Academic Policies

Calendar, Credit System and Final Examinations

The University operates on a semester calendar and uses the semester hour credit system. There are two tracks of semesters per twelve-month period: (Fall, Spring, Summer) and (Late Fall, Late Spring, Late Summer). Students cannot cross between the two tracks. Each semester consists of fourteen weeks of classes.

Credit Hour Policy Program Instructional Equivalencies 

A wide variety of course delivery is utilized. “Learning hours” are assigned to each course. Each “learning hour” represents one hour per week of student engagement, including both instructional and outside-of-class activities. The University reserves the right to change the delivery method of a course due to administrative needs, the health, and safety of the University community, or government mandates.

Traditional 14-week semesters are offered, plus subterms and an accelerated format. Regardless of the format or delivery, all programs, whether online, blended/hybrid, executive weekend, accelerated, subterms, or traditional classrooms, must meet the 126-learning hour requirement for a 3-credit course (3 credits * 3 hours/credit * 14 weeks = 126 hours). Adherence to these regulations enhances the quality and rigor of the academic programs and is achieved by utilizing the “instructional equivalencies” detailed below.

Faculty establish learning-based interactions (when, where, how, and why), including frequency, duration, evaluation, and assessment techniques. These guidelines recognize the need for the faculty to actively manage the learning space, both inside and outside the classroom. This policy is extremely important in helping faculty in the design and teaching of courses and in student learning. It is the responsibility of the faculty to deliver academic quality regardless of delivery format.

Provided below is an outline of acceptable “Instructional Equivalencies”:

*Researching, PowerPoint/video reviews, WebQuest activities, reading articles, etc., are considered “homework” assignments. The Rate of Equivalency denoted pertains to posting, reviewing, sharing, and providing student-to-student and/or instructor-to-student feedback.

Adapted from Misericordia University, Dallas, PA, and modified for Harrisburg University.

Catalog in Effect

A new student entering the University during the 2026-2027 academic year will be subject to the academic program requirements contained in this Catalog edition unless the student elects to complete a revised set of program/concentration requirements published in a future edition of the Catalog. The Master-degree student is expected to fulfill the academic requirements in 3 years from the date first enrolled in the program. The Doctorate-degree student is expected to fulfill the academic requirements in 7.5 years from the date first enrolled in the program.  

A student who elects to complete a revised set of program/concentration requirements must notify Records and Registration of this intent by completing a Change of Program form on MyHU. A student that earned 24 credits or more toward their degree requirements cannot change degree programs/concentrations without approval from Records and Registration, in consultation with the faculty advisor justifying academic need.

A student who leaves the University and returns from an absence of one year or more will be subject to the Catalog edition in effect during the year of return.

Enrollment Status

The student is expected to maintain consecutive enrollment, which is defined for certification purposes as either full-time or part-time. Full-time student enrollment is 6 or more semester hours in a semester. Part-time student enrollment is fewer than 6 semester hours in a semester. A student is limited to 6 semester hours for the first semester of enrollment. A student cannot pursue more than one degree at a time. 

Requests for a course load greater than 9 semester hours per semester must be submitted to Records and Registration for review. Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher to request an overload. For Graduate students on an F-1 Visa, additional approval from the International Student Office will be required.

Consecutive enrollment is expected throughout the program; however, the one-semester break is permitted. F-1 students must meet their status eligibility requirements to take a break. Program lead approval is required if a student requests a second break due to extreme circumstances. Under normal circumstances, if more than one consecutive break is requested, the student would need to withdraw from the program and reapply when ready to return. A student who does not return following a semester break will be unofficially withdrawn and must reapply.

A non-degree student must decide to remain a non-degree student or become a degree-seeking student after completing 12 semester hours of coursework.

An F-1 student must remain enrolled for a minimum of 6 credit hours per semester. A minimum of 3 credit hours must be in-person format classes. Falling below 6 credit hours or failing to meet in-person class requirements is a violation of F-1 status and will result in SEVIS record termination.

Registration Process

Students complete registration online at MyHU/Academics. There are written and/or video registration instructions available on MyHU. The start and end dates appear on the Academic Calendar, posted on MyHU/Academics and www.HarrisburgU.edu. Students who require an Americans with Disability Act accommodation to complete registration should contact the Office of Student Success at ADA@HarrisburgU.edu. 

Course Delivery Modes

In-Person (IP): Required course meetings are delivered in person at a predetermined time and location.

Hybrid (HB): A combination of in-person meetings at a predetermined time and location and synchronous meetings at a predetermined time using virtual classroom technology. The ratio of in-person to virtual instruction is flexible but should be pre-determined.

Synchronous Online (OS): Required course meetings are delivered synchronously at a pre-determined time using virtual classroom technology. 

Asynchronous Online (OA): Courses are entirely online, with no required synchronous course meetings (either in-person or virtual).

Notes:

• All required meeting times, both in person and virtual, should be communicated at the point of registration.
• Instructional meetings outside the course modality, if offered, must be optional and/or flexible for students.
• Asynchronous instructional elements may be used in combination with the other three modes without impacting the course delivery definition.

Directed Studies

A student requesting a directed study for a course from this catalog must obtain a Directed Study Request form from Records and Registration. The student must provide a rationale for requesting the directed study before approval can be granted by Records and Registration. The following guidelines are required for a directed study:

1. Directed studies are open to students with 24 or more credits completed.
2. Directed studies must be necessary. Directed studies are deemed necessary if a student needs a specific course in their program to graduate that can only be met through a directed study.
3. A student must have a minimum GPA of 3.25 to request a directed study.
4. A student may not take more than 6 credits of independent study or directed study from one faculty member.
5. The program lead and the student’s faculty advisor must agree to offer the directed study.

