Academic Information

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Majors

  • Business of Art and Design (BOAD)
  • Computer Animation (CA)
  • Creative Writing(CW)
  • Entertainment Design (ED)
  • Film (FILM)
  • Fine Arts (FA)
  • Game Art (GA)
  • Graphic Design (GD)
  • Illustration (IL)
  • Motion Design (MD)
  • Photography Imaging (PI)
  • Virtual Reality Development (VRD)
  • Visual Studies (VS)

Student Learning Outcomes

These are the intended competencies all students should attain by the time they graduate from Ringling College. Both academic and academic support areas advance student achievement in these competencies within the B.F.A. or B.A. degree programs. Students have multiple opportunities to demonstrate specific abilities as creators, communicators and collaborators.

Competency Threads Woven Throughout All Areas:

Communication Skills
Demonstrate effective skills in visual communication, speaking, writing, listening, reading and computer literacy.

Thinking Skills
Demonstrate abilities in conceptual, logical and intuitive thinking within a variety of contexts.

Global Perspectives
Demonstrate an understanding of differences in cultures and societies.

Artistic Discernment
Show an ability to discern artistic merit of diverse forms of art / design in their contexts. Be able to defend critical interpretations concerning the significance of artistic expression.

Self-Directed Learning
Demonstrate responsibility for independent learning and perseverance towards goal attainment.

Collaboration
Understand and practice collaboration in appropriate situations.

Social Responsibility
Recognize the social and ethical responsibility of creating art and design.

Advising, Records & Registration Services

Campus Communication Policy
Students are required to read the Student Handbook and are responsible for knowing the College’s policies and procedures. Students are required to keep current with College communications by regularly checking the campus portal, their campus e-mail, their campus mailbox and to be aware of the information presented.

Educational Records
These records directly relate to a student and are maintained by Ringling College.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Of 1974 (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. They are:

  1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the College receives a request for access. Students should contact the Registrar’s Office with requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The Registrar will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
  2. The right to request an amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate. Students may ask the College to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate. They shouldwrite the College official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate. If the College decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the College will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
  3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests.
    A school official is a person employed by the College in an administrative, supervisory, academic or support staff position (including security personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the College has contracted (such as an attorney or auditor); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the College discloses education records without consent to officials of another school in which astudent seeks or intends to enroll.
  4. The right to file a Report with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the College to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington,D.C., 20202-4605.

The College may release information without the student’s consent where the information is classified as “Directory information.” The following categories of information have been designated by the College as directory information: name, address, telephone listing, e-mail address, photograph, place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, full-time/ part-time status, and the most recent previous educational institution attended by the student.

Direct questions concerning this law and the College’s policy concerning release of academic information to Advising & Registration Services, 941-359-6116.

Limitations On Student Rights

There are some limitations on the rights of students to inspect records. Students shall have no right of inspection or review of:

  1. Financial information submitted by their parents / guardians.
  2. Confidential letters and / or recommendations in the student’s file prior to Jan. 1, 1975, if such documents were intended to be confidential and were only used for the purpose intended.
  3. Confidential letters and / or recommendations in the file subsequent to Jan. 1, 1975, associated with admissions, employment, or job placement or the receipt of an honor or honorary recognition, if the student has waived his or her right to inspect confidential letters and /or recommendations.
  4. Educational records containing information about more than one student, in which case the institution will permit access only to that part of the record pertaining to the inquiring student.

Waiver Of Student Rights

Students may waive any or all of their rights under FERPA. Ringling College does not require waivers and no institutional service shall be denied to students who fail to supply waivers.

All waivers must be in writing and signed by the student. Students may waive their rights to inspect and review either individual documents (e.g., letter of recommendation) or class of documents (e.g., admissions file). The items or documents, to which students have waived the right of access, shall be used only for purpose(s) for which they are collected. If used for other purposes, the waivers shall be void and the student may inspect the documents. The student may revoke the waiver in writing, but by revoking it, he or she does not regain the right to inspect and review documents collected while the waiver was in force.

Eligible Persons Able To View The Record

In compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), the student records at Ringling College (in the Office of Advising, Records and Registration Services) are open for inspection only by the student and as per paragraph #99.31 of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, and to the following:

  1. College officials who have legitimate educational interests.
  2. State educational authorities.
  3. Federal and state officials representing state or federal programs.
  4. Persons having written authorization for release.
  5. Officials in compliance with judicial orders.

