Atkinson Graduate School Student Handbook

The Atkinson Graduate School’s Student Handbook is your guide to the expectations of academic and professional behavior, curricular requirements, regulations, policies, and procedures for students enrolled at Willamette University’s Atkinson Graduate School of Management.

All students enrolled in a master’s level Atkinson course are subject to the policies and procedures of the Atkinson School included in this Handbook, as well as policies of Willamette University governing all Willamette University students (such as Academic Integrity and Student Conduct).

Unless otherwise noted, the relevant Atkinson administrator is the Director of Academic Administration for the policies in this handbook.

The Handbook is updated in August each year and is subject to change at any time based on administrative decisions and faculty governance.

Section I: Mission, Motto and Values

Atkinson School Mission and Values

Mission: The Atkinson Graduate School of Management is committed to providing world class management education to U.S. and international students in all stages of their careers. We help our graduates acquire life-long learning skills and become outstanding leaders and managers in business, government, and nonprofit organizations worldwide by offering an intimate learning and practice environment, an integrated, cross-sectoral approach to management education, and dedication to quality teaching, instructional development, basic and applied research, and exceptional, customized career services.

Values: The Atkinson Graduate School of Management maintains that the purpose of all managerial activity is to create value. "Value" is worth as judged by someone other than the manager. It necessarily entails respecting human dignity, improving the welfare of the community through integration, and acting with integrity and competence. We expect our curriculum, pedagogy, internal governance, service, teaching, research and modeling will lead our graduates to pursue these values.

Human Dignity: Treat people as ends and not means. Respect individuals, encourage participation, explore and resolve differences collaboratively.
Integration: Seek and synthesize diverse interests, backgrounds, and knowledge. Act in accord with the common good. Foster trust. Pursue social responsibility and sustainability on the part of the enterprise.
Integrity: Accept responsibility for our actions. Be transparent and act in accord with principles of substantive and procedural justice.
Excellence: Promote excellence, competence, and continuous improvement.

Section II: Resources and Tips for a Successful Student Experience

As a member of Willamette University and Atkinson community, it is important to understand the resources and services available to help you when you need assistance.

Your journey at the Atkinson School is a rewarding and demanding professional and academic experience. It will require you to: learn new concepts; apply what you learn to organizations; effectively manage yourself, others and clients; develop new interpersonal, professional and leadership behaviors; adapt to change; and successfully manage your time, energy and stress. Each of these skills is critical to your personal and professional success.

The Atkinson experience is incredibly rewarding and also mirrors real life. There will be many times when you and your classmates will experience the difficulties of having multiple demands and roles in your life. When this happens, be sure to utilize your Atkinson School/Willamette network of people and support resources. We have people and services available to help you thrive during your educational, professional, and life-changing journey as an Atkinson student.

Academic Support Resources

Atkinson Faculty and Staff: The Atkinson faculty and staff are happy to listen to you and talk with you. Faculty and staff are also able to refer you to other School and University resources.

Academic Advising: For informal advising, students are always welcome to talk with any member of the faculty, staff or administration. The formal academic advising program is as follows:

Every entering student enrolled in a full-time program is assigned a faculty advisor to assist them with questions.
The Director of Academic Administration advises all MBA-P students.
The Career Development staff advises all students about career development and management.
The Director of Academic Administration assists all masters students with registration and graduation audits.

Tutors: Students are encouraged to utilize the free tutor program and to talk with the instructor of any course in which they are experiencing difficulty. Tutors are students who specialize in tutoring specific subject areas. The tutor program is available for core courses.

Students are expected to utilize tutors in a manner that falls well within school and course policies in regard to collaboration, academic honesty and ethical behavior. The tutor's job is to help the student understand the concepts and processes involved in the course so the student can successfully complete their own work.

Management and Economics Librarian: John Repplinger, Science Librarian, works with Atkinson students and faculty. John is an experienced librarian in these specialties and is always willing to help locate articles, statistics, and resources. Contact John by email at jrepplin@willamette.edu, phone (503-370- 6525) or at the library. See the special library guide for Atkinson students: https://libguides.willamette.edu/agsm .

Course Difficulties: Master’s level students are expected to be professional and proactive in discussing difficulties with course concepts, completing course work as assigned, grades, and other issues with the faculty member. The accepted process for discussion of course issues at the Atkinson School is to, first, talk to the instructor of the course. If talking with the instructor does not solve the concern, then talk with the relevant Atkinson administrator.

Accessible Education Services: Willamette University is committed to the full access and inclusion of all qualified students in its programs. The Willamette Accessible Education Services office facilitates reasonable accommodation for students with a qualifying disability or temporary medical condition while maintaining institutional standards. Students seeking information about accessibility services should contact the Willamette University Accessible Education Services Office.

Additional Support Resources

Bishop Wellness Center

Campus Safety

Sexual Misconduct Resources for Students

Communicate Your Concerns and Provide Feedback

Communicate Your Concerns: Students are always invited to communicate their concerns. Students are also expected to be professional and proactive in discussing their concerns. The accepted process for communicating your concerns at the Atkinson School is to, first, talk to the student, faculty or staff member involved in the concern. If talking to the student, faculty or staff member involved does not solve the concern, then talk with the relevant Atkinson administrator.

Course Evaluations: Every Atkinson course is evaluated every year to stimulate improvement in the quality of teaching and learning in the various programs. The information provided by students helps pinpoint specific strengths, weaknesses, and potential improvements. The school takes course evaluations seriously. Students are always encouraged to discuss a course with the professor at any time and do not have to wait until the conclusion of the semester to provide input about a course.

