Master’s Student Handbook

The Registration Process

SP2 students register for courses through the University’s online registration system, Path@Penn(opens in a new tab). To register, students should:

1. Review the appropriate course of study and select courses for Social Policy & Practice.
2. Consult the relevant program of study or consult with their advisor to determine which courses to take.
3. Log into Path@Penn(opens in a new tab) using PennKey and password
4. Choose the Registration & Planning menu to use the Course search, mock schedule tools and to register for classes.
5. Questions: SP2 Registrar

Incoming Student Registration

In May, incoming students are sent registration instructions, including how to access the Path@Penn registration system, and the School Class Schedule outlining class times, course numbers, course titles, and course instructors.

Class sizes are limited to a specific number of students. The Path@Penn system automatically advises when the class section has been filled and the need arises for the student to register for another section of the multi-sectioned courses.

Continuing Student Advanced Registration

Students register for spring and fall courses using the university Advanced Registration system, a priority request process that takes place in March and October. Updated information is available each term on the Academic Policies & Procedures page. Students are encouraged to meet with their educational advisor before selecting classes. The class schedule, complete with names of instructors and room assignments will be available on the University’s Course Roster(opens in a new tab) and on the SP2 Schedule of Classes.

Normal Course Load

Normal course load varies among SP2 degree programs. Students should consult the program webpage for information about the normal course load for their degree program. Any deviation from normal course load must be discussed with the educational advisor to ensure that the student meets the degree requirements for the program. (Students who have been awarded tuition assistance are reminded that the number of courses taken may affect the amount of the grant or loan). Additional tuition charges will be assessed for courses above the normal course load. Contact the SP2 Registrar for information.

Auditing

Students who wish to attend the class sessions for a course without completing the assignments or taking examinations may audit the course. If approved, the student will not receive credit for the course, but it will appear on the official transcript with “aud” in the student’s degree program, including courses that are counted towards the grade column. Courses that are required for completion of the required number of CUs for the degree are not eligible for audits. To register for a course as an audit, the student should ask the SP2 Registrar for assistance.

• All SP2 courses require permission from the instructor to enroll for an audit grade.
• The student is responsible for requesting permission from the instructor and forwarding the approval to the Registrar for processing.
• Instructors are not required to grant the student’s request to take a course for an audit grade.
• Instructors may or may not require participation and course work for audit grades.
• Audit grades do NOT count towards your degree program.
• Audit grades do NOT count towards full-time status for International Students.
• A reminder that auditors will not receive credit for the course, but it will appear on their transcript with “AUD” in the grade column.
• Auditors are subject to the normal course tuition and fees.

Course Withdrawal
After the official course selection period ends (usually after the second full week of classes), students are permitted to petition for withdrawal from a course until the end of the tenth week of classes with the permission of the instructor. The course remains on the student’s academic record, however, with a mark indicating the withdrawal. The withdrawal is not considered in the computation of the grade point average. To withdraw from a course, the student should print a Course Withdrawal Request Form. After completing the form and obtaining the required signatures, the student is to return the form to the School Registrar’s office.

Students are not permitted to withdraw after the end of the tenth week except in extraordinary circumstances. In such cases, requests to withdraw must be accompanied by a Course Withdrawal Request Form and a letter explaining the extraordinary circumstance. Withdrawals after the tenth week also require the permission of the Associate Dean of Student Affairs.

Changes in registration may impact financial aid, billing, and student status. Students are encouraged to meet with their academic advisor and the SP2 Financial Aid office before requesting to withdraw from a course. The grade of W does not count towards the full-time status requirement for international students. These students should consult with their ISSS advisor before withdrawing from a course.

Partial tuition refunds for course withdrawals are available up to three weeks after the official Add/Drop period.

A student who is required to withdraw because of violation of University regulation is not eligible to receive any refund after the Add/Drop period.

Satisfactory Academic Progress

All requirements for the master’s degree must be completed within five years of the date when the student first registered for the degree. Students who have not completed the degree in five years will be withdrawn from the program and will need to reapply if they wish to continue as degree students.

Contact

Contact the SP2 Registrar for questions regarding registration processes and policies.

Structure for Facilitating Student Complaints/Concerns

The procedures for handling concern about academic advisors, classroom instruction, and other issues related to student life are outlined below.

Structure for Facilitating Student Grievances

*See table above

Students with Disabilities

The University of Pennsylvania and SP2 are committed to providing equal educational opportunities to all students, including students with disabilities. Penn does not discriminate against students with disabilities and provides reasonable accommodation to a student’s known disability in order to afford that student an equal opportunity to participate in University-sponsored programs.

