Page Content

Frequently Asked Questions

• Advising
• AP and IB Credit
• Catalog and Class Schedule
• Dropping Classes
• ELM/EPT
• English 20
• Foreign Language Requirement
• First Year Students
• General Education
• Grades
• Graduating
• Honors
• Overlapping Requirements
• Probation, Disqualification, Dismissal
• Repeating Courses
• Transfer Students
• Unit Requirements
• Withdrawing
• WPJ

 

Advising

Who is my advisor?

A major advisor is a faculty member in the major department who answers questions pertaining to the requirements within the major.

A general education advisor is an academic advisor in the Academic Advising and Career Center (Lassen Hall 1013) who answers any questions related to general education, graduation requirements, grading policies, etc. The Academic Advising and Career Center does not advise on major requirements.

There are also designated advisors for students in specialized programs such as EOP, CAMP, MEP, and Intercollegiate Athletics.

How often should I see an advisor?

First year students are required to see an advisor each semester during the first year. All other students are highly recommended to meet with a general education advisor and major advisor at least once each semester.

What should I talk about with a GE advisor?

Below are examples of questions asked of the academic advisors:

• Which GE courses should I be taking now?
• How do I complete the foreign language requirement?
• How do I file a petition to graduate?
• Should I repeat this course?
• What does it mean to be on Academic Probation?

What should I talk about with my major advisors?

A major advisor can help with short and long range planning:

• Which courses should I take next in my major?
• Is this a good major for me?
• What jobs are available with this major?
• What about graduate school?
• Will you check and sign my graduation application?

How can I find out which courses at California community colleges match my major courses at Sac State?

Go to www.assist.org and follow the instructions to get a list of equivalent courses.

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AP and IB Credit

How do my AP test scores count?

You receive 6 units of credit for each AP score of 3, 4, or 5. These units may apply to GE and/or elective units as shown in the chart below.

Use of AP Credit

AP Exam	GE Area, Units	Elec. Units	Course Equivalents
Art History	C2, 3 Units	3	None
Art Studio	None	6	None
Biology, score of 3	B2, 3 Units	3	None
Biology, score of 4 or 5	B2 & B3, 3 units; B5, 3 Units	0	BIO 10
Calculus AB*	B4, 4 units	2	MATH 30, with score of 4 or 5
Calculus BC*	B4 & B5, 3 units each	0	MATH 30 & 31
Chemistry	B1 & B3, 6 units	0	None
Chinese	C3 & C4, 3 units each	0	CHIN 2A
Computer Science A*	None	6	CSC 15
Computer Science AB*	None	6	CSC 15 & 20
Economics - Macro	D1a, 3 units	3	ECON 1A
Economics - Micro	D1a, 3 units	3	ECON 1B
English Language	A2, 3 units	3	ENGL 1A
English Literature	A2 & C3, 3 units each	0	ENGL 1A
Environmental Science	None	6	None
French Lang, score of 3	C3 & C4, 3 units each	0	FREN 2A & Foreign Language requirement met
French Lang, score of 4	C3 & C4, 3 units each	0	FREN 2B & Foreign Language requirement met
French Lang, score of 5	C3 & C4, 3 units each	0	FREN 101 & Foreign Language requirement met
French Lit, score of 4 or 5	C3 & C4, 3 units each	0	FREN 110 & Foreign Language requirement met
Geography - Human	D1a, 3 units	3	GEOG 2
German, score of 3	C3 & C4, 3 units each	0	GERM 2A & Foreign Language requirement met
German, score of 4	C3 & C4, 3 units each	0	GERM 2B & Foreign Language requirement met
German, score of 5	C3 & C4, 3 units each	0	GERM 100 & Foreign Language requirement met
Government - US	D3, 3 units	3	None
Government - Comparative	D1a, 3 units	3	None
History - US	D3, 3 units	3	HIST 17A & B
History - European	D1a or C1, 3 units	3	HIST 4 & 5
History - World	C1, 3 units	3	HIST 51
Italian	C3 & C4, 3 units each	0	ITAL 2A
Japanese	C3 & C4, 3 units	0	JAPN 2A
Latin - Vergil	C3, 3 units	3	LATN 2 & Foreign Language requirement met
Latin - Literature	C3, 3 units	3	LATN 2 & Foreign Language requirement met
Music Listening & Lit.	None	6	None
Music Theory	C2, 3 units	3	MUSC 6
Physics B**	B1 & B3, 3 units each	0	None
Physics C**	B1 & B3, 3 units each	0	None
Psychology, score of 3, 4, or 5	D1a, 3 units	3	PSYC 2
Spanish Language, score of 3	C3 & C4, 3 units each	0	SPAN 2A & Foreign Language requirement met
Spanish Language, score of 4	C3 & C4, 3 units each	0	SPAN 2B & Foreign Language requirement met
Spanish Language, score of 5	C3 & C4, 3 units each	0	SPAN 42, 47 & Foreign Language requirement met
Spanish Literature	C3 & C4, 3 units each	0	None
Statistics	B4, 3 units	3	STAT 1

*If a student passes more than one AP exam in calculus or computer science, only one examination may be applied to the baccalaureate.