Viewing The Records

  • Permanent records are never allowed out of the Office of Advising, Records and Registration Services.
  • Students may view their records at the counter in the presence of office personnel.
  • Students may view their transcripts from other institutions, but may not obtain a copy of the record, except by writing to request a copy from the institution from which the transcript originated.

Prior Consent For Disclosure Or Release Of Records

Transcripts are only released upon written consent of the student.

Permanent File

In addition to the academic transcript, a student’s permanent file contains transcripts from other institutions and the transfer credit evaluation, admissions application and other documents, such as test scores. Students may see their files upon request in the Office of Advising, Records and Registration Services. The information contained in the file is not disclosed to any party outside the College without the student’s written consent, as required by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974(FERPA).

Transcripts

The Office of Advising, Records and Registration Services issues transcripts upon written authorization by the student. The College does not copy or release transcripts furnished to the College by other institutions. Each transcript issued is a complete and accurate copy of a student’s academic record to date. It includes all work completed at Ringling College, as well as all credit transferred from other colleges and universities. President’s List, Academic Probation, Academic Dismissal, and Withdrawal Dates are noted on the transcript, if applicable. Unofficial transcripts are available online via Self- Service. Transcript fees are listed on the Advising, Records & Registration website. The Office of Advising, Records and Registration Services will not release transcripts to students who owe the College money or have defaulted on educational loans.

Correcting Permanent Records

If a student feels there is an error in their permanent record, they should contact the Office of Advising, Records and Registration Services to arrange a hearing according to paragraph #99.22 of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974:

  1. The hearing will be within a reasonable period of time after the request has been received by the institution.
  2. The student shall be given notice of date, place, and time reasonably in advance.
  3. A written decision shall be made by the educational institution within a reasonable period of time after the hearing. The written decision and summary will be based on evidence presented.

Second Bachelor Degree Requirements

To obtain a second bachelor’s degree, students must meet the following requirements:

  1. Hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally-accredited college or university.
  2. Complete a minimum of 30 credits of new upper-level coursework with Ringling College, after the completion of the first degree and admission into the second-degree major. The combined total must be no less than 150 credits for the two degrees.
  3. Must complete the appropriate form(s) in the Admissions Office and be admitted, or if a former Ringling College student, with the Registrar’s Office and be readmitted to the College.
  4. Complete Ringling College’s major requirements (see Catalog for more detailed information). If any of these requirements were satisfied in the previous degree, the remainder necessary to complete the minimum 30 credits of new coursework should be satisfied with courses related to the major.
  5. A minimum grade point average of C (2.0). The GPA will be calculated on the basis of courses taken after completion of the first bachelor’s degree and admission to the student’s second bachelor degree major at Ringling College.
  6. The degree requirements for students who enroll continuously are determined by the Catalog in effect at the date of enrollment following admission into the second bachelor’s degree major at Ringling College.

  7. Must comply with all other Ringling College regulations.

Address Change & Release Of Information

Notify the Office of Advising, Records and Registration Services of address changes. It is important to remember all Ringling College communications sent home are mailed to the permanent address furnished to the Office of Advising, Records and Registration Services by the student.

Directory Information

Directory information includes the following: student name, address, telephone number, e-mail address, picture ID, dates of attendance, class year, previous institutions attended, major, awards, honors, degrees conferred, past and present participation in officially recognized sports and activities, date and place of birth.

Academic Advising

The advising system is based upon the theory of developmental advising, and thus combines personal, academic and career counseling services. First-year students are advised about the transition to college, goal setting and personal and academic matters by the designated First-Year Faculty Coordinators, the Director of Advising, the Academic Advisors, and the Office of Student Life staff.

Upper-level students receive advice about their program of study from the Academic Advisors and their Department Head. They receive advice about careers and graduate schools from Department Career Advisors and the Center for Career Services. The Office of Student Life staff will provide personal counseling and advice about the transition to a career and life after Ringling College.

The Office of Advising, Records and Registration Services tracks the progress toward a degree for all students. Students, however, are ultimately responsible for ensuring they have completed the academic requirements for their degree.

Academic Advisors provide special help to students on major changing, adding minors, probation, readmitted students, course selection, and transfer credit. Throughout their four years, students are encouraged by their advisors “to clarify interests, skills, attitudes and values; develop habits of discipline; experience choice and develop autonomy; and develop purpose and direction.”

