Are you an online student at Liberty University wondering if you can participate in the graduation ceremony? Yes, online students are eligible to walk at graduation at Liberty University, celebrating their academic achievements alongside their on-campus peers at the commencement ceremony. You can find comprehensive support for online programs and guidance navigating graduation requirements at gmonline.net, a valuable resource that provides extensive details on academic processes, student services, and graduation requirements.
1. Understanding Liberty University’s Graduation Policies
Liberty University has specific academic and administrative policies and procedures that govern student life and academic progress. It is important to be familiar with these policies as an online student, especially when it comes to graduation. Let’s delve into some crucial aspects of these policies:
1.1. Key Personnel in the Registrar’s Office
The Registrar’s Office is crucial for managing academic records and ensuring policies are followed. Some of the key personnel include:
- University Registrar: Jason Byrd, B.S., M.B.A.
- Senior Associate Registrar: Lori Baker, B.S., M.A.
- Assistant Registrars: Jaime Velastegui, Jason Suitt, Martin Granda, Amanda Collins, Matt Voss, Tracy Godsey, Ben Bailey, Ashley Coleman, Dina Johnston, Carrie Hodges, Jess Clark, Allison Davis, and Brett Brenner.
- Associate Registrars: Travis Hoegh, Tom Calvert, Carol Cordle.
- University Ombudsman: Luke Gentala, B.S, M.A.R.
1.2. Semester Credit System
Liberty University operates on a semester system. A semester hour of credit is equivalent to one 50-minute period of class work for 15 weeks, with an assumption of two hours of outside preparation, or two 50-minute periods of laboratory work for each semester hour. Online courses are designed to match the classroom contact hours (750 minutes per credit hour) expected in a synchronous residential course.
1.3. Enrollment Status: Full-Time vs. Part-Time
Understanding your enrollment status is crucial for financial aid and academic planning. The definitions are:
- Full-Time: A minimum of 12 credit hours per semester.
- Half-Time: 6 to 11 credit hours per semester.
- Less-than-Half-Time: 1 to 5 credit hours per semester.
1.4. Semester Load and Overload
Liberty University limits the maximum number of semester hours students can take to ensure academic success.
- Graduate, Post-Graduate, and Doctoral Students:
- Full-time: 9+ hours per semester for master’s, 6+ hours for post-graduate/doctoral.
- Maximum semester limit: 15 hours.
- Overload eligibility: Requires a GPA of 3.5 or above.
- Undergraduate Students:
- Full-time: 12+ hours per semester.
- Maximum semester limit: 18 hours.
- Overload eligibility: Requires a GPA of 3.0 or above.
Students must seek permission to take more than the maximum hours in a semester and will be required to pay additional tuition for each credit hour they take over the maximum semester limit. Students may review potential overload charges by accessing this chart in the Academic Catalog or by contacting Student Financial Services.
Certain degree programs may require a higher Liberty University cumulative GPA for approval.
Students can request overload permission from the Registrar’s Office at www.liberty.edu/overload.
1.5. Enrollment Verification
Enrollment is verified when a student is registered for a course and has attended the course or completed academic work after its start date. University policy can be viewed in the Liberty University Policy Directory.
1.6. Student Classification
Student classification is based on degree level and earned semester hours:
| Classification | Semester Hours Earned |
|---|---|
| Freshman | 0—23.99 |
| Sophomore | 24.00—47.99 |
| Junior | 48.00—71.99 |
| Senior | 72.00—and above |
1.7. Grades, Quality Points, and GPA
All work is graded by letters, with assigned quality points:
| Grade | Meaning | Quality Points Per Semester Hour |
|---|---|---|
| A | Excellent | 4 |
| AU | Audit | 0 |
| B | Good | 3 |
| C | Average | 2 |
| D | Poor | 1 |
| F | Failure | 0 |
| FN | Failure for Non-Attendance | 0 |
| NF | Failure for Non-Attendance – Pass/Fail Courses | 0 |
| I | Incomplete | 0 |
| IP | In Progress | 0 |
| NP | Did Not Pass | 0 |
| P | Pass | 0 |
| Q | Academic Amnesty | 0 |
| R1 | Course Repeated | 0 |
| W | Withdrew | 0 |
A student’s cumulative GPA comprises all coursework completed at the current academic level. Only courses taken at Liberty are used in computing the GPA. Only grades of A, B, C, D, F, and FN are used in the calculation of the GPA. Cumulative GPA is calculated to the hundredths place, and is not rounded.