Getting the Most from Your Atkinson Education

Recent graduates offer the following tips for academic success at the Atkinson School:

Study in groups of two to six students to benefit from the support and expertise of your student colleagues.
Seek assistance from faculty, staff, fellow students and University resources.
Plan your time. Atkinson courses require a consistent effort and pace as opposed to concentrated study for short periods of time. Understanding today's lecture, formula, or case usually depends on mastering the previous assignment
Avoid getting bogged down in one class and letting others slip. Understand the benefits and limitations of dropping or withdrawing from a course. Seek advice from the professor, your faculty advisor or the other members of the Atkinson faculty or staff. If you decide to drop or withdraw from a course, email the relevant Atkinson administrator.
Graduate study at Atkinson requires a different approach than an undergraduate degree. Your success requires professional development and growth in three important areas: knowledge, experience and career development.

Knowledge is important ...but it's not enough by itself. Experience is important ...but it's not enough by itself. Career development is important ... but it's not enough by itself. It takes all three to achieve a great return on investment and meet your professional goals.

Section III. Expectations of Academic and Professional Behavior

Atkinson students are expected to conduct themselves with academic integrity, ethical conduct, and professionalism in all aspects of their education and in all interactions with students, faculty, staff, clients, and guests of the Atkinson School and Willamette University.

Academic and professional behavior is governed by the Atkinson Honor Code, Willamette University Student Code of Conduct, Willamette University Academic Integrity Policy, applicable laws and regulations, and the Atkinson School expectations of academic honesty and professional behavior.

In the absence of a specific notation of expectations and policy, the Atkinson Honor Code standards of professionalism and excellence are the default Atkinson policy.

Expectations of Academic Honesty

Learning, honesty, and integrity matter. If a person can't trust your choices or the decisions you make, your grades and your degree won't matter.

The university and Atkinson School policies governing academic behavior outline basic actions of academic integrity. The below tip supplements this guidance for maintaining your academic honesty and integrity.

Understand the Allowable Degree of Collaboration for Each Assignment: Be sure you understand the level of collaboration allowed for each deliverable, exam and project. The allowable level of collaboration will vary with each faculty member, course and assignment. If you have a question or do not understand the level of collaboration allowed on a given assignment, check the syllabus or ask the professor for clarification.

In general (unless otherwise presented by the faculty member, syllabus or assignment), you may discuss ideas with each other as a means of maximizing learning opportunities and understanding the issues involved before you prepare your individual work product for submission. However, you should complete your assignment on your own, as an individual with your own analysis, recommendations, solutions, information etc. Your written or presentation work product must be your own work and not that of others.

In the absence of information about the allowable degree of collaboration, always assume the assignment or work product is to be done individually and on your own.

Expectations of Professional Behavior

Professional behavior contributes to academic and personal development, as well as the good of the entire Atkinson community.

The Atkinson School values integrity, ethical conduct, teamwork, and professional behavior as essential elements of personal and professional growth. All members of the Atkinson community are expected to conduct themselves according to these tenets in all aspects of the Atkinson experience and all interactions with peers, faculty, clients, staff, and guests of the Atkinson School.

See the subpage, Expectations of Professional Behavior, for the basic actions of professional behavior and tips for your Atkinson experience.

Section IV. Atkinson Honor Code

The Atkinson Honor Code applies to issues of academic honesty and professional behavior of students enrolled in Atkinson courses. The Honor Code is intended to create and sustain an environment of honor and trust, encourage each person to develop to their full potential, and promote a positive set of values and behaviors that distinguish members of the Atkinson community in their personal and professional lives. The Honor Code also gives students an important role in resolving issues of academic honesty and professional behavior.

It is the desire of the Atkinson community to have a culture of honesty that prevents violations of the Honor Code before they occur, rather than to impose sanctions after a violation. This calls for all members of the community to encourage compliance with the Honor Code, whether it be in regard to their own actions or the actions of others. To encourage awareness, compliance and the positive effects of the Honor Code system, every student enrolled in an Atkinson course, every faculty member and every staff member is asked to acknowledge the Atkinson Honor Code.

See the subpage for the Atkinson Honor Code and details regarding potential violations.

Section V. Violations of Academic Integrity or Professional Behavior

As a member of the Willamette University community, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities, University protocol and procedures, and University services available to help you when you need assistance. Willamette University policies govern all graduate and undergraduate students of Willamette University except where specifically noted within the description of a policy or procedure.

The Atkinson School follows the Willamette University Academic Integrity Policy, the Willamette University Student Code of Conduct, and the Atkinson Honor Code. The relevant Atkinson administrator for policies in this section is the Student Affairs committee chair.

Violations of Academic Integrity

Academic integrity violations pertain to actions that occur within the realm of class deliverables, tests, team projects, presentations, papers, grading and attendance records, communication with the professor, and communication with other students.

In the absence of a specific policy or regulation within the area of academic honesty, the Atkinson Honor Code standards of excellence will be the default Atkinson policy.

Any behavior found to be a violation of the Honor Code is a violation of the Honor Code regardless of the severity of the violation or the severity of the consequence.

Historically, academic honesty violations at the Atkinson School involve one or more students making a poor decision. Some violations have been deliberate and some have been unintentional. It is important to know that all violations, whether deliberate or unintended, will trigger a review and consequence process consistent with the policies and procedures detailed in this handbook.

Violations of Professional Behavior

A discussion of expected professional behavior of Atkinson students is available at the subpage Expectations of Professional Behavior.

Honor Code violations of professional behavior pertain to a student’s conduct within the educational process, learning environment, use of university facilities and resources, group process and team responsibilities, student activities, school guests, client interactions, on-campus and off-campus events, internship supervisors, places of employment, career development activities, and communication with others, etc.

Atkinson students, faculty and staff are encouraged to be proactive in discussing and resolving their general concerns, differences, and misunderstandings with individuals informally. The accepted informal process for people concerned about the professional behavior of a student is to communicate with the student involved in the concern. If this step is not possible or if it does not resolve the issue, communicate with the Atkinson professor or staff member connected with the course or activity in which the issues are occurring. If the informal process does not resolve the concern, or if the concern is deemed to be of a serious nature, the concerned person should talk to the relevant Atkinson administrator.

