General Academic Regulations

This section outlines the general undergraduate academic regulations of the University.  Students must read and comply with both these regulations and those set out by their Faculty elsewhere in this Undergraduate Calendar, as applicable.  In the event of a conflict between the Faculty/Program Regulations  and these General Academic Regulations, the program regulations take precedence.

Since the Academic Regulations are continually reviewed, the University reserves the right to change the regulations in this section of the Calendar. The University also reserves the right to cancel the academic privileges of a student at any time should the student’s scholastic record or conduct warrant so doing.

Faculties are authorized to use discretion in special situations by taking into account past practice, the spirit of the regulations, and extraordinary circumstances. Students who believe their situations warrant special consideration should consult the appropriate Faculty/Program Office .

Academic Commitments

Students should expect to have academic commitments for instructional activities (e.g., lectures, labs, tutorials, etc.) Monday through Saturday, normally 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., but not on statutory holidays, as outlined in the Sessional Dates . Also, students may be required to write tests or examinations Monday through Sunday. Students are responsible for meeting all course requirements, including final examinations, as scheduled. 

Academic Accommodations: Religious, Indigenous or Spiritual Observances

Students who require accommodations to meet religious, Indigenous or Spiritual Observances are expected to read the Policy on Academic Accommodation for Religious, Indigenous and Spiritual Observances (“RISO policy”) and must make their requests within 10 working days from the beginning of the start of term to their Faculty/Program Office . (In the event of a conflict between the Policy and these General Academic Regulations, the Policy takes precedence.).

Academic Accommodations: Permanent Disability, Temporary Disability, and Retroactive Accommodation

Students seeking an accommodation related to a permanent or temporary disability, or a retroactive accommodation, are expected to read the Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities policy. (In the event of a conflict between the Policy and these General Academic Regulations, the Policy takes precedence.) Important excerpts from the current policy include:

• students are not to seek accommodation directly from their professors, instructors, and/or teaching assistants. Accommodation requests should be directed to Student Accessibility Services or the Faculty Office;
• students are not required to reveal their private medical information, such as the cause of the disability, diagnosis, symptoms or treatment (unless these clearly relate to the accommodation being sought) to register with Student Accessibility Services, or receive accommodations or supports;
• students may request interim accommodations for disabilities (this includes mental health disabilities) pending receipt of medical documentation;
• both Temporary and Permanent disabilities will be accommodated
  • Permanent Disability is where a functional limitation will occur for more than one academic term or as defined by a regulated health professional.
  • Temporary Disability may be a short-term injury or illness (such as mononucleosis, a broken limb or concussion) or an episodic condition (e.g. mental illness) where a functional limitation generally occurs within one academic term or less or as defined by a regulated health professional.
• requests for accommodation should be submitted in a prompt and timely manner. Requests made after a deadline has passed may be considered Retroactive Accommodations. A Retroactive Accommodation may be for either a Permanent or Temporary Disability when the request is made after the fact (e.g. after a course has been completed), as the result of the discovery or diagnosis of an existing disability of which the student was previously unaware.

Sessional Dates

Please visit the Sessional Dates  page for important dates for this academic year.

Student Responsibilities

Academic

McMaster University provides many resources to help students achieve their academic goals, including the Undergraduate Calendar, program advisement reports and academic advisors.

Students must assume certain responsibilities. They include:

• meeting admission requirements and application deadlines for their intended program(s) of study
• selecting and completing courses in an order that meets requisite and program requirements
• becoming familiar with and respecting University Sessional Dates , the General Academic Regulations, their Faculty/Program-specific regulations , and the Regulations for Aid and Awards as found in the appropriate sections of this Calendar.

Students who do not follow these guidelines may experience academic consequences such as cancellation of course enrolment, completion of courses that are not counted toward their degree, or delayed graduation.

In addition to the responsibilities listed above, students are expected to: 

• know and follow the Senate policies  
• keep their student account in good standing, paying all charges on time
• be aware that changes to course load and program may affect eligibility for government and University aid and awards (e.g. OSAP, work programs, bursaries, scholarships, etc.)
• consult with Student Accessibility Services in a timely manner to make disability related accommodation requests under the Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities policy

Enrolment

Access to Undergraduate Courses

The University endeavours to enable students to enrol in required courses so that their program admission requirements, course requisites, and program progression can be achieved in a timely manner.

Enrolment capacities are set on all undergraduate courses taking into account enrolment projections along with resources and type of course (required or elective). Where students are selecting from a list of required courses, access to a specific course is not guaranteed when there is another course available to meet a specific degree requirement.

The University reserves the right to change a student’s enrolment in classes should the need occur (e.g. low enrolment, urgent timetable changes, etc.).

Communication

It is the student’s responsibility to:

• maintain current contact information with the University, including address, phone numbers, and emergency contact information
• use the university provided e-mail address or maintain a valid forwarding e-mail address
• regularly check the official University communications channels, including the Mosaic Student Centre. Official University communications are considered received if sent by postal mail, by fax, or by e-mail to the student’s designated primary e-mail account via their @mcmaster.ca account
• accept that forwarded e-mails may be lost and that e-mail is considered received if sent via the student’s @mcmaster.ca account

Due Date Restrictions

Academic assessments, due dates and evaluations are described in course outlines except where other University policies apply, e.g., Student Accessibility Services (SAS) accommodations, deferred exams, etc.  When students are aware of their progress early in a course they can make informed decisions. Restrictions are placed on academic obligations to enable students to plan their work schedules.

1. Due dates for all term work must be on or before the final day of classes  for courses with a final examination.  For courses with no final examination, academic assessments can be due on or before the final date of examinations .
2. Academic obligations cannot be due during the December holiday break or the fall and winter mid-term recesses, with the exception of deferred exams scheduled by the Office of the Registrar.
3. The Test and Examination Ban period is the last 5 days of classes plus the day(s) between the end of classes and the beginning of examinations, and: 
   1. Tests, quizzes, exams and take-home exams worth more than 10% cannot be assigned or due during the last five days of classes  plus the days(s) between the end of classes and the beginning of examinations. 
   2. Assignments worth more than 10% that are assigned at the beginning of the course and noted on the course outline, can be due during this time period, provided students are given sufficient additional detail to enable them to work on the assignment in advance of the due date.

Maximum Value of Academic Assessments

1. Student learning in undergraduate courses should be assessed on more than one occasion. To that end, no single academic obligation (e.g., essay, test, examination, etc.) should have a value of more than 75% of the final grade without approval from the Department Chair or Associate Dean’s Office. Clinical, placement, thesis and capstone courses are exempt.
2. For students requiring relief from an academic obligation, it is at the discretion of the instructor to determine the nature of the relief. In cases such as this, students can be offered the choice of another assessment or the option of writing a final examination which may be worth more than 75% of the course grade. 

Online Assessments

If students taking online assessments experience technical difficulties, the student must immediately report the difficulty. Reporting may take different forms dependent upon the online platform being used. Options to report difficulties may include emailing the appropriate contact (Instructor or designate as set by the Instructor); accessing a chat function (where available) within the online platform to document any difficulties.

Early Feedback

1. All students must receive feedback regarding their progress prior to the last day for withdrawing from courses without failure by default.
2. For Level 1 and Level 2 courses, this feedback must equal a minimum of 20% of the final grade.
3. For Level 3 courses and above, this feedback must equal a minimum of 10% of the final grade.
4. For courses where it is difficult to achieve a numeric grade due to the design of the course (e.g., supervised study, thesis, capstone, inquiry, independent research/study, experiential courses, etc.), clear and early feedback must be provided.
5. When academic obligations are completed by the due dates in the course outline, early feedback will be received by the last day for withdrawing from courses  without failure by default. Students who use the MSAF process and other petitionable accommodations may not receive feedback by the early feedback deadline.

Residence Requirements

Most students complete all undergraduate work at McMaster University. However, students who complete work at other universities must meet the minimum requirements set out below.

To obtain any four- or five-level, first undergraduate degree:

• at least two levels (approximately 60 units of work) beyond Level 1, including the final level, must be completed at McMaster University.

To obtain a three-level, first undergraduate degree:

• the final level and at least one other level (a minimum of approximately 60 units of work) must be completed at McMaster University,
  or,
• the final level (approximately 30 units of work) including at least 18 units of program- specific requirements must be completed at McMaster University.

Courses taken at another university on a Letter of Permission will not count toward the residence requirements.

All course work for a second bachelor’s degree must be completed at McMaster University.

McMaster University’s Notice of Collection, Use and Disclosure Statement

On June 10, 2006, Ontario universities became subject to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). As its name implies, the legislation has two distinct purposes and each of these carries with it a different set of requirements.

