Academics

North Greenville University offers faith-based liberal arts courses. At our university in South Carolina, we do our best to make a difference in the life of each and every student that God entrusts to us. We are committed to educating our students in a biblically sound, Christ-centered environment. We care about their spiritual well-being as well as their academic achievements.

Our faculty and staff members are committed Christians who take the integration of faith and learning very seriously and make it a significant part of all academic experiences at our university.

Christian Emphasis in Academics

North Greenville University believes that the truths found in Holy Scriptures permeate every aspect of reality.  All truth is ultimately from God.  Therefore, a commitment to academic excellence can be an integral component in the maturation of one's faith.  Faculty members meet regularly to study ways in which matters of faith can be brought into our liberal arts courses and the classroom experience.  University students are then encouraged to participate in the process of integrating faith and learning.  North Greenville University strives to be a place where graduates will leave with both an understanding of their chosen fields of endeavor and an appreciation for how the truths of Scripture apply to those areas.

The Office of Academics

The Office of Academics includes the Vice President for Academics, the Registrar, Student Success which includes Academic Success, College Studies, and Disability Services along with the six colleges of the University:  Business and Sport Professions, Christian Studies, Education, Fine Arts, Humanities, and Science and Mathematics.  Also within the Office of Academics is the Learning Center, Information Technology, Institutional Research and Effectiveness, and Honors.  

To contact the Office of Academics call (864) 977-7011 or email at Academics@ngu.edu [Fax:  (864) 977-7031].

Academic Information

General Education

The general education requirement at our liberal arts university includes core courses to nourish an environment that allows students to develop the skills to become life-long learners and to realize their fullest potential to develop intellectually and culturally. This objective is achieved by directing students through a curriculum designed to develop:

• Oral and Written Communication Skills
• Critical Thinking Skills
  (With respect to the dictates of reason and rationality (which are gifts from God) and with respect to relating the Christian worldview to other worldviews and cultures.)
• Foundational Base of General Knowledge for successful work in a complex world.

Building upon the Philosophy of Christian Education and Mission Statement of North Greenville University, which emphasizes Christ as central to all aspects of the educational environment and process, graduates of North Greenville University will experience a general education curriculum that seeks to develop persons who can apply Biblical truths and principles to learning and life, and students who will be good stewards of a Christian mind and body given to us by God.

Integral to this process is student exposure to courses in the liberal arts, fine arts, the social and behavioral sciences, and the natural and logical sciences. Such a curriculum will enable students to develop a broad knowledge of civilization, literature, religious traditions, and the human condition needed for successful interaction with individuals and institutions.

Honors

Recognition of outstanding academic achievement is made in the following ways:

• Dean’s List:
  Full-time students whose grade point average is 3.5 or above for a given semester comprise the Dean’s list for that semester.  Students enrolled in any developmental courses are not eligible for the Dean’s List.
• Graduation with Honors:
  Baccalaureate degree students whose cumulative grade point averages are at least 3.5 will graduate cum laude; those whose cumulative grade point averages are at least 3.75 will graduate magna cum laude; those whose cumulative grade point averages are at least 3.9 will graduate summa cum laude.

Advising

In order to assist students in developing and achieving personal and career goals while developing a specific program of study at our liberal arts university, each student is assigned to a faculty member who serves as academic advisor. Students are urged to consult frequently with these advisors. The student, however, is solely responsible to ensure that proper enrollment occurs and that all academic requirements are met.

Academic Records

Official academic records are maintained for each student in the Registrar’s office under the supervision of the Vice President for Academics. These records are accessible only to university personnel who have a legitimate need for information. Individual records are made available to others only upon the specific request of the student.  Prior to the completion of 90 hours of academic credit, students should visit the Registrar’s office and their academic advisor’s office to ensure that requirements are met for graduation. 

Academic Policies

Credit By Exam And Placement

Credit may be received for a course in which a student has not enrolled by the student’s demonstrating mastery of the subject matter of the course on an examination administered by a faculty member in the discipline.  Approval to take such an exam must be given by both the faculty member and the office of the Vice President of Academics.  A fee is charged for taking such an examination and for any credit received as a result.  Refer to the fee schedule in the general expenses section.  Should the university require a student take an examination, all fees will be waived.  No fee is charged for routine placement examinations.

