RWU Extension School

• Mission Statement 
• Overview
• Programs
• Administration
• General Education Requirements
• Transfer Credit
• Requirements for the Associate Degree
• Requirements for the Baccalaureate Degree
• Academic Degree Requirements 
• Credit by examination
• Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)

• The Application Process
• Academic Advisors & Advisement Process
• Registration
• Financial Aid
• Graduation
• Course Delivery Options
• Scholarships
• Academic Policies, Regulations and Requirements
• Prison Education Program
• Career and Job Readiness Programs

Overview

Roger Williams University Extension School is committed to providing educational opportunities for commuter, dual enrollment, part-time and continuing education students interested in pursuing a degree or certificate, degree completion, career enhancement, and personal enrichment.  EXT seeks to meet the diverse educational needs of its students and ensure that its offerings reflect the high quality and learning outcomes promoted by the University. 

Our goal is to meet students where they are and help build a path to their success. Whatever age, whatever demands and challenges you face, whatever education and career paths you have or haven’t taken, we will work with you to break barriers and find opportunity. Whether you are looking to earn a degree or just get some job training, Roger Williams University Extension School ensures that all learners and communities are supported with pathways, programs, supports, and services that meet their educational needs.

Roger Williams University Extension School offers a wide variety of degree programs and certificates to meet the educational needs of all learners including Certificate, Associate, Bachelor, Post-Baccalaureate, and Graduate Programs.  Academic advisement is available throughout the year, regardless of the modality of your coursework.  University College’s advisement process establishes a working relationship between each student and an assigned Resource Specialist.

Through our convenient course scheduling of classes, EXT course delivery options allow students to choose from 3 different types of course offerings through the Providence Campus and online.

Administration

Gena Bianco, J.D., Dean

Programs

Associates of Arts 

• Liberal Arts, A.A. 

Associates of Science

• Liberal Arts, A.S. 
• Criminal Justice, A.S. 
• Professional Legal Studies, A.S. 

Bachelor of Arts

• Applied Psychology, B.A. 

Bachelor of General Studies

• Individualized Concentration, B.G.S. 
• Industrial Technology, B.G.S. 
• Social Science, B.G.S. 

Bachelor of Science

• Community Development, BS 
• Criminal Justice, B.S. (Extension School) 
• Healthy Communities, B.S. 
• Management, B.S. (Extension School) 
• Policing, Public Safety & Security B.S. 
• Professional Legal Studies, B.S. 
• Public Administration, B.S. 

Minors

• Criminal Justice Minor  
• Psychology Minor  
• Public Administration Minor 

Undergraduate Certificates

• Case Management Certificate 
• Community Development Certificate 
• Community Policing Certificate 
• Corrections Agency Administration Certificate 
• Cybersecurity Certificate 
• Health Services Administration Certificate 
• Healthcare Paralegal Certificate 
• Homeland Security Certificate 
• Introduction to Criminal Justice Systems Certificate 
• Network Management Certificate 
• Police Agency Administration Certificate 
• Professional Legal Studies Certificate 
• Public Safety Certificate 

Master of Arts

• Community Development, MA 
• School Finance and Operations, M.S. 

RWU Extension School General Education Requirements

The general education requirements consist of courses from the arts, humanities, sciences, mathematics, and the social sciences. The University’s degree programs, including general education, provide students with communications skills; the ability for critical and logical analysis, scientific and quantitative reasoning; and the capability for continuing education. The general education requirements are designed to assure that all students have an awareness of and breadth of exposure to the disciplines and fields of study associated with communications skills, and the traditional liberal arts and general education areas and domains within higher education.

All EXT students are required to complete a minimum of one-fourth of their degree requirements in general education (e.g., the equivalent of thirty semester hours in a bachelor degree program, or the equivalent of fifteen semester hours in an associate degree program). General Education requirements may be satisfied by credits granted for students’ prior college attendance, CLEP examinations, military training and experience (as recommended by the American Council on Education), and credit documentation. Students transferring with a baccalaureate degree shall be considered as having met the general education requirements.

Based on University guidelines, Academic Advisors will determine which transfer courses may be considered equivalent to general education courses. After assessing the general education requirements which may be satisfied through their various sources of advanced standing, students who need general education courses are advised to enroll in courses designated as the University’s General Education courses (skills and interdisciplinary core courses) whenever they are scheduled or available in the EXT as classroom or online course offerings.

The general education requirements shall include the following: two writing courses; a Mathematics skills course; Effective Speaking Across Audiences; and at least one approved course from each of the following categories: Natural Science, Humanities, Fine Arts, and Social Science, as well as two liberal art electives.

Transfer Credit

EXT awards transfer credits for eligible courses completed successfully at regionally and programmatically accredited institutions. Official transcripts from all institutions should be sent directly to the EXT Office of Admissions at the time of application.

Credits earned at institutions outside the United States are considered for transferability on a case-by-case basis. Students should submit an official English evaluation completed by an approved credential evaluator.

Once a new student has been accepted into a program, a major has been declared, and all official transcripts and/or exam results have been received, EXT conducts an official transfer credit evaluation.  EXT reserves the right to revise transfer credit awards due to course duplication, a student’s change in program of study, or other reasons deemed necessary by the college.

Students who wish to transfer credits earned at EXT to another institution need to consult with that institution to determine eligibility.

Undergraduate students who wish to have transfer credits assessed must provide an official academic transcript for credits earned at another institution and an official report of exam results for credits earned through college-level proficiency examinations.

The guidelines for granting of undergraduate transfer credit awards are as follows:

• The minimum course grade acceptable for transfer credit is C, or 2.0
• Courses completed on a pass/fail scale are not eligible for transfer.
• Transfer credits also may be earned through:
  • Prior Learning Assessment (PLA).
  • College-Level Examination Program (CLEP).
  • DANTES Examination Program of the Educational Testing Service.
  • Advanced Placement (AP) Examination
• Up to 90 combined credits can be transferred
• 00 on a 4.000 scale. into University College for a bachelor’s degree
• Up to six credits may be transferred into University College for a masters, but the courses may not have been applied to a previous bachelor’s degree.  

Matriculating students wishing to take courses at other institutions and transfer credit to Roger Williams University Extension School must obtain permission from their Academic advisor, file a “Request to Attend another College” form with University College, and submit an official transcript upon course completion. Credit for courses completed successfully with a grade of C or better will be posted to the student’s record. Grades earned will not be recorded and will not affect the student’s GPA. 

Requirements for the Associate’s Degree 

All students seeking an associate’s degree must complete:

• A minimum of 60 credits* (through any combination of study and learning experiences, including credit for previous college work, credit documentation, CLEP or other exams, and military experience).
• A minimum enrollment requirement of 15 credits taken at the University.
• A major academic program or concentration.
• A 2.0 average in all courses carrying a letter grade.
• A 2.0 average in all required major courses.
• A 2.0 average in all required minor courses (if minor is included in a student’s program).
• EXT general education requirements. *
• The last five remaining courses in your degree of study must be completed at RWU.
• All financial requirements must be met.

*61 for an Associate in Professional Legal Studies Degree.

Requirements for the Baccalaureate Degree 

All students seeking a baccalaureate degree must complete:

• A minimum of 120* credits (through any combination of study and learning experiences, including credit for previous college work, credit documentation, CLEP or other exams, and military experience).
• A minimum enrollment requirement of 30 credits taken at the University.
• A major academic program or concentration.
• A 2.0 average in all courses carrying a letter grade.
• A 2.0 average in all required major courses.
• A 2.0 average in all required minor courses (if minor is included in a student’s program).
• EXT general education requirements. *
• The last five remaining courses in your degree of study must be completed at RWU.
• All financial requirements must be met.

*121 for a Bachelor of Science in Professional Legal Studies degree.

Academic Degree Requirements 

Matriculation. Students wishing to pursue a program leading to a degree offered by the University must follow application procedures to be considered by the University as a matriculating student admitted to a specific degree program.

