Academic Policies

Academic Advising

The Heritage University Office of Advising serves pre-major undergraduate students (freshman, transfer and re-admit) attending Heritage through the Toppenish campus. The Office of Advising provides services such as: course planning, interpretation of academic policies and procedures, clarification of academic and career goals, and monitoring progress toward academic goals, declaration of major, and assistance with connecting students to local and on campus resources.

Students are responsible for consulting with their academic advisor to select courses for final approval. Students are responsible for planning and completing advising forms with the assistance of his or her advisor. A close advisor-student relationship can be very helpful, and students are required to meet with their academic advisor twice per semester; once prior to midterms and once after midterms or at any time to discuss academic problems, interests and goals.

Students receive the name of their academic advisor upon enrollment to Heritage University. Students who do not know who their academic advisor is must contact the Office of Advising for assignment of an advisor.

Students who have declared into a program will be referred to the corresponding faculty advisor for academic advising.

For more information, contact Heritage University Office of Advising at 509-865-0725 or advising@heritage.edu.

Heritage University Student Advocate Program

The mission of the Heritage University Student Advocate Program is to provide outreach and support services to promote student success and retention. Students who need assistance can receive academic advisement through a trained academic advisor, mentor and/or counselor. The main priority of the Advocate Program is to assist, motivate, and empower students for self-development and self-actualization. Students who are experiencing personal issues impacting their academic performance should contact Office of Advising at 509-865-0725 or advising@heritage.edu.  Students may also contact the Northwest Employee Assistance Program for cost free confidential counseling services at 509-575-4313.

Academic Progress

Satisfactory academic progress is defined as the normal progression toward a certificate or degree by a full-time or a part-time student in a reasonable amount of time.

Academic Warning, Probation, and Suspension

A student whose midterm grade for any course is below a GPA of 2.00 may receive an academic warning in writing upon recommendation of the course instructor.

If the semester GPA is below 2.00, the student is placed on academic probation. Once an undergraduate student is placed on academic probation, the student must attain at least a 2.00 semester GPA for the next six semester credits in order to continue their studies. A student on academic probation for two consecutive semesters is subject to academic suspension, which is noted on their permanent record (transcript).

After each semester, the academic standards committee reviews the grades of all students who have made unsatisfactory progress and decides the action to be taken. Students are notified by letter of the committee’s decision and are given the opportunity to appeal in writing to the provost/vice president of Academic Affairs if circumstances warrant.

The university reserves the right to dismiss at any time a student whose conduct, academic standing or health is such that the administration believes continuance at the university undesirable.

Academic Honesty Policy

The pervading spirit underlying the mission and goals of Heritage University is the pursuit of justice and truth in every aspect of a student’s education. Honesty and integrity are expected of all members of the academic community and are essential to the learning process. Professors must demonstrate, by precept and example, the necessity of rigorous honesty in the use of sources and of utmost respect for the work of others.

Heritage students have the responsibility to adhere to academic honesty in all their educational endeavors. Faculty members have the responsibility to model academic honesty, to prevent and detect violations, and to counsel and/or discipline students who violate the Heritage University Academic Honesty Policy. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, plagiarism, fabrication, cheating, academic misconduct, and all behavior inconsistent with academic integrity and honesty.

Faculty-initiated Disciplinary Process

The Academic Honesty Review Committee (AH Review Committee) will review all violations referred through the process and procedures described herein.  Departments with specific, separate Academic Honesty Policies, Processes, and Procedures will follow them.

Online Course Exchange of Independent Colleges and Universities’ (OCICU) students who wish to appeal an instructor’s or a facilitator’s decision should contact the Online Course Exchange Liaison at OLCourseExchange@heritage.edu call 509-865-8599.  

Faculty members in all departments and programs retain the responsibility to conduct initial meetings with students and provide verbal clarification, guidance, and warnings to students, particularly when violations may be resulting from a lack of mastery of new concepts and skills. When violations appear deliberate rather than from lack of mastery, faculty members will consult with Department Chairs about initiating the Academic Honesty Disciplinary Procedure.

Procedure for Submitting Academic Honesty Violations

When a faculty member has reasonable cause to believe that academic dishonesty has occurred, the following procedure shall be followed:

1. The faculty member will collect evidence of the suspected violation(s), review previous violations that are filed with the Registrar, and confer with the student concerning the violation and the course of action to be pursued. This conversation with the student should be within five (5) working days of discovering the suspected violation.  If no violation is confirmed, no further action results, no written record is filed with the Registrar, and the student is notified within five (5) working days.

2. If the faculty member believes a violation is confirmed, the faculty member has five (5) working days to draft an Academic Honesty Report of the incident and proposed sanction, and consult with the faculty member’s direct supervisor (Chair) and the student’s advisor. If the faculty member is also a Chair, the consultation will be with a Chair in a closely related academic discipline.

a. If the direct supervisor believes no violation is confirmed, no further action results, no written record is filed with the Registrar, and the student is notified. 

b. If the direct supervisor agrees that a violation has occurred, the faculty member will finalize the Academic Honesty Report and, within five (5) working days, schedule a department-level academic conduct meeting to present and discuss the Report. Those present at the meeting will include the faculty member, the student, the student’s advisor, the Chair(s), and at the student’s request, a Student Assistan[ce] Faculty or Educator (SAFE) Mentor.

c. When the violation of academic honesty occurs in a GUCR course or in the student’s minor, two chairs may be part of the Academic Honesty violation procedure.

d. At this point, the Academic Honesty Review Committee Chair will be informed, but no Committee action will be required.

e. If the student accepts and signs the report and the sanction, the faculty member will forward the report to the Registrar’s Office to be included in the student’s file.

