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General University Policies and Procedures

Catalog and University Policies

Graduate and Undergraduate students are expected to inform themselves regarding all academic policies by referring to the Catalog and consulting with their academic advisors. The Catalog is not an irrevocable contract. Regulations published in it are subject to change by Regis at any time without notice. Regis regulations are policy statements to guide students, faculty, and administrative officers in achieving the goals of the institution. The appropriate authorities, with the interest of the students and the institution in mind, will make necessary interpretations of these policies.

Students are encouraged to consult an advisor or the school deans if they have questions about the application of any policy. Any course with a department but no course number is a course that will run after January 1.

The following policies are applicable to Regis baccalaureate and graduate students. Students enrolled in Lawrence Memorial/Regis College programs in Nursing and Radiography should refer to the Lawrence Memorial/Regis College catalogs or to their website.

Accreditation, State Regulation, and Complaints

Regis College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.).

Accreditation of an institution of higher education by the Commission indicates that it meets or exceeds criteria for the assessment of institutional quality periodically applied though a peer review process. An accredited college or university is one which has available the necessary resources to achieve its stated purposes through appropriate educational programs, is substantially doing so, and gives reasonable evidence that it will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. Institutional integrity is also addressed through accreditation.

Accreditation by the Commission is not partial but applies to the institution as a whole. As such, it is not a guarantee of every course or program offered, or the competence of individual graduates. Rather, it provides reasonable assurance about the quality of opportunities available to students who attend the institution.

Inquiries regarding the accreditation status by the Commission should be directed to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact:

New England Commission of Higher Education
3 Burlington Woods Drive, Suite 100
Burlington, MA 01803-4514
Phone: 781.425.7785
E-Mail: info@neche.org

Students may also submit complaints to the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education or the Massachusetts Attorney General using the following contact information:

Massachusetts Department of Higher Education Office of the General Counsel
One Ashburton Place, Room 1401
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617.994.6950
Complaint website

Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General Consumer Advocacy and Response Division
One Ashburton Place, Eighteenth Floor
Boston, MA 02108
Complaint website

DHE's SARA-specific Complaint Procedure

For student complaints regarding distance learning programs. 

Please visit this link for information about submitting complaints in other states.

Academic Assessment Statement

Regis College is committed to continuous improvement of the curriculum through assessment of student learning. Information on mission, goals, and student learning outcomes that pertain to each academic program is provided on the Regis College website and this catalog.

Academic Appeals

A student may address the following academic concerns via the Academic Appeal process:

Grades: A student may appeal their final grade in a course as well as any other grade received within a course (e.g., a grade on an assignment, project, quiz, exam, or administrative withdrawal from a course). A student must base their Academic Appeal of a grade upon either an error in grading (e.g., miscalculation) or an unfair grading practice (e.g., discrimination).

Academic Requirement: A student may appeal an academic requirement that was applied inconsistently or unfairly.

The Office of Academic Affairs may modify the Academic Appeals process as it determines necessary to maintain a fair and effective process.

A student’s Academic Appeal must provide specific detail and, where available, supporting documentation, describing the matter which they are appealing. For example, an Academic Appeal would need to specify how a grade was miscalculated how and why a grade was unfair or how and why an academic requirement was applied unfairly or inconsistently. If a student submits an Academic Appeal lacking sufficient detail, the student will have a reasonable opportunity to provide adequate detail and/or documentation.

A student bears sole responsibility for initiating each step within the Academic Appeal process. The steps below are progressive in nature (i.e., a student must complete them in order). If a satisfactory outcome is reached at any step, the student does not need to proceed with the following step(s). A student may choose to discontinue the Academic Appeal process at any time. If a student discontinues their Academic Appeal, then the original grade, action, or academic requirement will stand.

Academic Appeal Process

Step One: Written Appeal to the Course Instructor

To initiate an Academic Appeal the student must contact the course instructor within five (5) business days of the occurrence of the matter, in writing, describing the academic matter, the basis of their appeal and requesting a meeting, in person or virtually, to discuss the matter. The course instructor must make reasonable effort to hear the student’s concern and, if possible, to address the concern. Following the meeting, the course instructor must inform the student in writing regarding the course instructor’s decision and/or the status of the academic matter.

Step Two: Written Appeal to the Department Chair/Program Director

If the student continues to be dissatisfied after Step One, the student may contact the department chair/program director within five (5) business days of receiving the results of Step One. This contact must be in writing and must describe the academic matter and the course instructor’s response. The department chair/program director may arrange individual or group meetings to discuss the matter.

Step Three: Written Appeal to Associate School Dean and/or School Dean

If the student continues to be dissatisfied after Step Two, the student may contact the associate school dean and/or school dean within five (5) business days of receiving results of Step Two. This contact must be in writing and must describe the academic matter and the outcome the prior steps. The associate school dean/school dean may arrange individual or group meetings to discuss the matter.

Step Four: Written Appeal to the Vice President of Academic Affairs

If the student continues to be dissatisfied after Step Three, the student may contact the Vice President of Academic Affairs within five (5) business days of receiving results of Step Three. This contact must be in writing and must and must describe the academic matter and the outcome of the prior steps. The Vice President of Academic Affairs may arrange individual or group meetings to discuss the matter.

The Vice President of Academic Affairs will review the relevant information and will generally issue a written decision to the student within fifteen (15) business days of receiving the Step Four appeal. The Vice President of Academic Affairs may delay issuing the written decision for reasonable cause and upon notice to the student. The associate school dean/school dean, department chair/program director, and course instructor will receive a copy of the written decision. The decision of the Vice President of Academic Affairs is final and binding upon the student and the course instructor.