Add/Drop Period and Course Withdrawals

The Add/Drop Period begins on the first day of the semester or subterm and ends after 6 days of classes have occurred (this includes Saturday). A student may make schedule adjustments during the Add/Drop period on MyHU, or in the Records and Registration office. No course may be added after the end of this period. If a student withdraws from any course after the conclusion of this period and up until the last day to withdraw from a course with a “W”, a final grade of “W” will appear on the permanent record. After that period, a “WF” will appear on the permanent record. The withdrawal deadlines appear on the Academic Calendar for both semesters and subterms.

F-1 students wishing to drop or withdraw from a course must first consult with the International Student Office to determine eligibility. F-1 students must remain enrolled for a minimum of 6 credit hours per semester. A minimum of 3 credit hours must be in-person format classes. Falling below 6 credit hours or failing to meet in-person class requirements is a violation of F-1 status and will result in SEVIS record termination.

Audit Policy

The student may choose to participate in a course on an audit basis. The student who elects this option is expected to attend and participate in class regularly and complete all course requirements. The course being audited carries no academic credit but is recorded on the student’s academic record and will receive a Pass (P) or No Pass (NP) grade at the conclusion of the course. The student wanting to audit a course must notify Records and Registration in writing no later than the end of the Add/Drop Period. The per semester hour tuition rate applies to audited courses. An audited course cannot be subsequently taken for credit.

Class Attendance 

Attendance is critical to academic success, and we encourage all students to attend every scheduled class session. Regular attendance is essential for students to fully engage with course materials, participate in classroom discussions, and collaborate with classmates. By attending class consistently, students demonstrate their commitment to their education and are more likely to achieve their academic goals. Therefore, we strongly recommend that all students prioritize attendance and make every effort to attend every class session.

All students are expected to regularly demonstrate academic engagement within each class. It is the instructor’s responsibility to set forth, in writing, any special conditions regarding absences from the course at the beginning of a course and the impact on student grades. In many classes, participation in class constitutes a substantial part of the work of the course. Faculty should clarify in the course syllabus how students are expected to demonstrate academic engagement.

Excessive Absences

When a student fails to participate to such an extent that their own progress or that of the class or group is seriously impaired, they may be at risk of being academically withdrawn from the course.  

If, in the judgment of the instructor, a student is absent consecutively from class for more than two weeks and fails to complete the requested participatory assignments:

1. the instructor will notify the student of this determination;
2. the student will have one week to meet with the instructor to address the situation; and
3. if the student fails to do so, the instructor will notify Records and Registration to recommend withdrawing the student from the course.

Online Courses

Students in an online course must participate in the course weekly, either by submitting assignments or doing discussion posts, quizzes, tests, chats, or team sessions, to be considered in attendance. Logging in and viewing course material is not considered participation. Students that do not participate in their online course within any 14-day period may be administratively withdrawn from their courses.

F-1 Students - Graduate Attendance Policy

United States immigration laws require HU international graduate students with F-1 status to be continually enrolled in full-time status. At HU, this requires maintaining a minimum six-credit course load in every semester of enrollment (one course must be an in-person course).

Graduate students with F-1 status must attend all in-person classes to maintain their status. Missing an in-person class will be reported to the International Student Office, and the student’s SEVIS record will be terminated unless there is documented evidence of extenuating circumstances.

Absences may be waived on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the International Student Office. Documentation of extenuating circumstances leading to an absence must be submitted no later than 11:59 PM Eastern Time on the date of the absence to be considered. Submission of documentation does not guarantee a waived absence.

Verification of Enrollment

At the beginning of each term, Records and Registration verifies the course enrollments of all students. Only students officially registered for a course may attend class. Faculty should notify Records and Registration if a student is in attendance but does not appear on the course roster.

Students must demonstrate academic engagement during the add/drop period. Failure to participate, may result in the courses being dropped and the student exited from the program.

Inclement Weather Notice

In the event of inclement weather, HU does not post routine delayed openings, early departures, or closures due to weather with local media outlets.

Students, faculty, and staff should dial 717-901-5199 to access HU’s operating schedule commonly called “HU Snowline.” Should HU open late, close early, cancel activities, or close for the day due to inclement weather or for any other emergency, a message will be left on HU’s voicemail at that number. Additionally, HU will post any changes to its operating schedule on the main page of its website, www.harrisburgu.edu, and update social media outlets.

If HU remains open during or following a weather-related event or other emergency, it is up to each student and employee to make a reasonable decision about whether to travel. Safety and common sense should guide decisions. Students are expected to notify their faculty, and employees are expected to notify their supervisors if they are not reporting to class/work. HU will not make personal calls to students or employees. HU will follow all City of Harrisburg and/or Commonwealth mandated emergency procedures in the event of a weather-related emergency.

Harrisburg University Unplanned Closure Statement

When faced with the unplanned physical closure of Harrisburg University (326 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101, and other physical locations) due to inclement weather or other circumstances, it is understood that teaching and learning will continue. Faculty will decide whether course work will be conducted in asynchronous or synchronous (or combined) format, with equal or greater ‘learning hours’ to that of the traditional session. Asynchronous format refers to course work that can be done by students independent of the instructor or other students. Synchronous format refers to sessions held in real time involving the students and instructor.

Advanced Standing

A master-degree or doctorate-degree student may earn advanced standing at the University. Transfer credit for graduate courses could be granted in agreement with below graduate transfer credit rules. Advanced standing can be earned in one of three ways: transfer of credit from another institution, credit for military training, or prior learning assessment. The parameters for doing so are:

• limit to six (6) credits of transfer credits and six (6) credits of prior learning for master-degree students (capstone courses not eligible), and
• limit to six (6) credits of transfer credits and 12 credits of prior learning for doctorate degree students (research and dissertation/applied project not eligible).

