COURSE SUBSTITUTION POLICIES
On occasion, students may need to seek course substitutions on the basis of
a documented disability which inhibits the ability to learn certain subjects.
For example, students with certain types of learning disabilities may find it
next to impossible to learn foreign languages or mathematics. While tutoring
and accommodations may help some students succeed in these courses, others may
be unable to succeed even with the use of academic adjustments and accommodations.
In such situations, students may want to consider requesting a substitution
for the course in question. Students should note that the University does not
grant course waivers. Also, if the course in question is considered to be an
essential part of the student’s program or a requirement for certification
or licensure, a substitution cannot be granted.
The process established by the University for requesting a substitution is as follows:
1. Student must have a diagnosed disability that would prohibit his/her ability to learn the subject matter in question. Documentation of the disability must be submitted to the Office of Disability Services (disability documentation requirements can be found here).
2. The student writes a letter to the Director of the Office of Disability Services requesting the substitution. This letter should contain details of past attempts to take the course (or related courses), information about the disability, and a specific request to substitute the course.
3. The Director of ODS will review the disability documentation, transcripts and the student’s letter. If documentation verifies the presence of a disability that would warrant a course substitution, the director will contact the appropriate college and ask a dean to recommend a logical course for substitution best suited for the student’s major.
4. The Director of ODS will submit findings, including the recommendation of the appropriate college dean, to the Assistant Vice President for Undergraduate Programs and Services, who either approves or rejects the request for substitution. The registrar and the college dean are informed if the substitution is approved so that the student’s records can be credited with the substitution. The student will be notified of the decision either by phone, e-mail, letter, or in person.