**If a student passes more than one AP exam in physics, only six units of credit may be applied to the baccalaureate, and only four units of credit may be applied to a certification in GE Breadth.

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How do I get AP credit into my Sac State record?

Contact the College Board at Phone: (212) 713-8000 or http://www.collegeboard.com/splash and ask them to send the report of your AP scores to the The Office of the University Registrar.

How do my IB courses count?

Scores of 4, 5, 6, or 7 on Higher Level International Baccalaureate (IB) courses in high school will be awarded credit as shown below. No credit is given for Standard Level IB courses.

Use of International Baccalaureate Credit

IB Course	GE Area, Units	Elec	Course Equivalents
Biology	B2 & B3, 3 units	4	BIO 10 & 31
Chemistry	B1, B3, & B5, 8 units	0	None
Economics	D1a, 3 units	3	ECON 1A & 1B
History: Americas	C1 & D3, 3 units each	None	HIST 51 and HIST 17B
Language A1 - English	A2, C3	3	ENGL 1A
Language B - French, score of 4	None	4	FREN 2A & Foreign Language requirement met
Language B - French, score of 5-7	None	4	FREN 2B & Foreign Language requirement met
Language B - English	Not accepted for credit
Language B - Spanish, score of 4	None	4	SPAN 2A & Foreign Language requirement met
Language B - Spanish, score of 5	None	4	SPAN 2B & Foreign Language requirement met
Language B - Spanish, score of 6-7	None	4	SPAN 42, 47 & Foreign Language requirement met
Math	B4 & B5, 3 units each	0	MATH 24 & STAT 1
Psychology	D1a, 3 units	0

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How do I get IB credit into my CSUS record?

Contact International Baccalaureate Organization at Phone: (212) 696-4464 or http://www.ibo.org and ask them to send a transcript to the The Office of the University Registrar, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95819-6048.

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Catalog and Class Schedule

Where do I get the Class Schedule?

The class schedule is available online through "My Sac State." Information on registration, fees, GE, academic requirements, and advising is included in the Student Registration and Advising Guide, available online.

How do I get a Sacramento State Catalog?

The catalog is available online at catalog.csus.edu.

What are "catalog rights" and how are they determined?

Undergraduate students maintaining "attendance" in any combination of California community colleges and campuses of the California State University system receive "catalog rights" which determine their graduation requirements. Students may choose the requirements in effect at (1) the year they began their study at a California community college or CSU campus (after high school graduation), (2) the year they entered Sac State, or (3) the year they graduate from Sac State.

"Attendance" has been defined as enrollment in at least one semester or two quarters in each calendar year.

Once catalog rights are established, absence related to attendance at another accredited institution of higher learning is not considered an interruption, providing the absence does not exceed two years.

Can I choose a different catalog for my major than for GE?

Yes, every student has two catalogs: GE catalog and major catalog. While the GE catalog is determined by the earliest enrollment and continued attendance (defined above), the major catalog is often assigned as the term of admission to Sac State. For the major, students may choose to follow any of the catalogs listed: GE catalog, admissions catalog, or your catalog of graduation.

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Dropping Classes

Will I be dropped from a class if I stop attending?

No. It is the student's responsibility to drop. Student who fail to officially drop a class may receive an "F" or "WU" grade - both of which carry zero grade points and will lower the GPA. See Grades FAQ for more information on WU grades.

How do I drop a class?

• First 2 weeks. Drop by logging on to My Sac State until the drop deadline, the second week of classes. Approval is only needed for those courses that indicate "Instructor/Department Consent required."
• Weeks 3-6. During this period students must describe the seriousness of the circumstances that necessitate dropping and get the approval of the instructor and department chair on a Drop Petition. Most departments require verifying documents, like a letter from a doctor or supervisor. In weeks 3 & 4, drop forms are turned in to the department office and no grade is given. In weeks 5 & 6 forms are turned in to the Office of the University Registrar, via the Student Services Center, Lassen Hall lobby, and W grades are assigned.
• Week 7 through the last day of classes. It is more difficult to drop classes after the sixth week. The drop petition requires signatures from the instructor, the department chair, and the dean of the college which offers the class. Students are required to have a letter from a doctor or supervisor stating that a medical or work-related problem makes it necessary to drop the class. Turn in forms to the Student Services Center, Lassen Hall lobby; a W grade is assigned.
• Finals Week. No drops allowed.