In the absence of a specific policy or regulation within the area of professional behavior, the Honor Code standards of excellence will be the default Atkinson policy.

Any behavior found to be a violation of the Honor Code is a violation of the Honor Code regardless of the severity of the violation or the severity of the consequence.

Read more about the investigation of potential violations at Investigating Violations of Academic Integrity or Professional Behavior.

Section VI. Graduation Requirements

Please see the following program pages for degree requirements for Atkinson graduate programs.

Section VII. Academic Regulations

Regulations specific to Full-Time Programs (ECCC MBA, BA/MBA, One-Year MBA, STEM MBA, One-Year STEM MBA, JD/MBA, MSAF, and MBA/MSDS)

Full-time and Part-time Enrollment Status: Students who are enrolled in nine or more credits of graduate level course work in each semester are considered full-time students. Students enrolled in one to eight credits of graduate level course work in any semester are considered part-time students. All academic and conduct regulations of Willamette University and the Atkinson School govern full-time and part-time students.

Regulations Regarding “F” Grades: "F" grades are calculated in the grade point average and result in zero credits earned toward graduation. A student who receives an "F" in a required course must repeat the course and earn a grade of "C" or higher in the repeated course. A student who receives an "F" grade in an elective course may repeat the course. When a course is repeated, both the "F" grade and the grade received in the repeated course appear on the transcript, and both grades are calculated in the grade point average. "F" grades have very serious consequences. A student anticipating an "F" in a course is advised to withdraw from the course prior to the last scheduled class meeting of the course.

Repeating a Course: Students may not repeat a course previously completed unless the grade earned in that course was an "F." In the case of a core or required course, a course completed with a grade of "F" must be repeated. When a course is repeated, both the "F" grade and the grade received in the repeated course appear on the transcript, and both grades are calculated in the grade point average.

Core Course Waivers: There are two types of core course waivers - the "Credit Waiver" and the "Substitution Waiver." Both waiver options are designed to help students work at advanced levels of study and get the most from their Atkinson education. Students on academic notice are not eligible for course waivers.

A "Credit Waiver" automatically applies credits from a waived core course toward graduation requirements and does not require a substitute course. Credit waivers are only available for students in the Early Career/ Career Change MBA and STEM MBA programs. Eligible students are limited to a maximum of six (6) credits from a combination of approved Credit Waivers and approved transferred course work for credit.

A "Substitution Waiver" requires a specific elective course to replace the waived core course, and credits from the waived core course do not apply toward graduation. There is no limit to the number of core courses which can be waived via a Substitution Waiver.

Waiver criteria: The criteria for granting a waiver for a core course are determined by the faculty member responsible for the course and based on an assessment of whether the student meets the academic requirements for waiving the course. Students who waive a core course are responsible for the content of the waived course as it is applied in other Atkinson courses.

Contact the relevant Atkinson administrator for assistance with a core-course waiver. NOTE: GSM-5108 PACE I and GSM-5109 PACE II cannot be waived.

Transfer Credits: Students may be eligible to apply a maximum of six (6) semester credits of graduate course work earned from another university or college toward their degree. The six- semester credit maximum includes any credits transferred at the time of entry to the program and any credits received (School of Law or other) while enrolled in the Atkinson School. In extraordinary situations, the Provost or their designee may authorize the acceptance of additional transfer credits.

Grades earned in transferred courses are not used in calculating the student's grade point average. Students should also be aware that quarter credits and semester credits are not equal; six semester credits are equal to nine quarter credits.

Students are limited to a maximum of six (6) semester credits from a combination of approved transfer courses and courses waived for credit.

Students on academic notice are not eligible for transfer credits.

Graduate School Credits Earned Prior To Enrolling in the Atkinson School: Students may be eligible to transfer graduate credits earned prior to enrollment at the Atkinson School, as part of the maximum allowable six credits of transfer or waived credits. Transfer credits earned prior to enrollment are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and require the approval of the Dean. To be eligible for transfer consideration courses must meet all the following requirements:

Credits earned could not have been used to complete a previous degree
The course must have been completed within three (3) years of entry to the Atkinson School
The grade received in the course must be a B or better
The course must have been earned at a program accredited by AACSB or NASPAA.
The course must meet the criteria set by the faculty member of the selected course.

Students requesting evaluation of transfer credits earned prior to enrollment at the Atkinson School must submit a written request to the relevant Atkinson administrator. The written request must include a copy of the course syllabus. If approved, credits may be applied toward elective credits or toward completion of selected core courses.

Graduate Course Work Completed at Willamette University School of Law during Enrollment at Atkinson: Students who are not enrolled in the JD/MBA joint degree may be eligible to receive elective credits for courses completed at the Willamette University School of Law as part of the maximum six (6) semester credits eligible for transfer. Students wishing to take courses at the law school should consult the Law Office of Student Services for details on grading and attendance policies.

Transfer of credits from the School of Law to an Atkinson program is governed by all of the following:

Up to six (6) semester credits of elective course work may be transferred from the Willamette University School of Law, provided the grade earned is "Honors," "C", "Credit," or better.
Willamette School of Law courses completed with grades below "C" or grades of "No Credit" are not eligible for transfer.
Grades earned in law courses will not be used in calculating the Atkinson grade point average.
To be eligible to take courses in the School of Law, students in the Early Career/ Career Change MBA and STEM MBA programs must have successfully completed all first year core courses. Students in other Atkinson programs must submit a petition to the relevant Atkinson administrator.
Students on academic notice are not eligible for transfer credits from the School of Law.

Students registering for a law course must register at the School of Law. School of Law students are given priority for enrollment in Law courses. School of Law credits will be recorded on the Atkinson transcript. Students should inform the relevant Atkinson administrator of their enrollment in a law course.

