Student Life Policies

IV. Related University Policies

Approved by University Council April 30, 1997

ACADEMIC APPLEALS

Academic appeals include those appeals related to grades and academic programs or degree requirements. Specific instructions are provided below for each type of academic appeal. In all instances, the university expects that every attempt will be initially to resolve such disputes informally though discussions by all relevant parties prior to initiating formal procedures.

Grade Appeals
All appeals relating to specific course grades require that students first seek a satisfactory solution with the instructor. If this is not possible or the instructor cannot be reached, the student must send a written statement detailing the grounds for the appeal to the associate dean of the school in which the grade was earned. This written request must be received by the associate dean within 45 days from the calendar date when grades are available in the UHCL class schedule for that semester. The associate dean will then initiate the appropriate procedures to review the appeal. The student will be notified in writing of the decision. The student may appeal this decision in writing to the dean within 15 working days of notification. The dean's decision is final on all grade appeals.

Appeals of Academic Program or Degree Requirements
All appeals relating to specific program requirements or certification requirements (e.g., residency requirements, master's degree option decisions) require that students submit a written petition to the associate dean of the degree-granting school detailing the grounds for the appeal. The associate dean will respond in writing with a decision. The student may appeal this decision in writing to the dean within 15 working days of notification. The dean's decision is final.