3. If the student wishes to appeal the Academic Honesty Report, the student will submit a formal a Student Appeal Process/Application form, including signature page and supporting evidence to the Chair of the Academic Honesty Review Committee within five (5) working days of the department level meeting.

a. The Committee will have ten (10) working days to

1. review all documents from the student and from the faculty member;
2. schedule a meeting with the student, the student’s advisor, and at the student’s request, a SAFE Mentor;
3. conduct an interview with the faculty member; and
4. consult with other relevant parties as needed.

b. If the Committee sees no violation based on the evidence presented and rejects the faculty report, no further action results, no written record is filed with the Registrar, and the student is notified.

c. If the Committee accepts, or modifies and accepts, the faculty member’s Academic Honesty Report, the student is notified.

d. If the student accepts and signs the report and the sanction, the Committee will forward the report to the Registrar’s Office to be included in the student’s file. The faculty member will be notified.

4. If the student disagrees with the Academic Honesty Review Committee’s decision,  within five (5) working days, the student can request a meeting with Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs

a. The Provost/VPAA will have ten (10) working days to

1. review all documents from the student and from the faculty member;
2. schedule a meeting with the student, the student’s advisor, and at the student’s request, a SAFE Mentor;

b. The Provost/VPAA will be the final appeal opportunity for the student and the Provost’s decision will be final.

c. If the Provost/VPAA accepts the student’s appeal, no further action results, no written record is filed with the Registrar, and the student, faculty member, and Committee will be notified.

d. If the Provost/VPAA rejects the student’s appeal, the Provost/VPAA will forward the Academic Honesty Report to the Registrar’s Office to be included in the student’s file. The student, faculty member, and Committee will be notified.

Guidelines for Submission of Academic Honesty Violation Report to the Review Committee

1. Coversheet with signature page for steps of the Academic Honesty Violations Process

a. space for faculty signature, chair signature (or Provost/VPAA in supervisor role)

b. space for student signature of acceptance or rejection

c. space for Committee Chair signature

2. Statement of academic honesty violation or misconduct

3. Supporting evidence (documents or statements)

4. Copies of previous, relevant violations from Registrar

5. Recommendations for sanctions

6. Report of Departmental meeting that included Faculty, Department Chair, Student, Student’s Advisor, and SAFE mentor if requested by the Student.

7. Student Appeal Process/Application form, including signature page

Minimum Sanctions for Academic Honesty Violations

A first instance of academic dishonesty will result in at least failure of the assignment; the second instance will result in at least failure of the course; the third instance will result in at least a semester suspension; and the fourth instance will result in dismissal from the university. However, the nature and severity of the instance of academic dishonesty will determine whether the sanctions exceed these minimums. Academic misconduct may also violate other university policies and initiate additional investigations.

Academic Grievance Process

Student-initiated grade appeal process

Students who feel that an academic decision affecting their grade(s) should be re-examined may present their case according to the following appeal process. Students should file an appeal in a timely manner. If the appeal is brought to the attention after a full academic year, or even semester, it may limit the ability to resolve the grade appeal due to limitations outside of our control.

1. A student confers with the instructor concerned.
2. If the student believes the matter has not been satisfactorily resolved, the student confers with the department chair or department director.
3. If the student believes the matter has not been satisfactorily resolved, the student makes an appointment with the provost/vice president of Academic Affairs to seek assistance in resolving the concern.
4. The student and the provost/vice president of Academic Affairs may request the Academic Honesty Committee to review the matter.
5. The provost/vice president of Academic Affairs communicates the final decision to the concerned student. No appeals are available after this decision has been communicated.

At any point during the student-initiated grade appeal process, the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs may request the Academy Honesty Committee to convene and initiate that process instead. 

NOTE: If at any point in time it becomes apparent there are grievances or complaints in addition to the grade appeal, the student grievance process may be initiated.

Student grievance/complaint process 

Students who feel that an academic grievance or complaint not related to grades, disciplinary actions, or student conduct that they believe should be examined, may present their case according to the following grievance process. Students should file a complaint in a timely manner. If the issue is brought to the attention after a full academic year, or even semester, it may limit the ability to resolve the issue due to limitations outside of our control. The grievance process is based on a restorative justice model. Students seek a resolution through confidential discussion, investigation, and review of evidence. Student complaints and evidence are gathered as part of the investigation. The Student Affairs Office will provide an advocate to students to guide them through this process as a neutral party.

Initial Discussion (Intake)

The process begins with an initial intake conversation to gather information. The initial conversation is between the student and the Student Affairs Advocate (SAA). The initial conversation is confidential, unless there is an alleged violation of policy, ADA violation, harassment, discrimination, or other mandatory reporting information that requires disclosure to appropriate personnel. The SAA will explain the investigation process (see below). Contact information for Student Affairs is below.   

