Admissions and Records

Senators Central

The office of Senators Central, located in the Student Services Building, Room U109, provides information concerning admissions, enrollment development, registration and retention. Individuals desiring information about the college or college activities can inquire by emailing senators.central@ws.edu or by calling 423-585-6803 or toll-free 1-800-225-4770, Ext. 6. Information concerning the college can also be obtained by visiting the Walters State home page at: http://www.ws.edu.

Admission Requirements 

Walters State subscribes to an open admission policy and encourages those who desire to attend the college for the purpose of learning to apply for admission in accordance with provisions stated below.

Walters State does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, or veteran status in the admission of students.

Applicants must complete the following admission requirements as outlined by applicant classification andshould review classifications carefully in order to complete the admission process successfully.  All documentssubmitted by applicants become the property of the college and cannot be forwarded or returned.  Aside from dual enrollment, middle college, academically talented/gifted, and international students, applicants will be provisionally admitted until an academic review is completed by Walters State Admissions to validate enrollment requirements including but not limited to validation of earned regular high school diploma or high school equivalency.  Upon completion of all admission requirements, applicants will be fully admitted to the college and may pursue college credit for courses completed. Admission to the college does not guarantee admission to a specific program of study. To be admitted to some programs of study, a student must meet certain standards or be approved by the dean/director of the program.  Walters State may rescind granted admission at any time including administrative withdrawal after class enrollment (if student administratively withdrawn, refund of tuition/fees will be considered).  Applicants will be advised when to complete enrollment requirements such as online orientation, academic advising and class registration.  If applicants have questions concerning admission or if in-person assistance is required, contact Senators Central, senatorscentral@ws.edu, or Walters State Admissions, 423-585-2685.  

Applicant Classification

Applicants are classified for admission purposes as follows:

1. First-time, degree-seeking applicant:  Degree-seeking applicant who will be attending college for the first time
2. Transfer applicant:  Degree-seeking applicant who has attended another college or university
3. Readmitted applicant:  Former Walters State student who wishes to return to the College to pursue an educational goal (excludes former dual enrolled students)
4. Non-degree seeking applicants
5. Technical Certificate applicant:  First-time or transfer applicant seeking admission to a technical certificate program
6. Non-Degree seeking special applicant:  Applicant who is not enrolled in degree program but desires to take courses in order to gain employment skills, professional growth, or personal enrichment.
7. Transient applicant:  Applicant who is enrolled at another college/university and taking classes at Walters State for the purpose of transferring the credits back to the home institution.
8. International non-immigrant applicant:  Degree-seeking applicant holding or applying for F-1 visa  
9. Audit applicant:  Applicant who wishes to participate in Walters State course(s) but will receive no grade or credit
10. Academically Talented/Gifted applicant:  High school applicant enrolled in grades nine or ten (TN public or private school) who wishes to enroll and receive college credit from WSCC
11. Dual Enrollment applicant: High school junior or senior applicant who will receive college credit and high school credit simultaneously 
12. Middle College applicant:  High school applicant who will pursue a high school diploma and an associate degree and/or college credit simultaneously

First-time, degree-seeking applicant: Degree-seeking applicant who will be attending college for the first time

1. Application:  Submit a completed online application for admission.
2. High School Credentials:  All applicants must graduate from a state-approved high school, non-public high school (including homeschools, private schools and church-related schools), or receive a high school equivalency diploma (GED or HiSET).
3. State-Approved High School: Applicants should request an official high school transcript be submitted directly to the Walters State Office of Admissions from the high school which the applicant is attending and/or graduated.  Upon high school graduation, applicants must submit a final, official high school transcript including date of graduation, diploma type, and final GPA to Admissions.  To be admitted, applicants must graduate high school with a regular diploma or higher.  High school certificates of attendance, special diplomas or similar diploma types will not meet the high school credential requirement.  Applicants unable to provide a satisfactory high school credential may substitute this requirement with a high school equivalency diploma (GED or HiSET) demonstrating satisfactory scores.
4. Non-public high school (including homeschools, private schools and church-related schools):  Applicants should submit an official transcript from the non-public high school which the applicant is attending and/or graduated.  Official transcript must show credits earned, date of graduation and final GPA.  The transcript of a non-public high school (including home-schools, private schools, and church-related schools) should be an official copy from an affiliated organization as defined by state law (T.C.A. § 49-6-3050). Transcripts from independent home-school students must be accompanied by a current certification of registration (letter of intent) with the superintendent’s office of the local education agency (LEA) where the student would have otherwise attended. Applicants who are unable to provide the letter of intent and/or transcript will be required to take the HiSET and pass with satisfactory scores before being admitted to the college.
5. High School Equivalency Diploma (GED or HiSET) - Applicants may be admitted with a passing score on the GED or HiSET. GED or HiSET official scores should be sent directly to WS Admissions from the testing agency.
6. Testing Requirements:  In accordance with TBR Learning Support Policy 2.03.00.02, Walters State will not use standardized scores for admission purposes but may use them for advisement and placement purposes.  Appropriate assessment is required for enrollment in Learning Support (LS) or College-Level courses (see Entrance Placement Requirements section for academic standards).  Assessment decisions are based on valid ACT/SAT, Accuplacer (optional placement testing to determine college-level readiness), or SAILS scores. Valid scores are those earned within five years prior to the first day of class of a student’s entering term. No program assessment is required of any student with a valid ACT composite score of 26 or higher.  Students who do not submit valid scores/assessment methods will be automatically defaulted into Learning Support areas in math, English, and reading.  

Applicants have the option to submit one or more of the following assessment methods for placement purposes:

• ACT or SAT scores 
• Accuplacer (college placement exam) scores
• SAILS scores
• High School GPA 
  • In accordance with TBR Learning Support Policy 2.03.00.02, Walters State will place students with a high school GPA of 3.60 or higher out of corequisite learning support and into college-level courses.  The cumulative, in-progress/seventh-term GPA (if final GPA is unavailable) on a 4.0 scale according to the Uniform Grading Policy adopted by the State Board of Education will be used for this admission requirement.

1. Citizenship and Lawful Presence:  Tennessee Eligibility Verification for Entitlements Act (EVEA) requires public colleges and universities to verify that any student seeking a state public benefit is either a United States citizen or lawfully present in the United States.  In order to receive a state benefit, applicants must provide proof of citizenship or lawful presence. Applicants with permanent residency status wishing to seek admission to the College must submit a photocopy of both sides of the permanent residency card (also known as the Form I-551 or green card), visa, or other immigration authorization. A passport is not considered immigration authorization.
2. Immunization:  Applicants must submit the Immunization Health History form for Hepatitis B, Chicken Pox/Varicella, and Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccinations. Proof of actual vaccinations is only required if an outbreak were to occur. Forms may be obtained from Senators Central or on the Walters State website. 
3. Selective Service Information:  Pursuant to federal and state law, male applicants between the ages of 18-26 years old and who are citizens of the United States or a resident of the United States must register with the Selective Service System (federal draft) and must provide proof of Selective Service registration to Admissions prior to class registration. Individuals may obtain their selective service number and official Registration Acknowledgment Letter at: http://www.sss.gov.

