Graduate Catalog 2000–02

• University Accreditation
• University Calendar
• University Map
• University Administration
• Graduate Programs
• General Requirements
  • Admissions
  •  Academic Regulations
  • Graduate Assistantships
  • Financial Assistance
  •  Tuition and Fees
  • Research Facilities
• College of Business
  •  Business Administration
• College of Ed and Tech
  • Counseling
  • School Guidance
  • Education
  • Physical Education
  • Special Education
• College of Fine Arts
  • Music
• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
  • Anthropology and Applied Archaeology
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Communication
  • Communicative Disorders
  • English
  • Mathematics
  • Psychology
• Course Descriptions
• University Faculty

University Calendar

Unforeseen circumstances may necessitate modification of the University Calendar. The Class Schedule for each semester will reflect those modifications. Students should refer to the University Calendar printed in the Class Schedule for each semester. Summer Schedule for the 1999-2000 academic year was not known at the time of printing this catalog. Refer to the appropriate class schedule for dates.

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Board of Regents

Administration

Graduate School

Phillip Shelley                                                                                                                                Dean

Deans of the Colleges

The Graduate Committee

The Graduate Committee recommends to the Faculty Senate policies relating to graduate programs. It also acts as an advisory body to the Dean of the Graduate School.    Graduate students or faculty who wish to present a matter to the Graduate Committee may do so by contacting the Graduate School.
Faculty members are: William Brunsen, Mary Drabbs, Janet Frost, Lelsie Gill, John Kenney, Zhiming Liu, Phillip Million, Janet Roehl, Jerald Spotswood, Christopher Stuart; ex officio: Phillip Shelley.   The Committee also has four graduate student representatives, one from each college.

Student Responsibility

Students are responsible for complying with all regulations of the University, the Graduate School, and the program they select for their major, their emphasis, or their non-degree interest. Specifically, it is the students' responsibility:

1. to read, understand, and adhere to all requirements and processes established in this catalog;
2. to formulate and file promptly an official degree plan approved by the graduate advisory committee, graduate coordinator, college dean, and graduate dean;
3. to initiate in writing necessary changes and substitutions involving the graduate advisory committee, the major, the degree plan, or other degree requirements;
4. to make arrangements for the necessary duplication and binding of the thesis, pay all fees; and
5. to apply for graduation.

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Graduate Programs

The Mission of Eastern New Mexico University
Eastern New Mexico University combines a traditional learning environment with twenty-first century technology to provide a rich educational experience. Eastern emphasizes liberal learning, freedom of inquiry, cultural diversity, and whole student life. Excellent teaching and active learning define campus relationships. Scholarship, both primary and applied, cultural enrichment, and professional service are also important contributions of the University community.

Eastern, a state institution offering bachelor's and master's degrees, serves students from New Mexico, other states, and other nations. Educational programs are offered at the Portales campus and also by interactive distance education, public broadcast television, a branch/community college in Roswell, New Mexico, and a university center in Ruidoso, New Mexico.

Eastern's Focus:

• Prepare students for careers and advanced study
• Impart citizenship and leadership skills and values
• Support and expand the role of education and excellent teaching at all levels
• Enable citizens to respond to a rapidly changing world.

History of Eastern New Mexico University
Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) takes pride in its many accomplishments and the reputation for excellence it is establishing for itself as a comprehensive multi-campus university offering undergraduate and graduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences, education, business, fine arts and selected vocational and technical subjects.

The youngest state-supported institution of higher learning in New Mexico, ENMU opened in the fall of 1934 as a two-year junior college and became a baccalaureate institution in 1940. Graduate programs were developed by the university and accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools in 1949. The Master's degree is the highest degree conferred by the university.

Distance Education
Eastern New Mexico University has been a pioneer in distance education with over 40 years of experience in alternative delivery systems for educational programs. ENMU began its distance education program by offering courses in other communities in 1957, and in 1978 the University began offering instruction through educational television. Today, graduate programs are offered in a variety of communities in southeast New Mexico, primarily through interactive instructional television but also by ENMU faculty who drive to distant sites. Programs feature a variety of delivery mechanisms, both across programs and within courses, depending on the nature and content of individual courses.

The most extensive outreach effort involves ENMU's interactive instructional television. The instructional television system is more than simply an image on a television screen. ENMU's interactive instructional television has created a network of classes in communities in the southeast part of the state connected to a classroom on campus where the professor is present. The instructional television program provides one-way video and two-way audio, allowing students the opportunity to participate in class discussions and activities with students at other sites. Through this system, graduate students can pursue degrees or certificates. ENMU's interactive instructional television system uses a trained facilitator at each receive site to assist the faculty member and students. ENMU's commitment to extended learning is campus-wide. Golden Library provides extensive electronic and human support to extended learning students; campus services, such as advising, financial aid, and other support services, are also available to extended learning students.

As part of its commitment to serving the needs of the citizens of New Mexico, Eastern New Mexico University continues to explore new technologies, such as courses on the Internet. Further, ENMU supports the Principles of Good Practice for Electronically Offered Academic Degree and Certificate Programs of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education. These efforts are in keeping with a tradition of service to students and communities in New Mexico.

The Mission of the Graduate School
The Graduate School at ENMU exists to provide a quality higher education in selected liberal arts, professional, and pre-professional programs. These diverse programs are offered to help develop the knowledge and competency of the student in her/his field of study, to foster a spirit of inquiry by encouraging independent, original thought, to acquaint the student with the techniques of research, and to promote intellectual growth.

In seeking to serve all qualified students, the Graduate School begins with the belief that education is a life-long process which demonstrates the importance of independent inquiry, objectivity, and judgment. The programs offered through the Graduate School strive to provide the student with experiences which will help prepare her/him for life and livelihood in a changing world.

The Goals of the Graduate School
The Graduate School at ENMU seeks to extend the frontiers of knowledge by stimulating originality, promoting the benefits of learning, encouraging scholarship, and developing a sense of professionalism.

The Graduate School actively searches for students who have the academic background, the intellectual initiative, and the necessary zeal to meet the challenge set by the graduate program.

The Graduate School's Programs
The Graduate School at ENMU currently offers 15 majors, as well as six different degrees.   Most schools and departments within the various colleges of the University offer graduate curricula. Post-baccalaureate students, in consultation with the appropriate graduate faculty, should be able to plan for almost any kind of contingency. In particular, those who wish to study for a master's degree, those who wish to pursue graduate work but without intending to apply credits toward an advanced degree, and those who intend to earn credit toward professional certification or licensure should be able to select an appropriate plan of study.

The Graduate School
The Graduate School at ENMU coordinates all of the graduate programs offered by the University through the office of the Graduate School.

Graduate Dean
The Dean of the Graduate School, or graduate dean, has the principal responsibility for implementing Graduate School policies and procedures. The graduate dean approves graduate faculty and programs based on the recommendation of the college deans and the Graduate Committee. The graduate dean has other responsibilities and duties that are stated in this catalog or are inherent by the nature of the office.

Graduate Committee
The Graduate Committee, composed of Graduate Coordinators (see below) has the responsibility for recommending policies, programs, and plans for the Graduate School. This committee continually reviews the graduate program, evaluates curricular proposals, acts on petitions, and approves candidates for graduation. The Graduate Committee sets graduate faculty policy and reviews annually the list of graduate faculty maintained by the graduate dean.

Graduate Coordinator
While there are variations in emphasis from program to program, generally the graduate coordinator, chosen from among the graduate faculty within a program, has the responsibility of meeting with all new graduate students to review Graduate School and program policies and advising students on the choice of a graduate advisory committee and initial curricular planning. This person keeps the Graduate School apprised of changes in the graduate program, coordinates curricular proposals, determines students' admissibility to the program, coordinates the assignment of graduate advisors, and acts on petitions related to program policies and procedures. Graduate coordinators serve at the pleasure of the President.