Advisors
Office Of Advising, Records & Registration Services advising@ringling.edu

International Students
Amy Pettengill - apetteng@ringling.edu
The International Advisor is located on the second floor of the Alfred R. Goldstein Library.

Career Advisors
Faculty Career Advisors are available to assist you with specific questions about programs of study, career tracks, graduate school recommendations, requests to observe a class in any major, advice on portfolios and target audiences. Faculty Career Advisors are appointed or re- appointed each year by major. For more information, please contact Career Services staff at 941-359-7502 or talent@ringling.edu or stop by the Center for Career Services in the Ferguson Studio Building.

The Center for Career Services
www.ringling.edu/talent
phone 941-359-7502
Email: talent@ringling.edu

Schedule Changes

Students may add and drop classes through the first Friday of the semester. Students may withdraw classes without academic penalty through the 10th week of each semester. The deadlines each semester are included in the Academic Calendar. Classes dropped after the first week of the semester, but before the deadlines, will have a “W” (Withdrew Passing) recorded on the student’s academic transcript.

If a student withdraws from a class after the deadline, a “WF” (Withdrew Failing) will be recorded for that class on the transcript. A “WF” impacts the G.P.A. in the same manner as an “F.” Students may appeal a “WF” grade to the Academic Standards Committee, which is chaired by the Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee. Official “withdrawal” forms are available from the Academic Advisors.

Please note that withdrawals may affect financial aid eligibility or create a payment due. It is the student’s responsibility to check with the Office of Financial Aid before officially withdrawing from a class.

Scheduling
Completing required coursework in the prescribed order will assure students of enrollment in all required courses for their major within the time frame proposed for graduation. If required courses are taken out of sequence, the student will forfeit priority status for the course and will be enrolled on a space-available basis, possibly delaying graduation.

Retention Rate

Through its admissions practices, curricular programs, academic advising and student services, Ringling College strives to retain and graduate a high percentage of students who enroll.

Change Of Major

Change of Major” forms are available in the Office of Advising, Records and Registration Services. They must be signed by an Academic Advisor and Department Head for the student’s prospective major. Admission to majors with limited space is decided on a competitive basis with incoming transfer students. 

Changing the major might result in an additional year of study.

Preferred Name Process

Ringling College has established procedures which would allow you, if you so desire, to use a name different than your legal name on the following college records:

  • Ringling College account name
  • Student Email account
  • Ringling College ID card
  • Power Campus Self Service
  • Canvas
  • Draw
  • Library Information System

Because of processes that exist between the email system, Power Campus, and the identity management system changing the Ringling College account name and the student email account can only be done during the time in-between semesters. Preferred First Name Changes can be made with the Office of the Registrar only once. Notes on legal name change:

For name change on the following Ringling College documents, a legal name change is required:

  • Transcripts
  • Degree Certificates
  • Financial Records
  • Employment and Payroll Records
  • Enrollment Data
  • Financial Aid Documents and Mailing Information

To change the name on these records, you must make a legal name change through state authorities.

Contact the Registrar's Office for the application form. Upon submission of your preferred first name, your choice of preferred first name will be reviewed by the Office of the Registrar. Once your preferred first name is approved, it will appear in the first section Self-Service. If your preferred first name is not approved, your legal name will remain the only name on your record at the college.

Examples of preferred first names that will not be approved:

  • Names used for the purpose of misrepresentation
  • Names containing non-alpha characters
  • Names containing foul or inappropriate language

Academic Probation, Dismissal, and Withdrawal

Administrative Withdrawal
Ringling College reserves the right to administratively withdraw students who stop attending classes. Administratively withdrawn students are responsible for all financial obligations incurred for the entire semester and will not be permitted to remain in campus housing.

Academic Probation
All undergraduate students must maintain minimum semester and cumulative grade point averages (GPA) of 2.0 (equivalent to a C) to remain in Good Standing. Students are placed on Academic Probation if their semester GPA or cumulative GPA falls below 2.0., or if they fail (grade of F) three credit hours.

Academic Dismissal
Students falling into any of the following categories will be subject to academic dismissal:

  • If a student has been placed on probation in the two previous consecutive semesters, and his or her cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 for a third consecutive semester or if they fail (grade of F) three credit hours.
  • Students who have failing grades for six or more credit hours in a semester.
  • First semester, first-year students who have a cumulative GPA below 1.00.

