Academic & Student Affairs Handbook

(Last Modified March 5, 2019) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.3.7, LEARNING SUPPORT PROGRAMS

(Last Modified April 6, 2011) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 10.0, INFORMATION, RECORDS, AND PUBLICATIONS

Each USG institution shall have an institutional catalog that provides, at a minimum, the following information:

General information about the institution, e.g., mission, accreditation, degrees and certificates offered
Admissions and enrollment
Registration and reentry
Academic resources
Policies and disclosures
Programs of study and required courses
Student services
Course descriptions
Administration and faculty
Graduation requirements

The catalog informs students of expectations. The institution has the right to change the catalog without notice to individual students. It is the student’s responsibility to keep apprised of current graduation requirements for a particular degree program.

2.3.1 Degrees, Majors, and Certificates

(Last Modified November 25, 2024) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.3.1, CORE CURRICULUM
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.8.1, DEGREES, GENERAL

A record of all degrees, majors, and standalone certificates offered by an individual institution shall be on file in the respective registrar’s office and shall be listed in the USG’s database of Academic Programs. A new degree, major, or standalone certificate shall not be listed until it has been approved by the Board of Regents.

2.3.1.1 Degrees and Majors

All degrees and majors require approval to establish, substantively modify, deactivate, or terminate, as described in the Academic and Student Affairs Handbook Sections 2.3.2, 2.3.3, and 2.3.4. Such requests should be made via the Academic Proposals Smartsheet site at https://www.usg.edu/academic_programs/academic_affairs_approvals_and_notifications.

Exclusive of physical education activity/basic health or orientation course hours that the institution may require, the number of credits that can be required for each type of degree awarded by the University System of Georgia is listed below. Exceptions to the program length requirements may be made only with the approval of the Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer of the USG, as outlined in the Academic and Student Affairs Handbook Section 2.3.5.

Associate and Nexus Degrees

Associate degrees for transfer as well as Nexus degrees require exactly 60 semester hours, including 42 credits of the IMPACTS Core.

Career Associate Degrees

Career Associate degrees also require exactly 60 semester hours, with exceptions for career associate degrees in allied health and nursing which can have a maximum of 70 semester hours.

Career Associate degrees must contain a minimum of 20 semester hours of the IMPACTS Core (i.e. General Education Core).

Baccalaureate Degrees

A baccalaureate degree must contain 120 semester hours, including 42 credits of the IMPACTS Core.

A baccalaureate degree program must require at least 21 semester hours of upper division courses in the major field and at least 39 semester hours of upper division work overall.

Master’s Degrees

Master’s degrees consist of a coherent program of study beyond the bachelor’s degree. Master’s degrees are typically 30 semester hours, but institutions can require up to 36 semester hours.

Doctoral and Education Specialist Degrees

Due to the varied nature of disciplines at these levels of study, there are no system wide expectations for the minimum or maximum number of semester hours an institution may require for doctoral programs or education specialist programs.

2.3.1.2 Certificates

A certificate can be considered either a standalone certificate or an embedded certificate.

Standalone Certificates

A standalone certificate can be solely pursued, separate from any other academic program. A student can declare this type of certificate and/or graduate from this type of certificate as they would a degree/major. Standalone certificates require approval to establish, substantively modify, deactivate, or terminate as described in the Academic and Student Affairs Handbook Sections 2.3.2, 2.3.3, and 2.3.4. Such requests should be made via the Academic Proposals Smartsheet site at https://www.usg.edu/academic_programs/academic_affairs_approvals_and_notifications.

Standalone Certificates are classified by the level of courses in the curriculum, as follows:

Undergraduate Certificates

Less than One Year – a certificate that requires less than 30 semester credit hours, and typically at least 9 credit hours. The degree acronym is CER0.
One Year – a certificate that requires between 30 - 59 semester credit hours. The degree acronym is CER1.

Graduate Certificates

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate – a certificate beyond the bachelor’s degree that does not meet the requirements for a master’s degree. The degree acronym is CERG.
Post-Master’s Certificate – a certificate beyond the master’s degree that does not meet the requirements for a doctoral degree. The degree acronym is CERM.
Post-First Professional Certificate – a certificate beyond the first professional degree. The degree acronym is CERP.

Embedded Certificates

An embedded certificate is typically a subset of courses required as part of a degree/major where students in the specified degree/major are awarded the certificate upon graduating in that degree/major. Students do not enroll in this type of certificate; they enroll in the associated degree/major.

For example, students in a Bachelor of Arts in English program may be required as part of their BA English to take the necessary coursework to also receive a professional writing certificate upon graduation. If this certificate is only awarded to BA English students and those students will automatically receive the certificate upon graduate, it is an embedded certificate. However, if this certificate is also available to students in other program (e.g., Bachelor of Business Administration) who can elect whether or not to pursue the certificate, then it becomes a standalone certificate.

Embedded Certificates do not require notification to or approval by the University System of Georgia or Board of Regents; they are not listed on the Degrees and Majors inventory.

2.3.2 New Academic Programs

(Last Modified September 22, 2021) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.6.1, CREATION OF ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

New Degree Programs Overview

All proposals for new degree programs must be consistent with the college or university mission and must be high on the list of academic priorities as delineated in the institution’s strategic plan. It is expected that the institution will have already planned for redirected internal resources toward support of the proposed program before asking for new resources centrally. Program proposals requesting new state funding should be forwarded to the Chancellor as a part of the annual budget request, which will be the only time program proposals requiring new state funds will be accepted for review.

The Office of Academic Affairs in the University System Office will review new proposals using the guidelines at the following URL: https://www.usg.edu/academic_programs/new_program_proposal_forms_and_resources .

2.3.2.1 Academic Program Forecast

Added: February 2011; Revised November 2014; Revised July 2016

An annual report should be forwarded electronically to the Office of Academic Programs presenting an academic program forecast of potential new programs. All programs included in the forecast should be consistent with the college or university mission and must be high on the list of academic priorities as delineated in the institution’s strategic plan. This forecast should only include programs the institution definitely plans to implement. Institutions are required to include new programs, existing programs if planning to evolve to an online teaching format that will exceed 50% online. Future online programs should also be included. New programs that are not part of the most current forecast may be forwarded to the BOR; however, submitting programs not included in the academic program forecast must be justified.

The academic program forecast should be forwarded to the Office of Academic Programs using the linked form.

2.3.3 Deactivation and Termination of Academic Programs

(Last Modified April 28, 2021) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.6.2, TERMINATION OF ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

When applied to educational programs, the terms “termination” and “discontinuation” refer to the same action. Termination means that the institution is no longer authorized to offer the program. Termination requires Board approval, and subsequent reinstatement must be handled as submission of a proposal for a new program.

When applied to educational programs, the terms “temporary suspension” and “deactivation,” refer to the same action. Presidents can temporarily suspend a program for a period not to exceed two academic years, without obtaining Board approval, and may subsequently reinstate the program within that period.

However, the President of the institution should advise the Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer of the USG or the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic Programs of such actions. If the suspension has not been (or will not be) lifted (i.e., the program has not been reactivated) by the end of the second academic year, the president should take action to terminate the program. The institution’s Office of Academic Affairs will submit a request to terminate an academic program with the following information:

Termination date to coincide with the a regularly scheduled Board meeting
Confirmation that no students are currently matriculating through the program or confirmation that any remaining students in the program have been appropriately advised and counseled concerning degree program options
Confirmation that termination of the program will not have an adverse impact on tenured and non-tenured faculty or students
Rationale for terminating the program
Length of time that the program was in a deactivated status, if at all, before requesting action to terminate

A suspended program remains an authorized program at the institution, but new students are no longer permitted to enroll. Suspended programs should not be listed in the college catalog but will remain in the Degrees and Majors inventory of the Board with a notation that they are on a deactivated status.

For details and forms related to the deactivation and termination process, see https://www.usg.edu/academic_programs/academic_affairs_approvals_and_notifications.

2.3.4 Program Modification

(Last Modified April 28, 2021) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 8.3.7.9, TERMINATION OR LAYOFF OF TENURED PERSONNEL DUE TO PROGRAM MODIFICATION
BOARD MINUTES, 1/2008

Institutions that find themselves in programmatic decline as a result of a significant change in institutional mission or academic priorities, shall request a program modification from the Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer of the USG or the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic Programs. The President or Vice President of Academic Affairs shall include the following in the request:

List of programs that require permanent termination
List of impacted faculty, staff, and administrators
List of tenured faculty out of those impacted
Rationale for permanent reduction in programs
Request for in-depth study by academic staff
Request for report and timeline
Request to include outside evaluators with list of evaluators included
Request for action by the Board of Regents within the specified timetable
Analysis and impact statement on facilities and fiscal resources
Plan for student advisement with regard to other available academic programs
Plan for any current matriculants in programs slated for permanent termination
Plan for communications and notification to the campus community

For details and forms related to program modification, see https://www.usg.edu/academic_programs/academic_affairs_approvals_and_notifications.

2.3.5 Exceptions to Program Length Requirements

(Last Modified August 27, 2024) Report a broken link

SOURCE: BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.8.1, DEGREES, GENERAL

When institutions propose new or modified programs that are outside the limits of required semester hours as outlined in the Academic and Student Affairs Handbook Section 2.3.1, a rationale for a waiver of program length requirements must be submitted as part of the request. The following guided questions should be used to aid institutions in determining whether a waiver is warranted and in preparing the rationale for the request.

Landscape of Higher Ed Considerations

Are the program learning outcomes, breadth/depth of course content, and associated credit hours common and consistent with state and/or national trends?
Do the associated credit hours meet the federal requirement for the definition of a credit hour?
Have you reviewed the overall structure of the curriculum, including general education and prerequisite courses?

Accreditation Considerations

Is the program accredited by a discipline-specific agency? If so, please provide an alignment between the courses and associated credit hours with the standards and requirements of the accrediting body. Please also provide a link and/or documentation to the standards and requirements.
Are any courses or the associated amount of credit hours in excess of the accreditation requirements?

Pedagogical Considerations

Are there pedagogical best practices being employed that increase the credit hour requirement in order to enhance student success? If so, please explain.
Is there a way to employ these practices with fewer credit hours?

External Considerations

Are there workforce/industry needs that require additional credits beyond the academic degree/major?
Could these be accomplished through alternative means, such as add-on minors, certificates or microcredentials?

Student Considerations

What is the impact on students?
What is the impact on student time to degree?
Are the requirements lower if the students have prior learning (e.g., a bachelor’s degree in the field if the program in question is a master’s)?

2.3.6 Comprehensive Program Review (CPR)

(Last Modified October 31, 2024) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.6.3, COMPREHENSIVE ACADEMIC PROGRAM REVIEW

The Comprehensive Program Review process is a campus-based program review with the University System Office serving in an oversight capacity to evaluate initial program review processes and conduct periodic audits. For information about institutional responsibilities see http://www.usg.edu/academic_programs/.

Comprehensive Academic Program Review

Each USG institution shall conduct academic program review on a periodic basis. Consistent with efforts in institutional effectiveness and strategic planning, each USG institution shall develop procedures to evaluate the effectiveness of its academic programs to address the quality, viability, and productivity of efforts in teaching and learning, scholarship, and service as appropriate to the institution’s mission. Institutional review of academic programs shall involve analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data, and institutions must demonstrate that they make judgments about the future of academic programs within a culture of evidence. Planning and conduct of academic program reviews shall be used for the progressive improvement and adjustment of programs in the context of the institution’s strategic plan and in response to findings and recommendations of the reviews. Adjustment may include program enhancement, maintenance at the current level, reduction in scope, or, if fully justified, consolidation or termination.

2.3.6.1 Academic Programs

An institution’s cycle of review for all undergraduate academic programs shall be no longer than seven (7) years, and for all graduate programs no longer than ten (10) years.
Newly approved programs should automatically be reviewed no later than seven years after launch. If successfully reviewed, the new program will then become part of the regular institutional cycle.
If the review of either an ongoing or new program is unsuccessful, the institution will present a plan of action to the System Office.
Programs accredited by external entities may not substitute an external review for institutional program review, but material submitted as part of an external accreditation process may be used in the institutional review.
Institutions may align program review cycles with required external accreditation review, so long as no program review cycle at any level exceeds ten (10) years.

2.3.6.2 General Education and Learning Support

Institutions must also review General Education every five (5) years; if that review results in changes to general education learning outcomes (i.e. the IMPACTS Core learning outcomes), the changes must be submitted for review and approval by the Council on General Education.
Institutions are also encouraged to review Learning Support programs.

2.3.6.3 English Language Programs

Reviews of English-as-a-Second Language Programs (ESL) will be conducted tri-annually by a USG ESL Programs Stakeholder Committee designated by the USG International Education Office.
Each institution should provide the information requested on the USG English Proficiency and English Language Programs Form.
The USG Programs Stakeholder Committee will review all USG ESL programs to ensure the quality, viability, and productivity of all programs.
Review approval results in designation as a USG campus-based ESL program of study. Completion of any approved USG campus-based ESL program of study meets the USG English Proficiency requirement for admission at all USG institutions.
New ESL programs must submit the USG English Proficiency and English Language Program Form before program implementation.

2.4 General Education Core Curriculum: The IMPACTS Core

(Last Modified August 21, 2024) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.3.1, CORE CURRICULUM
BOARD OF REGENTS MINUTES, 10/4/2023

Archived Policies on the USG Core Pre-IMPACTS Core

Core IMPACTS Framework: The University System of Georgia (USG) is a composite of diverse institutions that require system wide coherence to facilitate success for students. To achieve these ends, the USG has outlined a Core IMPACTS curriculum that will serve as a guide for institutions to develop and refine course selections that will enable students to meet the Learning Outcomes and Career-Ready Competencies for each Core IMPACTS area. There are seven Core IMPACTS domains. IMPACTS is a mnemonic for the core curriculum, as shown in the table below.

Core IMPACTS Mnemonic	Domain Shorthand
Institutional Priority	Institution
Mathematics & Quantitative Skills	Mathematics
Political Science and U.S. History	Citizenship
Arts, Humanities & Ethics	Humanities
Communicating in Writing	Writing
Technology, Mathematics, & Sciences	STEM
Social Sciences	Social Sciences

The Core IMPACTS framework will help students find more meaning in the core curriculum and face fewer barriers to their progression. Consequently, they will stay in college, they will graduate faster, and they will be better prepared for their eventual careers.

System wide learning outcomes for each Core IMPACTS area have been developed and approved by the Council on General Education in consultation with the University System Office. All Core IMPACTS Learning Outcomes are collegiate level, broadly focused, aligned with the mission of the USG, and broadly consistent with the current learning goals at USG institutions.

In addition, the USG has identified Career-Ready Competencies to be developed by taking courses in each Core IMPACTS area. Career-Ready Competencies are broad transferable skills that go beyond the content of specific courses. Our stakeholders and employers within the state are vitally interested in these Career-Ready Outcomes and want to know that they are being cultivated within the Core Curriculum/Core IMPACTS. The goal is to ensure that students have a chance to develop these competencies within the context of Core Curriculum/Core IMPACTS courses, as well as to label them so that students are aware that they have had the opportunity to develop these competencies.

2.4.1 Core IMPACTS Domains - Credit Hours

(Last Modified July 22, 2024) Report a broken link

Every institution in the University System of Georgia will have Core IMPACTS of precisely 42 semester hours plus a Field of Study domain of precisely 18 hours. All students must meet the Core IMPACTS and Field of Study requirements of the institutions from which they receive their degrees. However, see the rules regarding transfer credit in Section 2.4.10 Transfer Rules.

System wide Learning Outcomes for each Core IMPACTS domain have been established and approved by the Council on General Education.

Each institution’s Core IMPACTS requirements must add up to 42 semester credit hours, with minimum credit hours in each domain as follows:

Core IMPACTS	Domain Shorthand	Credit Hours
Institutional Priority	Institution	At least 3 credit hours
Mathematics & Quantitative Skills	Mathematics	At least 3 credit hours
Political Science and U.S. History	Citizenship	At least 3 credit hours
Arts, Humanities & Ethics	Humanities	At least 6 credit hours
Communicating in Writing	Writing	At least 6 credit hours
Technology, Mathematics & Sciences*	STEM	At least 7 credit hours*
Social Sciences	Social Sciences	At least 3 credit hours

*At least 4 of the STEM credit hours must be in a lab science course. Given the science and math requirements of the STEM disciplines, any institution that wishes to drop STEM below 10 hours must make a compelling intellectual case that its core proposal will not lead to students knowing less about STEM. [An example of such a compelling case might be if the institution proposed to put 3 or more hours of math in the Institution domain and 7 hours of natural science in the STEM domain.]