How is dropping a class different from withdrawing?

Individual classes are dropped. Withdrawals involve the removal of all classes from a given semester. See Withdrawing FAQ.

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ELM/EPT Requirements

Why must I take the ELM and/or EPT exams?

Entering first year students must take the Entry Level Math Exam (ELM) and English Placement Test (EPT) unless they are exempt because of SAT scores, AP scores, or college courses. This policy is strictly enforced - if students don't take these required tests they will not be allowed to register for any classes at Sac State. Students should take these tests at least two months before New Student Orientation. Depending on the ELM/EPT score, students may be required to enroll in the preparatory course(s) that corresponds with the score.

May I retake either test (ELM or EPT)?

Students may retake the ELM, but not the EPT. Students must enroll in - and attend - the courses determined by the EPT/ELM score. Students who retake the ELM and pass it may drop the preparatory math course.

What happens if I don't register for my required preparatory class?

Students who do not register for the preparatory course will not be able to continue at Sac State unless all preparatory classes are completed in the first academic year.

How do I know which preparatory course to take?

Check the chart below to see which English and/or math course you must take. Multilingual students will also have an English Diagnostic Test (EDT) score that determines placement in a multilingual version of the English courses. Check the chart for multilingual students.

English Placement Test Score and Courses - Not Multilingual

EPT Score	Required Course
120-141	ENGL 15 followed by ENGL 1
142-145	ENGL 1
146	ENGL 1A with ENGL 1X
147 and above	ENGL 1A must be passed in the first or second semester with a "C-" or better

 

English Placement Test Scores and Courses - Multilingual

EPT Score	Required Course
120-141, EDT=3	ENGL 86 followed by ENGL 87
142-145, EDT=4	ENGL 87
146, EDT=5	ENGL 2 with ENGL 2X
147 and above, EDT=5	ENGL 2 must be passed in the first or second semester with a "C-" or better

 

Entry Level Math Exam Scores and Courses

ELM Score	Required Course
34 or below	LS 7A followed by LS 7B
36-42	LS 10A
44-48	LS 10A Elementary Algebra with Geometry OR Math 9 with LS 10X Essentials of Algebra and Trigonometry, with accompanying tutorial; recommended for all science majors and engineering majors, as well as Business Administration, Liberal Studies, and Child Development Major B
50 & above	Appropriate GE math course (consult advisor)

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Am I restricted to certain courses until I complete my preparatory English courses?

Students enrolled in preparatory English courses should avoid taking courses that require comprehensive writing assignments or essay exams until the preparatory courses have been completed. It is recommended that students enrolled in preparatory English take only courses from the lists below:

Courses Recommended for Students Placed in ENGL 15 or ENGL 86 (EPT=120-141)

Course	Title	GE Area
ART 70	Form, Space, and Vision	C4
CHDV 35	Child and Adolescent Development	E
COMS 4	Introduction to Public Speaking	A1
COMS 5	The Communication Experience	A1
CRJ 1	Intro to Criminal Justice and Society	D2
CSC 1	Intro to Computer Science	B5
CSC 10	Intro to Programming Logic	B5
ENGR 1	Intro to Engineering	Not GE
ETHN 11	Intro to Ethnic Studies	D1a
ETHN 14	Intro to Asian American Studies	D1a
ETHN 30	Intro to Chicano/Latino Studies	D2
ETHN 53	Intro to Native American Studies	D1a
ETHN 70	Intro to Pan African Studies	D2
FACS 11	Principles of Food Preparation	Not GE
FACS 31	Textiles	Not GE
First Year Seminars (All)	First Year Seminar	E
HLSC 50	Healthy Lifestyles	E
KINS 99	Exercise for Health Living	E
MUSC 8	Basic Music	C2
PHYS 1	Physical Reasoning and Calculation	Not GE
SOC 1	Principles of Sociology	D1a
SOC 3	Social Problems	D2
THEA 9	Appreciation of Acting	C2

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Courses Recommended for Students Placed in ENGL 1 or ENGL 87 (EPT=142-145)
In addition to the courses listed above

Course	Title	GE Area
ANTH 2	Introduction to Cultural Anthropology	D1a
ANTH 13	Magic, Witchcraft, & Religion	C3
ART 20A	Beginning Drawing	C2
ART 22	Beginning Painting	C4
ART 24	Beginning Watercolor	C4
ART 40E	Basic Printmaking: Silkscreen	Not GE
ART 50	Beginning Ceramics	Not GE
ART 74	Beginning Jewelry Design	C4
First Year Seminars (All)		E
ETHN 50	Native American Religion and Philosophy	Not GE
FACS 52	The Child in the Family	E
HRS 10	Arts and Ideas of the West I	C3
HRS 11	Arts and Ideas of the West II	C3
INTD 20	Design	C2
MUSC 18	Music Appreciation	C2
NURS 10	Health Care: Issues and Delivery Systems	D2
PSYC 2	Introductory Psychology	D1a
PSYC 49	Scientific Thinking in Psychology	Not GE
SOC 10	Issues in Crime and Social Control	D2
THEA 1	Introduction to Theatre	C2

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Do I have to stay enrolled in my LS class?