Armed Services Training Programs - Under the following conditions, a student may receive academic credit for training programs completed while serving in the U. S. Armed Services: 1) the student must present a copy of the discharge notice (completed DD-214 form); 2) the veteran’s military occupational specialty (MOS) designation must appear on the discharge; and, 3) the student’s MOS is described in the American Council on Education’s Educational Experiences in The Armed Services volumes 1-3. Credit is awarded based on the ACE recommendation and the closeness of the match between the training program and a University course.

American Council on Education (ACE) - HU works with ACE recommendations to provide services for adult learners. Within the ACE Center, the College Credits Recommendation Service (CREDIT), connects workplace learning with colleges and universities. CREDIT does this by helping adults get academic credit, whenever possible, for courses and examinations taken outside traditional channels.

Transfer Credit - Unofficial or student copies of transcripts may be used to initiate the transfer credit evaluation process. However, official final transcripts from the institution of origin are required before the transfer evaluation process can be finalized by Records and Registration, and academic credit is posted to the student’s permanent record. The following limitations apply:

• transfer credit is limited to six (6) semester hours from another graduate program;
• the credit must have been earned with final grades of “B” or higher;
• the credit must be reviewed by the student’s program advisor and Records & Registration;
• the credit must have been earned no more than five (5) years prior to the student’s initial enrollment date in Harrisburg University’s program; and,
• a course completed for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) is not eligible for transfer credit consideration.

Domestic -Academic credit earned for graduate work completed for a minimum grade of “B” or higher will be awarded if: 1) the course is a reasonable substitute for a University course or 2) the course(s) is considered graduate-level work worthy of elective credit in the student’s program of study.

International - A World Education Services (WES) transcript evaluation, Educational Credential Evaluation (ECE), or AACRAO’s Electronic Database for Global Education (EDGE) transcript evaluation is required. If the original evaluation received by Records and Registration from one of these evaluators deems the student’s prior work to be at the graduate level and the quality of the completed work is assessed to be at the “B” or higher level, credit is awarded for the courses that apply to the student’s intended program of study at Harrisburg University as indicated above for domestic transfer credit. If the prior work was earned under an educational system that did not assign credit values, a semester hour value is assigned for each accepted course. If the student completed courses that are evaluated to be at the graduate level, but Harrisburg University has no comparable course(s), the student is granted elective credit unless all required elective credit hours have been satisfied.

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) - a massive open online course is an online course targeting large-scale interactive participation and is delivered via open access on the web. A MOOC that is successfully completed will be reviewed and considered for transfer credit.

Coursework at Other Institutions - A student may study at other institutions and transfer the credit to the student’s record at Harrisburg University.

Process for Approval - The student must complete an Off-campus Coursework Form at Records and Registration notifying the University of the student’s intention to enroll on a visiting basis at another higher educational institution. The request will be reviewed by Records and Registration, who may consult with an appropriate member of the University’s faculty. Prior to enrollment, a written response will be sent to the student stating whether or not the proposed course is acceptable.

Process for Awarding of Credit - The student must arrange for an official transcript from the other college or university to be sent to Harrisburg University’s Records and Registration office. If the approved course was completed with a final grade of “B” or higher, the semester hours earned from the course will be posted to the student’s record at the University.

Prior Learning Assessment - The University may award graduate academic credit for prior knowledge, skills, and abilities acquired through non-accredited and work-related learning experience equivalent to:

• the outcomes of a specific course; and,
• the outcomes of graduate-level work not currently offered at the University.

The experience and evidence provided should have a direct relation to the material taught in a course in the University’s curriculum and should extend over a sufficient period to provide substantive knowledge in the relevant area. A Master of Science degree-seeking student who is in good academic standing, has completed a minimum of 6 semester hours in a program of study at Harrisburg University, and demonstrates the qualities to receive such credit may petition the University Registrar through the academic advisor for consideration of prior learning assessment.

The petition must include the following:

• a detailed description of the relevant experience;
• appropriate supporting evidence directly linked to course objectives;
• the equivalent University program, course number, and title; and,
• the number of semester hours sought.

A student may not receive more than 6 semester hours related to the program based upon prior learning assessment.

The prior learning assessment process is a way to demonstrate to a mentor, who is an expert in the field, graduate-level knowledge in a particular course area. These skills and knowledge may be from applicable work experience, volunteer activities, training programs, hobbies, religious activities, homemaking skills, prior independent reading, or notable accomplishments. This process is not an independent study.

Working with a mentor, the student is guided to develop an online, electronic portfolio to demonstrate prior graduate-level learning. The student can choose between standard prior learning assessment and individualized prior learning assessment. Standard prior learning assessment is an option when existing course descriptions and learning objectives match the learning that the student wants to demonstrate. Individualized prior learning assessment occurs when the student proposes a course description and learning objectives that do not currently exist in the course catalog for Harrisburg University.

Prior learning assessment cannot be awarded for physical education courses, field experiences, student teaching, cooperative education, practicum courses, internships, projects, seminars, independent study, or laboratories. It is important for the student to understand that life and learning experiences alone are an inadequate basis for the award of prior learning credit. To be eligible for prior learning assessment, the outcomes of the non-collegiate learning experience must be documented, be applicable to the student’s program of study, be directly related to a course’s learning objectives, and be assessed as being similar to or meeting the requirements of learning gained through college-level learning experiences.