Students enrolling in elective course work at the School of Law should be aware of the attendance policy governing all School of Law courses that requires minimum attendance at 75% of regularly scheduled class hours. A student who does not satisfy this minimum, regardless of reason, at any point during the semester will be dismissed from the School of Law course.

Dismissal will be noted on the student’s School of Law transcript. School of Law instructors may also impose a stricter attendance policy and additional sanctions for non-attendance if students are informed at the start of the course of the instructor’s attendance rules.

Graduate Course Work Completed at Other Colleges or Universities during Enrollment at Atkinson: Students may be eligible to transfer pre-approved elective credits earned from another university as part of the maximum allowable six semester credits eligible for transfer. Students on academic notice are not eligible for transfer credits.

Credit for approved transfer course work will be entered on the transcript as credit toward graduation but will not be calculated into the GPA. Only credits completed with a grade of "B" or higher are eligible for transfer. The combination of transferred credits from other universities and waived credits cannot exceed six (6) semester credits.

A student desiring to take graduate course work at a college or university other than Willamette University must submit a written request for transfer credits to the relevant Atkinson administrator at least six (6) weeks prior to beginning the outside course (s). The written request must include a copy of the course syllabus. Four general guidelines for evaluating requests for transfer are:

The student must provide evidence that the course is not available through the Atkinson School curriculum, including independent study.
The student must provide evidence the requested course enhances their educational program and career plans.
The course must be a graduate level elective course.
The quality of the offering institution, program, and instruction is to be considered as well as the course content and level.

Upon completion of approved transfer credits, the student must provide an official transcript from the transfer institution to the relevant Atkinson administrator, who will evaluate and convert the credits to Atkinson School semester credits. (Note: quarter credits and semester credits are not equal: 3 quarter credits equal 2 semester credits; 6 quarter credits equal 4 semester credits; 9 quarter credits equal 6 semester credits.)

Regulations specific to: MBA for Professionals program

Full-time and Part-time Enrollment Status. MBA for Professionals students who are enrolled in eight credits of Atkinson course work in any semester are considered full-time students. Students who are enrolled in one to seven credits of Atkinson course work in any semester are considered part-time students. All academic and conduct regulations of Willamette University and the Atkinson School govern full-time and part-time MBA for Professionals students.

Regulations Regarding “F” Grades: "F" grades are calculated in the grade point average and result in zero credits earned toward graduation. A student who receives an "F" in a required course must repeat the course and earn a grade of "C" or higher in the repeated course. A student who receives an "F" grade in an elective course may repeat the course. When a course for which an “F” was received is repeated, only the grade received in the repeated course appears on the transcript and is used in calculating a student’s grade point average.

"F" grades have very serious consequences. A student anticipating an "F" in a course is advised to withdraw from the course prior to the last scheduled class meeting of the course.

Course Waivers: MBA for Professionals courses are not easily waived and most courses are not eligible for a waiver. However, students who have attained a professional credential that matches the content of the relevant GSMPR course may submit a written request for a waiver review to the relevant Atkinson administrator. A written request must be submitted at least six weeks before the beginning of the relevant course and must include: a written rationale for the waiver, and supporting information that includes a copy of the relevant credential attained and a complete discussion of the educational process required for completion of the credential. The submitted request will be reviewed by the faculty member of the related course and then reviewed by the Dean. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis. The decision of the Dean is final.

A maximum of one (1) MBA for Professionals course may be waived for eligible students. Students who are granted a waiver for a course are responsible for the content of the waived course as it is applied in other GSMPR courses.

The combination of waived credits and transferred credits from other universities (see policy below) cannot exceed (8) semester credits. Students on academic notice are not eligible for waivers.

Transfer Credits:A maximum of eight (8) semester credits of graduate course work may be transferred from an AACSB-accredited program. Requests for transfer credit are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and require the approval of the Dean. In extraordinary situations, the Provost or their designee may authorize the acceptance of additional transfer credits.

Approved transfer credits are applied toward credits required for graduation. Grades earned in transferred courses are not used in calculating the student's grade point average. Students who are granted transfer credits for a course are responsible for the content of the Willamette course as it is applied in other GSMPR courses. Students on academic notice are not eligible for transfer credits.

To be eligible for transfer consideration, previous course work must meet all the following requirements:

Credits earned could not have been used to complete a previous degree
The course must have been completed within three (3) years of entry to the Atkinson School
The grade received in the course must be a B or better
The course must have been earned at a program accredited by AACSB
The course must meet the criteria set by the faculty member of the selected course

Students requesting evaluation of transfer credits earned prior to enrollment at the Atkinson School must submit a written request to the relevant Atkinson administrator, who will consult with the Dean. The written request must include a rationale for the transfer credits, a copy of the course syllabus, and an official copy of transcript showing completion of the course and the grade received. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis. The decision of the Dean is final.

Section VIII. Registration and Enrollment Policies and Procedures

Auditing Courses is Not Allowed

Only students who are officially registered for a course may attend a course. Auditing a course (sitting in on a class without full participation, grades, and/or registration) is not an available option.

Course Waitlist Procedures

Waitlists are established when a course has reached its enrollment capacity. Once the semester begins, students who are on a waitlist for a course are expected to attend the first session of the course to receive waitlist priority for enrollment if space becomes available.

If space becomes available in the course during the add/drop period, students will be prompted to add the course based on their position on the waitlist.

Course Prerequisites

Students are required to meet the stated prerequisite for an Atkinson course prior to enrollment in the course. Students who have successfully completed or waived the course(s) listed as a prerequisite are considered to have met the prerequisite.

Students who have not completed the stated prerequisite may request permission from the faculty member to enroll in the course. The student should discuss their qualifications for taking the course and present evidence as requested by the faculty member. If the faculty member approves the student's enrollment in the course, the faculty member will grant approval for the student to add the course via SAGE.

