Admissions

Student Right to Know and Student Consumer Information

According to regulations published by the Department of Education based on the Student Right-to-Know Act, the graduation/completion rates for first-time, full-time students who entered school and graduated/completed within 150% of the normal time to complete the program, as published in the catalog must be made available to current and prospective students. You may obtain this information in the Admissions Office or in the Student Consumer Information section of the school’s website.

Admissions

Application Procedure

South University operates on a ten-week quarter system with most classes beginning every 5 weeks in the majority of our programs. Classes may be offered in a 5-week, 10-week, or 11-week (specialized programs) format.

Refer to the 2022-2023 Academic Calendars   section for the specialized programs’ specific calendar dates.

Applications for General Admission - contact the following locations:

Undergraduate Admissions Procedure

The following steps must be completed before a final decision for admission may be reached and the student is allowed to register:

1. Submit the application form.
2. Submit acceptable verification of high school graduation or the equivalent within 5 weeks for Campus-based students and 10 weeks for students in Online programs of the class start date.
   Acceptable verification of high school graduation or the equivalent would include a copy of a high school diploma, high school transcript (official or unofficial), GED^®* certificate, or GED scores and state-authorized examination scores (ex. HiSET, TASC) or a state-issued certificate designated as the equivalent of a high school diploma. In states that maintain a database that serves as an official registry of high school and GED graduates, an excerpt from the official database documenting the student’s graduation or GED completion may be used. Campuses in South Carolina must be provided with official high school transcripts or GED scores or state-issued certificates designated as the equivalent of a high school diploma. Students applying to Graduate Programs do not need to provide verification of high school graduation.
3. Complete all tests administered by the University or submit SAT, or ACT scores to the registrar’s office.

All documents become the property of South University and will not be returned. After receipt of the application form, the University will schedule a date for the administration of tests and notify the applicant. Upon completion of the above steps, each applicant will receive written notification of the action taken by the admissions office.

Note: Additional applications and materials may be required by some programs at South University.  Procedures and additional admission requirements related specifically to these programs can be found in this section of the catalog, and online at www.southuniversity.edu.

*GED® is a registered mark of American Council on Education.

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states.  Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

To be admitted to any of the undergraduate programs at South University, the prospective student must provide proof of high school graduation as recognized by the state of residence on the date the degree was earned, or the equivalent (e.g. GED with no single test score below 145 or numeric score equivalent to 2.0 on old version or state-issued certificate designated as the equivalent of a High School Diploma) with a minimum CGPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. The prospective student must also complete the university administered placement tests prior to the start of the first quarter for campus students and during the first session of attendance for online students. South University accepts the International Baccalaureate Program diploma as meeting the requirement for high school graduation. Credentials earned outside the United States must be evaluated by a NACES or AICE-member credential evaluation service.  Please speak with an admissions representative for more information.

Students with less than the minimum CGPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale may meet admissions requirements by submitting a minimum combined SAT (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math) score of 700 or 900 on the old SAT, a combined ACT score of 18, or a satisfactory score on the university-administered admissions examination (see the Admissions Office) or meet the criteria established for acceptance as a transfer student.

Students with less than the minimum CGPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale may be admitted provisionally for two quarters. Failure to achieve a 1.5 CGPA in the first two quarters of attendance will result in dismissal.  Students may appeal the dismissal by following the Procedures for Appealing Academic/Financial Aid Dismissal Policy.

To facilitate the admissions process, unofficial documentation, such as copies of transcripts or grade reports, may be used to determine admission status. Transfer status cannot be designated, however, without some verifying documentation. Admissions test scores on university administered entrance exams will not be accepted from other universities. Prospective students must take a University administered admission exam, like the Accuplacer, at South University.

A student’s failure to provide acceptable verification of proof of high school graduation within 5 weeks for Campus-based students and 10 weeks for students in Online programs from the start date will result in the following:

• Removal from class
• Cancellation of enrollment
• No final course grades
• No transcript

NOTES: Students who do not provide proof of high school graduation within the 5/10-week period will not be responsible for any tuition and related fees.

South University may grant exceptions to the 5/10-week period for unusual situations or circumstances.  All exceptions must be submitted to the office of the University Registrar for approval.

Please see the policy on GPA Calculation for Admission for additional information

Admission of Transfer Students

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states.  Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

To be eligible for admission, transfer students must complete the application procedures and satisfy the following criteria:

1. Submit a completed application for admission.
2. Have earned 24 or more credit hours, or the equivalent (e.g. 16 semester hours), with a cumulative GPA of 2.00 from an acceptable accredited collegiate institution.
3. Submit official transcripts (including verifiable faxed transcripts) from all colleges and universities attended.
4. Submit self-certification of high school graduation or GED completion.

For transfer of credit practices refer to the applicable section under the Academic Affairs  section of this catalog.

Transfer students accepted into South University who have earned 24 or more quarter credit hours or the equivalent (e.g. 16 semester hours), with a cumulative GPA of 2.00 from an acceptable accredited collegiate institution, and who are not required to take ENG0099 and/or MAT0099, will be exempt from taking the UVC1000 Strategies for Success. Students will select another 4 credit course in consultation with their Academic Advisor or Academic Counselor to fulfill the degree requirements.

Transfer students will be exempted from developmental courses on the basis of grades earned in credit bearing English or mathematics courses transferred to South University, if applicable, or SAT or ACT, or scores on the University administered entrance exam only if the exam was taken at South University.

Students with 24 or more quarter credits with less than a 2.0 GPA may be admitted provisionally for two quarters.  Failure to achieve a 1.5 GPA in the first two quarters of attendance will result in dismissal.  Students may appeal the dismissal by following the Procedures for Appealing Academic/Financial Aid Dismissal Policy.

Students who are citizens of countries other than the United States should refer to the section entitled International Student Admissions Policy.

Students who are transferring from or to a school within the University of North Carolina or the North Carolina Community College System should be aware of the Comprehensive Articulation Agreement approved by both governing Boards on March 1, 1996 and revised in September of 2008. This agreement may be found in its entirety at the following website: http://www.northcarolina.edu/sites/default/files/caa-feb_21_2014-board_approved.pdf.

Academic Placement Tests

Placement tests in Algebra and Sentence Skills are administered to determine if a student needs additional preparation in either of these areas. If need is determined, the student must enroll in the required course(s) in the first quarter in which scheduling the required course(s) is practical. All students who do not meet the criteria below must take placement tests during the admissions process unless they are transfer students. Note that in all cases transfer credit is not awarded for developmental courses.

Students being admitted on the basis of SAT and ACT scores will be exempt from taking the related placement test if they meet the certain criteria.

Exemption from MAT0099 Principles of Algebra, or ENG0099 Principles of Composition, is based on the following:

MAT0099

ACT Math > 14
SAT Math Section Score> 440

ENG0099

ACT English> 14
SAT Evidence-Based Reading Test > 23

Transfer students must take the appropriate placement test(s) if they are not exempt from either MAT0099 and/or ENG0099. Transfer students may be exempted from developmental courses in one of the following ways:

• On the basis of grades earned (at a C or better) in credit-bearing, non-developmental courses taken at an acceptable accredited institution that are equivalent to (or at a higher level than) the non-developmental courses offered at South University and are considered for transfer to South University.
• If applicable, students may also be exempted from developmental courses on the basis of SAT or ACT scores as noted above.
• Students may also take the University administered placement examination at South University campuses to seek such exemptions.
• Only original documents (such as transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, etc.) will be considered in final decisions.

Home-Schooled Students

Home-schooled students are individuals who have completed a secondary school education in a home-school setting that is treated as a home school or a private school under state law. The student must have accomplished the following:

• Obtained a secondary school completion credential as provided by state law, or
• Completed a secondary school education in a home school setting under state law.
• Students must provide evidence that home-schooling was conducted in accordance with state laws. A certificate of attendance or completion is not sufficient.

Admission of Transient Students

Transient students are admitted only for a specified period of time - normally one quarter. Applicants for transient status must file a regular application form and submit a statement from their dean or registrar that they are in good standing and have permission to take specific courses at South University for transfer to their own institutions when satisfactorily completed. Since transient students are not admitted as regular students, transcripts of university work completed elsewhere are not usually required of such applicants. Transient students who wish to remain enrolled longer than one quarter must meet all requirements for general admission or transfer students.

Dual Enrollment for High School Students

Through this program for outstanding high school seniors, students may pursue collegiate coursework while completing their high school requirements. Students accepted into this program will be allowed to enroll part-time or full-time at the University, provided they meet course prerequisites and receive permission from their high school principal or counselor. Students may forfeit the privilege of the program if they receive a grade below a C in their collegiate coursework or if their high school average falls below a B. To be considered for this program, a student must satisfy all of the following criteria:

1. Provide a written recommendation from the principal or counselor.
2. Have the written consent of a parent or guardian.
3. Complete the eleventh grade before application.
4. Attain a satisfactory score on the ACT or SAT, or on the University entrance exam.
5. Achieve a minimum grade point average of 3.0 in high school work completed.

Further information about this program can be obtained through the Admissions Office or Registrar’s Office.

Specialized Program Admission

Enrollment in some programs is limited; therefore, to be considered for selection, applicants must meet the minimum criteria as detailed in the individual application packets for these programs.

Additional Admission Requirements for Select Undergraduate programs

Procedure for Admission to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

General Entry into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program

Admission into the BSN degree program is a two step process: 

• Students interested in pursuing the BSN degree are eligible for general entry to the Bachelor Science in Nursing Program by meeting requirements for entry into South University.
• Students must meet all prerequisite requirements to be considered for admission to the professional phase of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Admission to the Professional Phase of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The criteria used to determine admission to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program include:

• Completion of the application for admission.
• Completion of 90 quarter hours (QH) of science and general education courses as required for admission to BSN degree program with a grade of C or better. Science courses are not accepted for transfer if they are older than 7 years at the time of application to South University.
• A cumulative GPA (CGPA) of 2.75 or better on a 4.0 scale in the nursing pre-requisite courses. Note: South University, Columbia requires a 3.0 or better.
• A GPA of 2.75 or better in the following science courses: BIO1011 Anatomy and Physiology I and BIO1012 Anatomy and Physiology I Lab; BO1013 Anatomy and Physiology II and BIO1014 Anatomy and Physiology II Lab; BIO2070 Microbiology and BIO2073 Microbiology Laboratory; CHM1010 General Chemistry; BIO2015 Human Pathophysiology.  Note: South University, Columbia requires a 3.0 or better.
• A grade of “C” or better in all general education courses
• Entrance test results (TEAS test)
• A completed, approved Level I and Level II background check
• Completed application for admission to the BSN degree program form.
• Official transcripts from every college or university attended, including courses taken at South University. 
• Meet the Core Performance Standards and essential functions related to the profession of nursing as described in this catalog
• Completion of prerequisites courses at South University will be considered in the ranking process.

Provisional admission may be granted if the student is completing prerequisites in the term before matriculation into the nursing program. On the day of matriculation into the nursing, the student must meet the admission criteria as outlined above. Failure to meet requirements of admission will result in rescinding the provisional admission status.

Provisional admission to the BSN program may be granted to students who matriculated into the BS in Public Health program prior to spring quarter 2018 whose CGPA and/or science courses GPA are between 2.5 and 2.74. Students seeking readmission after an absence of one year or longer must meet the BSN admissions requirements stated above and are not covered under provisional admissions.

Acceptance into the Professional Phase of the Bachelor of Science Nursing

Upon acceptance into the Nursing Program, the student must submit:

• A nonrefundable one -time Acceptance Fee for enrollment into the BSN program. This fee will be applied to the student’s first quarter tuition payment. Students enrolling in the RN to BSN program are not required to pay the registration/acceptance fee.
• Completed current physical examination record with required immunizations, titers, lab results, and tuberculosis assessment.
• Urine drug screen
• Evidence of health insurance

Pre-Licensure (BSN) Laptop Computer Requirement

Laptop computers are required for use in testing. All students are required to have a laptop computer with Internet access that meets university specifications.

Comprehensive Background Check

Please see the General Admissions Policies section of the catalog below.

Acceptance into a South University educational program, or its completion, does not imply or guarantee that a student will be able to obtain licensure or certification.

The Nursing Program Director may be required to submit written documentation regarding the student status to boards of nursing and clinical agencies as early as receipt of the student’s CONPH application. Students may be required to obtain additional background checks as requested by clinical agencies or boards of nursing.

Procedure for Admission to the RN to BSN Program

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states.  Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

The criteria used to determine admission to the RN to BSN degree program include:

• Completion of the application for admission.
• An associate’s degree in nursing from an accredited collegiate institution, or a diploma in nursing from an accredited institution.
• A cumulative GPA of 2.00 or better on a 4.00 scale.
• Submission of official transcripts from every college or university attended within 5 weeks for Campus-based students and 10 weeks for students in Online programs after the initial start date. 
• A valid and unencumbered license as a registered nurse in all US states or territory in which the studentis licensed, including the state in which the student completes all assignments for the program. (Note that military, federal, and foreign educated nurses must meet this state requirement for nursing licensure).
  Note:  An unencumbered license(s) must be maintained throughout the program.
• All general education prerequisites must be completed before the student takes any professional nursing courses beyond the 3000 level.

Procedure for Admission to the Associate of Science in Medical Assisting Program

In addition to general admission to the University, students should be able to meet the following technical standards for the Medical Assisting Program.

1. Background Check:
   Students must complete a background check at their own expense using the agency identified by the MA Program Director. No other background checks will be accepted. The background check must be completed at least three weeks prior to the intended start date of the first MA Practicum clinical placement. Students with a positive background check will not be allowed to start AHS2098 Medical Assisting Practicum and will be referred to the MA Progression Committee. The MA program follows the College of Health Professions Background Check Policy and Substance Abuse and Screening Policy located in the South University Catalog (www.southuniversity.edu/admissions/academic-catalog). Applicants are not eligible for admittance into any portion of the MA program if they have a felony conviction, plea, or adjudication withheld, or any disqualifying misdemeanor, for which a pardon or exemption for disqualification has not been received, including but not limited to rape or sexual abuse or molestation, and abuse, endangerment, or neglect of a child, disabled person, or elderly person.
    