Academically dismissed students have 10 days from receipt of notification to appeal their academic dismissal. They must appeal in writing to the Academic Standards Committee. Letters of appeal should be addressed to the Office of Advising, Records and Registration Services. The decision of the Academic Standards Committee is final. Transcripts of students who have been academically dismissed will bear the notation “Academic Dismissal,” which indicates the student has been involuntarily separated from Ringling College for failure to meet minimum academic standards. Generally, academically dismissed students will not be considered for readmission for one academic year. Successful progress at Ringling College means more than just maintaining a 2.0 G.P.A. Students failing to make satisfactory academic progress may not meet the requirements for scholarships, state and federal grants, or student loans. Those students with a weak G.P.A. should check immediately with the Director of Financial Aid to review how their academic status may affect their financial aid.

Academic Probation & Dismissal for Military Affiliated
Academic probation for two consecutive semesters or academically dismissed military affiliated students will result in the termination of VA education benefits for unsatisfactory progress. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs will be notified of this action.

Military Mobilization/Activation Withdrawal
Military members, veterans, reservists and members of the National Guard who are attending Ringling College of Art and Design may receive orders for active duty, redeployment or relocation. Dependents of military personnel who receive orders also may be affected in a similar manner.

In such cases, the College must receive a copy of the student’s or military personnel’s activation, redeployment or relocation orders issued from the military in order to proceed with the dropping of courses for the term of activation. Activation documentation must be submitted to the School Certifying Official with the Military Withdrawal Form.

Students called to active service are guaranteed readmission upon the completion of active service. A readmission application will need to be completed through the Office of Advising, Records, and Registration when ready to return.

Depending on when the activation occurs students have two options:

  • Option 1: Students called to active service prior to the last five (5) weeks of the end of the term may elect to withdraw from the college with a full refund of all out of pocket fees. No course credit and no course grades will be awarded.
    The financial aid office will perform the standard return of Title IV refund calculation based on the student's last date of attendance. Funds will be returned to the appropriate program as mandated by federal regulation. Students will be refunded 100% of the student's payment. Any balance created by the return of funds to appropriate programs and personal funds will be written off by the college.
  • Option 2: Students called to active service within five (5) weeks of the end of the term may elect to receive Incomplete (I) grades in all courses. The time period allowed for satisfying the Incomplete grades would begin on the date of release from active service. Students who elect this alternative are not eligible for the refund of fees.

Voluntary Withdrawal from College
Students considering withdrawing from the College must complete a “Withdrawal Form,” available through the Office of Advising, Records, and Registration Services. All financial commitments to the College must be fulfilled, as stipulated in the Refund Policy in effect at the time of withdrawal. It is the student’s obligation to remove their possessions from campus housing within 24 hours of withdrawing.

The refund policy does not apply if the student does not follow the withdrawal policy outlined here. Additionally, if a student abandons possessions, those items will be donated to charity.

Medical Withdrawal Policy for Serious Illness &/or Documented Disabilities
Medical withdrawals are not permitted at Ringling College of Art and Design except in extraordinary circumstances due to either documented serious illness or documented disabilities necessitating a medical withdrawal. A student who feels that such extraordinary circumstance exists must comply with the following requirements for consideration of a medical withdrawal:

  • A request for a medical withdrawal must be made in writing and directed to the Associate Dean/Director of HealthServices or designee. The writing must state the reason for the request, the particular semester or semesters for which the request is made, and the length of leave requested.
  • The medical withdrawal request must be accompanied by the Medical Withdrawal Provider Report Form supporting the reason for the request.
  • Following receipt of the documentation referenced above, a meeting with the Associate Dean/Director of Health Services or designee may or may not be offered or required.
  • Decisions relating to medical withdrawals will be made by the Associate Dean/Director of Health Services or designee after submission of the Medical Withdrawal Provider Form.
  • Once medical withdrawal is granted, in order to return, the student will need to apply for readmission.
  • The student will need to provide a completed ProviderReport Form stating that the student is able to return toCollege and will be able to perform the essential functions of the educational program. If the medical withdrawal is for psychological health reasons, the student will also need to follow the procedures in the Required Medical WithdrawalPolicy.

Classroom Policies

While each instructor has his or her own policies regarding classroom conduct and requirements, the College does have a few policies covering all classes.

  • Smoking and alcoholic beverages are prohibited in all classrooms, whether or not class is in session.
  • No pets are allowed in class. Exceptions will be made in the case of service dogs.
  • Because of past abuse, cell phones, radios, tape decks, headsets, iPods, televisions, and other audiovisual equipment are also prohibited during class time.
  • The College’s dress code requires shoes and appropriate shirts be worn during all classes, as well as in the Alfred R. Goldstein Library, Ulla Searing Student Center, dining facilities, and galleries.