Under Freedom of Information, the public has the right of access to all of the recorded information which is in McMaster’s custody and control (with some specific limitations). In order to facilitate this right of access, the University is required to prepare descriptions of the institution’s records and personal information banks (PIBs). These directories, which must be published annually, are intended for use by the public to determine the information generally maintained by each institution.

The University Secretary and Privacy Officer is the appointed head of the institution for FIPPA purposes. While the Privacy Office (University Secretariat) has primary responsibility for the administration of FIPPA-related matters, a great deal of information is routinely available at McMaster without the need to submit a formal request.  Formal Freedom of Information requests must be directed to the Privacy Office (University Secretariat), who will contact the appropriate university department. Information on making a formal request can be found on our webpage Filing a Freedom of Information (FOI) request.

McMaster University’s Notice of Collection, Use and Disclosure Statement

The Protection of Privacy provisions of the Act regulate the collection, use, disclosure, security and retention of personal information in the University’s custody and control. Many of the administrative requirements of this section of the legislation have been addressed previously with the introduction in 1995 of McMaster’s Guidelines on Access to Information and Protection of Privacy, and the federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (2000), which as of January 2004 imposed similar requirements on those sectors of the University involved in commercial activity. The University has developed a Notice of Collection, Use and Disclosure statement, outlining the kind of personal information that is collected and the use that is made of such information. You may review each section of the Collection Notice below.

For questions regarding this Notice of Collection, Use, and Disclosure Statement, please contact the Privacy Office (University Secretariat), 210 Gilmour Hall, privacy@mcmaster.ca, 905-525-9140 ext. 24337.

Introduction

1. McMaster University collects and retains the personal information of students, alumni and other parties, including but not limited to faculty, staff, visiting academics and private citizens using services provided by McMaster University under the legal authority of the McMaster University Act,1976.
2. The principal purpose for collecting personal information by the University is to execute the functions of the University and to administer the relationship between the University and its students, alumni, employees, clients, suppliers, partners and others.
3. The University uses and discloses personal information in ways consistent with this Statement unless otherwise informed at the time of collection. Questions about this collection should be directed to the Privacy Office (University Secretariat), 210 Gilmour Hall, privacy@mcmaster.ca905-525-9140 ext. 24337.

General Uses of Personal Information

4. All activities, programs and technologies that collect, use, retain and disclose personal information are assessed to protect individuals’ privacy. To provide members of the University community with services and programs, the University may use your information for the following purposes: 
   1. recruitment, admission and registration, academic programs and evaluations, and graduation;
   2. evaluation of academic and non-academic programs;
   3. employment-related matters;
   4. assistance to student associations, retiree associations and the University’s Alumni Association;
   5. financial assistance, awards and payment of fees;
   6. alumni and development activities;
   7. institutional planning and statistics;
   8. centralization or sharing of service delivery among academic units, administrative services and programs;
   9. reporting to government agencies, funding agencies and professional licensing bodies;
   10. safety and security;
   11. detection, monitoring and prevention of non-compliance with policies, regulations and procedures; and
   12. promotion in print, electronic and internet publications.

Video Surveillance

5. Video surveillance cameras monitor areas of McMaster’s campuses to promote public safety. Further information can be found in the Closed Circuit Television Surveillance Policy or by contacting Security Services. Surveillance recordings are retained for 30 calendar days unless related to an investigation.

Cookies and Remarketing Services

6. The University uses cookies for remarketing services (advertising based on visits to previous web pages) and analytics. No personal or identifying information is gathered or transmitted with this cookie. Individuals may opt out of cookies by changing their browser settings or using a browser plugin permanently.

Disclosure of Personal Information

7. The University shall not disclose Personal Information to external individuals or organizations unless:
   1. otherwise provided by this Notice of Collection, Use and Disclosure of Personal Information Statement;
   2. the individual is notified of such potential disclosure when the Personal Information is collected;
   3. the individual has consented to the disclosure; or
   4. permitted under applicable privacy legislation, including FIPPA, PHIPA, or the Health Protection and Promotion Act (HPPA).

Uses of Alumni/Student Personal Information: Information Collected for Public Purpose

8. The University considers the following information as information collected and maintained to create a record that is available to the public and that may be published in print or electronic format:
   1. the names of graduates, the credentials conferred by the University and the date received. Educational history other than University-conferred credentials will be released only by Student consent (for example, forwarding transcripts or other official documentation to another institution on behalf of a student or graduate);
   2. the recipient of excellence scholarships or other prizes or honours awarded by the University or a third party. The names, programs and other similar personal information of the recipients of honours, such as inclusion on a dean’s list or receipt of a scholarship, are used by the University to create and maintain a public record; and
   3. voluntary membership on teams representing the University or participation in events as a representative of the University is considered an agreement by the member or participant to the public disclosure of limited personal information, such as name, degree/program, and other team- or event-related information;
   4. many scholarships, bursaries and prizes have specific additional collection and disclosure conditions. McMaster assumes that persons applying for scholarships, bursaries, and awards have agreed to the relevant conditions; and
   5. publicly available personal information may be collected to update alumni records and recognize outstanding achievements or distinguished service by alumni in University and McMaster University Alumni Association (MAA) publications.

Information Shared Internally

9. To allow for core operations, including elections, the University may provide personal information of alumni and students to the McMaster Students’ Union (MSU), McMaster Graduate Students’ Association (GSA), McMaster University Alumni Association (MAA) and other similar organizations.
10. The University may also use the personal information of students and alumni to collect fees on behalf of these organizations. The University, on behalf of the MSU and GSA, discloses student personal information to insurers selected by the students’ associations. These constituent student groups use personal information for membership, administration, elections, annual general meetings, health plans and other matters related to membership benefits only. Please contact the relevant Student Union or Association office if you have questions about this collection, use and disclosure of your personal information and their respective privacy policies.
11. The University and MAA share alumni personal information with affinity partners who may contact you about their services. You may opt out of receiving this information. Please see the MAA Privacy Policy for details.
12. To provide library services, the personal information of University library patrons is collected, used, and shared within the shared services library platform with participating collaborative futures University partners.

Information Shared with Third-Party Partners

13. Unless directed otherwise by the student, the University may disclose the contact information of graduating students to organizations providing convocation-related services, such as photography and degree framing.
14. Information regarding student participation in work-study placements, co-op training, or University-directed external training may be disclosed to the relevant third-party partners.
15. Any disclosure of Personal Information to a third-party partner must include the collection of express consent from the individuals for such disclosure to occur.

Use of Personal Information in the Classroom and By Instructors

16. The University collects students’ names to operate virtual and physical classroom environments. By registering for courses, students recognize and agree that their names may be disclosed to other members of the student body during activities such as taking attendance, assigning topics, organizing students for group work, assessing classroom participation, facilitating classroom discussion, working in learning management systems (such as Avenue to Learn) and organizing tutorials. Students concerned about such disclosures should contact the course instructor directly to identify possible alternatives.
17. Some courses utilize services that help detect academic misconduct that requires a student’s work to be submitted to a third party. Courses requiring such services will include this in the course outline. By registering for these courses, students acknowledge and accept that some of their personal information may be submitted to a third party and may be retained for future use.
18. The University may also retain materials submitted in courses for use and disclosure as samples for course design and evaluation. Course materials may also be retained until operational use ceases regarding petitions, cases of academic misconduct, or other similar uses (see Academic Integrity Policy, Research Integrity Policy and Appeals Form A, Form B, and Form C).