2. Drug Screen:
   Students must complete drug screen at their own expense using the agency identified by the MA Program Director. No other drug screens will be accepted. The screen must be completed at least three weeks prior to the intended start date of the first MA Practicum clinical placement. Students with a positive drug screen will not be allowed to start the MA Practicum and will be referred to the MA Progression Committee. The MA program follows the College of Health Professions Substance Abuse and Screening Policy located in the South University Catalog (www.southuniversity.edu/admissions/academic-catalog).
    
3. Technical Standards:
   Students must meet the technical standards, which describe the physical abilities and behavioral characteristics required of students for full participation and successful completion of the MA program, as well as to function as a fully qualified medical assistant after graduation. Prospective MA students should review these standards and determine if they have any limitations that may interfere with their ability to satisfy any of these requirements.
   
   The technical standards are: 

• Sensory
  Medical Assisting students must be able to read charts, graphs, instrument scales and medication orders, prepare and maintain medical records, and use their senses of hearing and touch to recognize emergencies and to assess the patient’s physical condition.
• Communication
  The Medical Assisting student must be able to read and write effectively in order to transmit information to all members of the healthcare team. The student must also be able to assess nonverbal communication and respond appropriately.
  Additional requirements include the ability to interview and record patient histories, provide patient care instructions, use correct telephone technique, collect, prioritize and convey information.
• Fine Motor Skills
  The Medical Assisting student must manifest all the fine motor skills necessary to safely and accurately use medical instruments and perform diagnostic and clinical procedures (e.g. obtaining the patient’s blood pressure, heart rate and temperature, drawing blood and administering non-intravenous injections). The student must be able to perform basic secretarial skills, including using a keyboard and the operation of common office equipment.
• Gross Motor Skills
  The Medical Assisting student must be able to support patients when ambulating, assist patients in and out of a wheelchair, and on and off an examination table. Students must be able to reach equipment and supplies and respond appropriately to emergency situations in a timely manner.
• Psychological Stability
  The Medical Assisting student must demonstrate the ability to handle difficult interpersonal situations in a calm and tactful manner. The student must also be able to maintain a composed, competent, and confident demeanor during emergency situations.

MA Clinical Practicum Policies

1. Proof of Immunization:
   MA students are required to provide evidence of the initiation or completion of the Hepatitis B immunization series and current flu shot. The student must upload all original lab results and evidence of immunization through the background screening and compliance tracking agency identified by the MA Program at least three weeks prior to the intended start date of AHS2098 Medical Assisting Practicum. Additional vaccinations may be required by clinical sites. All associated fees are the responsibility of the student.
2. CPR/ First Aid and Physical Exam:
   Students must provide verification of a health care provider level CPR/First Aid certification at their own expense prior to the start of the AHS2098 Medical Assisting Practicum clinical courses in the technical phase of the MA program. A Physical Exam and tuberculosis assessment may be required by some clinical sites prior to the MA Practicum. All associated fees are the responsibility of the student.

Procedure for Admission into the Professional Phase of the Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant Program

Admission into the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program is a two-step process:

1. Candidates are eligible to enter the general education phase of the OTA program as “OTA students” by meeting South University’s General Undergraduate Admission Requirements.
2. Candidates must complete prerequisite coursework and meet all requirements outlined below to be eligible for admission to the professional phase of the OTA program.

Students may transfer prerequisite courses into the program before entering the professional phase if approved by the registrar. The coursework that is transferred to South University must permit the student to obtain a 2.85 CGPA by the time the student applies for admission into the OTA professional phase. Students who transfer coursework into South University but cannot mathematically attain a CGPA of 2.85 by the time they would enter the professional phase will not be admitted to the OTA program.

Transfer credit will not be accepted for South University courses with an OTA prefix.

Note: This policy does not apply to South University OTA students (in good standing) transferring between campuses.

Admission Requirements for the Professional Phase of the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program

Applicants must apply for admission into the professional phase of the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program. Applicants must submit a complete application packet and meet all admission requirements as stated below to enter the ranking process. The professional phase slots will be filled by applicants with the greatest academic potential for success as determined by the ranking process. Applicants with the highest numerical ranking will be admitted to the professional phase of the program.

The criteria to determine admission to the OTA program include:

1. Application must be submitted seven (7) weeks prior to the start of the professional phase of the program.
2. Applicants must meet the Essential Functions of the OTA program.
3. Applicants must have a minimum grade of ‘C’ or above in all prerequisites, except for the following course, in which students must achieve a minimum grade of ‘B’ or above: OTA1001 Introduction to Occupational Therapy. 
4. Applicants must achieve a minimum CGPA of 2.85 or greater in prerequisite coursework. All prerequisite coursework must be successfully completed prior to entry into the Professional Phase of the OTA program.
5. Applicants must have successfully completed the following courses in the past seven years from the intended start date of the Professional Phase of the OTA program: Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology I (lecture and lab) and Anatomy and Physiology II (lecture and lab). Applicants must have successfully completed OTA1001 Introduction to Occupational Therapy in the past two years from the intended start of the Professional Phase of the OTA Program.
6. Applicants must have official transcripts on file at South University at the time of application to the Professional Phase of the OTA program. Applicants are responsible for requesting official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended and having them sent to South University.  All associated fees are the responsibility of the applicant.
7. Applicants must complete and submit an OTA Application when applying for acceptance in the Professional Phase of the OTA program; this includes a signed Acknowledgement of Risk and Release of Liability form and Health Insurance Statement form.
8. Applicants must complete the OTA Video Observation Form and submit their responses with the OTA Application.
9. Applicants must complete a background check at their own cost using the background screening and compliance tracking agency identified in the OTA Application. Applicants must meet timelines and requirements as detailed in the application packet. The OTA program follows the College of Health Professions Background Check Policy and Substance Abuse and Screening Policy located in the South University Catalog. Applicants are not eligible for admittance into any portion of the OTA program if they have a felony conviction, plea, or adjudication withheld, or any disqualifying misdemeanor, for which a pardon or exemption for disqualification has not been received, including but not limited to rape or sexual abuse or molestation, and abuse, endangerment, or neglect of a child, disabled person, or elderly person.
10. Applicants must complete a drug screen at their own cost using the background screening and compliance tracking agency identified in the OTA Application. Applicants must meet timelines and requirements as detailed in the application packet. The OTA program follows the College of Health Professions Substance Abuse and Screening Policy located in the South University Catalog. Applicants with positive drug screen results will not be admitted into the OTA program. Applicants may be eligible to reapply to a future admissions cycle.
11. Applicants must provide proof of required immunizations as identified in the OTA Application. Evidence that the Hepatitis B immunization series has been initiated or the signed waiver declining the Hepatitis B immunization must be provided at the time of application and completed according to CDC guidelines. All other immunizations must be completed no later than one week prior to the first clinical rotation. The student must upload all original lab results and evidence of immunization through the background screening and compliance tracking agency identified in the OTA Application. All associated fees are the responsibility of the applicant. Failure to submit clinical experience vaccination requirements in a timely fashion will deem a student ineligible for fieldwork placement.
12. Applicants must show evidence of a physical exam by a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant; results must be uploaded through the agency identified in the OTA Application. All associated fees are the responsibility of the applicant.
13. Applicants must be in good standing with South University. All requirements for Financial Aid must have been met, as applicable.
14. All OTA students are responsible for meeting matriculation deadlines and requirements as published within campus-specific Enrollment Guide.

Ranking of Applicants for Admission into the Professional OTA Curriculum will be based upon the following criteria:

1. Cumulative GPA in required prerequisite coursework (2.85 or greater required).
2. Science GPA (science coursework will not be accepted if greater than 7 years old).
   1. AHS1001 Medical Terminology
   2. BIO1011 Anatomy and Physiology I
   3. BIO1012 Anatomy and Physiology I Lab
   4. BIO1013 Anatomy and Physiology II
   5. BIO1014 Anatomy and Physiology II Lab

NOTE:  If a qualified student is not accepted or if a student is unable to matriculate into the Professional OTA Curriculum, they may use that same application to apply into the next cohort on that same campus within one year from the date of application submission. After that time, the student must apply as a new student.

Essential Functions for the OTA Program

The following are considered to be essential functions related to the profession of occupational therapy to be successful in the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program and in future employment as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).

It is the responsibility of the OTA Program at South University to inform students considering a career as a COTA about the essential functions required both in the academic program and in the workforce. Factors and requirements will vary, depending on the specific area of practice and work setting.

Students must demonstrate safe and continuous application of these essential functions or of any and all others that are integral to the success of the OTA student and future occupational therapy practitioner. Students will display professional behaviors, assess their own performance with respect to the behaviors, and be ready to make behavioral changes as directed by academic and clinical faculty. 

In addition, the OTA Progressions Committee may become involved in issues related to a student’s performance of the essential functions. The OTA Progressions Committee may make recommendations to the OTA Program Director that result in, but are not limited to, a lower course grade, the creation of a remediation plan, exclusion from a course, dismissal from a Level I or Level II Fieldwork experience, professional behavior probation or dismissal from the OTA program and/or South University.

Both Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, 29 U.S.C.A. Section 794, and the Americans with Disabilities Act prohibit discrimination against “otherwise qualified” persons with a disability. South University provides accommodations to qualified students with disabilities.  The Disability Services office assists qualified students with disabilities in acquiring reasonable and appropriate accommodations.

All students must demonstrate competency in the following essential functions related to the profession of occupational therapy:

Behavioral/Emotional Functions

Adaptation: The ability to respond with flexibility to change or difference.

Emotional Stability: The ability to control one’s own emotions, differentiate between different emotions and identify each appropriately; use emotions to guide thinking and direct behavior.

Interpersonal Skills: The ability to interact effectively with others.

Safety: Maintain the well-being of others in compliance with policies and procedures.

Ethics: The ability to distinguish between right and wrong, to comply with authority and with policies and procedures.

Professional Behavior and Appearance: The ability to adjust behavior and appearance in response to given circumstances.

Cognitive Functions

Critical Thinking: The ability to define and resolve issues by asking questions, gathering and analyzing information.

Time Management: The ability to identify and prioritize tasks to be accomplished and maintain work pace appropriate to given work load.

Math, Reading Comprehension: The ability to apply basic math functions, calculate time and simple measurements; comprehend written words.

Perception: The ability to be aware of things in relation to others and to discriminate between those relationships.

Communication Functions

Verbal: The ability to speak using the English language, clearly communicating and clarifying information.

Written: The ability to communicate legibly and concisely in English, using proper grammar, punctuation, spelling, style and formatting.

Listening, Comprehending, Responding: The ability to hear, understand and respond appropriately to what was communicated.

Sensory Functions

Hearing: The auditory ability to detect sound within 10 feet away, sufficient to monitor clients and interact with others.

Touch:  The ability to come into physical contact with something and perceive that it is there.

Vision: The ability to look at and see something or someone close-up and from a distance greater than 20 feet, noting verbal and nonverbal postures or behaviors.

Physical Functions

Fine motor dexterity: The ability to coordinate small muscle groups during movement, usually involving coordination between the hands, fingers and eyes to manipulate small objects.

Gross motor skills: The ability to coordinate large muscle groups to move and to stabilize the head, trunk, arms and legs to reach, lift, push, pull, stand, balance, walk, run, bend, kneel and crouch; possess minimum grip strength of 30 pounds in one or both hands, and the ability to stand up to 30 minutes at a time, push up to 250 pounds and lift/transfer up to 250 pounds.

Mobility:  The ability to independently move easily from point A to point B.

Endurance: The ability to exert self and remain active for a long period of time (e.g., 45 minutes); stamina.

Environmental Functions

Working conditions: The ability to recognize, avoid and prevent safety and health hazards in the work setting.

Procedure for Admission to the Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant Program

Admission into the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program is a two-step process:

1. Candidates are eligible to enter the general education phase of the PTA program as “PTA students” by meeting South University’s General Undergraduate Admission Requirements.
2. Candidates must complete prerequisite coursework and meet all requirements outlined below to be eligible for admission to the technical phase of the PTA program.

Students may transfer prerequisite courses into the program before entering the technical phase if approved by the registrar. The coursework that is transferred to South University must permit the student to obtain a 2.75 CGPA by the time the student applies for admission into the PTA Technical Phase. Students who transfer coursework into South University, but cannot mathematically attain a CGPA of 2.75 by the time they would enter the technical phase, will not be admitted to the PTA program.

Transfer credit will not be accepted for courses in the South University PTA Technical Phase Curriculum.

Note: This does not apply to South University PTA students (in good standing) transferring between campuses.

Students from South University who are in another major will be permitted to transfer into the general education phase of the PTA program if they meet all requirements as stated in the PTA Program Change Policy. Applicants must satisfy technical standards for the PTA program in order to be admitted.

Admission Requirements for the Technical Phase of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program

Applicants must apply for admission into the technical phase of the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. Applicants must submit a complete application packet and meet all admission requirements as stated below to enter the ranking process. The technical phase slots will be filled by applicants with the greatest academic potential for success as determined by the ranking process.  Applicants with the highest numerical ranking will be admitted to the technical phase of the program.