Non-Matriculation. Students may enroll in courses offered by the University even though they are not pursuing a degree. Non-matriculating students may earn college credit if they have followed the proper application and registration procedures, but they cannot be considered for a degree unless they matriculate.

Declaration of a Major. All matriculating students are required to declare a major. Students wishing to change the major in which they are enrolled must consult with their Academic Advisor to change their major through the office of the registrar.

Declaration of a Minor. Bachelor degree candidates may, at their option, declare a minor after consultation with their Academic Advisor.

Declaration of a Certificate. Bachelor degree candidates may, at their option, declare their intent to complete a Certificate, after consultation with their Academic Advisor. Students wishing to change the certificate in which they are enrolled must consult with their Academic Advisor.

Rate of Progress. Students taking courses through EXT must pass at least 50 percent of those courses taken during each academic year (September 1 through August 31). Students not meeting these requirements will be placed on probation following the first semester of unsatisfactory performance.

Semester Course Limit (Part-Time and Full-Time Study). Students should regulate their academic loads according to the amount of time available and required for class attendance, outside preparation, and successful course completion. Depending upon the program and the number of credits taken, students may be considered full-time and charged the appropriate tuition rates. Students who wish to enroll in 15 or more credits in a semester will be charged according to the Bristol cost per credit. 

Incomplete Grades. With faculty approval, students have up to 1-1/2 years (3 full semesters, not including summer) to complete a course for which a grade of an incomplete (I) was assigned. 

All students should become familiar with the academic requirements that apply to them and their chosen program of study. Students should read the University catalog carefully and consult with their Academic Advisor regarding all of the requirements that may apply to them. All students seeking a degree should be given a degree plan listing requirements which have been satisfied as well as requirements which need to be complete.

Credit by examination

• Advanced Placement
• College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
• International Baccalaureate (IB)
• Roger Williams University Challenge Examinations

Advanced Placement

No credit is awarded for AP subscores.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

The CLEP program applies only to students who have been out of high school for at least three years. Students must have taken the CLEP examination before matriculating at Roger Williams University. No student will receive credit for a CLEP examination if they have received credit at Roger Williams University or transferred credit to the University for an equivalent course.

Students may receive academic credit by completing the College Level Examination Program (CLEP). Examinations are offered in a wide variety of subjects and are tied closely to specific courses. In order to receive credit for CLEP exams, students need to achieve the scores recommended and published by the American Council on Education.

Visit the below website to view all available CLEP examinations. Students must meet with their academic advisor before completing an exam to ensure that the exam is needed within the students academic program. Once exam is approved by the advisor, a transfer credit approval form must be completed.

https://clep.collegeboard.org/clep-exams

Clep exams can be taken at RWU extension school by visiting:

https://www.rwu.edu/ext/offerings/educational-testing-center

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Credit only awarded for Higher Level (HL) courses completed. No credit awarded for Standard Level (SL) courses completed.

Roger Williams University Challenge Exams

Enrolled students who demonstrate competence in material covered by certain scheduled courses may be waived from or obtain credit for such courses by passing a “challenge” examination. Students should consult the dean of the college or school for specific information and any limitations. 

Challenge examinations may not be repeated and may not be taken for the purpose of a grade replacement for previously completed courses with grades of C- or below.

A student may test out of no more than 25 percent of the courses needed for graduation. Interested and eligible students should be aware of the following:

1. Students must complete a Challenge Examination Request form.
2. Successful completion of a challenge examination results in the listing on the student’s permanent record of the course equivalent, the notation “credit by examination,” and the amount of credit granted.

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)

Students may be eligible for PLA credit if they have accrued a foundation of knowledge and skills equivalent to the content of courses offered by the EXT.

Awarded credits are incorporated into a student’s degree plan as transfer credits and are subject to the university’s residency requirement.  All transfer credit from all sources may not exceed 90 credits for a bachelor’s degree and 45 credits for an associate’s degree.

Potential PLA credits should be considered and discussed as part of a student’s transfer credits at the time of enrollment. Interested students should contact their career and Academic Advisor for more information.

Standardized Prior Learning

The University awards credit for educational experiences provided by certain business, industrial and governmental agencies, that has been assessed previously and approved for credit. This list is continuously updated and can be found on using this link: RWU Approved PLA. All approved programs and trainings are evaluated on a 5 year rotation.

Evaluation of Lifetime Learning 

If the program or training students successfully completed is not found on the Standardized Credit Database, the student can submit their documentation for an assessment of the experience for credit. Students will go through a process of systematic evaluation of such competencies against established course learning outcomes.  Students should complete a Prior Learning Credit Request form (PLCR) for each certificate, training or license, with all relevant information. A credit determination will be made within 10 Working days. You will receive one of three determinations:

1. Denied

2. Approved with credit recommendation

3. Need Additional Materials.

If the determination is that additional materials are needed, you can work with the Director of Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) to go through a portfolio review. The evaluation of non-collegiate instruction often results in Credit Recommendations and/or Articulation Agreements that are found under Prior Credit Recommendations on our website.

Portfolio Assessment

RWU|EXT offers a portfolio review process by which prior learning through past work, independent reading and study, training programs or in-service courses, volunteer service or other experiences can be analyzed, articulated, documented, and assessed for credit.

A portfolio, in terms of prior learning, is an extensive written presentation of evidence assembled by the student and reviewed by a subject matter expert. The award of prior learning portfolio credit is dependent on relevancy to courses in the student’s degree program including general education, major and elective courses. The portfolio includes a resume, a personal narrative summary, a narrative that demonstrates and verifies your knowledge of the course material, and evidence documenting your proficiency in each published course objective. A certificate or training that has been granted credit through the PLA process may not be used as evidence in a portfolio application.

To be eligible for prior learning a student must be enrolled in a matriculating degree program.

The Application Process

Enrollment takes place on a rolling basis within the University’s regular Spring, Winter, Summer and Fall semesters. Students in RWU|EXT are eligible to enroll in many of the University’s Day and evening classroom course offerings on main campus, at University satellite locations, or online.

Applicants must apply to RWU|EXT and submit all official transcripts, including High School/GED and other post-secondary institutions attended.

https://connectuc.rwu.edu

Academic Advisor & Advisement Process 

Students are assigned Academic Advisors to evaluate transfer credits, discuss goals and programs, and begin the enrollment process.

• An Academic Advisor completes an assessment of the student’s degree evaluation including a listing of requirements already completed and those that need to be completed. 
• An Academic Advisor is responsible for guiding the student through the stages of the academic program and identifying the appropriate courses and learning experiences.

Registration

In order to register for classes, it is necessary for students to contact their Academic Advisor. Although online registration options exist, it is essential to contact your Academic Advisor to have your hold lifted to process your registration.

• Pre-Registration for Returning Students
• Course Attendance Policy
• Classification of Student Levels
• Course Audit
• Course Withdrawal and Course Changes
• University Grading
• University Transcript
• Deans List
• Credit Hours
• Course Numbering

Pre-Registration for Returning Students

Pre-registration is held for returning, degree seeking undergraduate, graduate, and joint admissions students in November for the Winter and Spring semesters, and in April for the Summer and Fall semesters. During the advising period, held two weeks prior to registration, a student meets with their advisor to review their progress towards meeting core curriculum requirements and specific degree requirements. A course schedule is planned in RogerCentral. Once reviewed with advisor, the advisor will “advise complete” the student record which then gives the student access to register for courses. Note: students cannot register for classes until their advisement complete is finalized by their advisor in RogerCentral.  Students will receive an E-Mail notification when their advisor has selected Advisement Complete and will be eligible for registration at their assigned time.

Registration Priority (assigned registration time) is based upon the students’ class level standings which is calculated based on total credits completed to date.  Prior to each registration period, course listings, specific registration dates and times, and registration instructions as well as up-to-date information concerning course openings and prerequisites are accessible on RogerCentral.  Responsibility for course selection and fulfillment of graduation requirements ultimately rests with the student.  However, this process can easily be tracked by the student and their advisor on RogerCentral in the “Progress” tab. It is recommended that students plan their courses each semester through the Progress section to ensure registration in courses that will fulfil requirements.