Yes, you must attend the class and do the work. If you fail to attend and ignore the warnings from the instructor, you will not be allowed to continue taking classes at Sacramento State.

What if I don't pass one of my required preparatory classes?

Failure to pass all required preparatory courses within the first year will result in disqualification from Sacramento State. Students will not be able to return to Sac State until they pass the required GE math and/or English courses at the community college. If students fail the first course of a required two-course sequence they may attend the next semester and repeat the failed course. See an advisor in the Academic Advising and Career Center, Lassen Hall 1013, for more information.

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English 20 Requirement

What is the English 20 requirement?

Every student is required to take a second semester English composition course which has English 1A as a prerequisite. Sac State offers two courses to meet this requirement:

• ENGL 20, College Composition II
• ENGL 20M, College Composition II - Multilingual

You may want to check the list of English 20 equivalent courses from other schools.

When should I take English 20?

English 20 should be taken during the sophomore year. Students must complete 30 semester units before enrolling in English 20.

Does English 20 also meet the Critical Thinking requirement?

No, English 20 does not satisfy the Critical Thinking requirement (GE Area A3).

Can I meet the English 20 requirement with a D grade?

No, a minimum "C-" grade is required in English 20.

I received a D (or F) grade in English 20 - can I repeat it at a community college?

No, English 20 cannot be repeated at a community college.

I'm an English major - do I have to take English 20?

No, English majors are not required to take English 20. The English 20 requirement will be met in the major.

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Foreign Language Requirement

Can the Foreign Language requirement be met with courses from high school?

Yes, 3 years of one language or completion of the 3rd year equivalent of one language with a "C-" grade or better satisfies the foreign language requirement. Send official transcripts to the Office of the University Registrar.

How does the "second-semester course in college" option work?

Students can take a two semester sequence of a language or first-year students may choose to take the second semester of the language they took in high school. Second-semester language courses are available in the My Sac State online schedule.

I took 2 years of one language and one year of another in high school . . .

Unfortunately, this combination does not fulfill the requirement. Consider taking a second-semester foreign language course.

I took 2 years of Spanish and 2 years of French in high school . . .

Yes, 2 years of one language and 2 years of another will fulfill the requirement, as long as students earn at least "C-" grades in the second year of both languages.

Do I have to take a placement test to get into language courses?

To determine the best course placement for you, consider taking the easily accessible online Language Placement Tests . Tests are available for Spanish and French courses. Placement exams are given in the first class in all language courses above 1A.

Who should take Spanish 1C?

Spanish 1C, Intensive Beginning Spanish, is intended for students who had two years of Spanish in high school or two semesters in college, and need a complete review. Like SPAN 1B, SPAN 1C is considered a second-semester course.

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Does American Sign Language (ASL) count?

Yes, ASL courses may be used to meet the foreign language requirement. ASL courses Sac State offers are listed as EDS 51 and 52.

What are the grade requirements for the foreign language requirement?

A minimum "C-" grade is required in the course used to fulfill the foreign language requirement.

Can I take a language test instead of a class?

Yes, Sacramento state offers proficiency tests in Cantonese, French, German, and Spanish. To be tested in a language other than the ones listed, go to the Foreign Language Department, Mariposa Hall 2051, (916) 278-6333, or the online Language Placement Tests to find a referral for testing in that language.

I'm already fluent in another language...

For students who are proficient in a language other than English, please go to the Foreign Language Department in Mariposal Hall 2051 to discuss options. Students who attended a high school where the language of instruction was not English may provide a transcript from that high school to the Student Service Counter, Lassen Hall lobby.

Can I receive credit for taking the same language courses at Sac State that I took in high school?

Yes.

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First Year Students

Where can I find out which English and math course I should take?

English and math placement is determined by ELM/EPT scores. Please see the ELM/EPT Requirements FAQ for course options.

Should I take a First Year Seminar class?

Yes. The First Year seminar course helps students learn how the University works, get to know other first year students, be a better student, and it fulfills the GE Area E requirement.

What about Learning Communities?