A student wishing to receive credit by examination will be informed of the scope of material to be covered but will not be provided additional assistance.  Credit by examination may not be obtained for any course in which a student has previously enrolled.  Transient and special students are not eligible for credit by examination.

Credit for Prior Experiential Learning

In awarding credit for prior experiential learning, the University will award credit only for documented learning which demonstrates achievement of all outcomes for specific courses in an approved degree program.  The credit will be identified as such on the student’s transcript.

It is the policy of the University that such credit would be given after successful completion of a written examination, such as a CLEP or DANTES examination, or a written examination prepared by the faculty in that discipline.

Credit will be awarded after original document of the CLEP or DANTES examination is received.  Credit for a written faculty exam will be awarded after the Registrar’s Office receives written notification signed by the Department Chair.

Credit for Military Training

Veterans must submit a military transcript documenting the work completed during military training to the Office of the Registrar.  The Registrar evaluates all military credit.  The credit awarded is based on the recommendations found in the Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services.  Credits are posted, and the work is identified by the same procedures used for all transfer students.

Advanced Placement

Students who complete college-level courses in high school and take the examinations prepared by the Advanced Placement Program of the College Board (AP), will receive advanced placement and university credit for such courses if they score 3, 4 or 5 on the appropriate subject area examination according to guidelines established by the College Board.  Credit ranges from three to eight semester hours.

Regarding English credit, a student must have taken two units of AP English in high school and scored at least a 3 on both the English language and literature tests in order to exempt and receive credit for both English 1310 and English 1320.  If the student has passed only one test, credit will be given for 1310 or 1320 accordingly.

International Baccalaureate Program

Credit will be given to any student scoring 5, 6, or 7 on the higher level International Baccalaureate exams.

English Placement Test

All new students who have not already earned credit for English 1310 will be required to produce a prescribed writing sample for placement in the appropriate level of English.  This writing sample is administered and scored by the English faculty.

Foreign Language Placement Policy

Students must take the Modern Languages and Linguistics Department foreign language placement test in the appropriate language before starting their study in this department.  Students with a language requirement must complete four semester (12 credit hours) in one language unless their major specifies otherwise.  In general, entering freshmen with two years of high school language study in the same language will be placed into second semester of that language during initial enrollment at North Greenville University.  The placement test will be administered during the first week of class to verify the placement.

Placement Testing

Any student who has not taken the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) or who has scores below 500 Verbal or 500 Math score must take the University’s placement test(s).  The untimed tests are administered at North Greenville University and are used primarily to place the new student more closely in the appropriate courses.  Students who score below acceptable levels will be required to take developmental studies courses to bring their skills up to a suitable level of proficiency.  Students who have pending admission for other reasons may also be required to take placement tests.

English 1310 Exemption Policy

Students who score 600 on the verbal SAT, or who demonstrate excellence in writing, will be allowed to take the English 1310 Essay Exemption Test.  If the student passes the test, credit will be given for English 1310.

Music Theory

Any student wishing to exempt music theory must make an appointment for testing with the theory coordinator.  If the student demonstrates sufficient elementary theoretical skills, the student may exempt Theory 1430 and enroll in Theory 1440.  Exemption of 1430 receives the grade from 1440.  Exemption of 1440 receives the grade from 2430.

Pre-Scheduling

Currently enrolled students are expected to pre-schedule for the following term during the designated periods each fall and spring.  Students are less likely to encounter closed classes or other scheduling problems when they take advantage of this opportunity.

All students must still register for classes during the official registration period at the beginning of each term.

Registration

All students must register for classes at the designated time each term.  The registration process includes meeting first with the student’s faculty advisor.  Prior to registration for classes, all financial obligations for past semesters as well as the semester for which the student wishes to register must be satisfied.  Each student must register in person and assume responsibility for proper enrollment unless permission has been obtained from the Vice President for Academics’ office.

Students who properly pre-schedule, do not need to make schedule changes.  Students who meet their financial obligations to the university by the announced date, will not be required to attend registration at the beginning of a semester.

Maximum Student Load

The following rules concerning the semester hour load apply to all regular students:  1) Any student who has a cumulative grade point average of less than 3.0 is limited to 19 semester hours of academic work, including credit and non-credit courses.  2) Students on academic probation will have their class load limited to 13 academic hours.  3) Students who are required to enroll in two or more developmental courses may not enroll for more than 14 academic hours including credit and non-credit courses.  However, non-credit courses will be included in total semester load hours.  A summer session normal load is six hours.