Graduate Faculty
Designation as graduate faculty is determined by academic qualifications and experience, college recommendations and review by the Graduate Committee with final approval by the graduate dean. Graduate faculty qualifications may be found in the Administrative and Governance Policies and Procedures Manual.

Members of the graduate faculty participate in all phases of the graduate program including the teaching of graduate courses, advisement of graduate students, supervision of graduate research, formulation of graduate curriculum in appropriate disciplines, and are eligible to serve on graduate committees. Active participation on student advisory committees, teaching courses and ongoing involvement in professional activities is an expectation for continued membership.

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General Academic Regulations of the Graduate School
Students are responsible for complying with all regulations of the University, the Graduate School, and the program they select for their major, their emphasis, or their non-degree interest. Specifically, it is the student's responsibility:

1. to read, understand, and adhere to all requirements and processes established in this catalog;
2. to formulate and file promptly an official degree plan approved by the graduate advisory committee, graduate  coordinator, college dean, and graduate dean;
3. to initiate in writing necessary changes and substitutions involving the graduate advisory committee, the major, the  degree plan, or other degree requirements;
4. to make arrangements for the necessary duplication and binding of the thesis, pay all fees; and
5. to apply for graduation.

Student records offices within each college maintain records for all students who have declared a major field of study. During the first semester of enrollment students should verify that their records are in the appropriate office, and that their records are accurate and current. They should develop the habit of asking the student records office, as well as the Graduate School office, for assistance with University and Graduate School requirements and policies. These offices are also appropriate sources of information regarding changes in policy, calendars of events, and other relevant matters.

The graduate dean will approve students for graduation provided:

1. they have fulfilled all degree requirements set forth in the Graduate Catalog;
2. they have completed successfully the courses listed in the approved degree plan, passed the written or oral examinations, successfully defended the thesis, and submitted the necessary final copies of the thesis ten days before the end of the final semester of enrollment.
3. their degree is conferred within six years from the semester of first graduate enrollment;
4. their curricular requirements are governed by one catalog;
5. they have a minimum cumulative graduate grade point average of 3.0; and
6. they have met residency requirements applicable to their graduate program.

New catalogs are effective the fall term of the year in which they are published. Students in earlier catalogs may continue to use the courses (or appropriate course substitutions) and program requirements of the catalogs used at matriculation. However, academic standards and regulations introduced in new catalogs apply to all students. Thus, probation and suspension regulations, and specific grade-point average requirements, apply to all students.

The University may make changes and exceptions to the curricular and academic policies provided that administrative and governance procedures are followed and that affected students are given reasonable consideration to individually petition for exceptions.

More Academic Regulations

Petitions for Exceptions to Established Requirements and Policies
Students should initiate petitions for substitutions and exceptions to program curricular and degree plan requirements with the advice and consent of their graduate advisory committee. The petitions should be directed to the appropriate graduate coordinator, college dean, and then the graduate dean. The graduate dean has final approval for all requests for exceptions to program requirements or changes in approved graduate degree plans.

The graduate dean shall direct student petitions requesting exceptions to established Graduate School policies to the Graduate Committee who shall recommend resolution. The graduate dean has final approval for all requests for exceptions to established graduate policies and procedures. Upon student appeal, the Vice President for Academic Affairs may review the graduate dean's determination.

Academic Integrity
All graduate students are expected to obey the laws of the state/nation and to pursue their academic careers with honesty and integrity. The University community regards academic dishonesty, especially cheating and plagiarism, as unacceptable conduct at any time and has established severe penalties for those found guilty of such acts.

Other Academic Conduct
Continual absenteeism or disruptive behavior in the classroom are also considered inappropriate behavior.

Penalties and Processes
The faculty member of record may determine that academic dishonesty is indicative of misrepresentation of the student's knowledge of the course material resulting in a lower or even a failing grade in the class in which the offense occurred.

If a faculty member or faculty members consider the student's academic dishonesty sufficiently grave, he/she (they) may ask that the student be temporarily suspended or permanently dismissed from a graduate program.

The recommendation for suspension or dismissal will be reviewed by the graduate faculty of the program or a subgroup of three or more graduate faculty of the program as designated by the college dean. This group may be an established group such as the student's advisory committee, or a program committee for evaluating student progress or it may be an ad hoc committee appointed by the college dean for this purpose.

The appointed graduate faculty will review the facts of the case and make a recommendation based on approved policy as established by the program or the college. The college dean's recommendation, with documentation of rationale, will then be forwarded to the graduate dean who will notify the student within five working days of receipt of the recommendation. The graduate dean will provide copies of the recommendation and rationale to the student.

Appeal
Students who are recommended for dismissal or suspension may appeal to the Graduate Student Academic Appeals Committee by submitting a written request and rationale for appeal within five working days of receipt of the written notification from the graduate dean.

If the student appeals, the Graduate Student Academic Appeals Committee shall hear the case and make a recommendation to the graduate dean. The graduate dean shall review the process and recommendation to insure that University policies and procedures were followed and make a final determination about the dismissal or suspension of the student. The action of the graduate dean is final.

If the student does not appeal, the recommendation stands and the dismissal or suspension is implemented immediately and recorded on the student's official record.

If the final disposition of the case results in suspension or dismissal from the program and the student applies for admission to another graduate program at ENMU, the facts and records may be reviewed by the graduate faculty in considering admission into the other program.

Graduate Student Academic Appeals Committee
The Graduate Student Academic Appeals Committee hears appeals by students who are accused of unprofessional behavior or academic dishonesty, as well as graduate assistants accused of inadequate performance. The Committee has no jurisdiction over matters of faculty grading or matters of student behavior covered by other University and Student Government policies and procedures.

At the beginning of each academic year, a standing committee named the Graduate Student Academic Appeals Committee is appointed. The Committee shall consist of three members of the graduate faculty and two graduate students. The Associated Student Government shall appoint one graduate faculty member and one graduate student and one alternate for each position. The Graduate Committee shall appoint one graduate faculty member and one graduate student and one alternate for each position. The graduate dean shall appoint one graduate faculty member and one alternate. The Committee shall elect its own chairperson from among its graduate faculty membership with all members voting. In the event a member cannot be present or there is a possible conflict of interest, the graduate dean at his or her discretion shall appoint an alternate.

The graduate dean will convene the Committee within five University working days following receipt of the appeal if the appeal is timely. If the University is at the end of a semester or not in academic session (fall, spring, or summer session), the Committee will be convened within five University working days of the first day of the next semester following the date of receipt of the appeal. The Committee shall review the written appeal and the recommendation of the graduate faculty and hear the appeal of the student and the complaining graduate faculty. The Committee can call other persons to testify as necessary. The appealing student may appear with a personally chosen representative. A record will be kept of the proceedings and forwarded to the graduate dean with the recommendation of the Committee. The graduate dean will then determine final disposition of the appeal.

Admission Standards
Graduates of a regionally accredited college or university or whose institution is recognized by the Commission on Recognition of Post-secondary Accreditation (CORPA) may apply for admission to the Graduate School.

Admission Procedures
Admission to the Eastern New Mexico University Graduate School involves two separate steps:

ONE:    Admission to the Graduate School
         (This step must be completed by all students: degree and non-degree seeking.)

TWO:   Admission into a specific graduate program
         (This step must be completed only by students seeking a master's degree.)

STEP ONE: Application to the Graduate School
In order to receive full consideration for admission to the Graduate School, students are encouraged to study the admission policies and procedures and supply everything required for the application in a timely manner. The submission of a complete application not only expedites the admission process, it helps place the student properly and ensures that graduate study will begin without delay.