Academic Integrity

All students enrolled in classes at Regis College must maintain integrity in all academic pursuits including, but not limited to, the writing of papers, examinations, assignments, and lab reports. Any dishonesty with regard to these matters is subject to censure or penalty in proportion to the seriousness of the action and may result in dismissal from the College. 

Examples of Academic Integrity Violations include, but are not limited to:

  • Inventing data, quotes, or citations

  • Copying or sharing questions from or answers on exams through any means (e.g., electronic transmission, screenshots, etc.);

  • Providing or obtaining unauthorized assistance on exams including, but not limited to, bringing “cheat sheets” to closed-book examinations; using any electronic device in an exam for unapproved purposes

  • Discussing what is/was on a specific examination with someone who has not yet taken it

  • Having someone else complete an exam

  • Failing to follow procedures for taking an exam

  • Copying or sharing answers on homework assignments. On assignments where group work is encouraged or allowed, students may be called upon to individually justify their answer(s) to the instructor

  • Falsifying records, transcripts, recommendations, clinical/fieldwork hour logs, or other documents related to student qualifications or the completion of academic requirements

  • Submitting the same paper in more than one class without prior permission

  • Plagiarism - presenting someone else’s ideas or words (including Internet sources) as one’s own in written work, presentations, or other assignments

  • Misrepresenting as your own any material produced by a computer program or artificial intelligence website or service

Detection of Plagiarism

Regis may use third parties (e.g., Turnitin or other vendors) to evaluate submitted student work for the detection of plagiarism. In other words, as a requirement of a particular course or academic program, students may be directed to submit their work to a third party to determine whether it reflects the students’ original work. The work may be submitted to the vendor by the student or by the course instructor. Works submitted to a vendor may be stored within that vendor’s database. Students should review the vendor’s policies and user agreements to familiarize themselves with how their work will be managed. 

 A student may be simultaneously subject to the Academic Integrity process described in this Academic Catalog and any process described in the relevant academic program handbook. 

Reporting Academic Integrity Violations

The Office of Academic Affairs may modify the procedures below as it determines necessary to maintain a fair and effective process. The formal paperwork which accompanies each step is available is on the SPIKE/SHARP portals.

  1. Notice of Allegation and Opportunity for Student Response: Within ten (10) business days of discovering a violation, a course instructor, program director, department chair, or associate dean will notify the student in writing of the alleged academic integrity violation. This notice must include specific details about the alleged violation. Following this notice a student may respond to the allegation in writing within five (5) business days of the notice. The student’s written response must include specific evidence refuting the allegation.

  2. Affirming or Retracting an Allegation (course instructor’s decision): After reviewing the student’s written response, if any, the course instructor, program director, department chair, or associate dean must issue a written decision affirming or retracting the allegation within five (5) business days. If affirmed, a course instructor may issue a Course Penalty (see below) against the student. If affirmed, a program director, department chair, or associate dean will refer the matter to the relevant School Dean as indicated in Step 3 below.

  3. Report to School Dean: If the course instructor, program director, department chair, or associate dean affirms the academic integrity violation, they must inform the relevant School Dean, in writing within five (5) business days of affirming the allegation. The purposes of this notice are to generally inform the School Dean and to evaluate whether to issue a School Penalty.

  4. Issuing a School Penalty: After receiving notice from the course instructor, program director, department chair, or associate dean the relevant School Dean may impose a School Penalty (see below) in addition to any Course Penalty issued by a course instructor. The School Dean must issue any School Penalty within ten (10) business days of receiving notice from the course instructor or prior to the beginning of the next academic term, whichever comes first.

Penalties for Academic Integrity Violations

Course Penalty: A Course Penalty generally affects a student’s grade or participation in, or completion of an individual course and may include, but is not limited to: a failing grade on an assignment; redoing an assignment (which may or may not result in a new grade); completing training on academic integrity; or a failing grade in a course. Even though a Course Penalty is limited to an individual course, depending on the nature of a student’s academic program, it may also affect a student’s overall standing in the academic program. For example, a Course Penalty that results in a failing grade in a course may impact a student’s ability to remain in an academic program which has specific grade or GPA requirements.

School Penalty: A School Penalty affects a student’s overall standing in an academic program and may include, but is not limited to, a written warning, suspension from an academic program, or expulsion from an academic program. Factors to be considered in determining whether to issue a School Penalty include, but are not limited to, prior academic integrity violations and the nature of the current academic integrity violation.

Academic Integrity Appeals

A student may appeal a course instructor’s determination that an academic integrity violation occurred, a Course Penalty, and/or a School Penalty. An academic integrity appeal must be based on one or more of the following bases: 

  1. The student was not provided their procedural rights under the academic integrity process (e.g., appropriate notice of the allegation and/or an opportunity to respond).

  2. New evidence that was previously unknown or unavailable has become available that would have significantly altered the outcome.

The Office of Academic Affairs may reject an academic integrity appeal not based on one or more of the bases above. The original Course Penalty or School Penalty will remain in place pending the final outcome of an Academic Integrity Appeal. 

A student must submit an academic integrity appeal in writing to the Vice President of Academic Affairs within twenty (20) business days of the course instructor’s decision, including any Course Penalty, or the issuance of School Penalty. 