Approval of prior learning credit must be made in writing by the academic advisor, the appropriate faculty member, and the Associate Provost. Capstone credits are not eligible for prior learning assessment. A per semester hour charge is incurred by the student for the number of semester hours sought under prior learning assessment.

For more information about prior learning assessment, contact Records and Registration.

Transfer Credit Appeal

A student who wishes to appeal a transfer credit decision may submit a copy of the syllabus from the course in question to Records and Registration no later than 30 days from the date of the transfer evaluation. Appeals will be reviewed and granted or denied by the program lead and amended on the student’s record. When cases of unusual or extenuating circumstances occur, a student may appeal the transfer credit decision beyond the 30-day limit.

Alternative Work Study/Applied Studies

Alternative Work Study/Fieldwork for Master’s Degree Program

MS programs at HU are designed for working professionals focused on career advancement who can apply what is learned in the classroom to their workplace. In HU’s MS programs, the expectation is that degree candidates are working professionals. Therefore, spanning the degree program, each course has multiple applied projects and work-related assignments leading up to a capstone practicum.

Alternative Work Study for International Students on F-1 Visas

To fulfill the integration of professional work experience into all phases of the MS degree program, students studying on an F-1 visa must request to be approved for CPT, Curricular Practical Training.  CPT is defined by the federal government as an alternative work-study, internship, cooperative education employment, or other type of internship or practicum that is an integral part of an established curriculum. Since professional work experience is an assumed integral component tied to each of the Master of Science degree programs offered at Harrisburg University, non-immigrant students on a valid F-1 visa and otherwise maintaining status may be authorized to accept internships and work placements via CPT to position themselves for the same academic success enjoyed by their non-regulated counterparts in the classroom.  

An F-1 student’s I-20 must be authorized by one of HU’s Designated School Officials (DSO) prior to accepting and beginning an alternative work study. F-1 students are only permitted to work in the United States for the company listed during the dates provided on their I-20. For more information on how to apply and when to apply, students should contact the International Student Office (ISO). Failure to follow F-1 visa regulations will jeopardize a student’s status and will result in revocation of their CPT and/or the termination of the SEVIS record. Students can contact the International Student Office with any questions and/or support they may need.

A student’s CPT internship experience or employment must relate to the program of study and may be part-time (20 or fewer hours per week) or full-time (21 or more hours per week). HU allows the period of eligible CPT employment to be extended through the short breaks between semesters if the student is pre-registered for the immediate next semester of enrollment. HU expects academics to be prioritized. CPT may not continue through approved semester-long breaks.

Applied Studies for Doctorate Degree Program for International Students on F-1 Visa

The doctorate program at Harrisburg University includes learning components (coursework, seminars, research), and may include fieldwork that can contribute to the student’s knowledge in the program of study.

Ph.D. programs at HU recognize the crucial connection between industry/business and research/ development. Scholarly research in the STEM fields cannot be disconnected from those practitioners innovating in their fields. Therefore, Ph.D. students who are practitioners in their field are highly sought at HU. The expectation is that the active synergy between research and practice in applied studies will go far in solving the worlds challenges through the STEM disciplines.

In order to remove limits and borders for recruiting professional practitioners into the HU PhD programs, HU will review requests and if all requirements are met, approve Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for F-1 students who are able to integrate professional experience into the learning environment of their PhD program, meeting the expectation of applied studies during the coursework phase of the program.

With the required approval of the university and benefitted industry parties, doctoral candidates at HU are able to develop their own individual study/research plan with faculty advisors on topics of their choice. Candidates may choose where they would like to conduct their research at

• Harrisburg University laboratory or at a partnering research institutional laboratory
• A non-academic research center/organization or industry/workplace (which requires approval of industry partners)
   

Applied Studies for International Students on F-1 Visas

If applied studies or employment-based research are an integral component of a chosen Doctorate degree program, non-immigrant students on a valid F-1 visa and otherwise maintaining status may be authorized for periods of Curricular Practical Training (CPT). CPT is defined by the federal government as an alternative work-study, internship, cooperative education employment, or other type of internship or practicum that is an integral part of an established curriculum.

An F-1 student’s I-20 must be authorized by one of HU’s Designated School Officials (DSO) prior to accepting and beginning an alternative work study. F-1 students are only permitted to work in the United States for the company listed during the dates provided on their I-20. For more information on how to apply and when to apply, students should contact the International Student Office (ISO). Failure to follow F-1 visa regulations will jeopardize a student’s status and will result in revocation of their CPT and/or the termination of the SEVIS record. Students can contact the International Student Office with any questions and/or support they may need.

A student’s CPT internship experience or employment must relate to the program of study and may be part-time (20 or fewer hours per week) or full-time (21 or more hours per week). HU allows the period of eligible CPT employment to be extended through the short breaks between semesters if the student is pre-registered for the immediate next semester of enrollment and the next immediate semester includes a period of continued required field experience. HU expects academics to be prioritized. CPT may not continue through approved semester-long breaks.

A doctoral student who completes all coursework and enters the thesis/dissertation phase of the program may be considered for CPT if the work experience is clearly documented as necessary for the completion of the thesis or dissertation. 

Overview of the Program

Master’s Degree Program   

Doctorate Degree Program  

Graduation Requirements 

A candidate should apply for graduation after registering for the last semester of the anticipated completion date by submitting an Application for Graduation via MyHU. Once degree requirements are met, the degree will be conferred.

A candidate for graduation must complete all requirements for the degree to be eligible to participate in Commencement. A commencement fee based on the cost of the cap, gown, and tassel at the time of graduation will be assessed for the student participating in the Commencement Ceremony.

Graduation Requirements for Master’s Degree Program

A student must satisfy all of the following requirements to receive a Master of Science degree. Verification that the student has met the following requirements is made by Records and Registration.

