The Academic Regulations apply to all faculty, staff and all (prospective, confirmed, and registered) students of the College from the time of application to a course or program through to completion of the course or graduation from the program, where these activities or actions are a component of the relationship between the (prospective) student and the institution. Non-credit general interest courses with open admission are not covered under these regulations; those courses are covered in the specific course outline for each course.

The policies and procedures contained within this document apply to all students registered in any Humber course or any program offered by the College, in any location or in any format. In addition to these Academic Regulations, there may be Supplemental Regulations that may apply and be administered by the Academic Faculty or program area.  It is the responsibility of students to familiarize themselves with the applicable requirements that may apply within their Faculty or program. At times, the individual circumstances of a particular campus or a particular program may require a minor variation in procedure. These will be communicated to students at the commencement of the program or particular course.

The Academic Regulations do not supersede or negate any rights or responsibilities provided by law, and do not seek to limit the rights or freedom of expression as provided by law; however, behaviour that interferes with Humber’s operations, a student’s ability to learn and successfully graduate, and/or the academic integrity of the institution, is unacceptable and is addressed in part within this document.

Note: Decisions on whether a violation of the Academic Regulations has occurred will be based upon a review of evidence provided by the parties involved, gathered by the investigator and assessed on the standard of balance of probabilities.

Disclaimer: The policies and procedures contained within this document are current at the time of publication. Where changes occur, Humber will endeavor to communicate these changes immediately to students and provide them with as much advance notice as possible. Information on recent changes can be obtained from the Office of the Registrar.

Use of the following Humber policies, procedures, and/or codes may be required in conjunction with administration of the Academic Regulations:

• Academic Freedom Policy
• Academic Honesty of Faculty and Staff Policy and Procedure
• Accessibility Policy
• Accessible Customer Service Policy
• Code of Ethics
• Code of Student Conduct
• Copyright Policy
• Human Rights Policy and Procedure
• Intellectual Property Policy and Procedure
• Integrity in Research and Scholarship Policy and Procedure
• Midterm and Final Grade Submission Policy
• Program Suspension/Cancellation Policy
• Student Support and Intervention: Non-Academic Voluntary/Involuntary Withdrawal Policy and Procedure

All Community Members: Responsibility to Report

All Humber community members are expected to report incidents that are in contravention of these Academic Regulations when there may be any risk of academic dishonesty or otherwise fraudulent misrepresentation of a (prospective) student’s credentials, skills, or academic work submitted for evaluation.

Humber community members may inform any staff or faculty member of a violation, and they in turn will provide the information to the Office of the Registrar, who will take any action required, and, in cooperation with the associated Academic Faculty and other Departments, initiate any investigative process in order to fully address the misconduct or misrepresentation.

Students

All students have a responsibility to be aware of the academic policies and procedures that govern the admissions, registration, progression, graduation, and academic requirements of their program of study. Where these policies and procedures are violated and not resolvable informally, formal processes will be engaged.

Academic Faculties

Incidents of academic misconduct will require more formal and/or documented follow-up with a designate of the related Academic Faculty, in accordance with the Faculties and/or Humber’s policies and procedures. Incidents which come to the attention of the Associate Dean and which warrant a formal letter will be communicated to the Office of the Registrar.

Office of the Registrar

The Office of the Registrar is responsible for administering the policies and procedures outlined herein. Academic appeals that cannot be resolved through the Faculty-level appeal process require the support of the Office of the Registrar. (see Section 18).

Office of Student Success and Engagement

Investigation and incidents of academic misconduct that cannot be informally resolved may require the support of the Office of Student Success and Engagement, through the provision of a student advisor, during the academic appeal process. (see Section 18)

The following section outlines the admission categories and general eligibility criteria for each credential.

5.1.a   Eligibility Categories Criteria for Degrees

Degree - Secondary School Graduate

Applicants must possess:

1. an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent;
2. a minimum average of 65% including Grade 12 University English or OAC English 1, or equivalent; and
3. six Grade 12 University or University/College (U or M) courses;
4. a final grade of not less than 60% in each of the published subject requirements for the applicant’s program of interest.
5. Has not previously attempted any postsecondary studies.

Degree - Mature Student Applicants

Applicant must:

1. be at least 21 years of age on the first day of classes;
2. not have graduated from secondary school;
3. have been away from secondary school studies for at least two (2) years;
4. not have previously attempted any postsecondary studies;
5. possess the published secondary school subject requirements, or equivalents, and meet the minimum admission average of 65% based on these subjects;
6. submit official copies of transcripts for her/his secondary school grades, or any other academic work

Degree - Transfer Student Applicants

Applicants, who have undertaken previous full-time postsecondary studies, will be considered as a Transfer Student applicants. Criteria for consideration for admission of Transfer Students are determined by level of previous study and outlined below.

1. Previous Studies in a Bachelor's Degree Level Program

An application will normally be considered for admission provided the applicant meets each of the following criteria.

1. The applicant possesses an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with the specific published subject requirements, or equivalents, for the program of interest.
2. The applicant has completed at least one (1) year of study at the postsecondary level.
3. The applicant is eligible to return to her/his most recent institution in good standing. If the student is ineligible to return to continue studies, the student’s application will not be considered for admission until the period of rustication has expired.

2. Previous Studies In a Diploma or Certificate Level Program

If the applicant has previously been admitted to a postsecondary program that did not require him/her to meet OSSD requirements, with the published subject requirements, the applicant may still be considered for admission, provided the applicant meets each of the following criteria.

1. The applicant possesses the specific published subject requirements, or equivalents, for the program of interest.
2. The applicant has demonstrated her/his ability to study at the degree level through one of the following:

• completion of at least one (1) year of a college diploma level program with a minimum average of 65% or equivalent, including all attempted courses; or
• completion of a General Arts and Science, College or University Transfer Program in an Ontario college or university with a minimum average of 65%, or equivalent; or,
• completion of an Ontario College Certificate program with a minimum average of 65%. Typically, pre-postsecondary certificate programs will not be considered.
• A transfer student’s application will be considered for admission in competition with other applicants. More information can be found online: http://humber.ca/transferoptions

Students, who fail to disclose previous postsecondary studies and are admitted based on incomplete information, will be subject to a disciplinary hearing, the results of which may be expulsion from Humber.

International credentials and English proficiency will be validated to Canadian standards. Refer to the English Language Proficiency Policy for more information. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program.

5.1.b   Eligibility Categories and Criteria for Postsecondary Diplomas and Certificates

Diploma and Certificate - Secondary School Graduate

Applicant must possess:

• an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent;
• published academic and secondary requirements for the applicant’s program of interest; and
• admission cut-offs and grades required for published subject requirements which will vary from program to program.

Diploma and Certificate - Mature Student Applicants

An applicant, who does not possess the minimum academic admission requirements but can demonstrate the potential to study at the postsecondary diploma or certificate level, may be considered for admission as a Mature Student provided the applicant:

1. will be at least 19 years of age at the beginning of the term in which studies will commence; and
2. has not graduated from secondary school with the required Grade 12 credits.

International credentials and English proficiency will be validated to Canadian standards. Refer to the English Language Proficiency Policy for more information. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program.

5.1.c   Eligibility Categories and Criteria for Ontario Graduate Certificates

Ontario Graduate Certificate - Secondary School Graduate

Applicants, who possess only an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent, are not eligible to apply for Ontario Graduate Certificates.

Ontario Graduate Certificate - Mature Student Applicants

Applicants who do not possess an undergraduate degree or a completed College diploma, as outlined in Humber’s College Calendar, may be considered for admission to an Ontario Graduate Certificate program. Individuals must possess some postsecondary education plus significant, related, work experience. Documentation and a personal interview may be required.

Ontario Graduate Certificate – Transfer Student Applicants

Applicants seeking admission to Ontario Graduate Certificate programs must possess either an undergraduate degree or a College diploma, as outlined in Humber’s College Calendar, to be eligible for admission. Students who do not possess a completed credential may be considered as mature students for admission. Additional program-specific admission requirements for each of the Ontario Graduate Certificate programs are published in the College Calendar.

International credentials and English proficiency will be validated to Canadian standards. Refer to the English Language Proficiency Policy for more information. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program.

5.1.d   Eligibility Categories and Criteria for General Interest Courses

For most postsecondary courses, including those offered evenings and weekends a student must be 19 years of age or possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. For many of the general interest courses offered, the above qualification normally does not apply. Refer directly to the Course Calendar and specific courses for admission requirements.

