1. Introduction

The graduate catalog is offered online in two formats, an HTML version and a PDF version. The HTML version is a continuously updated, dynamic, edition of the academic catalog that is accessible via a Web browser. It is kept current with curriculum revisions as they are approved by the university, and is the official university academic catalog. The PDF version is a downloadable copy of the HTML catalog as it stands on August 15 of each year, when it is “frozen” to establish the guidelines and regulations under which each incoming class will matriculate. [Both the HTML version and the PDF version of the graduate catalog for current and past academic years are accessible on the East Carolina University website at: www.ecu.edu/registrar/catalog.cfm]

The online graduate catalog is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute a contractual agreement between a student and East Carolina University. The university reserves the right to make changes in curricula, degree requirements, course offerings, or academic regulations at any time when, in the judgment of the faculty, the Chancellor, or the Board of Trustees, such changes are in the best interest of the students and the university.

1.1. Academic Regulations

The following academic regulations are identified in the university’s graduate catalog and are valid until such time as revisions are made in a regulation. Revisions to regulations are posted in the Graduate Catalog upon approval and are in effect as stated in the regulations.

1.1.1 The Graduate Catalog

1.1.2 Official Announcements

1.1.3 Falsification of Information on the Graduate Admissions Application

1.1.4 Language Requirement

1.1.5 Course Attendance and Participation

1.1.6 Disruptive Academic Behavior

1.1.7 Courses

1.1.7.1 Course Load

1.1.7.2 Course Repetition

1.1.7.3 Credit

1.1.7.4 Credit by Examination

1.1.7.5 Transfer Credits

1.1.7.6 Auditing Courses

1.1.8 Registration Procedures

1.1.8.1 Early Registration

1.1.8.2 Schedule Changes

1.1.9 Grading System

1.1.9.1 Grades and Scholarship

1.1.9.2 Graduate School Grade Appeals

1.1.9.3 Removal of Incompletes

1.1.10 Academic Eligibility Standards

1.1.10.1 Probation and Termination Policy

1.1.10.2 Graduate School Appeals Procedure

1.1.10.3 Comprehensive Assessments

1.1.10.4 Thesis/Dissertation: Research, Examination, Preparation, and Delivery

1.1.11 Change of Program

1.1.12 Alternative Programs

1.1.12.1 Dual Degree Programs

1.1.12.2 Interdisciplinary Degree Programs

1.1.12.3 Joint Degree Programs

1.1.13 Residence and Graduation Requirements

1.1.13.1 Residence Requirement

1.1.13.2 Continuous Enrollment (or Registration)

1.1.13.3 Research Skills Requirement

1.1.13.4 Time Limitations

1.1.13.5 Application for Graduation

1.1.14 Official Withdrawal and Readmission

1.1.15 Student Educational Records

1.1.15.1 Policy on Posting Grades

1.1.15.2 Transcripts of Records

1.1.15.3 Privacy of Student Educational Records Policy

1.1.15.4 Access to Student Educational Records

1.1.15.5 Change of Name and Address

1.1.15.6 Release of Directory Information