1. At least 36 semester hours must be successfully completed.
2. A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.00 is required for graduation from a Master of Science program and graduate advanced study programs.
3. In order for any completed course to satisfy the 36 semester hours required, the course must be completed with a grade of “C” (2.00) or higher.
4. A student must earn a minimum of 30 semester hours in residence toward a Master of Science degree from the University. The number of semester hours that may be transferred from another institution’s graduate program is six semester hours.
5. A degree student will demonstrate proficiencies in the field of study and the University’s competencies through use of an ePortfolio or a similar technology or evidence-based approach.
6. A student must complete all requirements for the Master of Science degree within 6 years from the first day of attendance as a degree-seeking graduate student.

Graduation Requirements for the Research Doctorate Degree Program

The student must satisfy all of the following requirements to receive a Doctorate degree. Verification the student has met the following requirements is made by Records and Registration.

1. At least 36 semester hours must be successfully completed.
2. A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.00 is required for graduation.
3. In order for any completed course to satisfy the 36 semester hours required, the course must be completed with a grade of “B” (3.00) or higher.
4. Candidates will schedule their dissertation defenses after receiving approval from the dissertation committee chair (or co-chairs).
5. Candidates must submit (but not yet have published) the results of their dissertation or project work for publication in a refereed journal and/or complete a patent application prior to the conferral of a degree.

Graduation Requirements for the Doctor of Physical Therapy, DPT Clinical Degree Program

Academic Requirements:

   1. Learners must complete the prescribed number of credit hours (99) as outlined in the program’s curriculum.

   2. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required by the end of the program.

   3. Individual courses must be passed with a grade of “C” or higher.

   4. Students must demonstrate proficient skill competency with all lab and clinical skills.

Clinical Education Requirements:

   5. Clinical Hours: Must complete the minimum required clinical hours.

   6. Receive a benchmark of 7 on the Clinical Internship Evaluation Tool, which defines a competent entry-level professional.

   7. Capstone Project: Successfully complete and present a capstone project.

Documentation and Records:

   8. Submit all required documentation, including clinical logs, assignments, and other relevant materials by the specified deadlines. Incomplete or missing documentation may impact program progression and/or graduation eligibility.

Requirements for Earning a Second Master’s Degree

A person who has earned a master’s degree from HU or another accredited college or university may earn a second master’s degree by meeting the following requirements:

1. A student may not pursue a second degree under the same program of study (e.g., if a student already has earned a M.S. in Project Management, the student cannot pursue a second M.S. in Project Management). A total of three course waivers (or two transfer courses and one waiver) in the second program are permitted. If the second program requires a Concentration declaration, a maximum of two transfer courses/waivers for the Core requirements or a maximum of two transfer courses/waivers for the Concentration requirements will be permitted. If additional waivers are required, the student will need to select a different program and/or concentration.
2. The student must satisfactorily meet all graduation requirements for the second-degree program.
3. A minimum of 30 additional graduate course semester hours within the second degree’s program must be successfully completed at HU.
4. No course already successfully taken in the first-degree program may be repeated in the second degree.
5. Six credits may be transferred from the first master’s degree to fulfill graduation requirements for the second master’s degree. These will not count toward the 30-semester hour residency minimum.

The Request for Second Master’s Degree Form must be completed and submitted to Records and Registration at least two weeks before the start of the semester.  

Finalizing the Academic Record

The university confers degrees at the end of each of the six semesters (Fall, Late Fall, Spring, Late Spring, Summer, and Late Summer). All final grades and official transcripts for applicable transfer work must be received in order for a degree conferral to occur. According to university policy and federal reporting requirements, degrees must be conferred and finalized once a student has fulfilled all requirements. 

Once the degree is conferred, the academic record is considered complete and final. No further changes will be made unless there is a documented clerical error, or the student successfully appeals an academic grievance. It is the responsibility of the student to notify Records and Registration of a clerical error within 30 days of the conferral date.

Course repeats for the purpose of bolstering the final degree GPA are not permitted after a degree is conferred. No transfer work will be accepted after the degree is conferred. 

A student may not retroactively seek to have additional majors or concentrations added to a degree after it has been posted. However, a student may seek readmission as either a non-degree seeking student or as a second-degree seeker after their initial degree has been conferred.

Grades and Grading

Grade Scale

Grades are awarded to each student for academic credit completed at the University. A grade is assigned by the instructor responsible for the course in which the student is enrolled, using the following grading scale to indicate the quality of the student’s academic work.

Master’s Degree Grading Scale:

Doctorate Degree Grading Scale: 

(see the next Grade Scale for the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program)

Doctor of Physical Therapy Grading Scale:

Grade Definitions

Grades of “AU”, “CD”, “CR”, “CX”, “I”, “LB”, “NP”, “NR”, “P”, “PLA”, “TR”, “TA”, “TA-“, “TB+”, “TB”, “TP”, “TS”, “W”, or “WA” are not included in the calculation of a student’s grade point average (GPA). These grades are used by the University in circumstances when grades of “A” through “F” are not appropriate. “WF” and “FD” grades are calculated into the student’s GPA. The credit type of AD is not included in the calculation of the grade point average.

Audit (AU) - The audit grade is assigned by the instructor when the student has properly registered to audit the course and has met all requirements of the University’s course audit policy.

Doctoral Studies Complete (CD) - A grade of “CD” is used to indicate that research or doctoral studies are complete.

Credit (CR) - A grade of “CR” is used to indicate on the student’s permanent record that credit has been awarded by the University for military training or successful completion of an examination. While courses with a “CR” grade are counted toward the student’s degree requirements, there are no quality points associated with this grade, so there is no impact upon calculating the student’s grade point average.