1.8. Dean’s List
Undergraduate students who earn 12 or more GPA hours with a term GPA of 3.50 or above are placed on the Dean’s List. This does not apply to certificate-level students.
1.9. Advisors
First-year and second-year students have access to personalized advising through their assigned Professional Advisor. Juniors and Seniors will meet with faculty, as needed, in their academic department. For additional information, visit www.liberty.edu/advising.
1.10. Assessments
Placement into English and Math courses is based on a combination of scores, including required Math / English assessments for all new resident students, first-time college students, and college transfer students that did not transfer in the Math or English course needed for their specific major.
1.11. Course Planning
A course planning schedule is provided in order for students to plan their classes for upcoming semesters. The course planning schedule is available online at: https://www.liberty.edu/registrar/course-planning-schedule/.
1.12. Transfer Credit Policy
- Undergraduate Studies:
- Accreditation: Must be from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- Grades: Grade of ‘C-‘ or higher.
- Equivalency: Coursework must be at least 60% similar in content and scope to courses offered at Liberty University.
- Credit Hours: Coursework must be at least 2/3rds the number of hours required by Liberty.
- Age of credit: Liberty offers a lifetime acceptance of credit, with the exception of those courses wherein the University faculty has determined the course content changes significantly over time.
- Residency requirement: 25% of major and 25% of degree must be taken through Liberty University.
- Graduate Studies:
- Accreditation: Must be from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- Grades: Grade of ‘B-‘ or higher.
- Equivalency: Coursework must be at least 80% similar in content and scope to courses offered at Liberty University.
- Credit Hours: Coursework must be the exact number of credit hours as the LU requirement.
- Age of credit: 10 years for master’s-level and post-master’s programs and 7 years for doctoral-level programs.
- Residency requirement: 50% of program hours may be transferred including credit from an earned degree from Liberty University.
For specific information regarding non-transferable courses, please visit Registrar – Transferring Coursework.
1.13. Aviation Testing
The School of Aeronautics Testing Center serves as a Federal Aviation Administration’s official Federal Aviation Testing Site for the Airman and A&P Knowledge Tests. For scheduling please call (434) 582-2183.
1.14. Credit for Seminars
Students who wish to obtain credit for such activities must receive prior approval from the Registrar.
1.15. Outgoing Transfer Credit
Transferability of credit earned through Liberty University is at the discretion of the receiving institution.
1.16. Coursework at Other Institutions While Enrolled at Liberty
Prior to registering for any course at another institution, students must submit a Future Course Request Form to guarantee transferability. The online form can be found on the Registrar’s Office webpage at https://apex.liberty.edu/apex/banprd/f?p=189:1:104591628190395.
1.17. Declaration of Undergraduate Major
Undergraduate students must declare a major no later than the semester in which they are enrolled in their 30th institutional credit.
1.18. Change of Major
Students who wish to change their major may do so by submitting a request via the Change of Major/Minor webpage.
1.19. Double Majors
Students pursuing a double major or a dual degree must obtain approval to do so by submitting a request via the Change of Major/Minor webpage.
1.20. Returning to Liberty University for a Second Degree
Students with an associate’s degree who wish to pursue a second associate’s degree must successfully complete at least 15 additional hours through Liberty University, and there must be at least 15 unique hours within the major of the first or second degree.
