Bulletin 2007-2008 - Austin College

Access to Records and FilesAcademic files for all students are housed in the Office of the Registrar, and students’educational portfolios are maintained in the Office of Student Affairs and Athletics.The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 assures students and parents,both in public schools and in colleges and universities, the right to inspect theirschool records and files. There also are provisions concerning release of material ina student’s file to outsiders. Austin College complies fully with the legislation andfollows the guidelines issued by the Department of Education. The official statementof compliance by Austin College regarding the 1974 Family Educational Rights andPrivacy Act is published in the Outback Guide. Any questions about these policiesand procedures should be referred to the registrar or the vice president for StudentAffairs and Athletics.CommencementAustin College has three dates when students may complete their degree requirements:May, August, or January. The official date is placed on the diploma and onthe student’s permanent record.Austin College holds a single graduation exercise each year in May. Candidatescompleting the requirements for a degree during the spring term are expected toparticipate in baccalaureate and commencement ceremonies. Students who completetheir degree requirements at other times of the year are invited to participate in theMay commencement.Normally, only those students who have completed all degree requirements orcandidates for summer graduation may participate in the graduation exercises.Candidates approved by the faculty for May graduation who subsequently failto complete all necessary requirements may participate in that year’s graduationexercises. The actual diploma is mailed after all requirements are satisfied.Students who are within three course credit units of completing all degree requirementsduring the summer may participate in graduation exercises. Candidates for summergraduation should consult the Office of the Registrar concerning requirements forparticipation in graduation exercises.The college reserves the right to withhold the degree from any student whoseconduct or academic standing it regards as unacceptable.ACADEMIC REGULATIONS| 69