All students with disabilities who seek an accommodation at Penn have the responsibility to identify themselves to the responsible University office. Within the School, the Associate Director of Student Affairs is available to advise and serve as a liaison for students with disabilities.

Students may also directly contact the University Office of Student Disabilities Services. The Office of Student Disabilities Services collaborates with the Office of Learning Resources to provide comprehensive academic support, including learning strategies that complement accommodations, academic adjustments, and the use of auxiliary aids. Realizing that the commitment to students with disabilities is a shared responsibility, the Office of Student Disabilities Services coordinates with schools, programs, and offices throughout campus to provide the best combination of services. Its professional staff is available to provide consultation to faculty and administrative staff as well as programs for specific groups on topics of interest or concern. Students with disabilities should contact the Office of Student Disabilities Services at 215-573-9235, or 215-746-6326 (TDD). The Office is located in Stouffer Commons, 3702 Spruce Street, Suite 300, Philadelphia, PA 19104.

Sexual Harassment and Discrimination

SP2 recognizes that harassment and discrimination are fundamental violations of the standard of conduct of persons associated with the School and the University. The School expects adherence to the University’s Statement on Non-Discrimination, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, or status as a Vietnam Era Veteran or disabled veteran. The following resources are available to students with concerns related to sexual harassment or discrimination:

Staff in the SP2 Office of Student Affairs are available to students for consultation, advocacy and referral to other University offices and centers.

The University’s Ombuds office(opens in a new tab) welcomes any student in the Penn community who is experiencing difficulty, conflict, or confusion in their studies, or life at the University more broadly. The Ombuds Office offers an accessible and safe place to resolve differences, explore matters of concern, get information, improve communication, or generate and evaluate options.

The University’s Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity(opens in a new tab) (OAAEO) is responsible for ensuring that Penn provides respectful work and learning environments for all members of its community. Penn’s Policy prohibiting discrimination and harassment are intended to reinforce that commitment. The staff of OAA/EOP are available to meet with students to discuss their concerns and to help identify appropriate options for addressing concerns.

Penn’s campus resource centers provide support, services and programs that help faculty, staff and students deal with issues that affect their lives at Penn.

• Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity(opens in a new tab)
• African-American Resource Center(opens in a new tab)
• Greenfield Intercultural Center(opens in a new tab)
• La Casa Latina(opens in a new tab)
• Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Center(opens in a new tab)
• Makuu(opens in a new tab)
• Pan-Asian American Community House(opens in a new tab)
• Penn Women’s Center(opens in a new tab)

The Grievance Committee

The Grievance Committee is composed of two students (to be elected by the student body) and three standing faculty (to be appointed by the Dean). A grievance committee will be formed in April of each year for the following year. The chairperson will be a faculty member who will be elected by the Committee.

Grievance Procedure

Students are expected to read the following policies and guidelines before filing a grievance. Faculty are expected to be familiar with and to review the grievance guidelines before advising a student to file a grievance.

A grievance is a claim that action has been taken by a school representative which is: (1) arbitrary and capricious; (2) discrimination on the basis of race, sex, sexual orientation, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, or status as a Vietnam Era Veteran or disabled veteran; (3) not in compliance with the School or University of Pennsylvania procedures or regulations. A student may file a grievance at any point in the program. An academic evaluation may not be the subject of a grievance.

The following steps should be included:

1. In order to facilitate the resolution of any student’s questions regarding the above, the student should first see their educational advisor. If the question is not resolved through the educational advisor and/or the Associate Dean of Student Affairs, the student may request that the grievance be reviewed by the Grievance Committee. The student should send this request in writing to the Dean, who will ask the committee to convene. The Dean, at the time decided to convene the Grievance Committee, will notify persons against whom the grievance is filed.
2. Within a reasonable amount of time of receiving the grievance, the Grievance Committee will review the evidence to determine if the grievance has merit and shall notify the respondent that a complaint has been filed, citing the regulations, rules, and/or policies that are alleged to have been violated. The committee will be authorized by the faculty to solicit information from all individuals and/or groups involved. The respondent has a right to be confronted with evidence against them, and to present their own evidence to the Grievance Committee.
3. If the committee finds the grievance to have merit, the information and recommendations in writing will be sent to the Dean. The Dean will make a decision based on these recommendations and will carry out appropriate action. The Dean will notify the student, the respondent, and other school personnel in writing as prescribed by the situation, with a copy to the student’s file.
4. If the committee finds the grievance not to have merit, the committee will send the findings in writing to the Dean, the student, the respondent, the other school personnel as necessary, with a copy to the student’s file.