The University reserves the right to deny enrollment into a course to any student who does not meet certain administrative requirements including, but not limited to: the student has not pre-registered for courses during the specified timeframe, the student owes an outstanding balance to the University, the student has pending disciplinary charges and/or the student has not completed the required health services processes. The University reserves the right to cancel or limit enrollment in any class and does not guarantee course registrations, assignment of instructors, locations, or meeting times.

Course Attendance Policy

Regular attendance in classes is expected of all students. The attendance policy for each course is described in the course syllabus and provided by the professor.

Roger Williams University welcomes and values people and their perspectives and respects the interests of all members of our community and acknowledges that sometimes absences may be necessary due to religious observances. RWU recognizes the breadth of religious observance among students, faculty, and staff, and the potential for conflict with scheduled components of the academic experience. Students are expected to review their syllabi and notify faculty as far in advance as possible of potential conflicts between course requirements and religious observances. In such an event, the instructor will provide reasonable accommodations that do not unduly disadvantage the student.

Classification of Student Levels

Undergraduate students are classified according to the number of credits completed as follows:

Freshman           0 - 26 credits
Sophomore        27 - 56 credits
Junior                 57 - 86 credits
Senior                87 and above credits

Course Audit

Permission must be obtained from the professor before a student enrolls for a course as an auditor; the extent to which auditors may participate in a course is established by the professor. Courses audited are indicated on the transcript, but credits and grades are not assigned. A Course Status form must be filed with the Registrar’s Office. A student who enrolls in a course as an auditor may elect to change to credit-bearing status and receive credit and a grade. A student who enrolls in a course for credit may elect to change to audit status. All changes must be made no later than by the last day to drop a course without the W (withdrawn) grade for the semester or session.

Course Withdrawal and Course Changes

A student may change courses on their own prior to the last day to add without instructor approval; courses dropped during the drop period are removed from the students record. Students may officially withdraw from a course by contacting their academic advisor, the grade of “W” is recorded; neither credit nor quality points are assigned. Students should refer to the Academic Calendar for exact dates of add and withdrawal deadlines.

Note: students whose credit load changes within a semester, changes their enrollment status, may affect financial aid as well as rate of progress. 

University Grading System

• Grades and Grade Points
• Individual Course Grading Scale
• Grade Appeals
• Incomplete Grades
• Pass/No Pass Option
• Repeated Courses
• Mid-Semester Warning Grades
• Final Grades/Holds on Student Records
• Grade-Point Average

Grades and Grade Points

*Incomplete grades must be completed before the end of the subsequent semester and will convert to a grade of “F” if not resolved by the deadline. Students should consult the Academic Calendar for specific deadline dates.

Individual Course Grading Scale

Grade Appeals

Students may appeal a course grade by doing so in writing within one semester of receiving the grade. The written appeal must be addressed to the faculty member that gave the grade with a copy sent to the respective school dean.

If the faculty member agrees that a change of grade is warranted, the faculty member must complete the electronic grade change process which requires the approval of the school dean.  The existing grade will be replaced with the new grade on the student’s record by the University Registrar’s Office.

If the student is not satisfied with the faculty member’s appeal decision, the student may further appeal the course grade in writing directly to the school dean within seven days of the receipt of the faculty member’s decision.  If the decision of the dean results in a grade change, the school dean will communicate the new grade in writing to the University Registrar’s Office so that the new grade recorded on the student’s record.   

If the student is not satisfied with the school dean’s appeal decision, the student may ultimatley appeal to the Provost within seven days of the receipt of the dean’s decision.  The Provost’s decision is final and may not be appealed.  If the decision of the Provost results in a grade change, the Provost will communicate the new grade in writing to the University Registrar’s Office so that the new grade recorded on the student’s record.   

Students may not appeal course grades after their degrees have been conferred.  

Incomplete Grades

An Incomplete grade (I) may be given at the discretion of the instructor. The time by which missing work must be completed is also at the discretion of the instructor; however, this time period may not exceed the last day of classes of the subsequent academic semester in which the incomplete was earned. If a course is not successfully completed by this deadline, the incomplete will automatically be changed to a grade of “F” (Failure). 

Faculty members assigning incomplete grades must complete the Incomplete Grade Process with the Registrar’s Office for each student receiving an Incomplete grade.

Students must complete all work prior to graduation, including resolution of any grades of incomplete. Students’ academic record is sealed on the date the degree is conferred and no changes will be to students’ records once the degree is conferred.

Pass/No Pass Option

To encourage students to enroll in courses outside their major, and thus broaden their academic foundation, juniors and seniors may enroll in one course per semester outside their major area on a Pass/No Pass basis. Music lessons for non-majors and Student Teaching courses are graded Pass/ No Pass and are not part of this restriction. Those who pass the course receive the appropriate credit; those who fail the course receive no credit. Students who elect this option must file a Course Status form with the Registrar. A student who enrolls in a course for Pass/No Pass may elect to change to a graded status. All changes must be made no later than by the last day to drop a course without the W (withdrawn) grade for the semester or session.

Courses required for the student’s major(s), minor(s), and University Core Curriculum courses may not be taken on a P/ NP basis. Professors may not assign Pass or No Pass grades as substitutes for passing or failing grades unless the course is designated Pass/No Pass for all students or a student formally elects the Pass/No Pass option within the timeframe noted above.

Repeated Courses

Students may repeat the same course for credit if a grade of C- or less is received on the first attempt. If a student receives a second grade of C- or less in the repeated course, the course may be repeated only once more. The grade for the repeated course is calculated in the GPA in place of the initial grade(s) provided that the course is taken at Roger Williams University and the grade in the repeated course is higher than the previous grade(s). The previous grade(s) remains on the record, but neither the previous grade(s) nor the credits are calculated. Students who repeat courses for a higher grade must expect to do course work in the summer to ensure minimum rate of progress and timely graduation.

A grade of C- or less in a course taken at Roger Williams University may also be repeated at another institution provided that it is not one of the five Interdisciplinary CORE courses However, only the credits for a course completed with a C or better at another institution are accepted in transfer. The grade and grade points for the course are not calculated in the GPA. The previous grade remains on the record, but neither grade nor credit is calculated in the GPA.

A course may not be repeated for credit if a grade of C or higher or Pass was assigned.

Mid-Semester Warning Grades

Warning grades are issued for all enrolled students in Fall and Spring semesters who are receiving a grade of C- or below in any of their classes. It is the student’s responsibility to meet with their academic advisor and the instructor of any course in which a warning grade is issued to discuss ways to improve the quality of their work, and seek help from all available campus resources.

Final Grades/Holds on student records

Holds may be placed on a student’s record for a variety of reasons, incomplete submission of required documents, outstanding balances, etc. The hold may prohibit registration, viewing of grades, obtaining transcripts or receiving a diploma, depending on the type of hold. Students may view the type of hold on their account via Roger Central student portal.

Grade Point Average

The GPA indicates the student’s overall academic average. It is calculated on both a semester and cumulative basis. The (GPA) is calculated by dividing the total grade points obtained during the semester by the number of credits for which a student received an F or better.

University Transcript

The University transcript is an official document reflecting a student’s cumulative academic record. An official transcript is reproduced on colored paper stock bearing the seal of the University and is issued directly to the person or institution specified by the student. All transcripts are issued in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and may not be released to a third party without the prior written consent of the student.

https://www.rwu.edu/academics/registrar/transcript-requests

Transcripts noted at the point of graduation issued from Roger Williams University reflect second majors, minors, certificates and honorary distinctions. Transcripts requests are submitted through Parchment Exchange.  Current students can access the transcript request directly through Roger Central.  

