Rhode Island College Graduate Studies Policies and Procedures

Rhode Island College

Graduate Studies Policies

and Procedures Manual

Revised June 2024

Table of Contents

GRADUATE STUDIES ....................................................................................................................................... 1

Mission Statement .................................................................................................................................. 1

I: INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................ 1

II: ADMISSION .................................................................................................................................................. 2

A. General Provisions.............................................................................................................................. 2

B. Application to Degree Programs ........................................................................................................ 2

C. International Students ......................................................................................................................... 3

D. Application to Certificate of Graduate Study Programs ..................................................................... 4

E. Non-Matriculating Status ................................................................................................................... 4

F. Undergraduates Enrolled in Graduate Courses .................................................................................. 5

III: GRADUATE PROGRAM DEGREE REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................. 5

A. General ............................................................................................................................................... 5

B. Plan of Study and Advising ................................................................................................................ 6

C. Distribution of Courses....................................................................................................................... 7

D. Independent Study .............................................................................................................................. 7

E. Transfer Credits .................................................................................................................................. 8

F. Time Limit .......................................................................................................................................... 8

G. Programs without Thesis/Project ........................................................................................................ 8

H. Programs with Thesis/Project .............................................................................................................

I. Graduation/Commencement ............................................................................................................... 9

J. Memorial Recognition of Graduate Achievement .............................................................................. 9

IV: CONTINUOUS ENROLLMENT AND REGISTRATION .......................................................................... 9

A. Continuous Enrollment ....................................................................................................................... 9

B. Full-Time and Part-Time Status ....................................................................................................... 10

C. Leave of Absence ............................................................................................................................. 10

V: REGISTRATION PROCEDURES ............................................................................................................... 10

A. General ............................................................................................................................................ 10

B. Registration for Research or Study Off-Campus .............................................................................. 11

VI: ACADEMIC STANDING ........................................................................................................................... 11

A. Grading System ................................................................................................................................ 11

B. Satisfactory and Unsatisfactory Grade ............................................................................................. 12

C. Incomplete Grade ............................................................................................................................. 12

D. Credit / No Credit ............................................................................................................................. 12

E. Audit ................................................................................................................................................ 12

VII: ACADEMIC INTEGRITY ......................................................................................................................... 13

VIII: GOVERNANCE OF GRADUATE STUDY ............................................................................................ 13

A. Provost / Vice President for Academic Affairs ................................................................................ 13

B. Dean of Graduate Studies ................................................................................................................. 13

C. Academic Deans of Graduate Programs. .......................................................................................... 13

D. The Graduate Committee ................................................................................................................. 13

E. Departments ...................................................................................................................................... 15

F. Faculty Who Teach in Graduate Programs ....................................................................................... 15

G. The Adviser ...................................................................................................................................... 15

IX: THESES, PROJECTS AND COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATIONS ......................................................... 15

A. General ............................................................................................................................................. 15

B. Theses and Culminating Projects...................................................................................................... 16

C. Thesis Committee ............................................................................................................................. 16

D. Thesis/Project Scheduling and Approval .......................................................................................... 17

E. Comprehensive Evaluations ............................................................................................................. 18

X: INDIVIDUALIZED GRADUATE PROGRAM ........................................................................................... 18

A. General ............................................................................................................................................. 18

B. Admissions ....................................................................................................................................... 19

C. Plan of Study .................................................................................................................................... 20

XI: COLLABORATIVE PROGRAMS ............................................................................................................ 20

Rhode Island College/Saint Joseph Hospital School of Nurse Anesthesia, Nurse Anesthesia option ............ 20

B. Rhode Island College/University of Rhode Island Doctoral Program .............................................. 21

XII. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE ..................................................................................................................... 21

A. Policy ................................................................................................................................................ 21

B. Procedures ........................................................................................................................................ 21

XIII: ASSISTANTSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AND ......................................................................................... 21

A. Graduate and Teaching Assistantships ............................................................................................. 21

B. Graduate Traineeships ...................................................................................................................... 22

C. Graduate Scholarships ...................................................................................................................... 23

D. New England Regional Student Program ......................................................................................... 23

E. Northeast Neighbors Policy .............................................................................................................. 23

F. Financial Aid .................................................................................................................................... 24

G. Unemployment Waiver .................................................................................................................... 24

H. Senior Citizens’ Tuition Waiver ....................................................................................................... 24

For Appendix forms, please refer to Graduate Committee Forms and Information and Graduate Plans of

Study and Thesis Resources.

GRADUATE STUDIES

Mission Statement

Rhode Island College Graduate Studies (RIC-GS) serves as a partner to departments and

programs to oversee policies and processes that assure the academic integrity of graduate

programs across the institution. RIC-GS manages an array of supports for the advancement of

graduate curriculum and for the oversight of academic programs. Graduate Studies also serves

as an ally to graduate students, providing a wide range of services and programming to support

graduate students as they pursue their education.

Rhode Island College (RIC) prepares graduate students for advanced careers as practitioners

and scholars in research, teaching, and as experts in the public and private sectors. With over

30 graduate degrees and certificate programs in the arts and sciences, areas of social, public,

and community services, including applied and practitioner-oriented fields within the service

sector, RIC prepares its graduates to help address challenges of our communities.

I: INTRODUCTION

This handbook includes the policies and procedures that govern all students enrolled in

Graduate Programs at Rhode Island College. It outlines the procedures for students, their

advisers, Program Directors, Department Chairs, and program committees. Information

concerning the organization of the Graduate Committee, the Graduate Faculty, and the

authorization for graduate programs and courses are available in the Manual of Academic

Policies and Procedures. Information on specific programs of study and courses are available in

the Rhode Island College Catalog and the Rhode Island College Graduate Studies webpage.

Administration of Rhode Island College’s graduate programs is a collective endeavor

coordinated by the Provost/ Vice President of Academic Affairs, the Dean of Graduate Studies,

the Graduate Committee, the Academic Deans, the Deans’ offices, the Graduate Directors and

other administrative units. Together, they address the following issues:

• the quality and standards of graduate education,

• the review of existing and proposed programs,

• the policy and procedure regarding admissions,

• the establishment of and compliance with degree requirements,

• the criteria for and appointment of graduate faculty

• the policies and procedures related to the appointment of graduate assistants, and

• the recommendation of graduate degree recipient

In addition, these academic and administrative units monitor

• the academic progress of graduate students,

• the preparation of graduate material for the College Catalog,

• the promotion of graduate programs,

• the maintenance of graduate student records,

• the administration of the graduate studies budget, and

• the encouragement of faculty research

II: ADMISSION

A. General Provisions

1. Persons holding a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher

education and wishing to take graduate-level courses at Rhode Island College may do so

by:

a. enrolling as a non-matriculating student,

b. admission to a degree, or

c. admission to one of the Certificate of Graduate Studies Programs.