Once the process is explained, the SAA will assist the student with determining next steps.

1. The student decides not to proceed and the grievance is dropped.
2. The student wishes to engage in informal resolution (see below).
3. The student wishes to engage in a formal investigation (see below), and proceeds with filing a formal complaint. 

Informal Resolution
The informal resolution seeks to resolve the conflict, dispute, complaint, or issue by having the parities involved working towards resolution on their own without involving others.

1. The student is coached and supported through the process of working to resolve the issues with the instructor, department chair, or other individual.
2. If the student believes the matter has not been satisfactorily resolved they may return to the SAA and submit a formal complaint.

Formal Investigation

The formal complaint process requires a second intake process, different from the first because confidentiality is no longer a guarantee.  Individuals have a right to know who is making a complaint against them.  During a formal complaint process additional information is gathered to determine the nature of the complaint and what the appropriate resolution our outcome might be that would satisfy both parties.

1. The SAA begins by gather information and opening an investigation, with the students’ written permission.
2. The student begins gathering information and evidence to back up their allegations: which may include the following:
   • text messages
   • Emails, personal or work
   • Notes of conversations

1. The SAA may also choose to interview other students or faculty and gather additional information.
2. The SAA will also gather information from the faculty member who the grievance or complaint is against.   
3. Based on the information gathered during the investigations, the SAA will submit, in writing, their findings and any recommendations for resolution to the provost/vice president of Academic Affairs. The provost/vice president of Academic Affairs and the vice president of Student Affairs will make the final decision for resolution and determine the best course of actions based on the restorative justice model. The final decision for resolution will be communicated to the student in writing. However, if the final decision for resolution contains confidential information, the student will only be notified that a resolution has been reached. There may be legal constraints on what the university can or cannot, or is required, to communicate to the student.
4. If the student believes the matter has not been satisfactorily resolved, the student may request formal mediation through a third party.

NOTE: If at any point in time, an event occurs that includes a policy violation, ADA violation, harassment, discrimination, etc., the complaint will automatically be investigated, and may involve Human Resources or legal counsel. If any findings include policy violation, the report may be escalated to Human Resources for resolution.

The Student Affairs office is located on the Toppenish campus in the Violet Lumley Rau building. You can also call or email: 509-865-0411, studentaffairs@heritage.edu. 

Attendance

Regular attendance and participation in classes is expected and considered essential for successful academic work. Each instructor is responsible for including an attendance policy for his or her class in the course plan shared with the students at the beginning of the course, and each student is responsible for the policy stated for each course. A student must assume full responsibility for work missed because of their absence.

A faculty member may recommend an administrative withdrawal whenever a student misses two consecutive class sessions and does not contact the instructor. A failing (F) grade may be assigned by the instructor if a student does not follow the prescribed procedures for withdrawing from a course.

Consistent with Heritage University’s mission and values and pursuant to RCW 28B.10.039 as amended, and Substitute Senate Bill 5166, HU allows student reasonable absences for reasons of faith or for organized activities conducted under the auspices of a religious denomination, church, or religious organization. A student who, due to the observance of religious holidays, expects to be absent or endure significant hardship during scheduled class hours, will be reasonably allowed excused absences under this policy.

The student requesting an excused absence for reasons of faith must submit the Request for Absence for Reasons of Faith Form to each instructor at least two (2) weeks prior to the beginning of the semester in which the absence is anticipated to occur. The form is located on the Student Forms page under the Students tab in MyHeritage. The request must include an explanation of how the absence is related to a reason of faith or organized activities conducted under the auspices of a religious denomination, church, or religious organization. The student is solely responsible for ensuring documentation authorizing the absence is provided according to the instructions.

Each faculty member will determine what specific adjustments, if any, will need to be made to the student’s scheduled in-class work or assignments. The faculty member will inform the student in writing of any adjustments within three (3) instructional days of receiving the documentation requesting the absence.

Absences allowed under this policy will not in and of themselves adversely impact a student’s grade; however, students are expected to make up or complete all coursework or assignments that have been adjusted by the faculty member due to the absence. Faculty members have the right to require the student complete the coursework prior to or after the allowed absence.

A student whose request for absence under this policy is denied may appeal according to the HU Academic Grievance Process.

Compassionate Leave for Students

In keeping with the mission and spirit of Heritage University, our policy is to grant compassion leave, when needed. Faculty and staff are urged to be sensitive to the cultures of Heritage University students. (For instance, for some who have experienced the loss of a loved one, a funeral may last for a week.) The following are guidelines for granting compassionate leave.

Authority for granting compassionate leave rests with the Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment (VPSAE) or his/her designee. Ideally, when a student requires leave, s/he will contact the Office of Student Affairs. If the student first contacts another staff or faculty member, that person will notify the VPSAE, who will in turn inform the following:

• Department chair, if the student has a declared major, who in turn will contact those faculty members whose classes are impacted.
• Advisor (academic advisor or faculty advisor, as appropriate).
• Support staff as needed.

