Standard

The program permits cohort deceleration exclusively when an enrolled student requires an approved, non-academic leave of absence. Deceleration, defined as the loss of a student from the entering cohort who remains matriculated in the PA program, is prohibited as a remedy for academic failure or underperformance.

• Associated ARC-PA Standard (A3.14d): The program publishes, consistently applies, and makes readily available to enrolled and prospective students policies and procedures for deceleration.

Provisions

1. Eligibility and Leave of Absence: Students may not independently seek deceleration. Deceleration may only be granted and recommended by the Progression & Accountability Council (PAC) in conjunction with an approved non-academic leave of absence.

2. Academic Progression Restrictions: Students may not request or receive deceleration for academic reasons, and those experiencing academic underperformance remain subject to the Academic Standards and Requirements for Progression & Completion.

3. Individualized Progression Plan: The PAC will issue an approved plan for deceleration and any conditions for re-entry as a part of the approved leave of absence.

Enforcement

• Students who attempt to manipulate leave requests to bypass academic standards, fail to meet continuous progression requirements without an approved leave of absence, or fail to adhere to the terms outlined in their approved leave of absence will face immediate referral to the PAC for disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from the program.