2. Persons not holding a baccalaureate degree and who are undergraduate students at Rhode

Island College may take graduate courses in accordance with the policies elaborated in

Manual of Academic Policies and Procedures - See section 3.3. for students' admission in

bachelor’s/master’s early admission track and other undergraduate students.

3. Deadlines for receipt of applications and all supporting documents, and interviews where

required, are specific to each individual program and can be verified by contacting the

graduate program. Applications shall be submitted online through CollegeNet.

4. The completed application is evaluated by the program’s admissions committee. The program makes

a recommendation in a timely fashion regarding admissions to the Academic Dean who notifies the

applicant of the admissions decision.

B. Application to Degree Programs

1. Persons wishing to be admitted to a graduate program must hold a baccalaureate degree

from a regionally accredited institution at the time they begin their graduate studies at

Rhode Island College. The following material is required for admission:

a. Completed online application for admission to graduate study accompanied by a

non-refundable application fee.

b. Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate records.

c. Copy of teaching certificate (when applicable)

d. Official reports of scores on standardized graduate admissions tests are required for

some programs (see program requirements for specific details).

See The Miller Analogies Test and the ETS Graduate Record Examination for more

information.

e. An interview may be required.

f. Three professional recommendations attesting to the candidate's potential to do

graduate work.

g. Professional goals essay or statement of educational philosophy.

Requirements vary by program. Please see individual programs for all requirements.

2. Persons applying for BA/MA early admission track must be Rhode Island College

undergraduate students who have earned at least 60 credits. They may also be subject to

additional requirements specified by each program. The GRE admissions requirement is

waived for BA/MA applicants. Successful undergraduate applicants for an early admission

track are conditionally accepted into the graduate program and may begin taking graduate

classes after earning at least 90 undergraduate credit hours. Upon completion of their

undergraduate degrees, while maintaining graduate level standards, students will be

matriculated into the graduate program. Please see Section II: F for policies regarding

credits (link in Manual).

3. Admission policies for Individualized Graduate Programs are outlined on page 19.

4. Applications must be completed within one year. After that time, prospective students will

need to reapply or update their application.

5. Upon recommendation to a program, a graduate applicant has one year to submit a signed

Plan of Study. A request for deferment may be considered by a program. Please see

Section III: B for more information on Plan of Study.

6. To be accepted as a graduate degree candidate, applicants are expected to have attained an

average of B overall (3.00 on a 4.00 scale) in their undergraduate work. Admissions

committees may also consider the undergraduate G.P.A. in the applicant’s undergraduate

major or coursework related to the prospective major. Applicants with undergraduate grade

point averages below this level, but not less than 2.00, may be admitted to degree

candidacy upon the submission of other evidence of academic potential, i.e., satisfactory

performance in post-baccalaureate work, professional experience, letters of

recommendation, high scores in the standardized tests referred to above, and/or interviews.

7. An applicant to a graduate degree program who does not meet the program’s admission

standards but who demonstrates the potential to successfully complete graduate work may

be considered for provisional admission, when this option is available in the program to

which they have applied. The provisionally admitted student will be matriculated into the

program and must earn at least a 3.0 GPA in the first 9 credits. Individual programs may

have additional retention standards. The student’s coursework during provisional

admission may include courses from the graduate degree Plan of Study and other necessary

prerequisites. The details of the provisional admission will be specifically outlined at the

time that the Plan of Study is developed. Failure to meet the provisional admission

requirements is sufficient cause for dismissal from the program.

C. International Students

Rhode Island College encourages applications from prospective international students. See the

Guide for International Graduate Students for information and guidance. In addition to all

program requirements, prospective international students must fulfil the following

requirements.

1. Language

International applicants are required to pass the TOEFL exam with a minimum score of 80

for the internet-based test, 213 for the computer-based test, 550 for the paper and pencil test

or IELTS with a minimum score of 6.5. Individual programs may have additional

requirements. International students who have completed the studies of their undergraduate

degree in English are exempt from language exam requirements.

2. Credit Evaluation

International students must have their academic records and transcripts from the

baccalaureate degree reviewed by an accredited evaluation agency and submit certified

literal English translations of their transcripts. See the Guide for International Graduate

Students for a complete list of approved agencies.

3. Financial Ability

In addition, international applicants must provide proof of financial ability to pay all

academic fees (tuition, books, and associated fees) for one full year of study. Proof should

be in the form of a certified statement from a bank and/or a letter from a sponsor

guaranteeing financial support (with appropriate bank verification).

Complete information on international admissions can be obtained from the International, Immigrant,

Undocumented, DACAmented & Refugee Student Services, and the Dean of Graduate Studies.

Consult the program or the Guide for International Graduate Students available on the RIC website for

more information.

D. Application to Certificate of Graduate Study Programs

1. Application requirements for Certificate of Graduate Study (CGS) Programs are the same

as those for degree programs except standardized tests are not required.

Students who complete CGS Programs at Rhode Island College may request to include the

earned credits to an appropriate graduate degree program.

Contact the program director for specific details.

E. Non-Matriculating Status

1. Persons holding a baccalaureate degree who are not candidates for an advanced degree or

for a Certificate of Graduate Study may take courses in a non-matriculating status. See

individual programs for restrictions.

2. Credits earned at Rhode Island College by a student in non-matriculating status before

admission to a degree or certificate program may be used toward degree or certificate

requirements only upon the recommendation of the student's adviser or program committee,

and with the approval of the Academic Dean. No more than a total of nine credits of work

taken at Rhode Island College by a non-matriculating student may be applied towards

degree or certificate requirements. See also Section III: B-3 Plan of Study and Advising.

3. Non-matriculating students follow the same course registration procedure as degree

candidates. If non-matriculating students later wish to be admitted to a degree or certificate

program, they must complete the graduate admission procedure.

F. Undergraduates Enrolled in Graduate Courses

1. Undergraduates may enroll in graduate courses when

a. The student has completed a minimum of 90 credits, and

b. A sufficient number of upper-level undergraduate courses in the major have been

completed, and

c. Grades in the preparatory coursework reflect readiness for graduate study. OR

d. The student has been approved for Bachelors/Masters early admissions track and

has earned at least 90 undergraduate credit hours.

2. Undergraduates who have been admitted to a bachelor’s/master’s early admission track will

be allowed to take a maximum of 15 graduate credits while completing their undergraduate

studies, of which up to 9 graduate credits may also count in fulfillment of the

undergraduate major program, depending upon that undergraduate program’s policy for

allowing credit for graduate courses. Graduate credit may not count toward undergraduate

minors.