Doctoral Studies Continued (CX) - A grade of “CX” is used to indicate that research or doctoral studies are in progress.

Incomplete (I) - Inability to complete coursework due to documented circumstances beyond the student’s control (such as severe illness) may, at the instructor’s discretion, result in a temporary grade of incomplete (I).

Laboratory (LB) - This grade is assigned by Records and Registration at the conclusion of a semester to a student who is enrolled in a non-credit developmental recitation section of a course. This grade and such a course do not appear on the student’s transcript.

No Pass (NP) - The “NP” grade is assigned by the instructors for a student who does not successfully complete a course that is designated as a course that will be graded on a Pass/No Pass basis.

Not Reported (NR) - The temporary grade of “NR” is recorded by Records and Registration when the instructor does not report a grade for the student for the course. Records and Registration will advise the Provost when an “NR” grade has been recorded for the student and will work with the student and the instructor to determine why a grade was not reported.

Pass (P) - The “P” grade is assigned by instructors for a student who successfully completes a course that is designated as a course that will be graded on a Pass/No Pass basis. A “P” grade indicates a grade of C or higher.

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) - The “PLA” grade is used to indicate credit that has been awarded by the University for prior learning. Although a course completed with a “PLA” grade is applied toward the student’s degree requirements, no quality points are associated with this grade so there is no impact upon calculating the student’s grade point average.

Transfer (TR) - A grade of “TR” is used to indicate on the student’s transcript a block of credit earned at another institution that will count toward the degree at Harrisburg University.

Transfer with Grade Notation (Txx) - A grade of “Txx” is used to indicate on the student’s transcript each course that has been successfully completed at another institution and that has been accepted toward the degree at Harrisburg University.

Withdrawal (W) - This grade is recorded by Records and Registration when the student has withdrawn from the course according to the policy set forth by the University for withdrawing from a course.

Administrative Withdrawal (WA) - The “WA” grade can be assigned only by the Provost or other designated official. It is used under extenuating circumstances and when the normal withdrawal process is not available to the student. A request for administrative withdrawal with accompanying documentation will be submitted to Records and Registration. The “WA” grade can be submitted at any time during the semester.

Withdrawal Fail (WF) - This grade is recorded by Records and Registration when the student has withdrawn from the course after the period a student can withdraw with a “W” grade.

Fail - Disciplinary (FD) - The “FD” grade can be assigned only by the Provost or other designated official. This grade is used when a student earns a failing grade due to academic dishonesty. A request for the FD grade with accompanying documentation will be submitted to Records and Registration, at which point the student will be withdrawn from the course. This grade can be submitted at any time during the semester.

Grade Point Averages

A grade point average (GPA) is a statistical calculation of a student’s performance in a semester. The semester grade point average summarizes the student’s performance during that academic term, and the cumulative grade point average (CGPA) summarizes the student’s performance during semesters completed at the University. All credit-bearing courses completed by the student are calculated into the student’s CGPA.

1. Compute the quality points earned for each course by multiplying the semester hours attempted for the course by the numerical value of the grade earned in the course. Example: A student registered for a course worth 3 semester hours who earns a final grade of “A” in that course will earn 12 quality points for that course (3 semester hours x 4.0).
2. Add the quality points earned for each course in which the student is registered for the semester.
3. Add the number of semester hours attempted for all courses in which a grade of “A” through “F” was earned.
4. Divide the total number of quality points earned by the total number of semester hours attempted. The result is the grade point average for the semester.

The cumulative grade point average (CGPA) is determined in a similar way using the cumulative attempted semester hours and cumulative quality points earned. GPA and CGPA are truncated to the hundredths.

Incomplete Grade

A grade of Incomplete (I) is a discretionary decision. The guidelines for incomplete grades are:

• The Incomplete Grade may be assigned if the student’s work is of non-failing quality and there is a reasonable likelihood that the student will complete the course material.
• The student must have extenuating circumstances such as illness, accident, serious personal problems, etc.
• The deadline for submitting the outstanding work is up to the discretion of the instructor, but it must be before the end of the add/drop period of the subsequent semester.
• Once the outstanding work has been submitted, the faculty must submit a Change of Grade Form to Records and Registration for the grade to be updated.
• If the outstanding work is not submitted by the end of the add/drop period of the subsequent semester, the instructor should submit a Change of Grade Form so that the grade is changed from the I grade to the grade earned in the course. 
• If the instructor fails to submit the change of grade form one week after the end of the add/drop period of the subsequent semester, Records and Registration will convert the Incomplete grade to an F.

If a student needs additional time to submit the work after the add/drop period of the subsequent semester ends, they must submit a Petition for Extension of Coursework for Incomplete Grade. This form can be obtained from Records and Registration by submitting a ticket to https://reghelp.harrisburgu.edu. Students will need to work with faculty to complete the form and obtain approval for the extension. The completed and signed form must be sent to Records and Registration for approval.

Repeated Courses 

Repeated Courses for Master’s Degree Program

A master’s student may repeat a course in which a final grade of “C” or below, “W”, “WA”, “FD”, or “WF” has been received. The original grade will remain on the student’s academic record. After the course has been repeated, the most recent grade will be used in the calculation of the student’s cumulative grade point average. A student cannot repeat a course for the sole purpose of improving the overall GPA if the degree requirement has already been met.