A fee of $7.50 per electronic transcript and $10.00 fee per paper copy must be remitted and all outstanding debts satisfied prior to release of the transcript.

Requests for transcripts should include dates of attendance or graduation, name at time of attendance and specific school, declared major, and student’s RWU ID number.

E-transcripts are issued within 24 hours, paper copies may take up to 5 business days; however, during certain periods, mailing of transcripts may be delayed by an additional three or four days. To avoid delays in forwarding transcripts to colleges, graduate schools, employers, and government agencies, students are advised to request transcripts well in advance of their deadlines for application, reimbursement, or incentive pay.

Deans List

Students who complete 12 or more credits per semester and earn a term GPA of 3.4 or higher are placed on the Dean’s List that semester, provided they have not failed any courses and were not originally graded with Incomplete grades.

Credit Hours

RWU Credits Awarded for Student Academic Engagement

GEN-11-06 UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION OFFICE OF POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY

Guidance to Institutions and Accrediting Agencies Regarding a Credit Hour as Defined in the Final Regulations Published on October 29, 2010

An amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than:

1. One hour* of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class student work each week for approximately fifteen weeks for one semester or trimester hour of credit, or ten to twelve weeks for one quarter hour of credit, or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time; or
2. At least an equivalent amount of work as required in paragraph (1) of this definition for other academic activities as established by the institution, including laboratory work, internships, practica, studio work, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.

*NECHE assumes a 50 minute “hour.”

Course Numbering

Courses at Roger Williams University are numbered as follows:

100-199 Introductory courses
200-299 Intermediate courses
300-499 Advanced courses
500-599 Fifth-year undergraduate courses; first year graduate courses
600-699 Second-year graduate courses
700-799 Third-year graduate courses

Financial Aid

Accepted students at EXT and plan to apply for financial aid should contact the financial aid office directly.

https://www.rwu.edu/undergraduate/admission-aid/financial-aid/contact-financial-aid

Graduation

• Degree Application
• Participation in Commencement
• Graduation Requirements
• Graduating with Honors
• Awarding Posthumous Degrees

Degree Application

Students must complete a graduation application in order for their degrees to be conferred.  Completing a graduation application also:

• Allows the student’s name to be added to the commencement list for the semester they are graduating and added to the commencement program
• Is used to order the student’s diploma
• Allows the Registrar’s Office to monitor the student’s progress towards completing their requirements and notify the student of any missing requirements
• Let’s the student’s advisor know that they are ready to graduate

Students should apply to graduate in RogerCentral by clicking on the Graduation Overview tab on the home page menu.

Each student is responsible for meeting all degree requirements and for ensuring that the Registrar’s Office has received all credentials. Degrees conferred reflect the graduation date that follows the student’s successful completion of all degree requirements. Degrees are conferred three times a year - in December, May, and August.

Participation in commencement

Commencement ceremonies occur only in May. Students in good academic standing may participate in Commencement subject to the following conditions:

• Students will have satisfied all graduation requirements by Commencement; or they have no more than two remaining courses (and/or 6 credits) including Incompletes;
• All academic matters affecting the graduation, including incomplete grades and matters needing an Academic Standards committee decision are resolved 6 weeks prior to the May ceremony;
• The cumulative grade-point average in the semester before graduation must be 2.0 or higher; this includes summer and winter sessions.

Graduation Requirements

Degrees will be awarded to candidate who have fulfilled the following;

• For a baccalaureate-a minimum of 120* credits distributed according to the core curriculum requirements, the requirements of the declared major and any free electives. Satisfactory completion of all requirements for a bachelor’s degree must be under a catalog in effect within eight years of the date of graduation. The catalog used, however, may be no earlier than the catalog in effect at the time of matriculation or, in the case of a change of major, concentration or minor, no earlier than the catalog in effect when the major, concentration or minor was formally declared. *Professional Legal Studies requires 121 credits.
• For an Associate’s degree- a minimum of 60* credits distributed according to the core curriculum requirements, the requirements of the declared major and any free electives. Satisfactory completion of all requirements for a bachelor’s degree must be under a catalog in effect within eight years of the date of graduation. The catalog used, however, may be no earlier than the catalog in effect at the time of matriculation or, in the case of a change of major, concentration or minor, no earlier than the catalog in effect when the major, concentration or minor was formally declared. *Professional Legal Studies requires 61 credits.
• For certificate conferrals-the requirements of the declared major and any free electives. Satisfactory completion of all requirements for a certificate must be under a catalog in effect within eight years of the date of graduation. 
• A maximum of 45 transfer credits from a regionally accredited institution may be applied to a student’s associates degree requirements.
• A maximum of 90 transfer credits from a regionally accredited institution may be applied to a student’s bachelor’s degree requirements.
• A minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or higher and any other academic requirements of the students major as outlined by the department.
• Students will not be allowed to receive their diplomas or transcripts until all financial debts to the university have been paid.
• Conferral of a degree occurs when the registrar finalizes the students’ academic record and confirms that all requirements have been satisfied, which includes grades of ‘I’ (Incomplete). Participation in the commencement ceremony does not constitute conferral of the degree. Similarly, inclusion of a student’s name in such publications as the commencement program does not confirm eligibility for the degree.

Graduating with honors

Academic excellence for the baccalaureate program is recognized by awarding degrees based upon at least 54 credits of study in residence:

• summa cum laude (cumulative GPA of 3.8 or higher)
• magna cum laude (cumulative GPA of 3.6 - 3.79)
• cum laude (cumulative GPA of 3.4 - 3.59)

The Commencement Programs is printed prior to grades being submitted for the student’s final semester; therefore, the Registrar’s Office must print the honors designation that a student has earned up to the time of publication. The student diploma and finalized transcript, however, will reflect the official honors designation based upon the student’s final grade point average.

Students’ academic records is sealed on the date the degree is conferred and no changes will be to any student’s record once the degree is conferred, including, but not limited to, name changes, adding/removing additional majors or minors and/or change of grades.

Awarding of Posthumous Degrees

Policy Statement. It shall be the policy of the University to award posthumous academic degrees for students who have successfully completed a substantial portion of their academic programs with diplomas to specifically indicate a posthumous degree. In situations in which the President of the University determines that a particular situation warrants the granting of a posthumous degree, the President shall recommend such action to the Board of Trustees.

Qualifications of Candidate for a Posthumous Degree. To be eligible for a posthumous degree, a deceased student must have been actively enrolled in a degree program and in good standing at the University at the time of his or her death, or was actively enrolled in a degree program and in good standing at the time the medical condition leading to his or her death was diagnosed. More specifically, to be considered for a posthumous degree, the deceased student shall have complied with the above requirements and in addition shall have completed the following requirements for the following degrees:

1. Posthumous Bachelor’s Degree. The deceased student must have achieved a grade point average (GPA)of at least 2.0; successfully completed at least 20 credits of course work in
2. Posthumous Graduate Degree. The deceased student must have achieved a grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5; successfully completed at least 75% of the program’s coursework, required hours and other requirements for the degree; and if a thesis is required for the program, approval of the his or her thesis proposal.

Non-­Degree Academic Programs. The University will not award posthumous certificates to deceased persons enrolled in non-­‐degree programs at the time of death.

Procedure - Undergraduate and Graduate Programs Other than The Law School. In most cases initiation of the awarding of a posthumous degree will come from the academic department in which the deceased student has declared her or his major; however, initiation may come from any interested party, including but not limited to the family of the deceased student, a member of the faculty or administration, the Dean of the School of College from which the deceased student would have received her or his degree had she or he lived, the Provost or the President of the University. The qualifications (see above) shall be determined jointly by the Registrar and the Dean of the School or College. All recommendations for a posthumous degree shall be channeled through the Provost who shall consider the determination of qualifications made by the Registrar and the Dean, and make his or her recommendation to the President, who in turn may make a recommendation to the Board of Trustees for action.