(Last Modified October 12, 2020) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3, ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
BoR POLICY MANUAL 8, PERSONNEL
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.4.1, SEMESTER SYSTEM
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.4.2, UNIFORM ACADEMIC CALENDAR
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.4.3, RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.4.4, INSTRUCTIONAL TIME
BoR POLICY MANUAL 8.2.6, HOLIDAYS

Procedures related to the Calendar of Academic Activities for USG institutions include the following information:

Semester System
Determination of specific days and times of course offerings is left to the discretion of the institution in order to provide for flexible scheduling within the parameters of BOR Policy 3.4.1

Uniform Academic Calendar
The starting and ending dates for each semester are determined by the Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer of the USG. The following link provides information concerning the earliest starting and latest ending dates by term for each institution: http://www.usg.edu/academics/calendars/.

Religious Holiday Schedule
Decisions as to which religious holidays are covered by institutional policy are left to the discretion of individual USG institutions since the characteristics of the student body and faculty may vary considerably among institutions. The intent and spirit of the policy should be honored by making special arrangements for individuals where such an action is deemed to be best for the institution as a whole.

Cancellation of Classes
If severe weather requires the cancellation of classes, “makeup” days shall be scheduled according to the academic calendar of the institution with sensitivity to institutionally established dates. Any rescheduling shall observe the institution’s policy on religious holidays.

Institutional Holidays
USG institutions shall have twelve official paid holidays each calendar year for employees. The paid holidays are in addition to earned vacation time. Terminated employees are not paid for official holidays or sick leave after the last working day of employment.

2.4.2 System wide Orienting Questions, Learning Outcomes, and Career-Ready Competencies for Core IMPACTS Domains

(Last Modified July 22, 2024) Report a broken link

System wide Orienting Questions, Learning Outcomes (LOs), and Career-Ready Competencies (CRCs) have been developed for each Core IMPACTS domain defined as follows:

Core IMPACTS: Orienting Questions
These are questions that are intended to orient students to what is covered in each Core IMPACTS domain and to pique student interest.

Core IMPACTS: Learning Outcomes (LOs)
System wide Learning Outcomes have been developed for each Core IMPACTS domain. These Learning Outcomes have intentionally been defined broadly, so that existing institutional courses and learning outcomes will generally fit the systemwide Core IMPACTS Outcomes. Each course included in Core IMPACTS should ensure that students can meet the Learning Outcomes and Career-Ready Competencies specified for the domain.

Core IMPACTS: Career-Ready Competencies (CRCs)
Core IMPACTS Career-Ready Competencies are broad transferable skills that go beyond the content of specific courses. Responsibility for cultivating Career-Ready Competencies has been assigned to courses in each Core IMPACTS domain and it is expected that students will develop these competencies through taking these combinations of courses.

These competencies are defined in the table below. The definitions are sourced from the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) Value Rubrics, the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the “soft skills” listed in O*Net, as well as desired employability skills identified from surveys of Georgia employers.

Career-Ready Competencies	Definition
Critical Thinking	Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative approaches to solving problems and making decisions
Ethical Reasoning	Assessing one’s own ethical values, recognizing ethical issues in a variety of settings, thinking about how different perspectives might apply to ethical dilemmas, and considering the ramifications of alternative actions
Information Literacy	Recognizing when information is needed, and locating, evaluating, synthesizing, and effectively using the needed information, while appropriately crediting the original source of information
Inquiry and Analysis	Exploring the world, and supporting informed conclusions through the collection, evaluation, and use of relevant evidence
Intercultural Competence	Developing knowledge, skills and behaviors that support effective and appropriate interaction in a variety of cultural contexts
Perspective-Taking	Considering perspectives other than one’s own and allowing new information, differing opinions, and others’ experiences to impress upon one’s thinking, understanding, and appreciation of others
Persuasion	Using messages that are intentionally designed to appeal to another’s reason, emotions, or both, in order to enact change
Problem-Solving	Designing, evaluating, and implementing strategies to solve problems using data, knowledge and facts
Teamwork	Building and maintaining collaborative relationships to work effectively toward common goals, while appreciating diverse viewpoints and shared responsibilities
Time Management	Prioritizing and structuring tasks and resources to achieve an effective use of time while performing goal-directed activities

The Orienting Questions, Learning Outcomes, and Career-Ready Competencies assigned to each Core IMPACTS domain are listed in the table below.

Core IMPACTS (Domain Shorthand)	Orienting Question	Learning Outcome(s)	Career-Ready Competencies
Institutional Priority (Institution)	How does my institution help me to navigate the world?	Students will demonstrate the ability to think critically and solve problems related to academic priorities at their institution.	Critical Thinking, Teamwork, & Time Management
Mathematics & Quantitative Skills (Mathematics)	How do I measure the world?	Students will apply mathematical and computational knowledge to interpret, evaluate, and communicate quantitative information using verbal, numerical, graphical, or symbolic forms.	Information Literacy, Inquiry and Analysis, & Problem-Solving
Political Science and U.S. History (Citizenship)	How do I prepare for my responsibilities as an engaged citizen?	Students will demonstrate knowledge of the history of the United States, the history of Georgia, and the provisions and principles of the United States Constitution and the Constitution of Georgia.	Critical Thinking, Intercultural Competence, & Persuasion
Arts, Humanities & Ethics (Humanities)	How do I interpret the human experience through creative, linguistic, and philosophical works?	Students will effectively analyze and interpret the meaning, cultural significance, and ethical implications of literary/philosophical texts or of works in the visual/performing arts.	Ethical Reasoning, Information Literacy, & Intercultural Competence
Communicating in Writing (Writing)	How do I write effectively in different contexts?	1) Students will communicate effectively in writing, demonstrating clear organization and structure, using appropriate grammar and writing conventions. 2) Students will appropriately acknowledge the use of materials from original sources. 3) Students will adapt their written communications to purpose and audience. 4) Students will analyze and draw informed inferences from written texts.	Critical Thinking, Information Literacy, & Persuasion
Technology, Mathematics & Sciences (STEM)	How do I ask scientific questions or use data, mathematics, or technology to understand the universe?	Students will use the scientific method and laboratory procedures or mathematical and computational methods to analyze data, solve problems, and explain natural phenomena.	Inquiry and Analysis, Problem-Solving, & Teamwork
Social Sciences (Social Sciences)	How do I understand human experiences and connections?	Students will effectively analyze the complexity of human behavior, and how historical, economic, political, social, or geographic relationships develop, persist, or change.	Intercultural Competence, Perspective-Taking, & Persuasion

Systemwide Orienting Questions, Learning Outcomes, and Career-Ready Competencies must be centerpieces of Core IMPACTS courses and must be clearly listed in the syllabus for each instance of a Core IMPACTS course. A template for the required syllabus statement is provided below. The syllabus statement must be included in the syllabus for all sections of each Core IMPACTS course. Instructors in courses that are part of Core IMPACTS must be aware of their responsibilities to ensure that students meet these Core IMPACTS Learning Outcomes and develop the specified Career-Ready Competencies through their participation in the courses.

Course PREFIX and Number COURSE TITLE

This is a Core IMPACTS course that is part of the XXXX domain.

Core IMPACTS refers to the core curriculum, which provides students with essential knowledge in foundational academic domains. This course will help students master course content and support students’ broad academic and career goals.

This course should direct students toward a broad Orienting Question: • [Insert University System of Georgia Orienting Question here.]

Completion of this course should enable students to meet the following Learning Outcome: • [Insert University System of Georgia Learning Outcome here.]

Course content, activities and exercises in this course should help students develop the following Career-Ready Competencies: • [Insert University System of Georgia career-ready competencies here.]

2.4.3 Rules for Including Courses in the IMPACTS Core

(Last Modified July 22, 2024) Report a broken link

Every institution must offer a path to completing all Core IMPACTS requirements composed exclusively of 1000- and 2000-level courses. Other approved 3000- and 4000-level courses may also be placed in Core IMPACTS domains. See Section 2.4.9 for course approval procedures.

Physical education activity/basic health requirements may not be placed in Core IMPACTS domains. Up to four hours of physical education activity/basic health courses may be required outside of Core IMPACTS in excess of the maximum number of hours indicated for undergraduate degrees. Offerings in physical education/health in excess of the maximum number of hours indicated for undergraduate degrees must be limited to activity, basic health information, first aid, CPR, and safety courses. Transferring students taking physical education/basic health hours at one institution may not be required to duplicate these hours at the receiving institution.

Orientation courses may not be placed in Core IMPACTS domains. Up to four hours of orientation courses may be required outside of Core IMPACTS in excess of the maximum number of hours indicated for undergraduate degrees. Transferring students taking orientation hours at one institution may be required to take additional orientation hours (outside the maximum hours indicated for the undergraduate degree) at the receiving institution.

Courses with a primary emphasis on studio, performance, field study, or internship may only be placed in the Institutional Priority Core IMPACTS domain and will only be approved for that domain if there is a clear academic focus connected to the activity goals of these courses.

Courses in Core IMPACTS domains may not carry a fraction of a semester hour of credit.

Except as required by accrediting agencies, credits earned in Core IMPACTS do not have an expiration date.

Institutions may not permit the completion of any course to fulfill requirements in more than one Core IMPACTS domain. Where the same course is authorized in more than one Core IMPACTS domain, the course cannot be double-counted. That is, the student completing the course to meet the requirements of one domain must take another course in the second domain to meet the requirements of the second domain. Courses in Core IMPACTS domains may also meet course requirements in the Field of Study domain or major domains, but the credit for such courses may not count for two domains.

2.4.4 Details Regarding Courses in Core IMPACTS Domains

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All courses in Core IMPACTS domains must be taught at the collegiate level and be broadly focused. They must clearly address the system wide Learning Outcomes for the Core IMPACTS domains. They must be consistent with the institution’s and the University System of Georgia’s missions and strategic plans.

Institutions may not require students in particular majors to take specific courses to meet Core IMPACTS requirements. Successful completion of any course listed for a Core IMPACTS domain should be credited toward meeting that Core IMPACTS requirement, even if it is not the most appropriate course for the major.

However, students must be made aware that choosing courses that are not appropriate for their majors in Core IMPACTS domains may leave them with unmet prerequisites in their majors, despite having met Core IMPACTS requirements. This is particularly important for students majoring in the Health Professions and STEM disciplines.

Institutional Priority (Institution)

Courses in this domain must include analytical, historical, critical and/or appreciative material.
Courses with a primary emphasis on studio, performance, field study, or internship may be placed in this domain if there is a clear academic focus connected to the activity goals of these courses.

Mathematics & Quantitative Skills (Mathematics)

If offered, MATH 1001, MATH 1101, MATH 1111 and MATH 1113 must be placed in this domain. MATH 1113 may also be placed in the STEM domain. Institutions may also place MATH/STAT 1401 in the Mathematics domain. Other approved courses (e.g., Calculus I) may be placed in this domain. See Section 2.4.9 for course approval rules.

Courses in symbolic logic and math for liberal arts may not be used to meet the Mathematics domain requirement.

Most courses that meet the Mathematics requirement are three credit hours. Four credit hour courses taken in this domain will yield an extra credit hour that cannot be counted in the Mathematics domain. This extra credit hour may be applied to the Field of Study domain or general degree requirements outside of the Core IMPACTS framework.

Students who have earned 30 collegiate credit hours but have not completed the Mathematics requirement must enroll in the course necessary to complete the Mathematics domain requirement in every semester in which they take classes.

Math Pathways

The choice of an appropriate mathematics course in the Mathematics domain can have important consequences for student progression. This is particularly important for students planning to major in STEM disciplines.

Specific mathematics recommendations for students in various disciplines are listed at https://www.usg.edu/curriculum/mathematics_pathways. Students who take a course in the Mathematics domain other than the recommended math course for their majors may later have to take an additional mathematics course outside of the Core IMPACTS requirement to meet mathematics requirements for their majors.

STEM majors (other than Engineering)

Most STEM majors should take Precalculus (MATH 1113) or College Trigonometry (MATH 1112) in the Mathematics domain. (At institutions where College Trigonometry (MATH 1112) serves as the prerequisite to Calculus I, College Trigonometry should be considered equivalent to Precalculus.)

Engineering Majors

All Engineering majors and students in all programs at the Georgia Institute of Technology should fulfill the Mathematics domain requirement with a calculus course.

Business Majors

Institutions differ widely in their recommendations for the Mathematics domain requirement for Business Majors. Students should consult the table on First Math Courses for Business Majors at https://www.usg.edu/curriculum/mathematics_pathways.

Other majors

Students in majors not listed above should consult the Math Pathway recommendations for their majors at: https://www.usg.edu/curriculum/mathematics_pathways

Political Science and U.S. History (Citizenship)

Courses designed to satisfy the U.S./Georgia history and constitutions requirements (Georgia Legislative Requirements) must be placed in this domain. These courses must include analytical, historical, critical and/or appreciative material.

Arts, Humanities, and Ethics

Courses in this domain may focus on humanities, fine arts, or ethics. These courses must include analytical, historical, critical, and/or appreciative material.

Communicating in Writing (Writing)

If offered, ENGL 1101 and ENGL 1102 must be placed in this domain. Other approved courses may be placed in this domain. See Section 2.4.9 for course approval rules.

Students who have earned 30 collegiate credit hours but have not completed the Writing requirement must enroll in the next course necessary to make progress toward completing the Writing domain requirements in every semester in which they take classes.

Technology, Mathematics & Sciences (STEM)

Courses in this domain may include science, technology, engineering, and advanced mathematics courses. These courses must be introductory and broadly focused. They must be analytic in nature and have a problem-solving component.

All USG institutions require three courses in the STEM domain. Typically, the requirement is for two science courses and one course in technology or higher-level mathematics. The choice of an appropriate courses in the STEM domain can have important consequences for student progression. This is particularly important for students planning to major in STEM disciplines or Health Professions. Students who take a course in the STEM domain other than the recommended course(s) for their major may later have to take additional courses outside of the Core IMPACTS requirements to meet requirements for their majors.

Students who take 11 or 12 credit hours in this domain may earn extra credit(s) that cannot be counted in the STEM domain. This extra credit(s) may be applied to the Field of Study domain or general degree requirements outside of the Core IMPACTS framework.

Creative writing and technical communication courses may not be included in the STEM domain.

STEM Domain Course Recommendations by Major

Non-STEM	Health Professions, including Nursing	STEM
Students may take any of the science courses offered in this domain. Courses with titles beginning with “General” or “Introductory” are usually intended for non-STEM majors.	Students should take a two-semester laboratory sequence in physics, chemistry, or biology.	Students should take two four-hour laboratory science courses in the STEM domain.
Students may take any of the courses approved for the STEM domain at their institutions as their third STEM course.	The appropriate biology courses are Introductory Biology or Principles of Biology	Science courses titled “Principles of …” are designed for STEM majors.
	The appropriate Chemistry courses are the Survey of Chemistry sequence (CHEM 1151-1152), which is designed for health professions majors, or Principles of Chemistry, which is designed for STEM majors.	STEM students may need a higher-level mathematics (above what was taken for the Mathematics requirement) in this domain.

Social Sciences (Social Sciences)

These courses must include analytical, historical, critical and/or appreciative material.

2.4.5 Pre-requisite Rules

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Courses in one Core IMPACTS domain may be prerequisites for other courses in that domain (e.g., ENGL 1101 is typically a prerequisite for ENGL 1102).

Courses in one Core IMPACTS domain may be prerequisites for courses in another Core IMPACTS domain, but only with the approval of the Council on General Education.

Institutions should be wary of creating course sequences that make it difficult to complete degree requirements. Exception: If a course is required in order to complete a Core IMPACTS domain, that course may be a prerequisite for a course in another domain or for a course outside of the Core IMPACTS domains without the approval of the Council on General Education (e.g., ENGL 1102 may be prerequisite to 2000-level literature courses, since all students are required to take ENGL 1102).

Institutions may require their students to complete appropriate mathematics course requirements before taking science or additional mathematics courses.

Courses in a Core IMPACTS domain may be prerequisite to courses outside of the Core IMPACTS framework. When courses that are part of a Core IMPACTS domain are prerequisite to courses in the major, institutions must ensure that students are aware that taking a prerequisite course as part of a Core IMPACTS domain may speed their progression through the major.