Transfer applicant: Degree-seeking applicant who has attended another college or university

1. Application:  Submit a completed online application for admission.
2. High School Credentials:  All applicants must graduate from a state-approved high school, non-public high school (including homeschools, private schools and church-related schools), or receive a high school equivalency diploma (GED or HiSET).  Applicants are required to submit an official high school transcript or official GED or HiSET score report.  See First-Time Degree Seeking Applicant High School Credentials information for specific details.
3. College/Transfer Credentials:  Applicants will provide official transcript(s) from all colleges/institutions previously attended regardless of whether they wish to receive credit.  Official transcripts should be directly submitted to Walters State Admissions from previously attended institutions or through a secure electronic transcript provider.  An initial evaluation of the transcript(s) will be completed upon receipt.  Credentials must include a complete record of credits earned and a college record of grades.  Transcripts with “in progress” grades will be deemed incomplete.  “Unofficial transcripts” are those transcripts that do not come directly from the other institutions to Walters Sate and can be used for advising purposes only.  Applicants should refer to the Transfer of Credit and Entrance Placement Requirements sections for information on course evaluation and credit transferability.
4. Testing Requirements:  Applicants will have transcripts evaluated for proof of competency in the areas of English composition, mathematics and reading.  Applicants lacking acceptable college-level work in those areas may do one of the following:​ 

• Submit ACT or SAT scores that are no more than five years old.
• Take the Accuplacer (college placement exam) to determine college-level readiness.
• Automatically be enrolled in Learning Support coursework (mandatory due to absence of test scores or successful completion of college level coursework)

5. Citizenship and Lawful Presence:  Tennessee Eligibility Verification for Entitlements Act (EVEA) requires public colleges and universities to verify that any student seeking a state public benefit is either a United States citizen or lawfully present in the United States.  In order to receive a state benefit, applicants must provide proof of citizenship or lawful presence. Applicants with permanent residency status wishing to seek admission to the College must submit a photocopy of both sides of the permanent residency card (also known as the Form I-551 or green card), visa, or other immigration authorization. A passport is not considered immigration authorization.

6. Immunization:  Applicants must submit the Immunization Health History form for Hepatitis B, Chicken Pox/Varicella, and Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccinations. Proof of actual vaccinations are only required if an outbreak were to occur. Forms may be obtained from Senators Central or on the Walters State website. 

7. Selective Service. Pursuant to federal and state law, male applicants between the ages of 18-26 years old and who are citizens of the United States or a resident of the United States must register with the Selective Service System (federal draft) and must provide proof of Selective Service registration to Admissions prior to class registration. Individuals may obtain their selective service number and official Registration Acknowledgment Letter at: http://www.sss.gov.

8. Additional transfer applicant admission information:

• Failure to indicate previous college attendance on the application for admission may subject the student to dismissal from the College.    
• Transfer applicant ineligible for readmission due to academic retention standards at the last institution attended will be admitted on probation at Walters State. Students will then be held to Walters State academic retention standards as outlined in the college catalog.
• Transfer applicants who have earned an associate degree or higher from a postsecondary institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, shall not be required to provide the institution with a copy of the applicant’s high school transcript, or general high school equivalency credential as a part of the institution’s admission process.

Readmitted applicant:  Former Walters State student who wishes to return to the College to pursue an educational goal (excludes former dual enrolled students)

1. Application:  Former students who wish to return to the college must submit an online application for readmission. Applications will receive favorable consideration only if the applicant is eligible for readmission under all college regulations.  Applicants are encouraged to contact Senators Central to review prior Walters State academic and financial aid standing as part of the readmission enrollment process.
2. College Credentials:  Applicants should submit an official transcript from each college or university attended since leaving WSCC.  Readmit applicants should refer to the Transfer of Credit and Entrance Placement Requirements sections for information on course evaluation and credit transferability.
3. Testing Requirements:  Applicants will have transcripts evaluated for proof of competency in the areas of English composition, mathematics and reading.  Applicants lacking acceptable college-level work in those areas may do one of the following:

1. Submit ACT or SAT scores that are no more than five years old.
2. Take the Accuplacer (college placement exam) to determine college-level readiness.
3. Automatically be enrolled in Learning Support coursework (mandatory due if absence of test scores or successful completion of college level coursework).

4. Citizenship and Lawful Presence:  Tennessee Eligibility Verification for Entitlements Act (EVEA) requires public colleges and universities to verify that any student seeking a state public benefit is either a United States citizen or lawfully present in the United States.  In order to receive a state benefit, applicants must provide proof of citizenship or lawful presence. Applicants with permanent residency status wishing to seek admission to the College must submit a photocopy of both sides of the permanent residency card (also known as the Form I-551 or green card), visa, or other immigration authorization. A passport is not considered immigration authorization.

5. Immunization:  Applicants must submit the Immunization Health History form for Hepatitis B, Chicken Pox/Varicella, and Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccinations. Proof of actual vaccinations is only required if an outbreak were to occur. Forms may be obtained from Senators Central or on the Walters State website. 

6. Selective Service. Pursuant to federal and state law, male applicants between the ages of 18-26 years old and who are citizens of the United States or a resident of the United States must register with the Selective Service System (federal draft) and must provide proof of Selective Service registration to Admissions prior to class registration. Individuals may obtain their selective service number and official Registration Acknowledgment Letter at: http://www.sss.gov.

7. Additional readmission applicant information:

• Readmit applicants will receive favorable consideration only if the applicant is eligible for readmission under the college’s admissions policy and under all college regulations.
• A student who is readmitted after completing a one-semester suspension will be readmitted on Academic Probation Status. 

Non-degree seeking applicants

Technical Certificate applicant:  First-time or transfer applicant seeking admission to a technical certificate program

OR

Non-Degree seeking special applicant:  Applicant who is not enrolled in degree program but desires to take courses in order to gain employment skills, professional growth, or personal enrichment.

1. Application:  Submit a completed online application for admission

2. High School Credentials:  All applicants must graduate from a state-approved high school, non-public high school (including homeschools, private schools and church-related schools), or receive a high school equivalency diploma (GED or HiSET).  Applicants are required to submit an official high school transcript or official GED or HiSET score report.  See First-Time Degree Seeking Applicant High School Credentials information for specific details.

3. College Credentials:  Applicants will provide official transcript(s) from all colleges/institutions previously attended regardless of whether they wish to receive credit.  Official transcripts should be directly submitted to Walters State Admissions from previously attended institutions or through a secure electronic transcript provider.  An initial evaluation of the transcript(s) will be completed upon receipt. Credentials must include a complete record of credits earned and a college record of grades.  Transcripts with “in progress” grades will be deemed incomplete.  “Unofficial transcripts” are those transcripts that do not come directly from the other institutions to Walters Sate and can be used for advising purposes only.  Applicants should refer to the Transfer of Credit and Entrance Placement Requirements sections for information on course evaluation and credit transferability.