After receiving a student’s written appeal, the Vice President of Academic Affairs or their designee may convene an Academic Hearing Committee consisting of four (4) members. Membership of the Academic Hearing Committee shall consist of the following: 

  • One faculty member: the student may suggest the name(s) of faculty members to serve as one member of the Academic Hearing Committee. The Office of Academic Affairs will consider the student’s suggested names and select one of the suggested faculty members if it is reasonable to do so. The Office of Academic Affairs is not required to select a faculty member based upon the student’s suggestion(s).

  • Two faculty members: selected by the Office of Academic Affairs.

  • The Vice President of Academic Affairs or their designee.

The Office of Academic Affairs will provide the Academic Hearing Committee with all relevant information and documentation related to the academic integrity violation. The chairperson shall designate a member of the Academic Hearing Committee to maintain a detailed record of the proceedings. 

The Academic Hearing Committee will design a review process which may include an interview of all parties. If interviewed, the student may select a full-time Regis faculty member or staff member to be present as an advisor. The role of the faculty or staff advisor shall be limited to providing support to the student only. The advisor may not offer any information, respond to any question, or ask any question. 

The Academic Hearing Committee shall complete its work within fifteen (15) business days after being convened and will issue a written, advisory recommendation responding to the student’s academic integrity appeal to the Vice President of Academic Affairs or their designee. The Academic Hearing Committee and/or Vice President of Academic Affairs may delay the issuing of the advisory recommendation for reasonable cause and upon notice to the student. 

Having received the Academic Hearing Committee’s advisory recommendation and all relevant materials, the Vice President of Academic Affairs or their designee will determine whether to uphold or deny the student’s appeal. 

The determination of the Vice President of Academic Affairs or their designee will be final and binding and will be communicated in writing to the student. The Office of Academic Affairs may modify these procedures as it determines necessary to maintain a fair and effective process. 

First-Year English and Mathematics Placement

All new incoming first-year students are required to complete a math placement test and writing assessment. The math placement test, combined with other measures, such as your recalculated high school GPA and intended major, determines the most appropriate math course placement. The writing assessment assists the first-year writing instructor in creating a learning experience that will set students up for success. Transfer students should contact the director of Academic Advising if placement will be necessary.

Application Reactivation (Undergraduate Students)

The Office of Undergraduate Admission will reactivate an application within two years of its original date of submission. In order to reactivate a previous application for admission, the applicant must meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Previously applied to Regis but chose to attend another institution.

  • Previously applied to Regis but have not taken any college-level courses.

  • Taking/have taken courses at Regis through Continuing Education.

If the applicant has met one or more of the criteria, complete the Application Reactivation Form and submit to the Office of Admission. Please be advised that additional documentation may be required in order to render an admission decision. If additional information is required, an admission representative will contact the applicant. Submission of this form does not guarantee readmission, since a full review of the file must take place.

Application Reactivation (Graduate Students)

Applicants whose graduate applications for admission are more than one year old must inform the Office of Graduate Admission that they wish to be considered for admittance. Students looking to re-enroll may be asked to create an updated curriculum plan and meet with a faculty advisor. All graduate programs must be completed within seven (7) years.

Attendance

Students are expected to attend all classes and class-related activities. Attendance and class participation are contributing factors in the instructor’s determination of the student’s course grade. It remains a student’s responsibility to make up any classwork that has been missed.

Auditing Courses (Students /Faculty)

Regis alumni and adults who are not Regis students may register to audit courses on a "space available" basis with no charge. Certain activity courses are not open to auditors. Please contact the Registrar's Office for further information.

Auditing Courses (Au Pairs)

Local au pairs are permitted to audit courses with the approval of the course instructor. An auditing au pair student is not permitted to submit papers or perform any function for which course credit is given. Auditors do not participate in class discussions, submit papers, take exams, or perform any other function for which credit is given. Au pairs only receive credits for class hours attended. Activity courses (e.g., studio art, computer science, and physical education) and online courses are not open to auditing au pairs. Auditing au pairs are required to adhere to the Regis Student Code of Conduct and stay in compliance with Regis policies, procedures, and regulations. Registration is based on limited space availability. Registration and payment is due prior to the start of the semester. Payment is not refundable once the semester begins. See the Registrar for procedure.

Classroom Code of Conduct

The Regis College Student Code of Conduct, as defined in the most recent Regis College Student Handbook, “…applies to student and organization behavior that occurs on the university premises, at university sponsored/related activities, via the electronic network, learning management system, and to off-campus conduct that adversely affects the legitimate purposes, founding principles, mission and interests of Regis College.” The Classroom Code of Conduct is designed to apply the principles of the Student Code of Conduct to the specific context of the classroom. The classroom is a learning community where every member shares an obligation and responsibility to foster attentiveness, courtesy, respectfulness, and meaningful dialogue.

The Classroom Code of Conduct applies to physical spaces where learning/instruction occurs as well as to class activities or interactions facilitated by technology (e.g., participation in remote classes whether by Zoom or other audiovisual technology, using a technology platform such as Moodle to submit assignments or engage in class discussions).

The Classroom Code of Conduct is composed of the four principles below:

  1. Students are expected to read the course syllabus carefully and comply with all aspects of the course syllabus and all rules established by the course instructor, including, but not limited to, policies regarding attendance and the right of students to leave the classroom during class.

  2. Students will promote academic discourse and the free exchange of ideas by listening and participating with respectful attention to comments made by all individuals.