Students with a bachelor’s degree who wish to pursue an associate’s degree must successfully complete at least 15 additional hours through Liberty University, and there must be at least 15 unique hours within the major of the first or second degree.
Students with a bachelor’s degree who wish to pursue a second bachelor’s degree must successfully complete at least 30 additional hours through Liberty University, and there must be at least 30 unique hours within the major of the first or second degree.
1.21. Duplicate Credit
In the event that a student earns credit for the same course more than one time, that course/credit may only count one time toward the completion of his/her degree.
1.22. Intercollegiate Athletic Credit
Students who are members of Liberty Intercollegiate Athletic teams may earn one hour of academic credit for a completed season. Such credit may not be used more than one time for each sport in which the student participates. This credit is not intended for transfer.
1.23. Certificate and Degree Completion Plan (CCP and DCP) Audit
The Certificate Completion Plan (CCP) Audit and Degree Completion Plan (DCP) Audit (found under Degree Completion Plan Audit via ASIST) provides real-time advice and counsel, making it possible for students to track progress towards degree completion at their convenience. PDF versions of all CCPs are available online. Degree completion plans are available online at http://www.liberty.edu/dcps.
1.24. Course Sequencing
Suggested course sequences for all degree programs are available through the respective catalog pages associated with each program.
1.25. Important Information Regarding Internships and Clinical Placements
Students pursuing degrees leading to professional licensure or certification should be aware that their host facility may require a criminal background check, finger printing, or drug screening.
1.26. Minors
Students at Liberty University are not required to complete a minor. Those who wish to declare a minor are encouraged to meet with their professional advisor to review the requirements for that minor. At least 25% of the course work must be earned at Liberty University. Minors are not applicable for associate-level or certificate-seeking students.
1.27. Special Student Registration
Prospective students who do not want to be degree-seeking, or only want to take a few courses at Liberty, must apply as a Special Student and receive confirmation of acceptance. Special Students may not accumulate more than 12 credit hours under this status.
1.28. Priority Registration for Residential Military Students
All residential students who have verified their status as a current military service member or veteran will be assigned a unique PIN number before registration opens each semester.
1.29. Class Attendance Policy
Regular and punctual attendance in all classes is expected of all students. Absences fall into two categories: University Approved Absences and Student Elective Absences. The full policy and procedures are published in the Liberty University Policy Directory.
1.30. Late Assignment Policy for Residential Courses
Course assignment should be completed on time. If the student is unable to complete an assignment on time, then he or she must contact the instructor prior to the assignment due date. The full policy and procedures are published in the Liberty University Policy Directory.
1.31. Class Cancellation Policy
From time to time, it may be necessary to cancel a class because of insufficient enrollment or other extenuating circumstances. The full policy and procedures are published in the Liberty University Policy Directory.
1.32. Independent Study / Directed Research
A request for an independent study or directed research course will need to be initiated in the Independent Study and Directed Research Form. More information can be found at the following link: https://www.liberty.edu/registrar/independent-study-directed-research-courses/.
1.33. Course Audits
Students who wish to audit an online course may do so for a fee. Audit fees are not covered in block-rate tuition, and audited courses will not be used to determine full- or part-time status. A grade of AU will be recorded on the auditor’s permanent record.
1.34. Course Substitutions
A Course Substitution request may be made when a student wishes to substitute one course for another required course when a clear relationship exists between the two. Students requesting these exceptions must submit a “Course Substitution Request” through the Transfer Suite portal for review.
1.35. Dropping/Adding/Withdrawing from Courses
Residential students may add and drop courses through Add/Drop Week. After Add/Drop Week, residential students can pursue withdrawals for courses that they have attended. No course is considered officially added or dropped until a request has been made to the Registrar’s Office, or the student makes the adjustment through the Course Registration Tool. Some requests may require official approval from the academic department. Remember: Any change in status may cause the reduction or cancellation of your financial aid award.