Administrative Uses of Personal Information

19. Social Insurance Numbers (SIN) are collected under the authority of the Income Tax Act when required.
20. Address, telephone, email and other information may be used to contact you by any department within the University, including our ancillary services and external agencies involved in collecting fees and fines owing to the University. This includes the collection of fines for parking-related infractions.
21. The University uses a range of third parties located in Canada and other countries to deliver services for students and employees on its behalf. Before entering into an agreement with a supplier, McMaster has a privacy and security impact assessment process available to identify risks and make recommendations to ensure personal information will be securely collected and stored and used only as needed.
22. The University may collect personal information from other relevant sources, including, without limitation, from the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC), secondary schools, colleges, universities and other institutions previously attended, including third-party services and test score providers where the items collected form a part of the application or admission process to a University program. Applicants may be contacted about admission opportunities other than those specifically identified by the applicant. They may also be contacted to guide the improvement of the University’s services and offerings.
23. Personal information provided to the University and placed in a student record or personnel record will be protected and used in compliance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (RSO 1990) and will be disclosed only in accordance with this Act. If you have any questions about the collection and use of student information, please contact the Office of the Registrar. If you have any questions about the collection and use of employee information, please contact Human Resources Services at hr.mcmaster@mcmaster.ca.
24. Registration records, educational history and supporting documents, including records of misconduct, may be used for the adjudication of admission, progression, and graduation with respect to various programs. Such information may be transmitted to other educational institutions and partners involved in the delivery of programs offered at, with, or through McMaster, including, but not limited to, entities engaged in the provision of joint degrees, cross-registration, practicums, exchanges, placements, co-op positions and service-learning opportunities. Personal information may be collected, used, and disclosed in petition or appeal processes and for disciplinary or security purposes.
25. Personal information is used to create class lists, grade submission lists and other materials needed for administrative purposes by employees of the University. Identity Cards and their photos may be used by the University and other contracted third parties for administrative purposes such as identity verification.
26. Personal information may be used or disclosed to determine eligibility for scholarships, bursaries and other forms of student aid and to promote the availability of such assistance.
27. Personal information may be used for institutional development, fundraising programs and initiatives. Forms may also be pre-populated with an individual’s name and ID number to assist with tasks such as donating or registering for an event.

Use of Personal Information for Academic Research

28. Research involving personal information collection, use or disclosure will follow a review and approval process administered by the relevant University research administration office and the McMaster Research Ethics Board (MREB). The collection, use, or disclosure of this information will comply with University policies and provincial and federal regulatory requirements.

Statistics and Reporting

29. The University uses personal information to create various statistical and analytical reports that guide planning and administration. Personal information may also be transferred to external entities involved in research and statistical analysis of student experience and accomplishment to improve the quality and effectiveness of the University’s programs, policies and practices.
30. Email and physical addresses of samples of the student body may be provided to organizations that collect student opinions regarding the quality of the educational environment offered by the University. Such research and analyses include the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) and the Canadian Graduate and Professional Student Survey (CGPSS).
31. Personal information may be transferred to ministries and agencies of the Ontario Government and the Government of Canada as required by statute or regulation. This includes transfers to entities such as Statistics Canada, the Ministry of Colleges and Universities (MCU), and Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada.
32. As a Designated Educational Institution, the Income Tax Act requires the University to make reasonable efforts to obtain students’ Social Insurance Numbers (SIN) and report these annually to the Canada Revenue Agency as part of the Tuition and Enrolment Certificate for each full-time and part-time student. In addition to SIN, the certificate includes enrolment information such as the number of months of full-time or part-time enrolment and tuition fees. A student’s SIN may also be used to support the processing of financial aid or other administrative purposes, including processing payment for student employees.

Disclosure of Information to the Ministry of Colleges and Universities

33. The University must disclose personal information such as Ontario Education Numbers, student characteristics and educational outcomes to the Ministry of Colleges and Universities under s. 15 of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter M.19, as amended. The ministry collects this data for purposes such as planning, allocating and administering public funding to colleges, universities, and other postsecondary education and training institutions and to conduct research and analysis, including longitudinal studies and statistical activities conducted by or on behalf of the Ministry for purposes that relate to postsecondary education and training.
34. Any information collected by the University for self-identification as a member of a specific group (i.e., First Generation, First Nations, etc.) may be subject to disclosure to the MCU by McMaster and collected by the MCU pursuant to its statutory authority. Further information on how the MCU uses personal information is available on the ministry’s website (https://www.ontario.ca/page/privacy-statement).
35. Information on how the Ministry of Colleges and Universities uses this personal information is available on the ministry’s website or by writing to Director, Postsecondary Finance Branch, Postsecondary Education Division 7th Floor, Mowat Block, 900 Bay Street Toronto, Ontario, M7A 1L2.

Disclosure of Information to Statistics Canada

36. Statistics Canada is the national statistical agency. As such, Statistics Canada carries out hundreds of surveys yearly on a wide range of matters, including education.
37. The Statistics Act provides the legal authority for Statistics Canada to obtain access to personal information held by educational institutions. The information may be used for statistical purposes only, and the confidentiality provisions of the Federal Statistics Act prevent the information from being released in any way that would identify a student.
38. Statistics Canada asks all colleges and universities to provide data on students and graduates. Institutions collect and provide information to Statistics Canada, including student identification information (student’s name, student ID number, Social Insurance Number), student contact information (address and telephone number), student demographic characteristics, enrolment information, previous education, and labour force activity.
39. Community members may contact Statistics Canada by email if they have any questions: statcan.PSIS-SIEP.statcan@canada.ca.

Individuals Residing in the European Union

40. For members of the University community who reside within the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEU), the university acknowledges the rights granted to you under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Please contact the Privacy Office (contact information provided above) if you have any questions or concerns about how your data is being collected, used, or disclosed.
41. The GDPR does not apply to the University processing information belonging to individuals residing outside of the EU. The University must legally comply with Ontario’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA).

Record Retention

When individuals apply for admission to and enrolment in programs at McMaster they accept the University’s right to collect pertinent personal information. This information is needed to assess qualifications for entry, establish records of performance in programs and courses, provide the basis for University aid and awards and governmental student aid programs, and to assist the University in the academic and financial administration of its affairs. All documentation submitted to the University in support of applications for admission, residence accommodation, University aid and awards, appeals and/or petitions becomes the property of the University.   

All application documents are normally destroyed at the end of each admission cycle for applicants who are not accepted, or who do not enrol following acceptance.  For applicants who become McMaster students, their application documents are normally destroyed five years after the last term of their enrolment at the University (regardless of whether or not they graduate).  

Supporting documentation relevant to government student aid programs (e.g., OSAP) is kept per the retention policies of the Federal and/or Provincial governments. Supporting documentation, relevant to the administration of online aid applications, as well as University aid and awards, will normally be destroyed after the petition for special consideration period, per the Regulations for Aid and Awards, has passed.

All information needed to produce official transcripts is maintained permanently. 

Second Bachelor’s Degree Programs

For admission to a second undergraduate degree program a student must hold a first undergraduate degree.  A second degree is not available in all degrees and/or subject areas. See University Graduates Applying for a Second Bachelor’s Degree .

1. All work for the second degree must be completed at McMaster University.
2. Second degree programs may not be available where there is substantial overlap in the requirements of the first degree. See individual Faculty/Program regulations  or consult Faculty/Program Offices  for exclusions or further information.
3. Extra  courses taken while enrolled in a first degree program, or courses completed as a Continuing Student , may, with the approval of the Faculty, be applied to the second degree program.
4. Students must meet the same regulations for continuation and graduation as are applied to students enrolled in a first degree program. 
5. Credit from the first two degrees cannot be applied to a third undergraduate degree. To obtain a third undergraduate degree students must complete all program requirements, i.e. approximately 90 units for a three-level degree and approximately 120 units for a four-level degree.

Requirements for Second Bachelor’s Degree Programs

• Honours Degree following a Three-Level Degree in the Same Subject: For consideration into an Honours B.A., Honours B.Sc., or Honours B.A.Sc. degree program following a three-level degree in the same subject, a Cumulative GPA  of at least 5.0 in the first degree program is required. For consideration into all other eligible degree programs, a Cumulative GPA of at least 6.0 in the first degree program is required. If admitted, at least 30 units beyond the first degree, including all program requirements, must be completed.
• B.A. or B.Sc. in Another Subject: For consideration, students must meet the admission requirements for the program. If admitted, at least 30 units beyond the first degree, including all program requirements, must be completed.  Students are not eligible for a second B.A. or B.Sc. degree in a program in which they have been awarded a minor, however, they may apply for an honours second degree in that subject.
• Honours B.A., Honours B.A.Sc., Honours B.Sc. or Honours B.H.Sc. in Another Subject: For consideration, students must meet the admission requirements for the program and have a Cumulative GPA of at least 5.0.  If admitted, at least 60 units beyond the first degree, including all program requirements, must be completed.
• Honours B.M.R.Sc.: For consideration, students must meet the admissions requirements for the program.  If admitted, students will be required to complete a minimum of 24 units during Level 1 of the program. Some of these units may be extra to the degree requirements.
• B. Eng., B.Tech., and B.A.Sc.: For consideration, students must meet the admission requirements for the program. If admitted, students must complete at least 60 units beyond the first degree including all program requirements.

McMaster Students Studying at Another University: Letter of Permission (LOP) and Exchange (Study Abroad)

1. McMaster students who wish to complete courses at another university for transfer credit towards their McMaster degree must be in good academic standing. 
2. Grades obtained in courses at another university will not be included in the calculation of McMaster averages, which may affect consideration for in-course academic awards.
3. Courses taken at another university cannot be used to satisfy McMaster’s Residence Requirements.
4. Students may take up to six units at another university toward a minor. 