3. Undergraduates who are not admitted to Bachelors/Masters early admission track and who

intend to enroll in graduate courses for undergraduate credit must obtain the written

approval of the course instructor, the Program Director, Department Chair, and Academic

Dean. The School of Social Work does not allow undergraduate students to take SWK 500-

level courses.

4. If the per-credit cost for graduate courses exceeds the general fee that the student pays as a

full-time undergraduate student, the student shall pay the excess.

5. Undergraduates are not admitted to 600-level courses.

6. Graduate courses cannot be counted for credit in satisfaction of both an undergraduate and

graduate degree requirement, unless the student has been accepted into a

bachelor’s/master’s early admission track.

III: GRADUATE PROGRAM DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

A. General

The goal of all master's degree programs is the development of sound scholarship that will lead to

advancement of knowledge and prepare the student for intellectual leadership and further work in

advanced areas of scholarship.

1. Master’s programs require a minimum of 30 credits. At least 24 of these will be formal

course credits exclusive of the thesis. Some programs require additional hours of work in

formal courses or in other activities.

2. Degrees are awarded when all the requirements on the Plan of Study have been completed.

3. Each department that offers an advanced degree or certificate publishes information in the

Rhode Island College Catalog that covers specific departmental requirements, program

requirements and departmental options.

4. Students will be expected to comply with the requirements in the College Catalog at the

time they are admitted to the program

5. Students may be matriculated in more than one graduate degree program,

bachelor’s/master’s early admission track or certificate program only with the approval of

the advisers, Program Directors, Academic Deans, and the Dean of Graduate Studies.

B. Plan of Study and Advising

1. New graduate students will be assigned a graduate adviser by the department when they are

recommended for acceptance. Every student recommended for admission to a degree or

certificate program must have a Plan of Study. The student and adviser develop the Plan of

Study in accordance with the graduate program’s policies.

2. The Plan of Study must be signed by the student, approved by the adviser, program

director and, where appropriate, the Department Chair and submitted to the appropriate

Academic Dean for approval. A candidate is not formally admitted into a graduate program

until a Plan of Study is on file in the departmental office of the appropriate School and the

Records Office.

3. The Plan of Study includes all degree requirements, including coursework both required

and elective; independent research; and exams and assessments necessary to complete

degree requirements. The Plan of Study also includes courses that are to be taken without

program credit to remedy deficiencies or to satisfy prerequisites.

4. In addition to formal courses at the graduate-level, an approved Plan of Study may also

include independent study courses or other courses involving creative activity, research and

thesis preparation. Provisional admission requirements are also listed in the Plan of Study.

For certain professional degrees, the required Plan of Study is quite specific; in other

programs, the courses are selected, and other requirements planned according to the needs

of the individual student and appropriate to the discipline. Program credit will not include

any of the following: the teaching of courses, courses audited, courses failed, courses

numbered below the 400 level, courses needed to remedy deficiencies, credit by

examination, or credit for work experience.

5. A Plan of Study can contain no more than nine semester hours of graduate coursework

taken in non-matriculating status from RIC. A Plan of Study for Bachelor’s/Master’s early

admission track can include up to 15 graduate credits before final acceptance as a degree or

certificate candidate. Students accepted into a degree program who have also completed a

Graduate Certificate Program at Rhode Island College may be exempt from this policy. For

specifics, consult the following program information; the Advanced Standing track in the

Master of Social Work program and Health Care Administration, Graduate Certificate

Programs, transfer student (see Section III: F) and in the individual Bachelor’s/Master’s

early admission track.

6. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that all program requirements listed in the Plan of

Study are fulfilled. If a change in program requirements occurs after a student has

matriculated, the student may complete the requirements as specified in the Catalog at the

time of matriculation or may shift entirely to the new requirements. In the latter case, a

new Plan of Study is to be filed in the Dean’s office of the appropriate school and with the

Records Office.

7. Any change in the plan of study requires approval and the filing of Request for Change to

Plan of Study form with the appropriate signatures. The Change to Plan of Study may not

be used to remove any course that has been assigned a grade.

C. Distribution of Courses

1. Courses taken for program credit should be at the 400-level or above. (In the Master of

Social Work program, all courses must be taken at the 500-level or above.) The 30-hour

coursework requirement for a master's degree may be satisfied by a combination of:

• (1) a minimum of 24-hours of existing RIC courses and seminars at the

400/500/600-level.

• (2) directed study or readings at the 500/600-level (maximum of 6 semester hours).

No more than 9 hours may be in 400-level courses.

2. Graduate students may, upon the recommendation of their adviser, include up to 9 hours in

400- level courses in their programs. In special cases, additional 400-level courses may be

included in the Plan of Study subject to approval of the adviser, Program Director, the

Dean of Graduate Studies, and the appropriate Academic Dean.

3. Courses taken by graduate students below the 400-level may not be taken for program

credit. Where such courses are considered as entrance or prerequisite courses, they may be

required of graduate students and listed on the Plan of Study under "No Program Credit."

They cannot under any circumstances be included in that section of the Plan of Study,

which is to satisfy degree requirements, nor can they be included in calculating the

cumulative GPA required for graduation. Required "No Program Credit" courses must be

replaced or repeated unless a grade of C (2.00) or better is received.

D. Independent Study

1. Students enrolled in independent study are expected to observe time limits corresponding to

semester limits unless specifically arranged by the instructor. A Request for Independent

Study form signed by the instructor, Department Chair, Program Director, the appropriate

Academic Dean and the Dean of Graduate Studies must be filed with the departmental

office of the respective Graduate Program. Grades are reported for independent study in the

same manner as for other courses.

2. Requests for an independent study should be made in the semester prior to the semester of

the planned independent study. Independent study requests must be approved, and fees

paid before study begins.

E. Transfer Credits

A candidate may request credit for work taken at other regionally accredited institutions of

higher learning. Candidates must successfully complete a residency requirement of a minimum

of 4/5 of the credit hours of the graduate degree program at Rhode Island College. In

considering a request for transfer credit, the student’s advisor will review the program of study,

carefully evaluate the relevance of the proposed courses to the Plan of Study and consider the

availability of courses to fulfil credit requirements. Transfer credit is granted only when

approved by the student's adviser, the Program Director and Academic Dean. In order to

qualify for transfer credit, the following conditions must be satisfied:

a. The student must have earned a grade of B or better for graduate-level coursework.

b. The graduate-level coursework approved to be included in a Plan of Study may be

from a candidate’s previously completed graduate degree.

c. Transfer credit for courses taken more than six years prior to the development of the

Plan of Study needs to be approved by the Program Director and Academic Dean.

d. The work must have clear and unquestioned relevance to the student's Plan of

Study.

e. A student enrolled at Rhode Island College may receive transfer credit for work

subsequently taken at another institution under the provisions cited above only if

approval is obtained in writing from the appropriate Academic Dean before the

student enrolls for the course.

f. Any credits transferred from another institution of higher learning will be so

indicated on the student's transcript. However, the grade earned at that institution

would not be recorded or used in computing the student's GPA.