Compassionate leave does not excuse a student from completing course requirements. As soon as possible, he or she will negotiate a plan with each of his or her instructors to meet the learning outcomes for each course. Faculty are authorized to find alternate ways to help students meet the learning outcomes in accordance with agreed plans, including departing from their syllabi, if necessary, to accommodate students who have been granted compassionate leave. If, by the end of the semester, it is not possible for the student to meet all the course outcomes, an Incomplete [See “Incomplete” policy] may be granted. If neither an incomplete nor alternate assignments prove possible, Administrative Withdrawal [See Administrative Withdrawal Policy] will be permitted. Once a plan has been created, the student will be responsible for the completion of the plan.

This protocol grows out of our desire to respect and accommodate the personal, cultural, and familial responsibilities of our students. Negotiations related to compassionate leave, which may be moderated by the Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment (VPSAE) or a designee, must be conducted in an atmosphere of kindness.

Catalog Year Policy

Students must fulfill one of two sets of requirements: Those in the catalog in effect at the time of official acceptance to Heritage, or those from the current catalog. The complete degree requirements of only one catalog must be followed. Students seeking teacher certification are responsible for following ongoing changes in these regulations. Since courses and department requirements are subject to change without notice, all courses necessary to complete all department requirements may not be available on a continuing basis. Substitutions for discontinued courses are required and authorized by the department chair and provost/vice president of Academic Affairs.

Change of Grade

It is the student’s obligation to verify the transcript change when an incomplete grade is to be replaced with a final grade. A change of grade form, signed by the instructor, must be received in the Registrar’s Office before a change is posted to the permanent record.

Grades, once turned in, may be changed by instructors only upon demonstration of clerical error and completion of a change of grade form within the next semester after the grade was given. All failing (F) grades are final.

Grades used to meet graduation requirements cannot be changed after the degree is posted.

If an incomplete (I) grade is not replaced by a final grade within the following semester or the date indicated on the removal of incomplete form, or if the instructor of record has not extended the date on the contract filed for removal of incomplete in the Registrar’s Office, the incomplete will be changed to an F (failure) or the grade indicated on the contract by the instructor.

Classification of Students

Matriculated students are those who are officially admitted to pursue a degree or certificate. Non-matriculated undergraduate students may take up to 12 academic credits without pursuing a degree or certificate. Nonmatriculated graduate students may take up to 8 academic credits without pursuing a degree.

Undergraduate students are ranked according to the total number of semester credits they have successfully completed:

• Freshmen: fewer than 30 semester credits
• Sophomores: 30-59 semester credits
• Juniors: 60-89 semester credits
• Seniors: 90 or more semester credits

Graduate students are identified by their acceptance into the graduate department.

Course Load

The usual minimum full-time undergraduate load is 12 semester credits (6 in summer term). No more than 18 credits per semester (9 in summer term) may be taken without approval of the advisor, the college dean, and the provost/vice president for Academic Affairs, and upon written request of the student. The minimum full-time graduate load is 6 credits in the fall, spring and summer terms. Candidates for a master’s degree must comply with the following course load policy:

• 6-8 semester credits (normal graduate load)
• 10 semester credits (no permission required)
• Over 10 semester credits (college dean approval required)

For the purpose of financial aid and deferment of loans, half-time enrollment for graduate students is considered two (2) semester credits.

Concurrent Enrollment

Students who are working toward a degree at Heritage and wish to register simultaneously at another college or university must receive prior approval of the college dean and the provost/vice president for Academic Affairs, in order for outside courses to apply to their degree department. A maximum of 18 semester credits per semester (9 in summer term) may be taken by undergraduates regardless of where the credits are earned. Prior approval must be obtained for concurrent enrollment.

Course Syllabi

Faculty members prepare a course plan or syllabus for each course. The syllabus is a guideline for the course and may be altered at the discretion of the instructor. Changes in the course plan are communicated to the class; each student is responsible for the revisions communicated.

Credit Hour and Semester Definitions

Credit Hour Requirements: Federal regulations require that all courses follow the Heritage University definition of a credit hour as described in HU Policy. A credit is an amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than: 1.) One hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out of class student work each week for approximately 15 weeks for one semester or 2.) At least an equivalent amount of work as required in paragraph (1) of this definition for other academic activities as established by the institution, including laboratory work, internships, practice, studio work and other academic work leading to the award of credits.

The academic year is two semesters of 15 weeks each and a summer session of six or eight weeks.

Credits/Courses at Heritage University

In addition to regular courses, several other means of obtaining academic credit are available if the student obtains approval from the academic advisor, the appropriate department chair and the provost/vice president for Academic Affairs. (See also “Non-Degree .”)

Credit by Examination

Selected courses may be challenged for academic credit. Students must contact the Registrar’s Office and complete the credit by examination application according to the guidelines. The examination must be completed within one year from the application date; registration for the course credits must be completed three weeks prior to the end of the semester. Credits are indicated on the transcript as credit by examination with a P (pass) if the course is successfully challenged. No more than two courses per semester may be challenged unless approval is obtained from the provost/vice president for Academic Affairs.