Letters of Permission (LOPs):

Students may study outside of McMaster as a Visting Student at another accredited degree-granting institution with a Letter of Permission (LOP).

A LOP must be approved by your Faculty/Program Office  before you register at another institution. An approved LOP is a confirmation that a course you intend to take at another accredited degree-granting institution is acceptable for transfer credit toward your undergraduate degree at McMaster.

Requesting a Letter of Permission

• Students are encouraged to review the policies and procedures of their Faculty and Program or Academic Program Office . 

Deadlines:

• Students are required to submit an online application, via Mosaic, thirty days prior to the date classes begin in each Term (see the Sessional Dates  section of this Calendar).
• Students must also consult the institution you wish to attend for any relevant deadlines and application procedures.
• Students/learners in Faculty of Health Sciences programs should confer with their education programs as deadlines may differ across programs.

Student Eligibility:

Students must:

• be pursuing a first undergraduate degree at McMaster.
• have completed a minimum of 18 units of coursework.
• have a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.50 /12.0 and be in Good Standing.

Course Eligibility:

A LOP may only be requested for a course that meets the following conditions:

• Taken at an accredited degree-granting institution approved by the student’s Faculty/ Program Office.
• The course must be graded on a numeric or letter-grade basis. Courses graded on a pass/fail structure,  credit/no credit basis or a challenge for credit process or equivalent are not eligible for transfer credit.
• LOP will not normally be granted for a course that would exceed a student’s maximum allowable course load for a given academic term.

Transfer Credit

• Transfer credit will only be awarded for approved LOPs.
• A student enrolled in an undergraduate degree program at McMaster is not permitted to be concurrently registered in a degree program at any other university.
• Transfer credits appear on a student’s McMaster transcript, but do not count toward their GPA. Transfer credits do not count towards the unit count for the Dean’s Honour List or Provost’s Honour Roll.
• Normally, if the course grade is 60% (C-) or higher, the McMaster transcript designation will read T, indicating transfer credit. Some programs require a higher course grade to grant transfer credit. If the course grade is lower than 60% (C-), the transcript designation will read NC, indicating no credit. If the student withdraws from the course, the transcript designation will read W, indicating withdrawn.
• Once you have been granted a Letter of Permission, you are considered by McMaster to be enrolled in the course. If you drop or withdraw from the course at the host university, you must provide your Faculty/ Program Office with documentation confirming your withdrawal. Without such documentation, your transcript will read NC, indicating no credit for the LOP course.
• Up to six units of transfer credit may be counted towards a minor or concurrent certificate
• Transfer credits awarded must not exceed the Residence Requirement limits as outlined in the General Academic Regulations section of the Calendar.

Exchange (Study Abroad):

1. Students must obtain necessary approvals in advance from both their Faculty/Program Office  and International Student Services.
2. Upon completion of course work, if a passing grade (as determined by the host university) is obtained, the transcript designation reads T indicating transfer credit.  If less than a passing grade is attained, the transcript designation reads NC indicating no credit. If the student withdraws from the course(s), the transcript designation reads W indicating withdrawn.
3. Students who return from exchange prior to completion of course work must supply the Faculty/Program Office  with a proof of withdrawal from the host university, otherwise grades of NC will be placed on the transcript.

Credit in Courses by Special Assessment (Challenge Examinations)

Students who have acquired knowledge at a different type of institution or in a manner that makes assessment of their qualifications difficult are permitted to seek degree credit through special assessment (Challenge for Credit).

Challenge for credit is not intended to give credit for skills or knowledge gained through high school, college or previous university instruction. The special assessment may include one or more of the following: written examinations, papers, essays, submissions of a substantial body of work, or portfolios, or laboratory tests. Credit can be granted only for those courses listed in the current McMaster calendar. Not all courses in all disciplines are available for challenge. Faculties and departments are free to determine which, if any, of their courses are open for special assessment. Challenges are assessed on a pass/fail basis. The passing grade for a challenge appears on the transcript as COM (Complete) and is not used in computing averages or evaluating honours or scholarship standing, but is counted as a course attempt. Unsuccessful attempts will be noted on the transcript as a grade of F. Special Assessment is not available for a course taken previously and a course may be attempted only once by special assessment. Once you have registered for a course by such means (known as challenge exams) the registration may not be cancelled and you may not withdraw from the course.

Waivers of prerequisites only (i.e. no degree credit) will be at the discretion of the department.

Voluntary Withdrawal from the University

Students who wish to permanently or temporarily withdraw from the University must consult their Faculty/Program Office . Students in receipt of government student aid (e.g., OSAP) and/or University aid or awards should contact the Office of the Registrar, Aid & Awards.

Petitions for Special Consideration

The University wishes to assist students with legitimate difficulties. It also has the responsibility to ensure that degree, program and course requirements are met in a manner that is equitable to all students. Students may submit, in a prompt and timely manner, a Petition for Special Consideration to the Faculty/Program Office  in those instances where a student acknowledges that the rules and regulations of the University have been applied fairly, but is requesting that an exception to the regulations be made because of special circumstances. Requests related to temporary or permanent disabilities, or for retroactive accommodations related to a disability are excluded from petitions and must be processed under the Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities policy. Petitions should be submitted in a prompt and timely manner for the relevant term, but no later than July 31 immediately following the Fall/Winter Term or November 15 immediately following the Spring/Summer Term.

Two forms are available from your Faculty/Program Office :

Petition for Special Consideration (Form A):

The Petition for Special Consideration (Form A) is submitted for a variety of issues, including, when a student wishes to have a leave of absence or seeks to depart from University requirements based on compelling medical or personal reasons; or a student believes that an adverse ruling or decision about their academic performance, such as failing a course, or being required to withdraw from a program for failure to meet program requirements, should be waived because of compelling medical or personal circumstances. Requests related to temporary or permanent disabilities, or for retroactive accommodations related to a disability are excluded from petitions and must be processed under the Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities policy.

Petition for Special Consideration: Request for Deferred Examination (Form B):

The Petition for Special Consideration: Request for Deferred Examination (Form B) is used when a student misses an examination because of compelling medical or personal reasons. Requests related to temporary or permanent disabilities, or for retroactive accommodations related to a disability are excluded from petitions and must be processed under the Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities policy.

1. Once a student has completed an examination, no special consideration will be granted.  
2. A student who misses an examination because of compelling medical or personal reasons may submit a Petition for Special Consideration: Request for Deferred Examination (Form B) to the Faculty/Program Office , normally within five working days of the missed examination.
3. If the reason is medical, the approved McMaster University Medical Form must be used. The student must be seen by a doctor at the earliest possible date, normally on or before the date of the missed exam and the doctor must verify the duration of the illness. Relief will not be available for minor illnesses. If the reason is non-medical, appropriate documentation with verifiable origin covering the relevant dates must be submitted, normally within five working days.
4. In deciding whether or not to grant a petition, the adequacy of the supporting documentation, including the timing in relation to the due date of the missed work and the degree of the student’s incapacitation, will be taken into account.
5. It is the student’s responsibility to check Mosaic Student Center > Deferred Exam Approvals or with the Faculty/Program Office  for a decision on the request for a deferred examination. If the deferred examination is granted, the student will be informed officially by means of the notation DEF which will appear against the relevant course on the student’s academic record and via Mosaic > Student Center > View My Grades.
6. Deferred examinations are written during the next official University deferred examination period . Default of the deferred examination will result in a fail for that examination.
7. Students who have been granted more than one deferred examination may be required by their Faculty/Program Office  to reduce their course load during the term in which the deferred examinations are being written. The decision on a reduced load will be made and communicated with the decision on the request for deferred examinations.
8. At the discretion of the Faculty/Program Office , students who have been granted one or more deferred examinations, may not be allowed to enrol in a subsequent term until all deferred examinations have been completed and the Academic Standing calculated. Students will be notified of this decision by their Faculty/Program Office.
9. Students who will be living more than 160 kilometres from Hamilton during the deferred examination period and wish to write their approved deferred examination at an institution other than McMaster must submit a Request to Write Deferred Examination Off-campus Form at least 15 working days prior to the deferred examination period . Students are responsible for making arrangements for a presider to conduct the deferred examination at an outside institution and for paying any fees such as invigilation and return courier.
10. The authority to grant any petitions lies with the Faculty/Program Office  and is discretionary. It is imperative that students make every effort to meet the originally-scheduled course requirements and it is a student’s responsibility to write examinations as scheduled.

