Masters Student Handbook
Status Changes
Voluntary Academic Leaves
In the event that a student wishes to request a leave of absence from the program, he or she should address their request in writing to the Associate Dean for Student Affairs. Included in the written request should be the reason for and the anticipated duration of the leave. Students returning from leave must inform the Associate Dean for Student Affairs in writing at least three months before their anticipated return date. Note: All requirements for the degree must be completed within five years of the date when the student first registered for the degree. Students are responsible for tuition charges and other financial obligations to the University incurred before the effective date of the leave.
Involuntary Leave of Absence
Students whose psychiatric, psychological, or other medical condition causes them to pose a threat to themselves and/or others, or causes them to significantly disrupt the educational activities of the University community, may be required to take a leave of absence from the University. (See Involuntary Leave of Absence Policy)
Withdrawal from the Degree Program
A student who wishes to terminate candidacy for the degree should formally withdraw from the School by notifying the Associate Dean for Student Affairs in writing. The effective date of separation from the University is the date on which the student files the written request. Students are responsible for tuition charges and other financial obligations to the University incurred before the effective date of withdrawal.
Readmission to the Degree Program
A student wishing to return to the program after having withdrawn must reapply to the program.
Only those students who have completed the requirements of their degree program may participate in the SP2 graduation ceremony held each May. Persons who are put on financial hold cannot participate in the graduation ceremony unless they document that financial arrangements have been made through Student Financial Services (located in the Franklin Building) to meet their obligation. They will not have access to their diploma until the financial matters are settled. Persons with incomplete work, and those who expect to complete their requirements by the end of a summer session are eligible to participate in the graduation ceremony to be held in May following the completion of their degree requirements.