It is the instructor’s sole prerogative to determine whether a student is:

  1. In a fit condition to perform classroom work (in other words, is notunder the influence of alcohol or drugs and is not sleeping).
  2. Indeed, working on assignments for that particular class (rather than working on projects for another class or doing freelance work).
  3. Distracting other students as to impair the learning environment.

If the instructor finds a student in violation of any of these provisions, or the policies outlined in the course syllabus, he or she may require the student to leave the classroom and may subsequently mark the student absent, which could affect the student’s final grade.

Attendance

  1. Rationale for Attendance Policies
    Studio art and design courses offer significant opportunities to complete coursework during class meetings with the help and guidance of the faculty. Each class meeting can build on the experience of the one before it. The fundamental nature of most art and design courses rely on student participation as an essential method for learning. If a student misses too many classes, he or she may miss a significant portion of any hand- on experience, as well as the skills and techniques taught that will be necessary in future courses. It is important to realize that even if excused, absences could impact the student’s academic performance because the student will not have the benefit of such things as full classroom interaction and the opportunity to ask questions while the material is being presented. Student contributions during class time constitute a significant component of the learning process. Students should not miss one class in order to do homework or study for another class. Some students mistakenly think this is prioritizing; in reality it is poor time management.
  2. Overall Attendance Policy That Applies Irrespective of Major,Department, or Faculty of Record
    Regular attendance in all classes is required. Students are expected to arrive on time and remain in class for the entire period scheduled. The responsibility for work missed due to any type of absence rests with the student. Tardiness, early departure or other time away from class in excess of 15 minutes per class session may be considered absence for that class session. Classes missed due to late registration are counted in the general absences permitted for the class.

    In most cases, more than two absences in a course that meets once per week, or more than four absences in a course that meets twice per week will result in a grade of F. Regardless of meeting schedules, students who miss more than 13.3% of a course will fail the course, barring exceptional circumstances.

    Documented exceptional circumstances include, but are not limited to: death in the family, serious medical conditions, hospitalization, observance of religious holidays, reasonable disability accommodations and other special/unforeseen circumstances beyond the student’s control. Numerous absences due to any reason including exceptional circumstances may warrant course withdrawal or failure.

    Documentation must be submitted to Academic Advising within two weeks of the absence to be considered for excusing. Exceptional circumstances are determined on a case-by-case basis in an interactive process with the student, faculty of record, Department Head or Program Director of the course or other Ringling College professionals, as needed. Known circumstances, such as religious holidays should be discussed with the faculty of record in advance of the absence. Absences that are deemed exceptional will not affect the final grade.

    For the courses being delivered online via Zoom, students are required to have their videocam on at all times, and the audio on when appropriate. As expected when attending a course in-person, students must be engaged, showing their entire face, and actively participating as appropriate during the scheduled class time. Students may wish to utilize an appropriate virtual background.
  3. Attendance Policy Determined by Faculty of Record
    At the determination of the Faculty of Record, other absences can carry a grade penalty on the final grade percentage up to:
    1. For courses that meet twice a week:Two absences may drop a final course grade 5%. Three absences may drop a final course grade up to 10%. Four absences may drop a final course grade up to 20%. Five or more absences will result in a failing grade.
    2. For courses that meet once a week: One absence may drop a final course grade up to 5%. Two absences may drop a final course grade up to 10%. Three or more absences will result in a failing grade.

      Ringling College will make every effort to reasonably accommodate students’ disability related academic needs. However, neither the college nor an individual faculty member is required to waive essential or fundamental academic requirements of a course regardless of the nature of a student’s disability.

      The complete policy is posted to the Ringling website http://www.ringling.edu/policies-and-procedures/

Academic Integrity Policy

Ringling College of Art and Design recognizes that scholarly and creative work does not occur in a vacuum but rather emerges from students’ complex connections and experiences with life and with the intellectual and artistic world. Academic integrity is the process of openly acknowledging the sources of one's ideas and creations in the building of one's personal and public identity as a practitioner in the artistic community.