Normally, in lecture discussion courses requiring outside preparation, one hour of credit shall be given for one period of recitation (50 minutes) plus 2 hours of preparation each week of the term.  Also, a semester hour of credit normally represents at least 3 hours of work each week, on the average, for a period of 15-16 weeks.

A student must have permission from the office of the Vice President for Academics before exceeding the hour loads designated above.  Students in the Honors Program may exceed the maximum load limit with approval of the Director of the Honors Program or the Vice President for Academics.

Schedule Changes

Students may drop or add courses with the approval of their faculty advisor.  The following criteria will apply:

• Only necessary or essential schedule changes may be made during registration.   Permissible schedule changes must be accompanied by a properly completed drop/add form.  Beginning the first day of classes a $10 fee is assessed for schedule changes.
• During the first week of the semester, students may add or drop courses with the written approval of their faculty advisor and the respective instructors.  No record of having attended any dropped classes will be shown on the student’s transcript or grade report.
• During the second week of the semester, students may drop courses only through their faculty advisor and the respective instructor(s).  No record of having attended any dropped classes will be shown on the student’s transcript or grade report.  Courses may not be added at this time without specific approval of the office of Vice President for Academics.
• After the second week of the semester through mid-term, students may drop courses with the written approval of their faculty advisor and the respective instructor(s).  A grade of “W” will be assigned and will appear on the student’s transcript but will not affect the student’s G.P.A.
• After mid-term, students may drop courses with the approval of their faculty advisor and the respective instructor(s).  A grade of “WF” or “WP” will be assigned according to the quality of work being done when the course is dropped.  A “WF” counts against the student’s G.P.A. as a failing grade.

Drop/add forms may be obtained from the Registrar’s Office in the Neves Academic Building. It is imperative that students with financial aid consult with the Director of Financial Aid before dropping courses.

Grading System

The following grades are used at the college:

A =  Excellent
B =  Good
C =  Average
D =  Passing*
F =  Failure
W =  Withdrawn
WF = Withdrawn failing
WP = Withdrawn passing
I =  Incomplete**
XF = Failure because of excessive absences
NC = No credit but making progress in a developmental class
P =  Pass
U =  Unsatisfactory progress in developmental classes (mid-semester only)
S =  Satisfactory progress in developmental classes (mid-semester only)
A*, B*, C*, D*, F* (asterisk grades) are levels of achievement in non-credit courses and DO NOT AFFECT G.P.A.  Grades of “WF” or “XF” will not be given in those courses.

*Because of the adverse effect on G.P.A., all students are strongly encouraged to repeat courses in which they have made “D” or “F.”
**An “I” grade is given only when the work is not completed because of illness or other circumstances beyond the student’s control.  This grade is not given simply because assignments were not completed.  The student who receives such a grade is responsible to arrange with the instructor for the work to be completed.  If the work is not completed by mid-point of the semester following the one in which the “I” was received, the “I” will automatically become an “F.”

Grades in Developmental Studies

Grades in developmental studies need to be understood on two levels:

• Exit Level:  Because the purpose of developmental courses is to help students develop skills necessary for success in the rest of their university work, students must reach a certain level of skill in order to exit from the courses.  This level is determined by means of exams administered in each developmental course at the end of each semester.  Students who do not achieve the necessary skill level receive grades of either “NC” or “F*”.  The grade of “NC” is assigned to students who have attended class regularly, completed assignments, fulfilled all requirements, and are making progress in the course, but who need more time to reach the level of competence required to exit from the course.  The grade of “F*” is assigned to students who are not making progress because they have not completed assignments or fulfilled all requirements.  A student can earn only a limited number of these grades and remain in good standing with the University (suspension is determined by faculty committee).  Students who are having trouble in passing exit exams may be assigned a tutor if they choose to remain at North Greenville University and repeat the course.  Grades of “WF” or “XF” will not be assigned in developmental classes.
• Achievement Levels:  Students who achieve the necessary skill level to exit from a developmental course receive grades of A*, B*, C*, and D*, based upon criteria established by the instructor at the beginning of the course (“*” designates grades in courses which do not carry college credit and are not used in computing a student’s grade point average).