Learning Communities group 25 first year students together for 2 or 3 classes. Some Learning Communities include a First Year Seminar.

How can I apply for the Honors Program?

Contact the Honors Program.

How do I get on the Dean's Honor List ?

First year students need a 3.0 GPA; sophomores, juniors and seniors need a 3.25 GPA. Students must complete at least 12 units of graded credit in a semester to be eligible for the Dean's Honor List.

Should I finish my GE requirements before taking courses for my major?

Students who have a declared major should take some courses from that major along with GE courses. Undeclared students can focus on GE while exploring major options.

How does advising work?

Students are required to see an advisor each semester during their first year. First year students will see an advisor in the Academic Advising and Career Center, Lassen 1013, unless their major requires departmental advising. Students will be notified via email or My Sac State to make an appointment via email or My Sac State when it is time to schedule the first year advising appointment.

When do I become a sophomore?

Sophomore standing occurs after successfully completing 30 semester units. This may take longer than 2 semesters for students who have to take preparatory English and/or math courses.

Is it possible to graduate in 4 years?

Students who wish to graduate in 4 years need to take 15 units per semester. This takes persistence, planning and financial support. Consult with a major advisor and/or an advisor in the Academic Advising and Career Center for help in setting up a plan.

I have a job - how many classes should I take?

Working too many hours and taking too many classes is the most common reason students are on probation. Below are listed recommendations for balancing work and school:

• Working less than 15 hours per week >> OK to take 5 classes
• Working up to 24 hours per week >> Limit to 4 classes
• Working up to 30 hours per week >> Limit to 3 classes
• Working up to 40 hours per week >> Limit to 2 classes

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General Education

What are the General Education (GE) requirements?

• Complete 51 units in 5 areas of GE, A-E.
• The 51 GE units must include at least 9 units of upper division GE courses. At Sac State upper division are courses numbered 100-199. (Community college courses are all lower division, regardless of the course number.)
• 9 units in GE must be taken in residence at Sacramento State.
• Every student must take one Race and Ethnicity course.
• Every student must take one Writing Intensive course.

You may want to read more about the specific requirements of the General Education Policies in the Student Registration and Advising Guide. Please fill out the GE Worksheet to keep track of your progress.

When should I take my 3 required upper division GE courses?

You're eligible to begin taking upper division GE courses when you've completed 45 units.

Do I take my GE courses in any particular order?

Yes, some sequence is required. What follows is recommended:

Highly Recommended:

• Complete Area A (Oral Communication, Composition, and Critical Thinking) and Area B4 (Quantitative Reasoning) as early as possible.
• Undeclared students should concentrate early on GE courses. GE courses allow students to explore major options.

Required:

• You must complete 30 units before taking English 20.
• You must pass the WPJ, complete ENGL 109M or ENGL 109W, before you can take a Writing Intensive course.

Why must I take GE courses?

There are many benefits of General Education courses:

• GE courses introduce students to areas of interest and may influence major and/or career choice.
• GE improves writing, speaking, and critical thinking skills.
• GE courses provide knowledge and breadth which are also valued by employers.
• The GE program helps students better understand and relate to the diverse individuals and groups.

How do I keep track of my progress in GE?

The Degree Progress Report is available on My Sac State for students as soon as they register. The Degree Progress Report provides students with an electronic version of their general education and major requirements. Students can go to the Academic Advising and Career Center, Lassen Hall 1013, if they have questions about GE and their Degree Progress Report.

Are there any common mistakes in GE?

There are several common mistakes to avoid:

• Don't take only GE courses - mix GE with major courses.
• There are no upper division courses at community colleges.
• Don't assume any course is approved for GE – check the list of approved GE classes online.

Can I get D grades in GE courses?

It depends on the GE area. "D" or even "D-" grades are not allowed in the following GE areas:

• Area A1 - Oral Communication
• Area A2 - Written Communication
• Area A3 - Critical Thinking
• Area B4 - Quantitative Reasoning

Keep in mind - a 2.0 GPA is required in GE.

I completed my GE at XYZ College, so I'm done, right?

No. Every student who transfers to Sac State must take 9 units of GE at Sac State. The 9 units should be upper division and include a Race and Ethnicity in American Society course and a Writing Intensive course. For help, see an advisor in the Academic Advising and Career Center, Lassen 1013.

I have an "IGETC" certification from my community college . . .

An IGETC or "Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum" certification exempts students from additional lower division GE requirements. An IGETC certification also exempts students from the English 20 requirement. Students must have an IGETC certification sent from their community college. IGETC certified students are still responsible for:

• 9 units upper division GE
• a Writing Intensive course
• a Race and Ethnicity in American Society course
• History and Government requirements
• Foreign Language requirement

Is GE different for any majors?