1.    Application
       All  persons  (including  graduates of Eastern New Mexico University) seeking admission to the Graduate School are required to submit a formal application for admission. Applications are available from the Graduate School.

2.    Application Fee
       Unless previously paid, all applications must be accompanied by a $10 application fee.

3.   Transcripts
      All applicants must request that one official transcript from each institution previously attended be forwarded directly to the Graduate School. Transcripts in the student's possession will not be accepted.

All application materials should be forwarded to:
        Graduate School
        Station 9
        Quay Hall, Room 105
        Eastern New Mexico University
        Portales, NM 88130
        575.562.2147

Timely Completion of the Admissions Process
Normally, admission to the Graduate School is achieved by completing the application process at least 30 days prior to the semester of first enrollment.   International students must complete the application process 60 days prior to the first semester of enrollment. Students who apply less than 30 days in advance or whose application materials are incomplete at the time of initial registration will be given an "incomplete" admission standing and allowed to enroll temporarily for one semester.

Applicants with "incomplete" admission standing must complete the application process before the end of the first semester of enrollment. The original admission letter noting an "incomplete" admission standing and its limitations will serve as the only notification the student will receive. If the admission process has not been completed within the first semester of enrollment, further enrollment in the Graduate School will be denied.

Any course work completed while the student is classified as having an "incomplete"admission standing is subject to review and acceptance at the discretion of the program and the graduate dean.

Applicants will be notified by letter of the success of their application. This letter will make note of a student's standing and any conditions, limitations, or restrictions the program and/or Graduate School may see fit to impose. This letter serves as the only notification the student will receive. If the student does not complete the application process within the first semester of enrollment or if the undergraduate degree is from an unaccredited institution, further enrollment will be denied.

STEP TWO:  Admission to a Graduate Program
If the applicant has qualified for admission to the Graduate School, the Graduate School will forward the student's file to the graduate coordinator in the program for evaluation. Because admission into a particular program depends on special program requirements, additional information about the student and his or her academic background may be required by the program's graduate coordinator. Such information may include, but is not limited to: Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) scores, a writing proficiency exam, qualifying or field exams, or letters of recommendation.

The different graduate programs have particular admission standards and program requirements more rigorous than those of the Graduate School which the student must satisfy. Therefore, admission to the graduate school does not entitle the applicant admission to a graduate program; it only insures consideration by the program. (Refer to individual program descriptions for specific requirements.) Further, the University reserves the right to select individuals for admission on the basis of merit in such a way as to promote the best interests of the University and the society as a whole and to maximize the potential for individual achievement.

Conditions for Readmission

Renewal of Application
Application materials for students who were admitted but did not register for the expected semester of enrollment will be retained in the Graduate School for one year (international students' files are kept for two years). To update an application within the one-year period, contact the Graduate School. If more than one year has passed, a new application, transcripts, etc., must be submitted.

Reapplication Following Two or More Inactive Semesters
Students who have been admitted and have previously attended classes but who have not enrolled for two or more consecutive semesters must complete a readmission form. Transcripts and other information previously submitted do not have to be resubmitted. Students who have attended other institutions during their absence from the University must provide one official transcript from each institution attended.

Readmission Following Suspension
Any student suspended from the Graduate School must apply for readmission by submitting a written petition for reinstatement.  A graduate student suspended for the first time will not be allowed to apply for readmission until after one regular (fall or spring) semester has elapsed. A second academic suspension will result in permanent dismissal from the Graduate School.  Final determination of the re-admission will be made by the Graduate Committee and the Graduate Dean.

Discovery of failure to reveal a previous suspension may result in immediate and permanent dismissal from the Graduate School.

International Student Admissions
All international students must meet the following admission requirements for degree classification:

1. complete a formal application to the Graduate School;
2. provide one official copy of transcripts from all previously attended universities/colleges;
3. have an educational background equivalent to that required of United States citizens;
4. provide a certified financial statement with proof of ability to meet financial responsibilities while attending the University (current figures available in admission packet);
5. provide official TOEFL scores with a minimum score of 550 or verification of completion of the highest level of an intensive English program;
6. complete admission process 60 days prior to the first semester of enrollment.

An international student must be formally accepted into a graduate program before an I-20 will be issued.

pon arrival at the University, all international students will be required to attend a special orientation before registering for courses. Tuition and fees must be paid at the time of registration. Health and accident insurance is mandatory.

Degree Classification
Students who have been admitted to the Graduate School and to a graduate program will be classified as either regular status or conditional status:

1. Regular Status: This status includes students who have met all the admission requirements of the Graduate School and the graduate program, and:
1. have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 in major and 3.0 cumulative overall.
2. if nine graduate hours have been attempted, have a cumulative graduate GPA of at least 3.0.

2. Conditional Status: This status includes students who have met all the admission requirements of the Graduate School and:
1. have a cumulative undergraduate grade point average of less than 3.0 but more than 2.5, or
2. have not completed necessary leveling courses or other requirements as determined by the graduate program.

All program recommendations are forwarded to the graduate dean. Applicants are advised of their admissibility and admission status in a letter from the graduate dean.
Once conditional admittees have successfully completed nine graduate hours with a cumulative graduate GPA of 3.0; successfully completed necessary leveling courses; and satisfied all other requirements for admission they will be notified by the Graduate School of their change in status.

Non-Degree Classification
Non-degree classification is divided into three categories:

1. Licensure/Certification: Students who are enrolling in courses for teacher licensure or professional certification purposes, but who do not intend to pursue a master's degree.
2. Personal/Professional Development: Students enrolling in courses for personal or professional development, but who do not intend to pursue a master's degree.
3. Academically Deficient: Students who wish to pursue a master's degree, but whose previous academic record is below the minimum accepted for degree classification (either 2.499 cumulative undergraduate GPA or 2.999 cumulative graduate GPA after the completion of 9 graduate hours).

Generally, no more than six credit hours completed while classified non-degree will be allowed on an official degree plan if a change of status is requested and approved.
Although non-degree students are not routinely assigned an advisor, they may request that one be appointed. Non-degree students who need an advisor's signature during registration should contact a representative of the Graduate School. Students studying for teacher licensure should contact the graduate coordinator for the School of Education.

Non-degree classification precludes receiving a graduate assistantship and/or fellowships.

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Change of Status from Non-Degree to Degree Classification
Students who wish to change from non-degree to degree classification must:

1. complete a "Change of Status or Major" form, including justification for change, indicating graduate program desired;
2. have completed 6 graduate hours with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 prior to requesting change of status; and
3. fulfill all application requirements as set forth by the graduate program.

At completion of items 1, 2 and 3, the Graduate School will forward the student's records to the appropriate graduate coordinator for evaluation and consideration for acceptance into the graduate program.   A petition for change of status does not constitute an automatic change. The change must be approved by the graduate dean upon recommendation of the graduate program. (See "Admission to a Graduate Program," p. 16.) Generally, no more than six credit hours completed while classified non-degree will be allowed on an official degree plan.

Transfer Between ENMU Graduate Programs
Transfer between graduate program requires submission of a "change of status or major" form at which time step 2 of the admission process must again be completed for admission into the new program. Students must complete all admission requirements of the new graduate program. (See "Admission to a Graduate Program," p. 16.) Transfer is not automatic and must be requested through the Graduate School.