Transfer Credit

Transcripts are evaluated in the Registrar’s office prior to enrollment.  A copy of the accepted courses is given to the transfer counselor in admissions, who contacts the student.  Upon enrollment and receipt of official final transcript, the Registrar enters classes in the student’s North Greenville University transcript.  The student is then notified through campus mail of the courses accepted. The notification is recorded in the student’s permanent file.

Credits earned at another accredited institution may be transferred back to North Greenville University provided the grades are “C” or better and the courses are relevant to the curriculum at North Greenville University.  The transfer grades will not be used by the university in computing grade point average, but will be used as “earned hours” in accumulating hours for a degree.

A grade of “D” in a single subject may be transferred back to the University only if it affects graduation at North Greenville University and the cumulative G.P.A. at North Greenville University is 2.0 or higher.

Students wishing to transfer coursework back to North Greenville University must have written permission from the Registrar’s office.

A minimum of 25 percent of all credits applied toward a degree must be earned from North Greenville University.  The student must earn 30 of the last 36 credit hours in a degree program at North Greenville University unless an exception is approved by the respective Dean and Vice President for Academics.

Repeating Courses

Students who make a grade of “C” or better may not repeat a course for credit.  Students making “D” or “F” may repeat a course.

In all cases, each attempt of a course will remain permanently on a student’s transcript (with exception of courses dropped during the first two weeks of the semester).

If a student repeats a course in which a grade of “D” or “F” is made, the grade point average will be computed on the basis of the highest (or equal) attempted grade.  The hours attempted will be counted only once and divided into the grade points earned for the highest grade to determine the student’s grade point average.

A student who fails a course that is required for graduation three times must successfully complete that course before the student may take any other courses at North Greenville University.

Independent Studies

If a class is being taught and there is no class conflict, an independent study should not be given.  No student can earn more that 6 semester hours through independent studies toward their degree.  Exceptions must be approved by the Vice President for Academics.  A professor will only be allowed to teach 2 independent studies per semester.  (Exception will be given in one-hour physical education classes.)  The dean must first give approval for the independent study in the college.  Also, the course instructor and the Vice President for Academics must approve the independent study.

Academic Accommodation

The university requires individuals requesting academic accommodations to contact the Learning Disabilities Liaison Office.  Documentation must be furnished and reasonable procedures followed to receive services and accommodations.

Summer School

The university offers two summer sessions, each approximately 5 weeks in length Monday through Thursday with Memorial Day and July 4th being recognized as holidays.  Students must register for classes prior to the beginning of each session, or no later than the first day of class.  The normal maximum course load for a student in each session is six hours.  All other academic policies will be adhered to as stated in other sections of the catalog. Each professor will have the attendance policy stated in the syllabus.

Grade Point Average (G.P.A.)

The grade point average is determined by dividing the number of accumulated quality points by the number of hours attempted in courses that carry quality points at North Greenville University.  The number of quality points is determined by the grade as shown below:

A = four quality points per semester hour
B = three quality points per semester hour
C = two quality points per semester hour
D = one quality point per semester hour
F = no quality points per semester hour

Credit received in transfer from other institutions does not affect one’s grade point average.

Grade Reports

Immediately after final examinations each semester or term, faculty members report grades to the Registrar’s office.  Students may view their grades on-line through the Student Portal.  If a student does not have internet access at home, they can request in writing a hard copy of their grades to be mailed home.

Academic Progress

No student can be placed on academic suspension without first being placed on academic probation for a period of at least one semester.  After one semester on academic probation, students must return to good standing or be subject to academic suspension.

G.P.A. standards used to identify a student’s academic standing will be as follows:  

Cumulative G.P.A. Hours Attempted 0-16 hours 17-48 hours 49 or above

Probation if the G.P.A.falls below: 1.50 1.75 2.00

Transfer students’ G.P.A. requirements will be based on the number of hours accepted for credit at North Greenville University.

A student who earns a semester G.P.A. below 1.25, regardless of cumulative G.P.A., will be placed on academic probation. 

Students placed on academic probation will not be allowed to carry a course load in excess of thirteen semester hours of academic work.  Such students should repeat courses in which a “D” or “F” has been earned in order to raise the G.P.A.  Students on academic probation are required to work closely with their faculty advisor and with the academic probation coordinator during their semester(s) of probation.  Students on academic probation will be required to take the course, College 1350, Study Skills. 

Developmental course grades are not used in these computations.

