies
Enrollment Requirement
SGU premedical students must obtain approval from the Premedical Program Director
in order to register, drop, or add courses. An average student academic load is 15-17
credit hours per term in the first two years and 19-20 credit hours per term in the third
year of the premedical program. Students may register for up to 18 credit hours per term
in a balanced (science and non-science) academic load. Students are not permitted to
accelerate their academic program.
Under special circumstances, permission to register for additional credits may be
granted by the program director. To be eligible for such consideration, students must
have a cumulative GPA of 3.30 or higher. In addition, students must not undertake any
excessive amounts of work or extracurricular activities during this period.
Premedical students are expected to maintain a full-time schedule each term. The
programs curriculum in the third year (Terms 5 and 6) is also specifically designed to
prepare students for entry into the School of Medicine. As a consequence, third year
students must attempt this curriculum as prescribed, and are expected to maintain a
full-time schedule.

Transfer And Award Of Credit


Premedical Program
When appropriate, premedical students may apply for advanced standing or transfer
credit through the Premedical Program Office and the Office of Enrolment Planning. It
is the responsibility of students to initiate such requests with the Premedical Program
Office. Credit is granted only for documented appropriate coursework. No waivers or
exemptions are allowed. All remaining core foundation science courses (such as General
Chemistry I and II, Physics I and II, Foundation Biology I and II, and Organic Chemistry),
must be completed at St. Georges University once students have been admitted to the
premedical program.

51

School of Medicine Premedicine Program

Provisional Registration
If students have paid in full for all previous academic terms but have not yet paid for the
upcoming/current term, students will be reviewed by the Office of Student Finances and
may be approved for a payment plan. If approved, the student is permitted to register
for classes.

BS/MD Combined Degree Program


Where, appropriate premedical students who wish to obtain the Combined BS/MD degree
may apply for advanced standing or transfer credits. Transfer or advanced standing credits
can be awarded provided that a minimum of 71 credits towards this degree is completed at
St. Georges University through the completion of the prescribed curriculum for Year Three
(3) of the premedical program and Year One (1) of the MD degree. Credit is granted only
for documented appropriate course work and will be assessed on an individual basis based
on the Advanced Standing and Transfer Credit Policy of the Premedical Program Office.
Only courses with a grade obtained of C or better will be considered for credit. Transfer
Credits from Academic Partner Institutions will be assessed according to the agreement of
cooperation in place at the time.
Each candidate is responsible for ensuring that all related documentation including official
transcripts, grading policy and official course descriptions are sent directly to the Office of
Enrolment Planning who in turn will forward all the documentation to the Premedical Program
Office for assessment.

Examination Policies
Premedical Fundamental Science Diagnostic Tests
The Office of Admission or the program director may prescribe these tests in order to
determine appropriate placement within the premedical program.
Premedical Science Comprehensive Examination (PMSCE)
All students must take this examination at the conclusion of third year (Term 6) coursework. The
examination is comprehensive for third year coursework (Terms 5 and 6) only.
If students fail the PMSCE, the Premedical Committee for Satisfactory Academic
Progress and Professional Standards will determine:
If students may be required to repeat coursework and take the PMSCE at the conclusion
of the semester; or
If students may be permitted to take a re-sit of the examination at the start of the next
semester; or
If they will be dismissed from the premedical program.
Apart from required make-up examinations and regular administrations of the PMSCE,
students must request authorization from the Premedical Program Director at least three
weeks in advance regarding any special sitting of the examination.
Examination Attendance
All matriculated students are expected to attend all assigned academic activities for each
course currently registered. If, due to extreme, extenuating circumstances, students are
unable to be present for an examination, the premedical students must follow the same
procedures as found in the Medical Program section (See Examination Policy) and approval
must be obtained from the Premedical Program Director.

52

Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards And Process

Quantitative Standards:
The anticipated time allocation for the premedical program is up to three academic years
or six semesters. Students are placed within that program based on their educational
background. Students will proceed in their course of study as defined by the premedical
academic program.
Qualitative Standards
At the conclusion of each term, all students are required to submit an Explanation of
Academic Performance (EAP) Report to the Director, Premedical Program.
Committee for Academic Progress and Professional Standards (CAPPS)
The Committee for Academic Progress and professional Standards will determine
whether students with a grade point average (GPA) less than. 3.2 or who has failed
to meet the professional standards of the School of Medicine in Terms 1-4 of the
Premedical Program will:
A. Be Dismissed
B. Repeat a course
C. Continue on Academic Probation and be required to participate in an Academic
Program designed by the Director, Premedical Program
D. A
 t the beginning of next semester, remedy any deficient grades by taking a
comprehensive examination for courses in which a D or an F grade is earned. If a
student does not exercise the opportunity to take this exam at the scheduled time at
the beginning of the semester, he or she forfeits the opportunity to do so and will be
required to repeat the course.
E. Continue their academic program on academic probation.
F. Continue their academic program but be required to audit a course in accordance
with an academic enhancement program designed by the Director, Premedical
Program.
G. H
 ave his or her registration placed in hold and be required to meet with a
professionalism panel in order to address professionalism concerns should the
CAPPS determine that the student has not demonstrated the behaviors and attitudes
considered by St. Georges University to be essential for the profession of medicine.
The Committee for Academic Progress and Professional Standards will determine whether
a student in the Year 3 Premedical Academic Program (Term 5 and Term 6) who has not met
the requirements for promotion (I.e. a Year 3 GPA of 3.2 , a science GPA of 2.75, maintenance
of the professionalism standards of the School of Medicine, a PMSCE pass) will:

53

School of Medicine Premedicine Program

Standards for Admission, Retention, and Graduation


General Description:
Behavioral qualities, cognitive skills, participation in premedical preprofessional
activities, and personal attributes are all evaluated, and must reach acceptable standards
before promotion can be considered. Any conduct of students that can reasonably
be seen as disgraceful, dishonorable, or unbecoming will be considered as a major
component in the academic decision regarding retention and promotion.

A. Be Dismissed
B. Repeat a course
C. Continue on Academic Probation and be required to participate in an Academic
Enhancement Program designed by the Director, Premedical Program
D. At the beginning of next semester, remedy any deficient grades by taking a
comprehensive examination for courses in which a D or an F grade is earned. If a
student does not exercise the opportunity to take this exam at the scheduled time at the
beginning of the semester, he or she forfeits the opportunity to do so and will be required
to repeat the course.
E. Continue their academic program on academic probation.
F. C
 ontinue their academic program but be required to audit a course in accordance with an
academic enhancement program designed by the Director, Premedical Program.
G. Have his or her registration placed in hold and be required to meet with a professionalism
panel in order to address professionalism concerns. Should the committee determine that
the student has not demonstrated the behaviors and attitudes considered by St. Georges
University to be essential for the profession of medicine.
H. Be permitted to re-sit the Premedical Science Comprehensive Exam at the start of the
next semester.
I. Take the PMSCE after auditing or repeating coursework.
Students who do not meet the nonacademic standards may be dismissed or may be allowed
to continue in the premedical program on nonacademic probation for a specified period of
time with a prescribed course of action. Students will be monitored in accordance with the
method described in their letter defining the terms of the probation.
Students are normally permitted to sit the PMSCE a maximum of two times, as determined
by the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards. A third
attempt will only be permitted if approved by the Premedical Appeals Panel. Students must
make a formal written appeal outlining in detail their study plan to the Appeals Panel, via the
Dean of Students, copying the Premedical Program Director.
Year 3 into Basic Sciences
For promotion from the third year of the premedical program into the first year of Basic
Sciences.
Satisfactory Academic Progress for students enrolled in Term 5 and Term 6 of the Premedical
Program is determined by each students cumulative GPA for courses completed in Term 5 and 6
only. As it relates to coursework completed in Term 5 and Term 6 of the Premedical Program (i.e.
Year 3 Term 1 and Year 3 Term 2 respectively), the minimum GPA and professional standards for
promotion into Basic Sciences must be met at the conclusion of each term .
1.

For purposes of determining promotion, retention, and recognition of academic distinction,


for all students enrolled in the Year 3 Premed Academic Program, the Year 3 GPA constitutes
the cumulative GPA for all courses included in Term 5 (Year 3 Term 1) and Term 6 ( Year 3
Term 2).

2.

Students who are dually enrolled in the B.Sc in Medical Sciences/MD Combined Degree
Program retain a cumulative GPA for the purposes of degree completion, graduation and

54

academic distinction which is determined at the conclusion of the B.Sc program.


3.

Students enrolled in the final year of the Premedical Program are promoted, retained,
dismissed or receive academic distinction based on academic activities completed in
Term 5 ( Year 3 Term 1) and Term 6 ( Year 3 Term 2) only.
3a. Students must obtain a grade point average (GPA) of 3.20 or better in all Year
3 coursework (for example, those courses listed on Terms 5 and 6 of the official
premedical curriculum).

3c. S
 tudents must pass the Premedical Science Comprehensive Examination
(PMSCE).
3d. Students must meet the School of Medicine standards for admission and
professional conduct.

Academic Progress Review and Prescribed Policies


Academic Progress Standards
All students accepted to the premedical program are expected to maintain the
qualitative and quantitative standards as defined by the premedical program. Students
who do not meet the minimum standards may be placed on academic probation. While
on academic probation, students academic performance must improve or they are at
risk of dismissal.
Academic Probation
Academic probation is an internal marker placed in students progress files by the
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards. It allows
students who do not meet the satisfactory academic progress guidelines to continue
in the premedical program for one semester with a prescribed program of courses.
Students may continue on academic probation for an additional semester if the
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards sees
significant improvement. While on probation, students are reviewed by the Committee
for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards each semester. Students
on academic probation must raise their cumulative GPA to at least 3.00 within one
academic year or be dismissed. Students who raise their GPA to 3.00 or above are
removed from academic probation at the conclusion of that semester.
Nonacademic Probation
Nonacademic probation is an internal marker placed in students progress files by the
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards or University
Administration. It allows students who do not meet the nonacademic standards to
continue in the premedical program for a specified period of time with a prescribed
course of action. The students will be monitored in accordance with the method
described in their letters defining the terms of the probation.

55

School of Medicine Premedicine Program

3b. Students must obtain a minimum science GPA of 2.75 in all Year 3 coursework of
the premedical program.

Quantitative Deficiency
Students who are not progressing in the program according to the quantitative standard will
receive a warning when it is apparent they cannot graduate within the allocated time frame
at their current pace. Students may petition through the program director for an extension
if medical problems, family obligations, or other significant factors make it impossible to
complete the program within the applicable time frame.
Qualitative Deficiency
1. Students with a cumulative GPA of less than 3.00 at the end of each semester will be placed
on academic probation for one semester. Students cumulative GPA must be elevated to
3.00 or better to be removed from academic probation. The Premedical Program Director
will provide a suitable program of study.
2. If students are allowed to continue in the premedical program, they must remedy all F
and D grades in required coursework. The Committee will determine whether students
are dismissed, if they may take a make-up comprehensive examination for the course at the
beginning of the next semester, or if they must repeat the course. If a make-up examination
is not taken at the start of the next semester, students forfeit that opportunity.
3. S
 tudents may choose to remedy F grades in elective coursework (for example, coursework
not required for the premedical program, or the Bachelor of Science degree in Medical
Sciences). Students are given the option to take a re-sit of a comprehensive examination for
the course at the beginning of the next semester or repeat the course within the next two
semesters. If students do not take the re-sit at the start of the next semester, that option is
forfeited, and a repeat of the course is required. If students do not remedy the F grade,
the credit will be incorporated into their overall GPA; additionally, these credits cannot be
considered as part of those utilized for eligibility to graduate.
4. If students have chosen to earn the Bachelor of Science degree, they must remedy all
F grades in required General Education coursework. The Committee will determine
if students are given the option to take a re-sit of a comprehensive examination for the
course at the beginning of the next semester or repeat the course within the next two
semesters. If students do not take the re-sit at the start of the next semester, they forfeit
that option, and are required to repeat the course.
For promotion to the medical program, in addition to the above:
5. The Committee will determine whether students with a grade point average (GPA) less than
3.00 in all third year (Term 5 and 6) coursework will be dismissed, if they may take a re-sit
of a comprehensive examination for the course at the beginning of the next semester, or
if they must repeat the course within the next two semesters. If a re-sit examination is not
taken at the start of the next semester, students forfeit that opportunity.
6. The Committee will determine whether students who failed the Premedical Science
Comprehensive Examination (PMSCE) will be dismissed from the premedical program,
permitted to take a re-sit of the examination at the start of the next semester, or be
required to repeat coursework and take the PMSCE at the conclusion of the semester.
Students are normally permitted to sit the PMSCE a maximum of two times, as determined
by the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards. A third
attempt will only be permitted if approved by the Premedical Appeals Panel. Students must
make a formal written appeal outlining in detail their study plan to the Appeals Panel, via

56

the Dean of Students, copying the Premedical Program Director.


7. Students who do not meet the nonacademic standards may be dismissed or may
be allowed to continue in the premedical program on nonacademic probation for a
specified period of time with a prescribed course of action. Students will be monitored
in accordance with the method described in their letter defining the terms of the
probation.
Students should be aware of the following academic policies:

If students have been given permission to take a make-up examination by the
Committee for Academic Progress and Professional Standards and they choose
to take a re-sit (or make-up) examination at the beginning of the next term, they
can only receive a C, D, or F grade for that examination. The highest grade
received by students will be used to compute the cumulative GPA; however, all
grades for a course will appear on the transcript. They must obtain no lower than
a C on this examination in order to receive credit for the course. This represents
the only opportunity for students to take such an examination; thereafter, the only
option to remedy that grade will involve repeating the course.
Students who are dismissed from the premedical program can appeal to continue
in the School of Arts and Sciences in a different degree program.
Appeals Process
The appeals procedure of decisions of the Committee for Satisfactory Academic
Progress and Professional Standards (CAPPS) is outlined below. There is no appeal from
placement on academic probation.
When the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards
recommends students for dismissal, the Dean of Students will communicate this
recommendation to students and to the Dean of the School of Medicine.
Students have the option to withdraw from the premedical program or to request an
appeal of the dismissal recommendation within the time specified. If neither of these
options is chosen, the Dean of the School of Medicine will dismiss the student, and
transmit decision in writing to the student with a copy to the Dean of Students.
If students wish to exercise the right to appeal a CAPPS recommendation regarding
dismissal, they must submit notification of appeal to the Dean of Students within the
time specified. When a request for an appeal is filed with the Dean of Students, the Dean
of the School of Medicine will be notified of the request. The Appeals Panel will be held
before the end of the current term. Students may request more time for their appeal, but
the Appeals Panel will be held no later than six months after the date of the request for
the appeal. The Dean of Students may counsel students to delay such an appeal hearing
for a few months. Students who appeal are obligated to be present at the Appeals Panel
meeting. Failure to appear constitutes an automatic waiver of the right to an appeal.
If the Appeals Panel upholds the decision of the Committee for Satisfactory Academic

57

School of Medicine Premedicine Program

Students who repeat a course will receive whatever grade is earned. Only the
higher grade will be used to compute cumulative grade point average (GPA);
however, all grades for a course will appear on the transcript.

Progress and Professional Standards, the Dean of the School of Medicine will issue the Letter of
Dismissal, and this will be noted on students transcripts. If students appeals are successful, the
Dean of Students will notify the students. Between the date of the Committee for Satisfactory
Academic Progress and Professional Standards recommendation for dismissal and the date
of the final decision by the Dean of the School of Medicine, students will be given the inactive
status of Appeal Pending by the Office of the Registrar. During this time, students cannot
register for any academic activities.
The Appeals Panel reserves the right to refuse to review a case unless it falls into one of
the following two categories:
1. Cases in which new evidence is presented or new witnesses come forward; or
2. Cases in which an unprofessional procedure can be demonstrated.
In cases where the Appeals Panel modifies a recommendation of the Promotions Panel, the
Dean of Students must be consulted about the precise implementation of the modification.
All decisions of the Appeals Panel are reported in writing to the Dean of Students within 24
hours. The Dean of Students thereafter informs the students involved, the Dean of Basic
Sciences, the Premedical Program Director, and the Office of the Registrar within the next 24
hours.
Final appeals can be made to the Dean of the School of Medicine through the Dean of
Students; however, it should be noted that the Dean may modify or reverse prior decisions
only in cases where due process has not been observed, or where decisions made have been
either inappropriate or unconscionable. These appeals should be made within five working
days, but will not be heard if later than one year from the date of the Appeals Panel decision.

58

School of Medicine
Foundation to Medicine Program

Administrative Policies and Process


Admission
Foundation to Medicine Program
Students in the foundation to medicine program have been reviewed and accepted
by the Committee on Admission of the School of Medicine into the foundation to
medicine program. Students are accepted and placed into the program according to the
educational achievement documented by the Committee on Admission. The Committee
also evaluates achievement in standardized examinations, since medical students must
frequently demonstrate success in this area. Students must have a bachelors degree or
higher with all of the science prerequisites.

Registration
All students in the foundation to medicine program are required to complete
registration check-in on or before the first day of classes each term as scheduled by the
Office of the Registrar.
Registration Check-In
Students are pre-registered in specific courses. In order to complete registration checkin for the foundation to medicine program, students must present official verification
of financial and academic clearance. Students who are not in good financial standing
are required to work with the Office of Student Finances to receive permission for
provisional or full registration. Students should not proceed to Grenada without financial
and academic clearance.
Provisional Registration
If students have paid in full for all previous academic terms but have not yet paid for the
upcoming/current term, students will be reviewed by the Office of Student Finances and
may be approved for a payment plan. If approved, the student is permitted to register
for classes.

59

School of Medicine Charter Foundation Program

The foundation to medicine program is a one-term undergraduate program. The


academic policies, program, standards, and processes are set and overseen by the
School of Medicine; the content is delivered by the School of Arts and Sciences. All
registered foundation to medicine students are subject to the policies and regulations
of the University, the School of Arts and Sciences, the foundation to medicine program,
and the School of Medicine; however, should policies differ, the policies of the
foundation to medicine program shall supersede all other said policies.