Humber reserves the right to determine a minimum literacy and language proficiency level as a prerequisite to any course. In some cases, students will be required to complete placement testing prior to being able to register for classes, as in the case with English and math courses. Students who are unable to meet an acceptable level of applicable verbal and written skills will be withdrawn from the course/program until the acceptable literacy level is achieved.

5.1.e   Eligibility Categories and Criteria for Academic Upgrading and Apprenticeship

Academic Upgrading

Academic Upgrading provides learners with the opportunity to improve their English, math and/or science skills in order to meet the admission requirements for further post-secondary studies at the diploma or certificate levels.  Fully funded by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, this program may be suited to individuals who are unemployed, out of school, and/or who want to improve their reading and writing skills in order to explore different employment opportunities.

To be eligible for Academic Upgrading, learners must be 19 years of age or older, a resident of Ontario, and legally able to work in Ontario. Meeting eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission to Academic Upgrading.

Contact the Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences and Innovative Learning for specific admission requirements and intake processes, including dates for information and assessment sessions. More information can be found online: http://humber.ca/liberalarts/programs/academic-upgrading.

Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship is an on-the-job training program for people who want to work in a skilled trade or occupation and includes learning new skills from skilled journeypersons as well as classroom instruction. The Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU) contracts Humber to deliver the in-school portion of certain apprenticeship programs.

Students must find an employer and be approved by the MTCU prior to being approved for admission by the College.  Some apprenticeships are regulated by the Trades Qualification and Apprenticeship Act. Applicants are required to register through their local Apprenticeship Branch Office of the MTCU.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must meet the specific and varied admission requirements for the program in question. More information and detailed admission requirements are published in the College Calendar by program.

Since most activities (lectures, seminars, laboratories, clinical, and work placements) at Humber are conducted in English, it is essential that all students possess the writing, reading, listening, and speaking skills necessary to cope with the rigors of the academic curriculum and successfully complete the practical (co-operative, clinical, field placement, work term, etc.) components of their programs.

If a student's first language is not English, or if a student's previous education has not been conducted in English, the student will be required to demonstrate acceptable proficiency in English by undertaking and submitting the results of one of a range of English language proficiency tests. Specific details of these requirements can be found in the English Language Proficiency Policy.

An applicant who has been refused admission to a Humber program has the right to request an appeal within ten (10) business days of the admission decision. Such requests must be made in writing to the Associate Registrar, Enrolment Services. Information can be found here.

Articulation: The process of assessing courses or programs offered at other institutions to determine whether to grant credit towards the earning of a Humber post-secondary credential. Articulation is therefore the process, while Block Transfer Credit or Transfer Credit is the end result.

Articulation Agreement: A formally recognized agreement between Humber and a sending or receiving institution that specifies the terms and conditions enabling students to transfer between specific programs.

Block Transfer: The granting of a block of credit for the completion of a group of courses, typically based on the completion of an approved credential or program, from Humber or another institution.

Grouped Credit: The credit awarded when two or more courses must be combined in order to obtain Transfer Credit.

Transfer Credit: The granting of credit for coursework undertaken at another recognized institution

General Guidelines

1. Transfer credit decisions are normally precedent‐setting and will be recorded in Humber’s transfer credit database.
2. Transfer credit decisions remain active in Humber’s transfer credit database for a maximum of five years for post‐secondary credit courses.
3. Transfer credit will be awarded for approved courses with a minimum grade of 60% or equivalent except in the case of transfer from diploma-level to degree-level programs where a minimum of 65% is required. Some exceptions by program may be required at the direction of regulatory bodies.
4. Transfer credit will normally be assessed for course work completed within 5 years of the term of admission for core courses and 10 years of the term of admission for general education, breadth, English and Mathematics courses.
5. Applicants or students seeking transfer credit must provide an official transcript from each institution at which the course(s) being considered for transfer credit were taken.
6. If an articulation agreement does not already exist for the course(s) or program, it is the student’s responsibility to provide a detailed course outline(s) for each course being considered for transfer credit. For documents that are not in English, a translation by a certified translator is required. For documents from a country other than Canada a WES or ICAS course-by-course evaluation is required.
7. The grade for transferable courses will be recorded on the student’s academic record as “TRC”, and will indicate the number of credits at Humber for which transfer credit is granted. The grade from the sending institution will not be used in the calculation of any Humber GPA.
8. Transfer credit decisions are recognized by Humber regardless of a student’s program, but the application of transfer credit for any particular course is determined by the department responsible for the course or the appropriate Academic Faculty.
9. When course information is reviewed and transfer credit is denied, appropriate reasons shall be provided and made available.
10. Transfer credit decisions are normally considered final. Requests for an additional review will only be considered if the student submits additional relevant information along with a written request and rationale for a second review.
11. Admission to Humber programs as a result of the awarding of transfer credit is based on availability in the program. Meeting minimum eligibility does not guarantee admission.

When courses have been articulated for precedent‐setting transfer to Humber, credential evaluation staff will grant transfer credit. When precedent‐setting transfer has not been established, the following guidelines will be used:

Institutions Not Recognized by Humber: The decision to award transfer credit for courses from institutions not recognized by Humber requires approval of the Office of the Senior Vice President, Academic.

Non‐credit Courses and Non-credit Programs: Transfer credit is not normally given for non‐credit courses or non-credit programs taken at any institution, except when, upon review of detailed course and/or program material, transfer credit is recommended by the appropriate Senior Dean, and the transfer credit is approved by the Office of the Senior Vice President, Academic.

Special Types of Programs and Courses: Clinical, practice, field study courses, internships, and cooperative education courses will be given transfer credit according to any existing agreements. When no agreements exist, transfer credit is not automatically assigned; however, the appropriate Senior Dean may approve transfer credit for courses from recognized institutions that are comparable to Humber courses as per the guidelines above.

Assigning of Credit: In order to receive transfer credit, it is expected that a course be comparable in breadth and depth in its essential features. Not all elements of the curriculum need be identical. When a course from another recognized institution is deemed equivalent to a Humber course, credit will normally be assigned as follows:

1. Courses completed at recognized institutions will normally be given transfer credit for credits comparable, but not necessarily identical in number to the number of credits given at the originating institution.
2. Courses with equivalent learning outcomes will normally be awarded an equivalent number of credits as the Humber course.
3. If a student is awarded transfer credit for a course AND takes the equivalent course at Humber, both courses will become part of the student’s academic record. If the Humber course is a passing grade, it will be used in the calculation of the student’s GPA. If the Humber course is a failing grade, the transfer credit will be used to meet graduation eligibility and the Humber course will not be used in the calculation of the student’s GPA.

Credit for groups of courses is given where equivalencies to Humber coursework can be established.  Individual courses must still meet the minimum GPA required in each course.  No averaging of grades is permitted.

Applicants for assessment of credit are responsible for submitting official documents. A transcript is considered to be official only when it is sent directly to Humber through ontariocolleges.ca, from the originating institution or issuing body. Hard copies must be received in the original sealed envelope signed by the institution or bearing an official stamp or seal or they will be deemed unofficial. Exceptions may be made when it is not possible for a transcript to be sent directly to Humber, provided the Office of the Registrar can reasonably determine the document’s authenticity.

Documents submitted to Humber become the property of Humber and are normally not returned to the student. In cases where documents are irreplaceable, the documents will be returned to the student provided the student requests return of the documents upon submission. Electronic images of documents will be retained by Humber.

In cases where a course has not yet been recorded in the Transfer Credit Database, the applicant will be asked to provide detailed course outlines.

If the issuing institution is not able to provide an official document in English, the student must arrange to have the document translated by an Ontario-certified translator. In this instance the documents should be sent directly from the issuing institution and Humber will provide the student with a copy for translation. Cost of translation will be the responsibility of the student.

In order to facilitate students’ admission, registration and program planning, Humber endeavors to ensure timely evaluation of transfer credit. Normally, the following time limits apply:

1. Up to four weeks to assess courses that are not recorded in the Transfer Credit Database.
2. Students should refer to their Academic Progress in MyHumber and may consult with student advisors and/or the Program Coordinator to determine if and how transferred courses apply toward satisfying graduation requirements.
3. Requests for transfer credit should be submitted as early as possible for efficiency and to maximize potential transfer credit. Requests for transfer credit should be received prior to the last date for withdrawal without academic penalty in the student’s final semester of their current program.

6.11.a Definitions

Recognition of Prior Learning ( RPL):The process that allows individuals to identify, document, have assessed, and gain recognition for prior post-secondary and non-formal/experiential learning

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR): The process of evaluating the knowledge and skills gained through experiential and/or non-formal learning for the purpose of obtaining academic credit.