Faculty are responsible for clearly communicating their standards and expectations to their students. Because practices regarding intellectual property will vary depending on medium, genre, and context, students must take responsibility for accurately understanding and abiding by faculty expectations for each course in which they enroll. Ringling College expects all students to act with integrity in and out of the classroom, and among collaborators. The College also expects work done outside of course assignments—such as work submitted for exhibit and competitions, work done for freelance clients, or other work on or off campus—to be an ethical and honest creative endeavor. Both inside and outside the classroom and/or off campus, students must acknowledge the sources of their ideas and images in a manner consistent with best professional practices in their field and department.

A violation of the following policy will be determined based upon the preponderance of the evidence standard, meaning that a student will be held responsible if it is more likely than not that a violation has occurred.

Full details of Ringling College's Academic Integrity Policy, including penalties and processes regarding violations, can be found at http://www.ringling.edu/policies-and-procedures.

Violations of Academic Integrity Defined

Examples of violations of academic integrity may include but are not limited to:

  • Cheating: Taking credit for another person’s work, or allowing another person to take credit for one’s own work; using study or test-taking aids not permitted by the instructor or copying the work of another test taker; using commercial term paper companies or ghostwriters; submitting the same work for credit more than once without prior approval of the instructor(s).
  • Copying, imitating, or appropriating in whole or in part another person or persons’ work without appropriate attribution.
  • Plagiarism: Attributing to oneself the work of another person or persons.
  • Fabrication: Falsification or invention of source material; altering audio, visual, or data files without appropriate notice of the alterations.
  • Failure to follow attribution policies or citation practices advocated by the course instructor and/or described in the syllabus or other course materials.
  • Reproducing and/or publicly distributing or posting electronically copyrighted or otherwise protected intellectual property without permission of the owner of rights to that intellectual property.
  • Impeding the work of other persons by giving false or misleading information, stealing, or deliberately misplacing or destroying materials.
  • Facilitating or abetting violations of academic integrity by others.

Administration of the Academic Integrity Policy

The Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) or designee is responsible for overall administration of this policy.

Contested findings of violations of the Academic Integrity Policy or otherwise referred cases will be reviewed by a subset of the Academic Standards Committee (ASC). This Sub Committee is formed by the Chairperson of the Academic Standards Committee in consultation with the VPAA. Decisions of the Sub Committee shall not be subject to further review.

Throughout this document, written notice is defined as United States Postal Service mail, postage prepaid, with signature required and/or electronic communication with a read/receipt request attached to the document. In the event the student does not acknowledge receipt of written notice through the above methods, written notice may be accomplished by sending a letter, via regular United States Postal Service mail, postage prepaid, to the student’s mailing address as contained in the College’s official records, it being presumed that the student receives all mail addressed to her/him at that address. Adequate written notice will be presumed to have been delivered four (4) days after mailing. The specified number of calendar days is meant to apply under usual conditions, and may be modified by the VPAA if, in his or her judgment, special circumstances of the case so warrant.

Informal Resolution

If a student is accused of an infraction of the Academic Integrity Policy, a faculty member must inform the student in question and the Department Head or Program Director to whom he or she reports by written notice of the alleged violation normally within ten (10) calendar days after the faculty member becomes aware of the circumstances giving rise to the accusation. If the faculty member is also the Department Head, then the Office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs may appoint an otherwise uninvolved faculty member to serve as a witness. The faculty member, Department Head or Program Director, and student will discuss the alleged violation in a conference normally within seven (7) calendar days after the faculty member notifies the student of the accusation. The role of the Department Head or Program Director at this conference is as a witness and not as an advocate for either the faculty member or student. During this conference or at any other informal or formal part of the resolution process, the student may choose to have an advisor for assistance. The definition and role of the advisor is described in the Ringling College of Art and Design Student Handbook and reads as follows: “An Advisor is a person, chosen by an accused student, to serve in an advisory capacity during his/her involvement in the meeting/hearing process. The primary role of the Advisor is to assist the student in preparing for meetings/hearings and to attend meetings/hearings as support for the student. The student is responsible for presenting his/her own information and, therefore, advisors are not permitted to speak or participate directly in any meetings/hearings without approval. The use of an Advisor is strongly recommended.”

The student’s failure to respond to this accusation may be considered to be an admission of responsibility.

If, upon completion of the conference, the faculty member concludes that the student has not violated the Academic Integrity Policy, the matter will be closed, and the Department Head or Program Director will be so informed.