Academic Suspension

Students who fail to remove themselves from academic probation after one semester are subject to academic suspension.  Students placed on academic suspension will have the option of appeal if exceptional circumstances are contributing causes to poor academic performance.  Factors such as a lengthy illness, a death in the immediate family, or divorce, constitute exceptional circumstances.  The deadline for submission of an appeal along with the procedure to be followed will be included with notice of suspension.  The first suspension will be at least for one semester.  A second suspension is for an indefinite period of at least one full year.  If the student appeals and the appeal is granted, the next semester attended does not count as a suspension.

Students may repeat coursework during summer sessions at North Greenville University and improve their G.P.A.  In many cases, the improvement will be enough to remove the suspension or probation status.  The appeals committee will take into consideration efforts made during summer sessions when reviewing appeals of academic suspension.

After completing a period of suspension, students must contact the Admissions Office for readmission procedures.

Readmission

Any student who has withdrawn from the university may reapply.  Students who have been suspended, because of academic or disciplinary reasons, may apply for admission only after the time of suspension is completed.  Reapplying does not guarantee automatic readmission back into the university.  Applications for students on academic suspension will be reviewed by the Admissions, Financial Aid, and Academic Standing Committee for approval or denial.  The decision of the committee will be final.  All other applications will be approved or denied by the Vice President for Admissions and Financial Aid.

Academic Irregularity and Sanctions

Violations of the Student Conduct Code such as cheating or plagiarism will result in sanctions deemed appropriate for the offense.  Possible sanctions include:

Assignment failure:  a grade of “zero” for the assignment involved.

Course failure:  a grade of “F” for the course in which the offense occurred.
A student can be referred to the Director for Student Services for violations that warrant the following sanctions:

Forced withdrawal:  withdrawal from the academic course with which the offense occurred without credit for the course.  A failing grade may be assigned.

Disciplinary Withdrawal or Suspension from the University.
Forced withdrawal, disciplinary withdrawal or suspension without credit from the University can be for as minimal as one offense or multiple offenses.  The Director for Student Services will make this determination with the assistance of one of the following Vice Presidents:  Student Services, Academics, or Admissions and Financial Aid.

Appeals

A student may appeal actions concerning admission/readmission, financial aid, academic suspension, or final grades.  The Admissions, Financial Aid and Academic Standing Committee holds hearings and takes action regarding these appeals.  Appeals regarding admission/readmission and financial aid are submitted to the committee chair by the Vice President for Admissions and Financial Aid.  Appeals regarding academic suspension and final grades are submitted to the committee chair by the Vice President for Academics.  Any grade appeal must be submitted in writing before midterm of the semester following the grade in question.  Following committee consideration of an appeal, the student will be advised in writing of the decision.  The committee’s decision is final.

Attendance

Since class attendance is an important ingredient in college success, all students at North Greenville University are expected to attend class regularly.  Specific regulations governing class attendance will be made by the instructor and issued in writing with thorough explanation to the students in each class during the first week of the semester.  
Students who miss class for any reason will be marked absent.  Any student who is absent from class because of university business (examples:  Joyful Sound, Impact Teams, athletic teams) or because of foreseeable personal circumstances must inform the instructors whose classes are involved prior to the absence.  Arrangements can then be made for the student to make up any missed class work, tests, or written assignments.  The student is responsible for seeing that all assignments are completed as arranged with the instructor.   Students representing the university should not be penalized.  If students are missing class excessively to represent the university, faculty should contact university personnel responsible to see if other arrangements can be made.  If students are in a program where absences will be required, the student should not be absent from class for personal reasons without the professor’s approval.
Students who are absent for unforeseeable emergencies should contact the office of the Vice President for Academics and the respective instructors as soon as possible.  Instructors have the prerogative of requesting documentation for medical absences.
Students who enter classes late at the beginning of any academic session must have the approval of the Vice President for Academics.  The student must also have the approval of each professor, and fully understanding the work has to be made up.  The number of classes that can be missed for the remainder of the session will be determined by the professor.
Out of state and international students should make travel arrangements well in advance in order to arrive on campus before the first day of classes.

A student may be dropped for cause from any course at any time upon recommendation of the instructor and approval of the Vice President for Academics.  Sufficient causes include over cutting, lack of preparation, neglect, improper conduct in the classroom, medical reasons, and family emergencies.