The criteria to determine admission to the PTA program include:

1. Application must be submitted seven (7) weeks prior to the start of the technical phase of the program.
2. Applicants must meet the Essential Functions and Technical Standards (listed in the application for admission and the program student handbook) of the program in order to enter the ranking process.
3. Applicants must complete a health screening, at their own cost, utilizing a program-specific physical exam form, verifying medical clearance.
4. Applicants must complete a background check at their own cost using the agency identified by the PTA Program Director. Applicants must meet timelines and requirements as detailed in the application packet. The PTA program follows the College of Health Professions Background Check Policy located in the South University Catalog (www.southuniversity.edu/admissions/academic-catalog ). Applicants are not eligible for admittance into the Technical Phase of the PTA program if they have a felony conviction, plea, or adjudication withheld, or any disqualifying misdemeanor, for which a pardon or exemption for disqualification has not been received, including but not limited to rape or sexual abuse or molestation, and abuse, endangerment, or neglect of a child, disabled person, or elderly person.
5. Applicants must complete a drug screen at their own cost using the agency identified by the PTA Program Director. Applicants must meet timelines and requirements as detailed in the application packet. The PTA program follows the College of Health Professions Substance Abuse and Screening Policy located in the South University Catalog (www.southuniversity.edu/admissions/academic-catalog). Applicants with positive drug screen results will not be admitted into Technical Phase of the PTA Program. Applicants may be eligible to reapply to a future admissions cycle (see PTA Program Director).
6. Applicants must complete 20 hours of observations of the practice of physical therapy and submit documentation on program-provided forms.
7. Applicants must achieve a 2.75 CGPA or greater in prerequisite coursework. All prerequisite coursework must be successfully completed prior to entry into the Technical Phase of the PTA Program.
8.  The following science prerequisite courses require a grade of C or higher and must be completed within 7 years of the start date of the Technical Phase of the program.
   1. AHS1001 Medical Terminology
   2. BIO1011 Anatomy and Physiology I
   3. BIO1012 Anatomy and Physiology I Lab
   4. BIO1013 Anatomy and Physiology II
   5. BIO1014 Anatomy and Physiology II Lab
9. Applicants must submit ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) scores. Scores will not be accepted if greater than 5 years old. A score of “proficient” is preferred.
10. Ranking will be based upon:
    1. Cumulative GPA in required prerequisite coursework (2.75 or greater required).
    2. Science GPA (see 8 a-e above)).
    3. The ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) (score of “Proficient” is preferred).
    4. Repeating a course to achieve a higher grade is associated with penalty point deductions from the ranking score.
11. The number of students entering the technical phase is established in accordance with regulations set forth by the program’s accrediting body.

Post-Acceptance Requirements

All accepted PTA applicants are responsible for meeting assigned deadlines for completion of post-acceptance requirements as published within the campus-specific PTA Enrollment Guide. Failure to submit the following post-acceptance requirements will deem a student ineligible for clinical education courses, which may result in dismissal from the program.

Accepted PTA students must:

1. Complete an American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR certification course and provide a copy of a valid certification/card. The certification/card must remain valid throughout all clinical rotations.
2. Submit proof of required immunizations as identified in the PTA Enrollment Guide through the compliance platform.
3. Submit a Level 2 background check (Florida students only). This must be performed at the student’s own cost, using the agency identified by the PTA Program Director.
4. Understand that additional drug screening, background checks, immunizations, tuberculosis screening, and/or medical clearance may be required by some clinical sites. All associated fees are the responsibility of the student.

Physical Therapist Assistant Program Costs

Per campus-specific requirements in the PTA Enrollment Guide, students are required to obtain each of the following. These costs vary by student needs, student insurance, and geographic regions, and are thus approximate.

• CPR certification (American Heart Association BLS for Health Care Providers course) - $75
• Proof of immunity/immunization - $100
• TB Test - $25
• Level 2 fingerprint background check for Florida students - $95
• Uniforms - $55
• Professional instruments - $100

Additional drug screening/background checks, tuberculosis screening, immunizations, and/or medical examination clearance may be required by the clinical site. All associated fees are the responsibility of the student.

Technical Standards for Physical Therapist Assistant Students

The following standards reflect expectations of a student in the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program for the performance of common physical therapy functions. In adopting these standards the PTA Program is mindful of the patient’s right to safe function in a broad variety of clinical situations while receiving physical therapy interventions. The PTA student must be able to apply the knowledge and skills necessary to function in a broad variety of clinical situations while administering physical therapy interventions. These standards do not encompass all that may be required for employment of the PTA Program graduate. In order to verify the students’ ability to perform these essential functions, students are required to demonstrate the following technical standards throughout the curriculum.

The faculty is the sole judge of a student’s ability to meet these standards through successful completion of the requirements of the program and individual courses.

1. Critical Thinking/Problem Solving Skills. Ability to collect, interpret and integrate information and use that information to make appropriate decisions.
2. Interpersonal Skills. Ability to collaboratively work with all PTA students and with program faculty and patients in the classroom, lab, and clinical setting.
3. Coping Skills. Ability to respond appropriately to stressful environments or during impending deadlines.
4. Communication Skills. Ability to communicate effectively in English using verbal, nonverbal and written formats with faculty, other students, patients, families, and healthcare workers.
5. Mobility/Motor Skills. Sufficient motor ability to execute the movement and skills required for safe and effective physical therapy treatment in various clinical settings.
6. Sensory Abilities. Sufficient visual, auditory, and tactile ability to monitor and assess health needs.
7. Behavioral Skills. Ability to demonstrate professional behaviors and a strong work ethic.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program fully supports the provision of reasonable accommodations to students with special needs. Program requirements will not be altered. Instead, it is the policy of South University to provide reasonable accommodations to students with special needs who request them so that they can meet the program requirements. It is the students’ responsibility to contact the Dean of Student Affairs/Office of Disability Support Services with documentation to support their need for accommodations. Students are encouraged to contact the Dean of Student Affairs and/or Program Director as early as possible to discuss their particular situation.

Both Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, 29 U.S.C.A. Section 794, and the Americans with Disabilities Act prohibit discrimination against “otherwise qualified” persons with a disability. If an applicant can perform the Technical Standards listed above, the applicant is “otherwise qualified” under the law and must be treated the same as a person without a disability. A person who cannot perform the Technical Standards is not “otherwise qualified” and may be denied access to the program without discrimination.

Graduate Admissions - Masters level

Prospective students are required to submit the following:

• Completion of application for admission
• Official transcripts for bachelor or graduate degree.  (All credentials earned outside the United States must be evaluated by a NACES or AICE-member credential evaluation service).  Please speak with an admissions representative for more information.

Note: See program notes and specific requirements below for each graduate - masters level degree program

Admissions criteria for:

• Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) Program
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration (MBA-HCA)
• Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)
• Master of Public Administration (MPA)
• Master of Science in Human Resources Management (MSHRM)
• Master of Science in Information Systems (MS)
• Master of Science in Leadership (MS)

 Specific requirements for admission to classified graduate status are:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Completion of application for admission.
• A 2.7 overall grade point average or higher on completed requirements for the baccalaureate degree, or, an earned graduate degree from an accredited institution with a CGPA of 3.0 or higher.

Admissions criteria for the Master of Science in Accounting (MS) Program:

• Completion of application for admission,
• An earned undergraduate degree from an acceptable accredited institution with a CGPA of 2.7 or better on a 4.0 scale

Admissions criteria for the Bachelor of Science to Master of Science in Accounting (BS to MS) are as follows:

• General undergraduate admission requirements for the university.
• To progress to the graduate phase of the program, students must meet the College of Business progressions requirements. 

Provisional Admission:

Applicants with an undergraduate degree CGPA of less than a 2.7, but not lower than a 2.3, or a graduate degree CGPA of less than 3.0, but not lower than a 2.7, will be considered for provisional admission.  Students who do not attain a 3.0 GPA in the first quarter will be dismissed. Students cannot appeal the dismissal from the university as a result of failure to meet the conditions of provisional admission.

Specific program notes for the programs listed above:

Foundational Undergraduate Courses for the Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Completion of an undergraduate statistics course (with a grade of C or better) is required for the Master of Science in Criminal Justice.  If the student does not have the course as part of their undergraduate degree the course needs to be completed in the first two quarters of the program.  Foundation undergraduate course credits do not count towards the total number of credits for graduation nor do they count in the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA); however, they do count in determining the maximum time frame (MTF) and the Incremental Completion Rate (ICR). MSCJ students enrolled in foundation undergraduate course must successfully complete the course within their first three attempts or the student will be academically dismissed from the University.

Master of Science in Information Systems Program

As determined by the Program Director or Chair, students with a non-technical degree or lacking IT-related experience are required to successfully complete MIS5010 Information Technology Infrastructure, with a “C” or better. Students must enroll in the course within the first two quarters of their admission to the University. The course is designed to provide students with a required knowledge base of emerging trends in information systems, how information systems work, and how to manage IT infrastructures. 

Required knowledge base or foundational undergraduate course credits do not count towards the total number of credits for graduation nor do they count in the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA); however, they do count in determining the maximum time frame (MTF) and the Incremental Completion Rate (ICR). Student must achieve a “C” or better within three attempts or will be academically dismissed from the University.

Procedure for Admission to the Master of Public Health

The criteria used in determining admissions to the Master of Public Health degree program include:

• Completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, with a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of at least 2.7 (on a scale of 4.0) OR
• An earned graduate degree from an accredited institution with a CGPA of 3.0 or higher.
• Submission of official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended within 5 weeks for Campus-based students and 10 weeks for students in Online programs after the official start date. 
• Provisional Admissions: A cumulative GPA of 2.5 -2.69. Students must receive a final course grade of B or better in all public health courses for the first two quarters to be fully admitted into the MPH program.
  • Provisionally admitted students are permitted one attempt per course for the first two quarters. Students who do not receive a final course grade of B or better in all public health courses will have the provisional admission rescinded. There is no appeal for rescinding provisional status. Once all required admissions documents and information are submitted, the application will be reviewed and evaluated by the MPH Program Director for final admission decision.

Procedure for Admission to the Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia Science (Anesthesiologist Assistant) Program

Application Process

South University has partnered with the Central Application Service for Anesthesiologist Assistant (CASAA) to collect and manage applications to the Anesthesiologist Assistant Program. To apply, please follow the instructions outlined below.

• Visit the South University page on the CASAA website for details about our program and application requirements.
• Visit http://casaa.liaisoncas.com to complete an online application for admission through CASAA.
• Please follow the instructions on the CASAA site regarding the submission of documents.

Admissions Cycle by Campus:

The dates for early application submissions and final application deadlines for each South University Anesthesiologist Assistant program are posted on the programs’ websites and updated annually.

The applicant is solely responsible for completion of their individual application. The program is not responsible for deficiencies due to U.S. mail or failure of third parties to complete an applicant’s request for transcripts, scores, letters of reference, et cetera.

The most qualified candidates for admission will be invited for an interview based upon when the application was completed and verified in CASAA. During the interview process, candidates will have the opportunity to meet faculty, attend a brief orientation to South University Anesthesiologist Assistant program, and receive financial aid information. Eligible applicants will receive a request for an interview from the program via email at least two weeks prior to the interview date.  

Students who are offered admission into a South University Anesthesiologist Assistant program are only permitted to accept an admission offer at one campus. Within 14 days of the student signing the admission acceptance form, it is the responsibility of the student to notify any other South University Anesthesiologist Assistant program(s) of their intent to withdraw. Admission acceptance fees are non-refundable, and do not transfer between South University Anesthesiologist Assistant programs or other South University programs of study.

Admission Requirements

General Admission Requirements

• Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited university.
• Required prerequisite courses are listed in the following table.  Excluding English, the most advanced pre-requisite course in each subject area must have been completed within seven years of application date.  Pre-requisite course subject areas: Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physics, and Math. Prerequisite courses completed prior to the seven year window will be considered current in the following situations: official MCAT taken within one year of application demonstrating at least 50th percentile scores on each of the four sections (Chemical and Physical, Critical Analysis and Reasoning, Biological and Biochemical, and Psychological and Social Behavior).
• Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work. South University Anesthesiologist Assistant Programs accept credit for Advanced Placement courses. AP courses taken and successfully completed will be counted as one course credit toward completion of the respective pre-requisite subject. Grades earned in AP courses are not used in the calculation of the applicant’s overall or prerequisite GPA.
• Entrance Exams
  • Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) taken within 5 years prior to the completion of the application.
  • Graduate Record Examination (GRE). The program must receive official score reports directly from the Educational Testing Service. Applicants should use the following GRE code for the respective campus: The code for South University, Savannah is 7450; the code for South University, Orlando is 3908; the code for South University, West Palm Beach is 2840.
  • Medical College Admission Test scores may be submitted for consideration if completed within five years of the application. The applicant may submit official MCAT scores through CASAA.
• Verification of familiarity with the practice of anesthesia, including the environment in which day-to- day work occurs.  The form is located on the admissions page of the South University Anesthesiologist Assistant program website.
• Three letters of recommendation are required to be submitted as part of the CASAA application. Recommended sources of reference include: employers/managers, professors, advisors, or research directors.
• CASAA applicant personal statement.

As the admissions process also takes into consideration the personality characteristics deemed essential to becoming an anesthesiologist assistant, material such as a noncognitive or personality assessment may be required.  
 
Students wishing to enter the Anesthesiologist Assistant program in the College of Health Professions should be aware that applicants with a prior felony or serious misdemeanor conviction will not be considered. Acceptance into a South University program or its completion does not imply or guarantee that a student will be able to obtain subsequent licensure or certification.   

Required Pre-requisite College Courses

(substitutions are not permitted and survey courses or courses for non-science majors are not acceptable)

Technical Standards

To undertake and successfully complete the Anesthesiologist Assistant program, as well as to function as an anesthetist after graduation, requires that an individual meet certain fundamental physical, cognitive, and behavioral standards. The requisite technical skills include, but are not limited to the following:

• Effectively communicating verbally with patients and their family members and with other healthcare professionals.
• Interacting with patients, including obtaining a history and performing a physical examination.
• Effectively communicating in writing, and by record keeping, those data and information essential to the practice of anesthesia and the care of patients.
• Reading and comprehending written parts of the medical record and other patient care documents in order to safely and effectively participate in the practice of anesthesia.
• Having sufficient knowledge, motor skill, and coordination to perform diagnostic and therapeutic tasks, including invasive procedures, on patients in a timely manner so as to insure the safety and well-being of the patients. These tasks include but are not limited to peripheral and central venous catheterization, arterial puncture and cannulation, breathing bag-and-mask ventilation, laryngeal mask airway insertion and management, endotracheal intubation.
• Having sufficient strength, motor skill, and coordination to lift, move, and position patients as required for administration of anesthesia and performance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
• Having sufficient speed and coordination to quickly and safely react to emergent conditions throughout the hospital in order to assure patient safety.
• Recognizing and differentiating colors of signals displayed on monitors; being able to work in both light and dark conditions as exist in patient care areas (e.g., operating room, radiology suite, endoscopy suite); being able to recognize details of objects both near and far.
• Hearing, processing, and interpreting multiple conversations, monitor signals, alarms, and patient sounds simultaneously in fast-paced patient care settings (e.g., operating room, intensive care unit, emergency room).
• Having no impairment that would preclude continuous performance of all of the above activities or any and all of the other activities that are an integral part of an anesthesiologist assistant’s participation in the anesthesia care team.

