University College

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Purpose and Focus

Today’s university population is more diverse than it has ever been. Student goals range from the intrinsic pursuit of knowledge, to the acquisition of specific work-related skills, to preparation for graduate or professional programs. In UNLV’s urban setting, many students have nontraditional needs and specific career plans not easily met by traditional colleges. To this end, the University College provides: (1) quality advising and support for students without declared majors, and (2) a University Studies degree consisting of a flexible, well-rounded program of study for traditional students interested in solid general studies curricula. The University College is, thus, an academic home both to students exploring their options and to those whose educational goals are best met by individualized programs of study. A strong university studies core that emphasizes the acquisition of career- development skills relevant to all students complements the academic exploration and flexibility.

Accreditation

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Undergraduate Major

University Studies

Degree Objectives/Learning Outcomes

Students graduating with a Bachelor of University Studies will be able to:

1. Communicate ideas in written and oral form.
2. Demonstrate competency in relevant communication technologies.
3. Identify connections between academic disciplines and engage in interdisciplinary problem-solving.
4. Apply the skills of research, analysis, and synthesis/organization of ideas.
5. Develop a sense of social responsibility and citizenship and an understanding of the global context in which we live and work.
6. Engage in effective team and collaborative situations.
7. Analyze the nature of individual and cultural differences.
8. Assess individual strengths and opportunities for improvement with respect to future and career success.

Admission to the Major

Minimum GPA: 2.00

Transfer Policies

Students transferring to the University College from another university or higher education institution will be admitted if they have a transfer GPA of 2.00. University policy states that a candidate for a bachelor’s degree must complete the last 30 semester credits in uninterrupted residence as a major in the college from which the degree is expected.

Probation/Suspension

A student is subject to a one-semester suspension from the University College after being on probation (less than 2.00 cumulative UNLV GPA) for two consecutive semesters or for failure to make adequate progress towards the University Studies Degree. Students wishing to appeal a college suspension may apply to the University College Academic standards Committee for reinstatement. A transfer student entering the college on a probation contract who fails to fulfill that contract is subject to college suspension until such time as that student raises his or her GPA to 2.00 or higher. Students will not be considered for reinstatement after three suspensions (college and or university).

Testing

The University College administers the ACT as well as a number of other national tests. Correspondence tests are given for a nominal fee to currently enrolled UNLV students only. For more information, call the Testing Information Line at 895-3800.

Scholarships

Each academic year, the University College offers scholarships for exploring and degree-seeking students. Awards are decided in the summer for the fall and spring semesters.

Non-Admitted Students

Non-admitted students can take a maximum of eight credits per semester, for a total of 24 credits toward graduation. Overload appeals will be considered only for students who possess at least a 3.00 GPA from the most recently attended institution.

Advisement

All declared University College students should meet on a regular basis with an advisor in the University College. Undeclared students are required to declare a major upon earning 48 credits; however, an academic program change can be made as soon as the student decides on a major and meets eligibility requirements. Students obtain the academic program change form from the desired major’s office. The University College has tools and events to assist students in the decision-making process.

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