1.36. Withdrawal from Liberty University
Students withdrawing from the University during the semester must meet with a Professional Advisor in CASAS for exit counseling. The student’s official withdrawal date is the date they begin the withdrawal process by notifying a Professional Advisor in CASAS of his/her intent to withdraw. A $50 fee will be charged for the processing of an official, unofficial, or administrative withdrawal.
1.37. Undergraduate Repeat Policy
The Liberty University Undergraduate Repeat Policy is designed to assist undergraduate students in raising their cumulative grade point average by repeating courses in which they previously performed unsatisfactorily and by removing the previous grade from the GPA calculation. The Registrar’s Office will automatically apply the Undergraduate Repeat Policy at the end of each semester to all eligible courses.
1.38. Academic Standing: Warning/Probation/Suspension/Dismissal
Students must maintain satisfactory academic standing in order to remain at Liberty. Academic Standing is calculated at the end of each Fall and Spring term and is based on the student’s cumulative GPA.
| Level | Minimum GPA |
|---|---|
| 1 (0–23.99 hours) | 1.50 |
| 2 (24–47.99 hours) | 1.65 |
| 3 (48–71.99 hours) | 1.85 |
| 4 (72 or more hours) | 2.00 |
1.39. Academic Amnesty
Approval for readmission under Academic Amnesty must be granted by the Office of the Provost. In order to qualify for Academic Amnesty, a student must have been academically suspended or academically dismissed from the University.
1.40. The Liberty Way | Student Honor Code
Liberty University’s student honor code, known as The Liberty Way, is a set of guidelines governing academic and personal conduct, reflecting the institution’s commitment to Christian values. For the latest and most detailed information, please refer to the official Liberty University website.
1.41. Incompletes
Students who are unable to complete coursework by the last day of class due to unavoidable circumstances may appeal to their instructor for a temporary course grade of “I” (Incomplete).
1.42. Grading Policies and Procedures
Liberty University Faculty members must submit final grades for all students to the Registrar at the end of each term. Liberty University incorporates a standardized 1,000-point system across all undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
Undergraduate Grading Scale (100-point scale)
| Grade | Points |
|---|---|
| A | 900 to 1,000 |
| B | 800 to 899 |
| C | 700 to 799 |
| D | 600 to 699 |
| F | 599 and Below |
1.43. Grade Appeals
Students may appeal a final grade within 30 days of the end of the class. Appeals are accepted for review only on certain grounds, such as when the final grade does not comport with the published grading rubrics.
1.44. Academic Transcripts
Official transcripts are made only at the request of the student. Official transcripts may be withheld until the student has met all his/her financial obligations to Liberty University. There is a $10.00 fee for one transcript. Additional transcript requests made at the same time are $1.00 each. Transcript requests may be made at the following link: Transcript Information | Registrar | Liberty University.
1.45. Dual Enrollment
Undergraduate students may enroll in master’s-level courses during the semester in which they have nine or fewer semester hours remaining to complete their bachelor’s degrees.
1.46. FERPA – Privacy of Student Records
Students attending, or who have attended, Liberty University are given certain rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 as amended. Additional information and University policies regarding the protection of student records are published online at http://www.liberty.edu/ferpa.
1.47. Graduation Honors
Honors for graduation will be determined by the cumulative grade point average earned at Liberty.
| GPA | Distinction |
|---|---|
| 3.50 – 3.66 | cum laude |
| 3.67 – 3.84 | magna cum laude |
| 3.85 – 4.00 | summa cum laude |
1.48. Certificate Completion Requirements
Certificate-seeking students must have all requirements successfully completed before being considered candidates for the awarding of a certificate.
1.49. Graduation Requirements
Undergraduate students must meet all listed requirements and must have all courses in the General Education core and in the declared major(s) and minor(s) completed before being considered candidates for graduation.
1.50. Graduation Checklist
After the matriculated bachelor’s degree candidate has completed approximately 90 hours toward graduation, the Academic Evaluators in the Registrar’s Office will evaluate the academic and Christian/Community Service record.