Committee on Academic Standing and Dismissal Appeal Procedure

The Committee on Academic Standing is composed of three members of the Standing Faculty, appointed by the Dean. The Faculty Committee on Academic Standing (FCAS) is convened to hear appeals by students who have been dismissed from any of the School’s masters programs for academic or non-academic reasons. A student may appeal the decision to be dismissed from the program by sending a letter stating the specific grounds for their appeal to the Dean within two (2) weeks from the date of the written dismissal notice. The Dean will then convene the Committee on Academic Standing to review the circumstances. The FCAS will make the final decision and notify the student in writing. Copies of the decision will be sent to the student, the Dean, the faculty director of the program, and the student record.

Policy on Ethical Behavior in the Electronic Information Environment

The University by its very nature values openness and promotes access to a wide range of information. Campus information systems have been designated to be as open as possible and as such the University insists on responsible use of these systems. Computers, electronic information, and computer networks are essential for information and research, instruction, and administration within the academic community. Because the electronic environment is easily disrupted and electronic information is readily reproduced, respect for the work and rights of others is especially important. Any intentional behavior with respect to the electronic environment that interferes with the missions or activities of the University or members of the University community will be regarded as unethical and may lead to disciplinary action under standard University rules for misconduct and existing judicial, disciplinary or personnel processes.

The following activities are examples, but not an exhaustive list, of unethical behaviors with respect to the electronic environment:

• intentionally damaging or destroying the integrity of electronic information;
• intentionally compromising the privacy of electronic networks or information systems;
• intentionally disrupting the use of electronic networks or information systems;
• intentionally infringing upon the intellectual property rights of others in computer programs or electronic information, including plagiarism and
• unauthorized use of reproduction; or
  wasting resources (human or electronic) through such actions.

Privacy of Student Information

Penn is committed to protecting the privacy of students’ personal information. Visit the Penn Privacy website(opens in a new tab) for information about student privacy rights and choices at Penn.

Privacy rules that the University and/or SP2 adhere to include the following:

• Grades may not be posted by name, SSN, or PennID.
• Graded papers and exams should not be left in hallways or open areas.
• All student papers and other sensitive material placed in student mailboxes must be enclosed in sealed envelopes.
• Student information may be shared with University officials with a legitimate need to know.
• In many cases, a student’s written consent must be obtained before disclosing the student’s information to potential employers and others.

Questions regarding student privacy issues may be directed to Jennifer Clinkscales, Associate Dean of Student Affairs at jonesjen@upenn.edu, 215-746-5895; or Lauren Steinfeld, Penn’s Chief Privacy Officer, at privacy@pobox.upenn.edu or 215-573-4806.

Participation in Commencement

Students who participate in commencement exercises must be in good standing (e.g., above a 3.0 cumulative GPA, paid all fees). A student who plans to complete their degree requirements (i.e., the MSSP program, international program, or one remaining course) in the summer immediately following commencement may participate in commencement exercises (i.e., the May exercises preceding completion of the work). For this to be allowed there must be a reasonable expectation that the student will complete all degree requirements in the summer following commencement exercises. A reasonable expectation includes being in good standing and enrolled, at the time of commencement, in the summer course(s).

Persons who are put on financial hold cannot participate in the graduation ceremony unless they document that financial arrangements have been made through Student Financial Services (located in the Franklin Building) to meet their obligation. They will not have access to their diploma until the financial matters are settled.

The commencement program will indicate with an asterisk or some other designation that the student is not graduating but is recognized as being a member in good standing of the class and will complete degree requirements in the summer.

Introduction

The University of Pennsylvania provides a wide range of services to support and address the mental and/or physical health needs of students including assessment, short-term care as appropriate, and referrals. Our first concern is for the health and welfare of each individual in our community. Our goal is to enable all of our students to participate fully as members of Penn’s academic community. However, students whose psychiatric, psychological, or other medical condition causes them to pose a threat to themselves and/or others or causes them to significantly disrupt the educational activities of the University community, may be required to take a leave of absence from the University. Under these circumstances, students will be given the opportunity to take a voluntary leave. Should a student decline to take a voluntary leave, the University may determine that the student’s health and welfare may require a period of involuntary leave of absence. The following policy establishes the protocol under which an involuntary leave of absence may occur and the process for re-enrollment.

Guidelines

The University may place a student on an involuntary leave of absence or require conditions for continued attendance under the following circumstances when the student exhibits behavior resulting from a psychological, psychiatric, or other medical condition that:

• harms or threatens to harm the health or safety of the student or others;
• causes or threatens to cause significant property damage; or
• significantly disrupts the educational and other activities of the University community.

