Academic Affairs



Probation FAQ

The first law of holes: "When you're in one, stop digging."
 

Every student needs to make satisfactory progress toward a degree. University life moves by quickly, and low grades are a serious issue that you need to address immediately. Here are some tips for how you can improve your academic standing:
 

Where to I start?
 In general, students on academic probation should lower the number of credits they are taking, in order to have a successful semester. Drop before the 5th class day, January 15, 2008.

What services are available at MSUM?

  1. If you are in a math class, seek out the services of the Math Learning Center (477-2274).
  2. If you are in a class that requires you to write papers, the Write Site (Lommen 95, 477-5937) can offer comments and assistance.
  3. If you are in a class that offers Supplemental Instruction ("S. I.") attend those sessions.
  4. Take Study Skills class if you need help in that area.
  5. See the Counseling Center staff (Bridges 260, 477-2227) for information about individual tutoring ( you can receive free tutoring every semester for courses in which tutors are available).
  6. If you have a learning disability, visit Disability Services (CMU 114, 477-5859) to determine whether accommodations are available for you.
  7. Corrick Center students should work closely with their advisors to plan schedules that balance classes both in and out of the Corrick Center. Make sure you are working to complete you Corrick Center program/credits. The Corrick Center is a wonderful gateway to University life-be sure to take advantage of the classes and support they offer.

Anything Else?

A common problem we see in students with academic difficulties is trying to work full time and attend college full time. This is a recipe for failure for most students

The rule of thumb to use in planning your weekly schedule is to allow two hours of study time for every hour you spend in class. For example, if you are registered for 15 credits, you should be studying an additional 30 hours each week. That's 45 hours just for your studies - if you're a full time student, earning your degree is a full time job. (Full time students should not work more than 15 hours per week.)

If you are involved in activities or work, you need to balance your schedule so that academics comes first. If you must work full time, it would be wise for you to take fewer credits in order to do well in each class.

The deadline to withdraw from classes that meet for the full semester is April 3, 2008. The deadline to withdraw from classes that meet only during the second half of the semester is April 16, 2008. You can withdraw from classes at the Records Office before these deadlines - withdrawing on-line will not work when you have a probation hold. Withdrawing negatively impacts your probation status and negatively impacts your Financial Aid eligibility because it reduces the % of credits you are completing. You should check with the Financial Aid office (if you are receiving aid) and my office (Janet Haak) before withdrawing from classes if you have any questions.