This section supplements the statements on academic policy found in the Cal Poly State University Catalog. The academic issues being addressed here are derived from two sources: Cal Poly State University academic policies and the particular objectives of the program itself. Students participating in the study abroad program remain responsible for meeting the academic requirements of Cal Poly, including the terms of any agreements established with the advisor and/or department Dean.

Resident Directors (RD) must be especially vigilant in the area of academic integrity because the reputation of all study abroad programs can be colored by the practices of any program that does not keep academic issues a top priority. The RD is responsible for the academic quality of the program and must be willing to assure those who need to know that the expectations of both participant and Cal Poly Academic Programs are being met. Keep in mind that the total intellectual and personal value of study abroad to students is often based on criteria different from those that faculty members may be most concerned with and value (for example, course content, teaching style, library facilities, etc.). It is, therefore, important to acknowledge the value of intercultural and extracurricular aspects of students’ experience. There will undoubtedly be important learning experiences outside the classroom, as students learn to adjust to a new culture.

A. Academic Credit: Students are required to take a minimum of 12 units in all study abroad programs.

B. Unit Load Requirements: Courses taught abroad should have the same number of contact hours as on-campus courses.

C. Course Syllabi: Faculty are advised to give students course syllabi before departure so that students can make informed decisions about their courses and do any required library research while on campus.

D. Course Registration: Students should use Cal Poly websites for registering. If Internet connections are not possible, the RD should seek assistance from the Program Coordinator in arranging to make class changes. Adds and Drops follow regular Cal Poly procedure unless the program starts significantly later than the regular quarter starting date (in which case appropriate arrangements must be made in advance via the Program Coordinator).

E. Grading Policies and Attendance: Expectations for each course, including attendance, should be laid out at the beginning of the program. Attendance records should be kept. The Resident Director should be aware of which students are not attending classes, and immediately discuss this with the students involved.

F. Grade Reports: If the program is scheduled to return early enough, faculty should follow regular Cal Poly procedure for submitting grades. If the program is scheduled to return after the deadline date, faculty can let the applicable department secretary or Program Coordinator keep the original grade rosters. Grades can be faxed to the secretary/coordinator who can write in and bubble the grades; then a colleague can sign the roster on the instructor’s behalf.

G. If In Doubt: Faculty should not hesitate to contact the Program Coordinator (via the RD, as appropriate) for assistance.