Grading Policies

Students may appeal the final grade earned in a course by following the process outlined in the University’s Catalog (Section AP.3.9). 

The CYSE Department grade appeals are handled only for courses within the CYSE Department. For non-CYSE courses, the appeal would go to the department or academic unit responsible for that course.

Steps to Follow when filing a Grade Appeal for a CYSE Course:

1. Initial Contact with the Instructor
   
   • Students must address their grade concerns in writing (email is acceptable) to the instructor. The written explanation should focus on the fairness of grading policies or procedures or the accuracy of the assigned grade.
2. Appeal to the Department
   
   • If no resolution is reached with the instructor, the student may submit a formal grade appeal by completing the Grade Appeal Form, including all relevant evidence, to the department for further review.
   • The department chair (or designee) will evaluate the appeal’s merit by reviewing the evidence and communicating with the student and instructor. Evidence may include, but is not limited to:
     
     • Course syllabus
     • Assignment instructions and grading rubrics
     • Copies of student work
     • Email communications
     • Blackboard user reports or other relevant documentation
   • If the chair (or designee) determines the appeal lacks merit, the case is referred to the graduate or undergraduate Associate Dean for review. If the Dean agrees, the appeal is dismissed, and the grade remains unchanged.
3. Committee Review for Meritorious Appeals
   
   • If the department chair (or designee) finds the appeal has merit, a faculty committee is convened to review the case.
   • The committee reviews all submitted evidence and meets separately with the student and the instructor. The student may bring a nonparticipating observer of their choice to the meeting.
   • Both the student and instructor may request the replacement of one committee member without a reason.
   • After deliberation, the committee issues a written recommendation explaining its findings.
4. Resolution and Final Decision
   
   • If the committee supports the appeal, the instructor is allowed to take the recommended action.
   • If the issue remains unresolved, the department chair (or designee) considers the committee’s recommendation and forwards a recommendation to the CEC Associate Dean.
   • The Associate Dean’s decision is final and not subject to further appeal.
5. Timeline for Submission
   
   • Grade appeals must be submitted in writing to the instructor by the last day of classes for the following semester (spring for fall courses, fall for spring and summer courses).