Transfer of Graduate Credits from Other Institutions
A limited number of hours of graduate work completed at another CORPA graduate school may be considered for acceptance as part of a degree plan at the University, provided that:

1. the student submits a written request to her/his graduate advisory committee identifying relevant courses she or he wishes to transfer;
2. the student has earned at least a grade of "B" in each of the courses she or he wishes to transfer;
3. the student does not transfer more than nine credits toward the master's degree;
4. the transfer credits have been accepted by the graduate advisory committee to fulfill degree plan requirements;
5. the transfer credits have not satisfied a previous degree;
6. the student understands that transferred credits do not reduce the residency requirements for an advanced degree; and
7. the transfer credits are within the six-year limitation for the receipt of a master's degree.
8. the University does not give credit for extension work from other institutions.

Approval of transfer credit is final only after it has been properly approved by a student's graduate advisory committee and graduate dean.  Extension credit may be applied toward an advanced degree if the credit is earned in extension courses taught by graduate faculty approved by the University.   Only grades earned on graduate work attempted at ENMU will be included in calculating the cumulative grade point average for the graduate degree.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. They are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the University receives a request for access. 

Students should submit to the registrar, dean, head of the academic department, or other appropriate official, written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The University official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the University official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading.

If the University decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the university will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

1. One exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational  interests. A school official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic or  research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the University has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Regents; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or  assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if  the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
2. Upon request, the University discloses education records without consent to officials of another school in which a   student seeks or intends to enroll.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Eastern New Mexico University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW., Washington, DC, 20202-4605.

5. The right to have directory information withheld.

Directory information includes: name, local and permanent mailing addresses, telephone number, date and place of birth, most recent previous school attended, major field of study, classification, dates of attendance, honors awarded, degrees and dates conferred, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, and weight and height of members of athletic teams. Requests for withholding directory information are to be made by completing the proper form, which must be filed at the Office of the Registrar for each enrollment period (Fall, Spring, Summer) within the first two weeks of the Fall or Spring semester and the first week of an Interim or Summer Session.  ENMU does not release records from other institutions, such as: transcripts, ACT, CLEP, GRE and GMAT scores.

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The Graduate Advisory Committee
The graduate dean refers each new student with regular or conditional status to an appropriate graduate coordinator.  The graduate coordinator acts as the student's initial advisor and directs the selection of the student's graduate advisory committee, consisting of three to five graduate faculty members in the student's area of concentration and allied fields. When the committee has been selected the graduate faculty member chosen as chair acts as the student's graduate advisor.

The responsibilities of the graduate advisory committee include the following: advisement; approval of the degree plan and the approval of a thesis or project topic (including the proposal and the final document).

The graduate advisory committee and other faculty committees of the graduate process (such as examination committees, thesis committees, program graduate faculties, etc.) operate under Sturgis Rules of Order: the chair of the committee convenes and presides at meetings, a simple majority vote prevails, the chair must vote or must resolve tie votes. In the event a committee dispute arises, the graduate dean will define the process for resolution of the issue.

The student may request a change in the advisory committee membership by petitioning the graduate dean through the graduate coordinator. Final disposition of such petitions is at the discretion of the graduate dean.

GRADUATE DEGREE PLANNING

Degree Plan
In accordance with departmental program requirements and with the advice of assigned graduate advisors, the student must complete a degree plan, signed by the student, all advisory committee members, the graduate coordinator, and college dean before the end of the first semester of enrollment. This degree plan is to be filed in the Graduate School office.

Any graduate course taken prior to filing a degree plan must be approved by the graduate advisory committee, the graduatecoordinator, and the college dean before it can be accepted as a part of the student's degree plan.

The student may be required by the advisory committee, or by the program graduate faculty, to take qualifying or field examinations before preparing a degree plan. If the graduate coordinator or advisory committee finds that the student's undergraduate background is deficient for advanced work in the graduate program, the student may be required to take specific leveling courses. Undergraduate deficiencies, and recommendations for removing them, must be included in the degree plan. The student and the chair of the graduate advisory committee have a joint responsibility to ensure that the deficiencies are remedied as soon as possible.

Advancement to Candidacy
A student's advancement to candidacy requires the filing of a degree plan approved and signed by all members of the graduate advisory committee, the graduate coordinator, the college dean, and the graduate dean prior to the second semester of enrollment and after the student has completed 12 hours of graduate course work.

At the time of advancement to candidacy, the student must have a cumulative graduate grade point average of 3.0. The student's degree program must: (1) meet all of the requirements of the chosen catalog; (2) include any undergraduate deficiencies and required courses specified on the student's evaluation for admission; (3) include all examinations and information requirements; and (4) be recommended by the student's advisory committee, graduate coordinator and college dean. If, in the judgment of the graduate dean, the degree program is not satisfactory, it may be returned to the student's graduate advisor for revision or remedy.

When the degree plan has been approved by the graduate dean and 12 graduate hours have been successfuly completed, the student will be advanced to candidacy for the master's degree. Advancement to candidacy is required before a student may take comprehensive examinations, submit a thesis for review, or apply for graduation.
All requests for modification in the final degree plan must be recommended by the majority of the graduate advisory committee, the graduate coordinator and college dean, and then presented for final approval to the graduate dean.

Time Limits
A master's degree cannot be completed in less than two semesters. All work for the degree, including the final examination(s), must be completed within six years from the semester of first enrollment.

Residence Requirements
Residence for a degree may be satisfied by three enrollments of no less than six hours each, two enrollments of eight hours each, or one enrollment of 12 hours. Residency is not required for students pursuing the Master of Business Administration degree (M.B.A.) in the College of Business, the Master of Education degree (M.Ed.) in elementary or secondary education, or the Master of Special Education (M.S.E.) in the School of Education.

ENMU On-site and Interactive Instructional Television courses are considered resident credit.

Language Requirements
All students must demonstrate an adequate command of written and spoken English. Some degree programs require the student to demonstrate proficiency in a second language or in statistics.

Thesis and Non-Thesis Plan of Study
Two plans of study for a master's degree are offered: the thesis plan and the non-thesis plan. Both plans are available in all areas offering graduate work except as otherwise stipulated by a given program. The non-thesis plan requires a minimum of 32 hours of graduate course work. The thesis plan requires a minimum of 24 hours of graduate course work plus a six-hour thesis or its equivalent. The thesis plan may involve a traditional thesis project or some similar project approved by the graduate advisory committee, the graduate coordinator, the college dean, and the graduate dean.

Thesis Plan
The Graduate School has published a general statement titled "General Thesis Guidelines" for the preparation and submission of the thesis. In addition, each program has certain expectations for the thesis process, and has prepared special regulations for use by students. Students should secure a copy of the appropriate regulations from the graduate coordinator as well as the "General Thesis Guidelines" from the Graduate School and follow them.

Each candidate choosing the thesis plan must submit a thesis or an appropriate alternative project which provides evidence of sound scholarly method and demonstrates the student's capacity for research, professional application, or creative production.

The student must submit for approval by the graduate dean a prospectus defining a thesis topic and research design signed by the student and all members of the graduate advisory committee, the graduate coordinator, and college dean before beginning the project. The prospectus must include a statement defining the nature and purpose of the project, the resources needed for completion of the project, the approximate project schedule, and a discussion of those other matters appropriate to the research or project definition.

Students must complete a minimum of 6 hours of Master's Thesis (599) credit. Having once registered for Master's Thesis, the student must continue to register for a minimum of 1 hour during each regular semester (exclusive of summer) until the final copy of the thesis is approved by the graduate dean. A student who fails to register for at least one graduate hour in every semester after beginning thesis work must pay the missing tuition and fees before graduating.

Responsibility of Graduate Advisory Committee for Thesis
The advisory committee chair, with the advice and consent of the members of the graduate advisory committee, is responsible for the supervision of the proposed thesis or project, formal reports of progress, and submission of the completed manuscript or report. In the event of differences of opinion between thesis committee members, the chair shall resolve the issue.