Finding Of Violation

Agreement as to violation with agreement as to resolution:
If the student admits his or her Academic Integrity Policy violation, and the student and faculty member are able to agree on an appropriate resolution, including the penalty, written notice will be sent to the VPAA or designee. After receipt of the resolution document, the VPAA or designee shall review the College Academic Integrity files. If no prior instance of violation is on record for the student, the matter may be closed. If a prior instance of violation by the student exists, the VPAA or designee shall refer the case to the Sub Committee for its recommendation.

Agreement as to violation with disagreement as to resolution or penalty:
If the student admits his or her Academic Integrity Policy violation, but the faculty member and student are not able to agree on an appropriate resolution, the student will notify the Department Head or Program Director and the VPAA of her/his decision to appeal. This notice of intent to appeal shall be submitted in writing within ten (10) calendar days following the conference to the VPAA or designee will refer the case to the Sub Committee for a formal review.

Disagreement as to violation:
If the faculty member concludes a violation has occurred and the student disagrees, the student shall notify the Department Head or Program Director and the VPAA of her/his decision to appeal. This notice of intent to appeal shall be submitted in writing within ten (10) calendar days following the conference. The VPAA or designee will refer the case to the Sub Committee for a formal review.

Formal Review

The Sub Committee will contact the student and faculty member involved and schedule a formal review to take place within ten (10) calendar days, at which time the student or faculty may present his or her position in writing or in person. The Committee will rule on the case and make a recommendation within ten (10) calendar days, with a report to the student and the VPAA.

The student may have the assistance of an Advisor. An Advisor is a current College employee or student, chosen by an accused student, who agrees to serve in an advisory capacity during the student’s involvement in the meeting / hearing process. The primary role of the Advisor is to assist the student in preparing for meetings / hearings and to attend meetings / hearings as support for the student. The student is responsible for presenting his / her own information and, therefore, Advisors are not permitted to speak or participate directly in any meetings / hearings without approval of the chair of the Committee. The Sub Committee must receive advance notification of the Advisor’s identity and that the Advisor will be present.

The Vice President for Academic Affairs may ratify the Sub Committee’s decision or return the case to the Sub Committee with recommendations for further consideration, or may reduce or retain any sanction.

Academic Integrity Policy Penalties As Levied By The Academic Standards Committee

  • Teachable Moment (provided by the Faculty Member)
  • Failure of the assignment (imposed by the Faculty Member)
  • Failure of the course (imposed by the Faculty Member)
  • Official Reprimand (A letter of reprimand from the VPAA or designee)
  • Academic Probation (period of time based on severity of violation and existence of past violations) (imposed by the Sub Committee and ratified by the VPAA or designee)
  • Academic Suspension (period of time based on severity of violation and past violations) (imposed by the Sub Committee and ratified by the VPAA or designee)
  • Other suitable action, including counseling, community service, or other reasonable action (may be imposed by the Sub Committee and ratified by the VPAA or designee)
  • Complete a workshop on appropriate best practices for avoiding plagiarism or academic ethics with either a Ringling College Librarian and/or an Academic Resource Center staff member (imposed by the Sub Committee and ratified by the VPAA or designee)
  • Expulsion from the College (imposed by the Sub Committee, ratified by the VPAA or designee and President).

The same penalties may apply to currently enrolled students for Academic Integrity offenses committed outside of a degree program course structure, such as: submitting plagiarized or falsified work for competitions and exhibitions.

These penalties are cumulative to the extent that they are not contradictory. That means that multiple penalties may be levied against a student. For example, a student may both fail the course as well as be required to complete a workshop on appropriate best practices.

Statute Of Limitations

No statute of limitation shall exist for issues of academic dishonesty, including post-graduation situations. Before the procedures may begin, the individual(s) in question must be located and contacted. The Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs will send written notice to the individual(s) containing all required information. When the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs receives confirmation that the letter has been delivered or when other written notice requirements have been met, the timetable of events begins. The ultimate in post-graduation academic punishments is revocation of degree and/or revocation of academic awards.

Academic Standards Committee: Charge/Membership
CHARGE: The purpose of the Academic Standards Committee is to make recommendations on academic standards and the consequent policies that affect the academic standing of students. In line with existing standards and policies, the Committee hears the appeals of students who have been academically dismissed.

Membership

The committee consists of the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty, the Registrar, the Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students, Academic Advisors and regular, full-time faculty members. The faculty members will be appointed from the Liberal Arts Program and the Majors.

Timing of Grade
During the informal and formal resolution processes, if the infraction is connected to coursework, the student’s enrollment and participation in class shall not be affected.