Consent of Deceased Student’s Family Required. Under no circumstances shall a posthumous degree be awarded to a deceased student, even if he or she has met all qualifications and is recommended for a posthumous degree, unless and until approval has been received by the President of the University from parents, spouse or life partner of the deceased student.

Coursework Undertaken at the Time of Death. If, at the time of death or incapacity leading to death, a student is enrolled in a course or courses, and the student has completed a sufficient amount of the coursework so that the instructor reasonably concludes that a final passing grade is appropriate, the coursework shall be considered completed for the purposes of satisfying the qualifications for a posthumous degree. If the deceased student was in her or his final term, and the instructors are able to conclude that final passing grades are appropriate, and if the final grades are sufficient to award a degree, the degree will be awarded as earned, and shall not be designated a posthumous degree.

Ceremony. With the consent of the deceased student’s family, the President of the University will present the diploma to the family in a private gathering of interested persons. If the family (parents and/or spouse) prefers not to have a private gathering, the diploma will be sent by the President of the University to the parents of the deceased student.

APPROVED BY RESOLUTION OF BOARD OF TRUSTEES OCTOBER 17, 2014

Course Delivery Options

• Classroom courses
  • Classes are scheduled on a regular weekly basis in either late afternoons, evenings, or Saturdays and locations at: the Providence Campus, the Newport Naval Base, and the main campus in Bristol.
• Directed Seminars/Hybrid
  • Meet 4-6 times per semester and normally use online instruction between classroom meetings.
• Online courses
  • These options serve students who are geographically removed from the campus and who are unable to spend long periods in residential study. They have no class meetings and provide comprehensive online instruction. 

Online and hybrid instruction use the University’s online learning management system, Brightspace. On occasion and when warranted, class presentations may be delivered to students via DVD or by other electronic methods.

Adult Education Scholarships 

University College makes several scholarships available each academic year to eligible students enrolled in the UC. The amount of each scholarship may vary from one year to another. This scholarship program is based on a combination of financial need and academic promise; however, prior academic experience and community service will be taken into consideration. Applications for these scholarships may be obtained through the UC Dean’s Office at times announced throughout the year.

Academic Policies, Regulations and Requirements

• Academic Standards
• Academic Good Standing
• Withdrawal, Medical and Non-Medical Leave of Absence
• Academic Integrity
• FERPA

Academic Standards

Students are responsible for knowing and complying with the academic regulations of the University. The University has one Academic Policies Committee that serves as the appeal committee for students requesting exceptions to academic policy. An Academic Policy Appeal may be obtained on the Registrar’s website: https://www.rwu.edu/academics/registrar/registrar-forms. Appeals must be completed and submitted to the Center for Student Academic Success. 

Right to Appeal

In cases where an academic regulation or requirement constitutes a hardship, students may submit an Academic Standards Petition to the appropriate dean. Any appeal is subject to review by the appropriate dean and designated Academic Affairs officer, whose decision shall be final.

Appeals must be filed no later than one semester after the semester in which the course was taken, or the event that is the basis for the appeal, occurred. Unless an appeal is filed within this period, it will not be considered.

Academic Good Standing

• Minimum Performance Requirements
• Academic Interventions and Right to Appeal

The university is committed to the academic success of all its students. To that end, it monitors the progress of each student and has established requirements to be considered in “Academic Good Standing.”  To remain in good academic standing students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 and must complete 60% of their attempted credits each term. 

Minimum Performance Requirements

Academic Hiatus (AH): Students who are unable to attain academic good standing after placement in the Academic Management Program may be placed on Academic Hiatus. Students placed on Academic Hiatus will be withdrawn from the university for the subsequent semester (fall or spring.) Students placed on Academic Hiatus are required to use the semester away from the university to reflect on their personal academic goals and to formulate a plan for academic success. Students must have been placed in the Academic Management Program before being placed on Academic Hiatus. 

Returning from Hiatus: Students who would like to return after a hiatus should contact the RWU/EXT. 

Academic Dismissal (AD):  Academic dismissal is reserved for those students whose demonstrated academic performance indicates they are unlikely to earn a degree as they have not been able to attain the minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 needed to graduate.  A student must have been placed on Academic Hiatus at least once before they can be dismissed. Academic dismissal is noted on the student’s transcript.

Right to Appeal

Students have the right to appeal the Academic Hiatus and Academic Dismissal Standings to the Academic Appeals Committee.  If the Committee’s decision is to allow the student to return, the Committee reserves the right to impose restrictions on credit load and the student will be required to participate in the Academic Management Program.  The student will be reviewed again at the completion of the term.  If they make significant progress, they will be allowed to return and may be required to participate in the Continued Academic Management Program until they reach Academic Good Standing.  Students who do not make significant progress may be dismissed at the completion of the term.

Withdrawal, Medical and Non-Medical Leave of Absence

• Non-Medical Leave of Absence
• Medical Leave Absence
• Administrative Withdrawal
• Reinstatement

Students who wish to change their enrollment status at the University are required to adhere to the following procedures:

• Students must notify their academic advisor.
• Students who plan to process a withdrawal should refer to the Financial Information section of this catalog for information regarding policies governing the refund of tuition and fees.
• Students who withdraw from the University after the last day to drop a course without a W (withdrawal) grade will be graded at the end of the semester by their professor(s).
• The students’ academic advisor submits a Change of Status Form to the Registrar’s Office and notifies the appropriate offices.
• Students who follow procedure for withdrawal and who are in good academic standing may request their reinstatement to the university. Students must submit their request for reinstatement 30 days prior to the start of the term for which they intend to enroll.

Non-Medical Leave of Absence

The application for a non-medical leave of absence must be initiated by the student to their academic advisor. If a leave is granted, the office will notify all appropriate offices. A student on academic leave of absence may apply for a one-semester extension only prior to the start of the subsequent semester, otherwise, will be considered withdrawn from the University. 

Medical Leave of Absence

A student may apply to the Office of Student Life for a medical leave of absence from the University for one full semester. Students are limited to one medical leave of absence during matriculation at the University. Applications are due no later than December 1 for the fall semester and May 1 for the spring semester. Students must complete a medical leave of absence request form and submit a letter outlining why they are requesting the leave. The request must be supported by documentation from a health care provider. The student is expected to be in treatment while they are on leave. When requesting reinstatement, the student should complete a request for reinstatement form and submit a letter outlining how they have spent their time away preparing to return. The physician or psychologist responsible for treatment must also provide a recommendation supporting the reinstatement of the student.

When students are approved for a medical leave, they will be dropped or withdrawn from their courses in accordance with the dates set forth in the Academic Calendar for that term. Students should consult with the office of financial aid to discuss financial implications and contact their academic advisor to determine the impact on their academic program. Students are also encouraged to look into possible health insurance implications. Requests are reviewed and the student will be notified of the decision in writing. The University reserves the right to place restrictions on a student’s leave and/or reinstatement.

Administrative Withdrawal

Students who are not registered for a subsequent semester within 30 days of the last day of final exams according to the Academic Calendar will be administratively withdrawn from the University.

Students who do not follow the procedure for withdrawal must follow the reinstatement process by contacting RWU Extension School admissions. If readmitted, they must enter under the requirements of the University Catalog for the year they re-enter unless determined otherwise by the student’s dean.

Students who leave the University on academic or non-academic probation may be considered for reinstatement; all requests require the approval of their school/college dean.

Students who follow procedure for withdrawal and who are in good academic standing may request their reinstatement through the Center for Student Academic Success. Students must initiate their reinstatement 30 days prior to the start of the term for which they intend to enroll.

Reinstatement

All students seeking reinstatement from a Leave of Absence or Withdrawal, initiate this process through RWU Extension School admissions 30 days prior to the start of the semester they wish to enroll. The condition of the separation will determine the process a student follows.

Withdrawal: Students, who officially withdraw from the university and wish to reinstate, are required to contact RWU Extension School admissions. The Dean of the School or College must approve the reinstatement prior to any action being taken. 