Applicant Selection

South University Anesthesiologist Assistant Program receives a large number of applications each year, and each application is reviewed by a member of the Admissions Committee. Due to the volume of applications received, the program has standardized the evaluation process to be both comprehensive and fair. To determine which candidates are selected for admission, the Admissions Committee has established the following selection factors as components of determining admission into the South University Anesthesiologist Assistant Program.   Applicants for admission are considered and ranked using multiple factors as described below:

• Academic achievement (overall GPA, prerequisite GPA, and science GPA)
• Entrance Exam Scores.  Preference will be given to those with GRE scores (Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning) > 50th percentile and MCAT scores > 500
• Prerequisite coursework obtained from a four-year college or university designed for science majors
• Letters of reference
• Direct patient care experience
• Personal statement/essay
• Anesthesia/shadowing experiences
• Community service/volunteer activities
• Interview performance
• Results of noncognitive/personality assessment

Evidence of an applicant’s interpersonal skills, problem-solving ability, professionalism, motivation, academic potential, communication, and knowledge of the AA profession/health care system are assessed by the Admissions Committee. The committee will determine the degree to which applicants demonstrate alignment with the South University AA Program mission and expectations.

Post-Acceptance Requirements

Prior to matriculation, each person accepted into the Anesthesiologist Assistant program must provide an official transcript indicating degree conferred and show completion of all required course work. Complete transcripts and an official record of undergraduate degree must be on file with the program before registration will be permitted for the first quarter.

A recent medical history, physical examination, and all immunization records required must be maintained in the individual student’s compliance tracking portal from the time of matriculation until graduation.  It is the student’s responsibility to keep these records complete and up to date. Students who do not maintain these records as required will be referred to the Progress and Promotions committee for a professionalism standard violation.

Students entering senior year may be required to obtain an updated current history, physical examination, background check and drug screen depending on the rotation site.

Policy on Experiential Learning

No course credit is awarded for experiential learning to applicants of the Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia Science program.

Transfer of Credits Policy

South University Anesthesiologist Assistant Program do not accept transfer of credits from other anesthesiologist assistant programs or provide enrolled students with a waiver of credit (i.e. advanced placement) for any component of the required curricular coursework. Students may not transfer from on South Anesthesiologist Assistant campus to another.

All students must complete each course in the South University Anesthesiologist Assistant curriculum.

Insurance Requirements

Students in the Anesthesiologist Assistant program are required to have continuous health insurance coverage in force for the duration of their enrollment.  Documentation of this insurance coverage must be stored and maintained in the student’s compliance tracking account selected by the program.  If at any time a student does not have insurance in force and current documentation listed in his/her compliance tracking account they will cease participation in clinical education and be referred to the Progress and Promotions committee for a violation of the standards of Professionalism for the Anesthesiologist Assistant program.

Students using private health insurance must ensure that their plan covers treatment and monitoring for needle stick injuries and other documented exposure to blood borne pathogens for all clinical rotation locations. For example, a student from Michigan who is part of parental family coverage HMO may not be eligible for coverage in Savannah, West Palm Beach or at other remote sites while on clinical rotations. For the student’s own personal safety it is imperative that they have an adequate health plan or the resources to pay for necessary medical care in the event of a needle stick or exposure to pathogenic organisms.

Payment for all medical and psychiatric services, elective and emergent; are the responsibility of the student regardless of the source of an illness or injury are the responsibility of the student regardless of what the source of an illness or injury may be.  The student is responsible for payment of medical services including all laboratory and other diagnostic and therapeutic services rendered as part of a protocol into which a student is entered in the event of exposure to known or suspected pathogenic organisms. Each clinical site has a specific established protocol for exposure that the student must follow.

Background Checks

The Anesthesiologist Assistant program follows the College of Health Professions Background Check Policy located in the South University Catalog (www.southuniversity.edu/admissions/academic-catalog). Students must complete a background check at their own cost using the agency identified by the AA Program prior to matriculation. No other background checks will be accepted. Students may be required to submit additional background checks during their enrollment as required by the clinical site.

Background checks confirm that students have no current record of criminal activity, and this information may be relayed to clinical sites for verification during their enrollment. Any new activity found as a result of such background checks in violation with the College of Health Professions Background Check Policy may affect the student’s status in the program and the student will be referred to the Progress and Promotions Committee. Any violations that involve felony or serious misdemeanor convictions will result in immediate dismissal from the educational program. Students may appeal this decision based on verification of factual information according to the appeals process outlined in the student handbook.

Note: Applicants are not eligible for admittance to the AA program if they have a felony conviction, plea, or adjudication withheld, or any disqualifying misdemeanor, for which a pardon or exemption for disqualification has not been received, including but not limited to rape or sexual abuse or molestation, and abuse, endangerment, or neglect of a child, disabled person, or elderly person.

Drug Screening

Applicants who are accepted into the Anesthesiologist Assistant Program must complete a drug screen at his/her own cost using the agency identified by the AA Program Director. Applicants must submit the drug screen results to the program office prior to matriculation. The Anesthesiologist Assistant program follows the College of Health Professions Substance Abuse and Screening Policy located in the South University Catalog (www.southuniversity.edu/admissions/academic-catalog). Students will be required to submit additional drug and alcohol screens throughout their enrollment, based on reasonable suspicion and as needed for clinical site placements.

Note: Applicants with positive drug screen results will not be admitted into the AA Program. Students who have a positive drug and alcohol screen result during enrollment will be referred to the AA Program’s Progress and Promotions committee.

Applicants with Disabilities

In accordance with policies of South University, the program does not discriminate against any individual because of disability. Applicants must meet the requirements for technical standards as printed above. Students with disabilities should consult with the Dean of Student Affairs, who coordinates disability services.

Guidelines for Graduates of Colleges and Universities outside the United States

Please note that no exemptions will be made for required course work regardless of degrees or certification received outside the United States, experience, work background, or education.

In addition to the General Admission Requirements (above), the applicant who has graduated from a college or university outside the United States regardless of United States’ residency status must do the following (not necessary for United States Territories):

• Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work taken outside the United States must be submitted to the program, along with the report from a credentialing organization (e.g., Educational Credential Evaluators, Incorporated) demonstrating equivalency to a bachelor’s degree received at an American college or university, and evaluating the transcript course-by-course for equivalency to required pre-requisites for admission to the Anesthesiologist Assistant program.
• A statement from a responsible person certifying that the applicant’s financial resources are sufficient to meet necessary expenses (International Students only).
• Deficiencies in required course work must be made up by taking appropriate courses in a college or university in the United States.
• A statement from a qualified physician describing any emotional or physical illnesses suffered by the applicant during the preceding five years, or certifying freedom from such illnesses (International Students only). In addition to the General Admission Requirements (above) and the first three requirements of this section, the applicant who has been graduated from a college or university of a country for which English is not the primary language regardless of United States’ residency status must do the following:

Student must obtain minimum listed below for each section. Scores must be from exam taken within 7 years of application to the program. The program must receive an official score report directly from Educational Testing Services, Princeton, NJ.

Deferment Policy

South University reserves the right to grant a one year enrollment deferral for the AA program to an accepted student under the following conditions:

1. The student has accepted a class position within the allotted time period and submitted the required deposit but has not yet begun the 1st quarter of enrollment.
2. The student submits a written request to the Program Director that specifies the reason for the request and confirms his or her intent to enroll in the program at the next class start.  Acceptance or denial of a request for deferral is at the discretion of the Program Director.
3. A student who is granted a deferment must notify the Program Director in writing of their intent to enroll in the next matriculating class no later six months prior to the next scheduled cohort start date.

Procedure for Admission to the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program

Admissions criteria for the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program are consistent with those required in other master’s degree level programs at South University. As the admissions process also takes into consideration the characteristics deemed essential to becoming a clinical mental health counselor, material is also required which will enable a determination to be made of the applicant’s personal integrity, maturity, interpersonal skills, and ability to communicate effectively. The criteria used in determining admission to the graduate program include:

1. Completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
2. A grade point average of at least 2.7 (on an Admissions scale of 4.0) for the last 60 semester hours/90 quarter hours of coursework (including relevant graduate work), or, a bachelor’s degree with an overall CGPA of 2.7, or, an earned graduate degree from an accredited institution with a CGPA of 3.0 or higher.
3. A minimum score on a South University preapproved English language proficiency test is required for all applicants whose “first” language is not English as specified in the English Language Proficiency Policy.
4. Interview with the Clinical Mental Health Counseling department chair/program director or designated faculty member.
5. Approval of the campus program admissions committee.
6. Completion of an application for admission.
7. Submission of a personal/professional statement addressing the applicant’s interest in counseling, professional goals, along with a self-appraisal of academic and professional qualifications.
8. Submission (within 5 weeks for Campus-based students and 10 weeks for students in Online programs of class start dates) of official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended. 
9. Current résumé (or career summary).
10. Background Check

All required admissions documentation and criteria will be reviewed and evaluated. Applicants will be notified regarding acceptance. Applicants should review the published general graduate requirements listed in the South University catalog. Students who are citizens of countries other than the United States should also refer to the section in the South University catalog entitled International Student Admissions Policy.

Provisional Admission

Applicants with an undergraduate degree CGPA of less than a 2.70, but not lower than 2.30, for the last 60 semester hours/90 quarter hours of coursework (including relevant graduate work), or, a bachelor’s degree with an overall CGPA of 2.70, but not lower than 2.3, or, an earned graduate degree from an accredited institution with a CGPA of less than 3.00, but not lower than a 2.70, will be considered for provisional admission.  Students who do not attain a 3.00 GPA in the first quarter will be dismissed. Students cannot appeal the dismissal from the university as a result of failure to meet the conditions of provisional admission.

The applicant will need to provide evidence of academic and professional potential demonstrated by career and/or personal accomplishments indicated in a personal statement of academic and professional goals, a career resume or curriculum vita, and two letters of academic and/or professional recommendations.  The Program Chair in consultation with the Campus Director & Dean of Academic Affairs and Operations and College Dean or designee must approve exceptions. The College Dean serves as the final decision maker. Students are required to complete the provisional admissions form for entry as a provisional admission student.

Procedure for Admission to the Master in Science Physician Assistant Program

Entrance to the Physician Assistant (PA) program is gained through a formal application review and interview. Application to the program is made through the Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA).  Applicants must specifically designate the South University campus(es) to which their application should be submitted within the CASPA system. Additional, campus-specific information regarding the application process can be obtained through the PA program web site or by calling the respective campus:

• (512) 516-8800 (Austin)
• (804) 727-6894 (Richmond)
• (912) 201-8025 (Savannah)
• (813) 393-3720 (Tampa)
• (561) 273-6520 (West Palm Beach)

Individuals whose applications are deemed competitive will be invited for a required interview. All programs utilize a rolling admissions process in which applicants are notified of their admission decision within 2 weeks after interviewing. Not all qualified applicants will receive an interview.

The application process requires submission of scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

Applicants must specifically designate the South University code for each campus to which their GRE scores should be submitted electronically to CASPA directly from ETS (Educational Testing Service):

• 0174(Austin)
• 7147 (Richmond)
• 0467 (Savannah)
• 0454 (Tampa)
• 7108 (West Palm Beach)

For South University, Richmond, South University, Savannah, South University, Tampa, and South University, West Palm Beach applications must be completed and verified in the CASPA application portal. Submission deadlines vary by campus. Please refer to the individual program’s website for further details.

Applicants who are offered a seat into the Physician Assistant program are only permitted to reserve a seat at one campus. Within 14 calendar days of the applicant signing and submitting the acceptance form, it is the responsibility of the applicant to notify any other South University Physician Assistant program(s) of his/her intent to withdraw. Seat acceptance fees are non-transferable to other South University programs.

Note: Applicants should refer to the Physician Assistant Program policy on Acceptance Fee for more details.

Admission Criteria

Selection for the Physician Assistant program is highly competitive. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an interview or admission. Successful applicants will generally exceed the minimum criteria. The following criteria represent the minimum conditions established for applicants interested in applying to the South University Physician Assistant Master of Science degree programs:

• Applicants must have an earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution.
• Applicants must have an overall GPA as calculated by the CASPA service of 3.0 or greater (on a 4.0 scale) (including undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, and graduate coursework)
• Applicants should have a Biology-Chemistry-Physics (BCP) science GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) as calculated by the CASPA service. Applicants must submit scores from the GRE general exam directly to the CASPA service using the designated South University code for each campus to which their GRE scores should be submitted:
  • 3090 (Austin)
  • 7147 (Richmond)
  • 0467 (Savannah)
  • 0454 (Tampa)
  • 7108 (West Palm Beach)  
• At least three letters of reference as part of the CASPA application must be submitted. At least one letter must be from a physician (MD/DO), Physician Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner with whom the applicant has worked or shadowed and to whom the applicant is not related. Impressive, well- articulated, and unequivocal letters attesting to the applicant’s motivation, communication and interpersonal skills, professionalism, and future contribution towards health care are considered competitive. Applicants with letters of reference from licensed medical providers (e.g., MD, DO, NP, PA) are considered to be more competitive.