If at the semester's end the matter has not been resolved and the student has not been assigned a grade in the course, the student shall receive an “Incomplete” in the course until such time as a grade can be determined pursuant to this policy. If the student has already been assigned a grade in the course at the time the student is accused of an academic integrity violation, the assigned grade shall not be changed unless and until the student is determined to be in violation of or not in violation of academic integrity pursuant to this policy.

This Ringling College Academic Integrity Policy and its administration is the official policy for Ringling College students. It may be amended or revised without notice. The most recent copy of the Policy is available in the online Student Handbook and in the Catalog. Students, faculty, and staff may also be interested in other resources (which are not part of the Ringling College Academic Integrity Policy) including the following books in the Alfred R. Goldstein Library’s collection:

Crawford, Tad, ed. AIGA Professional Practices In Graphic Design. New York: Allworth Press, 2008. Print.

  • Legal guide for the visual artist. New York: Allworth Press, 2010. Print.

Gilmore, Barry. Plagiarism: A How-Not-to Guide for Students. Portsmouth, NH: Heinemann, 2009. Print.

MLA Citation Style Quick Guide (Goldstein Library).

Trustee Scholars Program

Every educational institution has an aura, which pervades the campus, and the Trustee Scholarship Program rewards what is truly honored, prized and admired at Ringling College. Selection as a Trustee Scholar is the highest honor awarded at the Ringling College of Art and Design. The award recognizes:

  • Exceptional talent and distinction of mind.
  • Contributions to the department, College and / or community during the sophomore and junior years.
  • On-campus leadership and citizenship and / or the ability to be a department or Student Life mentor.

Each spring, prior to the April meeting of the Board of Trustees, the faculty of each major and the staff of the Office of Student Life, meet to select the names of two candidates for the Trustee Scholarship. Student nominees are asked to submit digital images and / or video with descriptive information, written artist statement and résumé to be presented to the Trustee Scholars Selection Committee for review and recommendation. The materials of the award recipients will later be on permanent file in the Alfred R. Goldstein Library. Each Trustee Scholar is awarded a $5,000 scholarship and is introduced to the Board of Trustees at a special reception following the selection process. While completing their senior year, Trustee Scholars will work closely with the department faculty or Office of Student Life staff to serve as mentors to other students.

Facility Usage

Building Hours & Usage

  1. Evening studio hours will start the week classes begin. Check specific facilities for opening dates.
  2. A high degree of cooperation is essential from students who use the facilities in the evening. Students must be responsible for clean-up before they leave, and all furniture must be returned to the regular set-up. If Reports from faculty or students occur regarding the condition of the studios in the morning, then studio hours will be reduced.
  3. No smoking, eating, or drinking is allowed in the studios or computer labs.Food and drinks are only permitted in classrooms and lecture halls with approval by the Vice President for Academic Affairs for special meetings and functions.
  4. When Continuing Studies & Special Programs courses are in session, some facilities will not be available.
  5. The following facilities will only be opened when a facility monitor is on duty: Some computer labs, Photography Center, Printmaking, Sculpture, Woodshop and First Year studios. If a monitor is not present, Public Safety Officers will ask students to leave.
  6. Studios are closed to students during School holidays, breaks and summer vacation, unless appropriate written approval from the Department Head / Program Director and VPAA is on file with the Office of Public Safety. Such requests are given to the Vice President of AcademicAffairs or designee by the faculty member 2 days in advance.
  7. After midnight, 2 or more students must be in a room for it to remain open. If a facility is found with less than 2 students occupying it, a PublicSafety Officer will ask the student to leave and will lock the room.
  8. Public Safety Officers are not authorized to make exceptions to the approved building hours unless notified by the Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee.
  9. Students who are uncooperative with the Public Safety Officers, or who use the facility after the approved evening hours, are in jeopardy of losing their evening access privileges.
  10. All main facilities are closed during the summer break. (Limited facilities availability for CSSP programs).

Building Hour Changes

Changes in building hours must be requested from the Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee at least 2 working days in advance. Requests must be made in writing by the Department Head or Program Director. If approved, the Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee will notify the Director of Public Safety.

Use Of Deborah Cooley Photography Center

The use of the photography facility is limited to students presently enrolled in photography courses. Other students who have previously taken photography at Ringling College may request written permission to use the facility from the Photography Department Head. All students using the facility must do so during scheduled lab hours and abide by lab regulations. No smoking, food, or drink is allowed.