4. Testing Requirements:  Placement assessment will be required if the certificate has college-level course work or learning support prerequisites.  Applicants may complete one of the following:

• Submit ACT or SAT scores that are no more than five years old.
• Take the Accuplacer (college placement exam) to determine college-level readiness.
• Automatically be enrolled in Learning Support coursework (mandatory due if absence of test scores or successful completion of college level coursework).

5. Citizenship and Lawful Presence:  Tennessee Eligibility Verification for Entitlements Act (EVEA) requires public colleges and universities to verify that any student seeking a state public benefit is either a United States citizen or lawfully present in the United States.  In order to receive a state benefit, applicants must provide proof of citizenship or lawful presence. Applicants with permanent residency status wishing to seek admission to the College must submit a photocopy of both sides of the permanent residency card (also known as the Form I-551 or green card), visa, or other immigration authorization. A passport is not considered immigration authorization.

6. Immunization:  Applicants must submit the Immunization Health History form for Hepatitis B, Chicken Pox/Varicella, and Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccinations. Proof of actual vaccinations are only required if an outbreak were to occur. Forms may be obtained from Senators Central or on the Walters State website. 

7. Selective Service. Pursuant to federal and state law, male applicants between the ages of 18-26 years old and who are citizens of the United States or a resident of the United States must register with the Selective Service System (federal draft) and must provide proof of Selective Service registration to Admissions prior to class registration. Individuals may obtain their selective service number and official Registration Acknowledgment Letter at: http://www.sss.gov.

8. Additional non-degree seeking applicant information:

• Although non-degree seeking applicants may not be required to complete placement assessment, assessment will be required if an applicant is pursuing a Technical Certificate that has college-level coursework or learning support prerequisites.  In addition, non-degree seeking students who enroll in college-level courses should understand that the content of college-level courses assumes mastery of fundamental knowledge, skills, and aptitudes required for the course. Non-degree seeking applicants may not enroll in college-level English, mathematics, or reading-intensive courses, or in a course that has an English, mathematics, or reading-intensive prerequisites until they have provided evidence of adequate preparation for these courses. This evidence may consist of college transcripts or placement test scores/ACT or SAT examination scores.  If evidence cannot be provided, students will be required to enroll in Learning Support courses.
• Students who change from non-degree seeking to degree-seeking status will be assessed and other screening may be applicable under guidelines for degree-seeking students.

Transient applicant:  Applicant who is enrolled at another college/university and taking classes at Walters State for the purpose of transferring the credits back to the home institution

1. Application:  Submit a completed online application for admission.
2. College Credentials:  Applicants should submit an official transcript from their home college or university.  Official transcript should be directly submitted to Walters State Admissions from the home institution or through a secure electronic transcript provider.  Applicants should refer to the Transfer of Credit and Entrance Placement Requirements sections for information on course evaluation and credit transferability.  Additional college credentials or placement testing may be required if the student wishes to enroll in certain college-level courses. 
3. Citizenship and Lawful Presence:  Tennessee Eligibility Verification for Entitlements Act (EVEA) requires public colleges and universities to verify that any student seeking a state public benefit is either a United States citizen or lawfully present in the United States.  In order to receive a state benefit, applicants must provide proof of citizenship or lawful presence. Applicants with permanent residency status wishing to seek admission to the College must submit a photocopy of both sides of the permanent residency card (also known as the Form I-551 or green card), visa, or other immigration authorization. A passport is not considered immigration authorization.
4. Immunization:  Applicants must submit the Immunization Health History form for Hepatitis B, Chicken Pox/Varicella, and Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccinations. Proof of actual vaccinations is only required if an outbreak were to occur. Forms may be obtained from Senators Central or on the Walters State website. 
5. Selective Service. Pursuant to federal and state law, male applicants between the ages of 18-26 years old and who are citizens of the United States or a resident of the United States must register with the Selective Service System (federal draft) and must provide proof of Selective Service registration to Admissions prior to class registration. Individuals may obtain their selective service number and official Registration Acknowledgment Letter at: http://www.sss.gov.

International non-immigrant applicant:  Degree-seeking applicant holding or applying for F-1 visa  

International non-immigrant applicants are classified as international students, whether they are applying to Walters State as freshmen or transfer students. International applicants should submit all admissions requirements no later than 60 days prior to the beginning date of the term the applicant wishes to enroll.  In accordance with TBR Policy 2.03.00.00, international non-immigrant applicants should complete the following admissions requirements:

3. Testing Requirements:  Applicants should submit official scores from the following list.  Scores must be submitted to Walters State Admissions directly by the testing company.

1. TOEFL iBT score of 61 or above: (Computer-based 173 and above, or paper-based 500 and above. Walters State school code is 001893.) https://www.ets.org/toefl.html
2. IELTS score of 5.5 or above: http://www.ielts.org
3. TOEFL Essential at 6.5 level.
4. Duolingo English Test with a score of 85 or above.
5. iTEP score of 3.5 or above.
6. For transfer students, completion of English 1010 and 1020 at a U.S. university.
7. The ELS completion certificate of level 110: https://www.els.edu/destinations/nashville (email: nsh@els.edu)

Exception: TOEFL is not required if:

a. English is the official language of the country of citizenship.

b. A bachelor’s or master’s degree is conferred on an official transcript from a United States accredited four-year college or university.

c. A student can show evidence to satisfy all requirements for freshman composition with a grade of “C” or better at a regionally accredited college or university in the United States of America.

4. International/Immigration Documents: Applicants must submit appropriate international/immigration documents (including but not limited to copy of their I-94 form, visa, or passport). If the applicant is currently enrolled in another United States higher education institution, the applicant must also submit a copy of their I-20.

5. Completed Immunization Health History Form

1. In addition to the completed immunization health history form, international students must submit a Certification of Freedom from Tuberculosis within thirty (30) days from the first day of classes a certificate from a licensed physician or other qualified medical authority verifying freedom from tuberculosis. Failure to submit such certification shall result in denial of admission. In the event that a student has tuberculosis or has potential tuberculosis requiring medical treatment, enrollment will be conditioned upon the determination by a licensed physician that enrollment is not a risk to others and upon the student’s compliance with any prescribed medical treatment program.

6. Financial Statement:  In order to determine the international student’s ability to pay tuition, registration fees, non-resident fees, living and other expenses while attending WSCC, international applicants are required to supply evidence of financial capability.  The financial statement must include the student’s intent to attend the college on a full-time basis (12 or more credit hours per semester) and state that no employment will be required to meet expenses. International students will pay out-of-state fees and are not eligible for Title IV funding.