Students choosing the provisional registration option must be aware that there will be a
financial charge of one-and-one-half percent per month on any unpaid balances.

Academic Policies
Enrollment Requirement
SGU students in the Foundation to Medicine program are not permitted to drop or add
courses. The one term program includes a student academic load of 17 credit hours.
Foundation to Medicine students are expected to maintain a full-time schedule for the term.
The programs curriculum is specifically designed to prepare students for entry into the
School of Medicine. As a consequence, students must attempt this curriculum as prescribed.
Upon completion of the Program all students are required to submit an Explanation of
Academic Performance (EAP) Report to the Director, Foundation to Medicine Program.
There is no Leave of Absence granted from the Foundation to Medicine Program. If a student
must leave, for whatever reason, he or she will only have the option to withdraw. In this case,
the university will refund The students tuition.
In the event of a serious health related or personal issue, one that impacted a students ability
to study and focus on their curriculum, the Director, Foundation to Medicine in conjunction
with the Dean of Students may request that the student be readmitted.

EXAMINATION POLICIES
Premedical Science Comprehensive Examination (PMSCE)
All students must take this examination at the conclusion of the one-term program.
If students fail the PMSCE, they will be dismissed from the foundation to medicine program
with no opportunity to re-sit or appeal.
Apart from required make-up examinations and regular administrations of the PMSCE,
students must request authorization from the Foundation to Medicine Program Director at
least three weeks in advance regarding any special sitting of the examination.
Examination Attendance
All matriculated students are expected to attend all assigned academic activities for each
course currently registered. If, due to extreme, extenuating circumstances, students are
unable to be present for an examination, the foundation to medicine students must follow
the same procedures as found in the Medical Program section (See Examination Policy) and
approval must be obtained from the Foundation to Medicine Program Director.

60

Satisfactory Academic Progress


Standards and Process
Standards For Admission, Retention, And Graduation

Quantitative Standards
The anticipated time allocation for the foundation to medicine premedical program is
one semester.
Qualitative Standards
Students who wish to enter Term 1 of Basic Sciences in the School of Medicine must:
1.

Attain a GPA of 3.5 or better.

2.

Pass the Foundations Premedical Science Comprehensive Exam (PMSCE)

3.

Complete the courses as prescribed with no grades below C.

4.

Demonstrate the behaviors and attitudes considered by St. Georges University to


be essential for the profession of medicine.

5.

Receive the recommendation of the Director, Foundation to Medicine Program to


enter the Doctor of Medicine (MD) Program.

For those students who do not pass the PMSCE, achieve lower than a 3.50 GPA or
receive grades below a C, there will be no opportunity to retake courses or the PMSCE.

Appeals Process
Students who attain a Grade Point Average (GPA) between 3.2 and 3.49 have no grades
below a C and pass the PMSCE may be given a chance to appeal for entry into the
Doctor of Medicine (MD) program. The Director, Foundation to Medicine Program will
notify students prior to the conclusion of the term about the date by which all appeals
must be submitted.
The Director, Foundation to Medicine will notify the student within seven days about the
status of his or her appeal. If the appeal is not accepted, the University will refund the
cost of tuition.
Students who attain a GPA of 3.19 or below or who fail to pass the PMSCE will not have an
opportunity to enter the Doctor of Medicine ( MD) program. There is no appeal process if
a student does not pass the PMSCE or achieves lower than a 3.20 GPA or receives grades
below a C.

61

School of Medicine Charter Foundation Program

General Description
Behavioral qualities, cognitive skills, participation in premedical preprofessional
activities, and personal attributes are all evaluated, and must reach acceptable standards
before promotion can be considered. Any conduct of students that can reasonably
be seen as disgraceful, dishonorable, or unbecoming will be considered as a major
component in the academic decision regarding retention and promotion.

When the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards
recommends a student not be permitted entry into the Doctor of Medicine (MD) program the
Director, Foundation to Medicine will communicate this recommendation to students and to
the Dean of Enrolment Planning/University Registrar.
When the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards
recommends students for dismissal, the Dean of Students will communicate this
recommendation to students and to the Dean of Enrolment Planning/University Registrar.

62

School of Medicine
Doctor of Medicine Program
All students registered in the School of Medicine are subject to the policies and
regulations of both the School of Medicine and St. Georges University (See General
Policies for All Students, and Student Standards, Policies, and Nonacademic Procedures).

Administrative Policies and Process


Registration

School of Medicine students in Terms 2 through 5 may require academic program


clearance from the Dean of Students. Students in dual degree programs (MD/MSc or
MD/MPH) will need clearance from their Graduate Studies Program advisor; they will
then register for both programs simultaneously, if applicable.
The Office of Clinical Studies makes hospital assignments and schedules clinical
rotations based on the clinical sites available and Student Preference forms. Student
attendance on the first day of the scheduled rotation is considered registration. The
University considers failure to arrive for a scheduled rotation an unexcused absence and
may bring disciplinary action against students.
Registration Check-In
In order to register for Terms 1 through 5 of the medical sciences in Grenada, students
must present official verification of financial and academic clearance. Students who are
not in good financial standing are required to work with the Office of Student Finances
to receive permission for provisional or full registration. Students should not proceed to
Grenada without financial and academic clearance.
Provisional Registration
If students have paid in full for all previous academic terms but have not yet paid for the
upcoming/current term, students will be reviewed by the Office of Student Finances and
may be approved for a payment plan. If approved, the student is permitted to register
for classes.
Students choosing the provisional registration option must be aware that there will be a
financial charge of one-and-one-half percent per month on any unpaid balances.
In addition to registration procedures previously described, provisional registration is
permitted if the following requirements are met:
A. If students are recipients of federal student and/or alternate loans:
1. If students prior term balances are paid in full.

63

School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

All students in the Basic Sciences are required to complete registration check-in on or
before the first day of classes each term as scheduled by the Office of the Registrar.

AND
2. Students current term bills will be paid by federal student loans and/or alternate loans
that have been certified and approved by the bank/Department of Education.
OR
3. If students are certified for federal student loans only, and their current bill exceeds
the amount they will receive from these loans, a check for the difference must be paid
by registration.
OR
B. If students are not recipients of either federal student and/or alternate loans, students may
register provisionally if the following requirements are met:
1. Students prior term balances are paid in full.
2. Students have received written approval from the Office of Student Finances outlining
a payment plan.
Late Registration Fees
Students who complete registration after the first day of class will be charged a late
registration fee. This serves to encourage students to be present and accounted for on the
first day of classes. The University allows students to return late; however, students are still
responsible for the late registration fee. Students will be billed according to the following
schedule:
First day of

late registration period

US $ 50.00

Second day of

late registration period

US $100.00

Third day of

late registration period

US $150.00

Fourth day of

late registration period

US $200.00

Fifth day of

late registration period

US $250.00

Students should note that if they register and begin classes late, they will miss important
academic concepts and their grades may suffer. Late registration will not be considered a
mitigating factor for poor academic performance.
Clinical Terms
Students are required to be at the hospital/clinic daily, Monday through Friday, as well as
evenings and weekends if scheduled by that site. During clinical rotations, no unexcused
absences are permitted. Missing a lecture or failing to fulfill a clinical assignment will call into
question students ability to accept the necessary responsibilities required of a physician.
If students must be absent for a period of a few hours, or a day or two, they must obtain
permission from the clerkship director before leaving. If students are absent without
permission from a scheduled rotation (including electives), the absenteeism could be
reflected in a lower or failing grade, and/or disciplinary action.

Criminal Background Check


The University conducts criminal background checks on all students prior to placement in the
clinical program. The cost of the criminal background check shall be paid by students.

64

Enrollment Status and Vacation Time


The period between the completion of the final basic science term (Term 5) and the start
of the first clinical term is considered vacation time. Students are allowed up to 20 weeks
of vacation time each year. Students who do not start their clinical term within the 20
weeks of vacation time will no longer be considered actively enrolled and should request
an Approved Leave of Absence in order to maintain their student loan deferment. After
completion of term 5, you will be on vacation until the 20th week. Depending upon your
choices, which may include a USMLE date timeline, you might not be placed until after
the 20th week. In the event this is the case, you will have to request a leave of absence by
filling out a leave of absence form and submitting it to EnrollmentChanges@sgu.edu.

Bridge Time for Students

Student Contact Information


AT ALL TIMES, STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ENSURING THAT THE SCHOOL OF
MEDICINE IS ABLE TO CONTACT THEM. Students must respond to all communications
during their entire matriculation at the University; this includes during the academic terms,
clinical rotations, while at affiliated hospitals, while on vacation or a leave of absence, during
clinical bridge time, or while awaiting graduation. Students who fail to monitor University
communications are nevertheless responsible for the content of those communications. If
a student is expected to respond to or act on a communication, or is expected to act on
information contained in a communication, failure to do so may lead to an administrative
withdrawal from the University. Reinstatement would only be granted after an appeal to the
Registrar.
Students who fail to appeal and do not respond to communications from the School will
be dismissed from the School when they fail to meet satisfactory academic guidelines as
described below. Failure to respond to communications from the School is considered
unprofessional behavior.

Program Commitment Policy For Students Matriculated


Into the KBTGSP at NU
Students matriculated into the Keith B. Taylor Global Scholars Program (KBTGSP) given
in conjunction with Northumbria University (NU) in Newcastle, United Kingdom, will
complete the full medical sciences academic year (all courses in Terms 1 and 2 in the first
academic year of the Doctor of Medicine program) in the United Kingdom before they
proceed to their second academic year of the Basic Sciences at St. Georges University

65

School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

Clinical rotations are scheduled year round. Clinical students who need to schedule a
few weeks off between rotations may do so. This is referred to as bridge time. Students
must notify their clinical coordinator in the Office of Clinical Studies and receive
approval prior to taking bridge time. The amount of bridge time available to students
depends upon when the clinical period begins. Students are allowed up to 20 weeks of
bridge time within a 12 month period. Liberal use of bridge time may negatively impact
satisfactory academic progress and ultimate graduation date.

in Grenada. This also applies to students who take a leave of absence (LOA) or who join
the Individual Advancement Program (IAP). This means students will remain in the United
Kingdom (or return there if on LOA) until they are promoted into Term 3 (Med3) of the Basic
Sciences when they will proceed to Grenada.
Exceptions to this policy may be granted by the Committee for Satisfactory Academic
Progress and Professional Standards (CAPPS) for students who have been permitted to take
a make-up examination(s) in the one or two credit courses failed during Term 2, and also
for students who have been approved to take a completion examination(s) for a course of
three credits or more. The make-up and/or completion examination(s) will take place on the
scheduled date(s) in Grenada. An exception may also be made through a written appeal to
the Dean of Students for students who have visa problems that prevent them from continuing
the program in the United Kingdom.
NOTE: Students who matriculate into the first year of the four-year Doctor of Medicine
program in Grenada do not have the option of matriculating into the KBTGSP for part of their
first year program.
Students who attend the KBTGSP must take their final year of clinical training in Grenada in
the Universitys teaching hospital in order to qualify for registration in the UK.

Faculty Advisor-Advisee Program


Soon after registration, the Office of the Dean of Students assigns all matriculated students
a faculty advisor for the Basic Sciences. The role of the faculty advisor is to counsel students
in academic and nonacademic matters. In addition, the faculty advisor interacts with the
Dean of Students Office and the Department of Educational Services in cases where students
are not performing as expected. The faculty advisor plays an important role at the time of
academic promotion and in the appeals process described later. The faculty advisors file
their opinions and interview summaries with the Dean of Students for future reference (for
example, Medical Student Performance Evaluations (MSPEs) used for the Deans Letters of
Recommendation for residencies).
During the clinical years, students can seek advice from the Office of Clinical Studies, the
Dean of Students Office, and the Office of Career Guidance and Student Development. At
the hospitals, the Director of Medical Education, clerkship directors, preceptors, and clinical
faculty are available for advice.

Academic Policies
Class/Examination Attendance
Students must attend all classes, clinical rotations, and other related academic activities (labs,
small group discussions, and so forth) as defined for all courses, and rotations by the course,
and clerkship directors. Course/Clerkship directors may take attendance into account when
determining grades, provided that a clear written statement on attendance policy and its
impact on grading are given in the course syllabus distributed in class at the beginning of all
terms and rotations. During clinical rotations, the University considers attendance to be an

66

important component of professionalism. Absenteeism can adversely affect grades and


may lead to an F.
Students are responsible for knowing if courses taken have been passed or if any form
of remedial activity is required as decided by the Committee for Satisfactory Academic
Progress and Professional Standards. It is the responsibility of students to know the time
and dates of make-up examinations and assignments.
Medical Excuses
Examinations

A student in this serious situation must fill out the Medical Excuse (ME) form on the
Members Center of the SGU website [https://apps.sgu.edu/clinical/medexcuse.nsf/
medexcuse.xsp] and submit before the time of the first scheduled examination to be
missed. This student will be excused from all examinations in that period, will receive
an I in the grade, and will be able to take the Completion examination (or make-up
midterm) at its next scheduled time. If a student recovers during the examination period,
he/she may attend any remaining examinations still scheduled.
If a student attempts to invoke the Medical Excuse form more than once in a 12-month
periodwhether it is for the midterm or final examination period - he/she will be denied
the Medical Excuse and must sit the examination(s). If the student does not sit the
examination(s) in this case, the University will place the student on a mandatory Medical
Leave of Absence since the student has medical issues which are preventing the normal
progress through medical school.
Midterms:
A student who makes a second ME request within 12 months during midterm exams will
receive a notice:
If you do not sit this and any subsequent examinations, you will receive a 0 grade for
this examination and be put on a mandatory Medical Leave of Absence for the remainder
of the term. All unfinished courses will receive a W. This may have a negative affect on
your competitiveness for postgraduate training upon graduation.
Finals:
A student who makes a second ME request within 12 months during a finals period will
receive a notice:
If you do not sit this and any subsequent examinations, you will receive a 0 for the
examination and will be put on a mandatory Medical Leave of Absence for the next term.

67

School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

The School of Medicine faculty feels strongly that the taking of examination is an integral
part in the training and expectations of a professional. Students are expected to take
examinations when they are scheduled. In the case of a dire emergency hospitalization
or other extreme illness a student may request a Medical Excuse for the examination
period (midterm or finals week). A student may request only one medical excuse per 12
month period.

NBME Clinical Subject Examinations


A student who makes a second ME in 12 months for a Clinical Subject Examination will
receive a notice:
If you do not sit this examination, you will receive a 0 for the examination and will be put on
a six-month Medical Leave of Absence.
Students need to be aware that any and all deviations from the Optimum Track for the MD
degree may be seen as negatives in their competitiveness for residencies upon graduation. In
addition, any disruption in a students matriculation may affect their loan repayment status if
they are receiving US federal loans.

Basic Sciences Examinations


In addition to the regularly scheduled examinations for each course, there are three other
types of examinations in the Basic Sciences terms. These examinations are scheduled at the
start of each term (See the Office of the Registrar for the schedule).
A. Make-up Examination: Students who fail a course may be required by the relevant
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards or the Appeals
Panel to take a make-up examination within a scheduled time frame. Failing grades are
entered on the students transcripts. Make-up grades are also recorded on students
transcripts and cumulative WMPGs incorporate both grades. Failure to sit scheduled
examinations will result in a grade of 0. Make-up examinations cannot be given for courses
weighted four or more credit hours.
B. Completion Examination: Students who receive an approved Incomplete (I) for a
course must take a completion examination as scheduled. (The Dean of Students Office must
approve all I grades See I grade). Examinations will be scheduled prior to the start of
the next term of attendance. Failure to sit scheduled examinations will result in a grade of 0.
Students who take a medical excuse for an examination must expect to stay in Grenada an
extra week to take the completion examination.
C. Exemption Examination: Students who transfer into the School of Medicine or who seek to
obtain credit for a course passed with a minimum B grade at an approved medical school may
be permitted to take an exemption examination if approved by the course director, department
chair, the Dean of Basic Sciences, and the Dean of Students. A notation of E will appear on
transcripts indicating exemption from that course, thus having no impact on St. Georges
University School of Medicine credit hours or WMPGs. It must be stressed that students with an
E on their transcripts may have difficulty in the future when applying for residencies or in the
licensing process in some states in the United States or in other countries.

Clinical Examinations
Examination policies and procedures during the clinical terms are described in the Clinical
Training Manual.

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Examination Policies
All students are expected to adhere to the Code of Conduct with respect to all
University-administered examinations.
Students who fail to appear for an examination without a valid reason for doing so will
receive a grade of zero (0) for the examination.
Scheduling of examinations (regular, make-up, completion, or exemption) is at the
discretion of the University.