Portfolio: A collection of material that identifies an individual’s achievements, documents their experiences, and analyzes and organizes the knowledge and skills acquired. It is developed by a learner and can be used for college credit recognition; workplace learning recognition; career mobility; or job search.

Challenge Assessment: A method of assessment other than portfolio, developed and evaluated by faculty subject matter experts to measure an individual’s learning achievements against subject learning outcomes.

6.11.b PLAR for Academic Credit

Applicants, who can demonstrate knowledge and skills gained outside a formal education environment through work, volunteer, or other life experiences, may apply for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) if that knowledge and skill corresponds to a specific Humber course or program.

Failed courses are not eligible for PLAR.  Students must be out of the course for one year and be able to show new knowledge and skills acquired through non-formal, informal or other formal training in order to PLAR a failed course in the future.

Granting of credit for prior learning does not guarantee entry into a program of study. You must follow the normal admission procedure to gain admission into Humber College.

Assessment and Awarding of Credit

To receive credit for prior learning, an applicant will need to:

• analyze prior learning and achievements
• compare prior knowledge and skills to specific learning outcomes for specific Humber courses or programs
• demonstrate knowledge, skills, and learning acquired, as opposed to experience gained

Requirements will vary from program to program and course to course. Generally, applicants and students will be required to demonstrate skills and knowledge in one or more of the following ways:

• development of a portfolio (a collection of materials that documents skills and knowledge
• demonstration of skills through role-playing or simulations
• written tests, oral exams, and/or structured interviews; and/or
• completion of assignment(s) or development of product(s) designed to demonstrate specific knowledge and skills in action
• challenge exam

Humber reserves the right to determine the PLAR assessment method for a particular course.

PLAR as Part of the Academic Record

Depending on the method used to demonstrate and assess the skills and knowledge the applicant has acquired, credits earned through PLAR will be recorded on the student’s transcript either as a percentage grade or as a SAT (Satisfactory) grade. Unsuccessful PLAR attempts will not be recorded on the student’s transcript.

PLAR grades that were obtained through a challenge exam will be calculated into the student’s weighted cumulative program grade point average (CPGPA). PLAR grades that were obtained through a portfolio review (SAT) will not be calculated into the student’s weighted cumulative program grade point average (CPGPA). 

Students are granted only one opportunity to PLAR a course.

Note: A reduction of course load as a result of earning credits through PLAR may affect a students’ eligibility for financial assistance through OSAP.

Residency Requirement

Credit for courses obtained through PLAR may normally replace no more than 50% of the course credits required for any degree program and 75% required for any diploma or certificate program.

Application Process and Required Documentation

Applicants who wish to apply for PLAR should meet with their Program Coordinator to assess eligibility.  Once you have reviewed the course/program learning outcomes and are able to demonstrate your learning, you must submit a PLAR Application Form with the required documentation and assessment fees to the Office of the Registrar.

More Information about PLAR and the PLAR Application 

Authority and Responsibilities

• PLAR challenges are assessed by the designate of the academic school responsible for the delivery of the course at Humber.
• The Office of the Registrar has the responsibility to maintain a record of the PLAR application and grade.

Timelines and Evaluation Process

In order to facilitate student’s recognition of prior learning, Humber endeavours to ensure timely evaluation of PLAR applications.  Normally, the following time limits apply;

• Students who are enrolled in the course for which they are seeking PLAR should continue to attend class until they receive their results in order to ensure the course requirement is met.

• PLAR results will be assessed within four to six weeks of the application being submitted to the Office of the Registrar. 
• Processing may be longer depending on portfolio submission time and scheduling of challenge exam
• PLAR requests should be submitted as soon as possible, preferably 6-8 weeks prior to the start of the semester for which the PLAR is being challenges. Student’s should be aware of the academic calendar add/drop deadline dates for refunds and withdrawl without academic penalty and apply accordingly.

Grade Review Process

An applicant who disputes the results of a Prior Learning Assessment may appeal that decision under the Grade Review and Academic Appeal process (see Section 18.0).

6.11.c PLAR from Work Experience or Previous Work Placement

Applicants who can demonstrate knowledge and skills gained through previous postsecondary placements or work experience may apply for PLAR. The knowledge and skills must correspond to a specific Humber program and the Academic Faculty responsible for the program must have available a mechanism for assessing work experience credit.  Students may receive no more than 50% of the work placement requirements (paid or unpaid experiences) once registered in a program.

It may be possible to receive credit for prior learning for a work term.  Applicants will need to:

a) analyze their prior learning and achievement gained through previous placement and/or work experience; 

b) compare the learning value of the previous placements/work experience to the specific program level work placement standards.

Credit will be awarded only for demonstrated learning value and not simply life/work experience.  Specific requirements will vary from program to program but normally, applicants will be required to demonstrate skills and knowledge through the development of a portfolio (a collection of materials that document skills and knowledge against the degree level work placement qualifications standard.)  The amount of credit given will be determined by the assessment of the portfolio and the quality of the evidence provided.

Applicants who wish to apply for PLAR must submit a PLAR Application along with the required documentation and assessment fees.

PLAR work equivalent hours will be kept on file in the Academic Faculty and combined with any remaining degree work placement credits before the completion of the work experience is documented on the student transcript as SAT (Satisfactory).

Note: Degree students who do not complete a work term, including any PLAR work credits, prior to the final academic semester of study will be required to defer the final academic semester requirement until the work term requirement is successfully completed.

A degree, diploma, or certificate schedule of study prescribes the number and types of courses required to complete the specific credential. Upon receipt of the prescribed payment a registered student is entitled to receive instruction up to the maximum number of courses/hours of instruction as set out in the official schedule of studies for each semester of the program. Should a student wish to a) take one or more additional courses over the course limit for the semester, b) repeat a course taken previously, c) be required to take foundation-level courses, or d) be required to take a course outside of the curriculum (eg. CPR) such additions will result in an increase in the hours of instruction and additional tuition fees will be charged for the semester.

Notes:

1. A student may register in degree-level courses only if they have met the degree program admission requirements and have been formally admitted into the degree program.
2. A student enrolled in a degree program may not take diploma, Ontario graduate certificate, or certificate level courses for degree credit recognition.

New and Returning Students

All new and returning students must complete the registration process by the deadline date set for each term. Prior to the registration, a prescribed fee must be paid. Full payment is due before the tenth (10) day of class. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that these are paid or that satisfactory arrangements are made for the payment of fees prior to the payment deadline. A late payment penalty will apply if payment is not made by the fee payment due date.

Course Prerequisites and Co-requisites

A student wishing to enroll in a course for which the student does not have the stated course prerequisites and or co-requisite must seek permission from the appropriate Program Coordinator to have these waived.

Returning Students: Eligibility to Continue Studies

Returning students who complete the registration process are advised that such registration is conditional on their eligibility for continuation of study in the next term. A student who is required to withdraw for academic or other reasons may not attend classes and the student’s registration will be withdrawn.

All course additions to a student’s timetable for a given term are to be completed by the end of the fifth (5th) day of classes from the beginning of the term as indicated in Humber's Academic Calendar. The addition of a course after the end of this period will be considered only in exceptional circumstances and will require the approval of the Associate Dean of the program in which the student is enrolled. A late fee will apply if a student registers for courses after the registration deadline.

A course must be dropped prior to Last Day to Withdraw without Academic Penalty as listed in the Academic Calendar for each term. This deadline date is normally at the three-quarters point of the course. For information related to withdrawing from courses see Section 8.0, Course/Programs Fees and Refunds.

Students may withdraw from a course through My Humber at http://humber.ca/myhumber. Students must understand that dropping courses may impact their full-time status and change their financial aid (OSAP) status and eligibility.  Students wishing to withdraw from their program, including all their courses must make a formal request to withdraw through the Office of the Registrar. The program withdrawal process may not be completed online.

Students who submit formal notification of withdrawal from a full-time program of instruction are entitled to a refund of tuition and ancillary fees as outlined in Section 8.0, Course/Programs Fees and Refunds.

This process applies to degree students only. Once a student has been enrolled in a degree program, with written approval a student may register in and complete a credit course at another institution and apply the credit(s) to their Humber degree.

The student must submit a completed Letter of Permission Application Form with applicable fee and detailed course outline(s) for the course(s) in question to the Office of the Registrar for approval before registering in a course at another post-secondary institution as a visiting student and 30 days prior to the start of term. The student must submit separate application forms for courses requested from each distinct host institution.