Only students maintaining 12 or more semester hours (full-time status) will be permitted to occupy residence halls.

Since most financial aid is awarded based on full-time enrollment, students should consult with the Financial Aid office before dropping below 12 hours.

Withdrawing from the University

Any student who finds it necessary to withdraw from the university must contact the Office of Student Services to begin the withdrawal process.  Failure to withdraw officially from courses may result in the student’s G.P.A. dropping significantly as courses are failed because of non-attendance.

Final Semester Examinations

The final examinations will be scheduled by the Vice President for Academics and the schedule will be followed each semester.  Any changes must be approved by the Vice President for Academics and will be given to students in advance of the last class before the final examinations begin.

Auditing

Students who desire an opportunity to learn material presented in a course without taking examinations or receiving a grade or credit may audit.  Skills courses, such as applied music or art, and laboratory sciences may not be audited.  An application for admission should be completed and the application fee paid prior to auditing the first course.

Classification

Students who have earned fewer than 30 semester hours are classified as freshmen.  Those who have earned 30 but fewer than 60 hours are classified as sophomores.  Students who have earned 60 hours but fewer than 90 hours are classified as juniors.  Those students who have earned 90 or more hours are classified as seniors.  Students not enrolled in a degree program but simply taking one or more courses for personal enrichment are classified as special students.

Declaration of Degree Program/Major

Upon initial registration, all regular students must tentatively declare their intended degree program or major field of study.  Forms will be provided by the faculty advisor.

Students may similarly change their declarations at any time prior to the end of their sophomore year.  Subsequent changes must be approved by the Vice President for Academics and the prospective dean.

Graduation Requirements

All students who receive a degree from North Greenville University must complete one of the prescribed degree programs.  A minimum of 64 semester hours is required for the Associate degree, excluding hours earned for chapel and cultural events, with a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

A minimum of 128 semester hours is required for the Bachelor’s degree, excluding hours earned for chapel and cultural events, with a minimum grade point average of 2.0 (some majors require more than 128 hours and have higher G.P.A. requirements).  Thirty of the last 36 hours must be earned at North Greenville University unless an exception is approved by the respective dean and the Vice President for Academics.

Students must register and earn credit for chapel and cultural events for each semester of full-time enrollment.  Since the number of semesters of enrollment varies, no specific number of hours is listed for these requirements.  Chapel and cultural events credits are in addition to those listed as degree requirements at the rate of 1/2 semester hour for each course for each full-time semester attended at North Greenville University.  All students must earn credit for chapel and cultural events at least two semesters in order to graduate.  Students will not be required to exceed eight credits for chapel and cultural events in order to graduate.

Students should average 16 credit hours, plus one hour for chapel and cultural events, each semester to graduate from the associate program in four semesters or the Bachelor’s degree in eight semesters. Those majoring in Biology, Education, Outdoor Leadership, and Psychology, should average 17 to 19 credit hours per semester.  Students required to take lighter loads because of academic probation or enrollment in developmental classes or students whose abilities make lighter loads advisable should plan on one or more additional semesters to graduate.  Students may also take coursework in summer school to avoid additional semesters of regular enrollment.

Students must meet all requirements in a degree program to participate in commencement exercises.  North Greenville University holds two commencement exercises each academic year.  The spring commencement is held in May, and the fall commencement is held in December.

Special Courses & Programs

Honors Program

Established in 1980, the Honors Scholar Program at North Greenville University offers academically gifted students courses, seminars, and activities specifically designed for enriched learning.  Students who complete the requirements of the Honors Program earn an Honors Scholar Diploma and receive appropriate designation on their transcripts which should be advantageous for entrance into graduate school or the business world.    

Entering freshmen interested in becoming a part of the Honors Scholar Program should contact their Admissions Counselor.  Membership in the Honors Scholar Program is by invitation only and is activated by registering for Honors 1210, Freshman Honors Seminar.

Eligibility

Entering freshmen will be invited into the Honors Scholar Program if he/she meets all of the following criteria:

• Graduating in the top 10% of their class
• Having a SAT (or ACT equivalent) of 1250 or a 4.0 GPA
• Having not less than a SAT (or ACT equivalent) of 1150 or a GPA of less than 3.75

Home-schooled applicants will be admitted on the basis of having a SAT (or ACT equivalent) of 1250.