(edits approved by Graduate Committee April 2019)

To determine 4/5 of transfer credits refer to Form A-20 Transfer Credit Guide.

F. Time Limit

Students must complete their program of study within six years (seven years for students in the

URI/RIC joint doctoral program and the DNP) from the time of registration following

acceptance to degree or certificate candidacy; otherwise, the candidacy will be considered

discontinued. An appeal for extension requires review by the appropriate Program Director,

adviser and Academic Dean.

G. Programs without Thesis/Project

1. A student in a program that does not require a thesis or project is required to pass written

master's comprehensive evaluations(s) when the formal coursework is nearly completed. See

Section IX: E.

2. Students in some departments may be required to complete a final oral master’s

examination in addition to the written examination. The nature of the examination and the

composition of the examining committee are the responsibility of the department. The

results shall be reported promptly to the student and to the Academic Dean. In case of

failure, a second examination may be allowed consistent with program policies.

H. Programs with Thesis/Project

1. In programs that allow thesis as an option, students may have up to 6 credits of the 30-

credit minimum for a thesis in lieu of formal coursework. Each candidate who chooses the

thesis option shall prepare a thesis that will demonstrate ability to perform and to report

independent research in an acceptable scholarly fashion. See Section IX for preparation of

a thesis.

2. The candidate shall successfully defend the thesis in an oral examination before a thesis

defense committee. The committee is selected, and the examination is conducted according

to procedures outlined in Section IX. A candidate who fails may be permitted one

reexamination in the part or parts failed if recommended by the committee and approved

by the appropriate Academic Dean. The second examination may be allowed consistent

with program policies.

3. All projects involving humans, vertebrate animals, recombinant DNA or hazardous

biological materials must have approval from the appropriate institutional compliance

committee before the start of the project.

I. Graduation/Commencement

Graduate students who have completed all but three courses on their Plan of Study may

participate in May Commencement. Credits that remain to be completed cannot be thesis

credits.

J. Memorial Recognition of Graduate Achievement

This recognition acknowledges the academic achievements of graduate degree students

enrolled at the college at the time of their death and commemorates those achievements for the

benefit of the students’ families and the campus community.

The graduate student must have been enrolled at the time of death, unless their continuous

enrollment was interrupted by injury, illness or deployment and close to completion of degree

requirements.

IV: CONTINUOUS ENROLLMENT AND REGISTRATION

A. Continuous Enrollment

1. Most graduate students remain continuously enrolled until completion of the degree. In

those instances where students cannot register for courses in a given semester, they must

comply with the regulations governing withdrawal or leave of absence. See Section IV: C.

Students completing thesis work but no longer registered for coursework should contact the

Dean of Graduate Studies to maintain enrollment.

2. Each spring semester, Records Office will designate as inactive those matriculated students

who have not taken a graduate course in three semesters, excluding summer sessions.

Students can request to return to active degree status with approval of their adviser and

program director and in accordance with the program of study.

3. In the School of Social Work, graduate students must complete the second year at Rhode

Island College.

B. Full-Time and Part-Time Status

1. To qualify for full-time status, students must register for at least nine credits during a

regular semester or at least six credits during a summer term.

2. The bachelor’s/master's early admission track, master’s degree or graduate certificate may

be completed either through full or part-time study or by a combination of both.

3. Students holding appointments as graduate and teaching assistants will be considered by

the College, but not necessarily by lending agencies, as having full-time status with a

minimum of six credits in the Plan of Study per semester. (Note that lending agencies may

often have other requirements regarding full-time status.) Graduate Assistants may not

Academic Dean.

4. Students with financial aid and / or loans should check with lending agencies to determine

the requirements for full-time status.

C. Leave of Absence

Graduate students who must leave the college for a period of one semester or more, due to

military service, prolonged illness, or other unusual circumstances, whether before or after

they have completed the work prescribed in their Plan of Study, should apply for a Leave of

Absence. The request should be made in writing to the appropriate Academic Dean, include an

endorsement from the adviser or Program Director, and should be sufficiently specific to

inform the Academic Dean. A leave of absence has the effect of suspending time limitations

such as those for completion of the degree or for the removal of incomplete grades.

Accordingly, a leave will be granted for sufficient reason and if it is to be for one year or less.

Students may apply for a maximum of one additional year if circumstances warrant.

V: REGISTRATION PROCEDURES

A. General

1. Before initial registration, degree candidates shall confer with their adviser to select

appropriate coursework from the approved Plan of Study for the first semester.

2. Non-matriculating students may register for graduate courses for which they have

completed the prerequisites, subject to enrollment limitations and the accommodation of

degree candidates and may need approval of the Program Director.

B. Registration for Research or Study Off-Campus

1. Students who wish to register for credits to be counted toward a degree but to be earned

through off-campus activities such as research or independent study at a national laboratory

must receive prior approval from their adviser, Program Director and the appropriate

Academic Dean.

2. These activities must be listed as part of their Plan of Study. These students must register

for an appropriate number of credits of research or directed study. Credit evaluation should

conform to provisions in the College Catalog (one credit for three hours per week per

semester) and may not exceed the limits of full-time registration, namely 15 credits per

semester and 8 per summer session.

VI: ACADEMIC STANDING

A. Grading System

1. To qualify for continuation in degree, for candidate status and for graduation a GPA of 3.0

or higher is required.

2. Programs may have specific additional retention and grade requirements. Students should

refer to the program descriptions for these requirements.

Academic standing is based on grade points, which are related to letter grades as indicated

below.

Letter Grade Points

4.00

A -

3.67

B+

3.33

3.00

B-

2.67 *

C+

2.33*

2.00*

C-

1.67*

1:00*

D-

0.67*

0.00*

* These grades will result in review of the student’s progress.

3. Review of academic standing occurs each semester at the program level. Grades below B

(3.00) are not indicative of graduate quality work. Students who earn a grade below B

(3.00) in any course and/or whose cumulative GPA has fallen below 3.0 will have their

status reviewed by the program. Such a review may result in the student being placed on

probation or dismissed from the program. Probation may also require the retaking of

course, the revocation of graduate assistantship, and the suspension of progress in the

program until satisfactory performance is achieved. Students will be informed in writing.

