Academic Standing and Appeal

Grade Point Average Requirements and Failing Grades

All graduate students must maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.7 for each session of their program.

The minimum course grade for ‘pass’ is C+; therefore, graduate students who receive a single grade of ‘C’ or less (while still maintaining a grade point average of 2.7 or greater) must meet with their supervisor to decide whether to repeat the course or select an alternative course. The recommendation of the supervisor is to be submitted to the Associate Dean who will inform the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research of the recommendation. Students who receive a second grade of ’C’ or less will be deemed to be making unsatisfactory progress and their program is subject to termination.

Academic Appeal

The Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation advocates early and informal resolution of issues related to academic standing. Students are encouraged to seek advice on procedures and regulations from the Graduate Programs Office. Prior to attempting resolution of issues, students should first seek advice and support from their supervisors and, if necessary, the Associate Dean.

The Faculty also recommends that students consult with the University of Alberta Student OmbudService for advice on procedures for informal and formal resolution of academic issues. Should the matter proceed to a formal appeal, the OmbudService staff can assist in formulating appeals, and can act as advisors during appeal hearings (780-492-4689, ombuds@ualberta.ca, 5-02 SUB).

Before launching a formal appeal, students should attempt to resolve the issue by meeting directly with the party or parties involved. For example, issues regarding status in an individual course should first be directed to the instructor or practicum supervisor concerned.

Students and professors are referred to Section 9 of the FGSR Graduate Program Manual (available on-line at 9.2 Academic Grievances and Appeals) for full information on appeal and grievance procedures.

Grievances initiated by graduate students concerning course grades must be directed to the faculty from which that course was offered. The Calendar and/or individual faculty guidelines should be consulted in order to determine the appropriate appeal procedure. Each Faculty on campus has established appeal policies and procedures for matters related to academic standing. Information on policy and procedure for academic appeals in KSR is available through the Graduate Programs Office.

Grievances on other academic matters should first be dealt with by approaching the instructor or advisor concerned (depending on the nature of the grievance) to attempt a resolution. If this approach does not lead to a satisfactory result then the student should meet with the Associate Dean (Graduate), then the Associate Dean of the department concerned, and then the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, in that order.

Please refer to the Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation website for further policies and procedures.