The Liberal Studies major incorporates all GE requirements in the major. Engineering majors are exempt from some of the area requirements – talk with an advisor in the Academic Advising and Career Center, Lassen Hall 1013 and check the Engineering GE Worksheet to learn more.

Does US History count for Race and Ethnicity in American Society?

History 17A or 17B taken at Sac State or Sierra College meets the Race and Ethnicity Requirement because these courses cover the experiences of at least two under-represented groups in American history. Check the list of approved Race and Ethnicity courses to see if a history course from your California Community College meets this requirement.

Can a course I take for the foreign language requirement also apply to GE?

Yes, French 1B and 2A at Sac State. Some foreign langauge courses at California community colleges also meet GE requirements.

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Grades

How do I calculate my GPA?

Students can look up their GPA on My Sac State. A GPA is calculated by dividing your QHRS (Quality hours or hours attempted) into your QPTS (quality or grade points). In other words, divide the number of units taken into the grade points earned. The number of grade points received for each unit taken is based on the grade earned.

• A=4.0, A-=3.7
• B+=3.3, B=3.0, B-=2.7
• C+=2.3, C=2.0, C-=1.7
• D+=1.3, D=1.0, D-=0.7
• F=0

For help calculating your GPA, try the GPA Calculator.

What should I do about an "I" grade?

An "I" grade is assigned when a student has completed most of the requirements for a course. Students should make a written agreement with the instructor stating what is required to complete the course and finish the work in the time specified.

What happens to "I" grades?

"I" grades lapse to "IC" grades after one year if they are not completed. "IC" grades calculate as "F" grades in the GPA.

What should I do if I receive a WU grade?

"WU" grades are unofficial withdrawals. "WU" grades are calculated as "F" grades in the GPA. A student may file a "WU" deletion petition the first time "WU" grades are received.

Is there a deadline for a WU deletion petition?

No.

Are D grades acceptable in my major courses?

Check with a major department advisor regarding minimum grade requirements.

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Can I take courses Credit/No Credit?

Any course may be taken CR/NC option. However, courses taken CR/NC may NOT be used for GE, graduation, and/or major/minor requirements. Courses taken for CR/NC option may ONLY be used for elective credit. CR/NC petitions must be submitted before the end of the fourth week of classes. If you earn a "C-" or above in the course, you will receive a CR grade; lower than a "C-" will result in NC. CR and NC grades do not affect your GPA.

Can I "audit" a course?

Auditors do not receive any credit for their work. Students must have the instructor's permission to add the course as an auditor.

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Graduating

What requirements are necessary to graduate?

Graduation requirements are:

• 120 units are required for the BA/BS degree
• General Education (51 units)
• Major (units vary - widely!)
• College Composition II requirement (English 20)
• Foreign language requirement
• Race and Ethnicity in American Society requirement
• Writing Placement for Juniors (WPJ) or ENGL 109M or ENGL 109W
• Writing Intensive
• Upper division unit requirement (40 units)
• Residence requirement (30 units)

Semester of Graduation and Application Deadlines

• Fall - November 1 of the previous year
• Spring or Summer - May 1 of the previous year

How do I apply to graduate?

Refer to the Graduation Information for information on filing the graduation application.

Locations of Graduation Applications

Major	Pick up Graduation In
Business Administration	Tahoe 1030 or click here to connect online.
Child Development	BRH 137
Civil Engineering	Riverside 4024
Computer Engineering	Riverside 3018
Computer Science	Riverside 3018 or click here to connect online.
Construction Management	Riverside 4024
Criminal Justice	Alpine 137
Electrical & Electronic Engr.	Riverside 3018
Gerontology	El Dorado 1030
Liberal Studies	Lassen 2008 or click here to connect online.
Mechanical Engineering	Riverside 4024
Mechanical Engineering Tech.	Riverside 4024
Music	Capistrano 107 or click here to connect online.
Nursing	El Dorado 1016 or click here to connect online.
All Other Majors	Click here to connect online.

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What if I need help applying to graduate?

The instructions are available online here. For more help:

• Questions about the major, see a major department advisor.
• Questions regarding GE or general requirements - visit the Academic Advising and Career Center, Lassen Hall 1013.

If I miss the deadline can I still graduate?

Any student may participate in the commencement ceremony. A student does not officially graduate until all requirements have been successfully completed.

What if I don't complete all my requirements as planned?

Any changes to the major graduation application must be processed through the Degree Evaluations Office. If coursework cannot be completed by the semester of graduation, the student should submit a request to change their date of graduation. Bachelor's Degree Date Change forms are available online on the Office of the University Registrar's website.

I have one more course to take - can I still graduate?