  3. Students will maintain an atmosphere in the classroom conducive to learning without unnecessary distractions that disrupt the learning environment (e.g., cell phone usage, individual “side” conversations, sleeping, or reading/viewing/sharing materials unrelated to the course). Access to iPads or other technology in the classroom is appropriate only when used as part of a classroom exercise.

  4. Students will use modes of conduct that are not offensive and/or demeaning to any individual, ethnic group, social class, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

There are three progressive levels of violations of the Classroom Code of Conduct. Even so, course instructors may dismiss a student from a single class activity for repeated disruptions that significantly impede teaching or learning during that class or activity. Further, in extreme circumstances, course instructors may immediately contact Campus Police and the Office of Student Affairs.

Violations of the Classroom Code of Conduct are specific to a particular class and will not apply to a different class and/or a different academic term. For example, if a student commits a violation in Class A that violation will not count against a student in Class B.

Violations of the Classroom Code of Conduct are not part of the student judicial system outlined in the Regis College Student Handbook. However, there may be incidents in which the judicial process applies; in these cases, the Vice Presidents of Academic Affairs and Student Affairs will determine the most appropriate course of action.

First Violation – Following a student’s first violation of the Classroom Code of Conduct in a course, the course instructor must provide the student with written notification of their alleged violation within five (5) business days of the alleged violation or prior to the next class meeting or activity (whichever comes first). This notification must include specific details regarding the student’s alleged violation. The course instructor will send this notification to the student’s Regis email account and will send a copy to the appropriate academic school dean, associate school dean, department chair, or program director. The student has an opportunity to respond in writing to the alleged violation within five (5) business days of the delivery date of the written notification from the course instructor. This notification shall serve as the first formal warning that the student’s conduct is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

Second Violation – Following a student’s second violation of the Classroom Code of Conduct in a course, the course instructor must provide the student with written notification of their alleged violation within five (5) business days of the alleged violation or prior to the next class meeting or activity (whichever comes first). This notification must include specific details regarding the student’s alleged violation. As part of this notification the course instructor may, after consulting with the school dean, dismiss the student from the next two (2) meetings of the class following the date of the notification. The course instructor will send this notification to the student’s Regis email account and will send a copy to the appropriate school dean associate school dean, department chair, or program director.

The school dean or their designee will convene a conference (individually or as a group) with the student and the course instructor to discuss the second violation. The student has the opportunity to respond to the alleged violation at the conference with the school dean and course instructor.

Third Violation – Following a student’s third violation of the Classroom Code of Conduct in a course, the course instructor must provide the student with written notification of their alleged violation within five (5) business days of the alleged violation or prior to the next class meeting or activity (whichever comes first). This notification must include specific details regarding the student’s alleged violation. As part of this notification the course instructor may, after consulting with the school dean, dismiss the student from the next two (2) meetings of the class following the date of the notification. The course instructor will send this notification to the student’s Regis email account and will send a copy to the appropriate school dean, associate school dean, department chair, program director, and to the Vice President of Academic Affairs (VPAA).

The VPAA or their designee will convene a conference with the student and additional administrators as deemed necessary (e.g., school administrators, Student Affairs) to discuss the third violation. The student has the right to designate an advocate from the Regis community for the conference; the conference is an opportunity for the student to respond to the alleged violation. Following the conference, the VPAA will determine whether to administratively dismiss the student from the remainder of course. If the student receives an administrative dismissal, the VPAA will determine whether the student will be graded according to the work completed up to the date of dismissal or receive a failing (F) grade for the course.

CLEP (College-Level Examination Program)

The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) enables students to earn college credit by examination. Students may take CLEP tests to demonstrate college-level competency no matter where or how this knowledge was acquired. By successfully completing a CLEP examination at or above the standard score determined by Regis, students may earn academic credit for up to six (6) courses. CLEP credit is considered as part of the allowance of transfer courses. Students must have approval from their academic advisor prior to registering for a CLEP exam.

The following CLEP examinations have been approved for transfer to Regis College:

  • Algebra

  • Algebra – Trigonometry

  • American Government

  • American History I and II

  • American Literature

  • Calculus and Elementary Functions

  • College Algebra

  • College German Levels I and II

  • English Composition with Essay

  • Analysis and Interpretation of Literature

  • English Literature

  • General Biology

  • General Chemistry

  • Human Growth and Development Functions

  • Information Systems and Computer Applications

  • Introduction to Educational Psychology

  • Introduction to Management

  • Introductory Accounting

  • Introductory Macroeconomics

  • Introductory Microeconomics

  • Introductory Psychology

  • Principles of Accounting

  • Principles of Macroeconomics

  • Principles of Management

  • Principles of Marketing

  • Principles of Microeconomics

  • Western Civilization I and II

A complete list of CLEP examinations approved for transfer to Regis and a formal listing of the acceptable scores for CLEP examinations is available from the Registrar. CLEP scores should be submitted to the Director of Academic Advising.

Course Numbering

Courses on the undergraduate level numbered 100-299 are planned primarily for first and second year students. Upper-level undergraduate courses numbered 300-499 are more advanced and are intended for juniors and seniors. Graduate level courses are numbered 500-699 and doctorate level courses are numbered 700-999. These distinctions are not absolute. Upon the recommendation of the course instructor and the Director of Academic Advising, properly qualified students may take courses marked for the upper level, and under certain circumstances, students in the upper level may elect lower-level courses.