Students who transfer to North Greenville from another college may apply for membership to the Honors Scholar Program if he/she has earned at least a 3.5 GPA in college-level courses.  The Honors Scholar Committee shall determine the eligibility of each transfer student.  Transfer students may request his/her transcripts be reviewed by the Registrar and the Vice President for Academics to determine if any honors courses from his/her previous institution might be applied toward the honors diploma at North Greenville University.

International students must meet Honors entrance requirements.

Students who do not meet the initial entrance requirements for the Honors Scholar Program may be admitted after completing 30 hours of college-level courses with a GPA of at least 3.5 and contacting the Director of the Honors Program for admission to the program.  Due to the course/seminar requirements of the Program, students will not be invited to join after beginning the first semester of their junior year.

In order to be eligible to continue in the Honors Scholar Program, an Honors Scholar must maintain a GPA of at least 3.5 and complete at least one course or seminar during the calendar year.  Students with a GPA between 3.0 and 3.5 may continue with the permission of the Honors Committee.  An Honors Scholar may enroll in Honors courses, regular courses for Honors credit, and participate in the Honors Seminars.

Graduation as an Honors Scholar for the Bachelor’s degree requires 15 semester hours of Honors courses, completion of four semester of Honors Seminar, and Honors 4330.

Chapel:  CHPL 1000

In keeping with the philosophy of campus community and the importance of Christian values, chapel meets twice weekly.  Chapel is required each fall and spring semester for all full-time students.  Students must successfully complete the chapel requirement for each semester of full-time attendance in order to graduate at North Greenville University.  In addition, students must pass a minimum of two semesters of chapel to earn a bachelor’s degree from the university.  (Students must pass a minimum of one semester of chapel to earn an associate degree.)  After the successful completion of eight semesters of chapel attendance, students are exempt from further chapel requirements.

Chapel presentations address the imperatives of the Christian faith relating to worship, evangelism, discipleship, fellowship, and ministry.  Occasional sessions will also be utilized for special university community emphases.  Two meetings per week.  One half-hour earned credit.

Full-time, evening-only students should contact the Vice President for Campus Ministries regarding fulfilling their chapel requirement.

Cultural Events:  CEVT 1000

Cultural event programs are offered as a part of a liberal arts education and are intended to give students an appreciation of the arts.  Such an education seeks to educate the whole person.  The goal is a well-rounded, well-informed individual aware of the world and his or her place in society.  In exposing students to the arts, educators hope students will develop an understanding of beauty and truth as revealed through artistic expression.  As a Christian institution, North Greenville University is also interested in God’s revelation as expressed through the arts.

CEVT credit will be awarded on a pass/fail basis.  Attendance at three events (on or off campus) will result in a grade of “P” or passing.  In order to graduate, students are required to pass CEVT 1000 each full-time semester they are enrolled at North Greenville University.  Students who have completed eight semesters of cultural events credit and have not completed a bachelor’s degree need not further enroll in CEVT. A student who fails CEVT 1000 will take the course again (using CEVT 1000-02) in another semester.  Full-time students must pass eight (8) semesters of CEVT 1000 to graduate, and part-time students must pass two (2) semesters of CEVT 1000 to graduate.  CEVT 1000-02 is only open to students who have failed a semester of CEVT 1000.  Information concerning the cultural events program can be found on the NGU website.

First Year Experience:  COLL 1100

The mission of College 1100 focuses on helping students make a successful transition to college by providing opportunities and resources for gaining the information and developing skills necessary for success in college.  All new freshmen and transfer students with fewer than 15 hours are required to take this course.  One class hour per week.  One hour credit.

Learning Methods: COLL 1300

The initial adjustment to college life is a particularly critical period for the student’s long-term academic success.  For this reason, the university requires all entering freshmen taking two or more developmental courses to take this course which is designed to assist the student in developing effective study skills and adjusting to college life.

Students who are enrolled in this course are exempted from First Year Experience (College 1100).  Three class hours per week.  Three hours credit.

Turning Point:  Academic Success Strategies:  COLL 1350

This course is designed for students on academic probation and students considered at-risk academically.  It is designed to help students improve their abilities to stay on course to reach success in college and in life.  Students learn and adapt proven strategies for creating greater academic, professional, and personal success.  Three class hours a week.  Three semester hours credit.