Comprehensive Examinations
BSCE Description
Basic Science Comprehensive Examinations (BSCE) are standardized examinations that
are normally administered at the completion of the first year (BSCE 1) and second year
(BSCE 2) of the Basic Sciences of the School of Medicine. The BSCE Committee sets the
minimum pass levels for these examinations after a careful review of the examinations
reliability and validity, and the historical examination performance data.
The BSCE 1 is intended to provide an assessment of students understanding of the Basic
Sciences after completion of all Basic Sciences academic coursework in the first year.
In addition, this examination is designed to help all students evaluate their approach
to taking standardized examinations and to build the test-taking skills needed for
future comprehensive examinations. The University considers the BSCE 1 a formative
examination and does not offer retakes.
The BSCE 2 is designed to measure students requisite Basic Sciences knowledge
required to successfully progress to the Clinical Years, and to graduate. To progress to
the clinical terms, students must pass the BSCE 2 or the USMLE Step 1.
BSCE 1 Administration
Students who have completed all academic coursework in the first year, regardless of
the grades received in the courses, as prescribed by the Basic Sciences schedule, are
required to take the BSCE 1. The examination is approximately four hours long, with
questions drawn from all Term 1 and 2 courses in proportion to the number of credit
hours assigned to each course.
Students with a valid excuse approved by the Dean of Students who do not take the BSCE
1 as scheduled at the conclusion of Term 2 will be rescheduled for the next offering of the
BSCE 1.
Students must adhere to the Universitys standardized examination policy. These procedures

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School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

Students who miss an examination due to a valid reason may be allowed to sit a rescheduled examination within the term if the course director is notified of the excuse
by the Dean of Students Office or University Health Services. During the Basic Sciences
years, students may miss only one examination per academic year for medical reasons.
If a student needs to miss a second examination during an academic year for medical
reasons, the School may mandate a medical leave of absence for the student.

are distributed to students prior to each BSCE 1 offering and available on the Universitys website.
BSCE 2 Administration
The BSCE 2 is offered on a pre-planned schedule. Routine administrations take place late in
Term 6 (every April and November).
The Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards places or
continues all students who do not pass or who do not take the BSCE 2 on academic probation.
Students who fail the BSCE 2 must meet with the Dean of Students and should seek help
from the Department of Educational Services. Those students who fail the BSCE 2 and have
had academic difficulty during their Basic Sciences terms should consider withdrawing from
medical school at this time. An unexcused absence from a scheduled examination may result
in a grade of F.
Students can apply to retake the BSCE 2 at the next regular scheduled offering. Students may
retake the BSCE 2 multiple times; however, students must adhere to satisfactory academic
progress guidelines, which require them to be eligible for and to start clinical rotations within
three years of matriculation.
Application forms for specific BSCE 2 offerings are available from the Office of Student
Records and the Office of the Dean of Students:
Office of Student Records
University Support Services, LLC
3500 Sunrise Highway, Building 300
Great River, NY 11739
Telephone: +1 (631) 665-8500; Fax: +1 (631) 665-2047
OR
Dean of Students Office
St. Georges University
Grenada, West Indies
Telephone: +1 (473) 444-4175; Fax: +1 (473) 444-2823
Students are removed from academic probation imposed by failing the BSCE 2, by retaking
and passing the BSCE 2, or by passing the USMLE Step 1.
Students must adhere to the Universitys standardized examination policy. These procedures
are distributed prior to each BSCE 2 offering and are available on the Universitys website.
Final Clinical Competency Examination
The Final Clinical Competency Examination uses the format of an Objective Structured
Clinical Examination (OSCE). Students must pass the St. Georges University School of
Medicine Final Clinical Competency Examination in order to graduate. Students can use their
USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skills (CS) pass in lieu of the Final Clinical Competency Examination.
Final Clinical Written Examination
Students must pass the St. Georges University School of Medicine Final Clinical Written
Examination in order to graduate. Students can use their USMLE Step 2 Clinical Knowledge
(CK) pass in lieu of the Final Clinical Written Examination.

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OSPE Description
The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSPE) is a standardized comprehensive
clinical examination that is administered at the completion of the first term (OSPE I) and
second term (OSPE II) of the Basic Medical Sciences of the School of Medicine. OSPE
I and OSPE II are designed to measure students requisite clinical skills knowledge in
the first term and second term of the Basic Medical Sciences, respectively. The OSPE
Committee sets the minimum pass levels for these examinations after a careful review of
the examinations reliability and validity, and the historical examination performance data.

OSPE I Administration
Students who have completed all academic coursework in the first term, regardless of
the grades received in the courses, as prescribed by the Basic Sciences schedule, are
required to take the OSPE I. The examination is approximately 30 minutes in length, with
questions drawn from all Term 1 courses in proportion to the number of credit hours
assigned to each course. Students with a valid excuse approved by the Dean of Students
or a medical excuse, who do not take the OSPE I as scheduled at the conclusion of Term
1 will be rescheduled for the next offering of the OSPE I (in Term 2). To progress to the
third term, students must complete the OSPE I. Students currently in the IAP program
and who have completed all Term 1 courses must take the OSPE I examination. Other
IAP students who have not completed all Term 1 courses will not be allowed to take
the examination. Please note that, unlike other examinations, where students requiring
special accommodations may receive extra time, no special accommodations are
granted for OSPE examinations. This is consistent with OSCE examination in the Year 2.
OSPE II Administration
Students who have completed all academic coursework in the second term, regardless of
the grades received in the courses, as prescribed by the Basic Medical Sciences schedule,
are required to take the OSPE II. The examination is approximately 30 minutes in length,
with questions drawn from all Term 2 courses in proportion to the number of credit hours
assigned to each course. Students with a valid excuse approved by the Dean of Students
or a medical excuse who do not take the OSPE II as scheduled at the conclusion of Term 1
will be rescheduled for the next offering of the OSPE I (in Term 4). To progress to the fifth
term, students must complete the OSPE II. Students currently in the IAP program and who
have completed all Term 2 courses must take the OSPE II. Other IAP students who have
not completed al Term 2 courses will not be allowed to take the examination. Please note
that, unlike other examinations, where students requiring special accommodations may
receive extra time, no special accommodations are granted for OSPE examinations. This is
consistent with OSCE examination in the Year 2. Students must adhere to the Universitys

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School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

The OSPE examinations are intended to provide an assessment of students


understanding of the clinical skill component taught in the fist year of the Basic Medical
Sciences. In addition, these examinations are designed to help all students evaluate their
approach to taking standardized examinations and to build the test-taking skills needed
for future comprehensive clinical skill examinations. The University considers the OSPE
examinations as formative examinations and does not offer retakes. A passing score
in the OSPE could be taken into consideration for student academic progress during
CAPPS meetings. In addition, the scores will contribute up to 11% to the grade for the
Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) in clinical skills in Year 2.

standardized examination policy. Students will be sequestered for this examination for a couple
of hours. These procedures are distributed to students prior to each OSPE II offering and are
available on the Universitys website.

The USMLE
The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is sponsored by the Educational
Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) and is administered throughout the
year. Regardless of whether students submit an electronic or written application, the ECFMG
requires that St. Georges University certify students eligibility to take the examination.
Step 1: The Office of the Dean of Students will certify students to sit the USMLE Step 1 if,
at the end of Term 5, they have successfully completed all Basic Sciences courses, have a
cumulative GPA of 2.50, have no academic deficiencies, and are not on academic probation.
Students who have a GPA of above 2.5 at the beginning of Term 5 may request early
certification for the USMLE by submitting their application materials to the Registrar. Students
who fail the USMLE Step 1 must contact the Dean of Students Office for guidance.* Students
who fail the USMLE Step 1 may retake the examination multiple times, but must stay within
satisfactory academic progress guidelines. Students doing UK clinical rotations who have
failed the USMLE Step 1 are advised not to study for the USMLE Step 1 examination during
clinical rotations, as they should be focusing on clinical subjects. These students are advised
that they should consider a leave of absence (LOA) to prepare for the USMLE Step 1 prior to
taking the examination.
Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK): The USMLE Step 2 (CK), usually taken in the final clinical
year, is a computer-based examination given year-round, and assesses whether an examinee
possesses the knowledge and understanding of clinical sciences, and the clinical reasoning
skills considered essential for the provision of patient care under supervision, including
emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention.
Step 2 Clinical Skills (CS): The USMLE Step 2 (CS) is a one-day examination that mirrors
a physicians typical workday in an outpatient setting such as a clinic or office. Students,
working under specified time constraints, examine standardized patients who are people
highly trained to portray real patients, and to evaluate the examinees performance. Testtakers are expected to elicit pertinent historical information, perform focused physical
examinations, answer questions, provide counseling when appropriate, establish rapport with
the standardized patient, and write a Patient Note.
This test is given by appointment at five different sites Chicago, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Los
Angeles, and Houston. Step 2 (CS) may be taken either before or after Step 2 (CK). Both Step
2 (CK) and Step 2 (CS) must be passed if the student plans to take residencies and/or practice
in the United States. Exemption from the Universitys Final Clinical Written Examination and
Final Clinical Competency Examination is granted upon proof of having passed the Step 2
(CK) and Step 2 (CS).
*NEW ECFMG RULES ON REPEATING USMLE EXAMINATIONS
ECFMG would like to remind applicants that the USMLE program is introducing new rules on
repeating USMLE examinations.

72

TIME BETWEEN EXAMINATION ATTEMPTS


The USMLE program sets rules on how quickly examinees can repeat the same Step or
Step Component. As previously published, these rules will change for exam applications
submitted on or after January 1, 2012.
For exam applications submitted on or after January 1, 2012, the following rules will
apply to all Steps and Step Components. You may take the same examination no more
than three times within a 12-month period. Your fourth and subsequent attempts must
be at least 12 months after your first attempt at that exam and at least six months after
your most recent attempt at that exam. Attempts at that examination (complete and
incomplete) prior to January 1, 2012 will be counted in determining whether these rules
apply. When you reapply, your exam eligibility period will be adjusted, if necessary, to
comply with these rules.

ATTEMPT LIMIT FOR USMLE EXAMINATIONS


As previously published, the USMLE program is introducing a limit on the total number
of times an examinee can take the same Step or Step Component. When this limit takes
effect, an examinee will be ineligible to take a Step or Step Component if the examinee
has made six or more prior attempts to pass that Step or Step Component, including
incomplete attempts.
The effective date for the six-attempt limit depends upon whether an examinee has
taken any Step or Step Component (including incomplete attempts) before January 1,
2012.
If you have not taken any Step or Step Component before January 1, 2012, the sixattempt limit will go into effect for all exam applications that you submit on or after
January 1, 2012.
If you have taken any Step or Step Component (including incomplete attempts) before
January 1, 2012, the six-attempt limit will go into effect for all exam applications that you
submit on or after January 1, 2013.
For more information and examples, view the full announcement at http://www.ecfmg.
org/news/?p=219.

USMLE Application
The USMLE information is available online (www.ecfmg.org). Before filling out an
application to take any Step of the USMLE, all students must read, in its entirety, the
information booklet that accompanies each application. One additional release form,
entitled Request for Official USMLE Transcript, must be signed and must accompany all
completed applications with the appropriate check made out to ECFMG or applications
will be held up.
USMLE Step 1 applications, release forms, and any pertinent information can be
obtained from:

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School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

For more information and examples, view the full announcement at http://www.ecfmg.
org/news/?p=164.

The ECFMG website (www.ecfmg.org)


OR
Director of Records Services
University Support Services, LLC
3500 Sunrise Highway, Building 300
Great River, NY 11739
Telephone: +1 (631) 665-8500; Fax: +1 (631) 665-3627
OR
Dean of Students Office
St. Georges University
Grenada, West Indies
Telephone: +1 (473) 444-4175; Fax: +1 (473) 444-2823
Release forms may also be requested from the Dean of Students Office during Term 5 and 6 of
the Doctor of Medicine program, or the Associate Registrar in the United Kingdom.
Under a specific agreement between ECFMG Officials and the University, the Director of
Records Services is charged with the responsibility for validating and verifying students
signatures and photographs. By the terms of this agreement, it is unnecessary for students
to travel to the Directors Office to sign the application in the presence of a School Official.
Applications sent directly to the ECFMG by students will be returned for the School Seal;
notarization alone is not adequate to register students for any part or parts of the USMLE.
Attempts to bypass the affixing of the School Seal are fruitless and, in addition, so time
consuming that students might as well miss the deadline for submission. ECFMG will accept
only those applications that are completed by and mailed from the Office of the Director of
Records Services.
IMPORTANT NOTE: It is the responsibility of the students to maintain a timely progression
through the curriculum, which includes being eligible to start the Clinical Sciences within three
years of matriculation and complete the Clinical Sciences within three years. Students who are
having difficulty passing any USMLE examination should not let repeated leaves of absence (to
study for and retake these examinations) interfere with their overall academic progress (See
Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards and Process).
In the event that information or assistance is needed directly from ECFMG, students
may contact:
Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)
3624 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104-2685
Telephone: 1 (215) 386-5900
Fax: 1 (215) 386-9196 or 1 (215) 387-9963
Website: www.ecfmg.org

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Academic Progress
Professional Commitment
When students enter the School of Medicine, they take an academic oath reciting the
following professional commitment at the White Coat Ceremony:
Today is the beginning of my medical education as a physician. I acknowledge my
responsibility to continue the pursuit of knowledge and understanding until that day
when I will cease to be a practicing physician.

I acknowledge my obligation to adhere to the University Honor Code, and to conduct


myself with integrity and in an ethical manner at all times henceforth. I shall do all within
my power to show in myself an example of all that is honorable and good throughout
my medical career. It is a privilege to have been given the opportunity to become a
physician. May I be ever conscious of that privilege and never abuse it.
NOTE: Written by the Student Ethics Task Force and Alexander P. Ross, MS, FRCS

The Optimal Educational Track


Most students complete the medical program at St. Georges University School of
Medicine on an optimal track that can lead to graduation in less than four years. The
Doctor of Medicine program is designed to be continuous with minimal time off. Each
term serves as a building block for subsequent terms. Prolonged breaks between
terms disrupt the educational experience; leaves of absence are discouraged. Medical
school, to a large extent, is preparatory for postgraduate training. In the United States,
residency program directors look for graduates who are able to handle the demands
of postgraduate training and to complete three to four years of a residency program
without interruption. A gauge of this is satisfactory academic progress of students
through medical school.
At St. Georges University School of Medicine, students are required to sit the Basic
Science Comprehensive Examination 1 (BSCE 1) upon completion of their firs year of
Basic Sciences studies. As a graduation requirement, students must pass the Basic
Science Comprehensive Examination 2 (BSCE 2) near the end of Term 5, and/or the
USMLE Step 1. Upon passing the BSCE 2 and/or the USMLE Step 1, and successfully
completing Terms 1 through 5 with the required average, students are eligible to enter
the Clinical Sciences. St. Georges University School of Medicine does not require United
States Medical Licensure Examination (USMLE) Step 1 for progression; however, most
students take this examination in order to train at clinical centers and affiliated hospitals
in the United States. The USMLE Step 1 is taken after Term 5. Six-week review courses

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School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

I am entering training for a noble profession in which my interest must always be


subservient to those who may seek my assistance. I must be ever conscious of the value
of my fellow health professionals and treat them with respect at all times. My classmates
at St. Georges University are now my colleagues, and I owe to them the same support
and encouragement to achieve their goals as I hope to receive from them. I will work
alongside my colleagues and professors with tolerance, compassion, and honesty.

are commercially available and optional. Since St. Georges University medical students
have consistently shown excellence on this examination, the administration believes that all
students, unless otherwise counseled by the Dean of Students Office, should take the USMLE
Step 1 no later than two months after completing their Basic Sciences. This will allow them to
begin the Clinical Sciences at the earliest possible date.
In their final year, all students must pass a final written and clinical skills examination in order
to be certified for graduation. Students can be exempt from this requirement by passing both
parts of the USMLE Step 2 (CK and CS), which consists of a clinical knowledge component
(CK) and a clinical skills component (CS). Students with questions regarding their preparation
for the USMLE Step 2 examinations are encouraged to speak with their clinical advisor in the
Office of Career Guidance and Student Development (OCGSD).
August EntryOptimal Track
1. Students who complete the Basic Sciences in May of the second year following their
matriculation (for example, no leave of absence (LOA) nor Individual Advancement
Program).
2. Students who wish to start clinical training in the United States take the USMLE Step 1 in
July and start their first clinical term in August or September, approximately two years after
matriculation.
3. Students who have passed the BSCE 2 and who wish to start clinical training in the United
Kingdom do not have to take the USMLE Step 1 and can start in the United Kingdom in July.
4. Students complete the clinical curriculum by May or June in the second year following
the commencement of clinical training (for example, clinical training begins in July,
August, or September 2009 and graduation in June 2011). This is less than four years
after matriculation. (A May graduation date is available and may be preferable to a June
graduation date as the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG),
residency programs, and the individual state licensing agencies require varying lengths of
time for processing paperwork).
NOTE: Terms 6 through 10 represent an intensive educational period. Students who start
in September have approximately 90 weeks to complete an 80-week curriculum. During this
time, they also study for and take the USMLE Step 2 (CK) and (CS), and apply for residencies.
January EntryOptimal Track
1. Students who complete the Basic Sciences in December of the year following their
matriculation (for example, no leave of absence (LOA) nor Individual Advancement
Programs).
2. Students who wish to start clinical training in the United States take the USMLE Step 1 in
March and start clinical training in May or June.
3. Students who have passed the BSCE 2 and wish to start clinical training in the United
Kingdom do not have to take the USMLE Step 1, and can start in January or April.
4. While students can graduate in December in the second year after starting clinical training,
most students opt to graduate in May, approximately two years after starting clinical
training. This program offers about 100 weeks to complete the 80-week clinical curriculum,
study for the USMLE Step 2 (CK) and (CS), and apply for residencies.

76

Alternate Pathway

Please note: A student is allowed one Leave of Absence (LOA) or one term in the
Individual Advancement Program.

Academic and Learning Problems


Students at St. Georges University (SGU), who are requesting any type of academic
accommodations on the basis of a disability, must submit appropriate documentation
to the Dean of Students. Decisions regarding eligibility for reasonable accommodations
can be reached only after appropriate documentation of the diagnosis and data
supporting specific academic needs are on file with the University.
Guidelines for written documentation of a students disability and requests for related
academic accommodations can be found in SGU Guidelines for Students with Learning
Disabilities. Each guideline represents an essential element of the documentation
process and is necessary for support of any accommodation that is requested. Each
guideline element must be fulfilled before a request for academic accommodation will
be considered by St. Georges University.