However, once a student has successfully completed a course at a higher level in a sequence, the student may not subsequently enroll in a course at a lower level in that sequence. For example, a student cannot take Math 210 after having successfully completed Math 211. Similarly, a student may not take Spanish 101 or 102 after Spanish 201.

Courses are not given for fewer than ten (10) students except for those with the approval of the School Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs. Minors are available in most programs. Contact the Department Chair for more information.

Deferred Final Examination

The opportunity to take a deferred final examination must be arranged by the student with the instructor. If permission is granted, the student must take the examination on the deferred examination date as indicated on the academic calendar.

Dismissal from the University

Regis reserves the right to dismiss any student whose academic standing is not satisfactory or whose standard of behavior is not in accord with the ideals and standards that Regis seeks to maintain. In cases involving unsatisfactory academic standing, graduate and undergraduate students have the right to pursue an academic appeals process.

Dual Enrollment

Students who wish to be dual enrolled at a Massachusetts community college as well as take classes in one of Regis’ Bachelor’s Completion Programs, should have completed forty-five (45) credits, with a minimum 2.5 GPA. At the completion of forty-five (45) credits, they may either take courses at both institutions or take part in cross-listed courses.

Final Examinations

The final examination period is specified on each year’s academic calendar. The official schedule for final examinations is also posted and distributed by the Registrar. Students are required to make work, travel, and other arrangements to be present for the final examination as scheduled.

Incomplete Course Work

Incompletes are granted only under extraordinary circumstances. If a student has such a circumstance, it is the student’s responsibility to explain the circumstance and arrange to receive an incomplete with the instructor prior to the conclusion of the regular course meetings, but no later than the first day of the final examination period. No instructor will automatically grant an incomplete. Failure to arrange for an incomplete will result in the instructor’s assigning the course grade on work submitted and may result in an F for the course.

If a student arranges for and receives an incomplete, the student’s work must be completed and submitted promptly so that the instructor may resolve the incomplete grade in accordance with the relevant Regis academic calendar and the terms outlined in the Contract for the Completion of Incomplete Work. Failure to meet those deadlines may result in a student’s loss of financial aid, campus residence, and/or eligibility for enrollment in future courses or participation in student activities, including athletic practice and competition.

Students and faculty are required to complete and sign a Contract for the Completion of Incomplete Grades and submit it to the Registrar’s Office. If the student fails to complete the required work within the time period specified, the incomplete will be converted to an F grade by the Registrar if the course instructor does not submit the completed grade by the due date indicated in the academic calendar.

Incompletes should only be negotiated for extraordinary circumstances that are:

  • Beyond the student’s control and/or

  • Not anticipated in time for the student to withdraw from the course.

Acceptable reasons to request/grant an incomplete include but are not limited to:

  • Significant and unexpected illness or medical event of self or close family member.

  • Death in the family.

Students enrolled in courses designed to extend beyond one semester (e.g., NU 664, or other courses designed for fieldwork placements that may not follow a normal semester schedule) are exempt from requesting incomplete grades on an individual basis. In such cases, the instructor will submit a single Contract for Completion of Incomplete Grades for all the students enrolled in each of those courses.

Incompletes will not be requested or granted simply because:

  • A student attended only a few or no class sessions.

  • A student did not complete enough academic activities or actively participate in class.

  • A student is busy finishing requirements for other courses.

  • A student believes they can get a better grade with additional time.

  • An extension of time to complete required work would be personally more convenient to the student.

Online Academic Activity and Participation

Given the asynchronous format of online courses, students have the opportunity to take part in the class at multiple times during each weekly module. It is recommended that student's login to their online courses, at minimum, four to five (4-5) times per week to participate in discussion boards, read materials, complete assessments, and submit assignments. Active participation in online courses is required and may be graded by the course faculty.

To be considered active, students will be expected to login to their online course(s) in the Moodle Learning Management System (LMS) and participate on at least two (2) different days minimum each module and complete at least two (2) “Academic Activities” minimum in each weekly module. *

* Deadlines and number of activities available will vary by individual course at the discretion of the appropriate online program director.

“Academic Activities” may include but are not limited to any combination of the following:

  • Posting to discussion boards within the online course.

  • Turning in an assignment within the online course.

  • Taking a quiz, test, or other assessment within the online course.

  • Viewing video content or reading course materials.

  • Participating in a synchronous session via Zoom or other webinar tools.

A student who is unable to take part in a given module’s activities must contact the course faculty prior to any assignment deadlines. Make-up work is accepted at the discretion of the course faculty. Students should plan accordingly and make sure to read the schedule of deadlines listed in the course.

Students who fail to actively participate may be removed from their online class. Please refer to the Online Course Administrative Withdrawal Policy.

Online Student Verification Policy

The United States Federal Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) concerning the verification of student identity in distance education requires that institutions offering distance education have processes in place to ensure that the student registering for a course is the same student who participates in the course or receives course credit. Regis College uses the following processes in this regard:

  • During the admission process applicants provide personal identifying information including, but not limited to, their name, social security number, home address, and personal email. This information is securely kept in Regis SIS student database and is used to create their unique Regis student identification number and electronic accounts.

  • Online students are issued a secure login ID by the Information Technology Services (ITS) department. The login ID allows student access to university software and technology such as email, Regis Hub, Microsoft 365, the Moodle Learning Management System (LMS), etc. Sharing of the login information or password with anyone other than the registered user is strictly forbidden.

  • Upon creation of a secure student email account, ITS will only send information to the Regis student email address or the home address provided during the admission process.