The graduate advisory committee chair has full responsibility for assuring the Graduate School that the thesis conforms signing and before allowing the thesis to be forwarded for approval. A student should allow members of the graduate advisory committee a reasonable amount of time (a minimum of two weeks) to read and critique the thesis or project report drafts and must assume full responsibility for making corrections and changes as recommended.

Students attempting to complete theses or projects in absentia must recognize that theirs is the responsibility for processing the drafts and other documents. If graduate faculty, students, or others are willing to aid a student in absentia, it is at their discretion, and the Graduate School has no obligation to support the process nor to assist the student in resolving possible conflicts that may arise later.

Reading Copy
Each thesis or project candidate must present a reading copy of the final draft of the thesis or report of project approved by the graduate advisory committee and college dean to the graduate dean for final approval before an oral defense of thesis or project is scheduled and the final copy of the thesis is typed.

The reading copy of the thesis is due in the Graduate School no later than six weeks prior to the last day of the fall or spring semester or no later than four weeks prior to the last day of the summer session.  Drafts submitted past these deadlines will be considered for future semester completion.

Final Thesis
Two copies of the approved final thesis, together with two copies of the abstract of the thesis (not to exceed 500 words) signed by all members of the graduate advisory committee and the college dean, must be submitted to the Graduate School ten days prior to the last day of the fall, spring or summer semester. Failure to meet the deadline will delay graduation. Final grades for thesis may not be given until two copies of thefinal approved thesis are delivered to the Graduate School. A certificate signifying official acceptance by the university will be signed by the graduate dean and must be included in the bound edition of the thesis.   One of the thesis copies is for circulation and the other will be deposited in Special Collections at the Eastern New Mexico University Golden Library. If the student wishes extra copies, independent arrangements should be made. A bindery fee must be paid to the business office cashier and the receipt presented at the time of thesis submission in the Graduate School.

Grading of Thesis/599 Hours
Thesis hours (599's) are assigned S/U grades and should not be recorded until all requirements are completed, including submission of two copies of the final approved thesis to the Graduate School. The chair of the graduate advisory committee is responsible for processing the change of grade slip to remove previously assigned grades of "I" for thesis hours. The change of grade slip must be signed by the graduate dean.

Change of Thesis or Non-thesis Plan of Study
After the advancement to candidacy or filing of the formal degree plan, a change between a thesis and non-thesis plan of study may be made only with the approval of the student's graduate advisory committee, the graduate coordinator, and the graduate dean via a new degree plan and advancement to candidacy.

Graduate Examinations
The completion of a graduate degree requires several examinations, according to the dictates of the college, the department, or the graduate advisory committee. The development of the program's graduate examination process is the responsibility of the program's graduate faculty while the administration and grading of examinations may be delegated to a subcommittee of the program faculty or to the student's graduate advisory committee.

Final examinations of a comprehensive nature may be required of all students, but are required of those electing the non-thesis plan. At the discretion of the program graduate faculty and subject to review by the graduate dean, comprehensive examinations may be written and/or oral. Some programs provide the option of an oral examination following a written examination to resolve issues of student knowledge not clarified in the written results. A final oral examination on the thesis or related project is required for the thesis plan.

The comprehensive examinations must be taken within 12 months after completing the last course on the degree plan. At the time of taking the final examination, graduate students must be advanced to candidacy and have an average of at least 3.0 on all coursework required on the degree plan.

All comprehensive written and oral examinations, including the thesis defense, must be publicly announced five University work days in advance. This notice must be published in the Monday Memo and posted in the buildings that house the program and the Graduate School. The Graduate School must be notified before a student takes the final written or oral examination to ensure qualification of the student for the exam. It is the responsibility of the student and the chair of the advisory committee to schedule the oral defense of the thesis. Oral examinations are directed by the chair of the student's advisory committee and are open to auditors. Written examinations will be kept on file for a period of one year.

A report on the outcome of the final examination signed by the chair of the examining committee, the graduate coordinator, and the college dean must be sent by the graduate coordinator to the graduate dean and to the student ten days prior to the last day of the semester. This report must contain one overall grade of pass or fail for the final examination. Students who fail the final examination are eligible to retake the examination one time only. This retake may occur only within the student's six-year limit. The second exam may not be taken before the following semester and before remediation of any deficiencies identified by the graduate advisory committee. Candidates who fail the exam the second time are automatically dismissed and are no longer eligible to participate in graduate study in the program as degree-seeking students.

A student who wishes to appeal her/his dismissal shall address the appeal to the graduate dean. The written request and rationale for the appeal shall be submitted within five working days from the receipt of the written notification from the graduate dean.

When such an appeal is received, the graduate dean shall appoint a committee of graduate faculty to hear the appeal and make a recommendation to the graduate dean. The graduate dean shall review the process and recommendation to insure that University policies and procedures were followed and make a final determination about the dismissal or suspension of the student.

If the student does not appeal, the dismissal is implemented immediately and recorded on the student's official record.

If the final disposition of the case results in suspension or dismissal from the program and the student applies for admission to another graduate program at ENMU, the facts and records will be reviewed by the graduate faculty in considering admission into another program.

Second Master's Degree
It is possible for students to earn more than one master's degree at the University if they are admitted to two graduate programs. If a student wishes to pursue two degrees concurrently, separate degree plans must be prepared and approved for each program.
If students wish to pursue a second degree after having already completed one degree, they must file a new application to the Graduate School and a new degree plan. Duplication of course work will not be allowed to fulfill degree requirements for two master's degrees.  Graduation fees will be required for each degree awarded.

Standards of Scholarship
Because the graduate faculty continually strive to achieve excellence for the Graduate School, they have set high standards for themselves and their students. The graduate faculty fully expect graduate students to maintain a high level of performance in the program in which they are enrolled. They expect each student to maintain a cumulative graduate grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 in all courses taken as a graduate student.

The cumulative 3.0 GPA rule shall apply to the following: (a) the GPA for all graduate course work taken; (b) the GPA for all graduate course work taken in the field of study; and (c) all course work taken to complete the graduate degree, including all leveling course work on the degree plan.

No degree plan may include more than three hours of graduate course work with a grade of "C" and students must achieve a "B" in all core courses listed on their degree plan. Some programs may have more restrictive standards.

Academic Standing Regular Status
To maintain regular status, a student must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA in all graduate work, perform adequately in all required examinations, and meet all requirements by the time limits set forth in the Graduate School calendar and by the specific degree program.

Probation Status
Whenever a graduate student's cumulative graduate GPA indicates failure to make satisfactory progress, the student is considered scholastically deficient and may be placed on scholastic probation on such terms as the graduate dean shall designate.

Specifically, a student who has completed 1-6 hours and whose cumulative GPA is below 3.0, but at or above a 2.5, will be placed on probation by the Dean of the Graduate School. The probationary students must raise their cumulative graduate GPA to a 3.0 within the next 6 hours of graduate enrollment. Failing that, the graduate dean will suspend the student.

Students must understand that scholastic probation grants them conditional permission to continue in the Graduate School after they have become scholastically deficient, but that such permission is predicated upon the expectation that students will make every effort to return to regular standing.

Suspension
The graduate dean shall suspend a graduate student who has completed twelve or more graduate hours with a cumulative GPA of less than 3.0 in her/his major or with a cumulative overall GPA of less than 3.0. The Graduate School will deny further enrollment to any student whose GPA is below 2.5.