7. Medical and Hospitalization Insurance:  International applicants must enroll in the TBR recommended insurance plan unless students can provide documentation of adequate medical and hospitalization insurance coverage. Enrollment shall take place no later than at the time of class registration, and the cost of the insurance coverage shall be added to the student’s registration fees.  Please contact Senators Central with questions concerning acceptable proof of medical and hospitalization coverage.

8. Additional international non-immigrant applicants:

1. Applicants will not be permitted to register for classes until all admission requirements have been satisfied. 
2. International applicants will be required to pay out-of-state tuition.

Audit applicant:  Applicant who wishes to participate in Walters State course(s) but will receive no grade or credit

1. Application:  Submit a completed online application for admission.
2. Citizenship and Lawful Presence:  Tennessee Eligibility Verification for Entitlements Act (EVEA) requires public colleges and universities to verify that any student seeking a state public benefit is either a United States citizen or lawfully present in the United States.  In order to receive a state benefit, applicants must provide proof of citizenship or lawful presence. Applicants with permanent residency status wishing to seek admission to the College must submit a photocopy of both sides of the permanent residency card (also known as the Form I-551 or green card), visa, or other immigration authorization. A passport is not considered immigration authorization.
3. Selective Service. Pursuant to federal and state law, male applicants between the ages of 18-26 years old and who are citizens of the United States or a resident of the United States must register with the Selective Service System (federal draft) and must provide proof of Selective Service registration to Admissions prior to class registration. Individuals may obtain their selective service number and official Registration Acknowledgment Letter at: http://www.sss.gov.
4. Follow additional admissions/enrollment steps:  https://ws.edu/admissions/apply/audit/index.aspx

5.   Additional information for audit applicants:  Students planning to audit a course or courses must submit a completed audit card prior to the drop deadline. An audit student is one who is attending classes, does not take examination, and does not receive a grade. Students may not audit learning support classes. Audit cards are available in the Student Records Office of the Morristown campus or administration offices on other campuses. Cards must be completed and received by the Records Office by the last day to withdraw each term.  Audit of any course in Health Programs will be at the discretion of the dean and the program director. TN eCampus courses may not be audited.

Academically Talented/Gifted applicant:  High school applicant enrolled in grades nine or ten (TN public or private school) who wishes to enroll and receive college credit from WSCC

Applicants enrolled in grades nine or ten in Tennessee public or private high schools may, with the recommendations and approvals from the high school principal, school counselor, and Walters State Admissions, enroll and receive regular college credit from WS.  Interested applicants should:

1. Application:  Submit a completed online application for admission

2. High School Credentials:  Applicants should request an official high school transcript be submitted directly to the Walters State Office of Admissions from the high school which the applicant is attending. Applicants must have an unweighted GPA of 3.2 or higher.  Applicants should also submit an I.E.P. and appropriate documentation of being certified academically gifted.

3. Citizenship and Lawful Presence:  Students who are 18 years of age or older at the time of application must provide proof of citizenship or lawful presence. Contact WSCC Admissions for acceptable documents.

4. Immunization:  Applicants must submit the Immunization Health History form for Hepatitis B, Chicken Pox/Varicella, and Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccinations. Proof of actual vaccinations is only required if an outbreak were to occur. Forms may be obtained from Senators Central or on the Walters State website. 

5. Additional academically talented/gifted applicant information:

• Applicants should contact the Office of High School Programs to complete other admission requirements including but not limited to dual enrollment permission form, parent permission form (which includes parent course registration and immunization permission requirements).
• For questions concerning academically talented/gifted admission, applicants may contact the Office of High School Programs.
• Applicants must submit and satisfy all admission requirements prior to class registration.

Transfer of Credit

Walters State will accept credits transferred from accredited colleges. Official transcripts of all previous records must be sent to the college at the time of the application. Credits for courses not corresponding with the curriculum at Walters State will be entered on the transcript as elective credits. Credit from an institution of higher education which is not fully accredited may be accepted provisionally.

Upon arrival of a student’s transcript, the transcript will initially be checked by the Admissions Office for the school’s accreditation status.

If the transcript is from an accredited college,

• The hours will be equated to semester hours.
• A transcript will be reviewed using established equivalency tables and additional equivalency courses that have been approved by the division dean to determine appropriate transfer equivalency.
• Courses needed for graduation or program requirements will be evaluated by the appropriate division dean.

If the transcript is from a non-accredited college, the student may request an evaluation using the Request for Credit Approval form, available from the Admissions Office, and submit it to the Admissions Office. Once received, the Admissions Office will route it to the appropriate academic division for credit review. Upon review, the division will notify Admissions of denial or awarding of credits along with the appropriate Walters State equivalent course, if applicable. Admissions will then post any credit that is awarded to the student’s record.

Transfer courses will be entered on the student’s permanent record. Grade point averages from transfer institutions will not be included with the Walters State GPA, but may be included for admission to certain programs and for financial aid satisfactory academic progress, or for scholarship retention.

Dual Enrollment Program

Dual Enrollment Admission Requirements:

Dual Enrollment students must:

• Be a junior or senior in high school.
• Have a 3.0 high school GPA or 21 ACT/equivalent SAT composite score to be admitted. Exceptions to these requirements must be recommended first by the applicant’s school principal/counselor, second by the Dean of High School Programs and approved by the Executive Director of Enrollment Management.
• Provide a completed Dual Enrollment Permission Form every semester enrolled as a dual enrollment student and provide placement documentation where required (see Entrance Placement Requirements section).
• Provide proof of citizenship and lawful presence:  Students who are 18 years of age or older at the time of application must provide proof of citizenship or lawful presence. Contact WSCC Admissions for acceptable documents.
• Complete Immunization Health History Immunization:  Applicants who are 18 years of age or older at the time of application must submit the Immunization Health History form for Hepatitis B, Chicken Pox/Varicella, and Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccinations. Applicants under the age 18, must submit must submit the Immunization Health History form for Hepatitis B, Chicken Pox/Varicella, and Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccinations with parent or guardian signature. Proof of actual vaccinations is only required if an outbreak were to occur. Forms may be obtained from Senators Central or on the Walters State website. 
• If under age 18, provide signed permission/approval from a parent or guardian to enroll in dual enrollment classes.

https://www.ws.edu/academics/distance-ed/dual-enrollment/

Walters State and service area school systems have partnered to provide an opportunity for highly motivated students to earn college credits simultaneously while completing their high school requirements. The program provides a variety of learning options related to a range of careers for students who are ready to accept the challenge of college level classes. Courses may be transferred to both in-state and out of state programs at the discretion of the transfer institution.

For more information on Walters State Community College’s Dual Enrollment program, contact the Division of Distance Education at 423-585-2642.