Pre-requisite Courses

Applicants must complete all prerequisite courses listed below with a grade of C or better at a regionally accredited U.S. college or university prior to submission of his/her application. The PA program accepts prerequisite coursework completed in an online, virtual, or campus-based format from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university.

Coursework which is designed for science majors is generally considered more competitive. In general, prerequisite coursework with titles that include “Essentials of,” “Survey of,” or “Introduction to,” unless specifically designed for science majors, are considered less competitive.

Basic science courses should be those for science majors. The General Biology and Biochemistry courses are recommended to include a lab, but it is not required.

Only courses (excluding General Biology, Biochemistry, and Organic Chemistry) with an associated lab will be given credit for fulfilling prerequisite requirements. In the event that a laboratory is not offered with a prerequisite course, applicants may request the lab requirement for that course be waived by contacting the program. Lab waivers and/or course substitutions are granted at the discretion of the Admissions Committee. Applicants requesting such should be prepared to submit supporting documents, including, but not limited to, course descriptions.

The South University Physician Assistant program accepts credit for Advanced Placement (AP) courses. AP courses taken and successfully completed will be counted as one course credit towards completion of the respective prerequisite subject. Grades earned in AP courses are not used in the calculation of the applicant’s overall or prerequisite GPA.

The South University Physician Assistant program does not accept College Level Examination Program (CLEP) credit for any prerequisite requirements.

South University Physician Assistant programs do not accept a transfer of credits from other physician assistant programs or provide enrolled students with a waiver of credit (i.e., advanced placement) for any component of the required curricular coursework. All students must complete each course in the South University Physician Assistant curriculum.

Master of Science Physician Assistant Technical Standards

In order to ensure that patients receive the best medical care possible, the faculty of the South University Physician Assistant program has identified certain skills and professional behaviors that are essential for successful progression of physician assistant students in the program. A student must possess skills and behaviors at a level of capability to perform a variety of duties required of a physician assistant as a health care professional.

Students with disabilities who can perform these skills and successfully execute professional behavior either unassisted, with dependable use of assistive devices, or by employing other reasonable accommodations are eligible to apply for enrollment in the program. Minimum performance standards include critical thinking, communication skills, observation skills, motor skills, and interpersonal abilities. Interested parties may contact the Physician Assistant program office for additional information about South University performance standards. These skills and behaviors include, but are not limited to:

Critical Thinking: A student must possess the intellectual, ethical, physical and emotional capabilities required to undertake the full curriculum and to achieve the levels of competence required by the faculty. The ability to solve problems, a skill that is critical to the practice of medicine, requires the intellectual abilities of measurement, calculation, reasoning, analysis and synthesis. Students must be able to perform demonstrations and experiments in the basic sciences.

Communication Skills: A student should also be able to speak, to hear, and to observe patients in order to elicit information, describe changes in mood, activity and posture, and to perceive nonverbal communications. The student must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently in oral and written forms.

Observation Skills: A student must be able to observe a patient accurately, both at a distance and in close proximity. This ability requires the functional use of vision and somatic sensation.

Motor Skills: A student should have sufficient motor function to elicit information from patients by palpation, auscultation, percussion and other diagnostic techniques. A student should be able to execute movements reasonably required to move from area to area, maneuver in small places, calibrate and use large and small equipment, position and move patients, and provide patients with general care and emergency treatment.

Interpersonal Abilities: A student must possess the emotional health required for full utilization of his or her intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment, the prompt completion of all responsibilities required for the diagnosis and care of patients and the development of professionalism through mature, sensitive and effective relationships with patients, families, and colleagues.

Clinical Experience

Clinical experiences should provide the applicant with a knowledge of and orientation to the presentation, signs, and symptoms of a variety of ill or injured patients. Although clinical experience is not required, preference is given to applicants who have direct patient care experience (i.e., care that involves personal interaction with patients such as: physical therapist, respiratory therapist, emergency medical technician/paramedic, nurse, or certified nursing assistant, or other similar professions). However, there is no requirement for a predetermined number of hours (or months) of health care experience to be earned by an applicant.

Admissions Committee Selection Factors

Applicants for admission are considered and ranked using multiple factors. Applicants are awarded preference points based upon the following selection factors:

• Academic achievement (overall GPA, BCP, GRE)
  • Preference will be given to those with GRE scores (Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning) at the 50th percentile or above.
  • For overall GPA preferences, please refer to the respective program’s website.
  • For prerequisite BCP preferences, please refer to the respective program’s website.
• Quality of letters of reference from medical providers (e.g., MD, DO, NP, PA)
• Letters from personal acquaintances are discouraged.
• Clinical experience that requires direct patient care
• Personal statement/essay.
• Healthcare provider mentorship/shadowing experiences.
• Community service
• Interview performance

Evidence of an applicant’s interpersonal skills, problem-solving ability, professionalism, motivation, academic potential, communication, knowledge of the PA profession and the health care system with an alignment to the mission and vision of the program are assessed by the Admissions Committee.

Post-Acceptance Requirements

Accepted applicants will be required to complete the following items in order to obtain approval for matriculation in January:

• Satisfactory Criminal Background and Drug Screen Report
• Health/ Immunization Requirements
• Personal Health Insurance Documentation
• Baccalaureate Diploma Verification
• FAFSA application (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) submission for those applying for financial aid
• There is a $1000 acceptance fee, which is non-refundable, for those applicants accepted into the Physician Assistant program at South University, Austin, South University, Savannah, South University, Tampa and South University, West Palm Beach. There is a $1000 acceptance fee, $900 of which is refundable, for those applicants accepted into the Physician Assistant program at South University, Richmond. Acceptance fees are applied towards tuition.

Applicants seeking admissions to the Physician Assistant program must abide by the College of Health Professions Background Check Policy and Substance Abuse and Screening Policy. Acceptance into a South University program or its completion does not guarantee that a student will be able to obtain subsequent licensure or certification.

All Physician Assistant program students are responsible for meeting matriculation deadlines and requirements as published within the campus-specific Enrollment Guide.

Procedure for Admission to Master of Science in Nursing Programs

If you are a South University Post Graduate Certificate (PGC) FNP or AGPCNP student seeking a second MSN, please refer to the communication provided by the College of Nursing and Public Health.

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states. Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

The criteria to determine admission to the Master of Science in Nursing degree program include:

• Completion of the application for admission
• A bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) from an accredited program.
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale.
• Provisional Admissions: South University College of Nursing and Public Health fosters diversity through a holistic provisional admission status for students with a GPA less than 3.0.
  • Applicants with a cumulative GPA of 2.75 -2.99 must receive a final course grade of B or better in all nursing courses for the first quarter to be fully admitted into the MSN program.
  • Applicants with a GPA between 2.50 and 2.74 will be considered for provisional admission with submission of a current resume and a letter explaining challenges faced in previous academic experiences. 
  • Students will have an assessment and an individualized plan for optimizing success that includes completion of a mandatory orientation prior to first day of quarter.

Students must receive a final course grade of B or better in all nursing courses for the first quarter to be fully admitted into the MSN program.

Students who do not receive a final course grade of B or better in all nursing courses will have the provisional admission rescinded. There is no appeal for rescinding provisional status.

• Submission of official transcripts from every college or university attended within 5 weeks for Campus-based students and 10 weeks for students in Online programs after the initial start date. 

• A valid and unencumbered license as a Registered Nurse in all US states or territory in which the student is licensed, including the state in which the student completes all assignments and clinical rotations, for entry and maintenance of admission to the program. (Note that military, federal, and foreign educated nurses must meet their state/territory requirement for nursing licensure).

Procedure for Admission to the RN to Master of Science in Nursing Degree Program

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states. Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

The criteria to determine admission to the Master of Science in Nursing degree program include:

• Completion of the application for admission.
• An associate’s degree in nursing from an accredited collegiate institution, or a diploma in nursing from an accredited institution.
• A cumulative CGPA of 2.5 or better on a 4.0 scale.
• Submission of official transcripts from every college or university attended within 5 weeks for Campus-based students and 10 weeks for students in Online programs after the initial start date). 
• A valid and unencumbered license as a registered nurse in all US states or territory in which the student is licensed, including the state in which the student completes all assignments for the program. (Note that military, federal, and foreign educated nurses must meet this state requirement for nursing licensure).
  
  Note: In order to progress into Graduate level nursing courses, a student must have a 3.0 cumulative GPA.  Students with a cumulative GPA of less than 3.0 may transition to the RN to BSN program to complete their BSN and then apply for the MSN program.

Admission Requirements for Post-Graduate Certificate Programs

College of Nursing and Public Health

Procedure for Admission to the Post Graduate Certificate Programs

South University is no longer enrolling students in the Post Graduate Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Programs.

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states. Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

Consistent with the requirement for admission to the MSN program, the requirements for admission to the Post Graduate Certificate programs are as follows:

• Completion of the application for admission.
• A master’s or doctoral degree in nursing from an ACEN, CCNE, or CNEA accredited nursing program with a GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale.
• Submission of official transcripts from every college or university attended within 5 weeks for Campus-based students and 10 weeks for students in Online programs after the initial start date. 
• A valid and unencumbered license as a registered nurse in all US states or territory in which the student is licensed, including the state in which the student completes all assignments for the program. (Note that military, federal, and foreign educated nurses must meet this state requirement for nursing licensure).
  
  Note: An unencumbered license(s) must be maintained throughout the program.

Admission Requirements for Doctoral Level Programs

College of Arts and Sciences

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states. Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

Procedures for Admission to the Doctor of Ministry Program

The criteria used in determining admission to the doctoral program include:

• An earned undergraduate degree from an accepted accredited institution with a CGPA of 2.7 or better on a 4.0 scale OR
• An earned undergraduate degree from an accepted accredited institution with a CGPA of 2.7 or better on a 4.0 scale during the applicant’s last 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours earned on the bachelor’s degree and/or subsequent graduate work OR
• An earned graduate degree from an accepted accredited institution with a CGPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale.
• Interview with the Program Director or Chair.
• Submission of official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, with submission due within 5 weeks for Campus-based students and 10 weeks for students in Online programs of initial start date. 
• Applicants for whom English is a Second Language (ESL) must submit a minimum paper-based TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 550 or the electronic-based score of 79-80 to be considered for the program.
• Completion of an application for admission.
• Applicants who are not citizens of the United States should refer to the section in the South University catalog entitled International Student Admissions Policy.

Exceptions to the Minimum GPA

Applications with CGPA lower than the stated program minimum (2.7 for the bachelor’s degree and 3.0 for a graduate degree/coursework) may be considered for admission on the basis of evidence of academic and professional potential demonstrated by career and/or personal accomplishments indicated in a personal statement of academic and professional goals, a career resume or curriculum vita, and two letters of academic and/or professional recommendation.  The Program Director/Chair in consultation with the Dean of the College or designee must approve exceptions.

Students admitted on an exception basis will be admitted as regular students on provisional status for the first quarter of enrollment.  In order to remain enrolled after completion of the first quarter the student must achieve a CGPA of at least 3.0.

College of Business

Admission Criteria for the Doctor of Business Administration Program are as follows:

Applications for the DBA program are accepted year-round. However, the Savannah campus DBA program only seats new students in spring quarter of each year.

• Completion of an MBA degree from an acceptable accredited institution.
  
  OR
   
• Completion of an undergraduate degree in business and a master’s degree in a business field (such as organizational leadership, management, or human resources) from an acceptable accredited institution. The College Dean makes the final decision regarding accepted fields of study for admission to the program.
  
  AND
   
• A cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 (on a scale of 4.0) on the earned master’s degree. Additional coursework may be required to meet the Required Knowledge Base. Refer to section on Required Knowledge Base for further information.
• Completion of an application for admission.
• Submission (within 5 weeks for Campus-based students and 10 weeks for students in Online programs of class start date) of official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. 
• Personal interview with a representative from the College of Business as designated by the Dean of the College of Business (may be conducted by teleconference).
   

Submission of the following:

• A 1,000-word Statement of Purpose Essay that targets the applicant’s  academic and professional preparation for the South University DBA, along with future academic and professional goals. This statement must detail how the applicant’s goals will be enhanced from earning a South University DBA and how the degree will be integrated into future career goals.
• Résumé or curriculum vitae that clearly outlines academic and professional preparation for a doctorate program.
• Three current academic/professional recommendations submitted directly to South University from the evaluator.  References submitted to South University by an applicant will not be accepted. These recommendations must present the applicant’s ability to successfully matriculate the program and how the applicant will contribute to the overall quality of the program. Additionally, the recommendation must include an assessment of the applicant’s ability to be successful as a professional in teaching, service and research.

Once all required admissions documents and information are submitted, the candidate’s admission packet will be reviewed and evaluated by the program director. Applications will be reviewed on a weekly basis and applicants will be notified immediately.

Transfer of Credit Guidelines for the DBA program

The majority of credits toward the DBA degree program must be earned at South University. Credit for transfer work will be given if the courses were taken at an acceptable accredited collegiate institution, the course is equivalent to courses offered at South University, and the course carries a grade of “B” or better.

All transfer credit will be reviewed and approved by the Dean, College of Business, or designee, and the Department Chair of the respective academic department and Program Director. The maximum number of classes to transfer is four courses or 16 quarter hours. NOTE: Dissertation courses may not be transferred from another institution.

Required Knowledge Base for the DBA Program

Applicants to the DBA degree program must demonstrate a master’s level ability to integrate knowledge within critical knowledge areas with a grade of “B” or better. These knowledge areas must have been taken at an acceptable accredited institution and be equivalent to a 3 semester-hour, graduate level course.

Knowledge Areas:

• Organizational Behavior and Communication
• Statistics

Students meeting all other admission requirements except not having met the Required Knowledge Base areas will be admitted into the program; however, these graduate level knowledge areas must be successfully completed with a grade of “B” or better within the first two quarters of enrollment.