Approval to take a course without the required prerequisite does not constitute the waiver of any course or curricular requirement of the Atkinson School.

Class Attendance

Active class participation and in-class discussions enhance the learning environment for all students. As such, students are expected to attend all classes and participate in all learning activities.

The professor of the course sets the attendance policy for the course and students are expected to adhere to the attendance policy. Attendance, preparation and participation in classroom discussions may be used by faculty in determining course grades. Students who are aware of the need to miss an upcoming class should discuss their upcoming absence with the professor in advance of the absence and make alternative arrangements for completing any related class requirements.

When a student is unable to attend class due to an unpredictable illness or an immediate personal/professional commitment, they should email or telephone the professor in advance. Whenever a student misses a class, the student is responsible for all material covered in the missed class and may be asked by the professor to complete additional work to make up for the missed class session. It is the student's responsibility to initiate, follow through, and complete all material and assignments related to a missed class.

Students who must miss more classes than the professor has outlined as acceptable to meet the requirements of the course, should withdraw from the course for the given semester and re-enroll in the course at a later date.

Discontinuing a Course

The Atkinson School reserves the right to discontinue any course for which the enrollment is insufficient.

Immunizations Required to Attend Class

Willamette University Immunization Policy. For more information call the Bishop Health Center at 503-370-6062 or visit https://my.willamette.edu/site/health

Leave of Absence

Students who have completed at least one (1) semester of course work at the Atkinson School who do not intend to enroll in at least one (1) Atkinson course within a window of two (2) or more consecutive semesters, should apply for a Leave of Absence.

Students applying for a Leave of Absence must complete the "Departure Form" and an exit interview. See the University's Student Leave of Absence and Exiting the University Policy.

Readmission Process for Students Who Leave the Program

Atkinson students who do not enroll in at least one (1) Atkinson course for two (2) or more consecutive semesters must petition for readmission to the program through the relevant Atkinson administrator. Students who applied for and received a Leave of Absence and who subsequently request readmission will be automatically readmitted if they meet all of the following criteria:

The student has a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher; and
The six (6) year completion date for the degree is feasible at the time of readmission; and
There were no pending disputes, disciplinary actions, or appeals at the time of withdrawal; and
The student has not previously petitioned for readmission.

Students who do not qualify for automatic readmission must petition for readmission to the program through the relevant Atkinson administrator, who will confer with the Dean. The Dean will consider the standards listed below in the evaluation of whether to grant the readmission request.

The criteria listed for automatic readmission; and
Quality of student's experience while absent from the program; and
Performance in alternate classes attended while absent from the program; and
Evidence of professional growth; and
Assessment of ability to successfully complete the program; and
Evidence of commitment to complete the program within the six (6) year completion requirement period.

Readmission requests involving an actual or predicted program completion date beyond the six
(6) year completion period must include an appeal to the Dean for reinstatement of all course credit hours. The Dean's decision is final, and no further appeal is available.

Policies specific to Full-Time Programs (ECCC MBA, BA/MBA, One-Year MBA, STEM MBA, One-Year STEM MBA, JD/MBA, MSAF, and MBA/MSDS)

Full-Time and Part-Time Course Loads

Full-time: Although nine (9) credits is the minimum requirement for full-time status in any given semester of the program, students generally complete 15-16 credits per semester for timely program completion. Students enrolling for more than 19 credits in a semester will be charged additional tuition for credits exceeding 19 credits.

Part-time: Students who are enrolled for fewer than nine (9) credits in any given semester are classified as part-time. Students must be enrolled for at least 4.5 credits per semester to meet the half-time enrollment requirement for federal loans.

Registration

Entering Students: New Atkinson, exchange and non-degree students will be automatically registered for their first semester of courses. Most students will be registered for 15-16 credits.

Returning Students: Continuing students may register for a maximum of 19 credits via the online registration system. For a complete list of registration dates by semester, see the Academic Calendar.

Students in full-time Atkinson programs, as well as exchange and non-degree students, may not register for courses in the MBA for Professionals program without prior approval.

Although changes in registration may be made during the add/drop period, students are encouraged to carefully consider their registration choices.

A student is considered officially registered only after fees have been paid or arrangements have been made with the Business Office.

Adding, Dropping and Withdrawing from a Course or Courses

See the Add, Drop, and Withdrawal Policy.

Instructions for using SAGE are available online. Students are responsible for initiating and completing the add, drop, and withdraw processes in a timely manner. For a complete list of add/drop dates by semester, see the Academic Calendar.

For assistance with Adding, Dropping, or Withdrawing from a course, contact the relevant Atkinson administrator.

Adding a Course: Students may add a course during the add/drop period of the semester online via SAGE. Students on the waitlist receive priority for registration in the waitlisted course. Students who are trying to decide between two courses that meet at the same time should talk to the professor of each course for advice.

Dropping a Course: Students may drop a course during the add/drop period of the semester via SAGE. Students considering dropping a course are encouraged to talk to the professor or faculty advisor prior to the decision.

Withdrawing from a Course: The deadline to withdraw from an Atkinson course is prior to the last scheduled class session of the course. Withdrawal from a course is shown on the permanent transcript as a "W." A grade of "W" does not affect the grade point average, and no credit is granted. Students considering withdrawing from a course are encouraged to talk to the professor, faculty advisor and the relevant Atkinson administrator prior to the decision. In addition to initiating and completing the course withdrawal, students are responsible for emailing the relevant Atkinson administrator in a timely manner.

Complete Withdrawal From all Courses During a Semester: Students choosing to withdraw from all courses must complete the Departure Form and an exit interview with the relevant Atkinson administrator. See the Student Leave of Absence and Exiting the University policy.

Medical Withdrawal: A medical withdrawal may be requested when a student has a documented medical or psychological condition preventing completion of the semester or requiring a reduced course load. See Willamette's Medical Withdrawal Policy for more information.