Satisfactory Academic Progress


Guidelines
Standards for Admission, Retention, and Graduation
The School of Medicine faculty has specified the following nonacademic and academic
standards which all applicants and medical students are expected to meet in order to

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School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

The optimal track is not a requirement, nor is it the best track for all students. The School
of Medicine Administration feels it is more important to establish a solid academic record
and graduate later rather than try to make the optimal graduation date with a poor
academic record. The Dean of Students can recommend or mandate alternate pathways in
the Basic Sciences terms for students having academic difficulty. Many of these students
excel in alternative pathways. In addition, the Dean of Students may advise some students
to take a longer review course for the USMLE Step 1 to ensure their best chance of success
on the examination. These students, as well as those in alternative pathways, may take up
to six years to graduate. If necessary, students can request one six-month leave of absence
(LOA) in the Basic Sciences and one three-month LOA in the Clinical Years. Students who
have taken excessive leaves of absence for health or other reasons will not be permitted to
enter the Individual Advancement Program, and are forewarned that they must complete
their program of study within the timeline requirements. The need to take off more than
a year is incompatible with satisfactory progress and can lead to dismissal from medical
school. If the USMLE Step 1 becomes a stumbling block to academic progress, the
administration endorses the policy of completing the clinical curriculum, graduating, and
sitting the USMLE after graduation. Above all, students must remain within the satisfactory
academic progress guidelines.

participate in the medical education program, and the subsequent practice of medicine.
The faculty reserves the right to place on academic or nonacademic probation, suspension,
or request the withdrawal or dismissal of all students whose conduct, health, or academic
performance would appear to render students unfit for the practice of medicine. The
appropriate Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards,
disciplinary panel, or administrator determines such actions. While on academic or
nonacademic probation, students performance must improve in accordance with the specific
written instructions given to students by the Dean of Students, CAPPS, ECAPPS or Dean of
the School of Medicine, or risk dismissal.
Candidates for admission to the School of Medicine must have functional use of the somatic
senses, adequate motor capabilities to negotiate situations in which these senses would
be employed, and the ability to integrate data acquired via these senses. Compensation
through technology for deficiencies in any of these areas may be acceptable; however, such
compensation should not preclude candidates abilities to act reasonably and independently.
The use of a trained intermediary would mean that candidates judgment must be mediated
by someone elses power of selection and observation; therefore, third parties cannot be
used to assist students in accomplishing curricular requirements in the skill areas specified
below.
General Descriptions
1. Observation Skills: Applicants/Medical students must be able to participate actively
in all demonstrations and laboratory exercises in the Basic Sciences, and to assess and
comprehend the condition of all patients assigned to them for examination, diagnosis, and
treatment.
2. Communication Skills: Applicants/Medical students must be able to communicate
effectively and sensitively with patients in order to elicit information, describe changes in
mood, activity, and posture, assess verbal and non-verbal communications, and be able
to effectively and efficiently transmit information to patients, fellow students, faculty, staff,
and all members of the health care team. Communication skills include speaking, reading,
and writing, as well as the observation skills described above.
3.Motor Skills: Applicants/Medical students must have sufficient motor function to elicit
information from patients by palpation, auscultation, percussion, and other diagnostic
maneuvers, be able to perform basic laboratory tests, possess all skills necessary to carry
out diagnostic procedures, and be able to execute motor movements reasonably required
to provide general care and emergency treatment to patients.
4. Intellectual/Conceptual, Integrative, and Quantitative Abilities: Applicants/Medical
students must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze, and synthesize. Problem
solving, the critical skill demanded of physicians, requires all of these intellectual abilities.
In addition, applicants/medical students must be able to comprehend three-dimensional
relationships and to understand the spatial relationships of structures. Applicants/Medical
students must have the capacity to perform these problem-solving skills in a timely fashion.
5. Behavioral and Social Attributes: Applicants/Medical students must possess the emotional
health required for full utilization of their intellectual abilities, the exercise of good
judgment, the prompt completion of all responsibilities attendant to the diagnosis and
care of patients, and the development of mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with

78

patients and others. Applicants/Medical students must also be able to tolerate taxing
workloads, function effectively under stress, adapt to changing environments, display
flexibility, and learn to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in the clinical
problems of many patients. Compassion, integrity, concern for others, commitment,
and motivation are personal qualities which all applicants/medical students should
possess.

School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

79

Academic Standards
The Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards reviews the
progress of all students at the end of each academic term, each academic year, and at the
end of an interim term. Based on its review of progress of students, the Committee advises
and/or makes decisions on academic status of students, including the promotion and
retention of students, according to the following standards.
There are qualitative and quantitative standards for academic progress, promotion, and
retention. The quantitative standard relates to the progression of students through the
academic program in a timely fashion. The qualitative standards relate to the ability of
students to have satisfactory cumulative Grade Point Average or Weighted Mean Percentage
Grades at the end of each term.
Quantitative Standards
In order to make satisfactory academic progress, students (including those in the Individual
Advancement Program) must successfully complete at least 60% of the attempted academic
curriculum of the academic year.
Students are expected to complete the Doctor of Medicine program within four calendar
years (or five academic years). The maximum time allowable for completion of the Doctor
of Medicine program is six years. The Doctor of Medicine program is divided into two
segments (inclusive of leaves of absence, alternate academic programs, and/or repetition of
coursework), as follows:
Maximum Time Allocation
Basic Sciences: three years (for example, students must start clinical training within three
years of matriculation)
Clinical Years: three years (for example, students must graduate within three years of starting
Term 6)
Failure to complete any component in the allotted time will result in dismissal from the School
of Medicine. It must be emphasized that the preceding time segments are the maximum
allowable, not the expected (See Optimal Educational Track).
Quantitative Deficiency
The Committee warns students who do not appear to be able to complete any academic
segment in the required time allocation and dismisses students unable to complete any
academic segment in the required time allocation.
Professional Behavior
In the event that the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional
Standards, the Dean of Students, or the Dean of the School of Medicine believe that students
professional behavior is not in accordance with the Code of Conduct or the standards specific
to the School of Medicine, the Committee or Dean will require an assessment which could
include seeking relevant information about students personal adjustments, psychological,
and/or medical status. When a deficiency that interferes with professional development as a
future physician is identified, the Committee can require intervention and can place students

80

on nonacademic probation or suspension, or recommend withdrawal or dismissal. A


dean can suspend students at any time for serious breaches of professionalism. Once
suspended, students cannot take part in any University activities pending the results of a
formal hearing.

Grading for Students Who Matriculated Into First Term


Prior to January 2011
There are five academic grades: A, B, C, P, or F. Quality points are doubled in
the GPA calculations for the core clinical rotations.

A: (4.00)
Performance is of high caliber, far exceeding the standard expected for that discipline.
B: (3.00)
Performance exceeds the standard expected for that discipline yet is not of A caliber
C: (2.00)
Performance meets minimum standard expected; notwithstanding that meeting the
minimum standard in all courses is not considered satisfactory academic progress.
P: (--)
Pass is only granted in a course offered on a pass/fail basis. The evaluation of students
performance in some courses is on a pass/fail basis. During the Basic Sciences, the
course director(s) will distribute in writing on the first day of class the criteria used to
distinguish a Pass from a Fail. The criteria may include a requisite attendance record at
certain parts of the course or any other activities/behaviors specifically identified in the
course syllabus. The Clinical Training Manual outlines the course expectations during the
clinical years.
F: (0.00)
Students whose performance does not meet the standard expected for that discipline.
Students with an F grade, or with a grade point average (GPA) below 2.50, are placed
on academic probation, or may be dismissed from the University. An F grade in any
course with four credit hours or more can only be remedied by repeating the course. A
grade of F in any clinical course requires repeating the rotation. Failure to appear for
an examination without a valid reason (for example, verifiable illness) will result in a grade
of 0 for that examination. The Dean of Students or course director should be notified
if catastrophic circumstances or illness prevents students from sitting an examination or
other course requirement prior to that course requirement .
(See Attendance - Medical Excuse).
W: Withdrawal
In the Basic Sciences, students who withdraw from a course registration, but before

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School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

Core clerkships are graded A, B, C, or F. Core grades are determined by the


following breakdown: 60% clinical performance; 20% written examination; and 20%
oral examination. The required subinternships, primary care rotation, and electives are
graded on a pass/fail basis. The following grade definitions and transcript notations
appear on the transcript legend, and in all publications, which outline grading policies.

50% of the course points were obtained, require prior approval of the Dean of Students and
approval of the course director. Withdrawal at this time does not impact students grade
point averages (GPA) but will affect academic progress of students. Students must repeat the
course in its entirety. Students may withdraw from individual courses during the first 67% of
the course. After that time, students cannot drop a course. During the clinical terms, students
may withdraw from a rotation at any time. While withdrawal will not affect students GPAs, it
can affect academic progress. A W will appear on students transcripts and MSPEs will
describe the reason for the withdrawal.
Important Notes
Students placed in the Individual Advancement Program (IAP) by the Dean of Students will
not be given a refund for the dropped courses. Students will not be charged tuition again
for those courses when they pick them up later in the IAP, but administrative fees will be
charged..
Students who drop a course (decelerate) without the permission of the Dean of Students will
not be given a refund and they will be expected to pay for the course(s) again when they are
taken.
Students cannot drop a course beyond completion of 66.6% of the coursework. If they do,
they will receive a grade of F on their transcript and be expected to pay for the course(s)
again when they are taken.
I: Incomplete
In the Basic Sciences, incomplete grades are given when course requirements have not been
completed due to serious mitigating circumstances, such as illness or family emergencies,
and so forth. The Dean of Students Office must approve the reason supporting the receipt
of an I grade. This I grade remains on the transcript until another grade is given upon
completion. Students with I grades on their transcript must complete the required
coursework/examination prior to registration for the next term. In the Basic Sciences terms,
the grade must be submitted within 30 days of the beginning of the next term that the
course is offered. If the grade is not received by this time, the Office of the Registrar will
automatically change the Incomplete (I) to an F. Incompletes are interim grades. A
student with an I grade does not repeat the course. In the clinical terms, the Dean of
Clinical Studies or the Dean of the School of Medicine can mandate an Incomplete (I) when
additional clinical work is required to complete the course and assign a grade. The I grade
remains on the transcript until another grade is given upon completion. A dean sets a time
limit for the completion of a course.
CC: Continued Course
This notation refers to a course that is taken for more than one term. A final grade is given at
the end of the term in which the course is completed.
NG: No Grade
No grade reported by the course director for a registered course. All students must fulfill all
course requirements as defined by the course director to obtain a final grade. The course
requirements and grading policy will be stated in writing on the first day of each Basic
Sciences course and the Clinical Training Manual for the clinical rotations.
Neither the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards

82

(CAPPS) nor the Appeals Panel hears individual course or examination grade disputes.
Students who wish to contest an examination or course grade should consult the course
director or the clinical clerkship director within two months of receipt of the grade. If the
matter remains unresolved after discussion with the course or clinical clerkship director,
students may raise the issue with the Dean of Basic Sciences or the Dean of the School of
Medicine for final resolution.
Qualitative Standards
Students must pass all required core coursework and must achieve the minimum grade
point average standard.
Minimum Grade Point Average Standard: The minimum cumulative grade point average
(GPA) for satisfactory academic progress is 2.50.

Cumulative GPA = 4.00


Students will be placed on the Chancellors List and promoted to the next term.
Cumulative GPA > 3.50
Students will be placed on the Deans List and promoted to the next term.
Cumulative GPA = or > 2.50
Students are making satisfactory academic progress and promoted to next term.
Cumulative GPA 2.49 < 2.00
Students in Terms 1, 2, and 4 are placed on academic probation. Students in Term 5
may be dismissed. At the end of term 5, CAPPS will decide whether to dismiss students
with less than a 2.5 but greater than a 2.0 GPA. Their deliberations will take into
account additional academic parameters besides a review of the entire transcript. These
parameters include performance on BSCE 1 and 2 and the NBME examination given in
pathophysiology. Students professional behavior may also be considered in deciding
whether to dismiss students or allow them to continue on probation with specific
conditions.
Cumulative GPA < 2.00
Students may be dismissed.
Qualitative Deficiency
Unsuccessful Completion of Coursework
Students who have failed a course will be placed on academic probation.
The Committee will determine if students who have failed a course will be allowed
to take a make-up examination, repeat the course, or be dismissed based on
policy and the information available to the Committee.
Students who have failed a first term course of four credit hours or more, whether
in the Individual Advancement Program or not, will be dismissed.
Minimum Grade Point Average Standard
The Committee places students on academic probation if their cumulative grade

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School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

The following cumulative grade point average (GPA) standards are used for the
evaluation of students by the CAPPS:

point average is below 2.50.


The Committee dismisses students in terms 1, 2, and 4 with a cumulative grade point
average below 2.00, and may dismiss students in term 5 with a cumulative grade point
average below 2.5. (or below 2.50 for Term 6 students).
Promotion Into Clinical Program
Students are eligible to be promoted to the Clinical Years if they have passed all Basic
Sciences coursework, have a GPA of at least 2.50, have taken the BSCE 1, and have
passed the BSCE 2 or USMLE Step 1. Passing of the United States Medical Licensing
Examination (USMLE) Step 1 is a prerequisite for placement in clinical centers and
affiliated hospitals in the United States.
NOTE: Students who have failed USMLE Step 1 cannot be promoted to term 6 until
they pass this exam.
Academic Probation
Students are placed on academic probation if they earn a failing grade in any course, or
if their cumulative GPA is below 2.50. Academic probation is an internal marker placed
in students progress files by the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and
Professional Standards (CAPPS), by the Dean of Students, or by the Dean of the School of
Medicine. It allows students who do not meet the satisfactory academic progress guidelines
to continue in the medical program with a prescribed program of courses. Students are
removed from academic probation by resolving their failing grades and/or by achieving
the minimum cumulative grade point average. Students who demonstrate improvement
may be allowed by the CAPPS to continue on probation for one additional term. Students
must be removed from academic probation within one academic year or risk dismissal. The
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards reviews students
on academic probation each term.

Grading Effective for Students Who Matriculated Into First


Term in January 2011 and After
Academic transcripts will reflect an alpha average based on the numeric grades received in
each course for all courses taken in the basic science years. The grades on the transcripts will be
posted in rounded, whole numbers, but the system will hold the grade to two decimal places
for the purpose of class rank and for promotions. The passing grade for each course is 70%.
In order to be promoted from one academic term to the next, students need to obtain
Weighted Mean Percentage Grade (WMPG) of 73% which will be computed by adding all the
course grades as weighted by their credit hours. Students with less than a 73% average will be
dismissed. In term 1 only, if a student presents a WMPG between a 7072%, the Committee
for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards will take into consideration
other factors such as the BSCE I and II, the NBME, the USMLE and professional behavior when
making the determination if the student can be placed on probation or dismissed.
Quality points are doubled in the WMPG calculations for the core clinical rotations. Core
grades are determined by the following breakdown: 60% clinical performance; 20% written
examination; and 20% oral examination. The required subinternships, primary care rotation,

84

and electives are graded on a pass/fail basis. The following grade definitions and
transcript notations appear on the transcript legend, and in all publications, which
outline grading policies.
90100% Performance is of high caliber, far exceeding the standard expected for that
discipline.
8090% Performance exceeds the standard expected for that discipline yet is not of
highest caliber.

< 70% Students whose performance does not meet the standard expected for that
discipline. Students with a failing grade, or with a WMPG below 73%, are placed on
academic probation, or may be dismissed from the University. A grade of less than 70%
in any course with four credit hours or more can only be remedied by repeating the
course. A grade of less than 70% in any clinical course requires repeating the rotation.
The original failing grade and the new grade earned by repeating the course or taking
a make-up exam both remain on the transcript and are both incorporated at full value
into the Weighted Mean Percentage Grade. Failure to appear for an examination without
an appropriately reported excuse will result in a grade of 0 for that examination. The
Dean of Students or course director should be notified if catastrophic circumstances
or documented illness prevents students from sitting an examination or other course
requirement prior to that course requirement (See Attendance - Medical Excuse).
W: Withdrawal
In the Basic Sciences, students who withdraw from a course registration, but before
50% of the course points were obtained, require prior approval of the Dean of Students
and approval of the course director. Withdrawal at this time does not impact students
WMPG but will affect academic progress of students. Students must repeat the course
in its entirety. Students may withdraw from individual courses during the first 67% of
the course. After that time, students cannot drop a course. During the clinical terms,
students may withdraw from a rotation at any time. While withdrawal will not affect
students WMPG, a W will appear on students transcripts and MSPEs will describe the
reason for the withdrawal.
Courses are graded numerically and academic averages are computed on the numerical
grades. For the alpha transcript, the conversion charts are as follows:

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School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

7080% Performance meets minimum standard expected; notwithstanding that meeting


the minimum standard in all courses is not considered satisfactory academic progress.
P: (--) Pass is only granted in a course offered on a pass/fail basis. The evaluation of
students performance in some courses is on a pass/fail basis. During the Basic Sciences,
the course director(s) will distribute in writing on the first day of class the criteria used to
distinguish a Pass from a Fail. The criteria may include a requisite attendance record at
certain parts of the course or any other activities/behaviors specifically identified in the
course syllabus. The Clinical Training Manual outlines the course expectations during the
clinical years.

Basic Sciences

Clinical Program

A+

97100

A+

100

9396

96

A-

9092

A-

92

B+

8789

B+

89

8386

86

B-

8082

B-

82

C+

7779

C+

79

7376

76

C-

7072

C-

72

069

69

IMPORTANT NOTES
Students placed in the Individual Advancement Program (IAP) by the Dean of Students will
not be given a refund for the dropped courses. Students will not be charged tuition again for
those School of Medicine courses when they pick them up later in the IAP, but will charged
administrative fees.
Students cannot drop a course beyond completion of 66.6% of the coursework. If they
do, they will receive a grade of F on their transcript and be expected to pay for the
course(s) again when they are taken.
I: Incomplete
In the Basic Sciences, incomplete grades are given when course requirements have not been
completed due to serious mitigating circumstances, such as illness or family emergencies,
and so forth. The Dean of Students Office must approve the reason supporting the receipt
of an I grade. This I grade remains on the transcript until another grade is given upon
completion. Students with I grades on their transcript must complete the required
coursework/examination prior to registration for the next term. In the Basic Sciences terms,
the grade must be submitted within 30 days of the beginning of the next term that the
course is offered. If the grade is not received by this time, the Office of the Registrar will
automatically change the Incomplete (I) to an F. Incompletes are interim grades. A
student with an I grade does not repeat the course. A student who is absent from a final
examination due to illness must sit the Completion Examination. He/she will not be
allowed to retake the course prior to sitting and receiving a grade for the Completion
examination. In the clinical terms, the Dean of Clinical Development or the Dean of the
School of Medicine can mandate an Incomplete (I) when additional clinical work is required
to complete the course and assign a grade. The I grade remains on the transcript until
another grade is given upon completion. In this case, the dean sets a time limit for the
completion of a course.
CC: Continued Course
This notation refers to a course that is taken for more than one term. A final grade is given at
the end of the term in which the course is completed.