Process

When a student exhibits any of the behaviors described above, the matter may be brought to the attention of the School Dean’s office or the Provost’s office. The Provost/designee, in consultation with the School Dean, may place a student on a mandatory leave of absence or impose conditions upon the student’s continued attendance. The Provost/designee will seek an immediate assessment of the student’s psychological, psychiatric or other medical condition from Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), the Student Health Service, or from other appropriate professionals regarding the student’s circumstances.

The student will be notified that the Provost/designee is seeking to determine whether they should be required to take a leave of absence. When reasonably possible, the student will be given the opportunity to confer with the Provost/designee and provide additional information for consideration.

The Provost/designee will conclude the review of available information with a decision that may include the following:

• that the student remain enrolled with no conditions;
• that the student remain enrolled subject to conditions (including a description of those conditions); or
• that the student be placed on an involuntary leave of absence.

If the Provost/designee’s decision is to require an involuntary leave of absence, the decision will also indicate the length of the leave and, in consultation with student’s school, describe the conditions (if any) under which the student may seek re-enrollment. The student shall be informed, in writing by the Provost/designee of the leave decision, the effective date of the leave, and conditions for return (if applicable). If a student is permitted to remain enrolled subject to conditions, the student shall be informed of the effective date and the duration of the modified attendance. The student’s school will also be notified in writing of this action.

Dismissal Appeal Procedure Related to Professional Performance

A student may appeal the decision to be dismissed from the program by sending a letter stating the specific grounds for their appeal to the Dean within two (2) weeks from the date of the written dismissal notice. The Dean will convene the Faculty Committee on Academic Standing (FCAS). The FCAS will make the final decision and notify the student in writing. Copies of the decision will be sent to the student, the Dean, the Associate Dean of Student Affairs, and the student record.

Re-Enrollment Process

A student seeking re-enrollment must meet the conditions specified by the Provost/designee. The student must apply in writing to the Provost/designee that initiated the leave of absence with a copy to the School Dean. It is the responsibility of the VPUL or designee to review the student’s compliance with specified conditions for re-enrollment and to advise the School Dean accordingly. Appropriate administrative duties with respect to convening this leave process and maintaining its records will be the responsibility of the OVPUL.

Confidentiality

All records concerning medical leaves of absence will be kept in accordance with the University confidentiality policy and other applicable policies. The student’s transcript will indicate only the notation of “leave of absence.”

Revised 2/10/11

Secular and Religious Holidays

The University recognizes/observes the following secular holidays: Martin Luther King Day, Memorial Day, July 4, Thanksgiving and the day after, Labor Day, and New Year’s Day.

The University also recognizes that there are several religious holidays that affect large numbers of University community members, including Christmas, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, the first two days of Passover, and Good Friday. In consideration of their significance for many students, no examinations may be given and no assigned work may be required on these days. Students who observe these holidays will be given an opportunity to make up missed work. If an examination is given on the first-class day after one of these holidays, it must not cover material introduced in class on that holiday. Faculty members are aware that Jewish holidays begin at sundown on the evening before the published date of the holiday. Late afternoon exams should be avoided on these days

The University recognizes that there are other holidays, both religious and secular, which are of importance to some individuals and groups on campus. Such occasions include, but are not limited to, Sukkot, the last two days of Passover, Shavuot, Shemini Atzerat, and Simchat Torah, as well as Chinese New Year, the Muslim New Year, and the Islamic holidays Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha. Students who wish to observe such holidays must inform their instructors within the first two weeks of each semester of their intent to observe the holiday even when the exact date of the holiday will not be known until later so that alternative arrangements convenient to both students and faculty can be made at the earliest opportunity. Students who make such arrangements will not be required to attend classes or take examinations on the designated days, and faculty provide reasonable opportunities for such students to make up missed examinations.

Emergency School Closing and Cancellation of Classes

Although a rare occurrence, the University and SP2 may close due to severe weather conditions or emergency situations.

• In all situations when the University is closed, SP2 will be closed. For University closing information call: 215-898-MELT or check the University’s website at: https://www.upenn.edu(opens in a new tab).
• There may be situations when the University remains open, but SP2 makes the decision to cancel classes. In these situations, as soon as a decision is made, a notice will be posted on the SP2 website and the announcement will be emailed to students via student listservs. Decisions to cancel evening classes will be made by 2:00pm that day.

Faculty members who cancel class when the School is open are responsible for notifying their students of the cancellation. Professors should also inform the receptionist if their class is cancelled by calling the main School number: 215-898-5512.

On days when the University is unexpectedly closed, students are expected to communicate with their practicum placement about the agency’s expectations for their attendance. Students may be expected to be at their practicum placement even if the University is closed. Students who have questions about individual situations should contact the Office of Practicum Education.