The Registrar’s Office will submit the completed Letter of Permission Application Form to the Program Coordinator for consideration of approval of the course. If the Program Coordinator approves the course, the Office of the Registrar will add the course to the student’s academic record and communicate the decision to the student. The student will receive an electronic copy of the approval via email that the student will be required to submit to the host institution during the application for course registration as a visiting student. The student is responsible for applying to the host institution and for paying any applicable tuition and ancillary fees. The student is also responsible for knowing and understanding the withdrawal dates and academic regulations of the institution where they are completing the course a Letter of Permission.

In order for a grade to be recorded on the student's academic record, upon completion of the course, the student must provide Humber’s Office of the Registrar with an official transcript from the host institution indicating the final grade earned in the course in question. Credit will be awarded for approved courses with a minimum grade of 60% or equivalent.  Students must arrange to have an official transcript sent directly from the host institution to Humber’s Records Department in the Office of the Registrar. If this official transcript is not submitted to the Office of the Registrar by 20 business days following the end of the course, a UNS grade will be assigned.

Credits earned on Letters of Permission will be noted on a student’s transcript with a grade of LOP (Letter of Permission). Courses completed through a Letter of Permission will not be included in the calculation of a Cumulative Program Grade Point Average (CPGPA) but will count as a course attempt. If the student fails the course, it will be recorded as an UNS (Unsatisfactory) grade on the transcript. For more information see Section 14.4, Special Grades. Courses completed through Letters of Permission will be considered for progression purposes. Students will be granted Letter of Permission only if they are currently registered in good standing in their Humber degree program.

Students who do not register in, or withdraw from, approved Letter of Permission course(s) must request written verification of this fact of the host institution and submit this verification to Humber’s Records Department in the Office of the Registrar. The Office of the Registrar will remove the Letter of Permission course from the student’s academic record. There will be no refund of the application fee.

Students completing their last course on a Letter of Permission must have their official transcript sent from the host institution to the Humber Records Department in the Office of the Registrar by May 1st for the Spring Convocation Ceremony or by September 30th for the Fall Convocation Ceremony. Students who do not meet this deadline will not be included in the Convocation Booklet.

A student may withdraw from a course or program without academic penalty up to the Last Day to Withdraw without Academic Penalty as listed in Humber's Academic Calendar for each term http://humber.ca/academic-calendar.

This deadline date is the three-quarters point of the duration of the course. For courses taught in a condensed format, students should check with the Program Coordinator to confirm the exact date they can withdraw without academic penalty.

Students who drop all of their courses prior to the last day to withdraw without academic penalty will be considered to be withdrawing from the program. This will be considered as a voluntary suspension of studies. Students who withdraw in this manner may be required to apply for readmission to the program. See Section 11.4 Readmission to Program of Study for more information.

Withdrawn courses, prior to the last day to withdraw without academic penalty, do not appear on the official transcript and will not be counted as course attempts, or used in the calculations of a CPGPA. See Section 14.4, Special Grades, for more information.  If a course is dropped after that date, the in progress grade will appear on the official transcript and will be counted as a course attempt, and used in the calculation of the cumulative program grade point average (CPGPA).

Students may participate in a study abroad activity in order to fulfill credit requirements in their program of studies. When students participate in a semester abroad activity for academic credit, their Program Coordinator must pre-approve their proposed schedule of studies by completing and signing a Learning Agreement.  This document must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar prior to departure so that the student can be properly registered.

In accordance with Humber’s Travel Policy, the student must also submit a copy of the approved Learning Agreement along with a completed Student Travel Information Form to the International Office three (3) weeks prior to the start of the semester abroad activity.

Semester abroad courses undertaken through a Learning Agreement will not be included in the calculation of any Grade Point Average (GPA).  Students will receive a grade of SAT or UNSAT on their Humber transcript.

Upon completion of the semester abroad activity, the student must arrange for the host institution to send an official transcript, indicating the final grades earned, to Humber’s Office of the Registrar and resubmit an up-to-date Learning Agreement to the Office of the Registrar in order for a grade to be recorded on the student’s academic record. If both these documents are not submitted to the Office of the Registrar within 90 days of course completion, a grade of zero will be assigned.

Students who do not register in or withdraw from courses approved through the Learning Agreement need to request that the host institution submit written verification of this fact.  This verification then must be provided to the Program Coordinator and Humber’s Office of the Registrar.

Students must follow the academic calendar and regulations of their host institution.

Successfully completed semesters abroad through exchange agreements will not impact OSAP loans.  If a student is academically successful and is currently receiving a renewable scholarship from Humber, the scholarship will be eligible for renewal.

Full-time and Part-Time Students

A refund for a full-time course or program will be issued only if a student withdraws by the close of business on or before the tenth (10th) day of classes. A non-refundable tuition deposit will apply.

A full-time student who drops a course may or may not be eligible for a refund depending on their remaining course load. Students who have dropped a number of courses and as a result become part-time in status will qualify for a refund. Changing from full-time to part-time status may impact a student’s eligibility for Financial Assistance/Aid (OSAP). Students who require courses in addition to a standard course load in subsequent terms will be required to pay additional fees in any future term when the student registers for courses in excess of a standard course load.

Students who submit formal notification of withdrawal from a full-time program of instruction are entitled to a refund of tuition and ancillary fees as follows:

For Domestic Students who have dropped courses within ten (10) business days of the beginning of a term, or onset of study, a full refund of tuition and ancillary fees, minus a $250 tuition deposit, will be issued. If a domestic student drops a course online through MyHumber http://humber.ca/myhumber, the refund is automatically issued.

For International Students who have dropped courses within ten (10) business days of the beginning of a term, or onset of study, a full refund of tuition and ancillary fees, minus a $1,000 administrative fee, will be issued. If an international student drops a course online through MyHumber http://humber.ca/myhumber, the request for a refund will be issued following review by the international office.

As well, a full refund will be paid for any tuition and ancillary fees paid in advance for subsequent terms. Students who have paid for future terms will be eligible for a refund for future terms if they formally withdrawn before the start of classes. Students who formally withdraw from courses after ten (10) business days from the start of the term will only be entitled to a refund of any fees paid in advance for subsequent terms.

General Interest Courses

When a student drops a General Interest course, if they are eligible for a refund, the Office of the Registrar processes the refund when the course is dropped. The request to drop the course must be through MyHumber MyHumber by a particular deadline in order to be eligible to receive a refund. Students should contact the Registrar’s Office for the specific date. Refunds may not be issued for supplies which have already been received by the student.

Where payment was made by Visa or MasterCard, a credit will be made to the credit card that was used.  All other refunds will be issued and sent by mail.

At the beginning of each course, each student will have access to the course outline for the course. This is an important document that specifies the learning agreement between the student and Humber and describes important aspects of taking the course.

In particular, the course outline includes essential course details such as: the course description and content, learning outcomes, delivery methods, prerequisite and co-requisite courses, employability skills, student performance and attendance requirements, and the evaluation methods employed in the course. It also provides information on policies and procedures related to copyright, academic integrity and appeals, research ethics, prior learning recognition, and student support. It is strongly advised that the student read and understand this document at the start of the course.

It is the student’s responsibility to read and understand the course outline, including associated timelines and evaluation methods employed in the course. Students are responsible for retaining course outlines for any future requirements they might have to certify or confirm details of the course content.

Certificate and Diploma Programs

The final week of each term may be used for final examinations or for final tests. Unless there is a formal exam schedule, these tests and examinations will be conducted in the regularly scheduled class during that period. Students who encounter a conflict between a scheduled midterm or final examination and a religious obligation must contact the faculty member in charge of her/his course to request that alternate arrangements be made to complete the examination. Students must do this as soon as the conflict is identified and in advance of the scheduled final test or examination.

Degree Programs

A five (5) to seven (7) day examination period is set aside following the end of regular classes. During the examination period, Saturday and Sunday are considered business days and exams may be scheduled on these days. Students who encounter a conflict between a scheduled midterm or final examination and a religious obligation must contact the faculty member in charge of her/his course to request that alternate arrangements be made to complete the examination. Students must do this as soon as the examination schedule is published. 

Final tests or final examinations must be held during the examination period.

A supplemental privilege is the opportunity to earn credits for a course that a student has failed. Normally, a supplemental privilege will be granted only in instances where the student has successfully passed all evaluation components awarded throughout the course but did not achieve a passing grade after completing the final exam or final evaluation. In such instances, the student’s final grade will normally fall between 45% and 49%.