Differential Scheduling

With the approval of the provost/vice president for Academic Affairs, a regular catalog course may be offered out of sequence for an individual student through differential scheduling. Differential scheduling is an exception and not the rule. Differential scheduling may be considered in conjunction with other alternatives in order to meet degree requirements for a department. Courses in the major department or in another department that can be substituted for degree requirements may be considered. Courses offered online by Heritage faculty or OCICU faculty may also be considered.

Differentially scheduled courses must be considered only under the following circumstances:

• Student has achieved upper-level (junior- or senior-level) classification
• Only 300- to 400-level courses may be offered on differential scheduling basis
• Student has achieved a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better
• Student is planning to graduate before the next time the course is offered
• Faculty may teach no more than three differentially scheduled courses during a semester

Education Outcome Assessment Policy

Education outcome assessment for an individual student is not a specific means of assessment but rather a representative body of a student’s work. The student’s educational outcome assessment provides an accurate reflection of what students know currently and will be able to do after completing a major course of study.

The university education outcome assessment policy requires that all seniors integrate specialized knowledge, theories, research methods and technical skills they have learned over the course of their study in a particular major. Thus, each graduating senior will provide evidence of accomplishing the educational outcomes of that particular major as a part of their graduation requirement.

The university education outcome assessment may include a senior research project, senior community project, senior thesis or materials developed in a capstone course. In certain majors, seniors may be required to develop a portfolio of materials (e-portfolio or paper portfolio) from different courses and summarize the themes and experiences. Seniors may also be required to give an oral presentation of their project before a panel of faculty or external reviewers.

Grading and Evaluations

The quality of the student’s work is reported to the department chair at midterm if it is at a D or an F level. Midterm warning reports may be issued and are used as a basis for advising students.

Final grades are determined by the combined results of assignments, examinations, class attendance and participation, and mastery of the subject as evidenced by the ability to communicate clearly in both oral and written form. The following letter grades and grade points per credit are used to denote the quality of a student’s work.

Note: A minimum passing grade for each course in the major is determined by the department chair of the degree/major. Please see the department for your declared degree and major for assistance.

Grade Point Average

The grade point average (GPA) is computed by dividing the total number of grade points by the total number of credits granted for courses taken. The letter grades P, NP, I, WA and AU are not computed in the GPA and, except for the P grade, are not counted as credits applicable to a degree or certificate. The WX grade is computed as an F grade in the GPA. Grade point averages are computed on both a cumulative and a semester basis.

Grade Reports

Grade reports are available through My Heritage. Located: Student tab: Academics: View Grades.

Honors and Awards

Dean’s List

At the end of each semester (summer term excluded), full-time matriculated undergraduates who have earned semester grade point averages of 3.50 or better; who do not have grades of I, F or WX; and who have at least 12 credits of courses above the 100 level (graded with a weighted grade), are placed on the university dean’s list. This distinction is noted on the permanent record (transcript).

Academic Achievement List

At the end of each semester, full-time or part-time matriculated undergraduates who have earned semester grade point averages of 3.00 or better, and do not have a grade of I, WX or F, are placed on the academic achievement list.

Graduation/Commencement Honors

Baccalaureate honors (summa cum laude, magna cum laude, and cum laude) are awarded to graduates receiving a first baccalaureate degree. These honors are awarded to those students who have completed no fewer than 60 credits at Heritage and have the following cumulative grade point averages:

• Summa cum laude 3.90-4.00
• Magna cum laude 3.60-3.89
• Cum laude 3.30-3.59

Honor cords are worn at graduation, if no incomplete (I) grades are on the student’s record by graduation day.

The Academic Excellence Award is presented by the board of directors to the graduate receiving a baccalaureate degree who has the highest cumulative GPA based on credits obtained from the university. The graduate must have completed a minimum of 64 credits at Heritage.

The Award of Distinction is presented by the President’s Council to the graduate receiving a baccalaureate degree and fulfilling the following criteria:

1. At least a cumulative GPA of 3.00 based on credits obtained at Heritage.
2. Completion of a minimum of 60 credits at Heritage.
3. Contribution to the betterment of the university in some way.
4. Active interest in student affairs, e.g., student government, tutoring, unselfish assistance to the needs of other students.

Graduation and Commencement

Application for Graduation

Formal application for graduation for all degrees and certificates must be filed in the Registrar’s Office at least two semesters before the projected graduation date.

1. Students fulfill either catalog requirements in effect at the time of their official acceptance to the university or requirements from a newer catalog. The complete requirements of only one catalog must be fulfilled unless exceptions are authorized by the provost/vice president for Academic Affairs.
2. Students seeking teacher certification are responsible for keeping up-to-date on changes in these regulations.
3. All financial obligations to the university must be cleared before graduation.

Graduation/Commencement Exercise and Diplomas

Graduation is a step-by-step process leading up to receiving your official degree.

Commencement refers to the ceremony, officiated by the president of the university, which is an opportunity for the students to share the excitement and importance of their academic accomplishments with peers, family and friends.

Commencement is a celebratory event, not a declaration of completion of degree requirements. Anyone can participate in the ceremony if they have not participated in a previous ceremony, and if they are within two courses and/or 6 credits of degree completion (if enrolled summer term and applied for graduation).

