Navigating Course Enrollment and Withdrawal Policies at Webster University
Webster University is dedicated to providing accessible, quality education to its diverse student population. This article outlines key policies and procedures related to course enrollment, withdrawal, tuition, and student conduct, applicable primarily to the St. Louis campus, though some policies may extend to extended campuses. Understanding these guidelines is crucial for students to navigate their academic journey successfully.
Registration and Enrollment
Course Load and Tuition
Students have the flexibility to manage their course load each term. Current undergraduate students are encouraged to self-register for courses and degree progression. Students can register for up to three courses per term (6-9 credit hours). Enrolling in 13 to 18 credit hours qualifies students for flat-fee tuition, while those taking 12 credit hours or fewer pay per credit hour. Taking more than 18 credit hours in a single semester (or more than 9 credit hours in a term) requires special approval for an adjustment in full-time student load.
Registration and Access to Resources
Course registration should be completed prior to the official term start date. Webster University provides staff and services, including access to Microsoft Office applications from nearly any device, to enhance communication across Webster's global network. Students can access resources through their Connections account or with their academic advisor.
Term Calendars
Webster University operates on various term calendars, including the traditional Fall and Spring semesters, as well as accelerated 8-week and 9-week terms. Specifically, there are Fall 1, Fall 2, Spring 1, and Spring 2 terms. The College of Fine Arts, as well as the MSN program, follow the 8-week term calendar. The locations may vary and some courses may be offered on alternative schedules.
Adding Courses
Students can typically add a course until the first course meeting. If they do not attend class the first week of the term/semester, students must drop and add the courses during the drop/add period. After this first week, the student must obtain instructor permission to add a course.
Read also: Deadlines for Withdrawing from UCF Courses
Course Levels
Courses in the 4000 series are upper-division courses in undergraduate studies, while courses in the 5000 series are graduate courses. Students interested in applying undergraduate credits toward a graduate degree should consult the instructor of the course and obtain prior approval.
Cross-Registration
Students may have the opportunity to take classes at other institutions if the courses are not offered at Webster. However, they must furnish their own transportation but attend classes and observe regulations of the host institution for the course(s).
Dropping and Withdrawing from Courses
Drop/Add Period
During the drop/add period, students can make changes to their enrollment without academic penalty. Students can drop a course with 100% refund through the Friday of week one.
Withdrawal Deadlines and Procedures
Students can drop courses online through their Connections account or may contact an academic advisor. The university utilizes a waitlist system. For an 8- or 9-week course, the withdrawal deadline is typically the Friday of week four, while for a semester course, it's the twelfth week. After the drop/add period, withdrawing from a course results in a "W" being recorded on the academic record and transcript. Students seeking to withdraw from a course should contact an academic advisor to understand the implications and procedures.
Late Withdrawal
Late withdrawals are typically not approved for poor academic performance. However, students facing extenuating circumstances may appeal via the Tuition Appeal Request form.
Read also: Navigating College Withdrawal
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition Refunds
Undergraduate and graduate tuition refunds depend on the drop or withdrawal date. Specific deadlines are set for each term, and it's crucial to notify the Registrar by the deadline. Certain fees, such as matriculation fees, are non-refundable.
Financial Aid Implications
Dropping below half-time enrollment can impact financial aid eligibility. Students receiving financial aid or scholarships must enroll in a minimum number of credit hours per semester. Financial aid funds are to be used for educational purposes only. If a student withdraws, a portion of the funds received may have to be returned.
Tuition Appeal
Students may appeal for tuition refunds in certain conditions: medical, immediate family emergency (e.g. death), extenuating personal/professional circumstance (e.g. orders, or work related issues). Appeals are reviewed by the Graduate Tuition Refund Appeal Committee. Documentation, such as a letter on company letterhead stating withdrawal from course(s) is work related, is required to hear the request.
Academic Policies and Student Conduct
Academic Integrity
Webster University is committed to high standards of academic conduct and integrity. Plagiarism, defined as using the works (i.e. one’s own academic property without proper citation in any academic assignment, is strictly prohibited. Violations can result in a failing grade for the course, suspension, or other disciplinary action.
Student Responsibilities and Conduct
The University expects students to adhere to all University rules, regulations, and policies. Violations of published policies, rules, or regulations, as listed in the Student Responsibility section, may lead to disciplinary action. The campus community is governed by a code of conduct that aims for correction of behavior and fair sanctions.
Read also: How to Withdraw College Apps
Disruptive Behavior
Classroom disruption is within the jurisdiction of Academic Affairs. Further action might include permanent removal from the course.
Disciplinary Procedures
When a violation of the code of conduct has been reported about him or her, the student is notified by reviewing the incident with the student. All disciplinary and Student Conduct procedures are closed and confidential. A student has the right to bring witnesses on his or her own behalf. The University Student Conduct Board conducts hearings. Sanctions could include suspension or dismissal.
Appeals Process
The Academic Honesty Board decision may be appealed by the student. The Provost will consider the statement of appeal and issue a decision.
Academic Support and Resources
Academic Advising
Academic advisors meet with students in person or virtually. They assist with course selection, degree planning, and ensuring students meet minimum enrollment requirements. The Academic Advising Center at the St. Louis campus provides comprehensive support to monitor your progress.
Reeg Academic Resource Center
The Director of the Reeg Academic Resource Center provides support for students.
Multicultural Center and International Student Affairs (MCISA)
The Multicultural Center and International Student Affairs (MCISA) is your go-to resource for getting involved at Webster University.
Graduation
Petition to Graduate
All students must complete a petition to graduate. Students must fill out and submit a Petition to Graduate by a specified deadline for participation in the St. Louis commencement ceremony.
Academic Honors
University Academic Honors are awarded upon completion of all degree requirements.
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