Students on probation must achieve grades of B (3.00) or better in graduate-level

coursework for the next 9 earned credits. Students on probation will continue to be

monitored until a satisfactory performance in their graduate program is achieved. Failure to

meet the conditions of probation will result in dismissal. Students on probation are not

eligible to apply for assistantships and students on probation may not retain assistantships.

4. For a repeated course, the most recent grade will be included in calculating the grade point

average. (The first grade will remain on the student’s transcript.)

5. Students in a bachelor’s/master’s early admission track must earn at least a B for a course

to count for graduate credit while under conditional acceptance status.

B. Satisfactory and Unsatisfactory Grade

Graduate courses approved for an S/U grade by the Graduate Committee require students to

perform at the B level (3.00) or better to receive a grade of S. These courses shall be so labeled

in college catalogs and bulletins. Grades of S or U are not included in calculating grade point

average.

C. Incomplete Grade

For all graduate students, an incomplete grade shall be given when substantial work of the

semester has been completed satisfactorily but all work has not been completed because of

illness or some other reason that, in the opinion of the instructor, justifies such a report. The

instructor sets the conditions and time frame required for completion which will not exceed 3

semesters. Graduate students who do not meet the time frame for completion of an Incomplete

grade must make a request in writing to their graduate program for permission to complete the

course.

D. Credit / No Credit

Graduate students cannot elect to take graduate courses with credit/no credit option.

E. Audit

1. Audited courses may not be counted for credit toward an advanced degree. The same tuition

and fees apply to audited courses as to courses taken for a grade.

2. By auditing a student participates in a course without receiving credit or having the grade

point average affected. A course may be audited if registration is still open. Preference

must be given to those enrolling for credit.

3. A course must be changed from credit to audit by the end of the add/drop period.

VII: ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

1. Academic integrity is the foundation of the academic community. In pursuing graduate study,

all students are expected to adhere to the accepted standards of scholarly integrity in all

presentations, examinations, research and writing of papers and theses/projects. Students who

violate college rules on academic dishonesty are subject to disciplinary penalties, including the

possibility of failure or removal from a course, disciplinary probation, and/or dismissal from

the college. Individual schools may have additional standards and policies related to academic

honesty. See section 9.1 Academic Honesty in Manual of Academic Policies and Procedures.

2. All projects involving humans, vertebrate animals, recombinant DNA or hazardous biological

materials must have approval from the appropriate institutional compliance committee before

the start of the project. For more information consult the websites of the RIC Institutional

Review Board.

VIII: GOVERNANCE OF GRADUATE STUDY

A. Provost / Vice President for Academic Affairs

The Office of the Provost / Vice President for Academic Affairs is responsible for the overall

administration of all graduate programs and activities at the College.

B. Dean of Graduate Studies

1. The Office of the Dean of Graduate Studies is responsible for the policies and procedures

of graduate studies and reports to the Provost / Vice President for Academic Affairs. This

includes overseeing the policies and procedures related to graduate education as detailed in

the graduate manual.

2. The Dean is also responsible for promoting and developing graduate programs internally

and to the community at large, coordinating graduate programs across divisions,

administering the policies and procedures related to graduate assistantships and promoting

a culture of graduate education for students, faculty, alumni and staff.

C. Academic Deans of Graduate Programs.

The Academic Deans within the Division of Academic Affairs are responsible for the

administration of all graduate programs and activities within their schools.

D. The Graduate Committee

The mission of the Graduate Committee is to oversee graduate curricula and programs and to

advance the interest of graduate programs and students at Rhode Island College. The

committee shall:

1. Be responsible for the approval of graduate curricula, including Certificates of

Graduate Study Programs. The Committees' recommendations will be sent to the

Dean of Graduate Studies and Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs

for approval. Implementation of Graduate Committee decisions regarding graduate

curricula is subject to action by the President of the College. Courses which carry

both a 400- and 500-level number will require the approval of the Curriculum

Committee and the Graduate Committee.

2. Initiate study of new graduate curricula or changes in graduate curricula and

consider suggestions for graduate curriculum development from the administration,

divisions, departments, individual faculty members, and students. The Graduate

Committee shall consult faculty concerned with graduate curriculum proposals under

consideration.

3. Initiate semi-annual reports to the faculty on the decisions of the Committee and

subsequent actions on these decisions, and list of proposals which remain on the

calendar.

4. Meet at least once a month during the academic year to review and evaluate the

graduate curriculum in general, to consider important problems and deficiencies in

the graduate curriculum, and to discuss its major goals and directions. Additional

meetings may be conducted under suspension of rules and without a formal agenda

of specific proposals. Any faculty member may attend any meeting.

5. Post recorded minutes of each meeting and meeting agenda on the Graduate

Committee website.

6. Periodically or as needed, review and interpret policies pertaining to graduate

studies at Rhode Island College and shall recommend changes to the Dean of

Graduate Studies as appropriate.

7. Seek to maintain high standards of quality of program, including recruitment,

admissions, and assessment of graduate programs, in coordination with the Dean of

Graduate Studies.

8. Review and promote uniformity among graduate programs so far as they are

consistent with quality in coordination with the Dean of Graduate Studies.

9. Advise the Deans of the Schools and the Vice President for Academic Affairs on

other matters of mutual concern.

10. Have the responsibility, through the proper and appropriate channels, of dealing

with matters which extend beyond the scope of any one department and are entirely

or predominantly concerned with graduate studies.

11. Public announcements on the agenda shall be posted one week prior to each

meeting, except in case of emergencies.

E. Departments

The academic department has general and overall responsibilities for graduate programs within

the department, including the maintenance of overall quality of graduate education. The

department structure may include department chair, Program Director and Graduate

Committee. Administrative responsibilities at the department level include:

a. Review and recommendations on admission and retention.

b. Recommendations for assistantship appointments

c. Administration of comprehensive exams

d. Supervision of MA theses and research projects

e. Assignment of academic advisers

f. Assessment of graduate programs

g. Allocation of resources

h. Hear graduate student appeals within the established grievance process.

F. Faculty Who Teach in Graduate Programs

Faculty responsible for graduate programs hold the credentials and are provided the time to

commit to the successful accomplishment of program objectives and program improvement.

Normally faculty teaching graduate courses are active research scholars or experienced

professionals making contributions to the development of the field. Faculty who teach in

graduate programs have appropriate qualifications as identified by their respective departments.

These faculty are assigned to teach graduate-level courses, to serve as academic and thesis

advisers to graduate students, to serve on Graduate Admissions Committees, and to assist in

the direction of graduate programs.