86

NG: No Grade
No grade reported by the course director for a registered course. All students must fulfill
all course requirements as defined by the course director to obtain a final grade. The
course requirements and grading policy will be stated in writing on the first day of each
Basic Sciences course and the Clinical Training Manual for the clinical rotations.
Neither the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards
(CAPPS) nor the Executive Committee of Satisfactory Academic Progress (ECAPPS)
hears individual course or examination grade disputes. Students who wish to contest an
examination or course grade should consult the course director or the clinical clerkship
director within two months of receipt of the grade. If the matter remains unresolved after
discussion with the course or clinical clerkship director, students may raise the issue with
the Dean of Basic Sciences or the Dean of the School of Medicine for final resolution.

An F in a basic science course with 4 or more credits: Recommended for


automatic dismissal
An F in a <4 credit course with a WMPG > 70: Must sit a Make-up Examination
An F In two or more courses with <4 credits: Recommended for automatic
dismissal
Minimum Weighted Mean Percentage Grade Standard: The minimum cumulative WMPG
for satisfactory academic progress is 73%.
The following cumulative WMPG standards are used for the evaluation of students by the
CAPPS:
Cumulative WMPG 95% Students will be placed on the Chancellors List and
promoted to the next term.
Cumulative WMPG 90% Students will be placed on the Deans List and promoted
to the next term.
Cumulative WMPG 73% Students are making satisfactory academic progress and
promoted to next term.
Cumulative WMPG < 73% Students will be recommended for automatic dismissal.
In first term only, cumulative WMPG between 7072, CAPPS will determine
between dismissal and academic probation.
In first term, cumulative WMPG < 70% Students are recommended for automatic
dismissal.
Qualitative Deficiency
Unsuccessful Completion of Coursework
Students who have failed a course will be placed on academic probation.
The Committee will determine if students who have failed a course will be allowed
to take a make-up examination, repeat the course, or be dismissed based on
policy and the information available to the Committee.

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School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

Qualitative Standards
Students must pass all required core coursework and must achieve the minimum
Weighted Mean Percentage Grade (WMPG).

Minimum Weighted Mean Percentage Standard


An F in any component of the evaluation precludes a student from getting credit for
the rotation until remediation is successfully completed.
Students who do not succeed in meeting all of the graduation requirements within the
allocated time frame will be dismissed.
Results of the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional
Standards evaluations are available in the Dean of Students Office within 24 hours of
the Committee meetings.
All decisions of the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional
Standards will be conveyed in a letter sent by the Dean of Students to students official SGU
email accounts.
Promotion into clinical program
Students are eligible to be promoted to the Clinical Years if they have passed all Basic
Sciences coursework, have a GPA of at least 2.50 or 73% WMPG. have taken the BSCE
1, and have passed the BSCE 2 or USMLE Step 1. Passing of the United States Medical
Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 is a prerequisite for placement in clinical centers
and affiliated hospitals in the United States.
NOTE: Students who have failed USMLE Step 1 cannot be promoted to term 6 until they
pass this exam. Students may re-take the exam as often as allowed by USMLE, see page
69, but must stay within the SAP requirements. Specifically, students who fail USMLE
Step 1 and do not pass in time to be placed into clinical training within three years of
matriculation can be dismissed from the medical school.
SOM Course Evaluation Policy
Student feedback is critical to the continued growth of the University and its future students.
The opinions of students on the quality of instruction can help SGU improve the education
of future medical professionals. Therefore, it is the professional responsibility of all students
to complete evaluations for each course and clerkship. Since professional behavior is a
component of medical education, an official final grade cannot be entered into Banner selfserve or on a students transcript until the student has completed the course evaluation and,
thus, fulfilled the professional behavior requirement.
Withholding of Student Grades
In terms 1-5 course directors will continue to post grades on SAKAI for students to view.
However, grades will be withheld by the Registrar in Banner. A student will have to complete
evaluations in order to receive a complete, official transcript from the Registrar.
Completion of Evaluations for Non-Compliant Students
In terms 1-5 once the evaluation window closes, a non-compliance list will be sent to the
Registrar to generate a hold on releasing the grade transcripts of defaulting students in
Banner. A time will be set to re-open the evaluations so that the non-compliant students are
able to complete the evaluations. Once completed, they will be sent an email indicating they
have completed the professionalism component of their course. They can then take this email
to the Registrar to get the hold on their grades removed. A student who remains in default

88

after the lapse of the reopened evaluation time will not be allowed to register for the
next Term.

Students promoted to the clinical years on probation or who are placed on probation
during the clinical terms are monitored both by the CAPPS and the Graduation
Assessment Board which can mandate a deceleration and mentoring program.

Academic Progress Review and Prescribed Policies


Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and
Professional Standards
Academic Progress Review and Prescribed Policies Committees for
Academic Progress and Professional Standards and the Executive
Committee for Academic Progress and Professional Standards.
The Committees for Academic Progress and Professional Standards (CAPPS) consist
of the course directors for the relevant basic science term and the clinical chairs and
associate chairs for the clinical terms. All CAPPS are chaired by the Dean of Students
or an Associate Dean of Students. Students progress through medical school is
evaluated by the Committee for Academic Progress and Professional Standards twice
a year. The Executive CAPPS consists of a representative from the Faculty Senate, two
basics science faculty appointed by the Dean of Basic Science and two clinical faculty
appointed by the Dean of Clinical Studies and is chaired by a Dean or Associate Dean
appointed by the Dean of the School of Medicine.
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional
Standards Actions
The Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards places
students on academic probation and determines the course of action, including
dismissal, for all students that do not meet the minimum standards defined on
preceding pages. Additionally, the Committee may warn students who are in jeopardy of
not meeting these standards based on current performance.

89

School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

Academic Probation
Students are placed on academic probation if they earn a failing grade in any course, or if
in their first term of attendance, the WMPG is between 70% and 73%. Academic probation
is an internal marker placed in students progress files by the Committee for Satisfactory
Academic Progress and Professional Standards (CAPPS), by the Executive Committee
for Satisfactory Academic Progress (ECAPPS), by the Dean of Students, or by the Dean
of the School of Medicine. It allows students who do not meet the satisfactory academic
progress guidelines to continue in the medical program with a prescribed program of
courses. During the basic science years students are removed from academic probation
by resolving their failing grades and/or by achieving the minimum cumulative WMPG.
Students who demonstrate improvement may be allowed by the CAPPS to continue on
probation for one additional term. Students must be removed from academic probation
within one academic year or risk dismissal. The Committee for Satisfactory Academic
Progress and Professional Standards reviews students on academic probation each term.

The Dean of Students continuously monitors all students progress in consultation with
the course directors, faculty advisors, and the Department of Educational Services. This
monitoring occurs to support students overall success. If students have concerns about their
academic progress that have not been addressed by one of the above, they should contact
the Dean of Students.
Nonacademic Probation
Nonacademic probation is an internal marker placed in students progress files by the
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards, Disciplinary Panel,
or administration. It allows students who do not meet the nonacademic standards to continue
in the Doctor of Medicine program for a specified period of time with a prescribed course of
action. Students will be monitored in accordance with the method described in their letters
defining the probation.
Academic Appeals Process Dismissal and Appeals Process
When a Committee for Academic Progress and Professional Standards (CAPPS) dismisses
a student, the Dean of Students will communicate the dismissal to the student by letter,
delivered to the students official SGU e-mail address. The student then has the option to
withdraw from the SOM within seven days of receipt of the letter of dismissal. If the student
chooses not to withdraw, he/she may decline to respond to the letter of dismissal or, within
seven days of receipt of the letter of dismissal, submit an appeal to the Dean of Students by
e-mail. The appeal should explain any mitigating or extraordinary circumstances which were
beyond his/her control and which caused or contributed to his/her poor performance and
include a remedial plan. The Dean of Students will forward the students appeal, along with
the dismissal letter, to the Executive CAPPS. After review of the appeal, the Executive CAPPS
will communicate its decision to the student, by e-mail, within 15 days of receiving the appeal
from the Dean of Students. The Executive CAPPS can overrule the CAPPS dismissal and allow
the student to continue on probation with conditions, or uphold the CAPPS dismissal of the
student from medical school. If the Executive CAPPS upholds the decision of the CAPPS, the
student is dismissed from the SOM. The SOM has no further mechanism for appeal
Students, who are dismissed by CAPPS, will be placed on the inactive status of Dismissal
Pending by the Registrar, during the period provided for the student to decide whether
to withdraw, appeal, or decline to respond to the letter of dismissal. During this time the
student cannot register for any academic activities.
Students who choose to withdraw will have their status changed to Withdrawn by the
Registrar.
Students, who choose to appeal their dismissal to the Executive CAPPS will be placed on
the inactive status of Appeal Pending by the Registrar, until the Executive CAPPS makes
a decision on the appeal. During this time, the student cannot register for any academic
activities.
Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards and Impact on US Federal
Financial Aid
Eligibility for the Federal Direct Student Loans is contingent upon students achieving
satisfactory academic progress toward the Doctor of Medicine degree. Students are

90

considered to be failing to make satisfactory academic progress if:


They entered SGU prior to January 2011 and meet any of these conditions
do not have a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.00,
have not been removed from academic probation within one academic year
have not earned at least 50% of their attempted curriculum after their first 2 terms
of enrollment or have not earned at least 60% of their attempted curriculum
thereafter
do not have a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.50 by the end of Term 5
They entered SGU January 2011 or later and meet any of these conditions
do not have a cumulative Weighted Mean Percentage Grade of at least 70%,
have not been removed from academic probation within one academic year

do not have a cumulative Weighted Mean Percentage Grade of at least 73% by the
end of Term 5
Students failing to meet satisfactory academic progress standards will be placed on a oneterm Financial Aid Warning and will remain eligible to receive federal aid for one additional
term. If the student does not meet the satisfactory academic progress standards by the
end of such term, they will no longer be eligible for federal financial aid unless;
The student submits a separate written appeal to the Director of Financial Aid
petitioning reconsideration of eligibility for federal aid.
The appeal specifies the exceptional circumstances that lead to the poor academic
performance and states what has changed in the students situation that will allow
the student to demonstrate academic progress in the next and future terms.
If the student meets these conditions, the Director of Financial Aid will review the
situation using his/her professional judgment to determine if students can reasonably
be expected to succeed. If so, the student will be placed on Financial Aid Probation
and an academic plan will be specified which allows the student to meet the academic
standards by a specific point in time.
In order to receive federal aid for any subsequent terms, students placed on Financial
Aid Probation must either have met the academic progress standards or have met the
academic plan specified in their Financial Aid Probation letter. If the student doesnt
meet the academic plan specified in the letter, federal guidelines state that the student
is not eligible for federal aid.
Appeal decisions will be sent to the students official SGU email address within 10 days of
the receipt of the appeal and appropriate documentation
The CAPPS/ECAPPS committee may allow the student to continue in their program but
the student would not be eligible for federal financial aid until they meet the academic
progress standards or continue to meet the stated academic plan.

91

School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

have not earned at least 50% of their attempted curriculum after their first 2 terms
of enrollment or have not earned at least 60% of their attempted curriculum
thereafter

Graduation Assessment Board (GAB)


The School of Medicine Council of Deans has established the Graduation Assessment
Board to review and approve all candidates for graduation (see below). This Board will
share responsibility with CAPPS to monitor students on probation at the end of the second
year and may mandate a deceleration schedule for these students. The Board will also
identify students during their clinical years who may be at risk for not being competitive for
postgraduate training positions even though such students may be meeting the Satisfactory
Academic Progress guidelines. The Graduation Assessment Board will review all the factors
in these students academic history and may mandate deceleration and mentoring during the
clinical terms.
Requirements for Graduation
The Graduation Assessment Board reviews the entire academic record of all students
before graduation. No student will graduate without meeting all degree requirements. In
reviewing academic records, the following requirements are carefully checked ensured and
all candidates for the Doctor of Medicine degree meet the standard of the University.
All candidates must:
1.

Meet the requirements of all the departments and have satisfactorily completed all
coursework and examinations.

2.

Complete the Basic Sciences and clinical Years curriculum successfully.

3.

Achieve a cumulative GPA of at least 2.50 (for students who matriculated in first term
prior to January 2011)

4.

Achieve a cumulative weighted average of 73% (for students who matriculated in January
2011 and after)

5.

Pass the Basic Science Comprehensive Examination 2 or USMLE Step 1.

6.

Pass the final Clinical Competence Examination and Final Clinical Written Examination,
or the USMLE Step (CK and CS)

7.

Be at least 21 years of age.

8.

Pursue the study of medicine for at least three years at St. Georges University School of
Medicine.

9.

Maintain acceptable professional behavior and standards.

10. Be discharged of all indebtedness to the University.


11. Complied with the requirements for admission.
12.

Be approved for graduation by the Graduate Assessment Board

Honors Designations
Summa Cum Laude (with highest honors):
Students graduating with a grade point average of 4.00 (for students who matriculated
in first term prior to January 2011).
Students graduating with a grade point average between 97-100 (for students who
matriculated in January 2011 and after).

92

Magna Cum Laude (with high honors):


Students graduating with a grade point average between 3.85 to 3.99 (for students
who matriculated in first term prior to January 2011).
Students graduating with a grade point average between 93-96 (for students who
matriculated in January 2011 and after).
Cum Laude (with honors):
Students graduating with a grade point average between 3.70 to 3.84 (for students
who matriculated in first term prior to January 2011).
Students graduating with a grade point average between 90-92 (for students who
matriculated in January 2011 and after).

Nursing Program
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)/
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The academic program, standards, and processes of the Associate in Nursing (ADN) and
the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree programs are in the School of Medicine;
although, all students registered in the Associate in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of
Science in Nursing (BSN) degree programs fall under the auspices of the policies and
regulations of the School of Arts and Sciences. Students in the Nursing Program are
subject to the policies and regulations of both the School of Arts and Sciences and St.
Georges University.

93

School of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Program

Licensure
Applicants for a medical license should bear in mind that they primarily are responsible
to see that applications are properly processed in accordance with the requirements of
the particular authority from which a license is to be sought. The Office of the Registrar
maintains some information on the requirements for licensure in the 54 North American
jurisdictions and in many international jurisdictions; however, the University is not
an agent of any licensing authority. For precise information, it is the responsibility of
students and graduates to seek that information from the licensing agency in the region,
state, or country where licensure is being sought. The Office of the Registrar, during the
paperwork process of licensure, will advise individuals on the role of the University in the
process. You may contact the Office of the Registrar in Grenada, or Helen Cannizzaro
in the Office of the Registrar at University Support Services, LLC at +1 (631) 665-8500,
extension 9 1239.

94

School of Veterinary Medicine


Preveterinary Medicine Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Administrative and Academic Policies and Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Admission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Acceptance and Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Bachelor of Science/DVM Degree Program (BS/DVM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Registration Check-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Provisional Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards and Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Standards for Admission, Retention, and Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
General Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Quantitative Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Qualitative Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Academic Progress Review and Prescribed Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and
Professional Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Quantitative Deficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Qualitative Deficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Academic Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Academic Appeals Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Nonacademic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Requirements for Promotion Into the
Veterinary Medical Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Veterinary Foundation Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104


Administrative Policies and Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Admission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Veterinary Foundation Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Registration Check-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Provisional Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Courses Offered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Academic Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Enrollment Requirement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Examination Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Preveterinary Science Comprehensive Examination (PVSCE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Examination Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Satisfactory Academic Progress
Standards and Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Standards for Admission, Retention, and Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
General Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

95

Quantitative Standards: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106


Qualitative Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Appeals Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Requirements for Promotion to the
Veterinary Medicine Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108


Administrative Policies and Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Registration Check-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Provisional Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Late Registration Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Faculty Advisor-Advisee Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Academic Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Curriculum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Other Transcript Notations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Class/Examination Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
SGUSVM Absence Reporting Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Examination Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Course Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Other Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Academic Progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Professional Commitment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
The Optimal Educational Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Licensure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Alternate Pathway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Satisfactory Academic Progress Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Standards for Admission, Retention, and Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Academic Progress Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Quantitative Standard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Qualitative Standard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Non-Cognitive Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Academic Progress Reviews and Prescribed Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and
Professional Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Quantitative Deficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Qualitative Deficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Clearance of Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Academic Appeals Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards and Impact on Federal Financial Aid . . . . . 119
Student POlicies, Procedures, and Nonacademic Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Veterinary Medical Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Requirements For Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

96

School of Veterinary Medicine


Preveterinary Medicine Program
The preveterinary medical program is up to three years of undergraduate coursework.
The academic policies, program, standards, and processes of the preveterinary medical
program are set and overseen by the School of Veterinary Medicine; the content is
delivered by the School of Arts and Sciences. All registered students in the preveterinary
medical program are subject to the policies and regulations of the University, the School
of Arts and Sciences, the School of Veterinary Medicine, and the preveterinary medical
program; however, should policies differ, the policies of the preveterinary medical
program shall supersede all other said policies.