Administrative Withdrawal: Students who failed to follow the withdrawal process resulting in an administrative withdrawal must contact the dean of RWU Extension School prior to the start of the start of the semester they wish to return, to initiate the reinstatement process. The Dean of the School or College must authorize the reinstatement prior to any action being taken.

If students are readmitted, they must enter under the requirements of the University Catalog for the year, they re-enter unless determined otherwise by the students’ dean. Students are required to contact their Dean or Academic Advisor to review their academic record and receive permission to register for classes.

Medical Leave: A student returning from an approved Medical Leave must provide a recommendation from the physician or psychologist responsible for treatment supporting reinstatement to the University. Students must contact the Office of Student Life to initiate the process to return to the University.

Non-Medical Leave: A student on a non-medical leave may apply through RWU Extension School admissions. Students who fail to initiate a return after one semester are automatically withdrawn from the University and must contact the office to subsequently return to the University. All reinstatements require a school Dean’s approval prior to selecting and enrolling for a subsequent term.

Academic Integrity

• Academic Integrity Pledge
• Breaches of Academic Integrity
• Consequences of a Breach of Academic Integrity
• Academic Conduct Committee
• Procedure for Dealing with Alleged Breaches of Academic Integrity

Academic Integrity Pledge

We, the students of Roger Williams University, commit ourselves to academic integrity. We promise to pursue the highest ideals of academic life, to challenge ourselves with the most rigorous standards, to be honest in any academic endeavor, to conduct ourselves responsibly and honorably, and to assist one another as we live and work together in mutual support.

Breaches of Academic Integrity

Roger Williams University exists to foster the mature pursuit of learning, which is premised upon the exercise of mutual trust and honest practice when representing data, findings and the sources of ideas used in an academic exercise. The University expects students to observe these principles of academic integrity that ensure the excellence of their education and the value of their diploma.

Examples of breaches of academic integrity include but are not limited to:

Cheating: Using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information or citation in any academic exercise. Examples include, but are not limited to

• Copying from another student on exams or assignments;
• Altering graded exams of assignments and resubmitting them for a new grade;
• Submitting the same paper for two classes without both instructors’ written permission.

Fabrication: Unauthorized falsifications or invention of any information or citation in any academic exercise. Examples include, but are not limited to

• Using made-up citations in papers or other assignments;
• Representing collaborative work as the result of individual effort;
• Collaborating on graded assignments beyond the extent authorized by the instructor.

Plagiarism: Plagiarism is best defined as the incorporation of words and ideas of another person in an attempt to claim that person’s work as one’s own. Thus, plagiarism fails to engage in civil, scholarly discourse. It is sometimes a form of intellectual theft and is always a form of intellectual fraud.

In its worst form, plagiarism may consist of directly copying large or small portions of either printed or online works, or, as frequently happens in schools, written papers of another student, without properly crediting the source(s) from which they came. There are, however, more subtle forms of plagiarism as well. Paraphrasing, which is the process of using alternative expressions to communicate the meaning of another author’s words, is also a form of plagiarism, unless the sources of those ideas are acknowledged. Roger Williams University provides resources and advice to students to help avoid plagiarism. See How to Avoid Plagiarism https://rwu.libguides.com/plagiarism and Citing Sources https://rwu.libguides.com/citingsources. Students are encouraged to consult their instructor if they have questions regarding proper documentation of sources and avoiding plagiarism. Examples of plagiarism include, but are not limited to

• Quoting or paraphrasing someone else’s work without correct citation;
• Copying work of another and representing it as your own;
• Purchasing a paper, essay or other work;
• Having someone else do your work for you.

Fraud: Altering, forging, or encouraging another person to alter or forge, official records of the institution, or assisting others in such activities. Examples of plagiarism include, but are not limited to

• Taking an exam for someone else;
• Changing the grade on an assignment and representing it as the original.

Willful Damage: Damaging another’s creative work or property.

Facilitating Academic Dishonesty: Assisting or aiding someone else in committing a breach of academic integrity. Examples include, but are not limited to

• Allowing another student to copy a paper, problem set, exam or other assignment that is meant to be completed individually;
• Taking an exam or completing an assignment for another student;
• Obtaining a copy of an exam ahead of time for oneself or another student.

Consequences of a Breach of Academic Integrity

Civil discourse and the entire academic project depend on mutual trust among the community of scholars that is Roger Williams University. Even a minor breach of academic integrity diminishes that trust. Accordingly, the consequences of a breach of academic integrity, depending on severity, include:

• Referral to an academic integrity support meeting
• Failure on the assignment on which the breach occurred;
• Failure of the class in which the breach occurred;
• Academic probation for one semester;
• Suspension for one semester;
• Separation (dismissal) from the Roger Williams University community.

Academic Conduct Committee

The University Academic integrity Committee is empowered to investigate and adjudicate all cases of suspected breaches of academic integrity. This committee will also serve as the record keeper of all academic integrity breaches. The University Academic integrity Committee may, as part of its deliberations, consider a student’s prior breaches of academic integrity on file. The University Academic integrity Committee shall establish and publish by-laws and procedures pertaining to its own operations.

Procedure for Dealing with Alleged Breaches of Academic Integrity

1. A faculty member who suspects a breach of academic integrity shall investigate, including opportunity for the student to answer the allegation. Upon finding evidence of a breach of academic integrity, a faculty member may elect to penalize the offending student by

• Referral to an academic integrity support meeting
• Issuing the student a formal warning
• Failing the student on the assignment on which the breach occurred
• Failing the student in the class in which the breach occurred

1. The faculty member must communicate directly with the student via RWU e-mail, with copies sent to the Dean’s office of the faculty member, and to the dean of the student’s major, if different. Documentary evidence of the breach of academic integrity must also be forwarded to the dean’s office.
2. The Dean’s office will inform the student of her/his right of appeal, along with the forms to be completed to initiate the appeal process.
3. The Deans’ offices will forward all actions taken by faculty regarding academic integrity violations, along with all corresponding documentary evidence, to the Office of the Academic Provost, which shall serve as a clearinghouse.
4. Students may appeal any penalty for a breach of academic integrity enforced by a faculty member to the University Academic Integrity Committee by notifying the Dean’s office, the faculty member, and the University Academic Conduct Committee in writing within 7 days of meeting with dean.
5. The University Academic Integrity Committee shall hear student appeals of faculty actions concerning academic integrity. The decision of the University Academic Integrity Committee will be communicated to the student, to the Dean, and to the faculty member in writing via RWU e-mail. Student(s) may appeal a decision of the University Academic Integrity Committee to the Office of the Provost within 14 days of the decision. The Provost’s decision is final.
6. Upon finding recurring or particularly egregious instances of breaches of academic integrity by a student, the Office of the Provost reserves the right to levy:

• Academic probation for one semester
• Suspension for one semester
• Separation (dismissal) from the Roger Williams University community.

Annual FERPA notification to students

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended (FERPA) is a federal law that gives students certain rights with respect to their education records. FERPA (1) permits eligible students to inspect their education records, (2) prohibits improper disclosure of personally identifiable information from education records without the student’s written consent, (3) provides eligible students with the opportunity to request inaccuracies in their education records be corrected, and (4) provides students the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education for any alleged FERPA compliance failures. Roger Williams University (RWU) complies with FERPA to the extent that FERPA applies to its activities.

Education Records

RWU routinely maintains records related to its students that describe and document their work and progress. These education records generally include items such as admissions records, enrollment status, course grades, reports and evaluations, completion of requirements and progress toward the degree, records of disciplinary actions, letters of recommendations, and other correspondence with or concerning the student. Education records also include personally identifiable information, such as the student’s name, student ID number, permanent and local addresses, and other indirect identifiers, such as date and place of birth.

Records about students made by professors and administrators for their own use and not shared are not considered education records subject to FERPA. Other examples of records that are not subject to FERPA include, but are not limited to, RWU Health Services records and RWU Department of Public Safety records maintained solely for treatment and law enforcement purposes, respectively.