G. The Adviser

The graduate adviser has overall responsibility for the student's graduate study. The graduate

adviser will help the student prepare a Plan of Study, making certain that it meets all minimum

core and special requirements. The adviser will supervise the student's progress in the Plan of

Study including coursework, independent study, research and, if applicable, thesis preparation.

The adviser is responsible for informing the student of deadlines for submitting plans of study,

thesis proposals and other appropriate documents.

IX: THESES, PROJECTS AND COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATIONS

A. General

1. The academic and/or research adviser(s) will be responsible for supervising the candidate’s

preparation of the thesis, project or comprehensive evaluation.

2. All theses and written portions of culminating projects will be prepared in accordance with

the accepted preparation styles of the discipline in which the student is a candidate for a

graduate degree. This includes proper citation and attribution of all material that is not the

original product of the writer.

3. Candidates will comply with the requirements listed in Appendix B of this manual for the

Preparation of a Thesis/Field Project and shall secure written approval of their proposals

from the Dean of the appropriate school before formally starting work on the thesis. See

appropriate forms in the Appendix.

B. Theses and Culminating Project

1. Theses and culminating projects that are to be submitted in partial fulfillment of the

requirements for either dual bachelor’s/master’s degree, master’s degree or a C.A.G.S.

degree shall be prepared in accordance with the instructions described in the following

paragraphs.

2. The final proposal must be signed by the full committee and the Department Chair,

Program Director and approved by the office of the Dean of the appropriate school and the

Dean of Graduate Studies.

C. Thesis Committee

Each student enrolled in a master’s or C.A.G.S. degree program that requires a thesis must have

a committee.

1. This committee is chosen by consultation between the adviser and student. It consists of:

a. The adviser who serves as chair and who is from within the academic program.

b. The second member of the committee, who shall be in the same discipline and/or

department as the adviser, or from a closely related discipline or department.

c. The third member shall be from outside the department or program. Members from

different disciplines are encouraged. The third committee member may be from

another institution. Recommendations for members of the committee shall be

approved by the Department Chair, Program Director and the appropriate academic

Dean.

2. The thesis or thesis/project committee is responsible for planning and directing the work

required for the thesis/project. This includes ensuring that the final proposal has validity,

has obtained approval from research compliance committees, and can be accomplished

within the time and facilities available. The committee must also verify that the student is

prepared to do the required work at a satisfactory level.

3. The thesis committee is responsible for evaluating the orals/presentation and for

determining that the candidate has demonstrated sufficient command of the subject matter

to pass successfully. Unanimous approval of the committee is required for passing. The

committee must also specify any changes that must be made before the thesis/project can

be approved, and the date when those changes must be completed.

4. If the orals/presentation is unsatisfactory, the committee may recommend that a second

examination be given, subject to the approval of the office of the appropriate academic

Dean. If the second orals/presentation does not occur within a year of the first, no further

opportunity will be allowed unless exceptional circumstances justify that the Dean grants an

extension of time.

5. The final duty of the committee is to sign the approval form after making certain that all

necessary changes and corrections have been made. The chair of the committee is

responsible for verifying that the stipulated changes have been made and ensuring that the

signature of the Department Chair is affixed.

6. The signed form shall be submitted (and a copy of the thesis where appropriate) for

signatures to the Dean of the appropriate School and to the Dean of Graduate Studies.

7. A student may change his/her thesis/project adviser with the approval of the Department

Chair and the appropriate Dean. The Department Chair is responsible for notifying the

original adviser of the change and, where necessary, to determine the circumstances

requiring the change. A change in adviser will automatically dissolve the committee.

8. A change in the committee membership other than the adviser shall be made with the

approval of the student, the Adviser, the department chair and the office of the appropriate

Dean.

D. Thesis/Project Scheduling and Approval

1. In graduate programs requiring a thesis/culminating project, the adviser will arrange with

the student, the committee, and the Dean of the appropriate School for the submission of the

completed thesis or written project and the scheduling of the orals/presentation.

2. At least 10 working days before the proposed date for the orals/presentation, the candidate

shall submit unbound copies of the thesis to the adviser and members of the thesis

committee.

3. All copies submitted must be complete, including all data, tables, charts, maps,

photographs, appendices, etc., and full references, citations, and bibliographies as required

by accepted standards of academic integrity.

4. The office of the Dean of the appropriate school and the Dean of Graduate Studies shall be

notified 10 working days in advance of the orals/presentation and will ascertain that all

other degree requirements have been completed.

5. All thesis or project orals/presentations shall be open to all faculty and students at the

college. These examinations may be closed only in exceptional circumstances, as

determined by most of the examining committee.

6. The adviser is responsible for conducting the examination and providing for changes and

corrections to be made before it is given committee approval. A successful defense of the

thesis requires unanimous approval of the committee members. When a candidate’s

performance is unsatisfactory, one reexamination may be recommended, and the committee

will determine the conditions under which it is to be given.

7. Committee approval of each thesis/ project is indicated by signing the approval sheet. This

occurs when the chair has assured the committee members that the student has made the

changes and corrections as agreed upon by the examining committee.

8. Final approval of all theses and projects rests with the Dean of the appropriate school and

the Dean of Graduate Studies.

E. Comprehensive Evaluations

1. The comprehensive evaluation will typically follow completion of all course work required

for the degree with approval of the examining committee. Sufficient announcement should

be given of the dates for the evaluation. The time allowed for the comprehensive

evaluation will be determined by the program.

2. A candidate who fails the comprehensive examination may be permitted one reexamination

in the part or parts failed if this is recommended by the examining committee and Program

Director. Any special conditions that the candidate will be expected to fulfil prior to the

second examination must accompany the recommendations. The second comprehensive

examination may be taken only on the next regularly scheduled examination date.

Candidates may not take the comprehensive exam more than two times.

3. The chair of the examining committee reports the results of a particular examination to the

Program Director. The Program Director notifies the Department Chair, the Dean of the

appropriate School, the Dean of Graduate Studies and the Records Office in writing.

4. The academic department notifies the student in writing of the results of a written

examination within three weeks (exclusive of vacation periods) of the examination. With

oral examinations, the student shall be notified as soon as the examining committee

completes deliberations.

X: INDIVIDUALIZED GRADUATE PROGRAMS

A. General

Individualized Graduate Programs (IGP) provide graduate students with an opportunity to

design unique programs that satisfy particular needs for which no existing graduate program is

adequate. An IGP should not replace a standard degree or certificate program. These programs

may be oriented toward professional or unique scholarly pursuits. An IGP may constitute a

request for a concentration in a traditional academic area in which no program currently exists

but for which appropriate and sufficient graduate-level coursework does exist. In all cases, an

IGP is designed from appropriate and available graduate level coursework. Most IGP programs

are cross- disciplinary and draw on courses in several departments and across schools.