Policies specific to the MBA for Professionals Program

Full-time and Half-time Course Loads. The MBA for Professionals program can be completed as a full-time or part-time program.

Students who are enrolled for at least eight (8) credits per semester are classified as full-time MBA for Professionals students. Students can complete the program in six consecutive full-time semesters.

Students who are enrolled for fewer than eight (8) credits in any semester are classified as part-time. Students must be enrolled for at least four (4) credits per semester to meet the half-time enrollment requirement for federal loans.

Registration for MBAP Students. MBAP students are automatically registered for all courses prior to each semester. MBAP students may petition to take elective courses during certain semesters.

A student is considered officially registered only after fees have been paid or arrangements for payment have been made with the Student Accounts Office.

The Atkinson School and various offices within Willamette University (i.e. Student Accounts, Bishop Health Center, etc.) may place a hold on a student’s registration for failing to comply with university policy.

Adding, Dropping and Withdrawing from a Course or Courses

See the Add, Drop, and Withdrawal Policy.

All MBAP student Add, Drop, and Withdraw processes are performed by the relevant Atkinson administrator. Students are responsible for contacting the administrator to initiate any of these processes in a timely manner. For a complete list of add/drop dates by semester, see the Academic Calendar.

Adding a Course: MBAP students wishing to add a course during the add/drop period should contact the relevant Atkinson administrator.

Dropping a Course: Students considering dropping a course are encouraged to talk to the professor and the relevant Atkinson administrator prior to the decision.

Withdrawing from a Course: The deadline to withdraw from an MBAP course is prior to the last scheduled class session of the course. Withdrawal from a course is shown on the permanent transcript as a "W." A grade if "W" does not affect the grade point average, and no credit is granted.

Complete Withdrawal From all Courses During a Semester: In addition to contacting the relevant Atkinson administrator in a timely manner, students completely withdrawing from the Atkinson School should consult the Student Accounts Office for information about possible refunds and refund policy. See the Student Leave of Absence and Exiting the University policy.

Medical Withdrawal: A medical withdrawal may be requested when a student has a documented medical or psychological condition preventing completion of the semester or requiring a reduced course load. See Willamette's Medical Withdrawal Policy for more information.

Section IX. Other Policies

Final Exam Policy for First-Year Core Courses

Final exams for first-year core courses are scheduled by the relevant Atkinson administrator and will occur during Core Finals Week. No more than one core course exam will be scheduled each day. Final exam dates for first-year core courses are shown on the university’s academic calendar.

Pass/Fail and Pass/No-Pass Courses and Credits

The maximum number of Pass/Fail and/or Pass/No-Pass credits that can be applied toward graduation requirements varies with the program option.

Pass/Fail and Pass/No-Pass Credits for Early Career/ Career Change MBA and BA/MBA Students are:

A maximum of twenty-one (21) credits from a combination of Pass/Fail and/or Pass/No- Pass course work, waived credits or transfer credits may be applied toward graduation requirements. Credits may be applied from a combination of courses/credits within the limits listed below and may not exceed a total of twenty-one (21) credits.
- A maximum of fifteen (15) credits may be applied from International Exchange courses.
- A maximum of seven (7) credits may be applied from a combination of Internships for Management, Research, and Independent Study courses.
- A maximum of six (6) credits may be applied from a combination of approved transfer course work and Atkinson School waived credits.

Section X. Commencement Ceremony Policies and Procedures

Application for Graduation

Candidates for graduation must submit an "application for graduation" in SAGE no later than their final semester in the program. Application deadlines are listed in the academic calendar.

It is the student's responsibility to ensure they have completed all graduation requirements and they are in good standing within the policies of the Atkinson School and Willamette University. Graduation requirements are listed in the catalog. Each student has online access to their official graduation audit and is expected to communicate in a timely manner with the relevant Atkinson administrator about any questions pertaining to their graduation audit.

Degree Awarded

The Willamette University Master of Business Administration for Business, Government and Not-for-Profit Management (MBA) degree will be conferred on MBA, BA/MBA, MBA/JD, and MBA/MSDS students who have satisfactorily completed all requirements of their Early Career/Career Change MBA program, and all requirements of any concurrent degree (BA/MBA, MBA/JD, MBA/MSDS) as determined by the registrar's office.

The Willamette University Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree will be conferred on One-Year MBA and MBAP students who have satisfactorily completed all requirements of their designated degree program, and all requirements of any concurrent degree as determined by the registrar’s office.

The Willamette University Master of Science degree (in Accounting and Finance) will be conferred on MSAF students who have satisfactorily completed all requirements of their degree program, and all requirements of any concurrent degree as determined by the registrar’s office.

Participation in the Commencement Ceremony - Graduating Students

Students who meet all of the following requirements may fully participate in the Atkinson School Commencement Ceremony for their designated degree program:

Are in good standing within the policies of the Atkinson School and Willamette University;
Have satisfactorily completed all the requirements of the degree program in which they enrolled (and all requirements of any concurrent degree) as determined by the registrar, and
Have no outstanding grades of "Incomplete."

Full participation means the student:

Will have their name called and may walk across the stage;
Will receive a diploma cover when they walk across the stage. Students will receive their diploma in the mail, at a later date, after their degree is officially recorded;
Will be considered and selected for academic honors; and
Will be listed in the official Willamette University Commencement publication distributed at the Willamette University Commencement Ceremonies for their program.

Participation in the Commencement Ceremony: Walking Students

Atkinson students who have not completed all the requirements for their degree program, but are in good standing within the policies of the Atkinson School and Willamette University and for whom one of the following circumstances has been verified and approved by the Dean, may "walk" with their class at the Commencement Ceremony.