If a student does not complete the Required Knowledge Base areas within the required timeframe, the student will be dismissed from the program.

The Required Knowledge Base course credits do not count towards the total number of credits for graduation nor do they count in the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA); however, they do count in determining the maximum time frame (MTF) and the Incremental Completion Rate (ICR).

Virtual Residency Requirement for Online Students

The doctoral residencies are a requirement for online students in the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program.  These are a time for faculty, staff, and students to meet in a collegial learning opportunity. Residencies are designed as a time for students and faculty to work together collaboratively and to support the creation of a community of scholars.  Students will participate in faculty- and student-led presentations and will have the opportunity to network and share their experiences in the program. They will also be able to work collaboratively on their scholarship during the residencies, and opportunities to provide service to the academic community will be discussed.

The South University DBA has two residencies.  All DBA students in the online program are required to participate in these two residencies; these residencies are part of the completion requirements for the program.

Attendance

Students are made aware of the requirement of attending those residencies upon admission into the doctoral program. Attendance is required in order to progress in the program.  Should an emergency arise that prevents the student from attending the virtual residency, the student must immediately contact the DBA Program Director to receive instructions on how to proceed.

Special accommodations can be made for students who cannot attend a portion of the residency due to medical reasons, religious reasons, and active military deployment. Students who arrive late or fall ill during a residency should immediately contact the Program Director. Students who cannot attend a portion of the residency due to religious reasons, medical reasons, or active military deployment should contact the Program Director at least ten days in advance of the residency.

Other exceptions - There may be additional exceptions that are presented from time to time.  How these exceptions will be handled is at the discretion of the DBA Program Director based upon the guidelines set forth in this document.

Documenting exceptions - The Program Director will notify the Academic Counselor regarding any student being granted an exception. Documentation of the exception will need to be placed in the student’s academic file in Image Now.  The Program Director will then notify the Academic Counselor of the result of each exception granted.

College of Health Professions

Procedure for Admission to the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Admissions criteria for the OTD program are:

• Student holds an Occupational Therapy degree from an ACOTE accredited or WFOT approved program (Bachelor’s or Master’s).
• If licensure is available and an individual is practicing, then the perspective student must be licensed within the state/territory/country and provide proof of licensure.
  • International students should provide a letter from the licensing agency as proof of licensure.
  • U.S. Residents practicing should be in good standing with the NBCOT and the local licensing entity.
• Baccalaureate degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution with a CGPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale on all Occupational Therapy programmatic courses.
         OR
• Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution with a CGPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale on the degree earned.
  Note: Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy and a master’s degree in Health Sciences (e.g. Public Health, Nursing, Health Sciences, etc…) may qualify for placement into the advanced track.
• Submission of official transcripts from all collegiate institutions attended within 5 weeks for Campus-based students and 10 weeks for students in Online programs of the class start date. 
• Minimum of two years of experience as an Occupational Therapist.
• Completion of application for admission.
• Three recommendations using the OTD Recommendation for Admission Form. Two recommendations must be from an Occupational Therapist.
• Submission of a typed essay, not to exceed 750 words (Refer to the OTD Student Essay form.)
• Interview with the Program Director or designee.

College of Nursing and Public Health

Procedure for Admission to the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states. Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

The criteria used to determine admission to the Doctor of Nursing Practice program include:

• Completion of an application for admission.
• Completion of a master’s degree in nursing (MSN) from an accredited program.
• A cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• Submission of official documentation of the actual number of verified clinical hours completed during the post-baccalaureate program of study within 10 weeks after the initial start date. This requirement may come in the form of the credentialing documents used to verify the hours for certification examination or a statement from the graduate degree-granting institution verifying the actual number of hours completed during the master’s program.
• Submission of official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended within 5 weeks for Campus-based students and 10 weeks for students in Online programs after the initial start date. 
• A valid unencumbered single-state and/or a valid unencumbered Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) multistate license as a registered nurse in all U.S. states or territory in which the student is licensed, including the state in which the student completes all assignments for the program. (Note that military, federal, and foreign educated nurses must meet this state requirement for nursing licensure). An unencumbered license(s) must be maintained throughout the program.
• Submission of a minimum paper-based TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 600 or the electronic-based score of 250 for applicants for whom English is a Second Language (ESL).

Once all required admissions documents and information are submitted, the application will be reviewed and evaluated for an admission decision.

School of Pharmacy

Procedure for Admission to the Doctor of Pharmacy Program

South University School of Pharmacy will accept only applications that are submitted through PharmCAS at: www.pharmcas.org.

Admission Cycle

Students are accepted into the Doctor of Pharmacy degree program once each June.

General Admission

For optimum consideration during an admissions cycle, prospective students are encouraged to submit a completed application to PharmCAS as early as possible. Direct applications to South University will not be processed.  Admission to the program is competitive and will be granted on a rolling basis for applications postmarked no later than March 1 of each year.

Admission Criteria

Consideration for admission will be based on the applicant’s potential for academic and professional achievement and an assessment of written and verbal communication skills, critical thinking skills, integrity, dedication, motivation, character and maturity. To be considered for admission to the Doctor of Pharmacy degree program a prospective student must:

1. Complete or be in the process of completing a minimum of two years of pre-pharmacy course requirements (60 semester hours) at an acceptable accredited collegiate institution. The student must earn a grade of C (2.0) or better in each prerequisite course. All pre-pharmacy coursework presented in the table below must be completed before matriculation to Doctor of Pharmacy degree program on or before May 25th of the program entrance year.

Pre-pharmacy Requirements*

English Composition/English Literature
3 sem. hrs. (1 sem. or 4.5-qtr. hrs.)

Arts & Humanities/Social & Behavioral Sciences
12 sem. hrs. (4 sem. or 18 qtr. hrs.)

Biology I^c
4 sem. hrs. (1 sem. or 6 qtr. hrs.)

General Chemistry I^c
4 sem. hrs. (1 sem. or 6 qtr. hrs.)

General Chemistry II^c
4 sem. hrs. (1 sem. or 6 qtr. hrs.)

Organic Chemistry I^c
4 sem. hrs. (1 sem. or 6 qtr. hrs.)

Organic Chemistry II^c
4 sem. hrs. (1 sem. or 6 qtr. hrs.)

Human Anatomy/Physiology I^{e, f}
3 sem hrs. (1 sem or 4.5 qtr. hrs.)

Human Anatomy/Physiology II^{e, f}
3 sem hrs. (1 sem or 4.5 qtr. hrs.)

College Algebra or higher^d
3 sem. hrs. (1 sem. or 5 qtr. hrs.)

Other Math and Science Courses^e
16 sem. hrs. (5 sem. or 24 qtr. hrs.)

a. Recommended courses in these disciplines include psychology, sociology, anthropology, philosophy, history, literature, art, music, theater, drama, business, education, government, and foreign languages.

b. General Biology II, Botany, Zoology, or similar health-foundational biology are also acceptable. These courses must include a laboratory. Applicants with an undergraduate degree or higher in biological science are exempted from Biology I and II pre-requisite requirements.

c. These courses must include laboratory. Applicants with an undergraduate degree or higher in Chemistry are exempted from Chemistry I and II pre-requisite requirements.

d. Caculus preferred.

e. Preferred courses: Microbiology, Statistic, Genetics, Cell Biology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or Physics.

Notes:

It is recommended that the student take two science courses and at least five courses (a minimum of 17 semester hours of credit) each semester to ensure appropriate preparation for the academic challenge of the School of Pharmacy.

Course substitutions may be considered at the discretion of the Assistant Dean for Admissions of the School of Pharmacy. 

2. Earn a recommended cumulative grade point average of 2.80 (minimum 2.50) on a 4.0 scale. (A science GPA of 3.0 or better is recommended.)
3. Submit a completed Pharmacy application through www.pharmcas.org. Applications mailed directly to South University will not be accepted.
4. Submit a minimum of two letters of recommendation directly to PharmCas; however, three letters are preferred.
5. Demonstrate the oral and written communication skills required to interact with patients and professional colleagues, and expected of a professional doctoral level student.
6. Complete the South University School of Pharmacy’s on campus personal interview with members of the Faculty and the Admissions Committee (by invitation only).
7. Provide directly to PharmCAS all transcripts. Transcripts for all college coursework must be submitted since academic performance for all college coursework undertaken by the student will be evaluated.
8. Applicants for whom English is a Second Language must submit to Pharm CAS a minimum paper-based TOEFL score of 550 or the electronic-based score of 79-80 to be considered for the program or completes (with a passing grade in all courses) a minimum of two (2) academic terms at a regionally or nationally accredited U.S. post-secondary institution in which instruction is delivered primarily in English.
9. International students with a current F1 Visa are eligible to apply for admission. It is preferred to have completed 30 semester hours at a regionally accredited college/university in the United States. Required pre-requisite Course work completed at international (non-US) institutions is accepted if it meets the admission requirements. Applicants who have attended international institutions must order a foreign transcript evaluation from World Education Services (WES) through the PharmCAS application. The evaluation report must include institution information, course tile, credit hours, and grades. Credit will be given only for applicable courses that can be used to fulfill prerequisites, and they may be required to completed additional courses prior to enrollment in order to fulfill any remaining prerequisites.

Exceptions to the Minimum CGPA

Applicants with CGPAs lower than the stated program minimum may be considered for admission with significant evidence of academic and professional potential demonstrated by the career and/or personal accomplishments indicated in the career résumé (including a personal statement of academic and professional goals), and academic or professional letters of recommendation. Exceptions must be recommended by the School of Pharmacy Assistant Dean for Admissions, Chair of the Admissions Committee, or School Dean.

Technical Standards for Doctor of Pharmacy Degree Program Admission

The educational mission of the South University School of Pharmacy is to prepare pharmacists for life-long learning in the practice of collaborative patient-centered care, and promote excellence in teaching, scholarship and service. Students admitted to the Doctor of Pharmacy degree program must also meet the technical standards for admissions. These technical standards outline the essential functions that candidates for the Doctor of Pharmacy degree must be able to perform. These essential functions reside in the following categories: Observation, Communication, Sensory/Motor, Intellectual, and Behavior/Social. However, it is recognized that degrees of ability vary among individuals. The South University School of Pharmacy is committed to supporting its students by any reasonable means to complete the course of study leading to the Doctor of Pharmacy degree.

• Observation: A candidate must be able to observe demonstrations and experiments in the basic sciences, including, but not limited to, physiological and pharmacological demonstrations in animals, evaluation of microbiological cultures, and microscopic studies of microorganisms and tissues in normal and pathological states. A candidate must be able to observe a patient accurately at a distance and close at hand. In detail, observation necessitates the functional use of the sense of vision and other sensory modalities.
• Communication: A candidate must be able to communicate effectively and sensitively with patients. The focus of this communication is to elicit information, describe changes in mood, activity and posture, and perceive nonverbal communication. Communication includes speech, reading, writing, and computer literacy. A candidate must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently in oral and written forms with all members of the healthcare team in a timely manner.
• Sensory/Motor: A candidate must have sufficient motor function to elicit information from patients by physically touching patients, e.g. assessing range of motion of a joint, taking blood pressure readings, taking a pulse reading. A candidate must be able to execute motor movements to provide general care and emergency treatments to patients, e.g. first aid treatments, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). A candidate must be able to execute motor movements required in the compounding of medications inclusive of using techniques for preparing sterile solutions, e.g., parenteral or ophthalmic solutions. Such actions require coordination of both gross and fine muscular movements, equilibrium, and functional use of the senses of touch and vision.
• Intellectual (Conceptual, Integrative, and Quantitative Abilities): A candidate must have the ability to measure, calculate, reason, and analyze. A candidate must be able to synthesize and apply complex information in a timely manner. A candidate must be fully alert and attentive at all times in clinical settings.
• Behavioral/Social Attributes: A candidate must possess the emotional health required for full utilization of his or her intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment, and the prompt completion of all responsibilities attendant to the interaction with patients. A candidate must possess the ability to develop mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with patients. A candidate must be able to tolerate physically taxing workloads and to function effectively under stress. A candidate must be able to adapt to changing environments, to display flexibility and learn to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in the clinical problems of many patients. A candidate must possess compassion, integrity, interpersonal skills, and motivation to excel in pharmacy practice.

Requirements for Matriculation Applicants who have been accepted into the Doctor of Pharmacy program must fulfill the following before they can officially enter the program:

• Remit the $500 acceptance fee by the date designated in the acceptance agreement. The entire acceptance fee is credited to the first quarter’s tuition.
• Submit a college transcript after each term completed following acceptance.
• Submit self-certification of high school graduation or GED completion.
• Submit proof of immunization or for immunity to Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR), Varicella (Chickenpox), Tetanus/Diphtheria, and Hepatitis B. In addition, students must complete the annual Tuberculin Test (PPD). An Immunization Clearance Form provided as part of the acceptance package must be completed and returned along with other immunization documentation.
• Present a Basic Adult Life Support certificate.
• Submit proof of medical insurance coverage.
• Satisfactorily complete a Background check.
• Complete additional coursework if required by the Admissions Committee and submit additional documents as requested by the Office of Admissions.

Failure to comply with these requirements may result in forfeiture of your acceptance.

Laptop Computer Requirement

Laptop computers are required for use in the multimedia classroom. All students are required to have a laptop computer with Internet access and CD Rom which meets university specifications. Purchase of a new laptop is not recommended until just before matriculation into the program so that performance vs. cost can be optimized. Students may buy any laptop that meets the minimum computer specifications which are set by the school in the spring of each year.

General Policies for Admissions

Criminal History, Charges and Background Checks

Acceptance into a South University program or its completion does not imply or guarantee that a student will be able to obtain licensure, certification, or employment.  Students wishing to enter a program in the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business, College of Health Professions, the College of Nursing and Public Health, or the School of Pharmacy should be aware that a prior felony conviction may restrict an individual’s ability to obtain professional licensure, certification, or employment.