Individualized graduate programs are offered through the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, the

Feinstein School of Education and Human Development and the School of Business: I.M.A.,

I.M.Ed., I.M.S, and I.C.A.G.S. The first step in the pursuit of an IGP is to contact the

Dean of Graduate Studies ([email protected]) to discuss the feasibility of an IGP, the

program goals and the selection of an appropriate adviser.

B. Admissions

1. The following material is required for admission to an IGP program and must be submitted

to the Dean of Graduate Studies for review by the IGP Committee

a. Admission materials required for graduate programs in the School in which the IGP

will be completed. See Section II: Admissions

b. A written IGP proposal which includes:

i. An essay presenting the scholarly value, educational objectives and

feasibility of the proposed program, how each of the courses included in the

plan will fulfill these objectives, and the inability of any current graduate

program to do so.

ii. Title of the proposed program

iii. A Plan of Study which must include the signatures of the adviser, the

Chair(s) of the departments offering courses, the Deans of the appropriate

schools and the Dean of Graduate Studies.

iv. The deadline for IGP applications is March 1 for acceptance in the fall

semester and November 1 for acceptance in the spring semester.

2. The Individualized Graduate Programs committee is chaired by the Dean of Graduate

Studies. The committee consists of five faculty members, one from each of the five

schools. They must be faculty or program directors from graduate programs, and at least

two must be members from the graduate committee. Faculty members are appointed by the

Chair of the Graduate Committee in consultation with the Executive Committee of the

Graduate Committee and serve for one-year, renewable terms.

3. The adviser and the student will meet with the IGP committee. The committee is

responsible for assuring that the proposal contains a coherent plan of study with courses

clearly related to the future goals of the student and consistent with the mission of the

college. If a proposal is not approved, a statement of the reasons shall be sent to the student

and to the adviser(s) with suggestions for revisions. Once the proposal is approved, the

Chair of the IGP Committee will forward recommendations and approved Plans of Study

to the Dean of the appropriate school and will inform the candidates regarding acceptance

to candidacy.

C. Plan of Study

1. IGP Plans of Study may not replace a standard degree or certificate program.

2. The Plan of Study for the individualized graduate program is designed by the student, in

consultation with academic Advisers, subject to criteria established by the Individualized

Graduate Program Committee.

3. An IGP plan of study should consist of:

a. A minimum of 30 hours of coursework for an Individualized Master’s degree taken

for graduate credit. No more than 9 hours may be in 400-level courses.

b. The 30-hour coursework requirement may be satisfied by a combination of: (1) a

minimum of 24-hours of existing courses and seminars at the 400/500/600-level;

(2) directed study or readings at the 500/600-level (maximum of 6 semester hours).

4. An IGP plan of study may also include:

a. Graduate-level coursework transferred from other institutions (subject to the

limitations described in Section III: F).

b. 600-level credit for thesis or project/performance work (3-6 semester hours

maximum).

c. Internships (6 semester hours maximum).

5. An ICAGS degree is only available for students in the joint RIC/URI Ph.D. program who

are applying for a terminal ICAGS.

6. All IGP programs require the completion of a capstone experience such as a master's

thesis, project or performance. Students in the joint RIC/URI Ph.D. program who are

applying for a terminal ICAGS may request substitution of the doctoral programs written

comprehensive examination plus its successful oral defense. See Section IX for regulations

concerning the completion of the project or confer with the Adviser in the case of the fine or

performing arts.

XI: COLLABORATIVE PROGRAMS

A. Rhode Island College/Saint Joseph Hospital School of Nurse Anesthesia, Nurse Anesthesia

option Rhode Island College and the Saint Joseph Hospital School of Nurse Anesthesia

(SJHSNA) offer a joint Nurse Anesthesia option in the Master of Science Nursing (M.S.N.)

Program. All courses, credits, instructors and degrees are granted under the auspices of Rhode

Island College with the clinical instruction delivered in partnership with St. Joseph Hospital

School of Nurse Anesthesia. For further information, see the Rhode Island College Catalog or

contact the School of Nursing.

B. Rhode Island College/University of Rhode Island Doctoral Program Rhode Island College

collaborates with the University of Rhode Island in providing a program leading to the degree

of Doctor of Philosophy in Education. For further information refer to the Doctoral Program’s

website or confer with the RIC Co-Director of the Doctoral program.

XII. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

A. Policy

1. The purpose of a grievance procedure is to secure, at the lowest level possible, an equitable

solution to the dispute that a student may have with an academic unit, an instructor or

multiple faculty members.

2. The filing of an academic grievance does not stay any action under college policy. If a

student’s grievance is regarding a grade(s) that has caused probationary status or dismissal

from the college, the probation or dismissal will become effective upon notification,

despite the filing of the grievance. Program directors/department chairs will advise students

of grievance procedures. The Master of Social Work Program has a separate procedure.

B. Procedures

1. Policies and procedures for handling complaints and grievances, described in detail in the

College’s Manual of Academic Policies & Procedures are applicable to graduate students

except for the academic standing committee.

2. Policies and procedures concerning issues of academic honesty are also described in the

Manual of Academic Policies and Procedures. Policies and procedures concerning issues

of sexual harassment are described on the Title IX page.

XIII: ASSISTANTSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AID

A. Graduate and Teaching Assistantships

1. Graduate Assistantships are limited to accepted degree candidates who are enrolled full

time in their plan of study. This includes international students in the F-1 or J-1 visa

categories. Students in the joint RIC-URI doctoral program, a joint program of the two

institutions, are eligible for an assistantship at Rhode Island College. Awards are based on

academic achievement, proficiency in the field and fit with program needs. Assistantships

can be revoked if students earn grades below a B. Appointments are for one year and are

subject to satisfactory performance. Students in a bachelor’s/master’s early admission track

are not eligible for assistantships until they have gained final acceptance into the graduate

program. Appointments may be renewed, and students must reapply each year.

2. Students holding appointments as Graduate Assistants will be considered as having full-

time status with a minimum of six credits each semester. Graduate Assistants may not

Academic Dean. (Students without a Graduate Assistantship must register for at least nine

credits during a regular semester or at least six credits during a summer term to qualify for

full-time status.)

3. In the semester that a Graduate Assistant is completing a thesis or final project, an

exception may be approved for the candidate to enroll in a regularly scheduled course

outside the plan of study with approval of adviser, Program Director and the appropriate

Dean.