The policies and procedures for the evaluation of student performance are consistent with University policy: the faculty has final responsibility for all decisions about student performance. At the same time, as members of the academic community, students have a voice in decisions that affect them.

1. It is the responsibility of the instructor to determine whether or not the student has met the requirements of the course.
2. The instructor is responsible for informing students about the course objectives and requirements. The instructor is also responsible for defining the criteria that will be used to assess whether the student has met the course requirements and for informing students about the criteria. Course performance expectations may apply to performance on examinations, papers, class participation and performance in the practicum, among other evaluative criteria.

Grading Scale

The SP2 letter grade evaluation system is consistent with that used by the MA and PhD programs at the University. That system consists of grades of A, B, C, D, and F with pluses and minuses possible for A, B, or C. Courses used to fulfill degree requirements may not be taken as Pass/Fail.

Grade Point Averages

(GPAs) are tabulated at the end of each semester and on a cumulative basis. GPAs are established on the following scale:

A plus: 4.0

A: 4.0

A minus: 3.7

B plus: 3.3

B: 3.0

B minus: 2.7

C plus: 2.3

C: 2.0

C minus: 1.7

D: 1.0

F: 0

I: Incomplete

Faculty of the School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) are at liberty to use the full range of the grading system, that is, from ‘A’ to ‘F’. Grade categories used in SP2 follow those of the Graduate Division of the University of Pennsylvania: A, excellent; B, good; C, fair; D, poor but passing; and F, failure. The use of a plus or minus (+ or -) with a letter grade is at the discretion of the instructor. The following scale outlines the grade range for determining “+” and “–“ after a letter grade in the MSW, MSSP, and NPL program:

97-100: A+

94-96: A

90-93: A-

87-89: B+

84-86: B

80-83: B-

77-79: C+

74-76: C

70-73: C-

60-69: D (In MSW required classes, a D converts to an F)

Below 60: F

If a student’s work is failing, they are to be given an F. All other grade categories are considered to be passing grades.

Course Credit

Academic credit is defined by the University of Pennsylvania as a course unit (CU). One CU is equal to 4 semester hours. The majority of SP2 courses are valued at one course unit. Additional information regarding course credit information(opens in a new tab) is available from the university Registrar.

Grade of Incomplete

If a student cannot complete the work for a course by the end of the semester due medical reasons or a family emergency, they may request an Incomplete (‘I’) from the instructor by submitting this form(opens in a new tab), if the student’s work in the course is of passing quality up to that point. The grade of ‘I’ allows the student, with the permission of the professor, to finish a small amount of work that has not been done by the end of the semester. In accordance with the policy of the Graduate Division, the instructor may permit an extension of up to one year for completion of the course; the instructor is not required to grant a one-year extension and may specify an earlier deadline.

When a student takes an ‘I’, they must complete the work within the time specified by the instructor which will be submitted in the request form. It is the student’s responsibility to find out how much time the faculty member requires to review course work and submit a grade. Students must give the faculty member a minimum of three weeks to read late assignments and submit a grade. More time may be required by individual faculty members, particularly at the end of the semester. Faculty are not required to review student work during the summer unless a prior agreement has been reached between the student and the faculty member.

An ‘I’ that is not finished by the deadline specified by the instructor automatically becomes an ‘F’. The instructor may change the ‘F’ to another grade when the work is finished.

If a student has an ‘I’ for a course that is a prerequisite for a subsequent class, the ‘I’ must be changed to an acceptable letter grade before the start date of the subsequent class.

To continue in the following semester, a student cannot have more than one incomplete from the previous semester.

Notification of Failure to Meet Course Expectations

A student or an instructor may request at any time a meeting between them to discuss student performance. When an instructor discerns that a student is not meeting course expectations, they should notify the student in writing. The instructor should use the Courses@Penn system to send a Course Action Notice to the student. The Course Action Notice generates an email to the student, with a copy of the email automatically sent to the Academic Advisor. The Academic Advisor should also create a note in the Path@Penn system, which becomes part of the student’s record. The exception to this policy is if the student’s failure to meet course requirements occurs as a result of performance on a final examination or final assignment.

Grade Point Average Minimum Requirement

To be in good academic standing in the School and the University, students in SP2 must maintain a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or above. If not, the student will be placed on academic probation.

A cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or above is required for graduation.

Academic Probation Procedure

A student will be placed on academic probation if they have:

• a semester (including summer session) GPA below 3.0, or
• a cumulative GPA below 3.0 , or
• a grade below the established minimum in a program-designated course (see “Course Failure” section above), or
• an ‘F’ in any course.