CLEMENCY POLICY
Students who have previously unsuccessfully attempted graduate work at Eastern New Mexico University and who are currently ineligible for readmission due to a poor academic record may exclude from current work their past academic record by applying for clemency under this policy. To be considered for this policy, a student must not have attended Eastern New Mexico University or any of its branches or learning centers during the last seven or more years and be readmitted through normal channels. Such students will be readmitted with conditional status.

Procedure
Students who meet the above criteria may apply for clemency in the Graduate School. No courses taken prior to the student's return will be counted as credit towards their degree. Stipulations of granting clemency are:

1. The policy pertains to the calculation of the GPA for progress toward degree completion only.
2. Grades earned before clemency will continue to show on the student's record and a statement will be added to their transcript to explain the action taken.
3. Students can apply for clemency only once and it is not reversible.

Attendance
Students are expected to attend all sessions of each course for which they are enrolled. Policies for class attendance are determined by each instructor and it is the student's responsibility to abide by these rules.

Numbering of Courses
Courses numbered 400 are generally senior undergraduate courses. Courses marked 400/500 may be taken for undergraduate or graduate credit; however, graduate credit enrollment requires additional work. Courses offered at the 400/500 level may not be taken to satisfy both undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Courses numbered 500 are specifically for graduate credit and may not be taken for undergraduate credit. Once a final grade has been assigned for a 400/500 level course which is offered both at the undergraduate and graduate level, the level of credit cannot be changed. Undergraduate courses shall not count toward the graduate degree.

Graduate Study by Undergraduate Students
Courses numbered 500 are not open to undergraduate students unless they are seniors in their last semester of undergraduate work. Such students may register for appropriate courses for graduate credit (400/500, 500) if they are (1) enrolled in the final semester of their undergraduate work, (2) taking sufficient work to complete all requirements for the baccalaureate degree, (3) have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, and (4) are approved by the instructor, graduate coordinator, and Graduate School. Students wishing to earn graduate credit on this basis must obtain a signature from a Graduate School representative on their courses request form during registration. The total combined enrollment in undergraduate and graduate work must not exceed 16 hours for the regular semester or 9 hours for the summer session. Graduate work taken under this provision may not be used to meet undergraduate degree requirements.

Maximum Enrollments
A normal maximum amount of credit earned by a graduate student per regular semester is twelve hours and six hours maximum in one four-week summer session with a total of 9 for the entire eight-week summer session.
Full-time graduate assistants may not enroll for more than nine hours per semester, but should enroll for a minimum of six graduate hours unless the student and the advisor petition and the graduate dean concurs that the student has an appropriate academic load not reflected in the student credit hour load. Overloads must be approved by the graduate dean.

Change of Catalog
The University may make changes and exceptions to this catalog provided proper administrative and governance procedures are followed, and affected persons are given a reasonable opportunity to petition for exceptions.

Students may change to the degree program in a catalog later than the one in effect when they entered the graduate program, provided written statements prepared with the advice and consent of the students' graduate advisory committees and recommended by the college dean are submitted to the Graduate School for approval. In the event the request is approved, the students accept all regulations, requirements, and curricula in the new catalog.

Once the graduate dean approves the students' requests to change to the new catalog, students may not return to the earlier catalog.

Grading System
Grades are based solely upon performance and are not negotiable.  In computing the grade-point average, the total of credits for which the grades of A, B, C, D, or F have been earned is divided into the total number of grade points earned.

1. The "A" grade indicates that the quality of work has been exceedingly high and more than the minimum amount of work  has been done. An "A" grade is worth four grade points per credit hour.
2. The "B" grade indicates that the quality of the work has been adequate, that all the assigned work has been properly and  correctly done, and that classroom performance on tests, recitations, reports, etc. has been consistently average. A "B"  grade is worth three grade points per credit hour.
3. The "C" grade indicates that the quality of work is below graduate standards. No more than 3 graduate credit hours of  "C" will count in a degree plan for a master's degree. A "C" grade is worth two grade points per credit hour.
4. The "D" grade indicates clearly inferior performance. A "D" grade is worth one grade point per credit hour.
5. The "F" indicates failure and is given in cases of exceptionally poor performance. An "F" grade is worth no (zero) grade   points per credit hour.
6. Graduate students may not apply the credit for a course in which they received a grade of "D" or "F" to   fulfill their degree requirements; however, the grade points will be calculated in the student's cumulative GPA.

Special Grades
Special grades are not computed into the student's cumulative GPA. Special grades awarded to graduate students include S/U- Satisfactory and Unsatisfactory and I- Incomplete. The S/U grading system is used for thesis hours and all workshops.
The "I" grade is given for passing work which could not be completed due to circumstances beyond the student's control. The following regulations apply to "I" grades.

1. In no case is an "I" to be used by faculty to avoid the assignment of "D" or "F" grades for marginal or failing work.
2. The instructor will submit a copy of the signed incomplete "contract form" to the Registrar showing what must be done to make up the "I".
3. An "I" not made up by the last day of the next semester shall remain on the transcript.
4. Removal of an "I" is accomplished by the instructor submitting a change of grade form to the Registrar when the work  has been completed. An "F" grade may be given for inadequate work or work not completed in a timely fashion. A student cannot remove an "I" by re-enrolling in the course. Repeating a course will give the student a new grade but will not remove the "I" from the previous registration.
5. An "I" grade will not replace an "F" grade for grade point average determination.

Correction/Review of a Grade
A grade may be changed only if an error has been detected in the calculation or recording of the grade. No grade change request will be considered after a period of one calendar year following the recording of a grade on the transcript. The principle of academic freedom dictates that a faculty member is responsible for and has authority over grades which he/she assigns, and over the criteria by which the student is evaluated. However, the University has developed a grade review procedure which allows for an objective view of a disputed grade. The specific Policy for Review of Grades is available in the offices of the college deans, the Office of Academic Affairs, or in the Graduate School.

Repeat of a Course
A course may be repeated only once to improve the GPA by voiding the previously received grade. Any student who wishes to take advantage of this policy must file an official "Application to Repeat Form" at the time of registration.
A repeat course must correspond in number, title, and description to the original course taken, or official approval must be obtained in advance from the instructor, graduate coordinator, and graduate dean that the proposed course is an acceptable equivalent. A course of one type may never be repeated by a course of another type, e.g., an individual research course for a regularly scheduled classroom course, etc.
Both course enrollments and grades will appear on the transcript, but only the last grade earned will be used to calculate the cumulative grade point average.    Where there is a difference of hours of credit or of course number level, the value of the repeat course will be used for the purpose of calculating the cumulative grade point average and in determining the satisfaction of degree requirements.
A grade of "I" for a repeat course will not replace a previous grade.  Withdrawal from a repeat course shall cause the repeat to be canceled and the previous academic record shall remain valid.

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Change of Enrollment - Adding or Dropping Course
The registration of a student may be changed upon the student's request with the graduate coordinator's or advisory committee chair's approval. A student may change the registration by adding and/or dropping courses or by withdrawing from a course. All exceptions to these policies must be approved by the graduate dean.
A student may add or drop courses during the period of time specified in the University Calendar. A course which is dropped during this period will not appear on the student's transcript. A student may not add courses after the late registration deadline has passed.

Withdrawal from the Graduate School
Graduate students must notify in writing the Counseling and Testing Office of their intention to withdraw. The Counseling and Testing Office, 575.562.2440, will notify the Graduate School of the student's intent.

A student who is forced by an emergency to leave the University without officially withdrawing should notify the Counseling and Testing Office requesting an administrative withdrawal. In the event that the student is incapacitated, the parents, guardian, or spouse may initiate the request on the student's behalf.

Challenging Graduate Courses
A graduate student may not challenge a graduate course.