1. Degrees are awarded at Heritage at the end of the fall, spring and summer semesters. Students must apply for graduation for the term they intend to graduate, to be considered a candidate for the degree. The graduation ceremony is held at the end of spring semester (May). All students who completed degree requirements are encouraged to participate.
2. Students completing their final degree/certificate requirements during the summer semester may participate in the spring ceremony as a “walker”. The “walker” student has applied for graduation for the summer term, and is confirmed by the Registrar’s Office that they will complete their degree/certification requirements.
3. The degree and diploma/certificates are awarded only after all requirements are fulfilled. Walking early does not imply that degree/certificate requirements have been met or that the student is actually graduating during that ceremony.
4. Names of summer graduation candidates will be published in the spring (May) commencement program.
5. Only undergraduate students who have completed all degree requirements will be recognized for Latin honors.                                                                 

Note: The Latin honors designation listed in the Commencement Program may not reflect final honors status, since the program is printed prior to the posting of final grades.

Incomplete Grade

An incomplete grade (I) is given when a student has not completed all required course work by the end of the semester and has a reasonable probability of passing the course when all the requirements are completed. An incomplete grade contract must be completed and approved by the student, instructor, department chair, and registrar. The contract specifies the requirements to complete the course and change the grade from an incomplete to a final grade. If an incomplete grade is not replaced by a final grade by the date indicated on the incomplete grade contract, or for which the instructor of record has not extended the date on the contract, the incomplete will be changed automatically to the grade indicated on the contract. The total time an incomplete may be extended is one year from the date of the end of the original course. 

Independent Studies

Independent study opportunities are available to students under the catalog headings of 390: Advanced Topic, 490: Internship, 495: Special Project and 497: Senior Thesis. All independent studies must be approved by the provost/vice president for Academic Affairs.

Major

Undergraduate Department

A course of study in one area consisting of a minimum of 30 credits, including 24 upper-division credits, constitutes a major. The college indicates specified course work, if applicable, and the number of credits required.

Graduate Department

A major is declared by the student on the graduate application form. A master’s degree requires a minimum of 32 semester credits.

Non-degree Certificate Program

Students seeking OSPI certification must declare their intentions on the graduate application of admission form. A Professional certificate requires a minimum of 10 semester credits. An Educational Administration certificate requires a minimum of 22 semester credits, and an Educational Staff Associate (ESA) certificate requires a minimum of 10 semester credits.

Major Selection and Change

Students are encouraged to declare a major by their sophomore year, at the latest. Students who are undecided about a major field of study are assigned an advisor from the Advising Center. To change a major or to declare a major, a student must complete a change of major form or declaration of major form, respectively; obtain the necessary signatures; and return the form to the registrar or local campus administrative office. An advisor will be assigned from within the new department.

Minor

A course of study in one area consisting of a minimum of 15 credits, including 12 upper-division credits, constitutes a minor. The department may indicate specific courses and the number of credits required.

Non-Academic Grievances 

Regarding a staff member:

Students are encouraged to provide constructive feedback by first sharing the concern directly with the staff member involved. If the matter is not considered resolved, the student may then approach the staff member’s supervisor. Students may contact the Office of Human Resources to determine the appropriate supervisor and contact information.

Regarding a harassment issue:

Heritage University is committed to creating a safe learning and working environment. Harassment is defined as conduct which threatens, intimidates, alarms, or puts a person in fear of his or her safety. Harassment is unwanted, unwelcomed and uninvited behavior that demeans, threatens or offends the victim and results in a hostile environment for the victim. Harassing behavior may include, but is not limited to, epithets, derogatory comments or slurs and lewd propositions, assault, blocking movement, offensive touching and visual insults, such as derogatory posters or cartoons. Students experiencing harassment regarding a staff, faculty member, or third party vendor of Heritage University are encouraged to contact the Office of Human Resources as soon as possible.

If the harassment involves another student, please contact the Office of Student Affairs to report the problem and seek assistance.

Regarding another student:

Students are expected to communicate concerns in a direct and respectful manner. If it is not feasible to approach another student directly, then the student with the concern should contact the Office of Student Affairs for assistance with resolving the matter.

If internal complaint processes have not resolved the issue, you may contact any of the following:

General Complaints:
Washington State Office of the Attorney General
1125 Washington Street SE
PO Box 40100
Olympia, WA 98504
(360) 753-6200
http://www.atg.wa.gov/contact-us

Academic Complaints:
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
8060 165th Avenue N.E. Suite 100
Redmond, WA 98052
(425) 558-4224
(425) 376-0596 (fax)

Re-Admittance/Reinstatement

Former Heritage students who have been inactive for one year (or two terms) are classified as inactive and must apply for re-admittance by completing the regular admissions process.

Returning students who have been inactive for one years will graduate under the catalog current at the time of re-entry. Suspended students may apply for reinstatement after one semester (excluding summer term) from the suspension date by completing the regular admissions process. Reinstated students re-enter on academic probation and follow the academic probation regulations.

Re-admission is a requirement for any matriculated student who has finished a graduate course of study and returns to Heritage for another course of study, such as a certificate or an endorsement. Students seeking re-admittance need to apply for re-admission and pay the current admission fee.