Courses in a Core IMPACTS domain that are prerequisite to courses in the major must also be listed in the Field of Study domain or in the list of courses required for the major. Approval of the Council on General Education is required in order for courses that are prerequisite to the major to be included in a Core IMPACTS domain.

2.4.6 Rules for Change of Major

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Students switching from a non-science major to a STEM or Health Professions major that have already met requirements for courses in any Core IMPACTS domain will retain credits earned in that domain, but may have additional requirements for their majors that must be met outside of the Core IMPACTS requirements to progress in their majors.

2.4.7 Field of Study Courses

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Field of Study Courses

Field of Study Courses comprise 18 hours usually within the first 60 hours of each student’s Associate, Nexus, or Bachelor’s degree progression and are in addition to the 42 hours required in the General Education IMPACTS Core Domains.

Field of Study Courses should be those that prepare students for entry into their major level courses and should abide by the Field of Study Guidelines posted by each discipline area RAC. Approval by the Council on General Education is not required for courses that an institution chooses to list in their Field of Study. Instead the RACs will periodically review instituional Field of Study course lists for compliance.

Field of Study Learning Outcomes

The Regents’ Academic Advisory Committees will specify learning outcomes for their respective Field of Study Courses. These learning outcomes must be collegiate level and provide an appropriate base for later learning outcomes in the relevant degree programs. They must be consistent with the mission of the University System of Georgia.

Field of Study Course Details

Every institution must offer a path to completing all Field of Study requirements composed exclusively of 1000- and 2000-level courses. Courses at the 3000- or 4000-level may also be offered in the Field of Study, but no student may be required to take them.

Field of Study courses may be prerequisites for other Field of Study courses and/or for major courses at higher levels.

In many cases, courses (e.g. Foreign Language courses) that are required for the Field of Study domain are also offered in a Core Domain, such as the Humanities domain. In these cases the required courses must also be offered in the Field of Study course list. Unless required of all students in the Institutional Priority or Humanities domains, any foreign language courses approved for inclusion in other Core IMPACTS domains must also be included in the Field of Study course list for majors requiring foreign languages, so that foreign language courses included in the Core IMPACTS domains do not become required prerequisites for Field of Study courses.

2.4.8 Common Courses

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Common course prefixes, numbers, titles, descriptions, outlines, and credit hours have been developed to ensure consistency across institutions in lower-level courses that are offered at many institutions across the University System of Georgia and to facilitate and enhance transfer processes. When a course is listed as a common course, institutions are required to use the specified course prefix, number, title, description, outline, and credit hours. Requests for exceptions must be approved by the Council on General Education and the Executive Vice Chancellor/Chief Academic Officer. In some cases, institutions may feel that the specified common course description is too scant. Institutions may add to the common course description, as long as the institutional course description starts with the published common course description. The following are common course prefixes, numbers, titles, and descriptions that all institutions shall use for their programs of study.