Repeated Courses for Doctorate Degree Program

A doctorate student may repeat a course in which a final grade of “W”, “WA”, or “WF” has been received. They can only attempt to repeat it one time. The original grade will remain on the student’s academic record. After the course has been repeated, the most recent grade will be used in the calculation of the student’s cumulative grade point average. The expectation is a student will be successful.  A student receiving an “F” grade will have their academic record and progress reviewed by the Academic Standing Committee and program lead. Considerations for permitting a repeat include the student’s overall academic performance, the significance of the course within the program, the reasons for the initial failure, and the availability of academic support.

Course Substitutions

Course substitutions may be requested by a faculty advisor when a student’s academic progress may be affected or when an alternative course better supports the student’s research or career goals. Substitutions intended to meet Experiential Learning requirements must align with approved Experiential Learning course options established by the Curriculum Committee.

Students are responsible for completing all requirements of their declared program and the University’s degree requirements for their academic year. Proposed substitutions should fall within the same or a closely related academic area. Substitutions for previously failed courses are rarely approved, and the inability to schedule a required course is not an adequate basis for a request. The student must have completed or be enrolled in the proposed substitute course.

The process begins when the faculty academic advisor identifies the need for a substitution and discusses it with the student. The advisor then submits a written request, including student information, the required course, the proposed substitute, and a rationale, along with any supporting documentation, to Records and Registration at RegHelp@Harrisburgu.edu. Records and Registration reviews the request for compliance with University policy, consults relevant academic units as needed, and communicates the decision in writing to both the advisor and the student.

Upon approval, Records and Registration updates the student’s academic record, and the advisor ensures the student understands any resulting requirements or next steps.

Academic Standing Policy

A graduate student with a cumulative grade point average (CPGA) of 3.00 or higher is in satisfactory academic standing. A student whose CGPA falls below 3.00 is not in satisfactory academic standing and will be placed on academic probation. A student who fails to make satisfactory academic progress at the end of a semester is subject to warning, probation, or dismissal according to the following policy: 
 
First Occurrence - Warning 
Following the first semester in which the student does not meet the satisfactory academic progress standard, the student will automatically be placed on academic warning for the next semester. A letter will be issued advising the student of their academic warning status. No appeal is needed, but in consultation with the Office of Student Success, an academic plan may be required. 
 
Second Consecutive Occurrence - Probation
If, by the end of the warning semester, the student is not able to achieve satisfactory academic progress status, a letter will be issued placing the student on academic probation status for the next semester. The student should work with the Office of Student Success to determine an academic plan to improve the student’s CGPA.   

Third Consecutive Occurrence - Dismissal
If a student, after three consecutive semesters, has a CGPA that remains below 3.00 or fails to meet the program pursuit percentage, a letter of dismissal will be issued.  

Failure to Make Academic Progress - A student that fails to make any academic progress and have a cumulative GPA of 0.00 after two semesters will be dismissed and have the opportunity to appeal as outlined below.

Academic Failure for Research Doctorate Programs

Academic failure may result in dismissal from the program or placement on academic probation. Criteria typically include:  

• Earning a grade of F in any course  
• Falling below the minimum required GPA for doctoral students   
• Failing to meet milestones such as timely completion of coursework, qualifying/comprehensive exams, or the dissertation proposal

Dismissal Appeals - A student who is dismissed as a result of failure to meet satisfactory academic progress, may file an academic appeal by submitting a letter outlining the nature of the appeal to the Office of Student Success within five (5) days from notification of dismissal. An appeal will be considered only if the student’s failure to meet the standards of academic progress is determined to be due to events beyond the student’s control. Examples of circumstances for which an appeal may be considered include military obligation; the death of a relative; injury or illness of the student; unusual personal hardship or other extenuating circumstances. Written documentation of the circumstances of why the student failed to make satisfactory progress and what has changed that will allow the student to make satisfactory progress by the next evaluation must be submitted with the appeal and should reference the student’s name and student ID number. In addition, the evidence must be received documenting that the cumulative grade point average has improved, and the required satisfactory progress grade point average can potentially be achieved to complete a program of study within the maximum timeframe limitation. Appeals submitted without documentation will not be considered. A timely determination will then be made and documented in the student’s file.

If the academic appeal is denied, a second notice will be sent to the student advising that their appeal was denied. If the academic appeal is approved, a semester of academic probation will be awarded, and the student will be notified in writing that their appeal was approved. The student must achieve satisfactory academic progress by the end of the probation semester.

If, after the academic probation semester, a student is still not making satisfactory academic progress, but the evidence is provided showing academic improvement, the cumulative grade point average has improved, and the required satisfactory academic progress grade point average can potentially be achieved within the maximum time frame limitation required by federal regulations then a second probation semester may be granted.

Final Grade Appeal

A final grade is assigned by the instructor upon completion of coursework to earn credit during a semester or other term. A student who disagrees with the final grade assigned by the instructor should first contact the faculty member directly to resolve the grade dispute informally. The student that cannot approach the faculty member because of perceived discrimination, cannot reach the faculty member, or has received a response with which the student still disagrees, may seek remedy using an evidence-based argument, with any supplemental documentation, within five (5) days after grades are posted on one of the following grounds:

• Discrimination: defined as unfair treatment or assignment of grade on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, ancestry, handicapped status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or political affiliation.
• Capricious evaluation: defined as a significant or unjustified departure from grading procedures outlined in the course syllabus or by the University or arbitrary assignment of grades. Capricious evaluation cannot be claimed if a student merely disagrees with the subjective evaluation of the instructor.
• Errors: including clerical errors or errors in grade calculations that can be demonstrated in an objective manner.

A student who chooses to appeal a grade must email the Office of Student Success at studentsuccess@harrisburgu.edu with an explanation forming the basis of the appeal. All documentation for the appeal should be attached in an organized manner with a detailed explanation of the rationale for the appeal. A final grade appeal must be initiated on or before the fifth (5th) business day after grades are posted, or other terms as specified in the Academic Calendar posted on MyHU.