A student on Academic Probation is expected to meet with their Educational Advisor to design a performance improvement plan. If the student achieves a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above at the end of the subsequent semester and/or retakes a course and receives a grade above the specified minimum, the student will be removed from academic probation. If the student does not achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above and/or a grade above the specified minimum in a course that is retaken at the end of the subsequent semester, the student is subject to dismissal from the program. Notice of the beginning and ending of each academic probation period will be made in writing to the student by the student’s educational advisor, with a copy to the Associate Dean of Student Affairs.

Faculty Committee on Academic Standing

The Faculty Committee on Academic Standing (FCAS) is composed of three members of the Standing Faculty, appointed by the Dean. The Committee on Academic Standing is convened to hear appeals by students who have been dismissed from any of the School’s master’s programs for academic or non-academic reasons. A student may appeal the decision to be dismissed from the program by sending a letter stating the specific grounds for their appeal to the Dean within two (2) weeks from the date of the written dismissal notice. The Dean will then convene the Committee on Academic Standing to review the circumstances. The Committee on Academic Standing will make the final decision and notify the student in writing. Copies of the decision will be sent to the student, the Dean, the Associate Dean for Student Affairs, and the student record.

Grade Appeal Procedure

In accordance with University policy, faculty members have the authority to make academic judgments in relation to their students. A student who believes they were graded unfairly should proceed according to the following steps:

1. Review the concern with the appropriate instructor(s). If this review does not result in resolution,
2. Review the concern with the Educational Advisor. If this review does not result in resolution,
   • NPL and MSSP students: Review the concern with the Faculty Director of your program. If this review does not result in resolution,
3. Review the concern with the Faculty Program Director and SP2 Dean to determine the final determination about the student’s appeal.

Code of Academic Integrity

Since the University is an academic community, its fundamental purpose is the pursuit of knowledge. Essential to the success of this educational mission is a commitment to the principles of academic integrity. Every member of the University community is responsible for upholding the highest standards of honesty at all times. Students, as members of the community, are also responsible for adhering to the principles and spirit of the following Code of Academic Integrity.

SP2 students are required to familiarize themselves with the Code of Academic Integrity. SP2 requires all entering students to complete an academic integrity quiz during New Student Orientation. SP2 works closely with The Center for Community Standards and Accountability (CCSA) to ensure students maintain the highest standards(opens in a new tab) of academic integrity. CCSA is a supportive campus resource where faculty can receive consultation on how to manage academic integrity violations. A consultation is not an official complaint against a student. Ultimately, SP2 faculty have discretion on how to handle academic integrity violations.

Activities that have the effect or intention of interfering with education, pursuit of knowledge, or fair evaluation of a student’s performance are prohibited. Examples of such activities include but are not limited to the following definitions:

• Cheating: using or attempting to use unauthorized assistance, material, or study aids in examinations or other academic work or preventing, or attempting to prevent, another from using authorized assistance, material, or study aids. Example: using a cheat sheet in a quiz or exam, altering a graded exam, and resubmitting it for a better grade, etc.
• Plagiarism: using the ideas, data, or language of another without specific or proper acknowledgment. Example: copying another person’s paper, article, or computer work and submitting it for an assignment, cloning someone else’s ideas without attribution, failing to use quotation marks where appropriate, etc.
• Fabrication: submitting contrived or altered information in any academic exercise. Example: making up data for an experiment, fudging data, citing nonexistent articles, contriving sources, etc.
• Multiple submission: submitting, without prior permission, any work submitted to fulfill another academic requirement.
• Misrepresentation of academic records: misrepresenting or tampering with or attempting to tamper with any portion of a student’s transcripts or academic record, either before or after coming to the University of Pennsylvania. Example: forging a change of grade slip, tampering with computer records, falsifying academic information on one’s resume, etc.
• Facilitating academic dishonesty: knowingly helping or attempting to help another violate any provision of the Code. Example: working together on a take-home exam, etc.
• Unfair advantage: attempting to gain unauthorized advantage over fellow students in an academic exercise. Example: gaining or providing unauthorized access to examination materials, obstructing or interfering with another student’s efforts in an academic exercise, lying about a need for an extension for an exam or paper, continuing to write even when time is up during an exam, destroying or keeping library materials for one’s own use, etc.

Non-Academic Performance Policies

Students are expected to comply with University policies and regulations outlined in the Penn Book, the University Code of Student Conduct, the Code of Academic Integrity, and the Master’s Student Handbook. Students are expected to incorporate the highest standard of ethics in every element of their work and to manifest in their behaviors and demonstrate knowledge, skills, maturity, and emotional stability necessary to function as a professional.