A student who wishes to request a supplemental privilege must apply to the Associate Dean, or designate, of her/his program, using the Application for Supplemental Examination, which can be found on the Academic Regulations webpage. The Associate Dean, or designate, may allow a student to complete up to one (1) supplemental exam or other evaluation measure per term provided they do not have a registered academic or student code of conduct offence in that term. The request for a supplemental privilege must be made within ten (10) business days from the end of the term in which the failed course appears. The ten (10) day period may be extended by the Associate Dean or designate in exceptional circumstances.

If the supplemental privilege is granted, the student must pay a fee through the Office of the Registrar. Once proof of payment is received, a supplemental examination or evaluation will be arranged by the Associate Dean or designate. The maximum grade that a student can achieve through the supplemental privilege process is the minimum passing grade or the minimum grade required for progression purposes. A supplemental exam or evaluation must be completed within six (6) weeks of the end of term in which the failed course appears. Normally, courses that have a prerequisite may not be taken until the prerequisite course(s) has/have been successfully completed and passed.

Supplemental privileges will not be granted for experiential learning courses, such as, but not limited to: mandatory professional practice; cooperative education; internship; and/or field experience courses.

Students who apply for and are granted a supplemental privilege forego the right to pursue an academic complaint, grade review, or appeal of their final grade. More information can be found in Section 18.0, Grade Review and Academic Appeal.

It is the student’s responsibility to read and understand the course outline, including associated timelines and evaluation methods employed in the course. Students are responsible for retaining course outlines for any future requirements they might have to certify or confirm details of the course content. Policies may vary by Academic School. Applicable supplemental privileges policies can be obtained from the appropriate Academic Faculty.

Students must achieve and adhere to certain course and program criteria and requirements in order to progress and be promoted in their program of study.

A student, who has been required to withdraw for academic reasons, will not be considered for readmission to a program for a period of two (2) consecutive terms.  After participating in academic advising regarding the return, the student may be granted readmission into the same program at the discretion of the Associate Dean of the program.

Certificate, Diploma, and Ontario Graduate Certificate Programs

Promotion and progression requirements are based on the principle that students must achieve a Cumulative Program Grade Point Average (CPGPA) of 60% to be eligible to graduate. Continuation of full-time study within a program is based on the academic achievement within the most recent term of study and based on Term Grade Point Average (TGPA).

* Students with a TGPA between 40% and 45% will have an “Academic Hold” placed on their record and will be restricted from accessing registration functions until the student meets with their program coordinator or an academic advisor.

TGPA - Term Grade Point Average

When students are required to withdraw for academic reasons, they are eligible for re-admission following a period of two consecutive terms. In some cases, students may be recommended to an Interim semester program or allowed to study part-time after being required to withdraw. Students who have been required to withdraw for academic reasons will be placed on probation when they resume study and must clear the probationary requirements in order to continue to study.  Failure to clear the probationary status at the end of the first term following readmission will result in permanent withdrawal from the program.

Students in a work term with no additional academic classes will be assigned the Academic Standing from the term immediately preceding the work term.

Degree Programs

Promotion and progression requirements are based on the principle that students must achieve a cumulative program grade point average (CPGPA) of 65% to be eligible to graduate. Continuation of full-time study within a program is permitted provided the standards of academic performance listed below are met.

TGPA - Term Grade Point Average

When students are required to withdraw for academic reasons, they are eligible for re-admission following a period of two consecutive terms.

Students who have been required to withdraw for academic reasons will be placed on probation when they resume study and must clear the probationary requirements in order to continue to study.  Failure to clear the probationary status at the end of the first term following readmission will result in permanent withdrawal from the program.

Students in a work term with no additional academic classes will be assigned the Academic Standing from the term immediately preceding the work term.

Students whose studies have been considerably interrupted will be required to petition the Office of the Registrar or the Associate Dean for their program if they desire to continue studies in the same program. There are two categories of readmission to a program of study: Readmission for Interrupted Students in Good Standing, and Readmission for Interrupted Students Required to Withdraw. In all cases, students who will be entering semester 1 of a program are also required to apply through www.ontariocolleges.ca.

Readmission for Interrupted Students in Good Academic Standing

Students who let their registration in courses lapse but have successfully completed previous semesters and are in good academic standing include the following:

1. students who fail to register in consecutive terms; and
2. students who fail to graduate within a particular period of time (a percentage (%) of the normal duration of the program).

Students whose studies have been interrupted but who remain in good academic standing must apply to resume studies using the Readmission for Interrupted Students in Good Academic Standing form. This form is available from the Office of the Registrar. Students must apply to be readmitted to their program of study by certain deadlines. See the Office of the Registrar and the Academic Calendar for deadline details. Requests for readmission received after the deadline will be considered only if there is space in the program.

Particular readmission requirements for each credential can be found in Chart 2: Conditions of Interruption to Studies.

Readmission for Interrupted Students Required to Withdraw

Students who have been required to withdraw for academic reasons include the following:

1. students who are suspended or withdrawn for academic failure; and
2. students suspended or withdrawn for academic misconduct.

Students who have been required to withdraw from their program will not be considered for readmission to a program in a related discipline for a period of two (2) consecutive terms. Students must reapply to the program using the Readmission for Students Required to Withdraw form. This form is available from the Office of the Registrar. Students must apply to be readmitted to their program of study by certain deadlines. See the Office of the Registrar and the Academic Calendar for deadline details. Requests for readmission received after the deadline will be considered only if there is space in the program. Details of the process for applying for readmission can be found under the heading, Process of Applying for Readmission, which follows in this section.

In circumstances where a student was involuntarily withdrawn a further review may be required prior to readmission. In such a review, an applicant may be required to submit a résumé and letter of reference from a current work or volunteer position and a personal letter outlining the student’s strategies to be successful in the program.

Particular readmission requirements for each credential can be found in Chart 2: Conditions of Interruption to Studies. A student who interrupts her/his studies and applies for readmission is subject to the admission requirements, ranking priority, and curriculum requirements for the program in question at the time of application for readmission. Students may be required to repeat courses if the curriculum has changed since their previous registration in the program.

Students are required to apply for readmission to their program when the following conditions apply to the interruption of their studies.

Chart 2: Conditions of Interruption to Studies

For all credentials, before a student will be readmitted to a program:

• the student must confer with her/his Program Coordinator to confirm her/his program curriculum, prerequisites, and the validity and appropriateness of completed courses; and
• the student who has been required to withdraw for academic failure or misconduct must sit a period of rustication before the student will be allowed to return to her/his program. This period of time will be a minimum of two (2) terms, but possibly more, depending on the program progression or academic offence.

Process of Applying for Readmission

Students whose studies have been interrupted for the above reasons will be required to adhere to the following steps to continue studies in the same program.

1. The student must petition the Associate Dean / Faculty to request readmission.
2. Associate Dean / Faculty confer with Office of the Registrar to ensure appropriate progression pathways and academic requirements are satisfied during reentry into program.
3. Office of the Registrar informs the student of Humber’s decision and, if accepted, the steps required to complete readmission to and registration in the program.

A student who interrupts her/his studies and applies for readmission is subject to the admission requirements and ranking priority for the program in question current at the time of application for readmission. Students are encouraged to contact the Office of the Registrar as soon as possible if they are considering requesting readmission to a program.

The Office of the Registrar will establish and post to the Academic Calendar, midterm and final grade release dates that will indicate when grades will be available for students to review.

Midterm Grades

Students registered in postsecondary, postgraduate, and degree courses will normally receive a midterm grade, which in conjunction with discussions with their faculty member, is for the purposes of providing feedback on academic performance to date. Midterm grades are not considered part of the official cumulative program grade point average (CPGPA) and will not appear on the student’s official transcript. Courses graded SAT/UNSAT may not receive a midterm grade.

Final Grades

At the end of each term, or upon completion of a program of study, all students registered in credit courses will receive a final grade. Final grades are not official until released to the student by the Office of the Registrar.

The Office of the Registrar will post midterm and final grades electronically through MyHumber at http://humber.ca/myhumber.

Full-time students with a Term Grade Point Average (TGPA) of 80% or greater in any given term will be recognized with the distinction of being on the Dean's Honours list.

Students registered with Accessible Learning Services who require official (part-time) accommodated course loads, and who earn a Term Grade Point Average (TGPA) of 80% or greater in any given term, are eligible to be recognized with the distinction of being on the Dean's Honours list.

Students/Graduates must apply to graduate and attend the Convocation Ceremony by completing an Application to Graduate/Attend Convocation Form available online at MyHumber. The form must be completed seven (7) weeks prior to the date of the Convocation. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure this form is accurately completed and received by the Office of the Registrar by the deadline.