Eligible Students

Any individual who is or has been in attendance at RWU constitutes an “eligible student” under FERPA. RWU defines attendance as a student who is officially registered for at least one class and that class has started. Accordingly, FERPA does not apply to unsuccessful applicants for admission to RWU, or to applicants who have been admitted but who have not actually been in attendance. RWU policy does not allow for the release of a deceased student’s records.

Right to Access Education Records

All eligible students have access to their own education records. To exercise your right to review and inspect your education records, send a written request to the official responsible for the records you wish to inspect. Contact the Registrar’s Office if you have questions about who the appropriate official is. RWU will make records subject to review available within 45 days.

[DISCRETIONARY (see §99.12): An eligible student is not permitted to review (1) the financial records of his or her parent(s), or (2) letters and statements of recommendation to which he or she waived his or her right of access or that were placed in his or her file before January 1, 1975.]

Right to Amend Education Records

Any eligible student may request to have records corrected that the student believes to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of his or her privacy rights. However, the FERPA amendment procedure may not be used to challenge a grade, an individual’s opinion, or a substantive decision made by RWU about a student.

Requests to amend a record should be made in writing and directed to the appropriate official. The student should clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the request is denied, RWU will notify the student of its decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

Right to Limit Others’ Access to Education Records

RWU will seek a student’s written consent before disclosing personally identifiable information from the student’s education records to third parties, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

Disclosure without a student’s prior written consent is permitted, for example, to RWU officials with legitimate educational interests. There is a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for RWU. Professional responsibilities may include instructional, supervisory, advisory, administrative, academic, research, staff support, or other duties in pursuit of an enterprise sanctioned by RWU. RWU officials who may access education records when they have legitimate educational interests include: faculty; administrators; staff; part-time employees; RWU Department of Public Safety personnel; RWU Health Services staff; members of the Board of Trustees; agents of RWU, such as volunteers or independent contractors performing functions on behalf of RWU; and students serving on an official RWU committee, or assisting another RWU official in performing his or her tasks for RWU under proper authorization.

A student’s education records may also be shared with parties outside RWU without obtaining prior written consent under certain conditions:

• Officials of another school or institution in which the student seeks or intends to enroll or is already enrolled so long as disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer.
• Authorized representatives of Federal, State, and local authorities in connection with an audit or evaluation of Federal or State supported education programs, or for the enforcement of or compliance with Federal legal requirements that relate to those programs.
• In connection with a student’s application for, or receipt of, financial aid, to the extent necessary to determine eligibility, amount, conditions, or enforcement of the terms and conditions.
• State or local officials or authorities to whom this information is specifically required to be reported by effective law.
• Organizations conducting studies for or on behalf of RWU to develop, validate, or administer predictive tests; administer student aid programs; or improve instruction.
• Accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions.
• Parents of a student who is a dependent for income tax purposes.
• In response to a judicial order or lawfully issued s subpoena. If permitted, RWU will make a reasonable effort to notify the student(s) in advance of compliance.
• Appropriate parties, including parents of an eligible student, in connection with a health or safety emergency if knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals.
• A victim of an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence or non-forcible sex offense. The disclosure may only include the final results of the disciplinary proceeding with respect to that alleged crime or offense (regardless of the finding).
• The final results of a disciplinary proceeding may be disclosed where RWU determined the student is an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence or non-forcible sex offense, and the student has committed a violation of RWU’s rules or policies with respect to the allegation made against him or her. The names of victims, witnesses, or other students will not be disclosed without the prior written consent of these other students.
• Parents of a student regarding the student’s violation of any Federal, State, or local law, or of any RWU rule or policy, governing the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance if RWU determines the student committed a disciplinary violation and the student is under the age of 21.
• Information RWU has designated as “directory information.”

Disclosure of Directory Information

Under FERPA, information designated as “directory information” may be made available to the general public without the student’s knowledge or consent, unless the student has advised RWU to the contrary in accordance with RWU procedures. RWU regards the following student information as directory information:

• Full Name
• Honors [Fellowships,] and Awards Received
• Dates and/or Verification of Attendance
• Verification of Graduation and Degree(s) Received
• Participation in Officially Recognized Activities and Sports
• Weight and Height of Members of Athletic Teams
• Most Recent Previous Educational Institution Attended
• Local or Campus Residence Address and Telephone Number(s)
• Classification
• Photograph
• University E-mail Address
• Expected Date of Graduation
• Degree Program
• Major Area of Study
• Enrollment Status
• Reported Date of Birth
• Prior Degree Information
• Home Town or City at the Time the Application for Admission was Filed by the Student
• Students’ and Parents’ or Guardians’ Home Addresses and Telephone Numbers

RWU will give annual public notice to students of the categories of information designated as directory information and will allow a reasonable period of time after such notice for any student to inform RWU that he or she wishes to withhold the information from being disclosed. Current students in attendance who do not want RWU to disclose any or all of their directory information must notify the Registrar’s Office in writing. Students who have previously chosen to put restrictions in place may decide to reverse this decision by also informing the Registrar’s Office in writing. The restriction will remain in place until the student requests for it to be removed. The request for non-disclosure does not prevent the disclosure of information to RWU officials with a legitimate educational interest or in the other circumstances listed in the prior section of this notification.

Right to File Complaint

Students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by RWU to comply with the requirements of FERPA by writing to:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202

Prison Education Program

Roger Williams University Extension (RWU EXT) delivers quality, accessible education through its Prison Education Program, offered in partnership with the Rhode Island Department of Corrections. This program brings credit-bearing academic opportunities to incarcerated individuals across six facilities:

• Maximum Security Facility (MAX)
• John J. Moran Medium Security Facility (MED)
• Minimum Security Facility (MIN)
• Gloria McDonald Women’s Facility (WOM)
• High Security Center (HIGH)
• Anthony P. Travisono Intake Services Center (INTAKE)

Available Academic Programs

RWU EXT offers a variety of degree and certificate programs tailored to support career readiness, personal growth, and pathways for continuing education. Current offerings include:

Bachelor’s Degrees

• Applied Psychology

Associate’s Degrees

• Liberal Arts
• Social Science

Undergraduate Certificates

• Case Management Certificate
• Community Development Certificate
• Health Services Administration Certificate
• Introduction to Criminal Justice Systems Certificate

This initiative underscores RWU EXT’s commitment to providing educational opportunities that promote rehabilitation, skill development, and preparation for successful reentry into society.

Career and Job Readiness Programs

• Carpentry Apprenticeship Program (CAP)
• Doula Certificate Program
• Electrical Apprenticeship Program (EAP)
• English as a second language (ESL) Teacher Certification Program
• Plumbing
• Teacher Certificate Program Career & Technical Education- One Year (CTE)

Carpentry Apprenticeship Program (CAP)

RWU/EXT offers a four-year, in-person Carpentry Apprenticeship Progam (CAP) that meets the needs of the local construction industry and is accessible to students from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. The program proves full time faculty instruction, and as an added bonus, students will earn college credits which can be used for further education at RWU/EXT though Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). 

The program combines on the job training with classroom/lab instruction. Students must complete a total of 700 classroom instructional hours (175 per year). Students must complete a minimum of 6,000 on the job working hours.

Program Entry Requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old and legally authorized to work in the U.S.
• Have a high school diploma, G.E.D, or high school equivalency degree (H.S.E.D)
• Be able to pass a drug test
• Meet the physical and performance demands of the job

Prior to starting class, participants must complete both CPR/First Aid and OSHA. Please choose your OSHA course from our website. These courses are not included in you tuition.

• First/Aid/CPR (8 hours)
• OSHA 30 hours

Please visit our website at:

https://www.rwu.edu/ext/offerings/programs/carpentry

Doula Certificate Program

Our comprehensive Certified Perinatal Doula Training Program equips candidates with the skills, knowledge, and cultural competency to support birthing individuals through pregnancy, labor, birth, postpartum, and beyond.