Middle College Program

Middle College applicants can obtain more information about Middle College admission requirements and the application process at:  https://ws.edu/admissions/high-school-programs/middle-college/index.aspx

Walters State and service area school systems have partnered to provide an opportunity for highly motivated students to earn a high school diploma and an associate degree simultaneously. The program provides a variety of learning options related to a range of careers for students who are ready to accept the challenge of college level classes. Courses may be transferred to both in-state and out of state programs at the discretion of the transfer institution.

For more information on Walters State Community College’s Middle College program, contact the Office of High School Programs at 423-585-2642.

Entrance Placement Requirements

Walters State, under the direction of The College System of Tennessee, believes that accurate academic placement is essential to a student’s success in college. An appropriate placement procedure through various assessments is a recommended component of the admissions process. The placement of a student in a college-level course depends upon having met certain academic standards. Those standards include achievement in high school courses as evidenced by the high school transcript, achievement on the ACT or SAT test, the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), and/or achievement on other tests administered by the college. Approved assessments and cut-off scores for college-level placement are below:

Students who do not submit valid scores will automatically be defaulted into Learning Support (LS) areas of math, English, and reading. Students who have successfully completed college-level English, mathematics, or reading intensive courses via Dual Enrollment programs will not be placed in Learning Support coursework in these academic areas if subsequent ACT/SAT scores in these subject areas are lower than the stated cut-off for placement. College credit in these courses will be honored as the basis to waive English, mathematics, or reading placements.

Students may request a change in placement, only after being referred by a faculty member in that particular course. If placement is changed, the changes become mandatory. The decision to permit the student to enroll in any LS course is an institutional prerogative with placement decisions made by the program director.

If you have a disability that requires special test accommodations, please give as much advance notice as possible (at least a month). Last minute accommodation requests are usually very difficult to arrange. Some accommodation requests may require additional documentation.

Referred Students

1. Students who are not required to undergo assessment may request testing.
2. Instructors may recommend testing for students who did not undergo assessment and later showed deficiencies.
3. Students who have been assessed may be moved within the program based on further holistic assessment.

Students Electing Learning Support Courses

Students who consider themselves inadequately prepared to pursue a college-level course may request assessment to determine whether they need developmental English, mathematics, or reading courses. They must complete the appropriate subject area placement test and must be determined to need remediation before placement. The decision to permit the student to enroll in any LS course is an institutional prerogative with placement decision made by the academic dean.

Entrance Placement Appeal Procedure

Any student who feels that results of the assessment procedure do not accurately reflect academic ability may appeal the placement decision(s) to the Readmission Committee. The appeal may be initiated through the vice president for Student Services or the vice president for Academic Affairs. Students are encouraged to submit documentation of extenuating circumstances to the vice president at the time the appeal is initiated. Students must appear personally before the committee to appeal placement decisions. The committee meets at 9 a.m. on the Thursday preceding the first day of classes.

Student Challenge of Placement Test

A student may be allowed to challenge the placement test, by subject area, if, according to the dean’s judgment, placement indications are inconsistent. The student will not retake the placement test, but may be placed differently according to the holistic departmental assessments and dean’s determination. This exception to placement must be supported by documentation, and the dean must permanently waive the student’s original placement.

Withdrawal from Learning Support Courses

Persistence in the program is essential. Students, therefore, must be counseled prior to withdrawal from a course.

Grades to be Assigned

Grades to be assigned in LS courses are: A, B, C, F, I (incomplete), W (withdrawal), and IP (in progress). Students will not be allowed to audit LS courses.

Concurrent Enrollment in College-Level and LS Courses

College-level courses taken concurrently with LS courses must be carefully selected and must not require skills in which the student is currently deficient.

All students who are required to take the placement test must register in advance by calling the Counseling and Testing Center at 423-585-6800.

Credit for Prior Learning

The term “prior learning” refers to a variety of methods of acquiring knowledge comparable to the learning objectives of college courses. Knowledge may be acquired in a classroom or outside the traditional classroom environment. Academic credit will be awarded only:

• for admitted students who have declared a program of study
• students who have consulted with an academic advisor regarding the possibility of seeking PLA
• for courses directly applicable to the curriculum requirements of the declared major. Changing majors may result in a reassessment of the applicability of the PLA credit.

Walters State offers college credit for the following types of prior learning.

• Advanced Placement Examinations
• Certified Administrative Professionals (CAP) Examination
• College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
• Credit by Assessment (Dual Credit)
• Credit by Departmental Assessment
• Credit for Military Experience
• Dantes Subject Standardized Tests (DSST)
• Public Safety - Fire Protection Training
• Public Safety - Paramedic/Emergency Medical Training
• Nursing Career Mobility
• Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology Diploma Articulation

Students requesting credit for prior learning are required to complete the Application for Prior Learning Assessment and follow the procedures outlined on the application in order to obtain credit.

Advanced Placement Examinations

To receive credit for prior learning, students must show satisfactory achievement on the Advanced Placement Test of the College Entrance Examination Board for Advanced Placement (AP) courses taken while in high school. Advanced Placement satisfactory scores, credit hours awarded, and the Walters State course equivalents are listed below. When credit is awarded for satisfactory scores on Advanced Placement Exams, the grade will show as “P” on the student transcript and will not affect the student’s quality point average.

Advanced Placement Examination Scores and WS Course Equivalents

TBR Community Colleges will award/transfer PLA credit for AP scores in to the suggested course or the equivalent course at their institutions. There may be variations in course number and/or course title among schools.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP) (*Computer-Based Examination)

The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) is a credit by examination program which tests mastery of college-level material acquired in a variety of ways including academic instruction, independent study, or extracurricular work. When credit is awarded for satisfactory scores on CLEP exams, the grade will show as “P” on the student transcript and will not affect the student’s quality point average.

Walters State Dual Credit

High school instructors will analyze the post-secondary competencies/skills needed by students to successfully pass/master one or more post-secondary level courses. Based on this analysis, instructors may recommend qualified students attempt the Dual Credit exam at WSCC by submitting an electronic application for an examination. Students must have a minimum high school GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Students must be currently enrolled in high school as an 11th or 12th grader.

To participate in a dual credit exam, students must complete the dual credit exam electronic application. A printed copy of the electronic application must be submitted to the designated high school instructor. Both the high school instructor and high school counselor must sign the application verifying the appropriate GPA and competencies/skills needed for testing.Students may not repeat a test, but may take a new test. Students will be assigned a user name and password on the date of testing. For students wishing to test at WSCC, a User ID and Password will be assigned to the student upon his/her arrival on campus. This will be the means of access to the online dual credit exam Test results will be sent to the student and the secondary and post-secondary school. 

Students who pass the dual credit exam will receive college credit at Walters State, upon request. A student can attempt the dual credit exam for a specific course one time only. Test results will be sent to the student, the appropriate college instructor, and the secondary and post-secondary school. A grade of A, B, C, D, or F will be transcripted upon the request of the student.