Decisions made on Petitions for Special Consideration are final. In accordance with the Student Appeal Procedures, decisions made on Petitions for Special Consideration cannot be appealed to the Senate Board for Student Appeals. However, should students believe that a decision may be a violation of their human rights, they may wish to contact the Equity and Inclusion Office to identify appropriate avenues of recourse as per the Policy on Discrimination and Harassment: Prevention & Response. Requests related to temporary or permanent disabilities, or for retroactive accommodations related to a disability, are excluded from Petitions for Special Consideration and, therefore, must be processed under the Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities
policy.  

Regulations for Authorized Leave for Undergraduate Students Studying with a Study Permit

Students studying with a study permit have a number of conditions they must meet in order to maintain their eligible status in Canada. These conditions are found on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website as follows: Your conditions as a study permit holder in Canada. Failure to meet the study permit conditions may result in students losing their student status and IRCC cancelling their study permit. Students may also be required to leave Canada.

Subject to eligibility and specific conditions, undergraduate students studying with a study permit may request an authorized leave to pause their studies for a defined period of time.

Students attending the University under a study permit who will not be enrolling in the next expected term or are withdrawing from all courses in the current term must contact their Faculty or program office and request an authorized leave. This ensures that the student’s status is correctly reported under the University’s obligation as a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). If the authorized leave is approved, the Faculty or program office will also assist the student in developing an academic plan for a successful return to their studies.

Approval from the student’s Faculty or program office and subsequent arrangements should be finalized prior to the start of the authorized leave.

Eligibility:
Authorized leaves may be granted for the following reasons:
              1. Medical or parental leave.
              2. Military service in another country.
              3. Family emergency.
              4. Death of a friend or family member.
              5. Other reasons as approved by the Faculty or program office.

The IRCC will only recognize leaves up to a maximum of 150 days for students to still be considered as actively pursuing their studies. Visit The Government of Canada - Your conditions as a study permit holder in Canada for more information.

Students may be required to provide documentation to support the reason for their authorized leave. If the leave is approved, the Registrar’s Office will issue an authorized leave letter to provide to IRCC documenting the authorized leave.

Return from Authorized Leave:
Students are encouraged to inform their Faculty or program office of their desire to resume their studies. Students who fail to return from their authorized leave by the date specified in the terms of their authorized leave letter may not be permitted to return as planned and academic progress may be impeded. An authorized leave from clinical placements, co-ops, internships, or other experiential learning course components may have additional requirements for return.

For extended leaves, please visit the Former McMaster Degree Students (Returning Students) - Readmission (3.H) section of the Undergraduate Calendar to understand your return options.
Deferral of Admission: For deferral of admission, consult the Office of the Registrar - Deferral of Admissions.
Additional Support for Students: Students should seek the advice of an Immigration specialist to ensure full compliance and understanding of the IRCC policies. Support for immigration-related issues is available through the Student Success Centre - Immigration Advising.

McMaster Student Absence Form Policy (MSAF Policy)

The University recognizes that undergraduate students periodically require relief from academic work due to extenuating circumstances. Students seeking relief for missed academic term work are expected to read the McMaster Student Absence Form Policy (In the event of a conflict between the Policy and these General Academic Regulations, the Policy takes precedence.) 

The MSAF Policy supports the management of MSAF Self-Report and MSAF Administrative Report requests by reducing the requirement for documentation from a healthcare practitioner for short-term absences, while considering the needs and obligations of undergraduate students, instructors, and administrators. 

Students should contact their respective Faculty/Program Office with any questions about the MSAF.

The MSAF Policy cannot be used:

• for the purpose of time-management;
• for academic work such as online assessments (e.g., quizzes, tests, etc.), where the student has already completed the work, or has attempted to complete the work. This includes the viewing and/or partial completion of online assessments (e.g., quizzes, tests, etc.);
• to apply for relief for any final examination or its equivalent (refer to Petitions for Special Consideration: Request for Deferred Examination);
• for absences in a student’s clinical placement, co-op placement, or internship; and
• for McMaster Continuing Education (MCE) programs and courses. MCE students are directed to contact their course instructor.

Late Withdrawal from a course

McMaster University provides a Late Withdrawal option to assist students who have become irretrievably behind in a course. Students who have fallen behind with assignments and/or are not prepared to write final examinations (or equivalent) in one or more courses are encouraged to make use of this option and must contact their Academic Advisor in the Faculty/Program Office. Students will work with their Academic Advisor to discuss the situation and what steps they can take to prevent a recurrence.

Students may request a Late Withdrawal, without petition, no later than the last day of classes in the relevant Term. However, it is important to note that:

• Requests for Late Withdrawal cannot be made in courses for which the final exam (or equivalent) has been attempted or completed. This also includes courses where a final grade has been assigned (e.g. clinical courses).
• Such requests will be cancelled or revoked if it is determined that the student attempted or completed the final exam (or equivalent).
• Students cannot use the Late Withdrawal option for courses in which they are under investigation or for which they have been found guilty of academic dishonesty.

Course(s) approved for Late Withdrawal will be:

• Assigned a non-numeric grade of LWD, in lieu of an alpha/numerical grade
• Excluded from the calculation of the GPA
• Ineligible for tuition refund

Approval of a late withdrawal is final, and requests to be re-enrolled in the withdrawn course(s) will not be considered. A withdrawal will not preclude students from enrolling in the course(s) in a subsequent term.

Examinations

(See also Office of the Registrar (Examinations))

Examinations conducted by the Office of the Registrar will appear in the Mosaic Student Center and may be scheduled in the morning, afternoon, or evening, Monday through Sunday. Other instructor-scheduled tests and examinations may be held throughout each term in compliance with Academic Obligations: Restrictions.

Full details regarding examination procedures conducted by the Office of the Registrar are found in the Undergraduate Examinations Policy. 

McMaster student photo identification cards are required at all examinations.

Examinations are not rescheduled for purposes of travel.  Students must be available for the entire examination period as listed in the Sessional Dates  section. 

The Office of the Registrar will reschedule final examinations within the examination period for the reasons listed below.  Application to reschedule examinations must be made at least 10 working days before the scheduled examination period.  Failure to meet the stated deadline may result in the denial of the application.

• Conflict with religious obligations 
• More than one examination scheduled at the same time
• Three examinations in one calendar day (midnight to midnight).
• Three consecutive examinations over two days (e.g., December 14th at 4:00 pm and 7:30 pm and December 15th at 9:00 am). 

Students who miss a final examination for medical or personal reasons may submit a Petition for Special Consideration: Request for Deferred Examination (Form B) to their Faculty/Program Office, normally within five working days of the missed examination.

Students who begin a final examination, but are unable to complete it for medical reasons, may submit a Petition for Special Consideration (Form A) to their Faculty/Program Office , normally within five working days of the examination.

Students with disabilities are required to inform Student Accessibility Services of accommodation needs for examinations on or before the last date for withdrawal from a course without failure by default. This allows sufficient time to verify and arrange appropriate accommodation.

Request to Write Deferred Examinations at an Off-Campus Location

Students living more than 160 kilometers from Hamilton during the deferred examination period and wishing to write their approved deferred examination at an institution other than McMaster must submit a Request to Write Deferred Examination Off-campus Form at least 15 working days prior to the deferred examination period.

If the deferred examination is written at an off-campus location, any fees incurred are the responsibility of the student. This includes the fee to courier the written examinations back to the Office of the Registrar, Scheduling and Examinations (GH 114).

For information regarding application for Deferred Examination, see Petition for Special Consideration: Request for Deferred Examination (Form B).

Academic Evaluations

Numeric Grading System

The results of all courses attempted will appear on the transcript.  The method for determining final grades will be given in the course outline. Unless otherwise specified in the course outline, course results determined on a percentage scale will be converted to an official letter grade, as indicated in the following equivalent percentage scale. 

Non-Numeric Grades and Notations:

Non-Numeric Grades

Notations

Withdrawn

After the last day for enrolment and course changes, students may withdraw from courses until the last day to withdraw without failure by default. Withdrawn courses will be shown on the student’s transcript with a grade of W. After the last day to withdraw without failure by default, the student will remain enrolled, whether or not they fulfil any further academic obligations, and a final grade will be assigned.

DEF

Courses with the notation DEF have been approved for a deferred examination.

Extra

Courses designated as “Extra” at the time of registration by the Faculty Office are not included as units toward completion of a student’s program. The grades obtained in such courses will not be included in the computation of the Cumulative GPA . However, they will be included in the computation of the Fall-Winter Average  and the Spring-Summer Average .