International Program

Students interested in study abroad opportunities should contact the Office of the Vice President for Academics.

Council for Christian Colleges and Universities
Best Semester Program

As a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, North Greenville University participates in the Best Semester Program.  Students may apply for semester long programs in two domestic and six international settings and two summer opportunities.

Visit www.bestsemester.com for more information or contact the office of Vice President for Academics.

ROTC

Successful completion of the Basic and Advanced Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program leads to a commission in the U.S. Army, Army Reserve, or National Guard.  The first two years of ROTC comprise the Basic Course; the last two years, including a six-week summer camp, comprise the Advanced Course.  All students may take military science courses for elective credit or to satisfy the college’s physical education requirement.  The ROTC program is open to both men and women, and scholarships are available.  The Department of the Army pays each Advanced Course student $150 per month during the school year and approximately $750 for attending the six-week Advanced Camp.

Pre-Professional Programs

Our liberal arts university offers various courses and programs that allow students to attend our South Carolina university while preparing for specific professional programs at other institutions.

Pre-Allied Health Programs

Pre-allied health programs include pre-dental, pre-chiropractic, pre-medical, pre-nursing, pre-occupational therapy, pre-optometry, pre-physical therapy, pre-pharmacy, pre-physician assistant, and pre-veterinary medicine.  These various pre-professional tracts require 60-90 semester hours of undergraduate credit before entrance into a professional program.  Although some professional schools do not require a bachelor’s degree prior to entrance, most successful students gaining entrance do complete a bachelor’s degree.  Students who complete the specific pre-professional program at North Greenville University, having met the appropriate requirements, should be competitive in their application for acceptance into the various specialties.  Admission is determined by grade point average, pre-professional test scores, letters of recommendation, and experience in the field in which they are applying.

Pre-Engineering

North Greenville University offers various courses that will allow students to attend North Greenville University while preparing for a degree in engineering. Students interested in a career in engineering are encouraged to take a broad range of courses within the science and math departments.  Each student should become familiar with the course requirements of the school in which he/she is interested and work closely with the faculty advisor to fulfill these requirements.

Pre-Law

Law schools provide no specific undergraduate curriculum for admission; thus, no particular major is necessarily the best preparation for the study of law.  However, the Supreme Court of South Carolina has found that certain courses are beneficial in taking the bar examinations.  Students should plan their curriculum carefully and enroll in courses in English, American History and U. S. Government, Economics, Mathematics, Writing and Public Speaking, Accounting, Philosophy, Political Science, Christian Studies, Sociology, Psychology, Computer Technology, and a laboratory science.  Several majors could be recommended.  They include English, Interdisciplinary in American Studies, and one of the majors in Business.

Students will need to contact the Law School they wish to attend to inquire about any specific requirements and to inquire about preparations to take the Law School Aptitude Test (LSAT).  This test measures general analytic skills and qualities of thought and expression.  In addition, pre-law students should seek out part-time employment or internships in government and legal offices.

Pre-Seminary

The Christian Studies degree at North Greenville University prepares the student for any seminary, more specifically one of the six Southern Baptist seminaries.  In most cases, students who are entering seminary for graduate work should be enrolled in the Christian Studies curriculum.  

Degree Programs offered

BACHELOR OF ARTS
Broadcast Media, Christian Studies, Church Music (Praise and Worship), Church Music (Seminary), Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, English, English Language Arts in Secondary Education, History, Intercultural Studies, Interdisciplinary Studies - B.A., Interdisciplinary Studies - American Studies, Interdisciplinary Studies - Criminal Justice and Legal Studies,  Interdisciplinary Studies - Musical Theatre, International Business, Media Ministry, Music (General), Music Education (Choral), Music Education (Instrumental), Music Performance, Print Media, Spanish, Spanish Education (pending State Board of Education approval), Studio Art (Areas of emphasis include Ceramics, Drawing, Graphic Art, Painting, Photography, Printmaking and Sculpture), Theatre, and Youth Ministry

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
Accounting, Biology, Business Administration, Health Promotion and Wellness, Interdisciplinary Studies - B.S., Marketing, Mathematics, Mathematics Education,  Outdoor Leadership, Psychology, Social Studies Education,Sport Management, and Sport Management - Coaching Certification.

GRADUATE DEGREES
Master of Christian Ministry (M.C.M.), Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.), Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) (Pending State Department of Education approval), and Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.).