Waivers and Petitions
Department Petitions
All Communication students are expected to follow the same rules, and exceptions are not given lightly. Departmental policies are the result of serious consideration by the faculty. However, the department chair can conaiser a waiver for compelling reasons on . The department chair determines waivers on matters such as the following:
- Waiver of Course Prerequisite (PDF, 85KB)
- Substitution of required major courses
- Acceptance of Communication courses from other schools
- Reconsideration of departmental graduation standards
- Similar departmental issues
Students should meet with their adviser and then with the chair. Be clear in what you are asking to be waived and your rationale for requesting an exemption from the rule; be prepared to discuss how waiving the rule will not jeopardize the quality of your education. Lack of awareness of a published policy is insufficient justification for a waiver, nor is a desire to speed up the process toward graduation, nor a problem caused by the student's own neglect or inattentativeness.
College Petitions
For matters beyond the department, students should contact the Academic Standards office, located in Twin Rise 100C. Here are the steps for requesting a waiver:
- Obtain a petition form in Academic Standards Office (Twin Rise 100) or download Academic Appeals Petition (pdf, 60kb). Attach supporting document, if any.
- Speak with your academic adviser, and if appropriate with the department chair. Invite your adviser or chair to write a letter of support.
- Submit the written petition to Academic Standards. Be prepared to wait 2-3 weeks for a decision.
Appeals re: Academic Misconduct
The College and the Department expect students to adhere to high standards of honesty and integrity in academic matters and to avoid plagiarism and cheating. The statement on Academic Misconduct outlined provisions for appealing allegations of misconduct. See also the College provision for Student Complaints in other areas of college life.