When a program is suspended or canceled, every reasonable effort will be made to ensure that students who are currently registered in the program will be able to complete their studies and graduate from the program. Students who have left the program or who do not complete the program before the program concludes will not be eligible to graduate from a program that is no longer offered by the college.

Humber calculates three Grade Point Averages, a Term GPA, a Cumulative GPA and a Program GPA. 

Term GPA
The Term GPA is calculated at the end of each term of study and includes all course attempts and resulting grades.  The Term GPA is used to determine academic standing and progression and progression in a program.  It is also used to determine eligibility for the Dean’s Honour List.  The Term GPA is recorded and available on the Official College Transcript.

Cumulative GPA
The Cumulative GPA is calculated at the end of each term of study and includes all course attempts and resulting grades for a particular level of study.  The Cumulative GPA s recorded and available on the Official College Transcript.

Program GPA
The Program GPA is calculated at the end of each term of study and excludes repeated courses where the student has taken a course more than once and achieved a higher grade.  The Program GPA also excludes courses that are not considered part of the student’s program of study.  The Program GPA is used to determine eligibility for graduating with honours.  The Program GPA is not recorded on the official transcript.

1. Where a student repeats a course, all course attempts will show on the student’s Official Transcript.  A repeated course grade will continue to be calculated in the Term GPA and the Cumulative GPA.  The highest passing course grade in a repeated course situation will be used to calculate the student’s overall Cumulative Program Grade Point Average (CPGPA).
2. A student may take the same course a maximum of four (4) times.

The following special grades, and their appropriate codes, will be used on official student transcripts, where applicable.

Aegrotat Grade (AEG)

An Aegrotat grade is a final estimated grade assigned in a course where a student was physically unable to write the final exam. To qualify, a student must have experienced a severe and unanticipated personal emergency. The student is required to provide the Associate Dean with detailed documentation that supports the application. To be eligible to be considered, the student must have completed at least 60% or more of the coursework and be passing the course. Courses in which Aegrotat standing has been granted will not count toward the computation of the student’s standing in the program. The Office of the Registrar grants an Aegrotat grade to a student on the recommendation of the Associate Dean.

Audit (AUD)

An Audit grade is awarded to students who successfully audit a course. See Section 7.7, Audited Courses for information regarding the process of gaining Audit status in a course. A student must obtain written permission to audit a course from the appropriate Associate Dean. The Associate Dean will submit appropriate authorization to the Office of the Registrar and the faculty member teaching the course so that they are aware of the student’s status in the course. The request to obtain audit status in a course must be submitted and approved prior to the fifth (5th) day of class. The Associate Dean, in consultation with the faculty member, will provide documentation to the student prescribing the extent to which the student may participate in the content of the course.

The procedures for registration and course changes of audited courses are the same as for regular course registrations, except that, after the end of the fifth (5th) day of classes, a student who is registered under audit status for a particular course is committed to that status and may not convert to credit status for the same course. With the approval of the Associate Dean, a student may change from credit to audit status up to the end of the fifth (5th) day of class. Students who are auditing courses will not be evaluated, nor will credits be earned for that course. The regular course fee will apply.

Audited courses will not be used in the determination of eligibility for continuation of study.

Audited courses are part of the normal course load for the term, but not for the purposes of assessing eligibility for Financial Assistance (OSAP).

Credit Earned (CR)

Credit Earned notations on a transcript reflect the satisfactory completion of a course, where the assessment method does not lend itself to the awarding of a specific percentage grade.

Deferred Grade (DEF)

In special circumstances, students who are unable to finish the examination (exam) requirements by the end of the examination period (or the specified end of a course) may request and be granted a Deferred grade in order to complete the final examination and have it calculated in their final grade. Deferred grades are issued at the end of the examination period and are not factored into the students CPGPA at the end of term.

In order to be evaluated and counted toward the student’s grade, the requirements for the final examination must be completed within a period of time assigned by the College/Faculty/Program (usually by the end of the course change period in the following term). Failure to meet the deadline will result in the Deferred grade being changed to permanently represent the student’s grade in that course. This grade will be assigned at the end of the course change period in the following term, and will constitute the grade earned at the time the Deferred grade was assigned.

The Deferred grade is not intended to be a permanent grade. It is only a temporary acknowledgment of a legitimate reason for granting a one time, limited, extension to the time normally allowed to complete all course examination requirements.

Note: A Deferred grade for a prerequisite course must be completed prior to being allowed to proceed to a higher-level course unless otherwise approved by the Associate Dean. More information is available in Section 10.4, Deferred Privileges.

Course Exemption (EXM)

A student may be granted an exemption from a course based on the completion of a body of academic work that does not align itself with the course for course Transfer Credit/Equivalency (TRC) process. 

Letter of Permission (LOP)

This process applies to degree students only. Once a student has been admitted to a degree program, with written approval a student may register in and complete a credit course at another institution and apply the credit(s) to their Humber degree.

Transfer Credit / Equivalency (TRC)

Transfer Credit/Equivalency is granted for coursework undertaken outside of Humber at a recognized postsecondary institution that is equivalent in content to the course at Humber. Transfer credit may also be granted for diploma level course work into a degree level program.  This notation is not factored into the calculation of the student’s CPGPA.

Grade Not Earned (GNE)

A student is awarded a grade of GNE if the student registered, but did not attend or submit work for evaluation, and did not officially withdraw from registration in the course.

Incomplete Grade (INC)

In special circumstances, students who are unable to finish coursework by the end of a term (or the specified end of a course) may request and be granted a grade of Incomplete in order to have all coursework counted toward their final grade. Incomplete grades are issued at the end of term and are not factored into the students CPGPA at the end of term.

In order to be evaluated and counted toward the student’s grade, additional course work must be completed during a period of time assigned by the College/Faculty/Program. Failure to meet the deadline will result in the Incomplete grade being changed to permanently represent the student’s grade in that course. The partial grade, representing the work the student has completed in the course, will be assigned six (6) weeks following the end of the term, and will constitute the grade earned at the time the Incomplete was assigned.

The Incomplete grade is not intended to be a permanent grade. It is only a temporary acknowledgment of a legitimate reason for granting a one time, limited, extension to the time normally allowed to complete all course requirements.

Note: An Incomplete grade for a prerequisite course must be completed prior to being allowed to proceed to a higher-level course unless otherwise approved by the Associate Dean.

In Progress (IP)

A student is awarded an IP grade if the course is currently in progress.

No Credit Granted (NCR) 

No Credit Granted notations reflect the unsatisfactory completion of a course.

Satisfactory Grade (SAT)

Satisfactory notations on a transcript reflect the satisfactory completion of a course, experiential learning, or a PLAR assessment where the assessment method does not lend itself to the awarding of a specific percentage grade. This notation is not factored into the calculation of the student’s Term GPA, Cummulitive GPA and Program GPA.

Unsatisfactory Grade (UNS)

Unsatisfactory notations reflect the unsatisfactory completion of a course or experiential learning. This notation is not factored into the calculation of the student’s Term GPA, Cummulitive GPA and Program GPA.

# (Notation)

In cases of illness or other extenuating circumstances a student may petition the College to have a grade removed from the GPA calculations.

WL (Withdrawal-Late) Special Grade for Winter 2020 term only

The Withdrawal-Late Grade was applied to any failing grade for the Winter 2020 term as a result of the COVID19 Pandemic.  The Withdrawal-Late notation will not count towards course completion and is not to be considered as a passing grade for a given course(s).  This notation is not factored into the calculation of the student's Term GPA, Cummulitive GPA and Program GPA.
 

Academic freedom includes the freedom of research, of legitimate classroom discussion, and of the advocacy of alternative opinions to those presented in Humber’s learning environments. To maintain an environment that supports academic freedom, students will be evaluated on knowledge and academic performance for the purposes of granting academic credit and not on the basis of personal or political beliefs.

All students are expected to act ethically, honestly and with integrity in all academic matters.

Academic dishonesty is behavior that erodes the basis of mutual trust on which scholarly exchanges commonly rest, undermines Humber's ability to evaluate a student’s academic achievements, or restricts the College’s ability to accomplish its learning objectives. Humber takes a serious view of academic misconduct and will penalize students who are found responsible for offences associated with academic dishonesty, misrepresentation of personal performance, restrictions of equal opportunities for access to scholarly resources, or damage to the integrity of scholarly exchanges.