Examples of non-academic performance and conduct that will subject the student to disciplinary action or dismissal from the program include:

• Violations of the University Code of Academic Integrity (e.g., plagiarism).
• Behavior determined to be a violation of University or School policies or regulations.
• Behavior determined to be a violation of the profession’s ethics (e.g., NASW Code of Ethics in the case of social work).
• Inability to secure, sustain, or perform satisfactorily in a practicum placement.
• Behaviors that do not meet professional expectations and standards, which include generally accepted standards of professional conduct, personal integrity, or emotional stability for professional practice.
• Behaviors determined to be unprofessional conduct towards colleagues, faculty, or staff.

Standards and procedures for student non-academic performance are particular to specific professional standards or academic programs. Therefore, additional procedures that operationalize these standards and action steps in response to violations can be found in the policies for specific programs.

Alleged violations of the University’s Code of Student Conduct, Code of Academic Integrity, and other applicable policies regarding student behavior may be referred to the Center for Community Standards and Accountability (CCSA). The CCSA is responsible for acting on behalf of the University in matters of student discipline. The CCSA deals with alleged instances of academic dishonesty and other student misconduct, in order to determine how best to resolve these allegations consistent with the goals and mission of the University as an educational and intellectual community. For more information on the CCSA see: https://csa.upenn.edu/(opens in a new tab).

SP2 Social Media Guidelines

The purpose of the social media policy is to provide guidance on how SP2 students can engage with social media platforms including but not limited to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, blogs or other social media or networking sites, and not jeopardize their good standing as graduate students or violate the professional code of ethics specifically related to students enrolled in the Master of Social Work program or for students who are professional social workers enrolled in a doctoral program.

As students at the University, we expect you to abide by our Principle of Responsible Conduct(opens in a new tab). These principles extend to students’ use of social medial platforms. Therefore, SP2 students are encouraged to carefully consider the possible impact and consequences before posting material about students, colleagues, internships, practicums, practicum agency and not post anything that implies schools, the University or other professional contacts, and School of Social Policy & Practice staff and faculty that could be construed as defamatory, threatening, harassing, hateful or humiliating.

As a rule, SP2 students should not post anything on social media that refers to or discloses information about other people, especially clients, without first gaining appropriate consent and carefully considering the possible impact and consequences of doing so.

Do not post any client information, including photographs or videos, on social media, without first gaining appropriate consent from the client(s) and when appropriate, the agency setting. Breaching client confidentiality and/or privacy may: 1) cause harm to the client(s); 2) violate professional ethics ( https://www.socialworkers.org/about/ethics/code-of-ethics/code-of-ethics-english(opens in a new tab)), agency policy or law and 3) result in professional or legal sanction. Simply removing a person’s name does not render that information de-identified.

SP2 students should use personal email addresses, not Penn email addresses, in personal online postings.

*Note that pseudonymous email addresses or online identities can be traced, so their use does not protect you from responsibility or liabilities for your online postings.

*Please see the University’s Policy on Acceptable Use of Electronic Resources for additional rules related to the use of email and other electronic resources: http://www.upenn.edu/computing/policy/aup.html.(opens in a new tab)

Voluntary Academic Leaves

Students must be continuously registered every fall and spring terms until all degree requirements have been met. Students who wish to suspend their studies for a period of time for any reason must submit a request for a leave of absence using the online form. Leaves of absence are normally approved for up to one year.

Leave of Absence Request Process:

• Meet with your assigned program advisor to discuss the reasons for taking a leave
• Submit the online request form(opens in a new tab); you will receive email confirmation when the form is sent
• Review all items on the LOA checklist (below) and follow up with the appropriate offices as necessary
• The SP2 Registrar will email you with confirmation once the leave has been processed

All requirements for the degree must be completed within five years of the date when the student first registered for the degree. Students are responsible for tuition charges and other financial obligations to the University incurred before the effective date of the leave. Students may not earn credit for courses taken at another institution while on leave of absence.

Leave of Absence Checklist

Tuition – if the leave is requested before the end of Add/Drop as posted on the SP2 Academic Calendar, students will receive a full refund of tuition and fees. If the leave occurs after Add/Drop, partial refunds may apply. Leaves processed after the 6th week of classes are not eligible for any tuition refund.

Student Bills/Financial Aid – check your student account; any outstanding balance will result in late fees and your account will be placed on hold. Students who have borrowed from the Federal Loan Program must complete the online exit loan counseling session – http://www.sfs.upenn.edu/loans/loans-exit-interview.htm(opens in a new tab). Please note that depending on the length of the leave, students may be required to begin repayment of loans before returning to Penn.