The Office of Student Success will review the Final Grade Appeal. The Office of Student Success may ask for additional information for the student, instructor, or program lead and will access Canvas to verify any student submissions or faculty comments.

• If the original final grade is improved and satisfies the student’s appeal, the instructor or program lead shall submit a Grade Change Form to Records and Registration, the grade will be posted, and the academic record hold status will be released.
• If the original final grade is reaffirmed and both the instructor and student agree with the grade determination, the Office of Student Success will notify Records and Registration confirming the original grade.
• If the Office of Student Success upholds the original grade, the student may request a review of the grade appeal investigation report by the Office of the Provost in email to studentsuccess@harrisburgu.edu. The determination by the Provost or designee will be final.
• If a student would like to appeal a grade during the semester, students should approach the faculty member to resolve this informally. All documentation should be saved. If at the time the final grades is insufficient, the student can file a formal appeal at that time.

Withholding of Records

Student records may be withheld by Records and Registration when directed by the appropriate University officials. More specifically, the student’s diploma will not be released, and a student may not be able to register for courses if tuition or other charges remain unpaid to the University. Additionally, a student cannot register for courses while the hold is on their record. The Office of Student Success determines when a student’s record should be placed on hold for disciplinary reasons, and the Business Office determines when a student’s record should be placed on hold for financial reasons.

Official Withdrawal from the University Procedure 

A student is encouraged to contact the Financial Aid and Business Offices in advance of any decision to withdraw from the University to obtain an explanation of the tuition and financial aid adjustments that will occur, if any, as the result of withdrawal from the program of study.

A student on an F-1 Visa should contact the International Student Office prior to submitting a withdrawal form to understand the impact it may have on their SEVIS status.

A student who intends to officially withdraw is encouraged to complete the Withdrawal Form via MyHU. Should a student have any questions, please contact Records and Registration by telephone (717.901.5136), RegHelp Student Portal at reghelp.harrisburgu.edu/, or in person.

The determination date for withdrawal purposes shall be the actual date of formal notification by the student. The determination date is used to calculate the tuition refund, if any, and the student financial assistance program refund, if applicable. Withdrawn courses cannot be reinstated.

Military Personnel Called to Active Duty Policy

If a student is called to active duty by the National Guard or the reserve forces of the United States during an active semester, they should provide documentation of their call to active duty to the Certifying Official. The below procedure will then apply:  

1. Course Registration/Grades: The student will be given the option to have courses dropped or an “I” (Incomplete) grade assigned to each of their courses. The assigning of an “Incomplete” is by mutual consent of the faculty member and the student, and an appropriate completion date is to be assigned. If the active duty call occurs late in the term, the faculty member also has the option of assigning a final grade rather than the “I” grade.

2. Tuition: Tuition charges will be canceled or refunded in full‐ for all courses dropped. Courses in which the grade of “I” or a final grade is assigned will have applicable tuition assessed. The student must coordinate with the Certifying Official to address any overpayment or other financial considerations with Veterans Administration funding  

3. Housing:  If the student resides in campus housing, they should initiate a discussion with Residence Life Staff.  

4. Student Record:  The Student record will be kept active for one year from the later of the following dates, after which the student would be eligible for re‐admission: ‐ Effective date of the dropped course(s)  ‐ End of the final completed semester ‐ Latest deadline of assigned “I” grade.

Medical Withdrawal

A student requesting to withdraw for medical reasons must complete a medical leave request through the Office of Student Success by contacting StudentServices@HarrisburgU.edu or 717.901.5102. Student Success will obtain official documentation from a doctor supporting the student’s request. To return from medical leave, the student must provide Student Success with documentation from a doctor supporting the student’s return. The student will have up to a year to return without having to apply for readmission.

An F-1 student wishing to drop or withdraw from a course for medical reasons must first consult with the International Student Office for options.

Unofficial Withdrawal

A student who discontinues attendance in all courses during a semester and who does not officially withdraw from the University is considered to have unofficially withdrawn. The determination date for unofficial withdrawals shall be the end of the semester unless other evidence is provided to Records and Registration. There are serious Title IV, H&A federal student financial aid program implications for a student who unofficially withdraws.

An F-1 student who unofficially withdraw will have their SEVIS record terminated immediately.

Standards of Academic Integrity

Harrisburg University expects a student to act honorably and in accordance with the standards of academic integrity. Academic integrity is grounded in mutual trust and respect. Therefore, it is expected that a student will respect the rights of others and will only submit work that is their own, refraining from all forms of lying, cheating, and plagiarism.

Disciplinary/Academic Dismissal

The University reserves the right to expel or suspend at any time a student who has misrepresented any part of their admission materials, whose academic record is unsatisfactory, or whose behavior or conduct is found to be detrimental to the orderly functioning of the University. When misconduct may constitute a threat to a person or property within the University community or under other circumstances, it may result in disciplinary review action. The University assumes the responsibility to regulate the private conduct of the student when such conduct could constitute a hazard to or an infringement on the rights of others, a violation of the law, of University policy or instructions, or a disruption of the legitimate academic and administrative processes of the University. Please see the Student Handbook for details on the policies regarding the Code of Conduct, Academic Code of Conduct, or Sexual Misconduct Policies.

If an F-1 student is dismissed from Harrisburg University, their SEVIS record will be terminated.

Additional policy and procedures details can be found in the Student Handbook, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program Student Handbook, and Ph.D. Program Guidebook. Students are expected to adhere to program specific policies and procedures outlined in respective program handbook.