Admission
Acceptance and Placement
Students in the preveterinary medical program have been reviewed and accepted by the
Committee on Admission of the School of Veterinary Medicine into the preveterinary
medical program as viable candidates in the continuum into the veterinary medical
program. Though the preveterinary medical program curriculum is up to three years
of study, students are accepted and placed into the first, second, or third year of the
preveterinary medical program according to the educational achievements documented
by the Committee on Admission. If students are placed at an advanced level, this
placement does not result in the award of credit hours, grades, or any transcript notation.
Students placement is in a specific year and semester classification. Students are not
permitted to accelerate their academic program. When appropriate, students may apply
for advanced standing or transfer credit through the Office of Enrolment Planning.
Bachelor of Science/DVM Degree Program (BS/DVM)
Students in the preveterinary medical program, especially those admitted to the first
year of the preveterinary medical program, may choose to obtain a Bachelor of Science
degree in addition to the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. In order to accomplish
this goal, however, appropriate guidance is needed at the beginning of the preveterinary
medical program in order to ensure that all requirements are met. The students who
wish to complete the BS degree should, therefore, inform the Preveterinary Medical
Program Director and the Office of Enrolment Planning of their intentions during their
first semester of matriculation. Written requests should be submitted to the Office of
Enrolment Planning. All requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree must be met
before it is awarded.
Where appropriate, preveterinary medical students who wish to obtain the combined
BS/DVM degree may apply for advanced standing or transfer credits through the Office

97

School of Veterinary Medicine Preveterinary Medicine Program

Administrative and Academic Policies


and Process

of Enrolment Planning. Transfer or advanced standing credits can be awarded provided that a
minimum of 71 credits towards the BS degree is completed at St. Georges University through
the completion of the prescribed curriculum for Year 3 of the preveterinary medical program
and Year 1 of the DVM degree program. Credit is granted for the BS/DVM degree only for
documented appropriate coursework for Year 3 of the preveterinary medical program and
Year 1 of the DVM degree program. Only courses with a grade obtained of C or better will
be considered for credit. Transfer credits from academic partner institutions will be assessed
according to the agreement of cooperation in place at that time.
Each candidate is responsible for ensuring that all related documentation, including official
transcripts, grading policy, and official course descriptions are sent directly to the Office
of Enrolment Planning, who, in turn, will forward all the documentation to the Preveterinary
Medical Program Office for assessment. Students may request the opportunity to
simultaneously complete the Bachelor of Science degree late in the program; however, they
may be precluded from doing so due to program and time restraints.

Registration
All students in the preveterinary medical program are required to complete registration checkin on or before the first day of classes each term as scheduled by the Office of the Registrar.
Registration Check-In
In order to register for the preveterinary medical program, students must present official
verification of financial and academic clearance. Students who are not in good financial
standing are required to work with the Office of Student Finances to receive permission for
provisional or full registration. Students should not proceed to Grenada without financial and
academic clearance.
New students who are not pre-registered in specific courses must first meet with their
academic advisor to determine their course schedule.
Provisional Registration
If students have paid in full for all previous academic terms but have not yet paid for the
upcoming/current term, students will be reviewed by the Office of Student Finances and may
be approved for a payment plan. If approved, the student is permitted to register for classes.
Students choosing the provisional registration option must be aware that there will be a
financial charge of one-and-one-half percent per month on any unpaid balances.

Examinations
Preveterinary Medical Science Comprehensive Examination (PVSCE)
All students must take this examination at the conclusion of the final year of the preveterinary
medical program coursework. The examination is comprehensive for the final year of the
preveterinary medical program coursework only.
If students fail the PVSCE, the Preveterinary Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress
and Professional Standards will determine:

98

If students may be permitted to take a re-sit of the examination at the start of the
next semester; or
If students may be required to repeat coursework and take the PVSCE at the
conclusion of the semester; or
If students will be dismissed from the preveterinary medical program.

Satisfactory Academic Progress


Standards and Process
Standards for Admission, Retention, and Graduation

Quantitative Standards
The anticipated time allocation for the preveterinary medical program is up to three
academic years or six semesters. Students are placed in the preveterinary medical
program based on their educational background. Students will proceed in the course of
study defined by the preveterinary medical program curriculum.
Qualitative Standards
1. Students must have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 or greater at the
end of each semester.
2. Students must pass with a grade of C or better in all required coursework in the
preveterinary medical program curriculum.
3. Students must pass with a grade of D or better in all elective credits that are to be
considered for the program of study.
4. Students who have requested to earn the Bachelor of Science degree must pass with a
grade of D or better in all required General Education coursework.
For promotion into the veterinary medical program, in addition to the preceding
requirements:
5. Students must have a grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 or better in all coursework in
the final year of the preveterinary medical program, and a cumulative GPA of 3.00.
6. Students must pass the Preveterinary Medical Science Comprehensive Examination
(PVSCE).
7. Non-cognitive factors will also be considered when reviewing promotion into the
veterinary medical program (See University Code of Conduct).

99

School of Veterinary Medicine Preveterinary Medicine Program

General Description
Behavioral qualities, cognitive skills, participation in preveterinary medical professional
activities, and personal attributes are all evaluated and must reach acceptable standards
before promotion can be considered. Any conduct that can reasonably be seen as
disgraceful, dishonorable, or unbecoming will be considered as a major component in the
academic decision regarding retention and promotion (See University Code of Conduct).

Academic Progress Review and Prescribed Policies


Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and
Professional Standards
The Preveterinary Medical Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional
Standards will meet at the conclusion of each semester to receive reports on all students in
the preveterinary medical program. The Committee will review their progress and determine
their suitability to remain in the preveterinary medical program, or determine if they should
continue on academic or nonacademic probation. The School of Veterinary Medicine
Assistant Dean of Students chairs this Committee.
Quantitative Deficiency
Students who are not progressing in the preveterinary medical program according to the
quantitative standards will receive a warning when it is apparent they cannot graduate
within the allocated time frame at their current pace. Students may petition through the
Preveterinary Medical Program Director for an extension if medical problems, family
obligations, or other significant factors make it impossible to complete the program within
the applicable time frame.
Qualitative Deficiency
1. Students with cumulative GPAs of less than 3.00 at the end of each semester will be placed
on academic probation for one semester. The Preveterinary Medical Committee for
Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards, for good cause shown, may
grant an additional one-semester extension. Students cumulative GPAs must be elevated
to 3.00 or better to be removed from academic probation. The Preveterinary Medical
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards will provide a
suitable program of study.
2. If students are allowed to continue in the preveterinary medical program, they must remedy
all F and D grades in the required coursework. The Committee will determine whether
the students are dismissed, if they may take a re-sit of a comprehensive examination for the
course at the beginning of the next semester, or if students must repeat the course within
the next two semesters. If a re-sit examination is not taken at the start of the next semester,
students forfeit that opportunity.
3. Students may choose to remedy F grades in elective coursework. Students are given the
option to take a re-sit of a comprehensive examination for the course at the beginning of
the next semester or repeat the course within the next two semesters. If students do not
take the re-sit examination at the start of the next semester, that option is forfeited, and a
repeat of the course is required. If students do not remedy the F grades, the credit will
be incorporated into the overall GPA; additionally, these credits cannot be considered as
part of those utilized for eligibility to graduate.
4. If students have chosen to earn the Bachelor of Science degree, they must remedy all F
grades in required General Education coursework. Students are given the option to take a
re-sit of a comprehensive examination for the course at the beginning of the next semester
or they must repeat the course within the next two semesters. If students do not take the
re-sit at the start of the next semester, they forfeit that option, and are required to repeat
the course.

100

For promotion into the veterinary medical program, in addition to the above:
5. The Committee will determine whether students with grade point averages (GPAs) of
less than 3.00 in all coursework in the final year of the preveterinary medical program
may take a re-sit of a comprehensive examination for the course at the beginning of
the next semester, repeat the course within the next two semesters, or risk dismissal. If
a re-sit examination is not taken at the start of the next semester, students forfeit that
opportunity.
6. Students who do not meet the nonacademic standards may be dismissed or be
allowed to continue in the preveterinary medical program on nonacademic probation
for a specified period of time with a prescribed course of action. Students will be
monitored in accordance with a method described in their letter defining the terms of
the probation.

Dismissed from the preveterinary medical program;


Permitted to take a re-sit of the examination at the start of the next semester; or
Required to repeat coursework and take the PVSCE at the conclusion of the
semester.
Students are permitted to sit the PVSCE a maximum of two times as determined by
the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards. A third
attempt will only be permitted after a special appeal process. Students must make a
formal written appeal outlining in detail their study plans to the Dean of Students.
Students should be aware that:
Students who repeat a course will receive whatever grade is earned; only the
higher grade will be used to compute cumulative GPAs; however, all grades for a
course will appear on the transcript.
If students choose to take a re-sit examination at the beginning of the next
semester, they can only receive a C, D, or F grade for that examination. The
highest grade received by students will be used to compute cumulative GPAs;
however, all grades for a course will appear on the transcript. This represents the
only opportunity for students to take such an examination. Thereafter, the only
option to remedy that grade will involve repeating the course.
If students are not mandated to remedy a grade, they may choose to leave the D
or F grade unresolved. This will serve to lower cumulative GPAs to under the
minimum 3.00. Additionally, no credit from F grades can be considered to meet
graduation requirements.
Students who are dismissed from the preveterinary medical program may be
allowed to continue in the School of Arts and Sciences in a different academic
program by the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional
Standards, Committee on Admission, and the Dean of the School of Veterinary
Medicine.

101

School of Veterinary Medicine Preveterinary Medicine Program

7. The Committee will determine whether students who fail the Preveterinary Medical
Science Comprehensive Examination (PVSCE) will be:

Academic Probation
Academic probation is an internal marker placed in students progress files by the Committee
for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards. It allows students who do not
meet the satisfactory academic progress guidelines to continue in the preveterinary medical
program for one semester with a prescribed program of courses. Students may continue on
academic probation for an additional semester if the Committee for Satisfactory Academic
Progress and Professional Standards sees significant improvement. While on probation,
students are reviewed by the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional
Standards each semester. Students on academic probation must raise their cumulative
GPAs to at least 3.00 within one academic year, or risk dismissal. Students who raise their
cumulative GPAs to 3.00 or higher are removed from academic probation at the conclusion of
the semester.
Academic Appeals
All students, with reasonable grounds, may appeal a decision of the Preveterinary Medical
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards. Appeals must
be directed, in writing, to the Appeals Panel, in care of the Dean of the School of Veterinary
Medicine; an appeal must clearly outline the grounds on which the appeal is made and be
received within two weeks after the order to withdraw has been imposed. The Appeals Panel
will determine if it will hear the case. The decision of the Appeals Panel is final.
Academic Appeals Process
There is no appeal from placement on academic probation.
The appeal procedure of decisions of the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and
Professional Standards is outlined below.
When the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards
recommends students for dismissal, the Dean of Students will communicate this
recommendation to the students and to the Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine.
Students have the option to withdraw from the School of Veterinary Medicine or to request an
appeal of the dismissal recommendation within the time specified. If neither option is chosen,
the Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine will dismiss students and transmit decisions in
writing to students with a copy to the Dean of Students.
If students wish to exercise the right to appeal a recommendation by the Committee for
Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards regarding dismissal, they must
submit notification of appeal to the Dean of Students within the time specified. When
requests for appeal are filed with the Dean of Students, the Dean of the School of Veterinary
Medicine will be notified of the request. The Appeals Panel will be held at the beginning of
the next term. Students may request more time for their appeal, but the Appeals Panel will
be held no later than six months after the date of the request for the appeal. The Dean of
Students may counsel the students to delay such an appeal hearing for a few months, at least.
Students who appeal are obligated to be present at the Appeals Panel meeting. Failure to
appear constitutes an automatic waiver of the right to an appeal.
If the Appeals Panel upholds the decision of the Committee for Satisfactory Academic
Progress and Professional Standards, the Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine will

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issue the Letter of Dismissal, and this will be noted on students transcripts. If students
appeals are successful, the Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine will notify them.
Between the date of the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional
Standards recommendation for dismissal and date of the final decision by the Dean of
the School of Veterinary Medicine, students will be given the inactive academic status of
Appeal Pending by the Office of the Registrar. During this time, students cannot register
for any academic activities.
The Appeals Panel reserves the right to refuse to review cases unless they fall into
one of the following two categories:
1. Cases in which new evidence is presented or new witnesses come forward; or
2. Cases in which an unprofessional procedure can be demonstrated.

All decisions of the Appeals Panel are reported in writing to the Dean of Students within
24 hours. The Dean of Students thereafter informs all students involved, the Dean of
the School of Veterinary Medicine, the Preveterinary Medical Program Director, and the
Office of the Registrar within the next 24 hours.
Final appeals can be made to the Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine; however,
it should be noted that the Dean may only modify or reverse prior decisions in cases
where due process has not been observed, or where decisions made have been either
inappropriate or unconscionable. These appeals should be made within five working
days, but will not be heard if later than one year from the date of the Appeals Panel
decision.
Nonacademic Probation
Nonacademic probation is an internal marker placed in students progress files by the
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards, Disciplinary
Panel, or administration. It allows students who do not meet the nonacademic standards
to continue in the preveterinary medical program for a specified period of time with a
prescribed course of action. Students will be monitored in accordance with the method
described in their letters defining the terms of the probation.

Requirements for Promotion Into the


Veterinary Medical Program
For promotion into the veterinary medical program, students must have cumulative
GPAs of 3.00 and GPAs of 3.00 in the final year of the preveterinary medical program,
pass the Preveterinary Medical Science Comprehensive Examination (PVSCE), and
demonstrate the behaviors and attitudes considered by St. Georges University to be
essential for the profession of veterinary medicine.

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School of Veterinary Medicine Preveterinary Medicine Program

In cases where the Appeals Panel modifies a recommendation of the Committee for
Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards, the precise implementation
of the modification will be defined.

School of Veterinary Medicine


Veterinary Foundation Program
The veterinary foundation program is a one-term undergraduate program. The academic
policies, program, standards, and processes of the post- baccalaureate premedical program
are set and overseen by the School of Veterinary Medicine; the content is delivered by the
School of Arts and Sciences. All registered veterinary foundation students are subject to the
policies and regulations of the University, the School of Arts and Sciences, the veterinary
foundation program, and the School of Veterinary Medicine; however, should policies differ,
the policies of the veterinary foundation program shall supersede all other said policies.

Administrative Policies and Process


Admission
Veterinary Foundation Program
Students in the veterinary foundation program have been reviewed and accepted by the
Committee on Admission of the School of Veterinary Medicine into the veterinary foundation
program. Students are accepted and placed into the program according to the educational
achievement documented by the Committee on Admission. The Committee also evaluates
achievement in standardized examinations, since veterinary students must frequently
demonstrate success in this area. Students must have a bachelors degree equivalent or
higher with all of the science prerequisites.

Registration
All students in the veterinary foundation program are required to complete registration
check-in on or before the first day of classes each term as scheduled by the Office of the
Registrar.
Registration Check-In
Students are pre-registered in specific courses. In order to complete registration check-in for
the veterinary foundation program, students must present official verification of financial and
academic clearance. Students who are not in good financial standing are required to work
with the Office of Student Finances to receive permission for provisional or full registration.
Students should not proceed to Grenada without financial and academic clearance.
Provisional Registration
If students have paid in full for all previous academic terms but have not yet paid for the
upcoming/current term, students will be reviewed by the Office of Student Finances and may
be approved for a payment plan. If approved, the student is permitted to register for classes.
Students choosing the provisional registration option must be aware that there will be a
financial charge of one-and-one-half percent per month on any unpaid balances.

104

Courses Offered
The Veterinary foundation Program courses are:
BIOL 303 Biomedical Anatomy

4 credits

BIOL 441 Physiology

3 credits

BIOL 401 Microbiology

4 credits

PMED 301 Learning Strategies for Preprofessionals

1 credit

NUTR 301 Principles of Animal Nutrition

3 credits

VSCI 301 Introduction to Veterinary Science


2 credits
Total 17 credits

Academic Policies
Enrollment Requirement

Veterinary foundation students are expected to maintain a full-time schedule for the
term. The programs curriculum is specifically designed to prepare students for entry
into the School of Veterinary Medicine. As a consequence, students must attempt this
curriculum as prescribed, and are expected to maintain a full-time schedule.

Examination Policies
Preveterinary Science Comprehensive Examination (PVSCE)
All students must take this examination at the conclusion of the one-term program.
If students fail the PVSCE, they will be dismissed from the foundation to medicine
program with no opportunity to re-sit or appeal.
Apart from required make-up examinations and regular administrations of the PVSCE,
students must request authorization from the Veterinary Foundation Program Director at
least three weeks in advance regarding any special sitting of the examination.
Examination Attendance
All matriculated students are expected to attend all assigned academic activities
for each course currently registered. If, due to extreme, extenuating circumstances,
students are unable to be present for an examination, the veterinary foundation students
must follow the same procedures as found in the Veterinary Medicine Program section
(See Examination Policy) and approval must be obtained from the Veterinary Foundation
Program Director.

105

School of Veterinary Medicine Veterinary Foundation Program

SGU students in the veterinary foundation program are not permitted to drop or add
courses. The average student academic load is 17 credit hours for the one-term program.

Satisfactory Academic Progress


Standards and Process
Standards for Admission, Retention, and Graduation
General Description
Behavioral qualities, cognitive skills, participation in premedical pre-professional activities,
and personal attributes are all evaluated, and must reach acceptable standards before
promotion can be considered. Any conduct of students that can reasonably be seen as
disgraceful, dishonorable, or unbecoming will be considered as a major component in the
academic decision regarding retention and promotion.
Quantitative Standards:
The anticipated time allocation for the veterinary foundation program is one semester.
Qualitative Standards
1. Students must have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 or greater at the
end of the semester.
2. Students must pass with a grade of C or better in all required coursework in the
veterinary foundation academic program.
In addition, for promotion from the veterinary foundation program to the first year of the
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program:
Students must pass the Preveterinary Science Comprehensive Examination (PVSCE).
Students must meet the School of Veterinary Medicine standards for admission,
retention, and graduation.
Appeals Process
For those students who do not pass the PVSCE, achieve lower than a 3.00 GPA or receive
grades below a C, there will be no opportunity to retake courses or the PVSCE and the
University will refund the cost of tuition. There is no appeal process if a student does not
meet the standards for promotion to the School of Veterinary Medicine.
When the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards
recommends students for dismissal, the Dean of Students will communicate this
recommendation to students and to the Dean of Enrolment Planning/University Registrar.