Registration

Students are not permitted to register for courses unless they have been officially admitted to the university and have completed financial arrangements with the Student Accounts Office. Students are encouraged to register for each semester on the days specified in the published schedule. Students will meet with their advisors before registration days to plan a program of courses. New students officially register for all academic credits by completing a registration form, obtaining the assigned advisor’s signature, arranging for tuition and fee charges in the Student Accounts Office and Financial Aid Office, and filing the form in the Registrar’s Office on Toppenish campus or in the appropriate administrative office at off-campus centers.

Currently enrolled students may register during the open enrollment period designated by the events calendar on MyHeritage, the online student information and registration system. No student is permitted in courses unless officially registered. Students who register late are subject to a fee.

Graduate Student Registration

Students with a baccalaureate degree who do not wish to pursue a program toward a graduate degree or certificate may register for courses, if prerequisites are satisfied. Non-matriculated students may take only 8 semester credits.

Registration Changes and Withdrawals

Currently enrolled students may add or drop courses during the open enrollment period by using MyHeritage, the online student information and registration system, after they have completed financial arrangements with the Student Accounts Office. New students may add or drop courses after the open enrollment period by completing the add/drop form, obtaining the advisor’s signature, completing financial arrangements with the Student Accounts Office, and filing a copy in the Registrar’s Office. Courses may be added during the first two weeks of the semester (first 10 percent of short-term courses), as published in the schedule. Courses may be dropped during the first four weeks of the semester (first 25 percent of short-term courses), as published in the schedule. Courses dropped during the first two weeks are not recorded on the student’s permanent record. Requests to drop courses after the first four weeks (25 percent) of a semester require an administrative withdrawal (WA), which must be approved by the registrar before the final two weeks of a course. An add/drop fee is charged except in cases where course cancellations by the university force registration changes.

Repeating Courses

A university course may be repeated. The original and the repeated course remain on the transcript, but only the higher grade is computed in the grade point average, and credit is awarded only once.

Special Topics, Workshops, Seminars and Institutes

Courses that are not listed in the catalog and that are designed to fit the needs of a particular group of students are designated as special topics, and are taught as regularly scheduled courses in a given term. The course number is either 103, 203, 303, 403 or 503, according to the level involved.

Student Records and Responsibilities

Student academic records are confidential, and access to them is limited to the student and, for advisory or other educational purposes, to designated administration and faculty. This policy is consistent with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA). The student’s academic record may not be released to other persons or agencies outside the university without the written permission of the student. Students, upon request, may inspect and review their academic records in the Registrar’s Office. A copy of the university policy in compliance with FERPA is available below and in the Academic Affairs or administrative offices on each campus.

Notification of Student Rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights include the following:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the university receives a request for access. Students should submit to the registrar, dean, head of the academic department, or other appropriate official a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The university official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the university official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
2. The right to request amendment of the student’s educational records that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading. Students may ask the university to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. Students may request amendment of a record by writing the university official responsible for the record, clearly identifying the part of the record they want changed and specifying why it is inaccurate or misleading.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s educational records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failure by Heritage University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The following is the name and address of the office that administers FERPA:

Note: Some student information is considered directory-type data and may be released to the public. Student directory information includes the following:

• Name, address, telephone listing
• Field of study (major)
• Date and place of birth
• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• Dates of attendance, degrees and awards
• Photographs

FERPA Annual Notice to Reflect Possible Federal and State Data Collection and Use

As of January 3, 2012, the U.S. Department of Education’s FERPA regulations expand the circumstances under which your education records and personally identifiable information (PII) contained in such records — including your Social Security Number, grades, or other private information — may be accessed without your consent. First, the U.S. Comptroller General, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education, or state and local education authorities (“Federal and State Authorities”) may allow access to your records and PII without your consent to any third party designated by a Federal or State Authority to evaluate a federal- or state-supported education program. The evaluation may relate to any program that is “principally engaged in the provision of education”, such as early childhood education and job training, as well as any program that is administered by an education agency or institution. Second, Federal and State Authorities may allow access to your education records and PII without your consent to researchers performing certain types of studies, in certain cases even when we object to or do not request such research. Federal and State Authorities must obtain certain use-restriction and data security promises from the entities that they authorize to receive your PII, but the Authorities need not maintain direct control over such entities. In addition, in connection with Statewide Longitudinal Data Systems, State Authorities may collect, compile, permanently retain, and share without your consent PII from your education records, and they may track your participation in education and other programs by linking such PII to other personal information about you that they obtain from other Federal or State data sources, including workforce development, unemployment insurance, child welfare, juvenile justice, military service, and migrant student records systems.

Student Directory Information

Some student information is considered directory-type data, as explained above, and may be released to the public if a student is enrolled at Heritage. Student directory information includes name, current enrollment, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, dates of attendance, field of study (major), honors, degrees, whether full-time or part-time, and photographs. All other information regarding the student academic record is restricted and may not be released.

Students may request that directory information not be released to the public by indicating this during registration or at any time in the Registrar’s Office, Toppenish, the Moses Lake office, the Seattle office or the Kennewick (Tri-Cities) office.