In the event a student has an undisclosed criminal history or active charge prior to adjudication on a background check, the ability to matriculate, progress and complete a degree program and/or to become licensed, if applicable, may be impacted.  Active or prior criminal charges/convictions may impact the student’s ability to participate in required educational experiences and/or future eligibility for professional licensure necessitating voluntary withdrawal or administrative dismissal from the program. 

The University is not able to guarantee the eligibility for licensure or employment in the field of any student/graduate with (or without) any criminal history of pending charges.  Students must disclose, in writing, any criminal history and active/pending charges at the time of application, and must disclose any new charges to the relevant program director, immediately, for consideration.

Applicants and students should see the Program Director (or designee) for additional information.

Comprehensive Background Check - College of Health Professions

Protection of vulnerable patient populations is important to the South University College of Health Professions and its academic programs, faculty, and students and to clinical affiliation sites where students complete clinical requirements for completion of an academic program. Many clinical sites require criminal background checks for employees and students who provide patient care. As clinical placements are a mandatory component of South University College of Health Professions Programs, a positive criminal history impairs the ability of students to be placed in clinical externships required for completion of the program.

The South University College of Health Profession will deny admission and/or continuation to any student and/or applicant with a felony conviction, plea, or adjudication withheld, or any disqualifying misdemeanor for which a pardon or exemption for disqualification has not been received, including but not limited to rape or sexual abuse or molestation, and abuse, endangerment, or neglect of a child, disabled person, or elderly person.

Students who are considering applying to programs within the College of Health Professions are advised to review the admission and enrollment requirements for background checks listed in the academic catalog and program specific handbook.

Students applying to programs within the College of Health Professions will be subject to a background check that may include, but is not limited to:

1. Social Security Number Verification;
2. Criminal Search;
3. Violent Sex Offender and Predator Registry Search;
4. HHS/OIG List of Excluded Individuals;
5. GSA List of Parties Excluded from Federal Programs;
6. U.S. Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), List of Specially Designated Nationals (SDN); and
7. Applicable State Exclusion List, if available

Note: Some clinical agencies may require additional background check requirements.

Obtaining a Background Check Report

Programs within the College of Health Professions will designate an approved company to conduct the background checks and issue reports. Results from a company other than those designated will not be accepted. Results must be received by the program from the approved company and may not be hand delivered by the student to the institution. Students and/or applicants must contact the designated company and comply with its instructions in authorizing and obtaining a background check. Students and/or applicants are responsible for payment of any fees charged by a designated company to provide the background check service.

Rights

Students and applicants who have received an offer of admission have the right to review the information reported by the designated company for accuracy and completeness and to request that the designated company verify that the background information provided is correct. Prior to making a final determination that would adversely affect the applicant or student, the Program Director within the College of Health Professions will provide applicants or students information regarding access to the background check report issued by the designated company. Additionally, the Program Director will inform the student and/or applicant of his/her rights, how to contact the designated company to challenge the accuracy of the report, and that the designated company is not involved in any decisions made by the College of Health Professions.

Current Students

• Students may be required to complete an initial or additional background check prior to the start of an assignment at a healthcare facility as required by the program or the facility. Background check reports will be submitted to the program for review.

Confidentiality and Record Keeping

• Background check reports and other submitted information are confidential and may only be reviewed by university officials and affiliated clinical facilities in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
• Students: Background check reports and other submitted information of students will be maintained in a separate file from the student record in accordance with the university’s record retention policy for student records.
• Applicants Denied Matriculation: Background check reports and other submitted information of applicants denied matriculation into the program will be maintained in accordance with the university’s record retention policy.

Other Provisions

• A student who has a break in enrollment will be required to complete a new background check. A break in enrollment is defined as non-enrollment of at least one quarter in the approved curriculum of the degree program.
• Falsification of information, including omission of relevant information, may result in denial of admission or dismissal from the educational program.
• Students are responsible for notifying the Program Director if the student is charged or convicted of any misdemeanor or felony while enrolled in any portion of the program. Criminal activity that occurs while a student is in attendance at the university may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal, and will be addressed through the university’s academic or disciplinary policies. Failure to notify the program is grounds for dismissal from the program.

Comprehensive Background Check - College of Nursing and Public Health

Nurses are entrusted with the health, safety and welfare of patients. The nursing curriculum contains a didactic and clinical component. Clinical facilities where student nurses practice are required by accreditation agencies to obtain background checks for security purposes on individuals that have direct patient contact. A criminal/background check is required to place students in clinical environments. Students are responsible for the cost of the criminal background check.

All students applying for the South University nursing program are required to obtain a Level 1 and Level 2 criminal background investigation.  Students starting in a didactic course are required to have the background investigation completed prior to completion of the first quarter of enrollment. Students starting in a clinical course are required to have the background investigation completed prior to the end of the drop/add period of the first quarter of enrollment. A student who does not adhere to this requirement will be unregistered from all courses. Note: pre-licensure students and Virginia students must have background checks completed prior to starting nursing classes.

Based on the deadlines above, the student’s background results must be clear (no criminal convictions or pending charges). A student whose investigation shows a felony conviction or findings/misdemeanors that constitute a significant breach of moral or ethical conduct will be withdrawn from consideration or if accepted must cancel their enrollment with the nursing program, and will not be allowed to reapply. Findings of non-traffic criminal convictions may require additional screening. Students will be notified by the Program Director or Clinical Coordinator of criminal convictions that require information and follow up. The student will be given 5 business days to provide additional documentation. After 5 business days, if no documentation is provided or if documentation is insufficient, the student will be unregistered from all courses and the enrollment will be cancelled.

Students must notify the Program Director or Clinical Coordinator, in writing within 5 business days, of any non-traffic criminal convictions that occur during the nursing program of study.

Annual updates will be required during the program of study. A felony conviction and/or behaviors/misdemeanor conviction that constitute a significant breach of moral or ethical standards will result in immediate dismissal from the nursing program.

A student whose background check contains non-traffic criminal convictions will be notified by the Program Director or Clinical Coordinator for follow up. The student will be given 5 business days to provide additional documentation. After 5 business days, if no documentation is provided or if documentation is insufficient, the student will be dismissed from the program.

Students who don’t complete their annual update will not be allowed to register for the next quarter. Students who fail to provide their annual update after two quarters will be dismissed from the program.  A student who wishes to return to the Nursing Program must complete the annual update and  follow the Reinstatement Policy in the South University Catalog. There is no guarantee of reinstatement. 

Acceptance into a South University educational program, or its completion, does not imply or guarantee that a student will be able to obtain licensure or certification.

The Nursing Program Director may be required to submit written documentation regarding the student status to boards of nursing and clinical agencies as early as receipt of the student’s CON application. Students may be required to obtain additional background checks as requested by clinical agencies or boards of nursing.

College of Health Professions Substance Abuse and Screening Policy

Substance Abuse Policy

Drug and alcohol disorders can be detrimental to one’s overall physical and emotional health, as well as academic and professional performance. The College of Health Professions has adopted the following policy and procedures related to student drug and alcohol testing and students suspected of impairment due to drugs or alcohol.

Drug and Alcohol Screening

Students must consent to drug and alcohol testing as dictated by individual program policies. Testing may occur before and during student enrollment in health profession programs. A student who has a break in enrollment will be required to pass a new drug test prior to re-enrollment. A break in enrollment is defined as non-enrollment of at least one quarter in the approved curriculum of the degree program. An outside facility conducts testing, and the cost of testing is the student’s sole responsibility.

College of Health Profession Rules Related To Alcohol and Drugs

1. Due to the nature of the practice of health professions programs, the College of Health Professions maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any violation outlined in this policy. Students who violate this policy are subject to immediate dismissal. Applicants who violate this policy are ineligible for program matriculation.
2. When students are engaged in any clinical/fieldwork activity while enrolled in a South University Health Professions program, they are prohibited from:

• Using, possessing, buying, selling, manufacturing or transferring any Schedule I or illicit unscheduled drugs or Schedule II-V drugs not lawfully prescribed for and obtained by the individual;
• Possessing drug paraphernalia or secondary devices for processing, manipulating or utilizing illicit substances (any suspected illegal/illicit drugs or drug paraphernalia will be confiscated and turned over to an appropriate law enforcement agency which may result in criminal prosecution).
• Having the presence of any detectable level of alcohol (≥ 0.01 g/dL), illicit drug, or controlled substance in a student’s system while engaged in any clinical/fieldwork activity.
• Common examples of  substances prohibited by the College of Health Professions include: any alcohol, drugs, or other substances whether ingested, inhaled, injected subcutaneously, or otherwise that have known mind-altering or function-altering effects upon the human body or that impair one’s ability to safely perform their work, including, but not limited to: prescription drugs; over-the-counter medications; alcohol; drugs and other substances made illegal under federal or state law; “synthetic or designer” drugs; illegal inhalants; “look-alike” drugs; amphetamines, cannabinoids (marijuana and hashish), cocaine, phencyclinidine (PCP), and opiates; and any drugs or other substances referenced in Schedule I through V of the Controlled Substances Act (Title 21 United States Code (USC).
• Although some states permit adults to possess and consume marijuana under certain circumstances, the possession, use, or distribution of marijuana, (including for medical purposes) is not permitted when engaged in a South University activity. Students should be aware that use of any product resulting in a positive drug screen for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis including marijuana) is a violation of the College of Health Professions Substance Abuse and Screening policy. 

3. South University reserves the right to take appropriate disciplinary action, including permanent programmatic dismissal, for alleged crimes involving the usage/sale/distribution of illicit or controlled substances at any time during a student’s matriculation in the program. Any student who is arrested, convicted, pleads guilty, or is sentenced for a crime involving an illegal drug or controlled substance is required to report the arrest, conviction, plea or sentence to the appropriate program representative (e.g., Program Director) within five calendar days. Failure to report any arrest, conviction, plea, or sentence will be grounds for immediate and permanent dismissal from the program.
4. In addition to the South University Code of Conduct expectations outlined in the campus student handbook, the College of Health Professions does not allow any student to perform any functions pertaining to the clinical/fieldwork experience while under the influence of alcohol or drugs or while taking over-the-counter or prescribed medication(s) that may impair the student’s ability to safely and effectively perform required duties/functions. If a student believes his/her ability to safely and effectively perform required functions is impaired for any reason, the student must immediately contact the appropriate administrator (e.g., Dean of Student Affairs, Program Director, Clinical/Fieldwork Coordinator).
5. If a student acknowledges that an alcohol or substance abuse problem exists, that student may self-report to the appropriate administrator (e.g., Dean of Student Affairs, Program Director, Clinical/Fieldwork Coordinator). When self-reporting occurs in advance of any reportable or actionable incident or event related to student impairment, the student will be offered referrals to substance abuse counseling or treatment. Students who self-report may be eligible for withdrawal from the university, and readmission will be determined by individual programmatic policy.

Mandatory Testing

Students will undergo drug screening as determined by the College of Health Professions. Timing of testing may be before admission, before clinical placements, or any time during enrollment in the program as outlined in each program’s specific policy. Drug testing will be conducted by an approved testing agency selected by programs within the College of Health Professions; such testing shall be paid for by the student. Results of testing must be transmitted directly from the selected screening agency to the program; no hand-delivered results from students will be accepted. A student with a positive drug test as determined by a qualified drug testing agency will be referred to the appropriate administrator and is subject to dismissal from the program.

Students who are taking over-the-counter or prescribed medication are responsible for being aware of the effect the medication may have on their performance or personal behavior and are to report the medication(s) to the testing facility in the case of a positive drug test result.

Additional drug tests may be required by specific academic programs or clinical sites per program requirements and clinical agreements. Students are responsible for all drug testing expenses.

Drug or Alcohol Testing (with cause)

In addition to any initial drug testing requirement, the College of Health Professions, with reasonable suspicion or at the recommendation of any clinical site, may require any student who is suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol to undergo an immediate (within one (1) hour) mandatory drug screening. Students are prohibited from reporting to the clinical facility while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A student in violation of the policy will be subject to immediate removal from the clinical facility and dismissal from the program. Results of testing must be transmitted directly from the selected screening agency and the program; no hand-delivered results from students will be accepted.

Testing Procedures

1. In the event of reasonable suspicion or at the recommendation of any clinical site personnel, the following actions will be taken:
   1. The student will be removed from the patient care area and the Program Director/Clinical Coordinator will be notified for further direction.
   2. An academic or clinical faculty member will facilitate the student’s communication with a transportation service or emergency contact to arrange transport to an off-site testing facility (as required). The student is not to transport himself/herself.
   3. Medical assessment, treatment, and transportation will be at the student’s expense.
   4. If the student’s behavior is threatening or belligerent, the instructor or clinical site supervisor may notify law enforcement to have the student escorted from the premises.
2. Students are required to contact the program before undergoing a drug test to ensure the correct testing service and panel is conducted.
3. Positive drug tests will be evaluated by an independent Medical Review Officer (MRO) designated by the drug testing agency selected by the program.
4. A positive drug test for illicit substances may qualify for a confirmatory follow-up test as recommended by the testing facility or MRO. If a student is taking prescribed medications for which a positive drug test may result, the student is responsible for reporting the prescription and dosage to the drug testing service.
5. Attendance at clinical sites will be denied to students who refuse or fail to provide a sample for a drug test or who have an unsatisfactory test result.

Due Process and Confidentiality

Due Process

Students who are dismissed have the right to due process according to program and University policies.

Confidentiality

Information and records relating to positive test results, drug and alcohol dependencies, and legitimate medical explanations provided to the Medical Review Officer (MRO) shall be kept confidential to the extent required by law and maintained in a separate location from student academic files. Such records and information may be disclosed to South University administration, clinical placement sites, and Dean of Student Affairs on a need-to-know basis and may also be disclosed when relevant to a grievance, charge, claim, or other legal proceeding initiated by or on behalf of a student. Students have the right to review the drug testing results.