This section of the regulations applies to University of New Brunswick- Humber Collaborative Nursing program

Academic dishonesty/ misconduct is broadly defined as an offence against the academic integrity of the learning environment. Students are responsible for knowing what constitutes an academic offence and faculty members have a responsibility to provide students, early in their course or program, with information about academic integrity. An offence may be deemed to have been committed whether the student knew a particular action was an offence or ought reasonably to have known. Ignorance does not excuse students from the responsibility for verifying the academic integrity of their work before submitting it. Students who are in any doubt as to whether an action on their part could be construed as an academic offence should consult with a faculty member or program coordinator before submission of an assignment.

Academic misconduct includes, but is not limited to, the following examples:

Academic Dishonesty

1. Plagiarism, in the broadest sense, is misrepresenting the work of others as one’s own. Plagiarism can be understood as the act of copying, reproducing or paraphrasing significant portions of someone else’s published or unpublished material, and representing these as one’s own thinking by not acknowledging the appropriate source or by the failure to use appropriate quotation marks. This includes, but is not limited to, print material, photos, drawings, computer code, and designs. Students have the responsibility to learn and to use the conventions of documentation, and, if in any doubt, are encouraged to consult with the faculty member of the course, or the Program Coordinator.
2. Copying another person's answers to an examination question.
3. Using another’s data or research findings.
4. Buying or selling essays, papers, or assignments.
5. Copying from or using prohibited material in an assignment or examination including, but not limited to, textbooks or other documentary or electronic equipment, personal notes, or other aids not approved by the faculty member, for example, accessing unauthorized test questions from an electronic database.
6. Improper academic practices including the falsification, fabrication, or misrepresentation of material that is part of academic evaluation, the learning process, or scholarly exchange. This offence would include reference to resources that are known not to exist or the listing of others who have not contributed to the work.
7. Co-operating or collaborating in the completion of an academic assignment, in whole or in part, when the instructor has indicated that the assignment is to be completed on an individual basis.

Humber reserves the right to utilize authentication and/or plagiarism detection software as a means of determining academic dishonesty.

Misrepresentation of Personal Performance

1. Submitting false, fraudulent or purchased assignments, research or credentials, or the falsifying or withholding of records, transcripts, letters of reference, letters of support, or other academic documents.
2. Impersonation by having someone impersonate oneself, either in person or electronically, in class, in an examination, or in connection with any type of course assignment or material or availing oneself of the results of such impersonation. Both the impersonator and individual impersonated (if aware of the impersonation) are subject to the academic dishonesty process.
3. Submitting a false medical or compassionate certificate, or presenting other such documentation under false pretenses.
4. Improperly obtaining, through theft, bribery, collusion or otherwise, access to privileged information, or examination paper or set of questions.
5. Submitting the same course work, research, or assignment for credit on more than one occasion in two or more courses without the prior written permission of the faculty members in all of the courses involved; misrepresenting the amount of work an individual has contributed to a group assignment or activity.
6. Possession or use of an unauthorized aid, to use or obtain unauthorized assistance in any academic examination, term test, assignment, or in connection with any other form of academic work. Such aids or material may include, but are not limited to, specific documents, electronic equipment or devices, and commercial services (such as writing, editorial, software, or research survey services).

Damage to the Integrity of Scholarly Exchanges

1. Altering, destroying, hiding, or generally restricting the access to academic materials intended for general use.
2. The unauthorized removal, destruction, or theft of library or other Humber resources.
3. Inappropriate distribution of restricted material.
4. Obstructing the academic activities of others. This may involve interfering with the scholarly activities of another or altering or falsifying the work of others, in order to harass or gain unfair academic advantage. This includes, but is not limited to, interfering or tampering with experimental data, with a written or other creation, with a chemical used for research, or with any other object of study.

Facilitating Academic Misconduct

Knowingly assisting anyone in committing any form of academic misconduct is itself academic misconduct and subject to this policy. This may include, but is not limited to, offering for sale essays or other assignments with the intention that these works will be subsequently submitted for assessment.

Examinations

Invigilators will be present at all examinations to supervise the delivery of the examination and detect any signs of academic misconduct. Invigilators may use input from others to assist them in verifying detection of academic misconduct.

In cases of suspected academic misconduct the invigilator may allow the student to complete the examination and may take action by doing one of the following.

1. In the case of suspected impersonation, the invigilator will require the student concerned to remain after the examination until the student is satisfactorily identified.
2. In the case of suspected copying another person's answer(s) to the examination question, the invigilator may request that the student complete the exam in another location or setting if it is deemed that such action will cause the least disruption to those taking the examination.
3. In the case of suspected copying from or using prohibited material in an examination, the invigilator may confiscate the suspect material (including electronic devices) and request that the student make contact with the faculty member responsible for the course once the examination period is over.

In cases where the faculty member responsible for the course is not invigilating the exam, the invigilator will complete an Academic Misconduct Form, append any confiscated material to the form, and provide the information to the appropriate faculty member. The Program Coordinator and / or Associate Dean, when preparing the response regarding the academic offence, will also use this documentation.

Student Work

The responsibility for detecting academic misconduct on term assignments and other course requirements lies with the faculty member, who may make use of reports from others and/or originality/plagiarism detection software to assist in detection. Where academic misconduct is suspected, the faculty member:

1. shall retain possession of suspect material;
2. may seek to interview the student to allay suspicion or to confirm it; and
3. shall initiate the Academic Misconduct Form.

In all cases, the faculty member shall submit the Academic Misconduct Form and suspect material to the Program Coordinator and Associate Dean for further action.

Cases outside the Domain of Examinations or Assignments

The responsibility for detecting academic misconduct in the context of an academic environment that is not part of the formal examination or assignment process must rest with the entire Humber community. Where academic misconduct is suspected, but where it is unclear whether it is directly related to a specific course, or where the specific course is unknown, those with knowledge of an offence should contact the Senior Dean of the appropriate Academic Faculty. If the suspected offence appears to be related to a specific course, then the faculty member of the course should be contacted. Instructors have access to and the right to use electronic and other means of detection.

Academic Misconduct

1. First Offence: a first offence of academic misconduct, unless considered severe, will be recorded by the Office of the Registrar but not placed on the student's academic record.
2. Second Offence: a second offence of academic misconduct may result in a notation of “Academic- Suspension” on the student's academic record and transcript.  This notation will be expunged from the student’s record and transcript upon graduation.
3. Students who do not graduate from Humber may submit a request to the Registrar to have the record of the offence expunged no sooner than three (3) years after the date of the student’s last registration.

Expulsion

The record and notation of “Academic- Expulsion” is permanent, unless a petition to have the record expunged has been approved by the President. Students may submit a request to the Office of the Registrar to have a record of expulsion expunged from their academic record no sooner than five (5) years after the date of the expulsion.

Confidentiality

Access to the record of academic misconduct will be limited to those involved in processing appeals and those involved in processing additional complaints against the student.

The terms Grade Review and Faculty-Level Academic Appeal refer to the process that a student must initiate within the Faculty before considering a College-Level Academic Appeal by a College-Level Academic Appeal Panel.

18.1.a Grade Review

Grade Reviews are concerns related to grading of coursework, assignments, clinical placements, examinations, and final course grades. Grade reviews related to grades received in any assessment must be initiated within ten (10) business days after the receipt of the graded work or release of grades.

Preliminary Steps toward Resolution

If a student has questions or concerns regarding a grade on an assignment or test, the student should discuss the matter with the faculty member. The Program Coordinator and/or the Associate Dean may be asked to assist if the faculty member and student are unable to resolve the issue.

Note: If an assignment or test is not normally returned to the student, the Faculty will ensure that the student has the opportunity to review the assignment or test under the supervision of the professor or designate.

Formal Request for a Reassessment of In-Course Work or Final Exam

If a student is not satisfied with the outcome of the preliminary step toward resolution referenced above, a formal request for a Reassessment of the In-Course Grade may be made. This process applies to major assignments or tests worth at least 20% of the final grade and to cases where a student has failed the assignment or believes there is a major discrepancy of at least 10% between the grade they earned and the grade they feel they should have earned.

In such cases, a student may request a reevaluation of the test or assignment by completing a Request for Reassessment of In-Course Work or Final Exam Form and submitting it to the Associate Dean responsible for the course in question. Forms are available from the Office of the Registrar or on the Academic Regulations webpage.

The Associate Dean will arrange for two professors other than the professor teaching the course to individually reevaluate the assignment/exam/paper, based on established criteria as outlined in the assignment. The original grade/marks by the course professor are to be obscured in the photocopy provided for reevaluation.

The average of the two assessors’ grades will be used as the grade. This grade may stay the same or be lower or higher than the original course grade.