The student is within two courses of completing the total course work required for graduation and will complete the remaining two courses during the summer or fall semester following the Commencement Ceremony.
The student is enrolled in the MBA/MSDS program and has completed all but the final summer semester of that program.
The student's cumulative grade point average is below the 3.0 minimum required for graduation as a result of a grade received in the final semester
The student received a failing grade in a required course taken during the final semester.

Students eligible to "walk" with their class who participate in the Commencement Ceremony:

Will have their name called and may walk across the stage.
Will receive a diploma cover when they walk across the stage. Students will receive their diploma in the mail, at a later date, after their degree is officially recorded;
Will not have an opportunity to be selected for academic honors for the ceremony in which they walk. Will have the opportunity for consideration for academic honors as a member of their actual graduating class.
Will be eligible for Academic Excellence Recognition: Students whose cumulative GPA is 3.80 or higher for completed coursework will be recognized during the ceremony.
Will be listed in the official Willamette University Commencement publication distributed at the Willamette University Commencement Ceremonies in May with the notation "on completion."

Students who have questions about participating in the Commencement Ceremony should contact the relevant Atkinson Administrator.

Academic Honors at Graduation

Only students who are "graduating students" may be considered for academic honors at graduation. Awards include:

Graduating Student with the Highest GPA: The graduating student with the highest Atkinson School cumulative grade point average in each program will receive a Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Stole to be worn during the Commencement Ceremony.

Atkinson Honors: Atkinson Honors is bestowed upon graduating students who have achieved a cumulative grade point average of 3.8 or higher in all Atkinson course work. Students who receive Atkinson Honors will receive white honor cords to be worn during the Commencement Ceremony and "Honors" will be noted on their diploma.

Beta Gamma Sigma: Beta Gamma Sigma is an international honor society that recognizes outstanding academic achievement of students enrolled in business and management programs. Willamette's chapter of Beta Gamma Sigma is limited to graduating Atkinson students with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.8 who rank in the top 20% of their graduating class. The grade point average utilized for eligibility for membership is the cumulative grade point average for all completed coursework at the time of graduation, which is typically all semesters prior to the final semester of study (e.g., fall semester-2nd year for Early Career/Career Change, BA/MBA, and MBA/MSDS students; fall semester- 4th year for JD/MBA students). Members of Beta Gamma Sigma will receive blue & gold honor cords to be worn during the Commencement Ceremony.

Pi Alpha Alpha (awarded to EC/CC students only):A national honorary society that recognizes and promotes excellence in the study and practice of public affairs and administration. Willamette's chapter of Pi Alpha Alpha is limited to full-time MBA students with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.7 who rank in the top 20% of the graduating class. The cumulative grade point average utilized for eligibility for membership is the cumulative grade point average at the end of the third semester (fall semester-2nd year) of coursework at the Atkinson School for Early Career, Career Change and BA/MBA students. The grade point for JD/MBA students is the cumulative grade point average at the end of fall semester of the 4th year of JD/MBA study). Members of Pi Alpha Alpha will receive light blue & gold honor cords to be worn during the Commencement Ceremony.

Dean’s Awards (awarded to full-time Atkinson students): Dean’s Awards recognize two students who have contributed greatly to the development of the Atkinson community and consistently enriched the student experience. The award symbolizes their efforts to foster citizenship and fellowship among the members of the Atkinson community.

Section XI. University Financial Policies and Procedures

Atkinson School tuition and fees for the current academic year for all programs are detailed on the Graduate Tuition page of the Catalog.

Tuition for Full-Time Programs (ECCC MBA, BA/MBA, One-Year MBA, STEM MBA, One-Year STEM MBA, JD/MBA, MSAF, and MBA/MSDS)

Variations to Standard Tuition Amounts

BA/MBA students pay the tuition rate for Willamette College during their first year (senior year) of the MBA program, or until they complete the graduation requirements for their undergraduate degree, whichever is sooner.
All students enrolled in more than 19 credits of course work for any given semester are charged an additional per-credit tuition rate for every credit greater than 19. Per-credit costs for each program are detailed on the Graduate Tuition page.
Part-time tuition is charged on a per credit basis. Per-credit costs are detailed on the Graduate Tuition page.
Students enrolled for less than 9 credits in a semester pay tuition on a per-credit basis.
No tuition is charged for the course "GSM 7251 - Internships for Management I" (3 credits) when taken during the summer semester by a student who is completing their first Atkinson three credit internship experience. The maximum number of free credits from summer internship experiences through the course GSM 7251 is three.
No tuition is charged for the one credit course ""GSM-6099-G1 - Global Study and International Experience." The course includes other expenses paid by the student (such as travel, airfare etc.), but tuition is not charged for the course.
Exchange students from Copenhagen Business School, Strasbourg Business School, Peking University or KEDGE School of Management pay tuition to their home school and not to Willamette University.
Willamette MBA alumni may take selected Atkinson courses through the Willamette MBA for Life program.

Tuition for MBA for Professionals

The tuition rate for MBA for Professionals students is determined by their semester of entry, and the listed tuition covers eight (8) credits per semester. Required books and personal supplies are not included. Laptop computer and software purchases are the responsibility of the student.

The entering tuition rate remains the same for MBAP students for the six (6) consecutive semesters of the program, after which the tuition charge is updated to the tuition rate for the current academic year. Once a student’s tuition changes, it will remain consistent for an additional six (6) consecutive semesters.

Tuition rates are subject to change for each academic year.

Willamette MBA alumni may take select Atkinson courses through the Willamette MBA for Life Program.

Health Insurance Requirements for All WU MBA Programs

Because good health and access to health care are essential to student learning and academic success, Willamette University requires all domestic students enrolled half time or more to have health insurance coverage. All international students must also carry health insurance to study at Willamette University. Please refer to the Student Insurance Requirements section of the Student Insurance webpage for additional information regarding credit requirements and excluded programs.