In order to receive college credit the student must:

• Complete a WSCC application, if not previously admitted.
• Provide a certiried and signed score report.
• Pay a $25.00 processing fee to the Cashier’s Office.
• Submit receipt of paid fee to the Student Records Office.

WS Dual Credit Articulated Credit

Statewide Dual Credit

Statewide Dual Credit provides high school courses which are aligned to post-secondary standards. All statewide dual credit courses are approved by the Consortium for Cooperative Innovative Education before they can be offered as a part of the state’s current pilot program.

Statewide Dual Credit courses are taught and the online challenge exam is taken on the high school campus. All students enrolled in a statewide Dual Credit course take the online challenge exam, which is used to assess mastery of the post-secondary level learning objectives. Upon matriculation, it is the student’s responsibility to contact the Admissions Office to provide his or her statewide dual credit course and exam information in order for post-secondary credit to be awarded. The Admissions Office will then verify a passing score in the Early Post-Secondary Data System and award appropriate credit as determined by the institution. A student will receive a Passing Grade (P) for awarded credit.

Credit by Departmental Assessment

Under certain conditions a student may be awarded credit in other courses by taking a series of departmental examinations and/or standardized tests in a particular area. All academic credit by examination requests must be made to the division dean and approved by the vice president for Academic Affairs.  All examination requirements must be completed as designed by the division. Please consult the division dean or faculty advisor for information.

Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) Examination

Credit for successful completion of the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) Examination will be awarded and may be utilized to meet degree requirements for the Associate of Applied Science degree in Management - Administrative Office Assistant Concentration. Please consult a Division of Business faculty advisor for details.

Credit for Military Service

Walters State awards credit for educational programs in the Armed Services of the United States as recommended by the Commission on Educational Credit of the American Council on Education and published in their Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Forces. The credit is awarded for formal military course completion, not for skill level attainment or occupational experience.

U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine veterans should submit official ACE Registry transcripts (ARTS/SMARTS) to Student Enrollment Processing. U.S. Air Force veterans should present official Community College of the Air Force transcripts. Coast Guard veterans should submit official Coast Guard Institute Education transcripts. The DD 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, DD 295, Application for the Evaluation of Learning Experiences during Military Service, or other official documentation may also be submitted. Students should contact the college’s Veterans Affairs Officer for more information.

DSST (DANTES) Examinations

The DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) for which Walters State awards credit are listed below.

Other Examination-Based and Departmentally Accepted Credit

Advanced Placement by ACT/SAT

Advanced placement in English may be obtained with an ACT English subtest score of 27-30 (credit for ENGL 1010, Composition I) or a score of 31 or higher (credit for ENGL 1010 and 1020, Composition I and II). Students contemplating transfer of such credit however, should be aware that senior institutions vary in their willingness to accept this credit and may require testing. When credit is awarded for high test scores on ACT, scores will be converted to a grade of “P” and will not affect the student’s quality point average.

The SAT is a standardized exam typically given to high school students and used in college admissions. It covers areas of critical reading, mathematics, and writing. WS awards Composition I (ENGL 1010) credit to students who achieve a 610 English score and Composition I and II (ENGL 1010 and 1020) to students who achieve a 710 or higher score in English on the SAT Exam. When credit is awarded for high test scores on the SAT, scores will be converted to a grade of “P” on the transcript and will not affect the student’s quality point average. Students or potential students should contact the Admissions Office for more information.

Excelsior Credit by Exam

Students who have attended Excelsior College or completed Excelsior Examinations may request transcripts from Excelsior. Transcripts will be evaluated by the Admissions Office and credit awarded as appropriate.

Previous Courses and Studies

Advanced placement or college credit in foreign language classes will be based upon the student’s previous studies. Placement in foreign language may be made at a level determined by the Humanities Division in consultation with the student.

Individual Departmental Decisions for Prior Learning

Individual departments may recommend advanced placement based upon the achievement on departmentally designed examinations together with the evaluation of the student’s background.

Placement in mathematics may be made at a level decided by the Mathematics Division in consultation with the student. Consideration will be given to the student’s background in specific courses and available test scores, including departmental examination. Contact the appropriate division for more information.

Public Safety - Fire Protection Training

Firefighters with professional training and successful NFPA certificate completion may receive college credit which can be applied to degree requirements for the Associate of Applied Science in Public Safety - Fire Protection concentration. Individuals interested in receiving fire protection prior learning credit are encouraged to submit documentation for review. Please consult a Division of Public Safety faculty advisor for details.

Public Safety - Paramedic/Emergency Medical Training

Individuals who have an advanced medical certificate/license may receive credit which will be applied to First Responder/Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) programs. Students interested in receiving credit must submit documentation for review. Please consult a Division of Public Safety faculty advisor for details.

Nursing Career Mobility

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) accepted to the Career Mobility Program will receive 13 semester hours credit upon completion of NURS 1180/1181 with a grade of C or better. Please consult a Health Programs advisor for details.

Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology Diploma Articulation

The General Technology program is designed for students who wish to complete a two-year technical degree applicable to immediate employment. The program allows students flexibility in selecting courses that can meet specific educational and employment goals. The program may be customized to allow students up to 39 semester credit hours of electives to meet the students’ specific career goals. Students must meet with a program advisor prior to beginning this course of study. Students may receive credit for coursework completed at other institutions. A prior learning assessment evaluation of this coursework should be completed before enrollment in the program. Walters State faculty and/or deans determine college-level course equivalencies for certificates earned at a TCAT.  This credit is awarded on the Walters State transcript on a course-by-course basis with the final approval of the appropriate dean. Walters State faculty and/or deans determine college-level course equivalencies for certificates earned at a TCAT.  This credit is awarded on the Walters State transcript on a course-by-course basis with the final approval of the appropriate dean. Students interested in the General Technology degree program should confer with the dean of Technical Education for individual assessment and advisement.

Registration for Courses

Once a student has filed an application with appropriate documentation and obtained academic advisor clearance as required, the student will be permitted to register for classes via MyWS. The dates and procedures for registration are outlined on the Walters State website under Admissions- Registration. The student is not officially enrolled until all requirements of registration have been completed, including payment of fees.

Correspondence and Extension Credit

A student may not be enrolled at another college for correspondence or extension work while enrolled at Walters State unless special permission has been granted. All extension or correspondence work in progress upon admission must be reported to the Admissions Office at the time of the student’s first registration. Any correspondence or extension work taken while a student is enrolled at Walters State must be approved by the vice president for Academic Affairs.

Admission to Special Programs

Certain instructional programs of the college are subject to special admission requirements which are in addition to the general admission requirements. These programs necessitate special admission requirements and are subject to change due to the availability of institutional resources. Students wishing to enter these programs of study should check with the appropriate department offering the program in order to become familiar with these special requirements.