The Faculty shall ensure that the reassessment of the grade is to be completed within twelve (12) business days from the submission of the Grade Review unless both parties have mutually agreed to an extension. The assignment of grades is a Faculty-Level decision and a student may not appeal the resulting grade on an individual in-course piece of work except for reasons relating to breach of process in the handling of the Grade Review.

Formal Request for a Review of a Final Course Grade

A student has the right to review a final course grade with the professor. A review of the final course grade may be premised on a miscalculation of the final grade or deviation from the evaluation procedures described in the course outline. If a student is not satisfied with the outcome of the review with the professor and/or Program Coordinator, the student may submit a request in writing to the Associate Dean requesting a further review no later than ten (10) business days after the end of the term or training period within which the course or unit of instruction was offered. The request should be submitted on a Request for Review of a Final Grade Form. Forms are available from the Office of the Registrar or found on the Academic Regulations webpage.

The Associate Dean will provide a written decision within twelve (12) business days of receipt of the request unless both parties have mutually agreed to an extension. A student may not challenge a final course grade on the basis of an individual in-course piece of work that has or has not previously been re-marked.

The assignment of a final course grade is a Faculty-level decision and may not be appealed to a College-Level Academic Appeal Panel except for reasons relating to breach of process in the handling of the Grade Review. In such cases, the College-Level Academic Appeal must be filed within ten (10) business days of the student’s receipt of the decision of the Final Grade Review.

18.1.b Faculty-Level Academic Appeal

Faculty-Level Academic Appeals are concerns regarding an academic decision pertaining to probation, academic withdrawal, expulsion, academic misconduct, or special consideration on the basis of medical, psychological, or compassionate grounds.

If a student has a concern relating to any of the issues identified above, the student shall discuss the matter with the responsible professor who shall provide the student with the reasons for the decision. The Program Coordinator may be asked to assist if the professor and student are unable to resolve the issue.

If a student is not satisfied with the outcome of the discussions, the student may initiate a Faculty-Level Academic Appeal by requesting that the Senior Dean or designate review the concerns. This request must be initiated, in writing, by the student on a Faculty-Level Academic Appeal form no later than ten (10) business days after the end of the term within which the course or unit of instruction was offered. In this request, the student shall provide any and all documentation, (for example, medical notes or letters) which may impact the resolution of the appeal. Forms are available from the Office of the Registrar or found on the Academic Regulations webpage.

The Senior Dean or designate will review the Faculty-Level Academic Appeal and provide a written decision to the student within twelve (12) business days of the receipt of the student’s written request unless both parties have mutually agreed to an extension. It is incumbent upon both parties to make every effort to meet the deadlines.

The Senior Dean or designate is responsible for ensuring that the results and reason(s) of any and all levels of a Faculty-Level Academic Appeal shall be documented and kept on file by the Faculty.

The student has the right to representation throughout the various stages of the Academic Appeal procedure, as does Humber. The student shall advise Humber of their intent to retain a representative at the time an Academic Appeal is filed.  Regardless of the outcome of any Academic Appeal Hearing, any costs incurred by the student as a result of being represented are the sole responsibility of the student.  In the event the student retains legal representation, Humber has the option to do the same, at its own expense.  Those representing the student and/or Humber shall be allowed to present their client’s case, and may direct questions for clarification through the Chair, once the person providing the information has completed his or her formal presentation.

A student may request a maximum of two people, including the student appeal advisor to accompany them at the Academic Appeal Hearing.  A student must indicate if anyone will accompany them at the time an Academic Appeal is filed.

The Faculty will be represented by the Dean and/or the Senior Dean and the Professor directly involved. 

Prior to the Academic Appeal Hearing, the Chair of the Appeal Panel will direct the Office of the Registrar to confirm the participants at the hearing with the Academic Appeal Panel, the student and the Faculty.

An Academic Appeal Panel member having any prior knowledge of the student or of the nature and circumstances of the appeal must withdraw from the Panel.

Academic Appeal Hearings shall be conducted in private.

Recording devices are not permitted during an Academic Appeal Hearing.

All information presented and/or discussed at an Academic Appeal Hearing is deemed confidential and the Chair of the Panel will advise participants of their responsibility to maintain the confidentiality of the proceeding.

Once an Academic Appeal Hearing is in session, all participants must remain until all information has been heard and the meeting formally adjourned and/or concluded.  A student may request a private caucus prior to make their closing remarks. If requested, all participants will be asked to exit the appeal hearing room for the length of time noted by the Chair.

Witnesses called by either the student or the Faculty shall be dismissed by the Chair of the Academic Appeal Panel once they have presented their information and have been questioned by the other party to the Appeal, and by the Academic Appeal Panel.

The decision of an Academic Appeal Panel shall be by majority vote and is final and binding on all parties. The student and/or Faculty are precluded from seeking subsequent review of the appeal decision under any office, or in accordance with any policy or procedure within Humber. 

One copy of all materials presented at an Academic Appeal Hearing shall be kept on file until graduation or seven (7) years from the last date of registration.  This material shall be held in the Office of the Registrar.

If two (2) or more formal appeals are submitted at the same time which involve the same or similar questions, the Chair may:

• combine the appeals or any part of them, with the consent of the parties;
• hear the appeals at the same time, with the consent of the parties;
• hear the appeals one immediately after the other; 

In the event of an Academic Appeal from a group of students, two (2) students, with the written permission of the other members of the group, shall represent the interests of the group at the Academic Appeal Hearing.  The decision rendered by the Academic Appeal Panel in a group appeal shall be considered binding on all members of the group identified as students in the appeal.

The format for the Academic Appeal Hearing shall be as follows:

1. The Chair shall introduce the members of the Academic Appeal Panel and review the format of the meeting and any rules of process that are appropriate.  All procedural questions shall be directed to the Chair of the Academic Appeal Panel, and are subject to the final decision of the Chair.
2. The Chair shall ask each participant to confirm that they are willing to maintain the confidentiality of the information presented at the proceeding.
3. The Chair shall ensure that sufficient time is provided to cover all points that are relevant to the appeal.
4. The Chair shall ensure that all documentation tabled was submitted prior to the Academic Appeal Hearing and was received by all participants within the allotted time period unless otherwise ordered.
5. The Office of the Registrar shall provide a certified copy of the student’s full academic record if it is requested by either the student and/or the Faculty for their submission and is deemed by the Academic Appeal Panel as being relevant to the appeal being heard.
6. The Faculty named in an Academic Appeal shall provide a copy of the outline(s) for the course(s) and all course materials cited in the appeal along with a copy of the appropriate curriculum in the event the course is part of a program.
7. The student (or the student’s representative) is required to clearly state the nature of the appeal, present the case referring to any relevant documentation previously submitted, and state the resolution being sought.
8. The Faculty (or its representative) shall state its position and speak to any relevant documentation.
9. The student (or the student’s representative) and the Faculty (or its representative) shall have the opportunity to question persons providing information through the Chair once the person providing the information has completed their formal statement.
10. Members of the Academic Appeal Panel may raise questions through the Chair at any time to ensure that all points are clearly understood and are relevant to the Appeal.
11. Based on the information provided, the Faculty and the student shall be provided with an opportunity to summarize their position. The student will have the opportunity to speak last.
12. After confirming that both parties have presented all relevant information and the student has had the final opportunity to speak, the meeting shall adjourn and the Academic Appeal Panel shall caucus privately and in confidence to reach a decision. The decision shall be determined by majority vote of the Panel.
13. If an Academic Appeal Panel upholds the decision, the action of the Faculty stands and is written as such.
14. If the Academic Appeal Panel does not uphold the decision, the Panel may award resolutions such as:
    1. directing the Facutly to administer and/or accommodate the student with respect to a new final examination, assignment or paper in the course; or
    2. directing the Faculty to reinstate the student to the program status they were prior to the academic decision being appealed.

Note: The Panel has no authority to provide any monetary award, to impose an actual mark, or to reprimand or take disciplinary action against any individual as a result of information presented at an appeal. 

15. The decision and reasons of an Academic Appeal Panel shall be forwarded in writing to the student and the Faculty within ten (10) business days of the Academic Appeal Hearing.
16. In the event that an Academic Appeal Panel finds in favour of the student, the Faculty cited in the appeal shall be responsible for implementing the decision of the Panel and for ensuring the student’s academic record is corrected if necessary.
17. In the event that an Academic Appeal Panel upholds the academic decision of the Faculty, other than a College-initiated withdrawal/expulsion, the decision is not made part of a student’s permanent academic record, but shall become part of a student’s confidential record.  Upon graduation, a student’s confidential record is expunged.  Should a student not graduate, a student’s confidential record is expunged five (5) years after the disposition of an appeal.