Course Prefix and Number	Course Name	Course Description	Credit Hours	IMPACTS Domain or Field of Study designation
ACCT 2101	Principles of Accounting I	A study of the underlying theory and application of financial accounting concepts.	3-0-3	Field of Study Only
ACCT 2102	Principles of Accounting II	A study of the underlying theory and application of managerial accounting concepts.	3-0-3	Field of Study Only
ANTH 1102	Introduction to Anthropology	ANTH 1102 is an examination and analysis of what it means to be human, biologically and culturally. This comparative study of humankind draws materials from the widest possible range of peoples, cultures, and time periods to determine and explain similarities and differences among peoples of the world. This course brings the perspectives of the major sub-fields of anthropology to the study of humanity: cultural anthropology, archeology, anthropological linguistics, and biological anthropology.
ANTH 1103	Introduction to Social Anthropology
ANTH 1104	Introduction to Archaeology
ANTH 1105	Introduction to Biological Anthropology
ANTH 1106	Introduction to Cultural Diversity
ARAB 1001	Elementary Arabic I
ARAB 1002	Elementary Arabic II
ARAB 2001	Intermediate Arabic I
ARAB 2002	Intermediate Arabic II
ART	The Visual Art Common Prefix for Area C and Area F courses is ART (with the fourth letter being an institutional prerogative).
ART 1010 or 2010	Drawing I (1000 or 2000 level to be specified by institution)	Introduction to the techniques, materials and principles of drawing.
ART 1011 or 2011	Drawing II (1000 or 2000 level to be specified by institution)	Techniques, materials and principles of drawing.
ART 1020 or 2020	Two Dimensional Design	The fundamentals of two dimensional design introduced through projects in a variety of media.
ART 1030 or 2030	Three Dimensional Design	An investigation of three dimensional forms and space using various materials and methods.
ART(S) 1100	Art Appreciation	This course focuses on fostering an awareness, understanding, and appreciation for the visual arts. Through exposure to art images throughout history, students will build an artistic vocabulary that allows for the constructive analysis of art objects. Students will also gain an understanding of the interaction of art with other important aspects of culture including politics, history, religion, and science.
ASTR 1000	Introduction to the Universe	A survey of the universe, examining the historical origins of astronomy; the motions and physical properties of the Sun, Moon, and planets; the formation, evolution, and death of stars; and the structure of galaxies and the expansion of the universe.
ASTR 1010	Astronomy of the Solar System	Astronomy from early ideas of the cosmos to modern observational techniques. The solar system planets, satellites, and minor bodies. The origin and evolution of the solar system.
ASTR 1020	Stellar and Galactic Astronomy	The study of the Sun and stars, their physical properties and evolution, interstellar matter, star clusters, our galaxy and other galaxies, and the origin and evolution of the Universe.
ATSC 1112	Understanding the Weather	This course explains the basic processes which control and influence atmospheric conditions, both on a local and global scale. The course will address the composition, origin, and structure of the atmosphere, earth-sun relationships, the atmosphere and energy, atmospheric moisture and state changes in water, air pressure and atmospheric circulation, fog, clouds, air masses, air pollution, climate and climate change, atmospheric optics, and the interaction of all these physical phenomena to produce the weather we experience on our planet. [This course is an alternative version of GEOG 1112.]
ATSC 1112L	Understanding the Weather Lab	This course is the lab component of ATSC 1112 Understanding the Weather. Lab exercises cover geographic coordinate systems and maps, temperature and pressure changes in Earth’s atmosphere, interactions between solar radiation and the Earth, factors which control temperature, daily and annual changes in temperature and precipitation, atmospheric moisture and humidity, formation of clouds, utilization of data charts in understanding and predicting weather conditions, and construction and utilization of weather maps. Additionally, the course will introduce the various instruments used in meteorology: thermometers, barometers, psychrometers, and anemometers.
Biology	For science courses in biology, chemistry, and physics, the sequences designed for non-science majors will be entitled “Introductory Biology, Introductory Chemistry, and Introductory Physics.” The sequences designed for science majors will be entitled “Principles of Biology, Principles of Chemistry, and Principles of Physics.” Combined lecture/lab courses should be indicated with a “K” suffix, and stand-alone lab courses should be indicated with an “L” suffix. The approved course descriptions shown for chemistry illustrate the use of the suffixes. The Principles of Biology sequence will be numbered BIOL 1107 and 1108 (or BIOL 2107 and 2108 for institutions offering the courses in the second year).
BIOL 1107, BIOL 2107, or BIOS 1107	Principles of Biology I	Lecture part of a sequence designed for science majors. Use 1107 if course is offered in first year, 2107 if course is offered in second year at an institution.
BIOL 1107K, BIOL 2107K, or BIOS 1107K	Principles of Biology I	Part of a sequence designed for science majors. Laboratory exercises supplement lecture material. Use 1107K if course is offered in first year, 2107K if course is offered in second year at an institution.
BIOL 1107L, BIOL 2107L, or BIOS 1107L	Principles of Biology I Laboratory	Laboratory exercises supplement the lecture material of BIOL 1107. Use 1107L if course is offered in first year, 2107L if course is offered in second year at an institution.
BIOL 1108, BIOL 2108, or BIOS 1108	Principles of Biology II	Lecture part of a sequence designed for science majors. Use 1108 if course is offered in first year, 2108 if course is offered in second year at an institution.
BIOL 1108K, BIOL 2108K, or BIOS 1108K	Principles of Biology II	Part of a sequence designed for science majors. Laboratory exercises supplement lecture material. Use 1108K if course is offered in first year, 2108K if course is offered in second year at an institution.
BIOL 1108L, BIOL 2108L, or BIOS 1108L	Principles of Biology II Laboratory	Laboratory exercises supplement the lecture material of BIOL 1108. Use 1108L if course is offered in first year, 2108L if course is offered in second year at an institution.
BIOL 2251K	Anatomy and Physiology I	This integrated lecture and laboratory course is the first course in a two-semester sequence designed to explore the biological and chemical processes underlying the structure and function of the human body at the cellular, tissue, organ, and whole-body level. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, biological chemistry; cellular structure and function; tissues; and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. This course includes laboratory exercises that supplement the material covered in lectures. This course is designed primarily for non-biology majors, especially those pursuing majors in nursing and the allied health professions. [Each institution may add advising notes regarding who should or should not take this course.] 3-2/3-4
BIOL 2251	Anatomy and Physiology I	This lecture course is the first course in a two-semester sequence designed to explore the biological and chemical processes underlying the structure and function of the human body at the cellular, tissue, organ, and whole-body level. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, biological chemistry; cellular structure and function; tissues; and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. This course includes laboratory exercises that supplement the material covered in lectures. This course is designed primarily for non-biology majors, especially those pursuing majors in nursing and the allied health professions. [Each institution may add advising notes regarding who should or should not take this course.] Corequisite: BIOL 2251L 3-0-3
BIOL 2251L	Anatomy and Physiology I Laboratory	This course is the laboratory component of BIOL 2251. It is designed to provide hands-on experiences that will enhance and reinforce the content covered in BIOL 2251. [Institutions may add further information appropriate to the way they offer laboratory content.] Corequisite: BIOL 2251 0-2/3-1
BIOL 2252K	Anatomy and Physiology II	This integrated lecture and laboratory course is the second course in a two-semester sequence designed to explore the biological and chemical processes underlying the structure and function of the human body at the cellular, tissue, organ, and whole-body level. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, the cardiovascular, endocrine, lymphatic and immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Metabolism and fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance will also be covered. This course includes laboratory exercises that supplement the material covered in lectures. This course is designed primarily for non-biology majors, especially those pursuing majors in nursing and the allied health professions. [Each institution may add advising notes regarding who should or should not take this course.] 3-2/3-4
BIOL 2252	Anatomy and Physiology II	This lecture course is the second course in a two-semester sequence designed to explore the biological and chemical processes underlying the structure and function of the human body at the cellular, tissue, organ, and whole-body level. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, the cardiovascular, endocrine, lymphatic and immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Metabolism and fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance will also be covered. This course is designed primarily for non-biology majors, especially those pursuing majors in nursing and the allied health professions. [Each institution may add advising notes regarding who should or should not take this course.] Corequisite: BIOL 2252L 3-0-3
BIOL 2252L	Anatomy and Physiology II Laboratory	This course is the laboratory component of BIOL 2252. It is designed to provide hands-on experiences that will enhance and reinforce the content covered in BIOL 2252. [Institutions may add further information appropriate to the way they offer laboratory content.] Corequisite: BIOL 2252 0-2/3-1
BIOL 2260K	Foundations of Microbiology	This integrated lecture and laboratory course provides an introduction to microbiology. This course introduces the student to the diversity and classification of medically significant microorganisms, their modes of pathogenesis and transmission, and the infectious diseases they cause. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, microbial cell biology and genetics; major classes of disease-causing microorganisms; host immune response; microbial control; aseptic technique; disinfection; and isolation, culture, staining, and identification of microorganisms. Select laboratory exercises will provide training in the basic laboratory techniques for culture and identification of microbes. This course is designed primarily for non-biology majors, especially those pursuing majors in nursing and the allied health professions. [Each institution may add advising notes regarding who should or should not take this course.] 3-2/3-4
BIOL 2260	Foundations of Microbiology	This lecture course provides an introduction to microbiology. This course introduces the student to the diversity and classification of medically significant microorganisms, their modes of pathogenesis and transmission, and the infectious diseases they cause. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, microbial cell biology and genetics; major classes of disease-causing microorganisms; host immune response; microbial control; aseptic technique; disinfection; and isolation, culture, staining, and identification of microorganisms. This course is designed primarily for non-biology majors, especially those pursuing majors in nursing and the allied health professions. [Each institution may add advising notes regarding who should or should not take this course.] Corequisite: BIOL 2260L 3-0-3
BIOL 2260L	Foundations of Microbiology Laboratory	Select laboratory exercises will provide training in the basic laboratory techniques for culture and identification of microbes. [Institutions may add further information appropriate to the way they offer laboratory content.] Corequisite: BIOL 2260 0-2/3-1
BUSA 1105	Introduction to Business	An integrative study of the functional areas of business (finance, operations, marketing, human resources, etc.)
BUSA 2105	Communicating in the Business Environment	A course emphasizing both interpersonal and organizational communications; to include written and oral exercises appropriate to business practice.
BUSA 2106	The Environment of Business	An introduction to the legal, regulatory, political, social, ethical, cultural environmental and technological issues which form the context for business; to include an overview of the impact and demographic diversity on organizations.
Chemistry	For science courses in biology, chemistry, and physics, the sequences designed for non-science majors will be entitled “Introductory Biology, Introductory Chemistry, and Introductory Physics.” The sequences designed for science majors will be entitled “Principles of Biology, Principles of Chemistry, and Principles of Physics.” Combined lecture/lab courses should be indicated with a “K” suffix, and stand-alone lab courses should be indicated with an “L” suffix.
CHEM 1100	Introductory Chemistry	A one-semester course covering basic concepts and applications of chemistry designed for non-science majors. There is no laboratory component.
CHEM 1101	Introductory Chemistry I	First course in a two-semester sequence covering the basic principles and applications of chemistry designed for non-science majors. Topics to be covered include atomic structure and isotopes, periodicity and chemical equations.
CHEM 1101K	Introductory Chemistry I	First course in a two-semester sequence covering the basic principles and applications of chemistry designed for non-science majors. Topics to be covered include atomic structure and isotopes, periodicity and chemical equations. Laboratory exercises supplement the lecture material.
CHEM 1101L	Introductory Chemistry I Laboratory	Laboratory exercises designed to supplement the lecture material of CHEM 1101.
CHEM 1102	Introductory Chemistry II	Second course in a two-semester sequence covering the basic principles and applications of chemistry designed for non-science majors.
CHEM 1102K	Introductory Chemistry II	Second course in a two-semester sequence covering the basic principles and applications of chemistry designed for non-science majors. Laboratory exercises supplement the lecture material.
CHEM 1102L	Introductory Chemistry II Laboratory	Laboratory exercises designed to supplement the lecture material of CHEM 1102.
CHEM 1151	Survey of Chemistry I	First course in a two-semester sequence covering elementary principles of general, organic and biochemistry designed for allied health professions majors. Topics to be covered include elements and compounds, chemical equations, nomenclature, and molecular geometry.
CHEM 1151K	Survey of Chemistry I	First course in a two-semester sequence covering elementary principles of general, organic and biochemistry designed for allied health professions majors. Topics to be covered include elements and compounds, chemical equations, nomenclature, and molecular geometry. Laboratory exercises supplement the lecture material.
CHEM 1151L	Survey of Chemistry Laboratory I	Laboratory exercises designed to supplement the lecture material of CHEM 1151.
CHEM 1152	Survey of Chemistry II	Second course in a two-semester sequence covering elementary principles of general, organic and biochemistry designed for allied health professions majors.
CHEM 1152K	Survey of Chemistry II	Second course in a two-semester sequence covering elementary principles of general, organic and biochemistry designed for allied health professions majors. Laboratory exercises supplement the lecture material.
CHEM 1152L	Survey of Chemistry Laboratory II	Laboratory exercises designed to supplement the lecture material of CHEM 1152.
CHEM 1211	Principles of Chemistry I	First course in a two-semester sequence covering the fundamental principles and applications of chemistry designed for science majors. Topics to be covered include composition of matter, stoichiometry, periodic relations, and nomenclature.
CHEM 1211K	Principles of Chemistry I	First course in a two-semester sequence covering the fundamental principles and applications of chemistry designed for science majors. Topics to be covered include composition of matter, stoichiometry, periodic relations, and nomenclature. Laboratory exercises supplement the lecture material.
CHEM 1211L	Principles of Chemistry Laboratory I	Laboratory exercises designed to supplement the lecture material of CHEM 1211.
CHEM 1212	Principles of Chemistry II	Second course in a two-semester sequence covering the fundamental principles and applications of chemistry designed for science majors.
CHEM 1212K	Principles of Chemistry II	Second course in a two-semester sequence covering the fundamental principles and applications of chemistry designed for science majors. Laboratory exercises supplement the lecture material.
CHEM 1212L	Principles of Chemistry Laboratory II	Laboratory exercises designed to supplement the lecture material of CHEM 1212.
CHIN 1001	Elementary Chinese I
CHIN 1002	Elementary Chinese II
CHIN 2001	Intermediate Chinese I
CHIN 2002	Intermediate Chinese II
COMM 1100	Human Communication	A broad approach to oral communication skills including intrapersonal, interpersonal, small group, and public speaking
COMM 1110	Public Speaking	The organization of materials and the vocal and physical aspects of delivery in various speaking situations.
CSCI 1301	Computer Science I	The course includes an overview of computers and programming; problem solving and algorithm development; simple data types; arithmetic and logic operators; selection structures; repetition structures; text files; arrays (one-and-two-dimensional); procedural abstraction and software design; modular programming (including subprograms or the equivalent).
CSCI 1302	Computer Science II	The course includes an overview of abstract data types (ADTs); arrays (multi-dimensional) and records; sets and strings; binary files; searching and sorting; introductory algorithm analysis (including Big-O); recursion; pointers and linked lists; software engineering concepts; dynamic data structures (stacks, queues, trees).
DATA 1501	Introduction to Data Science	This course is intended to provide an introduction into the field of Data Science. Students will develop skills in appropriate technology and basic statistical methods by completing hands-on projects focused on real-world data and addresses the social consequences of data analysis and application. Link to course outline. This is a templated course.
ECON 1101	Economics of Financial Literacy	This course explores the microeconomic and macroeconomic principles that underpin financial literacy, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making in personal finance. In this class, students will learn how to apply economic thinking to real-world financial situations and develop the skills necessary to make sound financial decisions. Specifically, students will learn how to use economic theories and concepts to make informed decisions about budgeting, cash flow management, maximizing their earnings potential, tax planning, obtaining and using credit, saving and investments, insurance and risk management, and retirement. The course will emphasize the importance of understanding the broader economic context when developing and implementing financial plans. Link to course outline. This is a templated course.	3-0-3	Social Sciences
ECON 2105	Principles of Macroeconomics	This principles of economics course is intended to introduce students to concepts that will enable them to understand and analyze economic aggregates and evaluate economic policies.	3-0-3	Field of Study and Social Sciences
ECON 2106	Principles of Microeconomics	This principles of economics course is intended to introduce students to concepts that will enable them to understand and analyze structure and performance of the market economy.	3-0-3	Field of Study and Social Sciences
EDUC 2110	Investigating Critical & Contemporary Issues in Education	This course engages students in observations, interactions, and analyses of critical and contemporary educational issues. Students will investigate issues influencing the social and political contexts of educational settings in Georgia and the United States. Students will actively examine the teaching profession from multiple vantage points both within and outside the school. Against this backdrop, students will reflect on and interpret the meaning of education and schooling in a diverse culture and examine the moral and ethical responsibilities of teaching in a democracy.	3-0-3	Field of Study Only
EDUC 2120	Exploring Socio-Cultural Perspectives on Diversity in Educational Contexts	Given the rapidly changing demographics in our state and country, this course is designed to equip future teachers with the fundamental knowledge of understanding culture and teaching children from diverse backgrounds. Specifically, this course is designed to examine 1) the nature and function of culture; 2) the development of individual and group cultural identity; 3) definitions and implications of diversity, and 4) the influences of culture on learning, development, and pedagogy.	3-0-3	Field of Study Only
EDUC 2130	Exploring Learning & Teaching	Explore key aspects of learning and teaching through examining your own learning processes and those of others, with the goal of applying your knowledge to enhance the learning of all students in a variety of educational settings and contexts.	3-0-3	Field of Study Only
EDUC 2140	Foundations of Reading	This course provides a scientifically based foundation in the cognitive, sociocultural, linguistic, and motivational influences on reading. Concepts of word recognition, phonology, phonics, morphology, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension are presented. Connections to written expression, discourse writing, and special populations in varied contexts are explored.	3-0-3	Field of Study Only
ENGL 0999	Support for English Composition	This Learning Support course provides corequisite support in reading and writing for students enrolled in ENGL 1101 – English Composition I. Topics will parallel those being studied in ENGL 1101 and the course will provide support for the essential reading and writing skills needed to be successful in ENGL 1101. Taken with ENGL 1101, this is a composition course focusing on skills required for effective writing in a variety of contexts, with emphasis on exposition, analysis, and argumentation, and also including introductory use of a variety of research skills.
ENGL 1101	English Composition I	A composition course focusing on skills required for effective writing in a variety of contexts, with emphasis on exposition, analysis, and argumentation, and also including introductory use of a variety of research skills.
ENGL 1102	English Composition II	A composition course that develops writing skills beyond the levels of proficiency required by ENGL 1101, that emphasizes interpretation and evaluation, and that incorporates a variety of more advanced research methods.
ENGL 2110	World Literature (one course only)	A survey of important works of world literature.
ENGL 2111	World Literature I (as part of a two-course sequence or option)	A survey of important works of world literature from ancient times through the mid-seventeenth century.
ENGL 2112	World Literature II (as part of two-course sequence or option)	A survey of important works of world literature from the mid-seventeenth century to the present.
ENGL 2120	British Literature (one course only)	A survey of important works of British literature.
ENGL 2121	British Literature I (as part of two-course sequence or option)	A survey of important works of British literature from the Old English period through the neoclassical age.
ENGL 2122	British Literature II (as part of two-course sequence or option)	A survey of important works of British literature from the Romantic era to the present.
ENGL 2130	American Literature (one course only)	A survey of important works of American literature.
ENGL 2131	American Literature I (as part of two-course sequence or option)	A survey of American literature from the pre colonial age to the mid-nineteenth century.
ENGL 2132	American Literature II (as part of two-course sequence or option)	A survey of American literature from the mid nineteenth century to the present.
ENGL 2140	African American Literature (one course only)	Survey of important works of African American literature.
ENGL 2141	African American Literature I (as part of two-course sequence or option)	Survey of important works of African American literature, from its beginnings to the Harlem Renaissance.
ENGL 2142	African American Literature II (as part of two-course sequence or option)	Survey of important works of African American literature, from the Harlem Renaissance to contemporary time.
FARS 1001	Elementary Farsi I
FARS 1002	Elementary Farsi II
FARS 2001	Intermediate Farsi I
FARS 2002	Intermediate Farsi II
FILM 1100	Film Appreciation I	This course is a study of cinema as an art form, and introduces the basic elements of motion-picture form: camerawork, editing, narrative, sound, and mise-en-scene. The course also locates contemporary filmmaking within historical and international contexts.
Foreign Language Courses (Generic specifications)
____ 1001	1st semester elementary course (This course will not meet degree requirements at some USG institutions.)
____ 1002	2nd semester elementary course
____ 2001	1st semester intermediate course
____ 2002	2nd semester intermediate course
FREN 1001	Elementary French I	Introduction to listening, speaking, reading, and writing in French and to the culture of French-speaking regions.
FREN 1002	Elementary French II	Continued listening, speaking, reading and writing in French with further study of the culture of French-speaking regions.
FREN 2001	Intermediate French I
FREN 2002	Intermediate French II
GEOG 1101	Introduction to Human Geography	A survey of global patterns of resources, population, culture, and economic systems. Emphasis is placed upon the factors contributing to these patterns and the distinctions between the technologically advanced and less advanced regions of the world.
GEOG 1103	Geographic Perspectives on Multiculturalism in the U.S.	Geographic factors underlying multiculturalism and ethnic relationships in the United States. Three interrelated themes are emphasized: the spatial development and organization of culture; population growth, migration, and urbanization; and the spatial dimensions of political, economic, and social processes.
GEOG 1111	Introduction to Physical Geography (Earth Science Survey)	An introduction to physical geography, surveying climate, vegetation, soils, landforms, and water resources in their areal interrelations and distributions.
GEOG 1112	Introduction to Weather and Climate (3 credits lecture, 1 credit for optional lab, or 4 credits if combined)	Components of weather processes, and their measurement. Climatic elements and their control factors. Geographic classification of climatic and vegetative types on the Earth’s surface. [May also be offered as ATSC 1112.]
GEOG 1113	Introduction to Landforms (3 credits lecture, 1 credit for optional lab, or 4 credits if combined)	Introductory analysis and classification of major types of land surfaces, stressing geographic characteristics. Study and interpretation of relationships between landforms and other phenomena through maps, air photos, and field observations. World coverage with stress on North America.
GEOG 1125	Resources, Society, and the Environment	Interactions between physical systems and human activities, and their effects on environmental quality and sustainability are emphasized. Topics include: geography of population and resource consumption, food production, water and air quality, energy policy, land/biotic resource management. Contrasting social, ethical, and technological perspectives on environmental concerns are explored.
GEOL 1121	Introductory Geosciences I (institutional option name, such as Physical Geology)	This course covers Earth materials and processes.
GEOL 1122	Introductory Geosciences II (institutional option name, such as Historical Geology)	This course covers geologic time, sedimentary environments, fossils, and Earth history.
GRMN 1001	Elementary German I	An introduction to the German language and the culture of the German-speaking world. Beginning of a survey of basic German grammar and the grammar and the development of the four language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing German. Some aspects of everyday life in the German-speaking world will also be introduced. [INSTITUTIONAL OPTION: Work with other media (audio, video, and/or computer) outside of class is required.]
GRMN 1002	Elementary German II	The second part of an introduction to the German language and the culture of the German-speaking world. Completion of the survey of basic German grammar and further development of the four language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing German. Aspects of everyday life in the German-speaking world will also be introduced. [INSTITUTIONAL OPTION: Work with other media(audio, video, and/or computer) outside of class is required.]
GRMN 2001	Intermediate German I
GRMN 2002	Intermediate German II
GREK 1001	Elementary Greek	Introduction to the grammar, reading, and translation of Classical Attic Greek.
GREK 1002	Elementary Greek II	Continued study of the grammar of Classical Attic Greek begun in GREK 1001, with further reading and translation.
GREK 2001	Intermediate Greek I
GREK 2002	Intermediate Greek II
HEBR 1001	Elementary Hebrew I
HEBR 1002	Elementary Hebrew II
HEBR 2001	Intermediate Hebrew I
HEBR 2002	Intermediate Hebrew II
HIST 1011	Survey of World History/Civilization I	A survey of World History to the post-classical period. (Three-semester version)
HIST 1012	Survey of World History/Civilization II	A survey of World History from the post-classical to early modern times. (Three-semester version)
HIST 1013	Survey of World History/Civilization III	A survey of World History from early modern times to the present. (Three-semester version)
HIST 1021	Survey of Western Civilization I	A survey of Western Civilization to the medieval period. (Three-semester version)
HIST 1022	Survey of Western Civilization II	A survey of Western Civilization from medieval to early modern times. (Three-semester version)
HIST 1023	Survey of Western Civilization III	A survey of Western Civilization from early modern times to the present. (Three-semester version)
HIST 1100	Survey of World History/Civilization	A thematic survey of World History to the present era. (One-semester version)
HIST 1111	Survey of World History/Civilization I	A survey of World History to early modern times. (Two-semester version)
HIST 1112	Survey of World History/Civilization II	A survey of World History from early modern times to the present. (Two-semester version)
HIST 1120	Survey of Western Civilization	A thematic survey of Western Civilization to the present. (One-semester version)
HIST 1121	Survey of Western Civilization I	A survey of Western Civilization to early modern times. (Two-semester version)
HIST 1122	Survey of Western Civilization II	A survey of Western Civilization from early modern times to the present. (Two-semester version)
HIST 2110	Survey of U.S. History	A thematic survey of U.S. History to the present. (One-semester version)
HIST 2111	Survey of U.S. History I	A survey of U.S. History to the post-Civil War period. (Two-semester version)
HIST 2112	Survey of U.S. History II	A survey of U.S. History from the post-Civil War period to the present. (Two-semester version)
HUMN 1000	Introduction to Humanities	An introduction to the study of human cultures which explores how important cultural texts, practices, and artifacts contribute to an enduring human quest for meaning and purpose. 3-0-3
ITAL 1001	Elementary Italian I	Introduction to listening, speaking, reading and writing in Italian and to the culture of Italian-speaking regions.
ITAL 1002	Elementary Italian II	Continued listening, speaking, reading and writing in Italian with further study of the culture of Italian-speaking regions.
ITAL 2001	Intermediate Italian I
ITAL 2002	Intermediate Italian II
JAPN 1001	Elementary Japanese I
JAPN 1002	Elementary Japanese II
JAPN 2001	Intermediate Japanese I
JAPN 2002	Intermediate Japanese II
LATN 1001	Elementary Latin I	Introduction to the Latin language: pronunciation, fundamentals of grammar, reading, and translation.
LATN 1002	Elementary Latin II	Continued study of Latin grammar and syntax begun in LATN 1001, with further reading and translation.
LATN 2001	Intermediate Latin I
LATN 2002	Intermediate Latin II
MATH 0996	Support for Elementary Statistics	This Learning Support course provides corequisite support for students enrolled in MATH or STAT 1401 – Elementary Statistics. Topics will parallel topics being studied in MATH/STAT 1401 and the course will provide support for the essential skills needed to be successful in MATH/STAT 1401. Taken with MATH/STAT 1401, topics to be covered will include descriptive statistics, probability theory, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, and other selected statistics topics.
MATH 0997	Support for Quantitative Reasoning	This Learning Support course provides corequisite support in mathematics for students enrolled in MATH 1001 – Quantitative Reasoning. Topics will parallel topics being studied in MATH 1001 and the course will provide support for the essential quantitative skills needed to be successful in MATH 1001. Taken with MATH 1001, topics to be covered will include logic, basic probability, data analysis and modeling from data.
MATH 0998	Support for Mathematical Modeling	This Learning Support course provides corequisite support in mathematics for students enrolled in MATH 1101 – Introduction to Mathematical Modeling. Topics will parallel topics being studied in MATH 1101 and the course will provide support for essential quantitative skills needed to be successful in MATH 1101. Taken with MATH 1101, this course is an introduction to mathematical modeling using graphical, numerical, symbolic, and verbal techniques to describe and explore real-world data and phenomena. Emphasis is on the use of elementary functions to investigate and analyze applied problems and questions, supported by the use of appropriate technology, and on effective communication of quantitative concepts and results.
MATH 0999	Support for College Algebra	This Learning Support course provides corequisite support in mathematics for students enrolled in MATH 1111 – College Algebra. Topics will parallel topics being studied in MATH 1111 and the course will provide support for the essential quantitative skills needed to be successful in MATH 1111. Taken with MATH 1111, this course provides an in-depth study of the properties of algebraic, exponential and logarithmic functions as needed for calculus. Emphasis is on using algebraic and graphical techniques for solving problems involving linear, quadratic, piece-wise defined, rational, polynomial, exponential and logarithmic functions.
MATH 1001	Quantitative Reasoning	This course emphasizes quantitative reasoning skills needed for informed citizens to understand the world around them. Topics include logic, basic probability, data analysis and modeling from data.
MATH 1101	Introduction to Mathematical Modeling	This course is an introduction to mathematical modeling using graphical, numerical, symbolic, and verbal techniques to describe and explore real-world data and phenomena. Emphasis is on the use of elementary functions to investigate and analyze applied problems and questions, supported by the use of appropriate technology, and on effective communication of quantitative concepts and results.
MATH 1111	College Algebra	This course provides an in-depth study of the properties of algebraic, exponential and logarithmic functions as needed for calculus. Emphasis is on using algebraic and graphical techniques for solving problems involving linear, quadratic, piece-wise defined, rational, polynomial, exponential and logarithmic functions.
MATH 1112	College Trigonometry	This course is an in-depth study of the properties of trigonometric functions and their inverses. Topics include circular functions, special angles, solutions of triangles, trigonometric identities and equations, graphs of trigonometric functions, inverse trigonometric functions and their graphs, Law of Sines, Law of Cosines, and vectors.
MATH 1113	Pre-calculus	This course is an intensive study of the basic functions needed for the study of calculus. Topics include algebraic, functional, and graphical techniques for solving problems with algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions and their inverses.
MATH 1401 or STAT 1401	Elementary Statistics	This is a non-calculus based introduction to statistics. Course content includes descriptive statistics, probability theory, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, and other selected statistical topics.
MATH 2401 or STAT 2401	Elementary Statistics II
MUSC 1100	Music Appreciation (or equivalent)	Introduction to Music History and literature.
MUSC 1080	Band (or equivalent)	Study, rehearsal, and concert performance or literature for band.
MUSC 1090	Choir (or equivalent)	Study, rehearsal, and concert performance of literature for choir.
MUSC 2080	Band (or equivalent)	Study, rehearsal, and concert performance or literature for band.
MUSC 2090	Choir (or equivalent)	Study, rehearsal, and concert performance of literature for choir.
NORW 1001	Elementary Norwegian I
NORW 1002	Elementary Norwegian II
NORW 2001	Intermediate Norwegian I
NORW 2002	Intermediate Norwegian II
PHIL 1010	Specific course name not specified but this number is to be used for 2 credit-hour critical thinking courses.	Specific course description not specified.
PHIL 2010	Specific course name not specified but this number is to be used for 3 credit introduction to philosophy courses.	Specific course description not specified.
PHIL 2020	Specific course name not specified but this number is to be used for 3 credit hours critical thinking courses.	Specific course description not specified.
PHIL 2030	Specific course name not specified but this number is to be used for 3 credit hour introduction to ethics courses.	Specific course description not specified.
PHIL 2040	Specific course name not specified but this number is to be used for 3 credit hour introduction to philosophy of art courses.	Specific course description not specified.
PHIL 2500	Specific course name not specified but this number is to be used for 3 credit hour symbolic logic courses.	Specific course description not specified.
Physical Science	PHSC or PHYS is the recommended prefix for common physical science courses that are developed. To date, there are no common physical science courses. Combined lecture/lab courses should be indicated with a “K” suffix, and stand-alone lab courses should be indicated with an “L” suffix. The approved course descriptions shown for chemistry illustrate the use of the suffixes.
PHSC 1011	Physical Science I	Physical science lecture. Same as PHYS 1011.
PHSC 1011K	Physical Science I	Laboratory exercises supplement the lecture material. Same as PHYS 1011K.
PHSC 1011L	Physical Science I Laboratory	Laboratory exercises designed to supplement the lecture material of PHSC 1011. Same as PHYS 1011L.
PHSC 1012	Physical Science II	Physical science lecture. Same as PHYS 1012.
PHSC 1012K	Physical Science II	Laboratory exercises supplement the lecture material. Same as PHYS 1012K.
PHSC 1012L	Physical Science II Laboratory	Laboratory exercises designed to supplement the lecture material of PHSC 1012. Same as PHYS 1012L.
PHYS 1011	Physical Science I	Physical science lecture. Same as PHSC 1011.
PHYS 1011K	Physical Science I	Laboratory exercises supplement the lecture material. Same as PHSC 1011K.
PHYS 1011L	Physical Science I Laboratory I	Laboratory exercises designed to supplement the lecture material of PHYS 1011. Same as PHSC 1011L.
PHYS 1012	Physical Science II	Physical science lecture. Same as PHSC 1012.
PHYS 1012K	Physical Science II	Laboratory exercises supplement the lecture material. Same as PHSC 1012K.
PHYS 1012L	Physical Science II Laboratory I	Laboratory exercises designed to supplement the lecture material of PHYS 1012. Same as PHSC 1012L.
Physics	For science courses in biology, chemistry, and physics, the sequences designed for non-science majors will be entitled “Introductory Biology, Introductory Chemistry, and Introductory Physics.” The sequences designed for science majors will be entitled “Principles of Biology, Principles of Chemistry, and Principles of Physics”. Combined lecture/lab courses should be indicated with a “K” suffix, and stand-alone lab courses should be indicated with an “L” suffix. The approved course descriptions shown for chemistry illustrate the use of the suffixes.
PHYS 1111	Introductory Physics I	An introductory course which will include mechanics (kinematics, dynamics, work and energy, momentum and collisions, and rotational motion and statics), and may also include thermodynamics and waves. Elementary algebra and trigonometry will be used.
PHYS 1112	Introductory Physics II	An introductory course which will include electrostatics, electric current and circuits, and electromagnetism, and may also include optics and modern physics, Elementary algebra and trigonometry will be used.
PHYS 1211 or 2211	Principles of Physics I (1000 or 2000 level to be specified by institution)	An introductory course which will include mechanics (kinematics, dynamics, work and energy, momentum and collisions, and rotational motion and statics), and may also include thermodynamics and waves. Elementary calculus will be used.
PHYS 1212 or 2212	Principles of Physics II (1000 or 2000 level to be specified by institution)	An introductory course which will include electrostatics, electric current and circuits, and electromagnetism, and may also include optics and modern physics. Elementary calculus will be used.
POLS 1101	American Government
POLS 2101	Introduction to Political Science
POLS 2201	State and Local Government
POLS 2301	Introduction to Comparative Politics
POLS 2401	Global Issues
POLS 2501	Domestic Issues
POLS 2601	Introduction to Public Administration
PORT 1001	Elementary Portuguese I	Introduction to listening, speaking, reading and writing Portuguese and to the culture of Portuguese-speaking regions.
PORT 1002	Elementary Portuguese II	Continued listening, speaking, reading and writing in Portuguese with further study of the culture of Portuguese-speaking regions.
PORT 2001	Intermediate Portuguese I
PORT 2002	Intermediate Portuguese II
PSYC 1101	Introduction to General Psychology (Institutional option for name addendum - e.g. Principles I)	A broad survey of the major topics in psychology including, but not limited to, research methodology, biological and social factors influencing behavior, development, learning, memory, personality, and abnormal.
PSYC 2101	Introduction to the Psychology of Adjustment (Institutional option for name addendum)	An introductory examination of the applied psychological theory and research concerning mental health and well being.
PSYC 2103	Introduction to Human Development (Institutional option for name addendum)	An introductory, non-laboratory based examination of human development across the lifespan with an emphasis on typical patterns of physical, cognitive, and social development.
RUSS 1001	Elementary Russian I
RUSS 1002	Elementary Russian II
RUSS 2001	Intermediate Russian I
RUSS 2002	Intermediate Russian II
SOCI 1101	Introduction to Sociology	A survey of the discipline of sociology. Topics will include sociological theory, methods and selected substantive area.
SOCI 1160	Introduction to Social Problems	A theoretical and empirical analysis of selected major social problems confronting American society.
SOCI 2293	Introduction to Marriage and Family	An introduction to the structure, processes, problems and adjustments of contemporary marriage and family life.
SPAN 1001	Elementary Spanish I	Introduction to listening, speaking, reading and writing in Spanish and to the culture of Spanish-speaking regions.
SPAN 1002	Elementary Spanish II	Continued listening, speaking, reading and writing in Spanish with further study of the culture of Spanish-speaking regions.
SPAN 2001	Intermediate Spanish I
SPAN 2002	Intermediate Spanish II
STAT 0996	Support for Elementary Statistics	This Learning Support course provides corequisite support for students enrolled in MATH or STAT 1401 – Elementary Statistics. Topics will parallel topics being studied in MATH/STAT 1401 and the course will provide support for the essential skills needed to be successful in MATH/STAT 1401. Taken with MATH/STAT 1401, topics to be covered will include descriptive statistics, probability theory, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, and other selected statistics topics.
STAT 1401 or MATH 1401	Elementary Statistics	This is a non-calculus based introduction to statistics. Course content includes descriptive statistics, probability theory, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, and other selected statistical topics.
STAT 2401 or MATH 2401	Elementary Statistics II
THEA 1100	Theatre Appreciation	Survey and critical appreciation of Theatre.
YORU 1001	Elementary Yoruba I
YORU 1002	Elementary Yoruba II
YORU 2001	Intermediate Yoruba I
YORU 2002	Intermediate Yoruba II