Penn Student Insurance Plan– students who go on leave before September 30 will receive a refund of the insurance premium as long as they have not used the insurance. Students who go on leave after September 30 will retain their insurance coverage until January 31. Coverage will then terminate unless students enroll in classes by that date. Contact a SHS advisor for detailed information http://www.vpul.upenn.edu/shs/contact.php(opens in a new tab)

On campus housing (Sansom) – if the leave occurs within the semester, complete Request for Early Termination. For more information – http://cms.business-services.upenn.edu/residential-services/images/terms%20%20conditions%202016-17.pdf(opens in a new tab)

International students – Immigration status is dependent upon full-time enrollment and students are required to depart from the US within 15 days of a posted leave. Students must communicate their intention to take a leave of absence with their ISSS advisor – https://global.upenn.edu/isss/absence(opens in a new tab).

Return from Voluntary Leave of Absence

Students should submit this form(opens in a new tab) to request a return to their studies.

For a fall semester return, requests should be made before the end of March. For a spring semester return, requests should be made in September. Late requests to return from leave may result in limited course selection.

Students must contact their academic advisor prior to registering for courses.

Involuntary Leave of Absence

Students whose psychiatric, psychological, or other medical condition causes them to pose a threat to themselves and/or others or causes them to significantly disrupt the educational activities of the University community, may be required to take a leave of absence from the University.

Involuntary Leave of Absence Policy

Withdrawal from the Degree Program

A student who wishes to terminate candidacy for the degree should formally withdraw from the School of Social Policy & Practice by notifying the Associate Dean for Student Affairs in writing. The effective date of separation from the University is the date on which the student files the written request. Students are responsible for tuition charges and other financial obligations to the University incurred before the effective date of withdrawal.

Readmission to the Degree Program

A student wishing to return to the program after having withdrawn must reapply to the program.

Payment of Tuition Bill

The bill for tuition and fees is payable in two installments: August and January. You will receive a notice for payment of tuition with a billing due date. Failure to meet these billing due dates will result in penalty charges. The full balance is due and payable not later than the due date on the bill. If full payment is not made, a late payment penalty will be imposed each month. Students who register in the Summer I term will be billed in late April; tuition and fees for the Summer II term are included in the fall bill.

Students with outstanding balances are placed on financial hold and may not register for the upcoming semester, receive their diploma, or obtain transcripts until the outstanding balance is satisfied.

Failure to Pay

All University bills for tuition and fees are due before or during the registration period each term, as specified. The University reserves the right to withhold registration material, transcripts, and all other information regarding the record of any student who is in arrears in the payment of tuition, fees, or other charges, including student loans, and to exclude such a student from classes and examinations. The student will be held accountable for all absences resulting from the operation of this rule. For continued delinquency in the payment of debts to the University, the student may be permanently dropped from the University. The enforcement of this penalty shall not relieve the student from the obligation to pay outstanding fees and charges, including those for the term to which the penalty applies. No one shall receive a diploma if they have not paid in full all financial obligations.

Refund of Tuition

A student who withdraws (or is requested to withdraw for failure to maintain a satisfactory scholastic standard or who is granted a leave of absence from a full-time division of the University during either term of the academic year) will be eligible for a refund of tuition and general fee in accordance with the conditions set forth below.

Course withdrawal time………………percent refund of tuition and fees

Within the Add/Drop period…………………………………100%

Up to two weeks after the Add/Drop period…………………50%

More than three weeks after the Add/Drop period ………………0%

Students should check the SP2 Academic Calendar for exact dates of Add/Drop and the deadline for partial tuition refund.

A student who is required to withdraw because of violation of University regulation shall receive no refund by reason of such a withdrawal.

Tuition Assistance

Most SP2 students help finance their education with a combination of grants and loans. Those wishing to avail themselves of Guaranteed Student Loans (GSL) are required to complete a FASFA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). If you have any questions concerning financial assistance, please contact our Director of Financial Aid.

Student Loans

Most SP2 students help finance their education with a combination of grants and loans. Those wishing to avail themselves of Graduate Direct Unsubsidized or Graduate PLUS Loans are required to complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). If you have any questions concerning financial assistance, please contact our Office of Financial Aid at SP2.

SP2 Office of Financial Aid

215-573-9661

finaid@sp2.upenn.edu

All student loan applications are processed through the University’s Student Financial Services Office. Questions about loan applications, status, or changes may be directed to one of the counselors in the Student Financial Services Office.

Student Financial Services Office

100 Franklin Building

3451 Walnut Street

Philadelphia, PA 19104

Phone: 215-898-1988

Tuition & Fees

View current tuition & fee information here.