Unused

Courses designated as “Unused” cannot be used to fulfil the requirements for the student’s current degree program.  The grades obtained in such courses will be included in the computation of all averages.

Graded Units

Graded units refer to the number of units taken at McMaster for which a letter or Numeric Grade is earned.  Graded units do not include courses assessed with a Non-Numeric Grade.

Pass/Fail Courses 

Courses evaluated on a Pass/Fail basis are not included in the calculation of averages. The earned units are counted towards degree requirements.

Multi-Term Fall/Winter Courses

Codes for multi-term Fall/Winter courses have an A/B suffix. Part A must always be taken in the Fall Term immediately preceding Part B. Neither Part A nor B of a multi-term course has academic credit independent of both parts being successfully completed. Students who drop or withdraw from Part A must also withdraw from B.

Upon completion of the Fall Term, a grade of MT indicating multi-term will be assigned to Part A and the final grade will be assigned to Part B.

Cumulative Grade Point Average (Cumulative GPA)

The Cumulative GPA is the weighted average based on the Graded Units taken throughout the undergraduate career.  The Repeating Courses regulation, effective September 1, 2018, will affect the calculation of subsequent Cumulative GPA. 

Fall-Winter Average

The Fall-Winter Average is a weighted average based on the grades attained in the Fall and Winter Terms. Overload courses and Extra courses are included in the Fall-Winter Average.

Spring-Summer Average

The Spring-Summer Average is a weighted average based on the grades attained in the Spring and Summer Term.  Overload courses and Extra courses are included in the Spring-Summer Average.

Term Grade Point Average (Term GPA)

The Term GPA is a weighted average based on the Graded Units taken in the term.

Weighted Average

Weighted average is calculated by multiplying the grade points achieved in each course by the number of units in each course, totaling these results, and then dividing this result by the total number of course units.

Example of a weighted average calculation, using the grade points and units for courses attempted:

Honour Lists

Students are reviewed for Deans’ Honour Lists (DHL) and Provost’s Honour List (PHL) each time a minimum of 30 units (with at least 24 graded units) have been completed. Subsequent assessments are based on all units completed since the previous review. Students will be named to the Deans’ Honour List when a minimum average of 9.5 is achieved. Students will be named to the Provost’s Honour List when an average of 12.0 is achieved.

With Distinction

Graduation With Distinction standing is awarded when a minimum Cumulative GPA  of 9.5 is achieved in a degree program. In this case, the Latin phrase summa cum laude (“with highest honour”) will appear on the graduate’s diploma.

Transcripts

A transcript summarizes a student’s academic career at McMaster University and is available by electronic request through Mosaic. Students may request a transcript upon demand and free of charge in the Office of the Registrar, Student Services, Gilmour Hall Room 108. Transcript requests will not be processed for students with outstanding financial accounts at the University or those under investigation for an academic integrity violation.

Credentials 

A credential is a body of academic work or collection of course work that stands on its own and for which a parchment is issued.  McMaster credentials include certificates, diplomas and degrees.  A single course is permitted to be counted toward a maximum of two credentials.

Minors

Students enrolled in a four- or five-level program are eligible to obtain a Minor in another subject area, provided that the subject area is not integral to the requirements of their degree program. At least 18 units must be completed at McMaster.  Students who wish to receive a Minor must consult the appropriate department section of the calendar. McMaster also offers Interdisciplinary Minors and Thematic Areas . To apply for a Minor, students must complete the Minor/Certificate Application in addition to completing their profile in the graduation tile in Mosaic. The student’s Faculty will verify that the requirements have been met and, if successful, the transcript will indicate that a Minor has been obtained. Minors cannot be revoked once approved.

Overload Work

Students wishing to take more units than prescribed for their Level/program in the Fall-Winter Term or more than 12 units in the Spring-Summer Term (no more than 6 units in either session of that term) must seek permission from their Faculty/Program Office. Normally, a Fall-Winter Average of at least 7.0 in the immediately preceding review period will be required if an overload is to be permitted. Additional academic fees will be assessed for overload work.

OSAP Eligible Course Load

OSAP Eligible Course Load or equivalent refers to the 60% minimum course load per term (40% minimum course load per term for students with permanent disabilities) required to be eligible for full-time OSAP government student aid funding.

Repeating Courses

Effective September 1, 2018, students may repeat a course twice (i.e. attempt a course three times).  Cross-listed courses count as attempts. Grades from every attempt will appear on the academic transcript.  The Cumulative GPA  will include only the grade earned on the most recent attempt.  Units earned will be counted once toward the student’s program requirements, regardless of the number of times the course is repeated. Prior to September 1, 2018 the grades from all attempts are included in the GPA calculation.

Auditing Courses

Students currently enrolled in a degree program wishing to audit a course must obtain approval from the course instructor and their Faculty/Program Office . Additionally:   

• course requisites must be met
• academic obligations (assignments, test, examinations, etc.) are not completed 
• a grade of AUD (audit) will be assigned
• units will not be earned nor applied toward the student’s program requirements
• tuition fees apply
• students will not be permitted to enrol for credit in the course after the Last Day for enrolment and course changes   
• students enrolled in a course for credit will not be permitted to change the course to ‘audit’ after the Last Day for enrolment and course changes  

Non-McMaster students wishing to audit a course must enrol as a Listener.

Personal Interest Course (PIC)

McMaster University encourages interdisciplinary study and believes undergraduate studies provides an excellent opportunity to explore topics which are new and unfamiliar. Students, however, may be reluctant to take a course if they are unsure of their academic performance for fear of compromising their Cumulative GPA . The Personal Interest Course (PIC) option is designed to encourage students to explore interests outside of their program without affecting their Cumulative GPA.

1. A student can declare a PIC to signify they want an elective course to be assessed on a Credit or No Credit (CR/NC) grading scale. 
2. To receive the grade of CR, the student must earn a final mark of at least 50%. Units earned from a successfully completed PIC will be counted in the units required for a student’s degree as applicable. 
3. Courses with a final grade of NC do not count as degree credits or as failures, nor are they included in the GPA calculation or averages. Please note, government student aid (e.g., OSAP) will consider a NC grade as a failure.
4. The PIC option is not available for any course that is considered a program requirement (which includes courses listed as possible required courses), independent study, thesis, field study or placement course, or on a list of required courses.  Students are responsible for ensuring the course is an elective course for their program. Engineering students should note the PIC option is available only for complementary studies electives. For students in a Bachelor of Commerce program, only non-Commerce electives may be taken as a PIC.
5. Students may declare a maximum of 3 units of PIC per term to a maximum of 12 units per four- or five-level degree or a maximum of 9 units per three-level degree.  A maximum of 6 units of PIC may be used to satisfy requirements toward a Minor.
6. The PIC option is available to undergraduate students registered in a program above Level 1, with a Cumulative GPA of at least 3.5, who are enrolled in a Program/Faculty which is participating in the PIC option. Exchange students should seek advice from the International Study Office and Faculty/Program Office .

   The PIC option is not available to students who

• are enrolled in the School of Medicine, or
• are enrolled in a Program/Faculty which is not participating in the PIC option (see Faculty Academic Regulations), or 
• have graduated and are in a second degree or a non-degree program, e.g., continuing, etc.

7. If a percentage grade in a course is required for future applications to graduate or professional school, the PIC option should not be selected for that course.  Students may not subsequently request to have a PIC grade recalculated to a numeric grade.  Students must carefully review any government (e.g., OSAP) and University aid and award eligibility rules which may be affected by the use of the PIC option.

8. If the student changes their program of study and a course taken as a PIC becomes a required course, the new Faculty/Program Office may accept the course grade of CR or NC or have the grade converted back into a numeric grade.  If a grade is converted back into a numeric grade, there will be no retroactive reconsideration of aid and award.

9. Students cannot use the PIC option for courses in which they have been found guilty of academic dishonesty.  In these cases, the grade will be converted into a numeric grade.  

Deadlines:

1. Students must declare a course as a PIC on Mosaic by the last day for enrollment and course changes date.  The student progresses in the course as per normal, and has the option to withdraw from the course as per the normal procedures and deadlines.
2. If the student would rather keep the numeric grade, they must indicate the course is no longer a PIC on Mosaic by the final date in which a student can withdrawal from a course without failure by default  and the numeric grade will appear on their transcript.

Academic Standing Review:

Each year in May and August (and after deferred examinations) academic standing is reviewed and determined for students who have:  

• attempted at least 18 units of work since the last review, or
• may be eligible to graduate.

In the academic standing review, three determinations are made:

• whether a student may graduate
• whether a student may continue at the University
• whether a student may continue in a program.