Policy Regarding Student Records

Walters State recognizes the rights of students to have access to their records and will not make unauthorized disclosure of student records, as required by the Family Educational Right Privacy Act (FERPA). Students may sign a “Release of Information” form allowing specific people to access their educational records. Contact the Student Records Office for details.

This act and the federal regulations adopted under it give students and former students the right to inspect, review, and copy educational records released to them. The only exceptions to this rule are financial records of parents or any information therein; confidential letters and statements of recommendation which were placed in the educational records prior to January 5, 1975; records to which access have been waived by a student in writing; and “Directory Information.”

“Directory Information” includes a student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, most recent previous educational agency or institution attended, and other information of the type above specifically approved by the institution as acceptable “Directory Information”. (At the time of student’s registration for courses, the student may notify the offices of Student Records or Admissions Office in writing that “Directory Information” for that student may not be released. This notification is effective only for the one semester for which that student is then registered.)

Walters State will not permit access to or the release of any information in the educational records of any student who is personally identifiable other than “Directory Information” without the written consent of the student to any party other than the following: (1) Walters State officials and staff who have legitimate educational interests, including the support of honor societies and academic excellence; (2) officials of other schools in which the student seeks admission; (3) appropriate persons in connection with a student’s application for or receipt of financial aid; (4) federal or state officials as defined in Paragraph 99.37 of the regulations concerning this law; (5) state and local officials authorized by State statute; (6) in response to a judicial order or subpoena; (7) a bona fide emergency if such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of a student or other persons; (8) accrediting organizations to carry out their functions; and organizations conducting studies for or on behalf of Walters State for the purpose of assisting in accomplishing the college’s stated goals, when such information will be used only by such organizations and subsequently destroyed when no longer needed for the intended purpose.

Upon request, a record covered by the ACT will be made available within a reasonable time, and in no event later than 30 days after the request. The student should direct the request to the official who has charge of the records. Copies are available at the student’s expense. A student may also request explanation and interpretation of the records from the official in charge.

If a student feels that a particular record or file contains inaccurate or misleading information or is otherwise inappropriate, the college will afford an opportunity for a hearing to challenge the contents of the record. This request shall be submitted in writing to the college official in charge of the office which maintains that particular record. The college official receiving the written request must forward the request directly to the President of the college who will appoint a hearing committee. The student shall be afforded a full and fair opportunity to present evidence relevant to the issues raised and may be assisted or represented by individuals of the student’s choice at own expense, including an attorney. The committee, after hearing the student, will make a recommendation to the President who will be the final college authority in resolving the conflict.

Walters State maintains, with the educational records of each student, a record identifying all persons except other college officials who have obtained access to the records.

Retention of Records

Students’ academic records are maintained permanently on the Student Information System. Periodic backups are made to ensure safety of the files and are stored in a secure location. All other records are maintained according to AACRAO standards as published by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers. A copy of the retention policy is maintained in the Student Records office (SSB-U127) and the office of the vice president for Student Services.

Grades, transcript information, drop/adds, withdrawals, and other data perceived by the student to be in error must be protested by the student during the subsequent semester. Protests made after this time will not be reviewed unless approval by the vice presidents for Student services or Academic Affairs.

Transcript of Credits

Current students may print their unofficial transcript via their MyWS account.

Official Copies of Transcripts may be requested by any of the following methods:

• Electronic - Electronic Transcript Request.
• In-person - completing a Transcript Request form in the Student Records office, Morristown campus, Student Services Building, Suite U127 or any of the administration offices at the other WS campuses.  
• Fax Request* - Print, complete the Transfer Request Form, and fax to 423-585-2631.
• Mail Request* - WSCC, Student Records Office, 500 Davy Crockett Parkway, Morristown, TN 37813.

*For fax or mail request, include your name, signature, contact telephone number, WS identification number, birth month and day, and address of where you want the transcript mailed.  For security purposes, Walters State does not email transcripts.

Requests for copies sent to other schools, employers, or other third parties will be sent directly to the intended party. Requests for personal copies will be marked as “issued to student” and require the student’s signature before they will be released. Students may include the signature with the initial written request or when picking the transcript up at the Student Records Office.  A valid photo ID is required when picking up personal transcript copies.

Note - many agencies do not consider transcripts to be official if hand-delivered by the student. Please check with the intended recipient to ensure it will be accepted if hand-delivered.

Cancellation of Scheduled Classes

Any scheduled class may be discontinued by the college. The right is reserved to cancel any class when the number enrolled is deemed insufficient.

Cancellation of Classes Due to Weather or Road Conditions

For information related to the cancellation of classes due to inclement weather, please check the college’s Web site at www.ws.edu, the college’s Facebook and Twitter pages, the Senators Emergency Text system, or call the college’s student information line, 1-800-225-4770, option 1; the Sevier County Campus, 865-774-5800, option 7; or the Greeneville/Greene County Campus, 423-798-7940, option 4. Also, please monitor local TV and radio stations for weather-related announcements.

Students and employees are requested to check for updated messages once a decision has been made because on occasion, due to an unexpected and sudden change in the weather and road conditions, a decision is modified. In all instances decisions are made with the safety of students and employees foremost in consideration but with an attempt to have classes if possible. However, on a day or evening when classes are being conducted and weather conditions are questionable, students are advised to use individual judgment on whether or not to attend classes. Students will be provided an opportunity to make up work missed for absences incurred for days when conditions are questionable but classes are meeting.

Changes in or cancellation of classes will be announced on the following stations:

Audit Classes

Students planning to audit a course or courses must submit a completed audit card prior to the drop deadline. An audit student is one who is attending classes, does not take examination, and does not receive a grade. Students may not audit learning support classes. Audit cards are available in the Student Records Office of the Morristown campus or administration offices on other campuses. Cards must be completed and submitted by the last day to withdraw each term.

Audit of any course in Health Programs will be at the discretion of the dean and the program director. TN eCampus courses cannot be audited.

Retention Standards

Academic Warning (Probation)

A student who fails during any term to attain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 for the credit hours attempted will be placed on academic warning for the subsequent term. At the end of the next term of enrollment, a student who recieved an academic warning for the prior term attended and failed to attain a 2.0 GPA for the term, will be suspended for the next fall or spring term. The student will remain on academic warning until the minimum required cumulative GPA of 2.0 is attained. Students in a warning status will be notified via WS email approximately 3-5 business days after grades are posted for the term.

Academic Suspension

While on academic warning, if the student falls below a term GPA of 2.0, the student will be placed on a one-term suspension.  Summer terms do not count as a suspension period. Therefore, if a student is placed on suspension after spring grades are posted, the suspension period will be for both the summer and fall terms. If a student is placed on suspension after fall grades are posted, the suspension period will be for the spring term. If a student is placed on suspension after summer grades are posted, the suspension period will be for the fall term. 

After sitting out the suspension period, the student may return to Walters State in an academic warning status. If a student feels that there were extenuating circumstances that contributed to their unsatisfactory academic progress, they may appeal the suspension to the Readmission Committee. THe Committee meets at least once each term. Contact Senators Central for more information on how to request a hearing with the Readmission Committee. 