Requirements for Promotion to the


Veterinary Medicine Program
For promotion to the veterinary medicine program, students must :
Achieve a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.00 or higher and obtain no
grades below a C
Pass the Preveterinary Sciences Comprehensive Examination (PVSCE)

106

Maintain a high level of professionalism and be recommended for promotion by the


Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards (CAPPS).

School of Veterinary Medicine Veterinary Foundation Program

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School of Veterinary Medicine


Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Program
All students registered in the veterinary medical program are subject to the policies and
regulations of both the School of Veterinary Medicine and St. Georges University (See General
Policies for All Students and Student Nonacademic Standards, Policies, and Procedures).

Administrative Policies and Process


Registration
All students are required to register on or before the first day of classes each term as
scheduled by the Office of the Registrar. Students in dual degree programs (DVM/MPH or
DVM/MSc) will need clearance from their Graduate Studies Program advisor; they will then
register for both programs simultaneously.
The final year of veterinary clinical training is scheduled through the School of Veterinary
Medicine. Students must appear at the assigned educational institution as advised and
follow the course registration procedures of that particular institution. Failure to appear as
scheduled may result in dismissal from the University.
Registration Check-In
In order to register for Terms 1 through 6 of the veterinary medical program in Grenada,
students must present official verification of financial and academic clearance. Students who
are not in good financial standing are required to work with the Office of Student Finances
to receive permission for provisional or full registration. Students should not proceed to
Grenada without financial and academic clearance. Students in Terms 7, 8, and 9 will obtain
registration clearance via email. They should then follow the procedure established at their
assigned clinical institution.
Provisional Registration
If students have paid in full for all previous academic terms but have not yet paid for the
upcoming/current term, students will be reviewed by the Office of Student Finances and may
be approved for a payment plan. If approved, the student is permitted to register for classes.
Students choosing the provisional registration option must be aware that there will be a
financial charge of one-and-one-half percent per month on any unpaid balances.
In addition to registration procedures previously described, provisional registration is
permitted if the following requirements are met:
A. If students are recipients of federal student and/or alternate loans:
1. If students prior term balances are paid in full.
AND

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2. Students current term bills will be paid by federal student loans and/or alternate
loans that have been certified and approved by the bank/Department of
Education.
OR
3. If students are certified for federal student loans only, and their current bill
exceeds the amount they will receive from these loans, a check for the difference
must be paid by registration.
OR
B. If students are not recipients of either federal student and/or alternate loans, students
may register provisionally if the following requirements are met:
1. Students prior term balances are paid in full.
2. Students have received written approval from the Office of Student Finances
outlining a payment plan
Late Registration Fees
Students who register after the first day of classes will be charged a late registration
fee. This serves to encourage students to be present and accounted for on the first day
of classes. Students are allowed to return late; however, this will not exempt them from
this fee.

First day of

late registration period

US $ 50.00

Second day of

late registration period

US $100.00

Third day of

late registration period

US $150.00

Fourth day of

late registration period

US $200.00

Fifth day of

late registration period

US $250.00

Sixth day of

late registration period

US $300.00

There are no exceptions or waivers to this late fee.


Students should note that if they register and begin classes late, they will miss important
academic concepts and their grades may suffer. Late registration will not be considered
a mitigating factor for poor academic performance.

Faculty Advisor-Advisee Program


Soon after registration, the Dean of Students assigns all matriculated students a
faculty advisor. The role of the faculty advisor is to counsel students in academic and
nonacademic matters. All students are expected to meet with their advisor regularly.
All students who demonstrate poor academic performance should see their advisor
immediately for appropriate direction. In order to provide appropriate guidance, faculty
advisors interact with other offices of the University, such as the Dean of Students and
the Department of Educational Services. Faculty advisors play an important role at the
time of academic progression and in the appeals process described later. The views of
faculty advisors and their interview summaries are filed with the Dean of Students for
future reference (for example, Deans Letters).

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School of Veterinary Medicine Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program

Students will be billed according to the following schedule:

Academic Policies
Curriculum
Students in the veterinary medical program are required to follow the curriculum sequence
defined in the School of Veterinary Medicine Catalogue, or as stipulated by the Committee
on Admission Acceptance Letter.
Students may take optional courses, referred to as electives. Individual electives may have
prerequisites or GPA standards for students to participate. Only the grades of the required
curriculum are used to calculate the grade points earned for the Doctor of Veterinary
Medicine program. Grades received for electives, whether an A, B, C, D, or F, will
not be reflected in the cumulative GPA.
Grading
All students must fulfill all course requirements as defined by the course director to obtain a
final grade. The course requirements and grading policy will be stated in writing on the first
day of each course. All students who wish to contest an examination or course grade should
consult the course director. Students must resolve grade concerns within one year of the
course.
The Office of the Registrar will distribute grade reports and transcripts in accordance with
University policy.
For students who entered the veterinary medical program prior to August 2009, the letter
grades and grade points awarded are:
Letter
Grade Points
Grade Points Meaning
A 4.00 Excellent Pass
B+ 3.50 Good Pass
B 3.00 Good Pass
C+ 2.50 Acceptable Pass
C 2.00 Acceptable Pass
D+ 1.50 Conditional Pass
D 1.00 Conditional Pass
P 0.00 Pass
F 0.00 Fail
NOTE: The veterinary medical program no longer awards the grades of D and D+
beginning with the August 2009 term.
For students who are entering the veterinary medical program in August 2009 and beyond,
the letter grades and grade points awarded are:
Letter
Grade Points
Grade Points Meaning
A 4.00 Excellent Pass
B+ 3.50 Good Pass
B 3.00 Good Pass
C+ 2.50 Acceptable Pass
C 2.00 Acceptable Pass

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P 0.00 Pass
F 0.00 Fail

Effective August 2013 and beyond, the letter grades and grade points awarded are:
Letter

Grade Points

Grade Points Meaning

4.00

Excellent Pass

3.50

Good Pass

3.00

Good Pass

C+ 74.5-79.49

2.50

Acceptable Pass

2.00

89.5-100

B+ 84.5-89.49
B

79.5-84.49

69.5-74.49

Acceptable Pass

D+ 64.5-69.49

1.50

Conditional Pass

59.5-64.49

1.00

Conditional Pass

1 -59.49

0.00

Fail

0 -0.99

I Incomplete
Incomplete grades are given when course requirements have not been
completed due to serious mitigating circumstances such as illness or family
emergencies. The Office of the Dean of Students must approve the reason
supporting the receipt of I grades. I grades remain on the transcript until
another grade is given upon completion. If students have an I grade on their
transcript, the required coursework must be completed prior to registration
for the next term. If the work is not completed and the grade not received
from the instructor within 30 days, the Incomplete (I) will be automatically
changed to a Fail (F) by the Office of the Registrar. Incompletes are interim
grades. Students do not repeat the course if they have received an I grade.
NG No Grade
No grade submitted by course instructor for a registered course.

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School of Veterinary Medicine Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program

Other Transcript Notations


W Withdrawal
Withdrawals are given when students withdraw from a course after registration.
Withdrawal requires prior approval of the course director and Dean of the
School of Veterinary Medicine; there is no academic impact upon grade point
average (GPA), although progress may be delayed. Students who are granted
an approved leave of absence will receive W grades for all courses. Students
may withdraw from individual courses during the first 67% of the term. After
that time, students cannot drop single courses; however, they may request a
leave of absence.

Class/Examination Attendance
All matriculated students are expected to attend all assigned academic activities for all
courses currently registered.
SGUSVM Absence Reporting Procedures
Medical Excuse: Medical excuses will be based on self-reporting by students. Students who
feel they are too sick to take an examination or attend a required educational activity must fill
out the Medical Excuse Form on the members center of the University website. This form will
be sent automatically to the Course Director(s), University Health Services, Dean of Students
Office, and Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine. The Medical Excuse Form states
that the student does not feel well enough that day to take an examination or participate
in another required educational activity. Students are only allowed two such excuses in an
academic year. The third excuse results in the case being reviewed by the SVM Management
Team, which may result in a mandatory medical leave of absence (LOA). The policies
regarding completion and make-up examinations are at the option of the Course Director.
Students may request a medical excuse request for three consecutive days. If illness persists
for more than three days, students are not advised to fill out a second Medical Excuse Form.
Students are directed to visit University Health Services.

Examination Policies
Students who fail to appear for an examination without a valid reason (See Absence Reporting
Procedures) will receive a score of 0 points for the examination.
Scheduling of examinations (regular, re-sit, completion, comprehensive, or exemption) is at
the discretion of the University.

Examinations
Course Examinations
All courses will utilize some evaluative measure to determine students competency in or
comprehension of the subject. Course directors will describe this policy on the first day of
classes.
Other Examinations
In addition to the regularly scheduled examinations for each course, there are three
other types of examinations:
A. Re-Sit Examination: Under certain circumstances (See Qualitative Deficiencies), students
may be given an option to remedy D and F grades by taking a comprehensive re-sit
examination before registration for the next term. The maximum grade that can be earned
is a C.
B. C
 ompletion Examination: Students who receive an approved grade of Incomplete (I) for
a course must take a completion examination as scheduled. This examination will occur at
the beginning of the next term of attendance as scheduled by the School (See I Grade).
C. E xemption Examination: Students who transfer into the School of Veterinary Medicine

112

or who seek to obtain credit for a course passed with a minimum B grade at an
approved school may be required to take an exemption examination. Students must
obtain approval from the course director, department chair, and Dean of the School
of Veterinary Medicine. A notation of E will appear on the transcript indicating
exemption from that course. It must be stressed that students with an E on their
transcript may have difficulty in the future when applying for licensure in some states
in the United States or in other countries.

Academic Progress
Professional Commitment
When students enter the School of Veterinary Medicine, they take an academic oath
reciting the following professional commitment at the White Coat Ceremony:
Being accepted into the profession of veterinary medicine, I solemnly swear to further my
knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health,
the relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of
public health, and advancement of medical knowledge.

I acknowledge my obligation to adhere to the Universitys Honor Code and to conduct


myself with integrity and in an ethical manner at all times.
It is a privilege to have been given the opportunity to become a veterinarian. I will be
ever conscious of that privilege and never abuse it.

The Optimal Educational Track


Most students complete the veterinary medical program at St. Georges University
School of Veterinary Medicine on an optimal track of four years. Students on this optimal
track spend three years in Grenada studying preclinical, paraclinical, and clinical subjects
before moving to affiliated schools of veterinary medicine to spend a final year in clinical
rotations. The optimal track is a continuum of terms with time off kept to a minimum. The
terms in the first two years are progressive with each term being a prerequisite (building
block) for the next. Breaks in this progression are disruptive; therefore, leaves of
absence (LOA) are discouraged. Since the Mission of the School of Veterinary Medicine
includes the preparation of students for entry into the profession of veterinary medicine,
an orderly, satisfactory, academic progression is important. High achievement will place
students more favorably in the rankings for clinical training and residency matching in
the clinical years and beyond.

Licensure
The North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) is taken by all students

113

School of Veterinary Medicine Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program

I will conduct my studies conscientiously, with dignity and in keeping with the principles
of veterinary medical ethics. I accept my responsibility to assist my colleagues to achieve
our mutual goal.

requiring licensure in the United States and can be taken during the final clinical year.
Students who will practice in the United Kingdom will take the membership examination of
the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) after graduation.
The Office of the Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine maintains some information on
the licensure process. It is the responsibility of the students to stay up to date on the licensure
process.
NOTE: The following websites provide current licensing information:
NAVLE www.avma.org
MRCVS www.rcvs.org.uk

Alternate Pathway
The optimal track may not be the best track for all students. A good academic record at a
slower pace is more important than a poor record in the optimal track; some students may
benefit from a slower pathway to graduation. Students with academic difficulties may be
recommended or mandated to take the alternate pathway. Many of these students excel in
alternate pathways. Students already in the program who encounter difficulties can also split
their terms by withdrawing from some subjects while maintaining a balance of credit hours.
Once the alternate track term (split halves) is over, students re-enter the normal program track
in order to remain with the timeline constraints (See Timeline Standard).
There will be no alternate program for incoming students. All students enrolled with
St. Georges University School of Veterinary Medicine will enter the four-year Doctor of
Veterinary Medicine program; however, based on the recommendations of the Committee
for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards (CAPPS), some students
who perform unsatisfactorily will be allowed to pursue their studies based on the Individual
Advancement Program (alternate track).

Satisfactory Academic Progress Guidelines


Standards for Admission, Retention, and Graduation
The faculty of the School of Veterinary Medicine has specified the following academic standards,
which all applicants/students are expected to meet in order to participate in the veterinary
medical education program and the subsequent practice of veterinary medicine. The faculty
reserves the right to place on academic or nonacademic probation, suspension, or request
the withdrawal or dismissal of all students whose conduct, health, or academic performance
would appear to render students unfit for the practice of veterinary medicine. The appropriate
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards, Disciplinary Panel,
or administrator determines such actions. While on academic or nonacademic probation, the
performance of the students must improve in accordance with the specific written instructions
given to them by the Office of the Dean of Students or risk dismissal.

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Academic Progress Standards


The Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards reviews
the progress of all students at the end of each academic term. Based on its review of
students progress, the Committee makes decisions on the progression and retention of
students according to the following standards.
All students are expected to meet the qualitative and quantitative standards of the
School of Veterinary Medicine. The quantitative standards relate to the progression
of the students through the academic program in a timely fashion. The qualitative
standards relate to the percentage of satisfactorily completed coursework in the
academic year and students meeting the minimum standard.
Quantitative Standard
Students will normally complete the veterinary medical program within four calendar
years. The maximum time allowable is six calendar years. Students must successfully
complete at least 65% of their cumulative credits attempted in order to maintain good
academic standing.

Qualitative Standard
Progression into each succeeding term during the first year through the third year will be
granted if students have fulfilled all of the following requirements:
Students have satisfactorily completed all courses required for that term in the
curriculum.
Students have maintained a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00.
Students must have satisfied all outstanding grade requirements.
Progression into the final year will be granted if students have a minimum cumulative
GPA of 2.00 and no outstanding F grades.
The following cumulative grade point average (GPA) standards are used for the
evaluation of students by the CAPPS:
Cumulative GPA = 4.00
Students will be placed on the Chancellors List and promoted to the next term.
Cumulative GPA > or = 3.50
Students will be placed on the Deans List and promoted to the next term.
Cumulative GPA < 3.50 and >1.99
Students are making satisfactory progress and are promoted to the next term
Cumulative GPA < or = 1.99
Students will be placed on academic probation.
To complete the final year of the St. Georges University School of Veterinary Medicine

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School of Veterinary Medicine Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program

Failure to complete the program in the allotted time will result in a recommendation
for dismissal by the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional
Standards (CAPPS). Normally, leaves of absence (LOAs) will not be granted for more than
a total of 12 months from matriculation to graduation.

curriculum successfully, students must comply with the rules and regulations of the SGU
affiliated institutions where they are completing the final year of clinical training of the
veterinary medical curriculum and must remedy all deficiencies accordingly.
Students must fulfill the following distribution of subject areas:
Large Animal Surgery
Large Animal Medicine
Small Animal Surgery
Small Animal Medicine
Diagnostic Services
Diagnostic Imaging
Clinical Anesthesia
Electives
Students are eligible for graduation if they have passed all required courses in the veterinary
medical curriculum.
Non-Cognitive Skills
In the event that the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional
Standards, the Dean of Students, or the Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine believes
that students non-cognitive skills are not in accordance with the Code of Conduct nor the
standards specific to the School of Veterinary Medicine, the Committee or Dean will require
an assessment, which could include seeking relevant information about students personal
adjustments, psychological, and/or medical status. When a deficiency that interferes with
professional development as a future veterinarian is identified, the Committee can require
intervention and can place students on nonacademic probation, suspension, recommend
withdrawal, or risk dismissal.

Academic Progress Reviews and Prescribed Policies


Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and
Professional Standards
The Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards (CAPPS)
reviews all students at the end of each term. The Committee does not hear individual course
or examination disputes, which should be resolved between students and course directors
prior to the designated CAPPS meeting. The Committee will determine whether students
should progress to the next term, placed on academic probation, or recommended to the
Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine for dismissal. This Committee is chaired by the
Assistant Dean of Students, School of Veterinary Medicine, and is composed of the course
directors for each term being reviewed.
The Committee determines if students are making satisfactory academic progress, must
be recommended for dismissal, or if students are permitted to continue on academic
probation under specific conditions with a defined plan to remedy deficiencies within the
School of Veterinary Medicines regulations. The Committee has the prerogative to request
that students appear before the Committee. For this purpose, the Committee will review

116

both qualitative and quantitative deficiencies, as well as inquire about students with
nonacademic problems.
Quantitative Deficiency
Timeline Standard: Students must progress through the program in a timely fashion as
defined for that academic segment. Students must successfully complete at least 65%
of their cumulative credits attempted in order to maintain good academic standing. In
addition, students must complete Terms 1-6 within four years and complete the program
(Terms 1-9) within six years.
Qualitative Deficiency
The following table describes the policy to be implemented by the CAPPS to determine
a students academic progress:
Qualitative Deficiency
1. Up to 2 Ds & cum GPA 2.0

Recommendation by CAPPS
Optional Re-sit examinations

2. 1 D & cum GPA 1.60 to 1.99 Mandatory re-sit examination or Repeat course
3. 2 Ds & cum GPA 1.60 to 1.99

Mandatory repeat of the courses

5. 1 F (> 3 cr) & cum GPA 2.0

Mandatory repeat of the course

6. 1 F ( 3 cr) &/or
cum GPA < 1.60 to 1.99

Mandatory repeat or dismissal

7. 2 Fs &/or cum GPA < 1.60

Dismissal

8. If the CAPPS judges that a re-sit examination is an inadequate mechanism for
assessing a students performance in a course, the CAPPS will recommend retaking
the course and place the student on academic probation or will recommend
dismissal. A student will not be allowed to repeat the same course more than once. A
student will only be allowed a maximum of two mandatory re-sit examinations over
the first three years of the veterinary curriculum. The maximum grade recorded for
satisfactory performance on a re-sit examination, and for the course, will be a C.
Failure to earn a C grade on the re-sit of the examination will mandate a repeat of
the course and the failing grade remains on the transcript. If a C grade is obtained,
a change of grade report is submitted to the Office of the Registrar. The C grade
and the original F, D or D+ grade received in the course will also remain on the
transcript, but the GPA calculation will reflect only the C grade. If a student receives
grades of F in two courses within one term, the student will be recommended for
dismissal.
9. A
 student shall normally not be allowed to have more than two (2) non-redeemed Ds
during the basic sciences (Terms 1 to 6).
Students must submit a written request to the Office of the Dean of the School of
Veterinary Medicine of the decision to take a make-up or re-sit examination immediately
upon receiving notice that they have been offered this option. They may opt to retake

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School of Veterinary Medicine Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program

4. 1 F ( 3 cr) & cum GPA 2.0 Mandatory re-sit examination or repeat course

the course instead.