Academic Standings:

Good Standing

A student who satisfies the minimum requirements to continue in their program without restriction.

May Continue in Program - Academic Probation

Academic probation is assigned when a student:

• achieves a Cumulative GPA  between 3.0 and 3.4. If at any future academic standing review their Cumulative GPA falls below 3.5, the academic standing assigned will be May Not Continue at the University.
• returns to studies after being Reinstated.  If at any future academic standing review their Cumulative GPA falls below 3.5, the academic standing assigned will be Required to Withdraw from the University.

May Continue in Program - Program Probation

Program Probation is assigned when a student’s Cumulative GPA  falls below the minimum requirements to remain in their program.  Failure to achieve Good Standing at the next academic standing review will result in their removal from the program.  See Faculty specific Minimum Requirements for Entering and Continuing in a Program Beyond Level 1.

May Not Continue in Program

This standing is assigned to:

• students who fail to achieve the minimum Cumulative GPA  to remain in the program, or
• students previously on Program Probation who fail to achieve Good Standing.

To continue at the University, the student must apply to transfer to another program.

May Not Continue in Faculty

May Not Continue in Faculty is assigned when:

• a student enrolled in a program in the Faculty of Engineering or Business has achieved a Cumulative GPA  between 3.0 and the minimum requirements to remain in their Faculty, or
• a student enrolled in a program in the Faculty of Business in Level 2 or above receives a grade of F in more than 6 units.

To continue at the University, the student must apply to transfer to another program or continue as a transition student for one reviewing period. 

May Not Continue at University

May Not Continue at University is assigned when:

• a student achieves a Cumulative GPA  below 3.0, or
• a student previously on Academic Probation fails to achieve Good Standing.   

The student cannot enroll in courses at the University unless granted Reinstatement.

Required to Withdraw from University

A student who at any time received a standing of Academic Probation and at a future academic standing review achieves a Cumulative GPA  below 3.5 will be required to withdraw from the University.  The student will be unable to apply for Reinstatement for at least 12 months. 

Reinstatement

Students must contact the Office of the Registrar to apply for reinstatement within the application deadlines.  Reinstatement is not guaranteed. 

If reinstatement is granted, the student is placed on academic probation and their Cumulative GPA is re-set to 0.0 on zero units.  At the discretion of the Faculty, the student may retain credit for courses successfully completed.  If at any academic standing review after reinstatement the student’s Cumulative GPA  falls below 3.5, the student will be required to withdraw from the University. 

The student must complete a minimum of 60 units of work after reinstatement to be eligible for Graduation With Distinction or other recognition based on the Cumulative GPA.

Level 1 Registration and Academic Standing Requirements

When you are admitted to McMaster University for a first degree, you will enrol in one of the following Level 1 programs: Automation Engineering Technology I Co-op (B.Tech.) , Automotive and Vehicle Engineering Technology I Co-op , Arts & Science I , Biotechnology I Co-op , Business I , Chemical and Physical Sciences Gateway , Computer Science I , Economics I  (effective 2019-2020), Engineering I , Environmental and Earth Sciences Gateway , Health Sciences I , Honours Health and Society I  (effective 2019-2020), Humanities I , Honours Integrated Science (Level I) , Honours Kinesiology (Level I) , Integrated Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences (IBEHS) I , Integrated Business & Humanities I , Life Sciences Gateway , Mathematics and Statistics Gateway , Honours Medical Radiation Sciences (Level I) , Midwifery I , Music I , Nursing I , Process Automation Technology I , Social Sciences I , and iArts I . If you enter the University without Advanced Standing being granted, you must normally attempt a full load of Level 1 work before proceeding to the work of higher levels.

If you are studying part-time, the Office of the Associate Dean  has the discretion to permit you to take some of the work in the higher levels prior to having attempted the full load of Level 1. Decisions will be made on an individual basis, according to the special circumstances that apply in the particular case.

At any review during Level 1 before you complete the Level 1 work, as in the case of a part-time student, you must attain a GPA of at least 3.5 to continue at the University in good standing. If you attain a GPA of 3.0 to 3.4 you may remain at the University for one reviewing period, but will be placed on academic probation. You may be on academic probation only once during your University career. If your GPA is less than 3.0 you may not continue at the University.

At the review when you complete the Level 1 work, if you attain a GPA of at least 3.0 and have not previously been on academic probation, but fail to meet the admission requirements of any program, you may continue at the University for one additional reviewing period on academic probation. You will be enrolled in your original Faculty, and will be classified as a Level 1 transition student if your work may only qualify you to be considered for admission to a program in another Faculty. If, at the end of the next reviewing period, you again do not qualify for admission to a program, you may not continue at the University. If your GPA is less than 3.0 you may not continue at the University.

Students in Arts & Science I should refer to the Arts & Science Program regulations listed below.

Health Sciences I, Nursing I and Midwifery I students should refer to the program regulations listed in the Faculty of Health Sciences section in this Calendar.

Minimum Requirements for Entering and Continuing in a Program Beyond Level 1

Admission to the programs beyond Level 1 is based on performance in Level 1. You must meet both the minimum requirements to continue at the University, as described above, and program-specific requirements of each Faculty, as described in this Calendar.

Arts & Science Program

B.Arts Sc. (Honours) AND B.Arts Sc. Programs

You must have a Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 6.0 to continue in the program. If your GPA is from 5.5 to 5.9, you may remain in the program, but will be placed on program probation for one reviewing period. You may be on program probation only once.

If your GPA is 3.5 to 5.4, you must transfer to another program for which you qualify, or you may enrol in the Arts & Science General Program on program probation for one reviewing period. During that period, with permission, you can take Arts & Science Program required courses (for which all course prerequisites have been met). Students in this situation must attend a mandatory preregistration advising session in the Arts & Science Program Office. At the end of the probation period, you may apply for readmission to the Honours Arts & Science Program; a minimum GPA of 6.0 is required. If the minimum GPA of 6.0 is not achieved after one reviewing period, you must transfer to a Program for which you qualify.

If your GPA is 3.0 to 3.4, you will be placed on academic probation. You may continue in the program for one reviewing period as a student in the Arts & Science General Program, but cannot take Arts & Science Program courses. The purpose of this period is to prepare yourself for a program outside the Honours Arts & Science Program. You may be on academic probation only once.

If your GPA is less than 3.0 you may not continue at the University.

School of Business

Business I

For specific admission requirements to the Honours B.Com. program, see Program Notes under the heading Programs in the DeGroote School of Business  section of this Calendar.

If you are not admitted to the Honours B.Com. program at the end of Business I, you have the following options available to you:

• If your cumulative Grade Point Average  is 3.5 or greater, you are still in good standing at the University. You may continue at the University in a program outside the School of Business or as a transition student in Business. To continue in a program outside the School of Business you must apply for admission to that program through the Office of the Associate Dean appropriate for that program. You should consult that office for more details.
• If you are not admitted to another Faculty you may enrol in the School of Business as a transition student for one reviewing period. During that period you cannot take upper-level Commerce courses. The purpose of your registration as a transition student is to make yourself eligible for admission to a degree program. If you have a cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.0 to 3.4, you will be on academic probation and may continue at the University for one reviewing period as a transition student in the School of Business but will not be permitted to take any upper-level Commerce courses. The purpose of the probation period is to make yourself eligible for a degree program. 

If you have a cumulative Grade Point Average of less than 3.0 at the end of Business I, you may not continue at the University either on a full-time or part-time basis.

Honours B.Com. Program:

You must have a cumulative Grade Point Average  of at least 5.0 to continue in the Honours B.Com. Program. Once admitted to Honours B.Com., if your cumulative GPA is 4.5 to 4.9, you may continue in the Honours B.Com. Program, but will be placed on program probation. You may be on program probation for only one reviewing period. If your GPA is a 3.5 to 4.4, you may transfer to the B.Com Program.

B.Com. Program:

You must have a cumulative Grade Point Average of at least 4.0 to continue in the B.Com. Program. If your GPA is 3.5 to 3.9, you are permitted to continue in the B.Com. Program on program probation for one reviewing period.

Integrated Business & Humanities:

To be admitted to Level 2 of the Integrated Business & Humanities (IBH)  program, students must have completed at least 24 units of the required Level 1 courses with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA)   of 5.0. In Level 2 and above, you must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 5.0 to continue in the IBH program. If your cumulative GPA is 4.5 to 4.9, you may continue in the Integrated Business & Humanities program, but will be placed on program probation. You may be on program probation for only one reviewing period. If your cumulative GPA is a 3.5 to 4.4, you must transfer to another program for which you qualify, or enrol in the IBH program as a transition student for one reviewing period. During that period you cannot take IBH program courses. The purpose of this period is to prepare yourself for a program outside the IBH program. If your GPA is 3.0 to 3.4, you will be placed on academic probation. You may continue in the program for one reviewing period as a transition student but cannot take IBH program courses. The purpose of this period is to prepare yourself for a program outside the IBH program. You may be on academic probation only once.

If your GPA is less than 3.0 you may not continue at the University.

Faculty of Engineering

B.Eng., B.A.Sc. Programs

Admission to Level 2 Engineering programs requires completion of all 31 units of required Engineering I courses. Students must maintain a Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA)  of 4.0. In Level 2 and above, you must maintain a GPA of at least 4.0 to continue in an Engineering program or in an Honours Computer Science programs. If you have a GPA of 3.0 to 3.9, you may not continue in the Faculty. If your GPA is less than 3.0, you may not continue at the University.

B.Tech. Programs

For specific minimum requirements, please see the descriptions for the individual programs within the Faculty of Engineering  section in this Calendar.

Integrated Biomedical Engineering & Health Sciences (B.Eng.BME., B.H.Sc. (Honours)) Programs

For specific minimum requirements, please see the descriptions for the individual programs within the Faculty of Engineering section in this Calendar.

Faculty of Health Sciences

For specific minimum requirements, please see the descriptions for the individual programs within the Faculty of Health Sciences  section in this Calendar.

Faculties of Humanities and Social Sciences

Honours B.A. Programs; B.Mus. (Honours) Program; BFA (Honours) Program

You must have a Grade Point Average (GPA)  of at least 5.0 to continue in an Honours B.A. program. If your GPA is 4.5 to 4.9, you may remain in the Honours program, but will be placed on program probation for one reviewing period. You may be on program probation only once. If your GPA is 3.0 to 4.4, you must transfer to another program for which you qualify. If your GPA is less than 3.0, you may not continue at the University.

Honours B.S.W., B.A./B.S.W. and B.S.W. Programs

You must have a Grade Point Average (GPA)  of at least 6.0 to continue in an Honours B.S.W., B.A./B.S.W. or B.S.W program. If your GPA is 5.5 to 5.9, you may remain in the program, but will be placed on program probation for one reviewing period. You may be on program probation only once. If your GPA is 3.0 to 5.4, you must transfer to another program for which you qualify. If your GPA is less than 3.0, you may not continue at the University.

B.A. Programs

You must have a Grade Point Average (GPA)  of at least 3.5 to continue in, or graduate from, a three-level B.A. program. If your GPA is 3.0 to 3.4, you may remain in the program, but will be placed on academic probation. You may be on academic probation only once. If your GPA is less than 3.0, you may not continue at the University.

Faculty of Science

Honours B.Sc. Programs

Students must have a Grade Point Average (GPA)  of at least 5.0 to continue in and graduate from an Honours B.Sc. program. Students with a GPA between 4.5 to 4.9, may remain in the Honours B.Sc. program, but will be placed on program probation. Students may be on program probation for only one reviewing period. Students with a GPA between 3.0 to 4.4, must transfer to another program for which they qualify. Students with a GPA below 3.0 may not continue at the University.

Honours B.Sc. Kinesiology Program

Students must complete Level I Honours Kinesiology  (including KINESIOL 1A03 , 1AA3 , 1E03, 1F03 , 1K03 ) with a Grade Point Average (GPA)  of at least 6.0 to continue onto Level II Honours Kinesiology .

If, upon completion of Level I Honours Kinesiology  (including KINESIOL 1A03 , 1AA3 , 1E03, 1F03 , 1K03 ), students achieve a GPA between 5.5 and 5.9, they may enrol in Level II Honours Kinesiology  but will be placed on program probation for one reviewing period. Students may be on program probation only once.

If, upon completion of Level I Honours Kinesiology , students who achieve a GPA between 3.5 and 5.4 and/or fail to successfully complete each of KINESIOL 1A03 , 1AA3 , 1E03, 1F03 , 1K03 , may enrol in Level II Kinesiology General and take Level II required Kinesiology courses (for which all prerequisites have been met). At the next review, such students must achieve a GPA of at least 6.0 including, successful completion of KINESIOL 1A03 , 1AA3 , 1E03, 1F03 , 1K03 , to transfer to the Honours Kinesiology program. Such students must attend a mandatory preregistration counselling session with an Academic Advisor. Students who fail to meet the minimum requirements for transfer to Honours Kinesiology, must transfer to a non-Kinesiology program for which they qualify.

Students with a GPA between 3.0 to 3.4, must transfer to another program to which they qualify. Students with a GPA below 3.0 may not continue at the University.

B.Sc. Programs

Students must have a Grade Point Average (GPA)  of at least 3.5 to continue in a three-level B.Sc. program. Students with a GPA between 3.0 to 3.4, may continue on academic probation for one reviewing period. Students may be on academic probation only once. Students with a GPA below 3.0 may not continue at the University.

Honours B.A.Sc. Programs

Students must have a Grade Point Average (GPA)  of at least 5.0 to continue in an Honours B.A.Sc. program. Students with a GPA between 4.5 to 4.9, may remain in the Honours B.A.Sc. program, but will be placed on program probation. Students may be on program probation for only one reviewing period. Students with a GPA between 3.0 to 4.4, must transfer to another program for which they qualify. Students with a GPA below 3.0 may not continue at the University. Graduation from an Honours B.A.Sc. program requires a Grade Point Average of at least 5.0.

Honours M.R.Sc. Program

Students must complete all the course requirements prescribed for Level I Medical Radiation Sciences by the end of Winter Term of Level I, with a Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 5.0 or permission of the Committee of Instruction (Chair Medical Radiation Sciences (Mohawk), Coordinator Medical Radiation Sciences (McMaster), Coordinator Radiation Therapy Specialization, Coordinator Radiography Specialization, Coordinator Ultrasonography Specialization). For additional program-specific regulations, see the School of Interdisciplinary Science (SIS) in the Faculty of Science section of this Calendar.

Graduation

The following minimum Cumulative GPA are required to graduate:

• B.A. - 3.5
• B.A. (Honours) - 5.0
• B.S.W. (Honours), B.A. /B.S.W. and B.S.W. - 6.0
• B.Arts Sc. and B.Arts Sc. (Honours) - 5.0
• B.A.Sc. (Faculty of Engineering) - 4.0
• B.A.Sc. (Honours) (Faculty of Science) - 5.0
• B.Com. - 4.0
• B.Com. (Honours) - 5.0
• B.Eng., B.Eng.BME., B.Eng.Biosciences, B.Eng.Mgt., B.Eng.Society - 4.0
• B.F.A. (Honours) - 5.0
• B.H.Sc. - 3.5
• B.H.Sc. (Honours) - 5.0
• B.H.Sc. (Midwifery) - 6.0
• B.H.Sc. (Honours) (HESE Specialization) - 4.0
• B.M.R.Sc. (Honours)*- 5.0
• B.Mus. (Honours) - 5.0
• B.Sc. - 3.5
• B.Sc. (Honours) - 5.0
• B.Sc.Kin. (Honours) - 5.0
• B.Sc.N. - 5.0
• B.Tech** - 3.5

* All requirements must be completed within five years from the time of registration in Level 2.
**Excluding students in the Software Engineering Technology Co-op Program. GPA requirement does not apply to the Software Engineering Technology Program Co-op.

Prior to convocation, graduating students must complete their profile in the graduation tile in Mosaic by the appropriate deadline in their final term of study. Students wishing to graduate with a Minor must complete the application in the Minor/Certificate Application Centre.

Degrees will be conferred at the Convocation immediately following the completion of the degree.  Students unable to attend the convocation ceremony who wish to attend a later ceremony should consult the Policy on Deferral of Attendance at Convocation and must contact the Office of the Registrar within the prescribed deadlines.

Parchments, Diplomas and Certificates

Diplomas will not be released to students with an outstanding financial account with the University. Diplomas are held for a period of 12 months following the Convocation date before being destroyed. Students requesting diplomas after this period are required to pay a replacement fee.

Graduates may request a duplicate or replacement degree parchment, diploma or certificate (fees apply). A duplicate copy will be issued when requested by a graduate or when the original document has been lost or destroyed.

The words duplicate copy or reissued will be affixed to all degree parchments, diplomas or certificates requested in this manner and will bear the signatures of the current Chancellor, President and Vice-Chancellor, and Registrar.

Damaged parchments must be returned to the Office of the Registrar before the new parchment, diploma or certificate is issued.