Auditing Courses (Enrollment for No Credit)
Students earn no credit for courses which they audit. Students may audit a course or courses while concurrently enrolled in other courses for credit. Class attendance and participation requirements for an auditor are to be determined by the instructor of the course. Courses audited will appear on the student's transcript as "NC," with no credits recorded and no grades assigned. Courses enrolled in for "NC" may only be changed to "credit" during the drop/add period and may not be changed at a later date. Tuition and fees are the same for audits as for credit.

Workshops and Individual Research
Students may apply a maximum of four semester hours toward a degree for courses entitled Individual Research (579). For Workshop (569) courses, a maximum of six semester hours is applicable. Students may apply no more than nine credits earned in courses assigning grades of "S" or "U" not including thesis. The graduate advisory committee and the graduate dean determine which among these courses, if any, are acceptable in a degree plan.

Off-Campus Courses
A limited number of off-campus courses in the form of instructional television and extension courses are offered. All students taking courses off-campus or by ITV for graduate credit must be admitted to the Graduate School prior to enrollment in the class. Students who plan to apply off-campus or ITV courses to a degree plan should get the approval of their graduate advisory committee before taking the course. The instructor and the course must be approved by the graduate dean before any off-campus course can be offered for graduate credit

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Veteran's Standards of Progress

Courses at the University are approved for certification of veterans, active military personnel, and eligible dependents for educational assistance under the G.I. Bill, the Vocational Rehabilitation Program, and Veteran's Educational AssistanceProgram (VEAP).   The VA Certifying Official in the Registrar's Office, Administration Building, Room 105, provides the required certification services. It is the veteran's responsibility to confirm details of certification with the Veteran's Certifying Official. This certification is necessary for each term of attendance in order to initiate veteran benefits.

  For certification purposes, the following load requirements are specified:

After proper certification has been approved by the VA Certifying Official, persons receiving veteran benefits are required to be seeking a degree in order to continue receiving benefits.  In addition, students must satisfy VA requirements as stipulated by law.   Application for advance pay must be submitted 45 days in advance. Regular monthly payments are made at the end of each month.  Other special services available through the Veterans Cost of Instruction Office, SAS Bldg., Room 178, are tutoring, work study, and VA Loans.

Off-Campus Degree Programs
The University Graduate School offers off-campus master's degree programs in education and business in several communities in the region. These programs may require the student to travel to the Portales campus for course work and other academic activities. Information about each program and its current scheduling and requirements may be obtained by contacting the appropriate college. Continuation of these programs is dependent upon the availability of adequate funding and enrollments and appropriate state policy for off-campus degree programs.

Graduation
Graduate students completing their degrees must apply for graduation with the Records Clerk of their college by Friday of the fourth week of classes for a fall or spring semester or Friday of the second week of classes for a summer session in which they intend to complete all requirements for their degree. The application for graduation must be approved by the student's advisor, graduate coordinator, college dean, and the graduate dean. Graduate students on the thesis plan must submit complete approved final copies of the thesis to the Graduate School ten days prior to the last day of the semester before the graduate dean will approve graduation. Deadlines for submitting final copies of the thesis, reports of outcome of comprehensive exam(s) and/or thesis defense, and applying for graduation are printed in the University Calendar in the current class schedule. Graduation fees are published in the Tuition and Fees section of this catalog.

Students must have an overall graduate GPA of 3.0 to be able to graduate. Graduate degrees carry no "honors" designation.

Commencement
The University offers formal commencements in December and May of each academic year. Students wishing to participate in commencement must make application in the Registrar's Office by the end of the fourth week of classes in the fall or spring semester. Students completing graduation requirements in a summer session may participate in either the preceding May commencement or the following December commencement. Any other exceptions must be approved by the Vice President of Academic Affairs through the Dean of the College in which the degree will be awarded.

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GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS
Graduate assistantships offer valuable paraprofessional experience as well as financial support. The graduate assistant should be regarded as a qualified graduate student providing service as a part of a learning program; that is, a graduate student's program of study is primary; her/his role as an employee is secondary. Graduate assistants are assigned to roles in instruction, professional service, research, creative production or university service.

Graduate assistantships are available in most programs offering a master's degree curriculum. The number of assistantships, their assignment to particular programs and the amount of the stipend is dependent upon the availability of funds. Interested students should apply directly to the graduate coordinator forth program to which they are seeking admission or have been admitted. Application forms may be obtained from the Graduate School and should be submitted to the program as early as possible following application for admission. For full consideration, applications should be submitted no later than February 15.

Application and Determination of Qualifications
In order to qualify for graduate assistantships, students must be admitted to the Graduate School in good standing. The applicants must meet all general admission requirements and have an acceptable (3.0) undergraduate or graduate GPA. Applicants must identify the degree they wish to pursue and meet all the specific requirements for that program. They must also be admitted to the program by the program graduate faculty.

Under certain circumstances, first semester graduate students who are classified as conditional may be granted a one semester graduate assistantship if the graduate faculty of the program so recommend after reviewing the student's undergraduate subject area GPA, relevant work experience, and/or other evidence of the student's potential to succeed in graduate work. In order to get an assistantship for subsequent semesters, conditional students must achieve regular standing by the end of their first semester at the University.

The Workload
The workload for a full-time graduate assistant during a regular semester is 20 hours per week. Departments have the discretion to offer less than full-time appointments and may choose to make appointments on a semester to semester basis. A limited number of assistantships are available during the summer session and requires 10 hours of work per week or teaching one 3-4 credit hour course. Full-time graduate assistants desiring outside employment should seek prior approval of the graduate dean.

The Stipend
For the current amount of the stipend, consult either the Graduate School or the graduate coordinator for the program. The University waives out-of-state tuition for non-resident graduate assistants, but they must pay resident tuition and fees.

Enrollment for Graduate Assistants
In order to be appointed as graduate assistants, students must enroll for at least six hours of graduate course work each semester unless the graduate dean determines that the student has an appropriate academic load not reflected in the student credit hour load. Summer graduate assistants must be enrolled in a minimum of 3 graduate credit hours. Full-time graduate assistants may not register for more than nine hours without the permission of the graduate dean. The student may petition the graduate dean for permission to take an overload, subject to the approval of the student's graduate coordinator, graduate advisor, and college dean.

Continuation as a Graduate Assistant
Graduate assistantships are usually granted for a designated period of appointment. Appointments are offered in the form of contracts for a maximum of nine months (a full academic year), although under certain circumstances programs may make appointments of one semester with reappointment conditional upon such matters as satisfactory academic and work performance. Academic year assistantships are subject to review for qualification and performance at the end of the first semester. In any event, the specific terms of a particular assistantship will be spelled out in the "Assistantship Recommendation and Contract."   Ordinarily, appointments as graduate assistants are not granted to the same student for more than two years.

Resignation
Should a graduate assistant choose to resign and/or to totally withdraw from course work for any reason, written notification must be submitted to the graduate coordinator, graduate advisor, college dean and the graduate dean immediately.

Termination of the Assistantship by the University

Dismissal Due to Lack or Loss of Eligibility
The graduate dean may terminate, without appeal, an assistantship at any time in the event that the graduate student becomes ineligible for any of the following reasons:

1. completion of degree requirements;
2. unsatisfactory academic performance (including academic dishonesty or allowing the cumulative GPA to fall below 3.0);
3. reduction of the course load below the minimum requirements without approval of the graduate dean;

Dismissal Due to Performance or Absenteeism
The faculty in a graduate program may recommend to the graduate dean through the college dean, termination of an assistantship for the following reasons:

1. unsatisfactory performance in carrying out the duties of the appointment in the judgment of the graduate coordinator,  faculty supervisor, or department chair; or
2. unjustified absenteeism from duties more than five working days in any given semester.