Requirements during academic probation:
Students who are placed on academic probation with mandatory repetition of coursework have
to repeat all courses in which a grade of F, D or D+ were obtained. Students will not be
allowed to repeat a course more than once. Students have the option to take a full or reduced
load, but have to take a minimum of six credit hours. The CAPPS has the option to recommend
the addition of a course from the next term to achieve the minimum requirement of six credit
hours. After repeating a course, only the newly achieved grade will contribute to the cumulative
GPA calculations.
Academic Probation
Academic probation is an internal marker placed in students progress files by the Committee
for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards. It allows students who do not
meet the satisfactory progress guidelines to be enrolled according to a schedule of courses
determined by the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards.
Students on academic probation must meet the minimum standard within two terms or risk
dismissal. he minimum standard includes a cumulative GPA of 2.00 or better, resolve all failing
(F) grades and all D grades, which were mandated to be remedied, and progress at a
satisfactory rate through the program.
Clearance of Academic Probation
Academic probation will be for one term when students are taking a full course load or for two
terms when students are taking a reduced course load.
Academic probations will be cleared if students:
1. Achieve a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.00 or above in each term that they
spend on academic probation.
2. Do not receive any F grades during their academic probation.
Academic Appeals Process
There is no appeal from placement on academic probation.
The procedure to appeal the decisions of the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress
and Professional Standards is outlined below.
1. When the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards
recommends students for dismissal, the chair of the CAPPS will communicate this
recommendation to students. Students have the option to withdraw from the School of
Veterinary Medicine or request an appeal of the dismissal recommendation. If neither of
these options are chosen, the Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine will dismiss the
student and transmit that decision in writing to the student with a copy to the Dean of
Students and the Office of the Registrar.
If students wish to exercise the right to appeal a recommendation by the Committee for
Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards regarding dismissal, they must
submit notification of the appeal to the Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine within
the specified time allocated after the decision of the Committee for Satisfactory Academic
Progress and Professional Standards. Students should consult with their faculty advisor

118

and the Dean of Students for advice in preparing an effective appeal. The Appeals
Panel will be held at the beginning of the next term. Students may request more time
for their appeal, but the Appeals Panel will be held no later than six months after the
date of the request for the appeal. Students who submit an appeal are obligated to
be present at the Appeals Panel meeting. Failure to appear constitutes an automatic
waiver of the right to an appeal.
If the Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine accepts the Appeals Panel decision to
uphold the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards
decision, the Dean will issue the Letter of Dismissal and this will be noted on students
transcripts. If the students appeals are successful, they will be notified by the Dean of
the School of Veterinary Medicine of the conditions of their probation. Between the
date of the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards
recommendation for dismissal and the date of the Deans final decision, the Office of
the Registrar will utilize the student status of Dismissal Pending.
2. All decisions of the Appeals Panel are reported in writing to the Dean of the School of
Veterinary Medicine, the Dean of Students, and the Office of the Registrar; students
are informed within 24 hours.

Eligibility for the Federal Direct Student Loans is contingent upon students making
satisfactory academic progress toward the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree
(See Academic Progress Standards). Students are considered to be failing to make
satisfactory academic progress if they meet any of these conditions:
Their cumulative GPA is less than 1.60
And/Or have not have not been removed from academic probation within 2 terms
And/Or have not completed more than 65% of their cumulative credits attempted
Students failing to meet satisfactory academic progress standards will be placed on
a one-term Financial Aid Warning and will remain eligible to receive federal aid for
one additional term. If the student does not meet the satisfactory academic progress
standards by the end of such term, they will no longer be eligible for federal financial
aid unless;
The student submits a separate written appeal to the Director of Financial Aid
petitioning reconsideration of eligibility for federal aid.
The appeal specifies the exceptional circumstances that lead to the poor
academic performance and states what has changed in the students situation
that will allow the student to demonstrate academic progress in the next and
future terms.
If the student meets these conditions, the Director of Financial Aid will review the
situation using his/her professional judgment to determine if students can reasonably
be expected to succeed. If so, the student will be placed on Financial Aid Probation
and an academic plan will be specified which allows the student to meet the academic
standards by a specific point in time.

119

School of Veterinary Medicine Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program

Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards and Impact on


Federal Financial Aid

In order to receive federal aid for any subsequent terms, students placed on Financial Aid
Probation must either have met the academic progress standards or have met the academic
plan specified in their Financial Aid Probation letter. If the student doesnt meet the
academic plan specified in the letter, federal guidelines state that the student is not eligible
for federal aid.
Appeal decisions will be sent to the students official SGU email address within 10 days of the
receipt of the appeal and appropriate documentation.
The CAPPS/ECAPPS committee may allow the student to continue in their program but the
student would not be eligible for federal financial aid until they meet the academic progress
standards or continue to meet the stated academic plan.

Student POlicies, Procedures, and Nonacademic Standards


Veterinary Medical Procedures
Students are not permitted to perform veterinary medical procedures on animals except
under the supervision/direction of an SVM faculty member; this applies to procedures on any
animal not owned by that student.
Students are not permitted to act as agents for animals not owned by that student, i.e.,
students may not order, request, or give permission for veterinary medical procedures to be
performed on any animal that is not owned by that student.
Students are not permitted to administer and drug or vaccine that is legally avaialble only by
presecription to any animal except under the supervision/direction of an SVM faculty member.
Students in violation of any of the policies outlined above will be subect to disciplinary action
which may include dismissal.

Requirements For Graduation


The Registrar and the School of Veterinary Medicine Year 4 Committee for Satisfactory
Academic Progress and Professional Standards will review the entire record of all students
before graduation. Students will not graduate without approval.
In reviewing records, the following requirements are carefully checked to ensure that
all candidates for the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree meet the standard of the
University:
1. Are in good financial standing, discharged of all indebtedness to the University;
2. Have met the requirements of all didactic and practical instruction in all departments,
satisfactorily completed all professional coursework and examinations as defined by the
School of Veterinary Medicine curriculum, and achieved a cumulative GPA of at least 2.00;
3. Have satisfied the academic and nonacademic standards of the University;
4. Have pursued the study of veterinary medicine for at least two years at St. Georges
University School of Veterinary Medicine; and
5. Have maintained acceptable academic ethics, professional behavior, and good moral
conduct.

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Honors Designations
Summa Cum Laude (with highest honors): A student graduating with a grade point
average between 3.90 to 4.00.
Magna Cum Laude (with high honors): A student graduating with a grade point
average between 3.76 to 3.89.
Cum Laude (with honors): A student graduating with a grade point average between
3.65 to 3.75.

School of Veterinary Medicine Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program

121

Graduate Studies Program


Graduate Studies Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Administrative Policies and Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Acceptance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Program Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Registration Check-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Provisional Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Faculty Advisor-Advisee Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Academic Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Class Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Add/Drop Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Medical Excuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Satisfactory Academic Progress Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Standards for Retention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Repeated Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Academic Progress Review and Prescribed Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and
Professional Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and
Professional Standards Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Academic Probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Academic Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Requirements for Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

122

Graduate Studies Program


All registered graduate students are subject to the policies and regulations of St.
Georges University and the School granting the degree, as they refer to specific
graduate studies programs.

Administrative Policies and Process


Acceptance
The Graduate Studies Program, under the auspices of the Dean of the Graduate Studies
Program and the Board of Graduate Studies, offers graduate degrees in the School
of Medicine and School of Veterinary Medicine. The degrees include the professional
programs: MPH and MBA; and the research programs: MSc and PhD stand-alone
degrees. Dual MPH and MSc degrees are offered with the Doctor of Medicine and
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine professional programs. Acceptance into any of these
degree programs will be according to established policies and procedures for each
program, which are to be found by contacting the Office of the Graduate Studies
Program or on the University website at www.sgu.edu.

Program Registration
All students are required to register on or before the first day of classes each term as
scheduled by the Office of the Registrar. Students in dual degree programs should
register for both programs simultaneously, if applicable. Non-matriculated graduate
students taking a course in the MBA program may register for a course up to one week
prior to the start of the course.

New students who are not pre-registered in specific courses must first meet with their
academic advisor to determine their course schedule.
Students should contact the Office of Student Finances before proceeding to Grenada.
It is the responsibility of students to ensure good financial and academic standing.
Students should not proceed to Grenada without financial and academic clearance.
Provisional Registration
Students may not register for classes unless their tuition and fees are paid in full.
Provisional registration can be obtained with the written consent of the Office of Student
Finances. If students have paid in full for all previous academic terms, but have not yet
paid for the upcoming/current term, students will be reviewed by the Office of Student
Finances and may be approved for a payment plan. If approved, students are permitted
to register for classes.

123

Graduate Studies Program

Registration Check-In
In order to complete registration check-in, students must present official verification of
financial and academic clearance.

Students choosing the provisional registration option must be aware that there will be a
financial charge of one-and-one-half percent per month on any unpaid balances.
In addition to registration procedures previously described, provisional registration is
permitted if the following requirements are met:
A. Students prior term balances are paid in full.
B. Students have received written approval from the Office of Student Finances outlining a
payment plan.

Faculty Advisor-Advisee Program


All matriculated graduate students are assigned an academic advisor by the Dean of Students
to guide and facilitate their academic program. The role of the advisor is to counsel the students
in academic and nonacademic matters. In addition, the advisor interacts with the Office of the
Dean of Students and the Department of Educational Services in cases where students are not
performing as expected. The advisor plays an important role at the time of academic promotion
and in the appeals process described later. The views of advisors and their interview summaries
are filed with the Dean of Students for future reference (for example, Deans Letters).

Academic Policies
Grading
The grading system, unless otherwise indicated, follows the grading policies of the Graduate
Studies Program. The system, which documents the academic progress of students, is
designed to recognize superior work, as well as provide indications of serious academic
problems. Faculty members assign a letter grade to all students reflecting their performance
in a course according to the grading policy defined for that course by the course instructor
and distributed to the students on the first day of classes. Grade points are assigned to
each letter grade based on a 4.00-point system and the number of credits for each course.
Cumulative grade point averages are calculated each term.
Letter
Grade Points
Grade Points Meaning
A 4.00 Excellent
B 3.00 Good
C 2.00 Satisfactory
F 0.00 Fail
Some courses are designated to be graded Pass/Fail (P or F). Students must receive a grade
of A, B, C, or P in all courses as designated by the grading scheme for that course.
W Withdrawal
Students withdraw from a course after registration, but before 50% of the
course points are obtained; there is no academic impact upon grade point
average (GPA), although progress may be affected. Students will repeat the course
in its entirety. Students may withdraw from individual courses during the first 67% of
the course. After that time, students cannot drop a course.

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WP WithdrawalPassing
Students withdraw from a course after 50% of the course points were obtained
(but before 66.6%). Students are passing at the time of withdrawal; there is no
academic impact upon GPA, although progress may be affected. Students may
withdraw from individual courses during the first 67% of the course. After that
time, students cannot drop a course.
WF WithdrawalFailing
Students withdraw from a course after 50% of the course points were obtained
(but before 66.6%). Students are failing at the time of withdrawal; there is no
academic impact upon GPA, although progress may be affected. Students may
withdraw from individual courses during the first 67% of the course. After that
time, students cannot drop a course.
I Incomplete
A grade of Incomplete is given when course requirements are not completed
due to serious mitigating circumstances (such as illness or family emergency,
and so forth). The Office of the Dean of Students must approve the reason
supporting the receipt of an I grade. I grades remain on the transcript until
another grade is given upon completion. If students have an I grade on their
transcript, the required coursework must be completed prior to registration for
the next term. Grades must be submitted within 30 days of the beginning of the
next term. Students with Incompletes must rectify this grade within one month
of the start of next term, irrespective of when the course is next taught. If the
work is not completed by this time, the Office of the Registrar will automatically
change the Incomplete (I) to a Fail (F). Incompletes are interim grades.
Students do not repeat the course if they have received an I grade.

NG No Grade
No grade reported to the Office of the Registrar by the instructor for a
registered course.
Neither the Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards
nor the Appeals Panel hears individual course or examination grade disputes. Students
who wish to contest an examination or course grade should consult the course director.
If the matter remains unresolved after discussion with the course director, students
may raise the issue with the Dean of Basic Sciences or the Dean of the Graduate
Studies Program.

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Graduate Studies Program

CC Continued Course
This grade is given for a course that is taken for more than one term in which
a final grade is given at the end of the term when the course is completed.
Students register for the course each term during which they are actively
involved in the coursework. If students will not complete the course during
the current term, then students will register and indicate CC for the term.
If students will complete the course during the current term in which they are
registered, then the students must indicate the total number of credit hours
completed for the term. Students are billed once for the course.

Class Attendance
Students are expected to attend all classes and other related academic activities such as labs,
small group discussions, and field trips, as defined in all courses. Faculty members may take
class attendance and participation into account when determining grades, provided that a
clear written statement on this aspect of the course and its impact on grading is described in
the course syllabus, which is distributed in class at the beginning of each term.

Add/Drop Policy
Students are permitted to add or drop a course up to the end of the first week of that course.
Students should consult with their faculty advisor or department chair prior to adding or
dropping a course. Students must complete the Add/Drop form available in the Office of the
Registrar and submit it with all required signatures by the add/drop deadline. No record of
the dropped course will appear on students transcripts.
Non-attendance does not constitute dropping a course. No refund or credit will be granted
for courses that are not officially dropped by the appropriate deadline.

Medical Excuse
Written and signed medical excuses documenting serious illness, issued by University
Health Services or by a licensed physician and countersigned by a University physician at
University Health Services, may serve as valid evidence of students inability to take part in
a class activity, including an examination. Medical excuses must be submitted to the Dean
of Students prior to the examination or class activity. A medical leave of absence may be
deemed necessary and issued by the Dean of Students.
In the event of illness during the course of an examination, it is students responsibility
to notify the instructor immediately, report to University Health Services for evaluation/
treatment, and obtain written verification of an incapacitating illness from a licensed
physician, which must be submitted to the Dean of Students in order to re-sit the examination.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Guidelines


Standards for Retention
For students to maintain good academic standing, a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of
at least a 3.00 (B average) and Pass (P) grade in all pass/fail courses must be obtained.
Repeated Courses
Graduate courses may be repeated under the following circumstances: A course taken
in which a student earned a grade of F may be repeated only once. Upon satisfactory
completion, the credit and GPA of the first course will not be used to calculate the term
nor cumulative GPA; only the grade from the course repetition will be utilized in the GPA
calculation. Transcripts will reflect both the original and repeated course grades. Courses that
have been completed with a passing grade may not be repeated for the purpose of improving
the grade. In the instance of the MD/MSc degree, the policy will apply to ALL courses that
contribute to the MSc degree.

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Academic Progress Review and Prescribed Policies


Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and
Professional Standards
The Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards evaluates
the academic progress of all students at the end of each term (for example, May, August,
November). This Committee is chaired by the Dean of Students and comprised of the
course directors for the segment of the academic program being reviewed. The Office of
the Registrar provides student data.
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and
Professional Standards Actions
The Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards reviews
students academic and nonacademic performance. The Committee determines if
students are making satisfactory academic progress, are to be recommended for
dismissal, or are permitted to continue on academic or nonacademic probation under
specific conditions with a defined plan to remedy deficiencies within the specific
program regulations. The Committee has the prerogative to request that students
appear before the Committee. The Dean of Students, in consultation with the course
directors, faculty advisors, and the Department of Educational Services, monitors
students academic progress on an ongoing basis. This monitoring occurs to support the
overall success of students. If students have concerns about their academic progress that
has not been satisfactorily addressed, they should contact their faculty advisor or the
Dean of Students.

Academic Appeals
The process is the same as that for the School of Medicine.

Requirements for Graduation


Students will be deemed to have fulfilled all the requirements for their chosen degree
program after successfully completing all specified credits with a cumulative GPA of at
least 3.00. This will be verified by the degree audit by the Office of the Registrar. For
specific degree requirements, please see the program chair of the chosen discipline.
Students in the Graduate Studies Program are permitted to walk in the commencement
ceremony as graduate candidates if they are within six credits of completing their degree.

127

Graduate Studies Program

Academic Probation
Academic probation is an internal marker placed in students progress files by the
Committee for Satisfactory Academic Progress and Professional Standards. It allows
students who do not meet the satisfactory academic progress guidelines to continue in
their graduate program for one term with the prescribed program of courses. Students
on academic probation must raise their cumulative GPAs to 3.00 or better within the next
academic term, or risk dismissal.

St. Georges University, University Centre, Grenada, West Indies


c/o The North American Correspondent: University Support Services, LLC
3500 Sunrise Highway, Building 300, Great River, NY 11739
Phone: +1 (631) 665-8500 Fax: +1 (631) 665-5590
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Website: www.sgu.edu Email: sguinfo@sgu.edu
May 2014

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