Transcripts

Heritage (and former Fort Wright College) students may obtain copies of their transcripts through a written request to the Registrar’s Office. The request must include the student’s full name, name when taking university courses, dates of attendance, birth date, Social Security number and signature. A $10 fee is required per transcript request. Financial indebtedness to the university will prevent the release of a student’s transcript and diploma.

Student academic records are on file in the Registrar’s Office. Duplicate copies, in the event of a disaster, are available on backup tape in the campus Information Technology Office.

Transcripts from Other Institutions

Student transcripts and other related documents that have been submitted to the university as a requirement for admission become part of the official file and are not returned to students. Copies of these documents cannot legally be released to any other school or agency without permission of the student.

Transfer Credit Policy

1. An official transcript from each regionally accredited higher institution must be submitted. A high school transcript is also required of students who have earned less than 60 semester credits.
2. A Heritage University Placement Assessment is required of students who have less than an A.A. degree. Exceptions are considered on an individual basis.
3. Students who have completed the appropriate Associate of Arts transfer degree (AADTA) from Washington community colleges have satisfied the General University Course Requirements (GUCRs).
4. Students who have completed the Interstate Passport have satisfied the General University Course Requirements (GUCRs).
5. Transfer credits are accepted from regionally accredited (or candidate) colleges and universities with the following restrictions:
   1. Transfer credits must have a minimum grade of 1.70 (C-) on a 4.00 scale for undergraduates and 3.0 (B) for graduates. Note: Individual programs may require higher minimum grades in specific courses in order for program-specific requirements to be met.
   2. A maximum of 60 semester or 90 quarter hours of academic credit is accepted from accredited colleges and universities toward a four-year degree. (Occupational-vocational courses are not accepted although exceptions may be made if relevant to a particular major).
   3. A maximum of 4 semester credits of Physical Education credit is accepted toward a four-year degree.
   4. A maximum of 6 semester credits of courses with a Pass grade is accepted. However, academic departments may have specific regulations regarding Pass courses.
   5. Credits awarded through examination programs or through non-traditional means of obtaining credit are evaluated on individual basis. Heritage University reserves the right to accept or reject such credits depending on the relevance and application of such credits to the total degree program.
   6. Heritage may grant credit for learning sponsored by business, industry, or government if the learning has been evaluated by the American Council on Education (ACE) or by the National College Credit Recommendation Service (NCCRS).
   7. Credit may be granted for educational experience from formal military service schools which have been evaluated by the American Council on Education (ACE) and which are found in The Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Forces.
   8. Domestic and International students who have completed college credits in another country may be considered for freshman admission. Transfer credit is evaluated through a course-by-course analysis and may require review by an external entity with expertise in the field of foreign credential assessment.

The acceptance of cred it is based on factors such as the current status of the transfer study, applicability to the Heritage University program, and quality grades. Informal evaluations of transfer credit may be requested. Such evaluations are subject to change when all official transcripts are received and evaluated by the Registrar. The University reserves the right to evaluate all transfer credits in relation to its programs. Heritage University reserves the right to accept or reject non-traditional means of obtaining credit depending on the relevance and application of such credits to the total degree program.

Transferability of Heritage University Credit

Heritage is an accredited university. Recognition as an accredited university means that the accrediting association recommends that Heritage transcripts be evaluated on the same basis as those of other accredited colleges and universities. Students are reminded that each college and university sets its own rules for accepting particular course credits toward various degree requirements. The Office of Admissions, registrar, or department chair at the institution to which a student wishes to transfer should be consulted about which credits will transfer to fulfill requirements at another institution.

Course Numbering System

The following numbers are reserved in all departments for any level of course. Courses with these numbers must have the approval of the provost/vice president for Academic Affairs and the registrar.

Course Symbols, Prefixes and Descriptions

Each course listing includes a prefix, a course number, a course title, number of contact hours, a course description and, when applicable, a prerequisite.

Writing-Intensive Courses

Recognizing the importance of good writing skills in students’ employment or advanced studies, Heritage University has instituted an intensive writing requirement to ensure that students continue to develop these skills throughout their academic careers. After passing through the mandatory composition sequence (ENG 101 and ENG 102), all students must complete at least four (4) writing-intensive courses, of which at least two (2) must be in the student’s major field of study and at least two (2) must be from the upper level (3XXW or 4XXW). Students transferring at least 60 credits to Heritage must complete at least two (2) writing-intensive courses, of which at least one (1) must be in the student’s major field of student and at least two (2) must be from the upper level. Courses indicated by a “W” in the catalog and semester course schedule fulfill this requirement.

Students enrolled in writing-intensive courses can expect writing assignments throughout the semester. These assignments will be designed to teach the writing skills appropriate to that discipline. Thus, depending on the nature and level of the course, the written work may vary from response cards, lab reports, essay examinations, or other short but frequent assignments to longer reports or academic papers. Students whose written work needs improvement will be referred to the Academic Skills Center or the Writing Center for tutoring both during and after the semester.

The following table identifies the course prefixes and the academic department responsible for administration of the courses at the time of this catalog printing. Complete descriptions of the courses are given in the respective department sections of the catalog.

Prefixes: