Department Policies

Department of Communication Studies – Attendance Policy

It is important to understand that you are in charge of your own learning and you share responsibility for your academic achievement and the successful completion of your course. Given the student-driven and collaborative nature of Communication Studies classrooms and the general necessity of in-class presence for effective learning, the Department of Communication Studies maintains a formal attendance policy, which is applied equally by all professors.

Permitted Number of Absences:

Students are allowed to miss one week’s worth of classes without penalty: two sessions in a twice-a-week course and one session in a once-a-week course. Each absence beyond the permitted number incurs a grade penalty (unless it falls in the “excused absences category” and proper documentation is provided).

Penalties in twice-a-week courses :

A third absence results in a 5% grade deduction.

A fourth absence results in a 10% grade deduction.

A fifth absence results in automatic course failure.

Penalties in once-a-week courses:

A second full absence results in a 10% course grade deduction.

A third absence results in automatic course failure.

Late arrivals:

Timely arrival at class meetings and appointments is consistent with the workplace expectations that characterize virtually all professions. The Department considers student compliance with this requirement as an indicator of professional commitment and future success. Be aware that three late arrivals to class equal one absence, so timely arrival is very important.

Excused Absences:

It is important to reserve the pre-penalty absences for true emergencies should they arise. In cases when true and unavoidable emergencies prevent attendance, such absences may be excused by the instructor. Such excused absences (when properly documented) will not incur grade penalties. They include:

a. extended illness; b. death in a student's immediate family; c. call to active military or jury duty; d. away or rescheduled athletic events; e. religious holidays.

In such cases, students should be proactive and inform the course instructor as soon as possible. Students should also make appropriate arrangements to submit late required work within a reasonable timeframe determined by the instructor, secure an incomplete grade if the majority of course assignments have been completed (at least 80% of coursework), or withdraw from the course.

Unexcused Absences

The following occurrences DO NOT constitute valid excused absences:

Late registration; common illness such as cold or flu; scheduled court appearance; traffic or parking problems; car trouble; participation in home games or athletic training; job interviews; doctor’s appointment; family events and celebrations; vacations.

Extreme Life Circumstances

In cases of extreme life circumstances, the Department of Communication Studies recommends students withdraw from courses so that they may focus their immediate attention on their personal well-being. Doing so will ensure that coursework is conducted at a time when full attention may be devoted to the learning experience.