2.4.9 Course Approval Procedures

(Last Modified July 22, 2024) Report a broken link

For Courses in Core IMPACTS Domains

Each institution will submit new courses proposed for a Core IMPACTS domain to the Council on General Education, which will circulate the courses to the relevant Regents’ Academic Advisory Committees for input prior to review by the Council on General Education. Proposal forms to add courses to Core IMPACTS domains are linked to the Council on General Education web page (https://www.usg.edu/committees/view/general_education).

For Courses in the Field of Study Domain

Learning outcomes and courses that are authorized for the Field of Study domain must be established by the relevant Regents’ Advisory Committees (RACs). Institutions must follow RAC guidelines when making changes to Field of Study course requirements for their degree programs. No formal approval process is needed for institutions to add individual courses to their Field of Study domains. The respective RACs must review their Field of Study guidelines and institutional offerings regularly to ensure institutional compliance with the RAC-approved guidelines. RACS will discuss perceived non-compliant Field of Study requirements with the Chief Academic Officer of the impacted institution. If necessary, the matter will be referred to the University System of Georgia Chief Academic Officer or another Academic Affairs Officer.

Regents’ Advisory Committees must follow the process described below when making changes to the learning outcomes and course guidelines for their respective Field of Study domains.
* Proposed changes to Field of Study Learning Outcomes and/or course guidelines must be approved by the respective Regents Academic Advisory Committee and submitted for consideration by the General Education Council.
* Changes to Field of Study Learning Outcomes and/or course guidelines must be approved by the Council on General Education or by the System Office.

The form to be used for making changes to Field of Study Learning Outcomes or Course Guidelines is linked below. Form for Proposed Changes to Field of Study Learning Outcomes or Course Guidelines

(Last Modified October 12, 2020) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.5, GRADING SYSTEM

The BoR Policy Manual identifies official grades approved for use by institutions.

2.5.1 Academic Renewal

(Last Modified September 28, 2020) Report a broken link

Last reviewed: January 2010

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY 3.5.3, Grade Point Average Upon Academic Renewal
EFFECTIVE DATE: JUNE 1995, UPDATED 5/24/2000 Revised 4/2015, 11/2018

Definition of Terms for the Purpose of These Procedures

Academic Renewal: A provision which allows USG degree-seeking students who earlier experienced academic difficulty to make a fresh start and have one final opportunity to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree. Students receiving academic renewal receive a new grade point average to be used for determining academic standing.

Required Minimum Period of Absence or Period of Absence: The minimum period of time a student must be absent from an institution before returning to be eligible for consideration for Academic Renewal at that institution. Each USG institution determines the required Period of Absence for academic renewal eligibility at that institution. The minimum period of absence set by an institution must be no less than three years and no longer than five years.

Applying for Academic Renewal
1. Degree-seeking undergraduate students may apply for Academic Renewal at the time of enrollment or reenrollment at a USG institution. Select USG institutions will permit applicants to apply for Academic Renewal at the time of admissions or readmissions.
2. Institutions must set a maximum period of time for students to apply for Academic Renewal upon admission, enrolling or reenrolling at the institution. The maximum period of time set by the institution may not be less than one calendar year.
3. Each USG institution shall establish the policies and procedures for the submission of applications for Academic Renewal to that institution.
Eligibility for Academic Renewal

Only undergraduate degree-seeking students may be eligible for Academic Renewal.
A student shall only be granted Academic Renewal one time in the University System.
Students may be eligible for Academic Renewal as either a student readmitted to a previously attended USG institution or as a student transferring to a USG institution.

Readmitted Students

Undergraduate students who return to a previously attended USG institution may be eligible for Academic Renewal.
Readmitted students must be absent from the institution to which they are returning for a minimum period of time called the Required Minimum Period of Absence or Period of Absence.
Each USG institution shall set the Period of Absence students must meet to be considered for Academic Renewal upon returning to that institution. The Period of Absence shall be set by the institution at no less than three years and no more than five years.
The Period of Absence is calculated based on the period of time between the date of last enrollment at the institution and the date of return to the institution.
Only coursework completed prior to the Period of Absence may be considered for Academic Renewal. If Academic Renewal is granted, all coursework completed prior to the Period of Absence will be renewed.
Students may attend other institutions during the Period of Absence; however, that coursework will not be eligible for Academic Renewal. Transfer credit for any coursework taken during the Period of Absence shall be granted in accordance with the prevailing USG and institutional policies and procedures regarding the awarding of transfer credit.

Transfer Students

Students who previously attended a USG institution or any regionally-accredited institution of higher education and transfer to a USG institution may be eligible for Academic Renewal for coursework taken prior to the period of time equal to the Period of Absence set by the institution in their Academic Renewal procedures for readmitted students.
If Academic Renewal is granted, all coursework completed prior to the period of time equal to the Required Minimum Period of Absence will be renewed.
Courses taken during the period of time equal to the Required Period of Absence are ineligible for consideration for Academic Renewal. Transfer credit for any coursework taken during that period of time shall be granted in accordance with the prevailing USG and institutional policies and procedures regarding the awarding of transfer credit. Retained grades are not calculated in a Renewal GPA. Such credit is considered in the same context as transfer credit, credit by examination, and courses with grades of “S.”

Each USG institution shall establish the criteria and procedures for the evaluation, approval, denial and re-application for Academic Renewal for their institution.

Academic Renewal and Admissions

At their discretion, institutions may elect to allow applicants to apply for Academic Renewal at the time of admissions or readmissions. Those institutions electing to grant academic renewal during the admission process should omit the renewed coursework from consideration when evaluating an applicant’s eligibility for admission to the institution.
Receiving Academic Renewal does not guarantee admission or readmission to an institution. All students, including those granted Academic Renewal, must meet BOR and institution admission requirements.
The granting of Academic Renewal does not supersede the admissions requirements of certain programs, e.g., teacher education and nursing, which require a specific minimum grade point average based upon all coursework.

Impact of Academic Renewal on GPA, Academic Credit Earned, Financial Aid Eligibility

If a student with Academic Renewal is admitted or readmitted to a USG institution, the institution shall honor the Academic Renewal granted at another USG institution such that the coursework for which Academic Renewal has been granted at one institution shall also be granted Academic Renewal at any other USG institution subsequently attended.
All previously attempted courses, including those for which Academic Renewal has been granted, shall be recorded on the student’s official transcript.
An Academic Renewal GPA is calculated when the student resumes taking coursework following approval for Academic Renewal.
Coursework taken within the Period of Absence is not eligible for renewal but transfer credit for any coursework taken during that period of time shall be granted in accordance with the prevailing USG and institutional policies and procedures regarding the awarding of transfer credit.
The Academic Renewal GPA will be used for determining academic standing and eligibility for graduation.

Students are still expected to meet residency requirements (the number of credit hours that must be earned at the degree awarding institution) after acquiring Academic Renewal status. Renewed courses do not count towards the institutional residency requirement.
Institutions will determine the eligibility for honors at graduation for those students granted Academic Renewal status based on their institution policies regarding honors graduation.

Academic credit for previously completed coursework will be retained only for courses in which a grade of “A”, “B” or “C” has been earned.

Retained grades are not calculated in an Academic Renewal GPA. Such credit is considered in the same context as transfer credit, credit by examination, and courses with grades of “S”.
Courses with grades of “D” or “F” must be repeated if they are required in the student’s degree program.
Institutions shall accept transient credits of students with Academic Renewal status per their policies regarding the acceptance of such credit.

Applicability of retained credit to degree requirements will be determined by the degree requirements in effect at the time Academic Renewal status is conferred on the student. Specific institutional program regulations must also be met.
Scholastic suspensions that occurred in the past shall remain recorded on the student’s permanent record. If a suspension (either first or second) is on the record and the student encounters subsequent academic difficulty after having been granted Academic Renewal, the student may be subject to suspension or dismissal per the institution’s academic standing policy.
The granting of Academic Renewal does not supersede financial aid policies regarding Satisfactory Academic Progress.

Documenting Academic Renewal in Student Records

Institutions that grant Academic Renewal must document the renewal on student records as described in the associated business practice.

2.5.2 Withdrawal for Military Service: Refunds and Grades

(Last Modified July 31, 2024) Report a broken link

Last reviewed: January 2010

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY 7.3.5.3, MILITARY SERVICE REFUNDS

The following administrative guidelines are established for implementation of this action:

Students must officially withdraw and present official orders to qualify for refunds of tuition and fees.
Elective fees are prorated according to the date that the student officially withdraws.
A student who withdraws and receives a full tuition refund will receive a grade of “WM,” military withdrawal, for all courses. A grade of WM entails no penalties that would ordinarily apply for federal or state aid. For example, the student does not have to pay back money already spent for books and fees, and a WM does not count against attempted hours for HOPE.
Requests for exceptional relief are made directly to the president of the institution. The president will make a determination on each request expeditiously.