Objectives:

• Birth plan development, labor support techniques, and postpartum recovery care.

• Emotional and educational guidance for infant care, breastfeeding, and mental health support.

• Advocacy skills to help families make informed decisions about their care.

• Culturally sensitive communication and professional ethics to work effectively with diverse populations.

• Provide solace during pregnancy loss, or become a community advocate.

Requirements:  20 hours of relevant education/training to the Certified Perinatal Doula domains.

• 12 hours must be in birth doula training, antrpartum doula training, postpartum training and/or childbirth education. (At least one must be doula training)*
• 2 hours must be breastfeeding or document a valid lactation certification.
• 2 hours must be attendance at a childbirth class or document a valid childbirth education certification.
• 3 hours must be in cultural competency and 1 hour must be in HIPPA/Client confidentiality.
• Documentation of current CPR certification is required. Certificate(s) must include competencies for adults and infants, AND documentation of current SafeServ certification for meal preperation.

Please visit our website for more information:

Electrical Apprenticeship Program (EAP)

The Electrical Apprenticeship Program at Roger Williams University (RWU) has been approved by the RI Department of Labor and Training (DLT) and is designed to provide aspiring electricians with comprehensive training, and industry knowledge necessary to excel in the electrical trade. This program offers a structured pathway for individuals to embark on a rewarding career in the electrical industry while meeting the growing demand for skilled professionals. 

Key components of an apprenticeship Program Include: 

1. Classroom Instruction: At RWU, students receive 150 hours of related instruction covering essential theoretical concepts, technical knowledge, and industry standards 
2. On-the-Job Experience and Mentorship: Apprenticed individuals gain practical experience through on-the-job training under the guidance of experienced electricians, allowing them to develop proficiency in various electrical tasks. Mentors play a crucial role in facilitating skill development, fostering professional growth, and instilling industry values and ethics. 
3. Certification and Credentialing: Upon successful completion of an apprenticeship program, apprentices are eligible to pursue licensure and certification in the electrical trade, provided they demonstrate the following 2 key components: a) 576 related instruction and b) 8,000 apprenticeship hours to the RI DLT. 

All curriculum content in this program is provided by our accreditors, the National Center for Construction Education and Research NCCER.

Application and admissions 

To register for the Electrical apprenticeship program, you must complete an online application and a phone or in-person interview; additionally, these are the preferred qualifications, although we encourage all to apply 

• High school diploma or equivalent 
• Valid apprenticeship
• 18 years of age 
• Aptitude for the industry 

 Program requirement 

Attendance 

To meet the attendance requirement, students must attend this program in person for a minimum of at least 135 hours. Completion of 144 hours per educational level (or 576 total hours) is necessary as per Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training guidelines to sit for the Journeyperson’s B test.  

Testing average 

To meet the testing average requirement, students must maintain an average of 70% per academic level.

 For course descriptions and to enroll, please visit link below:

https://www.rwu.edu/ext/offerings/programs/electrical

English as a second language (ESL) Teacher Certification Program

The ESL Teacher Certification Program is a competancy-based (non-credit bearing) program that prepares educators to be culturally and linguistically responsive teachers of English Language Learners (ESL). Over a 12 month period candidates will engage in readings, lectures, learning activiies, workshops, analyses of videos of their own teaching practice, and a range of meetings.

The ESL Teacher Certification Program is a rigorous, immersive experience designed for educators committed to high standards of learning and professional growth. Over twelve months, candidates engage in a blend of virtual engagement, in-person hands-on practicum hours, and reflective assessments, all aligned to the TESOL standards. The program’s schedule and comprehensive curriculum ensure that candidates develop deep expertise in ESL instruction, equipping them to meet diverse classroom needs and achieve certification through sustained, practical application.

• All content in the program is aligned with the National Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) standards.
• Assignments are designed to be practical, job embedded, and highly associated with classroom learning.
• Candidates are paired with a learning guide (instructional coach) who will provide individualized and tailored feedback to support the candidates experience.
• 146 PLU’S may be earned after successful completion of all program requirements.
• Full or partial tuition may be covered by districts. Candidates should contact their district for more information.

Successful candidates who demonstrate evidence of meeting the TESOL competencies and completing all program requirements are eligible to apply for ESL Teacher Certification through the Rhode ISland Department of Education (RIDE) to teach ESL Pre.K-12 (after passing Praxis 5362). 

Please visit our website at:

https://catalog.rwu.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=10&poid=4141&returnto=879

Plumbing

The four-year Plumbing Apprenticeship Program offers the student advantages to prepare them for careers in the plumbing industry. RWU is the only higher education institution in the state with full National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) accreditation. NCCER is nationally recognized in the construction industry as the training, assessment and certification standard.

This program has been approved by the Department of Labor and Training and exceeds the related education component of the apprenticeship standards.  We provide a total of 700 hours over the four-year program. Students are required to take chapter tests and maintain a 70% average each year of studies. This helps to strengthen test taking abilities in preparation for the journeyperson exam. In addition, students also learn financial literacy, job skills preparation, soft skills, and time management while enrolled in this program.

The RWU Plumbing Apprenticeship Program is unique and prepares students for their next steps. Our key program differentiators include:

Small class sizes- This model promotes personalized attention from the instructors
Updated national curriculum- Our curriculum was crafted by NCCER and contains current and the most up to date information on the plumbing trade.
Quality instructors-Our instructors are amongst the best educators and practitioners in the field. They hold licenses in RI and/or MA
Top of the line Learning Management System (LMS) and free access to LinkedIn Learning-our LMS platform is intuitive and easy to use.  The course is replete with multimedia resources and 24/7 online tutoring support that aids in student learning. LinkedIn Learning is an additional online learning platform that contains over 5,000 video courses led by experts across business, technology and creative fields that is provided at no cost with your Roger Williams university email address.

Program Objectives and Outcomes:

• Fulfill the state requirements for education clock hours in pursuing the Rhode Island Plumbing Journeypersons Test.
• Graduate from a National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) accredited program.
• Receive college credits for life and work experience.
• Gain curriculum to better prepare students for work in the plumbing field.
• Pass the state examination for plumbing.
• Full time employment by a plumbing contractor

For more information about Apprenticeships, financial aid, career exploration or to apply, visit the below link:

https://www.rwu.edu/ext/offerings/programs/plumbing

Teacher Certificate Program Career & Technical Education- One Year (CTE)

The CTE Teacher Certification program is a competency-based, non-credit program that prepares candidates to become eligible for CTE teacher certification through the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE). The RWU program is designed with working adults in mind. Assignments are practical, job-embedded, and closely connected to classroom learning. Micro-courses are held each month with additional learning experiences, resources, and assignments available online at all times.

The program engages teacher candidates over twelve months from July to June.

• One-week online Pre-summer Intensive learning experience.

• Two-week Summer Intensive including a practicum experience working with youth.

• Monthly “micro courses” held one Saturday and one evening per month. 24/7 access to online learning experiences and assignments.

• All content is aligned with the Rhode Island Professional Teaching Standards and the National Board Standards for Career and Technical Education and Teaching.

  Candidates must meet or exceed all 22 associated competencies.

• Ongoing support from a dedicated Teacher Coach,Course Instructors, and Program Director.

In order to be eligible for admission, candidates must:

• Hold a valid high school diploma or high school equivalency diploma.

• Hold the appropriate license, certification or degree appropriate to their industry; provide documentation for the appropriate years of validated work experience 

  (3 for associates and bachelor’s degrees, 5 for high school diploma) in the CTE field in which the Candidate will be teaching and include any earned certifications.

• Submit an application and essay demonstrating commitment to CTE and an intensive, competency-based program.

• Submit two letters of reference that address your commitment to the field and anticiapted success in a self-paced program.

Please visit our webpage for additional information:

https://www.rwu.edu/ext/offerings/programs/teacher-certification-program