4. Assistantships may involve such activities as preparation for and supervision of laboratory

sections, assistance with classroom instruction, assistance in student support services,

research, and data collection. The student may be required to devote a maximum of 20

hours a week to such work, not more than 10 hours of which may be in classroom contact

hours, during the regular semester. Work hours may include evening hours: students must

confer with their supervisors about the expected hours. The acceptance of an assistantship

assumes full-time commitment to academic activities.

5. Graduate assistants are encouraged to apply for work study funds that may supplement a

graduate assistantship. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student

Aid (FAFSA) online before May 1 of each academic year. Those who have been granted

federal work study funds may access those funds only during academic breaks (fall,

spring). In all cases, 20 hours per week is the maximum number of work hours a graduate

student can complete.

6. Graduate Assistants receive a stipend and tuition waiver (either full or half depending upon

the assistantships) for courses at Rhode Island College only for the academic year and one

summer session immediately preceding or following the assistantship. Further details on

stipend and tuition waiver are available at Graduate Assistant Opportunities.

7. Assistantship positions, along with deadlines for applications, are posted in the spring on the

graduate studies website. Student notification will typically be made by July.

B. Graduate Traineeships

The School of Social Work and the Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities offer graduate

traineeships. The School of Social Work graduate traineeships are available to accepted

M.S.W. degree candidates who are enrolled full-time in the program. Graduate trainees in the

School of Social Work are refunded tuition for the academic year and are required to fulfil ten

hours per week on assignments within the School of Social Work. Interested candidates who

are accepted into the M.S.W. program should contact the dean’s assistant at the School of

Social Work.

The Sherlock Center interdisciplinary graduate traineeships are open to accepted graduate

students who have a life commitment to people with disabilities. Graduate traineeships receive

refunded tuition for the academic year or a stipend. They are required to fulfill 10 hours per

week of field work and research activity connected to disability and Sherlock Center initiatives.

C. Graduate Scholarships

1. Scholarship assistance is available through the Elizabeth S. Carr Trust Fund for students in

the elementary/early childhood education programs and through the Rhode Island College

Alumni Association. The Harrower Family Award is available through the Department of

English and the Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. The Naylor Family Scholarship

is available through the Department of Psychology and the Dean of the Faculty of Arts and

Sciences. Specific information on these and other scholarships is available from the Office

of Student Financial Aid and, for alumni scholarships, the Office of Alumni Affairs.

2. The School of Social work offers graduate student scholarships through the Rhode Island

College Foundation to students who meet specific criteria. These include the Gladys

Corvera-Baker scholarship for Hispanic students who demonstrate academic excellence,

the Juanita Handy Scholarship, awarded to a second-year minority and/or female student,

and the Mary C. Davey Scholarship, awarded to a student who is interested in child

welfare. The School also offers scholarships to full-time MSW students in their field

placements. These $2,000 scholarships match federal work-study funds to obtain paid field

placements in nonprofit agencies and organizations. To be eligible for these scholarships,

students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online

before May 1 of each academic year. Please contact Eileen Ryan (eryan@ric.edu, or 401-

456-8864) with questions about scholarship assistance.

D. New England Regional Student Program

1. Rhode Island College participates in the Regional Student Program (RSP) administered by

the New England Board of Higher Education (NEBHE). Through this program, New

England residents who live outside of Rhode Island may enroll in specified curricula at

Rhode Island College for in-state tuition fees plus 50 percent. The program of study must

be one not offered at an institution in the student's home state, or Rhode Island College

must be closer in traveling time to the student's legal residence than is an institution

offering an approved RSP program in the home state.

2. Students must remain in the program for which they applied or may transfer only into

another NEBHE program. Otherwise, they will be charged out-of-state tuition fees as of the

date of transfer. Each semester, they must also request a tuition waiver from the Records

Office.

3. Those entering Rhode Island College through the NEBHE program must meet all the

standards required for admission to the collective Schools of Graduate Studies.

4. Additional information can be obtained from each respective School or the New England

Board of Higher Education, 45 Temple Place, Boston, MA. 02111.

E. Northeast Neighbors Policy

1. Rhode Island College students whose permanent place of residence is Connecticut, Maine,

Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont and Long Island and New York City Metro Area

are eligible for a special tuition discount at Rhode Island College of the in-state tuition rate

plus 50%. The Northeast Neighbors Policy includes both full-time and part-time students,

undergraduate and graduate students and degree and non-degree students.

2. Forms for verification of residence for this purpose are available in the Records Office and

must be submitted for approval prior to the close of registration.

3. The Office of the Bursar provides a breakdown of tuition and fees.

F. Financial Aid

1. To be eligible for need-based financial aid, a student must be a U.S. citizen or permanent

resident accepted into a graduate degree or certificate program and enrolled at least half-

time (4.5 credits per semester). The need-based student aid programs available at the

college include the Federal Direct Loan and Federal Work-Study.

2. In order to apply for financial aid, graduate students must complete the Free Application

for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Priority for funds administered by Rhode Island College

will be given to applications received at the federal processing center by May 15 prior to

the following academic year. The FAFSA may be completed online.

3. Eligibility for a subsidized Federal Direct Loan is based on financial need as determined by

the Office of Student Financial Aid using information from the FAFSA. Students who

cannot demonstrate need may be eligible for an unsubsidized Federal Direct Loan.

Unsubsidized federal direct loans accrue interest during the in-school and grace periods.

Contact the Financial Aid Office for more information.

4. Federal Work-Study is a part-time employment program based on financial need as

determined by the Office of Student Financial Aid using information from the FAFSA. The

Career Development Center assists work study students with job placement on or off

campus.

5. In addition to the process outlined above, students who wish to apply for financial

assistance for summer sessions must submit a Rhode Island College Application for

Financial Aid – Summer. This form is available from the Office of Student Financial Aid

on or around February 1 each year. Summer session aid is contingent on availability of

funds and Federal Work-Study. Preference is given to applicants who file the FAFSA by

March 1 and the summer application by March 1.

G. Unemployment Waiver

Rhode Island residents receiving unemployment benefits are eligible for waiver of tuition and

registration fees. Admission into particular courses (for which all academic prerequisites have

been fulfilled) will be granted on the last day of registration, upon a space available basis.

Applicant is subject to a means test.

H. Senior Citizens’ Tuition Waiver

Any Rhode Island senior citizen who submits evidence of being at least 60 years of age will be

allowed to take graduate courses with tuition waived. Admission into particular courses (for

which all academic prerequisites have been fulfilled) will be granted on the last day of

registration, upon a space available basis. All other costs of attendance are to be borne by the

student. Applicant is subject to a means test.

[1]

The Individualized Graduate Program Committee is a subcommittee of the Graduate Committee of Rhode

Island College.