Students who voluntarily serve the time imposed by their suspension will be reinstated and do not need to appear before the the Committee. Students should contact their assigned advisor or the Student Records Office to request the hold be updated. Their admission status will be changed to academic warning for the semester that they return and until they meet the 2.0 GPA cumulative GPA.  If the student fails to meet the term GPA of 2.0 for any term while on academic warning, the student will be placed on suspension and required to sit out another term.

Definitions

Academic Warning (Probation) – serves as a warning to the student that their grades do not meet the minimum GPA requirement at WS. Students are eligible to attend WS during Academic Warning status.

Suspension – the students cumulative GPA has fallen below the required minimum for 2 terms consecutively. Student is required to sit out one term or can appeal the decision.

Good Standing - refers to a student’s status who has both a term and cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.   If a student reaches a 2.0 cumulative GPA while on warning status, the student will move to Good Standing for the subsequent term.   

Term GPA – the grade point average of classes attempted during a term.

Cumulative GPA – the grade point average of all classes attempted while attending WS.  Transfer classes do not count.  

Transfer Students

While individual courses may transfer to WS and can count toward fulfilling degree requirements, the number of credit hours and quality points do not count toward calculating the GPA for academic probation and suspension.

Withdrawals and Honorable Dismissals

Students finding it necessary to withdraw from college should do so officially in order to maintain good standing and to assure readmission or honorable dismissal. Withdrawal procedures are as follows:

1. Before the published drop deadline for each term, students may withdraw from classes via their MyWS account, by contacting the Student Records Office on the Morristown Campus, or the administration offices at one of the other campuses.
2. Students should check with their advisor, Financial Aid, the Library, Cashiering, and Student Records before dropping courses to be advised of possible consequences of current and future aid and to ensure all financial obligations are met.
3. All equipment belonging to the college must be accounted for or paid for and all financial obligations met. If it is impossible for the student to take these steps in person, they should be taken by a parent or person acting as an agent for the student. Up to the date given in the academic calendar, a student may withdraw from the college with a grade of “W”.

After the date listed in the academic calendar (last day to drop a course or withdraw from college), a student may, in emergency situations, withdraw with proper approvals by College administration. In cases such as this, the student will be assigned a grade of “W”.

A student who stops attending classes and fails to follow the proper withdrawal procedures, will be carried on the roll until the end of the semester and grades will be reported as “F” or “FA” (F grade due to non-attendance).

Grades, transcript information, drop/adds, withdrawals and other data perceived by the student to be in error must be protested by the student within one year from the date of occurrence. Protests made after this time will not be reviewed unless approval is received from the vice president for Student Services and the vice president for Academic Affairs.

Graduation and Degree Requirements

Applications for graduation are processed through the department of Student Records Office. To be eligible for graduation and receive a degree or certificate from Walters State, the student must:

1.     Complete all academic requirements for the selected degree/certificate program.

2.     Complete the minimum number of required semester hours for the selected program of study (minimum of 60 for associate’s degree).

3.     Earn an overall Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 in all college level courses with the exception of Associate of Science in Teaching (AST). Students seeking the AST degree must have an overall GPA of 2.75. (Only college-level courses taken at Walters State are used to compute the GPA for graduation). Transfer and Learning Support grades are not used in the student’s WS GPA calculation.

4.     Fulfill all courses required for the program as outlined in the college catalog, with 25% of the total number of credits required for the degree completed at Walters State. 

5.     Apply for graduation by completing the Graduation Application, including: Follow-up Survey and Alumni Forms by the deadline listed in the catalog and on the website. The Follow-up Survey section provides the college with information that is needed to keep all programs in compliance with TBR regulations. Further information on the survey may be obtained by visiting Student Support Services in SSB U130 or calling 423-585-6893. The Graduation Application is available on the Walters State Student Records webpage (Graduation Application), in the Student Records Office on the Morristown Campus, and in the administrative offices on all other Walters State campuses.

6.     Resolve all obligations, financial or otherwise, to the college; and returned all library and college materials.

Other guidelines pertaining to graduation are:

7.     The student must meet the requirements for graduation under any one catalog in effect during the student’s attendance at Walters State, provided that the catalog used is within seven years of the date of graduation. Degree requirements set forth in a catalog shall remain in effect for the duration of the period identified on the cover of the catalog. No guarantee is implied that these requirements will be contained in total or in part in future specification of the degree.

8.     Transfer credits used to satisfy Walters State’s degree requirements will not be averaged with the student’s grade point average at Walters State for the purpose of calculating the graduation average, or calculating honors.

9.   The State of Tennessee requires students receiving an associate degree to take the general education exit exam (ETS Proficiency Profile). Students graduating with an AS or AAS in Business are required to take the Business Exit Exam. Students graduating with an AS or AAS in Computer Science are required to take the Computer Science Exit Exam. Students graduating with an AAS in Computer Information Technology (Networking or Programming) are required to take the Computer Science Exit Exam. Notification regarding tests dates will be provided by the appropriate division. Students may also be required to take other tests by the institution.

10.   Students graduating in the fall may attend the commencement exercises in December, unless special permission is granted by the Student Records Office. Students graduating at the end of the spring or summer semesters may attend the commencement exercises in May.

11.   Graduation honors are calculated at the end of the previous semester to be included in the graduation program, the graduation ceremony, and all news releases concerning graduation.

12.   Students who do not graduate by the semester which is indicated on the graduation application, will automatically be carried over to the next semester. Students who do not meet the requirements after the second semester, will have to reapply for a future semester.

Earning a Second Degree

A second degree cannot be awarded under the same Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code as the first degree. Associate of Science (AS) and Associate of Arts (AA) majors have the same CIP code. Associate degrees intended to transfer (AA, AS, AST, and AFA) are comprised of about 2/3 general education courses and 1/3 concentration and or elective courses, making these degrees closely related. 

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) typically have different CIP codes because they are not intended to transfer and have a higher number of concentration courses.

If a student pursues two AAS degrees, or an AA/AS/AST/AFA and an AAS degree, not only must the CIP codes be different, but there must be a minimum of 16 credit hour difference in the program. Check with the Student Records Office before pursuing a second degree to ensure it is allowed.

The following requirements must also be met to earn a second degree:

a.  The first degree must have been awarded by Walters State or another associate’s degree-granting institution of higher learning.

b.  A minimum of 16 applicable semester hours must have been completed at Walters State beyond the requirements for the first associate’s degree.

c.  All curriculum requirements for Walters State must be met.

d.  The minimum grade point average (GPA must be attained on all college-level coursework.

SPECIAL NOTE: Students who do not graduate by the semester which is indicated on the graduation application will automatically be carried over to the next semester. Students who do not meet the requirements after the second semester, will have to reapply for a future semester.