Students often confuse graduating with the commencement ceremony. Any student may participate in commencement; however, a student does not actually graduate until all your requirements are complete. You will have to change your date of graduation.

When do I get my diploma?

Diplomas are usually mailed two months after graduation.

What will be on my diploma?

An example of the diploma is listed below. Minors are not listed on the diploma.

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Probation, Disqualification, Dismissal

What are the differences between my 3 GPAs?

There are 3 GPAs:

• The Current GPA is based on the grades received in the current semester.
• The Sac State GPA is based on all courses taken at Sac State.
• The Overall Cumulative GPA is based on all college courses taken.

Grades in remedial and non-transferable courses are not included in any of these GPAs.

What is "academic standing?"

• Good Standing - Sac State GPA and Cumulative GPA are at or above 2.0.
• Probation - The first time the Sac State GPA or Cumulative GPA falls below a 2.0 but above class level limits. (See below for class level limits.)
• Continued Probation - When the Sac State GPA and Cumulative GPA are still below a 2.0 but above the class level limits. (See below for class level limits).
• Disqualification - The Sac State GPA and/or Cumulative GPA falls below class level limits. The class level limits are: First year students must have at least a 1.5 GPA; sophomores must have a 1.70 GPA; juniors must have a 1.85 GPA; seniors must have a 1.95 GPA.
• Dismissal - Students are dismissed after failure to meet the conditions of a reinstatement contract. Dismissed students must sit out at least one semester and must file a "Readmission After Dismissal" petition to return.
• Second Dismissal - Students dismissed for a second time must sit out 2 years before being eligible to apply for readmission.

How do I get back to Good Standing?

Students on Probation or Continued Probation, should repeat "F" and "WU" grades in order to improve their GPA. Students should talk with an advisor in their major and/or an advisor in the Academic Advising and Career Center, Lassen 1013, about changes they can make to be more successful.

What usually causes students to go on probation and get disqualified?

The NUMBER ONE reason is working too many hours for the number of units being taken.

If I work, how many units should I take?

The Academic Advising and Career Center suggests that students follow these guidelines:

• Working less than 15 hours per week >> OK to take 5 classes;
• Working up to 24 hours per week >> Limit to 4 classes;
• Working up to 30 hours per week >> Limit to 3 classes;
• Working up to 40 hours per week >> Limit to 2 classes.

Consider attending one of the Study Skills/Time Management Workshops which are listed online or contact the Academic Advising and Career Center, Lassen 1013, (916) 278-6351.

What if I get Disqualified?

Students who are disqualified are considered for reinstatement on a space available bases. Please check the Office of the University Registrar website at: www.csus.edu/registrar/forms for updates regarding reinstatement petitions.

What's the difference between Disqualified and Dismissed?

Disqualification occurs once a student falls below class level limits two semesters in a row. Dismissal occurs after a student has been reinstated from a previous disqualification and does not meet the conditions of the reinstatement contract.

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Repeating Courses

What is the new policy on repeating classes?

Beginning with the Fall 2010 semester, you may not repeat courses where an "I" grade has been assigned unless the "I" grade has lapsed or a grade of "C-" or lower has been assigned. You may not repeat courses where a grade of "C" or higher was previously received unless the course may be taken more than once for credit. You will not be able to enroll in a course where your grade previously earned was a "C" or better (or Credit).

Is there a maximum number of units I can repeat?

The maximum number of units you can repeat for grade forgiveness is 16 units and you will only be able to repeat an individual course for grade forgiveness two times. If you need to repeat a course for a third time, it will require review and written approval of your academic department advisor and/or the department chair.

When should I repeat a course?

Students should repeat courses for which they received an "F" or "WU." For students on probation, the fastest way to improve your GPA is to repeat "F," "WU," or "D" grades.

When I repeat a course is the first grade deleted from my record?

The grade is not deleted but is removed from your GPA calculation.

What happens if I repeat a course more than once?

If you repeat a course more than once, the grades earned after the second attempt will be averaged with the second and subsequent attempts. Students may repeat an additional 12 units for grade average beyond the 16 units of forgiveness.

Are there any limitations to repeating a class?

Some majors have limitations on the number of times a student can repeat a class. Check with your major department. In some departments, if you cannot pass a course after the designated number of attempts, you can no longer be in that major.

Does a WU grade which was deleted count for the number of times I have taken a course?

No, a deleted "WU" grade does not count as an attempt.

I received a D in a GE course... do I have to repeat it?

"D" grades are acceptable in some GE courses, except in Areas A1, A2, A3, and B4 (Oral Communication, Written Communication, Critical Thinking, and Quantitative Reasoning). A minimum "C-" grade is also necessary for the foreign language requirement, English 20, and the Writing Intensive.