  • Online students are instructed to request an official Regis College photo ID card by sending in a copy of their passport, driver’s license, or other official state ID, along with a matching headshot photo. IDs are mailed to the home address listed in the. IDs are required for students taking proctored exams.

  • Online students are given access to the LMS via their secure student login credentials and are appropriately listed for faculty in the course roster.

  • Online courses are designed to facilitate engagement between students and faculty. Various academic activities are utilized within the secure LMS to allow faculty to better know their students. Some activities include: online discussions, synchronous webinars, journals, group assignments, writing assignments, assessments and exams, and some proctored exams using Respondus Monitor proctoring software.

  • Students in programs which require clinical placements may also require students to submit a background check.

Transfer Credit

Transfer of Credit from another Institution

Undergraduate and, to a more limited extent graduate, students may transfer in credit applicable to their Regis degrees from several sources. Students may receive advanced standing toward the completion of the bachelor’s degree as a result. All students are subject to the general policies related to transfer of credit from academic courses. There are also specific policies related to students’ program of study, which are outlined below, including the maximum amount of credit allowed, impact on GPA, particular degree requirements. Contact the academic program director and/or the program-specific Student Handbook for additional information.

High School Dual Enrollment Programs

  • Dual enrollment courses must be taken during the junior or senior year of high school. The grade earned in any course must be a C or higher to be considered for credit.

  • In general, a maximum of fifteen (15) credits is allowed to transfer to the Regis degree from a high school dual enrollment program.

  • Regis must receive the official transcript from the institution that granted the dual enrollment credit before credit can be officially granted.

  • Credits may be awarded towards general education/core requirements, requirements for majors and minors, and/or elective credit.

  • Grades earned from those transferred courses taken prior to enrollment are not calculated as part of the student’s Regis GPA.

Transfer Credit of Courses - General Policies – Undergraduate Students

  • Regis must receive the official transcript.

  • Course(s) must have been taken at a regionally accredited institution.

  • No undergraduate course will be considered for transfer unless the student has achieved a course grade of C or better.

  • Grades identified as P (passing) will only be accepted with appropriate and official documentation demonstrating the grade of “P” is equivalent to a C or higher.

  • In some cases, to receive credit for courses taken elsewhere, Regis may request a syllabus from the student in order to assess the course.

  • Courses identified as remedial are not eligible for transfer credit.

  • Grades earned prior to enrollment are not calculated as part of the Regis GPA.

  • Grades earned at another institution while enrolled at Regis are calculated as part of the Regis GPA.

Transfer Students

  • Can transfer in a maximum of sixty-six (66) credits and must complete fifty-four (54) credits at Regis.

  • Please note: Regis College is part of the Massachusetts Guarantee, which is a partnership agreement between the state’s community colleges and private colleges and universities. Students must have an associate degree from a Massachusetts community college and a minimum GPA of 2.5 to be eligible to transfer in credits under this agreement. All undergraduate students at Regis are expected to complete a course in religious studies, either as a part of their associate's or while at Regis. Certain academic programs may have more specific general education/core requirements or pre-requisite requirements not covered by the Massachusetts Guarantee.

  • Grades earned prior to enrollment are not calculated as part of the Regis GPA.

Transfer Credit for Students within the Division of Professional Studies

For information regarding which academic programs are available for bachelor’s completion within the Division of Professional Studies, please contact the Dean of Professional Studies.

Students enrolled in a designated bachelor’s degree completion program within the Division of Professional Studies may transfer a maximum of ninety (90) credits from an accredited college/university based on established transfer equivalencies or Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) (see below). These students must then complete a minimum of thirty (30) credits at Regis to earn the Regis College bachelor’s degree. Some bachelor completion programs may have specific requirements about transfer credits and may require additional coursework over and above the minimum requirement of thirty (30) credits in order to fulfill specific degree requirements.

Bachelor Completion Students are:

  • Not eligible for residence.

  • Only permitted to take two (2) classes a term.

  • Not eligible for athletics.

  • Enrolled in online programs only.

Transfer Credit – Summer/Academic Year and Study Abroad

Currently enrolled undergraduate students may enroll in pre-approved courses during the summer or, in limited circumstances, during the regular academic year, at a pre-approved and accredited college or university. Ordinarily, no more than two undergraduate courses per summer session can be taken for degree credit. For currently enrolled students, credits and grades earned from courses transferred to their Regis degrees will be included as part of their GPAs.

Pre-approval is required for all courses taken elsewhere. Students must obtain signatures on the pre-approval form from their faculty advisors and the director of Academic Advising. For students studying abroad, courses must be pre-approved by the director of the Center for Global Connections.

Transfer Credit – Graduate Students

A maximum of six (6) credits will transfer, and some externally accredited programs may not accept any transfer credits. Courses must be pre-approved by the graduate program director. No graduate course will be considered for transfer unless the student has achieved a course grade of B- or better. Please see the graduate programs listed in the catalog for program-specific transfer of credit policies.

To Transfer Courses for Credit

Depending on the means through which you enroll at Regis, you will need to contact a different office regarding the process for transferring credits taken elsewhere to your Regis degree:

  • Undergraduate Students – Please contact Undergraduate Admission.

  • Bachelor Completion Students within the Division of Professional Studies – Please contact Graduate Admission.

  • Graduate Students – Please contact Graduate Admission.

  • Graduate Online Students – Please contact GR Admission/Affairs.