(Last Modified October 13, 2020) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.8, DEGREES

2.6.1 Degrees, General

(Last Modified January 21, 2010) Report a broken link

Last reviewed: January 2010

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.8.1, DEGREES, GENERAL

A bachelor’s degree may not exceed 120 hours, exclusive of physical education activity/basic health or orientation course hours that the institution may require unless approved by the Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer of the USG.

2.6.2 Graduate Degrees

(Last Modified September 3, 2021) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.8.5, MASTER DEGREES

A master’s degree may not exceed 30 hours unless approved by the Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer of the USG.

2.7 Academic Advisement

(Last Modified July 31, 2024) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.9, ACADEMIC ADVISEMENT

Each institution shall follow these general guidelines in establishing their academic advising program:

Each institution shall establish academic advising procedures within the academic units that comprise the college or university.
These academic advising procedures shall have baseline minimal uniformity in application and simultaneously be tailored to the specific needs of individual students.
Each institution shall establish training sessions associated with academic advising such that faculty advisors are aware of the rules and regulations associated with Core IMPACTS, academic transfer, student status, and grading policies.
Institutions that have advising units outside of academic units will be responsible for keeping abreast of changes in academic curricula and requirements as stipulated by the institution and individual academic units.
Student appeals concerning academic advising will follow the institutional appeals process.

2.7.1 Minority Advising Program

(Last Modified November 5, 2019) Report a broken link

This section has been removed because this program is no longer active.

(Last Modified June 22, 2020) Report a broken link

This section has been removed. The Regents’ Test is no longer offered in the University System of Georgia.

2.9.1 Administrative Procedures for Learning Support Programs

(Last Modified July 31, 2024) Report a broken link

Last reviewed: February 2019

Learning Support is a generic term for programs designed to assist students with collegiate work. USG institutions may serve students who fall below USG collegiate placement standards but also have the flexibility to develop more rigorous academic criteria with which their students must comply. Learning Support programs are intended to serve students who need additional support in mathematics or English (reading/writing). Students who may be served within the Learning Support program are:

A. Students who do not meet USG criteria to exempt Learning Support placement.

B. Students who are determined by the institution to need academic assistance even though they are eligible to be admitted without Learning Support requirements under USG policy.

C. Students who elect to enroll in Learning Support courses to gain additional support while they are enrolled in entry-level English and mathematics courses.

2.9.1.1. Organization and Staff

Each institution that accepts students with Learning Support requirements must designate a Learning Support Coordinator. The duties of the Learning Support Coordinator will include, but not be limited to:

Serving as a point of contact for the System Office for matters related to Learning Support.
Ensuring that appropriate corequisite Learning Support courses are provided for all admitted students requiring Learning Support.
Coordinating with institutional admissions, testing centers, and academic departments as needed regarding placement, and ensuring that all students are appropriately placed.
Ensuring that Learning Support placement and progress are accurately flagged and tracked in Banner.
Ensuring that the fundamental features of corequisite Learning Support are fully implemented at the institution.
Ensuring that corequisite Learning Support courses are carefully and appropriately coordinated with the college level courses they are intended to support.
Providing or coordinating training of institutional faculty, staff, and administrators as needed to ensure appropriate implementation of the corequisite Learning Support model.

Institutions must have appropriate faculty or staff members who are responsible for determining appropriate placement and instruction of students enrolled in Learning Support courses.
The record of each student’s Learning Support course work, including courses taken and grades earned will be maintained in a USG-approved format by the registrar as part of each student’s academic record.
Each institution shall develop a set of procedures for its Learning Support programs. These procedures will include guidelines for implementing Board of Regents policy and administrative procedures and USG test administration guidelines as well as additional institutional policies and procedures. Such procedures shall be approved by the Chief Academic Officer and the President. The Chief Academic Officer of each institution will provide written notification to the Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer of the USG that the institutional procedures are consistent with Board Policy and Procedures.
All USG institutions that accept students requiring Learning Support will provide Learning Support exclusively in accordance with USG rules regarding Learning Support program operation (ASAH 2.9.1-2.9.3).

2.9.1.2. Evaluation for Learning Support Placement

The “default placement” for all students will be in entry-level collegiate English and mathematics with corequisite Learning Support unless the exemption criteria outlined below are met.

Students who do not meet any exemption criteria may waive placement testing if they are willing to accept placement in corequisite Learning Support at the highest level of credit intensity offered at the institution.
In mathematics, students who do not meet any exemption criteria must be placed in MATH 1001 Quantitative Reasoning, MATH 1101 Introduction to Mathematical Modeling, or MATH/STAT 1401 Elementary Statistics with Corequisite Learning Support at the highest level of credit intensity offered at the institution.
All students must be made aware that they have the OPTION to take placement tests, which may place them directly into collegiate courses or in less credit-intensive levels of corequisite Learning Support. Students interested in taking placement tests should not be discouraged from doing so.
Exception: students wishing to enroll in MATH 1111 College Algebra, (with or without corequisite Learning Support), must take the mathematics placement test unless they have met the criteria for direct placement into MATH 1111 or MATH 1111 with corequisite Learning Support (see below).

All entering students will be enrolled in ENGL 1101 English Composition I and the corequisite Learning Support course, ENGL 0999 Support for English Composition, unless they meet or exceed one or more of the exemption criteria listed below or are enrolled in a program for which ENGL 1101 is not required. If students enroll in programs that do not require ENGL 1101, but they choose to take this course, standard assessment and placement rules will apply.

All entering students will be enrolled in one of four standard Core IMPACTS Mathematics Domain college-level credit bearing mathematics courses (MATH 1001 Quantitative Reasoning, MATH 1101 Introduction to Mathematical Modeling, MATH/STAT 1401 Elementary Statistics, or MATH 1111 College Algebra) and a corequisite Learning Support course unless they meet one of the exemption criteria listed below or are enrolled in a program for which a mathematics course is not required. If students enroll in programs that do not require a mathematics course, but they choose to take a mathematics course, standard assessment and placement rules will apply.

To exempt placement in corequisite Learning Support students must:

For English (reading/writing): Students must meet or exceed one or more of the criteria listed below. Students must

have transferred or transferable credit for a Core IMPACTS Writing Domain course (must meet the minimum grade requirement for the institution – which may be a “C” or higher); OR
have an English Placement Index (EPI) of 4230 or higher; OR
have a High School Grade Point Average (HSGPA) of 2.7 or higher AND have completed the Required High School Curriculum (RHSC) in English; OR
score 430 or higher on the SAT (old) Critical Reading; OR
score 480 or higher on the SAT (new) Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) section; OR
score 17 or higher on the ACT English or ACT Reading; OR
score 61 or higher on the Classic Accuplacer Reading Comprehension test AND score 4 or higher on the Accuplacer WritePlacer test; OR
score 237 or higher on the Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading Comprehension test AND score 4 or higher on the Accuplacer WritePlacer test.

For Mathematics:

Placement in MATH 1111 (College Algebra) without corequisite Learning Support. Students must meet or exceed one or more of the criteria listed below. Students meeting these criteria will also be eligible to enroll in MATH 1001 (Quantitative Reasoning), MATH 1101 (Introduction to Mathematical Modeling), or MATH/STAT 1401 (Elementary Statistics) without corequisite Learning Support. Students must

have transferred or transferable credit for an Core IMPACTS Mathematics Domain course (must meet the minimum grade requirement for the institution – which may be a “C” or higher); OR
have been placed in pre-calculus or a higher mathematics course (e.g., College Trigonometry or some form of calculus); OR
have a High School Grade Point Average (HSGPA) of 3.2 or higher AND have completed the Required High School Curriculum (RHSC) in Mathematics; OR
have a Mathematics Placement Index (MPI) of 1265 or higher OR
score 470 or higher on the SAT (old) Mathematics; OR
score 510 or higher on the SAT (new) Mathematics section; OR
score 20 or higher on the ACT Mathematics; OR
score 79 or higher on the Classic Accuplacer Elementary Algebra test; OR
score 266 or higher on the Next-Generation Accuplacer Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics test.

Students who do not meet the criteria for placement into MATH 1111 without corequisite Learning Support may meet criteria for placement into MATH 1111 with corequisite Learning Support or MATH 1001 or MATH 1101, or MATH/STAT 1401 without corequisite Learning Support.

For placement into MATH 1111 with corequisite Learning Support or MATH 1001, MATH 1101, or MATH/STAT 1401 without corequisite Learning Support students must

have a High School Grade Point Average (HSGPA) of 3.1 or higher AND have completed the Required High School Curriculum (RHSC) in Mathematics; OR
have a Mathematics Placement Index (MPI) of 1165 or higher OR
score 400 or higher on the SAT (old) Mathematics; OR
score 440 or higher on the SAT (new) Mathematics section; OR
score 17 or higher on the ACT Mathematics; OR
score 67 or higher on the Classic Accuplacer Elementary Algebra test; OR
score 258 or higher on the Next-Generation Accuplacer Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics test.

Students who do not meet criteria for placement into MATH 1111 with corequisite Learning Support or MATH 1001, MATH 1101, or MATH/STAT 1401 without corequisite Learning Support will be placed in MATH 1001, MATH 1101, or MATH/STAT 1401 with corequisite Learning Support.

Students wishing to take MATH 1111 who do not receive initial placement into MATH 1111 with or without Learning Support must take MATH 1001, MATH 1101 or MATH/STAT 1401 with or without Learning Support. Upon successful completion of MATH 1001, MATH 1101 or MATH/STAT 1401 these students will be eligible to enroll in MATH 1111 without corequisite Learning Support.

Institutions may set higher scores or require additional measures for screening and placement into collegiate courses or into MATH 1111 with corequisite Learning Support.

A Mathematics Placement Index (MPI) and an English Placement Index (EPI) may be calculated based on High School Grade Point Average (HSGPA), SAT or ACT and, when indicated, the Classic Accuplacer placement tests.

For instructions on how to calculate the EPI and the MPI, click here.

USG institutions may accept Accuplacer scores from tests administered by other USG or non-USG institutions or agencies as long as the receiving USG institution has agreed to do so and the scores are transmitted through official secure channels. Transmission of placement test scores may be through official transcript, direct electronic transfer between institutions, e-mail from a verified e-mail address, or fax from a verified fax number.

2.9.1.3. Rules Regarding Learning Support Program Operation

Learning Support courses are to be offered exclusively in “corequisite” format. The corequisite format means that students requiring Learning Support will enroll in both a collegiate course (ENGL 1101, MATH 1001, MATH 1101, or MATH 1111) and a corequisite Learning Support course (ENGL 0999, MATH 0997, MATH 0998, or MATH 0999) that is designed to support mastery of the skills and concepts needed to pass the collegiate course in a “just-in-time” manner. Each corequisite course will be a required course that is aligned with and offered alongside the appropriate college-level course and should be designed specifically to help students master the skills and knowledge required for success in the linked college-level course. The college-level and corequisite sections must be carefully coordinated. In particular, the college-level and corequisite sections must cover the same topics in the same order at the same time.
Courses in the Learning Support program shall include courses in English (reading/writing) and mathematics. Learning Support courses in English and mathematics shall carry course numbers of 0999 or below (see section 2.9.2).
Students who are required to enroll in corequisite Learning Support courses along with collegiate courses must remain enrolled in BOTH courses. Students may not withdraw from either the corequisite Learning Support course or the paired collegiate course without withdrawing from both courses.
Learning Support programs shall coordinate academic advisement of their students to ensure that these students are informed about their requirements.
No degree credit will be earned in Learning Support courses, but institutional credit will be awarded.

The following grades defined in detail in BoR Policy 3.5 are approved for LS courses in English (reading/writing), and mathematics:

Grade	Definition
A, B, or C	Passing course grade
F or WF	Failing course grade
I	Academic progress satisfactory, but coursework incomplete (may only be awarded if the student also receives an “I” in the paired collegiate course)
W	Withdrawal without penalty
WM	Withdrawal without penalty for military service
V	Student auditing LS course that is not required but taken voluntarily

2.9.1.4. Rules for Students in Learning Support Programs

Satisfaction of Learning Support Requirements

Students will satisfy and exit Learning Support requirements by successfully passing (as defined by the institution) the corresponding Core IMPACTS Writing or Mathematics Domain collegiate-level course.

Courses with Learning Support Prerequisites or Corequisites

Students who are required to enroll in corequisite Learning Support courses are not permitted to enroll in credit-bearing courses that require mastery of the content or skills of the Learning Support courses as prerequisites.
Institutions shall inform students of collegiate courses that require completion of or exemption from corequisite Learning Support courses. The following Core IMPACTS Domains may require students to complete or exempt corequisite Learning Support requirements.
- Completion or exemption from corequisite Learning Support English may be a prerequisite for Social, Natural, and Physical Science courses in the Social Sciences, Citizenship, and STEM Domains. (Additional areas for exit or exemption such as Learning Support Mathematics are at the discretion of the institution.)
- Placement into or exemption from corequisite Learning Support English is required for placement into ENGL 1101. Completion or exemption from corequisite Learning Support English is required for placement into all other college-level English courses.
- Placement into or exemption from corequisite Learning Support mathematics is required for placement into MATH 1001, 1101, or 1111. Completion of or exemption from corequisite Learning Support mathematics is required for placement into all other college level mathematics courses.
- Completion or exemption from corequisite Learning Support mathematics may be a prerequisite for physics and chemistry courses in the STEM Domain.
- Any courses with a prerequisite of any other college-level course would require exit or exemption from related Learning Support requirements.
- It is recommended that courses such as music, art, and drama in the Humanities Domain remain open for students with Learning Support requirements whenever possible.

USG-mandated Enrollment in Learning Support Courses

The following requirements apply to students who have USG-mandated Learning Support requirements.

During each semester of enrollment, students must first register for all required corequisite Learning Support courses and paired collegiate courses before being allowed to register for other courses. This policy also applies to part-time students. Two exceptions are possible:
- Students requiring Learning Support in both English and mathematics may defer enrollment in corequisite Learning Support and the accompanying collegiate courses in one domain, but must be continuously enrolled in one or both until the college-level courses have been passed. In cases where students cannot take courses in both Learning Support disciplines simultaneously, enrollment in ENGL 1101 with corequisite Learning Support should take priority. All Core IMPACTS Writing and Mathematics Domain requirements must be completed within the first 30 credit hours, including college-level and corequisite requirements in both English and mathematics.
- In the event that a required corequisite Learning Support/collegiate course pair is not available, a student may enroll in one or more unrelated courses for degree credit if the student has met the course requirements, subject to the written approval of the President or designee.
Students who have accumulated 30 semester hours of college-level credit and have not successfully completed required Learning Support courses may enroll only in corequisite Learning Support courses and paired collegiate courses until all Core IMPACTS Writing and Mathematics Domain requirements are successfully completed. Students with transfer credit or credit earned in a certificate or prior degree program who are required to take corequisite Learning Support courses for their current degree objectives may earn up to 30 additional hours of college-level credit. After earning the additional hours, such students may only enroll in corequisite Learning Support courses until all Core IMPACTS Writing and Mathematics Domain requirements have been completed. Institutions have the authority to limit accumulation of college-level credit without completion of Core IMPACTS Writing and Mathematics Domain requirements to 20 hours.

Enrollment in Institutionally-Required Learning Support Courses

Students who exceed the USG minimum requirements but are required by the institution to take Learning Support courses may, at the institution’s option, be exempted from any or all of the requirements specified in Section 2.9.1.4 above. However, all such Learning Support requirements imposed by the institution must be satisfied by the time the student has earned 30 semester credit hours or the student must enroll in course work that will satisfy the requirements every semester of enrollment until the requirements are satisfied.

Voluntary Enrollment in Learning Support Courses

Students who are not required to take Learning Support courses in a disciplinary area may elect to enroll in Learning Support courses in a non-required area for institutional credit or on an audit basis.

Learning Support for Transfer Students

Students transferring into a USG institution will be exempt from Learning Support English requirements if they have completed a transferrable Core IMPACTS Writing Domain English course and will be exempt from Learning Support Mathematics requirements if they have completed a transferrable Core IMPACTS Mathematics Domain mathematics course. Otherwise, they will be evaluated for Learning Support/collegiate placement according to the same criteria as other entering students.

Learning Support Rules for Returning Students

Students who return to USG institutions after an absence are subject to the following rules concerning Learning Support.