Billing Process for Tuition and Fees

While attending Willamette University, you will be billed each semester for tuition, fees and other incurred charges. You will receive your billing electronically through Willamette University’s electronic billing and payment system. When the billing is posted, you will receive an e-mail notification at your university e-mail address. If you have any questions please call the Office of Student Accounts (studentaccounts@willamette.edu) or visit them online.

Willamette University Withdrawal Refund Policy

Information about Willamette University Refund Policy refund policies for students who have withdrawn from school are posted in compliance with the Higher Education Amendments of 1998 (Section 668.22). For more information visit the Student Accounts Refund Policy page of the web site.

Section XII: Scholarship Awards, Renewals and Policies

Scholarship Policies

Unless otherwise noted, all scholarship awards are dispersed evenly across the program’s regular semesters. For the Early Career/Career Change MBA program, the summer semester is not a regular semester. For other programs, the summer semester is a regular semester.

Full-time Programs: Atkinson School scholarships are awarded to qualified students during the initial admission and enrollment process on the basis of merit. NOTE for Early Career/Career Change MBA students: Scholarship awards are not available for summer semester.

MBA for Professionals: Atkinson School scholarships are awarded to qualified MBAP students during the initial admission and enrollment process on the basis of merit.

BA/MBA: Students enrolled in the BA/MBA program receive scholarship assistance from Willamette College for their first year of MBA study, and from the Atkinson School for their second year of study. Scholarship awards are not available for summer semester. If a BA/MBA student completes their bachelor’s degree after the first semester of MBA study (first year, fall semester) and becomes ineligible for scholarship assistance from Willamette College for their second semester (first year, spring semester), and if the student is eligible for Atkinson School scholarship assistance, then the student will receive Atkinson School scholarship assistance in their first year, spring semester.

JD/MBA Students: Atkinson School scholarships are awarded to JD/MBA students during the initial admission and enrollment process on the basis of merit and are in effect for the year of full-time enrollment in the MBA program. Scholarship awards are not available for summer semester. Scholarships assistance for the three (3) years of full-time enrollment in the School of Law will be determined and awarded based on the policies of the School of Law.

MBA/MSD Students: Atkinson School scholarships are awarded to MBA/MSDS students during the initial admission and enrollment process on the basis of merit. Scholarship assistance for the final summer semester (summer of the 2nd year) will be determined and awarded based on the policies of the MSDS program.

Renewal of Scholarships

Scholarships awarded by the Atkinson School for programs designed to take more than one year are automatically reviewed for renewal following the first year of study. Atkinson scholarships are generally renewable for MBA, MBAP and MBA/MSDS students returning for a second year of full-time enrollment at the Atkinson School if:

The student is in good standing within the academic policies and expectations of conduct of the Atkinson School and Willamette University, and
The student maintains full-time enrollment status in their designated Atkinson program.

Students who do not meet the requirements for renewal of their scholarship may appeal the non-renewal of their scholarship to the Dean of Graduate Admission, who will confer with the Dean in making all appeal decisions.

Renewal for a second year of study does not apply to students enrolled in the JD/MBA, or to BA/MBA students who receive no Atkinson scholarship assistance in their first year of MBA study, or to programs designed to be completed within one year.

JD/MBA students are awarded scholarship assistance from the Atkinson School only in the one year in which they are enrolled full-time in the MBA program.
Students in 12-month programs are awarded scholarship assistance from the Atkinson School only during the three semester length of the program.
BA/MBA students receive Atkinson School scholarships only in their second year of full- time study in the MBA program. (first year scholarships for BA/MBA students are awarded by CAS). A BA/MBA student who completes their bachelor’s degree fall semester of the first-year of MBA study and receives Atkinson School scholarship assistance in the second semester of the first-year of MBA study, is eligible for renewal of Atkinson School scholarship assistance if qualified in accordance with Atkinson scholarship renewal policies.

Scholarship Award Maximums

The maximum number of semesters for which a student may receive scholarship assistance from the Atkinson School are as follows:

Early Career/Career Change MBA students who qualify for an Atkinson School scholarship may receive Atkinson scholarship assistance for a maximum of four (4) semesters. (first year fall/spring and second year fall/spring)
BA/MBA students who qualify for an Atkinson School Scholarship may receive Atkinson scholarship assistance for a maximum of two (2) regular semesters. (second year fall/spring) if they received two (2) regular semesters of scholarship assistance from Willamette College in their first year of MBA study. The maximum is three (3) regular semesters of assistance (first year spring, second year fall/spring) for students who receive only one semester of scholarship assistance from Willamette College of Arts and Sciences (first year, fall semester).
JD/MBA students who qualify for an Atkinson School scholarship may receive scholarship assistance for a maximum of two (2) semesters during the year of full-time enrollment in the Atkinson School (fall/spring). MBA/JD students may receive named scholarship awards for a year of concurrent MBA and JD enrollment if selected.
MBA/MSDS students who qualify for an Atkinson School scholarship may receive scholarship assistance for a maximum of four (4) semesters (first year fall/spring and second year fall/spring).
One-Year MBA and MS Accounting & Finance students who qualify for an Atkinson School scholarship may receive Atkinson scholarship assistance for a maximum of three (3) semesters.
MBAP students who qualify for an Atkinson School scholarship may receive scholarship assistance for a maximum of 6 MBAP semesters. (first year fall/spring/summer, second year fall/spring/summer)

Cancellation of Scholarships

Scholarship recipients may lose their scholarship as a consequence of being found responsible for violating the Atkinson Honor Code and for issues related to academic notice.

Section XIII: Willamette University Policies

As a citizen of the Willamette University community, it is necessary that you understand your responsibilities to the whole and your rights as an individual. Willamette University policies govern all graduate and undergraduate students of Willamette University except where specifically noted within the description of a specific policy or procedure. University-wide policies and procedures are available on the University Policies page.

Policies - Atkinson Graduate School of Management

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