Use of Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) for Transfer Credit

The Division of Professional Studies (DPS) oversees the process and monitors policies and procedures that are consistent with principles of good practice established by the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL). Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) applies solely to undergraduate students enrolled in academic programs through the Division of Professional Studies (DPS). A student must be accepted to Regis College to be eligible to apply for prior learning assessment credit. Prior learning assessment credit will only be awarded after the student is actively enrolled and has declared an academic major.

Please note that individual academic programs within Regis College may establish prior learning credit limits for their own programs, degrees and certificates. Check with the appropriate School Dean and/or academic program student handbook for this information.

Prior learning will be assessed in terms of student attainment of college-level learning, which is defined as demonstrated achievement of the learning outcomes, theoretical and/or applied, that are aligned with the content of a specific credit-bearing Regis College course. Depending on the nature of the learning experience, there are two methods by which a student’s prior learning may be assessed and awarded:

  1. Academic evaluation of military, corporate training, diploma agency, and other coursework.

  2. Standardized tests (AP, CLEP, DANTES, licensure exams, etc.).

PLA Award(s):

  • To receive prior learning credit, students must not have previously taken, or attempted to take, the college-level course for which they are submitting a PLA portfolio.

  • The university typically awards one (1) credit for twenty (20) hours of documented professional/workforce development training.

  • A maximum of fifteen (15) credits awarded through prior learning assessment may be applied towards the baccalaureate degree (primarily elective credits).

  • Credits earned through prior learning assessment do not fulfill university residency requirements.

  • The final approval of PLA requires a sign-off by the appropriate School Dean and the Office of Academic Affairs.

  • Transfer credit will be posted on the transcript, as a substitution of a Regis course(s), to fulfill a program requirement(s). The maximum number of transfer credits listed will only be awarded if there is no duplication of coursework taken at Regis College or earned from other transfer credit awards.

Degree Programs eligible for PLA award:

  • Business Management (Degree Completion)

  • Public Health (Degree Completion)

Examples of college-level learning gained through any the following must be appropriately documented and submitted to the Dean of Professional Studies:

  • Non-transferable courses

  • Licenses

Licensing/certification exam results will only be considered if they are current at the time of the evaluation.

  • Certificates

  • Professional/ vocational training

  • Military trainings

  • Standardized tests such as DANTES and CLEP

CET, CPT, LPN, EMT, and CADAC are some examples of the kinds of licenses and certificates that may earn credit. Students requesting only a review of professional trainings, licenses, and certificates will be assessed a $200 nonrefundable fee. This fee will be charged to the student's account at the time of review.

Transcripts

Current students can request their official transcript through Regis Hub. Alumni and non-enrolled students can request their official transcript through the National Student Clearinghouse. Please refer to the Regis website for more information. Official transcripts are all inclusive. An unofficial transcript may be obtained by currently enrolled students via Regis Hub. Alumni and non-enrolled students can request their unofficial transcript by emailing the registrar@regiscollege.edu. Transcripts will not be released until all financial obligations to the university have been settled. Transcripts will also be held for students with Federal Perkins Loans in a default status.

Withdrawal from Courses

Withdrawal from a course is distinct from dropping a course during the Add/Drop period. After the Add/Drop period, a withdrawal passing (WP) or withdrawal failing (WF) grade is recorded on the transcript and becomes a permanent part of the student’s academic record. Normally, a student will earn a WF if, at the time the student requests a withdrawal, the student is earning a failing grade in the course.

Withdrawal from a course can have a significant impact on a student’s academic standing, degree completion, progression through the major/program of study, and financial aid. A student should discuss the consequences of withdrawal with the course instructor, faculty advisor or department chair/program director, and the Office of Financial Aid, so that the student can make a well-informed decision. Withdrawal from a course will not impact a student’s grade point average. A WF is considered a failing grade for purposes of academic standing, degree completion, and status within a major. Two (2) failing grades, including WFs, will result in a student’s dismissal from their undergraduate or graduate program. Please see the Academic Standing and Graduate Policies and Procedures sections for further details. In programs that limit the number of times a student may attempt/repeat a course, a WP or WF is considered an attempt at that course. Please see the Academic Standing section, or the specific requirements for each academic program for further details.

Undergraduate students may withdraw from a maximum of four (4) courses, WP and WF combined, throughout their academic career. If a student has reached this maximum, withdrawal is no longer an option, and the student will receive the appropriate letter grade earned upon completion of the course. Individual degree programs may specify a lower number of permitted WPs/WFs. Graduate students may withdraw from a maximum of two (2) courses, WP and WF combined, throughout their academic career. Individual degree programs may specify a lower number of permitted WPs/WFs. An undergraduate or graduate student’s leave of absence due to immediate medical, mental health, or behavioral issues will not be counted towards their maximum number of permitted withdrawals. Please see the Regis College Student Handbook for further details regarding leaves of absence.

Course Withdrawal Process (WP and WF)

  • In general, the student bears all responsibility for completing the withdrawal process, including satisfaction of all requirements and deadlines. A WF is considered an F with regards to progression in the program. Withdrawal deadlines are listed on the Academic Calendar. The student should submit a Course Withdrawal Form obtained through the SPIKE portal located under Academic Forms.

  • The Registrar’s Office will contact the course instructor who will determine whether the student will receive a final grade of WP or WF.

  • The faculty advisor or program director will discuss the consequences of a withdrawal (academic standing, degree completion, financial aid, etc.) with the student and include a notation in the student’s file. Where needed, the faculty advisor or program director will refer the student to the Office of Financial Aid.