College of Nursing and Public Health (CONPH) Substance Abuse and Screening Policy

Drug Screening

Students must consent to drug and alcohol testing as identified by their program. Students may be asked to complete a drug screen prior to enrollment, annually, and at any time during enrollment in their program. Testing is conducted by an outside testing facility and the cost of any testing is the student’s sole responsibility.

A test to measure a student’s blood alcohol level may be administered at any time while participating in any programmatic activity. Any positive blood alcohol level measured while participating in any programmatic activity will be grounds for dismissal from the program.

If a student has a positive / invalid test for a non-prescribed or illicit drug as determined by a qualified drug testing service, the student will be denied admission, dismissed from the respective program, and/or ineligible to reapply for the program.  Due to the nature of the practice of health professions programs, the CONPH maintains a zero tolerance policy for illegal use of controlled substances, illicit drugs of any kind, and substances that impair academic and/or clinical performance.

 South University Rules Related to Alcohol and Drugs

Students must notify the Program Director or Clinical/ Practicum Coordinator, in writing within 5 business days, of any monitoring or reporting obligations for substance abuse that apply at the time of admission or during the program of study.

1. When students are in engaged in any form of patient care or engaged in any activities associated with their South University CONPH program, they are prohibited from:
   1. Using, possessing, buying, selling, manufacturing or transferring any Schedule I or illicit unscheduled drugs or Schedule II-V drugs not lawfully prescribed for and obtained by the individual;
   2. Possessing drug paraphernalia or secondary devices for processing, manipulating or utilizing illicit substances (any suspected illegal/illicit drugs and/or drug paraphernalia will be confiscated and turned over to an appropriate law enforcement agency which may result in criminal prosecution);
   3. Being under the influence of alcohol or any other substance that may impair judgment or cognitive function.
2. The presence of any detectable level of alcohol (≥ 0.01 g/dL), illicit or illegal controlled substance in a student’s system while attending classes, on clinical rotations, while engaged in any form of patient care, while engaged in any programmatic activities or otherwise representing their program is prohibited.  Any violation of rules related to alcohol and drugs may result in permanent dismissal from the program.
3. South University reserves the right to take appropriate disciplinary action for alleged crimes involving the usage/sale/distribution of controlled substances at any time during a student’s matriculation in the program, including programmatic dismissal. Any student that is arrested, convicted, pleads guilty, or is sentenced for a crime involving an illegal drug is required to report the arrest, conviction, plea or sentence to the appropriate program representative (e.g., Program Director, College Dean, or Assistant/Associate Dean) within five calendar days. Conviction or failure to report any arrest, conviction, plea or sentence will be grounds for immediate dismissal from the program, denied admission from the program, and/or the inability to reapply for the program.
4. South University and the CONPH will not allow any student to perform patient care functions  [or any functions pertaining to the laboratory, clinical, practicum and/or fieldwork experience]  while taking prescribed medication(s) that adversely affect the student’s ability to safely and effectively perform required duties/functions. If a student believes his/her prescribed medication(s) impair the ability to safely and effectively perform required functions, the student must immediately contact the appropriate program administrator (e.g., Program Director, College Dean, Assistant/Associate Dean, or his/her designee).
   
   If a student acknowledges that a substance abuse problem exists, that student may self-report to the appropriate program administrator (e.g., Program Director, College Dean, or Assistant/Associate Dean, Clinical/Practicum Coordinator). When self-reporting occurs in advance of any reportable or actionable incident or event related to his/her impairment, the student will be removed from current courses.

The student is directly responsible for any cost associated with counseling or treatment. The student may request a medical leave of absence from the program for any required treatment and must provide proof of completion and the appropriate medical clearances to return to the program. Reentry into the program is based on space availability.

 Licensed students may be reported to appropriate Board of Nursing substance monitoring program, based on state mandatory reporting requirement

Collection and Testing Procedures

Reasonable Suspicion: Students are subject to testing based upon (but not limited to):

1. Observations by students, faculty, staff, preceptors, or others, of apparent use, possession or impairment; or
2. Other circumstances giving rise to reasonable suspicion of prohibited conduct or impairment. The College Dean, Assistant/Associate Dean and/or Program Director will be consulted before sending a student for testing and such testing will be conducted as permitted by state law.
3. Any student referred for testing or further evaluation will report to the testing facility within the timeframe identified by the program director or designee.
   1. NOTE: This time may be adjusted by the College Dean, Assistant/Associate Dean, or Program Director (e.g., based on distance from a testing facility). Refusal of testing or failure to report in the specified time will result in immediate dismissal from the program. Under no circumstances will any student suspected of impairment be allowed to drive to the testing facility. The student must give the contact information for a responsible adult to provide transportation.
4. The student must follow the policy of the specimen collection agency/facility. Collected specimens shall be sent to a certified laboratory and tested for evidence of controlled substances and alcohol. The laboratory shall not test for pregnancy, hepatitis, HIV or other conditions not associated with illegal drug use or prohibited alcohol consumption.  The laboratory shall screen all specimens and confirm all positive / invalid screens.  The chain of custody must be documented from the time specimens are collected through testing and storage.
5. The laboratory shall transmit all positive / invalid drug test results to a Medical Review Officer (“MRO”) who shall offer persons with positive / invalid results a reasonable opportunity to rebut or provide a legitimate medical explanation for the positive / invalid results.  In no event shall a positive / invalid test result be communicated to South University until such time that the MRO has confirmed the test to be positive / invalid. 
6. No laboratory results from any source other than the laboratory where the student was sent by South University and reviewed by the MRO will be accepted.

Confidentiality

Information and records relating to positive / invalid test results, drug and alcohol dependencies and legitimate medical explanations provided to the MRO shall be kept confidential to the extent required by law and maintained in secure files separate from normal student files. Such records and information may be disclosed to the Program Director, College Dean, or Assistant/Associate Dean on a need-to-know basis and may also be disclosed when relevant to a grievance, charge, claim or other legal proceeding initiated by or on behalf of a student.

International Student Admissions Policy

All international students must meet the same admissions standards as all other students when seeking to enroll in South University (Please refer to the General Admissions Requirements.) Those international students applying to SEVP-certified schools and requiring the school’s sponsorship for international student visa status (Form I-20) must meet the additional requirements listed below.

South University requires nonimmigrant students present in Visa Waiver, B-1, and B-2 status to change visa to F-1 or other qualifying status prior to enrolling in programs of study (other than avocational or recreational courses). Students in F-2 or M-2 status may enroll on a part-time basis where available.  Please note that some programs may not be eligible for international students requiring Form I-20 sponsorship. Please ask to speak with South University’s International Admissions Representative for more detail.

Admissions Requirements for Students Requiring Form I-20 Sponsorship

International students requiring South University’s Form I-20 must submit the following items in addition to the standard documents required for admission:

• Original or official copies of all educational transcripts and diplomas (secondary and post-secondary if applicable)
• English language translation(s) of education transcripts and diplomas, if applicable
• Official credential evaluation of non-U.S. transcripts and diplomas required for admission. NOTE: evaluations must be prepared by a National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or Association of International Credential Evaluators (AICE)-member organization
• Proof of English Language Proficiency (see English Language Proficiency Policy)
• Proof of financial responsibility to cover costs of tuition and fees and living expenses (and dependent costs if applicable) for at least one academic year (official bank statements, Sponsor’s Statement of Support, if required)
• Photocopy of student’s “bio-info” page of passport to provide proof of birth date and citizenship
• For all non-immigrant applicants residing in the United States, provide a copy of passport visa page and Entry Record or Form I-94 card
• For all non-immigrant applicants currently in F, M, or J status, provide a copy of all Forms I-20 or Forms DS-2019
• Transfer Clearance Form for students currently in F, M, or J status at another institution

All international applicants to South University, Atlanta and South University, High Point must meet the same admissions standards as all other students. South University, Atlanta and South University, High Point are not currently authorized to sponsor international student (F-1) visas. Other qualifying nonimmigrant (temporary) visa status may enroll.

Important International Student Disclosure - International students attending South University locations under F-1 visas (Form I-20) are required to maintain a “full course of study” during each academic term of their programs of study. For undergraduate (non-degree, Diploma, Associates, and Bachelors-level programs) students, this is defined as a minimum of 12 credits per academic term. Graduate programs will vary by program of study. Not more than 1 online course or 3 online credits per academic term may be counted toward meeting the “full course of study” requirement. Speak with an admissions representative for more information.  Program and course offerings are subject to change and international students may be required to take additional courses to meet the full course of study requirement. International students should work closely with the International Student Advisor to verify all requirements of their visas statuses are met. THIS SCHOOL IS AUTHORIZED UNDER FEDERAL LAW TO ENROLL NONIMMIGRANT ALIEN STUDENTS.

English Language Proficiency

As the lectures, seminars, materials, and discourse which comprise programs of study at South University are presented in English, South University requires that all students possess and demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency required to substantially benefit from the programs offered.

A student is deemed proficient in the English language if the student presents proof of the following:

• Holds a U.S. high school diploma or U.S. General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or international high school diploma, e.g., U.S. military base, business/diplomat expat community, etc., in which instruction is delivered primarily in English
• Holds the equivalent (evidenced by credential evaluation) of a U.S. high school diploma from overseas institution in which instruction is delivered primarily in English
• Completes (with passing grades in all courses) a minimum of two (2) academic terms at a regionally or nationally accredited U.S. post-secondary institution in which instruction is delivered primarily in English
• Completes (with passing grades in all courses) English 101 and 102 at a regionally or nationally accredited U.S. post-secondary institution in which instruction is delivered primarily in English
• Presents acceptable English Language Proficiency test scores meeting the minimum required levels set forth below.

Equivalent/Alternative English Language Programs/Test+

*The scale for The Prueba Aptitud Academica has changed and now closely reflects the SAT.
**As of April 2005, the SAT verbal test is replaced with the SAT critical reading test.
±The University will evaluate other tests and programs on an individual basis to determine eligibility for English Language Proficiency.
 

Undergraduate (diploma, associate and bachelor level) applicants may also satisfy the minimum standard of English language proficiency by submitting official documentation of one of the following:

• Successful completion of a minimum of two semesters or quarters of post-secondary course work at a regionally accredited college or university or a college or university accredited by an approved national accrediting body in which English is the language of instruction. Successful completion is defined as passing all courses for which the student was registered during the two semesters;
• U.S. High School Diploma or GED administered in English;
• Equivalent of a U.S. High School Diploma from a country in which English is the official language (equivalency must be verified by a recognized evaluator of international credits);
• Satisfactory completion of English 101 or 102 at an English speaking college or university within the U.S., achieving a grade of “C” or higher.
   

Please contact an International Student Admissions Representative for questions about acceptable alternative measures of English Language Proficiency.

Re-entry/Readmission of Former Students

Students seeking readmission after an absence of one year or longer, may be readmitted without retesting for admission, but must apply for readmission. If they were enrolled at other colleges during their absence, transcripts of coursework taken must be sent to South University. A candidate for readmission must either demonstrate that they already meet the entrance test requirement for admission in effect at the time of readmission or retest to achieve that minimum entrance score.

Students seeking re-entry after an absence of less than a year may resume their previous program curriculum, or if a curriculum change has occurred since their original start date, they may opt to move to the new program curriculum. Students seeking readmission after an absence of one year or longer must enroll in the new program curriculum. Requests for exceptions to the program enrollment requirement may be submitted to the Campus Director & Dean of Academic Affairs and Operations for campus programs or Program Director or designee for online programs.

GPA Calculation for Admissions

The grade point average (GPA) is determined by dividing the total number of quality points, calculated by multiplying the numeric equivalents of course grades (e.g., A=4.0, , B=3.0, C=2.0, D=1.0, F=0.0) by the number of credit hours assigned to each course (e.g., 4 credit hours x 4.0), by the total number of credit hours attempted. South University will calculate the GPA based on the transcript key from the granting institution. In the absence of a transcript key South University will use the GPA calculator provided by College Board.  (A=4.0, A-= 3.7, B+ = 3.3, B=3.0, B-=2.7, C+=2.3, C=2.0, C-=1.7, D+=1.3, D=1.0, D-= .7, F=0.0).

For students admitted to South University with earned degrees, the CGPA on the degree earned is used. If an institution provides both an Institutional CGPA and CGPA, the Institutional CGPA will be used.

For calculations on the last 60 semester/90 quarter hours, transcripts will be evaluated in reverse chronological order from newest to oldest credit earned.  All grades, except Pass (P) or Satisfactory (S), will be used in the GPA calculation. All failing grades will be included in the calculation, even if the course was retaken.  In the event that the last course to be included in the calculation is not the last course in a term, then all courses in that term will be included in the calculation.

Pluses (+) and minuses (-) will be used in the calculation of the GPA

Each program determines the ability to include courses earned after an awarded degree that may or may not be used in the calculation of the GPA for admission. Please see the program specific admissions requirements for further information.

Acceptable Accredited Collegiate Institution

South University requires that prior coursework taken by transfer students or transfer credit requested for review be taken at an acceptable accredited collegiate institution. An acceptable accredited collegiate institution possesses either regional or national accreditation granted by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Individual programs within South University may define additional criteria for acceptable accreditation to meet the requirements of specific programmatic accreditation.

Personal Enrichment Enrollment

Enrollment in selected subjects for personal enrichment is available under certain circumstances. Students attempting to enroll under these circumstances are classified as special subject students and are not eligible for Title IV financial aid. This status allows a student to enroll in one class per quarter for no more than three quarters without following the standard admission procedures or meeting standard admission requirements. Individuals participating in a specifically contracted workshop, seminar, or course that is not part of the pursuit of a degree are not required to meet any admissions requirements. Status as a special subject student is not available to students receiving military education benefits.

Students who wish to enroll for personal enrichment in courses in the Master of Public Health (MPH) program are limited to a total of two courses (8 credits) from the following list: PHE5001, PHE5005, PHE5010 and PHE5015.  Priority for enrollment in any of these MPH courses is given to students admitted to the program.

Students may not enroll in any nursing courses (NSG) under this Policy.