If such reasons exist, the graduate dean shall notify the appointee in writing of the departmental recommendation to terminate the assistantship and ask the appointee to respond in writing within five working days of intent either to accept or to appeal the termination.

The Appeal Process
If the appointee chooses to appeal a dismissal due to absenteeism or performance, a written appeal and the resolution sought should be submitted to the graduate dean within five University working days.
Upon receipt of the written appeal, the graduate dean will convene the Graduate Student Academic Appeals Committee to act on the appeal. This Committee shall hear the appeal and make a recommendation to the graduate dean about the disposition of the appeal. The graduate dean shall then consider the appeal and make the final decision about the termination of the appointee.

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FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Federal and State Financial Aid
When students and their families find they are unable to meet all of the educational expenses and need additional assistance, the University has some limited financial aid.

To ensure that their financial needs receive the full attention of the financial aid officer, students should make their applications no later than March 1. Note: Some programs specify an earlier date; study the program calendar to be sure your application is presented promptly. The Director of Student Financial Aid will consider applications received after March 1, but the decision will be affected by how much money is available.

Students may apply for aid prior to enrolling, but their admission must be completed before aid will be granted.   Students must be enrolled for at least a half-time course of study.   To receive student aid, all application forms for financial aid must be completed fully and accurately and the forms must be documented with proper financial statements, as requested.  To continue to receive student aid, the students must maintain satisfactory academic progress as determined by the University's definition of "regular standing" in this catalog. Graduate students who fail to maintain at least a 3.0 GPA risk losing their financial aid.

Students not in good standing are automatically denied financial aid by the Director of Student Financial Aid. Students turned down for aid may appeal this decision in writing to the Director.   Students who wish further information about the various forms of financial aid or who desire application forms should write to the following address:

          Director of Student Financial Aid
          Administration Building, Room 218
         ENMU Station 20
         Portales, NM 88130

Grants
The University provides limited assistance in the form of room and participation grants for first year graduate students. Room grants allow a reduction for University-owned apartments, and participation grants allow a reduction in tuition and fees. Students interested in a room or participation grant should contact the graduate coordinator for their graduate program. Individuals receiving full-time graduate assistantships do not qualify for either grant.

Fellowships
ENMU offers a limited number of graduate fellowships. For information and applications, contact the Graduate School.

Tuition
Tuition is a charge that helps to defray the costs of the education offered at ENMU. Student fees are added to the basic tuition rate to enable ENMU to offer student related services such as Health Services, Student Government, Board of Activities, and other student activities. These fees are mandatory.

Tuition and student fees are charged according to the number of credit hours carried by a student; auditors (those enrolled in a course for no credit) pay the same as students enrolled for credit. All charges are payable at registration unless arrangements have been made with the Accounts Receivable Office. Students who request a deferred contract payment plan must pay one-third of the total charges down, with the balance payable in two equal monthly installments. A student must be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours to be on the deferred payment plan. A contract fee of $10 will be assessed. Student registration is not complete and enrollment is not official until payment is made.
Each student, regardless of payment method (Financial Aid, Scholarship, Contract, Special Billing, Tuition Waiver, etc.), is solely responsible for ensuring that proper payment and/or payment arrangements have been made for her/his account by the last day to pay, listed in the current Class Schedule. Once payment and/or arrangements have been made, a confirmation receipt will be issued by Accounts Receivable or the Cashier. This confirmation receipt will activate the registration. Registration will be cancelled for students that have not followed these procedures by the printed deadline.

IT IS THE STUDENT'S RESPONSIBILITY TO MAKE SURE THE REGISTRAR'S OFFICE HAS HER/HIS CORRECT MAILING ADDRESS ON FILE. THE UNIVERSITY CANNOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR CANCELLATION OF A STUDENT'S REGISTRATION DUE TO MAIL PROBLEMS.

All tuition and student fee charges as well as course fees and special services fees are subject to change without notice. Tuition and Fee Schedules change according to Legislative and/or Board of Regents' action. Up-to-date tuition and fees schedules can be found in the current semester class schedule or by calling 1.800.FOR.ENMU, extension 5.

Withdrawal from the University-Financial Responsibility
Once a student registers, he or she is responsible for the total charges assessed regardless of whether the deferred contract payment plan is used. Refund percentages are applied to total charges assessed and not the amount paid. This means that a student who withdraws before paying all contract payments may receive a bill rather than a refund. Not attending classes does not constitute official withdrawal.

Tuition Reduction
A student may be eligible for a senior citizen discount if he/she is 65 or older and a New Mexico resident. The Admissions Office requires evidence of eligibility. The cost per credit hour up to six hours will be $5.00

Tuition and Student/Course Fee Refund Policy
The refund schedule shown below is based on the first day of the semester, not on the initial class meeting.
The refund schedule is as follows:

1. Refund of 100% on tuition and student/course fees through the first week of class.
2. Refund of 90% on tuition and student /course fees from the end of the 100% through the first 10% in time of the  period of enrollment.
3. Refund of 50% of tuition and student/course fees between the end of the first 10% in time of the period of enrollment  and the end of the first 25% in time of enrollment.
4. Refund of 25% of tuition and student/course fees between the end of the first 25% in time of the period of enrollment  and the end of the first 50% in time of enrollment.

Specific dates are published each semester in the Class Schedule.   A pro-rata refund will be applied for students of Title IV aid who are attending ENMU for the first time. Examples of the refund policy and application may be reviewed in the Financial Aid Office.

Tuition Refund Appeals Procedure
A withdrawing student must submit a written appeal to the Vice President of Business Affairs explaining individual circumstances that would warrant an exception to the published refund policy. The Vice President will make the decision to approve or deny the appeal.

Collection Agencies
Following the end of each semester, students who have delinquent account balances may receive a series of itemized statements requesting payment. Failure to receive a bill from ENMU does not relieve the student of the responsibility for payment. If payments or arrangements are not made on a timely basis, the account may be placed with a collection agency. A collection fee will be added to the account. If ENMU obtains judgment from a court of competent jurisdiction, the debtor shall also be liable for the collection agency fee as well as reasonable court costs and attorney's fees.

Methods of Payment
Checks or money orders should be made payable to Eastern New Mexico University and mailed to :

          Business Office
          ENMU Station 4
          Portales, NM 88130

Please do not mail cash. All payments should have the student's name and ENMU ID number or Social Security number on the check.

1. Other payment options are:
2. In person at the Cashiers in the Administration Building.
3. Drop box in front of the Administration Building.
4. Payment by credit card (VISA, Master Card, American Express, and Discover).
5. Financial Aid/Scholarship payments.

Resident\Non-Resident Status
For tuition purposes, a resident is defined as a student who meets each of the following qualifications:

1. The student has been continuously domiciled in New Mexico for a period of not less than 12 months immediately preceding  the semester for which he is petitioning.
2. The student has both declared and proved intent to become a permanent resident of the state.
3. The student is at least 19 years old.
4. The student is financially independent of parents; that is, the student was not counted as a dependent on the tax return of the  parents for the tax year immediately preceding the year in which the student applies for residency or the student is 23 years  of age or older.

Federal and military service employees and their dependents are governed by different rules. Persons in these categories should contact the Director of Admissions.

Out-of-state tuition is not charged to any student during summer sessions, nor is out-of-state tuition charged to students taking six or fewer semester credit hours during any enrollment period.

Students who wish to have their residency status changed must submit a petition 30 days prior to the semester for which they wish the change in status. The latest date a petition can be accepted is three weeks after the first day of registration. Students should submit their petition prior to registration to expedite the process.

Petition forms and further information may be secured from the Office of Admissions in the Student Academic Service Building.

FEES

Graduate Student and Family Housing
The Uni