Students who have completed a transferable Core IMPACTS Writing Domain English course or a Mathematics Domain mathematics course are exempt from Learning Support requirements in that discipline.
Students who were exempt from Learning Support requirements during their previous attendance period remain exempt from those requirements upon readmission.
Students who last attended with outstanding Learning Support requirements will be placed in the appropriate Core IMPACTS Writing or Mathematics Domain courses with corequisite Learning Support courses upon readmission. Students who do not wish to be placed in Learning Support may opt to be reevaluated or to take a placement test for possible Learning Support exemption.

Students with Special Needs

Students with documented learning disorders as defined in the Academic & Student Affairs Handbook, Section 3.3, who are required to enroll in Learning Support, must fulfill all stated requirements, including placement testing (if needed, Next-Generation Accuplacer or system-approved alternate) and course requirements. General and specific guidelines for documentation of learning disorders appear in Section 3, Appendices D and E. Students will be provided with appropriate testing and/or course accommodations as described in 3.3.5, Learning Support Considerations.
Appropriate course and testing accommodations should be made for students with sensory, mobility, or systemic disorders. General and specific guidelines for documentation of these disorders appear in Section 3, Appendices D and E. Documentation on such students is to be maintained at the institution and summarized in the annual report on accommodations for students with disabilities.

2.9.2 Numbering of Learning Support Courses

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Last reviewed: February 2019

A uniform procedure is to be used in reporting credit for Learning Support courses on the workload of both instructor and student. These courses should be reported on the workload of both instructor and student in the same way that courses for degree credit are reported.

All Learning Support courses should carry course numbers of 0999 or below.

Approved Learning Support course numbers and titles and their paired collegiate courses are listed below:

English
ENGL 0999 Support for English Composition (1 – 3 credits) paired with ENGL 1101 English Composition I

Mathematics
MATH/STAT 0996 Support for Elementary Statistics (1 – 3 credits) paired with MATH/STAT 1401 Elementary Statistics

MATH 0997 Support for Quantitative Reasoning (1 – 3 credits) paired with MATH 1001 Quantitative Reasoning

MATH 0998 Support for Mathematical Modeling (1 – 3 credits) paired with MATH 1101 Introduction to Mathematical Modeling

MATH 0999 Support for College Algebra (1 – 3 credits) paired with MATH 1111 College Algebra

These courses should not form a part of associate degree or baccalaureate programs. Credit awarded for these courses may not be used to fulfill requirements for associate or baccalaureate degrees.

2.9.3 Reporting and Recording Learning Support Status

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Last reviewed: February 2019

All students enrolled in Learning Support courses will be reported in the USG Academic Data Collection as having Learning Support requirements or enrolling as volunteers.

For placement and exit codes for students entering Fall Semester 2015 through Summer Semester 2018 click here.

For placement and exit codes for students entering Fall Quarter 1994 through Summer Semester 2015 click here.

For placement and exit codes for students entering prior to Fall Quarter 1994, click here.

(Last Modified June 3, 2021) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
ACADEMIC COMMON MARKET HANDBOOK SOUTHERN REGIONAL EDUCATION BOARD, 1985.

The Academic Common Market is an interstate agreement for sharing educational programs and facilities so that students can participate in selected programs not offered in their home states without having to pay out-of-state tuition charges. The Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) coordinates the activities of the Academic Common Market for the 14 participating states (Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia).

One of the primary functions of the Academic Common Market is to assist states in offering together what they cannot offer alone. Programs are added to and removed from the Market on an annual basis in order to reflect the changing needs of participating states.

States are asked to indicate to SREB the kinds of programs that are unavailable through their own institutions, and in which they want to gain access in other states. This information is shared with other states, which can then determine if they have programs that would be appropriate for the Common Market. On this basis, in early spring, states recommend programs from their own institutions to be included in the Common Market. The recommendations are compiled and circulated among the states. If one or more states select a given recommended program, it is included in the Market for residents of the state(s) which selected it. If a program is not selected at this time, it remains on the nominated program list for two more years. An updated booklet and other publicity materials are then prepared and distributed. For more information, see https://www.sreb.org/academic-common-market.

Students wishing to enter a program as a Common Market student should take the following steps: It is the student’s responsibility to contact their respective State Coordinator about possible access through the Academic Common Market.

The student must first be accepted for admission into a program for which his/her state has access through the Academic Common Market. Unless accepted for admission, all other preparations could be wasted effort should the student not be accepted by the institution.
The student must then be certified as a resident of his/her home state. Each state has developed its own forms and procedures for certifying students. The Georgia form for certifying students is located at http://www.usg.edu/divisions/academic_common_market/acm_procedures/. The criteria for certification are at least as strict as those used by the state in classifying students as residents for its own academic programs. As long as the student remains enrolled, this certification will be valid.
After certifying the residency of an applicant, the State Coordinator, sends a notice of certification to the student and to the Institutional Coordinator at the receiving institution.
The Institutional Coordinator then makes arrangements with the appropriate officials at his institution so that the student is not charged out-of-state tuition fees.
For programs no longer available through the Market, students already enrolled will be given a reasonable amount of time to complete the degree program while receiving Market benefits.

For more information, see Academic Common Market.

2.11 Regents’ Engineering Pathway Program

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SOURCES:

Report to the Board: Committee on Academic Affairs Agenda Item No. August 5, 2016 Meeting of the Board Effective Date: 8/5/2016

REPORT TO THE BOARD: COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION AGENDA ITEM NO. 1, NOVEMBER 13, 1986 MEETING OF THE BOARD
EFFECTIVE DATE: 7/9/1986

Last update 1/7/20

The Regents’ Engineering Pathways - formerly known as Regents’ Engineering Transfer Program

The Regents’ Engineering Pathways (REP) is based upon the concept of students successfully completing thirty or more credit hours in specific courses at designated units of the USG and then completing their engineering degrees at the Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia Southern University, Kennesaw State University, Mercer University, or the University of Georgia.

REP Agreement

REP Engineering Institutions:
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Southern University
Kennesaw State University
Mercer University
University of Georgia

2.12 Off-Campus Instructional Sites

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Information for this topic can be found under 2.3.7 of the Academic Affairs Handbook and the Board Policy 3.3.2, Academic Approval for Off-Campus Instructional Sites and Board Policy 9.3, Facilities Approval for Off-Campus Instructional Sites.

(Last Modified October 12, 2020) Report a broken link

The contents of this section have been removed. Information on Study Abroad and other International programs may be found on the International Education web page.

(Last Modified April 6, 2011) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
INFORMATION ITEM, BOARD OF REGENTS, 11/1979

Research Centers
A research “center” provides an organizational base for research in a given academic area or closely related areas. It often provides a vehicle for interdisciplinary research in a given area involving faculty and students from a variety of internal administrative structures. A center may be involved in offering continuing education activities related to its area(s) of interest. The center structure may facilitate efforts of the college or university to obtain extramural funding in specific areas. It serves as a formalized link between the academic community and the professional community in the area(s) of focus. A center, however, is not an autonomous structure within the internal statutory organization of a college or university. It is administratively most often an appendage of one of the traditional administrative structures, such as a department. A center is not involved in the independent offering of credit course or degree programs.

Institutes
An “institute” shares a center’s focus on research, provision of opportunity for interdisciplinary activity, involvement in continuing education activities, value in facilitating efforts to obtain extramural funding, and service as a link between the academic and professional communities. An institute, however, is a far more formalized structure and may be equivalent to an autonomous unit within the internal structure of the college or university such as a department, division, school or (university level) college. Unlike a center, an institute may offer credit courses and degree programs.

2.15 Section Removed

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2.15.1 Section Removed

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2.15.2 Section Removed

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SOURCES: BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.3.5, UNIVERSITY SYSTEM AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM OF GEORGIA ARTICULATION
EFFECTIVE DATE: 1/2012
Revised: 08/23/2024

Per BOR Policy 3.3.5 and associated sub-sections, the University System of Georgia (USG) and Technical College System of Georgia (TSCG) have articulation agreements in place to expand opportunities for post-secondary degree attainment in Georgia.

USG and TCSG institutions will accept pre-determined General Education courses for transfer as detailed in the USG/TCSG Course Transfer Chart.
USG Institutions may individually evaluate TCSG courses other than those listed on the USG/TCSG Course Transfer Chart and make decisions about acceptance.

All USG/TCSG articulation agreements must be maintained on the USG/TSCG Articulation Directory (coming soon).

In addition to the General Education course transfer agreement outlined in the USG/TCSG Course Transfer Chart, the following guidelines should be followed:

USG institutions must notify the BOR Office of Academic Affairs prior to establishing expansive articulation agreements that include all TCSG institutions.
USG institutions may create more expansive agreements with a local TCSG institution above what is detailed in the USG/TCSG Course Transfer Chart. This information should be published on the institutional website and housed in the USG/TCSG Articulation Directory.
USG institutions must notify BOR Office of Academic Affairs as soon as possible when discussions begin about potential A.S. degree articulation agreements with a TCSG institution AND before entering into an A.S. degree articulation with a TCSG institution. TCSG has agreed that A.S. degrees will be limited in number and meet the following criteria:
1. Focused on specific career opportunities associated with a specific local community, i.e. A.S. in Logistics Management by Savannah Technical College with Georgia Southern University.
2. Initiated in regions of the state where the proposed degree is not currently offered by a USG institution, therefore avoiding unnecessary duplication.
3. If a USG institution does have the program, consideration of necessary v. unnecessary duplication will be predicated on the capacity and willingness of the USG institution to offer the degree in the area.
BOR Policy 3.3.5 states that TCSG institutions will not offer A.A. degrees.

To be eligible for articulation agreement transfer credit, TCSG students must have successfully completed courses on the USG/TCSG Course Transfer Chart in January 2012 or after and have either met the USG minimum requirements for exemption from learning support or have exempted or completed Learning Support requirements at a TCSG institution. (See USG Learning Support policy guidelines)

Additionally,

TCSG transfer students meeting USG standard admissions criteria are exempt from Learning Support evaluation. (See BOR Policy 4.2.1.1, Freshman Requirements)
Students who have taken a USG comparable Accuplacer test at a TCSG institution and transfer to a USG institution will not be required to take another placement test if they have comparable placement scores recorded on the transcript or have placement test scores securely transmitted from the TCSG institution to a USG institution.
Exit from Learning Support at TCSG institutions will be honored at all USG institutions.
Students who exempt Learning Support at a TCSG institution but transfer without credit for the appropriate core curriculum course may be placed in Learning Support at the receiving institution based on institutional requirements higher than the USG minimum.

2.16 Academic Credit for Extra-Institutional and Prior Learning

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SOURCE:

BoR POLICY MANUAL 3.3.6, Academic Credit Earned Through Extra-Institutional and Prior Learning

Institutions shall use the criteria below when deciding to offer credit for military service and standardized examinations (including International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, College Level Examination Program, and DANTES Subject Standard Test Program).

Institutions shall maintain a review process for extra-institutional and prior learning that adheres to their United States Department of Education-recognized institutional accrediting body’s policies and guidelines, minimizes the number of credits that do not contribute to progress toward a degree program, and does not improperly affect student eligibility for financial aid.

2.16.1 Course Credit for Military Experience

2.16.1.1 Academic Credit
When a student requests academic credit based on experience in the military service, the following procedure is recommended:

The Registrar researches the American Council on Education (ACE) Guide to determine the recommendation(s) made by that organization.
The Registrar advises appropriate the academic department head(s) of the ACE recommendation(s).
The appropriate academic officer advises the Registrar of what credit, if any, is to be granted in that specific discipline. Credit should not be awarded for course/experiences not offered by that academic institution.
The Registrar records the appropriate credit on the student’s official transcript and advises both the student and academic advisor of the credit that has been granted.

2.16.1.2 Physical Education Credit
The granting of physical education credits should be based upon the following recommendations:

Basic military training should serve as substitutes for Physical Conditioning and Marksmanship for a total of two (2) semester-hour credits.
Experience beyond basic military training should be evaluated based upon length and type of activity and the level of accomplishment in the specific activity. For example:
- A Navy Seal should receive credit for swimming.
- A Medic should receive credit for first aid.
- A Military Policeman should receive credit for self-defense.
Credit by examination may be offered to students having mastered a specific area of the basic physical education requirement.
If recommendations 1, 2, and 3 are not satisfactory, then the evaluation process will be determined by the appropriate academic office.

2.16.2 Course Credit for Standardized Examinations

University System of Georgia (USG) institutions shall establish and publish policies and procedures for awarding of course credit based on scores achieved on standardized examinations offered by nationally-recognized organizations including:

International Baccalaureate Program (IB)
Advanced Placement Program (AP)
College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
DANTES Subject Standardized Test Program (DSST)

The particular courses for which students receive college credit may vary from institution to institution, depending on what courses the institution offers. Determinations of course comparability shall be made by the respective departments. Institutions shall, however, attempt to have consistency in terms of minimum scores for awarding credit and the course(s) for which credit is awarded across the USG for common-numbered Core IMPACTS courses based on recommendations made by System-wide Regents’ Advisory Committees (RACs) for the discipline (where available). Refer to Section 2.4.8 Common Courses

With all course credits based on standardized examination scores, students may opt not to accept credits. If students believe that the awarding of course credits based on standardized examination scores is in error, they may file appeals with the appropriate academic department office and request reevaluations. As with other academic matters, if the issue is not satisfactorily resolved at the department level, students may appeal to the dean of the respective school or college, with a final appeal to the vice president for academic affairs, whose decision in the matter will be final.

These policies and procedures shall apply to all students matriculating at the institution, including both resident and non-resident students. Qualifying scores and course credits to be awarded based on these examinations must be published on the institutions’ websites and may also be included elsewhere, including in the college catalog.

2.16.2.1 Course Credit for International Baccalaureate (IB) Examination Scores

USG institutions shall award academic credit for appropriate courses in the USG Core IMPACTS curriculum for corresponding IB subject areas in which the student obtained designated end-of-course assessment scores.

Both Standard Level (college preparatory) and Higher Level (college comparable) exam scores will be considered for credit. Higher Level end- of-course assessment scores of four or more and Standard Level scores of five or more suggest that the IB Program work is comparable to a college course.

The course credit schema in the table below shall be used system-wide, with allowances made for variable credits in each category to account for labs, and on occasion, for depth of material covered in the IB Program subject area that may be comparable to more than one college-level course.

Semester Credit Hours Granted

Score	Standard Level	Higher Level
4	0	3-4
5	0-4	3-8
6-7	3-8	3-12

All institutions shall have a widely disseminated policy governing the award of course credits based on IB assessments. The policy will apply to both resident and non-resident students.

2.16.2.2 Course Credit for Advanced Placement (AP), College Level Examination Program (CLEP), and DANTES Subject Standardized Test Program (DSST)

In determining qualifying scores for college credit, institutions must consider American Council on Education (ACE) recommendations for credit associated with scores on standardized examinations as well as recommendations made by System-wide Regents’ Advisory Committees (RACs) for the discipline (where available).

For new students, credit should not be awarded for courses not offered by the admitting institution. Determinations of course comparability will be made initially by the respective departments and subsequently by published policies and procedures. When the content of AP courses or CLEP or DSST exams is close to that of USG common-numbered courses, institutions shall attempt to have consistency across the USG in terms of minimum scores for awarding credit and the course(s) for which credit is awarded.

For students transferring in with credit awarded at another institution for IMPACTS Core courses based on standardized test scores, if the student has passed a higher level course in the course sequence offered at the sending institution, the IMPACTS Core credit must be awarded as IMPACTS Core transfer credit even if the receiving institution does not offer comparable course(s).

For students transferring in with credit based on standardized test scores awarded for courses outside the IMPACTS Core, credit must be awarded if the student has passed another course in the sequence and the course(s) for which credit(s) has (have) been awarded is (are) part of the requirements for the degree the student is seeking.

Institutions have the option to award transfer credits based on standardized test scores even if the student has not passed a higher level course in the course sequence at the sending institution. In this case, institutions should follow their published policies and procedures for awarding of credit based on scores achieved on standardized examinations.

(Last Modified April 6, 2011) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
UNIVERSITY SYSTEM ADVISORY COUNCIL, 08/17/90 MINUTES

Institutional Chief Academic Officers will encourage faculty to clarify for students, at the beginning of each course, the basis on which grades will be determined and to provide timely academic feedback as the course progresses. This encouragement should include the following:

A statement in the syllabus stating whether the professor intends to have a portion of the cumulative class grade reported to the student prior to the midpoint of the total grading period and reference to how that portion of the grade is determined.
Prior to midpoint of the total grading period, all assigned and “turned in” graded class assignments and examinations should be graded and available to the student.
The instructor and student should make every effort to be available during instructor’s office hours for discussion of the student’s academic standing prior to the midpoint of the total grading period (particularly for classes that use subjective grading).