Online Course Administrative Withdrawal Policy

  • Students who are considered consistently inactive for more than a full week during the term without prior approval may be administratively withdrawn by their course instructor/registrar. Students have the right to appeal a course withdrawal. Appeals must be in writing and should follow the Regis Academic Appeals process.

  • During the first week of class students who fail to login to or participate in the course by the end of the drop/add period will be administratively withdrawn from the course.

  • Please refer to the Online Academic Activity and Participation policy for guidelines on participating in an online class.

Withdrawal from the University

An undergraduate student choosing to withdraw from Regis should indicate the intent to withdraw to the director of Academic Advising or fill out the Withdrawal Form found on the SPIKE portal. A graduate student should submit a Graduate College Withdrawal form through the SPIKE portal. It is important that this procedure be followed not only to inform the university that a student is not returning, but also to ensure that all matters (academic and financial) are settled before the student leaves so that the university can determine if the student is eligible for future recommendations that state the student left the university in good standing. Failure to withdraw in a proper and timely manner may affect the student’s financial aid. In extenuating circumstances, the Vice President of Academic Affairs may administratively withdraw a student from the institution for the following reasons:

  • Registration in violation of university regulations (e.g., academic ineligibility to register).

  • Failure to comply with academic requirements (e.g., unsatisfactory class attendance violation of the learning contract for students on academic probation, etc.).

  • Failure to pay university tuition and fees by the due date.

  • Disciplinary suspension or dismissal for the remainder of an academic term or longer.

  • Severe psychological or health problems such that the student cannot be permitted to continue in attendance.

  • Other reasons deemed appropriate by the proper administrative officer (e.g., Vice President of Academic Affairs).

Recording Policy

Massachusetts state law prohibits recordings of conversation without consent from all parties involved. By default, students may record only with explicit permission from the instructor. Any recording is for the individual student’s use only and may not be shared, reproduced, transferred, distributed or displayed in any public or commercial manner. Violations will be considered a breach of the Academic Integrity policy and will result in discipline (See section on Academic Integrity in this Catalog). In addition, violations may result in legal action. “Recording(s)” refer to a video or audio replication or photographic image recorded on devices including, but not limited to, audio recorders, video recorders, cell phones, Smartphones, digital cameras, media players, computers, or other devices that record images or sound or any other medium now known or hereafter devised. Any recordings that take place during an academic semester must be destroyed at the closing of course grades. Course instructors will notify all students of the perpetual possibility that recording is taking place. Note: For Regis fully online programs, Respondus Monitor (webcam) is utilized for online exams.

Criminal Background Checks and Academic Programs’ Academic Placements

Certain Regis College academic programs (e.g. Nursing, Social Work) include practical training and/or fieldwork requirements. Students must undergo a criminal background check conducted by Regis College prior to placement. Regis College will review the results of a student’s criminal background check to determine whether they can participate in a placement.  

Regardless of Regis College’s determination, a placement site has ultimate discretion in deciding if a student may participate in a placement on its premises. In other words, even where Regis College determines that a student can participate in a placement, a placement site may override that decision. Further, certain placement sites may conduct their own criminal background check, independent of Regis College, or may ask a student to disclose the results of the criminal background check conducted by Regis College. 

Students should consult Regis College’s specific procedures related to criminal background checks for further details, including information about the frequency of checks. 

Background Checks and Professional Licensure

A student’s criminal history may affect their ability to obtain professional licensure as determined by a licensing authority. A student cannot rely on Regis College’s review of the results of their criminal background check for the purposes of a Placement in order to predict their ability to obtain a professional license. It is possible that Regis College may approve a student for a Placement based on their criminal background results, but that a licensing authority may deny a student from obtaining a license based on a criminal background check. Students should consult the relevant licensing authority for further information.

Admission and Prospective Students

Regis College makes admission decisions based on the content of the admission application and related documentation. Regis College does not conduct criminal background check results as part of the admission process. Prospective students seeking admission into academic programs that include placements should be aware that their ability to complete such placements may be affected by their criminal history (see above).

At the admission stage, Regis College cannot determine whether a prospective student’s criminal history will enable or prevent them from participating in a placement. As a result, it is possible that a student may be admitted into an academic program, but subsequently be unable to be complete a placement due to their criminal history. In such case, a student would not be able to complete the academic program.

Similarly, at no time can Regis College determine whether an individual’s criminal history will prevent them from obtaining professional licensure. Licensing authorities conduct their own criminal background checks according to their own standards – with no involvement of Regis College. As a result, it is possible that a prospective student may be admitted into an academic program and complete their placement, but ultimately be denied professional licensure by a licensing authority. Prospective students should consult the relevant licensing authority for further information.

Criminal Background Checks – Education Programs

Criminal background checks related to Regis College’s academic programs in Education are governed by state law and adhere to a separate process. Prospective and current students should consult with the Regis College Education Department for further information.

Modifications to Campus-Based Operations

Regis may cease or modify on campus operations at any time and with limited notice due to community health concerns including COVID-19. If Regis ceases or modifies campus-based operations, academic coursework and academic support services (e.g., library, academic advising) will transition to a remote format in whole or in part. Academic programs (including online academic programs) with clinical, fieldwork, or other hands-on training components may be temporarily suspended or modified due, in part, to the discretion of a student’s placement site. Similarly, on-campus activities such as athletics, campus performances, and student organization meetings will be canceled, rescheduled, modified, or transitioned to a remote format.