I received a D grade in one of my major courses...do I have to repeat it?

It depends on the major - see the major department.

Can a D grade be used to satisfy the foreign language requirement?

You must earn at least a "C-" in the course used to fulfill the foreign language requirement.

Can I repeat courses after I graduate?

Yes, however grades earned after graduation do not change the GPA earned for your bachelor's degree.

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Transfer Students

How do I know if my transfer courses meet my major requirements?

Bring unoffical transcripts to your major department for review. A major advisor will be able to tell you which courses from your transfer school meet requirements in the major.

How do I find out which GE requirements are remaining?

Check the Degree Progress Report on My Sac State.

Where do I get help in figuring how to complete my GE?

Advisors in the Academic Advising and Career Center, Lassen Hall 1013, will provide students with the help they need to complete their GE requirements.

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Unit Requirements

How many units do I need to graduate?

The minimum units for a bachelor's degree is 120 semester units.

How many units can I transfer from my community college?

All transferable units from the community college will transfer to Sac State. However, only 70 semester units from a community college may count toward the overall 120 units for the bachelor's degree.

What is the "residence" requirement?

To get a degree from Sac State a student must take 30 units in residence. Included in that 30 units are other residence requirements:

• 24 upper division units
• 12 upper division units in your major (15 in Business, English and Psychology)
• 9 units in GE

How many of the units I take must be upper division?

Every student must take 40 units of upper division coursework. Sac State upper division courses are numbered 100-199.

Is it true that some courses will not transfer to Sacramento State?

Courses that are considered remedial or developmental do not always transfer. Types of courses include:

• preparatory (remedial) courses in math and English;
• vocational courses (not offered at Sac State);
• courses from non-accredited colleges.

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Withdrawing

What are the changes to the withdrawal policy?

Effective Fall 2010 students may withdraw from no more than 18 units in their undergraduate career. Any "W" grades received prior to Fall 2010 do not count towards the 18 unit maximum.

How is dropping a class different from withdrawing?

Students drop individual classes; students withdraw from all the classes they are enrolled in.

How do I withdraw from classes?

During the first two weeks of classes, go to the Student Service Counter in the Lassen Hall lobby. After the second week of classes, go the Academic Advising and Career Center, Lassen Hall 1013.

What if I can't come to campus to file the withdrawal form?

It's best to discuss withdrawing with an advisor, but if this is not possible students can download the instructions and withdrawal form. Fax your form to the number listed on the form - and confirm receipt by checking your record a few days later.

When is it a good idea to withdraw?

Usually students withdraw because a change in their circumstances prevents them from devoting the time and focus they need to succeed in school. For questions related to withdrawing, please contact the Academic Advising and Career Center, Lassen Hall 1013.

Can I get a refund if I withdraw?

Refunds depend on when a student withdraws:

• Before classes begin - full refund less a $10 processing fee
• From beginning of classes to the 60% date in semester (in 9th week) - prorated refund
• After 60% date - no refund

More information on refunds can be found in the refund policy.

Do I have to reapply to return to Sac State?

Students who withdraw after the first day of instruction are eligible to return the following semester or the semester after that without reapplying for admission.

Are there any disadvantages to withdrawing?

In addition to the unit limits for "W" grades, students who withdraw two semesters in a row or a total of three semesters are subject to administrative probation. Additional withdrawals could result in administrative disqualification.

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Writing Placement for Juniors

What's the WPJ?

The WPJ, Writing Placement for Juniors, is a timed essay exam that places students into an upper division writing class. This placement exam is taken at the point a student has completed ENGL 20 and has Junior standing (60 units). The exam may only be taken one time. The score received on the exam determines placement into the appropriate writing course. Students must successfully complete a Writing Intensive course to satisfy the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR).

Do I have to take the WPJ?

No. Students have the option to take the exam (WPJ) or enroll in ENGL 109M or 109W.

How many times can I take the WPJ?

Once.

What's the difference between ENGL 109W and ENGL 109M?

ENGL 109W is for native speakers of English; ENGL 109M is for those students who learned English as a second language and who have scored 4 or higher on the English Diagnostic Test.

What is the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR)?

The Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement is a California State University graduation requirement. At Sacramento State, this requirement is satisfied when students complete the Writing Intensive course.

What is a Writing Intensive course?

One course designated as Writing Intensive is required for graduation. These courses are identified in the Student Registration and Advising Guide with an *. Check with your major department; some students have the option of completing a course in their major. In order to enroll in a Writing Intensive course, you must have completed GE Areas A2, A3, College Composition II (our ENGL 20), and the WPJ or ENGL 109.

Where can I get more information?

Visit the GWAR Website for more information.

 

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