Each individual Chief Academic Officer should clarify his/her position on these points; discuss them with the faculty of his/her institution; establish policy or guidelines based upon faculty input; and, when appropriate, publish the campus response to these points in campus literature.

(Last Modified July 19, 2018) Report a broken link

The Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer of the USG shall establish guidelines concerning the designation and sale of textbooks required for coursework.

Educational material is defined as any instruments, devices, software, web content, or copied or published materials used in the classroom, laboratory, on-line courses, or correspondence courses.

All information required for ordering educational materials should be submitted to institutional bookstores. Exceptions can be approved at the departmental level. The institutional bookstore will distribute lists of these educational materials to private competitors. Recommendations to students, as to source for materials, should not list one supplier over another.

There are no restrictions on the adoption of textbooks written by faculty members. Prior to the adoption of a textbook, approval must be obtained from the departmental committee. The existence of such a committee is necessary to prevent any possible conflicts of interest.
No faculty member may charge/collect remuneration for educational materials directly from the students.
If any conflict of interest arises as a result of sales of textbooks or other educational materials, the Vice President for Academic Affairs, in consultation with the Deans Council, Faculty Senate, and Student Government, will appoint a committee to hear the case and advise the Vice President for Academic Affairs on a course of action.
Copyright clearance must be obtained by the issuing department or faculty, where necessary, for compilations to be sold through institutional bookstores. Institutional and System general counsel may insist on this process.
Royalties may not be paid to individual faculty for compilations he/she produces for copy and resale through an institutional bookstore.

2.3.7 Instructional Delivery: Off-Campus & Online

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Each institution of the University System of Georgia has a main campus that constitutes the legal address. In addition, institutions may offer instruction external to the main campus.

Two categories of external instruction are recognized by the Board, as outlined in BOR Policies 3.3.2 and 3.3.3: off-campus instruction and distance education.

Off-campus instruction is defined as instruction where a face-to-face classroom component occurs at a location away from the home premises of the institution.
Distance education, which includes online education, is defined as a formal educational process in which the majority of the instruction occurs when student and instructor are not in the same place and the instruction is delivered using technology.

All programs, regardless of instructional delivery, must have comparable levels of academic and student support services that contribute to overall student success and that are available for students at that location whether in person or virtually.

2.3.7.1 Off-Campus Instructional Sites

If an institution delivers face-to-face instruction at a location geographically apart from an institution’s main campus, and if a student is required to be at the location to receive instruction, then the location is an off-campus instructional site.
Off-campus instructional sites can be categorized as follows:

Institutional Sites, which are sites that are part of an institution’s official facilities inventory, and include:

Branch campuses,
Other sites owned or exclusively controlled by the institution (e.g., centers), and
Consortial sites exclusively controlled by a consortium of which the institution belongs

External sites, which are not part of an institution’s facilities inventory and include:

Other USG institutions or facilities, and
Sites controlled by outside entities (e.g., schools, private universities, hospitals, local government facilities, corporate sites, military bases, or agencies)

For all types of off-campus instructional delivery, it is desirable, in terms of program availability and mission appropriateness, to have the closest qualified institution respond to off-campus credit course needs. In cases where requests for services exceed the qualifications, mission, program availability, or capability of the closest institution, then attempts should be made to have such requests met by other qualified university system institutions. Prior to the submission of a request for off-campus course work delivery, the president of the proposing institution will discuss and notify the president(s) of all other university system institution(s) located in closer geographic proximity to the site proposed for the off-campus course work. A letter of non-objection or support from the president of the closer proximity institution should be included in the administrative approval request. In the event the involved institutions are unable to arrive at a mutual agreement on the offering of off-campus credit courses, the issues will be referred to the USG Chief Academic Officer for final resolution.

Specific information on each type of site is listed below. Additional information and request forms for all off-campus instructional delivery may be found at the following website: https://www.usg.edu/academic_programs/academic_affairs_approvals_and_notifications.

Institutional Sites Approval Procedures

Institutional sites are locations controlled and/or exclusively occupied by the institution or a consortium that includes the institution. Establishment of institutional sites requires approval by the Board of Regents through its Committee on Academic Affairs. (See BOR Policy 3.3.2 Academic Approval for Off-Campus Instructional Sites and 9.3 – Facilities Approval for Off-Campus Instructional Sites for additional information on off-campus instruction.) After an instructional site has been approved by the Board, the institution may offer 50% or more of any of their existing approved programs at the instructional location by obtaining administrative approval through the Office of Academic Affairs at least 60 days prior to the implementation of the additional program(s) at the site. Requests should be submitted via the Academic Proposals Submission Portal in Smartsheet.

External Site Approval Procedures

External sites are typically spaces occupied non-exclusively by an institution. External sites are usually contractual, have a nominal cost, and/or are time-limited. Such arrangements do not involve the naming of this location as an official institutional instructional site and do not require Board of Regents or University System Office Facilities approval. Instructional delivery at external sites requires notification to the University System of Georgia. Requests should be submitted via the Academic Proposals Submission Portal in Smartsheet. Institutions seeking to deliver 50% or more of any existing degree program at an external site must obtain administrative approval through the Office of Academic Affairs at least 60 days prior to the implementation of the program(s) at the site. Requests should be submitted via the Academic Proposals Submission Portal in Smartsheet.

Study Abroad Locations

Most study abroad sites would not classify as an institutional site or an external site. If there is not a specified single classroom for the majority of the course (e.g., students meet in different locations), then it would not be considered an off-campus instructional site. Study Abroad program and location notifications should be submitted via the Study Abroad Directory.

2.3.7.2 Distance Learning Approval Procedures

The Board of Regents encourages the use of distance learning to help meet the instructional needs of the citizens of the State. Prior approval by the Board of Regents is required for an initial program delivered fifty percent or more via distance learning by an institution and for any additional distance learning program(s) requiring an institution’s United States Department of Education-recognized accrediting body approval for substantive change (i.e., significant departure from originally approved programs). Institutions must receive Board approval for their initial distance learning delivery of fifty percent or more of an existing approved program prior to implementing the program. However, once an institution is approved for distance delivery, only notification to the University System Office is needed to offer additional existing approved programs 50% or more via distance learning, unless the distance delivery of the program requires the institution’s United States Department of Education-recognized accrediting body approval for a substantive change. In the latter case, Board approval must be obtained in order to implement the additional program. Additional information and request forms for all off-campus instructional delivery may be found at the following website: https://www.usg.edu/academic_programs/academic_affairs_approvals_and_notifications.

2.3.8 Minor Programs of Study

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Minor programs of study are designed to complement a baccalaureate major. A minor must contain 15 to 18 semester hours of coursework with at least 9 hours of upper-division coursework. Courses taken to satisfy any of the IMPACTS Core domains may not be counted as coursework in the minor. However, Field of Study courses may be counted as coursework in the minor.

2.3.9 Dual Degrees

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A dual degree is one whereby students study at two or more institutions and are awarded two separate credentials. Dual degrees may have some overlap in curriculum, with rationale showing sufficient breadth and depth in each degree.

Programs of study offered in which each institution awards a separate program completion credential require notification to the University System Office at least two weeks prior to implementation. Only dual degrees comprised of academic programs that have been previously approved by the Board of Regents either at a single University System institution or between University System institutions shall be forwarded as notification items. All new degree programs in collaborative arrangements require Board approval. See the Academic Affairs - Approvals and Notifications web page for appropriate notification forms for dual degrees.

Should it be determined that a dissolution of the dual degree arrangement is in the best interest of the institution(s) involved, it is incumbent upon the institution(s) to advise faculty and students appropriately and in a timely manner of the conclusion of the dual degree program and with provisions for teach out agreements with one another. In such cases, notification of the dissolution of the dual degree arrangement will be submitted to the University System Office two weeks prior to dissolution and within a timeframe that does not have an adverse impact on students or faculty.

2.3.10 Joint Degrees

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A joint educational program is one whereby students study at two or more institutions and are awarded a single program completion credential bearing the names, seals, and signatures of each of the participating institutions.

Only joint degrees comprised of academic programs that already exist and are Board of Regents approved programs either between or among University System institutions shall be forwarded as notification items. All new degree programs require Board approval. It is incumbent upon all USG institutions to meet the joint degree requirements of their United States Department of Education-recognized accrediting body.

Please see the Academic Affairs - Approvals and Notifications web page for the appropriate notification forms and documentation required for these degree arrangements.

Should it be determined that a dissolution of the joint degree arrangement is in the best interest of the institutions involved, it is incumbent upon the institutions to advise faculty and students appropriately and in a timely manner of the conclusion of the joint degree program and with provisions for teach out agreements with one another. In such cases, notification of the dissolution of the joint degree arrangement will be submitted via a notification letter to the University System Office two weeks prior to closure and within a time frame that does not have an adverse impact on students or faculty.

2.4.10 Transfer Rules

(Last Modified August 26, 2024) Report a broken link

Students in the University System of Georgia (USG) must declare one home institution at a time. Students who transfer from one institution to another automatically change their home institutions.

Receiving institutions may require transfer students to complete the requirements as specified for non-transfer students. However, the total number of hours required of transfer students for the degree must not exceed the number of hours required of non-transfer students for the same major.

Students who wish to take Core IMPACTS or Field of Study courses (including distance learning courses) from a USG institution other than the home institution, either concurrently or intermittently, may receive transient permission to take and receive credit for Core IMPACTS or Field of Study courses satisfying home institution Core IMPACTS or Field of Study requirements.

Provided that non-tranfser and transfer students are treated equally, institutions may impose additional reasonable expectations, such as a grade of “C” in Core IMPACTS courses.

Core IMPACTS Transfer

Students must meet the USG-specified minimum number of hours in each Core IMPACTS domain.

Students successfully completing a course in a sending institution’s Core IMPACTS domain will receive full credit in the equivalent Core IMPACTS domain for the course upon transfer to another USG institution as long as the number of credit hours in the Core IMPACTS domain at the two institutions is the same.

In cases where the sending and receiving institutions offer unequal amounts of credit, the following rule should be used to determine how to reassign the excess credits from the sending institution’s IMPACTS domain to the receiving institution’s IMPACTS domain. If a sending institution has more credits in one domain than does a receiving institution, the receiving institution will have more credits in another domain than the sending institution. Excess credits in a domain at the sending institution should be assigned to a domain where the receiving institution has more credits.

Field of Study Transfer

Students successfully completing a course in one institution’s Field of Study will receive full credit for the course upon transferring to another USG institution as long as the student retains the same major.

Chief Transfer Officer

Each institution will designate a Chief Transfer Officer (CTO) to facilitate the transfer of students within the USG. The CTO must have senior administrative and/or faculty status. The CTO is the contact person for students, faculty, advisors, records and admissions personnel, and academic administrators when problems related to transfer of Core IMPACTS and Field of Study course work across USG institutions occur. However, CTOs should also be proactive and work to develop institutional procedures that minimize transfer problems.

Students with questions or concerns about the transfer of credit between USG institutions should contact the CTO at the receiving institution.

Chief Transfer Officers

2.5.3 Withdrawal Without Academic Penalty

(Last Modified June 25, 2024) Report a broken link

SOURCES:
BoR POLICY 3.5.2, Symbols Not Included in Determining the Grade Point Average
EFFECTIVE DATE: MAY 2024

The University System of Georgia institutions shall set deadlines for students to withdraw without academic penalty.

Institutions shall set their withdrawal without academic penalty deadline prior to the conclusion of the eleventh full week of classes for any fall or spring term consisting of at least fifteen weeks of instructional time. Holidays/breaks falling in the first eleven weeks are excluded when counting the weeks of term.

For terms or parts of terms that are less than four weeks of instructional time, the withdrawal without academic penalty deadline shall be set no later than one week prior to the last day of classes (excluding final examinations).

For all other terms or parts of term, the withdrawal without academic penalty deadline shall be set no later than two weeks prior to the last day of classes (excluding final examinations).

Withdrawals without academic penalty will not be permitted after the deadline, except in cases of hardship as determined by the appropriate official of the institution. The deadline shall be published in the institution’s academic calendar.

Students who officially withdraw from a course by the end of the last day to withdraw without academic penalty shall receive a grade of “W”. Students receiving a grade of “W” shall receive no credit for the course on their academic record and the course shall not be included in their institutional and/or cumulative GPA calculation.

Institutions shall ensure students are provided early and regular feedback on their course performance. Course performance feedback, which may include mid-term grades, should be provided at least one week prior to the withdrawal without academic penalty deadline for students enrolled in terms consisting of at least fifteen weeks of instructional time. Students enrolled in shorter terms or parts of term should be provided feedback in advance of the withdrawal without academic penalty deadline.

Institutions should advise students considering withdrawal on the impact. Students should be made aware that a reduction in their hours may result in the loss of full-time student status and could impact their eligibility for financial aid, scholarships, participation in athletics, VA educational benefits, student ticket assignments, housing accommodations, access to institution resources and facilities, and immigration status for international students.

Institutions should encourage students to contact the appropriate office(s) and their academic advisor with questions about the impact of their withdrawal from a course before initiating a withdrawal. Veterans and dependents of veterans who receive VA educational benefits should notify the Veterans Education Benefits Area at their institution of any course load reductions.

Institutions shall provide students an opportunity for a medical and/or hardship withdrawal as determined by the appropriate designated office at the institution.

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UNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

Academics Affairs Division

2.3.1 Degrees, Majors, and Certificates

2.3.1.1 Degrees and Majors

Associate and Nexus Degrees

Career Associate Degrees

Baccalaureate Degrees

Master’s Degrees

Doctoral and Education Specialist Degrees

2.3.1.2 Certificates

Standalone Certificates

Embedded Certificates

2.3.2 New Academic Programs

New Degree Programs Overview

2.3.2.1 Academic Program Forecast

2.3.3 Deactivation and Termination of Academic Programs

2.3.4 Program Modification

2.3.5 Exceptions to Program Length Requirements

Landscape of Higher Ed Considerations

Accreditation Considerations

Pedagogical Considerations

External Considerations

Student Considerations

2.3.6 Comprehensive Program Review (CPR)

2.3.6.1 Academic Programs

2.3.6.2 General Education and Learning Support

2.3.6.3 English Language Programs

2.4 General Education Core Curriculum: The IMPACTS Core

2.4.1 Core IMPACTS Domains - Credit Hours

2.4.2 System wide Orienting Questions, Learning Outcomes, and Career-Ready Competencies for Core IMPACTS Domains

2.4.3 Rules for Including Courses in the IMPACTS Core

2.4.4 Details Regarding Courses in Core IMPACTS Domains

Institutional Priority (Institution)

Mathematics & Quantitative Skills (Mathematics)

Math Pathways

STEM majors (other than Engineering)

Engineering Majors

Business Majors

Other majors

Political Science and U.S. History (Citizenship)

Arts, Humanities, and Ethics

Communicating in Writing (Writing)

Technology, Mathematics & Sciences (STEM)

STEM Domain Course Recommendations by Major

Social Sciences (Social Sciences)

2.4.5 Pre-requisite Rules

2.4.6 Rules for Change of Major

2.4.7 Field of Study Courses

2.4.8 Common Courses

2.4.9 Course Approval Procedures

2.5.1 Academic Renewal

2.5.2 Withdrawal for Military Service: Refunds and Grades

2.6.1 Degrees, General

2.6.2 Graduate Degrees

2.7 Academic Advisement

2.7.1 Minority Advising Program

2.9.1 Administrative Procedures for Learning Support Programs

2.9.1.1. Organization and Staff

2.9.1.2. Evaluation for Learning Support Placement

2.9.1.3. Rules Regarding Learning Support Program Operation

2.9.1.4. Rules for Students in Learning Support Programs

2.9.2 Numbering of Learning Support Courses

2.9.3 Reporting and Recording Learning Support Status

2.11 Regents’ Engineering Pathway Program

2.12 Off-Campus Instructional Sites

2.15 Section Removed

2.15.1 Section Removed

2.15.2 Section Removed

2.16 Academic Credit for Extra-Institutional and Prior Learning

2.16.1 Course Credit for Military Experience

2.16.2 Course Credit for Standardized Examinations

2.3.7 Instructional Delivery: Off-Campus & Online

2.3.7.1 Off-Campus Instructional Sites

Institutional Sites Approval Procedures

External Site Approval Procedures

Study Abroad Locations

2.3.7.2 Distance Learning Approval Procedures

2.3.8 Minor Programs of Study

2.3.9 Dual Degrees