1.51. Graduation Approval
The degree is conferred by the Board of Trustees of the College on those candidates successfully completing the course of study and recommended by the College’s faculty.
1.52. Graduation Ceremony
Degrees are granted throughout the academic school year. All candidates for degrees may participate in the annual graduation exercises which take place in May.
1.53. Time Limits for Degree Completion
Students pursuing a certificate must complete the certificate requirements within three (3) years of the date of matriculation.
Students pursuing an associate’s degree must complete the degree requirements within seven (7) years of the date of matriculation.
Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree must complete the degree requirement within 10 years of the date of matriculation.
1.54. Break in Enrollment
A break in enrollment occurs when the student fails to matriculate in at least one course during a fall or spring semester. Students who break enrollment must apply for readmission and will be subject to the requirements of the Catalog and degree requirements in effect at the time of their readmission.
1.55. Additional Information
Additional information regarding the University’s academic and administrative policies and procedures can be found on the University web site at http://www.liberty.edu/registrar.
2. Benefits of Attending the Graduation Ceremony
Walking at graduation offers numerous emotional and practical benefits:
- Sense of Accomplishment: Participating in the graduation ceremony provides a tangible recognition of your hard work and dedication throughout your academic journey.
- Networking Opportunities: Graduation ceremonies often bring together alumni, faculty, and industry professionals, offering valuable networking prospects.
- Celebration with Peers and Family: Graduation allows you to celebrate your achievement with fellow graduates, friends, and family, creating lasting memories.
- Inspiration for the Future: Witnessing the success of your peers and hearing from inspiring speakers can motivate you to pursue your future goals with renewed enthusiasm.
- Closure: Attending graduation provides a sense of closure, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of the next.
3. Steps to Ensure You Can Walk at Graduation
Follow these steps to make sure you are ready to walk at graduation:
- Meet Academic Requirements: Confirm that you have met all the academic requirements for your degree program. Check your Degree Completion Plan (DCP) audit on ASIST to ensure all courses are completed with the required grades.
- Apply for Graduation: Submit your Degree Completion Application by the deadline. This application signals your intent to graduate and prompts the Registrar’s Office to review your academic record.
- Resolve Financial Obligations: Ensure that you have met all your financial obligations to Liberty University. Outstanding balances may prevent you from receiving your diploma or participating in the ceremony.
- Check Graduation Ceremony Details: Stay updated on the details of the graduation ceremony, including the date, time, location, and any specific instructions for graduates.
- Order Your Cap and Gown: Order your cap and gown from the Liberty University bookstore or the designated vendor by the specified deadline. Make sure to select the appropriate regalia for your degree level.
- Attend Graduation Practice: If available, attend the graduation practice session to familiarize yourself with the ceremony procedures and ensure a smooth experience on the big day.
- Plan Your Travel and Accommodation: If you are traveling from out of town, make arrangements for your travel and accommodation well in advance. Graduation weekend can be busy, so it is best to book early.
- Invite Your Family and Friends: Share your accomplishment with your loved ones by inviting them to attend the graduation ceremony. Inform them of any ticketing requirements or seating arrangements.
- Prepare Your Speech (If Applicable): If you have been selected to give a speech or address during the ceremony, prepare your remarks in advance. Practice your delivery to ensure you are confident and articulate.
- Enjoy the Moment: On graduation day, relax, enjoy the moment, and celebrate your achievements with pride. This is a significant milestone in your life, so take it all in and cherish the memories.
4. Utilizing gmonline.net for Graduation Information
For up-to-date information and detailed guides, visit gmonline.net. The website provides comprehensive resources and assistance related to graduation, including:
- Step-by-step instructions for applying for graduation.
- Deadlines and important dates related to graduation.
- Information on ordering your cap and gown.
- Details about the graduation ceremony and related events.
- Answers to frequently asked questions about graduation.
- Contact information for the Registrar’s Office and other relevant departments.
- Tips for planning your travel and accommodation for graduation weekend.
- Advice on preparing for the graduation ceremony and making the most of the experience.
5. Overcoming Challenges as an Online Student
Online students often face unique challenges that can make graduation seem like a distant goal:
- Time Management: Balancing studies with work, family, and other commitments can be challenging.
- Motivation: Staying motivated and engaged in online coursework requires discipline and self-direction.
- Isolation: Studying remotely can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection from the university community.
- Technical Issues: Dealing with technical issues and navigating online learning platforms can be frustrating.
- Communication: Effectively communicating with instructors and classmates in a virtual environment requires strong written and verbal skills.
To overcome these challenges, it is important to:
- Establish a Routine: Create a structured schedule that allocates specific times for studying, attending online classes, and completing assignments.
- Set Realistic Goals: Break down your coursework into manageable tasks and set achievable goals for each week or month.
- Stay Connected: Participate in online forums, discussion boards, and virtual study groups to connect with your classmates and build relationships.
- Seek Support: Reach out to your instructors, advisors, and academic support services for assistance with coursework, technical issues, or personal challenges.
- Stay Motivated: Remind yourself of your goals and the reasons why you are pursuing your degree. Celebrate your successes and reward yourself for your hard work.
6. Resources and Support Systems at Liberty University
Liberty University provides a wide range of resources and support systems to help online students succeed:
- Academic Advising: Professional advisors are available to provide guidance on course selection, degree planning, and academic progress.
- Online Library: The university’s online library offers access to a vast collection of resources, including e-books, journals, databases, and research tools.
- Tutoring Services: Online tutoring services are available to provide assistance with coursework in various subjects.
- Career Services: The Career Center offers resources and support for career exploration, resume writing, interview skills, and job searching.
- Disability Services: Disability Services provides accommodations and support for students with disabilities to ensure equal access to educational opportunities.
- Technical Support: The IT Help Desk offers technical assistance and troubleshooting for online learning platforms, software, and hardware issues.
- Counseling Services: Counseling Services provides confidential counseling and support for students dealing with personal, emotional, or mental health challenges.
- Student Affairs: The Office of Student Affairs oversees various student life programs and services, including orientation, leadership development, and student activities.
7. Tips for Making the Most of Your Graduation Experience
To ensure a memorable and fulfilling graduation experience, consider the following tips:
- Arrive Early: Arrive at the graduation venue early to allow ample time for parking, security checks, and finding your designated seating area.
- Dress Appropriately: Adhere to the dress code specified by the university. Typically, graduates are expected to wear business attire under their cap and gown.
- Bring Your Regalia: Make sure to bring your cap, gown, hood (if applicable), and any honor cords or medallions you have earned.
- Silence Your Phone: Turn off or silence your cell phone during the ceremony to avoid disruptions.
- Be Respectful: Show respect for the speakers, faculty, and fellow graduates by listening attentively and refraining from disruptive behavior.
- Take Photos: Capture memories of your graduation day by taking photos with your family, friends, and classmates.
- Express Gratitude: Thank your professors, advisors, and mentors for their support and guidance throughout your academic journey.
- Celebrate Responsibly: If you choose to celebrate with alcohol, do so responsibly and in accordance with university policies and local laws.
- Stay Connected: Keep in touch with your classmates, alumni, and the university community after graduation.
- Reflect on Your Achievements: Take time to reflect on your accomplishments and the challenges you have overcome. Be proud of your hard work and dedication.
8. Contact Information
For further assistance and information, you can contact:
- Registrar’s Office: For questions regarding academic policies, graduation requirements, and transcript requests.
- Address: 1971 University Blvd, Lynchburg, VA 24515
- Phone: (434) 582-2000
- Website: http://www.liberty.edu/registrar
- Student Financial Services: For questions regarding tuition, fees, financial aid, and payment options.
- Address:
