Reflection: GCU Code of Conduct
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university_policy_handbook_spring_2025_V4.pdf
Effective 5/8/2023
Grand Canyon University
University Policy Handbook
2024-2025
Spring 2025
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 2 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
University Policy Handbook Version Record The following is a record of the major changes made to the Grand Canyon University Policy Handbook. This is not a comprehensive
itemization of all of the changes made in this revision cycle, but rather an overview of the more significant updates incorporated into the
current version of the handbook.
Version Updated Changes Made
1 05/06/24 • Initial Update to Summer 2024
• Updated Financial Services
2 06/10/24 • Updated Baccalaureate Programmatic Progression Requirements
3 06/24/24 • Updated Accreditation, Authorizations, and Approvals
4 07/22/24 • Updated Eligibility to Participate in Commencement
• Updated Programmatic Progression Requirements
• Updated Community Standards for Ground Campus
5 07/29/24 • Updated Baccalaureate Degree and Undergraduate Certificate Programmatic Admission
Requirements
6 08/02/24 • Added Grand Canyon University Yellow Ribbon Program Policy
7 08/12/24 • Updated Master Degree Programmatic Transfer Policy
8 08/26/24 • Updated Student Records
• Updated Federal Funding Sources
9 09/03/24 • Initial Update to Fall 2024
10 09/16/24 • Updated Baccalaureate Programmatic Progression Requirements
11 09/30/24 • Updated Baccalaureate Programmatic Progression Requirements
• Updated Satisfactory Academic Progress
• Updated Financial Services
12 10/07/24 • Updated Community Standards for Ground Campus
• Updated College of Engineering and Technology
• Updated College of Natural Sciences
13 10/14/24 • Updated Code of Conduct and Academic Standards
• Updated Baccalaureate Programmatic Admission Requirements
• Updated Study Abroad and International Programs
• Updated Master Degree and Graduate Certificate Programmatic Admission Requirements
14 10/18/24 • Updated Academic Calendar
15 11/11/24 • Updated Doctoral Programmatic Progression Requirements
• Updated Baccalaureate Programmatic Progression Requirements
• Updated Master Programmatic Porgrammatic Progression Requirements
• Updated Financial Services
16 11/25/24 • Updated Overload Policy
• Updated Baccalaureate Programmatic Progression Requirements
17 12/02/24 • Updated HS Dual Enrollment Policy
• Updated International Student Admissions
• Updated Baccalaureate Programmatic Progression Requirements
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 3 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Version Updated Changes Made
18 12/16/24 • Updated Baccalaureate Degree and Undergraduate Certificate Programmatic Admission
Requirements
• Updated Bridge Programmatic Admission Requirements
• Updated Master Programmatic Progression Requirements
• Updated Doctoral Programmatic Admission Requirements
• Updated Baccalaureate Programmatic Progression Requirements
• Updated Master Degree and Graduate Certificate Programmatic Admission Requirements
• Updated Master Degree Programmatic Transfer Policy
19 12/27/24 • Updated Baccalaureate Programmatic Progression Requirements
20 12/30/24 • Updated Master Degree and Graduate Certificate Programmatic Admission Requirements
21 01/06/25 • Initial Update to Spring 2025
22 02/03/25 • Updated Financial Services
• Updated Master Degree and Graduate Certificate Programmatic Admission Requirements
• Updated Master Degree Programmatic Transfer Policy
23 02/10/25 • Updated Baccalaureate Programmatic Progression Requirements
• Updated Master Programmatic Progression Requirements
• Updated Community Standards for Ground Campus
24 02/24/25 • Updated Accreditation, Authorizations, and Approvals
• Updated University Appeal Procedures
25 03/03/25 • Updated Baccalaureate Degree and Undergraduate Certificate Programmatic Admission
Requirements
Right to Change Requirements
The University reserves the right to make changes of any nature to the calendar, admission requirements, degree requirements, fees,
regulations, course offerings, programs, or academic schedules whenever they are deemed necessary or desirable, including changes or
modification of course content, class scheduling, offering patterns, canceling of scheduled classes, or other academic activities.
The Grand Canyon University Policy Handbook does not establish a contractual relationship; rather, it sets forth academic and other
requirements that students must meet to be granted a degree and, in some circumstances, to continue to be enrolled at the institution. While
advisors and other Grand Canyon University personnel are available to guide students with respect to the requirements, students ultimately
bear the responsibility of following the requirements.
Students should view the Academic Catalog for college and program specific information.
Statement of Non-Discrimination:
Grand Canyon University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation,
gender identity or any legally protected status. Title IX regulations require non-discrimination on the basis of sex or gender, which includes
unlawful discrimination based on pregnancy and/or disability discrimination based upon complications related to pregnancy. As a religious
institution, Grand Canyon University expressly reserves its rights, its understandings of, and its commitments to Christian principles, and
reserves the legal right to hire and employ individuals who support the values of the University.
Inquiries concerning the application of Title IX discrimination or the application of Title IX harassment policies may be submitted to the
Title IX coordinator and/or to the Office of Civil Rights for the United States Department of Education:
Title IX Coordinator
Kelsey Nelson
Director of Institutional Access and Compliance Office
3300 W Camelback Rd.
Phoenix, AZ 85017
(602) 639-7289
U.S. Department of Education
Office for Civil Rights
Lyndon Baines Johnson, Department of Education Building
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 4 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Washington, DC 20202-1100
Telephone: 800-421-3481
FAX: 202-453-6012; TDD: 800-877-8339
European Union (EU) – General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
The GDPR is a privacy regulation that provides certain rights and protections to EU natural persons surrounding their personal data and how
this organization processes the data.
Processing personal data is necessary for all individuals applying to the university. The rights outlined in this policy apply exclusively to EU
natural persons.
GCU may use your personal data to respond to your questions, provide you specific courses, services, projects, programs and/or services you
select to satisfy our contractual obligation to you. Your rights include:
The right to be informed of how your EU Personal Data are being used – this information is set forth in these EU Privacy Provisions and any
documents linked to these EU Privacy Provisions
• The right of access to your EU Personal Data
• The right to have your inaccurate EU Personal Data rectified
• The right to have your EU Personal Data erased
• The right to restrict the Processing of your EU Personal Data pending its verification or correction
• The right to object to the Processing of your EU Personal Data
• The right to receive copies of your EU Personal Data
• The right to file a complaint with an EU supervisory authority
• The right to object to using your EU Personal Data for direct marketing, data mining, or research purposes where the research is not
in the public interest
Some of these rights are not automatic, and we reserve the right to discuss with you why we might not comply with a request from you to
exercise them. If you wish to exercise any of your rights regarding your EU Personal Data, please email [email protected]. You may also file a
complaint concerning your EU Personal Data Processing with the applicable EU Supervisory Authority.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 5 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Table of Contents University Policy Handbook Version Record ...................................................................................................................................................... 2
Right to Change Requirements ....................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Statement of Non-Discrimination: .................................................................................................................................................................. 3 European Union (EU) – General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) ........................................................................................................... 4
Table of Contents ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 5 Contact Information ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 8
General Contact Information .......................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Student Contacts ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 8
Accreditation, Authorizations, and Approvals ................................................................................................................................................... 10 Accreditation ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 10 State Authorizations ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 13 Program Approvals ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Facilities and Locations ................................................................................................................................................................................ 20
About Grand Canyon University ........................................................................................................................................................................ 23 Vision............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 23 Mission Statement ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 Mission Based Student Learning Competencies ........................................................................................................................................... 23 Historical Sketch ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 26 Board of Trustees .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 27 Contributors .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 28 University Seal .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 28 University Mascot and Colors ....................................................................................................................................................................... 28 Statement of Principle ................................................................................................................................................................................... 28
University Calendar............................................................................................................................................................................................ 29 Traditional Campus Students ........................................................................................................................................................................ 29 Nontraditional Campus Students (Online, Evening-Satellite, and Evening-Campus) ................................................................................... 29
Holiday Schedule ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 30 Degrees Offered ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 31
Doctoral Programs ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 31 Professional Programs .................................................................................................................................................................................. 32 Master Programs ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 32 Graduate Certificates of Completion............................................................................................................................................................. 33 Baccalaureate Programs ................................................................................................................................................................................ 34
Admission Policies and Application Procedures ................................................................................................................................................ 37 Overview ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 37 Baccalaureate Admission Requirements ....................................................................................................................................................... 37 Baccalaureate Degree and Undergraduate Certificate Programmatic Admission Requirements .................................................................. 38 Bridge Admission Requirements .................................................................................................................................................................. 47 Master Degree and Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements .............................................................................................................. 47 Bridge Programmatic Admission Requirements ........................................................................................................................................... 47 Master Degree and Graduate Certificate Programmatic Admission Requirements....................................................................................... 48 Doctoral Admission Requirements ............................................................................................................................................................... 59 Doctoral Programmatic Admission Requirements ........................................................................................................................................ 59 Non-Degree Program Admission Requirements ........................................................................................................................................... 60 General Application Procedures ................................................................................................................................................................... 61 Admission Statuses ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 61 International Student Admission ................................................................................................................................................................... 62
General Academic Regulations .......................................................................................................................................................................... 66 Official Student Communication .................................................................................................................................................................. 66 Official Name Change .................................................................................................................................................................................. 66 Preferred First Name ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 66 Change of Address Notification .................................................................................................................................................................... 66 Academic Calendar ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 66 Classification of Students and Courses ......................................................................................................................................................... 66 Program of Study, Course Availability, and Cancellation ............................................................................................................................ 69 Registration Policy ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 70
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 6 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Class Presence .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 70 Academic Engagement ................................................................................................................................................................................. 72 Class Participation ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 73 Grade Point Average (GPA) Progression ...................................................................................................................................................... 74 Satisfactory Academic Progress .................................................................................................................................................................... 74 Baccalaureate Programmatic Progression Requirements .............................................................................................................................. 75 Master Programmatic Progression Requirements ....................................................................................................................................... 114 Doctoral Programmatic Progression Requirements .................................................................................................................................... 148 Non-Degree Programmatic Progression Requirements ............................................................................................................................... 157 Blind Review Process for Previous Arrests or Criminal Records ............................................................................................................... 157 Code of Conduct and Academic Standards ................................................................................................................................................. 157 Internal Review Policy ................................................................................................................................................................................ 160 Title IX and Non-Discrimination Policy ..................................................................................................................................................... 160 Multicultural, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy ............................................................................................................................................ 173 University Appeal Procedures .................................................................................................................................................................... 175 Textbooks ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 177 Grading System........................................................................................................................................................................................... 177 Academic Honors ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 180 Special Study Courses................................................................................................................................................................................. 180 Official Enrollment Status Change and Withdrawal ................................................................................................................................... 181 University Official Withdrawal................................................................................................................................................................... 182 Student Records .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 183 Student Access ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 184 Student Driver Waiver ................................................................................................................................................................................ 188 University Technology Requirements ......................................................................................................................................................... 188 Programmatic Technology Requirements ................................................................................................................................................... 190 Intellectual Property Rights ........................................................................................................................................................................ 202 Intellectual Property Policy and Student Works ......................................................................................................................................... 204 Responsible Conduct of Research for Sponsored Research ........................................................................................................................ 207
Financial Services ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 209 Payment Policy ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 209 Course Tuition Refund ................................................................................................................................................................................ 211 Institutional Aid (GCU Scholarships and GCU Grants) ............................................................................................................................. 213
Tuition and Fees ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 217 Effective Fall 2024 for Traditional Campus and 5/1/24 for Non-Traditional Campus ................................................................................ 217 Effective Fall 2025 for Traditional Campus and 5/1/25 for Non-Traditional Campus ................................................................................ 222 Cost of Attendance ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 227 Dining Dollars ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 227 Lopes Cash.................................................................................................................................................................................................. 227 Campus ID Cards ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 227 Special Course Fees .................................................................................................................................................................................... 227 Student Health Insurance ............................................................................................................................................................................ 229 Waiving Insurance ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 229 Federal Financial Aid .................................................................................................................................................................................. 230 Federal Funding Sources ............................................................................................................................................................................. 233 Federal Loan Programs ............................................................................................................................................................................... 234 Annual and Aggregate Loan Limits ............................................................................................................................................................ 235 State Grants for Arizona Residents ............................................................................................................................................................. 235 Student Employment ................................................................................................................................................................................... 236 GCU Policy for the Disclosure of FTI, FASFA Data, and Derived FAFSA Data ...................................................................................... 237
Evaluation of Transfer Credit ........................................................................................................................................................................... 238 General Policies .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 238 Foreign Evaluation of Transfer Credits ....................................................................................................................................................... 238 Transferring from GCU to another Institution ............................................................................................................................................ 238 Baccalaureate Transfer Policies .................................................................................................................................................................. 238 Transfer Credit Application ........................................................................................................................................................................ 239 Alternative Transfer Credit Options ............................................................................................................................................................ 239 Master Degree Transfer Policies ................................................................................................................................................................. 241 Master Degree Programmatic Transfer Policies.......................................................................................................................................... 241 Undergraduate Certificate of Completion Transfer Policies ....................................................................................................................... 242 Graduate Certificate of Completion Transfer Policies ................................................................................................................................ 242 Doctoral Degree Transfer Policies .............................................................................................................................................................. 242
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 7 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Graduation Requirements ................................................................................................................................................................................. 244 Designation of Academic Catalog .............................................................................................................................................................. 244 Baccalaureate Graduation Requirements .................................................................................................................................................... 244 Baccalaureate Programmatic Graduation Requirements ............................................................................................................................. 246 Master Graduation Requirements ............................................................................................................................................................... 246 Doctoral Graduation Requirements ............................................................................................................................................................. 246 Posthumous Degrees ................................................................................................................................................................................... 246 Commencement .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 247 Graduation with a Leadership Distinction................................................................................................................................................... 247 Graduation with Academic Recognition ..................................................................................................................................................... 248
Academic Services and Resources ................................................................................................................................................................... 249 Career Services ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 249 GCU Library ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 249 Campus Computer Center ........................................................................................................................................................................... 249 Faculty Information .................................................................................................................................................................................... 249 GCU Institutional Review Board ................................................................................................................................................................ 249 International Students Office ...................................................................................................................................................................... 250
Drug-Free Campus and Workplace Policy ....................................................................................................................................................... 252 Description of Health Risks ........................................................................................................................................................................ 252 Drug and Alcohol Counseling ..................................................................................................................................................................... 253 Institutional Sanctions ................................................................................................................................................................................. 253
Campus Policies & Other Information ............................................................................................................................................................. 254 Campus Hours ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 254 Housing and Residence Life Policies .......................................................................................................................................................... 254 Immunization Requirement......................................................................................................................................................................... 256
Community Standards for Ground Campus ..................................................................................................................................................... 258 Applicability of the University Policy Handbook as it applies to the Community Standards ..................................................................... 258 Community Standards ................................................................................................................................................................................. 258 Community Standards Process .................................................................................................................................................................... 264 Sanctions for Violations .............................................................................................................................................................................. 267 Behavioral Intervention and Threat Assessment ......................................................................................................................................... 270 Emergency Mental Health Policy ............................................................................................................................................................... 270
Glossary ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 271 Appendix A ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 272
Dissertation Milestone Table ...................................................................................................................................................................... 272 Appendix B ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 274
Military Refund Table................................................................................................................................................................................. 274 Appendix C ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 275
DNP Direct and Indirect Hours and Activities ............................................................................................................................................ 275 No Transfer Hours ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 275
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 8 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Contact Information
General Contact Information
Web Site
http://www.gcu.edu/
Main Switchboard
Phone: 1-602-639-7500
Toll-free: 1-800-800-9776
Main Campus Mailing Address
Grand Canyon University
PO Box 11097
Phoenix, AZ 85061-1097
Main Campus Street Address
Grand Canyon University – Main Campus
3300 West Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85017-3030
GCU Facilities
GCU’s Campus Map is a great way to find your way around the
GCU campus. The map shows all buildings on campus. As
construction continues across the campus, the online map
provides students access to the most current information. Utilize
the link below to access the GCU main campus map:
https://www.gcumedia.com/mediaElement/interactive-campus-
map/v3.1 For information about additional locations, utilize the
following link: visit https://www.gcu.edu/about-
gcu/locations.php.
Additional Locations
GCU Boswell
10484 W. Thunderbird, Suite 102
Sun City, Arizona 85351
GCU Tucson
3500 North Campbell Avenue
Tucson, Arizona 85719
Kyrene School District Office
8700 S. Kyrene Rd.
Tempe, Arizona 85284
Mesa Community College
1833 W. Southern Avenue
Mesa, Arizona 85202
Mesa Unified School District – Dobson High School
1501 W Guadalupe Rd
Mesa, Arizona 85202
Pima-Salt River High School
4827 N Country Club Dr
Scottsdale, Arizona 85256
Student Contacts
Academic Centers for Excellence (ACE)
Responsibility: Provides one-on-one and small group peer
tutoring to support learning and the development of academic
skills.
Phone: 602-639-8901
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: https://ssc.gcu.edu/#/page/excellence-center-resources
Admissions Representatives
Responsibility: Assists students with their initial enrollment into a
program of study.
Phone: 1-800-800-9776
Campus Operations
Responsibility: Provide parking passes for campus students,
faculty and staff along with issue campus ID cards
Phone: 602-639-7739
Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic
Responsibility: Assists campus students with health needs.
Phone: 602-639-6215
Fax: 602-639-7830
Website: http://www.gcu.edu/Campus-Resources/Health-and-
Wellness-Center.php
GCU Bookstore
Responsibility: Carries materials required in GCU courses along
with University-branded apparel and gifts.
Phone: 1-800-866-8917
GCU Library
Responsibility: The GCU Library supports the University’s
mission, vision, and values by providing quality resources and
innovative services to support and enrich academic success,
scholarship, and lifelong learning.
Phone: 602-639-6641 or 1-800-800-9776 ext. 639-6641
Website: http://library.gcu.edu
Ask A Librarian: http://library.gcu.edu/AskALibrarian
Webinars: http://libguides.gcu.edu/Webinars
Tutorials: http://libguides.gcu.edu/Tutorials
GCU Today
Responsibility: Provides the news and events source for Grand
Canyon University students, updated daily.
Phone: 602-639-8011
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://news.gcu.edu/
http://www.gcu.edu/News.php
International Students Office
Responsibility: Assists university students and staff in support of
F-1 students during their stay in the United States
Phone: 602-639-8105
Fax: 602-343-3771
E-mail: [email protected]
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 9 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Mail and Copy Center
Responsibility: Provide many services to the traditional campus
students and staff, which includes mailing out letter and packages
along with photocopying services
Phone: 602-639-7905
Office of Academic Records
Responsibility: Tracks student progress to degree completion,
evaluates transcripts, and admits students to the University.
Phone: 1-800-800-9776
E-mail: [email protected]
Office of Residence Life
Responsibility: Assists students with campus housing
Phone: 602-639-6244
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.gcu.edu/Housing/Residence-Life-
Information.php
Office of Spiritual Life
Responsibility: Provides spiritual needs of the campus,
coordinates Chapel programming and outreach ministry
Phone: 602-639-6750
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.gcu.edu/about-gcu/christian-identity-and-
heritage.php
Office of Student Engagement
Responsibility: Assists students with campus clubs, intramurals,
Associated Students of GCU, and campus programming.
Phone: 602-639-7250
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.gcu.edu/Events-and-Activities.php
Public Safety
Responsibility: Assists students, faculty and staff with issues
relating to campus and public safety.
Phone: 602-639-8100
Website: http://www.gcu.edu/Campus-Resources/Public-
Safety.php
Student Disability Services
Responsibility: Assists students with obtaining reasonable
accommodations, based on student self-disclosure of disability.
Phone: 602-639-6342 or 1-800-800-9776 ext. 639-6342
Email: [email protected]
Student Services Counselors
Responsibility: Assists students with planning financial resources
needed to fund their education along with planning and
maintaining their program of study.
Phone: 1-800-800-9776
Technical Support
Responsibility: Assists students with technical issues regarding
the University systems.
Phone: 1-877-428-8447
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://support.gcu.edu/hc/en-us
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 10 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Accreditation, Authorizations, and Approvals
Accreditation
Accreditation is a third-party peer review process which provides the public an assurance that the university is providing a quality education
which meets or exceeds the accreditors stated requirements and criteria. Accreditation is key factor which may be recognized by employers,
other postsecondary institutions, and licensing bodies. The US Department of Education requires accreditation from a body recognized by the
agency as a key requirement for a university being permitted to disperse federal financial aid. In short, in choosing a university, parents and
students should ensure their university of choice is accredited.
Institutional Accreditation
Grand Canyon University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and its predecessor continually since 1968. Every
ten years, HLC conducts a comprehensive review of the university to ensure the university continues to meet HLC’s standards. In June 2021,
HLC reaffirmed GCU’s accreditation. The next comprehensive visit is scheduled for the 2026-2027 academic year. A listing of
programmatic accreditations held within each college is provided below.
Higher Learning Commission
The Higher Learning Commission accredits Grand Canyon University.
The Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois 60604-1411
Phone: 312-263-0456
Toll-free: 800-621-7440
http://www.ncahlc.org/
Programmatic Accreditations
GCU holds multiple programmatic accreditations for over 80 of its programs. These accreditations demonstrate that the accredited programs
meet or exceed the standards for the profession set forth by the accrediting body. Programmatic accreditation may help graduates meet the
educational requirements for professional licensure or certification. The programmatic accreditations by college are provided below.
Colangelo College of Business
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), 7007 College Boulevard, Suite 420, Overland Park, KS 66211,
913-339-9356, accredits the following programs of the Colangelo College of Business: Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Bachelor of
Science in Applied Management, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an
Emphasis in Business Intelligence, Bachelor of Science in Business Management, Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurial Studies, Bachelor
of Science in Finance and Economics, Bachelor of Science in Marketing, Bachelor of Science in Sports Management, Master of Science in
Accounting, Master of Business Administration, Master of Business Administration with an Emphasis in Accounting, Master of Business
Administration with an Emphasis in Finance, Master of Business Administration with an Emphasis in Health Systems Management, Master
of Business Administration with an Emphasis in Leadership, Master of Business Administration with an Emphasis in Marketing, Master of
Business Administration with an Emphasis in Project Management, Master of Business Administration with an Emphasis in Strategic Human
Resource Management, and Doctor of Business Administration with an Emphasis in Management.
College of Education
Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP)
Grand Canyon University's College of Education is approved by the Arizona State Board of Education to offer institutional recommendations
(credentials) for the certification of early childhood, elementary, secondary and special education teachers, as well as administrators.
Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP)
Grand Canyon University is a member in good standing of the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), a
national accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. The programs listed below have been
awarded full accreditation by AAQEP through June 30, 2026. Full accreditation acknowledges that a program prepares effective educators
who continue to grow as professionals and has demonstrated the commitment and capacity to maintain quality.
AAQEP-Accredited Programs at GCU:
• Initial Programs
• Advanced Programs
Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation
P.O. Box 7511
Fairfax Station, VA 22039-9998
Email: [email protected]
aaqep.org
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 11 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE)
The Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training is currently accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education.
CAATE
2001 K Street NW, 3rd Floor North
Washington, DC 20006
P: 512-733-9700
The program is currently applying to CAATE for a change in level of degree and is pending approval.
Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)
The Health Information Management accreditor of Grand Canyon University is the Commission on Accreditation for
Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). The College’s accreditation for the
baccalaureate degree in Health Information Management has been reaffirmed through 2030-2031. All inquiries about
the program’s accreditation status should be directed by mail to CAHIIM, 200 East Randolph Street, Suite 5100,
Chicago, IL, 60601; by phone at (312) 235- 3255; or by email at [email protected]
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), recognized by ED, assesses the quality and integrity of nursing programs. Grand
Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN), Master of Science in
Nursing with an Emphasis in Health Informatics, Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Nursing Education, Master of Science in
Nursing with an Emphasis in Public Health Nursing, Master of Science of Nursing with an Emphasis in Leadership in Health Care Systems,
Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with an Emphasis in Adult Gerontology, Master of Science in Nursing: Family
Nurse Practitioner, Post Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with an Emphasis in Adult Gerontology, Post Master of
Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Doctor of Nursing Practice with an Emphasis in Educational
Leadership are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
655 K Street, NW, Suite 750
Washington, DC 20001
P: (202) 887-6791
Society for Simulation in Healthcare
The Grand Canyon University Pre-Licensure Nursing Immersive Simulation has been granted Provisional Accreditation from the Society for
Simulation in Healthcare (SSH). The SSH accreditation is a peer-reviewed, customized evaluation of the simulation program. With obtaining
accreditation, GCU is recognized for its expertise in simulation above and beyond domain expertise. https://www.ssih.org/.
Society for Simulation in Healthcare
P.O. Box 856114
Minneapolis, MN 55485-6114
Phone: 866.730.6127
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) - BSW
Grand Canyon University’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences’ Bachelor of Social Work program is accredited by the Council on
Social Work Education.
Accreditation of a baccalaureate or master’s social work program by the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation
indicates that it meets or exceeds criteria for the assessment of program quality evaluated through a peer review process. An accredited
program has sufficient resources to meet its mission and goals and the Commission on Accreditation has verified that it demonstrates
compliance with all sections of the Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards. Spring 2024 University Policy Handbook 12 © 2024
Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved. Accreditation applies to all program sites and program delivery methods of an accredited
program. Accreditation provides reasonable assurance about the quality of the program and the competence of students graduating from the
program.
For more information about social work accreditation, you may contact Accreditation.
Council on Social Work Education
1701 Duke Street, Suite 200
Alexandria, VA 22314-3457
Phone: 703-683-8080
https://www.cswe.org/
Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) – MSW
Grand Canyon University’s Master of Social Work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on
Accreditation.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 12 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Accreditation of a baccalaureate or master’s social work program by the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation
indicates that it meets or exceeds criteria for the assessment of program quality evaluated through a peer review process. An accredited
program has sufficient resources to meet its mission and goals and the Commission on Accreditation has verified that it demonstrates
compliance with all sections of the Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards.
Accreditation applies to all program sites and program delivery methods of an accredited program. Accreditation provides reasonable
assurance about the quality of the program and the competence of students graduating from the program.
For more information about social work accreditation, you may contact Accreditation.
Council on Social Work Education
1701 Duke Street, Suite 200
Alexandria, VA 22314-3457
Phone: 703-683-8080
https://www.cswe.org/
National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC)
The Master of Science in Addiction Counseling program has been approved for accreditation through the National Addiction Studies
Accreditation Commission (NASAC). The Master of Science in Christian Counseling of Substance Use and Addictive Disorders has been
approved for conditional accreditation through NASAC.
National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC)
44 Canal Center Plaza, Suite 301
Alexandria, VA 22314
Seeking Professional Counseling Accreditation
Grand Canyon University (GCU) is currently pursuing accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related
Educational Programs (CACREP) for the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC), Master of Education in School
Counseling (SC).
College of Engineering and Technology
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
The College of Engineering and Technology’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with an Emphasis in Business Entrepreneurship,
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with an Emphasis in Big Data Analytics, and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with an
Emphasis in Game and Simulation Development programs are accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET,
www.abet.org.
The College of Engineering and Technology’s Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Electrical
Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Engineering with an Emphasis in Robotics, and
Bachelor of Science in Engineering programs are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, www.abet.org.
The College of Engineering and Technology’s Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology and Bachelor of Science in
Mechanical Engineering Technology programs are accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET,
www.abet.org.
ABET
415 North Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
410.347.7700
Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)
GCU’s Nutrition and Dietetics Education Program has been granted candidate status by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition
and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190, Chicago, IL 60606-6995, 312-899-0040 ext.
5400
Grand Canyon Theological Seminary
Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS)
Grand Canyon Theological Seminary, the embedded seminary of Grand Canyon University, is included within the university’s accreditation
by the Higher Learning Commission. The seminary is also accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological
Schools.
The Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools has approved the following degree programs:
• Master of Divinity
• Master of Arts in Christian Leadership
• Master of Arts in Christian Ministry
• Master of Arts in Youth and Family Ministry
• Master of Arts in Urban Ministry
The Commission contact information is:
The Commission on Accrediting of the ATS
10 Summit Park Drive
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 13 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Pittsburgh, PA 15275
Phone: 412.788.6505
Fax: 412.788.6510
www.ats.edu
State Authorizations
Arizona State Private Post-Secondary Education
Grand Canyon University is licensed in Arizona by the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education.
Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education
1740 W. Adams St., Suite 3008
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: 602-542-5709
http://ppse.az.gov
California Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education
California Resident Students Rights and Responsibilities Related to the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF)
The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in
an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program,
if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss. Unless relieved of the obligation to do so, you must
pay the state-imposed assessment for the STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a
California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition. You are not eligible for protection from the
STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program. It
is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents
the amount paid to the school. Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 2535
Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95833, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.
To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or are enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have
paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:
1. The institution, a location of the institution, or an educational program offered by the institution was closed or discontinued, and you did
not choose to participate in a teach-out plan approved by the Bureau or did not complete a chosen teach-out plan approved by the Bureau.
2. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution within the 120 day period before the closure of the institution or location
of the institution, or were enrolled in an educational program within the 120 day period before the program was discontinued.
3. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution more than 120 days before the closure of the institution or location of the
institution, in an educational program offered by the institution as to which the Bureau determined there was a significant decline in the
quality or value of the program more than 120 days before closure.
4. The institution has been ordered to pay a refund by the Bureau but has failed to do so.
5. The institution has failed to pay or reimburse loan proceeds under a federal student loan program as required by law, or has failed to pay or
reimburse proceeds received by the institution in excess of tuition and other costs.
6. You have been awarded restitution, a refund, or other monetary award by an arbitrator or court, based on a violation of this chapter by an
institution or representative of an institution, but have been unable to collect the award from the institution.
7. You sought legal counsel that resulted in the cancellation of one or more of your student loans and have an invoice for services rendered
and evidence of the cancellation of the student loan or loans.
To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the
student eligible for recovery from STRF. A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of non-collection
may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery. If it has
been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for
recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law. However, no claim can be paid to
any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.
Colorado Commission on Higher Education
Grand Canyon University is provisionally authorized by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education to operate to offer laboratory and
simulation components of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure, accelerated (ABSN) program at the following location:
Grand Canyon University
10700 E Gaddes Avenue, Ste 200
Englewood, Colorado 80112
Florida Commission for Independent Education
Grand Canyon University is provisionally licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, Florida Department of Education. As a
result, GCU is authorized to offer laboratory and simulation components of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure, accelerated
(ABSN) program at the following location:
Grand Canyon University
605 Crescent Executive Court, Suite 500
Lake Mary, FL 32746
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 14 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Grand Canyon University is provisionally licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, Florida Department of Education to offer
the Bachelor of Science in Applied Management, Bachelor of Science in Business Management, Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security
and Emergency Management, Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with an Emphasis in Cybersecurity, and Master of Business
Administration programs at the Eglin Air Force Base.
Additional information regarding this institution may be obtained by contacting the Commission at 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414,
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0400, toll-free telephone number (888) 224-6684
GCU encourages students to follow the appeals process outlined in the University Policy Handbook. However, students enrolled in FL
programs may file a complaint with the Florida Commission for Independent Education by following the student concern instructions on their
website which can be found at the following link: https://www.fldoe.org/policy/cie/student-concerns.stml or by contacting the Commission.
Commission for Independent Education
325 W. Gaines St, Suite 1414
Tallahassee, FL. 32399-0400
Idaho State Board of Education
Grand Canyon University is registered as a Postsecondary Educational Institution with the State Board of Education under Idaho Statute,
Title 33, Chapter 24. As a result, Grand Canyon University is authorized to offer skills lab and simulation components of the Bachelor of
Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure, accelerated (ABSN) program at the following location:
Grand Canyon University
1144 S. Silverstone Way, Building 2
Meridian, ID 83642
GCU encourages students to follow the appeals process outlined in the University Policy Handbook. However, Idaho students may file an
appeal with the Idaho State Board of Education by following their student compliant procedures which can be found at the following link:
https://boardofed.idaho.gov/higher-education-private/private-colleges-degree-granting/student-complaint-procedures/
Missouri Department of Higher Education
Grand Canyon University is certified to operate by the Missouri Coordinating Board for Higher Education. As a result, Grand Canyon
University is authorized to offer skills lab and simulation components of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure, accelerated
(ABSN) program at the following location:
721 Emerson Rd. Suite 500,
St. Louis, MO 63141
Nevada Commission on Postsecondary Education (CPE)
Grand Canyon University is licensed by the Nevada Commission on Postsecondary Education (CPE) to operate as a private postsecondary
educational institution within the state of Nevada. As a result, Grand Canyon University is authorized to offer skills lab and simulation
components of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure, accelerated (ABSN) program at the following location:
Grand Canyon University
2485 Village View Drive
Henderson, Nevada 89074
GCU encourages students to follow the appeals process outlined in the University Policy Handbook. However, students enrolled in the aBSN
– NV program version may file a complaint with the Nevada Commission on Postsecondary Education by filling out the Student Complaint
Form which can be found on their website or at the following link:
https://cpe.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/cpenvgov/content/Students/Complaint%20Form%20Initial%202021.pdf. This form can be submitted via
email, fax, or mailed to the following address:
Nevada Commission on Postsecondary Education
2800 E. St. Louis Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89104
New Mexico Higher Education Department
Grand Canyon University has been deemed by the New Mexico Higher Education Department to meet the standards for State Authorization
through registration under the Post-Secondary Educational Institution Act (Section 21-23-1 et seq. NMSA 1978). As a result, Grand Canyon
University is authorized to offer skills lab and simulation components of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure, accelerated
(ABSN) program at the following location:
Grand Canyon University
6200 Jefferson Street NE
Suite 300
Albuquerque, NM 87109
Utah Division of Consumer Protection
Grand Canyon University is registered under the Utah Postsecondary Proprietary School Act (Title 13, Chapter 34, Utah Code).
As a result, Grand Canyon University is authorized to offer skills lab and simulation components of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-
Licensure, accelerated (ABSN) program at the following location:
Grand Canyon University
150 Civic Center Dr
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 15 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Ste 100
Sandy, UT 84070
GCU encourages students to follow the appeals process outlined in the University Policy Handbook. However, Utah resident students may
file a complaint with the Utah Division of Consumer Protection by following the instructions on their website which can be found at the
following link: https://dcp.utah.gov/complaints.html
The Utah Division of Consumer Protection
160 East 300 South, 2nd Floor
P.O. Box 146704
Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-6704
dcp.utah.gov
OR by fax to: (801) 530-6001
Utah Division of Consumer Protection Surety Bond
Grand Canyon University contributes to the Utah Division of Consumer Protection surety bond. This Utah requirement is used as protection
against loss of unearned tuition, tuition paid for credits that a student earned but that are not transferrable to a comparable postsecondary
school, book fees, supply fees, or equipment fees.
Wyoming Department of Education (WY DOE)
Grand Canyon University has been granted a Chapter 30 license by the Wyoming Department of Education (WYDOE) to offer educational
services to Wyoming students. For more information, please visit the following link: https://edu.wyoming.gov/for-district-leadership/school-
programs/private- school-licensing/
Wyoming Department of Education
122 W. 25th St
STE E200
Cheyenne, WY 82002
https://edu.wyoming.gov/
GCU encourages students to follow the appeals process outlined in the University Policy Handbook. However, students enrolled in the
program versions offered on the military base may file a complaint with the Wyoming Department of Education by completing the student
complain form which can be found at the following link:
https://edu.wyoming.gov/for-district-leadership/school-programs/private-%20school-licensing/
State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA) Participant
Grand Canyon University is an institutional participant in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) initiative. SARA is an
agreement among member states, districts and territories that establishes comparable national standards for interstate offering of
postsecondary distance education courses and programs. It is intended to make it easier for students to take online courses offered by
postsecondary institutions based in another state. SARA is overseen by a National Council and administered by four regional education
compacts. For more information and a list of member states, please visit http://nc-sara.org/.
Program Approvals
Many of GCU’s programs are approved by state licensing boards or national certifying agencies to meet the educational requirements for
licensure or certification or to permit a graduate to sit for a professional exam. A list of agency approvals and registrations are provided
below.
Colangelo College of Business
Arizona State Board of Education (ASBE/ADE)
GCU’s Colangelo College of Business is approved by the Arizona State Board of Education to offer institutional recommendations
(credentials) for the certification of Bachelor of Science in Business for Secondary Education.
Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) Board Registered Program
GCU’s Bachelor's in Finance with an emphasis in Financial Planning is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Board Registered Program
(https://www.cfp.net/get-certified/certification-process/education-requirement/certification-coursework-requirement/find-an-education-
program).. As such, the program meets the education requirements for CFP® certification. Individuals who meet the CFP Board's education
requirement are eligible to sit for the CFP® Certification Examination. CFP Board Registered Programs meet the education coursework
requirement and help provide the knowledge required to deliver professional, competent, and ethical financial planning services to clients.
For more information visit https://www.cfp.net/contact.
College of Arts and Media
Arizona State Board of Education (ASBE/ADE)
GCU’s College of Arts and Media is approved by the Arizona State Board of Education to offer institutional recommendations (credentials)
for the certification of Bachelor of Arts in Dance Education, Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Education.
Arizona State Board of Education
1700 W. Washington St.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
https://azsbe.az.gov/
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 16 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Nevada Department of Education (NVDOE)
Grand Canyon University's College of Education is approved by the Nevada Department of Education to offer alternative route to licensure
programs that lead to conditional licensure (credentials) for early childhood, elementary, secondary, and special education teachers.
Nevada Department of Education
700 E. Fifth St.
Carson City, NV 89701
https://doe.nv.gov/
College of Education
Arizona State Board of Education and Arizona Department of Education
Grand Canyon University’s College of Education is approved by the Arizona State Board of Education to offer institutional
recommendations (credentials) for the certification of early childhood, elementary, secondary and special education teachers, as well as
administrators.
Arizona State Board of Education
1700 W. Washington St
Executive Tower, Suite 300
Phoenix, AZ 85007
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners (AZBBHE)
Grand Canyon University’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is approved by the Arizona Board of
Behavioral Health Examiners as being consistent with the curriculum requirements for LAC or LPC licensure.
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Counseling with an Emphasis in Addiction, Chemical Dependency and Substance Abuse
is approved by the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners as being consistent with the curriculum requirements for LSAT licensure.
Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners
1740 West Adams St
Phoenix, AZ 85007
http://www.azbbhe.us/
Arizona State Board of Education (ASBE/ADE)
Grand Canyon University's College of Humanities and Social Sciences is approved by the Arizona State Board of Education to offer
institutional recommendations (credentials) for the certification of Bachelor of Arts in History for Secondary Education, Bachelor of Arts in
English for Secondary Education and Bachelor of Science in Math for Secondary Education.
California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professional (CCAPP)
Grand Canyon University has been approved as an Approved School/Program by the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and
Professionals (CCAPP) for the following online programs: Master of Science in Addiction Counseling and Master of Science in Christian
Counseling of Substance Use and Addictive Disorders. These programs are approved until February 28, 2025.
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Counseling with an Emphasis in Chemical Dependency and Substance Abuse is an
Approved School/Program by CCAPP. This program is approved until September 30, 2023.
California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals
2400 Marconi Avenue, Suite C
Sacramento, CA 95821
PO Box 214127
https://www.ccapp.us/
Georgia Addiction Counselors Association (GACA)
Grand Canyon University has been approved as an Education Provider by the Georgia Addiction Counselors Association (GACA) for the
Master of Science in Addiction Counseling and Bachelor of Science in Counseling with an Emphasis in Chemical Dependency and
Substance Abuse programs.
Georgia Addiction Counselors Association
4015 South Cobb Drive
Suite 160
Smyrna, GA 30080 http://gaca.org/
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS)
Grand Canyon University has been approved as a pre−certification education program for substance abuse counselors by the Wisconsin
Department of Safety and Professional Services for the following online programs: Master of Science in Addiction Counseling, Master of
Science in Christian Counseling of Substance Use and Addictive Disorders and Bachelor of Science in Counseling with an Emphasis in
Addiction, Chemical Dependency and Substance Abuse. These programs are approved through August 2026.
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
4822 Madison Yards Way
Madison, WI 53705
https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/BoardsCouncils/SubstanceAbuseCounselors/Default.aspx
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 17 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
Arizona State Board of Nursing
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-licensure), Family Nurse Practitioner (Master of Science in Nursing and
Post-Master of Science in Nursing options) and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with an Emphasis in Adult-Gerontology (Master of Science in
Nursing and Post-Master of Science in Nursing options) are currently approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing. For more
information, go to the following link: https://azbn.gov/education/nursing-programs-lists.
Arizona State Board of Nursing
1740 W. Adams St., Suite 2000
Phoenix, AZ 85007
https://azbn.gov/
California Board of Registered Nursing (CA BRN)
Grand Canyon University’s Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with an Emphasis in Adult-Gerontology (ACNP)
program is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing. Grand Canyon University is also approved by the California Board of
Registered Nursing to offer the course: NRS-431N Public Health Nursing for California Nurses. Graduates from GCU's RN-BSN program
who complete this course will meet the educational requirements for Public Health Nursing Certification in California. For more information,
go to the following link: https://www.rn.ca.gov/education/outofstatenp.shtml
California Board of Registered Nursing
1747 N. Market Blvd., Suite 150
Sacramento, CA 95834-1924
https://www.rn.ca.gov/
Colorado Board of Nursing
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure, accelerated (ABSN) program in Englewood, CO has been
granted Interim Approval from the Colorado Board of Nursing.
Florida Board of Nursing
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure, accelerated (ABSN) program has been granted approval by the
Florida Board of Nursing.
Department of Health
Board of Nursing
4052 Bald Cypress Way Bin C-02
Tallahassee, FL 32399-3252
Idaho State Board of Nursing
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure, accelerated (ABSN) program is approved by the Idaho State
Board of Nursing.
11341 W Chinden Blvd.
P.O. Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0063
https://dopl.idaho.gov/bon/
Maryland Board of Nursing
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure) program has been approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing.
For more information, go to the following link: https://mbon.maryland.gov/Documents/approved-out-of-state-rn-lpn-nursing-education-
programs.pdf
Maryland Board of Nursing
Education Department
4140 Patterson Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21215
https://mbon.maryland.gov/Pages/education-index.aspx
Missouri State Board of Nursing
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure, accelerated (ABSN) program has received initial approval from
the Missouri State Board of Nursing and is listed on their website: https://pr.mo.gov/boards/nursing/schoolsofnursing.pdf . This level of
approval is contingent on a successful site visit.
Missouri State Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 656
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0656
https://pr.mo.gov/nursing-schools-of-nursing.asp
Nevada State Board of Nursing
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure, accelerated (ABSN) program has received provisional approval
from the Nevada State Board of Nursing and is listed on their website: https://nevadanursingboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Nursing-
Program-List-05.24.2024.pdf. This level of approval is awarded to all new programs and allows the program to admit students.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 18 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Nevada State Board of Nursing
4220 S. Maryland Pkwy. Building B, Suite 300
Las Vegas, NV, 89119-7533
http://nevadanursingboard.org/
New Mexico Board of Nursing
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure, accelerated (ABSN) program has received initial approval from
the New Mexico Board of Nursing and is listed on their website: https://www.bon.nm.gov/approval-accreditation/.
New Mexico Board of Nursing
6301 Indian School Rd NE Suite 710
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87110
https://www.bon.nm.gov/
Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (UT DOPL)
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN), Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Public Health,
Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Public Health Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Health
Informatics, Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Leadership in Health Care Systems, Master of Business Administration &
Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Leadership in Health Care Systems, Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in
Nursing Education, Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Health Care Quality & Patient Safety, Post-Master of Science in
Nursing: Nursing Education Certificate, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Doctor of Nursing Practice with an Emphasis in Educational
Leadership programs have satisfied the requirements for clinical placement of nursing students by programs located outside of the state of
Utah.
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Pre-Licensure, Accelerated (aBSN) program is currently approved by the Utah
Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing – Nursing.
State of Utah Department of Commerce Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing
160 East 300 South
P.O. Box 146741
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6741
Washington State Board of Nursing
Grand Canyon University is approved by the Washington State Board of Nursing to conduct practice experiences in the state of Washington
for RN-BSN, MSN/Health Informatics, MSN/Nurse Educator, MSN/Nurse Leadership in Health Care Systems, MSN/Public Health, MBA-
MSN: Leadership in Health Care Systems, and Post-graduate certificate in Nursing Education. For more information go to the following link:
http://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/NursingCommission/NursingPrograms.aspx
Washington Board of Nursing
111 Israel Rd
S.E. Tumwater, WA 98501
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS)
Grand Canyon University’s RN-Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Business Administration/Master of Science in Nursing
Leadership, Master of Science in Nursing in Health Care Informatics, Master of Science in Nursing in Health Informatics, Master of Science
in Nursing in Health Care Quality and Patient Safety, Master of Science in Nursing in Public Health Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing
with an Emphasis in Leadership in Health Care Systems, Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Education, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and
the Doctor of Nursing Practice in Educational Leadership programs have been approved by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and
Professional Services
- Board of Nursing. For more information, go to the following link: https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/ApprovedOutOfStateNursingSchools.pdf.
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
4822 Madison Yards Way
Madison, WI 53705
www.dsps.wi.gov/pages/BoardsCouncils/Nursing/Default.aspx
GCU encourages students to follow the appeals process outlined in the University Policy Handbook. However, Wisconsin residents enrolled
in one of GCU’s nursing programs listed above may file a complaint with the Wisconsin Board of Nursing. The Board accepts online
complaints at the following link: https://dspscomplaintform.wi.gov/dspslsconlinecomplaint.aspx or mailed at the following address:
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
Division of Legal Services and Compliance
P.O. Box 7190
Madison, WI 53707-7190
College of Natural Sciences
Arizona State Board of Education (ASBE/ADE)
Grand Canyon University’s College of Natural Sciences is approved by the Arizona State Board of Education to offer institutional
recommendations (credentials) for the certification of Bachelor of Science in Biology for Secondary Education and Bachelor of Science in
Chemistry for Secondary Education.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 19 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
College of Engineering and Technology
Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CD)
The College of Engineering, and Technology’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
with an Emphasis in Cybersecurity programs were awarded the National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-
CD) designation.* CAE-CD designation recognizes college programs that meet the standards of learning concepts and skills outlined by the
National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Defense (DoD), (https://www.nsa.gov/Academics/Centers-of-Academic-Excellence/).
Professional Licensure Disclosures and Field Experiences
Professional Licensure Disclosures
GCU strives to provide accurate, transparent information to students enrolled in all programs intended to lead to a state-issued, professional
license. Grand Canyon University periodically reviews the licensure requirements of its programs in all US states and territories. Each
student’s Enrollment Agreement provides professional licensure disclosures stating whether a program meets the educational requirements
for licensure in the student’s location. GCU also publishes licensure disclosures publicly on gcu.edu. The most current disclosures are
available on each program’s home page clicking the “State Disclosures” link under the “Accreditation and Compliance” header in the
toolbar. Students may refer to the information on GCU.edu at any time for the current disclosures.
In addition to the public disclosures, GCU provides a direct and timely notification to students if a change to the licensure determination is
identified.
Location and Professional Licensure
GCU is required to determine the location of distance education students, evidenced by a student’s address. If you are considering relocating,
or have relocated to another state, territory, or outside of the United States during your program, whether relocation is permanent or
temporary, you must contact your Student Services Counselor immediately to determine whether your Program of Study is available in the
new location and whether it will lead to professional licensure in the new location. Students must do this before incurring any/additional
financial obligations. The new location may have additional requirements that would need to be completed in order to be eligible for
certification or licensure. In addition, GCU encourages students to contact their state licensure board to ensure the program will meet their
needs.
Field Placements within the United States
Students are expected to conduct all field placements, practicum, or student teaching within the state in which they are located at the time of
enrollment. Students who seek to conduct field placements, practicum, or student teaching in a state other than the state in which they are
located, or who intend to seek licensure in a different state, must disclose this to their Student Services Counselor to determine whether field
placement or licensure is possible in the desired location.
International Military Field Placements
Military students who are located outside of the United States who are enrolled in programs that contain field placement must complete all
placements on a base or in a Department of Defense approved location. Students are advised to contact a Field Experience Counselor to
determine whether field experience can be completed. Students who cannot complete field placements on a base or in a DOD-approved
location may be required to take a leave of absence until they return to a location at which placements are allowed.
Professional Licensure Outside of the United States
GCU programs are not designed nor intended to lead to licensure or certification outside of the United States. Student teaching, practicum,
internship, or field experience is not permitted outside of the United States.
Additional State-Specific Disclosures
Iowa Board of Educational Examiners
Students seeking an Iowa license are advised that successful completion of Grand Canyon University’s programs of educator preparation do
not qualify you for initial educator licensure by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners. Candidates seeking licensure in the state of Iowa
must first be licensed/certified as educators in Arizona. Grand Canyon University will assist you in understanding the licensure requirements
of the Arizona Department of Education prior to completion of your educational preparation program. Arizona Department of Education can
be contacted at 800-352-4558 or http://www.azed.gov/. Candidates seeking subsequent licensure from the Iowa Board of Educational
Examiners must contact that Board (515-281-5849; http://www.boee.iowa.gov/) for licensure requirements in Iowa.
Pennsylvania Department of Education (PADOE)
Teacher education programs have not been reviewed or approved by Pennsylvania. Candidates will have to apply for certification and meet
requirements for certification as out-of-state candidates.
Residents of Pennsylvania should direct questions, complaints, or concerns to:
Pennsylvania Department of Education
http://www.education.pa.gov/Postsecondary-Adult/College%20and%20Career%20Education/Pages/Students-Complaints.aspx#tab-1
Pennsylvania Department of Education - Postsecondary and Adult Education
333 Market Street, 12th Fl
Harrisburg, PA 17126-0333
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 20 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Athletics
Intercollegiate Athletics (NCAA)
Intercollegiate athletics function under the guidelines of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I, 700 W.
Washington Street, P.O. Box 6222, Indianapolis, IN 46202, regarding eligibility to participate in intercollegiate sports. In the 2013-14 season,
Grand Canyon University began the process of reclassifying from Division II to Division I as a member of the Western Athletic Conference.
International Students
Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)
Grand Canyon University has applied for and received certification to enroll F nonimmigrant students per the Student Exchange Visitor
Program (SEVP) under 8 CFR 214.3. The International Students Office has access to SEVIS and may issue Forms I-20, Certificate of
Eligibility for Student Status, to prospective students. For more information see the International Students Office website.
Veteran’s Administration
Veteran’s Administration State Approval Agency (SAA)
Grand Canyon University is approved for the education and training of veterans under the provisions of Title 10 and 38, United States Code.
We accept Chapter 30, 31, 33, 35, and 1606 recipients. Veterans are approved for benefits for numerous programs. For more information
regarding using your VA benefits at Grand Canyon University, email [email protected].
Facilities and Locations
Arizona
Main Campus – Phoenix AZ
3300 West Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85017
GCU’s main campus encompasses over 300 acres in Phoenix, Arizona. Comprised of 9 colleges, the campus houses over 800,000 square feet
of classrooms, labs and faculty space, as well as over 300,000 square feet of office and conference space, a basketball arena, soccer stadium,
baseball and softball stadiums, cyber center, and 17,500 student bedspaces, both apartment and dorm style.
Classroom equipment includes webcams, high-definition projector, drop-down screen, instructor podium with equipment rack, instructor
microphone, classroom speakers, dedicated instructor computer systems, instructor touch screen overlap-to-projector image, instructor touch
audio and video switcher, and 8Mbps up/down wireless. Some classrooms have additional equipment, including dedicated large flat panel
student group screens
West Valley, Phoenix
2600 W. Camelback Rd.
Phoenix, AZ 85017
Auxiliary Locations
In addition to the locations listed above, the following locations provide classroom space for various GCU cohorts of students. The Arizona
State Board for Private Postsecondary Education has granted approval for Grand Canyon University’s main Phoenix campus to operate at
variable auxiliary locations.
Chandler
4100 W. Chandler Blvd.
Chandler, AZ 85226
Kyrene School District
8700 S. Kyrene Road
Tempe, AZ 85284
Mesa Community College
1833 West Southern Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85202-4822
Phoenix VA Healthcare
650 East Indian School Road
Phoenix, AZ 85012-1839
Pima Salt River High School
4827 N. Country Club Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85256-2915
Boswell/Sun City aBSN Location
10484 W Thunderbird Blvd #102, Sun City, AZ 85351
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 21 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
GCU’s Sun City location is comprised of over 21,000 square feet of classroom, lab space, simulation space, and offices including two
testing/study rooms, an accommodations testing room, a simulation lab with four simulation rooms, a clinical skills lab, a common area for
general student interaction, and multiple small faculty and staff offices.
Tucson aBSN Location
3500 N Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719
GCU’s Tucson location is comprised of over 16,000 square feet of classroom, lab space, simulation space, and offices including two
testing/study rooms, an accommodations testing room, a simulation lab with four simulation rooms, a clinical skills lab, a common area for
general student interaction, and multiple small faculty and staff offices.
Florida
Orlando (Lake Mary) ABSN Location
605 Crescent Executive Court Suite 500 Lake Mary, FL 32746
GCU’s Lake Mary, FL location is comprised of approx. 22,500 square feet of classroom, lab space, simulation space, and offices including
testing/study rooms, an accommodations testing room, a simulation lab with four simulation rooms, a common area for general student
interaction, and multiple small faculty and staff offices.
Missouri
St. Louis ABSN Location
721 Emerson Rd. Suite 500, St. Louis, MO 63141
GCU’s Missouri location is comprised of approx. 20,000 square feet of classroom, lab space, simulation space, and offices including
testing/study rooms, an accommodations testing room, one simulation lab with four simulation rooms, a common area for general student
interaction, and multiple small faculty and staff offices.
Nevada
Las Vegas aBSN Site
2485 Village View Drive, Henderson, Nevada 89074
GCU’s Nevada location is comprised of over 21,000 square feet of classroom, lab space, simulation space, and offices including two
testing/study rooms, an accommodations testing room, two simulation labs with four simulation rooms, a common area for general student
interaction, and multiple small faculty and staff offices.
Utah
Sandy/Salt Lake City aBSN Location
150 Civic Center Dr, Ste 100, Sandy, UT 84070
GCU’s Utah location is comprised of over 26,000 square feet of classroom, lab space, simulation space, and offices including two
testing/study rooms, an accommodations testing room, two simulation labs with four simulation rooms, a common area for general student
interaction, and multiple small faculty and staff offices.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 22 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Notification of Change in Licensure or Certification Status/State Disciplinary Action
If at any time while enrolled in an education, counseling, nursing, athletic training, social work, or other clinical program a licensing agency
issues a change in licensure, change in certification status, or enters into an agreement / settlement with a student, the student is obligated to
inform Grand Canyon University. Students are required to notify their student service counselor within one week of an incident or written
notification by a licensing, state, or federal agency of any of the following:
All licensure programs:
• The license holder is voluntarily surrendering their license or certificate in any state
• The license or certification is under investigation by any state board/agency
• Any state board/agency determines that a license or certificate is no longer in good standing
• The license holder is subject to participation in a diversion program (whether voluntary or involuntary) or other state mandated activity
regardless of student’s location
• The license holder is subject to any reportable incident, complaint, or investigation that could result in applicable sanctions, disciplinary
action, consent order, or settlement agreement
• The license holder receives a Letter of Censure issued by any state board
• The license holder is subject to denial, revocation, limitation, or suspension of a license or credential by any state board/agency
• The license holder is charged or convicted of any misdemeanor or felony
At the time of notification, the Student Services Counselor will assist the student with filing an appeal, as outlined in the University Appeal
Procedures. Students will be required to provide the University with documentation pertaining to the change in licensure or certification
status, disciplinary action, or participation in a diversion program (whether voluntary or involuntary). Once filed, the University will review
the documentation provided by the student to determine if:
1. The student is permitted to remain in the program but is not be permitted to enroll in a course with clinical requirements until
completion of the written terms identified by the state board /agency, or
2. The student is dismissed from the program with the option to re-apply / re-enter upon
3. completion of the requirements and written terms identified by the state board / agency, or
4. The student is permitted to transfer into another program at the University
A change in enrollment status may result in a change in anticipated time for completion of program-specific requirements.
Failure to notify the University of any reportable incident and/or change in licensure or certification status, state disciplinary action, or
participation in a diversion program (whether voluntary or involuntary) is a violation of the discipline-specific Professional Practice
guidelines. Infractions will be submitted to the GCU Code of Conduct Committee for potential University sanctions, including but not limited
to, suspension, expulsion, and / or written notification to the appropriate state licensing board / agency.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 23 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
About Grand Canyon University
Vision
Grand Canyon University is a premier Christian University educating people to lead and serve.
Mission Statement
GCU is a missional, Christ-centered university with an innovative and adaptive spirit that addresses the world’s deep needs by cultivating
compassionate Christian community, empowering free and virtuous action, and serving others in ways that promote human flourishing.
Through academic excellence, the university equips students with knowledge of the Christian worldview, instilling in them a sense of
purpose and vocational calling that enables them to be innovative thinkers, effective communicators, global contributors, and transformative
leaders who change their communities by placing the interests of others before their own.
Mission Based Student Learning Competencies
Tied to the mission statement of GCU are mission-based competencies that faculty and administration believe are imperative for students to
learn. GCU strives to ensure students who progress through their program at different times exit the program with the same foundational
knowledge and demonstrable skills, and that graduates bring commensurate knowledge and practical skills to the workforce. Consistent
competencies and objectives, regardless of the modality, are the foundation of every program design. All GCU courses provide foundational
knowledge and then apply or synthesize the learning. Thus, all graduates of the same program will have developed comparable skill sets.
Mission-based Bachelor’s Competencies
Domains Competencies
Leadership
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s bachelor’s program will
be able to demonstrate an understanding of the reality of the
world, examine the consequences of choice, and provide
unselfishly to help others meet their highest potential.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to apply
leadership models and demonstrate the capacity for leadership.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to develop a
clear vision that informs, inspires, and motivates others to achieve
goals.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to determine
various leadership styles and rationale for differences.
Communication
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s bachelor’s program will
be able to develop and apply intrapersonal and professional
communication behaviors essential to servant leadership and
rooted in Christian ethical belief.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to recognize the
power, ethical ramifications, and consequences of communication
style as it relates to personal and professional success in a diverse
society.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to design and
disseminate compelling messages that create understanding and
desired results using a variety of traditional and innovative
modalities.
Global Citizenship
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s bachelor’s program will
be able to apply empathy, identify ethnocentrism, and defend the
reality that people are different with different perspectives on
history, religion, value-systems, and many other aspects of life and
living.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to develop long-
term relationships across cultures through effective
communication.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to perform
service initiatives from a tradition of servant leadership in an
effort to foster positive interpersonal relationships and a dynamic
global community.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to apply the
necessary skills to work effectively with individuals from diverse
cultural backgrounds.
Critical Thinking
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s bachelor’s program will
be able to show clarity and logic in thought by asking questions
and pursuing knowledge to avoid delusion and blind acceptance of
ideas, to reduce vulnerability, and to work to find solutions rather
than dwell on problems.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to use personal
skill sets of critical thinking, risk assessment, decision-making,
analytical skills, and creativity that promote effective judgment
and actions.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to apply social
judgment skills and knowledge gained through gathering, sorting,
analyzing, applying, and evaluating information to solve problems
in applied learning settings.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to make
informed decisions based on historical, current, reliable, and valid
information.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 24 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Domains Competencies
Christian Heritage
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s bachelor’s program will
be able to identify and express aspects of a Christian heritage
which affect their relationships with others and the community, as
well as their decision-making processes.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to articulate an
awareness of a Christian heritage and its effects on Western
society.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to identify and
comprehend the moral and ethical foundations of Judeo-Christian
thought, and analyze situations and problems from this basis.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to demonstrate
the ability to make values-based decisions from the perspective of
a Christian heritage.
Technology
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s bachelor’s program will
be able to demonstrate efficient and effective use of technological
tools.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to retrieve,
organize, assess, process, and safely secure information.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to demonstrate
proficiency and adaptability in commonly accepted applications
and devices.
• Graduates of the bachelor’s program will be able to demonstrate
competence in mediated communication, connect globally to
present an “e-self” that is sensitive to audience and context, and
analyze and interpret visual rhetoric.
Mission-based Master’s Competencies
Domains Competencies
Leadership
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s master’s program will be
able to establish effective leadership by being grounded in the
reality of the world, accepting the consequences of choice, and
striving unselfishly to help others meet their highest potential.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to utilize
responsible leadership through the application of leadership
models.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to integrate
leadership skills that inform, inspire, and motivate others to
achieve their goals.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to select effective
leadership styles appropriate to the situation.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to improve their
leadership by applying initiative, political sensitivity, self-
discipline, and perseverance.
Communication
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s master’s program will be
able to identify and cultivate interpersonal and professional
communication behaviors essential to servant leadership and
rooted in Christian ethical belief.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to operate in a
pluralistic society developing authentic relationships and
contributing to their discipline, while serving and promoting
community.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to formulate clear
and compelling arguments, rationally constructed, prefaced by
critical analysis, and composed with a conscious awareness of the
power, ethical ramifications, and consequences of communication
style.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to design and
execute clear communication, which creates understanding and
achieves desired results through a variety of communication
modalities.
Global Citizenship
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s master’s program will be
able to propose empathy, refute ethnocentrism, and champion the
reality that people are different with different perspectives on
history, religion, value-systems, and many other aspects of life and
living.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to guide and
manage global organizations, applying business knowledge within
cross-cultural contexts.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to support a global
mindset that is sensitive to cultural differences and tolerant of
differing perspectives, practices, and values.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to value cultural
diversity in order to build more innovative and competitive
organizations.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to construct
responsible plans and decisions that balance the creation of
economic wealth with the promotion of human welfare
worldwide.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 25 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Domains Competencies
Critical Thinking
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s master’s program will be
able to champion clarity and logic in thought by asking questions
and pursuing knowledge to avoid delusion and blind acceptance of
ideas, to reduce vulnerability, and to work to find solutions rather
than dwell on problems.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to evaluate and
synthesize personal skill sets of critical thinking, risk assessment,
decision-making, analytical skills, and creativity to promote
effective judgment and actions.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to utilize social
judgment skills and research through gathering, sorting, analyzing,
applying, and evaluating information to solve problems.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to evaluate
information based on historical, current, reliable, and valid
information and to utilize applications of research to impact
decision-making.
Values & Ethics
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s master’s program will be
able to model and communicate the values and ethics formulated
within the context of a global perspective by critically integrating
them into their decision-making.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to demonstrate
cultural competence by synthesizing a variety of views and
perspectives on values and ethics.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to integrate course
work, professional life, life experience, and educational
experience into a coherent values-based worldview.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to investigate the
historical foundations of critical thought through the context of
values and ethics to find meaning, construct knowledge, and
deconstruct faulty thinking.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to demonstrate the
ability to communicate and model a holistic ethical system.
Technology
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s master’s program will
demonstrate the use of technological tools as well as efficient and
effective use of the tools themselves, including retrieving,
organizing, and assessing information; securing information; and
analyzing information as the basis for evidence-driven action.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to judge the
quality of information to determine how it can be best used for
problem solving, through development and application of data
models, both quantitative and qualitative, to identify and project
patterns and trends.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to develop
proficiency in practices that assure the confidentiality, quality, and
continuing existence of information.
• Graduates of the master’s program will be able to demonstrate
efficiency in strategies, which will ensure efficient and effective
analysis and use of information.
Mission-based Doctoral Competencies
Domains Competencies
Leadership
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s doctoral program will be
able to achieve effective leadership in their organization and
discipline by making discoveries, contributing knowledge founded
and rooted in proven theory through research, and making
effective use of leadership to manage change.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to act as leaders in
their discipline through the active application of knowledge in an
intelligent and effective way to lead and construct an inventive,
original, and creative vision.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to employ meta-
thinking and self-evaluation to assess their current leadership style
and leadership potential in order to develop clarity of vision,
purpose, and action in the leading of self and others.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to utilize
compelling leadership styles and models to manage change,
exercise influence, empower others, create interest, motivate
followers, and have a greater impact in their field of study.
Communication
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s doctoral program will be
able to communicate effectively the results of their research in an
academic environment, demonstrate a strong link between
behaviors, beliefs and ethical values, and be good stewards of their
words.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to combine
effective oral and written communication to disseminate clear and
compelling research to the academic community though multiple
modalities in a way that promotes excellence in their discipline.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to design and
execute succinct synthesis of ideas and data while guiding
followers through skilled use of verbal imagery, active listening
skill, and audience assessment.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 26 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Domains Competencies
Global Citizenship
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s doctoral program will be
able to build practices and a culture which honor diversity,
demonstrate cultural sensitivity, engage in globally focused
leadership, and value international perspectives.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to apply and
analyze cultural implications rooted in diverse ethical and global
systems to transcend geographical and cultural paradigms,
allowing them to think in interconnected and important ways that
expand beyond the organization’s boundaries and into the global
community.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to become
participants in the global academic community, view their
scholarly area from a global perspective, approach scholarly
activity from a global mindset, and pursue research beyond the
academic traditions of a single culture.
Critical Thinking
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s doctoral program will be
able to understand the history of ideas, employ empirical examples
in order to provide relevance and validity to ideas, and judge their
capacity to act based upon various scales of intelligence to create
change.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to use critical
thinking skills to sustain research and analysis for the purpose of
attaining new cognitive processes, critique opinions and
assumptions using intellectual reasoning free of egocentrism, and
research patterns and relationships in order to promote change.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to create new
knowledge through critical thinking by combining and integrating
different opinions to further understanding in their field.
Values & Ethics
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s doctoral program will be
able to model and communicate at the organizational level the
values and ethics formulated within the context of a global
perspective by critically integrating into their decision-making and
other professional actions as leaders those values and ethics.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to integrate a
multiplicity of views and perspectives to develop cultural
competence through values and ethics, while having the capacity
to understand and synthesize other worldviews into their actions.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to formulate
leadership strategies through the context of the highest ethical
standards to inform behavior.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to effect change
and align belief systems in their respective organizations relative
to the highest values and ethical standards.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to investigate the
historical foundations of critical thought through the context of
values and ethics to find meaning, construct knowledge, and
deconstruct faulty thinking.
Technology
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s doctoral program will
demonstrate the leadership practices that guide the use of
technological tools as well as efficient and effective use of the
tools themselves, including retrieving, organizing, and assessing
information; securing information; and analyzing information as
the basis for evidence-driven action.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to direct the
formulation of policies and implementation strategies for efficient
and effective retrieval and organization of information.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to judge the quality
of information to determine how it can be best used for
organizational problem solving, through development and
application of data models, both quantitative and qualitative, to
identify and project patterns and trends.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to develop and
implement at the organizational level practices that assure the
confidentiality, quality, and continuing existence of information.
• Graduates of the doctoral program will be able to demonstrate
leadership dedicated to evidence-driven action by formulating
policies and implement strategies at the organizational level which
will ensure efficient and effective analysis and use of information.
Historical Sketch
Grand Canyon College was chartered on August 1, 1949, with 16 faculty and approximately 100 students, many of them veterans. In 1951
the College put up its first permanent buildings on a 90-acre tract in west Phoenix. Grand Canyon College was fully accredited in 1968 by the
Commission on Institutions of Higher Education, 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602-2504, 312-263-0456, 800-621-
7440.
Established as a Baptist-affiliated institution with a strong emphasis on religious studies, the school initially focused on offering bachelor’s
degree programs in education. Over the years, the school expanded its curricula to include programs in the sciences, nursing, business, music,
and arts, and developed a strong reputation for producing some of the most effective teachers, nurses, health care professionals and fine-arts
students in the Southwest.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 27 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
During planning for the change in institutional organization and status from Grand Canyon College to Grand Canyon University, the
institution identified several landmark events that had been and would be pivotal during this transition. These included, but were not limited
to, the organization of programs and departments into multiple colleges, the offering of graduate degree programs, the formation of the Grand
Canyon University Foundation, and the generosity of several individuals who pledged or gave unrestricted gifts valued at one million dollars
or more to launch the University into the next decade and century. In May of 1984, the College trustees voted to prepare for transition to
University status on the school’s 40th anniversary in 1989. Another landmark event occurred at the turn of the century that moved the
University away from being owned and operated by the Arizona Southern Baptist Convention to being self-owned by the Board of Trustees.
By the early 2000's, though, GCU was struggling with maintaining its operations in light of dwindling financial support. In September 2003,
the University was at a critical juncture, teetering on the verge of insolvency and facing the prospect of bankruptcy with a limited student
body. In early 2004, a small group of investors acquired the University and undertook a mission to salvage GCU by focusing primarily on
offering online programs to working adults. With an improving financial structure, but a languishing student body and campus, the
University recruited a new leadership team in 2008 to envision a future for GCU that centered around a hybrid campus strategy that
combined a thriving, traditional student body with a growing nontraditional student body focused primarily on working adults studying at the
graduate level. To generate the additional capital necessary to improve its online campus infrastructure and begin the expansion of its
ground, traditional campus, the University completed an initial public offering in 2008.
The University began to implement its vision in earnest by making significant investments in its campus. The University began to see a
transformation in the quality and growth of its traditional student body which grew from less than 1,000 students attending its campus in
2009 to approximately 19,000 students in fall 2017, with an incoming GPA of approximately 3.5. GCU’s nontraditional student body also
made tremendous strides during this time as well, growing from approximately 22,000 students at the beginning of 2009 to approximately
70,000 students at the end of 2017, with greater than 50% studying in graduate programs. Almost 70% of the University’s traditional
students are studying in rigorous science, technology, engineering, math and business programs and the University expects to see its overall
traditional student body expand to approximately 25,000 students by 2025.
In total, since 2009, the University has invested over one billion dollars in facilities and technology infrastructure. The University continues
to invest in full-time faculty teaching both traditional and nontraditional students, improved technology infrastructure and programmatic
expansion in high-growth, high-demand areas such as engineering, computer science, and information technology. Importantly, the
University has been able to self-fund these investments with only nominal increases in tuition for nontraditional students while freezing
tuition for traditional students for 10 straight years.
GCU’s unique history and recent transformation are distinctive in higher education today as no other university in the country has seen such
dramatic change. This is further evidenced in 2018 when GCU transition back to a tax-exempt IRS 501(c)(3) institution. This decision
provided faculty and students equitable opportunities to participate in academic and co-curricular opportunities with peer-institutions, to
operate a philanthropic foundation and provide grant writing and research opportunities for faculty and students, to invest in educational
infrastructure allowing the University to continue offering tuition at levels that make private higher education affordable to all socio-
economic classes of Americans, to provide employment and career growth opportunities for faculty and staff, and continue to invest in the
communities the University serves. This transition also allowed student-athletes to participate in governance opportunities afforded by the
NCAA.
Board of Trustees
Will Gonzalez, Chairman
City of Phoenix Prosecutor's Office
M.S, Grand Canyon University; J.D., Thurgood Marshall School of Law
Don Andorfer
Previous Grand Canyon University Interim President, Spring 2006
B.S., M.A., Ball State University
Peggy J. Chase
President and CEO, Terros Health
B.S.W., Arizona State University
Dr. Lupita Ley Hightower
Superintendent, Tolleson Elementary School District No. 17
B.S., University of Arizona; MEd, EdD, Arizona State University
Marion Kelly
Director Community Affairs, Mayo Clinic
B.A., Kentucky State University; B.A., University of Kentucky
Dr. Fred Miller
Medical Director, Bridgeway Health Solutions
M.S., PhD, Howard University; CMD, University of Medicine & Dentistry
Dr. Jim Rice
Retired Superintendent of the Alhambra Elementary School District
B.S., Grand Canyon University; MEd, EdD, Arizona State University
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 28 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Contributors
• Dave Brazell Stadium: David and Mildred Brazell
• The Cooke Health Center: Alumni Association
• Ethington Memorial Theatre: Peter and Anna Ethington
• Fleming Classroom Building and Library: Mr. and Mrs. William Fleming
• College of Nursing and Health Care Professions: Samaritan Foundation
• Tim Salmon Baseball Clubhouse: Tim and Marci Salmon
• Smith Arts Complex: C. J. and Thelma Smith
• Smithey-Parker Building: Jerry and Sarah Smithey along with Bill and Joyce Parker
• Tell Science Building: Mr. and Mrs. Andrew P. Tell
• Williams Building: Dr. Bill and Shirley Williams
• Hegel Hall: Dr. Joni Hegel
University Seal
When the Grand Canyon College seal was adopted in 1950, two of its major components were the cross and
the cactus. The saguaro cactus rises from its desert setting to signify the intellectual opportunity for Grand
Canyon University students, counteracting the arid mental state of uneducated man. The cross stands
prominently on the horizon as a guide for spiritual enlightenment. Between the outer circle representing the
earth and the inner circle representing the wheel of progress, the name of the University and its location are
inscribed. The use of the seal is permitted only with approval of the Chief Executive Officer of the
University.
University Mascot and Colors
The University mascot is the antelope. Antelope are native to the region surrounding Prescott, Arizona,
near the college’s first campus. The mascot reminds us of our heritage and humble beginnings. School
colors are purple, black, and white. Students, employees, or contractors of the University shall not use the
Grand Canyon University name, logo, or mascot in connection with any commercial venture without
written approval of the Chief Executive Officer.
Statement of Principle
The words of the Alma Mater summarize the attitude and spirit of Grand Canyon University:
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 29 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
University Calendar
Traditional Campus Students
Spring 2025: 1/6/25 – 4/27/25
Instruction/Grade Calendars
15-Week Classes
Move in Date ......................................................... January 4, 2025
Instruction begins .................................................. January 6, 2025
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day ................................ January 20, 2025
President’s Day ................................................. February 17, 2025
Spring Break**......................... March 10, 2025 – March 16, 2025
Final Drop Date ..................................................... March 30, 2025
Good Friday ............................................................ April 18, 2025
Face-to-face Instruction ends .................................. April 25, 2025
Move out Deadline .................................................. April 28, 2025
End of Term ............................................................ April 27, 2025
Final Course Grades Due ........................................... May 4, 2025
Summer Break ................................. April 28, 2025 – May 4, 2025
See Policy Handbook Refund Policy..................... Variable Dates
Summer 2025: 5/5/25 – 8/17/25
Instruction begins ....................................................... May 5, 2025
Move in Date .............................................................. May 9, 2025
Memorial Day .......................................................... May 26, 2025
Session A*........................................ May 5, 2025 – June 22, 2025
Final Drop Date Session A** .................................... June 8, 2025
Session B* .................................. June 23, 2025 – August 10, 2025
Final Drop Date Session B** ................................... July 27, 2025
Independence Day ...................................................... July 4, 2025
Final Drop Date Summer 15 Week Courses** ........ July 20, 2025
Summer Residents Move to Fall Housing .............. August 1, 2025
Face-to-face Instruction ends ............................... August 15, 2025
Move out Deadline for Non-Fall Residents .......... August 16, 2025
End of Term ......................................................... August 17, 2025
Fall Break ..........................… August 18, 2025 – August 31, 2025
Final Course Grades 15-Week Courses Due ........ August 24, 2025
See Policy Handbook Refund Policy..................... Variable Dates
Fall 2025: 9/2/25 – 12/14/25
Move in Date ......................... August 25, 2025 – August 29, 2025
Instruction begins ............................................. September 2, 2025
Labor Day ........................................................ September 1, 2025
Veteran’s Day................................................. November 11, 2025
Final Drop Date* ............................................ November 16, 2025
Instruction Moves to Asynchronous Online for Most Courses Ω
………...…………… November 24, 2025 – November 26, 2025
Thanksgiving Break .... November 27, 2025 – November 28, 2025
Face-to-face Instruction ends .......................... December 12, 2025
Living Area Closure for ALL students ............ December 14, 2025
End of Term .................................................... December 14, 2025
Final Course Grades Due ................................ December 21, 2025
Christmas Eve/Day ..................................... December 24-25, 2025
Christmas Break ................. December 15, 2025 – January 4, 2026
See Policy Handbook Refund Policy..................... Variable Dates
Fall Nontraditional Campus Commencements***
All Colleges .......................................... Week of October 13, 2025
Winter Traditional Campus Commencements***
All Colleges ........................................ Week of December 8, 2025
Nontraditional Campus Students
(Online, Evening-Satellite, and
Evening-Campus)
Please note that online, onsite and offsite cohort students have
classes that begin frequently. Therefore, students are encouraged
to contact their University Counselor or Student Services
Counselor for more information on class starts.
2025 Online Christmas Break Schedule
Graduates ..................... December 25, 2025 – December 31, 2025
Undergraduates ............ December 22, 2025 – December 28, 2025
*For courses shorter than 15 weeks, please refer to the course drop
policy in the Policy Handbook ................................... Variable Dates
**The Traditional Campus spring break does not apply to
Traditional Campus Students taking online courses scheduled
during the spring break.
***Dates and times of commencement ceremonies may be subject
to change.
Students who begin a course during the Christmas break have a
shortened break.
Ω During this asynchronous instructional period some courses
require in-person attendance (i.e Nursing, Sciences, Engineering,
etc.) Faculty will notify students.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 30 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Holiday Schedule
Holiday
Campus
Offices
Closed
Evening
Classes
do not
Meet
Online
Classes
Meet
Traditional
students on
campus do
not meet
New Year's Day
1/1/25 X X X X
Martin Luther
King Day
1/20/25
X X X X
President's Day
2/17/25 X X X X
Good Friday
4/18/25 X X X X
Memorial Day
5/26/25 X X X X
Independence
Day
7/4/25
X X X X
Labor Day
9/1/25 X X X X
Veteran's Day
Observed
11/11/25
X X X
Thanksgiving
and the
following Friday
11/27-11/28/25
X X X X
Christmas Day
12/25/25 X X X X
Online Note: Online students are encouraged to submit work early if an assignment due date falls directly on a holiday. Students are still
responsible for timely submission of work.
Evening Classes Note: Classes with scheduled meeting days of the listed holidays will not meet in-person the week of the holiday. During
that week, faculty members and students will participate in the online classroom, following the online participation requirements including
posting substantively throughout the week.
Evening Classes and Traditional Students Note: In observation of holidays that fall on weekend days, classes do not meet on the Friday
before a Saturday holiday, or the Monday after a Sunday holiday.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 31 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Degrees Offered The University offers curricula leading to the degrees of Doctor
of Business Administration, Doctor of Education, Doctor of
Nursing Practice, Doctor of Philosophy, Master of Arts, Master
of Business Administration, Master of Divinity, Master of
Education, Master of Public Administration, Master of Public
Health, Master of Science, Bachelor of Arts, and Bachelor of
Science, as well as offering graduate and undergraduate
certificates. Please refer to the university website (www.gcu.edu)
for the locations/modalities in for each program. Students should
be advised that some degree programs at GCU have competitive
admissions or require college-specific admission requirements
beyond the University level admission requirements. If a program
is offered on campus and online, the courses within the program
are the same regardless of modality.
Doctoral Programs
Doctor of Business Administration
The Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.) is designed for
those who desire a deeper understanding of business theory and
its application to their area of professional interest. Grand
Canyon University offers the following emphases for this degree:
• Data Analytics Qualitative
• Data Analytics Quantitative
• Innovation and Corporate Entrepreneurship (Qualitative
Research)
• Innovation and Corporate Entrepreneurship (Quantitative
Research)
• Management Qualitative
• Management Quantitative
• Marketing Qualitative
• Marketing Quantitative
Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership
The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Leadership
program is delivered through a combination of online courses and
face-to-face residencies. Aspects of the program’s curriculum and
instruction are shared by the College of Education, College of
Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Nursing and Health
Care Professions, College of Theology and the Colangelo
College of Business, meeting the needs of master’s-prepared
professionals seeking a terminal degree in leadership. Grand
Canyon University offers the following emphases for this degree:
• Behavioral Health Qualitative
• Behavioral Health Quantitative
• Christian Ministry Qualitative
• Christian Ministry Quantitative
• Health Care Administration Qualitative
• Health Care Administration Quantitative
• Higher Education Leadership Qualitative
• Higher Education Leadership Quantitative
• K-12 Leadership Qualitative
• K-12 Leadership Quantitative
• Organizational Development Qualitative
• Organizational Development Quantitative
• Special Education Qualitative
• Special Education Quantitative
Doctor of Education in Teaching and Learning
with an Emphasis in Adult Learning
The Doctor of Education in Teaching and Learning program
develops educators capable of generating new knowledge and
responsibly applying knowledge to achieve educational outcomes
as well as mentoring, coaching, and collaborating from the
perspective of the Christian worldview. Students will study the
major bodies of literature in educational theory and philosophy,
will reflect critically on existing theory, will identify appropriate
applications of theory, and will conceptualize philosophy from its
theoretic foundation. Students will develop academic and
research expertise through the study of research methodology.
The program of study is consistent with Grand Canyon
University's mission to develop students who are global citizens,
critical thinkers, effective communicators, and responsible
leaders. Grand Canyon University offers the following emphases
for this degree:
• Adult Learning Qualitative
• Adult Learning Quantitative
Doctor of Health Administration
The doctorate in health administration is a terminal research
degree that allows for the development of theoretical knowledge
in the healthcare industry and application of that knowledge to
the improvement of practice. The program will prepare
established professionals to design innovative operational
approaches to leadership within healthcare organizations through
addressing technology, efficiency, quality, safety, and outcomes.
The program will prepare students for careers in health system
management, healthcare operations, healthcare research, and
health policy. Credits: 60+. Grand Canyon University offers the
following emphases for this degree:
• Operational Leadership Qualitative
• Operational Leadership Quantitative
Doctor of Nursing Practice
The Doctor Nursing Practice Degree (DNP) encompasses a
mixture of didactic courses and mentored practicum experiences.
Each course allows for the demonstration and achievement of
programmatic competencies and objectives through real-world
health care systems application. The curriculum and instruction
meet the needs of master’s-prepared nurses seeking a terminal-
practice degree. Grand Canyon University offers the following
emphasis for this degree:
• Educational Leadership
Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and
Supervision
The doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision is
intended to prepare graduates to work as counselor educators,
supervisors, researchers, and practitioners in academic and
clinical settings. The standards for this program are intended to
accommodate the unique strengths of students seeking to enhance
their leadership and counseling skills. Grand Canyon University
offers the following emphases for this degree:
• Qualitative
• Quantitative
Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in General Psychology
program offers a broad array of courses that increase the
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 32 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
understanding of human actions in the past and present. Grand
Canyon University offers the following emphases for this degree:
• Cognition and Instruction Qualitative
• Cognition and Instruction Quantitative
• Industrial and Organizational Psychology Qualitative
• Industrial and Organizational Psychology Quantitative
• Integrating Technology, Learning, and Psychology Qualitative
• Integrating Technology, Learning, and Psychology
Quantitative
• Performance Psychology Qualitative
• Performance Psychology Quantitative
Professional Programs
Education Specialist
The Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in K-12 Leadership program
develops and enhances the learner’s ability to grasp, process, and
apply doctoral-level constructs that positions them for
organizational governance, capacity building, and vision casting.
Master Programs
Master of Arts
The Master of Arts is granted to those students who have
completed a bachelor’s degree at an accredited, GCU-approved
institution and are seeking a Master of Arts degree.
• Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Christian Leadership
• Christian Ministry
• Christian Studies
• Communication
o Emphasis in Education
• Curriculum and Instruction
• English
o Emphasis in Education
• Higher Education Student Affairs
• History
o Emphasis in Education
• Reading
o Emphasis in Elementary Education
• Reading Education K-12
• Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
• Urban Ministry
• Youth and Family Ministry
Master of Business Administration
The Master of Business Administration is designed for those
students who have previously completed a bachelor’s degree at
an accredited, GCU-approved institution.
• Emphases in:
o Accounting
o Business Analytics
o Cybersecurity
o Finance
o Health Systems Management
o Leadership
o Marketing
o Project Management
o Sports Business
o Strategic Human Resource Management
o Supply Chain Management
Master of Business Administration and Master of
Science in Leadership
The Master of Business Administration and Master of Science in
Leadership is designed for those students who have previously
completed a bachelor’s degree at an accredited, GCU-approved
institution.
Master of Business Administration and Master of
Science in Nursing
The Master of Business Administration and Master of Science in
Nursing is designed for those students who have previously
completed a bachelor’s degree at an accredited, GCU-approved
institution.
Master of Divinity
The Master of Divinity is the standard degree for professional
ministry preparation and is designed for students who intend to
serve in local churches, Christian organizations, and other
ministerial roles. The Master of Divinity program offers
comprehensive biblical and theological knowledge while
developing skills necessary for effective Christian ministry. This
degree features a foundational, pastorally oriented program of
study that emphasizes the centrality of the gospel, the
significance of the church, and the pressing need to advance the
Kingdom of God through missions.
Master of Education
The Master of Education degree is designed for students who
have previously completed a bachelor’s degree at an accredited,
GCU-approved institution and may be seeking certification at the
elementary or secondary level. An advanced Program of Study is
included in that preparation or can be obtained after certification
requirements are completed. This degree is available in the
following specialized areas:
• Early Childhood Education
• Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special
Education
• Educational Administration
o Emphasis in Christian Education
o Emphasis in School Business and Finance
• Educational Leadership
o Emphasis in K-12 Christian Education
• Elementary Education
• Elementary Education and Special Education
• School Counseling
• Secondary Education
o Emphasis in Humanities*
o Emphasis in Humanities¢
o Emphasis in Science Technology Engineering and
Mathematics*
o Emphasis in Science Technology Engineering and
Mathematics¢
• Secondary Humanities Education
• Secondary STEM Education
• Special Education
• Special Education: Moderate to Severe
* Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure
¢ Initial Program – Does Not Lead to Initial Teacher Licensure
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 33 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Master of Public Administration
The Master of Public Administration is designed for those
students who have previously completed a bachelor’s degree at
an accredited, GCU-approved institution.
• Emphases in:
o Government and Policy
o Health Care Management
o Non-Profit Management
Master of Public Health
The Master of Public Health is designed for those students who
have previously completed a bachelor’s degree at an accredited,
GCU-approved institution.
Master of Science
The Master of Science is granted to those students who have
completed a bachelor’s degree at an accredited, GCU-approved
institution and are seeking a Master of Science degree.
• Accounting
o Emphasis in Tax Compliance and Planning
• Addiction Counseling
• Athletic Training
• Biology
o Emphasis in Education
• Business Analytics
• Chemistry
o Emphasis in Education
• Christian Counseling
o Emphasis in Substance Use and Addiction Disorders
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling
o Emphasis in Childhood and Adolescence Disorders
o Emphasis in Christian Counseling
o Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
o Emphasis in Trauma
• Computer Science
• Criminal Justice
o Emphasis in Law Enforcement
o Emphasis in Legal Studies
• Cybersecurity
• Cybersecurity Management
• Data Science
• Forensic Science
• Health Informatics
• Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
• Information Technology
• Instructional Design
• Instructional Technology
• Leadership
o Emphasis in Disaster Preparedness and Executive Fire
Leadership
o Emphasis in Homeland Security and Emergency
Management
• Mathematics
o Emphasis in Education
• Mental Health and Wellness
o Emphasis in Christian Ministry
o Emphasis in Community Mental Health Administration
o Emphasis in Family Dynamics
o Emphasis in Grief and Bereavement
o Emphasis in Integrated Health
o Emphasis in Prevention
• Nursing
o Emphasis in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with an
Emphasis in Adult Gerontology
o Emphasis in Family Nurse Practitioner
o Emphasis in Health Care Quality and Patient Safety
o Emphasis in Health Informatics
o Emphasis in Leadership in Health Care Systems
o Emphasis in Nursing Education
o Emphasis in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
o Emphasis in Public Health Nursing
• Nutrition and Dietetics
• Professional Counseling
• Psychology
o Emphasis in Forensic Psychology
o Emphasis in General Psychology
o Emphasis in GeroPsychology
o Emphasis in Health Psychology
o Emphasis in Human Factors Psychology
o Emphasis in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
o Emphasis in Life Coaching
• Sociology
o Emphasis in Education
• Software Development
• Software Engineering
Master of Science in Health Administration
• Emphasis in:
o Health Care Quality and Patient Safety
Master of Social Work
• Emphasis in:
o Advanced Standing
Post-Master of Arts Graduate Diploma/Certificate
The Post-Master of Arts in Theology Certificate provides
experienced professionals with fundamental understandings and
skills that prepare them to properly interpret and communicate
the biblical text for the sake of ministry within a local church.
• Theology
o Emphasis in Introductory Biblical Languages
Post-Master of Science Graduate
Diploma/Certificate
• Counseling
o Emphasis in Addiction Counseling
o Emphasis in Childhood and Adolescence Disorders
o Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
o Emphasis in Trauma
• Nursing
o Emphasis in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate with
an Emphasis in Adult Gerontology
o Emphasis in Family Nurse Practitioner Cert
o Emphasis in Nursing Education Certificate
Graduate Certificates of
Completion
Graduate certificates of completion are designed for working
professionals who hold a bachelor’s and/or master’s degree.
These programs provide the opportunity for students to gain
credits in master’s-level coursework without having to enroll in
and complete a graduate program of study. Coursework is
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 34 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
designed to give students advanced knowledge and skills in a
particular area of study that is pertinent to their career and life
goals.
• Innovation and Corporate Entrepreneurship
• Leadership
• Performance Psychology
• Advanced Biblical Languages
• Christian Theology
• Instructional Coaching
• Learning Behavior Specialist 1
• Ministry Education
• Servant Leadership
• Canyon L.E.A.P. to Teach Pathway, Elementary Education
• Canyon L.E.A.P. to Teach Pathway, Secondary Education
• Biblical Foundations
• Christian Counseling
• Communication
• Distance Learning
• English
• Forensic Psychology
• GeroPsychology
• Health Care Quality and Patient Safety
• Health Psychology
• History
• Homeland Security and Emergency Management
• Human Factors Psychology
• Industrial and Organizational Psychology
• Life Coaching
• Mathematics
• Mental Health and Wellness
o Community Mental Health Administration
o Christian Ministry
o Family Dynamics
o Grief and Bereavement
o Integrated Health
• Project Management
• Sociology
• Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
• Special Education: Mild to Moderate
• Special Education: Moderate to Severe
Baccalaureate Programs
Bachelor of Arts
The Bachelor of Arts degree is granted to majors who complete
all requirements in one the following areas:
• Advertising and Graphic Design
• Christian Ministry
• Christian Studies
o Emphasis in Biblical Studies
o Emphasis in Biblical Studies
o Emphasis in Global Ministry
o Emphasis in Global Ministry
o Emphasis in Philosophy
o Emphasis in Philosophy
o Emphasis in Worship Leadership
o Emphasis in Worship Leadership
o Emphasis in Youth Ministry
o Emphasis in Youth Ministry
• Commercial Music
• Communication
o Emphasis in Broadcasting and New Media
o Emphasis in Interpersonal Communication and Human
Relationships
• Dance
• Dance Secondary Education
• Digital Design
o Emphasis in Animation
o Emphasis in Web Design
• Digital Film
o Emphasis in Editing and Visual Effects
o Emphasis in Production
o Emphasis in Screenwriting
• English
• English for Secondary Education
• Government
o Emphasis in Legal Studies
o Emphasis in Public Administration
• History
• History for Secondary Education
• Music
o Emphasis in Instrumental Performance
o Emphasis in Piano Performance
o Emphasis in Voice Performance
• Music Education
o Emphasis in Choral: Voice*
o Emphasis in Instrumental: Brass, Woodwind, Percussion, or
Strings*
• Professional Writing for New Media
• Social Media
• Spanish
• Theatre
o Emphasis in Theatre and Drama
• Theatre Secondary Education
• Worship Arts
o Emphasis in Media and Production Ministry
o Emphasis in Media and Production Ministry
o Emphasis in Worship Ministry
o Emphasis in Worship Ministry
* Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure
Bachelor of Science
The Bachelor of Science degree is granted to majors who
complete all requirements in one the following areas:
• Accounting
o Emphasis in Public Accounting
• Applied Business Analytics
• Applied Business Information Systems
• Applied Cybersecurity Management
• Applied Entrepreneurship
• Applied Human Resources Management
• Applied Management
• Applied Marketing and Advertising
• Applied Technology
• Athletic Training
• Behavioral Health Science
o Emphasis in Childhood and Adolescence Disorders
o Emphasis in Family Dynamics
o Emphasis in Infancy and Early Childhood Studies
o Emphasis in Substance Use Disorders
o Emphasis in Trauma
• Biological Sciences
• Biology
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 35 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
o Emphasis in Pre-Dentistry
o Emphasis in Pre-Medicine
o Emphasis in Pre-Pharmacy
o Emphasis in Pre-Physician Assistant
o Emphasis in Pre-Veterinary Medicine
• Biology for Secondary Education
• Biomedical Engineering
• Business Administration
• Business Analytics
• Business Information Systems
• Business Management
• Chemistry
• Communication Sciences and Disorders
• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science
o Emphasis in Big Data Analytics
o Emphasis in Business Entrepreneurship
o Emphasis in Game and Simulation Development
• Counseling
o Emphasis in Addiction, Chemical Dependency, and
Substance Abuse
• Cybersecurity
• Cybersecurity Management
• Early Childhood Education
• Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special
Education
• Economics
• Educational Studies
• Electrical Engineering
• Elementary Education
o Emphasis in Christian Education*
o Emphasis in English as a Second Language*
o Emphasis in Science Technology Engineering and
Mathematics*
o Emphasis in Teaching Reading*
• Elementary Education and Special Education
• Engineering
o Emphasis in Project Management
• Entrepreneurial Studies
o Emphasis in Engineering Management
o Emphasis in Technology Management
• Environmental Science
o Emphasis in Environmental Chemistry
• Exercise Science
o Emphasis in Pre-Athletic Training
o Emphasis in Pre-Physical Therapy
o Emphasis in Sports Performance
• Finance
o Emphasis in Financial Planning
• Finance and Economics
• Forensic Science
• Health Care Administration
• Health Information Management
• Health Science
• Health Sciences
• Homeland Security and Emergency Management
• Hospitality Management
• Industrial Engineering
• Information Technology
o Emphasis in Cybersecurity
• Justice Studies
• Law Enforcement Advancement
• Marketing and Advertising
• Mathematics for Secondary Education
• Mechanical Engineering
o Emphasis in Aerospace
o Emphasis in Robotics
• Mechanical Engineering Technology
o Emphasis in Mechatronics
• Medical Laboratory Science
• Molecular and Cellular Biology
• Nursing
o Emphasis in Pre-Licensure
o Emphasis in Pre-Licensure
o Emphasis in RN to BSN
• Nutritional Sciences
• Physical Education
• Professional Sales and Marketing
• Psychology
o Emphasis in Forensic Psychology
o Emphasis in Performance and Sport Psychology
• Public Health
• Risk Management
• Sociology
• Software Development
• Software Engineering
• Sports and Entertainment Management
• Sports Management
• Supply Chain and Logistics Management
* Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure
¢ Initial Program – Does Not Lead to Initial Teacher Licensure
Bachelor of Social Work
Undergraduate Diploma/Certificate -
Undergraduate
• Biblical Studies
• C#.NET Programming
• Christian Theology
• Christian Worldview Studies
• Cybersecurity Foundations
• Java Programming
Minors
• Accounting
• Athletic Coaching
• Advertising and Graphic Design
• Air Force (ROTC)
• Army (ROTC)
• Athletic Coaching
• Behavioral Health Sciences
• Biblical Studies
• Biological Sciences
• Business Analytics
• Business Management
• Chemistry for Chemical Structural Analysis
• Chemistry for Life Sciences
• Chemistry for Physical Science and Engineering
• Christian Studies
• Communication
• Counseling
• Criminal Justice
• Cybersecurity
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 36 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Dance
• Dance Education
• Database-Driven Web-Based Applications Development
• Digital Design
• Digital Film
• E-Business Applications Development
• Enterprise Applications Development
• Entrepreneurial Studies
• Finance and Economics
• Forensic Psychology
• Forensic Science
• General Business
• Hospitality Management
• Human Services Case Management
• Literature
• Marketing
• Mathematics
• Music – Instrumental
• Music – Piano
• Music – Vocal
• Networking Technology
• Nutrition
• Performance and Sports Psychology
• Philosophy
• Pre-Law
• Pre-Medicine
• Professional Writing
• Public Administration
• Social Work
• Sports Management
• Spanish
• Theatre
• Worship Arts
Note: Students should contact a University Counselor or Student
Services Counselor for more information about program
availability.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 37 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Admission Policies and Application Procedures
Overview
Applications for admission to Grand Canyon University are considered primarily in light of the applicants’ academic qualifications. Qualified
applicants willing to uphold the University’s vision and mission, and open to the possibility of spiritual as well as intellectual development
are encouraged to apply. Although the University seeks to integrate Christian faith and practice into all aspects of campus life, no statement
of faith or religious affiliation is required of prospective students with the exception of majors and minors in the College of Theology.
Theology majors and minors are required to affirm the University’s Doctrinal and Ethical Positions Statements, the College’s Covenant, and
the Dispositional and Behavioral Standards. Grand Canyon University does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin,
gender, disability, or any other classification protected by law in its programs and activities. In order to be eligible for admittance into a
degree program with Grand Canyon University, individuals must be sixteen (16) years of age or older when they begin their program of study
Baccalaureate Admission
Requirements
All students must submit either acceptable high school or college
transcripts to be considered for full admission into the University.
If students cannot meet the GPA requirements with their
transcripts, but have test scores or a college-GPA that meets
admissions requirements, students may be eligible for full
admission. If both the degree-bearing transcript and the test
scores do not meet admission requirements, students may be
Accepted with Specifications.
1. Degree-bearing, secondary (high school) transcript:
• An unweighted GPA of 3.00 or above
o Home school transcripts from a state that recognizes
home schooling as a valid secondary school option.
o Students who reside in a state without home schooling as
a valid secondary school option will be Accepted with
Specifications.
2. General Education Development (GED) and transcripts of all
credit-bearing course work:
• 2014 Series and later: Cumulative score of 680 or above
• 2002-2013 Series: Cumulative score of 3000 or above
• 2002 Series and prior: Cumulative score of 258 or above
3. High School Equivalency Test (HiSET):
• Traditional and Nontraditional campus: Cumulative score of
80 or above; and transcripts of all credit-bearing course
work
4. State Equivalency Diploma:
• Traditional and Nontraditional campus: Students will be
Accepted with Specifications.
5. Self-Certification (Nontraditional campus only):
• Per HEA Sec. 484(d), 34 CFR 668.32(e), students are
allowed to self-certify that they received a high school
diploma or high school equivalency certificate. If students
self-certify, they will not be required to submit a copy of
their high school diploma/transcripts to Grand Canyon
University, unless specifically required to do so. Students
who self-certify will be Accepted with Specifications.
Acceptance
If students cannot meet the GPA requirements with their
transcripts, but have test scores or a college-GPA that meets
admissions requirements, students will be eligible for full
admission. Otherwise students will be Accepted with
Specifications.
1. Test Scores:
• An unweighted GPA of 2.5 or higher and composite score of
19 or above on the ACT. GCU ACT code is 0092
• An unweighted GPA of 2.5 or higher and composite score
from one of the tests listed below on the Scholastic Aptitude
Test (SAT). GCU SAT code is 4331.
Effective Dates Point Scale Composite
Score
Prior to 2005 1600 point scale 920 or above
January 1, 2005-
February 29, 2016
2400 point scale 1380 or above
March 1, 2016 and
forward
1600 point scale 1000 or above
2. College GPA:
• Post-secondary (college) transcript(s) showing 6 to 24
transferable credits with a GPA of 2.75 or above
• Post-secondary (college) transcript(s) showing 25 to 90
transferable credits with a GPA of 2.25 or above.
• Post-secondary (college) transcript(s) indicating an earned
bachelor degree with a GPA of 2.00 or above.
Applicants who do not meet one of the above criteria may be
Accepted with Specifications.
3. COVID Exceptions:
• Due to the educational effects of the pandemic on high
school academic achievement, ground traditional students
will be admitted with a 2.8 GPA for COVID affected
students (January 2020 to June 2022) until pandemic-era
students have graduated high school and had the opportunity
to apply to GCU. This GPA will apply through Fall 2026.
Placement Exams for Mathematics
Traditional Campus Students
All incoming, traditional freshmen must complete either the GCU
Algebra Placement Exam or the GCU College Mathematics
Placement Exam before enrolling in a math course higher than
MAT-110. Additionally, if a transfer student wants to place
higher than MAT-110, the student is required to take the
appropriate math placement exam unless they have transferred in
a grade of C or better for an approved prerequisite, from a
regionally accredited or GCU approved institution. The
appropriate placement exam is dependent on the math
requirement of each program of study. In order to take ESG-
162/L, students must score a minimum of 70. All engineering
students must take ESG-162/L. Engineering students must place
in MAT-154 or higher. Students need to work with their advisor
to determine the correct exam to complete.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 38 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Students who complete the GCU College Mathematics Placement
Exam will be placed according to the following guidelines:
Score Course
100 – 50 Placement into MAT-144
49 – 0 Placement into MAT-110
Students who complete the GCU Algebra Placement Exam will
be placed according to the following guidelines:
Score Course
100 – 90 Placement into MAT-252/MAT-262/MAT-351
89 – 70 Placement into MAT-261
69 – 40 Placement into MAT-154
39 – 0 Placement into MAT-110
Placement Exams for English
Traditional Campus Students
Traditional campus students who have not met the appropriate
competencies for English are required to take UNV-100. Students
wishing to waive this prerequisite course can select one of the
following options which will allow them to register directly into
ENG-105.
Course Prerequisite Requirement Options
ENG-105
Prerequisites
1. Passing grade in AP English Coursework
on the student’s HS transcript.
2. Passing grade for UNV-100.
3. Receive a score of 550 or higher on the
critical reading section of the College
Board SAT™ Reasoning Test taken
March 2005 to June 2011.
4. Receive a score of 500 or higher on the
critical reading section of the College
Board SAT™ Reasoning Test effective
Summer/Fall 2011.
5. Receive a score of 680 or higher on the
writing section of the SAT Reasoning Test
taken March 2005 or later.
6. Receive a score of 550 or higher on the
verbal section of the College Board SAT
I: Reasoning Test taken between April
1995 and January 2005.
7. Receive a score of 680 or higher on the
College Board SAT II: Writing Test taken
between May 1998 and January 2005.
8. Receive a score of 22 or higher on the
enhanced ACT® English Test taken
October 1989 or later.
9. Receive a score of 70% on the GCU
English Placement Exam.
Baccalaureate Degree and
Undergraduate Certificate
Programmatic Admission
Requirements
Grand Canyon University recommends a certain level of
academic preparation to provide a solid foundation for
undergraduate success. To promote success, admission to the
University does not necessarily guarantee admission to some
programs of study for which the standards are more rigorous.
Students desiring to be admitted into these programs should
review the additional program requirements listed below.
College of Arts and Media
Bachelor of Arts in Music
Bachelor of Arts in Music Education
Prospective students seeking admission to Grand Canyon
University as music majors should have a background in reading
and performing music.
Prospective students may complete an audition for performance
scholarship consideration, but it is not required for acceptance
into the major.
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Initial BSW Admission: Applicants/students admitted to GCU
who wish to obtain initial BSW admittance must have a
cumulative GPA of 2.5 (high school or college).
Secondary BSW Admission: Applicants/students must complete
and submit four short answer questions regarding personal
qualities, interests, and experience related to social work.
Secondary admission occurs upon acceptance of responses by the
Social Work Admissions Committee through a scoring rubric.
Applicants may resubmit responses one additional time if initially
denied admittance.
College of Natural Sciences
Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science
Essential Functions
The following essential functions represent requirements of the
profession that a student must be able to do to meet the
requirements of a Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) program.
Individuals are required to navigate their assigned responsibilities
independently. Students who are unable to meet the Essential
Functions are responsible for discussing the possibility of
reasonable accommodations with Student Disabilities Services.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 39 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Categories
Essential
Functions
Standard
Some Examples
of Necessary
Activities (NOT
ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Motor Skills Gross and fine
motor abilities
to provide
safe and
effective work
and
documentatio
n
• Reach,
manipulate and
operate
equipment,
instruments, and
supplies
• Electronic
documentation/
keyboarding
• Lift, carry, push
and pull (50 lbs.
minimum without
assistance)
Hearing Auditory
ability to
monitor,
assess, and
document
laboratory
needs
• Hears a range of
alarms and signals
Visual Visual ability
sufficient for
observations
and
assessment
necessary in
laboratory
setting,
accurate
color, hue,
shading, and
clarity
discrimination
.
• Discriminates
color and shading
changes.
• Accurately reads
measurements on
laboratory
equipment and
output
Math Accurately
calculate for
chemical
solution
characteristics
, counts,
concentrations
, and any
needed
information
specific to the
laboratory
setting in a
timely manner
• Able to convert
measurements
• Able to calculate
mathematical
formulas
accurately
Categories
Essential
Functions
Standard
Some Examples
of Necessary
Activities (NOT
ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Behavioral/Interperson
al (relationships)
Develop
mature,
sensitive, and
effective
relationships
with
Individuals
and groups of
various social,
emotional,
cultural, and
intellectual
backgrounds.
Demonstrate
ethical
behaviors.
•Nonjudgmental
behavior.
• Demonstrate a
high level of
patience and
respect.
• Establish rapport
with clients and
members of the
lab and healthcare
team.
• Adhere to GCU
policies,
procedures and
requirements as
described in the
University
Policies
Handbook (UPH),
Field Experience
Manual, and
course syllabi
Communication &
Technology Literacy
Utilizes
technology
skills and
communicatio
n strategies in
English to
communicate
health
information
accurately and
with legal and
regulatory
guidelines,
upholding the
strictest
standards of
confidentiality
• Read,
understand, write
and speak English
competently.
• Communicate
thoughts, ideas
and action plans
with clarity, using
written, verbal
and/or visual
methods.
• Explain
laboratory
procedures.
• Document
testing outcomes.
• Validate
responses/messag
es with others.
• Use appropriate
nonverbal
communication.
• Ability to
perform a variety
of technological
skills
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 40 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Categories
Essential
Functions
Standard
Some Examples
of Necessary
Activities (NOT
ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Problem Solving/
Critical Thinking
Collect,
analyze,
prioritize,
integrate, and
generalize
information
and
knowledge to
make sound
clinical
judgments and
decisions to
promote
positive client
outcomes
• Able to integrate
theory and
correlate patient
data and
outcomes.
• Identify cause-
effect
relationships in
laboratory and
testing settings.
• Handles multiple
priorities in
stressful situations
General Health/
Emotional Stability
Ability to
tolerate
lengthy
periods of
physical
activity as
well as
environmental
stressors
• Move quickly
and/or
continuously.
• Tolerate long
periods of
standing and/or
sitting as required.
• Adapt to rotating
shifts.
• Work with
chemicals and
detergents.
• Tolerate
exposure to fumes
and odors.
• Work in areas
that are closed and
crowded.
• Work with
clients with
communicable
diseases or
conditions.
• Maintain focus
and appropriate
behavior.
Should a student require an accommodation due to a disability
issue in order to meet any of the essential elements of the
program, they would need to contact Student Disability Services
to go through the accommodation process.
Admission and Progression Requirements for MLS and clinical
coursework
Current GCU students or transfer students who have completed,
or are in the process of completing, the MLS prerequisite
coursework may apply for secondary admission to GCU’s
Medical Laboratory Science program’s MLS coursework.
Students who have completed an Associate’s degree in Medical
Laboratory Technician (MLT) studies, or who are currently
qualified to receive their certification as an MLT, can apply for
admission into the MLS program’s didactic, 400-level MLS
coursework. The admission policies and criteria are different for
these two applicant groups. Details are outlined below.
Admission Requirements for MLT-certified or MLT-eligible
Applicants
The applicant must be eligible to receive or already have received
MLT certification by the American Society for Clinical
Pathology (ASCP) or American Medical Technologists (AMT).
The completion end date of their MLT program must be within 7
years of their GCU start date OR provide evidence of current
MLT certification.
There is no minimum GPA requirement for this group.
These applicants, once admitted to GCU, would not complete the
MLS 300-level coursework. They would complete the MLS 400-
level coursework and any additional courses and credits
necessary for the conferring of the Bachelor’s degree. Applicants
entering this path may be eligible for block transfer of all pre-
MLS coursework but must also successfully complete or have
completed CHM-350/L: Fundamental Biochemistry and Lab and
BIO-358: Immunology or their equivalents and BIO-335:
Medical Terminology.
Secondary Admission Requirements for Applicants not MLT-
certified or MLT-eligible
For current GCU students or transfer students who have
completed, or are in the process of completing, the MLS
prerequisite coursework, secondary admission into the MLS
program coursework is based on a prerequisite course GPA.
Admissions decisions will be made on a rolling basis unless
program enrollment becomes restricted, in which case admission
decisions will be made based on a stacked-rank process.
Progression to the MLS coursework cannot and will not be
guaranteed. Applications that do not meet the minimum
requirements by the application deadline will be denied without
consideration. Students denied may re-apply for future admission
cycles; a new application is required as applicants would be
expected to provide new prerequisite course completion
information. All application criteria must be completed by the
deadline specified below for the semester in which the student is
applying. The Medical Laboratory Science admissions committee
will conduct a review of the student’s records to determine their
admissibility to begin MLS coursework on the main GCU
campus.
Semester Start
Deadline Secondary Application
Fall August 25
Spring December 25
Applicants must meet the minimum prerequisite course GPA of
3.0 in order to progress. This GPA will be calculated based on the
coursework following courses or their equivalents:, including any
transfer courses used to meet those course requirements. Transfer
course grades will be assessed on the same 4-point scale (A=4.0)
used by GCU:
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 41 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Prerequisite
Courses used
in GPA
calculation
for
Secondary
Admission
Probability
and Statistics
4 cr GCU MAT-274
General
Chemistry I,
with lab
4 cr GCU CHM-113/L
General
Chemistry II,
with lab
4 cr GCU CHM-115/L
Fundamental
Biochemistry,
with lab
4 cr GCU CHM-350/L
Human
Anatomy and
Physiology I,
with lab
4 cr GCU BIO-201/L
Human
Anatomy and
Physiology II,
with lab
4 cr GCU BIO-202/L
Microbiology,
with lab
4 cr GCU BIO-205/L
Probability
and Statistics
4 cr GCU MAT-274
Required courses must be completed within 7 years of the
student’s GCU start date. If students have attempted a
prerequisite course multiple times, the highest grade earned will
be used for the secondary admissions GPA calculation.
Repeating Passing Courses
Undergraduate students have the option to repeat any
undergraduate general education course where a non-failing
grade was earned, subject to the policy outlined in the University
Policy Handbook. In addition to that standard allowance, students
seeking progression to the MLS coursework can repeat non-
failing prerequisite coursework to improve their prerequisite
course GPA. The earlier grade earned may be replaced in an
undergraduate student’s GPA when the equivalent program major
course is retaken. Students have one attempt to retake the same
non-failing program major course. Any attempt will need
approval by submitting a formal University Appeal through a
Student Services Counselor. Students may be financially
responsible for the tuition of the course. Students who have
already been admitted to the MLS coursework cannot repeat non-
failing program major coursework.
Additional Progression Requirements for Students admitted to
MLS coursework
Students can only retake MLS coursework due to nonpassing
grades a total of 3 times, whether the same or different courses,
during their program; any subsequent nonpassing grades in MLS
coursework may result in dismissal from the MLS program.
Students must meet with the MLS program director to develop a
student success plan prior to starting the repeat of a non-passing
MLS course. Students who are dismissed from the MLS program
under this policy will not be considered for re-entry.
MLS Lab attendance and participation is mandatory. MLS lab
make-ups will only be considered once per semester in each MLS
lab course, under extreme circumstances, and approved by the
MLS Program Director (or designee). Examples of extreme
circumstances include but are not limited to:
• A communicable disease which can be transmitted to
patients, staff, or other students. Examples of such
communicable diseases can be found in the Bachelor of
Science in Medical Laboratory Science Field
Experience Manual.
• A car accident requiring immediate medical attention
• Hospitalization
• Extended illness or injury
Once a student progresses into the MLS coursework, they will
not be allowed to participate in Study Abroad.
All MLS students are responsible for following the policies and
requirements in the current version of the Bachelor of Science in
Medical Laboratory Science Field Experience Manual.
Lab Safe Practice Requirements
Students must always know and practice safe guidelines while in
lab. Failure to adhere to general guidelines can result in
disciplinary action.
1. Students should report pregnancies, physical limitations,
allergies (e.g., Latex), recent injuries, illnesses, surgeries, or
communicable disease to their instructor as soon as possible so
that necessary precautions may be taken that may affect your
ability to meet the Essential Functions.
2. Standard precautions should be always followed when there is
exposure or potential exposure to blood or body fluids.
3. No equipment or supplies are to be removed from the lab.
4. Any damage to the equipment or supplies should be reported
immediately to the Lab staff or instructor.
5. Students and Lab Faculty/Instructors are responsible for
placing needles and other “sharps” into the red biohazard bins
and wall-mounted containers.
6. Students must demonstrate safety precautions while utilizing
needles during practice as instructed (e.g., never recap needles,
engage safety feature on devices, dispose of “sharps”
immediately).
7. Students must demonstrate proper body mechanics for moving,
lifting, and transferring.
8. If an injury or exposure occurs during lab the student must
notify the faculty/instructor immediately.
9. It is the responsibility of all those who use the laboratories or
simulation areas to keep the equipment and space clean,
particularly during and after use.
Bodily Fluids Exposure and/or Injury
Grand Canyon University acknowledges the inherent risks
associated with working around or with patient specimens,
including a potential exposure to blood and body fluids. Once in
a clinical laboratory setting, students will have access to and will
be expected to utilize appropriate blood-borne pathogen barriers,
proper sanitary precautions, and appropriate biohazard disposal
equipment and all safety procedures at each clinical site.
The following are details of student responsibilities in this area:
A. If required by a clinical experience site, you must have and
maintain current health insurance.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 42 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
B. GCU and the clinical agencies that provide clinical experiences
for our students are not responsible or liable for the costs of
medical follow-up or expenses incurred.
C. If evaluation and treatment is required by the facility where
students are completing clinical experiences, the student is
responsible for all costs and associated follow up.
D. If students are injured or exposed to blood and body fluids,
students will:
a. Immediately notify clinical instructor or site supervisor
b. Wash the area immediately and thoroughly with soap and
water.
c. Within 24 hours, follow-up with the students’ Primary Care
Provider who will determine immunization status and give
appropriate prophylaxis or referral for appropriate
prophylaxis.
d. Assume full responsibility for disease sequelae.
e. Follow the policies of the agency (if any).
f. Complete a student incident report with the supervising
faculty or instructor who was present during incident. A
copy of this report will be given to the Program Director and
placed in the student’s file.
Communicable Disease Policy
Students will be exposed to communicable diseases during
clinical experiences. It is important for students to adhere to the
required immunizations and safe clinical practice standards.
Students may not participate in clinical experiences during the
time they are affected by or suspect they have a communicable
disease. A communicable disease is a health disorder that can be
passed from one person to another. If students suspect they may
have a communicable disease, an immediate visit to the student
health center or healthcare provider for evaluation is required. If
the evaluation shows possible communicable disease, students
must remain out of contact with patients for the duration
suggested by the healthcare provider. Students may not return to
participation in clinical experiences until they have been
reevaluated by a healthcare provider and released with written
verification of full release. Students must contact the clinical
faculty upon suspicion and verification of the disease. Examples
of communicable diseases include, but are not limited to the
following:
• AIDS
• Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
• Chickenpox
• Strep pharyngitis
• Measles
• Cholera
• Conjunctivitis
• Diphtheria
• Diarrhea- infectious
• Influenza
• Tetanus
• Impetigo
• Yellow Fever
• Hepatitis A, B, or C
• Herpes Simplex
• Meningitis (bacterial)
• Mumps
• Pertussis (whooping cough
• Rubella
• Shigellosis
• Streptococcal pneumonia
• Scabies
• Hand, foot, mouth syndrome
• Viral and acute hepatitis
• Herpes
• Lice (pediculosis)
• Lyme disease
• Escherichia coli (E coli)
• Tuberculosis
• Group A Strep
• Pinworms
• Ringworm
• COVID-19
Clinical Experience Course Requirements
Students must complete the total number of clinical experience
hours required for each course and site. Students are assigned to
clinical experiences and may not refuse their assignments.
Students should plan to meet the commitments of the supervised
experiential learning requirements. Most sites are often limited to
daytime and weekdays for providing clinical hours, so it may be
necessary to adjust one’s schedule accordingly. It is important to
note that failure to complete the required minimum hours within
the timeframe of the clinical course or failing to properly
document completed hours for the clinical experience, will result
in failure of the course.
Students are responsible for meeting all requirements of their
clinical placement site prior to beginning their experiential
course. These requirements typically include liability insurance,
background check, HIPAA training, substance screening, medical
insurance, and proof of immunization and/or immunity. Site
requirements will be conveyed by the Office of Field Experience
as students approach the clinical experiences.
Students are required by Grand Canyon University to obtain
individual liability insurance coverage prior to the beginning of
clinical experiential learning. All students are required to
purchase and maintain professional liability insurance before they
can enter a class with face-to-face experiential learning- there are
no exceptions to this policy. The minimum coverage specified by
GCU for its students is $1,000,000 per claim and $3,000,000
aggregate. No student will be allowed to begin experiential
learning without this coverage. An insurance affidavit or
confirmation of coverage must be submitted to the Office of Field
Experience to include copies of pages specifying coverage limits,
dates of coverage, and limits of liability. These documents are
submitted through your student portal.
Students with criminal convictions cannot be guaranteed clinical
placement or employment as placement and employment is at the
sole discretion of the site or employer.
Clinical experience attendance and participation are mandatory.
Clinical make-ups will only be considered under extreme
circumstances and approved by the MLS Program Director (or
designee). Examples of extreme circumstances that could
warrant a clinical make up may include, but are not limited to:
• a communicable disease which can be transmitted to patients,
staff, or other students
• a car accident requiring immediate medical attention
• hospitalization
• extended illness or injury
If a student is unable to attend a clinical experience, the student
will contact the following at least one (1) hour prior to the
scheduled start of the event:
• MLS Program Director (or designee)
• Clinical laboratory assigned
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 43 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
A determination for a potential make-up for the event will be
made after review of appropriate documentation and absence
verification is completed through Student Disability Services.
Make-up requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. For the
University to consider a Clinical Make-Up Request in cases of
medical absence, the student will be required to submit
substantiating medical documentation that states specifically that
the student is free to return to the clinical setting with no
restrictions and can perform the Essential Functions. This will be
required whether the student misses one clinical day or
consecutive days. GCU may verify the information contained in
the documentation with the provider. Students will be notified of
the approval or denial of the clinical make-up via email to their
GCU email address. The MLS Program Director will determine
the mechanism of make-up hours. The primary method will be
via an additional clinical rotation. If clinical rotations cannot be
arranged, the MLS Program Director may choose to use
simulated case studies to meet the clinical objectives.
Students must make-up missed clinical experiences and may not
decline the make-up experience identified. Students may risk
failing the course for nonattendance. Students must submit any
assignments associated with the makeup to the Learning
Management System classroom within the designated time frame
given for completing the make-up work. If a student absence
does not meet the above criteria, it is considered unexcused and
could result in failing the course and referral to the Professional
Practices Committee. Students will have to complete the clinical
make-up assignments to progress in their course and in the
program.
Site Requirements and Affiliation Agreements
The College of Natural Sciences and the Office of Field
Experience (OFE) must have an agreement with the site prior to
the student beginning field experiences. It is the student’s
responsibility to provide OFE their site’s education coordinator
information, so that the OFE can work directly with the facility to
obtain the required paperwork. It is important to remember that
the existence of this agreement does not guarantee placement
availability, and that arrangements beyond the agreement must be
implemented to enable student placement.
If a student desires to perform a clinical experience at a site that
does not have a current affiliation agreement, the student must
assure the OFE that the site:
• Is accredited by CAP, COLA or CLIA
• Has enough volume and variation in test menu to provide a
complete experience.
• Can provide a preceptor that meets educational and
certification requirements and that is willing to adhere to the
duties outlined in the Field Experience Manual.
If a current agreement is not already in place, the legal contract
will be sent directly to the preceptor’s site from the OFE.
Completing new site agreements can be a lengthy process and the
Affiliation Agreement must be in place prior to the course start
date. Students should allow at least four to six months for a new
agreement to be finalized. Failure to provide site information
accurately and entirely can slow this process and may prevent the
student from beginning the field experience on time. Once an
Affiliation Agreement has been finalized, students will be
notified via email.
Some sites may have specific requirements for documentation for
a placement. Students are to work with both the site and OFE to
ensure all requirements are met (e.g., a hospital may require a
background check different from the original background check
and has the right to specify their own institutional requirements
that are not within the control of the University).
Clinical Tardy Policy
Tardiness is defined as being greater than 5 minutes (>5 minutes)
from the start of a clinical experience event. Any anticipated
tardiness within the 5 minutes timeframe must be reported to the
faculty and an appropriate clinical contact. A student failing to
“call-in” would be considered as an “unexcused absence” which
will result in failure of the course as per the Clinical and
Participation policy. Dependent on the clinical site, a student who
is tardy and/or has missed time may be requested to leave. In this
situation, the student will not be able to complete the scheduled
clinical. the event will be considered an unexcused absence. The
student may be required to complete a make-up. Consequences of
being tardy within the same course will be as follows:
• First Tardy: Student will receive a warning.
• Second Tardy: Student will be referred to the Professional
Practice Committee.
• Third Tardy: Student will fail the clinical experience.
Evaluation of Supervised Experiential Learning Sites
Students will complete and submit the Evaluation of Site form
within one week of completing their experience.
The Program Director will review each evaluation and obtain
more information as needed.
Favorable evaluations will be shared immediately with
preceptors, while constructive feedback will be discussed
personally via email or phone with preceptor.
The Program Director will use the data obtained from the student
feedback to make decisions regarding the continued utilization of
each site.
Responsibilities of an Experiential Learning Student
The staff of the Office of Field Experience is available for
consultation and can assist with most issues. Students’ primary
responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Comply with all reporting and documentation requirements.
• Maintain daily time logs using the appropriate record keeping
process as outlined within the course.
• Complete the required hours for the courses, complete courses
with a passing grade.
• If you are in danger of not accumulating the required hours or
failing a practicum/internship course, contact the Office of
Field Experience immediately to discuss your options. Failure
to do so may result in you having to retake the course at your
own expense.
• Always conduct yourself in a professional manner.
Experiential learning students must operate according to site
guidelines, procedures, and supervision as well as the state and
national boards of the profession. If a supervisor gives a
directive that appears to conflict with the student’s values or
ethics, or creates a personal conflict, which cannot be resolved
in ordinary communication with the supervisor, the student
must immediately contact the Office of Field Experience.
• Arrive on time and work the scheduled times. It is best that the
student and Preceptor agree to a set schedule, if possible.
• Discuss with your Preceptor the goals and/or skills you would
like to attain.
• Be receptive to guidance and instruction from your Preceptor,
that is, be attentive to feedback and suggestions from your
Preceptor and follow through on such instructions promptly. It
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 44 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
may be necessary to take notes during supervision to execute
all instructions identified by your Preceptor.
• Inform your Preceptor of any difficulties you are having in the
areas of completing paperwork or coordinating professionally
with other staff.
• Students must provide their own, dependable transportation to
the sites. GCU, in conjunction with these agencies, makes
every attempt to minimize the distance that students travel to
their field experience, but sometimes additional travel is
unavoidable.
• All hours must be completed on-site and under direct
supervision. Time taken to complete assignments for the
Practicum course does not count toward completion of the
hours.
• All hours must be completed and signed off/approved by their
preceptor. Faculty members will provide final validation of all
practicum hours.
• Field Experience Counselors are available for questions and
assistance with this program if needed.
Student Professional Dispositions
One important aspect of the experience here at Grand Canyon
University is the fulfillment of professional dispositions—ways
of working, thinking, and interacting with others—in three areas:
Professionalism, Work Ethic, and Communication Skills. In order
to support student development and have clear expectations in
these areas, the college lists the following key dispositions. When
students fail to demonstrate these professional dispositions, they
jeopardize their program or employment continuation. The ability
to reflect on personal growth, strengths, and challenges is a
central characteristic of effective people working in health care.
These disposition statements do not replace the University Code
of Conduct.
Communication Skills
• Demonstrate appropriate, professional, respectful verbal
communication
• Demonstrate appropriate, professional respectful written
communication
• Demonstrate a disposition toward inquiry and problem solving
• Work collaboratively with students, faculty, and professionals
• Demonstrate consistently positive attitudes toward learning
and/or teaching
• Accept responsibility for decisions and actions
• Establish maintain mutually respectful interactions
• Demonstrates understanding of university/program
organizational chart by communicating “need to know
information” to individuals according to the chain of command
Work Ethic
• Demonstrate regular attendance
• Demonstrate punctuality
• Complete work in a timely manner
• Demonstrate organizational skills
• Know and observe all pertinent policies and procedures
• Demonstrate a disposition toward personal ownership of
learning and professional development
Professionalism
• Demonstrate a commitment to work with faculty, and staff in
appropriate, professional, and respectful ways
• Demonstrate an awareness of community, state, national, and
world contexts that have an impact on the profession and the
learning process
• Follow all safety and PPE requirements
• Treat everyone fairly, equitably, and respectfully
• Accept constructive criticism and adjusts performance
accordingly
• Express and demonstrate interest in and enthusiasm for
learning
• Adapt to new and diverse situations
• Adapt to differences among people including differences of
gender, age, ability, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religion,
language, etc.
• Maintain confidentiality about all student, patient, faculty, and
staff records unless disclosure serves a professionally
compelling purpose or is required by law
• Demonstrate discretion when discussing colleagues, faculty,
experiential learning sites, and personal information
• Respect the points of view of others
• Contribute meaningfully, appropriately, professionally, and
respectfully to discussions by asking questions, giving
opinions, and listening to others
• Project an appropriate professional appearance in professional
settings
• Project an appropriate professional and respectful demeanor
• Be open to leadership and opportunities for growth
• Understand and practice professional ethical standards
• Recognize personal at-risk behavior: Behavioral choice that
increases risk where risk is not recognized, or is mistakenly
believed to be justified
• Recognize personal reckless behavior: Behavioral choice to
consciously disregard a substantial and unjustifiable risk
• Acts overall in a manner that furthers the interests of others
(enlightened self-interest)
• Utilize social media responsibly, avoiding issues regarding
privacy and confidentiality by not communicating information
regarding field experiences or documents contained in a client
record.
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training
Students can enroll into the Bachelor of Science in Athletic
Training. However, admission into the clinical portion of the
Athletic Training Education program is competitive. Not all
applicants will be admitted and able to progress forward in the
program. Students need to review the Bachelor of Science in
Athletic Training Clinical Requirements and understand the
application deadlines to participate in the clinical portion of the
program. Students can also view the clinical requirements on
http://www.gcu.edu/College-of-Nursing-and-Health-Care-
Professions/Athletic-Training-Program.php.
Acceptance is determined by the Athletic Training Education
Clinical Requirements and availability of clinical spaces.
Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences: Professional
Development and Advanced Patient Care
Applicants to the program must meet one of the following
criteria:
1. Possess an Associate degree from an accredited, GCU-
approved college, university, or program that prepares students
to acquire the necessary state, local, or national credentials
required of allied health professionals involved in direct patient
care.
2. Submit a state, local, or national credential/certificate/license
issued by a sanctioned licensure/credentialing body, certifying
that they are approved to practice as one of the following allied
health professionals involved in patient health assessment or
treatment:
• Medical Technician/Patient Care Technician
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 45 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Diagnostic Technician (Sonography, Radiology, Nuclear)
• Lab / Phlebotomy Technician
• Physical Therapy Assistant/Technician
• Occupational Therapy Assistant/Technician
• Cardiovascular Technician
• Respiratory Technician
• Surgical (OR) Assistant
• Emergency Technician
• Pharmacy Technician
• Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
• Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
3. Health care work experience in which applicants have
demonstrated requisite knowledge and skills required of allied
health professional to provide direct patient care.
Competencies for allied health care providers are listed below:
• Performing basic diagnostic and therapeutic health care
services
• Preparing patients for procedures
• Assisting nursing and medical personnel with examinations
• Carrying out Pre-operative and post-operative duties
• Collecting and processing laboratory specimens
• Preparing and maintaining medical records
• Scheduling and receiving patients
• Maintaining asepsis and infection control
• Maintaining medical equipment and supplies
• Providing therapeutic care related to nutrition, ambulation,
rehabilitation and activities of daily living
• Performing first aid and CPR
OR
4. Submit military documentation demonstrating satisfactory
completion of Medical Military Occupational Specialty
Training.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
Degree-Bearing Candidates:
• All RN-BSN candidates must meet GCU’s Bachelors
Admission Requirements and provide evidence establishing
the candidate’s initial prelicensure degree (Associates in
Science of Nursing or Associates Degree in Nursing) is from
an accredited nursing school that is not currently under
investigation for or previously found to have committed fraud
by a law enforcement agency, in connection with conferring
fraudulent degrees, and/or issuing fraudulent transcripts.
• Submit official transcripts bearing evidence of a cumulative
GPA of 2.8.
• Possess a current unencumbered, unrestricted license as a
registered nurse (RN).
Non Degree-Bearing/Nursing Diploma Candidates:
• All RN-BSN candidates must meet GCU’s Bachelors
Admission Requirements and provide evidence establishing
the candidate’s initial prelicensure degree (Nursing Diploma)
is from an accredited nursing school that is not currently under
investigation for or previously found to have committed fraud
by a law enforcement agency, in connection with conferring
fraudulent degrees, and/or issuing fraudulent transcripts.
• Submit official transcripts bearing evidence of a cumulative
GPA of 2.8.
• Possess a current unencumbered, unrestricted license as a
registered nurse (RN).
• Be prepared to transfer or complete the following general
education competencies that are not integrated into the
program core with a minimum grade of “C” (2.00).
o 6 credits in Effective Communication (Recommended GCU
course: ENG 105: English Composition I)
o 5 credits of Critical Thinking (Recommended GCU course:
MAT 144:College Mathematics )
Non Degree-Bearing/Vocational Nursing Candidates:
• All RN-BSN candidates must meet GCU’s Bachelors
Admission Requirements and provide evidence establishing
the candidate’s initial prelicensure training is from an
accredited nursing school that is not currently under
investigation for or previously found to have committed fraud
by a law enforcement agency, in connection with conferring
fraudulent degrees, and/or issuing fraudulent transcripts.
• Submit official transcripts bearing evidence of a cumulative
GPA of 2.8.
• Possess a current unencumbered, unrestricted license as a
registered nurse (RN).
• Vocational nurse training with RN licensure will be awarded
30 block credits.
• Complete the coursework listed below. Coursework can be
fulfilled by transfer courses if the content is comparable.
o 40 credits of General Education coursework
o AND
o ENG-135: Life Learning Assessment
o UNV-104: Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem
Solving
o HLT-205: Health Care Systems and Transcultural
Healthcare
o MAT-144: College Mathematics
• Healthcare preparatory coursework is required however;
transfer will be accepted for exact course match.
Coursework Credits
Vocational Nursing Block Credit 30
General Education 40
Healthcare Preparatory 14
RN-BSN Program 36
Total program requirements 120
College of Engineering, and Technology
Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Students must place into MAT-154, Applications of College
Algebra, by meeting the minimum score requirement on the
Placement Exam or fulfilling the course prerequisites.
College of Theology
All Programs
Theology majors and minors are required to affirm the
University’s Doctrinal Statement and the College’s Covenant.
Students must complete this by signing the Enrollment
Agreement for their program of study. Doctrinal and Ethical
Positions Statements, the College’s Covenant, and the College’s
Dispositional and Behavioral Standards. These documents serve
to clarify and underscore the College’s commitment to the
essential doctrines of the Christian faith and its concern to
exemplify these doctrines in life and ministry. Together, these
documents outline the Covenantal Standards of the theological
community at GCU.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 46 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Students must complete this requirement by signing these
documents within the application for their program of study.
Students may be denied admission or removed from the program
based on the following:
• Failure to affirm and align with the College’s Covenantal
Standards as outlined in the Doctrinal and Ethical Positions
Statements, the College’s Covenant, and/or the College’s
Dispositional and Behavioral Standards.
• Display of dispositions and/or behavior that do not align with
the College’s Covenantal Standards during the course of the
admissions process or during the course of their time at the
institution.
• A history of behavior that is contrary to the Covenantal
Standards and unbecoming of a gospel minister.
Accelerated Undergraduate Degree to Master of Divinity
Traditional campus students in the Bachelor of Arts in the
College of Theology who want to participate in the Accelerated
Bachelor of Arts to Master of Divinity option, may complete
graduate level courses as part of their undergraduate degree.
The Accelerated Undergraduate Degree to Master of Divinity is
designed to prepare students on the ground campus for ministry
in a local church or Christian organization. This program requires
completion of a specified Bachelor of Arts and a Master of
Divinity Program following a year-round program of study (Fall,
Spring, Summer semesters). Students may apply for
consideration to the accelerated pathway while applying to the
university. OR apply to transfer into the accelerated pathway
prior to surpassing 40 credit hours toward their current degree
program. Specified Bachelor of Arts programs include the
following:
• BA in Christian Ministry
• BA in Christian Studies
• BA in Christian Studies with Emphasis in Biblical Studies
• BA in Christian Studies with Emphasis in Philosophy
• BA in Christian Studies with Emphasis in Global Ministry
• BA in Christian Studies with Emphasis in Youth Ministry
• BA in Christian Studies with Emphasis in Worship Leadership
• BA in Worship Arts with an Emphasis in Media and
Production
• BA in Worship Arts with an Emphasis in Worship Ministry
Students who have completed more than 40 credit hours prior to
transfer into an accelerated program may do so provided that 1)
they have not exceeded 60 credit hours of college credit and 2)
they may only transfer into the BA in Christian Ministry program
or the BA in Christian Studies program (without emphasis).
Students who have completed more than 60 credit hours should
complete their current undergraduate degree program and then
apply for admission to the Master of Divinity program if they
intend to continue to the graduate level. In the event this pathway
would not accelerate the time to completion, students will be
instructed to complete their existing standard degree pathway
before enrolling into the Master of Divinity.
The Accelerated Undergraduate to Master of Divinity pathway is
rigorous, both academically and spiritually, with a strong
emphasis on vocational preparation for ministry. Students who
choose to apply for this program should understand the additional
policies students must adhere to in order to be admitted, progress,
and graduate from the program. Students who cannot meet the
academic rigor of the courses and prioritize time-demanding
aspects of the program will have a difficult time meeting the
requirements of the program.
Students acknowledge their intent to enroll in this pathway upon
initial application to the university. They must also complete the
Accelerated Undergraduate Degree to Master of Divinity Request
Form after the completion of 42 degree applicable credits or upon
enrollment when transferring between 42 and 60 degree credits.
In order to complete this form, students must meet the following:
• Be enrolled in an approved Bachelor of Arts program in the
College of Theology
• Possess a 3.25 enrollment cumulative GPA
• Complete the Accelerated Undergraduate Degree to Master of
Divinity Request Form
Once approved, students must complete the graduate level
coursework with a passing grade. Grades earned will be
calculated into the graduate GPA.
Bachelor of Arts in Worship Arts with an Emphasis in
Worship Ministry
Prospective students seeking admission into the Bachelor of Arts
in Worship Arts with an Emphasis in Worship Ministry should
possess a measure of musical skill as well as an aptitude for
musical performance. To gain admission into the program, a
student must meet the general admission requirement of the
University along with an audition in the primary area of study
(voice or instrumental), which can be completed by submitting a
recorded audition.
The candidate must demonstrate musical performance strength
and skills that can be developed to enable the student to
successfully complete the degree requirements of the Worship
Ministry emphasis as stated in the curriculum. The student must
demonstrate musical ability that can be developed through his/her
undergraduate studies to successfully serve as a worship leader in
his or her field. In order to demonstrate this ability, students must
submit a recorded audition to the office of the Worship Arts
Coordinator or a designee before admission to the program may
be approved.
Honors College
Admission into the Honors College is competitive and
determined by the criteria listed below and availability of spaces.
Incoming freshman students are eligible for acceptance into the
Honors College if they meet the following criteria:
1. Be admitted into the University
2. Possess 23 college level credits or fewer AND
• Possess a minimum weighted or unweighted, cumulative
high school GPA of 3.9
OR
• ACT composite score of 31 or above
OR
• SAT score (combined critical reading and math) of 1410 or
above
3. Students must formally accept their seat through the Student
Checklist housed in the GCU Student Portal, or by emailing
All other students must apply. To be eligible for acceptance into
the Honors College, students must meet all of the following:
1. Be admitted into the University
2. Complete the Honors College application
3. Complete a written essay demonstrating passion for
community service and leadership
4. Submit at least two (2) professional letters of recommendation
(i.e., faculty/teacher or employer, non-family members)
5. Submit copy of current resume to include both employment
and community service
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 47 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
In addition, students must meet one of the following:
1. Incoming freshman student
• Possess 23 college level credits or fewer AND
• Possess a minimum weighted or unweighted, cumulative
high school GPA of 3.7
OR
• ACT composite score of 27 or above
OR
• SAT score (combined critical reading and math) of 1295 or
above
2. External Transfer student
• Possess 24 college level credits or more AND
• Possess a minimum unweighted cumulative college GPA of
3.5
3. Internal Transfer student
• Possess less than 36 completed college credits, AND
• Possess a minimum unweighted, cumulative GCU GPA of
3.5
All applications are subject to review and consideration by the
Honors College Department.
Upon acceptance into the Honors College, students must review
and sign the Honors College Memorandum of Understanding
(MOU) and complete the Honors Enrollment Agreement.
Honors College Effective for Fall 2024 Students
Admission into the Honors College is competitive and
determined by the criteria listed below.
Incoming freshman students are eligible for automatic acceptance
into the Honors College if they meet the following criteria:
1. Be admitted into the University
2. Possess 23 college level credits or fewer AND
• Possess a minimum unweighted, cumulative high school
GPA of 3.8 or greater
OR
• ACT composite score of 31 or above
OR
• SAT score (combined critical reading and math) of 1410 or
above
3. Students must formally accept their seat through the Student
Checklist housed in the GCU Student Portal, or by emailing
Transfer students are eligible for automatic acceptance into the
Honors College if they meet all of the following criteria:
1. Be admitted into the University
2. Possess a minimum, cumulative college GPA of 3.75 or
greater
3. Currently enrolled in a college level honors program, honors
college or honors society.
4. Has a minimum of 40 remaining credits remaining prior to
degree completion.
Internal transfer students are eligible for automatic acceptance
into the Honors College if they meet all of the following criteria:
1. Enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student on the traditional
campus
2. Possess a minimum, cumulative GCU GPA of a 3.75 or greater
3. Has a minimum of 40 remaining credits remaining prior to
degree completion
All other students must apply for consideration by completing the
following steps.
1. Be admitted into the University
2. Submit an Honors College admissions application for review
by the Honors College administration
a. Complete the online admissions application form on
students.gcu.edu
b. Complete a written essay demonstrating passion for
community service and leadership
c. Submit an activity resume to include employment,
leadership and community service experiences within the
last 5 years.
All applications are subject to review and consideration by the
Honors College.
Upon acceptance into the Honors College, students must review
and sign the Honors College Memorandum of Understanding
(MOU).
Bridge Admission Requirements
Bridge program candidates must meet the Master Admission
Requirements and provide evidence of a bachelor’s degree from
an accredited, GCU-approved college, university or program.
Master Degree and Graduate
Certificate Admission
Requirements
All students must submit baccalaureate bearing college
transcripts to meet the admission requirements of the University.
Additionally, if students cannot meet the GPA requirements with
their transcripts, but have a test score that meets admissions
requirements, students will be eligible for full admission. If both
the degree-bearing transcript and the test scores do not meet
admissions requirements, students may be eligible to be admitted
based on the Standards for Admission with Specification.
Transcripts (Required):
• Undergraduate degree from an accredited, GCU-approved
college, university, or program with a grade point average of
2.8 or better on the degree-bearing transcript
• Graduate degree from an accredited, GCU-approved college,
university, or program
Test Scores (Optional):
Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT):
• Score of 500.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE):
• Prior to 8/1/11: Combined score of 1,000 for the verbal and
quantitative sections.
• After 8/1/11: Combined score of 300 for the verbal and
quantitative sections.
Bridge Programmatic Admission
Requirements
Colangelo College of Business
Bridge to the Master of Science in Accounting
All students entering the bridge must have an Undergraduate
degree AND must have completed thirty (30) business-related
credits (courses may include business, mathematics, economics,
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 48 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
marketing, finance, management, entrepreneurship, statistics,
analytics, applied coursework within a business-related program
of study.)
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing
1. All MSN bridge candidates must meet GCU’s Master
Admission Requirements and provide evidence establishing
the candidate’s initial prelicensure degree (Associates in
Science of Nursing, or Associates Degree in Nursing) is from
an accredited nursing school that is not currently under
investigation for, or previously found to have committed fraud
by a law enforcement agency, in connection with conferring
fraudulent degrees, and/or issuing fraudulent transcripts.
2. Candidates’ transcripts must reflect a cumulative grade point
average of 3.0 or above.
3. Candidates must provide evidence of a current, unencumbered
license in the state of residence upon admission to the program
and for the duration of their study
Master Degree and Graduate
Certificate Programmatic
Admission Requirements
Some programs of study at Grand Canyon University require a
higher GPA and/or other criteria to qualify for admission.
Students who do not meet outlined Programmatic Admission
Requirements must file a University appeal in order for
alternative coursework to be reviewed by the applicable College.
Colangelo College of Business
Master of Science in Accounting
All entering students must have completed the following:
• Bachelor of Science in Accounting OR GCU’s Bridge to
Master of Science in Accounting
AND
• Completed 30 business-related credits (courses may include
business, mathematics, economics, marketing, finance,
management, entrepreneurship, statistics, analytics, applied
coursework within a business-related program of study).
It is strongly recommended to complete courses in Accounting
Information Systems, Accounting Analytics, Ethics in
Accounting, and Taxation II prior to sitting for the CPA exam,
but not required to enter the program.
Eligibility for Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensure is
separate from the admission criteria for this program of study.
Students may need to complete additional coursework in order to
be eligible for CPA licensure.
A University Appeal should be submitted to be reviewed by the
Colangelo College of Business if the student is eligible for the
bridge to Master of Science in Accounting, but believes not all
coursework is needed. Prior coursework and experience should
be provided for consideration.
Master of Science in Information Technology Management
All entering students must have completed one of the following:
• Undergraduate or graduate degree in a technology related field
• GCU’s Bridge to Master of Science in Information
Technology Management
Master of Business Administration & Master of Science in
Leadership
Master of Business Administration
Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and
Entrepreneurship
The programs listed above begin with fundamental courses that
prepare students for the curricular content that they will
encounter within their programs of study. All students undergo
transcript evaluations. If they have earned grades of C or better in
equivalent course content, students with non-business
undergraduate degrees may have the option to waive one or more
of the following fundamental courses associated with their
programs of study: ACC-502, FIN-504, and SYM-506. Upon
evaluation of their transcripts, students with business-oriented
undergraduate degrees may waive all MBA fundamental courses.
In those cases when students have been registered for the 600-
level courses before their transcript evaluations have been
completed, the University reserves the right to retroactively
enroll students in the 500-level fundamental courses as needed.
Master of Business Administration & Master of Science in
Nursing with an Emphasis in Nursing Leadership
The programs listed above contain fundamental courses that
prepare students for the curricular content that they will
encounter within their programs of study. All students undergo
transcript evaluations. If they have earned grades of C or better in
equivalent course content, students with non-business
undergraduate degrees may have the option to waive one or both
of the following fundamental courses associated with their
programs of study: ACC-502 and FIN-504. Upon evaluation of
their transcripts, students with a business discipline
undergraduate degrees may waive both MBA fundamental
courses. In those cases when students have been registered for the
600-level courses before their transcript evaluations have been
completed, the University reserves the right to retroactively
enroll students in the 500-level fundamental courses as needed.
Master of Science in Business Analytics
Upon evaluation of their official transcripts, students who have
taken courses with equivalent content at the undergraduate level
may be able to waive SYM-506. Only courses with equivalent
content and earned grades of C or better will be allowed to waive
SYM-506.
College of Education
Master of Education in Educational Administration
Program applicants who complete the program requirements for
Master of Education in Educational Administration program are
eligible to apply for a principal license, upon completion of all
state licensure requirements. In addition to the Master Degree and
Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements policy, program
applicants for this program are required to provide the following:
• Documentation of at least two years of verified, full-time
teaching (teacher of record) experience. Candidates must
review state-specific requirements as some states may require
additional years of verified teaching experience and/or
additional hours of internship to be eligible to obtain principal
certification.
• Program applicants must also have access to an accredited PK-
12 school (public or licensed/accredited non-public school
setting) with an on-site licensed administrator/principal
available to mentor during practicum and/or internship
experiences. Candidates must review state-specific
requirements as some states may require a certain setting for
hour completion.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 49 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Program applicants who complete the Master of Education in
Educational Leadership academic program are not eligible for an
Intuitional Recommendation (IR) to obtain principal certification
as the program does not contain the required internship
component necessary to meet licensure requirements. In addition
to the Master Degree and Graduate Certificate Admission
Requirements policy, program applicants for this program are
required to provide the following:
• A copy of a current PK-12 teaching certificate
OR
• Provide documentation of verified, full-time teaching (teacher
of record) experience
OR
• An undergraduate or graduate degree in one of the following
fields: business, finance, human resources, psychology,
communications, educational studies, character education, and
political sciences who seek a leadership role in education
In addition, all program applicants must:
• Have access to an accredited PK-12 school (public or
licensed/accredited non-public school setting) with an on-site
administrator available to mentor during practicum/field
experiences.
• Understand if seeking a transfer from the MEd Educational
Leadership to an MEd Educational Administration program
and seeking licensure, candidates must follow the Master of
Education in Educational Administration Admission policy
that includes verified teaching experience, etc.
Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction
Master of Arts in Reading with an Emphasis in Elementary
Education
Master of Arts in Reading with an Emphasis in Secondary
Education
Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other
Languages (TESOL)
Master of Science in Instructional Technology
Graduate Certificate of Completion in Teaching English to
Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Graduate Certificate of Completion in Distance Learning
In addition to the Master Degree and Graduate Certificate
Admission Requirements policy, program applicants for the
above programs are required to provide the following:
• A copy of a current PK-12 teaching certificate
OR
• One year of verified, full-time teaching (teacher of record)
experience (Teacher Verification Form)
OR
• Earned degree from a GCU licensure program.
Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders
In addition to the Master Degree and Graduate Certificate
Admission Requirements policy, program applicants for the
above program are required to provide the following:
• A copy of a current special education teaching certificate
OR
• Documentation of 1 year of full-time, special education
teaching (teacher of record) experience (Teacher Verification
Form)
OR
• Completed a Special Education licensure program from Grand
Canyon University
Graduate Certificate of Completion Canyon L.E.A.P. to
Teach, Elementary Education
Graduate Certificate of Completion Canyon L.E.A.P. to
Teach, Secondary Education
• Undergraduate or Graduate degree from an accredited, GCU-
approved college, university, or program with a grade point
average of 2.8 or better on the degree-bearing transcript. If
degree bearing transcript has a GPA below 2.8, students will
adhere to the University Accepted with Specifications
admission policy.
• Letter of intent to hire or teaching contract
• Documentation of passing content area exam scores for the
National Evaluation Series (NES) exam or the Arizona
Educator Proficiency Assessment (AEPA) appropriate for
candidates planned student population.
• A current Arizona IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card.
• Important Note (not required for admissions but must be
completed prior to start of first course): Candidates must
submit completed Canyon L.E.A.P to Teach Packet
Graduate Certificate of Completion in Special Education,
Mild to Moderate
Graduate Certificate of Completion in Special Education,
Moderate to Severe
In addition to the Master Degree and Graduate Certificate
Admission Requirements policy, program applicants for the
above programs are required to provide the following:
Students enrolling in the above programs must provide:
• A copy of current PK-12 teaching certificate
AND
• Documentation of 3 years of verified full-time teaching
(teacher of record) in PK-12 (public or private setting)
• AND
• Copy of current Fingerprint Clearance Card in accordance with
the fingerprint policies of the state of residence.
Graduate Certificate in Instructional Coaching
In addition to the Master Degree and Graduate Certificate
Admission Requirements policy, program applicants for the
above programs are required to provide the following: Students
enrolling in the above programs must provide:
• Copy of a current PK-12 teaching certificate
• OR 1 year of full-time teaching (teacher of record) experience
in a licensed educational facility
Graduate Certificate in Learning Behavior Specialist 1
(LBS1)
In addition to the Master Degree and Graduate Certificate
Admission Requirements policy, program applicants for the
above programs are required to provide the following:
Students enrolling in the above programs must provide:
• Copy of a current PK-12 teaching certificate
AND
• Copy of current Fingerprint Clearance Card in accordance with
the fingerprint policies of the state of residence.
In addition, all program applicants must:
• Have access to an accredited PK-12 school (public or
licensed/accredited non-public school setting) with certified
educator available to mentor during practicum/field
experiences
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 50 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Understand that program applicants in the state of Illinois must
hold a current and valid Professional Educator License (PEL)
in Illinois to be eligible to add the LBS1.
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Master of Education in School Counseling
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
1. GPA of 3.0 or higher (students accepted w/ specification will
follow the current university policy)
2. Complete two short answer questions concerning career goals,
and a respect for diversity.
3. Provide two professional recommendation letters from
previous/current volunteer or employment supervisor or
instructor.
4. Provide signed counseling dispositions document.
Final acceptance into the program will be determined by the
College of Humanities and Social Sciences Admissions
Committee. An offer of admission will be valid for 12 months
from the start date of the program. Applicants denied admission
may reapply after 180 days.
*Please refer to Programmatic evaluation of Transfer Credit
section program specific courses that are not transferrable.
Master of Science in Mathematics with an Emphasis in
Education
1. A Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics
OR
2. At least 24 UG credits in math with a level of Calculus 2
OR
3. At least 9 GR credits in math
Master of Social Work
1. Students must hold a Bachelor degree from a regionally
accredited undergraduate institution. Students cannot hold a
Bachelor of Social Work degree as it would be a repeat of
coursework and students entering the Master of Social Work
program are not to repeat what has been achieved in their
baccalaureate social work programs.
2. A grade-point average of a minimum of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
Anything below 3.0 will be accepted with specification as it
stands in the current GCU policy.
3. Complete four short answer questions to be reviewed by the
Social Work Admissions Committee.
Master of Social Work (Advanced Standing)
1. Students must hold a Bachelor of Social Work degree from a
CSWE accredited program.
2. A grade-point average of a minimum of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
Anything below 3.0 will be accepted with specification as it
stands in the current GCU policy.
3. Complete four short answer questions to be reviewed by the
Social Work Admissions Committee.
Post-Master of Science in Counseling: Addiction Counseling
Certificate
Post- Master of Science in Counseling: Childhood and
Adolescence Disorders Certificate
Post-Master of Science in Counseling: Marriage and Family
Therapy Certificate
Post-Master of Science in Counseling: Trauma Certificate
Students must possess a master’s or doctorate degree in
counseling, substance abuse counseling, clinical or counseling
psychology, marriage and family therapy, behavioral health,
mental health, social work, nursing, and/or psychiatry medicine.
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
Master of Science in Athletic Training
The Master of Science in Athletic Training Program is rigorous,
both academically and in terms of the time commitment required.
Students who choose to apply for admission to the program
should understand all additional athletic training policies students
must comply with to be admitted to the program, successfully
progress thru the program, and graduate. Students who cannot
meet program requirements or prioritize the rigorous, academic
work, will likely have difficulty being successful in the program.
Admission and Clinical Requirements for the Professional
Program
Application Deadline and Additional Requirements
The number of students admitted into the Master of Science in
Athletic Training program is dependent on the availability of
clinical spaces at the point of application and may vary each
application period. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Applicants that meet all minimum admission requirements can
apply to start in the Fall, Spring, or Summer semesterAdmission
cannot and will not be guaranteed.
Requirements
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale from a
conferred baccalaureate degree earned at an accredited
institution
• Minimum grade of C or better for each required pre-requisite
course (listed below):
General Pre-Requisite Content Pre-Requisite Courses
Offered at GCU
General Biology lecture and lab* BIO-181, BIO-181L
Human Anatomy lecture and
lab, four credit minimum*
BIO-201 and BIO-201L
OR BIO-210 and BIO-
210L
Human Physiology lecture and
lab, four credit minimum*
BIO-202 and 202L OR
BIO-211 and 211L
General Chemistry lecture and
lab, four credit minimum*
CHM-113 and CHM-113L
General Physics lecture and lab,
four credit minimum*
PHY-111 and PHY-111L
Exercise Physiology EXS-340 and EXS-340L
Introduction to Psychology* PSY-102
Introduction to Nutrition NSC-150 or BIO-319
Kinesiology EXS-335 and 335L
*CAATE requirement (Standard 54)
• For GPA, the highest grade (within the previous seven years)
will be considered for admission.
• Dependent upon the specific transferrable coursework a
student has completed, it may or may not apply to their MSAT
program-of-study or pre-requisite coursework.
• Completed GCU Background Check (dated within the last six
months of the application deadline).
Full admission is subject to successful completion of all required
pre-requisite courses, and all other minimum criteria required for
admission. All minimum criteria must be successfully met no
later than 7 days prior to the start date of the first MSAT course.
Students not admitted to their selected term, may elect to re-
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 51 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
apply. Students must re-apply for the semester they wish to be
considered for admission. A new application will be required for
each admission cycle.
Students must pass an approved Background Check, and the
order date must be within six months of the application deadline
for the semester in which the student is applying. The
background check includes an approved OIG/GSA component
that documents students have not committed Healthcare Fraud or
Abuse. Students whose record includes any felony will be
automatically disqualified and denied admission. If the
prospective student or student is charged with a felony or
undesignated offense, either before admission or during the
program, he/she must notify the Program Director via email
within 10 days. Students with misdemeanors will be reviewed to
determine potential clinical placement based on the individual’s
record. Students that are admitted with misdemeanors can in no
way be guaranteed certification or licensure, as certification is at
the sole discretion of the Board of Certification, Inc. (BOC) and
licensure is at the sole discretion of the State Board of Athletic
Training. In addition, students that are admitted with
misdemeanors can in no way be guaranteed employment, as
employment is at the sole discretion of individual employers.
Required Upon Admission
Students must complete the following upon admission into the
program:
1. Attend a mandatory athletic training program orientation
a. This meeting will address the following programmatic
requirements for all clinical levels:
i. College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
training or approved in-classroom training on
requirements relating to patient privacy.
ii. Communicable Disease Policy
iii. Blood-Borne Pathogen training and policy
iv. Chain of Command for the College of Nursing and
Health Care Professions
v. Updates to policy and accreditation standards
2. Complete and submit an Arizona Department of Public Safety
Level One IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card application
3. Complete and submit a First Aid course completion card from
one of the following approved providers listed in the
Guidelines for Graduate Field Experiences document.
4. Submit a Professional Rescuer CPR course completion card.
CPR course must meet the Board of Certification (BOC)
Emergency Cardiac Care (ECC) requirements
(www.bocatc.org). Course completion card from one of the
following listed in the Guidelines for Graduate Field
Experiences document.
5. Submit a completed HIPAA and FERPA confidentiality
acknowledgement form prior to any involvement in a clinical
setting.
6. Submit evidence of National Athletic Trainers Association
Membership.
Required Before Beginning Clinical Experiences
Students must complete the following (30) days before the date
of their first clinical experience:
NOTE: Some requirements must be updated / repeated according
to screening/immunization schedules. Please refer to the
Guidelines for Graduate Field Experiences for additional
information.
a. Health History and Physical Examination form.
b. ATP Technical Standards Form.
i. The technical standards are to ensure all students meet the
essential qualities necessary to be a successful athletic
training student. Students are able to request reasonable
accommodations through the Student Disability Services.
Requests for accommodation are not used prejudicially
against students.
c. Current health insurance coverage
d. Provide proof of valid professional liability insurance for
students.
e. Proof of DPS Level 1 IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card
f. Proof of immunization and/or immunity (as in the Guidelines
for Graduate Field Experiences Manual) are required.
i. Although Grand Canyon University does not require
students or faculty to receive certain vaccines, all students
currently attending clinicals and those applying and
receiving admittance to the athletic training program will
have to abide by the healthcare partner requirements to
successfully complete the clinical portion of their program.
ii. Vaccines required or recommended:
a. Tuberculosis (TB) screening (2-step)
b. Hepatitis B (signed waiver is required if the vaccination
series is not completed or declined by the student)
• Lab evidence (titer) of immunity required
• This vaccination has a separate form that is required to
fill out prior to the start of clinical rotations.
• Hepatitis B (signed waiver is required if the vaccination
series is not completed or declined by the student)
c. MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) (required; not waivable)
d. Varicella Zoster (VZV) (required; not waivable)
e. Tetanus-Diphtheria and Pertussis (Tdap) (required; not
waivable)
f. Influenza (recommended; not required)
g. Hepatitis A (recommended; not required)
h. COVID-19 Vaccination (recommended; not required)
iii. Students requesting medical and/or religious exemption
for any vaccine should understand the risks when
requesting an exemption, if clinical agencies are unable or
unwilling to accommodate student exemption requests.
Risks include but are not limited to:
a. limited clinical location options,
b. inability to progress and/or complete the program due
to limited or lack of clinical sites accepting student
exemption requests for the various types of clinical
experiences required,
c. delayed graduation
Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
with an Emphasis in Adult-Gerontology (ACNP)
Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
(FNP)
1. All MSN candidates must meet the GCU’s Master’s
Admission Requirements and provide evidence establishing
the candidate’s initial prelicensure degree (Associates in
Science of Nursing, Associates Degree in Nursing, or Bachelor
of Science in Nursing) is from an accredited nursing school
that is not currently under investigation for, or previously
found to have committed fraud by a law enforcement agency,
in connection with conferring fraudulent degrees, and/or
issuing fraudulent transcripts.
a. Candidates’ transcripts must reflect a cumulative grade point
average of 3.0 or above. All MSN applicants who have
graduated or are transferring from an institution that only
provides pass/fail grades (no GPA) on transcripts, may only
be admitted and fully accepted from those institutions who
provide disclosures indicating that a passing grade is
equivalent to a B or better.
OR
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 52 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Candidates who possess a bachelor’s degree in a related
field may apply if they have completed the bridge to MSN
(excluding Nursing Concurrent Enrollment Program
[NCEP] students).
2. Possess an active, current unencumbered, unrestricted license
as a registered nurse (RN) or APRN certification in states
where the APRN is an upgrade of the RN license resulting in
only one license that is both an RN and an APRN license.
3. Students must submit a recent curriculum vitae (CV) listing all
professional experience showing a minimum of one year full-
time work experience as a Registered Nurse (RN) within the
last 12 months, related to the area of specialization.
4. Students must submit a Letter of Intent.
5. Advanced pharmacology, advanced pathophysiology and
advanced health assessment are non-transferrable courses. If,
however, these courses are taken within five years of the
program start date, an appeal can be submitted for review
which will include a GAP Analysis of the APRN core courses
(3P) to ensure they are graduate level, post-licensure, and that
the content has addressed the lifespan.
Final acceptance into the program will be determined by the
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions Admissions
Committee. An offer of admission will be valid for 12 months
from the start date of the program. Applicants denied admission
may reapply after 180 days.
The Advanced Practice Programs in the College of Nursing and
Health Care Professions are designed for clinicians that have
experience in direct patient care, defined as nursing care provided
to individuals or families intended to achieve specific health
goals or achieve selected health outcomes. Direct care may be
provided in a wide range of settings, including acute and critical
care, long term care, home health, community-based settings, and
educational settings (AACN, 2004, 2006; Suby, 2009; Upenieks,
Akhavan, Kotlerman et al., 2007). Please note that nurses who
work in indirect patient care are not eligible for these programs.
Indirect patient care refers to nursing decisions, actions, or
interventions that are provided through or on behalf of
individuals, families, or groups and while they may be
responsible for nurses providing direct care, they do not provide
direct care themselves, making them ineligible for the program
(AACN, 2004, 2006; Suby, 2009; Upenieks, Akhavan,
Kotlerman et al., 2007). Based on the purpose of these programs,
students must be currently employed full-time in a health role or
health outcomes role and have documentation demonstrating
experience serving in that role for a minimum of one year prior to
application to the program.
• Students applying to the Family Nurse Practitioner program,
must be currently employed full-time in direct patient care
settings as mentioned above
• Students applying to the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Program must be currently employed full-time in a hospital
with at least one year of ICU, Adult ER, Progressive Care
and/or Post-Operative experience.
Students must submit a recent curriculum vitae (CV) listing all
professional experience. Students must remain employed full
time until program start date.
Although it is possible for students to work full-time and remain
in the program, based on the rigor and clinical requirements The
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions strongly
recommends that students reduce work hours in order to focus on
the academic and clinical components of the program. Students
who cannot meet the academic rigor of the courses, as well as
prioritize time-demanding program requirements above all else,
will likely have a difficult time meeting the requirements of the
program.
NOTE: Boards of Nursing from each state may have different
requirements when applying for prescribing and dispensing
privileges which could require additional pharmacology hours or
pharmacology related content. If Advanced pharmacology needs
to be repeated, the student may take it as a single course at GCU
and will be responsible for the cost of that course.
Addendum: APRN applicants are required to be fully accepted.
APRN students cannot be accepted with specifications.
* Please refer to Programmatic Evaluation of Transfer Credit
section program specific courses that are not transferrable
Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Leadership
in Health Care Systems
Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Public
Health Nursing
Master of Business Administration and Master of Science in
Nursing with an Emphasis in Leadership in Health Care
Systems
Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Health
Care Informatics
Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Nursing
Education
Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Healthcare
Quality and Patient Safety
1. All MSN candidates must meet the GCU’s Master’s
Admission Requirements and provide evidence establishing
the candidate’s initial prelicensure degree (Associates in
Science of Nursing, Associates Degree in Nursing, or Bachelor
of Science in Nursing) is from an accredited nursing school
that is not currently under investigation for, or previously
found to have committed fraud by a law enforcement agency,
in connection with conferring fraudulent degrees, and/or
issuing fraudulent transcripts.
a. Candidates’ transcripts must reflect a cumulative grade point
average of 3.0 or above. All MSN applicants who have
graduated or are transferring from an institution that only
provides pass/fail grades (no GPA) on transcripts, may only
be admitted and fully accepted from those institutions who
provide disclosures indicating that a passing grade is
equivalent to a B or better.
OR
Candidates who possess a bachelor’s degree in a related field
may apply if they have completed the bridge to MSN
(including Nursing Concurrent Enrollment Program [NCEP]
students).
2. Possess a current unencumbered, unrestricted license as a
registered nurse (RN) or ARNP certification in states where
the ARNP is an upgrade of the RN license resulting in only
one license that is both an RN and an ARNP license.
Master of Science in Health Care Administration
Upon evaluation of their official transcripts, students who have
taken courses with equivalent content at the undergraduate level
may waive one or more of the following MS-HA Foundational
courses in the program of study: HCA-515, HLT-520, and HCA-
530. Only courses with equivalent content and grades earned of
B- or better will be accepted to waive the MS-HA Foundational
courses.
Master of Science in Health Informatics
Upon evaluation of the official transcripts, students who have
taken courses with equivalent content at the undergraduate level
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 53 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
may be able to waive SYM-506. Only courses with equivalent
content and earned grades of C or better will be allowed to waive
SYM-506.
Master of Science in Health Care Informatics
Upon evaluation of their official transcripts, students who have
taken courses with equivalent content at the undergraduate level
may waive one or more of the following MHCI foundational
courses in their program of study: HLT-520, HCA-515, and
HCA-530. Only courses with equivalent content and grades
earned of B- or better will be accepted to waive the MHCI
foundational courses.
Post-Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in
Nursing Education Certificate
1. All MSN program post master candidates must meet GCU’s
Post Master’s Admission Requirements and provide evidence
establishing the candidate’s initial prelicensure degree
(Associates in Science of Nursing, or Associates Degree in
Nursing, or Bachelor of Science in Nursing) is from an
accredited nursing school that is not currently under
investigation for or previously found to have committed fraud
by a law enforcement agency, in connection with conferring
fraudulent degrees, and/or issuing fraudulent transcripts.
Degree bearing transcripts must reflect a cumulative grade
point average of 3.0 or above (on a 4.0 scale). All Post-MSN
applicants who have graduated or are transferring from an
institution that only provides pass/fail grades (no GPA) on
transcripts, may only be admitted and fully accepted from
those institutions who provide disclosures indicating that a
passing grade is equivalent to a B or better.
2. Possess a current unencumbered, unrestricted license as a
registered nurse (RN) or ARNP certification in states where
the ARNP is an upgrade of the RN license resulting in only
one license that is both an RN and an ARNP license. .
Post-Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse
Practitioner Certificate
Post-Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse
Practitioner with an Emphasis in Adult-Gerontology
Certificate
Post-Master of Science in Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health
Nurse Practitioner Certificate
1. All MSN program post master candidates must meet GCU’s
Post Master’s Admission Requirements and provide evidence
establishing the candidate’s initial prelicensure degree
(Associates in Science of Nursing, or Associates Degree in
Nursing, or Bachelor of Science in Nursing) is from an
accredited nursing school that is not currently under
investigation for or previously found to have committed fraud
by a law enforcement agency, in connection with conferring
fraudulent degrees, and/or issuing fraudulent transcripts.
Degree bearing transcripts must reflect a cumulative grade
point average of 3.0 or above (on a 4.0 scale). All Post-MSN
applicants who have graduated or are transferring from an
institution that only provides pass/fail grades (no GPA) on
transcripts, may only be admitted and fully accepted from
those institutions who provide disclosures indicating that a
passing grade is equivalent to a B or better.
2. Possess an active, current unencumbered, unrestricted license
as a registered nurse (RN).
3. Students must submit a recent curriculum vitae (CV) listing all
professional experience showing a minimum of one year full-
time work experience as a Registered Nurse (RN) within the
last 12 months related to the area of specialization.
4. Students must submit a Letter of Intent.
Final acceptance into the program will be determined by the
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions Admissions
Committee. An offer of admission will be valid for 12 months
from the start date of the program. Applicants denied admission
may reapply after 180 days.
The Advanced Practice Programs in the College of Nursing and
Health Care Professions are designed for clinicians that have
experience in direct patient care, defined as nursing care provided
to individuals or families intended to achieve specific health
goals or achieve selected health outcomes. Direct care may be
provided in a wide range of settings, including acute and critical
care, long term care, home health, community-based settings, and
educational settings (AACN, 2004, 2006; Suby, 2009; Upenieks,
Akhavan, Kotlerman et al., 2007). Please note that nurses who
work in indirect patient care are not eligible for these programs.
Indirect patient care refers to nursing decisions, actions, or
interventions that are provided through or on behalf of
individuals, families, or groups and while they may be
responsible for nurses providing direct care, they do not provide
direct care themselves, making them ineligible for the program
(AACN, 2004, 2006; Suby, 2009; Upenieks, Akhavan,
Kotlerman et al., 2007). Based on the purpose of these programs,
students must be currently employed full-time in a health role or
health outcomes role, and have documentation demonstrating
experience serving in that role for the two years prior to
application to the program.
• Students applying to the Family Nurse Practitioner program,
must be currently employed full-time in direct patient care
settings as mentioned above
• Students applying to the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Program must be currently employed full-time in a hospital
with at least one year of ICU, Adult ER, Progressive Care
and/or Post-Operative experience.
Students must submit a recent curriculum vitae (CV) listing all
professional experience. Students must remain employed full
time until program start date.
Although it is possible for students to work full-time and remain
in the program, based on the rigor and clinical requirements The
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions strongly
recommends that students reduce work hours in order to focus on
the academic and clinical components of the program. Students
who cannot meet the academic rigor of the courses, as well as
prioritize time-demanding program requirements above all else,
will likely have a difficult time meeting the requirements of the
program
Graduate Certificate of Completion in Health Care Quality
and Patient Safety
1. Candidate must possess a baccalaureate degree and meet the
required University admission requirements for graduate
students.
College of Engineering and Technology
Master of Science in Computer Science
Undergraduate or Graduate degree in Computer Science,
Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Electrical
Engineering
OR
Undergraduate or graduate degree in a non-technology field
and GCU’s Bridge to Master of Science in Computer Science
Master of Science in Data Science
Undergraduate or Graduate degree in the following areas of
study:
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 54 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Computer Science, Mathematics, Technology, Engineering,
Business Analytics or any natural or physical science (i.e.
biology, physics, chemistry, forensic science, pharmaceutical
science, etc
OR
other Undergraduate or graduate degree and GCU’s Bridge to
Master of Science in Data Science
Master of Science in Software Development
Undergraduate or Graduate degree in Computer Science,
Computer Programming, Computer Information Systems,
Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical
Engineering, Advertising and Graphic Design, Applied
Business Analytics, Applied Business Information systems,
Business Information Systems, or Internet and Web
Development.
OR
Undergraduate or graduate degree in a non-technology field
and GCU’s Bridge to Master of Science in Software
Development.
Master of Science in Software Engineering
Undergraduate or Graduate degree in Software Engineering,
Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software
Development, Business Information Systems, Computer
Programming, Computer Information Systems, Mechanical
Engineering, Engineering or Computer Science.
OR
Undergraduate or graduate degree in a non-technology field
and GCU’s Bridge to Master of Science in Software
Engineering.
College of Natural Sciences
Master of Science in Biology with an Emphasis in Education
Undergraduate degree in Biology, Microbiology Physiology,
Biochemistry, Cellular/Molecular Biology, or Genetics
OR
Undergraduate degree in Secondary Education with a
specialization or emphasis in Biology
OR
Undergraduate degree and completion of 1 year of
undergraduate General Biology with labs (i.e., BIO-181, BIO-
181L, BIO-182, BIO-182L).
Master of Science in Chemistry with an Emphasis in
Education
Undergraduate degree in Chemistry
OR
Undergraduate degree in Secondary Education with a
specialization or emphasis in Chemistry
OR
Undergraduate degree and completion of 1 year of
undergraduate General Chemistry with labs (i.e., CHM-113,
CHM-113L, CHM-115, CHM-115L), 1 year of Organic
Chemistry with labs (i.e., CHM-231, CHM-231L, CHM-232,
CHM-232L), and a course in Biochemistry with lab (i.e.,
CHM-350, CHM-350L, or CHM-360, CHM-360L).
Master of Science in Forensic Science
Upon evaluation of their official transcripts, students who have
taken courses with equivalent content at the undergraduate
level may be able to waive FOR-525. Only courses with
equivalent content and earned grades of C or better will be
allowed to waive FOR-525.
Undergraduate degree in Forensic Science or another natural or
physical or biomedical science
OR
Undergraduate degree in any field with the following courses
completed: 1 year of General Chemistry with lab, 1 year of
Organic Chemistry with lab, and 1 semester of Genetics or
Molecular/Cellular Biology.
Employment in certain Forensic Science laboratories may have
specific coursework requirements not included in this program
or its prerequisites; prospective students should investigate
their desired career path to ensure they will meet current
requirements
Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
• Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and a transcript(s)
reflecting completion of all prerequisites listed below..
• The transcript(s) must show successful completion of the
following courses at the college level with a C or above,
completed within seven years of applicant’s desired program
start date:
• 9 credits of Chemistry that include topics in both Organic
Chemistry and Biochemistry (multiple combinations of
General, Organic and Biochemistry coursework can be
acceptable; General, Organic, and Biochemistry would
usually be in the course titles to be acceptable). (i.e. CHM-
101*, CHM-110*, CHM-111*, CHM-113, CHM-115,
CHM-231, CHM-232, CHM-350*, CHM-360)
• 6 credits of Anatomy and Physiology (combined), or 3
credits of Anatomy and 3 credits of Physiology (students
must have completed both Anatomy and Physiology,
together or separately). (i.e. BIO-201*, BIO-201L*, BIO-
202*, BIO-202L*)
• 3 credits of Statistics (i.e. MAT-274*)
• 3 credits of Microbiology (i.e. BIO-205*)
• 3 credits of Nutrition at the upper-division level (i.e. BIO-
319*, NSC-305*, NSC-350*, NSC-419*)
• • Prerequisite GPA will be calculated from the prerequisite
coursework completed and must be 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0
scale) to be considered for admission.
• • Applicants will be asked to indicate any work history in
nutrition, dietetics, or related fields; an applicable work
history can be considered if an applicant’s prerequisite
coursework was completed more than seven years ago.
• Applicants must provide contact information for two
current/previous instructors or volunteer or employment
supervisors who are willing to complete a form of
recommendation for the applicant.
* These courses of those above are within GCU’s Bachelor of
Science in Nutritional Sciences degree program and meet the pre-
requisite requirements, but students may be able to meet the
requirements with different coursework if completed in another
program or at another institution.
Admission into the program is competitive, based principally on
prerequisite coursework GPA, and recommender evaluations.
Admission cannot and will not be guaranteed. Applications that
do not meet the minimum requirements by the application
deadline will be denied without consideration. Final acceptance
into the program will be determined by the Master of Science in
Nutrition and Dietetics Admissions Committee. If a student has
not been fully accepted to this program, they will be denied
admittance into the program. University parameters for Accepted
with Specifications do not apply to this program and any student
who is not fully accepted will not be admitted into the program.
Students are encouraged to either meet the parameters for full
acceptance or choose a different program for admittance.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 55 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
An offer of admission will be valid for 12 months. Applicants
denied admission may reapply after 180 days. Students will be
admitted on a quarterly basis with start dates on the 3rd Thursday
in January, April, August, and October, pending available seats.
Program Requirements
Students must complete all required courses in the MS in
Nutrition and Dietetics program and experiential learning (1000
hours) outlined in the course plan and pass all competency
assessment assignments with at least a “meets expectations” or C
in order to receive a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
and a Verification Statement to sit for the Registered Dietitian
Nutritionist credentialing exam. Students are required to
complete the courses in the order listed, though exceptions may
be made for extenuating circumstances. Graduate students must
maintain good academic standing in order to be eligible to
continue in or return to the University. Good Academic Standing
is demonstrated by:
• a 3.00 grade point average (GPA) for all courses taken
including those required in the program of study
• no more than 6 units of “C” course grades*
• no course grades of “D” or “F”
Students must complete all requirements for their master’s degree
within a three-year period, as outlined in the GCU policy:
(https://www.gcu.edu/academics/academic-policies.php#h-
universitypolicy-handbook). If a student must be absent for an
extended period of time due to serious illness, pregnancy,
adoption or personal crisis, he/she must meet with the Program
Director and sign an agreement for completion of the program.
Students will be allowed up to three additional months to
complete the assignments and supervised experiences or will be
administratively withdrawn from the program.
Verification Statements
Following completion of all program requirements, and once the
degree is officially posted, students will receive a verification
statement and become eligible to sit for the Registration
Examination for Dietitian Nutritionists through the Commission
on Dietetic Registration. Three signed copies of the verification
statement will be mailed to the student’s permanent address.
Academic Program Calendar
The academic calendar for Grand Canyon University can be
found here: https://www.gcu.edu/academics/calendar. Online
course start dates are offered quarterly. Two credit courses run 4
weeks, while four credit courses will be 8-16 weeks based on
content and supervised experiential learning requirements.
University holidays may not correspond with the schedule of
experiential learning requirements; students are expected to
follow the schedule of the site hosting their experiential learning.
The Traditional Campus spring break does not apply to
Traditional Campus Students taking online courses scheduled
during the spring break. To ensure a spring break, do not
schedule online courses that overlap the scheduled spring break.
Proposed Course Plan
Proposed
FG Classes Credits
Didactic
Content
Hours
Alternate
Experienti
al
Learning
Hours
In-Person
Experienti
al Learning
Hours
NSC-507:
Introductio
n to
Graduate
Studies in
CSET
2 100 0 0
NSC 510:
Behavioral
Science and
Counseling
4 150 50 0
NSC 550:
Advanced
Medical
Nutrition
Therapy
4 150 100 0
NSC 595:
Applied
Medical
Nutrition
Therapy
4 0 0 200
NSC 600:
Food and
Nutrition
Manageme
nt
4 100 100 150
NSC 650:
Community
Nutrition
and
Advocacy
4 200 0 100
NSC 675:
Leadership
in Dietetics
4 100 50 0
NSC 695:
Capstone in
Nutrition
and
Dietetics
4 0 0 250
Total 30 800 300 700
*Online course start dates are offered quarterly. Two credit
courses run 4 weeks, while four credit courses will be 8-16 weeks
based on content and supervised experiential learning
requirements.
Assessment of Prior Learning
Supervised Experiential Learning. Nutrition and dietetics
experiences completed prior to the start of the program will not
be considered as replacements of the program’s required applied
experiences.
Courses. Due to the nature of competency-based education,
nutrition courses taken at other universities that are not accredited
under Future Education Model (FEM) standards cannot be used
in place of required courses. Syllabi for courses taken through
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 56 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
another FEM graduate program can be submitted to the Program
Director for review. While students may notice repetition in
subjects from previously-completed nutrition courses, this
repetition supports solidifying knowledge that is essential for a
successful RDN exam pass rate.
Supervised Experiential Learning
The Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and
Dietetics requires a minimum of 1,000 hours of experiential
learning. Alternate experiential learning is provided throughout
the curriculum by way of case studies, simulation, and other
course projects. Supervised experiential learning will be
established prior to start date of course and in collaboration with
the Office of Field Experience. Students are asked to identify
their own supervised experiential learning sites. This information
must be submitted to the Office of Field Experience based on
their policy timeline. If sites are not able to be identified, the
Office of Field Experience will assign student to currently
established site. When students complete supervised experiential
learning hours, the preceptor and employer must not use the
student to replace an employee.
Office of Field Experience
Grand Canyon University College of Natural Sciences faculty
and the Office of Field Experience (OFE) team serve as a support
to students in programs with supervised experiential learning.
The assigned Field Experience Counselor or Field Clinical
Counselor will communicate with students throughout their
program to ensure they meet GCU’s high academic standards.
The OFE team will determine if all of the site requirements
necessary to begin the field experience courses have been met.
Additional responsibilities of the OFE Counselor are as follows:
• Reinforce the students understanding of the supervised
experiential learning and the expectations involved.
• Assist in ensuring all required health and safety documents and
site requirements have been met.
• Be available to counsel students as situations dictate.
• Communicate with the field experience instructors and faculty
as necessary.
Time Commitment for Supervised Experiential Learning
Students should plan ahead to meet the commitments of the
supervised experiential learning requirements. Most sites are
often limited to daytime and weekdays for providing practicum
hours, so it may be necessary to adjust one’s schedule
accordingly. Students must complete all of their supervised
experiential learning hours to the host agency even if they have
successfully completed their logged clock hour commitment.
They must discuss, and agree upon, their experiential learning
start and end dates with their preceptor. It is important for
students to confer with the preceptor on how they will be
expected to provide closure to their assigned projects. It is
important to note that failure to complete the required minimum
hours within the timeframe of the practicum course, or failing to
properly document completed hours for the practicum
experience, will result in failure of the course.
The course curriculum is developed to be taken concurrently as
the student is fulfilling their practicum hours. If the student
experiences an extenuating circumstance that will require the
early completion of hours, the student must receive program
director permission before doing so.
Logging Practice Experience Hours
The Lopes Activity Tracker (LAT) is used to track practicum
hours throughout the student’s experience.
This hour tracking system can be found in the Student Portal.
• All hours must be completed on-site and under direct
supervision. Time taken to complete assignments for the
Practicum course does not count toward completion of the
hours.
• All hours must be completed and signed off/approved by their
preceptor no later than at mid-term and end of term. Faculty
members will provide final validation of all practicum hours.
• Field Experience Counselors are available for questions and
assistance with this program if needed.
• Students are not to log hours until they have been cleared by
the OFE.
Student Professional Dispositions
One important aspect of the experience here at Grand Canyon
University is the fulfillment of professional dispositions—ways
of working, thinking, and interacting with others—in three areas:
Professionalism, Work Ethic, and Communication Skills. In order
to support student development and have clear expectations in
these areas CSET lists the following key dispositions. When
students fail to demonstrate these professional dispositions, they
jeopardize their program or employment continuation. The ability
to reflect on personal growth, strengths, and challenges is a
central characteristic of effective people working in health care.
These disposition statements do not replace the University Code
of Conduct.
Communication Skills
• Demonstrate appropriate, professional, respectful verbal
communication
• Demonstrate appropriate, professional respectful written
communication
• Demonstrate a disposition toward inquiry and problem solving
• Work collaboratively with students, faculty, and professionals
• Demonstrate consistently positive attitudes toward learning
and/or teaching
• Accept responsibility for decisions and actions
• Establish maintain mutually respectful interactions
• Demonstrates understanding of university/program
organizational chart by communicating “need to know
information” to individuals according to the chain of command
Work Ethic
• Demonstrate regular attendance
• Demonstrate punctuality
• Complete work in a timely manner
• Demonstrate organizational skills
• Know and observe all pertinent policies and procedures
• Demonstrate a disposition toward personal ownership of
learning and professional development
Professionalism
• Demonstrate a commitment to work with patients, their
families, students, faculty, and staff in appropriate,
professional, and respectful ways
• Demonstrate an awareness of community, state, national, and
world contexts that have an impact on the profession and the
learning process
• Treat everyone fairly, equitably, and respectfully
• Accept constructive criticism and adjusts performance
accordingly
• Express and demonstrate interest in and enthusiasm for
teaching/learning
• Adapt to new and diverse teaching/learning situations
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 57 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Adapt to differences among people including differences of
SES, gender, age, ability, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity,
religion, language, etc.
• Maintain confidentiality about all student, patient, faculty, and
staff records unless disclosure serves a professionally
compelling purpose or is required by law
• Demonstrate discretion when discussing colleagues, faculty,
experiential learning sites, and personal information
• Respect the points of view of others
• Contribute meaningfully, appropriately, professionally, and
respectfully to discussions by asking questions, giving
opinions, and listening to others
• Project an appropriate professional appearance in professional
settings
• Project an appropriate professional and respectful demeanor
• Be open to leadership and opportunities for growth
• Understand and practice professional ethical standards
• Recognize personal at risk behavior: Behavioral choice that
increases risk where risk is not recognized, or is mistakenly
believed to be justified
• Recognize personal reckless behavior: Behavioral choice to
consciously disregard a substantial and unjustifiable risk
• Acts overall in a manner that furthers the interests of others
(enlightened self-interest)
• Utilize social media responsibly, avoiding issues regarding
privacy and confidentiality by not communicating information
regarding field experiences or documents contained in a client
record
Transportation/Travel to Field Experience Sites
Students must provide their own, dependable transportation to the
sites. GCU, in conjunction with these agencies, makes every
attempt to minimize the distance that students travel to their field
experience, but sometimes additional travel is unavoidable. All
students are required to show proof of current vehicle registration
and insurance. Information will be kept on file by program
director.
Injury/Illness
During Supervised Experiential Learning rotations, should a
student become ill or injured, the student must notify the agency
supervisor and Program Director immediately. The student must
also obtain documentation for the injury or illness by visiting the
health center or healthcare provider. The student must arrange
with the agency supervisor how and when to make up missed
hours and activities. Makeup opportunities for missed classes due
to illness or injury are at the discretion of each instructor and
their course policies. If sick leave becomes excessive or is
patterned during the supervised experiential learning portion of
the program, the student will be counseled by the Program
Director and subject to dismissal from the program if warranted.
Affiliation Agreements
The College of Natural Sciences must have an agreement with
the site prior to the student beginning field experiences. It is the
student’s responsibility to provide OFE their site’s education
coordinator information, so that the OFE can work directly with
the facility to obtain the required paperwork. It is important to
remember that the existence of this agreement does not guarantee
placement availability, and that arrangements beyond the
agreement must be implemented to enable student placement.
If a current agreement is not already in place, the legal contract
will be sent directly to the preceptor’s site from the OFE.
Completing new site agreements can be a lengthy process and the
Affiliation Agreement must be in place prior to the course start
date. Students should allow at least four to six months for a new
agreement to be finalized. Failure to provide site information
accurately and entirely can slow this process and may prevent the
student from beginning the field experience on time. Once an
Affiliation Agreement has been finalized, students will be
notified via email.
Some sites may have specific requirements for documentation for
a placement. Students are to work with both the site and OFE to
ensure all requirements are met (e.g., a hospital may require a
background check different from the original background check
and has the right to specify their own institutional requirements
that are not within the control of the University).
Liability Insurance
Students are required to purchase liability insurance for
supervised experiential learning hours prior to the final spring
and summer terms. The cost for liability insurance is around $35.
If the student is a Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR), then the
liability insurance is $75.
Student Learning and Evaluations
The curriculum within the MS Nutrition and Dietetics program at
GCU is guided by a Competency Based Education Model. This
model emphasizes learner-centered teaching. Students will be
expected to complete online modules that may include
worksheets, readings, video interaction, case studies, and exams
to gain foundational knowledge in the course topic. Students will
engage with their peers through activities in which students are
expected to apply what they have learned in modules to group
activities.
Formal evaluation of students occurs at pre-determined times
throughout the supervised experiential learning using forms
available in GCU’s Learning Management System. Evaluations
include both assessments of the student’s progress as well as
assessments of the student’s knowledge and performance in
supervised experiential learning. Preceptors completing the
evaluation do so within GCU’s Learning Management System
and review with the student prior to submitting to the program
director. Students can expect to receive formal evaluations in the
following formats:
• Written evaluations from preceptors
• Assignment Rubrics
• Preceptor reviewed assignments, such as case studies. Many
opportunities exist for informal feedback about performance.
These should be viewed as opportunities to gain insight and
adjust performance. Examples of informal evaluation include,
but are not limited to, daily feedback and discussions with
preceptors and instructors on skill development, clinical
documentation, presentations and projects.
In experiential learning, a pre-conference will occur prior to the
start of the supervised experiential learning experience. This
meeting is intended for the student and preceptor to review
course and student-specific learning objectives as well as the
roles, responsibilities, and expectations of student and preceptor
during this clinical experience. The preceptor and student will
attest to meeting by signing the Preceptor-Faculty-Student
Conferences and Evaluations form and submitting to the
classroom in the first week for OFE approval of the proposed
experiences.
The evaluations are electronic and stored in GCU’s Learning
Management System. The course faculty will send the evaluation
to the preceptor and input evaluation data electronically with
input from preceptor on student performance. The final
evaluation will be completed by the preceptor and reviewed with
the student.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 58 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
The valuable feedback/input given by the preceptors on the
students’ performance will then receive a final review and
evaluation by the faculty. The student and preceptor will attest to
reviewing these evaluations together by again signing the
Preceptor-Faculty-Student Conferences and Evaluations form and
submitting to the classroom both mid-course and in the final
week.
Any student who scores “below expectations” at mid-term will
meet with the Program Director to complete a remediation form
and plan.
At the end of clinical/practicum, students will submit an
evaluation of the site supervisor, preceptor and site that is
reviewed by the faculty. All evaluations that have any “below
expectations” will be sent to the Program Director for review and
further investigation.
Academic Advising & Student Success
Students enrolled in the MS in Nutrition and Dietetics program
will be advised by Program Director,
Office of Field Experience Counselor, and Student Services
Counselor.
Program Retention & Remediation Procedures
The College of Natural Sciences may take disciplinary action
against candidates who demonstrate insufficient performance,
inappropriate dispositions, conduct unbecoming, or are
terminated by an experiential learning site. The College of
Natural Sciences Professional Practice Committee reviews all
documentation and makes a determination as to whether the
alleged violation or deficiency has been substantiated and which
college-level penalties may apply. If candidates do not comply
with remediation plans and/or sanctions, they may be terminated
from their site, complete a corrective action plan and/or may have
to undergo the Code of Conduct process for failure to comply
with a college directive.
Disciplinary & Termination Procedures
Graduate students must maintain good academic standing in
order to be eligible to continue or return to the University.
Students are placed on warning if their enrollment cumulative
GPA drops below 3.0 or if they have not earned at least 67% of
the cumulative credit hours attempted. The warning status will be
removed when the minimum enrollment cumulative GPA
specified above is regained, and/or student earns 67% of the
credit hours attempted. If a student fails to meet the minimum
GPA or is not earning at least 67% of attempted credit hours in
the subsequent interval, the student will be placed on suspension.
If a student is under suspension, they will be required to set up a
remedial instruction contract with the program director. If the
contract is violated, they will be terminated from the program. If
a student is terminated, the student will be counseled into career
paths that are appropriate to his/her ability.
Grievances
Most student complaints can be resolved on an informal basis
with the instructor or preceptor. Students who believe they are
victims of unfair policies or practices should follow the chain of
command as necessary.
Students with concerns regarding the classroom should
appropriately and professionally address their faculty. If
intervention is needed beyond the faculty, students should
address to their Student Services Counselor (SSC). Finally, if the
issue needs further attention, the SSC will notify the Program
Director. Further concerns should be taken to the
Assistant/Associate Dean.
The program will maintain a record of student complaints for a
period of seven years. For program noncompliance issues as well
as grievances that cannot be resolved at the university level,
Grand Canyon University is a SARA participating institution.
The Arizona SARA Council has jurisdiction over Arizona
SARA-approved institutions in relation to non-instructional
complaints. Instructional complaints, such as grade grievances,
are not reviewed by the Council and should not be submitted for
review. Distance education students who reside in SARA states
(see list of SARA states at www.nc-sara.org), may file an non-
instructional complaint with the Arizona SARA council.
However, non-instructional complaints may only be filed with
SARA after student’s have first utilized GCU's appeals process
and the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary
Education’s complaint process. Non-instructional complaints
may be submitted to AZ-SARA via
http://azsara.arizona.edu/complaint-process.
Concerns regarding accreditation can be reported to the
Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics
(ACEND):
Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics
120 South Riverside Plaza
Suite 2190
Chicago, IL 60606-6995
800/877-1600, ext. 5400
312/899-0040
Fax: 312/899-4817
Drug Testing and Criminal Background Check
Students may be required to complete drug testing and a criminal
background check prior to the start of supervised experiential
learning, as requested by the agency. The student will be
responsible for all associated fees. If the student fails the drug test
or criminal background check, the student will be unable to
complete supervised experiential learning at that agency and will
need to work with the MPH-Nutrition Coordinator to find an
alternative placement.
College of Theology
All Programs
Grand Canyon Theological Seminary students are required to
affirm GCU’s Doctrinal and Ethical Positions Statements, the
College of Theology’s Covenant, and the College of Theology’s
Dispositional and Behavioral Standards. These documents serve
to clarify and underscore the College’s commitment to the
essential doctrines of the Christian faith and its concern to
exemplify these doctrines in life and ministry. Together, these
documents outline the Covenantal Standards of the seminary
community at GCU.
Students must complete this requirement by signing these
documents within the application for their program of study.
Students may be denied admission or removed from the program
based on the following:
• Failure to affirm and align with the College of Theology’s
Covenantal Standards as outlined in the Doctrinal and Ethical
Positions Statements, the College’s Covenant, and/or the
College’s Dispositional and Behavioral Standards.
• Display of dispositions and/or behavior that do not align with
the College’s Covenantal Standards during the course of the
admissions process or during the course of their time at the
institution.
• A history of behavior that is contrary to the Covenantal
Standards and unbecoming of a gospel minister.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 59 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Students currently enrolled in a non-accelerated Bachelor-level
program may be allowed to enroll in Grand Canyon Theological
Seminary’s graduate level courses after filling out the “College of
Theology Graduate Electives Form.” Students successfully
completing those courses will earn elective credit towards their
bachelor degree and have the corresponding courses waived upon
entrance into an eligible master’s program at Grand Canyon
Theological Seminary.
Master of Divinity
Traditional Campus:
Applicants must have an Undergraduate or Graduate degree from
an accredited, GCU approved college, university, or program.
They must have a grade point average of 2.8 or higher on the
degree-bearing transcript in order to be accepted and admitted.
Students who do not meet this requirement, will not be allowed to
enroll in the traditional campus offering of this degree
Non-Traditional Campus:
Applicants must have an Undergraduate or Graduate degree from
an accredited, GCU approved college, university, or program.
Students who do not have a minimum grade point average of 2.8
on their degree bearing transcript may be Accepted with
Specifications as outlined in the University Accepted with
Specifications admission policy for degree-bearing transcripts.
Post-Master of Arts in Theology: Introductory Biblical
Languages Certificate
In order to be eligible for admission to the program, students
must possess a Master of Arts degree in Christian Studies,
Biblical Studies, Theological Studies or Christian Ministry or a
Master of Divinity from an approved academic institution.
Students will be admitted only on the basis of a completed degree
in a designated are of theology (i.e. an acceptable and appropriate
theological background at the graduate level).
Students who have completed a graduate or baccalaureate degree
in Christian Studies, Biblical Studies, Theological Studies,
Christian Ministry, or some other GCU-approved, theologically
based program are able to waive the fundamental courses: BIB-
501 and BIB-502.
Master of Arts in Christian Leadership
Master of Arts in Christian Ministry
Master of Arts in Youth and Family Ministry
Master of Arts in Urban Ministry
Students who have completed a graduate or baccalaureate degree
in Christian Studies, Biblical Studies, Theological Studies,
Christian Ministry, or some other GCU-approved, theologically
based program are able to waive the fundamental courses: BIB-
501 and BIB-502. This includes graduates from GCU’s Bachelor
of Arts in Worship Arts program.
Doctoral Admission
Requirements
Applicants to the doctoral programs may be accepted for
admission by meeting the full range of criteria for one of the
options specified below.
Have earned a doctoral degree or GCU-approved post-master’s
program from a regionally accredited institution with a GPA of
3.4 or higher on the degree-bearing transcript. Applicants with a
GPA less than 3.4 will be Accepted with Specifications.
OR
Have earned a master’s degree from a regionally accredited
institution with a GPA of 3.4 or higher in the degree on the
degree-bearing transcript. Applicants with a GPA of 3.0 – 3.39
will be Accepted with Specifications. Applicants with a GPA
below a 3.0 will not be accepted into the University.
AND
Submit a Letter of Intent of approximately 250 – 400 words. The
Letter of Intent is designed to help learners begin their Doctoral
Journey in a reflective and purposeful manner.
Doctoral Programmatic
Admission Requirements
Some programs of study at Grand Canyon University require a
higher GPA and/or other criteria to qualify for admission.
Students who do not meet outlined Programmatic Admission
Requirements must file a University appeal in order for
alternative coursework to be reviewed by the applicable College.
College of Doctoral Studies
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
All entering DBA learners must have either:
1. MBA
2. Non-MBA masters’ or doctoral degree including fundamental
courses with a minimum 3.0 GPA, or a passing grade if the
institution does not use a traditional A-F grading systems, in
accounting, finance, marketing and statistics. At GCU these
graduate level business fundamentals may be met by taking
ACC-502, FIN-504, MKT-607, and SYM-506. Students must
earn a minimum 3.0 GPA in each course. Students have the
option to take an exam to fulfill this requirement. More
information can be obtained through a Doctoral University
Counselor. The business fundamental courses must be met
prior to starting doctoral level courses.
Additionally, learners enrolling into the Data Analytics emphasis
must also have a course on relational databases (such as SQL,
MySQL, etc.) or an introductory course on database
structures. This course can be graduate or undergraduate level. At
GCU this may be met by taking MIS-605.
Doctor of Education in Organization Leadership with an
Emphasis in Special Education
All students entering into the Doctor of Education in
Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in Special
Education must have an undergraduate, graduate or doctoral
degree in education to be admitted into the program.
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Bridge to Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and
Supervision
Applicants unable to verify completion of coursework including
(a) CACREP entry-level core curricular standards, (b) CACREP
entry-level professional practice standards, and (c) CACREP
entry-level curricular requirements of a specialty area (e.g.,
addiction counseling, school counseling) so that any missing
content can be completed before or concurrently with initial
doctoral-level counselor education coursework can be fulfilled
through the PHD-CES Bridge.
The Bridge allows for enrollment in up to four (4) entry-level
core curricular standards and up to six (6) credit hours of entry-
level professional practice standards. These courses will be
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 60 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
offered in conjunction with the College of Humanities and Social
Sciences entry-level counseling program.
Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and
Supervision
All learners admitted to the PhD in Counselor Education and
Supervision program:
1. Have graduated from an approved Council for Accreditation of
Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
entry level institution OR
2. Have graduated from a program that meets the entry-level core
curricular standards and professional practice standards
requirements below:
Entry Level Core Curricular Requirements
• Professional Counseling Orientation and Ethical Practice
• Social and Cultural Diversity
• Counseling and Helping Relationships
• Group Counseling and Group Work
• Human Growth and Development
• Assessment and Testing
• Research and Program Evaluation
• Career Development
Entry Level Professional Practice Standards:
• A minimum of six (6) credit hours of supervised field
experience in the specialty area
Appeals
Applicants may be summarily submitted for University Appeals
who do not meet requirements:
A. Applicants must show these courses in their Masters
degrees, or appeal to CDS operations with the syllabi
indicating content to fulfill these competencies
B. Applicants missing prerequisite core curricular or
professional practice coursework can be completed before or
concurrently with initial doctoral-level counselor education
coursework. (These courses can be taken through the PhD
CES Bridge program (or equivalent).
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
1. All DNP program candidates must meet GCU’s Admission
Requirements and provide evidence establishing the
candidate’s initial prelicensure degree (Associates in Science
of Nursing, or Associates Degree in Nursing, or Bachelor of
Science in Nursing) is from an accredited nursing school that is
not currently under investigation for or previously found to
have committed fraud by a law enforcement agency, in
connection with conferring fraudulent degrees, and/or issuing
fraudulent transcripts.
2. Must hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from
a CCNE/NLNAC, ACEN, a CNEA accredited program, or
from an accredited, GCU-approved college, university, or
program.
3. Possess a current unencumbered, unrestricted license as a
registered nurse (RN) or ARNP certification in states where
the ARNP is an upgrade of the RN license resulting in only
one license that is both an RN and an ARNP license.
Non-Degree Program Admission
Requirements
HS Dual Enrollment
Dual enrollment is an opportunity for high school or secondary
school students to take select GCU courses while still enrolled in
high school or secondary school. Students in grades 9 through 12
are eligible to enroll in this program, provided they are currently
registered as high school students.
A. International students applying for dual enrollment may be
admissible based on the secondary or upper secondary school
system of their home country. Transcript requirements will be
provided at the time of admissions.
Students at the 9th or 10th grade level must carry a minimum un-
weighted cumulative high school GPA of 3.25. Students at the
11th or 12th grade level must carry a minimum un-weighted
cumulative high school GPA of 3.0.
Dual enrollment students must meet all course prerequisites.
Dual Enrollment students may take a maximum of 60 credits (up
to 15 courses) in the program. Earned college credit may later be
applied toward a degree program at Grand Canyon University if
they apply and meet admission requirements as a baccalaureate
degree student.
Students should consider their undergraduate or graduate degree
and career goals when assessing dual enrollment courses,
especially modality. For example, some undergraduate degrees
have significant major requirements for which 60 credits of dual
enrollment may not all apply. In other cases, some medical
schools will not admit students who have taken courses online.
Continuing Education
The University offers Continuing Education courses designed
specifically for teachers in a 6-week, 3-graduate credit format.
These courses can be used for a variety of purposes; re-
certification, salary scales, professional development, etc. but the
student must check with their state and/or district to ensure
transferability. Applications who wish to enroll in these courses
must complete the Non-Degree Application. Non-degree seeking
students may enroll in multiple courses. These courses will not
transfer into a GCU degree program and will not be accepted for
regular matriculation to the University.
Single Course
The University offers single-course registration to applicants who
are not interested in enrolling in and completing a specific
Program of Study.
1. Applicants who wish to enroll in either undergraduate or
graduate courses must complete the Non-Degree Application.
2. Non-Degree seeking students may take a maximum of 24
credits (up to 6 courses). Exceptions to this policy require
approval from the President, Provost or designee.
3. If additional credits are needed, students must enroll in a
degree program.
4. Non-Degree seeking students may take up to two courses
simultaneously.
College-level credit earned may later be applied toward a degree
program, except CEU courses, at Grand Canyon University,
provided the student applies for admission and is accepted to the
University. Applications for admission will be evaluated on an
individual basis. If non-degree seeking students wish to complete
a specific program of study, they must complete the standard
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 61 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Application for Admission and fulfill, as appropriate, the
Baccalaureate Admission Requirements or the Master Admission
Requirements. Applications for admission will be evaluated on
an individual basis. Students who reach 16 credits in a non-
degree seeking status may be contacted and encouraged to apply
for University matriculation and to enter a specified degree
program.
Students who are enrolled in a Concurrent Enrollment Nursing
Program must adhere to the contracted course walk. Students are
not permitted to take single courses through the Non-Degree
department while enrolled in Concurrent Enrollment Nursing
program
Single Course(s) & Transfer Policy
The following licensed professional counselors and non-licensed,
non-degree students may take up to 24 single course credits,
however no more than 12 credits may be from the Master of
Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSCMHC) or
from the Master of Education in School Counseling (M.Ed.SC)
program.
• Professional counselors currently licensed in good standing as
a clinical mental health counselor, professional counselor, or
school counselor
• Currently licensed professional counselors or individuals
currently enrolled in a clinical mental health counseling,
professional counseling, or a school counseling program at a
regionally accredited university
• Currently enrolled students in a clinical mental health
counseling, professional counseling, or a school counseling
program at a regionally accredited university [However,
graduate-level students enrolled in a program elsewhere cannot
take any practicum or internship courses, unless they are a
graduate of GCU’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental
Health Counseling, Master of Science in Professional
Counseling, Master of Science in Christian Counseling (no
emphasis), or Master of Education in School Counseling
programs.]
• Non-licensed, non-degree seeking students may not take any
CNL courses; however, they may take PCN-500, PCN-501,
PCN-505 and PCN-520* and apply to transfer them to either
the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or
Master of Education in School Counseling programs if
admitted.
• Graduate-level non-degree students cannot take any practicum
or internship courses as a non-degree student, unless they are a
graduate of a GCU counseling program.
Students are responsible for ensuring that single courses taken
meet licensure, continuing education, or transfer requirements of
their institution or state.
Individuals denied admission to the Master of Science in Clinical
Mental Health Counseling (MSCMHC) or the Master of
Education in School Counseling (M.Ed.SC) may not take single
course counseling courses from these programs.
Licensed students who do not intend to apply to the Master of
Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSCMHC) or the
Master of Education in School Counseling (M.Ed.SC) may
complete a maximum of 24 graduate counseling credits.
*Note: PCN-520 is only transferable to the new program of study
if it was completed with Grand Canyon University after
November 1, 2016.
General Application Procedures
Although applicants may be conditionally accepted for admission
based on incomplete records, final records are required in order
to complete the admission file. In order to be considered for
admission, all prospective students will need to remit the
following:
1. Application for Admission: Prospective students must
complete and sign the Application for Admission, and submit
all requested information. Incomplete applications may be
returned. Information and application forms are available on
campus and on the Grand Canyon University Web site.
2. Official Transcript(s): Based on the degree level admission
requirements. If applicants have completed coursework at an
institution outside of the United States, they must have the
work evaluated by an approved evaluation service selected by
the University (see the section entitled Evaluation of Transfer
Credit). If accepted, prospective students will need to submit a
final transcript showing their graduation date.
3. Official Standardized Test Scores: If applicable
Admission Statuses
Conditionally Accepted
All applicants are conditionally accepted until proof of
admissions eligibility is met, including applicable documentation.
All applicants will remain in this status until they have attended
their first course at GCU.
Accepted
Students have demonstrated their admissions eligibility and are
fully accepted into the University.
Accepted with Specifications: Traditional
Ground traditional students may be Accepted with Specifications
due to their final high school GPA, college transfer GPA, test
score or approval of an Accepted with Specifications Essay.
Students who are Accepted with Specifications are considered
Regular Students as defined by Department of Education
regulations and eligible for applicable aid. To be eligible to
attend GCU, students must acknowledge the “Accepted with
Specifications Acknowledgement” prior to starting. If they fail to
acknowledge the “Accepted with Specifications
Acknowledgement” in their student portal, their Accepted with
Specifications decision will be rescinded and they will not be
eligible to attend. These students will be reviewed after the first,
second, third and fourth semester with GCU and will be
considered to “meet specifications” if they have achieved a 2.0
GPA at the evaluation period.
Students who are Accepted with Specifications are still held to
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policies so may be
dismissed prior to their fourth semester due to SAP Policies.
While Accepted with Specifications, students must adhere to the
constraints outlined in the Student Success Plan. If an Accepted
with Specifications student fails or withdraws from coursework
applicable to their program of study, they must be scheduled for
retakes of the coursework in the subsequent semester(s) while
they are Accepted with Specifications.
Students who have failed to adhere to their Student Success Plan
each semester they are Accepted with Specifications will be
dismissed for 12 months. Additionally, students who have not
achieved the 2.0 GPA requirement by their fourth semester will
be dismissed from the university for 12 months. Students may be
dismissed for both SAP and Accepted with Specifications policy,
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 62 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
the stricter of these policies applies so the student would need to
complete the 12-month suspension period if Accepted with
Specifications at the time of the dismissal. Any student who is
dismissed for not meeting Accepted with Specifications
requirements will need to appeal for reinstatement once they have
fulfilled the 12-month dismissal period and will have to adhere to
an Academic Plan. Accepted with Specifications are allowed to
change their program of study while Accepted with
Specifications and are also allowed to request a program of study
change as part of their appeal for reinstatement.
Accepted with Specifications: Non-Traditional
Students who do not meet the admission requirements may be
Accepted with Specification to Grand Canyon University.
• Nontraditional Undergraduate Students: Students will be
enrolled into GCU’s Foundational General Education
Sequence including UNV 103 or UNV 303
• Traditional Students: Traditional campus students may be
required to fulfill additional requirements, such as completing
a Traditional Student Agreement. Traditional campus students
will be able to enroll for Chapel credit during their
probationary term.
If a student is Accepted with Specifications they must meet the
following requirements based on their degree level and campus:
Baccalaureate students:
• Nontraditional students: Must earn a 2.0 enrollment GPA with
Grand Canyon University after attempting 12 credits with the
University.
• Traditional Students: Must earn a 2.0 enrollment GPA with
Grand Canyon University after their first semester with GCU.
Graduate students (Masters level and Graduate Certificate degree
programs):
• Nontraditional students: Must earn a 3.0 enrollment GPA with
Grand Canyon University once a student has attempted 8
credits with the University.
• Traditional students: In the event a program is delivered
exclusively on the ground traditional campus, they must earn a
3.0 overall cumulative GPA with Grand Canyon University
after their first semester with GCU.
Doctoral Students:
• Nontraditional students: Must earn a 3.0 enrollment GPA with
Grand Canyon University once a student has attempted 6
credits with the University.
For all students, regardless of modality, Failed grades (F), and
Withdrawals (W) will count as attempted credit hours. In the
event a student retakes a course, both the original attempt and the
retake will factor accordingly (ex. 1st attempt is an F and 2nd
attempt is a B, the F will count as an attempt even though the B
replaces the grade in the GPA). The Office of Academic Records
will review the student’s record after the appropriate credits are
attempted per degree level, and the student’s school status will be
changed to one of the following:
• Accepted: Occurs after achieving the minimum-standard 2.0
GPA
• Dismissed: Occurs after failing to achieve the minimum-
standard 2.0 GPA
Students that fail to meet the 2.0 GPA requirement for
undergraduates, or 3.0 for graduates and are active in a course
when the student’s record is reviewed will be administratively
withdrawn (grade of AW) from the course and placed in
Dismissed status. Students who receive an AW will be neither
academically nor financially responsible for coursework they
receive an AW in or coursework they registered to take in the
future. After 12 months of being out of attendance, students may
apply for reinstatement by submitting a Request for
Reinstatement. While reinstatement is not guaranteed, if
readmission is granted, an Academic Plan will be created which
may require students to first repeat any course or its equivalency
for which they did not earn a C or better (undergraduate) or a B
or better (graduate). Students granted re-admittance will need to
follow their Academic Plan specifying courses to repeat, grades
required to be earned, or any other activities the student must
complete. The student’s progress under the terms of the
Academic Plan will be monitored, and no program or modality
changes can occur until the Academic Plan is complete. Students
are strongly encouraged to demonstrate academic achievement
while waiting for eligibility to apply for reinstatement to their
degree program.
Deferred Admissions
Students who cannot provide sufficient admissions
documentation will be deferred until complete and acceptable
documentation is provided. Students currently attending a course
will be permitted to complete the course but will not be registered
for any additional coursework until officially admitted.
Denied
Students who do not meet the admission requirements of the
University will not be accepted.
International Student Admission
International students may be citizens of the United States with
foreign academic credentials or have entered the country on a
lawful immigrant or nonimmigrant visa. The following details the
requirements for international student admission.
International Student Application Procedures
In order to be considered for admission, international students
must complete the Application for Admissions, which includes
submitting the following:
1. Official Transcript(s)
a. Secondary School: All international students must have
completed, or be in the process of completing, a secondary
school program that is equivalent to the 12th grade (high
school) in the United States. An official evaluation of
students’ secondary school work, written in English, must be
sent directly from a University-approved transcript
evaluation service to the University. If an original document
is not available, a certified copy will be accepted. Students
who have not completed secondary school at the time of
application must submit their official transcript evaluations
upon graduation from the 12th-grade equivalent. Students
who have completed their high school from an International
Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma program (DP) and/or an
overseas US accredited (MSCESS, Cognia, WASC or
NEASC) high school must have their transcripts with proof
of high school completion sent directly to Grand Canyon
University.
b. College and/or University: Official transcripts (written in
English or translation, if not in English) of students’ college
or university work must be sent directly from the college or
university to Grand Canyon University. If original
documents are not available, certified copies will be
accepted.
GCU will consider three year international bachelor degrees
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 63 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
for admission into graduate level programs. The acceptance
of three year international bachelor degrees is contingent
upon the students foreign credential evaluation (from a
GCU approved evaluation agency). The evaluation must
indicate: “That the degree prepares the student for graduate
level studies” OR “Given the relatively high proportion of
coursework completed in the major field of study, the
foreign degree program has prepared this student to meet
minimum graduate admission eligibility standards”.
If the evaluation indicates that the three year bachelor
degree does not prepare the student for graduate level
studies, the student must complete a degree equivalent to a
US bachelor degree prior to entering a graduate program.
The following countries will be considered for three year
bachelor degrees: Bologna Process participating countries,
Australia, Canada, New Zealand and India (Bachelor in
Commerceand Computer Application).
c. University-approved Transcript Evaluations: In order to
evaluate foreign credentials accurately and consistently,
Grand Canyon University requires all international college
or university transcripts to be evaluated by a University-
approved evaluation service. Among others, University-
approved evaluation services include those agencies that are
members of or affiliated with the National Association of
Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) and the American
Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admission Officers
(AACRAO) and Association of International Credentials,
Inc. (AICE). If the evaluation agency is unable to translate
the transcripts into English, applicants may be able to obtain
official translations at many consulates, embassies, or
university language departments. Grand Canyon University
will not award any transfer credit from foreign credentials
without an evaluation from an approved evaluation service.
The fee for evaluation is the responsibility of the student.
All evaluations must have been evaluated by an approved
agency within one year of the student’s application date.
The following is a list of approved agencies:
• Arizona International Credential Evaluators (AZICE)
• Academic and Professional International Evaluations, Inc.
(APIE)
• Academic Credentials Evaluation Institute, Inc. (ACEI)
• American Education Research Corporation (AERC)
• Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc. (ECE)
• Educational Records Evaluations Service, Inc. (ERES)
• Evaluation Service, Inc.
• Foundation for International Services (FIS)
• Foreign Credentials Services of America (FCSA)
• Global Credential Evaluators (GCE)
• International Consultants of Delaware, Inc. (ICD)
• International Education Research Foundation, Inc. (IERF)
• Joseph A. Silny Associates (JS&A)
• Scholaro
• World Education Services, Inc. (WES)
2. English Language Proficiency Documentation:
a. Students who completed secondary school and/or received a
diploma or degree from a post-secondary institution from
the countries listed satisfy the English Language Proficiency
admission requirement: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda,
Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Botswana,
British Virgin Islands, *Canada, Cayman Islands, Christmas
Island, Cook Islands, Dominica, Fiji, Gambia, Ghana,
Grenada, Guyana, India, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati,
Liberia, Malawi, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritius,
Micronesia, Namibia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Niue, Norfolk
Island, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Pitcairn
Islands, Puerto Rico, Saint Kitts, and Nevis, Saint Lucia,
Saint Vincent and Grenadines, Seychelles, Sierra Leone,
Singapore, *South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Trinidad
and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, Uganda, United
Kingdom, United States, Vanuatu, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
An applicant with credentials from outside of the USA is
exempt from English Proficiency if they are a naturalized
US citizen.
*If French is noted on Canadian credentials or Afrikaans on
South African credentials, the student must prove
proficiency through testing.
*** If a student submits multiple documents to satisfy the
English Proficiency requirement, the English Proficiency
Test Scores will supersede all other documents in making
the admission decision.
b. Students who have completed secondary school and/or
received a diploma or degree from a post-secondary
institution in a non-exemption country may obtain a letter on
official letterhead indicating that “English was the medium
of instruction in their program”. The letter must be signed
and dated by a recognized school official. If, on the
international transcript evaluation performed for application,
it is specified that the sole medium of instruction is English,
a letter from the school is not necessary.
c. Students who have completed an International Baccalaureate
(IB) Diploma Program (DP), where English is the language
of instruction or at an overseas US accredited (MSCESS,
Cognia, WASC or NEASC) high school meet English
Proficiency requirements.
d. Students who have not completed secondary school and/or
received a diploma or degree from a post-secondary
institution must have completed a minimum of 24 semester
college level credits at a regionally accredited or GCU-
approved institution and/or an international institution
recognized by the Ministry of Education or other acceptable
government agency and have a minimum GPA of 2.75 from
an institution whose sole medium of instruction is English.
The language-proficiency requirement cannot be satisfied
through experience in English learning programs at other
schools.
3. English Language Proficiency Scores: If English is not the
native language of prospective students, their score reports for
a language proficiency test must be sent directly to Grand
Canyon University from the testing center. The table below
specifies minimum scores to be considered for admission to
various programs.
GCU accepts the following forms of language assessment:
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC)
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Berlitz Language Evaluation
• Duolingo
Minimum Scores
Scores Required by
Program
General
Undergrad
Programs
Undergrad
Education,
Nursing &
General
Graduate
Programs
Graduate
Education,
Business &
Nursing
Programs
Test Type I II III
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 64 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Minimum Scores
TOEFL
Paper-based
500 550 575
TOEFL Computer-
based
173 213 233
TOEFL
Internet-based
61 79 90
TOEIC 625 750 815
IELTS 6 6 7
Berlitz Computer-
based
74 81 85
Duolingo 90 100 110
ACT and SAT Scores: GCU does not require scores from these
tests for international students; however, international athletes
may be required to submit scores.
F-1 Student Application Procedure
F-1 student applicants are required to submit additional
documentation to the International Student Coordinator in order
to obtain the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1)
Student Status – For Academic and Language Students, also
known as an I-20. These international students are attending
courses on the traditional campus or courses at an off-site
location.
Documents required for the I-20 include:
• Copy of Passport (valid within 6 months)
• International Student Application
• Confidential Financial Statement
• Affidavit of Sponsor (if applicable)
• Evidence of financial responsibility, not older than 6 months,
such as official award letters for scholarships and fellowships
and for personal or family funds evidence, which should be on
bank letterhead stationery, or in the form of a legally binding
affidavit.
• GCU reserves the right to ask for a $6,000 refundable deposit
from applicants before an I-20 will be issued. A refund will be
granted only if the visa is denied and evidence of denial is
provided to the CIE.
• Application for campus housing is a separate procedure from
admission. If prospective students plan to live on campus, they
should contact the Office of Residence Life.
Limitation on attempts for an F-1 Visa
The I-20 is used to apply for an F-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or
consulate. The decision to award a visa is up the consulate
officer. Should a GCU applicant be denied a visa, the applicant
may re-apply and a new I-20 will be issued if applicable and at
the discretion of the Designated School Official.It is the
responsibility of the applicant to notify the Designated School
Official of each visa attempt. The applicant may receive up to
three total visa denials. GCU will not support any more than three
failed attempts for an F-1 visa. Regardless of time elapsed or
change of circumstances, GCU will not support any more than
three failed attempts for an F-1 Visa. Upon notification of three
visa denials, the applicant is no longer eligible to continue
pursuing on-ground enrollment at GCU through the F-1 Visa..
Citizenship/Visas/Permanent Residents
Grand Canyon University does not require U.S. citizenship or
residence within the U.S. as prerequisites for admission. The
following groups of students are eligible for admission to Grand
Canyon University accepts the following students as “eligible
non-citizens.”
• Non-citizen National: United States national is a person born
in or having ties with "an outlying possession of the United
States", including Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the
U.S. Virgin Islands, and the North Mariana Islands which is as
of 2005, only American Samoa and Swains Island. U.S.
Nationals are allowed to work and reside anywhere in the U.S.
without restrictions and will carry a U.S. passport noting their
status as national.
• Permanent Resident: United States lawful permanent residency
are commonly known as “green card holders”. They are
authorized to live and work in the U.S.United States of
America on a permanent basis. A U.S. lawful permanent
resident must maintain permanent resident status, and can be
removed from the U.S. if certain conditions of this status are
not met.
• Asylee/Refugee: Refugee status or asylum may be granted to
people who have been persecuted or fear they will be
persecuted on account of race, religion, nationality, and/or
membership in a particular social group or political opinion.
They are allowed to live and work, and study, in the U.S. until
their cases are concluded. At that point, they will either
become U.S. lawful permanent residents, or they will be
required to leave the U.S.
• Employment Authorization Cards or Document (EAC or
EAD): Employment Authorization Cards or Documents do not
confer an immigration status by themselves. Rather, they are
employment authorization based a variety of immigration
statuses. Virtually all individuals in possession of an EAC or
EAD will be eligible to study; however, the card itself should
not be factor in determining eligibility.
• Eligible Visa Status: Students with any of the following valid
United States Visas are eligible for entry.
Valid United States Visas
A-1 N
A-2 O-1**
B-1 (avocational or
recreational) O-2**
B-2 (avocational or
recreational) O-3
E-1** P-1**
E-2** P-2**
E-3** P-3**
F-1 (GROUND ORIGINATION – not
online)
P-4
F-2 (avocational or recreational)
Q-1**
G-1 Q-2**
G-2 Q-3
G-3 R-1**
G-4 R-2
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 65 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Valid United States Visas
G-5 S-5
H-1B** S-6
H-1B1** S-7
H-1C T-1
H-2A** T-2
H-2B** T-3
H-3** T-4
H-4 TD
I** TN**
J-1** U-1
J-2 U-2
K-1 U-3
K-2 U-4
K-3 U-5
K-4 V-1
L-1A** V-2
Valid United States Visas
L-1B** V-3
L-2 Adjustment of Status**
*/A is reserved for undocumented persons residing in the USA
attending the GCU Main Campus or non-US Citizens residing
outside of the USA and attending GCU via the online modality.
** These visas are primarily work visas. They are allowed to
attend school, even fulltime, so long as work remains the primary
purpose for being in the US. While this is not per se an issue for
GCU, most visa holders are unaware of the restriction and should
be alerted to the potential loss of the visa.
*** Individuals switching from a visa to Lawful Permanent
Resident are in a process called Adjustment of Status. The
Adjustment of Status process supersedes any underlying visa
category.
Licensure Programs
Online Students
Programs which contain practicum, internship or student teaching
that lead to licensure are not eligible for enrollment outside of the
USA.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 66 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
General Academic Regulations This section of the Grand Canyon University Policy Handbook contains general academic policies intended to assure a consistent, high
quality educational environment for GCU students and to reflect that quality to accrediting agencies, state licensing/certifying agencies,
individuals and groups who provide scholarships or otherwise support the University, graduate schools, and potential employers of GCU
graduates. The University has no right to change policies or procedures of another organization for which it is merely acting as an agent.
Students are responsible for following all applicable University policies and procedures. Students should note some Programs of Study have
specific policies in addition to general University policy. A careful review of policies and other requirements for a given program is strongly
recommended. All policies and procedures herein apply to undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Please contact your University Counselor or Student Services Counselor for clarification and details. Oral or written inquires and requests are
accepted, but a written message takes precedence over any oral message in the event of conflicting information.
Official Student Communication
Grand Canyon University recognizes the need for multiple
channels of communication in order to provide essential
information to students in the most appropriate and effective
format. To that end, students may receive official communication
from the University in a variety of ways, including but not
limited to, electronic documents via the Student Portal, postal
mail, preferred e-mail, and Grand Canyon University e-mail.
Upon enrollment, all students receive a Grand Canyon University
e-mail address, and students are expected to frequently check
their Grand Canyon University e-mail, as well as any other
preferred e-mail address provided, to ensure University
communications are reviewed in a timely manner. It is the
student’s responsibility to ensure their communication
preferences are updated in the Student Portal.
Official Name Change
Students who would like to change their legal name need to
submit two forms of government-issued identification to their
Student Services Counselor (SSA).
Preferred First Name
When possible, the University may provide students the ability to
use a preferred first name in University systems. While GCU will
try to respect the first name the student prefers, GCU reserves the
right to approve the preferred first name. Students trying to use a
preferred first name that is inappropriate in an educational
environment will revert to using the legal name on file.
Change of Address Notification
GCU is required to determine the physical location of distance
education students, evidenced by a student’s address. If a student
is considering a move, or has moved to another state while
enrolled, the student must contact a Student Services Counselor
immediately to determine whether the student’s current Program
of Study is available in that state. Additionally, if the student is
enrolled in a program leading to licensure, it must be determined
whether it is possible for the student to complete the program in
the new state, before incurring any/additional course charges. It is
expected that students will conduct all field placements,
practicum, or student teaching within the state in which they
reside at the time of enrollment. Students who plan to conduct
field placements, practicum, or student teaching outside of their
home state must disclose this to their Student Services Counselor.
Academic Calendar
Nontraditional (Online, Evening-Satellite and Evening-
Campus) Students
Grand Canyon University offers online and offsite courses in a
sequential, non-term modality. Courses start on a regular basis,
with undergraduate courses starting on Monday,
graduate/doctoral courses starting on Thursday. The academic
calendar year is defined as a minimum of 24 earned credits and
30 instructional weeks for undergraduate programs; 12-16 earned
credits and 32 instructional weeks for master’s programs; and 12
earned credits and 32 instructional weeks for doctoral programs.
For nontraditional students, when an equivalency in
determination of a semester is needed, the equivalency is
determined to be:
• Fall: Courses scheduled to begin the day after the traditional
summer semester ends
• Spring: Courses scheduled to begin the day after the traditional
fall semester ends.
• Summer: Courses schedule to begin the day after the
traditional spring semester ends.
For nontraditional students, the equivalency of completing a
semester is determined to be:
• Nontraditional undergraduate students: Earning 8 credits in the
equivalent of a semester, or prior to 15 weeks.
• Nontraditional graduate students: Earning 6 credits for a
bachelor student or 6-8 for a master or doctoral student in the
equivalent of a semester, or prior to 15 weeks.
Traditional Campus Students
Students attending Grand Canyon University’s main campus
attend school in three semesters; with traditional semesters of
May (summer), September (fall), and January (spring) semester
starts. Refer to the Academic Calendar for specific semester
dates.
Classification of Students and
Courses
Grand Canyon University complies with Department of
Education credit hour definitions when designing and designating
credits to courses per Federal Register 75 FR 66832 final
regulations:
Credit hour: Except as provided in 34 CFR 668.8(k) and (1) a
credit hour is an amount of work represented in intended learning
outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is
an institutionally established equivalency that reasonably
approximates not less than one of the following-
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 67 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• One hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a
minimum of two hours of out-of-class student work each week
for approximately fifteen weeks or one semester or trimester
hour of credit, or ten to twelve weeks for one quarter hour of
credit, or the equivalent amount of work over a different
amount of time
OR
• At least an equivalent amount of work as required in paragraph
(1) of this definition for other academic activities as
established by the institution, including laboratory work,
internships, practicums, studio work, and other academic work
leading to the award of credit hours.
The unofficial and official transcript reflects all coursework
attempted or completed (including grades earned, dropped
courses, retakes, and failures) with Grand Canyon University.
Transfer credit applied to the student’s GCU record will be
transcribed on their unofficial and official transcript, but the
grade earned from the other institution will not be reflected on
the transcript or calculated in the GCU GPA.
The University’s definition of credit hour and the policy by
which courses are generally assigned credit is as follows:
Credit Hours
Credit(s) Seat Time*
(Hours)
Out of Class
Work
Total Hours Required In&Out
of Class Activity**
1 15 30 45
2 30 60 90
3 45 90 135
4 60 120 180
Total Instructional Time
Credit(s)
Total Instructional Time in
minutes (Carnegie 50 minutes =
1 seat hour)
Total Instructional Time in
hours (Carnegie 50 minutes = 1
hour)
1 750 12.5
2 1500 25
3 2250 37.5
4 3000 50
Weekly Instructional Time (Hours)
Credit(s)
Instructional
Time/Week in
a 5 week
course
Instructional
Time/Week in
a 7 week
course
Instructional
Time/Week in
a 8 week
course
Instructional
Time/Week in
a 15 week
course
1 2.5 1.8 1.6 0.8
2 5 3.6 3.1 1.7
3 7.8 5.4 4.7 2.5
4 10 7.1 6.3 3.3
*Seat Time can be scheduled in-class time; calculated using DQs,
faculty feedback, and participation; or a combination of these
items.
**A minimum of 45 hours per credit hour may be achieved via a
combination of Seat Time and Out of Class Work, e.g. labs.
Student Classification Based on Credits
• Freshmen are students who have not yet completed 24 credit
hours.
• Sophomores are students who have completed 24 to 47 credit
hours.
• Juniors and seniors are students who have completed a
minimum of 48 credit hours.
• Fifth Year Students are students who have completed a
bachelor’s degree from an accredited, GCU-approved college,
university, or program and are accepted for a program of
specified upper division courses to secure standard teacher
certification.
• Second Degree Students are students who have completed a
bachelor’s degree from a regionally or nationally accredited
institution and are completing the requirements for a second
bachelor’s degree.
• Graduate Students are students who have completed a
bachelor’s degree from an accredited, GCU-approved
institution and have been admitted into the graduate program.
• Non-Degree Seeking Students are students who are not
working toward a degree and/or are not placed in a
classification.
Academic Definition of Full-Time Status
Nontraditional Students
Nontraditional undergraduate students must complete 24 credits
during their academic year to be considered full-time.
Nontraditional graduate students who started their program prior
to July 5, 2012 and all doctoral students must complete 12 credits
during the academic year to be considered full-time. All
nontraditional graduate students who start their program on or
after July 5, 2012, must complete 16 credits during the academic
year to be considered full-time. Students are also subject to the
Program of Study, Course Availability, and Cancellation Policy.
Traditional Campus Students
Undergraduate students must enroll in a minimum of 12 credit
hours in the Fall and Spring semesters. Undergraduate students
will be considered full-time if they enroll in 6 credits in the
Summer Session A or B, or 12 credits over the entire Summer
semester. Graduate students who are enrolled in 24 or more
credits during an academic year are considered full-time.
Academic status may differ from financial aid status eligibility
for funding. Please see the Financial Aid section of the
University Policy Handbook for details.
Per federal regulations, International (F-1) students are required
to pursue a full course of study. During the Fall and Spring
semester, the minimum for an undergraduate is 12 credits per
semester and one online class may be taken to satisfy the 12
credit minimum. If the Summer semester is your first semester at
GCU and a summer start date is on your I-20, then you must
enroll for 6 credits in Session A or B, or 12 credits over the entire
Summer semester to be considered a full-time student. The
minimum for a graduate student’s full course of study follows
general campus policy noted above and is verified by the
International Student Coordinator.
To enroll in courses, a student must contact their University
Counselor (new students) or their Student Services Counselor
(current students).
Overload Policy
Nontraditional Students
Due to the amount of time required for coursework,
nontraditional students take one class at a time. Students may be
eligible to take two classes at one time, but must meet specific
criteria outlined below. Taking two classes at a time is defined as
courses that overlap by more than two weeks. Students who do
not meet the requisite degree level criteria may not be overlapped
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 68 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
for periods greater than two weeks total during any course,
regardless of whether it is at the beginning or end of the course.
Students are never allowed to exceed 3 total courses at once.
Students who want to take 3 courses at one time must file an
appeal that outlines their ability to commit 45 hours of time per
credit hour during the timeframe the courses overlap.
All coursework is subject to course availability so students are
not guaranteed overlaps solely by meeting the criteria below
and/or having an approved appeal.
The criteria by degree level for overlaps is outlined below.
Students must meet one of the requirements at the specific degree
level in order to qualify:
Baccalaureate students
• Complete at least 12 credits at Grand Canyon and obtain a
cumulative GCU GPA of 3.0
• GCU Alumni student with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better
in graduated enrollment
• Official transcript showing a conferred associate,
baccalaureate, master’s or doctoral degree from another
institution with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• Student is enrolled in a program of study where corequisites
must be completed, as designated by the curriculum.
Master students
• Complete at least 6 credits at Grand Canyon at the graduate
level or higher with a cumulative GCU GPA of 3.5 for the
graduate level coursework taken.
• GCU Alumni with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better in
graduated enrollment.
• Official transcript showing a conferred master’s or doctoral
degree from another institution with a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
• Student is enrolled in a program of study where corequisites
must be completed, as designated by the curriculum.
Doctoral learners may double up on courses if they meet the
following conditions:
• They have a programmatic GPA of 3.5 or higher
• They follow all pre-req requirements
• They are not in Admitted with Specifications status
• The class is available and running
Concurrent enrollment at Residency with one online course is the
exception. These limitations do not apply to Doctor of Nursing
Practice learners.
Taking concurrent courses can change a student’s academic year,
and thus, payment periods. To enroll in concurrent courses,
students must be financially cleared by their Student Services
Counselor prior to starting those courses. A secondary payment
method may be required.
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Doctor of Nursing Practice learners may not take more than one
course at any time except in these specific instances. Taking
concurrent courses can change a student’s academic year, and
thus, payment periods. To enroll in concurrent courses, students
must be financially cleared by their Student Services Counselor
prior to starting those courses. A secondary payment method may
be required.
For the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program through CONHCP,
all courses are taken in succession with the exception of DNP
with an Educational Emphasis. Learners in DNP with an
Educational Emphasis may take the following courses together
and in this order, if the classes are available and running:
• DNP-805A concurrently with emphasis course DNP-836A
• DNP-810A concurrently with emphasis course DNP-837A
• DNP-825A concurrently with emphasis course DNP-838A
• DNP-835A with DNP-840A
Please note a course may be canceled if there are not enough
students registered. Taking concurrent courses can change a
student’s academic year, and thus, payment periods. To enroll in
concurrent courses, students must be financially cleared by their
Student Services Counselor prior to starting those courses. A
secondary payment method may be required.
For the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program through CONHCP
the Doctor Of Nursing Practice without the Educational
Leadership student may take the following courses together and
in this order, if the classes are available and running:
• DNP-805A concurrently with DNP-810A.
• The DNP learner may not take DNP-805A with DNP-810A
when they are in the DNP Educational Emphasis.
• DNP-820A and DNP-825A concurrently if they have an
approved PICOT in DNP-815A.
• DNP-835A with DNP-840A
Please note a course may be canceled if there are not enough
students registered. The classes must be available and running.
Taking concurrent courses can change a student’s academic year,
and thus, payment periods. To enroll in concurrent courses,
students must be financially cleared by their Student Services
Counselor prior to starting those courses. A secondary payment
method may be required.
Overload Policy Exemptions
• Students in the MSCMHC, MSAC, and MSCCSUAD
programs cannot take didactic courses concurrently with
practicum and/or internship courses.
• Students cannot take field experience related courses
concurrently: PCN-622, PCN-662A, CNL-624, CNL-624A, or
CNL-664A-C.
• Undergraduate students in the College of Nursing and Health
Care Professions must take theory and clinical coursework
concurrently in the sequence indicated for their program of
study. Graduate students in the College of Nursing and Health
Care Professions enrolled in APRN programs must take theory
and clinical coursework concurrently as prescribed by the plan
of study. Students in Non-APRN or non-Nursing programs
enrolled in clinical coursework or courses with field
experiences may not take more than one course during these
placements.
• Master of Divinity seminary students participating in the
evening course option will may be exempt from this policy.
• Master of Divinity students may be concurrently enrolled at
Residency with one online course.
Traditional Campus Students
To enroll in more than 20 credits per semester, undergraduate
students must possess a GPA of 3.0 and file an official appeal
that is approved by the Office of Academic Compliance. In the
event Traditional students are taking online courses that do not
last the duration of the term, college approval may be required.
Course Classification Based on Course Number
Courses are numbered from 000 to 999. The course numbering
system is as follows:
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 69 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• 000-099 are remedial courses designed for students with
deficiencies in specific content areas. Credits earned for these
courses cannot be applied toward a degree program.
• 100-299 are lower division, undergraduate courses.
• 300-499 are upper division undergraduate courses.
• 500-699 are graduate level courses.
• 700-999 are doctoral level courses.
• 5000-5999 are continuing education courses.
Course Length
The University offers courses that are typically 4 to 15 weeks in
length. The course length is determined by the Program of Study
and/or format in which the course is taken.
• Online courses are typically 5, 7, or 8 weeks in length.
• Traditional Campus courses are typically 15 weeks in length.
Program of Study, Course
Availability, and Cancellation
A Program of Study (POS) defines the courses required for a
particular degree. If the University cancels a POS and/or courses,
the University will use the following guidelines for program
completion.
If a major or degree is fully retired, and if a student had no breaks
in enrollment except those defined/documented by the Leave of
Absence Policy and Procedure, Baccalaureate and Masters
students will have 2 years to complete the Program of Study
under the Catalog of Record, defined as the Academic Catalog
published in the academic year and edition (Fall, Spring, or
Summer) under which the student enrolled. Doctoral students
will have 3 years to reach the 900 course series in their Program
of Study. This applies unless state or federal law and/or
accrediting bodies mandate POS and/or course changes.
In all cases that a course is retired, students will enroll in the
course equivalency or a substituted course. In all cases where a
student chooses to change the program of study, the student will
always be required to enroll in the most current version of that
program, which may change the student’s catalog of record.
Nontraditional Students
• For all students who have gone out of attendance, it must be
determined that the program is still available in the student’s
location. In the event the program is no longer available in the
student’s location, the student must select an eligible program
of study.
• If a student has been out of attendance up to and including 180
days, they are permitted to stay in their initial program version
even if the program has been revised. In this scenario, the
student is permitted to update their program version to the
newest program version but is not required to do so. If the
student does update to the newest program version, they will
not be permitted to go back to their initial program version.
The student may be subject to course substitutions even if they
stay in their initial program version, due to course availability.
• If the student is out of attendance greater than 180 days and the
student’s program of study has been revised, the student must
update to the current version of the program or choose a
different active program.
• In the event a student is in a program of study with a student
teaching component and they do not qualify for the above
exception, the student may submit a University Appeal to be
considered for re-entry into their initial program version. The
College of Education will review the appeal with the following
considerations:
o The student’s rationale for time away from the academic
program,
o academic program eligibility for Institutional
Recommendation,
o academic standing, including academic holds,
o all remaining coursework or coursework substitutions,
o current/valid fingerprint clearance
• Students in non-licensure programs with two or fewer program
major courses remaining in their degree program are also
eligible for an exception to the above policy. In the event a
student is out of attendance greater than 180 days they will be
permitted to return to their initial program version. The student
may be subject to course substitutions even if they stay in their
initial program version, due to course availability.
• Students in a program of study with a student teaching
component are eligible for an exception to the above policy. In
the event a student is out of attendance greater than 180 days,
but less than a year with only student teaching remaining in
program major, they will be permitted to return to their initial
program version.
• For licensure programs, outside of Teacher Preparation
programs, students should adhere to college specific policies.
• In the event that a retired licensure program version is no
longer in compliance with state regulations or certification
requirements, all students currently enrolled in the retired
licensure program may need to sign a new Enrollment
Agreement and move to the most current program version.
*Students out of attendance for 180 days or less, and are
changing their emphasis only are not subject to this policy.
Doctoral Students who have started RES-885, RES-871, PSY-
825, or the 900 course series will be allowed to remain in their
current program of study.
Traditional Campus Students
In order to remain in the current program of study, students must
remain continuously enrolled. If students are out longer than one
traditional term (either Fall or Spring) then the student will be
required to enroll in the newest version of the program of study,
if one is available.
• In the event that a retired licensure program version is no
longer in compliance with state regulations or certification
requirements, all students currently enrolled in the retired
licensure program may need to sign a new Enrollment
Agreement and move to the most current program version.
Course and Program Availability
Students transferring to GCU from another educational
institution, and GCU students transferring programs within the
institution, are subject to course and section availability. GCU
believes that sufficient interaction between students and faculty is
an important part of the learning experience. Therefore, if a
course section has too few students to support student learning, it
may be cancelled. Additionally, if a student has a large number of
transfer credits and enrolls in a new program and courses are not
available, students may be required to take a different course
needed in the program of study or will be subject to breaks in
attendance until the course is available. Nontraditional students
should reference the Leave of Absence – Nontraditional policy
for additional information.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 70 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Student Teaching Removal
If a student is in a graduate level program with a student teaching
component and they wish to remove the student teaching
component from their degree form, they will need to change their
program of study to the Does Not Lead to Initial Teacher
Licensure program of study for the same version they were
initially enrolled in.
In order to be eligible for this program of study change, the
student must meet all programmatic requirements for graduation,
including: minimum GPA, all content/credits successfully
completed, and be financially eligible to graduate (no outstanding
balance or hold and completion of graduation application).
Programs without a student teaching component are not intended
to lead to certificates, endorsements, salary upgrades or pay
increases in other states. Grand Canyon University cannot
guarantee that this program will lead to a certificate,
endorsement, certificate upgrade or pay increase in the student’s
state of residence.
By making this change, the student understands that an
Institutional Recommendation will not be completed by Grand
Canyon University and the student may not be able to obtain
licensure.
Students have the option to return to Grand Canyon University to
complete student teaching at a later date. However, if the student
choses to return to complete student teaching, they will enroll as
a non-degree seeking student. Completion of student teaching as
a non-degree seeking student does not guarantee teacher
certification. Students who enroll into student teaching as a non-
degree seeking student are responsible for checking with their
state’s Department of Education to verify if certification is
possible through this route. Non-degree seeking students are not
eligible for financial aid and will be responsible for the tuition of
this experience. Grand Canyon University will not complete the
Institutional Recommendation for students who chose to return to
take student teaching because the Institutional Recommendation
can only be completed for students who complete student
teaching within their program of study.
Military Reenrollment
Grand Canyon University complies with the Higher Education
Opportunity Act of 2008 requirements for readmission of service
members. Students who are out of attendance greater than 180
days for qualified military service reasons may be able to return
to their degree program without updating to the most current
Academic Catalog. Students need to contact their military
Enrollment, Academic or Student Services Counselor if they
discontinued enrollment due to military service.
Registration Policy
Continuous Registration
Upon application to the University, all applicants sign an
Enrollment Agreement in which they attest to understanding the
Program of Study requirements. This document acknowledges
that most programs follow a course sequence and the student will
be continuously enrolled and scheduled through the duration of
their program unless they formally request to change their
enrollment status. With the submission of this signed document,
applicants are then registered into their chosen Program of Study.
Students are granted 8 weeks from the program’s start date to
provide their official transcripts from the prior degree-granting
institution (whether high school, associate, or baccalaureate
degree) to gain admittance into the University. If this official
documentation is not provided prior to the end of the 8-week
period, students may not be allowed to continue forward into
subsequent courses. Once the Office of Academic Records can
confirm admissibility the student will be officially accepted to the
University and will be allowed to continue registration.
Students remain continuously enrolled throughout their program.
If a student needs to make an adjustment to their course schedule
or modify their enrollment status, the student will need to contact
their Student Services Counselor. Those using Federal Financial
Aid (Title IV) must speak to their Student Services Counselor
prior to making the change and if the change is made, will need
to adhere to the Leave of Absence policies as outlined in this
handbook.
First Course Completion Policy
Nontraditional Students
Grand Canyon University believes the foundational skills and
experiences learned in the first course of a student’s program is
imperative to student success. In the event, a student fails or
withdraws from the first course in their program of study, the
student will receive one more attempt to retake that course before
they are dismissed for First Course Completion Policy.
Therefore:
• If the student has already started the next course in the
sequence, they will be dropped from the second course with an
MW* and placed back into the retake of the first course.
• If the student knows they will fail their first course before the
grade posts in that course, they should contact their counselor
to have their schedule updated.
• If the student changes their program of study after failing the
first course attempt, they will be allowed to change their
program of study, but will need to pass the first course in the
new program on the first attempt in order to avoid dismissal
for First Course Completion Policy.
Upon retake of the first course in the Program of Study sequence,
students who do not successfully complete that attempt will be
dismissed from the University (even if they passed the second
course in the sequence). The dismissal period for the First
Course Completion Policy is 12 months in length. If the student
wishes to return after their dismissal period, they must apply for
re-enrollment to GCU. Once a student has fulfilled this policy,
they are not subject to it again for any future program of study
(e.g., GCU Alumni, program changes, etc.). Students who change
modality from traditional ground to nontraditional are not subject
to this policy since they already completed coursework as ground
traditional students.
*Students are not financially responsible for courses dropped
with a grade of MW.
Class Presence
Grand Canyon University believes that students are primarily
responsible for their attendance in the classroom.
Traditional Campus Classrooms
All traditional campus students must post at least one message in
the learning management system within the first week of the class
start date in addition to being present at all face to face class
meetings.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 71 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Online Classrooms
An online week for undergraduate students is Monday through
Sunday and for graduate students is Thursday through
Wednesday.
Grand Canyon University requires all students enrolled in an
online course to attend every week. Attendance is marked each
day in which a student participates in activity in the online
classroom. If a student is out of attendance for more than fourteen
(14) consecutive days, the University will process a withdrawal
based on the last day of attendance. Online students that
previously took a GCU course, or is enrolled in a course, may not
participate during the break. New to GCU students may enroll
during the break.
Online courses taken by Traditional Campus Students do not
include a spring break. Students are expected to follow the
syllabus and post work during that week.
Cohort Classrooms (Campus and Satellite
Locations)
Courses offered in the face-to-face, evening cohort programs for
undergraduate and graduate students are designed as concentrated
seminars with attendance being a prerequisite for student
learning. Students are expected to act professionally and regular
class attendance is one reflection of that commitment.
Recognizing that occasional unavoidable absences may occur,
students must notify the instructor in advance. If a face-to-face
class absence (or partial absence) is necessary, the following
guidelines apply:
• Partial Absence: At the course instructor’s discretion, partial
attendance may result in a deduction of participation points.
• One Absence: One class absence will result in the loss of
participation points and, in-class activity points if applicable.
• An absence (or partial absence) does not preclude students
from completing assignments as expected or according to
completion timelines.
Multiple Absences:
• Courses that are 12 or fewer weeks: For courses that are 12 or
fewer weeks, absences from two or more classes (consecutive
or non-consecutive) in a course will result in being withdrawn
from the course and a grade of “W” if they occur in any week
prior to the last two weeks. Students in a course that is 12
weeks or less and who have their second absence during the
last two weeks of the course, can no longer earn points for
assignments due that week and beyond after the second
absence. They will earn the grade based on their academic
performance for the full point allotment of the course. Faculty
will assign a letter grade of A through F. Students are required
to follow the Course Drop Policy.
• 16 week courses: For courses that are 16 weeks, absences from
four or more classes (consecutive or non-consecutive) in a
course will result in being withdrawn from the course and a
grade of “W” if they occur in any week prior to the last four
weeks. Students in a 16 week course who have their fourth
absence during the last four weeks of the course can no longer
earn points for assignments due that week and beyond, after
the fourth absence. They will earn the grade based on their
academic performance for the full point allotment of the
course. Faculty will assign a letter grade of A through F.
Students are required to follow the Course Drop Policy.
Residency Classrooms (Campus and Satellite
Locations)
College of Doctoral Studies:
In addition to standard online attendance policy for the online
portion of the Residency, doctoral students are expected to be
present during all sessions of the face-to-face classroom
experience during Residency. The Residency classroom time
schedule is divided into eight half-day sessions – one on Monday
afternoon, two on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and one
on Friday morning.
• Partial Absence: At the course instructor’s discretion, partial
attendance may result in a deduction of points if applicable.
• One Absence: One session absence will result in the loss of
points if applicable.
An absence (or partial absence) does not preclude students from
completing assignments as expected or according to completion
timelines.
• Multiple Absences: Students who are absent from two or more
consecutive or non-consecutive sessions in a residency can no
longer earn points for assignments due that day and beyond
after the second absence. They will earn the grade based on
their academic performance for the full point allotment of the
course. Faculty will assign a letter grade of A through F.
Students are required to follow the Course Drop Policy.
College of Theology:
Residency Attendance
Master of Divinity (MDiv) students are required to attend
Residencies as part of their program of study for their degree
program. In addition to online requirements, MDiv Residencies
entail a residential component that is 5 days in length. Because
this arrangement represents a limited amount of class time in
comparison with traditional classes, attendance at each residential
session is expected. Unexcused absences are not acceptable and
will result in a significant deduction of points for each contact
hour a student misses. A student who misses 5 contact hours or
more automatically fails the Residency. Students who miss less
than 5 contact hours will incur the following penalties based on
the number of hours missed:
• 1 hour: 10% deduction in final grade
• 2 hours : 15% deduction in final grade
• 3 hours: 20% deduction in final grade
• 4 hours: 25% deduction in final grade
A student who is forced to miss one or more sessions for reasons
beyond his or her control may request an excused absence but all
excused absences are subject to approval by the Dean or a
designee. An excused absence is defined as an absence will only
be granted for unforeseen reasons beyond the student’s control
such as a death in one’s immediate family, a documented
personal illness, natural disaster, or airline delays. A scheduling
conflict, even if ministry-related, does not constitute an
emergency and cannot be excused. Students who foresee a
conflict with scheduling are encouraged to register for an
alternative Residency in order to avoid the possibility of penalty
or failure. An absence may only be excused provided that the
student communicates the need for an excuse as soon as the need
arises and provides appropriate documentation for such absences
when possible.
Residency Completion Requirements
Three courses within the MDiv program are only offered in
residency and students must complete all three courses to
graduate. Residency courses are identified by course description
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 72 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
within the program of study and should be completed in the order
they appear within the course walk. Current residency
requirements are as follows:
• Residency 1: Christian Worldview and Mission (INT-525)
• Residency 2: Pastoral Theology (HTH-611)
• Residency 3: Christ-Centered Preaching (MIN-601)
In order to ensure that students make satisfactory progress
through the MDiv program and complete required Residencies in
a timely manner, students cannot continue in the program beyond
specified credit hour limits without completing required
Residency courses. This requirement should also reduce the
number of students required to complete multiple Residency
courses during a single year. Preferred credit hour ranges and
maximum credit hours for the completion of each residency
course are as follows:
Residency 1:
• 14-26 credits is the preferred range
• 34 credits is the maximum (students cannot continue after 34
hours without completing Residency 1)
Residency 2:
• 30-50 credits is the preferred range
• 58 credits is the maximum (student cannot continue after 58
hours without completing Residency 2)
Residency 3:
• 54-68 credits is the preferred range
• 78 credits is the maximum (Residency 3 must be completed to
complete program)
All MDiv residency requirements must be fulfilled as a
graduation requirement.
Essential Elements
The residency experience within the Master of Divinity program
is set up as an intensive and immersive conference style
interaction. Students are in the midst of preparing for ministerial
leadership that may entail similarly intensive and immersive tasks
and activities. The dynamic nature of the Residency experience
creates an environment of support and guidance as well as the
advantage of spiritual, professional, and scholarly dialogue. It
connects students directly with resources to help them establish
the essential scaffolding of theological content. In the week-long
residency experience, students have access to faculty, department
chairs, college leadership, peers and Christian leaders. Students
will have the opportunity to interact with and get immediate
feedback from peers, scholars, and current ministers, while
presenting ideas and working collaboratively with others on the
same journey. This critical milestone on the path to the
graduation and overall completion of the program is considered
an essential element making attendance mandatory.
In order to help ensure student progression and to provide them
with the tools to complete critical components of each program,
residency is required three times within the Master of Divinity
program.
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions:
On-Campus Experience Attendance Policy
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) students are
required to attend both scheduled On-Campus Experiences, and
successfully complete all requirements including, but not limited
to, skills practice, skills check-off and lecture. The On-Campus
Experiences may occur on any day of the week (Sunday-
Saturday).
Required attendance:
• Must be physically present each day.
• Must participate each day from scheduled start to finish time.
Failure to attend any portion of the On-Campus Experience will
result in an automatic course failure. Students will be required to
repeat the course and the On-Campus Experience associated with
the course to progress in their program of study.
All On-Campus Experiences must be fulfilled as a graduation
requirement.
Absence Verification Policy (Traditional Campus
Only)
The purpose of this process is for traditional undergraduate
students who see a provider and have missed class due to illness.
This process is a service to the faculty to assist them with
verifying absence documentation.
Students must submit documentation to the Student Disability
Services Office, for verification. Provider documentation will be
verified from the day seen, going forward, and may not be
considered retroactively. Documentation must be submitted
within 2 weeks from the first missed class and include date seen,
dates excused, the signature of the provider, and list any specific
restrictions.
• Absence Verification only applies to classes that meet face to
face.
• Absences may not be verified the week of Finals.
• The Absence Verification Process is limited to 5 days per
semester. If students have a medical need to miss more than 5
days (per semester), they may be referred to the Steps to
Accommodations process as outlined in the University Policy
Handbook for requesting accommodations.
• Prescheduled appointments do not qualify under this policy,
and students should schedule appointments outside of their
class time, as tests, exams, quizzes, etc. cannot be made up.
Faculty make the determination of whether an absence is
considered excused or unexcused based on the verification
process. Absences are subject to course specific policies, any
missed points, including participation, may or may not be able to
be made up depending on the class requirements of the missed
day, and will be reviewed by the faculty member.
The SDS Office processes these requests and verifies the
documentation only. Any follow-up regarding absences, excused
or un-excused, including but not limited to assignments,
participation, or grades, is between the student and the faculty.
Students are responsible for reaching out to faculty for additional
information or clarification.
**If you are experiencing COVID like symptoms, you are
encouraged to stay home per health and safety guidelines. Within
the same 24 hours, you are required to call the GCU COVID
Hotline (602-639-7300) for next steps.
Please note that providing false, forged, altered, or invented
information to the University is a violation of the Code of
Conduct and will be sent to Code of Conduct for review.
Academic Engagement
Grand Canyon University defines active engagement as an
instructional activity related to the student's course of study, in
accordance with accreditation and state standards. These
activities are assigned by the institution as a part of the
curriculum, in conjunction with faculty as a part of instruction.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 73 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
There are many actions that students and faculty engage in
together, that support academic engagement:
• Activities with interaction between faculty and students-
Attending a synchronous or asynchronous: class, lecture,
recitation, field experience, laboratory activity. Since all
students, both ground and online use the learning management
system to support the academic classroom, posting in any
discussion in which faculty and students interact and engage
equates to the same activity occurring in a face-to-face
classroom.
• Activities by students: Attending a synchronous or
asynchronous: Submitting an academic assignment, taking an
assessment or an exam; participating in an interactive tutorial,
webinar, or other interactive computer-assisted instruction;
participating in a study group, group project, or an online
discussion, when any of the preceding are assigned by the
institution.
Since the curriculum is designed by GCU, activities assigned by
GCU or faculty are defined as academic engagement. Students
wishing to cease attendance should refer to the Withdrawal
Policy.
Class Participation
Participating in classroom discussion is paramount to the learning
experience. Participating in the weekly discussions allows
students and instructors to share experiences, investigate
complicated subject matter, share expertise, and examine the
content from new perspectives. The qualitative participation
requirements are:
• Follow-up responses to classmates’ initial answers or
responses that integrate course theories with a practical
application of the subject, offering a personal observation or
experience, or referencing real-world examples, current events,
or presenting current research on the topic.
• Classroom interaction demonstrating deeper or broader
thoughts beyond rephrasing what the textbook has presented
on the topic.
• Responses encouraging further discussion and ongoing
dialogue with other students and the instructor in the class.
• Asking additional, relevant questions about the week's topic.
• Communications that are presented in a professional and
supportive manner, and with respectful tone.
Traditional Campus Classrooms
In addition to the qualitative requirements, each instructor will
provide the specific, in-class, quantitative participation
requirements.
Online Classrooms (Undergraduate and
Graduate)
Participation can be earned only by posting substantive, quality
messages to fellow classmates and the instructor in the main
forum of the classroom. Specific courses may have alternative
participation requirements. Students are encouraged to consult
with the faculty member prior to the course start.
Courses # Required
Days
# Required
Substantive
Posts Each
Day
UNV-103, UNV-108, UNV-104,
PHI-105, ENG-105, PSY-100,
CWV-101
4 2
UNV-103, UNV-108, UNV-303
TO (in LMS-Trad)
2 2
All Other Undergrad 3 2
Graduate and Doctoral 3 1
Cohort Classrooms
Students participating in face-to-face classes in a cohort format
are enrolled in a hybrid program that requires students to be
active in both the physical classroom, as well as the online
classroom.
All programs (Except RN-BSN): Campus and Satellite
Locations
Students must post their initial response to the 1st discussion
question by Day 3, and to the 2nd discussion question by Day 5
of each week. The post must also meet already established DQ
requirements as stated in the course syllabus. In addition to the
qualitative requirements, each instructor will provide the specific,
in-class, quantitative participation requirements.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) Program
Students must post their initial response to the 1st discussion
question by Day 3, and to the 2nd discussion question by Day 5
of each week. In order to earn full participation points students
must post 1 substantial message on 3 different days of each
course week in addition to actively engaging in the face to face
classroom meetings.
Online Classrooms (Doctoral)
Full participation in the discussion is a key component of the
learning experience. It enriches group interaction and enhances
the doctoral learning environment. To be considered substantive,
a participation post (the initial and the on-going) should average
150 - 250 words in length. The post should include appropriate
foundation knowledge, be factual, enhance the ongoing dialogue,
and include support from scholarly literature. It is for this reason
that a majority of a learners’ substantive participant posts should
include at least one citation. Rather than just reporting what
someone else has stated, the doctoral learner should demonstrate
application and/or reflection of knowledge such that the learner
enhances the meaning of the referenced material. Contributing to
the discussion should promote an exciting, vibrant, shared
learning community that accomplishes two or more of the
following:
• Expands on a classmate’s comments in a value-adding, topic-
related way
• Promotes a collaborative, supportive doctoral community
• Advances the dialogue through follow-up questions
• One-liners, off-topic posts, vague statements, unsupported
opinions, inadequate explanations or posts do not meet the
substantive participation requirements listed above.
Assignment Submissions
All assignments should be submitted through the drop box in the
learning management system as Word documents with extensions
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 74 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
of .doc or .docx unless otherwise indicated in the assignment
description. Written assignments of 500 words or more are
required to be submitted to the LopesWrite drop box before
submitting to the Assignments drop box in the learning
management system, thus allowing students to make adjustments
prior to submitting the final version for grading.
Late Policy
All assignments are due before midnight Arizona time on the due
dates indicated. Assignments posted after the indicated due dates
will be subject to a deduction of 10% of the available points for
each day late. No assignment can be accepted for grading after
midnight on the final day of class. Technical issues are not valid
excuses for late work unless the problem stems from GCU
servers. Exceptions to this policy are at the discretion of the
instructor.
Learning Management System Availability
Grand Canyon University’s online learning management systems
are specifically intended to host classrooms for current and
recently completed classes. Student access to classes will be
removed five (5) weeks following the course end date. It is the
responsibility of each student and faculty member to keep copies
of all files uploaded to the online learning management system.
The University is not responsible to make course content or files
submitted to the online learning management system available to
students or faculty members once the class has been removed.
Missed Class Time for University-Sponsored
Activities
The University recognizes the importance of participation in
University-sponsored activities such as musical and theatrical
performances, athletic competition, and debate. It also
recognizes that such participation may result in conflict with
scheduled class times, including examinations, homework,
quizzes, presentations, activities, participation, etc. It is the
responsibility of participating students to ensure that official
documentation is submitted to their faculty members by the
sponsoring organization/college in advance of the excused
absences.
The University defines an excused absence as a University-
sponsored activity that requires students to miss class. Students
requiring excused absences will be afforded a reasonable
opportunity to make up the affected assignments(s) within two
weeks of the due date. All classwork must be submitted by the
last day of the term. Faculty will provide students with discussion
questions to complete to address missed participation. Students
must complete exams and group assignments on time.
Arrangements for proctoring assignments must be made by the
sponsoring organization/college, in conjunction with the faculty
of the course. Allowing the missed assignment or exam to be
dropped does not constitute a reasonable opportunity.
Specific courses including student teaching, internships, clinical
sessions, or practicums cannot be missed even for University
sanctioned events.
If students fail to provide advanced documentation, instructors
have the discretion to treat the absence as unexcused and to
decline any missed work that was due during that absence. Any
students found to have misrepresented themselves regarding their
participation in University-sponsored activities will be referred to
the University Code of Conduct Committee for possible
disciplinary action.
Participation in NCAA Division 1 Athletics
To be eligible for participation in NCAA Division 1 athletics, a
student must meet one of the following requirements:
• Student is enrolled full-time and matriculated as a degree
seeking undergraduate student taking courses on the Phoenix
campus;
• Student is enrolled as a non-traditional graduate cohort or
graduate online student and lives in the locale of the
institution.
Grade Point Average (GPA)
Progression
Nontraditional Students
When a student earns a grade that drops the overall cumulative
GPA below the undergraduate requirement of 2.0, undergraduate
nursing requirement of 2.5, or the graduate and doctoral
requirement of 3.0, he/she will be placed On Notice. The student
has up to three course attempts to raise the GPA to the respective
requirements. If the student is able to increase the GPA within
three courses, the student will no longer be On Notice. If the
student is unable to raise the GPA after the third course, the
student will be Academically Disqualified for a period of 15
weeks. If this occurs within the first 12 credits of the student’s
program, the First Course Completion and/or the Accepted with
Specifications policy (if applicable) supersede this policy.
Satisfactory Academic Progress
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is defined as a student’s
progress toward successful program completion. SAP
requirements include both qualitative and quantitative
measurements.
• The qualitative component evaluates the enrollment
cumulative GPA against the minimum enrollment GPA
requirement for the program level. Applied transfer credits
have no impact on GPA. Grades of I, D (in bachelor major), W
and F are not considered to be successfully completed.
• The quantitative component evaluates the student's progression
towards completion of the program within a measured
maximum timeframe (MTF) that cannot exceed 150% of the
published length of the program. This requires the student to
successfully complete 67% of their attempted credits in the
semester or payment period, as well as 67% completion for the
overall program. Transfer credits applied to a program count as
both attempted and completed in the quantitative calculation.
• Students who are on SAP Met, SAP Warning or SAP
Probation are eligible for financial aid including Title IV
funding, if otherwise eligible. All students who are on SAP
Probation will receive an Academic Plan. Students in SAP
Suspension are not eligible for financial aid but may appeal to
regain eligibility. Students may also regain FA eligibility by
meeting the SAP requirements at an evaluation point.
SAP calculations are performed at the intervals below and are
calculated using both the enrollment cumulative GPA, and earned
and attempted credit hours at each evaluation period.
• Nontraditional: At the completion of every payment period;
students must successfully complete the credits and weeks in
the payment period.
• Traditional: After final grades are posted for each semester.
Changes in grades after the deadline for posting grades for the
semester or payment period, will be considered in the following
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 75 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
semester or payment period GPA calculation, as applicable to the
student.
SAP statuses include:
• SAP Met
• A 67% completion after the semester or payment period, as
well as 67% completion for the overall program.
And
• Enrollment cumulative GPA in their current program:
o Traditional Students:
▪ 1 to 36.99 credits towards their degree: 1.5 GPA
▪ 37 to 59.99 credits: 1.75 GPA
▪ 60 or more credits towards their degree: 2.00 GPA
o Nontraditional Students
▪ 2.0 for undergraduate level programs and certificates
▪ 3.0 for graduate and doctoral level programs and
certificates
o Students remain eligible for financial aid, if otherwise
eligible.
• SAP Warning
o A student not meeting one or both requirements will be
placed on SAP Warning for the next semester or payment
period. Retaking failed or withdrawn coursework while on
SAP Warning may help students avoid the 15-week
suspension dismissal period. Students remain eligible for
financial aid, if otherwise eligible.
• SAP Suspension
• A student previously on SAP Warning and who continued to
not meet one or both requirements in a subsequent semester
or payment period will be placed in SAP Suspension, will
lose eligibility for student financial aid and be dismissed for
15 weeks, unless they successfully appeal.
• SAP Probation
• Students applying for reinstatement after observing
suspension through an appeal are on SAP Probation and
must adhere to an Academic Plan for the next semester or
payment period, at minimum. Students with extended
Academic Plans will not be dismissed if they continue to
fulfill their Academic Plan each semester or payment period.
Unless otherwise specified, financial aid eligibility is
regained upon reinstatement.
• Students must fulfill the requirements of their Academic
Plan to be updated to SAP Met.
▪ Students may request to change their program during
reinstatement but will be required to:
▪ Retake failed courses that apply to the new program
(i.e., UNV, CWV, applicable general education
coursework).
▪ Meet all terms and conditions of the initial
reinstatement.
▪ Meet any programmatic admissions requirements of the
new program.
▪ Be academically and financially responsible for any
credits previously taken, no longer applied to the new
program.
▪ Enroll in any additional credits needed for the new
program.
• Students that fail to meet overall requirements by the end
of the Academic Plan, will be expelled from the
University for one year.
▪ Students may apply for a final reinstatement through an
appeal after observing the expulsion period. The
Academic Plan process will determine the requirements
as stated above. Unless otherwise specified, financial
aid eligibility is regained upon reinstatement.
▪ Students who do not successfully complete the
Academic Plan upon returning from expulsion will not
be granted any additional attempts to continue and will
be permanently expelled.
• Appealing Suspension:
• Students may file an appeal for a one-time, immediate
reinstatement if they meet the qualifications below:
• Bachelor-level students with a 1.95 GPA or higher, who
can obtain both a 2.0 GPA and 67% completion of the
semester or payment period, as outlined in the Academic
Plan.
• Master and doctoral-level students with a 2.95 GPA or
higher, who can obtain both a 3.0 GPA and 67%
completion of the semester or payment period, as outlined
in the Academic Plan.
• Students granted an immediate reinstatement, waiving the
15-week suspension, who fail to meet the GPA and
completion rate at the next SAP evaluation point will be
expelled for one year.
• Students granted an immediate reinstatement, waiving the
one-year expulsion, who fail to meet the GPA and
completion rate at the next SAP evaluation point will be
permanently expelled.
• SAP Notifications
• Students not meeting SAP are notified via their student
portal and via mail
Baccalaureate Programmatic
Progression Requirements
Honors College Effective for Fall 2024 Students
Upon acceptance into the Honors College, students may remain
enrolled as long as they adhere to the following, which will be
reviewed by the Honors College annually:
1. Maintain an enrollment cumulative GPA of 3.25.
• Students who fail to maintain the enrollment cumulative
GPA requirement will be placed on honors probation for up
to two consecutive semesters in order to remediate the
deficiency. The student’s case will be reviewed at the end of
the probationary period by the Honors Committee to
determine if the student will be dismissed from the Honors
College.
• Students must be off probation and in good academic
standing at the time of graduation to be recognized as an
Honors College graduate.
• Students dismissed from the Honors College for failure to
meet the GPA progression requirement, and are currently
between a 3.0 and 3.24 GPA can appeal for reinstatement
into the Honors College. Appeals for reinstatement are
reviewed on a case by case basis, and must be approved by
the dean.
2. Successfully complete an HON course with a passing “CR”
grade. Students that fail to pass the HON course will be
ineligible to graduate with the Honors College distinction.
3. Successfully complete 28 credits of honors coursework prior to
program of study completion.
4. Refrain from committing Student Code of Conduct violations.
Honors Course Withdrawal
Students wishing to withdraw from their honors course must
follow the Course Drop Policy.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 76 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Honors College Withdrawal
Students wishing to withdraw from their Honors College must
submit a written request to their Student Services Counselor and
the Honors College department.
Colangelo College of Business
Bachelor of Science in Business for Secondary Education (IP/TL)
College of Education
All College of Education Programs
College of Arts and Media
Bachelor of Arts in Music Education (IP/TL)
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Education (IP/TL)
Bachelor of Arts in Dance Education (IP/TL)
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Bachelor of Arts in English for Secondary Education (IP/TL)
Bachelor of Arts in History for Secondary Education (IP/TL)
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics for Secondary Education
(IP/TL)
College of Natural Sciences
Bachelor of Science in Biology for Secondary Education (IP/TL)
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry for Secondary Education
(IP/TL)
Bachelor of Science in Physical Education (IP/TL)
Candidate Fingerprint Clearance
* Candidates beginning a new program of study or non-degree
coursework requiring fingerprint clearance on or after January 1,
2022 will follow the Fingerprint Clearance policy as outlined
below. Also, please note that the following policy is subject to
change as state requirements and policies change frequently.
Therefore, please check with your state’s Department of
Education and Field Experience Counselor to ensure you obtain
the appropriate clearance(s) for practicum/field experience,
student teaching, internships, and certification requirements.
Failure to maintain current and valid fingerprint clearance may
lead to immediate expulsion from the program.
**As such, candidates may need to complete additional
clearances for practicum/field experience, student teaching,
and/or internship placements and/or for certification purposes
based on their state’s requirements. In addition, while candidates
with charges on record may be enrolled in a GCU program,
candidates will be responsible to check with their state’s
department of education regarding the charges and ability to
obtain licensure in that state.
The College of Education’s mission is driven by helping our
candidates find their purpose and calling within education. Our
conceptual framework supports candidates as they learn, lead and
serve in their various schools and communities. In addition, we
value the strong collaboration with our local districts and schools.
The learning and safety of all learners, both college and PK-12
students, is priority for all field experiences in the College of
Education. Therefore, the college must provide candidates who
are background cleared and classroom ready in all aspects. To
achieve this, each candidate is required to have and maintain
current and valid fingerprint clearance for the duration of their
program.
Prior to participation in any course that requires fingerprint
clearance, candidates must provide their Field Experience
Counselor with copies of current and valid fingerprint
clearance(s) as outlined below. It is the candidate’s responsibility
to meet the state’s requirements necessary for certification and
employment.
Current fingerprint clearance: Fingerprint clearance
documents submitted to the Field Experience Counselor that
include an expiration date may only be approved if the date is
still current and will need to be renewed at the time of expiration.
If the fingerprint clearance document does not include an
expiration date, the obtainment date of fingerprint clearance must
be less than one year old at the time of submission and less than
four years old throughout the duration of the program.
• If a candidate is out of attendance greater than 180 days and the
expiration date on the fingerprint clearance on file has passed, the
candidate will need to supply a new fingerprint clearance with an
obtainment date that is less than one year old at the time of re-
entry.
• Valid fingerprint clearance: Fingerprint clearance documents
submitted to the Field Experience Counselor must be in
alignment with the required documentation listed in the policy
below. This includes, but is not limited to, submitting required
fingerprint clearance documentation that is free of any charges.If
a candidate submits a fingerprint clearance showing charges
(with the exception of a misdemeanor driving under the influence
charge), the candidate’s background may be subject to further
review. While under review, the candidate may be denied
admission or progression into courses requiring fingerprint
clearance (ex. Courses containing practicum/field experience,
student teaching, internships, etc.).
Required Fingerprint Clearance Documentation –
Advanced/Graduate Programs (Non-Licensure and
Educational Administration):
For those candidates that are enrolled into an advanced non-
licensure program one of the following must be on file:
• Arizona Department of Public Safety Identify Verified Prints
(IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card or state-specific clearance
• Federal Background Check
• Current and valid teaching certificate
Please note, if a candidate changes enrollment to a licensure
program, the candidate may need to provide additional clearances
in alignment with the Required Fingerprint Clearance
Documentation – Initial Teacher Licensure Programs and
Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies policy.
Required Fingerprint Clearance Documentation – Initial
Teacher Licensure Programs and Bachelor of Science in
Educational Studies (Please check with your state’s Department
of Education and Field Experience Counselor to ensure you
obtain the appropriate clearance and certification requirements):
For those candidates that are enrolled into an initial teacher
licensure program one of the following must be on file:
An Arizona Department of Public Safety Identity Verified
Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card will be required for:
• Candidates located in Arizona, completing practicum/field
experiences, student teaching, and/or internships or seeking
certification in Arizona are required to obtain and submit AZ IVP
FPC.
• Out of state candidates seeking to certify in Arizona prior to
certifying in another state are required to obtain and submit an
AZ IVP FPC prior to student teaching but may submit an FBI or
state-specific background check prior to practicum/field
experience.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 77 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Candidates who have provided state mandated fingerprint
clearance showing any types of charges (with the exception of a
misdemeanor driving under the influence charge) – see
Explanation of Charges section below.
An Arizona Department of Public Safety Identity Verified
Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card and a state-specific
fingerprint clearance will be required for:
• Candidates located in states that require a state-mandated
clearance and require certification through Arizona
State-Specific Clearance will be required for:
• Candidates located in states that require a state-mandated
clearance
If none of the above applies, an FBI check will be required for:
• Candidates located in states where the state’s mandated
fingerprint clearance is not shareable with the University
• Candidates located in states that do not certify in Arizona and
do not have a state-specific fingerprint clearance
• Out of state candidates seeking to certify in Arizona prior to
certifying in another state are required to obtain and submit an
AZ IVP FPC prior to student teaching but may submit an FBI or
state-specific background check prior to practicum/field
experience.
Disclosure of Charges (All Programs - Initial Teacher
Licensure Programs, Bachelor of Science in Educational
Studies and Advanced Programs)
• All candidates are required to disclose charges that occur(ed)
prior to and throughout enrollment in any College of Education
program
o If candidates do not disclose prior charges upon admission,
candidates’ background will be subject to internal review
that may lead to University Code of Conduct referral. This
may result in further disciplinary action (i.e. expulsion from
the program).
o If candidates are charged with a felony or misdemeanor
while in the program, even if charges are pending,
dismissed, amended, or the candidate entered into a
diversion agreement, candidates are obligated to report the
charge(s) to their Field Experience Counselor within 15 days
of the charge(s) occurring. Candidates’ background will be
subject to internal review that may lead to University Code
of Conduct referral. This may result in further disciplinary
action (i.e. expulsion from the program).
o Failure to disclose charges may lead to immediate expulsion
from the program.
• Please note, while candidates with charges on record may be
enrolled in a GCU program, candidates will be responsible to
check with their state’s department of education regarding the
charges and ability to obtain licensure in that state.
Procedure for Program Progression with Charges
In the event that admission to Grand Canyon University’s
College of Education is denied as a candidate is charged with of
one or more offense listed in A.R.S. 41-1758.03 is located in
Title 41, Chapter 12, Article 3.1 of the Arizona Revised Statutes
(https://www.azleg.gov/ars/41/01758-03.htm), or the candidate
has or obtains any other charge on their record (with the
exception of a misdemeanor driving under the influence charge),
the candidate will be required to follow the process below:
• Apply for an Identity Verified Prints (IVP) Fingerprint
Clearance Card from the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
(Should the fingerprint clearance card be denied, see section
below.)
• Provide Grand Canyon University with copies of the Arizona
Department of Public Safety Identity Verified Prints (IVP)
Fingerprint Clearance Card for reconsideration of admission.
If an AZ IVP FPC is denied, the candidate will need to follow
the below process.
• Petition the Arizona Board of Fingerprinting for a good cause
exception. More information regarding the application and
process for a good cause exception can be found at the Arizona
Board of Fingerprinting website.
o If the Arizona Board of Fingerprinting approves the
good cause exception, a fingerprint clearance card will
be issued. (Should the Arizona Board of Fingerprinting
deny the good cause exception, a fingerprint clearance
card will not be issued, and the applicant will be denied
admission. (This decision cannot be appealed.)
• Provide Grand Canyon University with copies of the Arizona
(IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card and the documentation
provided by the Investigation Unit of the Arizona Department of
Education for reconsideration of admission.
• Admission or progression into a College of Education program
is not guaranteed
Advanced Programs – Non-Licensure
For those candidates that are enrolling into an advanced non-
licensure program and have been charged with one or more
offenses listed in R.S. 41-1758.03 is located in Title 41, Chapter
12, Article 3.1 of the Arizona Revised Statutes
(https://www.azleg.gov/ars/41/01758-03.htm), or the candidate
has or obtains any other charge (with the exception of a driving
under the influence charge) on their record, the candidate will
need to provide:
• AZ IVP
OR both of the following:
• Current and valid teaching certificate
• Verification of current employment on school letterhead with
authorized district representative signature (i.e. human resources,
superintendent, principal, etc.)
College of Education Practicum/Field Experience Expectations
Practicum/field experiences are field-based learning opportunities
that focus on observation, application, and reflection.
Practicum/field experiences require the candidate to spend a
prescribed amount of time in real-life classroom settings to
demonstrate competency with predetermined activities that are
aligned to professional standards in the field of education.
Approved Practicum/Field Experience Settings
Candidates must complete practicum/field experiences in the
approved settings with a certified and/or qualified teacher as
referenced in program coursework and Clinical Field Experience
Handbook. Settings must align to programmatic grade levels and
content areas. Practicum/field experiences must be completed in
a traditional in-person or approved virtual school site settings.
Candidates are expected to mirror mentor teacher’s instructional
modality. Virtual setting options are not guaranteed. Utilizing
recorded video in lieu of completing hours in the approved
settings is not permitted with the exception of a temporary
accommodation requested and approved with the Office of
Student Disability Services. Accommodation approval for the use
of recorded video is not guaranteed and would not be acceptable
for the full duration of a candidate’s program.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 78 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Paid Practicum/Field Experience Opportunities
Practicum/field experience is traditionally an unpaid experience.
The College of Education does not solicit, source, or guarantee
paid practicum/field experience opportunities. If interested in
paid opportunities, it is the candidate’s responsibility to secure
employment and adhere to all state, district/school site and
university regulations and policies. Candidates who are currently
in paid education positions (such as paraprofessional, teacher aid,
teacher of record, substitute teacher, administrator, etc.) may be
able to complete practicum/field experience hours in their paid
role if all the below requirements are met:
• The setting aligns with the setting required in the candidate’s
program of study.
• The candidate has an appropriately certified mentor available
at the school site to sign and verify hours on appropriate
forms/documentation.
• The candidate is able to fulfill all practicum/field experience
expectations, including the ability to complete all course
assignments, requirements, etc.
• The candidate obtains approval from the district/school site
and course instructor.
• The paid experience is not in any violation of any
district/school, state, or federal policy, regulation, or law.
Utilizing paid positions to complete practicum/field experience
hours is also at the discretion of the district/school site.
Candidates are expected to adhere to all district/school site
policies. In addition, candidates requesting to utilize a paid
position to complete practicum/field experience hours must
obtain approval from their course instructor to ensure alignment
to coursework. Candidates utilizing paid positions cannot act as
their own mentor. Candidates must have an appropriate mentor or
school site administrator verify the completion of hours on the
Clinical Field Experience Verification Form
Course Expectations for Practicum/Field Experiences
Candidates engaging in practicum/field experiences must also be
active in a practicum/field experience course/block or in a
documented college-approved plan to complete practicum/field
experience hours in the field. Candidates must have current/valid
fingerprint clearance(s) on file with their Field Experience
Counselor prior to starting any fingerprint clearance required
course. Please see Candidate Fingerprint Clearance policy.
• Candidates must complete all required practicum/field
experience hours within the program of study. Failure to
complete all practicum/field experience hours required within
the program of study may result in ineligibility for the student
teaching portion of the program, delays in program
progression, and/or delays or ineligibility for Institutional
Recommendation (IR). Please see the Requirements for
Institutional Recommendation (Initial Program/Teacher
Licensure Only) policy.
• Practicum/field experience hours are mutually exclusive.
Candidates must complete all required hours for each course or
block – “double-dipping” or reusing practicum/field
experience hours will not be allowed.
• Candidates that receive a non-passing grade in a
practicum/field experience course must redo their
practicum/field experience hours and documentation of the
hours on the verification form in the retake of the course.
• Verification forms for practicum/field experiences are to be
completed by site mentors. Candidates who falsify hours will
be referred to the Office of Academic Compliance for further
review.
• If referred to the Office of Academic Compliance, candidates
are required to adhere to University and College
determinations related to practicum/field experience including,
but not limited to, redoing the completion of practicum/field
experience hours and appropriate documentation,
acknowledging that site placement is not guaranteed,
acknowledging that any penalty received in a course or
program of study will stand as issued by the course instructor
or by the Code of Conduct Committee.
Program Specific Expectations for Practicum/Field Experience
Candidates are encouraged to be proactive regarding the selection
of appropriate practicum/field experience placement settings.
Each course/block outlines appropriate practicum/field
experience settings. Candidates are responsible for completing
hours in settings that align with the grade levels and content areas
associated with their program of study and intended certification.
Candidates in all programs may refer to the appropriate Field
Experience Handbook and additional resources in the Student
Success Center.
The programs below include additional specifications,
requirements, and settings regarding practicum/field experience.
• Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education
Teacher Candidates enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in
Early Childhood Education or the Bachelor of Science in Early
Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education
program, who are completing practicum/field experiences in
Arizona, are required to submit a completed Student
Information Release Form (SIRF) and proof of immunization
and/or immunity from Tuberculosis (TB).
Candidates are required to complete an early childhood
practicum application 8 weeks prior to the start date and will
receive placement assistance from their assigned Field
Experience Counselor.
• Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and Early
Childhood Special Education
Teacher Candidates enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in
Early Childhood Education or the Bachelor of Science in Early
Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education
program, who are completing practicum/field experiences in
Arizona, are required to submit a completed Student
Information Release Form (SIRF) and proof of immunization
and/or immunity from Tuberculosis (TB).
In addition to the practicum/field experience hours throughout
their regular coursework, candidates enrolled in the Bachelor
of Science in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood
Special Education will complete two practicum courses that
require University placement. Candidates must refer to their
program of study and Field Experience Counselor for more
information.
Candidates are required to complete an early childhood/early
childhood special education practicum application 8 weeks
prior to the start date and will receive placement assistance
from their assigned Field Experience Counselor. Candidates
are not permitted to take Practicum I and Practicum II
concurrently.
Placement Expectations for Practicum/Field Experience,
Student Teaching, and Internships
The following section seeks to address responsibilities and
expectations for candidates in the College of Education who are
in school districts, schools and placement settings during a
practicum/field experience, student teaching, or internship
experience. The statements are designed to be reflective of the
fundamental principles and values that are desired of a candidate
and his/her professional and personal conduct in field settings. In
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 79 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
addition to all University conduct policies, the conduct
expectations clarify conduct unbecoming of an education
candidate, and thus are subject to disciplinary action.
Candidates in the College of Education represent GCU’s
missional, Christ-centered values and are expected to abide by
ethical, professional, and academic standards for professional
educators. These expectations include, but are not limited to the
expectation that the candidate:
• Gives appropriate attention to college programmatic and site
placement work requirements
• Attends class and engagements as required by the college and
site placement
• Acknowledges and accepts the responsibility of honorable
adherence to the university’s and site placement’s standards,
rules, policies, and procedures
• Follows all dress code requirements set by placement site(s)
• Supports and exhibits ethical behavior with students, faculty,
staff, school placement personnel, and the community
• Recognizes and embraces the diversity and personal values of
others
• Exhibits self-direction and self-reliance as a college student
and in the pursuit of individual and collaborative learning
objectives and goals
• Acknowledges and accepts personal responsibility and
accountability for his or her actions, interactions, and
communication in all forms with students, faculty, staff, site
placement personnel, and the community
• Upholds confidentiality and respect for personal or
professional information communicated in the placement
classroom
• Represents themselves solely in all matters related to
performance, evaluation, assessments, disciplinary action, etc.
• Adheres to college dispositional expectations, essential
elements and functions for educations, policies, and standards
of academic honesty
Essential Elements for Teachers
• Safely navigate the classroom /placement site and follow all
safety protocols as outlined by the placement site.
• Effectively communicate with students, parents, and peers
• Complete all tasks in the designated time
• Make effective crisis management decisions based on
placement site policies and procedures
• Ability to handle a full classroom of students as assigned
o Awareness of student needs
• Lead a classroom for the full contracted teacher work day. This
includes:
o Student Contact time
o Teacher Contract time
• Act as a professional regarding:
o Timeliness
o Preparedness
o Hygiene and professional dress
o Transportation to and from the school site
• Communicate in appropriate standard language for the setting
(written and verbal)
• Maintain collegial relationships in the work/classroom
environment
Essential Functions Motor/Physical/Cognitive Strength for
Teachers
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Possess the physical
strength and mobility to safely carry out teaching procedures
and provide routine direction to students of all ages in all
assigned school settings.
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Use professional
awareness to make accurate student assessments and
judgments.
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Accurately assess student
progress and any needed information specific to student
development.
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Develop mature, sensitive
and effective relationships with individuals, families and
groups of various social, emotional, cultural and intellectual
backgrounds; adhere to GCU policies, procedures and
requirements as described in the Clinical Practice/Student
Teaching Manual, Faculty/Employee Handbook, University
Policy Handbook and demonstrate ethical behavior, including
adherence to professional and university honor codes.
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Communicate effectively
and accurately in standard language using speech, reading,
writing, language skills, and computer literacy. The use of
appropriate nonverbal communication is also essential.
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Collect, analyze,
prioritize, integrate, and generalize information and knowledge
to make sound judgments and decisions to promote positive
student outcomes.
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Adhere to classroom and
placement schedules, submit all course and placement
expectations in a timely manner.
• A teacher candidate must be able to: meet all health and safety
requirements to perform duties in assigned school settings.
o School/placement sites may have health and safety
requirements in addition to required GCU screenings.
Dispositional Expectations
• High Expectations- Educators should believe that all students
can learn and should set and support realistic expectations for
student success.
• Respect for the Diversity of Others- Educators should be
sensitive to individual learning and social needs of students
and embrace the cultural diversity of the community.
• Fairness- Educators should promote social justice and equity,
maintain appropriate standards of confidentiality, and exercise
fairness in all areas including assessment.
• Professional Conduct- Educators should exercise sound
judgment and ethical behavior. They should be a positive role
model within their community.
• Reflection- Educators should recognize that reflection
combined with experience leads to growth as a professional.
Educators should be thoughtful about their professional
practice, critically examine it, and seek continual
improvement.
• Curiosity- Educators should promote and support curiosity and
encourage active inquiry. They should be able to think
innovatively and creatively, using critical thinking as a
problem-solving approach.
• Honesty- Educators should model integrity by their words and
actions. They should be forthright with others and uphold high
standards of trust, character, and integrity.
• Compassion- Educators should demonstrate professional
friendliness, warmth, and genuine caring in their relationships
with others while providing intellectual, emotional, and
spiritual support.
• Advocacy- Teachers understand the impact of community
involvement and servant leadership as it applies to the welfare
of others in the educational setting.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 80 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Dedication- Educators should be committed to the profession
of teaching and learning. They should be professionally active,
lifelong learners and seek opportunities for professional
development.
Clinical Practice Expectation Violations
The following violations clarify conduct unbecoming of Teacher
Candidates in the College of Education. Teacher Candidates are
expected not to engage in such action while in a clinical setting at
a school or school district. The following is a non-exhaustive list
of actions that are considered clinical practice conduct violations,
for which Teacher Candidates are subjected to disciplinary action
up to and including expulsion from the University. If teacher
candidates are found eligible to continue with the program,
Clinical Practice can only be repeated once.
• Falsification, forgery, alteration, or invention of information,
including, but not limited to, any document used for admission
or eligibility to the university, document related to:
o Admission or eligibility to Clinical Practice
o Information regarding the site placement school, the
district and/or personnel
o Information regarding students
o Information regarding curriculum content in the
classroom
• Disruptive behavior in any form that creates a hostile or
offensive educational environment for a student, Cooperating
Teacher, GCU Faculty Supervisor, faculty or staff
o Threatening to harm or endanger the safety of any
individual in the practicum/field experience setting
o Threatening statements, behaviors, acts of violence or
corporal punishment against any individual in the
practicum/field experience setting
• Failure to comply promptly with any reasonable directive from
a Cooperating Teacher, GCU Faculty Supervisors, GCU
course instructor, or staff
• Failure to cooperate with an investigation
• Possession, use, distribution, or behavior under the influence
of alcohol or illegal or banned drugs or substances while on
school property, or as part of any school-related activity
• Communication orally, in writing, or by use of any
technological device, including, and not limited to any phone
or computer device, outside the classroom in a manner that
could be perceived as inappropriate by any member of the site
placement school, its extended community or university
• Failure to maintain a professional approach to personal
relationships with the students or the school community
members
College of Education Professional Practice Committee (PPC)
and Personal Improvement Plan (PIP)
GCU’s College of Education does not employ districts and
therefore does not have any jurisdiction of districts’ placement
discretion or termination of placement. Candidates are guests at
placement sites and must follow all site policies and expectations.
In the case a candidate has an unsuccessful attempt at student
teaching or educational administration internships the candidate
may be reviewed by the College of Education’s Professional
Practices Committee (PPC). The COE’s PPC reviews
unsuccessful attempts (i.e., cancellation of confirmed placements,
terminations, self-terminations and/or course failures) at student
teaching and the educational administration internship determines
all college-level remediation or sanctions, and/or
recommendation for further university-level review. The College
of Education’s PPC reviews all documentation, including the
candidate’s response to the attempt, and will make a
determination on the next steps regarding program progression.
The University does not discriminate based on disability in the
course of administering discipline. A student with a disability
who is subject to disciplinary proceedings may request an
accommodation for their disability and the University will engage
in the interactive process upon such a request.
• To receive accommodations through the University, students
are required to self-identify by completing the Accommodation
Request Form and provide supporting documentation to
Student Disability Services. Only the SDS Office can approve
accommodations.
o Students can submit the accommodation request form at
https://sds.gcu.edu or in person in the SDS office.
o Supporting documentation can be submitted via email to
[email protected] or submitted through the link
while completing the Accommodation Request Form.
• All requests for disability accommodations in student
disciplinary proceedings are subject to an individualized
determination. Whether such a request is reasonable and/or
would be a fundamental alteration of the University’s
disciplinary policies is determined on a case-by-case basis after
evaluation of appropriate documentation.
• Students should refer to the Steps to Accommodations policy
for the appropriate steps and documentation requirements.
To allow the SDS Office sufficient time for processing, requests
for disability accommodations in any disciplinary process should
be submitted immediately upon receipt of notification from the
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Possible outcomes for candidates referred to the College of
Education’s PPC may include but are not limited to:
• Removal from the student teaching or educational
administration internship course(s).
• Awarding a failing grade for the student teaching or
educational administration internship course(s).
• Awarding the grade earned in the student teaching or
educational administration internship course(s).
• Awarding a “W” (withdraw) grade in the student teaching or
educational administration internship course(s).
• Successful completion of required college-level coaching.
• Successful completion of a Personal Improvement Plan (PIP).
• Replacement in a new student teaching placement site.*
• Replacement in a new student teaching placement site after the
completion of a PIP.
• Referral to the University’s Code of Conduct Committee
Office of Academic Compliance for further review.
An unsuccessful attempt at student teaching or the educational
administration internship may have financial implications. It is
the candidate’s responsibility to contact their assigned Student
Services Counselor to discuss any financial matters as a result of
an unsuccessful student teaching or educational administration
internship attempt and/or future course repeat(s).
*Replacement at a new student teaching placement site is
contingent upon several factors (e.g., placement site
availability/approval, required remediation, etc.) and is not
guaranteed.
Personal Improvement Plan (PIP)
If required by the Professional Practices Committee, a Personal
Improvement Plan (PIP) must be successfully completed to be
eligible for a second and final attempt at student teaching. The
PIP is personalized one-on-one support to assist teacher
candidates in their second attempt in the student teaching
experience. Throughout the PIP, the Teacher Candidate will work
with a College of Education faculty/staff member to reflect on
and remediate any areas of opportunity and growth. Please refer
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 81 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
to the College of Education Student Teaching Manual for
additional information.
Basic Skills and Content Area Exams (Initial Program/Teacher
Licensure Only) Effective Fall 2025
College of Education Certification/Licensure Pathway
Grand Canyon University has determined the certification path
for each program and state combination (e.g., Bachelor of
Science in Elementary Education in Arizona; Master of
Education in Special Education in Georgia, etc.). Candidates’
location, and/or Intent to Certify State, is used to determine the
pathway GCU requires for the candidate to become a program
completer. Licensure paths were identified by GCU based on:
• Federal Regulations
• Arizona State Board of Education and Arizona Department of
Education program approvals
• Arizona Private Post-Secondary Education
• State postsecondary entities
• State licensing requirements for student location or student
intent for certification
Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation
(AAQEP) approvals
GCU policy
The general public can see individual state/program requirements
on GCU.edu, on the program pages. Candidates are provided
state/program disclosure information in the enrollment agreement
based on their location (See Location) and/or Intent to Certify
State. There are two pathways GCU candidates use to obtain a
teaching license:
• Direct Certify: Candidate will complete the coursework,
practicum, student teaching, exams as determined by GCU,
and complete the associated state certification process.
• Certify through Arizona Reciprocity: Candidate will complete
the coursework, practicum, student teaching, exams, as
determined by GCU, and submit to Arizona for licensure.
Candidate will then take their Arizona license and apply to
their state location, or the state they indicated they would be
certified in for reciprocity.
State licensing requirements may change without prior notice,
and such changes are beyond the control of Grand Canyon
University. GCU will notify candidates of any licensure changes
for their location and/or Intent to Certify State, within 14 days of
determination.
Candidates considering relocating, or candidates that have
relocated to another state or outside of the United States during
their program, whether relocation is permanent or temporary,
may not be able to complete their program of study and/or
achieve certification. Candidates should contact their Student
Services Counselor immediately to determine whether their
Program of Study is available in the new location.
College of Education Licensure Exam Requirements
Teacher and Principal Candidates enrolled in an initial teacher or
principal licensure program must pass required educator exams,
as determined by Grand Canyon University for the program/state
combination in which the candidate is located and/or Intent to
Certify State before they can be considered a program completer,
even if coursework is completed. This may include
programmatically required exams, program- and certification-
aligned state-mandated basic skills exams and/or content
knowledge exams (also known as subject knowledge exams),
professional knowledge exams, or principal exams. GCU utilizes
content knowledge exam/subject knowledge exams and
licensure/certification interchangeably. Other states may utilize
varying terminology. This policy applies to all initial teacher
licensure and principal licensure programs.
Candidates must submit exam scores to their Field Experience
Counselor. Exams will be accepted as passed only if the official
score report documents a passing score (‘pass’ or ‘passed’).
Candidates must attempt all required exams as determined by
Grand Canyon University for the program/state combination in
which the Candidate is located and/or intending to certify.
Candidates must refer to the matrix below and their Field
Experience Counselor for certification exam requirements and
timelines.
GCU course exams are not substitutable for state certification
exams. Candidates should refer to GCU.edu and their enrollment
agreement for exam requirements.
College of Education Licensure Exam Requirements
Certification
Path
Prior to
Admission
Prior to Student
Teaching
Prior to
Graduation
Initial Teacher Licensure Programs
Certify
Through
Arizona
Reciprocity
& Direct
Certify
N/A Passing state
basic skills (if
applicable) and
content
knowledge
exam(s) scores
Passing state
professional
knowledge exam
scores
Direct
Certify:
Provisional
License with
Deficiencies
(Exam
Deferral)
N/A Passing state
basic skills (if
applicable) and
content
knowledge
exam(s) scores
OR
Deferement
acknowledgement
Passing state
professional
knowledge exams
scores*
OR
Deferment
acknowledgement
Alternative
Preparation
Program:
Canyon
L.E.A.P. to
Teach
Content
knowledge
exam(s)
N/A-no student
teaching
requirement
Passing state
professional
knowledge exams
scores
Education Administration – Principal Licensure
Certification
Path
Prior to
Admission
Prior to
Internship
Prior to
Graduation
Certify
Through
Arizona
Reciprocity
& Direct
Certify
N/A N/A Passing state
administrator
exams
* Professional knowledge exams (PKE) are not required for
states that do not have a specific PKE requirement for
certification.
Candidates must pass all program- and certification-required
basic skills, content knowledge, professional knowledge, and/or
principal exams prior to completing the program and being
recommended for graduation. GCU will not issue an Institutional
Recommendation (IR) until all required exams, coursework, and
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 82 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
all other graduation requirements are met to satisfy program
completion
Performance-Based Assessments (Initial Program/Teacher
Licensure Only)
Some states may require additional Teacher Performance
Assessments (TPA) such as edTPA. These performance-based
assessments are student-centered and are used to measure a
candidate's teaching knowledge and skills. Depending on the
individual state's requirements, the assessment may include tasks
related to skills including, but not limited to, reflection of
practice, designing and implementing instruction, and analysis
and planning from assessments and data.
If a performance-based assessment is required for certification in
a candidate’s state of residence, GCU expects the completion of
portfolio items specified in the assessment during the candidate’s
completion of student teaching. Candidates are advised to consult
with their Field Experience Counselor (FEC) to discuss if a
specific performance assessment is required for their state.
Eligibility for Student Teaching (Initial Program/Teacher
Licensure Only)
1. Possess a current/valid Fingerprint Clearance Card or
background check. Teacher Candidates certifying through
Arizona must have an Arizona Department of Public Safety
IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card.
2. Successfully complete all coursework, including documented
practicum/field experience hours, within the program of study.
3. Pass the state-specified basic skills and content area exams or
GCU specific content exam, if applicable for academic
program, prior to applying for the clinical practice/student
teaching experience.
4. Maintain a minimum GPA of a 2.8 (undergrad) or 3.0
(graduate) as required for clinical practice/student teaching.
5. Review program progression and academic/financial eligibility
with your assigned Student Services Counselor and student
teaching clearance with your Field Experience Counselor.
Clinical practice/student teaching may only be repeated once
during the Teacher Candidate’s time at Grand Canyon
University.
If a Teacher Candidate has an unsuccessful clinical
practice/student teaching attempt within an Institutional
Recommendation (IR) program and then enrolls into another IR
program, the Teacher Candidate will need to appeal to the
College of Education to student teach for a second and final
attempt.
Candidates seeking to complete student teaching outside of a full
program of study as a single course(s) must meet fingerprint
clearance as outlined in the Candidate Fingerprint Clearance
policy and educator certification exam requirements. In addition,
candidates are responsible for reviewing and meeting all
requirements for certification outlined by state departments of
education.
Application for Student Teaching (Initial Program/Teacher
Licensure Only)
In order to apply for clinical practice/student teaching, the
Teacher Candidate must be meeting all clinical practice/student
teaching eligibility requirements.
The Student Teaching Application is provided by the Teacher
Candidate’s assigned Field Experience Counselor (FEC).
The Student Teaching Application deadlines are as follows:
Traditional (Ground) Students
• November 1st is the deadline for the Fall Clinical Practice
(Student Teaching) experience
• May 1st is the deadline for the Spring Clinical Practice
(Student Teaching) experience
Non-Traditional (Online) Students
• February 1st is the deadline for the Fall Clinical Practice
(Student Teaching) experience
• August 1st is the deadline for the Spring Clinical Practice
(Student Teaching) experience
No exceptions will be made to these deadlines.
Student Teaching (Initial Program/Teacher Licensure Only)
Student teaching is the capstone experience at the end of the
initial teacher licensure program that provides candidates with the
opportunity to demonstrate mastery of knowledge and skills in a
classroom setting.
Teacher Candidates must meet all eligibility requirements prior to
progressing into student teaching. Taken at the conclusion of all
coursework, student teaching requires 15-16 consecutive weeks
(dependent on Teacher Candidate’s program of study) of full day
(Monday-Friday) placement with a COE approved Cooperating
Teacher/Mentor. A Cooperating Teacher/Mentor must hold a
current/valid certification in the area which aligns with the
Teacher Candidate’s program of study, a Master degree or
exceptional experience, have a minimum of three years teaching
experience, full recommendation of the building
principal/administrator and desire and ability to work
cooperatively with the Teacher Candidate.
Student teaching full days consists of the following:
• Student Contact time: any instructional classroom time
spent directly with students.
• Teacher Contract time: any function at the cooperating
school site(s) that the contracted teacher is required to
attend. This includes prep time and professional
development.
• District holidays/inclement weather days are not to be
counted.
Student teaching requires a full takeover for a minimum of 50%
of the experience (i.e. 4 weeks of full take over for an 8-week
course and 8 weeks for a 15/16-week course). During this time,
Teacher Candidates will assume all teaching duties and
responsibilities necessary for effective teaching of students
without endangering the health and safety of the individual or
others. Essential functions of the teaching profession include
effectively leading the classroom and ensuring student learning.
Refer to the College of Education Student Teaching Manual for
additional information.
Student teaching is completed in the Fall or Spring semesters;
and is required for an Institutional Recommendation (IR).
Teacher Candidates looking to complete student teaching in the
summer may contact their assigned FEC to discuss eligibility.
Student teaching may only be repeated once in the course of the
Teacher Candidate’s time at Grand Canyon University.
Student Teaching Placement Requirements (Initial
Program/Teacher Licensure Only)
Student teaching must be completed in a brick-and-mortar school
(Candidates requesting to complete student teaching in a virtual
school setting must refer to their Teacher Placement Counselor.
Requests to complete student teaching in a virtual setting are
reviewed on a case-by-case basis and not guaranteed.). Student
teaching must be completed in a public-school setting or a
licensed/accredited nonpublic school setting. Teacher
Candidate’s site placement must align with the Teacher
Candidate’s program of study. Placement preferences will be
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 83 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
honored, if possible and/or feasible. However, the University
reserves the right to make assignments or adjustments deemed to
be in the Teacher Candidate’s best interest and the interest of
other involved parties. Student teaching cannot be completed at a
school site where a relative is employed or the Teacher Candidate
has children who attend the school.
GCU’s College of Education does not employ districts and
therefore does not have any jurisdiction of districts’ placement
discretion or termination of placement. Teacher Candidates are
guests at placement sites and must follow all site policies and
expectations, including but not limited to FERPA, digital
privacy/communication, social media, fingerprint clearance, etc.
Refer to the College of Education Student Teaching Manual for
additional information.
Paid Student Teaching (Initial Program/Teacher Licensure Only)
Student teaching is traditionally an unpaid experience. The
College of Education does not solicit, source, or guarantee paid
student teaching opportunities. It is the Teacher Candidate’s
responsibility to secure employment. Teacher Candidates may
have the opportunity to student teach in the classroom(s) in which
they are employed as the full-time teacher of record,
paraprofessionals/teacher aides/substitutes if:
• the setting aligns with the setting required in the Teacher
Candidate’s program of study
• the Teacher Candidate has an appropriately certified mentor
available at the school site
• the Teacher Candidate is able to fulfill all student teaching
expectations, including the ability to have full take over for the
minimum required time.
Teacher Candidates requesting to student teach in a paid position
must complete additional documentation that requires written
approval from the placement site administrator. Requests to
student teach in a paid position are reviewed by the College on a
case-by-case basis and are not guaranteed. Teacher Candidates
should reach out to their assigned Field Experience Counselor or
Teacher Placement Counselor for more information.
Requirements for an Institutional Recommendation (Educator
Licensure)
Institutional Recommendations (IRs) are issued for teaching,
principal, and school counseling programs that lead to initial
licensure in Arizona. (Other states may refer to this as a program
verification form, college verification form, etc.) The IR confirms
that a candidate has met all requirements, including successful
student teaching or internships, for the program of study that has
been approved by the Arizona State Board of Education. It is the
candidate’s responsibility to determine the specific requirements
needed (i.e., basic skills/content knowledge exams, professional
knowledge exams, principal exams, and/or fingerprint clearance,
etc.) to obtain a certificate in their intended state of certification.
Arizona IRs can be issued only within 45 days of a candidate’s
graduation date; otherwise, the candidate will need to apply by
way of a transcript analysis to determine if certification criteria
have been met. An Arizona IR is valid for one year from the date
it is signed.
All candidates seeking an IR for any educator license in their
intended state of licensure are responsible for determining state
specific deadlines and requirements, and must complete the
programmatic and state licensure requirements needed for an IR.
These requirements which include but are not limited to
verification of current/valid fingerprint clearance, passing scores
on basic skills, content and professional knowledge exams, and
successful completion of practicum/field experiences, and/or
student teaching or internships in the approved setting(s).
Candidates seeking a transfer to a non-institutional
recommendation (non-IR) program will no longer be eligible for
an institutional recommendation (IR) and may not be eligible for
certification/licensure. Candidates must reach out to their
assigned Student Services Counselor (SSC) for questions
regarding program changes.
Candidates should refer to their Field Experience Counselor for
additional support regarding the IR process.
Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies
Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies to Master of Arts in
Curriculum & Instruction (MAT) Fast Track
Candidates applying for secondary admission to the Bachelor of
Science in Educational Studies to Master of Arts in Curriculum &
Instruction (MAT) Fast Track program must understand and
follow all College of Education and University policies as
outlined in the University Policy Handbook and any subsequent
College handbooks for program admission, progression, and
graduation. Candidates should note the pathway’s academic rigor
and time commitment requirements of this program pathway.
Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies to Master of Arts in
Curriculum & Instruction (MAT) Fast Track application
requirements:
• Enrollment in the Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies
program
• Possession of a 3.25 enrollment cumulative GPA at the time
program credits are completed
• Completion of the Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies
to Master of Arts in Curriculum & Instruction (MAT) Fast-
Track Request Form
• Have no more than 30 alternative credits in degree program
including the 9 credits from an Alternative Certification
Program (ACP)
• Use a GCU approved Alternate Certification Program
Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies to Master of Arts in
Curriculum & Instruction (MAT) Fast Track Completion
Requirements:
Once approved, candidates must complete all applicable program
coursework within the ACP program. Upon completion of the
coursework, the candidate will request a letter from their ACP
stating that the coursework has been satisfactorily completed.
After GCU receives this official letter, candidates will be
awarded nine (9) elective credits.
Candidates will receive the three courses (9 credits) upon
successfully completing their ACP coursework and providing
GCU with an official letter from the ACP: TCH-520: Brain-
Based Learning, EDU-524: Culturally Responsive Curriculum
and Instruction, and EDU-554: Methods of Instruction and
Assessment.
Please be advised the Fast-Track Request Form is only available
for the program listed above. Candidates electing to no longer
pursue the Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies to Master
of Arts in Curriculum & Instruction (MAT) Fast-Track option
must contact their Student Services Advisor and enroll in
undergraduate elective credits per graduation requirements.
Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies to Master of Arts
in Reading Education (MAT) Fast Track
Candidates applying for secondary admission to the Bachelor of
Science in Educational Studies to Master of Arts in Reading
Education (MAT) Fast Track program must understand and
follow all College of Education and University policies as
outlined in the University Policy Handbook and any subsequent
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 84 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
College handbooks for program admission, progression, and
graduation. Candidates should note the pathway’s academic rigor
and time commitment requirements of this program pathway.
Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies to Master of Arts in
Reading Education (MAT) Fast Track Application Requirements:
• Enrollment in the Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies
program
• Possession of a 3.25 enrollment cumulative GPA at the time
program credits are completed
• Completion of the Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies
to Master of Arts in Reading Education (MAT) Fast-Track
Request Form
• Have no more than 30 alternative credits in degree program
including the 6 credits from an Alternative Certification
Program (ACP)
• Use a GCU approved Alternate Certification Program
Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies to Master of Arts in
Reading Education (MAT) Fast Track Program Completion
Requirements:
Once approved, candidates must complete all applicable program
coursework within the ACP program. Upon completion of the
coursework, the candidate will request a letter from their ACP
stating that the coursework has been satisfactorily completed.
After GCU receives this official letter, candidates will be
awarded six (6) elective credits.
Candidates will receive the two courses (6 credits) upon
successfully completing their ACP coursework and providing
GCU with an official letter from the ACP: TCH-520: Brain-
Based Learning and TCH-539: Introduction to Educational
Research.
Please be advised the Fast-Track Request Form is only available
for the program listed above. Candidates electing to no longer
pursue the Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies to Master
of Arts in Reading Education (MAT) Fast Track option must
contact their Student Services Advisor and enroll in
undergraduate elective credits per graduation requirements.
Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies to Master of
Science in Instructional Technology (MS) Fast-Track
Candidates applying for secondary admission to the Bachelor of
Science in Educational Studies to Master of Science in
Instructional Technology (MS) Fast-Track program must
understand and follow all College of Education and University
policies as outlined in the University Policy Handbook and any
subsequent College handbooks for program admission,
progression, and graduation. Candidates should note the
pathway’s academic rigor and time commitment requirements of
this program pathway.
Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies to Master of Science
in Instructional Technology (MS) Fast-Track Application
Requirements:
• Enrollment in the Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies
program
• Possession of a 3.25 enrollment cumulative GPA at the time
program credits are completed
• Completion of the Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies
to Master of Science in Instructional Technology (MS) Fast-
Track Request Form
• Have no more than 30 alternative credits in degree program
including the 6 credits from an Alternative Certification
Program (ACP)
• Use a GCU approved Alternate Certification Program
Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies to Master of Science
in Instructional Technology (MS) Fast-Track Program
Completion Requirements:
Once approved, candidates must complete all applicable program
coursework within the ACP program. Upon completion of the
coursework, the candidate will request a letter from their ACP
stating that the coursework has been satisfactorily completed.
After GCU receives this official letter, candidates will be
awarded six (6) elective credits.
Candidates will receive the two courses (6 credits) upon
successfully completing their ACP coursework and providing
GCU with an official letter from the ACP: TCH-520: Brain-
Based Learning and TCH-539: Introduction to Educational
Research.
Please be advised the Fast-Track Request Form is only available
for the program listed above. Candidates electing to no longer
pursue the Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies to Master
of Science in Instructional Technology (MS) Fast-Track option
must contact their Student Services Advisor and enroll in
undergraduate elective credits per graduation requirements.
College of Arts and Media
Bachelor of Arts in Dance
Bachelor of Arts in Dance Education (IP/TL)
Prospective students seeking admission to Grand Canyon
University as dance education majors should have a minimum of
two years of concentrated training in ballet, modern, and jazz
dance technique. To gain admission into the program, a student
must meet the general admission requirement of the university
along with the requirements below.
1. An audition, either live or through the submission of DVD or
digital materials
2. Dance resume and goal essay
Auditionees will be led by a faculty member and asked to
demonstrate their technical skill level via barre and center work,
progressions and improvisation. In addition, students will
perform one minute of solo choreography. Transfer students are
required to perform solos that they have choreographed.
Candidates must demonstrate performance strength and skills that
can be developed to enable them to successfully complete the
degree requirements of the major and to successfully serve in
professional realms of dance and dance education. Prospective
students may register online to audition on a date of their choice
at www.gcu.edu/auditions.
Essential Elements for Dance Program and Courses
The Dance program at GCU is a physically demanding,
embodied experience. The dynamic nature of a dance course
creates a challenging yet rewarding experience that promotes
technical and artistic growth. Movement is a fundamental part of
the program and is built into each course through course
objectives and assessed in movement-based assignments. The
dance program requires and expands abilities in physical
strength, endurance, fine and gross motor coordination, and range
of motion sufficient to execute positions, movements, jumps,
turns, and movement combinations of increasing demand and
complexity.
Due to the physical nature of the Dance program, its courses have
movement objectives (course objectives) that are assessed in
movement-based assignments. Movement-based assessments
including Video Performance Exams cannot be substituted for
alternative assignments.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 85 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Students must maintain appropriate hygiene and appropriate
dress for the setting.
Due to the nature of the courses, physical presence is required.
Failure to attend class in person may result in missed
participation points and may set students behind in the class
progression which can adversely impact their movement
assessments.
BA Dance for Secondary Education students must also meet the
Essential Elements for Teachers (located in the University Policy
Handbook)
*If a student requires an accommodation to meet the essential
elements of the Dance programs and their courses, they are
required to go through the Accommodations process with the
Student Disability Services office. Each request will be reviewed
on case-by-case basis.
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
All CONHCP Nursing Undergraduate Programs
Chain of Command
In the healthcare field, it is the expectation that healthcare
workers will use the chain of command to bring issues to the
appropriate leader’s attention. For example: This is especially
important when CONHCP nursing students question things like
medication type and dosage. In order to prepare students for the
requirements of health care employers, the College leadership
expect students to use the Chain of Command for raising similar
issues in all healthcare programs.
Therefore, students with concerns regarding the classroom should
appropriately and professionally address their faculty. If
intervention is needed beyond the faculty, students should
address to their SSC. Finally, if the issue needs further attention,
the SSC will notify the Director or Program Lead. Further
concerns should be taken to the Associate Dean over the
student’s program.
If the student’s concern is regarding something unrelated to
CONHCP courses, the student should consult with their SSC, and
if needed the Student Services Manager.
If after this process is exhausted, the student can pursue the
University Appeals Procedures.
Professional Practices Committee
The College of Nursing & Health Care Professions Professional
Practices Committee serves as the central sanctioning body for
the application of College-level penalties in all cases involving
student violations of the CONHCP clinical, simulation, and lab
policies, the Student Professional Dispositions, as well as the
Nursing Professional Standards.
Student Professional Dispositions
One important aspect of the student experience is the fulfillment
of professional dispositions—ways of working, thinking, and
interacting with others—in three areas: Professionalism, Work
Ethic, and Communication Skills. In order to support student
development and have clear expectations in these areas CONHCP
lists the following key dispositions. Failure to demonstrate these
dispositions through behaviors at any point in the program may
jeopardize students’ continuation in the program. Students are
expected to monitor their development of these professional
dispositions, beginning now and continuing throughout their
career. The ability to reflect on personal growth, strengths, and
challenges is a central characteristic of effective people working
in health care. These disposition statements do not replace the
University Code of Conduct.
Communication Skills
1. Demonstrate appropriate, professional, respectful verbal
communication
2. Demonstrate appropriate, professional, respectful written
communication
3. Demonstrate a disposition toward inquiry and problem solving
4. Work collaboratively with students, faculty, and professionals
5. Demonstrate consistently positive attitudes toward learning
and/or teaching
6. Accept responsibility for decisions and actions
7. Establish and maintain mutually respectful interactions
8. Demonstrate understanding of university/program
organizational chart by communicating “need to know
information” to individuals according to the chain of command
Work Ethic
1. Demonstrate regular attendance
2. Demonstrate punctuality
3. Complete work in a timely manner
4. Demonstrate organizational skills
5. Know and observe all pertinent policies and procedures
6. Demonstrate a disposition toward personal ownership of
learning and professional development
Professionalism
1. Demonstrate a commitment to work with clients, their
families, students, faculty, and staff in appropriate,
professional, and respectful ways
2. Demonstrate an awareness of community, state, national, and
world contexts that have an impact on the profession and the
learning process
3. Treat everyone fairly, equitably, and respectfully
4. Accept constructive criticism and adjusts performance
accordingly
5. Express and demonstrate interest in and enthusiasm for
teaching/learning
6. Adapt to new and diverse teaching/learning situations
7. Adapt to differences among people including differences of
SES, gender, age, ability, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity,
religion, language, etc.
8. Maintain confidentiality about all student, client, faculty, and
staff records unless disclosure serves a professionally
compelling purpose or is required by law
9. Demonstrate discretion when discussing colleagues, faculty,
field sites, and personal information
10. Respect the points of view of others
11. Contribute meaningfully, appropriately, professionally, and
respectfully to discussions by asking questions, giving
opinions, and listening to others
12. Project an appropriate professional appearance in professional
settings
13. Project an appropriate professional and respectful demeanor
14. Be open to leadership and opportunities for growth
15. Understand and practice professional ethical standards
16. Recognize personal at risk behavior: Behavioral choice that
increases risk where risk is not recognized, or is mistakenly
believed to be justified
17. Recognize personal reckless behavior: Behavioral choice to
consciously disregard a substantial and unjustifiable risk
18. Acts overall in a manner that furthers the interests of others
(enlightened self-interest): Enlightened self-interest refers to
the understanding and trust that what a person does to
enhance another's quality of life enhances one's own quality
of life to a similar degree. More simply put, it is the idea that
"what goes around comes around".
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 86 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
19. Utilize social media responsiblyresponsibly., Refrain from
intentional or unintentional sharing of protected client and
family information related to clinical experiences (includes
written, auditory, and visual media).
20. Demonstrate ethical conduct with clients, peers, faculty,
facility staff, and community members. Refrain from
behavior that is detrimental to the safe academic
environment, including engagement in acts of lateral or
vertical violence.
Procedure for Processing Alleged Violations of the CONHCP
Professional Dispositions
The College of Nursing and Health Care Professions may take
disciplinary action against a student who violates the Professional
Dispositions. Violations will be reported by GCU instructors,
GCU staff, or third parties affiliated with GCU. GCU faculty and
staff are required to notify students that an incident report will be
submitted to the Professional Practice Committee. Reports are
forwarded to the Professional Practices Committee Administrator
upon discovery of the incident.
The Administrator then reviews the report, as well as any history
of prior offenses. The Administrator then notifies the student if
the College of Nursing and Health Care Professions intends to
take further action as a result of the particular report or as a result
of the history of offenses. If further action is recommended, the
Professional Practices Committee will determine whether the
alleged violation has been substantiated and which College-level
penalty to apply.
Students who are charged with a violation of the Professional
Practices are afforded an opportunity to be heard before a
College-level penalty is applied. Students at risk for College-
level sanctions will be:
• Contacted by the Professional Practices Committee
Administrator
• Offered the opportunity to present documentation and speak on
their own behalf to the Professional Practices Committee.
• Present information by submitting a written statement and/or
participating via teleconference.
Students are not required to participate or submit information.
Students who wish to participate or present information must
adhere to the following:
• Submit all documentation within the timeframe specified in the
notification.
• If the student does not respond within seven days of being
contacted by the Professional Practices Committee
Administrator, the student forfeits their right to participate in
the process and a determination will be made by the
Professional Practices Committee.
• All information, including the initial report and supporting
documentation, and any statement and documentation
submitted by the student, will be reviewed by the Professional
Practices Committee during their formal Committee meetings.
• Students are not entitled to representation by any third party,
personal representative, or attorney in the College disciplinary
process.
The University does not discriminate based on disability in the
course of administering discipline. A student with a disability
who is subject to disciplinary proceedings may request an
accommodation for their disability and the University will engage
in the interactive process upon such a request.
• To receive accommodations through the University, students
are required to self-identify by completing the Accommodation
Request Form and provide supporting documentation to
Student Disability Services. Only the SDS Office can approve
accommodations.
o Students can submit the accommodation request form at
https://sds.gcu.edu or in person in the SDS office.
o Supporting documentation can be submitted via email to
[email protected] or submitted through the link
while completing the Accommodation Request Form.
• All requests for disability accommodations in student
disciplinary proceedings are subject to an individualized
determination. Whether such a request is reasonable and/or
would be a fundamental alteration of the University’s
disciplinary policies is determined on a case-by-case basis after
evaluation of appropriate documentation.
• Students should refer to the Steps to Accommodations policy
for the appropriate steps and documentation requirements.
To allow the SDS Office sufficient time for processing, requests
for disability accommodations in any disciplinary process should
be submitted immediately upon receipt of notification from the
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
College-level Penalties
The Professional Practices Committee has the ability to issue
College-level penalties. In making its determination, the
Committee considers the severity of the offense, as well as the
student’s history within the College of Nursing and Health Care
Professions.
Program Warning
Some clinical violations may require students to complete a
Student Success Plan, to outline required changes in behavior or
practice. Students will be assigned to an appropriate college
leadership or faculty member to complete mandatory meetings
during the semester to update the student’s progress toward
achieving the required goals. Students who fail to meet these
requirements will be referred back to the Professional Practices
Committee for potential additional sanctions.
Sanctions requiring a student success plan include:
• Dress Code Violation
• Failure to Follow Directives by Faculty, Clinician, Preceptor,
Office of Field Experience, or Staff Unprepared For Clinical
• Unprofessional Communication or Behavior
• Greater than 1:1 Preceptor to Student Ratio without notifying
CONHCP.
Program Probation
Program Probation is a sanction imposed by the Professional
Practices Committee. Clinical Program Probation is assigned to a
student that commits infractions determined to be high risk where
additional monitoring is needed. Clinical Program Probation may
be removed within a semester, or may cross over multiple
semesters based on the severity. An automatic 10% grade
reduction applies for any course in which an undergraduate
student was sanctioned with Clinical Program Probation. A
graduate student placed on clinical probation will result in a 10%
reduction of professionalism points in the classroom. Faculty and
clinical faculty,, in current and future terms, overseeing students
on clinical probation will be notified of the infraction and
remediation requirements. These infractions include but are not
limited to:
• Unsafe clinical practice
• Failing to complete the Student Success Plan Requirements
• Repeat Clinical, Lab, and/orSimulation Tardy
• Unexcused Clinical, Lab, and/or Simulation Absence
• HIPAA Violation
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 87 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Performing skills or interventions before successfully
completing a Performance Based Assessment (PBA)
• Displaying hostility or using confrontational words or body
language
• Clinical, Lab, or Simulation abandonment (without
permission)
• Acting Independently Within the Scope of a Nurse
Program Probation Procedure
The following steps will occur if the student is being placed on
program probation.
1. The student will receive the sanction of Clinical Program
Probation from the Professional Practices Committee through
email and postal mail. This letter will outline the requirements
the student must complete during their probation.
2. A copy of the letter will be placed in the student’s file.
3. The student’s progress will be reassessed at the end of the term
to determine if the student will be removed from clinical
probation. Students that do not complete the requirements will
be referred to the University Code of Conduct Committee for
potential suspension or expulsion from the program and/or the
University.
4. The student must be removed from probation in order to meet
program and graduation requirements.
University Code of Conduct Referral
Some behaviors are so egregious that significant sanctions will
apply. These infractions will be submitted to the Code of
Conduct Committee for potential University sanctions such as
suspension and/or expulsion. Please see the Code of Conduct and
Academic Standards policy for more information.
Infractions that require Code of Conduct reporting include:
• Academic Plagiarism
• Clinical Practice Fraud or Forgery
• Academic Cheating
• Jeopardizing a Clinical Partnership
• Failure to Report a Felony or Misdemeanor
In addition to the sanctions a student may face from the Code of
Conduct Committee of the University, the most significant
infractions may require the University to report the incident or
behavior to the Board of Nursing by statute.
The priority of the College of Nursing and Health Care
Professions is the education of future health care professionals in
a safe environment for students, faculty, staff, and patients.
Patient safety is of the utmost importance. In certain cases where
a student is engaged in behavior that is intentionally harmful,
negligent, below program standards, or inconsistent with nursing
or athletic training professional standards, whether potentially or
actually harmful to a patient, the Dean or designee will report the
incident to the respective regulatory board as soon as the incident
is substantiated. Reporting is mandatory. The following
documents guide the professional practice of athletic training and
define the skills appropriate for students at the baccalaureate
level.
• Arizona State Law (Chapter 41 – Athletic Trainers)
• The Board of Certification’s (BOC’s) Standard of Professional
Practice
• NATA Educational Competencies (5th Edition)
• NATA Code of Ethics
All students enrolled in a clinical program are required to
participate in formal instruction on skills related to their
respective discipline (nursing / athletic training) before practicing
any skill on patients. For athletic training students, all skills must
be done under the direct supervision of a clinical preceptor /
instructor. For nursing students, Ddirect supervision by the
assigned clinical faculty member or a designated staff registered
nurse is required for students to perform approved invasive
nursing skills, as indicated on the psychomotor skills checklist,
on patients in the clinical setting. Please refer to the Lab,
Simulation, and Clinical Safe Practice Guidelines.
Students may be placed on clinical suspension, per the Dean or
designee, during the investigation.
Infractions that require Board of Nursing notification by licensed
or unlicensed students include but not limited to:
• Information that a nurse or certificate holder may be mentally
or physically unable to safely practice nursing or perform
nursing related duties
• Conduct which leads to the dismissal for unsafe nursing
practice or conduct or other unprofessional conduct
• Conduct that appears to be a contributing factor to high
risk/harm to a patient and required medical intervention
• Conduct that appears to be a contributing factor to the death of
a patient
• Conduct involving the misuse of alcohol or other chemical
substances to the extent that nursing practice may be impaired
or may be detrimentally impacted
• Actual or suspected drug diversion
• Pattern of failure to account for medications; failing to account
for wastage of control drugs
• Falsification of medical or treatment records
• Pattern of inappropriate judgment or nursing skill
• Failing to assess or intervene on behalf of patient(s)
• Conduct involving sexual contact with a patient, patient family
member or other dual relationships
• Conduct involving physical/verbal patient abuse
• Conduct involving misappropriation, theft or exploitation of a
patient
• Practicing nursing without a valid nursing license
• Conduct that deceives, defrauds or harms the public
• Criminal charges, felony and misdemeanor, which may affect
public safety within ten days from when the charge(s) are filed
• Failing to take action in a health care setting to protect a
patient whose safety or welfare is at risk from incompetent
health care practice, or to report such practice to employment
or licensing authorities.
Infractions that require Board of Nursing notification by licensed
students only include but not limited to:
• Conduct involving practicing beyond the scope of practice of
the license or certificate. Examples include knowingly giving a
medication not authorized by a treating provider, obtaining
laboratory or other tests not authorized by a treating provider,
unauthorized adjusting of dosage
• Violation of a disciplinary sanction imposed on the nurse’s
license by the board
• Felony conviction(s) must be reported within ten days of the
conviction
• Failing to report to the Board a licensed nurse whose work
history includes conduct, or pattern of conduct, that leads to or
may lead to an adverse patient outcome.
Patient Safety Event
A patient safety event is an event, incident, or condition that
could have resulted or did result in harm to a patient.
Patient safety events include adverse events, no-harm events,
close calls, hazardous conditions and sentinel events, which are
defined as follows:
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 88 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• An adverse event is a patient safety event that resulted in harm
to a patient.
• A no-harm event is a patient safety event that reaches the
patient but does not cause harm.
• A close call (or “good catch”) is a patient safety event that did
not reach the patient.
• A hazardous (or “unsafe”) condition(s) is a circumstance (other
than a patient’s own disease process or condition) that
increases the probability of an adverse event.
• A sentinel event is a patient safety event (not primarily related
to the natural course of the patient’s illness or underlying
condition) that reaches a patient and results in any of the
following:
o Death
o Permanent harm
o Severe temporary harm
If a patient safety event should occur, the student needs to
immediately notify the clinical instructor and/or preceptor,
Director and/or Program Lead at the University and health care
facility leadership and complete the CONHCP Incident Report
form.
The patient safety event will lead to an investigation with
possible corrective actions up to and including a referral to Code
of Conduct with the recommendation for expulsion from the
program and the event will be reported to the respective Board of
Nursing.
Reference: The Joint Commission. (2024). Retrieved from
https://www.jointcommission.org/resources/sentinel-
event/sentinel-event-policy-and-procedures
Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training
Students may enroll in general education coursework that
prepares students for entry into the Bachelor of Science in
Athletic Training (ATP) program. Admission into the clinical
portion of the Athletic Training Education program is
competitive and determined by the criteria listed below in
addition to the availability of clinical placements. Admission into
the Athletic Training Program is not guaranteed
Admission Requirements for Clinical Coursework
To be eligible for acceptance into the clinical phase of the
program, students must:
1. Complete the application by the designated deadline as
specified on the ATP website.
2. Possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
3. Successfully complete all prerequisite courses: ENG-105,
ENG-106, MAT-144, BIO-201, BIO-201L, BIO-202, BIO-
202L ATP-214, ATP-214L and ATP-256. ATP-214, ATP-
214L and ATP-256 must be completed at Grand Canyon
University.
4. Complete the Athletic Training entrance examination, which
includes content from prerequisite courses including BIO-201,
BIO-201L, BIO-202, BIO-202L ATP-214, ATP-214L and
ATP-256.
5. Complete a written essay to answer a series of questions
regarding students’ knowledge of the profession of athletic
training and commitment to learning.
Students offered secondary admission must complete and submit
the following information to the Office of Field Experience prior
to the start of clinical rotations:
1. Application for an Arizona Department of Public Safety
Fingerprint Clearance Card.
2. First Aid card from an approved provider listed in the
Guidelines for Undergraduate Field Experience Manual
3. Professional Rescuer CPR card from an approved provider
listed in the Guidelines for Undergraduate Field
1. Experience Manual. The CPR course must meet the Board of
Certification (BOC) Emergency Cardiac Care (ECC)
2. requirements (www.bocatc.org).
3. Signed Technical Standards form
4. Signed HIPAA and FERPA confidentiality acknowledgement
form
5. Health History and Physical Examination form which include
proof of required vaccinations outlined in the Guidelines for
Undergraduate Field Experience Manual
6. Proof of valid professional liability insurance
7. Hepatitis B Vaccination Form
8. Valid National Athletic Trainers Association Membership
which provides access to clinical course proficiency
requirements. Membership fee is paid by the student.
Students offered secondary admission must attend the mandatory
athletic training orientation prior to the start of the academic year.
Policies and procedures pertaining to blood borne pathogens,
communicable diseases, and accreditation requirements are
reviewed with new students at that time.
Upon acceptance into the clinical phase of the program, students
must adhere to the following criteria in order to remain in good
standing and continuously enrolled in the Athletic Training
program:
1. Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7. Students who
fail to meet the minimum GPA requirement will be placed on
academic probation for the following semester. Students who
fail to raise their GPA after the following semester will be
administratively withdrawn from the program.
2. Successfully complete all Athletic Training major courses
with C or better. Students who receive a lower grade than a C
will be administratively withdrawn from the program and will
need to follow the steps outlined in the Re-Entry to Athletic
Training Major Courses section.
3. Maintain continuous enrollment during the fall and spring
semesters.
4. Maintain National Athletic Trainers Association Membership
at the cost to the student, which provides access to clinical
course proficiency requirements.
5. Maintain Emergency Cardiac Care (ECC) certification
(current through May of each academic year).
6. Maintain Athletic Training Student Liability Insurance
(current through May of each academic year).
7. Attend the GCU Athletic Training Student Orientation
annually (either in person or on a webinar), which includes
blood borne pathogen training and a discussion of the
communicable disease policy.
8. Follow clinical requirements as outlined in the Athletic
Training Clinical Manual.
9. Know and adhere to a clinical site’s privacy and procedures
before undertaking any activities at the site.
10. Promptly report any violation of those procedures, applicable
law, or ATP confidentiality agreement by an ATP student,
faculty or staff member to the appropriate ATP clinical
instructor or faculty member.
11. Understand that a violation of the clinical site’s policies and
procedures, of applicable law, or ATP confidentiality
agreement will subject the student to disciplinary action.
12. Maintain Immunization Records as outlined in the Athletic
Training Clinical Manual.
13. Successfully complete GCU Board of Certification (BOC)
endorsement exam prior to being endorsed by the Program
Director. Students must report any legal incidence that may
result in revocation of the fingerprint clearance card or cause
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 89 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
ineligibility to sit for the BOC examination immediately to
the program director.
Re-Entry to Athletic Training Major Courses
Students who have failed courses in the athletic training major
must submit an official academic appeal to the Athletic Training
Program Director to be considered for re-entry into the program.
A student receiving a grade of incomplete “I” in any athletic
training major course must assure that the incomplete is resolved
and a grade is submitted prior to the start of the next academic
semester. Failure to do so will result in administrative withdrawal
from the program and current cohort sequence.
Student must petition with the Athletic Training Program
Director for re-entry to the athletic training major under the
following conditions:
1. Interrupted Enrollment- Student has been out of the athletic
training major (for at least one course). Students must follow a
cohort sequence.
2. Course failure- Student receives a failure (below a grade of
“C”) in athletic training course. Students may not continue in
ATP course sequence until failed course has been repeated and
passed with a “C” or better. Courses are currently offered one
time during the academic year.
3. Unresolved Incomplete- Student receives an incomplete “I” as
a grade in an athletic training course that is unresolved by the
first day of classes in the following semester.
4. Administrative Withdrawal- Student has been administratively
withdrawn from the athletic training major course.
Re-entry to the major is not assured simply because the student
was previously enrolled in athletic training courses or was
previously accepted. The decision will be based on the evidence
showing that the student is ready to continue, has potential to
complete the program, and is in compliance with University
regulations and standards of behavior. All decisions to readmit
are also contingent upon clinical space availability. The student
must meet all admission and clinical requirements to be
considered for re-entry into the program.
Only one failed athletic training course may be repeated once
based on acceptance of the student by the reapplication process to
the major. Subsequent course failures constitute administrative
withdrawal from the athletic training education program.
Board of Certification Examination
In order to attain certification, an individual must complete a
professional athletic training education program accredited by the
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
(CAATE) and pass the Board of Certification (BOC) exam.
Please visit the BOC website and view the candidate information
for full description of qualifications and process.
Mandatory Advisement for Athletic Training Major Courses
Faculty members may request mandatory advisement or
remediation sessions when students are in clinical or academic
jeopardy, and/or when student behavior appears below
professional standards. Satisfactory academics and/or behavioral
changes must be accomplished by the end of the course in order
to progress in the program. It is important to maintain continuous
progress and a sound knowledge base to be successful throughout
the program.
Athletic Training Major Course Completion
Successful completion of athletic training courses means that
students must:
1. Achieve a minimum of 76% average for the theory portion of
the course.
a. Theory grade includes the average of exams and all
nonclinical assignments.
b. Theory grade for clinical courses includes all proficiencies
and clinical assignments.
2. Achieve a minimum of 76% average for the exam portion of
the theory grade.
a. Exam portion does not include quizzes.
b. Courses delineated as writing intensive do not follow the
exam policy.
3. Achieve a minimum of 76% average for the graded clinical
proficiencies in clinical instruction courses with satisfactory
clinical performance.
4. Complete all assignments, including clinical proficiencies, and
submitted to earn course credit.
a. Late assignments will be deducted 10% per day.
b. No points will be awarded for any assignment submitted 10
days past the due date, but submission is still required.
c. Technical issues are not valid excuses for late work unless
the problem stems from GCU servers.
5. Complete a minimum of 150 clinical hours in each clinical
course.
a. Students should not be scheduled for less than 10 hours per
week and no more than 20 hours per week.
Athletic Training Practice & Medication Administration Policy
Athletic Training students are not permitted to administer
medications.
No Rounding Policy
The GCU College of Nursing & Health Care Professions has
adopted a No Rounding policy for all courses within the program.
This policy states that all grades will be entered to the hundredth
at their face value and not rounded (i.e., a final grade of 89.99
will be entered as B and not a B+).
Honor Code
All students will sign the following Honor Code Statement each
time they take a test, either electronically or by paper and pencil.
“On my honor, as a Grand Canyon University Student, I have
neither given nor received unauthorized aid on this academic
work.”
Guidelines for Administration of Exams in The Ground Testing
Environment
Examinations will be administered in an environment that is
conducive to success and minimizes the opportunity for academic
dishonesty. Students are allowed 1.5 min per multiple choice
questions and 3 min per short answer/essays on exams.
1. Students may only have a pencil on their desk. Calculators
and scratch paper will be provided by proctor, if needed for
exam.
2. Everything brought into the room (backpacks, purses, cell
phones, hats, snacks, water, etc.) must be placed at the front
of the room at the student’s own risk.
3. Only head adornments of a medical or religious nature are
permitted during examinations. Hats, hoodies, beanies,
and/or other ornamental head coverings must be removed
and left with other non-essential paraphernalia in the
instructor-/proctor-designated locations
4. All cell phones must be turned off and placed in backpack
(no cell phones on desk or in students’ pockets).
5. All watch devices with internet capability must be placed in
the front of the room with the student’s belongings.
6. Faculty will be present during entire exam and actively
monitoring student behaviors.
7. Students may not talk during the exams.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 90 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
8. Students must keep their eyes on their own exam at all
times.
9. Once the exam has begun students may not approach the
instructor to ask questions or seek clarification.
10. Students may not leave the room and return once the exam
has begun. Students must use restrooms prior to exam. In the
event of a medical emergency, students may leave, but the
allotted time will not change.
11. Students who arrive late will still be allowed to take the
exam, but the stop time will remain the same.
12. Exams will be timed and collected when time is up.
13. Students may only access the HESI test site on the computer
while taking an electronic exam. Students may not minimize
the site, exit the site, or use chat during the exam.
14. After completing the examination, students will leave the
classroom and not return until instructed by faculty once all
students have finished the exam.
15. Students are encouraged to be present and well prepared to
take all examinations. Consequences for being absent may
include being given a different version of the exam. Only
students with excused absences will be given the
opportunity to take a make-up exam. Pre-planned, non-
emergency misses should be scheduled prior to absence;
students will receive different exam versions from those
administered to students’ primary section. Only students
with excused absences will be given the opportunity to take
a make-up exam. Students must notify the instructor no less
than one hour prior to the start of the exam for the absence
to be considered excused. Students may make up no more
than one exam per course.
Students who are observed violating the above criteria will be
asked to leave the exam, given no credit for the exam, and
reported to the University Code of Conduct Committee.
Bodily Fluids Exposure and/or Injury During Field Experiences
Grand Canyon University acknowledges the inherent risks
associated with working around or with patients and health care
organizations, including a potential exposure to blood and body
fluids. Once in a patient care setting, students will have access to
and will be expected to utilize appropriate blood-borne pathogen
barriers, proper sanitary precautions, and appropriate biohazard
disposal equipment and procedures at each clinical site.
The following details student responsibilities in this area:
• You must have and maintain current health insurance and
show verification of coverage each year while matriculated in
the program.
• GCU and the clinical agencies that provide practical
experiences for our students are not responsible or liable for
the costs of medical follow-up or expenses incurred.
• If evaluation and treatment is required by the facility where
students are completing clinical experiences, the student is
responsible for all costs and associated follow up.
• In the event that students are injured or exposed to blood and
body fluids, students will:
o Immediately notify your clinical preceptor or site supervisor
o Wash the area immediately and thoroughly with soap and
water.
o Within 24 hours, follow-up with the students’ Primary Care
Provider who will make a determination of immunization
status and give appropriate prophylaxis or referral for
appropriate prophylaxis.
o Assume full responsibility for disease sequelae.
o Follow the policies of the agency (if any).
o Complete a student incident report with the supervising
faculty or instructor who was present during incident. A
copy of this report will be given to the College
Administrator and placed in the student’s file.
Communicable Disease Policy
Students may not participate in field experiences during the time
they are affected by or suspect they have a communicable
disease. A communicable disease is a health disorder that can be
passed from one person to another. If students suspect they may
have a communicable disease, an immediate visit to the student
health center or healthcare provider for evaluation is required. If
the evaluation shows possible communicable disease, students
must remain out of contact with patients for the duration
suggested by the healthcare provider. Students may not return to
participation in field experiences until they have been re-
evaluated by a healthcare provider and released with written
verification of full release. You Students must contact the clinical
preceptor and faculty upon suspicion and verification of the
disease.
Examples of communicable diseases include, but are not limited
to the following:
• AIDS
• Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
• Chickenpox
• Strep pharyngitis
• Measles
• Cholera
• Conjunctivitis
• Diphtheria
• Diarrhea- infectious
• Influenza
• Tetanus
• Impetigo
• Yellow Fever
• Hepatitis A, B or C
• Herpes Simplex
• Meningitis (bacterial)
• Mumps
• Pertussis (whooping cough
• Rubella
• Shigellosis
• Streptococcal pneumonia
• Scabies
• Hand, foot, mouth syndrome
• Viral and acute hepatitis
• Herpes
• Lice (pediculosis)
• Lyme disease
• Escherichia coli (E coli)
• Tuberculosis
• Group A Strep
• Pinworms
• Ringworm
• COVID-19
Refer to Clinical Absence and Participation Policy.
Clinical Attendance, Make-Up, and Tardiness Policy
Effective Spring 2018
Clinical attendance is mandatory and students are expected to
arrive to clinical on time. Tardiness is not acceptable and habitual
tardiness can result in disciplinary action.
Students are required to notify clinical preceptors of any absence
and/or anticipated tardiness. Individual clinical preceptors will
discuss the mechanism for notification of absence. Absenteeism
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 91 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
will interfere with student attainment of course objectives, and
may impact the grade students receive in clinical courses.
Legitimate illness may be an excused absence when defined as:
• a communicable disease which can be transmitted to patients,
staff or other students
• an illness which would be aggravated by attendance at lecture,
lab, or clinical
• hospitalization
Students will be asked to submit substantiating medical
documentation that states: “the student may return to class, lab,
and clinical with no health or safety restrictions” from a medical
provider and written on a prescription, or letterhead, that clearly
reflects the provider’s medical number. This will be required
whether the student misses one clinical day or lab or consecutive
clinical days or labs. GCU may verify the information contained
in the documentation with the provider.
Students will be required to make up their missed clinical hours
and document the hours in ATrack. Clinical Preceptors and the
Clinical Education Coordinator will verify the completion of
rescheduled hours.
Unexcused absences:
• First Occurrence: Student will receive a clinical warning.
• Second Occurrence: Student will be placed on clinical
probation and will be submitted to Professional Practice
Committee for the second late.
• Third Occurrence: Student will be suspended from clinical and
submitted to Professional Practice Committee on the third late
which may result in failure of clinical.
Failure to complete the 150 hour minimum requirement per
clinical class may result in failure of that clinical course.
Students who miss clinical due to extended illness are required to
contact the Student Disability Services.
Policy for Student Drug, Nicotine & Alcohol Screening
The practice of professionalism demands that the clinician be free
from the influence of any substance that would impair judgment
and thinking ability. As a result, health care agencies are
requiring students who work directly with patients to undergo
drug screening. Students must also be free from impairing
substances. Health care agencies and the CONHCP require drug
screening of all students prior to their first clinical experience. In
addition, students are subject to screening if either the faculty or
preceptor suspects that the student is impaired at any time on
campus, or during any health care experience or any other
university or work related activity. Any student whose test is
deemed positive will not be able to enroll or continue in the
athletic training program for a minimum period of one year.
Determination will be made in the Professional Standards
Committee.
The College is required to report any positive screens and/or
suspicion refusal to the appropriate board. This policy is designed
to identify the procedures to be followed for drug testing as well
as to outline the appeal and readmission to the program.
For Cause or Reasonable Suspicion Drug, Nicotine & Alcohol
Screening
The program director or clinical coordinator may ask a student to
submit to a drug and alcohol screening at any time if a faculty
member or preceptor is under reasonable suspicion that the
student may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This
includes, but is not limited to, the following circumstances:
evidence of drugs or alcohol on or about the student’s person or
in the student’s possession, unusual conduct on the student’s part
that suggests possible use or influence of drugs or alcohol,
negative performance patterns, or excessive and unexplained
absenteeism or tardiness. Determination will be made by the
Professional Standards Committee.
1. Students will be asked to submit to an immediate oral drug and
alcohol screening test conducted at one of the laboratory
options provided.
2. Students may also be given a drug screen authorization form
and asked to immediately complete a urine drug screen at one
of the laboratory options provided.
3. Students will be required to show picture identification upon
arrival. A driver’s license or passport are acceptable forms of
identification.
4. The costs for all screening and medical review (if deemed
necessary) are the students’ responsibility.
5. A screen with questionable results will be sent by the lab for a
medical review by the company completing the drug screen.
Costs for review and retest will be the responsibility of the
student.
6. A negative report, excluding a positive nicotine result, is
necessary to continue in the program of study in the CONHCP.
Follow-up Action: Positive Screen (For Cause or Initial Drug
Screen)
1. Positive drug screens (including those medically prescribed)
may result in withdrawal from the nursing program for a
minimum of 12 months. After this 12-month period, the
student may apply for readmission under general guidelines
stated in the University Policy Handbook, provided there is
submission of evidence of satisfactory participation in a
rehabilitation program for alcohol/substance abuse.
Determination will be made in the Professional Standards
Committee.
2. Sources of evidence include: a. Documentation of completed
program of rehabilitation.
a. Acknowledgement of continuance in a twelve step or after-
care program.
b. Letter from therapist or licensed health care provider stating
the student is now able to function safely in a clinical
facility.
3. The student must have a negative screen prior to being
readmitted to the nursing program. The screen will be done at
the direction of CONHCP and may be periodic while the
student is in a CONHCP program. The student is responsible
for all costs of screening.
4. The decision to readmit will be made by the CONHCP College
Administrator after review of submitted materials. As with
other applications for readmission, space availability may be a
determining factor for that particular semester.
5. A report will be filed with the State Board of Nursing upon
withdrawal from the program consistent with the rules and
regulations of the State Board of Nursing.
6. Any student who screens positive after one readmission may
be permanently dismissed from the nursing program.
Follow-up Action For-Cause Negative Screen
1. Students whose drug screens are negative will meet with the
College Administrator to discuss the perceptions of impaired
behavior and the implications and steps to avoid similar
situations in the future.
2. A review by the Medical Review Officer (MRO) by the
company collecting the drug screen for documentation of any
medical condition or treatment may be requested.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 92 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
3. Students will not be counted as absent from clinical during this
evaluation process. However, students will be expected to meet
the clinical objectives.
4. A reasonable suspicion/cause drug screen that is positive;
however, is deemed negative by a medical review officer will
follow these guidelines:
a. The student will meet with the College Administrator.
b. The student may be required to undergo, at the student’s
expense, an evaluation for drug use/prescription drug
use/impairment by a psychiatrist recommended by the State
Board of Nursing.
c. The student will follow other recommendations deemed
necessary by the College Administrator.
d. The student will be required to provide a negative drug
screen prior to returning to clinical and be subject to
periodic drug screens at the student’s expense.
e. More than one incident of a reasonable suspicion/cause drug
screen that is positive; however, deemed negative by a
medical review officer may result in withdrawal from the
nursing program for a minimum of 12 months. In this case
the student will follow the positive drug screening
guidelines.
Students Who Refuse Drug Screening
Students who refuse to participate in screening will be required
to leave the clinical area and make an appointment with the
Dean of Nursing or his/her designee. The student will remain
out of the clinical area until an investigation has been done and
a recommendation has been made by the College
Administrator. Students who refuse screening may be subject
to dismissal from the CONHCP. A student who refuses to
participate in the aforementioned rehabilitation program will
not be allowed into clinical courses; therefore he/she cannot
complete the nursing program.
Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and
Disorders
Before Beginning Clinical Practicum Experiences
For the Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and
Disorders (BS-CSD) program, it is the student’s responsibility to
identify clinical practicum placement sites and supervisors. The
CONHCP Student Success Center page hosts the Guidelines for
Undergraduate Field Experience Manual, which specifies
supervisor and site requirements. Should a student have difficulty
securing a site, the Office of Field Experience (OFE) helps secure
a placement on the student’s behalf. Students must submit the
following at least six months before the date of their clinical
practicum placement to ensure all necessary approvals are
completed which includes affiliation agreement contracts before
each clinical course. Students must submit their documentation
early to avoid a delay in their clinical practicum start date.
Students must submit the following at least six months before the
date of their clinical practicum:
1. HIPAA/FERPA Confidentiality form.
2. Signed Field Experience Guidelines.
3. Site Information Form.
4. Clinical Supervisor License (verified with the state agency).
5. Clinical Supervisor Resume.
6. Any additional documentation required by the clinical
practicum site, which may include a background check,
fingerprint clearance card, drug screening, additional
vaccinations, health insurance card, or tuberculosis (TB) test.
OFE works with students to determine what is required.
Students must have received a passing grade (76% minimum, no
rounding) on all BS-CSD program major courses to progress to
the clinical portion of the program (CSD-490). Insufficient,
expired, or missing documentation may result in a later start date,
resulting in delayed graduation. Students should submit their
documentation early to avoid a delay in their clinical start date. It
is the student’s responsibility to ensure that health and safety
documents are current and that all other program requirements
have been met. Clinical practicum sites require specific health
and safety measures. Therefore, GCU cannot make exceptions to
waive any health and safety requirement for any reason including
religious, medical, personal, etc.
Students who refuse to provide appropriate health and safety
documentation will be responsible for finding and securing their
own clinical practicum placement experiences that meet the
appropriate standards. Students must communicate with the OFE
before reaching out to any clinical site, as there may be pre-
established procedures to be followed for that facility. Students
must provide documentation from the clinical site (owner,
director, CEO) stating that they approve the student to do clinical
hours within their facility without documentation of these health
and safety requirements.
GCU must receive all components of the supervisor requirements
before the start of the clinical practicum course. OFE may ask
students to contact their clinical supervisor to ensure timely
submission of these documents.
Although GCU does not require students or faculty to receive
certain vaccines, all students currently attending clinical
practicum rotations as part of the BS-CSD program will have to
abide by the clinical practicum site requirements. Site
requirements for placements take precedence over GCU's
recommended health and safety requirements and students must
ensure that all requirements of the clinical practicum site are met.
In a case where a supervisor is unable to fulfill their
requirements, OFE assists the student in finding alternative
placements to complete the hours. If this is not possible, the
student may need to withdraw and retake the course. In this case,
all associated clinical hours are lost and must be repeated in the
following term. Students are responsible for all costs associated
with any repeat courses. OFE attempts to arrange placements in
the student's geographical area. Students must be willing to travel
to any site in their state at their own expense to complete the
clinical requirements. In some circumstances, if clinical
practicum placements are not available close to a student's
geographic location, extended travel, or relocation away from
their permanent address may be necessary to fulfill clinical
requirements.
If a supervisor is no longer willing to work with the student due
to unprofessional behavior exhibited by the student, referral to
the Professional Practice Committee will take place. This may
impact future placement opportunities being extended for the
remainder of their program as OFE does not want to jeopardize
partner relationships.
Students must complete the minimum clinical hours required for
each clinical practicum course in their program of study. Students
who fail to meet the minimum number of hours required per
course will receive a failing grade and will have to retake the
course. The program does not count hours accumulated during a
course that receives a non-passing grade. Students may not
complete additional hours to use in a future course. Students are
responsible for all costs associated with any withdrawn/repeat
courses.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 93 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Students must notify their Student Services Counselor and Field
Experience Counselor of a change of address immediately as this
may impact clinical practicum placement. A student who moves
to a state in which the program is not offered will not be able to
complete the program. Out of respect for providers who have
agreed to supervise students at their clinical practicum site,
students who have accepted OFE placements must complete the
entire commitment to the site. Failure to do so may impact future
placement opportunities being extended.
Communicable Disease Policy
Students will encounter communicable diseases during clinical
practicums. Students need to adhere to the required
immunizations, safe clinical practice standards, and the
Guidelines for Undergraduate Field Experience Manual. Students
may not participate in clinical experiences while they are affected
by or suspect they have a communicable disease. A
communicable disease is a health disorder that can be passed
from one person to another. If students suspect they may have a
communicable disease, an immediate visit to the student health
center or healthcare provider for evaluation is required. If the
evaluation indicates a possible communicable disease, students
must avoid contact with clients for the duration suggested by the
healthcare provider. Students may not return to participation in
clinical experiences until they have been reevaluated by a
healthcare provider and released with written verification of full
release. Students must contact the supervisor and faculty upon
suspicion and verification of the disease
CSD Major Course Completion Requirements
1. Earn a grade of C (76% minimum, no rounding) or better in all
CSD major courses.
2. Complete and submit all required deliverables, including those
designed to document clinical experiences and clock hours,
even if the point value is "0".
3. Complete the total number of clinical practicum experience
hours required for the course.
4. Score at least a three on the 4-point clinical skills rating scale
at the final evaluation (CSD-490).
5. Follow the clinical practicum policies and procedures outlined
in the Guidelines for Undergraduate Field Experience Manual.
Course Failure and Retakes
Failure to achieve any of these criteria results in course failure. If
a student has not met one of the criteria and wants to drop the
course while the course is still in session, please refer to the
Course Drop Policy.
Note: Passing grades are only awarded upon successful
completion of all required deliverables. Failure to complete and
submit all deliverables may result in a failing grade, regardless of
numerical scores on completed work.
Professional Standards and Dismissal Policy
Students must follow Grand Canyon University's academic
progression policy, the CONHCP Student Professional
Dispositions, and the American Speech-Language-Hearing
Association (ASHA) Code of Ethics. Failure to meet course
objectives, policies, dispositions, and procedures outlined in the
courses, the University Policy Handbook, and the Guidelines for
Undergraduate Field Experience Manual results in failure or
removal from the program. Failure to meet the ASHA Code of
Ethics may result in a warning, coaching, probation, suspension,
or removal from the program. Students must maintain continuous
growth and clinical skill acquisition as they progress through the
program of study.
CSD Major Enrollment Criteria
While enrolled in the CSD major, students must adhere to the
following criteria:
1. Follow the clinical practicum policies and procedures outlined
in the Guidelines for Undergraduate Field Experience Manual.
2. Earn a grade of C (76% minimum with no rounding) or better
in all CSD major courses.
3. All students are required to fulfill the prerequisite requirements
for their enrolled courses. If a student fails a course, they may
be prevented from advancing to the next CSD course until they
have successfully retaken and passed the failed course and met
all prerequisites for the subsequent course.
Mandatory Advisement and Remediation
CONHCP recognizes the importance of maintaining continuous
progress and a sound knowledge base to be successful throughout
the program. As such, faculty members may request mandatory
advisement or remediation sessions when students are in clinical
or academic jeopardy, and/or when student behavior appears
below professional standards. Satisfactory behavioral changes
must be accomplished by the end of the course to progress in the
program.
Criminal Background Check Policy
All BS-CSD students are expected to be clear of any felony
convictions at the time of admission into the College of Nursing
& Health Care Professions and to remain free of felony
convictions for the duration of the program. If the prospective
student or student is charged with a felony, or undesignated
offense either before admission or during the program, he/she
must notify their Program Lead, Field Experience Counselor, and
Student Services Counselor via email within 10 days.
Students with misdemeanors will be reviewed to determine
potential clinical placement based on the individual's record but
this may delay or prevent the clinical practicum.
Students who are admitted with misdemeanors can in no way be
guaranteed certification or licensure, as certification is at the sole
discretion of the American Speech-Language-Hearing
Association (ASHA) and licensure is at the sole discretion of
each individual state Board of Speech-Language Pathology. In
addition, students who are admitted with misdemeanors can in no
way be guaranteed employment, as employment is at the sole
discretion of individual employers.
Students who currently hold a professional license, certification,
or registration issued by a state licensing board or national
certifying body, must notify their Student Services Counselor and
Field Experience Counselor regarding any changes in status,
including accusations, infractions, disciplinary actions,
participation in a diversion program (whether voluntary or
involuntary), and any reportable incident (including incidents
currently under investigation). Any of the above status changes
may delay or prevent the clinical practicum. Failure to provide
this notification could result in disciplinary consequences.
Proctored Examination Policy
The program schedules and administers proctored examinations
in an environment conducive to success and minimizing
academic dishonesty. Many of the BS-CSD courses will include
proctored exams. The College of Nursing & Health Care
Professions (CONHCP) page of the Student Success Center
provides specific directions. If accommodation is needed, please
contact GCU’s Student Disability Services office or follow the
steps for accommodation outlined in the University Policy
Handbook.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 94 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure)
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-licensure) is a
significantly rigorous program, both academically and based on
the time commitment required. Students who choose to apply for
secondary admission to the nursing program should understand
all the additional nursing policies students must adhere to in order
to be admitted, progress, and graduate from the program.
Although it may be possible for some students to work and
remain in the program, based on the rigor and clinical
requirements, The College of Nursing and Health Care
Professions strongly recommends that students do not work or
reduce work hours to focus on the academic and clinical
components of the program. Students who cannot meet the
academic rigor of the courses, as well as prioritize time-
demanding program requirements above all else, will likely have
a difficult time meeting the requirements of the program. In order
for a student to be considered for the NSG and clinical
coursework portion of the program, the student must complete a
secondary application and meet all requirements. Students may
apply for secondary admission to GCU’s Fast-Track BSN offered
at the main campus and/or the accelerated BSN (ABSN) offered
at satellite locations. The admission policies and criteria are
different for Fast-Track BSN vs ABSN, and details are outlined
below. Students that are secondarily accepted and begin NSG and
Clinical Coursework at a specific location (whether it be Fast-
Track BSN at the main campus or ABSN at any satellite location)
will not be allowed to switch locations in the future.
Fast-Track BSN (Main Campus): Admission Requirements for
NSG and Clinical Coursework
Admission into the program is competitive, and CONHCP stack-
ranks secondary applicants based on prerequisite GPA,
programmatic GPA, and HESI A2 scores to determine final
admissions decisions. Please note, the average GPAs and HESI
A2 scores of applicants who are accepted into the clinical portion
of the program are typically higher than the minimum
requirements for secondary admission.
Admission cannot and will not be guaranteed. Applications that
do not meet the minimum requirements by the application
deadline will be denied without consideration. After two
secondary application attempts (if not accepted), a student will be
ineligible for secondary admission to the Main Campus Fast-
Track BSN program and should contact their Student Services
Counselor to explore alternative programs at GCU. It is important
to note that although a student may be ineligible for secondary
admission to the Main Campus Fast-Track BSN, they might still
be eligible for GCU’s accelerated BSN (ABSN) offered at
satellite locations and should contact their Student Services
Counselor to determine if they qualify.
Students who submit a secondary application and meet all
secondary admission requirements by the respective deadline for
the Main Campus Fast-Track BSN program are considered a
qualified secondary applicant. If there is not enough clinical
space available to offer a qualified secondary applicant
acceptance into the Main Campus Fast-Track BSN program, they
will be provided the opportunity to enroll into GCU’s accelerated
BSN (ABSN) program if there is clinical space available at the
ABSN satellite location the student is interested in. It is important
to note that students who qualify for this opportunity will need to
submit a secondary application for the ABSN program, but they
will be considered auto-accepted into the ABSN program
(pending clinical space availability). This opportunity is only
applicable for the same semester the qualified secondary
applicant was not offered acceptance for the Main Campus Fast-
Track BSN program.
All secondary application criteria must be completed by the
deadline specified below for the semester in which the student is
applying for secondary acceptance. The College of Nursing and
Healthcare Professions will conduct a review of the student’s
records to determine their admissibility to begin NSG & clinical
coursework in the Fast-Track BSN (Main Campus).
Semester Start Secondary Application
Deadline
Fall May 15
Spring September 15
Summer January 15
• GCU’s Pre-licensure program only admits students that did
not earn credit from another college or university before or
since enrolling at GCU with the exception of credits earned
from an approved nursing assistant training program (ex:
CNA) or via dual enrollment while attending high school.
• Prior to entering the clinical portion of the program, students
are permitted to participate in Study Abroad as long as
credit is not earned during the experience. Once admitted
into the clinical portion of the program, students will not be
allowed to participate in Study Abroad.
• Once enrolled at GCU, students are permitted to test out of
required general education courses via College Level
Examination Program (CLEP).
• Students must submit a valid Level One State of Arizona
Fingerprint Clearance Card.
• Students must pass an approved Background Check, and the
order date must be within six months of the secondary
application deadline for the semester in which the student is
applying. The background check includes an approved
Office of the Inspector General (OIG)/ General Services
Administration (GSA) component that documents students
have not committed Healthcare Fraud or Abuse. Students
whose record includes any felony will be automatically
disqualified and denied admission. If the prospective student
or student is charged with a felony or undesignated offense,
either before admission or during the program, he/she must
notify the Director via email within 10 days. Students with
misdemeanors will be reviewed to determine potential
clinical placement based on the individual’s record. Students
that are admitted with misdemeanors can in no way be
guaranteed licensure, as licensure is at the sole discretion of
the State Boards of Nursing. In addition, students that are
admitted with misdemeanors can in no way be guaranteed
employment, as employment is at the sole discretion of
individual employers. Additionally, the college cannot
guarantee clinical placements if the sites conduct their own
background checks for students.
• Required general education courses are subject to GCU’s
Repeating Passing Courses policy.
• Required pre-requisite courses must be completed within
seven years of the secondary application deadline for the
semester in which the student is applying for secondary
acceptance.
• Students cannot retake successfully completed required pre-
requisite courses. This policy includes any completed
required pre-requisite courses taken during an approved
nursing assistant training program (ex: CNA) or via dual
enrollment while attending high school.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 95 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Required
General
Education
Courses
UNV-103
CWV-101
ENG-105
ENG-106
MAT-144
BIO-201/L
PSY-102
MAT-274
SOC-102
Required
Prerequisite
Courses
CHM-101/L
BIO-202/L
BIO-205/L
BIO-322
BIO-319
PSY-357
• Students must meet minimum prerequisite and programmatic
GPA requirements (see table below).
HESI A2 Entrance Exam: Students must pass all sections of the
HESI A2 Entrance Exam required by GCU (please see table
below for required sections & minimum scores). Students must
pass all required sections during the same exam attempt to meet
standards. Students cannot use/combine the highest subtest scores
from different exam attempts. Students can have up to four total
attempts within two years of the secondary application deadline
to achieve the required passing scores. Exam results, whether
passing or failing, will only be considered if the exam date was
within two years of the student’s secondary application deadline
and all prior results greater than two years will not be taken into
consideration. Results from exams taken prior to 1/1/2024 will be
accepted even if taken at other institutions/outside of GCU.
Results from exams taken 1/1/2024 and after will only be
accepted if taken through GCU.
HESI A2 Retakes: Students must wait 14 full days to lapse in-
between HESI A2 exam attempts. The count of 14 days will
begin the day following the previous exam attempt (e.g., Attempt
#1 taken on day 1, 14-day wait time = days 2-15, attempt #2 can
be taken on day 16). Attempts taken less than the full 14 days in-
between attempts will be nullified
Secondary application criteria for Fast-Track BSN (Main
Campus) will be weighted as follows for the stack-ranking
process:
Criteria Weight
Minimum
Required
GPAs and
HESI A2
Scores
Pre-requisite GPA:
Includes all required pre-
requisite courses whether
transferred in or taken at
GCU
40% 3.25
Criteria Weight
Minimum
Required
GPAs and
HESI A2
Scores
Programmatic GPA:
Includes all courses taken
only at GCU under the
enrolled program
15% 3.0
HESI A2: Composite Score
of Reading Comprehension,
Grammar, and Vocabulary
15% 80
HESI A2: Math 15% 80
HESI A2: Human Anatomy
and Physiology
15% 75
accelerated BSN (ABSN – Satellite Locations): Admission
Requirements for NSG and Clinical Coursework
The accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is
designed for students who meet the following requirements:
• A minimum of 60 transferable college credits from an
accredited institution (applies to all current, prior, and
prospective GCU students).
Admission cannot and will not be guaranteed. Secondary
applications are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis. As
long as a student meets all minimum secondary application
requirements, they can apply to start in the Fall, Spring, or
Summer semester. Secondary Application Deadline: Secondary
applications can be submitted for review no later than 7 days
prior to the start date of the semester for which the student is
seeking admission.
• Full secondary admission is subject to successful completion
of all required pre-requisite and general education courses, and
all other minimum criteria required for secondary admission.
All minimum criteria must be successfully met no later than 7
days prior to the start date of the semester for which the
student is seeking admission or their secondary application will
be denied, and the student will have to submit a new secondary
application if they desire to apply for a future semester.
• • If for any reason a secondary applicant is not admitted
or is admitted but does not start, they may have an opportunity
to submit another secondary application for a future semester.
Students are allowed to submit a maximum of three secondary
applications for the ABSN program. If a student is submitting
a second or third secondary application, it is important to
understand that all secondary admission requirements must
still be met at the time of each individual application
(including, but not limited to, a passed HESI A2 exam taken
within two years of the respective secondary application
deadline).
• Students with two or more prior prelicensure nursing program
major course failures/non-passing grades will not be eligible to
enroll in the ABSN program. Nursing program major course
content is defined as coursework that is comparable to the
content included in GCU’s NSG courses. In the context of this
policy, a “course failure” is defined as any applicable course in
which the student earned a grade that is considered non-
progressing per the awarding institution (even if the student is
allowed to subsequently retake that course per the awarding
institution’s policy). To verify if a grade is considered
progressing or non-progressing, please refer to the nursing
program policy of the awarding institution.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 96 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Dependent upon the specific transferrable coursework a
student has completed, it may or may not apply to their ABSN
program-of-study.
• ABSN students are not permitted to participate in the Honors
College unless they were already enrolled as an Honors student
and were active in GCU coursework prior to 8/31/2024
• Students are permitted to test out of required general education
courses via College Level Examination Program (CLEP).
• If applicable, submit a valid Fingerprint Clearance Card for the
state in which your intended ABSN satellite location resides.
Students should contact their admissions representative or
student services counselor for more information on this
requirement.
• Students must pass an approved Background Check, and the
order date must be within six months of the secondary
application deadline for the semester in which the student is
applying. The background check includes an approved Office
of the Inspector General (OIG)/ General Services
Administration (GSA) component that documents students
have not committed Healthcare Fraud or Abuse. Students
whose record includes any felony will be automatically
disqualified and denied admission. If the prospective student or
student is charged with a felony or undesignated offense, either
before admission or during the program, he/she must notify the
Director via email within 10 days. Students with
misdemeanors will be reviewed to determine potential clinical
placement based on the individual’s record. Students that are
admitted with misdemeanors can in no way be guaranteed
licensure, as licensure is at the sole discretion of the State
Boards of Nursing. In addition, students that are admitted with
misdemeanors can in no way be guaranteed employment, as
employment is at the sole discretion of individual employers.
Additionally, the college cannot guarantee clinical placements
if the sites conduct their own background checks for students.
• Required general education courses are subject to GCU’s
Repeating Passing Courses policy.
• The completion end date of all required pre-requisite courses
must be within seven years of the month of the start date of a
student’s first course taken under their ABSN program of
study at GCU (which includes the start date for any required
general education or pre-requisite course) or within seven
years of the secondary application deadline for the semester in
which the student is applying for secondary acceptance,
whichever comes first. Any pre-requisite courses completed
prior to the seven-year requirement will not be recognized as
fulfilling that respective pre-requisite course and will not be
considered in the pre-requisite GPA calculation. In the
scenario where a student has two or more passing grades on
file for the same pre-requisite course, each completed within
the allowable seven-year timeframe, the highest grade earned
will be used in the pre-requisite GPA calculation.
Required
General
Education
Courses
UNV-103
CWV-101
ENG-105
ENG-106
MAT-144
BIO-201/L
PSY-102
MAT-274
*SOC-102
**POS-305
*SOC-102 is a specific requirement for students applying to any
ABSN site that is not within the state of Nevada.
**POS-305 is a specific requirement only for students applying
to an ABSN site that is within the state of Nevada.
Required
Prerequisite
Courses
CHM-101/L
BIO-202/L
BIO-205/L
BIO-322
BIO-319
PSY-357
• The table immediately below provides special exceptions for
some of the required general education (GE) courses
dependent upon a student’s previously completed coursework:
Courses
Transferrable
Credits
WITHOUT
Completed
Associate’s
Degree
Transferrable
Credits WITH
Completed
Associate’s
Degree
Completed
Bachelor’s
Degree
UNV-103
Waived
(minimum of
24 transfer
credits w/ 3.0
GPA)
Waived
(minimum of
24 transfer
credits w/ 3.0
GPA)
Waived
(minimum of
24 transfer
credits w/ 3.0
GPA)
ENG-105
No Exception Waived (can
fulfill by GE
category as
opposed to
exact content
match)
Waived (can
fulfill by GE
category as
opposed to
exact content
match)
ENG-106
Waived (can
fulfill by GE
category as
opposed to
exact content
match)
Waived (can
fulfill by GE
category as
opposed to
exact content
match)
Waived (can
fulfill by GE
category as
opposed to
exact content
match)
MAT-144
No Exception Waived (can
fulfill by GE
category as
opposed to
exact content
match)
Waived (can
fulfill by GE
category as
opposed to
exact content
match)
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 97 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Courses
Transferrable
Credits
WITHOUT
Completed
Associate’s
Degree
Transferrable
Credits WITH
Completed
Associate’s
Degree
Completed
Bachelor’s
Degree
PSY-102
Waived (can
fulfill by GE
category as
opposed to
exact content
match)
Waived (can
fulfill by GE
category as
opposed to
exact content
match)
Waived (can
fulfill by GE
category as
opposed to
exact content
match)
SOC-102
Waived (can
fulfill by GE
category as
opposed to
exact content
match)
Waived (can
fulfill by GE
category as
opposed to
exact content
match)
Waived (can
fulfill by GE
category as
opposed to
exact content
match)
• Students must meet minimum prerequisite and cumulative
GPA requirements (see table below).
HESI A2 Entrance Exam: Students must pass all sections of the
HESI A2 Entrance Exam required by GCU (please see table
below for required sections & minimum scores). Students must
pass all required sections during the same exam attempt to meet
standards. Students cannot use/combine the highest subtest scores
from different exam attempts. Students can have up to four total
attempts within two years of the secondary application deadline
to achieve the required passing scores. Exam results, whether
passing or failing, will only be considered if the exam date was
within two years of the student’s secondary application deadline
and all prior results greater than two years will not be taken into
consideration. Results from exams taken prior to 1/1/2024 will be
accepted even if taken at other institutions/outside of GCU.
Results from exams taken 1/1/2024 and after will only be
accepted if taken through GCU.
HESI A2 Retakes: Students must wait 14 full days to lapse in-
between HESI A2 exam attempts. The count of 14 days will
begin the day following the previous exam attempt (e.g., Attempt
#1 taken on day 1, 14-day wait time = days 2-15, attempt #2 can
be taken on day 16). Attempts taken less than the full 14 days in-
between attempts will be nullified.
HESI A2 Policy Exception (only valid for students applying for
secondary acceptance Spring 2024 and prior): ABSN students
with a completed HESI A2 entrance exam from another
institution, which did not include all GCU required HESI A2
exam sections, may be permitted to take only the outstanding
GCU required section(s) that were not offered on their previous
exam attempt, on a subsequent HESI A2 exam administered at
GCU as long as the below requirements are met.
• Policy Exception Requirements and Details:
o Student has not exceeded four HESI A2 exam attempts
within two years of their secondary application deadline.
o Previous attempt was completed within two years of the
secondary application deadline for the semester in which the
student is applying.
o Student received passing scores on all GCU required
sections offered on their previous exam attempt.
o Only the outstanding section(s) are to be completed on the
subsequent HESI A2 exam attempt.
o Student’s results from both exam attempts would then be
combined and applied to their application, only if the student
qualifies for this exception and earns passing scores on the
outstanding section(s) on their subsequent attempt.
o Students qualifying for this exception do not need to wait
the full 14-days between their previous exam attempt and
the subsequent exam attempt containing the remaining
section(s).
o If a student receives non-passing scores on any section(s) on
their subsequent HESI A2 exam, the student will need to
wait the required 14 full-days prior to testing again. The
student may still be eligible for this policy exception, as
long as all aforementioned exception requirements are met
Criteria
Minimum
Required
GPAs and
HESI A2
Scores
Pre-requisite GPA: Includes all required
pre-requisite courses whether transferred
in or taken at GCU
When multiple transfer courses are being
utilized to meet the content requirement
for one GCU pre-requisite course and/or
lab, all credits and each letter grade for
those respective courses will be used in
the GPA calculation. All non-semester-
based credits will be converted to the
semester-based credit equivalent prior to
calculating this GPA
3.25
Cumulative GPA: This is determined by
all 60 credits of coursework applied to
the student’s Bachelor of Science in
Nursing Pre-Licensure program of study
(both GCU and transfer coursework) and
the grade earned in those courses from
the awarding institution. In the event no
letter grade is transcribed on the official
transcript, there will be no impact to the
GPA calculation (e.g., alternative credit
with a grade of “CR”).
For students applying for secondary
admission to the ABSN program prior to
the Spring 2024 semester, the GPA may
be calculated based on the totality of the
most recent 60 credits completed
(whether they apply directly to their
program of study, or not) if this qualifies
them for secondary admission. This
alternative GPA calculation includes both
undergraduate and graduate coursework a
student has completed. Remedial
coursework, as recognized by GCU, will
not be included in this calculation. If a
student has taken the same course
multiple times within their last 60 credits,
each attempt with an earned grade will be
included in this calculation. All non-
semester-based credits will be converted
to the semester-based credit equivalent
prior to calculating this GPA.
3.0
HESI A2: Composite Score of Reading
Comprehension, Grammar, and
Vocabulary
80
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 98 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Criteria
Minimum
Required
GPAs and
HESI A2
Scores
HESI A2: Math 80
HESI A2: Human Anatomy and
Physiology
75
Fast-Track BSN (Main Campus) and Accelerated BSN (ABSN –
Satellite Locations): Required Prior to Starting NSG and Clinical
Coursework
Upon acceptance into the nursing program, students must
complete the following prior to starting NSG coursework and the
clinical phase of the program.
1. Sign the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
(HIPAA) Confidentiality Agreement before any involvement
in a clinical setting.
2. Attend College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
training or an approved in-classroom clinical instruction on
requirements relating to patient privacy.
3. Complete the Substance Screening. Please refer to the
Guidelines for Undergraduate Field Experience Manual for
additional information.
4. Provide the following health information to the Office of Field
Experience at least two weeks before the semester start date
where the student will begin their clinical coursework. Some
requirements will need to be updated after the initial
screening/immunization. Please refer to the Guidelines for
Undergraduate Field Experience Manual for additional
information.
• Health history
• Physical exam
• Current health insurance coverage
• Proof of immunization and/or immunity (Please refer to the
Guidelines for Undergraduate Field Experiences Manual for
more information) are required:
o Tuberculosis (TB) screening
o Lab evidence (titer) of immunity
o MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
o Varicella Zoster (VZV)
o Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap)
o Influenza
o COVID-19 Vaccination*
o Meningococcal Vaccination (recommended: not required)
o Hepatitis A (recommended; not required)
o Hepatitis B (recommended; a signed waiver is required if
the vaccination series is not completed or declined by the
student)
• Submit a Professional Rescuer CPR course completion card.
The certification has to remain current throughout the
program.
5. Students must complete all “Required General Education” and
“General Education Program Major Prerequisite” courses, as
listed in the Academic Catalog, with a passing grade (with the
exception of NSG-310, as this course is taken during the
clinical portion of the program, if accepted). Failure to
complete the aforementioned will result in the rescinding of
secondary acceptance offer, and students will not be allowed to
begin NSG coursework and progress into the clinical portion
of the Pre-Licensure BSN/ABSN program.
*COVID-19*Grand Canyon University does not require the
covid-19 vaccine for students or staff, however, if a student is
provided a placement at a clinical facility that requires this
vaccine, proof of vaccine must be provided prior to clinical
clearance. Healthcare agencies determine exemption criteria and
if offered at the site, students will need to be approved and
compliant prior to clinical deadlines.
Progression Requirements during the Pre-licensure Nursing
Major and Clinical Coursework
While enrolled in the nursing major, students must adhere to the
following criteria:
1. Follow the clinical policies and procedures outlined in the
Guidelines for Undergraduate Field Experience Manual.
2. Students completing NSG & Clinical Coursework at a site
located in Arizona must maintain a current/valid Level One
State of Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card. Students
completing NSG & Clinical Coursework at a site located in
different state (i.e., not Arizona), must maintain current/valid
Fingerprint Clearance documentation in accordance with the
fingerprint policies of that respective state, if applicable.
3. Maintain continuous enrollment in the nursing major courses.
Fast-track students maintain enrollment for the Fall, Spring,
and Summer semesters. This includes clinical rotations.
4. Earn a grade of a C (76% minimum-no rounding) or better in
all nursing major courses.
5. Only first-time failed courses within the same academic term
may be repeated one time, provided the student follows the
college’s reapplication process and the application is approved.
Failure in a didactic or clinical course also results in failure of
the co-requisite course; however, co-requisite failures are
processed as a single non-passing occurrence. Students who
fail one or more nursing core course(s) for the second time in
consecutive or non-consecutive semesters will not be approved
re-entry to the program.
Students that fail a term or semester will not be allowed to
register for the following term or semester given they are now out
of sequence with their plan of study. These students must apply
through a formal reentry application process to re-enter the
program following a failure for the next term or semester the
failed course(s) is offered. Re-entry is not guaranteed. A re-entry
decision will be based on evidence showing that the student is
ready to continue, has potential to complete the program, and is
in compliance with University regulations, professional standards
of behavior, and is deemed safe. All decisions to readmit are also
contingent upon clinical space availability. The student must
meet all admission and clinical requirements to be considered for
re-entry into the program. All re-entry students will be placed on
a student success plan. Students must meet with the faculty of the
re-entered course during week one of the course to develop a
student success plan.
Failure to achieve any of these criteria will result in nursing
course failure.
Failure to pass ALL of the benchmark assignments as designated
in the individual course will result in failure of the course.
Pre-licensure Nursing Major Course Completion
Failure to achieve any of these criteria will result in nursing
course failure with a letter grade of a F:
1. Achieve a minimum of 76% average (no rounding) for all
exams, excluding HESI Exams.
2. Earn a minimum of 76% (no rounding) or a passing grade for
each of the benchmark assignments as designated in the
individual course.
3. Achieve a minimum of 76% (no rounding) or higher for the
course.
4. Other Requirements:
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 99 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
a. Performance-Based Assessment (PBAs)
*PBAs are assigned for (math & specified lab skills)
*Students must successfully pass all PBAs before being
permitted to perform in the clinical setting
b. Presentation related to the content goals of the program
c. HESI 3-Day Live Review Attendance
d. HESI CAT Completion
5. Students must complete all assigned HESI Standardized exams
in specified courses, and any associated remediation. In NSG
432 Nursing Care of Childbearing and NSG 434 Nursing Care
of Childrearing, only one HESI standardized exam is
administered. In the remaining courses with a HESI exam, the
higher of the two exam scores will be used as the grade earned.
The following table explains the scoring in terms of grade
percentages.
HESI Scoring
Interval
Performance
Level % Score
> 900 Recommended
Performance
100
900 Score indicates
highest likelihood
of passing NCLEX
on first attempt
100
850-899 Acceptable 90
800-849 Remediation
required
76
750-799 Remediation
required
60
700-749 Remediation
required
55
501-699 Remediation
required
50
< 500 Remediation
required
0
Clinical:
1. Complete total number of clinical experience hours required
for the course. In instances when the clinical site lacks
sufficient clinical experiences to meet clinical objectives (i.e.
low census, closed units, etc.) students are required to make-up
the clinical hours associated with that clinical experience. It is
up to the University to determine how students will make up
those hours, but the primary method will be an additional
clinical rotation. Secondarily, if alternative clinical rotations
cannot be arranged, the University may choose to use
simulation to meet the clinical objectives. Students may not
decline the make-up experience identified and may risk failing
the course for nonattendance.
2. Achieve a minimum of 76% (no rounding) as the cumulative
grade for the course.
3. Critical competencies have been identified in each clinical
course and are highlighted on the Clinical Evaluation Tool
(CET). These competencies have been identified as a core
performance measures in specific levels. Students who score at
a 1 (Does Not Meet) on any of these competencies at final
evaluation will fail the clinical course.
In the event that a student has not met one of the criteria and
wants to drop course while course is still in session please refer to
the Course Drop Policy.
Re-Entry to Pre-licensure Nursing Major Courses
Any student who exits the nursing program prematurely for any
reason must reapply to obtain another seat. In order to be
approved for re-entry, there must be enough clinical availability
within the term to accommodate the student for all courses in
which they were previously unsuccessful. Clinical availability
will differ every term.
These reasons include, but are not limited to:
1. Student withdrew from one or more enrolled nursing courses
in same semester.
2. Student received a failure in one or more enrolled nursing
courses within the same semester.
3. Student was administratively withdrawn from a nursing major
course.
4. Student required a withdrawal with approved documented
medical circumstances
5. Student required a military deployment withdrawal ROTC
student requiring withdrawal for Active Camp.
a. It is important to note that students who are required to
withdraw due to military deployment or Active ROTC
Camp will not be penalized when re-entering the program.
Although they will still need to follow the re-entry process
and established deadlines, their re-entry application will not
count as one of their two maximum application attempts and
their actual re-entry into the program will not count as their
one allowed re-entry
6. Student submitted a Leave of Absence Form (LOA)
Re-entry to the nursing program is not guaranteed irrespective of
whether the student was previously enrolled in the nursing
program or was previously accepted. Students may apply for re-
entry a maximum of two times for a semester start date within
one year of the end date of the last clinical semester attended. To
apply for re-entry, students must complete the Application for
Re-entry Consideration into the Clinical Portion of Grand
Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-
licensure) Program. All re-entry applications must be submitted
prior to 11:59 pm (MST) of the End of Term date for the
semester preceding the intended re-entry semester, as listed
within the Academic Calendar. Students will receive an email
informing them if they are approved or denied for re-entry.
Based on the re-entry policy criteria, students who are not re-
entered after those two attempts are required to choose a different
program of study. If approved for re-entry, the offer is only valid
for the specific site the student previously attended and for the
respective term the student requested re-entry for in their
application. Re-entered students will be updated to the most
current program version and are required to adhere to the current
policies and requirements of the Pre-licensure program.
If, after re-entry to the program, the student subsequently fails or
withdraws from any course, they are ineligible for re-entry and
will have to choose another program of study if they remain at
the University.
Re-entry applicants from each respective level and site are stack-
ranked in the following order:
1. Students with approved documented medical circumstances
2. Students with documented military deployment or ROTC
students deployed for Active Camp
3. Overall exam average earned for all course(s) within the
unsuccessfully completed term
4. Overall HESI best content exam scores for all courses
within the unsuccessfully completed level
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 100 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
If re-entry is approved, the student must sign and abide by the
required remediation documented in the Student Success &
Growth Plan, which may include, but is not limited to:
• Repeating of failed academic courses or passed academic
courses in accordance with an Academic Plan, determined
by Academic Compliance.
• If a student has been out of the clinical setting for greater
than six (6) months prior to the start date of the re-entered
semester, re-entry the student will be required to complete
and successfully pass all previous levels’ nursing skills lab
Performance Based Assessments (PBAs) and Medication
Math prior to the start of clinical. The date of the student’s
last clinical rotation attended will be used to determine the
aforementioned 6-month period. Students are allowed three
maximum attempts to pass each required PBA. If
unsuccessful after the third attempt on any PBA or
Medication Math, the student will receive a non-passing
clinical grade, which will result in a second non-passing
semester, therefore the student will be immediately
dismissed from the Pre-licensure program since they are no
longer eligible for re-entry.
• Clinical/skills lab/simulation experiences;
• Remediation meetings and activities;
• Counseling;
• Review of Professional Practices Committee and/or Code of
Conduct issues, including timeliness, professionalism,
accountability, and remediation activities related to those
issues.
• Required Student-Faculty Meetings
Students who do not meet the requirements within the Student
Success & Growth Plan may face Academic Withdrawal and/or
failure and will no longer be eligible or considered to be a
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-licensure) student.
Pre-licensure Nursing Exams Requirement
Students are required to complete all exams, as assigned and
scheduled at each level of nursing courses.
Pre-licensure Nursing Med-Math Policy
The purpose of this policy is to ensure students demonstrate a
basic level of knowledge and skills proficiency prior to safely
administering medication, under direct supervision, in a clinical
environment. A medication math exam, given at all levels, and as
assigned after new math content, must be successfully passed
prior to completing Medication Administration PBA. Med Math
and Med Administration PBAs must be successfully passed
before a student is allowed to administering medications in the
clinical setting.
The med-math and medication administration performance-based
assessment consists of two-parts: Part A and Part B. Students will
not be allowed to administer medication in the clinical setting
until both Part A and Part B of the performance-based assessment
has been successfully completed:
• Part A (Med Math PBA): Students have three attempts to
successfully pass the med-math exam with a minimum score of
90% . Points will only be awarded for successfully passing on
the first attempt. In the event of an unsuccessful first attempt,
the next or third attempt must be completed within one week
of the prior attempt. If a student fails to complete within one
week, it will be counted as an attempt failure. Students who do
not achieve a minimum of 90% score after the third attempt at
the med-math exam will fail the course. Medication Math is an
essential function and not successfully passing the exam can
pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others.
• Part B (Medication Administration PBA): Demonstrating safe
medication administration in a clinical/simulated environment.
Students must have first successful passed Part A before
completing Part B. Students have three attempts to pass. Points
will only be awarded for successfully passing on the first
attempt. Students are not permitted to administer medications
in any clinical setting, under direct supervision, until they
demonstrate proficiency (Part A and Part B) In the event of an
unsuccessful first attempt, the next or third attempt must be
completed within one week of the prior attempt. If a student
fails to complete within one week, it will be counted as an
attempt failure. Students who cannot demonstrate safe
medication administration after three (3) clinical/simulated
scenarios will fail and will not be able to attend clinical, skills
lab, or immersive simulation events. Students are obligated to
inform the clinical faculty and facility RN of their proficiency
status. Failure to inform may result in immediate removal from
the clinical setting and course failure.
Students will be required to complete remediation for each
unsuccessful attempt. Please refer to the Required Academic
Remediation Policy.
Performance Based Assessments (PBA)
Demonstrating safe nursing skills in a clinical/simulated
environment is essential to safeguarding patient well-being in
clinical settings. Students must have successfully passed all
designated PBA in the skills lab. Students have three attempts to
pass. Students are not permitted to perform the nursing skill in
any clinical setting, under direct supervision, until they
demonstrate proficiency. In the event of an unsuccessful first
attempt, the next or third attempt must be completed within one
week of the prior attempt. If a student fails to complete within
one week, it will be counted as an attempt failure. Students who
cannot demonstrate safe and competent nursing skill after three
(3) clinical/simulated scenarios will fail the course and will not
be able to attend clinical, skills lab, or immersive simulation
events.
* Students enrolled in the NSG 300C course who do not
successfully pass the designated lab skill Performance-Based
Assessment (PBA) will be ineligible to participate in NSG-300C
clinicals, skills labs, or immersive simulation events.
Consequently, this will lead to course failure in both NSG-300C
and the co-requisite NSG-300 courses. Similarly, student in the
NSG-316 course who do not successfully pass the designated lab
skills PBAs will not be able to attend NSG-316 skills labs or
NSG-300C skills lab, clinicals, or immersive simulation events,
resulting in course failure for NSG-316, NSG-300C, and the co-
requisite NSG-300 courses.
Pre-licensure Nursing Practice & Medication Administration
Policy
Nursing practice and medication administration by students is
only permitted after competency has been verified in the clinical
setting and only after the successful completion of performance-
based assessments (written and simulated). To verify competency
in the clinical setting the student must have direct supervision by
either the GCU clinical faculty or an approved agency RN who is
functioning as the Transition to Practice Residency preceptor
during the first medication pass for each administration route, for
each clinical course.
After verification of competence with above supervision, a
student may then administer medications with a staff RN as long
as verification of competency has been clearly communicated.
A Health Care Agency does not have the right to determine who
can be designated to pass medications or perform certain
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 101 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
procedures. In the event that the Health Care Agency has stricter
guidelines than GCU policy, the student will be obligated to
follow the Health Care Agency requirements.
All students will be required to follow the six (6) rights of
medication administration
• Right Patient
• Right Medication
• Right Dose
• Right Time
• Right Route
• Right Documentation
Students may not do any of the following, even under direct
supervision:
• Administer narcotics/controlled substances in the following
clinical courses: NSG-300CC, NSG-322CC, NSG-432CC,
NSG-434CC
• Administer emergency drugs or drugs used in “code”
situations (ACLS)
• Obtain & administering blood and/or blood products
• Administer chemotherapy
• Administer medications that induce sedation
• Take verbal or phone orders from a doctor, nurse practitioner,
or other care provider
• Transcribe orders
• Witness consents, permits, or advanced directives
Students may administer narcotics/controlled substances based on
the following guidelines:
• NSG-320CC – Students may administer oral (PO) and
transdermal narcotics/controlled substances
• NSG-430CC, NSG-440CC and NSG-444CD/CE – Students
may administer narcotics/controlled substances via all routes
In the event of any medication error or any failure to administer
medications as prescribed or appropriately; including failure to
properly handle/waste/dispose of narcotics/controlled substances,
the student must notify the clinical faculty and complete all
documentation required by the agency. The clinical faculty is
obligated to report the incident to the unit or facility supervisor
and the Director or designee. The Director or designee may refer
the incident to the Professional Practice Committee.
Failure to comply with this policy is a practice violation
reportable to State Boards of Nursing. Students found to be in
violation of this policy will be immediately removed from the
clinical setting and clinical rotation and may be interim
suspended from the pre-licensure/ABSN program pending an
investigation by the Professional Practices Committee.
Mandatory Advisement for Pre-licensure Nursing Major Courses
Faculty members or College of Nursing Designee may request
mandatory advisement or remediation sessions when students are
in clinical or academic jeopardy, and/or when student behavior
appears below professional standards. Satisfactory academics
and/or behavioral changes must be accomplished by the end of
the course in order to progress in the nursing program. It is
important to maintain continuous progress and a sound
knowledge base to be successful throughout the program.
Required Remediation
Remediation is considered a professional and academic
responsibility. Students who struggle to obtain the adequate
score, benchmark or performance measure may be required to
complete remediation at the discretion of the faculty member. All
course/program requirements must be met in order for the
College of Nursing & Health Care Professions to submit program
completion documents to the State Board of Nursing in which a
student intends to be licensed.
Items that require remediation consist of the following but not
limited to:
• Students approved through the re-entry process will be
required to complete remediation through a student success &
growth plan, in addition to retaking any failed course(s).
Students will work with their faculty to complete the student
success & growth plan. Students will fail any course in which
the student success & growth plan was not completed, and will
not be allowed to continue in the program.
o Medication Math PBA
o Unsuccessful performance of PBA
o Unprofessional Conduct
o Unsafe or inappropriate care of a patient
o Unsafe or inappropriate skill in caring for a patient
o Exam averages below the assigned benchmark
o HESI exams (please see specifics below)
HESI Exams Remediation
All students will be required to take all versions of the HESI
exams in the designated courses.
If two versions are assigned, all students will be required to
complete HESI remediation based on their individual score.
Remediation for the student’s version 1 score will be required to
complete by the due date, which will be scheduled prior to taking
version 2.
Students in NSG-432 & NSG-434 courses are exempt for
completing remediation for these two courses only.
All tasks in the required remediation must be completed to obtain
the points (e.g. partial points will not be awarded for partial
completion of the remediation). If remediation is not completed,
the student will receive 0 points for HESI remediation
Lab, Simulation, and Clinical Safe Practice Guidelines
Students must know and practice safe guidelines at all times
while in lab, simulation, or clinical. Failure to adhere to general
guidelines can result in disciplinary action.
1. Students should report pregnancies, physical limitations,
allergies (e.g. Latex), recent injuries, illnesses, surgeries, or
communicable disease to their instructor as soon as possible
so that necessary precautions may be taken that may affect
your ability to meet the Essential Functions.
2. Written medical clearance from a health care provider as well
as permission of the Directors of Lab or Clinical and course
instructor(s) is required before students with aforementioned
concern will be allowed to utilize the laboratory, simulation,
or clinical areas.
3. Students are not permitted to be present in the lab, simulation,
or clinical areas unless a nursing faculty member is present
with them.
4. Students are not permitted to leave the clinical site for lunch.
5. Standard precautions should be followed at all times when
there is exposure or potential exposure to blood or body
fluids.
6. Students are NOT to practice any invasive procedures on
each other or persons outside of a GCU clinical experience
that could result in blood or body fluid exposure and/or
injury. Students are to practice injections or IV starts only on
the mannequins provided.
7. Direct supervision by the assigned clinical faculty member or
a designated staff registered nurse is required for students to
perform approved invasive nursing skills, as indicated on the
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 102 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
psychomotor skills checklist, on patients in the clinical
setting. Invasive nursing skills refer to procedures that
involve entry into the body or insertion of instruments or
substances into the body. Examples include, but are not
limited to
– Venipuncture
– Intravenous (IV) catheter insertion
– Urinary catheterization
– Nasogastric tube insertion
8. No equipment or supplies are to be removed by students from
the lab, simulation, or clinical areas.
9. Any damage to the equipment or supplies should be reported
immediately to the Lab staff.
10. Unused supplies are to be left in the practice area.
11. Students and Lab Faculty/Instructors are responsible for
placing hypodermic needles and other “sharps” equipment
into the red biohazard bins and wall-mounted containers.
12. Students must demonstrate safety precautions while utilizing
needles during practice as instructed (e.g. never recap
needles, engage safety feature on devices, dispose of “sharps”
immediately).
13. Students must demonstrate safety precautions with use of
their provided medication administration practice kit.
14. Students must demonstrate proper body mechanics for
moving, lifting, and transferring.
15. If an injury or exposure occurs during lab, simulation or
clinical, the student must notify the faculty/instructor
immediately. The procedure for exposure or injury will be
followed as outlined in the Guidelines for Undergraduate
Field Experiences Manual.
16. It is the responsibility of all those who use the lab or
simulation areas to keep the equipment and space clean,
particularly during and after use.
Student Safe Practice
The College of Nursing and Health Care Professions’ priority is
the education of future nurses and health care occupations in a
safe environment for students, faculty, staff, and patients. Patient
safety is of the utmost importance. In certain cases where a
nursing student is engaged in behavior that is intentional,
negligent, below program standards, inconsistent with nursing
professional standards, or potentially or actually harmful to a
patient, the Dean will report the incident to the appropriate Board
of Nursing as soon as the incident is substantiated. Reporting is
mandatory under the Nurse Practice Act for all states.
Examples of conduct or practice violations reportable to Boards
of Nursing include but not limited to:
– Information that a nurse or certificate holder may be
mentally or physically unable to safely practice nursing or
perform nursing related duties
– Conduct involving practicing beyond the scope of practice
of the license or certificate. Examples include knowingly
giving a medication not authorized by a treating provider,
obtaining laboratory or other tests not authorized by a
treating provider, unauthorized adjusting of dosage
– Conduct which leads to the dismissal for unsafe nursing
practice or conduct or other unprofessional conduct
– Conduct that appears to be a contributing factor to high
risk/harm to a patient and required medical intervention
– Conduct that appears to be a contributing factor to the death
of a patient
– Conduct involving the misuse of alcohol or other chemical
substances to the extent that nursing practice may be
impaired or may be detrimentally impacted
– Actual or suspected drug diversion
– Pattern of failure to account for medications; failing to
account for wastage of control drugs
– Falsification of medical or treatment records
– Pattern of inappropriate judgment or nursing skill
– Failing to assess or intervene on behalf of patient(s)
– Conduct involving sexual contact with a patient, patient
family member or other dual relationships
– Conduct involving physical/verbal patient abuse
– Conduct involving misappropriation, theft or exploitation of
a patient
– Practicing nursing without a valid nursing license
– Violation of a disciplinary sanction imposed on the nurse’s
license by the board
– Conduct that deceives, defrauds or harms the public
– Criminal charges, felony and misdemeanor, which may
affect public safety within ten days from when the charge(s)
are filed
– Felony conviction(s) must be reported within ten days of the
conviction
– Failing to take action in a health care setting to protect a
patient whose safety or welfare is at risk from incompetent
health care practice, or to report such practice to
employment or licensing authorities.
– Failing to report to the Board a licensed nurse whose work
history includes conduct, or pattern of conduct, that leads to
or may lead to an adverse patient outcome.
Clinical Agency Requirements
GCU’s first priority is to use the health care providers that
participate in clinical placements. However, when additional
clinical experiences are needed, GCU may contract with health
care providers external to the resolution process. In these cases:
Clinical agencies must:
– Meet the clinical outcomes of the course
– Serve the patient population that coincides with the intended
population of the clinical experience
– Have population census that supports the assigned students
to the clinical rotation
– Sign an affiliation agreement between GCU and the
healthcare organization
Students participating in clinical rotations will be required to
submit appropriate documentation to meet the clinical agency
requirements which may include but is not limited to:
– Physical Health
– Mental Health
– Criminal Background Checks
– Substance Use Screens
– Functional Abilities
– Supervision of Clinical Activities
Further, using student and site supervisor feedback, GCU
evaluates the effectiveness of all clinical agencies to offer direct
care experiences that align to course learning objectives.
Facilities are assessed on their ability to provide:
– A safe environment for clinical learning
– Appropriate experience for level skill knowledge of students
– Appropriate interactions-communications between students
and clients
– Direct access to medical records necessary to provide for
learning experiences
– Opportunities for pre and post conferences
Students are assigned to clinical rotations based on their
schedules and may not refuse the assignment. Please see Clinical
& Lab Attendance and Participation Policy
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 103 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Essential Functions to Meet Clinical Requirements
The nursing professions require significant physical, mental, and
behavioral skills. The essential functions listed below describe
what students must be able to do to meet the requirements of
being a nurse to ensure protection of patient safety.
Individuals are required to navigate their assigned responsibilities
independently.
Applicants who are unable to meet the Essential Functions are
responsible for discussing the possibility of reasonable
accommodations with Student Disabilities Services.
Categories Essential Functions
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(NOT ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Mobility Ambulatory capability
to sufficiently maintain
a center of gravity when
met with an opposing
force as in lifting,
supporting, and/or
transferring a
patient/client. Mobility
allowing for
unrestricted bending,
squating, kneeling, and
twisting.
• Full mobility to
independently
propel
wheelchairs,
stretchers, assist
and perform
tasks.
Motor Skills Gross and fine motor
abilities to provide safe
and effective care and
documentation.
• Position clients
• Reach,
manipulate and
operate
equipment,
instruments and
supplies
• Electronic
documentation/ke
yboarding
• Lift, carry, push
and pull (50 lbs.
minimum without
assistance)
• Perform CPR
Hearing Auditory ability to
monitor and assess, or
document health needs.
• Hears monitor
alarms, emergency
signals, ausculatory
sounds, cries for
help.
Visual Visual ability sufficient
for observations and
assessment necessary in
client care, accurate
color discrimination.
• Observes client
responses
• Discriminate color
changes
• Accurately reads
measurements on
client related
equipment
Categories Essential Functions
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(NOT ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Tactile Tactile ability sufficient
for physical assessment,
inclusive of size, shape,
temperature and texture.
• Perform palpation
• Performs functions
of physical
examination and/or
those related to
therapeutic
intervention
Math Accurately calculate
medication/solution
dosages and any needed
information specific to
client care in a timely
manner or under
distress.
• Determines correct
dosage amounts for
all routes of
medication
administration
• Calculates intake
and output
• Able to convert
measurements
Behavioral/In
terpersonal
(relationships
)
Develop mature,
sensitive, and effective
therapeutic
relationships with
individuals, families
and groups of various
social, emotional,
cultural, and intellectual
backgrounds.
Demonstrate ethical
behaviors.
• Nonjudgmental
behavior
• Respond to a
variety of
behaviors (anger,
fear, hostility) in a
calm manner
• Demonstrate a high
level of patience
and respect
• Establish rapport
with clients and
members of the
healthcare team
• Adhere to GCU
policies,
procedures and
requirements as
described in the
University Policies
Handbook (UPH),
Guidelines for
Undergraduate
and/or Graduate
Field Experience
Manual, and course
syllabi.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 104 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Categories Essential Functions
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(NOT ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Communicati
on &
Technology
Literacy
Utilizes technology
skills and
communication
strategies in English to
communicate health
information accurately
and with legal and
regulatory guidelines,
upholding the strictest
standards of
confidentiality.
• Read, understand,
write and speak
English
competently
• Communicate
thoughts, ideas and
action plans with
clarity, using
written, verbal
and/or visual
methods
• Explain treatment
procedures
• Initiate health
teaching
• Document
patient/client
responses
• Validate
responses/message
s with others
• Use appropriate
nonverbal
communication
• Ability to perform
a variety of
technological skills
Problem
Solving/Critic
al Thinking
Collect, analyze,
prioritize, integrate, and
generalize information
and knowledge to make
sound clinical
judgments and
decisions to promote
positive client outcomes
• Identify cause-
effect relationships
in clinical
situations
• Develop plans of
care as required
• Identifies changes
in client health
status
• Handles multiple
priorities in
stressful situations
Categories Essential Functions
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(NOT ALL
INCLUSIVE)
General
Health/
Emotional
Stability
Ability to tolerate
lengthy periods of
physical activity as well
as environmental
stressors
• Move quickly
and/or
continuously
• Tolerate long
periods of standing
and/or sitting as
required
• Adapt to rotating
shifts
• Work with
chemicals and
detergents
• Tolerate exposure
to fumes and odors
• Work in areas that
are closed and
crowded
• Work in areas of
potential physical
violence
• Work with clients
with
communicable
diseases or
conditions
• Maintain focus and
appropriate
behavior
• Flexibility and
ability to adjust to
changing situation
and uncertainty in
clinical situations
• Affective skills and
appropriate
demeanor and
rapport that relate
to professional
education and
quality patient
care.
Nursing Licensure Examination
In order to be eligible to take the National Council of State
Boards of Nursing Examination for Professional Licensure after
graduation, students must have graduated from the Bachelor of
Science in Nursing program. No exceptions are made to this
policy. Students are responsible for applying to take the National
Council License Examination – Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN)
exam for professional licensure through the State Board of
Nursing.
The registered nurse licensing requirements are the exclusive
responsibility of the State Board of Nursing and must be satisfied
independently of any requirements for graduation from the
University. Historically, the College of Nursing and Health Care
Professionals graduates have been successful on the licensure
examination. Satisfactory performance on the licensure
examination is the responsibility of the graduate and not
guaranteed by the College of Nursing and Health Care
Professionals.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 105 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Professional Nurse Qualifications for Licensure
It is the student’s responsibility to monitor and review state board
of nursing requirements in the state they desire to obtain licensure
in.
General requirements consist of, but are not limited to:
• Satisfactory completion an approved/accredited nursing
program.
• Free from felony convictions-Please review the state board of
nursing in the state you are applying for licensure.
Nursing students are expected to be clear of any felony
convictions at the time of admission into the College of Nursing
& Health Care Professions and to remain free of felony
convictions for the duration of the program. If the prospective
student or student is charged with a felony, or undesignated
offense either before admission or during the program, he/she
must speak with the Director or designee immediately.
Student Input and Feedback
The College of Nursing and Health Care Professions provides
students with both public and anonymous methods to offer input
and feedback used to develop policies and procedures as well as
evaluate faculty, nursing courses, clinical experiences, resources
and the overall program.
Throughout each semester, College leadership and staff are
available to answer any questions related to the program using
the following methods:
– Open Meetings with Deans and Directors
– Classroom visits
– Emails
– Student Nurses’ Association Advocacy
– College Leadership appointments
– Exit Interviews
If students wish for a confidential opportunity to participate and
provide feedback, students can submit responses through:
– End-of-Course Surveys (EOCS)
– End-of-Program Survey (EOPS)
– Alumni Survey
– Skills Lab Survey
– Clinical Instructor Survey
– Clinical Site/Facility Survey
– Simulation Effectiveness Tool-Modified (SET-M)
No Rounding Policy
The GCU College of Nursing & Health Care Professions has
adopted a No Rounding policy for all courses within the program.
This policy states that all grades will be entered to the hundredth
at their face value and not rounded (i.e., a final grade of 89.99
will be entered as B and not a B+). Please refer to the
‘Undergraduate Grading Scale”.
Testing Policy
Students are allowed 1.5 min per multiple choice question and 3
min for alternative items, per short answer and Med Math
questions on exams.
Honor Code
By signing/logging into the exam platform from the link below,
you are attesting: “On my honor, as a Grand Canyon University
Student, I have neither given nor received unauthorized aid on
this academic work” and also verifying your agreement with the
Academic Success statement, “If I fail to maintain a 76.00%
exam average during this term, I attest that I will make an
appointment with my professor to review my exam results and
seek guidance for academic success.”
Administration of Exams in an On Ground Proctored Testing
Environment
Prelicensure exams are administered in a face-to-face
environment on site with a proctor or faculty member.
The number of items on each course exam may vary. The
duration of each exam is established based on the total number
and types of items included. The points assigned to each course
exam may differ from one course to another, reflecting the
specific learning objectives and assessment criteria of each
course. Multiple choice items are graded in an all-or-nothing
fashion. Alternate format questions will be graded with partial
points for correct responses. Please refer to the course syllabus
and student exam blueprint for additional information on the
number of items on each course exam, and the points allotted to
each course exam.
After all students have completed the course exam scheduled that
week, the results are analyzed. Exam item analysis process
involves using various statistical metrics in evaluating each
question on an exam to access its quality, effectiveness, and
fairness in measuring student knowledge. The statistical data is
used in determining if a question will be nullified or if another
answer can be accepted. Scores are recalculated after the
analysis. The recalculation could result in a lower or higher score
depending on the data
The goal is for examinations to be administered in an
environment that is conducive to success and minimizes the
opportunity for academic dishonesty.
1. Students may only use #2 lead pencils (no mechanical pencils
allowed). If a student does not have a #2 lead pencil, a pencil
will be provided by the proctor. A piece of scratch paper will
be provided by proctor or instructor. Students are required to
place their name, course, cohort, and date on the scratch
paper. Student must use the calculator that is provided either
on the testing platform, lockdown browser, or provided by
the faculty or proctor.
2. All personal items such as, but not limited to, (backpacks,
purses, cell phones, hats, snacks, water, etc.) must be placed
at the front or back of the room or in designated. All pockets
must be empty.
3. Only head adornments of a medical or religious nature and
standard earplugs are permitted during examinations. Hats,
hoodies, beanies, and/or other ornamental head coverings
must be removed and left with other non-essential
paraphernalia in the faculty/proctor-designated locations.
4. Students will use their cellular devices for multi-factor
authentication to log into Halo and/or testing platform.
Following authentication, students must immediately turn off
the device and place it in the designated area within the
testing room. No cell phones are allowed to be near or on
student’s person, on desks, or in pockets during the exam.
5. Any devices with internet capability such as watches but not
limited to may not be used during an exam and must be
placed with the student’s belongings at the front or back of
the room or in designated lockers.
6. Faculty or proctor will be present during entire exam and
actively monitoring students.
7. Students may not talk during the exams.
8. Students must keep their eyes on their own computer screen
at all times.
9. Hands must be kept on top of the table during the exam.
10. Once the exam has begun students may not approach the
faculty/proctor to ask questions or seek clarification about
exam questions or content. If related to technical issues, the
student will be permitted to ask the faculty or proctor.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 106 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
11. Students may not leave the room once the exam has begun.
Students need to use the restrooms prior to exam. If a student
needs to use the restroom during the exam, the student needs
to notify the faculty/proctor, all personal belongings are to
remain in the room/locker, and the student must return to the
classroom in a timely manner (no greater than 10 minutes).
The allotted time to complete the exam will not change.
Students with their own device who are having technical
issues must alert the proctor/faculty for verification then the
student will be allowed to leave the room to contact Tech
Support. This includes course and HESI exams.
12. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the faculty or
proctor if they are not feeling well. If the student needs to
leave, they must follow the absence verification process.
Questions answered prior to leaving will remain valid. Once
the absence is verified and approved, the student will be
rescheduled and allowed to take or resume the exam from
where they left off.
13. Reminder that the attendance policy for scheduled exams will
be adhered to. Students must go through absence verification
process. If the absence is unexcused, the student will receive
a zero. If the absence is approved and excused, the student
must take any missed exam within one week upon returning.
Exams will be scheduled with a faculty member or proctor at
the student’s assigned site to take the exam.
14. Exams cannot be taken prior to the scheduled assigned date
and time for the student’s cohort.
15. Students are not allowed to repeat an exam for a better score.
16. Student are expected to be present at the start of the schedule
time for the exam. If a student arrives late from the scheduled
time and before the 15-minute deadline the student will still
be allowed to take the exam, but the stop time will remain the
same. Failure to arrive within 15 minutes from the start of the
scheduled time will result as an unexcused tardy where the
student will be required to take the exam within 1-2 days of
the missed date and the student will have a 10% reduction off
the possible total points for the exam. E.g., 100-point exam x
10%=10-point reduction off the completed exam score.
Faculty/Proctor will receive direction/approval from college
leadership for the exam to be rescheduled.
For HESI exams, if a student has an unexcused tardy or
absence, the student will be required to make up the HESI
exam within 1-2 days of the missed date. The student will
receive a 10%-point reduction from the possible total points
for the HESI exam assignment.
17. Exams are timed and at end of the time allotment, the exam
will end. Any remaining, unanswered questions will be
graded as incorrect.
18. Students are required to install the lockdown browser.
Students are prohibited to minimize the screen, exit the site,
or access any other site/document/resource during the exam.
Computers used to take the exam must have the screen set to
full brightness, and the screen must be tilted to allow the
proctor/faculty to have a clear view at all times. The proctor
has the right to review the student’s computer settings before,
during, and after the exam.
19. Students are allotted one attempt in accessing the exam.
Exam log-in is monitored which includes the time/date of
access. Students are not allowed to attempt to access the
exam after the one-time use or share the link with another
person. Any violation of unauthorized access will result in a
zero or no credit for the exam and will be reported to the
University Code of Conduct Committee.
20. Student are required to display medication math calculation
work on the provided scratch paper with their name. Failure
to show math calculation work on the scratch paper will result
in loss of points for that math question.
21. If technical issues for several students cannot be resolved in a
timely manner (longer than 30 minutes), the exam will be
rescheduled for all students in that cohort or scheduled time.
Students will need to adjust personal schedules to allot
additional time for any possible technical issues that may
arise as well as adjusting personal schedules if exams are
rescheduled. The rescheduled exam due to technical issues
must be completed within one week of the originally
schedule exam date. Faculty/Proctor will receive
direction/approval from college leadership for the exam to be
rescheduled. Prior answered questions will be valid as being
answered on exams that the student started.
22. If individual computer technical issues occur during the
exam, the instructor/proctor needs to be informed
immediately to see if the issue can be resolved. If unable to
resolve in a timely manner, another computer will be
provided to the student to use.
23. The student needs to ensure they have answered all questions
before submitting. If a student fails to answer all questions,
the student will receive no points for that question.
24. After submission, the screen will indicate the student
submitted their answers and a raw score will be displayed.
The Raw score is the individual student’s score before any
adjustments are made according to the exam analysis process.
The Raw score is not the finalized exam score.
25. After completing the exam, students must clear the browser
history and leave their computer on the desktop and quietly
exit the classroom if there is remaining class time. Students
will be allowed to return afer all students have finished the
exam as directed by the faculty/proctor.
26. Students are expected to be quiet in the hallway while other
students are completing their exams.
27. If the exam requires use of headphones, students will use
their own headphones and connect prior to accessing the
exam and removed after the exam question is answered.
28. 28. Students are required to be present and well prepared to
take all exams. Only students with excused absences will be
given the opportunity to take a make-up exam. An excused
missed scheduled exam isconsidered when extreme
circumstance has occurred. Extreme circumstances are
considered, but not limited too:
a. A communicable disease which can be transmitted to others.
b. A car accident requiring immediate medical attention.
c. Hospitalization
d. Extended illness or injury
Students with unexcused absences will receive a zero. A
determination of approving a make-up exam will be made after
review of appropriate documentation or absence verification is
completed through Student Disability Services. Make-up exam
requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
For the University to determine if a make-up exam will be
granted, the student is required to submit substantiating medical
documentation that states specifically that the student is free to
return to class/lab/clinical with no restrictions and have the
ability to perform the essential functions as outlined in the UPH.
The medical documentation must be dated the day of the absence.
The provider’s medical license number, appropriate official
signature with facility contact information will be required for
verification purposes This must be typed on an official letterhead.
The medical documentation and the Absence Verification Form
must be submitted to Student Disability Services within 48 hours
of the absence. GCU may verify the information contained in the
documentation with the provider. Falsification of medical
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 107 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
documentation is reportable to the State Boards of Nursing.
Students will be notified of the approval or denial of the exam
make-up via email to their gcu.edu email address.
Failure to abide to the absence verification process, the exam will
be considered unexcused, and a zero score will be given.
Students may not make up more than one exam per course. A
make-up exam administered may be a different version of the
exam. Students will be required to complete the make-up exam
within 1 week from the date of return. A student who misses an
exam anytime during the last two weeks of the semester or
course, the college will determine the date when the exam must
be schedule to make-up.
Students who are observed violating the above criteria will be
asked to leave the exam, will receive a zero for the exam, and be
reported to the University Code of Conduct Committee.
Bodily Fluids Exposure and/or Injury During Field Experiences
Grand Canyon University acknowledges the inherent risks
associated with working around or with patients and health care
organizations, including a potential exposure to blood and body
fluids. Once in a patient care setting, students will have access to
and will be expected to utilize appropriate blood-borne pathogen
barriers, proper sanitary precautions, and appropriate biohazard
disposal equipment and procedures at each clinical site.
The following details student responsibilities in this area:
• You must have and maintain current health insurance and
show verification of coverage each year while matriculated in
the program.
• GCU and the clinical agencies that provide practical
experiences for our students are not responsible or liable for
the costs of medical follow-up or expenses incurred.
• If evaluation and treatment is required by the facility where
students are completing clinical experiences, the student is
responsible for all costs and associated follow up.
• In the event that students are injured or exposed to blood and
body fluids, students will:
o Immediately notify your clinical instructor or site supervisor
o Wash the area immediately and thoroughly with soap and
water.
o Within 24 hours, follow-up with the students’ Primary Care
Provider who will make a determination of immunization
status and give appropriate prophylaxis or referral for
appropriate prophylaxis.
o Assume full responsibility for disease sequelae.
o Follow the policies of the agency (if any).
o Complete a student incident report with the supervising
faculty or instructor who was present during incident. A
copy of this report will be given to the Director or designee
and placed in the student’s file.
Refer to Guidelines for Undergraduate Field Experience Manual
for procedural precautions post exposure.
Communicable Disease Policy
Students will be exposed to communicable diseases during field
experiences. It is important for students to adhere to the required
immunizations, safe clinical practice standards, and the
Guidelines for Undergraduate Field Experience Manual.
Students may not participate in clinical experiences during the
time they are affected by or suspect they have a communicable
disease. A communicable disease is a health disorder that can be
passed from one person to another. If students suspect they may
have a communicable disease, an immediate visit to the student
health center or healthcare provider for evaluation is required. If
the evaluation shows possible communicable disease, students
must remain out of contact with patients for the duration
suggested by the healthcare provider. Students may not return to
participation in clinical experiences until they have been re-
evaluated by a healthcare provider and released with written
verification of full release. You Students must contact the clinical
preceptor and faculty upon suspicion and verification of the
disease. Please refer to the Clinical & Lab Attendance and
Participation Policy.
Examples of communicable diseases include, but are not limited
to the following:
• AIDS
• Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
• Chickenpox
• Strep pharyngitis
• Measles
• Cholera
• Conjunctivitis
• Diphtheria
• Diarrhea- infectious
• Influenza
• Tetanus
• Impetigo
• Yellow Fever
• Hepatitis A, B or C
• Herpes Simplex
• Meningitis (bacterial)
• Mumps
• Pertussis (whooping cough
• Rubella
• Shigellosis
• Streptococcal pneumonia
• Scabies
• Hand, foot, mouth syndrome
• Viral and acute hepatitis
• Herpes
• Lice (pediculosis)
• Lyme disease
• Escherichia coli (E coli)
• Tuberculosis
• Group A Strep
• Pinworms
• Ringworm
• COVID-19
Refer to Clinical Absence and Participation Policy.
Clinical, Simulation & Lab Attendance and Participation Policy
Clinical, simulation and skills lab attendance is mandatory.
Clinical, simulation and skills lab make ups will only be
considered once per semester in each clinical course or scheduled
lab, under extreme circumstances, and approved by the Director
(or designee). Examples of extreme circumstances that could
warrant a clinical, simulation, or skills lab make up may include,
but not limited to:
• a communicable disease which can be transmitted to patients,
staff or other students
• a car accident requiring immediate medical attention
• hospitalization
• extended illness or injury
If a student is unable to attend clinical, simulation or a scheduled
skills lab, the student will contact the following at least one (1)
hour prior to the scheduled start of the event:
• Director (or designee) and faculty
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 108 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Please refer to the Guidelines for Undergraduate Field
Experience Manual for contact information for directors.
A determination of approving a make-up for the event will be
made after review of appropriate documentation and absence
verification is completed through Student Disability Services.
Make-up request are reviewed on a case by case basis.
In order for the University to consider a Pre-licensure Clinical,
Simulation or Lab Make-Up Requests in cases of medical
absence, the student will be required to submit substantiating
medical documentation that states specifically that the student is
free to return to the lab/clinical/simulation setting with no
restrictions and have the ability to perform the essential functions
as outlined in the UPH. The medical documentation mus be dated
the day of the absence. The provider’s medical number,
appropriate official signature with associate facility contact
information will be required for verification purposes (an official
letterhead is preferred). Students must submit the medical
documentation and the Absence Verification Form to Student
Disability Services within 48 hours of the absence. This will be
required whether the student misses 1 clinical day, simulation,
lab or consecutive days. GCU may verify the information
contained in the documentation with the provider. Falsification of
medical documentation is reportable to the State Boards of
Nursing. Students will be notified of the approval or denial of the
clinical, simulation, or skills lab make-up via email to their
gcu.edu email address.
It is up to the University to determine how students will make up
missed clinical hours, simulation, or skills lab events if approved,
but the primary method will be an additional clinical rotation or
skills lab/simulation event.
Students must make-up missed skills lab, simulation, and clinical
experiences and may not decline the make-up experience
identified. Students may risk failing the course for nonattendance.
Students must submit any associated assignments with the make-
up to the Learning Management System classroom within the
designated time frame given for completing the make-up work.
If a student absence does not meet the above criteria it is
considered unexcused and could result in failing the course and
referral to the Professional Practices Committee. Students will
have to complete the clinical, skills lab, or simulation make-up
assignments in order to progress in their course and in the
program.
Clinical, Lab, and Simulation Tardy Policy
Tardiness is defined as being greater than 5 minutes (>5 minutes)
from the start of the clinical shift, simulation, or skills lab event.
Any anticipated tardiness within the 5 minutes timeframe must be
reported to the faculty who will then notify the appropriate
director.
If a student fails to “call-in” or notify the appropriate faculty
and/or director, this will be considered as an “unexcused
absence” which could result in failure of the course as per the
Clinical, Simulation & Lab Attendance and Participation policy.
Dependent on the clinical site, simulation, or skills lab event, a
student who is tardy and/or has missed report may be requested
to leave. In this situation, the student will not be able to complete
the scheduled clinical, lab, or simulation day. As a result, this
day will be considered an unexcused absence. The student may
be required to complete a make-up. Refer to Clinical, Simulation
& Lab Attendance and Participation policy.
Consequences of being tardy three times within the same course
or within the semester will be as follows:
Skills Lab events:
First Tardy: Student will receive a warning.
Second Tardy: Student will be sent to Professional Practices
Committee for the second late.
Third Tardy: Student will fail the skills lab on the third late.
Immersive Simulation events:
First Tardy: Student will be sent to Professional Practices
Committee .
A clinical course that meets more than three times:
First Tardy: Student will receive a clinical warning.
Second Tardy: Student will be sent to Professional Practices
Committee for the second late.
Third Tardy: Student will fail clinical on the third late.
A clinical course that meets three times or less:
First Tardy: Student will be sent to Professional Practices
Committee for the first late.
Second Tardy: Student will fail clinical on the second late.
Clinical Competency Requirement
In each clinical course, critical competencies have been identified
and highlighted on the Clinical Evaluation Tool (CET). These
competencies have been identified as a core performance
measures in specific levels. Students who score at a 1 (Does Not
Meet) on any of these competencies at final evaluation will fail
the clinical course. Please refer to you Clinical Evaluation Tool
to review over critical competencies in each clinical course..
Immersive Simulation Rules
The objective of Immersive Simulation is to allow students the
opportunity to practice transferring knowledge into the right
actions at the right time for the right reasons. Consequently,
scenario experiences are designed to provide challenges in patient
care and coordination to help students and faculty identify
performance gaps for proactive mitigation.
It is critical to ensure the student’s sense of safety when they are
purposefully put into stressful situations designed to demonstrate
transfer of knowledge into actions, where errors may occur.
Observers may only be present under the following conditions:
• No more than two (2) per session with ten (10) students
• Introduced to students prior to start of simulation experience
with role and expectations
• If as part of a tour, may only observe for a brief time from the
control room, and not participate in debriefing segment with
students.
Confidentiality:
Failure to maintain confidentiality may impair the effectiveness
of Immersive Simulation-based training. Consequently the
following levels of confidentiality are strictly observed and
enforced for all educators, students, staff and observers:
• Must sign a Participation, Recording, and Confidentiality
Agreement Form prior to participation in any Immersive
Simulation session.
• Must retain strict confidentiality regarding any specific
scenario details, performance of others, debriefing discussions,
and/or experiences in real time or on media.
• May discuss only in very general term the personal technical
and behavioral skills acquired during simulation training.
Video Recording:
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• Scenario participation will be videotaped for use during the
facilitated debriefing session immediately after the experience.
Recordings of the scenario will be erased one month after the
experience, unless, as per policy it will be used for specific
education training, research, or viewing purpose.
Remediation:
If there is concern that the student may pose a hazard to self,
patients, personnel, or organizational safety the faculty and
student would participate in required remediation.
Psychological Safety:
To ensure psychological safety for students the
faculty/facilitators will adhere to the following guidelines:
• Provide a prebrief prior to all simulation events. The prebrief
will serve as an orientation session prior to the start of the
simulation-based learning experience.
• The faculty/facilitator will be involved in the debriefing to
manage any potential disruptive behaviors.
• If a student has an obvious or expressed emotional distress
because of an event that occurred during simulation, the
faculty/facilitator will have a one-on-one discussion with the
student.
Universal Precautions, Personal Safety and Security:
Please refer to the Lab, Simulation, and Clinical Safe Practice
Guidelines policy.
Participation Rules:
• Required orientation for each simulation event
• No cell phones, pagers, blue tooth or texting
• Professional dress code
• Maintain a clean, organized environment
• Treat the manikin as you would a real patient
• Treat the simulation environment as real
• Participate in “hands on” orientation
• Maintain strict confidentiality agreement
• Maintain professionalism
• Laugh and enjoy but not at the expense of others
• Leave all personal items at the door
• Role model positive attitude and behaviors
• Be open to peer review
• Be open to new experiences
• Be open to role flexibility
• Expect to make mistakes and learn thru them
• Engage and participate or you will be asked to leave
• Refer to Clinical Simulation & Lab Attendance and
Participation Policy
• Accountable for all previous knowledge, skills, behaviors
Any participant who refuses to sign the confidentiality agreement
will be dismissed prior to any simulation. Report of such
dismissal will be forwarded to the Director (or designee).
Students in violation shall be subject to student policies up to and
including dismissal from the nursing program.
All participants will be held accountable to the ground rules.
Violation of the ground rules is cause for dismissal from the
experience. Report of such dismissal will be forwarded to the
Director (or designee).
Policy for Student Substance Screening
The practice of professionalism demands that the clinician be free
from the influence of any substance that would impair judgment
and thinking ability. As a result, health care agencies are
requiring students who work directly with patients to undergo
screening for substances. A substance is identified as nicotine,
alcohol, and any drug that impair judgment. Students must be
free from impairing substances. Health care agencies and the
CONHCP require substance screening of all students prior to
their first clinical experience. In addition, students are subject to
screening if either the faculty or preceptor suspects that the
student is impaired at any time at the learning site, or during any
health care experience or any other university or work related
activity. Any student whose test is deemed positive will not be
able to enroll or continue in nursing courses for a minimum
period of one year. Determinations will be made by the
Professional Practice Committee. The College is required to
report any positive screens, suspicion of substance impairment
and/or refusal to the appropriate board.
This policy is designed to identify the procedures to be followed
for testing.
Initial Urine Substance Screening
1. Students entering their first clinical course and new transfer
students will receive a substance screen authorization form in
order to complete a random urine screen. Students will have 24
hours to complete the random screen at one of the laboratory
options provided. Students receiving an authorization form on
a Friday will be required to complete the screen by the end-of-
business hours on Monday.
2. Students will be required to show picture identification upon
arrival. A driver’s license or passport are acceptable forms of
identification.
3. The cost for all screening and medical review (if deemed
necessary) is the students’ responsibility.
4. A screen with questionable results will be sent by the lab for a
medical review. Costs for review and retest will be the
responsibility of the student.
5. A negative report is necessary to continue in the program of
study in the CONHCP.
6. This screen need not be repeated as long as the student
maintains continuous enrollment. Continuous enrollment is
defined as enrollment in nursing classes during all consecutive
semesters until graduation.
7. Students may be re-tested for cause or reasonable suspicion.
Substances Included in Urine Substance Screen
Amphetamines, Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines, Cannabinoids,
Cocaine, Fentanyl, Meperidine, Methadone, Opiates, Oxycodone,
Oxymorphone, Phencyclidine, Propoxyphene, Ethanol,
Methaqualone
Screening For Cause or Reasonable Suspicion of Substance
The CONHCP may ask a student to submit to a substance
screening at any time a faculty member or preceptor believes that
the student may be under the influence of substances. This
includes but is not limited to the following circumstances:
evidence of drugs or alcohol on or about the student’s person or
in the student’s possession, unusual conduct on the student’s part
that suggests possible use or influence of drugs or alcohol,
negative performance patterns, excessive and unexplained
absenteeism or tardiness, or failure to complete urine substance
screen within given timeframe.
1. Students will be asked to submit to an immediate substance
screening test conducted at one of the laboratory options
provided.
2. Students may also be given a substance screen authorization
form and asked to immediately complete a urine substance
screen at one of the laboratory options provided.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 110 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
3. Students will be required to show picture identification upon
arrival. A driver’s license or passport are acceptable forms of
identification.
4. The costs for all screening and medical review (if deemed
necessary) are the students’ responsibility.
5. A screen with questionable results will be sent by the lab for a
medical review by the company completing the substance
screen. Costs for review and retest will be the responsibility of
the student.
6. A negative report, excluding a positive nicotine result, is
necessary to continue in the program of study in the CONHCP.
Follow-up Action: Positive Screen (For Cause or Initial
Substance Screen)
1. Positive drug screens (including those medically prescribed)
will be directed to the Professional Practice Committee for
determination of sanctions.
2. A report will be filed with the State Board of Nursing upon
withdrawal from the program consistent with the rules and
regulations of the State Board of Nursing.
*Please note certain clinical facilities include nicotine as part of
their screening and will not allow students to rotate at their
facility who test positive from nicotine or its by product, cotinine.
Follow-up Action For-Cause Negative Screen
1. Students whose substance screens are negative will meet with
A Director of the program to discuss the perceptions of
impaired behavior and the implications and steps to avoid
similar situations in the future.
2. A review by the Medical Review Officer (MRO) by the
company collecting the substance screen for documentation of
any medical condition or treatment may be requested.
3. Students will not be counted as absent from clinical during this
evaluation process. However, students will be expected to meet
the clinical objectives.
4. A reasonable suspicion/cause substance screen that is positive;
however, is deemed negative by a medical review officer will
follow these guidelines:
a. The student will meet with the Director of the program.
b. The student may be required to undergo, at the student’s
expense, an evaluation for substance use/prescription drug
use/impairment by a psychiatrist recommended by the State
Board of Nursing.
c. The student will follow other recommendations deemed
necessary by the Director of the program.
d. The student will be required to provide a negative substance
screen prior to returning to clinical and be subject to
periodic substance screens at the student’s expense.
e. More than one incident of a reasonable suspicion/cause
substance screen that is positive; however, deemed negative
by a medical review officer will be directed to the
Professional Practice Committee. In this case the student
will follow the positive substance screening guidelines.
Follow-up Action: Invalid Results
1. If substance screens have results that are “invalid”, students
will be required to complete hair follicle testing.
2. The cost of hair follicle screening (if deemed necessary) will
be the students’ responsibility.
Students Who Refuse Substance Screening
Students who refuse to participate in screening will be required
to leave the clinical area and make an appointment with the
Director of the program. The student will remain out of the
clinical area until an investigation has been done and a
recommendation has been made by the Professional Practice
Committee. Students who refuse screening may be subject to
dismissal from the CONHCP.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure)
Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training
Clinical Restriction Policy
Clinical restriction is the official means of restricting the student
from any field/clinical experience when students have missing,
expired, or insufficient immunizations or documentation
requirements on file with the Office of Field Experience (OFE).
Students will be notified by the OFE 4 weeks before
documentation is set to expire. Once documentation has expired,
the OFE will notify the student’s course faculty of your
restriction status. At all times it is the student’s responsibility to
ensure that their health and safety documentation is up to date
and current, and that all other program requirements have been
met. Health and safety requirements are mandatory for all
students where indicated in this handbook.
Failure/Program Expulsion
If you fail to meet the course objectives, policies, and procedures
outlined in the classroom and this handbook, you may face
failure or program expulsion. You must repeat any failed courses
before moving on to the next course outlined in your program of
study. Field Experience/Clinical course failure will result in a
failure of the co-requisite theory course.
Examples of clinical failure, program expulsion, or Code of
Conduct violation actions:
• Compromising GCU’s relationship with any site
• Compromising safety in any form
• Plagiarism and ethical conduct resulting in Code of Conduct
Violations
The student has the remainder of the course to earn a passing
grade, which removes the student from clinical probation.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
Students who have been accepted into the nursing program may
remain in the program if they adhere to the following criteria:
1. Maintain a 2.5 cumulative GPA on 4.0 scale in all nursing
major courses.
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
program who want to transition into Grand Canyon University’s
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program may complete up
to two graduate level courses as part of their upper division
elective credits for the BSN degree completion. Eligible MSN
programs are included on the Bachelor of Science in Nursing
(RN to BSN) to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Fast-Track
Request Form. To be eligible, students must:
1. Possess a 3.5 enrollment cumulative GPA at the time 33 of 36
RN to BSN program major credits are completed.
2. Complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) to
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Fast-Track Request
Form.
Once approved, students must complete the Master of Science in
Nursing (MSN) courses with a C or better. Grades earned will be
calculated into the graduate GPA. Tuition for the MSN courses
taken as electives will be charged at the graduate tuition rate and
will be charged the Canyon Connect Fee at the graduate rate. It
is recommended that students enroll into the MSN program
within 180 days of completing their Bachelor of Science in
Nursing (RN to BSN) program to guarantee transferability of
credit hours earned toward the MSN program. After 180 days,
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 111 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
students will be required to advance into the graduate program of
study deemed current at that time
Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and
Disorders
Essential Elements
Motor/Physical Requirements
• Ambulatory capability to sufficiently maintain a center of
gravity over your base of support when met with an opposing
force as in lifting, supporting, and/or transferring a client.
• Abilities in physical strength, endurance, fine and gross motor
coordination, range of motion, and mobility sufficient to
provide safe and effective care (including the performance of
client transfers and lifts from a variety of surfaces and levels)
and operation of equipment.
• Ability to perform duties safely for both practitioner and client.
• Standing, sitting, lifting, reaching, bending, and stretching.
• Ability to respond appropriately in an emergency to ensure the
safety of client and self.
Cognitive/Critical Thinking Requirements
• Use professional awareness to make accurate assessments and
judgments.
• Retain, synthesize, calculate, evaluate, reason, and apply
auditory, written, and oral information at a level sufficient to
meet curricular and clinical competencies.
• Employ informed critical thinking and ethical reasoning to
formulate a differential diagnosis and create, implement, and
adjust evaluation and treatment plans as appropriate for client
needs.
• Engage in ongoing self-reflection and evaluation of one's
existing knowledge and skills.
• Cognitive skills for problem identification and problem-
solving including under stressful and/or emergency conditions,
emergent demands, or a distracting environment.
• Critically examine and apply evidence-based judgment in
keeping with best practices for client care and independently
determine when assistance from the instructor/supervisor is
required.
• Prioritize, organize, and utilize time management skills to
fulfill course and clinical requirements.
Sensory Requirements
• Access sensory information to identify and differentiate
functional and disordered auditory, oral, written, and visual
communication.
• Access sensory information to correctly differentiate
anatomical structures and diagnostic imaging findings (Clinical
interpretation of diagnostic imaging findings is not a
requirement for BS-CSD).
Access sensory information to correctly differentiate and
discriminate text, numbers, tables, and graphs associated with
diagnostic instruments and tests within a reasonable time frame
consistent with the task and situation.
• Possess sufficient sensory ability for client observation and
assessment to ensure safety and accurate measurement.
• Possess sufficient auditory ability to discern nuances in speech
for accurate transcription (BS-CSD program)
• Ability to sense clients' physical and/or emotional status
through touch and movement.
Communication Requirements
• Employ oral, written, auditory, and non-verbal communication
at a level sufficient to meet academic and clinical
competencies.
• Ability to effectively interact cooperatively and communicate
with individuals, families, and groups of all ages from a variety
of social, emotional, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds for
multiple purposes.
• Ability to observe, recognize, understand, and effectively use
non-verbal behavior.
• Ability to establish and maintain a therapeutic relationship
with clients.
• Use appropriate professional language and demeanor in all
interactions.
Professionalism and Clinical Requirements
• Act professionally regarding timeliness, preparedness,
appropriate hygiene, and professional dress.
• Adhere to GCU policies, procedures, and requirements as
described in designated manuals and demonstrate ethical
behavior.
• Represent the profession effectively through demonstration of
professional attitude, appearance, and behavior (for example,
but not limited to time management, punctuality, work
behaviors, volume of work, and adherence to dress code) in
both academic and clinical settings.
• Demonstrate professionalism and readiness in all settings.
• Exhibit a commitment to learning by demonstrating initiative
and responsibility for your learning.
• Participate willingly in the supervisory process during
classroom and clinical experiences.
• Accept critical feedback and make positive behavioral
changes.
• Adhere to professional standards and the Code of Ethics,
HIPAA, and clinical site-specific policies, procedures, and
guidelines.
• Demonstrate cognitive flexibility and maturity.
• Transportation to and from the clinical site is the responsibility
of the student.
• Meet all health and safety requirements to perform duties in
assigned settings (placement sites may have additional health
and safety requirements).
Academic and Technology Requirements
• Students will complete online modules including but not
limited to worksheets, readings, videos, case studies, exams.
• Students will engage in collaborative group activities.
• Students will frequently participate in video communication.
These may be synchronous or asynchronous including but not
limited to self-recorded videos discussing course material,
practicum experiences, and demonstrating clinical skills.
• A core requirement is for students to capture themselves live
on video to receive feedback and demonstrate competencies.
• Demonstrate proficiency with basic computer software, word
processing, library utilization, and electronic communication
for academic work and electronic documentation.
• Students will frequently participate in video communication.
These may be live sessions or self-recorded videos discussing
course material, practicum experiences, and demonstrating
clinical skills
Social-emotional Skills:
• Tolerance for a wide variety of encounters and environments
that may be stressful, tedious, emotionally taxing, and subject
to rapid and unpredictable adjustment, consistent with the
uncertainties present in a rapidly changing health care system.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 112 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Identification of sources of stress and development of effective
and appropriate coping behaviors to function successfully
under stress.
Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing
CPR Requirements
Students must be certified in CPR for Health Care Providers
through the American Heart Association or American Red Cross
and are required to maintain certification throughout the program.
Graduate students may also obtain CPR certification for the
Professional Rescuer from American Red Cross. Information as
to the availability of courses may be obtained by calling either
the American Heart Association, or American Red Cross. CPR
for Bystanders or the community will not fulfill this requirement.
CPR instruction teaches skill of airway management and external
cardiac compression for the adult and pediatric victim.
Students who do not have a current CPR certification card will
not be permitted to participate in clinical experiences. In addition,
Graduate students need to meet the certification requirements of
the respective agency in which they perform clinical.
College of Theology
The College of Theology’s mission is to educate and equip
students to communicate the gospel effectively, serve the church
faithfully, and minister with integrity at home and abroad.
Therefore, within the context of the College, significant attention
is given to spiritual and professional formation so that students
are biblically qualified for ministry upon graduation. The Bible
teaches that ministers must be “above reproach” in private and in
public because ministers lead God’s people as they grow up into
the fullness of Christ through the careful study and application of
God’s word. Simply stated, one whose life has not been
transformed profoundly by the power of the gospel is hardly in a
position to lead others in this way of life. Thus, preparation for
ministry requires attention to the spiritual, and professional
aspects of each student’s training in addition to academic study.
Doctrinal, ethical, and covenantal alignment are vital to the
health of the institution as the faculty and administration strive to
fulfill the mission of developing godly leaders, ministers, and
scholars. Evangelical unity with respect to doctrine and morality
represents a crucial basis for ministerial preparation just as it
represents a crucial basis for gospel ministry. For these reasons,
students in the College are asked to affirm the University’s
Doctrinal and Ethical Positions Statement, the COT Covenant,
and standards for conduct that agree with those beliefs. In this
way students affirm the basic tenets of the Christian faith and
commitment to a lifestyle worthy of the Lord Jesus and worthy of
the gospel ministry to which they have been called.
The University’s foundational documents, the Covenant, and the
dispositional and behavioral standards have not been created for
purposes of legalistic compulsion or in a coercive spirit. Rather,
they represent commitments and guidelines that have been
developed for the purpose of living freely together in a
community marked by faith, hope, and love. All students who
enter into COT’s covenantal community do so freely and they do
so with full understanding that the community strives to cultivate
the character of Christ daily. Indeed, in light of the unique call
God has placed on their lives, the vast majority of ministerial
students are motivated to conform to established standards and
are grateful for the structure and accountability the community
provides.
In most cases when students’ dispositions or behaviors fail to
align with the College’s standards, COT’s faculty and staff are
able to correct gently and provide all necessary counsel. Indeed,
gracious conversation and pastoral guidance should normally
characterize the initial steps taken by faculty and staff to address
impropriety. The College is committed to forming students in a
loving and merciful way that is redemptive rather than punitive.
Thus, in cases where minor dispositional or behavioral issues
arise, direct student engagement by a member of the faculty or a
representative of the College will be most appropriate. Further
action will only be necessary when a student is unresponsive to
direct engagement or when a student persists in conduct that is
unbecoming. Faculty and staff should refer cases that involve
major dispositional and behavioral issues in accord with
established processes.
Dispositional and Behavioral Standards
As ministers of the gospel, theology students are expected to
conform to dispositional and behavioral standards that are
consistent with biblical teaching, sound doctrine, and the
commitments they make at the start of their program.
“Dispositions” refers to one’s attitudinal inclinations, mental and
emotional outlook, integrity, and character. Sincerely held
dispositions lead to actions and patterns of conduct, which is to
suggest that dispositions, at some level, contribute to behaviors.
COT has adopted the following dispositional and behavioral
standards that align with the College’s Covenant. Although these
standards are not exhaustive, they represent the essential values
and qualities that should characterize gospel ministers. Students
are encouraged to acknowledge their struggles and shortcomings
without fear and for the sake of working through challenges with
the support and encouragement of the community. Students who
disregard the standards or fail to demonstrate these dispositions
and behaviors, however, may be subject to disciplinary action.
• EMBRACE TRUTH: Ministers of the gospel embrace the truth
of Christ, and speak and act truthfully. This includes integrity
with respect to the commitment to uphold doctrinal and ethical
positions and behaviors consistent with those of the University
within their academic work, within the GCU community, and
in any internship or supervised ministry/field experience
setting.
• DISPLAY A HEART FOR GROWTH, TRANSFORMATION,
AND LEARNING: Ministers of the gospel have a heart for
growth and transformation. They demonstrate humility and
pursue Christlikeness by taking correction, having a charitable
spirit, and not thinking of themselves more highly than they
ought. They do not hide sin but, rather, acknowledge it and
learn from mistakes as they progress through their program of
study. They demonstrate eagerness to learn and engage
faithfully with their coursework, classmates, Scripture,
scholarly research, faculty, and ministry supervisors.
• AFFIRM THE VALUE OF PEOPLE: Recognizing that all
people are created in the image of God, ministers of the gospel
treat people in ways that demonstrate their intrinsic value and
dignity. Accordingly, ministers of the gospel reject
discrimination and show the value of others in the way they
interact with people of all races, nationalities, ages, genders,
socio-economic levels, abilities, and faith traditions. These
principles extend to all forms of communication.
• DEMONSTRATE GRACE AND RESPECT: Ministers of the
gospel demonstrate grace and respect in their attitudes, actions,
and words. They embody the fruit of the Spirit, speaking with
kindness and patience, communicating respectfully in all
situations. They avoid actions and speech that could show
disrespect, a sharp tongue, harassment, prejudice, racism,
sexism, vulgarity, foul language, or bullying. Students extend
grace and charity at all points including discussions with others
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 113 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
who differ with them on matters of doctrine and ethics. They
strive for unity, which requires careful thought about doctrinal
dialogue, genuine love for one another, and a resolve to be
“quick to hear, slow to speak, [and] slow to anger” (James
1:19).
• PROMOTE PEACE: Ministers of the gospel seek to be
peacemakers, approaching conflict with the goal of restoration
and reconciliation. They follow biblical practices for conflict
resolution, glorifying God by taking responsibility for their
own contribution to a conflict and asking and offering
forgiveness when needed. They bring peace and joy to their
classrooms and congregations, avoiding words and actions that
might bring discord, dissension, or destruction.
• MAINTAIN SEXUAL PURITY: Following the teaching of the
Bible, ministers of the gospel maintain personal sexual purity,
reserving sexual expression for a marriage relationship
between one man and one woman. They refrain from the use of
all pornographic materials and any explicit content that would
grieve the Holy Spirit while demonstrating an openness to
accountability, counsel, and prayer in areas of struggle and
perceived powerlessness. They refrain from sexually charged
language and behavior inside or outside the classroom.
• AVOID EXCESS: Ministers of the gospel avoid excess and
abuse of any substances that could move them from a place of
health to harm. Students embrace moderation in all things for
the sake of safeguarding against idolatry and protecting their
gospel witness.
• SEEK FIRST GOD’S KINGDOM: Ministers of the gospel
pursue God’s purposes for the world even when this requires
abandoning the pursuit of their own selfish interests. They
cultivate love, justice, beauty, grace, wisdom, and wholeness
in their relationships and eschew worldly desires that result in
consumerism, materialism, and the pursuit of fame and
prestige.
Corrective Action Plan for Unacceptable Dispositions and
Unprofessional Behavior
As a Christian community, the College of Theology and Grand
Canyon Theological Seminary strive to be affirming and
redemptive to students who are struggling and failing to exhibit
these dispositions in their behaviors. The conduct that is
unbecoming for a Christian leader or minister, however, may be
referred through one of the following processes:
1. Dispositional alert from a faculty member, a ministry
supervisor, or another GCU employee which is processed
through the College of Theology’s Covenantal Standards
Committee (CSC). This committee will determine the
disciplinary action to be taken on a case by case basis.
2. Code of conduct violation charge which is reported through the
“Classroom Incident Report” and is handled through the Code
of Conduct process of the University.
In cases of minor misalignment, direct engagement by a member
of the faculty or a representative of the College for the purpose of
education, formation, and/or correction will be most appropriate.
Further action is only necessary when a student is unresponsive
to direct engagement or when a student persists in conduct that is
unbecoming. Students who disregard COT’s Dispositional and
Behavioral standards or fail to demonstrate these dispositions and
behaviors may be subject to disciplinary action. In certain
egregious situations, disciplinary action may be immediate and
will be recommended to the University Code of Conduct
Committee.
The University does not discriminate based on disability in the
course of administering discipline. A student with a disability
who is subject to disciplinary proceedings may request an
accommodation for their disability and the University will engage
in the interactive process upon such a request.
• To receive accommodations through the University, students
are required to self-identify by completing the Accommodation
Request Form and provide supporting documentation to
Student Disability Services. Only the SDS Office can approve
accommodations.
o Students can submit the accommodation request form at
https://sds.gcu.edu or in person in the SDS office.
o Supporting documentation can be submitted via email to
[email protected] or submitted through the link
while completing the Accommodation Request Form.
• All requests for disability accommodations in student
disciplinary proceedings are subject to an individualized
determination. Whether such a request is reasonable and/or
would be a fundamental alteration of the University’s
disciplinary policies is determined on a case-by-case basis after
evaluation of appropriate documentation.
• Students should refer to the Steps to Accommodations policy
for the appropriate steps and documentation requirements.
To allow the SDS Office sufficient time for processing, requests
for disability accommodations in any disciplinary process should
be submitted immediately upon receipt of notification from the
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Unbecoming dispositions and behavior, within the classroom or
outside the classroom may result in an array of corrective actions
taken by the CSC or recommendations for disciplinary actions
made by the CSC to the Code of Conduct Committee including,
but not limited to the following potential outcomes
1. A corrective dialog with the CSC or designee
2. A letter of reprimand
3. A required number of professional and/or pastoral counseling
sessions
4. A series of coaching sessions
5. Recommendations to the Code of Conduct committee such as:
a. Removal from the class
b. Removal from the supervised ministry/field experience site
c. Failure of the course
d. Suspension
e. Expulsion from the program. In the case of expulsion,
students will have the option of reapplying to the program
after a two year hiatus at which time the student will make a
case for his or her change in behavior and disposition such
that the CSC would possibly allow them to return to the
program
Any question of interpretation or application of the Dispositional
and Behavioral Standards Policy will be referred to the Dean of
the College of Theology or a designee for final determination.
These standards should not be applied in ways that foster
discrimination and harassment. Students who experience gender
or disability-based discrimination or harassment should seek the
assistance of the Title IX or Section 504 Coordinator for
investigation under the applicable grievance procedures.
Process Guidelines for COT Dispositional and Behavioral
Standards
The following guidelines are intended to assist with the
evaluation of and appropriate response to dispositional and
behavioral issues. These guidelines should enable faculty and
College representatives to accurately assess and prudently
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address situations in ways that are redemptive, fair, and
commensurate with the type of misalignment in question.
Doctrinal and Ethical Alignment
COT faculty are encouraged to make key distinctions in their
teaching and classroom interaction between doctrine that is
absolutely essential to the Christian faith and other teachings that,
although important, are not fundamental to Christianity.
Essential doctrines are those core teachings that distinguish
Christians from non-Christians and must be believed in order for
one to be a genuine follower of the Lord Jesus. Denial of
essential doctrine represents a grave matter.
Nonessential teachings are significant because they safeguard the
integrity and health of essential doctrines and because they derive
either directly or indirectly from the teaching of Scripture.
Examples include the form and meaning of baptism, the
organization and governance of the church, qualifications for
ministers, styles of worship music, and the timing of Christ’s
return in relation to other events of the last days. Christians
frequently disagree about various nonessential teachings but
disagreement about these doctrines does not amount to a denial of
the faith.
Dispositional and Behavioral Alignment
In cases of minor misalignment, direct engagement by a member
of the faculty or a representative of the College for the purpose of
education, formation, and/or correction will be most appropriate.
Further action is only necessary when a student is unresponsive
to direct engagement or when a student persists in conduct that is
unbecoming. Students who disregard COT’s Dispositional and
Behavioral standards or fail to demonstrate these dispositions and
behaviors may be subject to disciplinary action. In certain
egregious situations, disciplinary action may be immediate and
will be recommended to the University Code of Conduct
Committee.
Minor Misalignment
Instances of minor misalignment should be dealt with
redemptively rather than punitively to the extent possible. Such
cases typically require forbearance and patience instead of formal
discipline.
Major Misalignment
Instances of major misalignment should be dealt with
redemptively, but disciplinary action may be necessary if the
situation cannot be redeemed apart from formal action. Certain
egregious situations may represent exceptions and may require
immediate disciplinary action.
Essential Elements for COT & GCTS Students
• Behave in an appropriate and professional manner that fits the
setting
• Act as a professional regarding:
o Timeliness
o Preparedness
• Maintain appropriate and professional relationships in all
ministry environments
• Maintain appropriate hygiene and appropriate/professional
dress for the setting or as fits the ministry occasion
• Communicate clearly and appropriately in the classroom
setting as well as with peers, faculty, staff, and college
administration
• Effectively communicate within the context of supervised
ministry, internships, and practicum
• Complete all required components of supervised ministry,
internships, and practicum
• Individuals are responsible for their own transportation to and
from internship/supervised ministry/practicum
Essential Functions for COT & GCTS Students
A COT or GCTS student must:
• Possess the ability to effectively carry out service and teaching
in diverse ministry contexts
• Provide appropriate leadership and service within a ministry
context
• Develop professional and effective relationships with
individuals, families, and diverse communities
• Comprehend content effectively and accurately when reading
and studying.
• Effectively preach or teach within the context of a classroom
or local church setting.
In addition to the aforementioned essential functions, a Bachelor
of Arts in Worship Arts student must:
• Have the ability to meet all programmatic requirements
• Demonstrate musical ability during a required audition for the
Worship Leadership emphasis. A student cannot enter this
emphasis without the completion of this process.
*If a student requires an accommodation to meet the essential
elements of any COT & GCTS programs they are required to go
through the Accommodations process with the Student Disability
Services office. Each request will be reviewed on case-by-case
basis.
Bachelor of Arts in Worship Arts
Upon completion of 80 credit hours in the Bachelor of Arts in
Worship Arts program, students should begin the internship
application process. The Worship Arts Internship (WSA-429)
should be completed during the final year of the program or the
summer prior to the final year, but not prior to the completion of
80 credit hours in the program. No credit will be given for
internships completed outside of the formal BAWA internship
process which is guided by the Office of Field Experience. Direct
all questions regarding this application process to the Office of
Field Experience at [email protected].
Master Programmatic Progression
Requirements
Colangelo College of Business
Master of Science in Accounting
Guidelines for Live Proctored Online Testing Within the Master
of Science in Accounting program
Proctored Examinations will be scheduled and administered in an
environment that is conducive to success and minimizes the
opportunity for academic dishonesty. The following courses will
include proctored exams: ACC-690 and ACC-691. If a student
Fails to register with ProctorU and the assigned exam is accessed
without live proctoring, this will result in a zero grade for the
applicable exam
1. Once registration of the exams have been submitted from the
faculty, students will be responsible for scheduling the day and
time of the assigned exam with the proctoring agency. The
designated testing window will follow the assigned timeframe
listed in the course syllabus.
2. The proctoring agency needs greater than 72 hours to schedule
an exam to prevent an additional fee. If a student needs to
reschedule within 72 hours, charges will apply to the student;
rescheduled exams outside of 72 hours may not involve
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 115 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
additional charges to the student. Exams must be scheduled
within the assigned calendar week of the course.
3. Students who must reschedule their exam must notify the
instructor no less than 4 hours prior to the start of their
scheduled exam time to be considered excused and allow for
exam reassignment. The reassignment date and time must still
be scheduled within the calendar week of the course.
4. Rescheduling is limited to once per course.
5. The technology required will include downloading applicable
ProctorU software. A Web Cam and speakers will need to be
purchased if not included with computer. The software will
require a browser extension that the student must install from
the Chrome Web Store or the Firefox Add-ons site. ProctorU
also requires the student to run (not install) an applet prior to
each session. Specific directions will be provided by ProctorU.
6. Authentication will be verified by government issued photo
ID.
7. The student needs to plan to take the exam in a quiet, private
setting. The door to the testing room must remain closed at all
times while testing is in process to ensure academic integrity.
8. If accommodations are needed, please contact GCU’s Student
Disability Services office or follow steps for accommodations
outlined in the University Policy Handbook.
9. The only device permitted in the testing area/room is the
computer. Items not permitted include: a. Bluetooth enabled
devices b. Phones c. Watches d. Backpacks e. Purses f. Hats
with the exception of head adornments of a medical or
religious nature are permitted g. Jackets/Sweaters/Hooded
Sweatshirts h. Snacks
10. Students will be asked to pan their camera and show the
entire workspace and surroundings to the proctor. Students
will be required to close down any other software prior to
proceeding with the exam. Pockets must be turned out and
demonstrated that they are empty.
11. Once authentication and securing of the environment has
been completed, students will log into Gleim. The proctor
will verify the account and the correct exam.
12. Students must keep their eyes on the exam at all times.
13. We encourage students to go to the restroom before the
scheduled test to help ensure test security.
14. Students may not leave the room once the exam has begun. In
the event that the student must leave, the exam will end and
student will receive grade earned.
15. If IT issues occur and are unable to be resolved by the
proctoring agency or GCU Tech Support during the
designated test time, a working ticket needs to be obtained
and submitted to the classroom. Faculty can then work with
the student in reassigning the exam. • If student is unable to
access Gleim the student will need to contact Gleim at
800.874.5346 ext. 212. • If student is unable to access
ProctorU they will need to login to their ProctorU account
and select Chat Now. • If student has a technical issue during
exam, student is to work with the Proctor via the Chat Now
button.
16. Once the exam is complete, the student will notify the proctor
that the exam has been completed. The student can then log
out.
17. Students who are observed violating any of the above criteria
may be asked to stop the exam, given no credit for the exam,
and will be reported to the course faculty. The college will
review provided video from ProctorU to determine if a
violation has occurred and will determine course of action,
which may include referral to the Code of Conduct
Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and
Entrepreneurship
Master of Science in Organizational Growth and Sales
The Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and
Entrepreneurship and Master of Science in Organizational
Growth and Sales programs have been retired:
Student wishing to return to the University will be unable to
continue in this degree program and will need to submit a
University appeal in order to determine the appropriate degree
program. The students completed coursework will be reviewed
for possible course substitutions into our Master of Science in
Leadership degree program. If the student does not wish to
pursue the Master of Science in Leadership, they may pursue a
different program of study, but will not be considered for course
substitutions.
College of Education
All College of Education Graduate Programs
COE Graduate Certificates
Candidate Fingerprint Clearance
* Candidates beginning a new program of study or non-degree
coursework requiring fingerprint clearance on or after January 1,
2022 will follow the Fingerprint Clearance policy as outlined
below. Also, please note that the following policy is subject to
change as state requirements and policies change frequently.
Therefore, please check with your state’s Department of
Education and Field Experience Counselor to ensure you obtain
the appropriate clearance(s) for practicum/field experience,
student teaching, internships, and certification requirements.
Failure to maintain current and valid fingerprint clearance may
lead to immediate expulsion from the program.
**As such, candidates may need to complete additional
clearances for practicum/field experience, student teaching,
and/or internship placements and/or for certification purposes
based on their state’s requirements. In addition, while candidates
with charges on record may be enrolled in a GCU program,
candidates will be responsible to check with their state’s
department of education regarding the charges and ability to
obtain licensure in that state.
The College of Education’s mission is driven by helping our
candidates find their purpose and calling within education. Our
conceptual framework supports candidates as they learn, lead and
serve in their various schools and communities. In addition, we
value the strong collaboration with our local districts and schools.
The learning and safety of all learners, both college and PK-12
students, is priority for all field experiences in the College of
Education. Therefore, the college must provide candidates who
are background cleared and classroom ready in all aspects. To
achieve this, each candidate is required to have and maintain
current and valid fingerprint clearance for the duration of their
program.
Prior to participation in any course that requires fingerprint
clearance, candidates must provide their Field Experience
Counselor with copies of current and valid fingerprint
clearance(s) as outlined below. It is the candidate’s responsibility
to meet the state’s requirements necessary for certification and
employment.
Current fingerprint clearance: Fingerprint clearance
documents submitted to the Field Experience Counselor that
include an expiration date may only be approved if the date is
still current and will need to be renewed at the time of expiration.
If the fingerprint clearance document does not include an
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 116 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
expiration date, the obtainment date of fingerprint clearance must
be less than one year old at the time of submission and less than
four years old throughout the duration of the program.
• If a candidate is out of attendance greater than 180 days and the
expiration date on the fingerprint clearance on file has passed, the
candidate will need to supply a new fingerprint clearance with an
obtainment date that is less than one year old at the time of re-
entry.
• Valid fingerprint clearance: Fingerprint clearance documents
submitted to the Field Experience Counselor must be in
alignment with the required documentation listed in the policy
below. This includes, but is not limited to, submitting required
fingerprint clearance documentation that is free of any charges.If
a candidate submits a fingerprint clearance showing charges
(with the exception of a misdemeanor driving under the influence
charge), the candidate’s background may be subject to further
review. While under review, the candidate may be denied
admission or progression into courses requiring fingerprint
clearance (ex. Courses containing practicum/field experience,
student teaching, internships, etc.).
Required Fingerprint Clearance Documentation –
Advanced/Graduate Programs (Non-Licensure and
Educational Administration):
For those candidates that are enrolled into an advanced non-
licensure program one of the following must be on file:
• Arizona Department of Public Safety Identify Verified Prints
(IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card or state-specific clearance
• Federal Background Check
• Current and valid teaching certificate
Please note, if a candidate changes enrollment to a licensure
program, the candidate may need to provide additional clearances
in alignment with the Required Fingerprint Clearance
Documentation – Initial Teacher Licensure Programs and
Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies policy.
Required Fingerprint Clearance Documentation – Initial
Teacher Licensure Programs and Bachelor of Science in
Educational Studies
(Please check with your state’s Department of Education and
Field Experience Counselor to ensure you obtain the appropriate
clearance and certification requirements):
For those candidates that are enrolled into an initial teacher
licensure program one of the following must be on file:
An Arizona Department of Public Safety Identity Verified
Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card will be required
for:
• Candidates located in Arizona, completing practicum/field
experiences, student teaching, and/or internships or seeking
certification in Arizona are required to obtain and submit AZ IVP
FPC.
• Out of state candidates seeking to certify in Arizona prior to
certifying in another state are required to obtain and submit an
AZ IVP FPC prior to student teaching but may submit an FBI or
state-specific background check prior to practicum/field
experience.
• Candidates who have provided state mandated fingerprint
clearance showing any types of charges (with the exception of a
misdemeanor driving under the influence charge) – see
Explanation of Charges section below.
An Arizona Department of Public Safety Identity Verified
Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card and a state-specific
fingerprint clearance will be required for:
• Candidates located in states that require a state-mandated
clearance and require certification through Arizona
State-Specific Clearance will be required for:
• Candidates located in states that require a state-mandated
clearance
If none of the above applies, an FBI check will be required for:
• Candidates located in states where the state’s mandated
fingerprint clearance is not shareable with the University
• Candidates located in states that do not certify in Arizona and
do not have a state-specific fingerprint clearance
• Out of state candidates seeking to certify in Arizona prior to
certifying in another state are required to obtain and submit an
AZ IVP FPC prior to student teaching but may submit an FBI or
state-specific background check prior to practicum/field
experience.
Disclosure of Charges (All Programs - Initial Teacher
Licensure Programs, Bachelor of Science in Educational
Studies and Advanced Programs)
• All candidates are required to disclose charges that occur(ed)
prior to and throughout enrollment in any College of Education
program
o If candidates do not disclose prior charges upon admission,
candidates’ background will be subject to internal review
that may lead to University Code of Conduct referral. This
may result in further disciplinary action (i.e. expulsion from
the program).
o If candidates are charged with a felony or misdemeanor
while in the program, even if charges are pending,
dismissed, amended, or the candidate entered into a
diversion agreement, candidates are obligated to report the
charge(s) to their Field Experience Counselor within 15 days
of the charge(s) occurring. Candidates’ background will be
subject to internal review that may lead to University Code
of Conduct referral. This may result in further disciplinary
action (i.e. expulsion from the program).
o Failure to disclose charges may lead to immediate expulsion
from the program.
• Please note, while candidates with charges on record may be
enrolled in a GCU program, candidates will be responsible to
check with their state’s department of education regarding the
charges and ability to obtain licensure in that state.
Procedure for Program Progression with Charges
In the event that admission to Grand Canyon University’s
College of Education is denied as a candidate is charged with of
one or more offense listed in A.R.S. 41-1758.03 is located in
Title 41, Chapter 12, Article 3.1 of the Arizona Revised Statutes
(https://www.azleg.gov/ars/41/01758-03.htm), or the candidate
has or obtains any other charge on their record (with the
exception of a misdemeanor driving under the influence charge),
the candidate will be required to follow the process below:
• Apply for an Identity Verified Prints (IVP) Fingerprint
Clearance Card from the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
(Should the fingerprint clearance card be denied, see section
below.)
• Provide Grand Canyon University with copies of the Arizona
Department of Public Safety Identity Verified Prints (IVP)
Fingerprint Clearance Card for reconsideration of admission.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 117 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
If an AZ IVP FPC is denied, the candidate will need to follow
the below process.
• Petition the Arizona Board of Fingerprinting for a good cause
exception. More information regarding the application and
process for a good cause exception can be found at the Arizona
Board of Fingerprinting website.
o If the Arizona Board of Fingerprinting approves the
good cause exception, a fingerprint clearance card will
be issued. (Should the Arizona Board of Fingerprinting
deny the good cause exception, a fingerprint clearance
card will not be issued, and the applicant will be denied
admission. (This decision cannot be appealed.)
• Provide Grand Canyon University with copies of the Arizona
(IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card and the documentation
provided by the Investigation Unit of the Arizona Department of
Education for reconsideration of admission.
• Admission or progression into a College of Education program
is not guaranteed
Advanced Programs – Non-Licensure
For those candidates that are enrolling into an advanced non-
licensure program and have been charged with one or more
offenses listed in R.S. 41-1758.03 is located in Title 41, Chapter
12, Article 3.1 of the Arizona Revised Statutes
(https://www.azleg.gov/ars/41/01758-03.htm), or the candidate
has or obtains any other charge (with the exception of a driving
under the influence charge) on their record, the candidate will
need to provide:
• AZ IVP
OR both of the following:
• Current and valid teaching certificate
• Verification of current employment on school letterhead with
authorized district representative signature (i.e. human resources,
superintendent, principal, etc.)
College of Education Practicum/Field Experience Expectations
Practicum/field experiences are field-based learning opportunities
that focus on observation, application, and reflection.
Practicum/field experiences require the candidate to spend a
prescribed amount of time in real-life classroom settings to
demonstrate competency with predetermined activities that are
aligned to professional standards in the field of education.
Approved Practicum/Field Experience Settings
Candidates must complete practicum/field experiences in the
approved settings with a certified and/or qualified teacher as
referenced in program coursework and Clinical Field Experience
Handbook. Settings must align to programmatic grade levels and
content areas. with the exception of an accommodation requested
and approved with the Office of Student Disability Services.
Accommodation approval for the use of recorded video is not
guaranteed. Practicum/field experiences must be completed in
traditional in-person or approved virtual school site settings.
Candidates are expected to mirror mentor teachers’ instructional
modality. Virtual setting options are not guaranteed. Utilizing
recorded video in lieu of completing hours in the approved
settings is not permitted with the exception of a temporaryn
accommodation requested and approved with the Office of
Student Disability Services. Accommodation approval for the use
of recorded video is not guaranteed and would not be acceptable
for the full duration of a candidate’s program.
Paid Practicum/Field Experience Opportunities
Practicum/field experience is traditionally an unpaid experience.
The College of Education does not solicit, source, or guarantee
paid practicum/field experience opportunities. If interested in
paid opportunities, it is the candidate’s responsibility to secure
employment and adhere to all state, district/school site and
university regulations and policies. Candidates who are currently
in paid education positions (such as paraprofessional, teacher aid,
teacher of record, substitute teacher, administrator, etc.) may be
able to complete practicum/field experience hours in their paid
role if all the below requirements are met:
• The setting aligns with the setting required in the candidate’s
program of study.
• The candidate has an appropriately certified mentor available
at the school site to sign and verify hours on appropriate
forms/documentation.
• The candidate is able to fulfill all practicum/field experience
expectations, including the ability to complete all course
assignments, requirements, etc.
• The candidate obtains approval from the district/school site
and course instructor.
• The paid experience is not in any violation of any
district/school, state, or federal policy, regulation, or law.
Utilizing paid positions to complete practicum/field experience
hours is also at the discretion of the district/school site.
Candidates are expected to adhere to all district/school site
policies. In addition, candidates requesting to utilize a paid
position to complete practicum/field experience hours must
obtain approval from their course instructor to ensure alignment
to coursework. Candidates utilizing paid positions cannot act as
their own mentor. Candidates must have an appropriate mentor or
school site administrator verify the completion of hours on the
Clinical Field Experience Verification Form
Course Expectations for Practicum/Field Experiences
• Candidates engaging in practicum/field experience must also
be active in a practicum/field experience course/block or in a
documented college-approved plan to complete practicum/field
experience hours in the field. Candidates must have
current/valid fingerprint clearance(s) on file with their Field
Experience Counselor prior to starting any fingerprint
clearance required course. Please see Candidate Fingerprint
Clearance policy.
• Candidates must complete all required practicum/field
experience hours within the program of study. Failure to
complete all practicum/field experience hours required within
the program of study may result in ineligibility for the student
teaching portion of the program, delays in program progression
and/or delays or ineligibility for Institutional Recommendation
(IR). Please see Requirements for an Institutional
Recommendation (Initial Program/Teacher Licensure Only)
policy.
• Practicum/field experience hours are mutually exclusive.
Candidates must complete all required hours for each course or
block – “double-dipping” or reusing practicum/field
experience hours will not be allowed.
• Candidates that receive a non-passing grade in a
practicum/field experience course must redo their
practicum/field experience hours and documentation of the
hours on the verification form in the retake of the course.
• Verification forms for practicum/field experiences are to be
completed by site mentors. Candidates who falsify hours will
be referred to the Office of Academic Compliance for further
review.
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• If referred to the Office of Academic Compliance, candidates
are required to adhere to University and College
determinations related to practicum/field experience including,
but not limited to, redoing the completion of practicum/field
experience hours and appropriate documentation,
acknowledging that site placement is not guaranteed,
acknowledging that any penalty received in a course or
program of study will stand as issued by the course instructor
or by the Code of Conduct Committee.
Program Specific Expectations for Practicum/Field Experience
Candidates are encouraged to be proactive regarding the selection
of appropriate practicum/field experience placement settings.
Each course/block outlines appropriate practicum/field
experience settings. Candidates are responsible for completing
hours in the settings that align with the grade levels and /content
areas associated with their program of study and intended
certification. Candidates in all programs may refer to the
appropriate Field Experience Handbook and additional resources
in the Student Success Center.
The programs below include additional specifications,
requirements, and settings regarding practicum/field experience.
• Early Childhood Education
Teacher Candidates enrolled in the Master of Education in
Early Childhood Education or the Master of Education in Early
Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education
program, who are completing practicum/field experiences in
Arizona, are required to submit a completed Student
Information Release Form (SIRF) and proof of immunization
and/or immunity from Tuberculosis (TB).
Teacher Candidates are required to complete an early
childhood practicum application 8 weeks prior to the start date
and will receive placement assistance from their assigned Field
Experience Counselor.
• Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special
Education
Candidates enrolled in the Master of Education in Early
Childhood Education or the Master of Education in Early
Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education
program, who are completing practicum/field experiences in
Arizona, are required to submit a completed Student
Information Release Form (SIRF) and proof of immunization
and/or immunity from Tuberculosis (TB).
In addition to the practicum/field experience hours throughout
their regular coursework, Teacher Candidates enrolled in the
Master of Education in Early Childhood Education and Early
Childhood Special Education have two practicum courses that
require University placement. Candidates must refer to their
program of study and Field Experience Counselor for more
information.
Candidates are required to complete an early childhood/early
childhood special education practicum application 8 weeks
prior to the start date and will receive placement assistance
from their assigned Field Experience Counselor. Candidates
are not permitted to take Practicum I and Practicum II
concurrently.
• Master of Arts in Higher Education Student Affairs
Candidates must have access to an institute of higher education
to complete program assignments. GCU is unable to
offer/guarantee practicum/field experience access to
institutions of higher education
Placement Expectations for Practicum/Field Experience,
Student Teaching, and Internships
The following section seeks to address responsibilities and
expectations for candidates in the College of Education who are
in school districts, schools and placement settings during a
practicum/field experience, student teaching, or internship
experience. The statements are designed to be reflective of the
fundamental principles and values that are desired of a candidate
and his/her professional and personal conduct in field settings. In
addition to all University conduct policies, the conduct
expectations clarify conduct unbecoming of an education
candidate, and thus are subject to disciplinary action.
Candidates in the College of Education represent GCU’s
missional, Christ-centered values and are expected to abide by
ethical, professional, and academic standards for professional
educators. These expectations include, but are not limited to the
expectation that the candidate:
• Gives appropriate attention to college programmatic and site
placement work requirements
• Attends class and engagements as required by the college and
site placement
• Acknowledges and accepts the responsibility of honorable
adherence to the university’s and site placement’s standards,
rules, policies, and procedures
• Follows all dress code requirements site for by placement site
Follows all dress code requirements set by placement site(s)
• Supports and exhibits ethical behavior with students, faculty,
staff, school placement personnel, and the community
• Recognizes and embraces the diversity and personal values of
others
• Exhibits self-direction and self-reliance as a college student
and in the pursuit of individual and collaborative learning
objectives and goals
• Acknowledges and accepts personal responsibility and
accountability for his or her actions, interactions, and
communication in all forms with students, faculty, staff, site
placement personnel, and the community
• Upholds confidentiality and respect for personal or
professional information communicated in the placement
classroom
• Represents themselves solely in all matters related to
performance, evaluation, assessments, disciplinary action, etc.
• Adheres to college dispositional expectations, essential
elements and functions for educations, policies, and standards
of academic honesty
Essential Elements for Teachers
• Safely navigate the classroom /placement site and follow all
safety protocols as outlined by the placement site.
• Effectively communicate with students, parents, and peers
• Complete all tasks in the designated time
• Make effective crisis management decisions based on
placement site policies and procedures
• Ability to handle a full classroom of students as assigned
o Awareness of student needs
• Lead a classroom for the full contracted teacher workday. This
includes:
o Student Contact time
o Teacher Contract time
• Act as a professional regarding:
o Timeliness
o Preparedness
o Hygiene and professional dress
o Transportation to and from the school site
• Communicate in appropriate standard language for the setting
(written and verbal)
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 119 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Maintain collegial relationships in the work/classroom
environment
Essential Functions Motor/Physical/Cognitive Strengths for
Teachers
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Possess the physical
strength and mobility to safely carry out teaching procedures
and provide routine direction to students of all ages in all
assigned school settings.
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Use professional
awareness to make accurate student assessments and
judgments.
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Accurately assess student
progress and any needed information specific to student
development.
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Develop mature,
sensitive, and effective relationships with individuals, families
and groups of various social, emotional, cultural and
intellectual backgrounds; adhere to GCU policies, procedures
and requirements as described in the Student Teaching
Manual/Clinical Practice, Faculty/Employee Handbook,
University Policy Handbook and demonstrate ethical behavior,
including adherence to professional and university honor
codes.
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Communicate effectively
and accurately in standard language using speech, reading,
writing, language skills, and computer literacy. The use of
appropriate nonverbal communication is also essential
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Collect, analyze,
prioritize, integrate, and generalize information and knowledge
to make sound judgments and decisions to promote positive
student outcomes.
• A teacher candidate must be able to: Adhere to classroom and
placement schedules, submit all course and placement
expectations in a timely manner.
• A teacher candidate must be able to: meet all health and safety
requirements to perform duties in assigned school settings.
o School/placement sites may have health and safety
requirements in addition to required GCU screenings.
Dispositional Expectations
• High Expectations- Educators should believe that all Teacher
Candidates can learn and should set and support realistic
expectations for student success.
• Respect for the Diversity of Others- Educators should be
sensitive to individual learning and social needs of Teacher
Candidates and embrace the cultural diversity of the
community.
• Fairness- Educators should promote social justice and equity,
maintain appropriate standards of confidentiality, and exercise
fairness in all areas including assessment.
• Professional Conduct- Educators should exercise sound
judgment and ethical behavior. They should be a positive role
model within their community.
• Reflection- Educators should recognize that reflection
combined with experience leads to growth as a professional.
Educators should be thoughtful about their professional
practice, critically examine it, and seek continual
improvement.
• Curiosity- Educators should promote and support curiosity and
encourage active inquiry. They should be able to think
innovatively and creatively, using critical thinking as a
problem-solving approach.
• Honesty- Educators should model integrity by their words and
actions. They should be forthright with others and uphold high
standards of trust, character, and integrity.
• Compassion- Educators should demonstrate professional
friendliness, warmth, and genuine caring in their relationships
with others while providing intellectual, emotional, and
spiritual support.
• Advocacy- Teachers understand the impact of community
involvement and servant leadership as it applies to the welfare
of others in the educational setting.
• Dedication- Educators should be committed to the profession
of teaching and learning. They should be professionally active,
lifelong learners and seek opportunities for professional
development
Clinical Practice Expectation Violations
The following violations clarify conduct unbecoming of
candidates in the College of Education. Candidates are expected
not to engage in such action while in school districts, schools,
and/or placement settings.
The following is a non-exhaustive list of actions that are
considered clinical practice conduct violations, for which
candidates are subjected to disciplinary action up to and
including expulsion from the University.
• Falsification, forgery, alteration, or invention of information,
including, but not limited to, any document used for admission
or eligibility to the university, document related to:
o Admission or eligibility to practicum/field experience,
student teaching and/or internships
o Information regarding the site placement school, the district
and/or personnel
o Information regarding students
o Information regarding curriculum content in the classroom
• Disruptive behavior in any form that creates a hostile or
offensive educational environment for a student, Cooperating
Teacher/Mentor, GCU Faculty Supervisor, faculty, or staff
o Threatening to harm or endangering the safety of any
individual in the practicum/field experience, student
teaching, and/or internship setting
o Threatening statements, behaviors, acts of violence or
corporal punishment against any individual in the
practicum/field experience, student teaching, and/or
internship setting
• Failure to comply promptly with any reasonable directive from
a Cooperating Teacher/Mentor, GCU Faculty Supervisors,
GCU course instructor, or staff
• Failure to cooperate with an investigation
• Possession, use, distribution, or behavior under the influence
of alcohol or illegal or banned drugs or substances while on
school property, or as part of any school-related activity
• Communication orally, in writing, or by use of any
technological device, including, and not limited to any phone
or computer device, outside the classroom in a manner that
could be perceived as inappropriate by any member of the site
placement school, its extended community or university
• Failure to maintain a professional approach to personal
relationships with the students or the school community
members
If candidates violate any of the above or any other university or
placement site policy, they are subject to review by the College
and/or the Office of Academic Compliance. If candidates are
found eligible to continue with the program of study, candidates
are expected to complete all required actions deemed necessary
by the University or College. Please note, if candidates are
enrolled in an initial teacher licensure program, student teaching
may only be repeated once.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 120 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Basic Skills and Content Area Exams Effective Fall 2025
College of Education Certification/Licensure Pathway
Grand Canyon University has determined the certification path
for each program and state combination (e.g., Bachelor of
Science in Elementary Education in Arizona; Master of
Education in Special Education in Georgia, etc.). Candidates’
location, and/or Intent to Certify State, is used to determine the
pathway GCU requires for the candidate to become a program
completer. Licensure paths were identified by GCU based on:
• Federal Regulations
• Arizona State Board of Education and Arizona Department of
Education program approvals
• Arizona Private Post-Secondary Education
• State postsecondary entities
• State licensing requirements for student location or student
intent for certification
Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation
(AAQEP) approvals
GCU policy
The general public can see individual state/program requirements
on GCU.edu, on the program pages. Candidates are provided
state/program disclosure information in the enrollment agreement
based on their location (See Location) and/or Intent to Certify
State. There are two pathways GCU candidates use to obtain a
teaching license:
• Direct Certify: Candidate will complete the coursework,
practicum, student teaching, exams as determined by GCU,
and complete the associated state certification process.
• Certify through Arizona Reciprocity: Candidate will complete
the coursework, practicum, student teaching, exams, as
determined by GCU, and submit to Arizona for licensure.
Candidate will then take their Arizona license and apply to
their state location, or the state they indicated they would be
certified in for reciprocity.
State licensing requirements may change without prior notice,
and such changes are beyond the control of Grand Canyon
University. GCU will notify candidates of any licensure changes
for their location and/or Intent to Certify State, within 14 days of
determination.
Candidates considering relocating, or candidates that have
relocated to another state or outside of the United States during
their program, whether relocation is permanent or temporary,
may not be able to complete their program of study and/or
achieve certification. Candidates should contact their Student
Services Counselor immediately to determine whether their
Program of Study is available in the new location.
College of Education Licensure Exam Requirements
Teacher and Principal Candidates enrolled in an initial teacher or
principal licensure program must pass required educator exams,
as determined by Grand Canyon University for the program/state
combination in which the candidate is located and/or Intent to
Certify State before they can be considered a program completer,
even if coursework is completed. This may include
programmatically required exams, program- and certification-
aligned state-mandated basic skills exams and/or content
knowledge exams (also known as subject knowledge exams),
professional knowledge exams, or principal exams. GCU utilizes
content knowledge exam/subject knowledge exams and
licensure/certification interchangeably. Other states may utilize
varying terminology. This policy applies to all initial teacher
licensure and principal licensure programs.
Candidates must submit exam scores to their Field Experience
Counselor. Exams will be accepted as passed only if the official
score report documents a passing score (‘pass’ or ‘passed’).
Candidates must attempt all required exams as determined by
Grand Canyon University for the program/state combination in
which the Candidate is located and/or intending to certify.
Candidates must refer to the matrix below and their Field
Experience Counselor for certification exam requirements and
timelines.
GCU course exams are not substitutable for state certification
exams. Candidates should refer to GCU.edu and their enrollment
agreement for exam requirements.
College of Education Licensure Exam Requirements
Certification
Path
Prior to
Admission
Prior to Student
Teaching
Prior to
Graduation
Initial Teacher Licensure Programs
Certify
Through
Arizona
Reciprocity
& Direct
Certify
N/A Passing state
basic skills (if
applicable) and
content
knowledge
exam(s) scores
Passing state
professional
knowledge exam
scores
Direct
Certify:
Provisional
License with
Deficiencies
(Exam
Deferral)
N/A Passing state
basic skills (if
applicable) and
content
knowledge
exam(s) scores
OR
Deferement
acknowledgement
Passing state
professional
knowledge exams
scores*
OR
Deferment
acknowledgement
Alternative
Preparation
Program:
Canyon
L.E.A.P. to
Teach
Content
knowledge
exam(s)
N/A-no student
teaching
requirement
Passing state
professional
knowledge exams
scores
Education Administration – Principal Licensure
Certification
Path
Prior to
Admission
Prior to
Internship
Prior to
Graduation
Certify
Through
Arizona
Reciprocity
& Direct
Certify
N/A N/A Passing state
administrator
exams
* Professional knowledge exams (PKE) are not required for
states that do not have a specific PKE requirement for
certification.
Candidates must pass all program- and certification-required
basic skills, content knowledge, professional knowledge, and/or
principal exams prior to completing the program and being
recommended for graduation. GCU will not issue an Institutional
Recommendation (IR) until all required exams, coursework, and
all other graduation requirements are met to satisfy program
completion
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 121 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Performance-Based Assessments (Initial Program/Teacher
Licensure Only)
Some states may require additional Teacher Performance
Assessments (TPA) such as edTPA. These performance-based
assessments are student-centered and are used to measure a
candidate's teaching knowledge and skills. Depending on the
individual state's requirements, the assessment may include tasks
related to skills including, but not limited to, reflection of
practice, designing and implementing instruction, and analysis
and planning from assessments and data.
If a performance-based assessment is required for certification in
a candidate’s state of residence, GCU expects the completion of
portfolio items specified in the assessment during the candidate’s
completion of student teaching. Candidates are advised to consult
with their Field Experience Counselor (FEC) to discuss if a
specific performance assessment is required for their state.
College of Education Professional Practice Committee (PPC)
and Personal Improvement Plan (PIP)
GCU’s College of Education does not employ districts and
therefore does not have any jurisdiction of districts’ placement
discretion or termination of placement. Candidates are guests at
placement sites and must follow all site policies and
The expectations. In the case a candidate has an unsuccessful
attempt at student teaching or educational administration
internships the candidate may be reviewed by the College of
Education’s Professional Practices Committee (PPC). The COE’s
PPC reviews unsuccessful attempts (i.e., cancellation of
confirmed placements, terminations, self-terminations and/or
course failures) at student teaching and the educational
administration internship determines all college-level remediation
or sanctions, and/or recommendation for further university-level
review. The College of Education’s PPC reviews all
documentation, including the candidate’s response to the attempt,
and will make a determination on the next steps regarding
program progression.
The University does not discriminate based on disability in the
course of administering discipline. A student with a disability
who is subject to disciplinary proceedings may request an
accommodation for their disability and the University will engage
in the interactive process upon such a request.
• To receive accommodations through the University, students
are required to self-identify by completing the Accommodation
Request Form and provide supporting documentation to
Student Disability Services. Only the SDS Office can approve
accommodations.
o Students can submit the accommodation request form at
https://sds.gcu.edu or in person in the SDS office.
o Supporting documentation can be submitted via email to
[email protected] or submitted through the link
while completing the Accommodation Request Form.
• All requests for disability accommodations in student
disciplinary proceedings are subject to an individualized
determination. Whether such a request is reasonable and/or
would be a fundamental alteration of the University’s
disciplinary policies is determined on a case-by-case basis after
evaluation of appropriate documentation.
• Students should refer to the Steps to Accommodations policy
for the appropriate steps and documentation requirements.
To allow the SDS Office sufficient time for processing, requests
for disability accommodations in any disciplinary process should
be submitted immediately upon receipt of notification from the
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Possible outcomes for candidates referred to the College of
Education’s PPC may include but are not limited to:
• Removal from the student teaching or educational
administration internship course(s).
• Awarding a failing grade for the student teaching or
educational administration internship course(s).
• Awarding the grade earned in the student teaching or
educational administration internship course(s).
• Awarding a “W” (withdraw) grade in the student teaching or
educational administration internship course(s).
• Successful completion of required college-level coaching.
• Successful completion of a Personal Improvement Plan (PIP).
• Replacement in a new student teaching placement site.*
• Replacement in a new student teaching placement site after the
completion of a PIP.
• Referral to the University’s Code of Conduct Committee
Office of Academic Compliance for further review.
An unsuccessful attempt at student teaching or the educational
administration internship may have financial implications. It is
the candidate’s responsibility to contact their assigned Student
Services Counselor to discuss any financial matters as a result of
an unsuccessful student teaching or educational administration
internship attempt and/or future course repeat(s).
*Replacement at a new student teaching placement site is
contingent upon several factors (e.g., placement site
availability/approval, required remediation, etc.) and is not
guaranteed
Personal Improvement Plan (PIP)
If required by the Professional Practices Committee, a Personal
Improvement Plan (PIP) must be successfully completed to be
eligible for a second and final attempt at student teaching. The
PIP is personalized one-on-one support to assist teacher
candidates in their second attempt in the student teaching
experience. Throughout the PIP, the Teacher Candidate will work
with a College of Education faculty/staff member to reflect on
and remediate any areas of opportunity and growth. Please refer
to the College of Education Student Teaching Manual for
additional information.
Eligibility for Student Teaching (Initial Program/Teacher
Licensure Only)
1. Possess a current/valid Fingerprint Clearance Card or
background check. Teacher Candidates certifying through
Arizona must have an Arizona Department of Public Safety
IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card.
2. Successfully complete all coursework, including documented
practicum/field experience hours, within the program of study.
3. Pass the state-specified basic skills and content area exams or
GCU specific content exam, if applicable for academic
program, prior to applying for the clinical practice/student
teaching experience.
4. Maintain a minimum GPA of a 2.8 (undergrad) or 3.0
(graduate) as required for clinical practice/student teaching.
5. Review program progression and academic/financial eligibility
with your assigned Student Services Counselor and student
teaching clearance with your Field Experience Counselor.
Clinical practice/student teaching may only be repeated once
during the Teacher Candidate’s time at Grand Canyon
University.
If a Teacher Candidate has an unsuccessful clinical
practice/student teaching attempt within an Institutional
Recommendation (IR) program and then enrolls into another IR
program, the Teacher Candidate will need to appeal to the
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 122 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
College of Education to student teach for a second and final
attempt.
Candidates seeking to complete student teaching outside of a full
program of study as a single course(s) must meet fingerprint
clearance as outlined in the Candidate Fingerprint Clearance
policy and educator certification exam requirements. In addition,
candidates are responsible for reviewing and meeting all
requirements for certification outlined by state departments of
education.
Application for Student Teaching (Initial Program/Teacher
Licensure Only)
In order to apply for clinical practice/student teaching, the
Teacher Candidate must be meeting all clinical practice/student
teaching eligibility requirements.
The Student Teaching Application is provided by the Teacher
Candidate’s assigned Field Experience Counselor (FEC).
The Student Teaching Application deadlines are as follows:
Traditional (Ground) Students
• November 1st is the deadline for the Fall Clinical Practice
(Student Teaching) experience
• May 1st is the deadline for the Spring Clinical Practice
(Student Teaching) experience
Non-Traditional (Online) Students
• February 1st is the deadline for the Fall Clinical Practice
(Student Teaching) experience
• August 1st is the deadline for the Spring Clinical Practice
(Student Teaching) experience
No exceptions will be made to these deadlines.
Student Teaching (Initial Program/Teacher Licensure Only)
Student teaching is the capstone experience at the end of the
initial teacher licensure program that provides candidates with the
opportunity to demonstrate mastery of knowledge and skills in a
classroom setting.
Teacher Candidates must meet all eligibility requirements prior to
progressing into student teaching. Taken at the conclusion of all
coursework, student teaching requires 15-16 consecutive weeks
(dependent on Teacher Candidate’s program of study) of full day
(Monday-Friday) placement with a COE approved Cooperating
Teacher/Mentor. A Cooperating Teacher/Mentor must hold a
current/valid certification in the area which aligns with the
Teacher Candidate’s program of study, a Master degree or
exceptional experience, have a minimum of three years teaching
experience, full recommendation of the building
principal/administrator and desire and ability to work
cooperatively with the Teacher Candidate.
Student teaching full days consists of the following:
• Student Contact time: any instructional classroom time spent
directly with students.
• Teacher Contract time: any function at the cooperating school
site(s) that the contracted teacher is required to attend. This
includes prep time and professional development.
• District holidays/inclement weather days are not to be counted.
Student teaching requires a full takeover for a minimum of 50%
of the experience (i.e. 4 weeks of full take over for an 8-week
course and 8 weeks for a 15/16-week course). During this time,
Teacher Candidates will assume all teaching duties and
responsibilities necessary for effective teaching of students
without endangering the health and safety of the individual or
others. Essential functions of the teaching profession include
effectively leading the classroom and ensuring student learning.
Refer to the College of Education Student Teaching Manual for
additional information.
Student teaching is completed in the Fall or Spring semesters;
and is required for an Institutional Recommendation (IR).
Teacher Candidates looking to complete student teaching in the
summer may contact their assigned FEC to discuss eligibility.
Student teaching may only be repeated once in the course of the
Teacher Candidate’s time at Grand Canyon University.
Student Teaching Placement Requirements (Initial
Program/Teacher Licensure Only)
Student teaching must be completed in a brick-and-mortar school
(Candidates requesting to complete student teaching in a virtual
school setting must refer to their Teacher Placement Counselor.
Requests to complete student teaching in a virtual setting are
reviewed on a case-by-case basis and not guaranteed.). Student
teaching must be completed in a public-school setting or a
licensed/accredited nonpublic school setting. Teacher
Candidate’s site placement must align with the Teacher
Candidate’s program of study. Placement preferences will be
honored, if possible and/or feasible. However, the University
reserves the right to make assignments or adjustments deemed to
be in the Teacher Candidate’s best interest and the interest of
other involved parties. Student teaching cannot be completed at a
school site where a relative is employed or the Teacher Candidate
has children who attend the school.
GCU’s College of Education does not employ districts and
therefore does not have any jurisdiction of districts’ placement
discretion or termination of placement. Teacher Candidates are
guests at placement sites and must follow all site policies and
expectations, including but not limited to FERPA, digital
privacy/communication, social media, fingerprint clearance, etc.
Refer to the College of Education Student Teaching Manual for
additional information.
Paid Student Teaching (Initial Program/Teacher Licensure Only)
Student teaching is traditionally an unpaid experience. The
College of Education does not solicit, source, or guarantee paid
student teaching opportunities. It is the Teacher Candidate’s
responsibility to secure employment. Teacher Candidates may
have the opportunity to student teach in the classroom(s) in which
they are employed as the full-time teacher of record,
paraprofessionals/teacher aides/substitutes if:
• the setting aligns with the setting required in the Teacher
Candidate’s program of study
• the Teacher Candidate has an appropriately certified mentor
available at the school site
• the Teacher Candidate is able to fulfill all student teaching
expectations, including the ability to have full take over for the
minimum required time.
Teacher Candidates requesting to student teach in a paid position
must complete additional documentation that requires written
approval from the placement site administrator. Requests to
student teach in a paid position are reviewed by the College on a
case-by-case basis and are not guaranteed. Teacher Candidates
should reach out to their assigned Field Experience Counselor or
Teacher Placement Counselor for more information.
Requirements for an Institutional Recommendation (Educator
Licensure)
Institutional Recommendations (IRs) are issued for teaching,
principal, and school counseling programs that lead to initial
licensure in Arizona. (Other states may refer to this as a program
verification form, college verification form, etc.) The IR confirms
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 123 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
that a candidate has met all requirements, including successful
student teaching or internships, for the program of study that has
been approved by the Arizona State Board of Education. It is the
candidate’s responsibility to determine the specific requirements
needed (i.e., basic skills/content knowledge exams, professional
knowledge exams, principal exams, and/or fingerprint clearance,
etc.) to obtain a certificate in their intended state of certification.
Arizona IRs can be issued only within 45 days of a candidate’s
graduation date; otherwise, the candidate will need to apply by
way of a transcript analysis to determine if certification criteria
have been met. An Arizona IR is valid for one year from the date
it is signed.
All candidates seeking an IR for a any educator license in their
intended state of licensure are responsible for determining state
specific deadlines and requirements, and must complete the
programmatic and state licensure requirements needed for an IR.
These requirements which include but are not limited to
verification of current/valid fingerprint clearance, passing scores
on basic skills, content and professional knowledge exams, and
successful completion of practicum/field experiences, and/or
student teaching or internships in the approved setting(s).
Candidates seeking a transfer to a non-institutional
recommendation (non-IR) program will no longer be eligible for
an institutional recommendation (IR) and may not be eligible for
certification/licensureIR. Candidates must reach out to their
assigned Student Services Counselor (SSC) for questions
regarding program changes.
Candidates should refer to their Field Experience Counselor for
additional support regarding the IR process.
Certification through Non-Degree Courses (Initial
Program/Non-Teacher Licensure Only)
Graduates from an Initial Program – Does Not Lead to Teacher
Licensure (IP/Non-TL) programs who wish to return to GCU to
complete certification coursework will enroll in student teaching
courses through the non-degree division. As these learners do not
qualify for an Institutional Recommendation they must be
certified in Arizona through a course-by-course evaluation
conducted by the certification division of the Arizona Department
of Education. Learners will need to meet all Arizona certification
requirements, including verification of fingerprint clearance,
successful completion of student teaching, verification of passing
scores on the AEPA or an equivalent exam as determined by the
Arizona Department of Education’s out of state exam reciprocity
requirements, and successful completion of Arizona SEI
requirements.
Master of Education in Educational Administration
(Advanced Program for Principal Licensure)
In addition to all other applicable university policies, candidates
enrolled in a Master of Education in Educational Administration
program shall also adhere to the below policies related to field
experience, internships, certification, etc.
Fingerprint Clearance
Prior to progression into any course requiring practicum/field
experience and/or internships, principal candidates must submit a
current and valid fingerprint clearance in accordance with the
Candidate Fingerprint Clearance policy. Candidates must review
state-specific and district/school site requirements as additional
clearances may be required.
Practicum/Field Experience and/or Internship Hours
Principal candidates in the educational administration program
must adhere to all practicum/field experience and/or internship
guidelines as outlined in all applicable Educational
Administration manuals. Educational Administration
practicum/field experience and/or internship hours are unpaid,
require placement with a certified administrator mentor and are
required for an Institutional Recommendation (IR). Principal
candidates must complete all practicum/field experience and/or
internship hours required for the program of study. Additional
hours may be needed for state certification.
Paid Educational Administration Internships
The College of Education does not solicit, source, or guarantee
paid internship opportunities. It is the principal candidate’s
responsibility to secure employment. Principal candidates may
have the opportunity to complete internship hours in a school site
in which they are employed if:
• The setting aligns with the setting required in the principal
candidate’s program of study, with appropriate access to
experiences aligned with the program’s standards.
• The principal candidate has an appropriately certified mentor
available at the school site.
• The principal candidate can fulfill all internship expectations
as outlined in the applicable Educational Administration
manual.
• The paid opportunity does not conflict with any state or
district/school site policy.
• The candidate obtains district/school site leadership approval.
Eligibility for the Educational Administration (EAD) Internship
To be eligible for Educational Administration Internship
coursework, principal candidates must:
• Complete all applicable prerequisites
• Work with the appropriate departments to remove any
academic and/or financial holds on account to ensure that the
Student Services Counselor is able to complete the required
registration process.
• Possess and submit current and valid fingerprint clearance in
accordance with the Candidate Fingerprint Clearance policy.
• Meet the Graduate GPA policy.
• Principal candidates unable to meet the eligibility requirements
may transfer enrollment to the Master of Educational
Leadership program of study. Principal candidates must work
with their Student Services Counselor to transfer programs and
determine what additional coursework is needed.
Application for Educational Administration Internships
To apply for the educational administration internship, the
principal candidate must meet all educational administration
internship eligibility requirements. The Educational
Administration Internship application is provided by the principal
candidate’s assigned Field Experience Counselor (FEC).
Principal candidates must complete the Educational
Administration application sixteen weeks prior to the first
internship.
Requirements for an Institutional Recommendation
Institutional Recommendations (IRs) are issued for teaching,
principal, and school counseling programs that lead to initial
licensure in Arizona. (Other states may refer to this as a program
verification form, college verification form, etc.) Please see the
Requirements for an Institutional Recommendation (Educator
Licensure) policy. Candidates should refer to the Office of Field
Experience and their Field Experience Counselor for additional
support and guidance).
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 124 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Master of Education in Early Childhood Education Nevada
ARL
In order to apply for conditional licensure with the state of
Nevada, students in the Master of Education in Early Childhood
Education (Nevada ARL) must receive an ARL Recommendation
letter from GCU’s College of Education. This letter can be
obtained once the following requirements are met:
• Successful completion of the first three courses in the
approved program (8 credit hours)
• Submit evidence of passing scores on the Praxis CORE
Academic Skills for Educators exam
• Completion of ARL Bootcamp modules
• Completion of the ARL Application Packet
o Job Verification (To be completed by the hiring principal)
o Mentor Verification (To be completed by the hiring
principal)
o Candidate Acknowledgment (To be completed by the ARL
candidate)
o Certificate of ARL Bootcamp Completion [Received when
ARL Bootcamp modules) are completed]
o Signed copy of official job offer/teaching contract
• Valid FBI fingerprint clearance (required prior to beginning
any course that requires FPC for practicum)
Any time between successful completion of the third program
course and prior to student teaching, students must complete the
following:
• Meet all above progression and licensure requirements and
currently hold a conditional license
• Submit evidence of passing scores on the Praxis Early
Childhood Education and the Education of Young Children
exams
• Meet all other prerequisites for student teaching (3.0 GPA,
GCU-approved placement, successful completion of courses in
program of study)
Master of Education in Elementary Education Nevada ARL
In order to apply for conditional licensure with the state of
Nevada, students in the Master of Education in Elementary
Education (Nevada ARL) must submit to the Nevada Department
of Education documentation of 18 credit hours of coursework (6
in each area) in Mathematics, English Language Arts and
History, along with an ARL Recommendation letter from GCU’s
College of Education. This letter can be obtained once the
following requirements are met:
• Successful completion of the first three courses in the
approved program (9 credit hours)
• Submit evidence of passing scores on the Praxis CORE
Academic Skills for Educators exam
• Completion of ARL Bootcamp modules
• Completion of the ARL Application Packet
o Job Verification (To be completed by the hiring principal)
o Mentor Verification (To be completed by the hiring
principal)
o Candidate Acknowledgment (To be completed by the ARL
candidate)
o Certificate of ARL Bootcamp Completion [Received when
ARL Bootcamp are completed]
o Signed copy of official job offer/teaching contract
• Valid FBI fingerprint clearance (required prior to beginning
any course that requires FPC for practicum)
Any time between successful completion of the third program
course and prior to student teaching, students must complete the
following:
• Meet all above progression and licensure requirements and
currently hold a conditional license
• Submit evidence of passing scores on the Praxis Elementary
Education: Multiple Subjects exam(s)
• Meet all other prerequisites for student teaching (3.0 GPA,
GCU-approved placement, successful completion of courses in
program of study)
Master of Education in Secondary Humanities Education
Nevada ARL
In order to apply for conditional licensure with the state of
Nevada, students in the Master of Education in Secondary
Humanities Education (Nevada ARL) must receive an ARL
Recommendation letter from GCU’s College of Education. This
letter can be obtained once the following requirements are met:
• Successful completion of the first three courses in the
approved program (9 credit hours)
• Submit evidence of passing scores on the Praxis CORE
Academic Skills for Educators exam
• Completion of ARL Bootcamp modules
• Submit evidence of passing scores on the Praxis Secondary
Education Content Area exam in either Language Arts, Art,
Social Studies, or Music.
• Completion of the ARL Application Packet
o Job Verification (To be completed by the hiring principal)
o Mentor Verification (To be completed by the hiring
principal)
o Candidate Acknowledgment (To be completed by the ARL
candidate)
o Certificate of ARL Bootcamp Completion [Received when
ARL Bootcamp modules are completed]
o Signed copy of official job offer/teaching contract
• Valid FBI fingerprint clearance (required prior to beginning
any course that requires FPC for practicum)
Any time between successful completion of the third program
course and prior to student teaching, students must complete the
following:
• Meet all above progression and licensure requirements and
currently hold a conditional license
• Submit evidence of passing scores on the Praxis Principles of
Learning and Teaching (PLT): Grades 7-12 exam
• Meet all other prerequisites for student teaching (3.0 GPA,
GCU-approved placement, successful completion of courses in
program of study).
Master of Education in Secondary STEM Education Nevada
ARL
In order to apply for conditional licensure with the state of
Nevada, students in the Master of Education in Secondary STEM
Education (Nevada ARL) must receive an ARL Recommendation
letter from GCU’s College of Education. This letter can be
obtained once the following requirements are met:
• Successful completion of the first three courses in the
approved program (9 credit hours)
• Submit evidence of passing scores on the Praxis CORE
Academic Skills for Educators exam
• Completion of ARL Bootcamp modules
• Submit evidence of passing scores on the Praxis Secondary
Education Content Area exam in either Biology, Physical
Science, or Mathematics.
• Completion of the ARL Application Packet
o Job Verification (To be completed by the hiring principal)
o Mentor Verification (To be completed by the hiring
principal)
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 125 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
o Candidate Acknowledgment (To be completed by the ARL
candidate)
o Certificate of ARL Bootcamp Completion [Received when
ARL Bootcamp modules are completed]
o Signed copy of official job offer/teaching contract
• Valid FBI fingerprint clearance (required prior to beginning
any course that requires FPC for practicum)
Any time between successful completion of the third program
course and prior to student teaching, students must complete the
following:
• Meet all above progression and licensure requirements and
currently hold a conditional license
• Submit evidence of passing scores on the Praxis Principles of
Learning and Teaching (PLT): Grades 7-12 exam
• Meet all other prerequisites for student teaching (3.0 GPA,
GCU-approved placement, successful completion of courses in
program of study).
Master of Education in Special Education Nevada ARL
In order to apply for conditional licensure with the state of
Nevada, students in the Master of Education in Special Education
(Nevada ARL) must receive an ARL Recommendation letter
from GCU’s College of Education. This letter can be obtained
once the following requirements are met:
• Successful completion of the first three courses in the
approved program (9 credit hours)
• Submit evidence of passing scores on the Praxis CORE
Academic Skills for Educators exam
• Completion of ARL Bootcamp modules
• Completion of the ARL Application Packet
o Job Verification (To be completed by the hiring principal)
o Mentor Verification (To be completed by the hiring
principal)
o Candidate Acknowledgment (To be completed by the ARL
candidate)
o Certificate of ARL Bootcamp Completion [Received when
ARL Bootcamp moduels are completed]
o Signed copy of official job offer/teaching contract
• Valid FBI fingerprint clearance (required prior to beginning
any course that requires FPC for practicum)
Any time between successful completion of the third program
course and prior to student teaching, students must complete the
following:
• Meet all above progression and licensure requirements and
currently hold a conditional license
• Submit evidence of passing scores on the Praxis Special
Education: Core Knowledge and Applications exam
• Submit evidence of passing scores on the Praxis Principles of
Learning and Teaching (PLT): Grades K-6 exam OR the
Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): 7-12 exam
• Meet all other prerequisites for student teaching (3.0 GPA,
GCU-approved placement, successful completion of courses in
program of study).
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Master of Education in School Counseling
School counseling students are required to purchase a copy of
“The ASCA National Model: A Framework for School
Counseling Programs” at the beginning of the program, to inform
them about data-informed comprehensive school counseling
programs. School counseling students will be introduced to the
resource in the first course (SCN-501).
At a designated time in the program of study, school counseling
students will be required to download MApp, a free application,
to access related American School Counseling Association
(ASCA) resources.
Counseling Academic Unit
The academic unit consists of the Clinical Mental Health
Counseling and School Counseling programs and articulates its
purpose through mission statements, program objectives, and
goals that focuses on best practices to equip counselors in
training as change agents in a global society.
Counseling Academic Unit Mission Statement
The mission of the counseling academic unit is to prepare
counselors-in-training with the knowledge, skills, and
dispositional values to become competent global counselors and
leaders.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Master of Education in School Counseling
Program is to equip school counselors to implement data-driven
comprehensive school counseling services informed by the
American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National
Model to support growth in academic achievement, career, and
social-emotional development. GCU’s School Counseling
Program integrates faith and learning while fostering the
development of school counselors as change agents advocating
for models of school-based collaboration with school
stakeholders. Future school counselors gain the knowledge and
skills to promote equity and access for P-12 students to become
contributing global citizens.
Program Objectives
SC Program objectives are designed so that learners will:
• Counselor Identity and Ethics: Develop best practices and
counselor identity as informed by ethical and professional
standards and GCU dispositional values.
• Diversity and Advocacy: Gain opportunities to practice
ethically as advocates for social justice through exposure to
multicultural counseling theories and experiential exercises
that promote awareness of cultural bias and diverse
worldviews.
• Human Growth and Development: Acquire knowledge and
skills to meet the diverse needs of individuals in the context of
human growth and development.
• Counseling & Helping Relationships: Cultivate counseling and
helping skills by integrating counseling theories and research,
engaging in community collaboration and outreach, and
developing skills to apply in professional and therapeutic
relationships.
• Group Counseling and Group Work: Integrate theoretical
foundations and consider dynamics and therapeutic factors to
gain knowledge of theories, develop techniques, promote
leadership skills, and facilitate the therapeutic group process
for diverse clients.
• Research and Program Evaluation: Acquire the knowledge and
skills needed to identify, evaluate, and utilize research to
inform best practices in counseling.
• Career Development: Facilitate college and career readiness
standards to support the development of students in P-12
settings.
• Testing and Assessment: Utilize assessment methods, research,
and program evaluation to appraise effectiveness of
comprehensive school counseling programs using outcome
data to inform future practice.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 126 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Specialty Area for SC: Develop an educator and counselor
identity that integrates the GCU Professional Dispositions of
Learners and upholds ASCA professional and ethical standards
as licensed/certified school counselors by acquiring the
knowledge and skills needed to plan, implement, and evaluate
comprehensive school counseling programs based on research
and national standards
Dispositional Expectations
Dispositions are the values, commitments, and professional ethics
that influence behaviors toward others, and, if sincerely held,
dispositions lead to actions and patterns of professional conduct
of school counselors in training (SCITs). The Grand Canyon
University Counseling Program’s dispositions adhere to the
University’s mission statement, as well as to the established
counseling profession codes of ethics. Students who fail to adhere
to or demonstrate such dispositions may be subject to referral to
the Professional Practices Committee for developmental support
or Code of Conduct for disciplinary action.
• High Expectations: SCITs maintain the belief that all P-12
students can learn and succeed in their personal and academic
endeavors. SCITs set and support realistic expectations for
student success.
• Respect for the Diversity of Others: SCITs support individual
learning and social needs of P-12 students while demonstrating
appreciation for cultural diversity within the school
environment and wider community.
• Fairness: SCITs promote social justice and equity, maintain
appropriate standards of confidentiality, and exercise fairness
in all areas including counseling, instruction, and assessment.
• Professional Conduct: SCITs demonstrate professionalism
through mandatory attendance, promptness, and active
participation to meet and exceed programmatic requirements.
SCITs exercise sound judgment, ethical behavior, and maintain
professional boundaries with others. SCITs proactively
practice self-care and are committed to mental health support
to maintain psychological fitness.
• Reflection: SCITs recognize that intentional self-awareness
and constructive feedback, combined with experience leads to
professional growth. SCITs engage in critical examination of
their professional practices, and seek continual improvement
through supervision, collaboration, and professional
development.
• Curiosity: SCITs are able to think innovatively and creatively,
using critical thinking as a problem-solving approach. SCITs
engage in ongoing professional development and learning
while maintaining an open and inquiring mind.
• Honesty: SCITs model sound moral character by their words
and actions. SCITs are forthright with others and uphold high
standards of trust, stewardship, and integrity.
• Compassion: SCITs demonstrate professional unconditional
positive regard and genuineness in their relationships with
others while providing academic, career, social, and emotional
support.
• Advocacy: SCITs aim to promote equity and access for all P-
12 students. SCITs understand the impact of community
involvement contributes to welfare and social justice for all
school stakeholders.
• Dedication: SCITs are committed to the profession of
counseling and education. SCITs maintain the role of lifelong
learners who engage in ongoing professional development..
* School counselors in training (SCITs) refers to students in the
school counseling program.
Practicum and Internship Requirements
• A valid fingerprint clearance card
• Maintain professional counseling liability insurance that covers
1 million per occurrence and 3 million aggregate in order to
progress to the practicum and internship courses.
• Submit passing educator exam score(s) prior to enrollment in
SCN-625 Internship III.
Practicum
The practicum courses have a weekly synchronous and classroom
component in addition to gaining field experience service hours.
Students are required to complete the minimum practicum hours
required in their program of study. The practicum courses require
that the students complete 100 practicum hours. Students who fail
to meet the minimum number of hours required per course will
receive a failing grade and will have to retake the course. Hours
accumulated during a course that receives a non-passing grade
will not be counted towards the program hour requirement.
Students may not complete additional hours to use in a future
course. Doubling up on practicum/internship courses is not
permitted. Students are responsible for determining which
licensure/certification guidelines, including additional practicum
hours, are applicable to and necessary for their individual state
boards.
Internship I, II, III
Internships have a weekly synchronous and classroom
component in addition to gaining field experience service hours.
Students are required to complete the minimum internship hours
required for each course in their program of study. Each
internship course requires that the student complete 200
internship hours for a total of 600 hours. Students who fail to
meet the minimum number of hours required per course will
receive a failing grade and will have to retake the course. Hours
accumulated during a course that receives a non-passing grade
will not be counted towards the program hour requirement.
Students may not complete additional hours to use in a future
course. Doubling up on practicum/internship courses is not
permitted. Students are responsible for determining which
licensure/certification guidelines, including additional internship
hours, are applicable to and necessary for their individual state
boards.
Written Endorsement/Institutional Recommendation
Institutional Recommendations (IRs) are issued for teaching,
principal, and school counseling programs that lead to initial
licensure in Arizona. The IR confirms that a student has met all
requirements, including successful completion of practicum and
internships. Students must pass all certification required educator
exam(s) prior to being recommended for graduation. Failure to
provide passing exam score(s) may result in delays in obtaining
an IR, graduation, and/or certification. It is the student’s
responsibility to check with his or her local state
licensure/certification agency for program applicability and
certification/endorsement requirements. It’s also the student’s
responsibility to determine the professional knowledge and
subject knowledge exams that must be taken to obtain a
certificate in Arizona. An IR is valid for one year from the date it
is signed. IRs can be issued only within one year of a student’s
graduation date; otherwise, the student will need to apply for a
transcript analysis to determine if certification criteria have been
met.
Refer to the Graduate Counseling Field Experience Manual for
more information.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 127 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
School Counseling Educator Exam Requirements
All students enrolled in a school counseling program intended for
licensure must pass their state’s specific credentialing
examination(s) as a graduation requirement, depending on the
state in which they reside and/or are seeking
certification/licensure. A passing educator exam score(s) must be
submitted prior to enrollment in SCN-625 Internship III. Exams
will be accepted as passed only if the official score report
documents a passing score (‘pass’ or ‘passed’). In the event an
educator exam is failed twice, a referral to Professional Practices
Committee (PPC) may be warranted.
Master of Science in Addiction Counseling
Master of Science in Christian Counseling
Master of Science in Christian Counseling of Substance Use
and Addictive Disorders
Master of Science in Professional Counseling
Pre-Practicum Hours Requirement
Students are required to complete the minimum of 100 pre-
practicum hours. Students who fail to meet the minimum amount
of hours required per course will receive a failing grade and will
have to retake the course. Hours accumulated during a course
that receives a non-passing grade will not be counted towards the
program practicum hour requirement. Students may not
complete additional hours to use in a future course. Students are
responsible for determining which licensure guidelines, including
additional practicum hours, are applicable to and necessary for
their individual state boards.
Practicum Hours Requirement
Students are required to complete the minimum practicum hours
required for each course in their program of study. Each
practicum course requires that the student complete 150
practicum hours. Students who fail to meet the minimum amount
of hours required per course will receive a failing grade and will
have to retake the course. Hours accumulated during a course
that receives a non-passing grade will not be counted towards the
program hour requirement. Students may not complete
additional hours to use in a future course. Students are
responsible for determining which licensure guidelines, including
additional practicum hours, are applicable to and necessary for
their individual state boards.
Counseling Student Professional Standards and Dismissal Policy
Student success is a priority for Grand Canyon University and the
Counseling Program(s)*. Students are encouraged and required to
follow the Grand Canyon University’s academic progression
policy and the adopted Ten Counseling Dispositions, the
American Counseling Association’s (ACA) ethical code and/or
the National Association of Addictions Professionals (NAADAC)
ethical code. Failure to meet course objectives, policies,
counseling dispositions, procedures outlined in the courses, the
University Policy Handbook, and/or practicum/internship manual
may result in failure, Professional Standards, or removal from
program. Failure to meet the American Counseling Association
Code of Ethics and/or the National Association for Addiction
Professional’s Code of Ethics may result in a warning, coaching,
probation, suspension, or removal from the program. It is
important that students maintain continuous growth and
continuous clinical or counseling skill acquisition as they
progress through the program of study. This policy and the
dispositions are designed to meet the standards of the American
Counseling Association.
Dispositional Expectations
Dispositions are the values, commitments, and professional ethics
that influence behaviors toward others, and, if sincerely held,
dispositions lead to actions and patterns of professional conduct
of counselors in training (CITs). The Grand Canyon University
Counseling Program’s dispositions adhere to the University’s
mission statement, as well as to the established counseling
profession codes of ethics. Students who fail to adhere to or
demonstrate such dispositions may be subject to referral to the
Professional Practices Committee for developmental support or
Code of Conduct for disciplinary action.
• Psychological Fitness: CITs strive to maintain holistic wellness
across multiple domains of their mental, relational, and
professional lives while focusing on interpersonal values that
promote positive growth. CITs engage in activities that
promote openness, self-awareness, and self-acceptance. CITs
proactively practice self-care and are committed to mental
health support to maintain psychological fitness.
• Self-Awareness: CITs intentionally reflect on how their value
systems influence their personal and professional relationships.
CITs demonstrate authenticity in relation to themselves and
others. CITs bracket personal beliefs and values when faced
with ideas different from their own to avoid inflicting harm on
others.
• Cultural Diversity: CITs demonstrate respect for and engage in
honoring and embracing diversity and multiculturalism while
supporting the dignity and worth of clients within their unique
contexts. CITs do not support or engage in any act of
discrimination against others while simultaneously
acknowledging how their cultural identity impacts their
relationships with others.
• Acceptance: CITs work to foster a nonjudgmental professional
environment while embracing change and others as they are.
CITs avoid value imposition, uphold ethical standards, and
remain conscious of their own attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors
while being sensitive, receptive, and considerate to those of
their clients.
• Empathy: CITs demonstrate compassion, understanding, and
clemency towards all persons while simultaneously avoiding
infliction of harm. CITs honor the uniqueness of all individuals
while promoting dignity and respect in an ongoing therapeutic
effort. CITs reflect on their experiences while mindfully
working to understand an individual’s personal experience.
• Genuineness: CITs exhibit qualities of being honest in their
interactions with others and in the behaviors they display. CITs
have a sincere desire to better themselves when they
experience incongruence between their beliefs, actions, and
professional standards.
• Flexibility: CITs embrace ambiguity with an open-mind and
have the courage to form innovative solutions when facing
challenges. CITs are able to work with others in a way that is
open and inviting to multiple points of view and diverse
cultural situations. CITs are open to shifting their perspective
and embracing change.
• Patience: CITs respect autonomy of self and others while
fostering growth. CITs encourage a relational environment that
promotes respect , flexibility, and self-exploration. CITs model
calmness within various contexts in a steadfast, fluid, and
enduring manner.
• Amiability: CITs display humility, compassion, and kindness
in their interactions with others. CITs portray unconditional
positive regard even when they have differing views. CITs
remain cordial and calm in multiple contexts and when
presented with frustrating situations.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 128 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Professional Identity: CITs demonstrate professional conduct
through mandatory attendance, promptness, and active
participation to meet and exceed programmatic requirements.
CITs maintain professional membership in counseling
organizations and develop their understanding of self both
personally and professionally while engaging in mentorship,
supervision, and continuing education. CITs stay informed of
current trends, research, and practices.
* Counselors in training (CITs) refers to students in licensure
track counseling programs at the graduate level.
Professional Practices Committee
Students may be referred to the counseling program(s)
Professional Practices Committee when students have failed to
adhere to dispositional values, professional or ethical standards
guided by the American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of
Ethics, American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Ethical
Standards for School Counselors, and/or the NAADAC Code of
Ethics, in the classroom setting, field experience, or professional
academic interactions.
Practicum/Internship evaluations are completed by both the
instructor and site supervisor during the student’s field
experience. If a student receives a score of ‘1’ on the formative or
summative evaluation, they will automatically be referred to the
PPC. Additionally, if a student receives a score of ‘2’ or less in
three or more categories on the formative or summative
evaluation, they will be referred to the PPC.
Referred students will be contacted by a representative of the
Professional Practices Committee and offered the opportunity to
provide a written statement and documentation on their own
behalf to the Professional Practices Committee. It is
recommended that students provide a written statement within the
allowed timeframe. If the student does not respond within seven
days of being contacted by the Professional Practices Committee
Administrator, the student forfeits his/her right to participate in
the process and a determination will be made by the Professional
Practices Committee. All information, including the initial report
and supporting documentation, and any statement and
documentation submitted by the student, will be reviewed by the
Professional Practices Committee during their formal committee
meetings. Students are not entitled to representation by any third
party, personal representative, or attorney in the college
disciplinary process. A notice will be sent within 72 hours to the
student about the committee’s decision.
The University does not discriminate based on disability in the
course of administering discipline. A student with a disability
who is subject to disciplinary proceedings may request an
accommodation for their disability and the University will engage
in the interactive process upon such a request.
• To receive accommodations through the University, students
are required to self-identify by completing the Accommodation
Request Form and provide supporting documentation to
Student Disability Services. Only the SDS Office can approve
accommodations.
o Students can submit the accommodation request form at
https://sds.gcu.edu or in person in the SDS office.
o Supporting documentation can be submitted via email to
[email protected] or submitted through the link
while completing the Accommodation Request Form.
• All requests for disability accommodations in student
disciplinary proceedings are subject to an individualized
determination. Whether such a request is reasonable and/or
would be a fundamental alteration of the University’s
disciplinary policies is determined on a case-by-case basis after
evaluation of appropriate documentation.
• Students should refer to the Steps to Accommodations policy
for the appropriate steps and documentation requirements.
To allow the SDS Office sufficient time for processing, requests
for disability accommodations in any disciplinary process should
be submitted immediately upon receipt of notification from the
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Possible Outcomes of the Professional Standards Meeting:
• Warning and Mentoring: If the Professional Practices
Committee issues a recommendation for mentoring, the student
will be notified within 72 hours with information about the
assigned mentor and directions for contact. Mentoring will be
provided by program faculty for up to four weeks. mentoring.
These activities are to enhance or strengthen the student’s
understanding of their profession and the ACA Code of Ethics
or ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors and to
safeguard the counseling field as prescribed.
• Failure of Assignment Grades and/or Courses: The
Professional Practices Committee may issue zeros to
assignments, which in turn may change the final course
grade(s). Failing grades may be assigned by the college in field
experience classes and in response to problems with practice
hours accumulated, not adhering to ethical codes, or removal
from the field practice site.
• Suspension from Clinical Practice: Developmental Action
Plan (DAP) for unprofessional behavior and conduct, as
defined by the ACA Code of Ethics, ASCA Ethical Standards
for School Counselors and/or the NAADAC counseling Code
of Ethics, may be the subject of a code of conduct violation
charge and/or developmental action plan. Note: Ethical
violations may result in the student being reported to the
applicable state licensing board (for information on different
types of violations, and potential consequences refer to the
“Unprofessional Conduct Acknowledgement Form” located in
the practicum manuals).
• Program Removal: The recommendation for administrative
withdrawal must be approved by the Assistant/Associate Dean
(or designee) over the student’s program, and referred to the
University’s Code of Conduct Committee for final review and
determination/processing. Please see the Procedures for
Processing Alleged Violations of the Student Code of Conduct
for additional information.
Additional Notes:
a. If students are removed from a didactic or practicum course, as
part of a developmental action plan, they may need to retake
the course at their own expense. Students are encouraged to
discuss any financial or other concerns with a Student Services
Counselor (SSC). Students may also be assigned a failing
grade for the assignment(s), which may result in course failure.
Students may be assigned a failing grade for the course despite
actual end of course grade.
b. Students may not participate in developmental action plans
more than two times. Students who do not complete the
correction action plan successfully will be referred by the
Professional Practices Committee to the Code of Conduct
committee for removal from the program.
c. The Professional Practices Committee may recommend
students to attend therapeutic services at their own cost. As
prescribed by the ACA, ASCA, and/or NAADAC standards of
gatekeeping. The Professional Practices Committee may
determine a referral to the University Code of Conduct
Committee is appropriate, in addition to or in place of, any
College-level penalties. Students may appeal a determination
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 129 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
made by the Professional Practices Committee by utilizing the
University Appeal Procedures and submitting a formal appeal
through a Student Services Counselor.
*Counseling Programs includes all graduate counseling programs
and associated emphasis.
**The term counselor is used to refer to counselors in training at
the graduate level.
Developmental Plan for Unprofessional Behavior
Unprofessional conduct, as defined by the ACA Code of Ethics,,
ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors and/or
NAADAC counseling Code of Ethics, may be the subject of a
code of conduct violation charge and/or developmental action
plan.
• Depending on the determination made by the Professional
Practices Committee, students may be
administratively withdrawn from practicum courses, placed
on a hold and asked to participate in a mandatory four-week
mentoring session. If administratively withdrawn, students will
be issued an “F” as a final grade. If students are terminated
from sites due to an unethical or illegal behavior and,
consequently, administratively withdrawn from an individual
practicum course, the practicum hours completed during this
time will not be counted for that course.
• To resume practicum experiences, students must successfully
complete the terms of their developmental action plans, which
includes mentoring within the allotted four-week period.
Students will not earn credits or practicum hours for
completing developmental action plans.
• If students are administratively withdrawn from a practicum
course as part of a developmental action plan, they may need
to retake the course at their own expense. Students are
encouraged to discuss any financial or other concerns with a
Student Services Adviser (SSA).
• The Developmental Action Plan (DAP) rubric serves as the
evaluative component related to the student’s remediation. If a
student receives a score of ‘1’ on the DAP rubric, they will
automatically be referred back to the PPC for further decision.
Additionally, if a student receives a score of ‘2’ or less in two
or more categories from the DAP rubric, they will also be
referred back to the PPC for further decision
• Students may not participate in developmental action plans
more than twice. Students who do not successfully complete
their developmental action plan will not be able to graduate
with a counseling degree.
Ethical violations may result in the student being reported to the
state licensing board (for information on different types of
violations, and potential consequences refer to the
“Unprofessional Conduct Acknowledgement Form” located in
the practicum manuals).
Essential Functions to Meet Clinical Requirements for
Counseling Programs
• Individuals are required to navigate their assigned
responsibilities independently
• Applicants who are unable to meet the Essential Functions
are responsible for discussing the possibility of reasonable
Accommodations with Student Disabilities SErvices
Categories Essential Functions
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(NOT ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Behavioral/In
terpersonal
(relationships
)
Develop mature,
sensitive, and effective
therapeutic
relationships with
individuals, families
and groups of various
social, emotional,
cultural, and intellectual
backgrounds.
Demonstrate ethical
behaviors.
• Nonjudgmental
behavior
• Respond to a
variety of
behaviors (anger,
fear, hostility) in a
calm manner
• Demonstrate a high
level of patience
and respect
• Establish rapport
with clients and
members of the
healthcare team
• Adhere to GCU
policies,
procedures and
requirements as
described in the
University Policies
Handbook (UPH),
Guidelines for
Undergraduate
and/or Graduate
Field Experience
Manual, and course
syllabi.
Professional
Behavior
Report to sites as
scheduled and acts in a
professional manner
with supervisors, peers
and clients.
• Timeliness
• Preparedness
• Hygiene and
professional dress
Communicato
n &
Technology
Literacy
Utilizes technology
skills and
communication
strategies in English to
communicate health
information accurately
and with legal and
regulatory guidelines,
upholding the strictest
standards of
confidentiality.
• Read, understand,
write and speak the
primary language
of the site
• Communicate
thoughts, ideas and
action plans with
clarity, using
written, verbal
and/or visual
methods
• Explain treatment
procedures
• Initiate mental
health teaching
• Document
patient/client
responses
• Validate
responses/message
s with others
• Use appropriate
nonverbal
communication
• Ability to perform
a variety of
technological skills
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 130 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Categories Essential Functions
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(NOT ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Problem
Solving/Critic
al Thinking
Collect, analyze,
prioritize, integrate, and
generalize information
and knowledge to make
sound clinical
judgments and
decisions to promote
positive client outcomes
• Identify cause-
effect relationships
in clinical
situations
• Develop plans of
care as required
• Identifies changes
in client mental
health status
• Handles multiple
priorities in
stressful situations
General
Health/Emoti
onal Stability
Ability to tolerate
environmental stressors • Tolerate long
periods of standing
and/or sitting as
required
• Maintain focus and
appropriate
behavior
• Flexibility and
ability to adjust to
changing situation
and uncertainty in
clinical situations
• Affective skills and
appropriate
demeanor and
rapport that relate
to professional
education and
quality patient care
Further, using student and site supervisor feedback, GCU
evaluates the effectiveness of all clinical agencies to offer direct
care experiences that align to course learning objectives.
Facilities are assessed on their ability to provide:
• A safe environment for clinical learning
• Appropriate experience for level skill knowledge of students
• Appropriate interactions-communications between students
and clients
• Direct access to medical records necessary to provide for
learning experiences
• Opportunities for pre and post conferences
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Counseling Academic Unit
The academic unit consists of the Clinical Mental Health
Counseling and School Counseling programs and articulates its
purpose through mission statements, program objectives, and
goals that focuses on best practices to equip counselors in
training as change agents in a global society.
Counseling Academic Unit Mission Statement
The mission of the counseling academic unit is to prepare
counselors-in-training with the knowledge, skills, and
dispositional values to become competent global counselors and
leaders.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health
Counseling Program is to cultivate ethical, professional
counselors to effectively assess, diagnose, treat, and empower
culturally diverse populations. This program fosters faith and
learning throughout the curriculum to integrate models of human
growth and development and evidence-based practices. Graduate
students gain comprehensive knowledge and insight to become
competent global professional counselors and leaders.
Program Objectives
CMHC Program objectives are designed so that learners will:
• Counselor Identity and Ethics: Develop best practices and
counselor identity as informed by ethical and professional
standards and GCU dispositional values.
• Diversity and Advocacy: Gain opportunities to practice
ethically as advocates for social justice through exposure to
multicultural counseling theories and experiential exercises
that promote awareness of cultural bias and diverse
worldviews.
• Human Growth and Development: Acquire knowledge and
skills to meet the diverse needs of individuals in the context of
human growth and development.
• Counseling & Helping Relationships: Cultivate counseling and
helping skills by integrating counseling theories and research,
engaging in community collaboration and outreach, and
developing skills to apply in professional and therapeutic
relationships.
• Group Counseling and Group Work: Integrate theoretical
foundations and consider dynamics and therapeutic factors to
gain knowledge of theories, develop techniques, promote
leadership skills, and facilitate the therapeutic group process
for diverse clients.
• Research and Program Evaluation: Acquire the knowledge
and skills needed to identify, evaluate, and utilize research to
inform best practices in counseling.
• Career Development: Attain the knowledge that prepares them
to demonstrate skills in vocational counseling and the
relationship between roles in career, life, school, and mental
health.
• Assessment & Testing: Demonstrate and apply skills that
adequately and consistently use assessments for diagnostic and
intervention planning purposes.
• Specialty Area for CMHC: Demonstrate knowledge and skills
in conducting intake interviews, mental status exam,
biopsychosocial history, mental health history, psychological
assessment for treatment planning and caseload management,
contextual factors, and competence in clinical mental health
fieldwork.
Dispositional Expectations
Dispositions are the values, commitments, and professional ethics
that influence behaviors toward others, and, if sincerely held,
dispositions lead to actions and patterns of professional conduct
of counselors in training (CITs). The Grand Canyon University
Counseling Program’s dispositions adhere to the University’s
mission statement, as well as to the established counseling
profession codes of ethics. Students who fail to adhere to or
demonstrate such dispositions may be subject to referral to the
Professional Practices Committee for developmental support or
Code of Conduct for disciplinary action.
• Psychological Fitness: CITs strive to maintain holistic wellness
across multiple domains of their mental, relational, and
professional lives while focusing on interpersonal values that
promote positive growth. CITs engage in activities that
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 131 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
promote openness, self-awareness, and self-acceptance. CITs
proactively practice self-care and are committed to mental
health support to maintain psychological fitness.
• Self-Awareness: CITs intentionally reflect on how their value
systems influence their personal and professional relationships.
CITs demonstrate authenticity in relation to themselves and
others. CITs bracket personal beliefs and values when faced
with ideas different from their own to avoid inflicting harm on
others.
• Cultural Diversity: CITs demonstrate respect for and engage in
honoring and embracing diversity and multiculturalism while
supporting the dignity and worth of clients within their unique
contexts. CITs do not support or engage in any act of
discrimination against others while simultaneously
acknowledging how their cultural identity impacts their
relationships with others.
• Acceptance: CITs work to foster a nonjudgmental professional
environment while embracing change and others as they are.
CITs avoid value imposition, uphold ethical standards, and
remain conscious of their own attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors
while being sensitive, receptive, and considerate to those of
their clients.
• Empathy: CITs demonstrate compassion, understanding, and
clemency towards all persons while simultaneously avoiding
infliction of harm. CITs honor the uniqueness of all individuals
while promoting dignity and respect in an ongoing therapeutic
effort. CITs reflect on their experiences while mindfully
working to understand an individual’s personal experience.
• Genuineness: CITs exhibit qualities of being honest in their
interactions with others and in the behaviors they display. CITs
have a sincere desire to better themselves when they
experience incongruence between their beliefs, actions, and
professional standards.
• Flexibility: CITs embrace ambiguity with an open-mind and
have the courage to form innovative solutions when facing
challenges. CITs are able to work with others in a way that is
open and inviting to multiple points of view and diverse
cultural situations. CITs are open to shifting their perspective
and embracing change.
• Patience: CITs respect autonomy of self and others while
fostering growth. CITs encourage a relational environment that
promotes respect , flexibility, and self-exploration. CITs model
calmness within various contexts in a steadfast, fluid, and
enduring manner.
• Amiability: CITs display humility, compassion, and kindness
in their interactions with others. CITs portray unconditional
positive regard even when they have differing views. CITs
remain cordial and calm in multiple contexts and when
presented with frustrating situations.
• Professional Identity: CITs demonstrate professional conduct
through mandatory attendance, promptness, and active
participation to meet and exceed programmatic requirements.
CITs maintain professional membership in counseling
organizations and develop their understanding of self both
personally and professionally while engaging in mentorship,
supervision, and continuing education. CITs stay informed of
current trends, research, and practices.
* Counselors in training (CITs) refers to students in licensure
track counseling programs at the graduate level.
Practicum and Internship Requirements
Maintain professional counseling liability insurance that covers 1
million per occurrence and 3 million aggregate in order to
progress to the practicum and internship courses. Refer to the
Graduate Counseling Field Experience Manual for more
information.
Practicum Requirements
The practicum courses have a weekly synchronous and classroom
component in addition to gaining field experience service hours.
Students are required to complete the minimum practicum hours
required in their program of study. The practicum courses require
that the students complete 100 practicum hours. Students who fail
to meet the minimum number of hours required per course will
receive a failing grade and will have to retake the course. Hours
accumulated during a course that receives a non-passing grade
will not be counted towards the program hour requirement.
Students may not complete additional hours to use in a future
course. Doubling up on practicum/internship courses is not
permitted. Students are responsible for determining which
licensure guidelines, including additional practicum hours, are
applicable to and necessary for their individual state boards.
Internship Requirements
Internships have a weekly synchronous and classroom
component in addition to gaining field experience service hours.
Students are required to complete the minimum internship hours
required for each course in their program of study. Each
internship course requires that the student complete 300
internship hours for a total of 600 hours. Students who fail to
meet the minimum number of hours required per course will
receive a failing grade and will have to retake the course. Hours
accumulated during a course that receives a non-passing grade
will not be counted towards the program hour requirement.
Students may not complete additional hours to use in a future
course. Doubling up on practicum/internship courses is not
permitted. Students are responsible for determining which
licensure guidelines, including additional internship hours, are
applicable to and necessary for their individual state boards.
Written Endorsement
Written endorsements are issued for counseling programs that
lead to initial licensure in Arizona. The written endorsement
confirms that a student has met all requirements, including
successful completion of practicum and internships, for the
program of study that has been approved by the Arizona State
Board of Education. It’s the student’s responsibility to check with
his or her local state licensure/certification agency for program
applicability and certification/endorsement requirements. Also,
it’s the student’s responsibility to determine the professional
knowledge and subject knowledge exams that must be taken to
obtain a license.
Professional Practices Committee
Students may be referred to the counseling program(s)
Professional Practices Committee when students have failed to
adhere to dispositional values, professional or ethical standards
guided by the American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of
Ethics, American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Ethical
Standards for School Counselors, and/or the NAADAC Code of
Ethics, in the classroom setting, field experience, or professional
academic interactions. Practicum/Internship evaluations are
completed by both the instructor and site supervisor during the
student’s field experience. If a student receives a score of ‘1’ on
the formative or summative evaluation, they will automatically
be referred to the PPC. Additionally, if a student receives a score
of ‘2’ or less in three or more categories on the formative or
summative evaluation, they will be referred to the PPC. Referred
students will be contacted by a representative of the Professional
Practices Committee and offered the opportunity to provide a
written statement and documentation on their own behalf to the
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 132 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Professional Practices Committee. It is recommended that
students provide a written statement within the allowed
timeframe. If the student does not respond within seven days of
being contacted by the Professional Practices Committee
Administrator, the student forfeits his/her right to participate in
the process and a determination will be made by the Professional
Practices Committee. All information, including the initial report
and supporting documentation, and any statement and
documentation submitted by the student, will be reviewed by the
Professional Practices Committee during their formal committee
meetings. Students are not entitled to representation by any third
party, personal representative, or attorney in the college
disciplinary process. A notice will be sent within 72 hours to the
student about the committee’s decision.
The University does not discriminate based on disability in the
course of administering discipline. A student with a disability
who is subject to disciplinary proceedings may request an
accommodation for their disability and the University will engage
in the interactive process upon such a request.
• To receive accommodations through the University, students
are required to self-identify by completing the Accommodation
Request Form and provide supporting documentation to
Student Disability Services. Only the SDS Office can approve
accommodations.
o Students can submit the accommodation request form at
https://sds.gcu.edu or in person in the SDS office.
o Supporting documentation can be submitted via email to
[email protected] or submitted through the link
while completing the Accommodation Request Form.
• All requests for disability accommodations in student
disciplinary proceedings are subject to an individualized
determination. Whether such a request is reasonable and/or
would be a fundamental alteration of the University’s
disciplinary policies is determined on a case-by-case basis after
evaluation of appropriate documentation.
• Students should refer to the Steps to Accommodations policy
for the appropriate steps and documentation requirements.
To allow the SDS Office sufficient time for processing, requests
for disability accommodations in any disciplinary process should
be submitted immediately upon receipt of notification from the
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Possible Outcomes of the Professional Standards Meeting.
• Warning and Mentoring: If the Professional Practices
Committee issues a recommendation for mentoring, the student
will be notified within 72 hours with information about the
assigned mentor and directions for contact. Mentoring will be
provided by program faculty for up to four weeks. mentoring.
These activities are to enhance or strengthen the student’s
understanding of their profession and the ACA Code of Ethics
or ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors and to
safeguard the counseling field as prescribed.
• Failure of Assignment Grades and/or Courses: The
Professional Practices Committee may issue zeros to
assignments, which in turn may change the final course
grade(s). Failing grades may be assigned by the college in field
experience classes and in response to problems with practice
hours accumulated, not adhering to ethical codes, or removal
from the field practice site.
• Suspension from Clinical Practice: Developmental Action Plan
(DAP) for unprofessional behavior and conduct, as defined by
the ACA Code of Ethics, ASCA Ethical Standards for School
Counselors and/or the NAADAC counseling Code of Ethics,
may be the subject of a code of conduct violation charge
and/or developmental action plan. Note: Ethical violations may
result in the student being reported to the applicable state
licensing board (for information on different types of
violations, and potential consequences refer to the
“Unprofessional Conduct Acknowledgement Form” located in
the practicum manuals).
• Program Removal: The recommendation for administrative
withdrawal must be approved by the Assistant/Associate Dean
(or designee) over the student’s program, and referred to the
University’s Code of Conduct Committee for final review and
determination/processing. Please see the Procedures for
Processing Alleged Violations of the Student Code of Conduct
for additional information.
Additional Notes:
a) If students are removed from a didactic or practicum course, as
part of a developmental action plan, they may need to retake
the course at their own expense. Students are encouraged to
discuss any financial or other concerns with a Student Services
Counselor (SSC). Students may also be assigned a failing
grade for the assignment(s), which may result in course failure.
Students may be assigned a failing grade for the course despite
actual end of course grade.
b) Students may not participate in developmental action plans
more than two times. Students who do not complete the
correction action plan successfully will be referred by the
Professional Practices Committee to the Code of Conduct
committee for removal from the program.
c) The Professional Practices Committee may recommend
students to attend therapeutic services at their own cost. As
prescribed by the ACA, ASCA, and/or NAADAC standards of
gatekeeping. The Professional Practices Committee may
determine a referral to the University Code of Conduct
Committee is appropriate, in addition to or in place of, any
College-level penalties. Students may appeal a determination
made by the Professional Practices Committee by utilizing the
University Appeal Procedures and submitting a formal appeal
through a Student Services Counselor.
*Counseling Programs includes all graduate counseling
programs and associated emphasis.
**The term counselor is used to refer to counselors in training
at the graduate level.
Developmental Plan for Unprofessional Behavior
Unprofessional conduct, as defined by the ACA Code of Ethics,,
ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors and/or
NAADAC counseling Code of Ethics, may be the subject of a
code of conduct violation charge and/or developmental action
plan.
• Depending on the determination made by the Professional
Practices Committee, students may be administratively
withdrawn from practicum courses, placed on a hold and asked
to participate in a mandatory four-week mentoring session. If
administratively withdrawn, students will be issued an “F” as a
final grade. If students are terminated from sites due to an
unethical or illegal behavior and, consequently,
administratively withdrawn from an individual practicum
course, the practicum hours completed during this time will not
be counted for that course.
• To resume practicum experiences, students must successfully
complete the terms of their developmental action plans, which
includes mentoring within the allotted four-week period.
Students will not earn credits or practicum hours for
completing developmental action plans.
• If students are administratively withdrawn from a practicum
course as part of a developmental action plan, they may need
to retake the course at their own expense. Students are
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 133 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
encouraged to discuss any financial or other concerns with a
Student Services Adviser Counselor (SSASSC).
• The Developmental Action Plan (DAP) rubric serves as the
evaluative component related to the student’s remediation. If a
student receives a score of ‘1’ on the DAP rubric, they will
automatically be referred back to the PPC for further decision.
Additionally, if a student receives a score of ‘2’ or less in two
or more categories from the DAP rubric, they will also be
referred back to the PPC for further decision.
• Students may not participate in developmental action plans
more than twice. Students who do not successfully complete
their developmental action plan will not be able to graduate
with a counseling degree. Ethical violations may result in the
student being reported to the state licensing board (for
information on different types of violations, and potential
consequences refer to the “Unprofessional Conduct
Acknowledgement Form” located in the practicum manuals).
Essential Functions to Meet Clinical Requirements for
Counseling Programs
• Individuals are required to navigate their assigned
responsibilities independently
• Applicants who are unable to meet the Essential Functions are
responsible for discussing the possibility of reasonable
accommodationsaccommodations with Student Disabilities
Services.
Categories Essential Functions
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(NOT ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Behavioral/In
terpersonal
(relationships
)
Develop mature,
sensitive, and effective
therapeutic
relationships with
individuals, families
and groups of various
social, emotional,
cultural, and intellectual
backgrounds.
Demonstrate ethical
behaviors.
• Nonjudgmental
behavior
• Respond to a
variety of
behaviors (anger,
fear, hostility) in a
calm manner
• Demonstrate a high
level of patience
and respect
• Establish rapport
with clients and
members of the
healthcare team
• Adhere to GCU
policies,
procedures and
requirements as
described in the
University Policies
Handbook (UPH),
Guidelines for
Undergraduate
and/or Graduate
Field Experience
Manual, and course
syllabi.
Professional
Behavior
Report to sites as
scheduled and acts in a
professional manner
with supervisors, peers
and clients.
• Timeliness
• Preparedness
• Hygiene and
professional dress
Categories Essential Functions
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(NOT ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Communicato
n &
Technology
Literacy
Utilizes technology
skills and
communication
strategies in English to
communicate health
information accurately
and with legal and
regulatory guidelines,
upholding the strictest
standards of
confidentiality.
• Read, understand,
write and speak the
primary language
of the site
• Communicate
thoughts, ideas and
action plans with
clarity, using
written, verbal
and/or visual
methods
• Explain treatment
procedures
• Initiate mental
health teaching
• Document
patient/client
responses
• Validate
responses/message
s with others
• Use appropriate
nonverbal
communication
• Ability to perform
a variety of
technological skills
Problem
Solving/Critic
al Thinking
Collect, analyze,
prioritize, integrate, and
generalize information
and knowledge to make
sound clinical
judgments and
decisions to promote
positive client outcomes
• Identify cause-
effect relationships
in clinical
situations
• Develop plans of
care as required
• Identifies changes
in client mental
health status
• Handles multiple
priorities in
stressful situations
General
Health/Emoti
onal Stability
Ability to tolerate
environmental stressors • Tolerate long
periods of standing
and/or sitting as
required
• Maintain focus and
appropriate
behavior
• Flexibility and
ability to adjust to
changing situation
and uncertainty in
clinical situations
• Affective skills and
appropriate
demeanor and
rapport that relate
to professional
education and
quality patient care
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 134 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Master of Social Work
Field Education Hours Requirement
Students are required to complete the minimum field education
hours required for each Field Experience course in their program
of study. Each course requires that the student complete 240
internship hours. Students who fail to meet the minimum amount
of hours required per course will receive a failing grade and will
have to retake the course. Hours accumulated during a course that
receives a non-passing grade will not be counted towards the
program hour requirement. Students may not complete additional
hours to use in a future course. Students are responsible for
determining licensing guidelines applicable to their individual
state licensing boards.
Social Work Student Professional Standards and Dismissal
Policy
Student success is a priority for Grand Canyon University and the
Social Work Program. Students are encouraged and required to
follow Grand Canyon University’s academic progression policy,
the adopted Social Work Dispositions and the National
Association of Social Workers (NASW) ethical code. Failure to
meet course objectives, policies, social work dispositions,
procedures outlined in the courses, the University Policy
Handbook, and/or field experience manual may result in failure,
Professional Standards, or removal from program. Failure to meet
the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics may
result in a warning, coaching, probation, suspension, or removal
from the program. It is important that students maintain
continuous growth and continuous social work skill acquisition as
they progress through the program of study. This policy and the
dispositions are designed to meet the standards of the National
Association of Social Workers.
Dispositional Expectations
Dispositions are the values, commitments, and professional ethics
that influence behaviors toward others, and, if sincerely held,
dispositions lead to actions and patterns of professional conduct.
The Grand Canyon University Social Work Program’s
dispositions adhere to the university’s mission statement, as well
as to the established social work profession code of ethics. The
Grand Canyon University Social Work Program has adopted the
following dispositions for its students derived from the National
Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics.
Although these dispositions are not all inclusive, they do
represent values and qualities that are warranted by social work
students. Students who fail to adhere to or demonstrate such
dispositions may be subject to disciplinary actions.
12 Social Work Dispositions based on the NASW Ethical Values,
Principles, and Standards of Social Work Practice
1. Value: Service
Ethical Principle: Social workers’ primary goal is to help
people in need and to address social problems.
Social workers elevate service to others above self-interest.
Social workers draw on their knowledge, values, and skills to
help people in need and to address social problems. Social
workers are encouraged to volunteer some portion of their
professional skills with no expectation of significant financial
return (pro bono service).
2. Value: Social Justice
Ethical Principle: Social workers’ challenge social injustice.
Social workers pursue social change, particularly with and on
behalf of vulnerable and oppressed individuals and groups of
people. Social workers' social change efforts are focused
primarily on issues of poverty, unemployment, discrimination,
and other forms of social injustice. These activities seek to
promote sensitivity to and knowledge about oppression and
cultural and ethnic diversity. Social workers strive to ensure
access to needed information, services, and resources; equality
of opportunity; and meaningful participation in decision
making for all people.
3. Value: Dignity and Worth of a Person
Ethical Principle: Social workers respect the inherent dignity
and worth of a person.
Social workers treat each person in a caring and respectful
fashion, mindful of individual differences and cultural and
ethnic diversity. Social workers promote clients' socially
responsible self-determination. Social workers seek to enhance
clients' capacity and opportunity to change and to address their
own needs. Social workers are cognizant of their dual
responsibility to clients and to the broader society. They seek
to resolve conflicts between clients' interests and the broader
society's interests in a socially responsible manner consistent
with the values, ethical principles, and ethical standards of the
profession.
4. Value: Importance of Human Relationships
Ethical Principle: Social workers recognize the central
importance of human relationships.
Social workers understand that relationships between and
among people are an important vehicle for change. Social
workers engage people as partners in the helping process.
Social workers seek to strengthen relationships among people
in a purposeful effort to promote, restore, maintain, and
enhance the well-being of individuals, families, social groups,
organizations, and communities.
5. Value: Integrity
Ethical Principle: Social workers behave in a trustworthy
manner.
Social workers are continually aware of the profession's
mission, values, ethical principles, and ethical standards and
practice in a manner consistent with them. Social workers act
honestly and responsibly and promote ethical practices on the
part of the organizations with which they are affiliated.
6. Value: Competence
Ethical Principle: Social workers practice within their areas of
competence and develop and enhance their professional
expertise.
Social workers continually strive to increase their professional
knowledge and skills and to apply them in practice. Social
workers should aspire to contribute to the knowledge base of
the profession.
7. Standard: Social Workers’ Ethical Responsibilities to Clients
Commitment to clients, self-determination, informed consent,
competence, cultural awareness and social diversity, conflicts
of interest, privacy and confidentiality, access to records,
sexual relationships, physical contact, sexual harassment,
derogatory language, payment for services, clients who lack
decision making capacity, interruption of services, referral
services, termination of services.
8. Standard: Social Workers’ Ethical Responsibilities to
Colleagues
Respect, confidentiality, interdisciplinary collaboration,
disputes involving colleagues, consultation, sexual
relationships, sexual harassment, impairment of colleagues,
incompetence of colleagues, unethical conduct of colleagues.
9. Standard: Social Workers’ Ethical Responsibilities to Practice
Settings
Supervision and consultation, education and training,
performance evaluation, client records, billing, client transfer,
administration, continuing education and staff developments,
commitments to employers, labor management disputes.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 135 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
10. Standard: Social Workers’ Ethical Responsibilities as
Professionals
Competence, discrimination, private conduct, dishonesty, fraud
and deception, impairment, misrepresentation, solicitations,
acknowledging credit.
11. Standard: Social Workers’ Ethical Responsibilities to the
Social Work Profession
Integrity of the profession, evaluation and research.
12. Standard: Social Workers’ Ethical Responsibilities to the
Broader Society
Social welfare, public participation, public emergencies, social
and political action.
Professional Practices Committee
Students may be referred to the Social Work program
Professional Practices Committee when students have failed to
adhere to dispositional values or professional or ethical standards
guided by the NASW Code of Ethics, in the classroom setting,
field experience, or professional academic interactions. Students
may also be referred to the committee when students fail to
adhere to the university standards or display social work skills
deficits. Classroom instructors (FTF, OFTF and/or Adjunct),
Field Liaisons, Office of Field Experience staff, and program
administrators may file referrals to the committee for review.
Referrals are sent to College of Humanities and Social Sciences
for processing.
Referred students will be contacted by a representative of the
Professional Practices Committee and offered the opportunity to
provide a written statement and documentation on their own
behalf to the Professional Practices Committee. It is
recommended that students provide a written statement within
the allowed timeframe.. If the student does not respond within
seven days of being contacted by the Professional Practices
Committee Administrator, the student forfeits his/her right to
participate in the process and a determination will be made by the
Professional Practices Committee. All information, including the
initial report and supporting documentation, and any statement
and documentation submitted by the student, will be reviewed by
the Professional Practices Committee during their formal
committee meetings. Students are not entitled to representation
by any third party, personal representative, or attorney in the
college disciplinary process. A notice will be sent within 72
hours to the student about the committee’s decision.
The University does not discriminate based on disability in the
course of administering discipline. A student with a disability
who is subject to disciplinary proceedings may request an
accommodation for their disability and the University will engage
in the interactive process upon such a request.
• To receive accommodations through the University, students
are required to self-identify by completing the Accommodation
Request Form and provide supporting documentation to
Student Disability Services. Only the SDS Office can approve
accommodations.
o Students can submit the accommodation request form at
https://sds.gcu.edu or in person in the SDS office.
o Supporting documentation can be submitted via email to
[email protected] or submitted through the link
while completing the Accommodation Request Form.
• All requests for disability accommodations in student
disciplinary proceedings are subject to an individualized
determination. Whether such a request is reasonable and/or
would be a fundamental alteration of the University’s
disciplinary policies is determined on a case-by-case basis after
evaluation of appropriate documentation.
• Students should refer to the Steps to Accommodations policy
for the appropriate steps and documentation requirements.
To allow the SDS Office sufficient time for processing, requests
for disability accommodations in any disciplinary process should
be submitted immediately upon receipt of notification from the
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Possible Outcomes of the Professional Standards Meeting:
• Warning and Mentoring: If the Professional Practices
Committee issues a recommendation for mentoring, the student
will be notified within 72 hours with information about the
assigned mentor and directions for contact. Mentoring will be
provided by program faculty for up to four weeks. These
activities are to enhance or strengthen the student’s
understanding of their profession and the NASW Code of
Ethics and to safeguard the social work field as prescribed
• Failure of Assignment Grades and/or Courses: The
Professional Practices Committee may issue zeros to
assignments, which in turn may change the final course
grade(s). Failing grades may be assigned by the college in field
experience classes and in response to problems with field
experience hours accumulated, not adhering to ethical codes,
or removal from the field experience site.
• Suspension from Field Placement: Developmental Action Plan
(DAP) for unprofessional behavior and conduct, as defined by
the NASW Code of Ethics, may be the subject of a code of
conduct violation charge and/or developmental action plan.
Note: Ethical violations may result in the student being
reported to the applicable state licensing board (for information
on different types of violations, and potential consequences
refer to the “Unprofessional Conduct Acknowledgement
Form” located in the practicum manuals).
• Program Removal: The recommendation for administrative
withdrawal must be approved by the Assistant/Associate Dean
(or designee) over the student’s program, and referred to the
University’s Code of Conduct Committee for final review and
determination/processing. Please see the Procedures for
Processing Alleged Violations of the Student Code of Conduct
for additional information.
Additional Notes:
a. If students are removed from a didactic or field experience
course, as part of a developmental action plan, they may need
to retake the course at their own expense. Students are
encouraged to discuss any financial or other concerns with a
Student Services Counselor (SSC). Students may also be
assigned a failing grade for the assignment(s), which may
result in course failure. Students may be assigned a failing
grade for the course despite actual end of course grade.
b. Students may not participate in developmental action plans
more than two times. Students who do not complete the
correctiondevelomental action plan successfully will be
referred by the Professional Practices Committee to the Code
of Conduct committee for removal from the program.
c. The Professional Practices Committee may recommend
students to attend therapeutic services at their own expense.
The Professional Practices Committee may determine a
referral to the University Code of Conduct Committee is
appropriate, in addition to or in place of, any College-level
actions. Students may appeal a determination made by the
Professional Practices Committee by utilizing the University
Appeal Procedures and submitting a formal appeal through a
Student Services Counselor.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 136 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Developmental Action Plan for Unprofessional Behavior
Unprofessional conduct, as defined by the NASW Code of
Ethics, may be the subject of a code of conduct violation charge
and/or developmental action plan.
Depending on the determination made by the Professional
Practices Committee, students may be administratively
withdrawn from Field Instruction courses and asked to participate
in mandatory four-week mentoring sessions. If administratively
withdrawn, students will be issued an “F” as a final grade. If
students are terminated from their field instruction site due to an
unethical or illegal behavior and, consequently, administratively
withdrawn from an individual field experience course, the field
hours completed during this time will not be counted for that
course.
• To resume field experiences, students must successfully
complete the terms of their developmental action plans, which
includes mentoring within the allotted four-week period.
Students will not earn credits or field hours for completing
developmental action plans.
• If students are administratively withdrawn from a field
experience course as part of a developmental action plan, they
may need to retake the course at their own expense. Students
are encouraged to discuss any financial or other concerns with
a Student Services Adviser (SSA).
• Students may not participate in developmental action plans
more than twice. Students who do not successfully complete
their developmental action plan will not be able to graduate
with a social work degree.
Ethical violations may result in the student being reported to the
state licensing board (for information on different types of
violations, and potential consequences refer to the
“Unprofessional Conduct Acknowledgement Form” located in
the Field Experience Manual).
Essential Functions to Meet Field Experience Requirements for
Social Work Programs:
• Individuals are required to navigate their assigned
responsibilities independently
• Applicants who are unable to meet the Essential Functions are
responsible for discussing the possibility of reasonable
accommodations with Student Disabilities Services
Categories Essential Functions
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(NOT ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Behavioral/In
terpersonal
(relationships
)
Develop mature,
sensitive, and effective
therapeutic
relationships with
individuals, families
and groups of various
social, emotional,
cultural, and intellectual
backgrounds.
Demonstrate ethical
behaviors.
• Nonjudgmental
behavior
• Respond to a
variety of
behaviors (anger,
fear, hostility) in a
calm manner
• Demonstrate a high
level of patience
and respect
• Establish rapport
with clients and
members of the
healthcare team
• Adhere to GCU
policies,
procedures and
requirements as
described in the
University Policies
Handbook (UPH),
Guidelines for
Undergraduate
and/or Graduate
Field Experience
Manual, and course
syllabi.
Professional
Behavior
Report to sites as
scheduled and acts in a
professional manner
with supervisors, peers
and clients.
• Timeliness
• Preparedness
• Hygiene and
professional dress
Communicati
on &
Technology
Literacy
Utilizes technology
skills and
communication
strategies in English to
communicate health
information accurately
and with legal and
regulatory guidelines,
upholding the strictest
standards of
confidentiality.
• Read, understand,
write and speak the
primary language
of the site
• Communicate
thoughts, ideas and
action plans with
clarity, using
written, verbal
and/or visual
methods
• Explain treatment
procedures
• Initiate mental
health teaching
• Document
patient/client
responses
• Validate
responses/message
s with others
• Use appropriate
nonverbal
communication
• Ability to perform
a variety of
technological skills
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 137 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Categories Essential Functions
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(NOT ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Problem
Solving/Critic
al Thinking
Collect, analyze,
prioritize, integrate, and
generalize information
and knowledge to make
sound clinical
judgments and
decisions to promote
positive client outcomes
• Identify cause-
effect relationships
in clinical
situations
• Develop plans of
care as required
• Identifies changes
in client mental
health status
• Handles multiple
priorities in
stressful situations
General
Health/Emoto
nal Stability
Ability to tolerate
environmental stressors • Tolerate long
periods of standing
and/or sitting as
required
• Maintain focus and
appropriate
behavior
• Flexibility and
ability to adjust to
changing situation
and uncertainty in
clinical situations
• Affective skills and
appropriate
demeanor and
rapport that relate
to professional
education and
quality patient care
Further, using student and Field Instructor’s feedback, GCU
evaluates the effectiveness of all clinicalfield experience
placement agencies to offer direct carepractice experiences that
align to course learning objectives.
Facilities are assessed on their ability to provide:
• A safe environment for field experience learning
• Appropriate experience for level of skill and knowledge of
students
• Appropriate interactions-communications between students
and clients
• Direct access to resources and records necessary to provide for
learning experiences
• Effective and adequate supervision time provided by the Field
Instructor
Changing Program of Study to Master of Science in Clinical
Mental Health Counseling:
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) offers
multiple degree programs that share coursework and course
content within the Counseling discipline. Because of this, the
below language outlines the University policy on program
changes into the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health
Counseling (and all emphases) and Master of Education in
School Counseling degree programs from the other Counseling
programs offered by CHSS.
Changing Program of Study to Master of Science in Clinical
Mental Health Counseling (all emphases) or Master of
Education in School Counseling from current Programs:
Student in the Master of Science in Addiction Counseling or the
Master of Science in Christian Counseling of Substance Use and
Addictive Disorders will be permitted to transfer to the above
listed programs unless they have completed PCN-509 or PCN-
527 within their program of study. The following courses from
the Master of Science in Addiction Counseling or the Master of
Science in Christian Counseling of Substance Use and Addictive
Disorders may apply to the new program of study as applicable to
the new program: PCN-501, PCN-505, PCN-500, PCN-520*.
Changing Program of Study to Master of Science in Clinical
Mental Health Counseling (all emphases) or Master of
Education in School Counseling from retired Programs:
Students in the Master of Science in Professional Counseling (all
emphases) or the Master of Science in Christian Counseling (no
Emphasis) will be permitted to transfer to the above listed
programs at any point during their program, but only the
following courses will apply to the program they transfer into:
PCN-501, PCN-505, PCN-500, PCN-520*. Students will be
required to take all additional coursework within their new
program of study.
*Please be advised that PCN-520 will only apply to the new
program of study if it was completed with Grand Canyon
University after November 1, 2016.
Changing Program of Study to Master of Science in Clinical
Mental Health Counseling (all emphases) or Master of
Education in School Counseling after completion of Grand
Canyon University Counseling Programs:
Students who have academically completed a Graduate level
Counseling program at Grand Canyon University are not
permitted to enter the Master of Science in Clinical Mental
Health Counseling or the Master of Education in School
Counseling degree program at Grand Canyon University.
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
All CONHCP Nursing Graduate Programs
Professional Standards
The American Nursing Association (ANA) Code of Ethics
statement serves as the guiding principle for the nursing
profession. The Associate Dean of Graduate Programs in the
College of Nursing and Healthcare Professions, together with the
respective APRN program director and faculty, will determine
the consequences for graduate nursing students who violate these
standards. Graduate nursing students must adhere to the Code of
Conduct and Academic Standards section of the University
Policy Handbook.
The University carries Medical Professional Liability Insurance
on all students. The coverage is $2,000,000 each incident or
occurrence and $4,000,000 in the aggregate through the
following company:
Parker Smith & Feek, Inc.
Bellevue (425-709-3600)
2233 112th Avenue NE
Bellevue, WA 98004
Certificate number: MFL019309
If candidates are charged with a felony or misdemeanor while in
the program, even if charges are not verified, they are obligated
to report this to their Field Experience Counselor. Failure to do so
may lead to immediate termination from the program.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 138 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Chain of Command
In the healthcare field, it is the expectation that healthcare
workers will use the chain of command to bring issues to the
appropriate leader’s attention. For example: This is especially
important when CONHCP nursing students question things like
medication type and dosage. In order to prepare students for the
requirements of health care employers, the College leadership
expect students to use the Chain of Command for raising similar
issues in all healthcare programs.
Therefore, students with concerns regarding the classroom should
appropriately and professionally address their faculty. If
intervention is needed beyond the faculty, students should
address to their SSC. Finally, if the issue needs further attention,
the SSC will notify the Director or Program Lead. Further
concerns should be taken to the Assistant/Associate Dean over
the student’s program.
If after this process is exhausted, the student can pursue the
University Appeals Procedures.
Professional Practices Committee The College of Nursing & Health Care Professions Professional
Practices Committee serves as the central sanctioning body for
the application of College-level penalties in all cases involving
student violations of the CONHCP clinical and lab policies, the
Student Professional Dispositions, as well as the Nursing
Professional Standards.
Student Professional Dispositions
One important aspect of the student experience is the fulfillment
of professional dispositions—ways of working, thinking, and
interacting with others—in three areas: Professionalism, Work
Ethic, and Communication Skills. In order to support student
development and have clear expectations in these areas CONHCP
lists the following key dispositions. Failure to demonstrate these
dispositions through behaviors at any point in the program may
jeopardize students’ continuation in the program. Students are
expected to monitor their development of these professional
dispositions, beginning now and continuing throughout their
career. The ability to reflect on personal growth, strengths, and
challenges is a central characteristic of effective people working
in health care. These disposition statements do not replace the
University Code of Conduct.
Communication Skills
1. Demonstrate appropriate, professional, respectful verbal and
written communication
2. Demonstrate a disposition toward inquiry and problem solving.
Be an engaged learner.
3. Work collaboratively with peers, faculty, and professionals
4. Demonstrate consistently positive attitudes toward learning
and/or teaching
5. Accept responsibility for decisions and actions
6. Establish and maintain mutually respectful interactions
7. Demonstrate understanding of university/program. Follow the
administrative chain of command when addressing
programmatic or academic concerns.
Work Ethic
1. Demonstrate regular attendance
2. Demonstrate punctuality and manage time commitments.
3. Demonstrate adequate organizational skills
4. Know and observe all pertinent policies and procedures
5. Demonstrate a disposition toward personal ownership of
learning and professional development.
6. Approach all tasks with motivation, diligence, and an
eagerness to learn.
7. Hold yourself accountable for meeting all assignment
requirements and deadlines.
Professionalism
1. Demonstrate a commitment to work with clients, their families,
peers, faculty, and staff in appropriate, professional, and
respectful ways
2. Demonstrate an awareness of community, state, national, and
world contexts that have an impact on the profession and the
learning process
3. Treat everyone fairly, equitably, and respectfully
4. Accept constructive feedback and apply it to improve
performance.
5. Express and demonstrate interest in and enthusiasm for
teaching/learning
6. Adapt to new and diverse teaching/learning situations and
respond with flexibility when plans or circumstances change
unexpectedly.
7. Adapt to differences among people including differences of
SES, gender, age, ability, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity,
religion, language, etc.
8. Maintain confidentiality about all student, client, faculty, and
staff records unless disclosure serves a professionally
compelling purpose or is required by law
9. Demonstrate discretion when discussing colleagues, faculty,
field sites, and personal information.
10. Maintain appropriate boundaries in all client and professional
interactions.
11. Respect the points of view of others
12. Contribute meaningfully, appropriately, professionally, and
respectfully to discussions by asking questions, giving
opinions, and listening to others
13. Project an appropriate, neat, clean, and professional
appearance.
14. Project an appropriate professional and respectful demeanor
15. Be receptive to leadership and professional growth
opportunities.
16. Understand and practice professional ethical standards and
professional conduct codes established for your healthcare
discipline.
17. Recognize personal at risk behavior: Behavior that is
mistakenly believed to be justified.
18. Acts overall in a manner that furthers the interests of others
and “serves others in ways that promote human flourishing”
(GCU Mission Statement). Flourishing entails thriving in all
areas of life, encompassing the intellectual, moral, emotional,
and spiritual aspects of a person and the communities in
which people live” (Statement on Flourishing;
https://www.gcu.edu/sites/default/files/media/documents/abo
ut/christian-identity-heritage/statement-on-human-
flourishing-4-20-22.pdf
19. Utilize social media and digital platforms responsibly.
Refrain from intentional or unintentional disclosing of
protected and confidential client and family information,
related to clinical experiences or from client records (includes
written, auditory, and visual media).
20. Demonstrate ethical conduct with clients, peers, faculty,
facility staff, and community members. Refrain from
behavior that is detrimental to the safe academic
environment, including engagement of acts of lateral or
vertical violence. Cultivate a mindful online and in class
presence by fostering positive interactions and avoiding
alienating others in discussion of highly controversial social
topics.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 139 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Procedure for Processing Alleged Violations of the CONHCP
Professional Dispositions
The College of Nursing and Health Care Professions may take
disciplinary action against a student who violates the Professional
Dispositions. Violations will be reported by GCU instructors,
GCU staff, or third parties affiliated with GCU. GCU faculty and
staff are required to notify students that an incident report will be
submitted to the Professional Practice Committee. Reports are
forwarded to the Professional Practices Committee Administrator
upon discovery of the incident.
The Administrator then reviews the report, as well as any history
of prior offenses. The Administrator then notifies the student if
the College of Nursing and Health Care Professions intends to
take further action as a result of the particular report or as a result
of the history of offenses. If further action is recommended, the
Professional Practices Committee will determine whether the
alleged violation has been substantiated and which College-level
penalty to apply.
Students who are charged with a violation of the Professional
Practices are afforded an opportunity to be heard before a
College-level penalty is applied. Students at risk for College-
level sanctions will be:
• Contacted by the Professional Practice Committee
Administrator
• Offered the opportunity to present documentation and speak on
their own behalf to the Professional Practice Committee.
• Present information by submitting a written statement and/or
participating via teleconference.
Students are not required to participate or submit information.
Students who wish to participate or present information must
adhere to the following:
• Submit all documentation within the timeframe specified in the
notification.
• If the student does not respond within seven days of being
contacted by the Professional Practice Committee
Administrator, the student forfeits his/her right to participate in
the process and a determination will be made by the
Professional Practices Committee.
• All information, including the initial report and supporting
documentation, and any statement and documentation
submitted by the student, will be reviewed by the Professional
Practices Committee during their formal Committee meetings.
• Students are not entitled to representation by any third party,
personal representative, or attorney in the College disciplinary
process.
The University does not discriminate based on disability in the
course of administering discipline. A student with a disability
who is subject to disciplinary proceedings may request an
accommodation for their disability and the University will engage
in the interactive process upon such a request.
• To receive accommodations through the University, students
are required to self-identify by completing the Accommodation
Request Form and provide supporting documentation to
Student Disability Services. Only the SDS Office can approve
accommodations.
o Students can submit the accommodation request form at
https://sds.gcu.edu or in person in the SDS office.
o Supporting documentation can be submitted via email to
[email protected] or submitted through the link
while completing the Accommodation Request Form.
• All requests for disability accommodations in student
disciplinary proceedings are subject to an individualized
determination. Whether such a request is reasonable and/or
would be a fundamental alteration of the University’s
disciplinary policies is determined on a case-by-case basis after
evaluation of appropriate documentation.
• Students should refer to the Steps to Accommodations policy
for the appropriate steps and documentation requirements.
To allow the SDS Office sufficient time for processing, requests
for disability accommodations in any disciplinary process should
be submitted immediately upon receipt of notification from the
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
College-level Penalties
The Professional Practice Committee has the ability to issue
College-level penalties. In making its determination, the
Committee considers the severity of the offense, as well as the
student’s history within the College of Nursing and Health Care
Professions.
Program Warning
Some clinical violations may require students to complete a
Student Success Plan, to outline required changes in behavior or
practice. Students will be assigned an appropriate college
administrator or faculty to complete mandatory meetings during
the semester to update the student’s progress toward achieving
the required goals. Students who fail to meet these requirements
will be referred back to the Professional Practice Committee for
potential additional sanctions.
Sanctions requiring a student success plan include:
• Dress Code Violation
• Failure to Follow Directives by Faculty, Clinician, Preceptor,
Office of Field Experience, or Staff Unprepared For Clinical
• Unprofessional Communication or Behavior
• Greater than 1:1 Preceptor to Student Ratio without notifying
CONHCP.
Program Probation
Program Probation is a sanction imposed by the Professional
Practice Committee. Clinical Program Probation is assigned to a
student that commits infractions determined to be high risk where
additional monitoring is needed. Clinical Program Probation may
be removed within a semester, or may cross over multiple
semesters based on the severity. An automatic 10% clinical grade
reduction applies for any course in which an undergraduate
student was sanctioned with Clinical Program Probation. A
graduate student placed on clinical probation will result in a 10%
reduction of professionalism points in the classroom. Faculty and
Clinicians, in current and future terms, overseeing students on
clinical probation will be notified of the infraction and
remediation requirements. These infractions include but are not
limited to
• Unsafe clinical practice
• Failing to complete the Student Success Plan Requirements
• Repeat Clinical Lab, Simulation Tardy
• Unexcused Clinical, Lab, Simulation Absence
• HIPAA Violation
• Performing skills or interventions before successfully
completing a Performance Based Assessment
• Displaying hostility or using confrontational words or body
language
• Clinical, Lab, or Simulation abandonment (without
permission)
• Acting Independently Within the Scope of a Nurse
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 140 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Program Probation Procedure
The following steps will occur if the student is being placed on
program probation.
5. The student will receive the sanction of Clinical Program
Probation from the Professional Practices Committee through
email and postal mail. This letter will outline the requirements
the student must complete during their probation.
6. A copy of the letter will be placed in the student’s file.
7. The student’s progress will be reassessed at the end of the term
to determine if the student will be removed from clinical
probation. Students that do not complete the requirements will
be referred to the University Code of Conduct Committee for
potential suspension or expulsion from the program and/or the
University.
8. The student must be removed from probation in order to meet
program and graduation requirements.
University Code of Conduct Referral
Some behaviors are so egregious that significant sanctions will
apply. These infractions will be submitted to the Code of
Conduct Committee for potential University sanctions such as
suspension and/or expulsion. Please see the Code of Conduct and
Academic Standards policy for more information.
Infractions that require Code of Conduct reporting include:
• Academic Plagiarism
• Clinical Practice Fraud or Forgery
• Academic Cheating
• Jeopardizing a Clinical Partnership
• Failure to Report a Felony or Misdemeanor
In addition to the sanctions a student may face from the Code of
Conduct Committee of the University, the most significant
infractions require the University to report the incident or
behavior to the State Boards of Nursing by statute.
The priority of the College of Nursing and Health Care
Professions is the education of future health care professionals in
a safe environment for students, faculty, staff, and patients.
Patient safety is of the utmost importance. In certain cases where
a student is engaged in behavior that is intentionally harmful,
negligent, below program standards, or inconsistent with nursing
or athletic training professional standards, whether potentially or
actually harmful to a patient, the Dean or designee will report the
incident to the respective regulatory board as soon as the incident
is substantiated. Reporting is mandatory under State Nurse
Practice Acts and the Athletic Training Practice Act (ARS 32-
4158). The following documents guide the professional practice
of athletic training and define the skills appropriate for students at
the baccalaureate level.
• Arizona State Law (Chapter 41 – Athletic Trainers)
• The Board of Certification’s (BOC’s) Standard of Professional
Practice
• NATA Educational Competencies (5th Edition)
• NATA Code of Ethics
All students enrolled in a clinical program are required to
participate in formal instruction on skills related to their
respective discipline (nursing / athletic training) before practicing
any skill on patients. All skills must be done under the direct
supervision of a clinical preceptor / instructor.
Students may be placed on clinical suspension, per the Dean or
designee, during the investigation.
Infractions that require State Boards of Nursing notification by
licensed or unlicensed students include, but not limited to:
• Information that a nurse or certificate holder may be mentally
or physically unable to safely practice nursing or perform
nursing related duties
• Conduct which leads to the dismissal for unsafe nursing
practice or conduct or other unprofessional conduct
• Conduct that appears to be a contributing factor to high
risk/harm to a patient and required medical intervention
• Conduct that appears to be a contributing factor to the death of
a patient
• Conduct involving the misuse of alcohol or other chemical
substances to the extent that nursing practice may be impaired
or may be detrimentally impacted
• Actual or suspected drug diversion
• Pattern of failure to account for medications; failing to account
for wastage of control drugs
• Falsification of medical or treatment records
• Pattern of inappropriate judgment or nursing skill
• Failing to assess or intervene on behalf of patient(s)
• Conduct involving sexual contact with a patient, patient family
member or other dual relationships
• Conduct involving physical/verbal patient abuse
• Conduct involving misappropriation, theft or exploitation of a
patient
• Practicing nursing without a valid nursing license
• Conduct that deceives, defrauds or harms the public
• Criminal charges, felony and misdemeanor, which may affect
public safety within ten days from when the charge(s) are filed
• Failing to take action in a health care setting to protect a
patient whose safety or welfare is at risk from incompetent
health care practice, or to report such practice to employment
or licensing authorities.
Infractions that require State Boards of Nursing notification by
licensed students only include:
• Conduct involving practicing beyond the scope of practice of
the license or certificate. Examples include knowingly giving a
medication not authorized by a treating provider, obtaining
laboratory or other tests not authorized by a treating provider,
unauthorized adjusting of dosage
• Violation of a disciplinary sanction imposed on the nurse’s
license by the board
• Felony conviction(s) must be reported within ten days of the
conviction
Failing to report to the Board a licensed nurse whose work
history includes conduct, or pattern of conduct, that leads to or
may lead to an adverse patient outcome.
Master of Science in Athletic Training
Athletic Training students are required to provide their own
transportation to clinical rotation sites. Travel time may not be
logged for clinical contact hours. Providing or obtaining
transportation to and from the clinical sites and paying for all
associated costs (i.e. fuel, parking, permits, etc.) is the
responsibility of the student. Please see the student driver waiver
in the University Policy Handbook for more information.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 141 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
with an Emphasis in Adult-Gerontology (ACNP)
Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
(FNP)
Post-Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
Certificate
Post-Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse
Practitioner with an Emphasis in Adult-Gerontology
Certificate
Students who have been accepted into the nursing program may
remain in the program if they adhere to the following criteria:
1. Maintain continuous enrollment for the duration of their
program.
2. Advanced Practice students must take and successfully
complete Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced
Pharmacology, and Advanced Health Assessment. The content
of these courses is assessed in the 3P examination. The 3 P
exam is given in the Advanced Health Assessment course.
Students must earn a minimum of 67% on the 3P exam to
progress in their respective programs. (Advanced Practice
Education Associates [APEA] research suggests a correlation
between clinical readiness and scores above 67%.) If a passing
score is not achieved on the first attempt, students will be
given one additional attempt to remediate and successfully
pass the 3P exam. The second attempt occurs in the next
course of the APRN program (ANP-635, Health Promotion
and Maintenance and On-Campus Experience I or FNP-630,
Health Promotion and On-Campus Experience I).
3. Students who earn one non-passing (W, F) grade will be
administratively withdrawn from the program. Students who
are administratively withdrawn or take a leave of absence have
the option to complete a Request for Reinstatement, which is
discussed within the University Appeal Procedures section of
the University Policy Handbook.
4. Students need to follow the requirements listed in the
Guidelines for Graduate Field Experience Manual. If not
followed, students may have a registration hold place on their
student accounts.
5. Students must possess self-coverage Professional Nursing
Liability Insurance. The coverage is a minimum of $1 million
per event/$3 million total coverage. Proof of insurance must be
submitted upon request by the Office of Field Experience.
Re-Entry to all APRN programs:
Any student who exits the APRN program prematurely and/or
earns one non-passing (W/F) grade for any reason must reapply
to obtain another seat in the program. Re-entry will be based on
the number of seats available each term. The number of available
seats may differ every term.
Reasons for withdraw may include, but are not limited to:
1. Student withdrew from one or more enrolled nursing courses.
2. Student receives a failure in one or more enrolled nursing
courses.
3. Student has been administratively withdrawn from a nursing
course.
4. Student required a medical withdrawal.
5. Student required a military deployment withdrawal.
6. Student submitted a Leave of Absence Form (LOA).
7. Student took a break in attendance without an approved Leave
of Absence Form (LOA)
Students must maintain GPA of 3.0 or above to be considered for
re-entry.
Re-entry to the APRN programs is not guaranteed. Students must
contact their Student Service Counselor to submit a request for
re-entry. Students are eligible for one re-entry throughout the
duration of the program. Re-entry is only valid 1 year from date
of approval. Students are also subject to the Program of Study,
Course Availability, and Cancellation Policy.
Subsequent break in attendance, failure or withdrawal from any
course after initial reinstatement makes a student ineligible for
additional re-entry opportunities. Students will have to choose
anot1)
Any Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) student who
exits the program prematurely must reapply for re-entry into the
program. If the withdraw or LOA took place greater than 12
months and the student completed advanced pathophysiology,
advanced pharmacology and advanced assessment, reentry will
be considered upon the completion and successful passing of the
APEA 3P predictor exam, which according to their scale
indicates clinical readiness at a score of >67%. Students must
also successfully pass the advanced head to toe health assessment
with a score of >85%. Students will be allowed two attempts to
pass each assessment. Students who do not successfully pass the
required 3P predictor exam and health assessment after two
attempts will no longer be allowed to progress in any APRN
program. Students can transfer to a non-APRN program. All
students will be responsible for all testing and assessment fees.
Guidelines for Proctored Online Testing Within the APRN
Programs
Proctored Examinations will be scheduled and administered in an
environment that is conducive to success and minimizes the
opportunity for academic dishonesty. Details and instructions on
proctoring are provide within all applicable course syllabi.
If a student Fails to register for proctoring services as directed
and the assigned exam is accessed without proctoring, this will
result in failure of the course.
1. Once registration of the exams have been submitted from the
faculty, students will be responsible for scheduling the day and
time of the assigned exam with the proctoring agency. The
designated testing window will follow the assigned timeframe
listed in the course syllabus.
2. The proctoring agency may require greater than 72 hours to
reschedule an exam to prevent an additional fee. If a student
needs to reschedule within 72 hours, charges will apply to the
student; rescheduled exams outside of 72 hours may not
involve additional charges to the student. Exams must be
scheduled within the assigned calendar week of the course.
3. Students who must reschedule their exam must notify the
instructor no less than 4 hours prior to the start of their
scheduled exam time to be considered excused and allow for
exam reassignment. The reassignment date and time must still
be scheduled within the calendar week of the course.
4. Rescheduling is limited to no more than 2 times per exam.
5. The technology required will include downloading the
proctoring software. A Web Cam and speakers will need to be
purchased if not included with computer. The software may
require a browser extension that the student must install from
the Chrome Web Store or the Firefox Add-ons site. Most
proctoring also requires the student to run (not install) a Log
Me In Rescue applet prior to each session. Specific directions
will be available in the course syllabus.
6. Authentication will be verified by government issued photo ID
and a Knowledge Base Verification (KBV) quiz. If student
cannot answer the questions or a KBV quiz cannot be
generated, a second form of photo ID will be required.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 142 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
7. The student needs to plan to take the exam in a quiet, private
setting. The door to the testing room must remain closed at all
times while testing is in process to ensure academic integrity.
8. If accommodations are needed, please contact GCU’s Student
Disability Services office or follow steps for accommodations
outlined in the University Policy Handbook.
9. The only device permitted in the testing area/room is the
computer. Items not permitted include:
a. Pencils, pens
b. Paper
c. Bluetooth enabled devices
d. Phones
e. Watches
f. Backpacks
g. Purses
h. Hats with the exception of head adornments of a medical
or religious nature are permitted
i. Jackets/Sweaters/Hooded Sweatshirts
j. Snacks
k. Water
10. Students will be asked to pan their camera and show the
entire workspace and surroundings to the proctor. Students
will be required to close down any other software prior to
proceeding with the exam. Pockets must be turned out and
demonstrated that they are empty.
11. Once authentication and securing of the environment has
been completed, students will log into the LMS. The proctor
will verify the account and the correct exam.
12. Students must keep their eyes on the exam at all times.
13. We encourage students to go to the restroom before the
scheduled test to help ensure test security.
14. Students may not leave the room once the exam has begun.
In the event that the student must leave, the exam will end,
and the student will receive grade earned. Video of exam will
be sent to the college for review to determine best course of
action. If able to reschedule the exam, the student will only be
allowed the remaining time of what was originally scheduled.
15. If IT issues occur and are unable to be resolved by the
proctoring agency or GCU Tech Support during the
designated test time, a working ticket needs to be obtained
and submitted to the classroom. Faculty can then work with
the student in reassigning the exam.
• If student is unable to access the LMS student will need to
contact GCU Tech Support at 602-639-7200.
• If student is unable to access the proctoring agency they
will need to login to their provided account and access the
help feature.
• If student has a technical issue during exam, student is to
work with the proctor via the help feature.
16. Once the exam is complete, the student will notify the proctor
that the exam has been completed. The student can then log
out.
17. Students who are observed violating any of the above criteria
may be asked to stop the exam, given no credit for the exam,
and will be reported to the course faculty. The college will
review provided video from the proctoring agency to
determine if a violation has occurred and will determine
course of action, which may include referral to the Code of
Conduct.
Graduate Simulation Rules
The objective of Graduate Simulation is to allow students the
opportunity to practice transferring knowledge into the right
actions at the right time for the right reasons. Consequently,
scenario experiences are designed to provide challenges in patient
care and coordination to help students and faculty identify
performance gaps for proactive mitigation. It is critical to ensure
the student’s sense of safety when they are purposefully put into
stressful situations designed to demonstrate transfer of
knowledge into actions, where errors may occur.
• Observers may only be present under the following conditions:
No more than two (2) per session with ten (10) students
Introduced to students prior to start of simulation experience
with role and expectations
If as part of a tour, may only observe for a brief time from the
control room, and not participate in debriefing segment with
students.
• Confidentiality: Failure to maintain confidentiality may impair
the effectiveness of Simulation-based training. Consequently
the following levels of confidentiality are strictly observed and
enforced for all educators, students, staff and observers:
Must sign a confidentiality agreement form prior to
participation in any simulation session. Must retain strict
confidentiality regarding any specific scenario details and/or
experiences in real time or on media.
May discuss only in very general term the personal technical
and behavioral skills acquired during simulation training.
• Remediation: If there is concern that the student may pose a
hazard to self, patients, personnel, or organizational safety the
faculty and student would participate in Required Remediation.
• Participation Rules:
Cellphones only to be used as a reference for medical apps as
needed
Professional dress code
Maintain a clean, organized environment
Treat the simulation environment as real
Participate in “hands on” orientation
Maintain strict confidentiality agreement
Maintain professionalism
Laugh and enjoy but not at the expense of others
Leave all personal items at the door
Role model positive attitude and behaviors
Be open to peer review • Be open to new experiences
Be open to role flexibility • Expect to make mistakes and learn
thru them
Engage and participate or you will be asked to leave •
Accountable for all previous knowledge, skills, behaviors
Any participant who refuses to sign the confidentiality agreement
will be dismissed prior to any simulation. Report of such
dismissal will be forwarded to the Assistant Dean and
Professional Standards Committee. Students in violation shall be
subject to student policies up to and including dismissal from the
graduate nursing program. All participants will be held
accountable to the ground rules. Violation of the ground rules is
cause for dismissal from the experience. Report of such dismissal
will be forwarded to the Assistant Dean and Professional Practice
Committee.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 143 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
with an Emphasis in Adult-Gerontology (ACNP)
Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
(FNP)
Master of Science in Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health
Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
Master of Science in Nursing
Post-Master of Science in Nursing Certificates
Master of Public Health
Master of Science in Health Administration
Master of Science in Health Informatics
Graduate Clinical/Practicum Requirements
It is the responsibility of the student to identify clinical/practicum
placements and preceptors. Should a student have difficulty
securing a site, the Office of Field Experience will provide
assistance to secure a placement on the student’s behalf. Priority
will be given to those students who have submitted all required
documentation by the appropriate deadline.
Prior to registration for clinical/practicum courses, the student
must meet the following requirements:
1. Submit the Site Information Form appropriate to your program
prior to the start of each clinical/practicum course to the Office
of Field Experience. The Office of Field Experience will give
priority to assigning clinical placements to those students who
have submitted the application and all required documentation
by the appropriate deadline.
2. Submit preferred preceptor information, including resume and
nursing license (if applicable): Students must submit valid
contact information for their preferred preceptors at least 6
months prior to the start of each clinical/practicum course. This
information should not be submitted until the preferred
preceptor has committed to being a preceptor. GCU follows
the definition of a qualified preceptor in the Arizona Rules of
the State Board of Nursing (R4-19-502). The Office of Field
Experience will make every attempt to use a student preferred
preceptor/site. If that is not possible, the student may need to
withdraw, retake the course, and all associated
clinical/practicum hours will be lost and need to be repeated
the following term. Students will be responsible for all costs
associated with any repeat courses.
• Students will not be permitted to begin clinical/practicum
courses and will be unregistered until the site and the preceptor
are fully approved by the Office of Field Experience within the
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions.
• Students must be able to start clinical/practicum hours within
the first two weeks of each clinical/practicum course. When
students do not fulfill the above requirements and are unable to
start clinical/practicum hours, students will be required to
withdraw, apply for reentry, and retake the course. Students
will be responsible for all costs associated with any
withdrawn/repeat courses.
• In a case where a preceptor is unable to fulfill their
requirements, the Office of Field Experience will make every
attempt to assist the student in finding alternative placement to
complete the hours. If this is not possible, the student may
need to withdraw, retake the course, and all associated
clinical/practicum hours will be lost and need to be repeated
the following term. Students will be responsible for all costs
associated with any repeat courses.
o Every attempt will be made to arrange this in the student's
geographical area. Students must be willing to travel to any
site in their state at their own expense to complete the
clinical/practicum requirements.
• Students must notify the Office of Field Experience of a
change of address immediately as this may impact
clinical/practicum placement. A student who moves to a state
in which the program is not offered will not be able to
complete the program.
In addition to the student requirements above, GCU must receive
all components of the preceptor requirements prior to the start of
the clinical/practicum course. Students may be requested by the
Office of Field Experience to reach out to the preceptor to
facilitate receipt of these documents.
Students may deny placements provided by the Office of Field
Experience should they desire to self-place for a rotation. If an
offered placement was declined or not accepted within 24 hours,
students must provide their own placement for that
clinical/practicum rotation by deadline.
If a preceptor is no longer willing to work with the student due to
unprofessional behavior exhibited by the student, referral to
Professional Practice Committee will take place. This will impact
future placement opportunities being extended for the remainder
of the program as OFE does not want to jeopardize partner
relationships.
Licensing Requirements
Students must hold an active, current, unencumbered,
unrestricted nursing license in the state in which they will
perform their clinical/practicum experience.
Students must disclose to GCU any of the following:
• change in licensure or certification status.
• state disciplinary action on their license.
• participation in a diversion program (whether voluntary or
involuntary).
• any reportable incident (including incidents currently under
investigation).
Clinical Tardy Policy
Clinical tardiness is defined as being late at the beginning of a
clinical. Any anticipated tardiness is to be reported to the
preceptor.
Policy for Student Substance Screening
The practice of professionalism demands that the health
professional be free from the influence of any substance that
would impair judgment and thinking ability. As a result, health
care agencies may require students both those working directly or
indirectly with patients, to undergo screening for substances. A
substance is identified as nicotine, alcohol, and any drug that may
impair judgment. Students must be free from impairing
substances. Health care agencies and the CONHCP require
substance screening of all APRN students prior to their first
clinical experience. In addition, students are subject to screening
if either the faculty or preceptor suspects that the student is
impaired at any time on campus, or during any health care
experience, or during any other university or work related work-
related activity. Any student whose test is deemed positive will
not be able to enroll or continue in nursing courses for a
minimum period of one year. Determinations will be made by the
Professional Practice Committee. The College is required to
report any positive screens, suspicion of substance impairment
and/or refusal to the appropriate board.
This policy is designed to identify the procedures to be followed
for testing.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 144 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Initial Urine Substance Screening
1. Students entering their first clinical course and new transfer
students will receive a substance screen authorization form in
order to complete a random urine screen. Students will have 24
hours to complete the random screen at one of the laboratory
options provided. Students receiving an authorization form on
a Friday will be required to complete the screen by the end-of
business hours on Monday.
2. Students will be required to show picture identification upon
arrival. A driver’s license or passport are acceptable forms of
identification.
3. The cost for all screening and medical review (if deemed
necessary) is the students’ responsibility.
4. A screen with questionable results will be sent by the lab for a
medical review. Costs for review and retest will be the
responsibility of the student.
5. A negative report is necessary to continue in the program of
study in the CONHCP.
6. This screen need not be repeated as long as the student
maintains continuous enrollment. Continuous enrollment is
defined as enrollment in nursing classes during all consecutive
semesters until graduation.
7. Students may be re-tested for cause or reasonable suspicion.
Substances Included in Urine Substance Screen
Alcohol, Amphetamines, Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines,
Cannabinoids, Cocaine metabolite, Cotinine (tobacco/nicotine),
Fentanyl, Meperidine, Methadone, Opiates, Oxycodone,
Phencyclidine, Propoxyphene
*Please note certain clinical facilities include nicotine as part of
their screening and will not allow students to rotate at their
facility who test positive from nicotine or its byproduct, cotinine.
Screening For Cause or Reasonable Suspicion of Substance
The CONHCP may ask a student to submit to a substance
screening at any time a faculty member or preceptor believes that
the student may be under the influence of substances. This
includes but is not limited to the following circumstances:
evidence of drugs or alcohol on or about the student’s person or
in the student’s possession, unusual conduct on the student’s part
that suggests possible use or influence of drugs or alcohol,
negative performance patterns, excessive and unexplained
absenteeism or tardiness, or failure to complete urine substance
screen within given timeframe.
1. Students will be asked to submit to an immediate substance
screening test conducted at one of the laboratory options
provided.
2. Students may also be given a substance screen authorization
form and asked to immediately complete a urine substance
screen at one of the laboratory options provided.
3. Students will be required to show picture identification upon
arrival. A driver’s license or passport are acceptable forms of
identification.
4. The costs for all screening and medical review (if deemed
necessary) are the students’ responsibility.
5. A screen with questionable results will be sent by the lab for a
medical review by the company completing the substance
screen. Costs for review and retest will be the responsibility of
the student.
6. A negative report, excluding a positive nicotine result, is
necessary to continue in the program of study in the CONHCP.
Follow-up Action: Positive Screen (For Cause or Initial
Substance Screen)
1. Positive drug screens (including those medically prescribed)
will be directed to the Professional Practice Committee for
determination of sanctions.
2. A report will be filed with the State Board of Nursing upon
withdrawal from the program consistent with the rules and
regulations of the State Board of Nursing.
*Please note certain clinical facilities include nicotine as part of
their screening and will not allow students to rotate at their
facility who test positive from nicotine or its by product, cotinine.
Follow-up Action For-Cause Negative Screen
1. Students whose substance screens are negative will meet with
A a Director of the program to discuss the perceptions of
impaired behavior and the implications and steps to avoid
similar situations in the future.
2. A review by the Medical Review Officer (MRO) by the
company collecting the substance screen for documentation of
any medical condition or treatment may be requested.
3. Students will not be counted as absent from clinical during this
evaluation process. However, students will be expected to meet
the clinical objectives.
4. A reasonable suspicion/cause substance screen that is positive;
however, is determined to be a false positive by a medical
review officer will follow these guidelines:
a. The student will meet with the Director of the program.
b. The student may be required to undergo, at the student’s
expense, an evaluation for substance use/prescription drug
use/impairment by a psychiatrist recommended by the State
Board of Nursing.
c. The student will follow other recommendations deemed
necessary by the Director of the program.
d. The student will be required to provide a negative substance
screen prior to returning to clinical and be subject to
periodic substance screens at the student’s expense.
e. More than one incident of a reasonable suspicion/cause
substance screen that is positive; however, determined as a
false positive by a medical review officer will be directed to
the Professional Practice Committee. In this case the student
will follow the positive substance screening guidelines.
Students Who Refuse Substance Screening
Students who refuse to participate in screening will be required to
leave the clinical area and make an appointment with the Director
of the program. The student will remain out of the clinical area
until an investigation has been done and a recommendation has
been made by the Professional Practice Committee. Students who
refuse screening may be subject to dismissal from the CONHCP.
Bodily Fluids Exposure and/or Injury During Field Experiences
Grand Canyon University acknowledges the inherent risks
associated with working around or with patients and health care
organizations, including a potential exposure to blood and body
fluids. Once in a patient care setting, you will have access to and
are expected to utilize appropriate blood-borne pathogen barriers,
proper sanitary precautions, and appropriate biohazard disposal
equipment and procedures at each clinical site.
The following policy outlines your responsibilities in this area
should an exposure occur:
• Follow the policies of the agency (if any)
• You must have and maintain current health insurance and
show verification of coverage each year while matriculated in
the program.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 145 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• GCU and the clinical agencies that provide practical
experiences for our students are not responsible or liable for
the costs of medical follow-up or expenses incurred.
• Complete a Nursing Program Incident Report (available from
CONHCP) to be filled out by the student and the preceptor. A
copy of this report will be given to the program lead,
Assistant/Associate Dean, and then placed in the student’s file.
• Financial responsibility for testing and recommended care
following an exposure rests solely with the student. This could
include testing, evaluation, treatment, and counseling.
o Report the incident to the clinical preceptor/clinical
faculty/supervisor. Refer to Guidelines for Graduate Field
Experience Manual for procedural precautions post
exposure.
Communicable Disease Policy
You may not participate in field experiences during the time you
are affected by or suspect you have a communicable disease. A
communicable disease is a health disorder that can be passed
from one person to another. If suspected of communicable
disease, you must immediately visit the student health center or
personal physician for evaluation. If the evaluation shows
possible communicable disease, you must remain out of contact
with patients for the duration suggested by the physician. You
may not return to participation in field experiences until you have
been re-evaluated by a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician
assistant and released with written verification from the medical
provider. You must contact the clinical preceptor and faculty
upon suspicion and verification of the disease.
Clinical/Practicum Restriction Policy
Clinical restriction is the official means of restricting the student
from any field experience when students have missing, expired,
or insufficient immunizations or documentation requirements on
file with the Office of Field Experience (OFE). You will be
notified by the OFE 4 weeks before documentation is set to
expire. Once documentation has expired, the OFE will notify
your course faculty of your restriction status. At all times it is
your responsibility to ensure that your health and safety
documentation is up to date and current, and that all other
program requirements have been met. Health and safety
requirements are mandatory for all students where indicated in
this manual.
Failure/Program Expulsion
Failure to complete the minimum clinical/practicum requirements
will result in failure of that clinical/practicum course.
If you fail to meet the course objectives, policies, and procedures
outlined in the classroom and this manual, you may face failure
or program expulsion. You must repeat any failed courses before
moving on to the next course outlined in your program of study.
A Code of Conduct form will be filed by the course faculty for
any action that results in clinical/practicum failure.
Examples of clinical/practicum failure, program expulsion, or
Code of Conduct violation actions:
• Compromising GCU’s relationship with any site
• Compromising safety in any form
• Plagiarism and ethical misconduct resulting in Code of
Conduct Violations
Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
with an Emphasis in Adult-Gerontology (ACNP)
Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
(FNP)
Master of Science in Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health
Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
Post-Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse
Practitioner with an Emphasis in Adult-Gerontology (ACNP)
Certificate
Post-Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
(FNP) Certificate
Post-Master of Science in Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health
Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Certificate
Graduate Clinical Requirements
In addition to the requirements listed above, the APRN student
must meet the following requirements:
• Students must submit a minimum of three qualified preceptors
with valid contact information and who have committed to
being a preceptor 6 months prior to the start of each clinical
course.
• Submit the following documents to the Office of Field
Experience. Students are required to maintain these documents
in order to continue in the clinical setting each semester.
o Evidence of Professional Nursing Liability Insurance $1
million per event and $3 million total coverage
o Evidence of Health Insurance
Out of respect for those providers that have agreed to precept
students at their clinical site, students that have accepted a
clinical placement provided by the Office of Field Experience
must complete a minimum of half of all hours associated with
that placement. Failure to do so will result in referral to the
Professional Practice Committee and may impact future
placement opportunities being extended. Students may deny
placements provided by the Office of Field Experience should
they desire to self-place for a rotation. If an offered placement
was declined or not accepted within 24 hours, students must
provide their own placement for that clinical rotation by the
deadline.
On-Campus Experience Attendance Policy
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) students are
required to attend both scheduled On-Campus Experiences and
successfully complete all requirements including, but not limited
to, skills practice, skills check-off and lecture.
Required attendance:
• Must be physically present each day.
• Must participate each day from scheduled start to finish time.
Failure to attend any portion of the On-Campus Experience will
result in an automatic course failure. Students will be required to
repeat the course and the On-Campus Experience associated with
the course to progress in their program of study.
All On-Campus Experiences must be fulfilled as a graduation
requirement.
1:1 Student/Preceptor Ratio
All APRN students are required to maintain a 1:1 ratio in the
clinical setting with their preceptor.
Policy Violation:
• Student will be notified by the program lead and referred to the
Professional Practice Committee.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 146 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• All clinical hours completed on the day of the violation will be
lost, which will require the student to complete additional
clinical hours within 30 days, to meet the minimum course
requirement.
All CONHCP Graduate Programs
No Rounding Policy
The GCU College of Nursing & Health Care Professions has
adopted a No Rounding policy for all courses within the program.
This policy states that all grades will be entered to the hundredth
at their face value and not rounded (i.e., a final grade of 89.99
will be entered as B and not a B+).
Testing Policy
Students are allowed 1.3 min per question and 3 min per short
answer and math questions on exams.
Honor Code
All students will sign the following Honor Code Statement each
time they take a test, either electronically or by paper and pencil.
“On my honor, as a Grand Canyon University Student, I have
neither given nor received unauthorized aid on this academic
work.”
College of Theology
The College of Theology’s mission is to educate and equip
students to communicate the gospel effectively, serve the church
faithfully, and minister with integrity at home and abroad.
Therefore, within the context of the College, significant attention
is given to spiritual and professional formation so that students
are biblically qualified for ministry upon graduation. The Bible
teaches that ministers must be “above reproach” in private and in
public because ministers lead God’s people as they grow up into
the fullness of Christ through the careful study and application of
God’s word. Simply stated, one whose life has not been
transformed profoundly by the power of the gospel is hardly in a
position to lead others in this way of life. Thus, preparation for
ministry requires attention to the spiritual, and professional
aspects of each student’s training in addition to academic study.
Doctrinal, ethical, and covenantal alignment are vital to the
health of the institution as the faculty and administration strive to
fulfill the mission of developing godly leaders, ministers, and
scholars. Evangelical unity with respect to doctrine and morality
represents a crucial basis for ministerial preparation just as it
represents a crucial basis for gospel ministry. For these reasons,
students in the College are asked to affirm the University’s
Doctrinal and Ethical Positions Statement, the COT Covenant,
and standards for conduct that agree with those beliefs. In this
way students affirm the basic tenets of the Christian faith and
commitment to a lifestyle worthy of the Lord Jesus and worthy of
the gospel ministry to which they have been called.
The University’s foundational documents, the Covenant, and the
dispositional and behavioral standards have not been created for
purposes of legalistic compulsion or in a coercive spirit. Rather,
they represent commitments and guidelines that have been
developed for the purpose of living freely together in a
community marked by faith, hope, and love. All students who
enter into COT’s covenantal community do so freely and they do
so with full understanding that the community strives to cultivate
the character of Christ daily. Indeed, in light of the unique call
God has placed on their lives, the vast majority of ministerial
students are motivated to conform to established standards and
are grateful for the structure and accountability the community
provides.
In most cases when students’ dispositions or behaviors fail to
align with the College’s standards, COT’s faculty and staff are
able to correct gently and provide all necessary counsel. Indeed,
gracious conversation and pastoral guidance should normally
characterize the initial steps taken by faculty and staff to address
impropriety. The College is committed to forming students in a
loving and merciful way that is redemptive rather than punitive.
Thus, in cases where minor dispositional or behavioral issues
arise, direct student engagement by a member of the faculty or a
representative of the College will be most appropriate. Further
action will only be necessary when a student is unresponsive to
direct engagement or when a student persists in conduct that is
unbecoming. Faculty and staff should refer cases that involve
major dispositional and behavioral issues in accord with
established processes.
Dispositional and Behavioral Standards
As ministers of the gospel, theology students are expected to
conform to dispositional and behavioral standards that are
consistent with biblical teaching, sound doctrine, and the
commitments they make at the start of their program.
“Dispositions” refers to one’s attitudinal inclinations, mental and
emotional outlook, integrity, and character. Sincerely held
dispositions lead to actions and patterns of conduct, which is to
suggest that dispositions, at some level, contribute to behaviors.
COT has adopted the following dispositional and behavioral
standards that align with the College’s Covenant. Although these
standards are not exhaustive, they represent the essential values
and qualities that should characterize gospel ministers. Students
are encouraged to acknowledge their struggles and shortcomings
without fear and for the sake of working through challenges with
the support and encouragement of the community. Students who
disregard the standards or fail to demonstrate these dispositions
and behaviors, however, may be subject to disciplinary action.
• EMBRACE TRUTH: Ministers of the gospel embrace the truth
of Christ, and speak and act truthfully. This includes integrity
with respect to the commitment to uphold doctrinal and ethical
positions and behaviors consistent with those of the University
within their academic work, within the GCU community, and
in any internship or supervised ministry/field experience
setting.
• DISPLAY A HEART FOR GROWTH, TRANSFORMATION,
AND LEARNING: Ministers of the gospel have a heart for
growth and transformation. They demonstrate humility and
pursue Christlikeness by taking correction, having a charitable
spirit, and not thinking of themselves more highly than they
ought. They do not hide sin but, rather, acknowledge it and
learn from mistakes as they progress through their program of
study. They demonstrate eagerness to learn and engage
faithfully with their coursework, classmates, Scripture,
scholarly research, faculty, and ministry supervisors.
• AFFIRM THE VALUE OF PEOPLE: Recognizing that all
people are created in the image of God, ministers of the gospel
treat people in ways that demonstrate their intrinsic value and
dignity. Accordingly, ministers of the gospel reject
discrimination and show the value of others in the way they
interact with people of all races, nationalities, ages, genders,
socio-economic levels, abilities, and faith traditions. These
principles extend to all forms of communication.
• DEMONSTRATE GRACE AND RESPECT: Ministers of the
gospel demonstrate grace and respect in their attitudes, actions,
and words. They embody the fruit of the Spirit, speaking with
kindness and patience, communicating respectfully in all
situations. They avoid actions and speech that could show
disrespect, a sharp tongue, harassment, prejudice, racism,
sexism, vulgarity, foul language, or bullying. Students extend
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 147 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
grace and charity at all points including discussions with others
who differ with them on matters of doctrine and ethics. They
strive for unity, which requires careful thought about doctrinal
dialogue, genuine love for one another, and a resolve to be
“quick to hear, slow to speak, [and] slow to anger” (James
1:19).
• PROMOTE PEACE: Ministers of the gospel seek to be
peacemakers, approaching conflict with the goal of restoration
and reconciliation. They follow biblical practices for conflict
resolution, glorifying God by taking responsibility for their
own contribution to a conflict, and asking and offering
forgiveness when needed. They bring peace and joy to their
classrooms and congregations, avoiding words and actions that
might bring discord, dissension, or destruction.
• MAINTAIN SEXUAL PURITY: Following the teaching of the
Bible, ministers of the gospel maintain personal sexual purity,
reserving sexual expression for a marriage relationship
between one man and one woman. They refrain from the use of
all pornographic materials and any explicit content that would
grieve the Holy Spirit while demonstrating an openness to
accountability, counsel, and prayer in areas of struggle and
perceived powerlessness. They refrain from sexually charged
language and behavior inside or outside the classroom.
• AVOID EXCESS: Ministers of the gospel avoid excess and
abuse of any substances that could move them from a place of
health to harm. Students embrace moderation in all things for
the sake of safeguarding against idolatry and protecting their
gospel witness.
• SEEK FIRST GOD’S KINGDOM: Ministers of the gospel
pursue God’s purposes for the world even when this requires
abandoning the pursuit of their own selfish interests. They
cultivate love, justice, beauty, grace, wisdom, and wholeness
in their relationships and eschew worldly desires that result in
consumerism, materialism, and the pursuit of fame and
prestige.
Corrective Action Plan for Unacceptable Dispositions and
Unprofessional Behavior
As a Christian community, the College of Theology and Grand
Canyon Theological Seminary strive to be affirming and
redemptive to students who are struggling and failing to exhibit
these dispositions in their behaviors. The conduct that is
unbecoming for a Christian leader or minister, however, may be
referred through one of the following processes:
1. Dispositional alert from a faculty member, a ministry
supervisor, or another GCU employee which is processed
through the College of Theology’s Covenantal Standards
Committee (CSC). This committee will determine the
disciplinary action to be taken on a case by case basis.
2. Code of conduct violation charge which is reported through the
“Classroom Incident Report” and is handled through the Code
of Conduct process of the University.
In cases of minor misalignment, direct engagement by a member
of the faculty or a representative of the College for the purpose of
education, formation, and/or correction will be most appropriate.
Further action is only necessary when a student is unresponsive
to direct engagement or when a student persists in conduct that is
unbecoming. Students who disregard COT’s Dispositional and
Behavioral standards or fail to demonstrate these dispositions and
behaviors may be subject to disciplinary action. In certain
egregious situations, disciplinary action may be immediate and
will be recommended to the University Code of Conduct
Committee.
The University does not discriminate based on disability in the
course of administering discipline. A student with a disability
who is subject to disciplinary proceedings may request an
accommodation for their disability and the University will engage
in the interactive process upon such a request.
• To receive accommodations through the University, students
are required to self-identify by completing the Accommodation
Request Form and provide supporting documentation to
Student Disability Services. Only the SDS Office can approve
accommodations.
o Students can submit the accommodation request form at
https://sds.gcu.edu or in person in the SDS office.
o Supporting documentation can be submitted via email to
[email protected] or submitted through the link
while completing the Accommodation Request Form.
• All requests for disability accommodations in student
disciplinary proceedings are subject to an individualized
determination. Whether such a request is reasonable and/or
would be a fundamental alteration of the University’s
disciplinary policies is determined on a case-by-case basis after
evaluation of appropriate documentation.
• Students should refer to the Steps to Accommodations policy
for the appropriate steps and documentation requirements.
To allow the SDS Office sufficient time for processing, requests
for disability accommodations in any disciplinary process should
be submitted immediately upon receipt of notification from the
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Unbecoming dispositions and behavior, within the classroom or
outside the classroom may result in an array of corrective actions
taken by the CSC or recommendations for disciplinary actions
made by the CSC to the Code of Conduct Committee including,
but not limited to the following potential outcomes
1. A corrective dialog with the CSC or designee
2. A letter of reprimand
3. A required number of professional and/or pastoral counseling
sessions
4. A series of coaching sessions
5. Recommendations to the Code of Conduct committee such as:
a. Removal from the class
b. Removal from the supervised ministry/field experience site
c. Failure of the course
d. Suspension
e. Expulsion from the program. In the case of expulsion,
students will have the option of reapplying to the program
after a two year hiatus at which time the student will make a
case for his or her change in behavior and disposition such
that the CSC would possibly allow them to return to the
program
Any question of interpretation or application of the Dispositional
and Behavioral Standards Policy will be referred to the Dean of
the College of Theology or a designee for final determination.
These standards should not be applied in ways that foster
discrimination and harassment. Students who experience gender
or disability-based discrimination or harassment should seek the
assistance of the Title IX or Section 504 Coordinator for
investigation under the applicable grievance procedures.
Process Guidelines for COT Dispositional and Behavioral
Standards
The following guidelines are intended to assist with the
evaluation of and appropriate response to dispositional and
behavioral issues. These guidelines should enable faculty and
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College representatives to accurately assess and prudently
address situations in ways that are redemptive, fair, and
commensurate with the type of misalignment in question.
Doctrinal and Ethical Alignment
COT faculty are encouraged to make key distinctions in their
teaching and classroom interaction between doctrine that is
absolutely essential to the Christian faith and other teachings that,
although important, are not fundamental to Christianity.
Essential doctrines are those core teachings that distinguish
Christians from non-Christians and must be believed in order for
one to be a genuine follower of the Lord Jesus. Denial of
essential doctrine represents a grave matter.
Nonessential teachings are significant because they safeguard the
integrity and health of essential doctrines and because they derive
either directly or indirectly from the teaching of Scripture.
Examples include the form and meaning of baptism, the
organization and governance of the church, qualifications for
ministers, styles of worship music, and the timing of Christ’s
return in relation to other events of the last days. Christians
frequently disagree about various nonessential teachings but
disagreement about these doctrines does not amount to a denial of
the faith.
Dispositional and Behavioral Alignment
In cases of minor misalignment, direct engagement by a member
of the faculty or a representative of the College for the purpose of
education, formation, and/or correction will be most appropriate.
Further action is only necessary when a student is unresponsive
to direct engagement or when a student persists in conduct that is
unbecoming. Students who disregard COT’s Dispositional and
Behavioral standards or fail to demonstrate these dispositions and
behaviors may be subject to disciplinary action. In certain
egregious situations, disciplinary action may be immediate and
will be recommended to the University Code of Conduct
Committee.
Minor Misalignment
Instances of minor misalignment should be dealt with
redemptively rather than punitively to the extent possible. Such
cases typically require forbearance and patience instead of formal
discipline.
Major Misalignment
Instances of major misalignment should be dealt with
redemptively, but disciplinary action may be necessary if the
situation cannot be redeemed apart from formal action. Certain
egregious situations may represent exceptions and may require
immediate disciplinary action.
Essential Elements for COT & GCTS Students
• Behave in an appropriate and professional manner that fits the
setting
• Act as a professional regarding:
o Timeliness
o Preparedness
• Maintain appropriate and professional relationships in all
ministry environments
• Maintain appropriate hygiene and appropriate/professional
dress for the setting or as fits the ministry occasion
• Communicate clearly and appropriately in the classroom
setting as well as with peers, faculty, staff, and college
administration
• Effectively communicate within the context of supervised
ministry, internships, and practicum
• Complete all required components of supervised ministry,
internships, and practicum
• Individuals are responsible for their own transportation to and
from internship/supervised ministry/practicum
Essential Functions for COT & GCTS Students
A COT or GCTS student must:
• Possess the ability to effectively carry out service and teaching
in diverse ministry contexts
• Provide appropriate leadership and service within a ministry
context
• Develop professional and effective relationships with
individuals, families, and diverse communities
• Comprehend content effectively and accurately when reading
and studying.
• Effectively preach or teach within the context of a classroom
or local church setting.
In addition to the aforementioned essential functions, a Bachelor
of Arts in Worship Arts student must:
• Have the ability to meet all programmatic requirements
• Demonstrate musical ability during a required audition for the
Worship Leadership emphasis. A student cannot enter this
emphasis without the completion of this process.
*If a student requires an accommodation to meet the essential
elements of any COT & GCTS programs they are required to go
through the Accommodations process with the Student Disability
Services office. Each request will be reviewed on case-by-case
basis.
Doctoral Programmatic
Progression Requirements
College of Doctoral Studies
Doctoral learners who have completed a minimum of one
dissertation course, but who are struggling with completion of the
dissertation requirement for graduation, may choose to transfer to
a corresponding alternate degree program, as follows:
• Move to the Education Specialist Degree:
o EdD in Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in K-
12 Leadership
o EdD in Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in
Instructional Leadership
o EdD in Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in
Effective Schools
• Move to the Master of Science in Leadership degree:
o EdD in Organizational Leadership
o EdD in Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in
Organizational Development
o EdD in Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in
Healthcare Administration
o EdD in Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in
Christian Ministry
o EdD in Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in
Special Education
o EdD in Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in
Higher Education Leadership
• Move to the Master of Business Administration
o Doctor of Business Administration with an Emphasis in
Management
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 149 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Move to the Master of Science in Psychology with an
Emphasis in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
o PhD in General Psychology with an Emphasis in Industrial
and Organizational Psychology
• Move to the Master of Science in Psychology with an
Emphasis in General Psychology
o PhD in General Psychology with an Emphasis in Cognition
and Instruction
o PhD in General Psychology with an Emphasis in
Performance Psychology
o PhD in General Psychology with an Emphasis in Integrating
Technology, Learning, and Psychology
Learners who transfer should consult with their SSAs to see
which courses carry over to the new degree and which courses do
not. Learners are responsible for meeting all graduation
requirements of the new degree after approved course
equivalencies and substitutions are applied. Once the learner
completes the alternate degree, then they are unable to return to
that doctoral program for completion.
Doctoral Dispositions:
It is important for the doctoral learner and dissertation chair to
establish a clear understanding of the expectations of working
together, how each will communicate with the other, and how
they will establish a timeline for completion of dissertation
milestone steps (see below). Additionally, it is important that the
learner model the doctoral dispositions that exemplify a
practicing scholar and researcher. As an independent scholar, a
doctoral learner should be modeling the dispositions in their
interactions with their committee, the college, and support staff.
The Doctoral Dispositions state that doctoral learners at GCU:
• Are dedicated Scholar-Practitioners, passionate about their
field, who become leaders in the disciplines and communities
they serve
• Commit to producing scholarly research, which is ethical and
academically honest
• Are self-directed, able to self-motivate toward their continued
pursuit of knowledge and are responsible for their own
learning
• Engage in reflective scholarly practice, asking questions of
both self and others
• Communicate effectively and professionally, both verbally and
in writing, with peers, faculty, and college staff.
• Assume accountability for the quality and academic integrity
of their own scholarship and research agenda.
• Are receptive to the feedback, analysis, and constructive
critique offered during coursework and the iterative research
process from faculty committee members and academic quality
reviewers.
• Understand that as part of the iterative review process,
revisions can be requested on any dissertation product at all
phases of the dissertation journey.
• Demonstrate how to design, execute, and present independent,
academically rigorous research, that adds to the body of
knowledge within their discipline
Continuous Enrollment
Learners need to remain continuously enrolled in order to access
guidance from their chairs and University resources throughout
the dissertation process. There are three academic reasons for a
Leave of Absence (LOA):
• After the learner has completed External AQR Review for the
Proposal and is planning on submitting for a full IRB review or
requires a site authorization/external IRB that is taking longer
than thirty (30) days, he/she can take an LOA until the review
is completed.
• Learners who are using a longitudinal design for data
collection that will require more than two months may take an
LOA for a specified amount of time based on their approved
methodology.
• After the learners have completed the Form and Format review
of their dissertation, they do not need to maintain active
enrollment as they complete the final steps of the process.
Learners should reference the Leave of Absence – Nontraditional
policy for additional information.
All standard policies regarding LOAs apply. Learners looking to
take a Leave of Absence for academic or other reasons should
work closely with their SSA. Chairs and committee members are
under no obligation to work with a learner who is on an LOA.
Once a learner is reenrolled, the chair and committee members
will return to following the Committee Roles and Expectations
document. If Learners are Inactive longer than three months for
reasons other than the exceptions listed above, the University
may need to assign them a different chair when they return.
Doctoral Program Time Limit
Students in the Doctor of Business Administration, Doctor of
Education in Organizational Leadership, and Doctor of
Philosophy in General Psychology programs have a limit of
seven calendar years to successfully complete the course of study
and dissertation as determined by their original enrollment date in
the degree program. Changing emphases does not change this
date, but changing programs (i.e. from Ph.D. to Ed.D) does. This
limit is in effect regardless of whether the learner is active or
inactive. Learners approaching the limit may submit a formal
appeal through a Student Services Counselor requesting a one
year extension; however, the extension is not guaranteed.
Including any extensions, the time required to complete the
doctorate may not exceed a maximum of nine calendar years
from the start of program.
Residency Attendance Policy
Doctoral Learners that are required to attend residencies as part
of their program of study for their degree programs and who do
not attend residency during the first 24 credit hours of their
program will be not be allowed to register for further coursework
until the first residency requirement is fulfilled.
Additionally, any learner who has not fulfilled their second
residency requirement by completion of 42 credit hours will not
be allowed to register for further coursework until the second
residency requirement is fulfilled.
All residency requirements must be fulfilled as a graduation
requirement.
The only exceptions to this attendance policy will be for medical
or other unforeseen extenuating circumstances and then only at
the recommendation of the appeals process. Any learner who is
granted an appeal to postpone residency will be expected to
attend the next available residency to fulfill this attendance
requirement.
Essential Elements
The Residency experience within the Doctoral programs is set up
as an intensive and immersive conference style interaction.
Learners are in the midst of the most difficult educational process
in academia. The dynamic nature of the Residency experience
creates an environment of support and guidance as well as the
advantage of scholarly dialogue. It connects Learners directly
with resources to help them establish the essential scaffolding of
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 150 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
research content. In the week-long conferences, Learners have
access to faculty/program chairs, college leadership, Peer
Reviewers, Research Librarians, Residency Coordinators, Peers
and Alumni of the Doctoral Programs. Learners will have the
opportunity to get immediate feedback from experts in this
process, while presenting ideas and working collaboratively with
others on the same journey. This critical milestone on the path to
the dissertation and overall completion of the program is
considered an essential element making attendance mandatory.
In order to help ensure Learner progression and to provide them
with the tools to complete critical components of each program,
Residency is required two times within the Doctoral programs.
The desired outcome of Residency I is to articulate and develop
the 10 Strategic Points, which is the corner stone of the research
process.
The primary goal of Residency II is to focus the prospectus and
move forward to the Dissertation itself.
Learners may be required to participate in an additional residency
experience if they have not met specific milestones.
Policy on Clinical Research Studies
The programs in the College of Doctoral Studies at Grand
Canyon University do not lead, in and of themselves, to clinical
licensure and therefore do not support dissertation research that is
clinically oriented. Clinical research typically involves
interactions with research participants who are classified as
former or current patients diagnosed with either a physical
condition and/or who have previously been diagnosed with a
mental disorder per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of
Mental Disorders, (DSM-V). Clinical research also includes use
of diagnostic clinical materials and instruments, and/or
acquisition of personal health information or data. As such,
clinically oriented research studies by doctoral students in Ed.D,
DBA, DHA, and Ph.D programs is restricted with the following
possible exceptions:
1. Research involving archival data which is publicly available;
2. Research by licensed or credentialed professionals that directly
deal with diagnosed individuals;
3. Research by licensed or credentialed professionals working
with federally protected classes of research participants per
Health and Human Services, Office of Human Subjects
Research Protections.
If a doctoral learner is proposing a clinically oriented research
study that falls under these exceptions, s/he must obtain written
approval prior to prospectus acceptance in dissertation course
xxx-955. The final authority for authorizing research that may be
considered clinical is the chair of the degree program in which
the learner is enrolled
Dissertation Process and Progression
Learners in the DIS process beginning with the program
appropriate dissertation start course are taking ownership of their
dissertation journey and setting their own schedule and goals.
Learners need to follow the dissertation process and policy set in
the Grand Canyon University Dissertation Milestone Guide and
the Learner Expectations Checklist, accessible by all learners via
the DC Network. Supporting this process are the various
University resources that are available to them.
The table in Appendix A shows the eight review levels required
for dissertation approval. Each review level is iterative and the
documents must meet the standards set for that document based
on GCU criteria and generally accepted standards of scholarly
work for doctoral research across disciplines. Learners should use
this table to set target completion dates for the major milestones
and levels of review. Then track and adjust their plan (if
necessary) according to the actual completion dates.
The Peer Review process for Level 2 proposal review emulates
the peer-review process used to review and approve academic
papers for publication. There are a total of three review cycles in
the Proposal Peer Review Process. At the onset of the Level 2
review process, the Academic Quality Reviewer may return the
document to the learner as not ready to review if the document is
missing essential elements or improperly prepared. The learner
must receive proposal approval within the three subsequent full
review attempts.
Failure to obtain approval or conditional approval on the third
and final AQR will prevent the learner from progressing further
in the doctoral program. Learners then have two options available
to them. The first is to transfer to a different program as
described above. The second is to work on the proposal,
attempting one final time to address all outstanding items, and
use the Doctoral Academic Appeal option under University
Appeal Procedures later in this handbook to appeal for one final
review
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Learners in the Direct Practice Improvement (DPI) Project
process beginning with DNP-955A, DPI Project: Part I, are
taking ownership of their direct practice improvement project
journey and setting their own schedule and goals. Learners need
to follow the DPI Project process and policy set in the Grand
Canyon University DPI Project Milestone Guide and the Learner
Expectations Checklist, accessible by all learners via the DC
Network. Supporting this process are the various University
resources that are available to them. Learners need to remain
continuously enrolled in courses to access guidance from their
chairs and University resources throughout the DPI Project
process.
Any learner who exits the DNP program during a DPI project
course, longer than 180 days for any reason, must complete a
Request for Re-Entry request prior to gaining re-entry into the
program. Mentor/content expert, site and project concept will
need to accompany the Request for Re-Entry for College review.
Additional site clearance and mentor approval may be required
through the Office of Field Experience prior to re-entry.
Learners looking to take a Leave of Absence (LOA) for academic
or other reasons should work closely with their Student Services
Counselor (SSC). Chairpersons and committee members are
under no obligation to work with a learner who is on a LOA.
Once a learner returns, the chairperson and committee members
will resume following the Committee Roles and Expectations.
The learner might also be assigned a new chairperson and/or
committee members if the previously assigned chairperson or
committee members are unavailable once the learner returns.
Learners in the Doctor of Nursing Practice programs have a limit
of seven calendar years to successfully complete the course of
study and DPI Project as determined by their original enrollment
date in the degree program. This limit is in effect regardless of
whether the learner is active or inactive. Learners approaching
the limit may submit a formal appeal through a Student Services
Counselor requesting a one-year extension; however, the
extension is not guaranteed and is dependent on how much work
is required. Including any extensions, the time required to
complete the doctorate may not exceed a maximum of nine
calendar years from the start of program.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 151 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Practice Immersion Requirements
Prior to progression for practice immersion courses, the learner
must meet the requirements set forth in the Program Handbook.
All DNP learners will need to secure a mentor and clinical site
through the Office of Field Experience to complete their practice
immersion hours prior to starting DNP-815A. Learners will not
progress to DNP-815A until all mentor and project/clinical site
documents have been approved by the Office of Field Experience
and the college. A letter grade is only awarded upon successful
completion of all required deliverables, including those
submissions designed to facilitate, evaluate, and document the
project-related practice experiences and prescribed practice
immersion hours outlined in the program. Learners who fail to
complete and submit all deliverables regardless of point
allocation may receive a failing grade.
Immersion hours are prescribed and must be followed to ensure
learners’ success and timely graduation.
Course
Minimum
Indirect
Immersion
Hours
Minimum
Direct
Immersion
Hours
Maximum
Inderect
Immersion
Hours
Maximum
Direct
Immersion
Hours
DNP-
815A
25 25 50 50
DNP-
840A
25 25 50 50
DNP-
830A
25 25 50 50
DNP-
955A
50 75 100 125
DNP-
960A
50 75 100 125
DNP-
965A
50 50 100 125
Should a learner inappropriately log hours and/or not achieve the
minimum immersion hours to pass a course, the learner will be
required to repeat the course.
It is the learner’s responsibility to ensure they have planned for
and achieved the required 1,000 post-baccalaureate hours
required to graduate. For students who do not have an advanced
practice degree, please see Appendix C for how hours must be
achieved.
DPI Project Process and Progression
In DNP-955A learners are required to submit their DPI Proposal
in the designated format to Academic Quality Review 1 (AQR-1)
by 1159 pm Arizona time in the designated learning management
system (LMS) dropbox within the course according to the
syllabus. Failure to submit on time will result in zero points for
the assignment and a subsequent course failure.
In DNP-960A a complete IRB package submission is required by
1159 pm Arizona time in the designated LMS dropbox within the
course according to the syllabus. Failure to submit a complete
IRB package on time according to the syllabus will result in zero
points for the assignment and a subsequent course failure.
In DNP-965A, learners are required to submit their final
manuscript in the designated format to Academic Quality Review
2 (AQR-2) by 11:59 pm Arizona time in the designated LMS
dropbox within the course according to the syllabus. Failure to
submit on time will result in zero points for the assignment and
subsequent course failure.
In DNP-965A learners will submit the full manuscript for Final
Manuscript Review (FMR) by 1159 pm Arizona time in the
designated LMS dropbox within the course according to the
syllabus for department review by a DNP department reviewer or
designee. Failure to submit on time will result in zero points for
the assignment and subsequent course failure.
Failure to complete 100% of any iterative process during the
DNP project courses may result in failure of that course. Failure
to obtain an approval or conditional approval by the second
submission to the department reviewer or designee will prevent
the learner from progressing to Dean Review and a possible
course failure. Learners then have two options available to them.
The first is to enroll in an extension course to continue working
with a chair. The second is to work on the manuscript, attempting
one final time to address all outstanding items, and use the DNP
Doctoral Academic Appeal option under the University Appeal
Procedures provided later in this handbook to appeal for one final
review.
If a learner is required to take an extension course for any reason,
the learner will be required to email [email protected] to
schedule a meeting with the DNP Team so a Learner Success
Plan (LSP) can be created. Once the LSP is created and agreed
upon, it will be sent to the learner, the Chair, the Program Lead,
Program Manager, and the SSC and the student may then be
registered for the extension course. Learners may not be
permitted into an extension course without completing the LSP
process.
Re-Entry
If a DNP Learner is out of attendance for more than 180 days in
DNP-815A the learner must ensure clearance is still standing for
their site and that there is no change with the approved mentor
with the Office of Field Experience. No formal re-entry meeting
is required unless the student is returning from a taught-out
program version into the new program version.
If the DNP learner goes out of attendance for more than 180 days
after attempting or completing DNP-820A, DNP-840A, DNP-
830A, DNP-955A, DNP-960A, DNP-965A, or any DNP
extension course a hold will be placed on the schedule and the
learner will need to seek re-entry into their DNP program of
study.
Re-entry to the DNP programs is not guaranteed. Students must
contact their Student Service Counselor to submit a request for
re-entry. Re-entry is only approved for the term documented in
the re-entry notification. Students will have two attempts to
successfully complete the re-entry process during the term
documented in the re-entry notification. A denial for a re-entry is
made when the required work and required documents are not
completed within the approved timelines to the re-entry team.
Students are also subject to the Program of Study, Course
Availability, and Cancellation Policy.
Students who have been dismissed from the University due to a
lack of academic progress or Code of Code of Conduct violations
will follow the appeals process and submit a Request for
Reinstatement.
Online Classroom Participation
Introduction
Online classroom discussion is a vital learning activity that
enhances writing, critical thinking, and scholarly development.
These skills establish the foundation for self-reflection and
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 152 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
unbiased consideration of other perspectives that enhances the
long-term development of the doctoral learner.
The successful doctoral learner engages faculty and colleagues in
substantive conversations by reflecting on others’ perspectives
while articulating their own views. More importantly, doctoral
learners demonstrate the disposition to critically and reflectively
consider new information, facts, and perspectives in the
enhancement of their own knowledge and development. Online
classroom conversations offer the learner an opportunity to dig
deep into new subjects, read from a variety of new sources, and
form scholarly arguments for evidence-based practice.
To emulate a real-world scholarly, doctoral conversation, the
doctoral learner will participate in the classroom discussion
forum. The classroom discussion has two components: the
learner’s original response to the discussion question/prompt and
the learner’s ongoing participation and contribution to the
discussion. Each component is graded separately.
Initial Post to Discussion Questions/Prompts
The doctoral learner is required to post an initial substantive
response to Discussion Question/Prompt 1 by day 3 of the topic
and Discussion Question/Prompt 2 by day 5 of the topic. To be
considered substantive, an initial post should average 350-400
words in length and include a minimum of two current (within 5
years) scholarly, peer-reviewed references from the course
materials or other scholarly materials published in the last 5
years. The initial post should be in the author’s own words and
exclude direct quotations from source materials. All posts should
represent evidence-based practice.
Ongoing Contribution to Class Discussion
In addition to the initial responses posted by days 3 and day 5 of
the topic, the doctoral learner must also contribute to the
discussion by posting one substantive participation post on 3
different days of the week. A total of five posts are required each
week (two initial and three ongoing contributions).
Substantive Participation Posts
Full participation in the discussion is a key component of the
learning experience. It enriches group interaction and enhances
the doctoral learning environment.
To be considered substantive, a participation post should average
150+ words in length and include scholarly, peer-reviewed
references from the course materials or other scholarly materials
published in the last 5 years. The participation post should be in
the author’s own words and exclude direct quotations from
source materials. All posts should represent evidence-based
practice.
Ensure that the post is more than just restating or reporting what
someone else has stated. The doctoral learner should demonstrate
the application, synthesis, and/or reflection of knowledge such
that the learner enhances the meaning of the material.
Contributing to the discussion should promote an exciting,
vibrant, shared learning community that accomplishes two or
more of the following:
• Expands on a classmate’s comments in a value-adding, topic-
related way
• Promotes a collaborative, supportive doctoral community
• Advances the dialogue through follow-up questions
“One-liners,” off-topic posts, vague statements, unsupported
opinions, and inadequate explanations or posts do not meet the
substantive participation requirements listed above.
Repeating Courses and Discussion Questions
While a learner is allowed to re-submit an assignment from a
previously withdrawn or failed course, discussions post are not to
be repeated. Discussion posts cannot be repeated from one course
to another. They must be re-written.
Summary
Participation in the class discussion provides the doctoral learner
an unparalleled opportunity to collaborate scholarly with your
peers in an insightful, forward-thinking manner. Upon
graduation, stating opinions without basis or foundation will be
challenged, as it is expected that doctorally prepared individuals
offer broad perspectives and insight based on the thoughtful and
reflective understanding of their discipline rather than mere
personal opinions.
Chain of Command
In the healthcare field, it is the expectation that healthcare
workers will use the chain of command to bring issues to the
appropriate leader’s attention. For example: This is especially
important when CONHCP nursing students question things like
medication type and dosage. In order to prepare students for the
requirements of health care employers, the College leadership
expect students to use the Chain of Command for raising similar
issues in all healthcare programs.
Therefore, students with concerns regarding the classroom should
appropriately and professionally address their faculty. If
intervention is needed beyond the faculty, students should
address to their SSC. Finally, if the issue needs further attention,
the SSC will notify the Director or Program Lead. Further
concerns should be taken to the Assistant/Associate Dean over
the student’s program.
If the student’s concern is regarding something unrelated to
CONHCP courses, the student should consult with their
counselor, and if needed the Student Services Manager.
If after this process is exhausted, the student can pursue the
University Appeals Procedures.
Failure to follow this process will result in the loss of points in
the learner’s Professionalism Assignment week 8 of the course of
occurrence.
DNP Project Seminar Requirement
The DNP Project Seminar (DPS) is set up as an immersive
webinar-style interaction. Learners are preparing to enter the
DNP project courses which is the most difficult educational part
of the program. The dynamic nature of the DPS experience
creates an environment of support and guidance as well as the
advantage of scholarly dialogue with their fellow cohort and
faculty. It connects learners directly with resources to help them
ensure they have the required documents and meet the
requirements to enter into the project courses. The DPS takes up
to seven hours depending on the number of learners registered,
including lunch and breaks. Learners will have the opportunity
to get immediate feedback from experts in this process while
presenting ideas and working collaboratively with others on the
same journey. The DPS is essential to learner success in project
courses. The desired outcome is to ensure learners are prepared
when arriving at the project courses. Learners are eligible to
attend the DPS seminar once they have entered the DNP-835A
course, have acquired an approved PICOT, and have completed
all iterations on the 10-Strategic Points and literature table
documents. Registration is located within the program’s DNP
calendar. Progression into the project courses is dependent upon
the successful completion of the DPS.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 153 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Remediation
CONHCP recognizes the importance of maintaining continuous
progress and a sound knowledge base to be successful throughout
the program. As such, faculty members may request mandatory
advisement or remediation when students are in practicum,
clinical, the Doctor of Nursing Practice project, academic
jeopardy, or when student behavior is below professional
standards. Satisfactory academics, successful completion of
remediation, and behavioral changes must be accomplished by
the end of the course to receive a passing course grade and
progress in the program.
Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and
Supervision
Mission Statement
The mission of the Counselor Education and Supervision Doctor
of Philosophy (PhD) program aims to prepare current counselors
to become counselor educators, advanced practitioners, and
counseling supervisors. Grand Canyon University’s program
offers learners a rigorous curriculum designed to strengthen their
counseling knowledge and skills through didactic and
experiential training in research, scholarship, leadership and
advocacy in and out of the classroom. To facilitate these
outcomes, faculty and learners engage in learning experiences
that support them in developing:
• Collaborative relationships with faculty and other professionals
in the field of counseling that will enhance their expertise in an
area or areas of professional identity and functioning
• Knowledge and skills in designing, conducting and reporting
on research and scholarship that makes a significant impact on
the field and the lives of others
• Leadership skills in counselor education, supervision,
advanced clinical practice, research and scholarship, and social
justice action
Practicum Hours Requirement
Learners are required to complete the minimum of 100 practicum
hours. Learners who fail to meet the minimum number of hours
required per course will receive a failing grade and will have to
retake the course. Hours accumulated during a course that
receives a non-passing grade will not be counted towards the
program practicum hour requirement. Learners may not complete
additional hours to use in a future course.
Internship Hours Requirement
Learners are required to complete the minimum internship hours
required for each course in their program of study. Each
internship course requires that the learners complete 200 hours.
Learners who fail to meet the minimum number of hours required
per course will receive a failing grade and either will have to
retake the course or enroll in an extension course depending upon
the number of remaining hours. Hours accumulated during a
course that receives a non-passing grade will not be counted
towards the program hour requirement. Learners may not
complete additional hours to use in a future course.
Counseling Learner Professional Standards and Dismissal
Policy
Learner success is a priority for Grand Canyon University and the
Counselor Education and Supervision Program. Learners are
encouraged and required to follow the Grand Canyon
University’s academic progression policy and the adopted six
Counseling Dispositions, the American Counseling Association’s
(ACA) ethical code and/or applicable specialized code of ethics.
Failure to meet course objectives, policies, counseling
dispositions, procedures outlined in the courses, the University
Policy Handbook, and/or practicum/internship manual may result
in failure, Professional Standards, or removal from program.
Failure to meet the American Counseling Association Code of
Ethics and/or applicable specialized code of ethics may result in a
warning, coaching, probation, suspension, or removal from the
program. It is important that learners maintain continuous growth
and continuous skill acquisition as they progress through the
program of study. This policy and the dispositions are designed
to meet the standards of the American Counseling Association.
Dispositional Expectations
Learners enrolled in the Ph.D. in Counselor Education and
Supervision Program at Grand Canyon University are
preparing for a leadership career that requires the highest
standards of practice, research, scholarship and community
advocacy. Therefore, appropriate behavior should be
evident in all communications (e.g., verbal, written in
discussion forums, emails) with other learners, GCU staff
and faculty, site Practicum and Internship Personnel, and
of course clients. Failure to demonstrate professionally
sound behavior could jeopardize the learner’s status in the
program.
Specifically, the Counselor Education and Supervision
program faculty expects learners enrolled in the Ph.D. in
Counselor Education and Supervision Program to
demonstrate the following professional and scholarly
dispositions:
1. Professionalism – As evidenced in behavior and comportment
that reflect the values and attitudes of the Counseling
Profession
a) Professional Identity – Counselors adhere to regulatory state
boards and nationally recognized codes of ethics.
Counselors practice only within their scope and
competencies. They seek to utilize best practices and
empirically supported treatments. Counselors stay current
with the counseling profession through seeking continuing
education and by supporting counseling associations.
b) Ethics – Application of ethical concepts and awareness of
legal issues regarding professional and academic activities
with individuals, groups, organizations and research.
Commit to producing scholarly research, which is ethical
and academically honest
c) Accountability – For the quality and academic integrity of
their own scholarship and research agenda
2. Individual and Cultural Diversity – Counseling is an
interpersonal profession in which counselor leaders are
provided with a level of influence upon their domains of
practice. Therefore, it is essential that they are not impaired by
intrapersonal or interpersonal liabilities. Counselors respect,
engage, honor and embrace diversity and awareness,
sensitivity and skills in working professionally with diverse
individuals, groups and communities who represent various
cultural and personal background and characteristics. One that
supports the worth, dignity, potential and uniqueness of people
within their social and cultural context. It remains the primary
responsibility of the faculty to protect the public, the student
body, and the profession.
a) Self-Awareness – Counselors are aware of their personal
moral, ethical and value systems and provide counseling
services with objectivity, justice, fidelity, veracity and
benevolence. Counselors are acutely aware of their personal
limitations in providing services and are willing to refer
clients to another provider when necessary.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 154 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
b) Psychological Fitness, Emotional Stability and Self-Control
- Demonstrates appropriate self-monitoring and control of
emotions and behavior, displays maturity and independence
by following appropriate protocol when seeking solutions to
problems
c) Motivated to Learn and Grow/Initiative - Demonstrates
engagement in learning and development of his or her
counseling, pedagogical, supervisory, advocacy and research
competencies
3. Advocacy: Actions targeting the impact of social, political,
economic or cultural factors to promote change at the
individual (client), institutional, and/or systems level.
a) Empowerment – Uses awareness of the social, political,
economic or cultural factors that may impact human
development in the context of service provision
b) Systems Change – Promotes change to enhance the
functioning of individuals, families, groups, communities
and society at-large.
4. Scholar Practitioners: Passionate about their field, who become
leaders in the discipline and the communities they serve
a) Self-directed – Are able to self-motivate toward their
continued pursuit of knowledge and are responsible for their
own learning.
b) Receptive – Are receptive to feedback, analysis, and
constructive critique from peers and faculty with their
scholarly community. Learners who convey the attitude that
they are not teachable are not suited for doctoral education.
c) Scholarly Practice – Engagement and asking questions of
both self and others as well as being able to community
effectively and professionally with peers, faculty, and
college staff.
5. Experiential Application: The notion of practicing, in a real
world context, skills emanating from knowledge acquired.
a) Aware of evidence-based practice – Applies knowledge of
evidence-based practice, including empirical bases of
assessment, intervention, and other psychological
applications integrated with clinical expertise, and client
preferences
b) Knowledge of Measurement and Psychometrics – Selects
assessment measures with attention to issues of reliability
and validity. Demonstrates knowledge of measurement
across domains of functioning and practice settings
6. Scientific Knowledge and Methods: Understanding of
research, research methodology, techniques of data collection
and analysis, biological bases of behavior, cognitive-affective
bases of behavior, and development across the lifespan.
Respect for scientifically derived knowledge.
a) Scientific Foundation of Professional Counseling -
Demonstrates understanding of counseling as an applied
behavioral science
b) Scientific Foundation of Professional Practice – Understands
the development of evidence-based practice in counseling.
Cites scientific literature to support an argument when
appropriate. Evaluates scholarly literature on a practice-
related topic as needed
c) Demonstration – Design, execute and present independent,
academically rigorous research that adds to the body of
knowledge within their discipline.
Professional Practices Committee
Learners may be referred to the CDS Professional Practices
Committee when learners have failed to adhere to dispositional
values, professional or ethical standards guided by the American
Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics and/or applicable
specialized code of ethics, in the classroom setting, field
experience, or professional academic interactions.
Practicum/Internship evaluations are completed by both the
instructor and site supervisor during the learner’s field
experience. If a learner receives a score of ‘1’ on the formative or
summative evaluation, they will automatically be referred to the
PPC. Additionally, if a learner receives a score of ‘2’ or less in
three or more categories on the formative or summative
evaluation, they will be referred to the PPC.
Referred learners will be contacted by a representative of the
Professional Practices Committee and offered the opportunity to
provide a written statement and documentation on their own
behalf to the Professional Practices Committee. It is
recommended that learners provide a written statement within the
allowed timeframe. If the learner does not respond within seven
days of being contacted by the Professional Practices Committee
Administrator, the learner forfeits his/her right to participate in
the process and a determination will be made by the Professional
Practices Committee. All information, including the initial report
and supporting documentation, and any statement and
documentation submitted by the learner, will be reviewed by the
Professional Practices Committee during their formal committee
meetings. Learners are not entitled to representation by any third
party, personal representative, or attorney in the college
disciplinary process. A notice will be sent within 72 hours to the
learner about the committee’s decision.
The University does not discriminate based on disability in the
course of administering discipline. A student with a disability
who is subject to disciplinary proceedings may request an
accommodation for their disability and the University will engage
in the interactive process upon such a request.
• To receive accommodations through the University, students
are required to self-identify by completing the Accommodation
Request Form and provide supporting documentation to
Student Disability Services. Only the SDS Office can approve
accommodations.
o Students can submit the accommodation request form at
https://sds.gcu.edu or in person in the SDS office.
o Supporting documentation can be submitted via email to
[email protected] or submitted through the link
while completing the Accommodation Request Form.
• All requests for disability accommodations in student
disciplinary proceedings are subject to an individualized
determination. Whether such a request is reasonable and/or
would be a fundamental alteration of the University’s
disciplinary policies is determined on a case-by-case basis after
evaluation of appropriate documentation.
• Students should refer to the Steps to Accommodations policy
for the appropriate steps and documentation requirements.
To allow the SDS Office sufficient time for processing, requests
for disability accommodations in any disciplinary process should
be submitted immediately upon receipt of notification from the
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Possible Outcomes of the Professional Standards Meeting:
• Warning and Mentoring: If the Professional Practices
Committee issues a recommendation for mentoring, the learner
will be notified within 72 hours with information about the
assigned mentor and directions for contact. Mentoring will be
provided by program faculty for up to four weeks of
mentoring. These activities are to enhance or strengthen the
learner’s understanding of their profession and the ACA Code
of Ethics and to safeguard the counseling field as prescribed.
• Failure of Assignment Grades and/or Courses: The
Professional Practices Committee may issue zeros to
assignments, which in turn may change the final course
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 155 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
grade(s). Failing grades may be assigned by the college in field
experience classes and in response to problems with practice
hours accumulated, not adhering to ethical codes, or removal
from the field practice site.
• Suspension from Clinical Practice: Developmental Action Plan
(DAP) for unprofessional behavior and conduct, as defined by
the ACA Code of Ethics and/or applicable specialized code of
ethics, may be the subject of a code of conduct violation
charge and/or developmental action plan. Note: Ethical
violations may result in the learner being reported to the
applicable state licensing board (for information on different
types of violations, and potential consequences refer to the
“Unprofessional Conduct Acknowledgement Form” located in
the practicum manuals).
• Program Removal: The recommendation for administrative
withdrawal must be approved by the Assistant/Associate Dean
(or designee) over the learner’s program, and referred to the
University’s Code of Conduct Committee for final review and
determination/processing. Please see the Procedures for
Processing Alleged Violations of the Student Code of Conduct
for additional information.
Additional Notes:
a. If learners are removed from a didactic or practicum course, as
part of a developmental action plan, they may need to retake
the course at their own expense. Learners are encouraged to
discuss any financial or other concerns with a Student Services
Counselor (SSC). Learners may also be assigned a failing
grade for the assignment(s), which may result in course failure.
Learners may be assigned a failing grade for the course despite
actual end of course grade.
b. Learners may not participate in developmental action plans
more than two times. Learners who do not complete the
correction action plan successfully will be referred by the
Professional Practices Committee to the Code of Conduct
committee for removal from the program.
c. The Professional Practices Committee may recommend
learners to attend therapeutic services at their own cost. As
prescribed by the ACA and/or applicable specialized standards
of gatekeeping. The Professional Practices Committee may
determine a referral to the University Code of Conduct
Committee is appropriate, in addition to or in place of, any
College-level penalties. Learners may appeal a determination
made by the Professional Practices Committee by utilizing the
University Appeal Procedures and submitting a formal appeal
through a Student Services Counselor.
Developmental Plan for Unprofessional Behavior
Unprofessional conduct, as defined by the ACA Code of Ethics
and/or applicable specialized code of ethics, may be the subject
of a code of conduct violation charge and/or developmental
action plan.
• Depending on the determination made by the Professional
Practices Committee, learners may be administratively
withdrawn from practicum or internship courses, placed on a
hold and asked to participate in a mandatory four-week
mentoring session. If administratively withdrawn, learners will
be issued an “F” as a final grade. If learners are terminated
from sites due to an unethical or illegal behavior and,
consequently, administratively withdrawn from an individual
practicum or internship course, the practicum hours completed
during this time will not be counted for that course.
• To resume practicum experiences, learners must successfully
complete the terms of their developmental action plans, which
includes mentoring within the allotted four-week period.
Learners will not earn credits or practicum hours for
completing developmental action plans.
• If learners are administratively withdrawn from a practicum or
internship course as part of a developmental action plan, they
may need to retake the course at their own expense. Learners
are encouraged to discuss any financial or other concerns with
a Learner Services Adviser (SSA).
• The Developmental Action Plan (DAP) rubric serves as the
evaluative component related to the learner’s remediation. If a
learner receives a score of ‘1’ on the DAP rubric, they will
automatically be referred back to the PPC for further decision.
Additionally, if a learner receives a score of ‘2’ or less in two
or more categories from the DAP rubric, they will also be
referred back to the PPC for further decision.
• Learners may not participate in developmental action plans
more than twice. Learners who do not successfully complete
their developmental action plan will not be able to graduate
with a counseling degree.
• Ethical violations may result in the learner being reported to
the state licensing board (for information on different types of
violations, and potential consequences refer to the
“Unprofessional Conduct Acknowledgement Form” located in
the practicum manuals).
Essential Functions to Meet Requirements for Counselor
Education and Supervision Program
• Individuals are required to navigate their assigned
responsibilities independently
• Applicants who are unable to meet the Essential Functions are
responsible for discussing the possibility of reasonable
accommodations with Student Disabilities Services
Categories Essential Functions
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(NOT ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Behavioral/In
terpersonal
(relationships
)
Develop mature,
sensitive, and effective
therapeutic
relationships with
individuals, families
and groups of various
social, emotional,
cultural, and intellectual
backgrounds.
Demonstrate ethical
behaviors.
• Nonjudgmental
behavior
• Respond to a
variety of
behaviors (anger,
fear, hostility) in a
calm manner
• Demonstrate a high
level of patience
and respect
• Establish rapport
with clients and
members of the
healthcare team
• Adhere to GCU
policies,
procedures and
requirements as
described in the
University Policies
Handbook (UPH),
Guidelines for
Undergraduate
and/or Graduate
Field Experience
Manual, and course
syllabi.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 156 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Categories Essential Functions
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(NOT ALL
INCLUSIVE)
Professional
Behavior
Report to sites as
scheduled and acts in a
professional manner
with supervisors, peers
and clients.
• Timeliness
• Preparedness
• Hygiene and
professional dress
Communicati
on &
Technology
Literacy
Utilizes technology
skills and
communication
strategies in English to
communicate health
information accurately
and with legal and
regulatory guidelines,
upholding the strictest
standards of
confidentiality.
• Read, understand,
write and speak the
primary language
of the site
• Communicate
thoughts, ideas and
action plans with
clarity, using
written, verbal
and/or visual
methods
• Explain treatment
procedures
• Initiate mental
health teaching
• Document
patient/client
responses
• Validate
responses/message
s with others
• Use appropriate
nonverbal
communication
• Ability to perform
a variety of
technological skills
Problem
Solving/Critic
al Thinking
Collect, analyze,
prioritize, integrate, and
generalize information
and knowledge to make
sound clinical
judgments and
decisions to promote
positive client outcomes
• Identify cause-
effect relationships
in clinical
situations
• Develop plans of
care as required
• Identifies changes
in client mental
health status
• Handles multiple
priorities in
stressful situations
Categories Essential Functions
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(NOT ALL
INCLUSIVE)
General
Health/Emoto
nal Stability
Ability to tolerate
environmental stressors • Tolerate long
periods of standing
and/or sitting as
required
• Maintain focus and
appropriate
behavior
• Flexibility and
ability to adjust to
changing situation
and uncertainty in
clinical situations
• Affective skills and
appropriate
demeanor and
rapport that relate
to professional
education and
quality patient care
Professional Development
To successfully complete the Ph.D. in Counselor Education and
Supervision program at Grand Canyon University and be eligible
for graduation, a student must be able demonstrate proficiency in
five areas:
1. Attainment of scholastic competency in all coursework as
evaluated through the assessment of CES standards,
presentation and acceptance of the Candidacy e-Portfolio, the
Dissertation defense, and by maintaining an overall GPA of
3.0.
2. Acquisition of, and ability to apply advanced counseling,
teaching, supervision and leadership skills with a diverse
population and to a standard acceptable by CES Core faculty
and the learner’s doctoral committee. These skills are
evaluated throughout the Ph.D. Program and ultimately by
successful defense of the Candidacy e-Portfolio.
3. Demonstration of emotional and mental stability and maturity
in interaction with others, including the ability to maintain
healthy boundaries, communicate appropriately, successfully
manage personal anxiety or uncomfortable feelings, work
collaboratively with others, and resolve interpersonal conflict.
This proficiency is evaluated throughout the program in all
interactions with faculty, staff, administrators, supervisors,
adjuncts, and other learners; including both verbal and written
communications.
4. Adherence to the Professional Identity and Standards as
outlined by the American Counseling Association’s Code of
Ethics, Association of Counselor Educators and Supervisor
standards and the CES Doctoral Dispositions. This proficiency
is evaluated throughout the program in all interactions with
faculty, staff, administrators, supervisors, adjuncts, and fellow
students; including both verbal and written communications.
5. Demonstration of the ability to work within the worldview of
diverse clients and integrate faith and spirituality into
counseling where appropriate in an ethically competent and
culturally sensitive manner.
Candidacy e-Portfolio
From the start of their program, doctoral learners work on their
Candidacy e-Portfolio and plan to have it completed after the
following program milestones: Core Courses, Practicum, and
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 157 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Internship. This capstone activity requires students to present an
overview of their professional development, as counselor
educators to their Doctoral Committee and CES Core Faculty.
CES learners will not be able to enroll in PCE-955 until their e-
Portfolio has been accepted. The Candidacy e-Portfolio reflects
the student’s proficiency in the Ph.D. in Counselor Education and
Supervision Program Learning Objectives, readiness for the
rigors of Dissertation Research, and solidity as a counselor-
leader.
Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology (Ph.D.)
This degree is not intended for those seeking licensure in clinical
practice. Those interested in licensure or certification should
identify the applicable requirements by inquiring directly with
their state or province.
Doctor of Health Administration: Operational Leadership
In addition to standard GCU admission and dissertation
requirements stated in the University Handbook, there are two
paths to enroll in the the Doctor of Health Administration
program.
Option 1: Master's degree in health care administration or an
allied health care profession that includes clinical or practicum
experience;
Option 2: Master's degree with demonstrated experience (min. 2
years) in a health care profession
Non-Degree Programmatic
Progression Requirements
HS Dual Enrollment
Each fall, continuing high school students must maintain a 3.0
GCU enrollment cumulative GPA, as well as the required high
school GPA, in order to continue in the HS Dual Enrollment
program. Students who fail to meet the 3.0 GCU enrollment
cumulative GPA in the fall semester will not be able to
participate in the spring semester of the same academic year.
Students may enroll in no more than two online courses at a time.
Blind Review Process for
Previous Arrests or Criminal
Records
Previous arrests or a criminal record may prevent students from
being placed at training sites, obtaining licensure, registration,
certifications, or employment in the field, or otherwise
compromise the ability to complete admission or programmatic
requirements. In the academic context, Grand Canyon University
convenes a blind review panel to review a student’s criminal
history when there is reasonable concern that the student may not
meet such requirements. In these cases, all demographic
identifiers related to the criminal record are removed and the
review panel evaluates the criminal conduct as it relates to
potential licensure, field placement, or other programmatic
requirements. If the panel determines that the student should not
be cleared for continuation in the program, the student will have
the option to enroll in a non-clinical or non-licensure program.
This includes the College of Theology, for which admission may
be denied based on criminal history that does not align with the
College’s Covenantal Standards. Admission denial through the
blind review process cannot be appealed.
Additionally, approval to continue does not guarantee the
student’s placement, as sites may conduct their own background
checks and determine that a student’s criminal history disallows
placement in their setting. Similarly, Grand Canyon University
cannot determine whether an individual’s criminal history will
prevent future licensure. Licensing authorities may conduct their
own criminal background checks and ultimately deny a student’s
professional licensure based on past criminal conduct
Code of Conduct and Academic
Standards
Student Code of Conduct
Grand Canyon University endeavors to create an atmosphere of
value-based liberal arts education. All students who enroll in the
University are expected to accept the responsibilities of
university citizenship and to show consideration and respect for
personal freedom and property rights of members of the civic and
academic community. Students are expected to abide by ethical,
professional, and academic standards that are conducive to a
positive learning experience. These expectations include, but are
not limited to, the expectations that the student:
• Gives appropriate attention to college level work
• Attends class, exercises, and engagements as required
• Acknowledges and accepts the responsibility of honorable
adherence to the University’s standards, rules, policies, and
procedures
• Supports and exhibits ethical behavior with fellow students,
faculty, and staff
• Recognizes and embraces the diversity and personal values of
others
• Exhibits self-direction and self-reliance as a college student
and in the pursuit of individual and collaborative learning
objectives and goals
• Acknowledges and accepts personal responsibility and
accountability for his or her actions, interactions, and
communication in all forms with fellow students, faculty, and
staff
• Upholds confidentiality and respect for personal or
professional information communicated in the classroom
• Adheres to University policies and standards of academic
honesty
Conduct Violations
The following is a non-exhaustive list of actions that are
considered student conduct violations, for which students are
subjected to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion
from the University:
• Falsification, forgery, alteration, or invention of information,
including, but not limited to, any document used for admission
or eligibility to the University, or other official University
documents.
• Communicating or behaving in any form that disrupts or
interferes with the educational process or any institutional
function
• Behaving in any manner that creates a disruption, or a hostile
or offensive educational environment for a student, faculty
member, or staff member
• Failing to adhere to college dispositional expectations, policies
and standards, as referred to the Code of Conduct Committee
by college Professional Practices Committees.
• Failing to adhere to the Community Standards for Ground
Campus, as referred to the Code of Conduct Committee by the
Student Affairs Student Conduct Committee.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 158 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Failing to adhere to the requirements of the Service Animals
and Assistive Animals Policy.
• Failing to comply promptly with any reasonable directive from
a faculty member or University official
• Failing to cooperate with officials in a University investigation
• Possessing, using, distributing, or being under the influence of
alcohol or illegal drugs while on University property or as part
of any University activity
• Permitting anyone, with the exception of authorized persons,
access to one’s classroom, to attend class in one’s stead, or to
attend class for another
• Sharing one’s password or using someone else’s password for
any University system or network
• Using, possessing, or removing property that does not belong
to the student without consent from the owner of the property
or other legally responsible party. This includes, but is not
limited to, theft of property or services, unauthorized
alteration, misuse, or tampering with safety and security
equipment, unauthorized access or use of University resources,
and knowing possession of stolen property or materials
• Using any University system, network, or other IT resources to
upload, download, or otherwise share and/or distribute any
copyrighted music, video, software, written works, or other
materials without the written consent of the copyrighted
owner.
• Recording of any kind in the classroom (or wherever academic
instruction occurs), including the use of any audio or video
technology, unless provided with prior written permission
from the faculty member or an approved accommodation by
Student Disability Services.
• Recording of any meetings on campus, including the use of
audio or video technology, between or amongst faculty, staff,
students, community members, or authorized visitors, without
the prior knowledge and consent of all meeting participants or
where the audio or video recordings is likely to cause injury or
distress.
Campus Violence and Substance Abuse
Prevention
Grand Canyon University is committed to creating a safe
educational atmosphere and providing an appropriate learning
environment for the University community. Therefore, the
University prohibits and will take immediate action, up to and
including expulsion, against the following:
• Threatening statements, behaviors, or acts of violence against
students, faculty, and staff
• Acting in a manner which can be interpreted as physical
assault or abuse
• Threatening to harm or endanger the safety of others.
• Behaving or acting in a manner which carries the potential for
violence or acts of aggression, as interpreted by a reasonable
person
Possessing a firearm on campus:
Students possessing a firearm on campus are subject to
immediate review by the Threat Assessment Team and may face
expulsion from the University. Expulsions are processed by the
Code of Conduct Committee and are not subject to appeal. Law
Enforcement Officers, on or off duty, are exempt from this
provision.
Selling/Distribution of Illegal and Unprescribed Drugs:
In addition to legal consequences which may result from the
involvement of law enforcement, this policy applies to students
found to be selling, distributing, or possessing an amount
determined to be for more than personal use of illegal or
prohibited substances, or paraphernalia indicative of
selling/distribution. This includes but is not limited to the intent
or ability to distribute.
Illegal drugs are defined as any controlled substance banned by
the State of Arizona and/or the United States Federal
Government. In addition to these banned controlled substances,
GCU also prohibits the possession and distribution of synthetic
marijuana products/ substitutes such as “Spice”, “K2” or
“Potpourri”; “Bath Salts”; prescription medication not prescribed
to the possessor and synthetic substances categorized as a drug by
law enforcement. Drug paraphernalia is described as any
equipment, product or material that is modified or used for
making, consuming, using or concealing drugs. This includes but
it is not limited to the use or possession of a Hookah pipe, glass
smoking pipe or items altered to assist in the making, using or
concealing drugs including the scent of drugs.
Academic Integrity Violations
As indicated in the Code of Conduct, all students are expected to
possess a high standard of conduct and personal integrity in the
classroom. Academic dishonesty is defined as any act of
deception in an academic setting. The following examples
include, but are not limited to, academic integrity violations for
which students may be subjected to disciplinary action:
• Cheating, attempting to cheat, or assisting others to cheat,
including dishonest activity or unauthorized use of any
resource, technology or materials in any academic exercise.
• Fabricating, falsifying, forging, altering, or inventing
information that applies, but is not limited to, academic
coursework, any academic exercise or academic activity
• Plagiarizing, intentionally or unintentionally, the words,
works, or ideas of others without proper citation or
acknowledgement and representing them as one’s own in any
academic exercise. Paraphrasing sources which do not
represent the student’s original words or ideas without proper
citation or acknowledgement
• Presenting work that has been prepared by someone or
something other than the student, including the purchase and
sharing of work.
• Submitting work that has been prepared and used for a
different course, wholly or in part, and without appropriate
citation of the original work and prior approval of faculty
• Using materials or technology not authorized by the faculty
member to complete an assignment, or the unauthorized
completion of an assignment by someone other than the
student, including, but not limited to, providing/receiving
exam answers, using faculty materials, answer keys, or
solution manuals, generative AI technologies or machine
learning technologies.
• Collaborating in an unsanctioned manner - Students must work
individually on homework, assignments, and other assigned
coursework, unless collaboration has been expressly permitted
by the instructor. Students who do collaborate without express
permission of their instructor must inform the instructor of the
nature of their collaboration
• Violating copyright laws and regulations.
• Violating the University’s policies and regulations pertaining
to the use and propriety nature of the Grand Canyon University
curriculum, network, networking facilities, computer use, or
platform access
• Selling or providing papers, essays, discussion questions,
assignments, or any part of the University curriculum, to other
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 159 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
students, online term paper clearinghouses, or other
commercial websites.
• Unauthorized use of any generative AI tool to complete a
discussion question, assignment, or exam.
• Neglecting to properly cite or give credit to any generative AI
tool on a discussion question, assignment, or exam where the
use of such tools was explicitly permitted by an instructor
Procedure for Processing Alleged Violations of the
Student Code of Conduct
The University may take disciplinary action against a student
who violates the University’s Code of Conduct. Reports are
forwarded to the Office of Academic Compliance upon discovery
of the incident. Additionally, faculty are required to notify
students that an incident report will be submitted to the Office of
Academic Compliance. Reports submitted for specific actions, as
recommended by college Professional Practices Committees or
Threat Assessment Team are forwarded for processing only and
are not subject to the procedures outlined in this section.
The Office of Academic Compliance reviews the report, as well
as any history of prior offenses, which may result in a non-
punitive sanction as an initial penalty, specifying immediate
corrective measures. If a more severe sanction is recommended
after review, the student will receive an Official Notification
from the Office of Academic Compliance.
Students who are formally charged with a violation of the Student
Code of Conduct and receive an Official Notification are
afforded an opportunity to be heard. These students will be
contacted by the Office of Academic Compliance and offered the
opportunity to present documentation and speak on their own
behalf to the Code of Conduct Committee, which includes the
Dean (or designee) of the appropriate College. As part of the
Official Notification, students are offered three ways in which
they may present refutation information to the Code of Conduct
Committee: 1) Written statement; 2) Phone conference, and 3)
Virtual in-person meeting (A camera is required for virtual
meeting participation and students are responsible for any
expenses incurred).
Students are not required to present information to the Code of
Conduct Committee. If the student does not respond within seven
days of the Official Notification, the student forfeits the right to
participate in the process and a determination will be made by the
Code of Conduct Committee. To preserve the safety of the
University community, the University reserves the right to
expedite the seven-day notification period in order to address
egregious or emergency issues. In cases where the notification
period is expedited, a student still maintains full opportunity to
respond and participate in the process.
Students are not entitled to representation by any third party,
personal representative, or attorney in the University disciplinary
process.
The University does not discriminate based on disability in the
course of administering discipline. A student with a disability
who is subject to disciplinary proceedings may request an
accommodation for their disability and the University will engage
in the interactive process upon such a request.
• To receive accommodations through the University, students
are required to self-identify by completing the Accommodation
Request Form and provide supporting documentation to
Student Disability Services. Only the SDS Office can approve
accommodations.
o Students can submit the accommodation request form at
https://sds.gcu.edu or in person in the SDS office.
o Supporting documentation can be submitted via email to
[email protected] or submitted through the link
while completing the Accommodation Request Form.
• All requests for disability accommodations in student
disciplinary proceedings are subject to an individualized
determination. Whether such a request is reasonable and/or
would be a fundamental alteration of the University’s
disciplinary policies is determined on a case-by-case basis after
evaluation of appropriate documentation.
• Students should refer to the Steps to Accommodations policy
for the appropriate steps and documentation requirements.
To allow the SDS Office sufficient time for processing, requests
for disability accommodations in any disciplinary process should
be submitted immediately upon receipt of notification from the
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
In-Course Penalties
The instructor determines the penalty for academic dishonesty
that occurs during the course, as it relates to the outcome of the
course for the student. An in-class penalty may include, but is not
limited to:
• Requiring a rewrite of the assignment or paper, with or without
point deductions
• Awarding limited credit for a specific assignment or paper
• Awarding no credit for a specific assignment or paper
• An instructor may not prevent a student from attending or
completing a course, as this would be a University-level
decision. However, the professor can recommend such action
to the Code of Conduct Committee in the Classroom Incident
Report.
University Penalties
The Code of Conduct Committee determines all University-level
penalties. In making its determination, the Committee considers
the severity of the offense, as well as the student’s history at the
University, including previous violations. A University-level
penalty may include, but is not limited to:
• Applying an official disciplinary warning to the student record
(which may result in further penalties for additional
occurrences)
• Assigning a failing grade for the assignment(s)
• Assigning a failing grade for the course
• Removing a student from class
• Stipulating suspension for 15-weeks
• Stipulating expulsion for two years
• Revoking academic credit or degree
Due to the complexity of student records, Code of Conduct
recommendation for academic suspension, academic expulsion,
and the revocation of academic credit or degree must be reviewed
by a Provost, or designee. Upon conclusion of a required
separation period, students who are suspended or expelled from
the University for a code of conduct violation may apply for
reinstatement by submitting a formal appeal through a Student
Services Counselor; however, re-admittance is not guaranteed.
The preceding sections notwithstanding, the University President,
Provost, Registrar, or their designee, have the authority and sole
discretion to carry out an immediate administrative action on
behalf of the University, up through and including expulsion,
when a student’s continued enrollment constitutes a significant
risk to members of the University community, or to the orderly
functioning of the University. Removals from the University
under this provision are not subject to appeal.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 160 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Grand Canyon University requires the use of plagiarism detection
software, by which student work is monitored for plagiarism. The
University retains all student work submitted to the plagiarism
detection database.
The University reserves the right to review all courses for any
purpose at any time. If unreported / undiscovered academic
dishonesty is found through course examination, the University
may engage in a thorough investigation of all coursework the
student completed at GCU. Upon completion of the investigation,
if the University believes academic dishonesty has occurred, a
report will be submitted to the Office of Academic Compliance
for disciplinary action by the Code of Conduct Committee.
Internal Review Policy
We expect our students, prospective and current, to be ethical and
honest members of the University community and beyond.
Fraudulent behavior, or attempting to commit fraud, will not be
tolerated. Such fraudulent activity includes, but is not limited to:
• Falsification, forgery, alteration, or invention of information,
including, but not limited to, any document used for admission
or eligibility to the University, document used to apply for
financial aid, or other official University documents, including
the misuse of documents, records, accounts, identification, or
financial instruments.
• The inability or unwillingness of a student or prospective
student to demonstrate academic intent or verify eligibility or
identity.
• Acting on behalf of another student and/or allowing someone
to act on one’s behalf without approved documentation on file.
GCU complies with the recommendation of the Department of
Education, Office of Inspector General (OIG) to have a system in
place for detecting and monitoring for fraud. Therefore,
individuals or groups suspected of violating these provisions will
be selected for Internal Review, required to comply, and
complete the review process. Such students may be placed on
hold and unregistered from future courses, which may prevent
any type of funding to be disbursed until cleared through the
Internal Review process. Those deemed ineligible for admission
may be permanently denied admittance, or dismissed from the
University, by the Registrar or designee. Students
administratively withdrawn through these provisions are
processed separately from the Code of Conduct procedures.
Students may be responsible for any balances or charges
incurred.
Grand Canyon University will submit any credible information
indicating that an applicant or student may have engaged in fraud
or other misconduct in regards to their Federal Financial Aid
application to the Office of Inspector General of the US
Department of Education.
Title IX and Non-Discrimination
Policy
Definitions
• Complainant means an individual who is alleged to be the
victim of conduct that could constitute harassment or
discrimination based on a protected class; or retaliation for
engaging in a protected activity.
• Day means a business day when the University is in normal
operation.
• Education program or activity means locations, events, or
circumstances where Grand Canyon University exercises
substantial control over both the Respondent and the context in
which the sexual harassment or discrimination occurs and also
includes any building owned or controlled by a student
organization that is officially recognized by the University.
• Formal Grievance Process means either the Title IX Hearing
Process or the Discriminatory Harassment Administrative
Resolution Process.
• Hearing Board/Decision-Maker(s) refers to those who have
decision-making and sanctioning authority within the
University’s Formal Grievance process.
• Notice means that an employee, student, or third-party informs
the Title IX Coordinator of the alleged occurrence of
harassing, discriminatory, and/or retaliatory conduct.
• Parties include the Complainant(s) and Respondent(s),
collectively.
• Remedies are post-finding actions directed to the Complainant
and/or the community as mechanisms to address safety,
prevent recurrence, and restore access to the University’s
educational program.
• Respondent means an individual who has been reported to be
the perpetrator of conduct that could constitute harassment or
discrimination based on a protected class; or retaliation for
engaging in a protected activity.
• Resolution means the result of an informal or Formal
Grievance Process.
• Sanction means a consequence imposed by the University on a
Respondent who is found to have violated this policy.
• Sexual Harassment is the umbrella category including the
offenses of sexual harassment, sexual assault, stalking, and
dating violence and domestic violence.
• Title IX Coordinator is the official designated by Grand
Canyon University to ensure compliance with Title IX and the
University’s Title IX program. References to the Coordinator
throughout this policy may also encompass a designee of the
Coordinator for specific tasks.
• Title IX Pool refers to the Title IX Coordinator, any Deputy or
Assistant Deputy Coordinators, investigators, hearing board
chairs, and any member of the Hearing Board Pool.
Notice of Non-Discrimination
Grand Canyon University, while reserving its lawful rights where
appropriate to take actions designed to ensure and promote the
Christian principles that sustain its mission and heritage,
prohibits unlawful discrimination, including any form of
harassment and/or retaliation, on the basis of age, disability,
national origin, race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, veteran
status, or any other classification protected by applicable law, in
its employment, admissions policies, educational programs, or
activities. It is the purpose of the University to pursue the very
highest and academic standards within a context that celebrates
and extends the spiritual and ethical ideals of the Christian faith.
This policy also complies with the Title IX requirements related
to non-discrimination.
Applicable Scope
Grand Canyon University adheres to all federal and state civil
rights laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination in private
institutions of higher education. This policy covers
nondiscrimination in both employment and access to educational
opportunities. Sometimes, discrimination involves exclusion
from activities, such as admission, athletics, or employment.
Other times, discrimination takes the form of harassment or, in
the case of sex-based discrimination, can encompass not
accommodating pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions,
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 161 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
sexual harassment, sexual assault, stalking, sexual exploitation,
dating violence or domestic violence.
Therefore, any member of the University community whose acts
deny, deprive, or limit the educational or employment or
residential and/or social access, benefits, and/or opportunities of
any member of the University community, guest, or visitor on the
basis of that person’s actual or perceived membership in the
protected classes listed above is in violation of the University
Title IX and Non-Discrimination Policy. When brought to the
attention of the University, any such discrimination will be
promptly and fairly addressed and remedied according to the
appropriate grievance process described below.
The Title IX Hearing Process procedures apply only to qualifying
allegations of sexual harassment (including sexual assault, dating
violence, domestic violence, and stalking, as defined above)
involving students, staff, administrator, or faculty members.
Complaints of other protected class harassment or discrimination
are resolved through the Discriminatory Harassment
Administrative Resolution Process. The Discriminatory
Harassment Administrative Resolution Process can also apply to
sexual harassment (including sexual assault, dating violence,
domestic violence, and stalking, as defined above) when
jurisdiction does not fall within the Title IX Hearing Process, as
determined by the Title IX Coordinator.
Title IX Coordinator
Complaints or notice of alleged policy violations, or inquiries
about or concerns regarding this policy and procedures, may be
made internally to:
Shanna Milonas, MBA
Title IX and 504 Coordinator
Assistant Vice President of Academic Compliance
3300 W. Camelback Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85017
(602) 639-5900
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.gcu.edu/titleix
The Title IX and 504 Coordinator oversees implementation of the
University’s policy on equal opportunity, harassment, and
nondiscrimination. The Title IX Coordinator has the primary
responsibility for coordinating University’s efforts related to the
intake, investigation, resolution, and implementation of
supportive measures to stop, remediate, and prevent
discrimination, harassment, and retaliation prohibited under this
policy. The Title IX Coordinator oversees all resolutions under
this policy and these procedures. The Title IX Coordinator
manages the Title IX Pool and acts with independence and
authority free from bias and conflicts of interest. The members of
the Title IX Pool are vetted and trained to ensure they are not
biased for or against any party in a specific case, or for or against
Complainants and/or Respondents, generally. Concerns of bias or
a potential conflict of interest by any other Title IX Pool member
should be raised with the Title IX Coordinator.
Deputy Title IX Coordinator
Kelsey Cross, MBA
3300 W. Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85017
602-639-5900
The Deputy Title IX Coordinator reports to the Title IX
Coordinator to assist with day-to-day leadership, coordination
and oversight of the University Title IX program and assists with
assuring institutional compliance with Title IX. The Deputy Title
IX Coordinator assists the Title IX Coordinator by playing a lead
role in monitoring and implementing Title IX compliance
measures in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and
University policies.
Assistant Deputy Title IX Coordinators
The University has also designated Assistant Deputy Title IX
Coordinators who may assist the Title IX/Deputy Coordinator
with implementing and monitoring appropriate policies,
procedures, training programs, best practices, and other items
related to compliance with Title IX. Assistant Deputy Title IX
Coordinators ensure potential Title IX issues are immediately
reported to the Title IX/Deputy Title IX Coordinator.
For Students:
Tim Griffin, Ed.D
Dean of Students
3300 W. Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85017
602-639-6647
For Athletics:
Jamie Boggs
Deputy Director of Athletics
Senior Women’s Administrator
3300 W. Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85017
602-639-6611
Inquiries may be made externally to:
Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-1100
Customer Service Hotline #: (800) 421-3481
Facsimile: (202) 453-6012
TDD#: (877) 521-2172
Email: [email protected]
Web: http://www.ed.gov/ocr
For complaints involving employees: Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
Forms of Prohibited Discrimination and
Harassment
The sections below describe specific forms harassment that are
prohibited under this policy. All offense definitions encompass
actual and/or attempted offenses.
Disability Discrimination and Accommodation
GCU fully complies with the Americans With Disabilities Act of
1990 (ADA), as amended, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation
Act of 1973, which prohibit discrimination against qualified
persons with disabilities, as well as other federal and state laws
and regulations pertaining to individuals with disabilities. Shanna
Milonas has been designated as the 504 Coordinator responsible
for overseeing efforts to comply with these disability laws,
including responding to grievances and conducting investigations
of any allegation of noncompliance or discrimination based on
disability.
Any participants, beneficiaries, applicants, or employees,
including students, staff, faculty, and visitors who believes they
have been subjected to discrimination on the basis of disability
(or is unsatisfied with accommodations provided by the
University) may file a grievance. The University has mechanisms
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 162 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
in place to resolve concerns about disability discrimination,
denial of access to services, accommodations required by law, or
an auxiliary aid they believe they should have received
(“disability-related issues”), such as:
• Disagreements regarding a requested service, accommodation,
modification of a University practice or requirement, or denial
of a request
• Inaccessibility of a program or activity
• Violation of privacy in the context of a disability
GCU encourages students and campus visitors with concerns
about a disability-related issue to first discuss the matter with the
Student Disability Services (SDS) Office, who will attempt to
facilitate a resolution. The SDS Office can be reached at
[email protected] or 602-639-6342. In order to receive
accommodations, students must complete the Steps to
Accommodations, as outlined in the University Policy Handbook.
Employees and applicants for employment should first contact
the HR Service Center regarding disability-related issues at
[email protected] or 602-639-6549. In order to receive
accommodations, an employee must complete the process
outlined in the Employee Handbook.
Grievances related to disability status and/or accommodations
will be addressed using the Informal Resolution Process or the
Discriminatory Harassment Administrative Resolution Process.
Discriminatory Harassment
Discriminatory harassment is defined as unwelcome conduct by
any member or group of the community on the basis of actual or
perceived membership in a class protected by policy or law.
When discriminatory harassment rises to the level of creating a
hostile environment, complaints will be addressed using the
Informal Resolution Process or the Discriminatory Harassment
Administrative Resolution Process.
A hostile environment is one that unreasonably interferes with,
limits, or effectively denies an individual’s educational or
employment access, benefits, or opportunities. This
discriminatory effect results from harassing verbal, written,
graphic, or physical conduct that is severe or pervasive and
objectively offensive. If harassment creates a hostile
environment, GCU will take prompt and effective steps
reasonably calculated to end the harassment, eliminate the hostile
environment, prevent its recurrence, and, as appropriate, remedy
its effects.
Discriminatory harassment, based on a protected class, creates a
hostile environment when the behavior is sufficiently serious to
deny or limit one’s ability to participate in or benefit from the
recipient’s education programs and activities or interferes with an
employee’s ability to perform their job. Racial and national origin
is a specific form of discriminatory harassment which can take
many forms, including slurs, taunts, stereotypes, or name-calling,
as well as racially-motivated physical threats, attacks, or other
hateful conduct.
The University reserves the right to address offensive conduct
and/or harassment that 1) does not rise to the level of creating a
hostile environment, or 2) that is of a generic nature and not
based on a protected status, by referring the complaint to an
alternatively appropriate process.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual Harassment is a specific form of discriminatory
harassment and an unlawful discriminatory practice. Acts of
sexual harassment may be committed by any person upon any
other person, regardless of the sex of those involved. Sexual
Harassment, as an umbrella category, includes the offenses of
sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating
violence, and stalking, and is defined as:
Conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more of the
following:
1. Quid Pro Quo:
An employee of the University conditions the provision of an
aid, benefit, or service of the University on an individual’s
participation in unwelcome sexual conduct; and/or
2. Sexual Harassment:
Unwelcome conduct, determined by a reasonable person, to be
so severe, and pervasive, and, objectively offensive, that it
effectively denies a person equal access to the University’s
education program or activity. Unwelcomeness is subjective
and determined by the Complainant (except when the
Complainant is below the age of consent). Severity,
pervasiveness, and objective offensiveness are evaluated based
on the totality of the circumstances from the perspective of a
reasonable person in the same or similar circumstances.
3. Sexual assault, defined as:
a. Sex Offenses, Forcible: Any sexual act directed against
another person, without the consent of the Complainant,
including instances in which the Complainant is incapable of
giving consent.
b. Forcible Rape: Penetration, no matter how slight, of the
vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral
penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the
consent of the Complainant.
c. Forcible Sodomy: Oral or anal sexual intercourse with
another person that is forcibly committed, and/or against
that person’s will (non-consensually), or not forcibly or
against the person’s will in instances in which the
Complainant is incapable of giving consent because of age
or because of temporary or permanent mental or physical
incapacity.
d. Sexual Assault with an Object: The use of an object or
instrument to penetrate, however slightly, the genital or anal
opening of the body of another person, forcibly, and/or
against that person’s will (non-consensually), or not forcibly
or against the person’s will in instances in which the
Complainant is incapable of giving consent because of age
or because of temporary or permanent mental or physical
incapacity.
e. Forcible Fondling: The touching of the private body parts of
another person (buttocks, groin, breasts), for the purpose of
sexual gratification, forcibly, and/or against that person’s
will (non-consensually), or not forcibly or against the
person’s will in instances in which the Complainant is
incapable of giving consent because of age or because of
temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
f. Sex Offenses, Non-forcible:
i. Incest: Non-forcible sexual intercourse, between
persons who are related to each other, within the
degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by Arizona law.
ii. Statutory Rape: Non-forcible sexual intercourse, with a
person who is under the statutory age of consent of
Arizona.
4. Dating Violence, defined as: Violence, on the basis of sex,
committed by a person, who is in or has been in a social
relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the
Complainant.
a. The existence of such a relationship shall be determined
based on the Complainant’s statement and with
consideration of the length of the relationship, the type of
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 163 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
relationship, and the frequency of interaction between the
persons involved in the relationship.
For the purposes of this definition, dating violence includes,
but is not limited to, sexual or physical abuse or the threat of
such abuse. Dating violence does not include acts covered
under the definition of domestic violence.
5. Domestic Violence, defined as: Violence, on the basis of sex,
committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of
the Complainant, by a person with whom the Complainant
shares a child in common, or by a person who is cohabitating
with, or has cohabitated with, the Complainant as a spouse or
intimate partner, or by a person similarly situated to a spouse
of the Complainant under the domestic or family violence laws
of Arizona, or by any other person against an adult or youth
Complainant who is protected from that person’s acts under
the domestic or family violence laws of Arizona.
To categorize an incident as Domestic Violence, the
relationship between the Respondent and the Complainant
must be more than just two people living together as
roommates. The people cohabitating must be current or former
spouses or have an intimate relationship.
6. Stalking, defined as: Engaging in a course of conduct, on the
basis of sex, directed at a specific person, that would cause a
reasonable person to fear for the person’s safety, or the safety
of others; or suffer substantial emotional distress.
For the purposes of this definition, course of conduct means
two or more acts, including, but not limited to, acts in which
the Respondent directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by
any action, method, device, or means, follows, monitors,
observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates to or about a
person, or interferes with a person’s property. Reasonable
person means a reasonable person under similar circumstances
and with similar identities to the Complainant. Substantial
emotional distress means significant mental suffering or
anguish that may but does not necessarily require medical or
other professional treatment or counseling.
Consensual Relationships
Consensual sexual conduct between GCU employees and
students or prospective students is strictly prohibited due to the
unequal power inherent in their interactions. Certain exceptions
to this prohibition may apply to unique situations, including
employees and students who are spouses; employees and students
who may have already been involved in a sexual relationship
prior to the time they were hired or became a student.
The University reserves the right to impose any level of sanction,
ranging from a reprimand up to and including suspension or
expulsion/termination, for any offense under this policy.
Force, Coercion, Consent, and Incapacitation
As used in the offenses outlined in this policy, the following
definitions and understandings apply:
Force: Force is the use of physical violence and/or physical
imposition to gain sexual access. Force also includes threats,
intimidation (implied threats), and coercion that is intended to
overcome resistance or produce consent.
• Sexual activity that is forced is, by definition, non-consensual,
but non-consensual sexual activity is not necessarily forced.
Silence or the absence of resistance alone is not consent.
Consent is not demonstrated by the absence of resistance.
While resistance is not required or necessary, it is a clear
demonstration of non-consent.
• Coercion is unreasonable pressure for sexual activity. Coercive
conduct differs from seductive conduct based on factors such
as the type and/or extent of the pressure used to obtain consent.
When someone makes clear that they do not want to engage in
certain sexual activity, that they want to stop, or that they do
not want to go past a certain point of sexual interaction,
continued pressure beyond that point can be coercive.
Consent: Knowing, voluntary, clear permission, either by
affirmative words or actions, to engage in sexual activity.
• Silence does not necessarily constitute consent.
• Valid consent requires clear words or actions that the other
individual consented to that specific sexual conduct.
Reasonable reciprocation can be implied.
• Clear communication from the outset is strongly encouraged.
If consent is not clearly provided prior to engaging in the
activity, consent may be ratified by word or action at some
point during the interaction or thereafter.
• Since individuals may experience the same interaction in
different ways, it is the responsibility of each party to
determine that the other has consented before engaging in the
activity.
• Consent can also be withdrawn once given, as long as the
withdrawal is reasonably and clearly communicated. If consent
is withdrawn, that sexual activity should cease.
• Consent to some sexual contact (such as kissing or fondling)
cannot imply consent for other sexual activity (such as
intercourse). A current or previous intimate relationship does
not sufficiently constitute consent.
Proof of consent or non-consent is not a burden placed on either
party involved in an incident. Instead, the burden remains on the
University to determine whether its policy has been violated. The
existence of consent is based on the totality of the circumstances
evaluated from the perspective of a reasonable person in the same
or similar circumstances, including the context in which the
alleged incident occurred and any similar, previous patterns that
may be evidenced.
Incapacitation: A state where someone cannot make rational,
reasonable decisions because they lack the capacity to give
knowing/informed consent (e.g., to understand the “who, what,
when, where, why, or how” of their sexual interaction).
Incapacitation is determined through consideration of all relevant
indicators of an individual’s state and is not synonymous with
intoxication, impairment, blackout, and/or being drunk.
• A person cannot consent if they are unable to understand what
is happening or is disoriented, helpless, asleep, or unconscious,
for any reason, including by alcohol or other drugs.
• This policy also covers a person whose incapacity results from
a temporary or permanent physical or mental health condition,
involuntary physical restraint, and/or the consumption of
incapacitating drugs.
The Respondent is in violation of this policy if they knew, or
should have known, the Complainant to be physically or mentally
incapacitated. “Should have known” is an objective, reasonable
person standard which assumes that a reasonable person is both
sober and exercising sound judgment. The Respondent’s use of
alcohol or other drugs will never function as a defense for any
behavior that violates this policy.
Other Civil Rights Offenses
In addition to the forms of sexual harassment described above,
which fall within the coverage of Title IX, the University
additionally prohibits the following offenses as forms of
discrimination outside of Title IX when the act is based upon the
Complainant’s actual or perceived membership in a protected
class. Conduct that does not otherwise constitute Title IX sexual
harassment under this policy will be addressed using the Informal
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 164 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Resolution Process or the Discriminatory Harassment
Administrative Resolution Process.
• Sexual Exploitation, defined as: taking non-consensual or
abusive sexual advantage of another for their own benefit or
for the benefit of anyone other than the person being exploited,
and that does not otherwise constitute sexual harassment under
this policy. Examples of Sexual Exploitation include, but are
not limited to:
o Sexual voyeurism
o Invasion of sexual privacy.
o Taking pictures, video, or audio recording of another in a
sexual act, or in any other
o sexually-related activity when there is a reasonable
expectation of privacy during the activity, without the
consent of all involved in the activity, or exceeding the
boundaries of consent, including the making or posting of
revenge pornography
o Prostituting another person
o Engaging in sexual activity with another person while
knowingly infected with human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV) or a sexually-transmitted disease (STD) or infection
(STI), without informing the other person of the infection
o Causing or attempting to cause the incapacitation of another
person (through alcohol, drugs, or any other means) for the
purpose of compromising that person’s ability to give
consent to sexual activity, or for the purpose of making that
person vulnerable to non-consensual sexual activity
o Misappropriation of another person’s identity on apps,
websites, or other venues designed for dating or sexual
connections
o Forcing a person to take an action against that person’s will
by threatening to show, post, or share information, video,
audio, or an image that depicts the person’s nudity or sexual
activity
o Knowingly soliciting a minor for sexual activity
o Engaging in sex trafficking
o Creation, possession, or dissemination or child pornography
• Threatening or causing physical harm, extreme verbal,
emotional, or psychological abuse, or other conduct which
threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person;
• Intimidation, defined as implied threats or acts that cause an
unreasonable fear of harm in
• another;
• Hazing, defined as acts likely to cause physical or
psychological harm or social ostracism to
• any person within the University’s community, when related to
the admission, initiation, joining, or any other group-affiliation
activity;
• Bullying, defined as: Repeated and/or severe, aggressive
behavior, likely to intimidate or intentionally hurt, control, or
diminish another person, physically and/or mentally;
• Discrimination, defined as actions that deprive, limit, or deny
other members of the community of educational or
employment access, benefits, or opportunities, including
disparate treatment.
Violation of any other University policies may constitute a Civil
Rights Offense when a violation is motivated by actual or
perceived membership in a protected class, and the result is a
discriminatory limitation or denial of employment or educational
access, benefits, or opportunities.
Sanctions for the above-listed Civil Rights Offenses range from
reprimand through expulsion/termination.
Mandated Reporting
Except for those who are designated as Confidential Resources,
all employees, including GCU Partner Employees, are Mandated
Reporters and must promptly share with the Title IX Coordinator
all known details of a report made to them in the course of their
employment. Employees must also promptly share all details of
behaviors under this policy that they observe or have knowledge
of, even if not reported to them by a Complainant or third-party.
If a Complainant expects formal action in response to their
allegations, reporting to any Mandated Reporter will result in
immediate referral to the Title IX Coordinator, who will take
action.
Failure of a Mandated Reporter, as described above in this
section, to report an incident of harassment or discrimination of
which they become aware is a violation of this policy and can be
subject to disciplinary.
Federal Timely Warning Obligations
Parties reporting sexual assault, domestic violence, dating
violence, and/or stalking should be aware that under the Clery
Act, Grand Canyon University must issue timely warnings for
incidents reported to them that pose a serious or continuing threat
of bodily harm or danger to members of the campus community.
The University will ensure that a Complainant’s name and other
identifying information is not disclosed, while still providing
enough information for community members to make safety
decisions in light of the potential danger.
Confidential Resources
Confidentiality refers to confidential employees in the context of
laws that protect certain relationships, including medical and
clinical care providers, mental health providers, and counselors
(and those who provide administrative services related to the
provision of those services). If a Complainant would like the
details of an incident to be kept confidential, the Complainant
may speak with:
• On-campus licensed professional counselors and staff
• On-campus health service providers and staff
Privacy
Every effort is made to preserve the privacy of reports. The
University will not share the identity of any individual who has
made a report or complaint of harassment, discrimination, or
retaliation; any Complainant, any individual who has been
reported to be the perpetrator of sex discrimination, any
Respondent, or any witness, except as permitted or required by
applicable laws. For the purposes of FERPA, the University
reserves the right to determine which University officials have a
legitimate educational interest about incidents that fall within this
policy. While there is an expectation of privacy around what
Investigators share with parties during interviews, the parties
have discretion to share their own knowledge and evidence with
others if they so choose.
Jurisdiction
All notice/complaints are evaluated to determine whether the
conduct occurred in the context of GCU’s employment or
educational program or activity and/or has continuing effects on
campus or in an off-campus sponsored program or activity.
Jurisdiction applies to all University educational programs and
activities, to conduct that takes place on campus or on property
owned or controlled by the University, and at University-
sponsored events. Jurisdiction may also be taken when the effects
of off-campus misconduct effectively deprive someone of access
to the University’s educational program or activities. Off-campus
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 165 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
and/or online conduct will be evaluated by the Title IX
Coordinator to determine whether the conduct affects a
substantial University interest.
The Respondent must be a member of the University community
for its policies to apply. When the Respondent is not a member of
the University’s community, supportive measures, remedies, and
resources, including barring the Respondent from University
property and/or events, may be accessible to the Complainant by
contacting the Title IX Coordinator.
This policy includes online and cyber manifestations of any of
the prohibited behaviors, when those behaviors occur in, or have
an effect on, the University’s education program and activities, or
use University networks, technology, or equipment. While the
University may not control websites, social media, and other
venues in which harassing communications are made, when such
communications are reported to University, it may engage in a
variety of means to address and mitigate the effects, including
referral to an alternatively appropriate process when the behavior
may have an effect on the University’s education program and
activities.
Promptness
All allegations are acted upon promptly upon receipt of notice or
a formal complaint. Complaints can take 60-90 business days to
resolve, typically. Exceptions and extenuating circumstances can
cause a resolution to take longer, but the University will avoid all
undue delays within its control. Any time the general timeframes
for resolution will be delayed, the University will provide written
notice to the parties of the delay, the cause of the delay, and an
estimate of the anticipated additional time that will be needed as
a result of the delay.
Supportive Measures
The Title IX Coordinator promptly makes supportive measures
available to the parties upon receiving notice or a complaint.
Supportive measures are non-disciplinary individualized services
offered as appropriate and reasonably available, to the parties to
restore or preserve access to the University’s education program
or activity. This includes measures designed to protect the safety
of all parties or the University’s educational environment, and/or
deter harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation.
The Complainant will be made aware of the ability to file a
formal complaint with the University either at that time or in the
future. The Title IX Coordinator works with the Complainant to
ensure that their wishes are taken into account with respect to the
supportive measures that are planned and implemented. The
University maintains the privacy of the supportive measures, to
the extent practicable. Supportive measures will be applied in a
manner that ensures as minimal an academic impact on the
parties as possible and in a way that does not unreasonably
burden either party.
• These actions may include, but are not limited to:
• Referral to counseling, medical, and/or other healthcare
services
• Referral to community-based service providers
• Education to the community or community subgroup(s)
• Altering campus housing assignment(s)
• Altering work arrangements for employees or student-
employees
• Safety planning
• Providing campus safety escorts
• Implementing contact limitations (no contact orders) between
the parties
• Academic support, extensions of deadlines, or other
course/program-related adjustments
• Trespass, Persona Non Grata (PNG), or Be-On-the-Lookout
(BOLO) orders
• Timely warnings
• Class schedule modifications, withdrawals, or leaves of
absence
• Increased security and monitoring of certain areas of the
campus
• Any other actions deemed appropriate by the Title IX
Coordinator
Violations of no contact orders will be referred to the University
Code of Conduct process for students, or the Corrective Action
Process for employees.
Disabilities Accommodations in the Resolution
Process
Grand Canyon University will provide reasonable
accommodations and support to qualified students, employees, or
others with disabilities to ensure equal access to the resolution
process. Accommodations can be requested by students
contacting Student Disability Services Office, or employees
contacting Human Resources, who will review the request with
the Title IX Coordinator to determine which accommodations are
appropriate and necessary for full participation in the process.
Emergency Removal
The University can act to remove a Respondent entirely or
partially from its education program or activities on an
emergency basis when an individualized safety and risk analysis
has determined that an immediate threat to the physical health or
safety of any student, individual, or the community justifies
removal. This risk analysis is performed by the Title IX
Coordinator in conjunction with the Threat Assessment Team.
When an emergency removal is imposed, the Respondent will be
given notice of the action and the opportunity to be heard by
meeting with the Title IX Coordinator and Threat Assessment
Team prior to the removal being imposed, or as soon thereafter as
reasonably possible, to demonstrate why the removal should not
be implemented or should be modified. This meeting is not a
hearing on the merits of the allegation(s), but rather is intended to
determine whether the emergency removal is appropriate. The
meeting must be requested within three days of notice or
objections to the emergency removal will be deemed waived. A
Respondent may be accompanied by an Advisor of their choice
for the meeting. A Complainant will be permitted to submit a
written statement outlining any concerns with the Respondent’s
request to amend or overturn the emergency removal.
The Title IX Coordinator and Threat Assessment Team have sole
discretion to implement or overturn an emergency removal and
determine the conditions and duration. Violation of an emergency
removal is grounds for discipline, up to and including expulsion
or termination. The least restrictive emergency actions possible,
in light of the circumstances and safety concerns, will be
implemented. These actions include, but are not limited to:
removing a student from campus housing, placing an employee
on administrative leave, restricting access to or use of facilities,
permitting alternative coursework options, allowing a student to
withdraw or take grades of incomplete, and suspending a
student’s participation in extracurricular activities, student
employment, student organizational leadership, or
intercollegiate/intramural athletics.
There is no appeal process for emergency removal decisions.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 166 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Ensuring Impartiality
Any individual materially involved in the administration of the
resolution process may neither have nor demonstrate a conflict of
interest or bias for a party generally, or for a specific
Complainant or Respondent. The parties may, at any time during
the resolution process, raise a concern regarding bias or conflict
of interest, and the Title IX Coordinator will determine whether
the concern is reasonable and supportable. If so, the affected role
will be reassigned and the impact of the bias or conflict, if any,
will be remedied. If the source of the conflict of interest or bias is
the Title IX Coordinator, concerns should be raised with Dr.
Jennifer Lech, Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs.
Grand Canyon University operates with the presumption that the
Respondent is not responsible for the reported misconduct unless
and until the Respondent is determined to be responsible for a
policy violation by the applicable standard of proof.
Time Limits on Reporting
There is no time limitation on providing notice/complaints to the
Title IX Coordinator. However, if the Respondent is no longer
subject to the University’s jurisdiction and/or significant time has
passed, the ability to investigate, respond, and provide remedies
may be limited or impossible. Acting on notice/complaints
significantly impacted by the passage of time is at the discretion
of the Title IX Coordinator, who may document allegations for
future reference, offer supportive measures and/or remedies,
and/or engage in informal or formal action, as appropriate.
Amnesty for Involved Parties and Witnesses
The University strongly encourages students to report instances
of sex-based discrimination, sexual harassment, and sexual
misconduct involving students. Therefore, parties or witnesses
who are students, and who provide information about sex-based
discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, dating
violence, domestic violence, or stalking involving students will
not be disciplined by the University for any violation of the
University’s drug or alcohol possession or consumption policies
in which they might have engaged in connection with the
reported incident. Amnesty does not apply to more serious
allegations such as physical abuse of another or illicit drug
distribution.
False Allegations and Evidence
Deliberately false and/or malicious accusations under this policy,
as opposed to allegations which, even if erroneous, are made in
good faith, are a serious offense and will be subject to appropriate
disciplinary action. Additionally, witnesses and parties
knowingly providing false evidence, tampering with or
destroying evidence after being directed to preserve such
evidence, or deliberately misleading an official conducting an
investigation can be subject to discipline under the University’s
Code of Conduct policy. Charging an individual with a code of
conduct violation for making a materially false statement in bad
faith in the course of a grievance proceeding under this policy
and procedure does not constitute retaliation.
Retaliation
Protected activity under this policy includes reporting an incident
that may implicate this policy, participating in the grievance
process, supporting a Complainant or Respondent, assisting in
providing information relevant to an investigation, and/or acting
in good faith to oppose conduct that constitutes a violation of this
Policy. Alleged retaliation should be reported immediately to the
Title IX Coordinator/504 Coordinator for prompt investigation.
Grand Canyon University will take appropriate steps to protect
individuals concerned they may be subjected to retaliation.
No member of the University community may take materially
adverse action by intimidating, threatening, coercing, harassing,
or discriminating against any individual for the purpose of
interfering with any right or privilege secured by law or policy, or
because the individual has made a report or complaint, assisted,
or participated or refused to participate in any manner in an
investigation, proceeding, or hearing under this policy and
procedure.
Notice/Complaints of Discrimination, Harassment,
and/or Retaliation
Notice or complaints of discrimination, harassment, and/or
retaliation may be made by filing a complaint with, or giving
verbal notice to, the Title IX Coordinator. A report may be made
at any time (including during non-business hours) via telephone,
email, or mail. Reports may also be made to any mandatory
reporter, which will ultimately be referred to the Title IX
Coordinator for further processing. Upon receipt of a complaint
or notice of an alleged policy violation, the Title IX Coordinator
initiates a prompt initial assessment, resulting in at least one of
the following responses:
1. Offering supportive measures because the Complainant does
not want to proceed formally; and/or
2. An informal resolution; and/or
3. A Formal Grievance Process including an investigation
resulting in a hearing or administrative resolution (requires a
formal complaint to be filed with the Title IX Coordinator).
A Formal Complaint refers to a document filed/signed by the
Complainant or signed by the Title IX Coordinator alleging a
policy violation by a Respondent and requesting that the
University investigate the allegation(s).
The investigation and grievance process will determine whether
the Policy has been violated. If so, the University will promptly
implement effective remedies designed to ensure that it is not
deliberately indifferent to harassment or discrimination, their
potential recurrence, or their effects.
When a Complainant Does Not Wish to Proceed
If a Complainant does not wish for their name to be shared, does
not wish for an investigation to take place, or does not want a
formal complaint to be pursued, they may make such a request to
the Title IX Coordinator, who will evaluate that request in light
of the duty to ensure the safety of the campus and to comply with
state or federal law. The Title IX Coordinator has ultimate
discretion over whether the University proceeds when the
Complainant does not wish to do so. The University may be
compelled to act on alleged employee misconduct irrespective of
a Complainant’s wishes.
The Title IX Coordinator may sign a formal complaint to initiate
a grievance process upon completion of an appropriate violence
risk assessment that demonstrates a compelling risk to health
and/or safety that requires the University to pursue formal action
to protect the community. A compelling risk to health and/or
safety may result from evidence of patterns of misconduct,
predatory conduct, threats, abuse of minors, use of weapons,
and/or violence.
The Title IX Coordinator must also consider the effect that non-
participation by the Complainant may have on the availability of
evidence and the University’s ability to pursue a Formal
Grievance Process fairly and effectively. When the University
proceeds, the Complainant may have as much or as little
involvement in the process as they wish. The Complainant retains
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 167 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
all rights of a Complainant under this Policy irrespective of their
level of participation.
In cases in which the Complainant requests confidentiality/no
formal action and the circumstances allow the University to
honor that request, the Title IX Coordinator will offer informal
resolution options, supportive measures, and remedies to the
Complainant and the community, but will not otherwise pursue
formal action. If the Complainant elects to take no action, they
can change that decision if they decide to pursue a formal
complaint later.
Initial Assessment
Following intake, receipt of notice, or a complaint of an alleged
violation of the Title IX and Non-Discrimination Policy, the Title
IX Coordinator engages in an initial assessment, which is
typically completed in one to five business days. The steps in an
initial assessment can include, but are not limited to:
• The Title IX Coordinator reaches out to the Complainant to
offer supportive measures.
• The Title IX Coordinator works with the Complainant to
ensure they are aware of the right to have an Advisor.
• The Title IX Coordinator works with the Complainant to
determine whether the Complainant prefers a supportive
response or an Administrative Resolution.
o If a supportive and remedial response is preferred, the Title
IX Coordinator works with the Complainant to identify their
wishes and then seeks to facilitate implementation. A formal
grievance process is not initiated, though the Complainant
can elect to initiate it later, if desired.
o If an Informal Resolution option is preferred, the Title IX
Coordinator assesses whether the complaint is suitable for
informal resolution and may seek to determine if the
Respondent is also willing to engage in Informal Resolution.
o If a formal grievance process is preferred, the Title IX
Coordinator first determines if the misconduct alleged falls
within the scope of Title IX:
▪ If the alleged misconduct falls within the scope of Title
IX, the Title IX Coordinator will initiate a formal
investigation and the Title IX Hearing Process.
▪ If the alleged misconduct does not fall within the scope of
Title IX, the Title IX Coordinator will “dismiss” that
aspect of the complaint, if any, and refer the matter to a
formal investigation and the Discriminatory Harassment
Administrative Resolution Process.
▪ For both formal resolution processes, the Title IX
Coordinator will direct the investigation to address an
incident, and/or a pattern of alleged misconduct, and/or a
culture/climate issue, based on the nature of the
complaint.
• In many cases, the Title IX Coordinator may determine that a
Violence Risk Assessment should be conducted by the Threat
Assessment Team as part of the initial assessment.
Dismissal (Mandatory and Discretionary)
The University must dismiss a formal complaint or any
allegations therein if, at any time during the investigation or
hearing, it is determined that:
• The conduct alleged in the formal complaint would not
constitute sexual harassment as defined in the Policy, even if
proved; and/or
• The conduct did not occur in an educational program or
activity controlled by the University, and/or the University
does not have control of the Respondent; and/or
• The conduct did not occur against a person in the United
States; and/or
• At the time of filing a formal complaint, a Complainant is not
participating in or attempting to participate in the education
program or activity of the University.
The University may dismiss a formal complaint or any
allegations therein if, at any time during the investigation or
hearing:
• A Complainant notifies the Title IX Coordinator in writing that
the Complainant would like to withdraw the formal complaint
or any allegations therein; or
• The Respondent is no longer enrolled in or employed by the
University; or
• Specific circumstances prevent the University from gathering
evidence sufficient to reach a determination as to the formal
complaint or allegations therein.
Upon any dismissal, the University will promptly send written
notice of the dismissal and the rationale for doing so
simultaneously to the parties. This dismissal decision is
appealable by any party under the procedures for appeal below. A
Complainant who decides to withdraw a complaint may later
request to reinstate it.
Steps in the Investigation Process
All investigations are thorough, reliable, impartial, prompt, and
fair. Investigations involve interviews with all relevant parties
and witnesses; obtaining available, relevant evidence; and
identifying sources of expert information, as necessary. All
parties have a full and fair opportunity to suggest witnesses and
questions, to provide evidence, and to fully review and respond to
all evidence on the record.
During an investigation, the Investigator(s) typically engage in
the following steps (this list is not exhaustive, and the steps may
not be taken in this order):
• In coordination with campus partners, initiate or assist with
any necessary supportive measures.
• Commence a thorough, reliable, and impartial investigation.
This includes interviews with all relevant parties and
witnesses, and the collection of evidence.
• Allow parties to review and verify summaries from their
interview(s).
• Provide parties the opportunity to present witnesses and
evidence for review.
• Allow parties the opportunity to submit questions they would
like asked of the other party, as well as any witnesses.
• Write a comprehensive investigation report, fully summarizing
the investigation, all witness interviews, and addressing all
relevant evidence.
• Provide status updates to the parties throughout the
investigation.
• For the Title IX Hearing Process, prior to the conclusion of the
investigation, provide the parties a copy of the draft
investigation report as well as an opportunity to inspect and
review all of the evidence obtained as part of the investigation
that is directly related to the reported misconduct, for a ten (10)
business day review and comment period so that each party
may meaningfully respond to the evidence. The parties may
elect to waive the full ten days.
• Incorporate relevant elements of the parties’ responses into the
final investigation report, including any additional relevant
evidence, any necessary revisions, and finalize the report.
The Respondent may accept responsibility for all or part of the
alleged policy violations at any point during the investigation or
resolution process. If the Respondent indicates an intent to accept
responsibility for all the alleged misconduct, the process will be
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 168 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
paused, and the Title IX Coordinator will determine whether
Informal Resolution can be used according to the criteria outlined
in this policy. If Informal Resolution is applicable, the Title IX
Coordinator will determine whether all parties and the University
are able to agree on responsibility, sanctions, and/or remedies. If
so, the Title IX Coordinator implements the accepted finding that
the Respondent is in violation of University policy and
implements agreed-upon sanctions and/or remedies, in
coordination with other appropriate administrator(s), as
necessary.
This result is not subject to appeal once all parties indicate their
written assent to all agreed upon terms of resolution. When the
parties cannot agree on all terms of resolution, the process will
resume at the same point where it was paused.
Delays in the Investigation Process and
Interactions with Law Enforcement
The University may undertake a short delay in its investigation
(several days to a few weeks) if circumstances require. Such
circumstances include, but are not limited to: a request from law
enforcement to temporarily delay the investigation, the need for
language assistance, the absence of parties and/or witnesses,
and/or accommodations for disabilities or health conditions.
Parties will be notified in writing regarding the reasoning for any
delays and the anticipated duration. The investigation and
resolution process will resume as soon as feasible. University
action(s) are not typically altered or precluded on the grounds
that civil or criminal charges involving the underlying incident(s)
have been filed or that criminal charges have been dismissed or
reduced.
Counterclaims
Upon receipt of a counterclaim, the Title IX Coordinator will
assess whether the allegations in the counterclaim are made in
good faith or for retaliatory purposes. Counterclaims determined
to have been reported in good faith will be processed using the
grievance procedures below but may occur after resolution of the
underlying initial allegation. Counterclaims may also be resolved
through the same investigation as the underlying allegation, at the
discretion of the Title IX Coordinator. When counterclaims are
not made in good faith, they will be considered retaliatory and
may constitute a violation of this policy.
Role and Participation of Witnesses in the
Investigation
All witnesses, including employees, are expected to cooperate
with and participate in the investigation and resolution process.
Failure to cooperate with and/or participate in the investigation or
resolution process constitutes a violation of policy and may
warrant discipline.
While in-person interviews for parties and all potential witnesses
are ideal, circumstances may require individuals to be
interviewed remotely. The University will take appropriate steps
to reasonably ensure the security/privacy of remote interviews.
Witnesses may also provide written statements in lieu of
interviews or choose to respond to written questions, if deemed
appropriate by the Investigator(s), though not preferred.
Right to an Advisor
The parties may each have an Advisor of their choice present
with them for all meetings and interviews within the resolution
process, if they so choose. The Advisor may be a friend, mentor,
family member, attorney, or any other individual a party chooses
to advise, support, and/or consult with them throughout the
resolution process. The parties may select whomever they wish to
serve as their Advisor, from inside or outside of the University
community, as long as the Advisor is eligible and available.
Choosing an Advisor who is also a witness in the process creates
potential for bias and conflict-of-interest. A party who chooses an
Advisor who is also a witness can anticipate that issues of
potential bias will be explored by the hearing Decision-maker(s).
Advisor’s Role
The parties may be accompanied by their Advisor in all meetings
and interviews. Advisors should help the parties prepare for each
meeting and are expected to advise ethically, with integrity, and
in good faith. The parties are expected to ask and respond to
questions on their own behalf throughout the investigation phase
of the resolution process. Advisors may consult with their
advisee, either privately as needed, or by conferring or passing
notes during any resolution process meeting or interview. For
longer or more involved discussions, the parties and their
Advisors should ask for breaks to allow for private consultation.
Sharing Information with the Advisor
The University expects that the Parties will wish to share
documentation and evidence related to the allegations with their
advisors. The University provides a consent form that authorizes
such sharing. The Parties must complete this form before the
University is able to share records with an advisor. Advisors are
expected to maintain the privacy of the records shared with them.
These records may not be shared with 3rd Parties, disclosed
publicly, or used for purposes not explicitly authorized by the
University. The University will restrict the role of any advisor
who does not respect the sensitive nature of the process or who
fails to abide by the University’s privacy expectations. The
University will not comply with requests that all communication
be made through a Party’s Advisor.
Expectations of an Advisor
The University generally expects an Advisor to adjust their
schedule to allow them to attend investigation meetings when
planned, but may change scheduled meetings to accommodate an
Advisor’s inability to attend, if doing so does not cause an
unreasonable delay. The University may also make reasonable
provisions to allow an Advisor who cannot attend in person to
attend a meeting by telephone, video conferencing, or other
similar technologies as may be convenient and available.
Expectations of the Parties with Respect to Advisors
A party may elect to change Advisors during the process and is
not obligated to use the same Advisor throughout. The parties are
expected to inform the Investigator(s) of the identity of their
Advisor at least two (2) business days before the date of any
meeting or hearing (or as soon as possible if a more expeditious
meeting is necessary or desired). The parties are expected to
provide timely notice to the Title IX Coordinator if they change
Advisors at any time. It is assumed that if a party changes
Advisors, consent to share information with the previous Advisor
is terminated, and a release for the new Advisor must be secured.
Advisors in Title IX Hearings/University-Appointed Advisor
Title IX regulations require cross-examination during a hearing to
be conducted by the parties’ Advisors. The parties are not
permitted to directly cross-examine each other or any witnesses.
If a party does not have an Advisor for a hearing, the University
will appoint a trained Advisor for the limited purpose of
conducting any cross-examination. The University cannot
guarantee equal Advisory rights, meaning that if one party selects
an Advisor who is an attorney, but the other party does not or
cannot afford an attorney, the University is not obligated to
provide an attorney.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 169 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
A party may reject this appointment and choose their own
Advisor, but they may not proceed without an Advisor. If the
party’s Advisor will not conduct cross-examination, the
University will appoint an Advisor who will do so, regardless of
the participation or non-participation of the advised party in the
hearing itself. Extensive questioning of the parties and witnesses
may also be conducted by the Decision-maker(s) during the
hearing.
An Advisor may not be called as a witness at a hearing to testify
to what their advisee has told them during their role as an
Advisor unless the party being advised consents to that
information being shared. It is otherwise considered off-limits,
and an Advisor who is an institutional employee is temporarily
alleviated from mandated reporter responsibilities related to their
interaction with their advisee during the resolution process.
Advisor Violations of University Policy
Any Advisor who oversteps their role as defined by this policy
will be warned only once. If the Advisor continues to disrupt or
otherwise fails to respect the limits of the Advisor role, the
meeting will be ended, or other appropriate measures
implemented. Subsequently, the Title IX Coordinator will
determine how to address the Advisor’s non-compliance and
future role.
All Advisors are subject to the same University policies and
procedures, whether they are attorneys or not. Advisors are
expected to advise their advisees without disrupting proceedings.
The Advisor may not make a presentation or represent their
advisee during any meeting or proceeding and may not speak on
behalf of the advisee to the Investigator(s) or other Decision-
maker(s) except during cross-examination in a Title IX hearing
proceeding
Recording of Interviews
No unauthorized audio or video recording of any kind is
permitted during investigation meetings. If Investigator(s) elect to
audio and/or video record interviews, all involved parties will be
made aware of audio and/or video recording.
Informal Resolution Process
If either party wishes to initiate an Informal Resolution, they
must notify the Title IX Coordinator. If the alleged misconduct
falls within the scope of Title IX, a Complainant will be required
to submit a formal complaint prior to proceeding with an
Informal Resolution. Informal Resolution can include three
different approaches:
• When the parties agree to resolve the matter informally, in a
manner agreeable to all parties;
• When the Respondent accepts responsibility for violating
policy, and desires to accept a sanction and end the resolution
process; or
• When the Title IX Coordinator can resolve the matter
informally by providing supportive measures to remedy the
situation.
It is not necessary to pursue Informal Resolution first in order to
pursue a Formal Grievance Process, and any party participating
in Informal Resolution can stop the process at any time and begin
or resume the Formal Grievance Process. The University will
obtain voluntary, written confirmation that all parties wish to
resolve the matter through Informal Resolution before proceeding
and will not pressure the parties to participate in Informal
Resolution.
The Title IX Coordinator may look to the following factors to
assess whether Informal Resolution is appropriate:
• The parties’ amenability to Informal Resolution;
• Likelihood of potential resolution, taking into account any
power dynamics between the parties;
• The parties’ motivation to participate;
• Civility of the parties;
• Cleared violence risk assessment/ongoing risk analysis;
• Disciplinary history;
• Whether an emergency removal is needed;
• Complaint complexity;
• Rationality of the parties;
The ultimate determination of whether Informal Resolution is
available or successful is to be made by the Title IX Coordinator.
The Title IX Coordinator maintains records of any resolution that
is reached, and failure to abide by the resolution agreement may
result in an appropriate response, including disciplinary actions.
Results of complaints resolved by Informal Resolution are not
appealable.
Formal Resolution Process
Resolution process Pool
The resolution process relies on a pool of administrators (“the
Pool”) to carry out the process. The Pool members receive annual
training; the materials used to train members of the Pool are
publicly posted here: www.gcu.edu/titleix.
Pool Member Roles
Members of the Pool can serve in the following roles, at the
direction of the Title IX Coordinator:
• To act as an Advisor to the parties
• To serve in a facilitation role in informal resolution
• To serve as a hearing Chair or facilitator (process
administrator, no decision-making role)
• To serve as a Decision-maker regarding the complaint
• To serve as an Appeal Decision-maker
Pool Member Appointment
The Title IX Coordinator appoints the Pool, which acts with
independence and impartiality. While members of the Pool are
typically trained in a variety of skill sets and can rotate amongst
the different roles listed above in different cases, the University
can also designate permanent roles for individuals in the Pool,
using others as substitutes or to provide greater depth of
experience when necessary. This process of role assignment may
be the result of particular skills, aptitudes, or talents identified in
members of the Pool that make them best suited to particular
roles.
Withdrawal or Resignation While Charges are
Pending
Should a Respondent (student or employee) withdraw/resign
during the resolution process, the University will continue to
address and remedy any systemic issues, variables that
contributed to the alleged violation(s), and any ongoing effects of
the alleged harassment or discrimination, and/or retaliation. The
following stipulations will also apply:
Students: Should a student decide to not participate in the
resolution process, the process proceeds to a reasonable
resolution absent their participation. Should a student Respondent
permanently withdraw from the University, the resolution process
ends, as there is no disciplinary jurisdiction over the withdrawn
student.
If a student Respondent permanently withdraws while the process
is pending, they are ineligible to return to the University, and the
Offices of Academic Records and Academic Compliance will be
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 170 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
notified that they cannot be readmitted. They may also be barred
from University property and/or events. If the student
Respondent takes a leave of absence for a specified period of
time, the resolution process may continue remotely, and that
student is not permitted to return active enrollment unless the
investigation is concluded and all sanctions have been satisfied.
Employees: Should an employee Respondent resign with
unresolved allegations pending, the resolution process ends, as
the University no longer has disciplinary jurisdiction over the
resigned employee. The employee who resigns with unresolved
allegations pending is not eligible for rehire with the University.
Title IX Hearing Process
The Title IX Hearing Process, as described below, applies only to
qualifying allegations of sexual harassment (including sexual
assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, as
defined above) involving students, staff, administrator, or faculty
members which fall within the scope of Title IX and do not meet
the criteria for dismissal. If any component of the allegation
meets these criteria, the Title IX Hearing Process will be utilized
in lieu of the Discriminatory Harassment Administrative
Resolution Process.
Notice of Investigation and Allegations
The Title IX Coordinator will provide written notice of the
investigation and allegations (the “NOIA”) to the Respondent
upon commencement of the Formal Grievance Process.
The NOIA will include:
• A meaningful summary of all of allegations,
• The identity of the involved parties (if known),
• The precise misconduct being alleged,
• The date and location of the alleged incident(s) (if known),
• The specific policies implicated,
• Information on the ability for each party to have an Advisor of
their choosing,
• Details on how the party may request disability
accommodations during the interview process,
• The name(s) of the Investigator(s), along with a process to
identify, in advance of the interview process, to the Title IX
Coordinator any conflict of interest that the Investigator(s) may
have.
Amendments and updates to the NOIA may be made as the
investigation progresses and more information becomes available
regarding the addition or dismissal of various charges.
Evidentiary Considerations
The formal resolution process does not consider: 1) incidents not
directly related to the possible violation, unless they evidence a
pattern; 2) the character of the parties; or 3) questions and
evidence about the Complainant’s sexual predisposition or prior
sexual behavior, unless such questions and evidence about the
Complainant’s prior sexual behavior are offered to prove that
someone other than the Respondent committed the conduct
alleged by the Complainant, or if the questions and evidence
concern specific incidents of the Complainant’s prior sexual
behavior with respect to the Respondent and are offered to prove
consent.
Referral for Hearing
Once the final investigation report is shared with the parties, the
Title IX Coordinator will refer the matter for a hearing. The
hearing cannot be less than ten (10) business days from the
conclusion of the investigation –when the final investigation
report is transmitted to the parties and the Decision-maker–unless
all parties and the Decision-maker agree to an expedited timeline.
The Title IX Coordinator will select an appropriate Chair, and
Decision-makers from the Pool.
Hearing Board Composition
The Title IX Coordinator designates a three-member panel from
the Pool. One of the three members will be appointed as Chair by
the Title IX Coordinator. The Chair serves to facilitate the
hearing and decision-making process. The Hearing Board will
not have had any previous involvement with the investigation.
Notice of Hearing
Notice of the hearing will be provided to the parties (at least 10
days in advance). The notice will contain:
• A description of the alleged violation(s), a list of all policies
allegedly violated, a description of the applicable procedures,
and a statement of the potential sanctions/responsive actions
that could result.
• The time, date, and location of the hearing and a reminder that
attendance is mandatory, superseding all other campus
activities.
• Any technology that will be used to facilitate the hearing.
• Information about the option for the live hearing to occur with
the parties located in separate rooms using technology that
enables the Decision-maker(s) and parties to see and hear a
party or witness answering questions. Such a request must be
raised with the Title IX Coordinator at least five (5) business
days prior to the hearing.
• A list of all those who will attend the hearing, along with an
invitation to object to any Decision-maker based on
demonstrated bias. This must be raised with the Title IX
Coordinator at least two (2) business days prior to the hearing.
• A statement that if any party or witness does not appear at the
scheduled hearing, the hearing may be held in their absence,
and the party’s or witness’s testimony and any statements
given prior to the hearing will not be considered by the
Decision-maker(s). For compelling reasons, hearing may be
rescheduled.
• Notification that the parties may have the assistance of an
Advisor of their choosing at the hearing and will be required to
have one present for any questions they may desire to ask. The
party must notify the Title IX Coordinator if they do not have
an Advisor, and the University will appoint one. Each party
must have an Advisor present. There are no exceptions.
• A copy of all the materials provided to the Decision-maker(s)
about the matter, unless they have been provided already.
• An invitation to each party to submit to the Chair an impact
statement pre-hearing that the Decision-maker will review
during any sanction determination.
• An invitation to contact the Title IX Coordinator to arrange
any disability accommodations, language assistance, and/or
interpretation services that may be needed at the hearing, at
least seven (7) business days prior to the hearing.
Alternative Hearing Participation Options
If a party or parties prefer not to attend or cannot attend the
hearing in person, the party should request alternative
arrangements from the Title IX Coordinator at least five (5)
business days prior to the hearing.
The Title IX Coordinator can arrange to use technology to allow
remote testimony without compromising the fairness of the
hearing. Remote options may also be needed for witnesses who
cannot appear in person. Any witness who cannot attend in
person should let the Title IX
know at least five (5) business days prior to the hearing so that
appropriate arrangements can be made.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 171 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Pre-Hearing Preparation
Any witness scheduled to participate in the hearing must have
been first interviewed by the Investigator(s) or have proffered a
written statement or answered written questions, unless all parties
and the Chair assent to the witness’s participation in the hearing.
The same holds for any evidence that is first offered at the
hearing. If the parties and Chair do not assent to the admission of
evidence newly offered at the hearing, the Chair will delay the
hearing and instruct that the investigation needs to be re-opened
to consider that evidence.
The parties will be given a list of the names of the Decision-
maker(s) at least five (5) business days in advance of the hearing.
All objections to any Decision-maker must be raised in writing,
detailing the rationale for the objection, and must be submitted to
the Title IX Coordinator as soon as possible and no later than
three days prior to the hearing. Decision-makers will only be
removed if the Title IX Coordinator concludes that their bias or
conflict of interest precludes an impartial hearing of the
allegation(s).
The Decision-maker(s) will receive the investigative materials at
least five (5) business days in advance of the hearing. Any
Decision-maker who cannot make an objective determination
must recuse themselves from the proceedings. If a Decision-
maker is unsure of whether a bias or conflict of interest exists,
they must raise the concern to the Title IX Coordinator as soon as
possible.
Hearing Procedures
Participants at the hearing will include the Chair, the Board
members, the Investigator(s) who conducted the investigation,
the parties, Advisors to the parties, any called witnesses, the Title
IX Coordinator and anyone providing authorized
accommodations or assistive services.
The Chair will answer all questions of procedure. Anyone
appearing at the hearing to provide information will respond to
questions on their own behalf. The Chair will allow witnesses
who have relevant information to appear at a portion of the
hearing in order to respond to specific questions from the
Decision-maker(s) and the parties and will then be excused.
Joint Hearings
In hearings involving more than one Respondent or in which two
(2) or more Complainants have accused the same individual of
substantially similar conduct, the default procedure will be to
hear the allegations jointly. However, the Title IX Coordinator
may permit the investigation and/or hearings pertinent to each
Respondent to be conducted separately if there is a compelling
reason to do so. In joint hearings, separate determinations of
responsibility will be made for each Respondent with respect to
each alleged policy violation.
The Order of the Hearing – Introductions and
Explanation of Procedure
The Chair explains the procedures and introduces the
participants. The Chair then conducts the hearing according to the
hearing script. At the hearing, recording, witness logistics, party
logistics, curation of documents, separation of the parties, and
other administrative elements of the hearing process are managed
by the Title IX Coordinator.
Investigator Presents the Final Investigation Report
The Investigator(s) will then present a summary of the final
investigation report, including items that are contested and those
that are not, and will be subject to questioning by the Decision-
maker(s) and the parties (through their Advisors). The
Investigator(s) will be present during the entire hearing process,
but not during deliberations.
Neither the parties nor the Decision-maker(s) should ask the
Investigator(s) their opinions on credibility, recommended
findings, or determinations, and the Investigators, Advisors, and
parties will refrain from discussion of or questions about these
assessments. If such information is introduced, the Chair will
direct that it be disregarded.
Testimony and Questioning
Once the Investigator(s) present their report and are questioned,
the parties and witnesses may provide relevant information in
turn, beginning with the Complainant, and then in the order
determined by the Chair. The parties/witnesses will submit to
questioning by the Decision-maker(s) and then by the parties
through their Advisors (“cross-examination”).
All questions are subject to a relevance determination by the
Chair. The Advisor will pose the proposed question orally,
electronically, or in writing, the proceeding will pause to allow
the Chair to consider it, and the Chair will determine whether the
question will be permitted, disallowed, or rephrased.
The Chair will then state their decision on the question for the
record and advise the party/witness to whom the question was
directed, accordingly. The Chair will explain any decision to
exclude a question as not relevant, or to reframe it for relevance.
The Chair will limit or disallow questions on the basis that they
are irrelevant, unduly repetitious (and thus irrelevant), or abusive.
The Chair has final say on all questions and determinations of
relevance, subject to any appeal. The Chair may ask advisors to
frame why a question is or is not relevant from their perspective
but will not entertain argument from the advisors on relevance
once the Chair has ruled on a question.
Cross-Examination and Inferences
Any party or witness may choose not to offer evidence and/or
answer questions at the hearing, either because they do not attend
the hearing, or because they attend but refuse to participate in
some or all questioning. The Decision-maker(s) can only rely on
whatever relevant evidence is available through the investigation
and hearing in making the ultimate determination of
responsibility. The Decision-maker(s) may not draw any
inference solely from a party’s or witness’s absence from the
hearing or refusal to submit to cross-examination or answer other
questions.
Recording Hearings
Hearings (but not deliberations) are recorded by the University
for purposes of review in the event of an appeal. The parties may
not record the proceedings and no other unauthorized recordings
are permitted. The Decision-maker(s), the parties, their Advisors,
and appropriate administrators of the University will be permitted
to listen to the recording in a controlled environment determined
by the Title IX Coordinator. No person will be given or be
allowed to make a copy of the recording without permission of
the Title IX Coordinator.
Deliberation, Decision-making, and Standard of
Proof
The Decision-maker(s) will deliberate in closed session to
determine whether the Respondent is responsible or not
responsible for the policy violation(s) in question. A majority
vote is required to determine the finding. The preponderance of
the evidence standard of proof is used.
The parties may each submit a written impact statement prior to
the hearing for the consideration of the Decision-maker(s) at the
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 172 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
sanction stage of the process when a determination of
responsibility is reached. When there is a finding of responsibility
on one or more of the allegations, the Decision-maker(s) may
then consider the submitted party impact statements and any
pertinent conduct history in determining appropriate sanction(s).
The Chair will then prepare a written deliberation statement and
deliver it to the Title IX Coordinator, detailing the determination,
rationale, the evidence used in support of its determination, the
evidence disregarded, credibility assessments, and any sanctions.
This report must be submitted to the Title IX Coordinator within
two (2) business days of the end of deliberations.
Discriminatory Harassment Administrative
Resolution Process
The Discriminatory Harassment Administrative Resolution
Process, as described below, applies to all allegations of
harassment or discrimination based on protected class status,
involving students, staff, faculty members, or third-parties, that
are not eligible for resolution under the Title IX Hearing Process.
At any point during the initial assessment or formal investigation,
if the Title IX Coordinator determines that reasonable cause does
not support the conclusion that policy has been violated, the
process will end, and the parties will be notified.
Notice of Investigation
If the Administrative Resolution Process is initiated, the Title IX
Coordinator will provide written notification of the investigation
to the parties, as applicable, at an appropriate time during the
investigation. Notification will include a meaningful summary of
the allegations made in writing. The notification will include the
policies allegedly violated, if known at the time. The policies
allegedly violated can be modified, in writing, as the
investigation progresses, and details become clearer.
Investigation and Resolution
The investigation will commence in accordance with the process
described in the preceding “Steps in the Investigation Process.”
Upon conclusion of the investigation, the Title IX Coordinator
appoints a three-member decision-maker panel from the Pool
members to review the investigative materials and all responses.
The appointed decision-makers will conduct a thorough review
and evaluate the totality of circumstances based on the
preponderance of the evidence within 10 business days.
Sanctions
Upon determination of a finding of responsibility in either the
Title IX Hearing Process or Discriminatory Harassment
Administrative Resolution Process, the following factors are
considered when determining a sanction/responsive action, which
may include, but are not limited to:
• The nature, severity of, and circumstances surrounding the
violation(s)
• The Respondent’s disciplinary history
• Previous allegations or allegations involving similar conduct
• The need for sanctions/responsive actions to bring an end to
the discrimination,
• harassment, and/or retaliation
• The need for sanctions/responsive actions to prevent the future
recurrence of
• discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation
• The need to remedy the effects of the discrimination,
harassment, and/or
• retaliation on the Complainant and the community
• The impact on the parties
• Any other information deemed relevant by the Decision-
maker(s)
The sanctions will be implemented as soon as is feasible, either
upon the outcome of any appeal or the expiration of the window
to appeal without an appeal being requested. The sanctions
described in this policy are not exclusive of, and may be in
addition to, other actions taken, or sanctions imposed by external
authorities.
A. Student Sanctions
The following are the usual sanctions that may be imposed
upon students or organizations singly or in combination:
• Warning: A formal statement that the conduct was
unacceptable and a warning that further violation of any
University policy, procedure, or directive will result in more
severe sanctions/responsive actions.
• Required Counseling: A mandate to meet with and engage
in either University-sponsored or external counseling to
better comprehend the misconduct and its effects.
• Probation: A written reprimand for violation of institutional
policy, providing for more severe disciplinary sanctions if
the student or organization is found in violation of any
institutional policy, procedure, or directive within a
specified period of time. Terms of the probation will be
articulated and may include denial of specified social
privileges, exclusion from co-curricular activities, exclusion
from designated areas of campus, no-contact orders, and/or
other measures deemed appropriate.
• Suspension: Termination of student status for a defined
period and/or until specific criteria are met. After the
suspension period is observed, a student is eligible to apply
for reinstatement, although reinstatement is not guaranteed.
• Expulsion: Termination of student status and revocation of
rights to be on campus for any reason or to attend
University-sponsored events, for a period of two years. After
the expulsion period is observed, a student is eligible to
apply for reinstatement, although reinstatement is not
guaranteed.
• Denial of Commencement Participation: The University
may deny or restrict a student participation in
commencement activities.
• Organizational Sanctions: Deactivation, loss of recognition,
loss of some or all privileges for a specified period.
• Other Actions: In addition to or in place of the above
sanctions, the University may assign any other sanctions as
deemed appropriate.
B. Employee Sanctions
Responsive actions for an employee who has engaged in
harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation include
disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
Notice of Outcome
Upon conclusion of either the Title IX Hearing Process or
Discriminatory Harassment Administrative Resolution Process,
the Title IX Coordinator, in conjunction with the decision-
making body as appropriate, will prepare the Notice of Outcome,
including the finding for each alleged policy violation, the
rationale supporting the essential findings, and any sanction(s).
The Notice of Outcome will typically be issued within three
business days; the Notice of Outcome will be delivered to the
parties simultaneously. The determination may be appealed by
either party, therefore, the Notice of Outcome includes the
grounds on which the parties may appeal and the steps to request
an appeal.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 173 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Appeals
All requests for appeal consideration must be submitted in
writing to the Title IX Coordinator within 5 business days of the
delivery of the Notice of Outcome. Any party may appeal the
findings only under the grounds described below.
• A procedural error or omission occurred that significantly
impacted the outcome of the hearing (e.g., substantiated bias,
material deviation from established procedures, etc).
• To consider new evidence, unknown or unavailable during the
investigation, that could substantially impact the original
finding or sanction. A summary of this new evidence and its
potential impact must be included.
• The sanctions imposed fall outside the range of sanctions the
University has designated for this offense.
Appeals will be reviewed as follows:
Grievance Process
Type Appeal Decision-Maker
Title IX Hearing Board
Process
Three-member panel
chosen from the pool, who
were not previously
involved in the resolution
process.
Discriminatory
Harassment
Administrative
Resolution Process
Three-member panel to
include the Title IX
Coordinator and two pool
members previously
uninvolved in the resolution
process.
Disability Discrimination
and Accommodation
Three-member panel to
include the 504
Coordinator, Director of
Student Disability Services,
and a pool member
previously uninvolved in
the resolution process.
Upon receipt of an appeal, the appropriate decision-maker(s) will
review the request to determine if it meets the grounds for appeal.
If the appeal does not meet the established criteria, the request
will be denied and the parties will be notified in writing of the
denial and the rationale. If the request does meet the established
appeal criteria, the decision-maker(s) will be provided all the
documentation and materials used to make the initial
determination. Appeals are not intended to be full re-hearings of
the allegation(s). In most cases, appeals are confined to a review
of documentation or record of the investigation pertinent to the
grounds for appeal.
The appeal decision-maker(s) will typically issue the
determination within 5 business days of receipt of the accepted
appeal. A Notice of Appeal Outcome will be sent to all parties
simultaneously including the decision on each ground for appeal
and rationale for each decision.
Appeal Considerations
• Any sanctions imposed as a result of the hearing are postponed
during the appeal process. Supportive measures may be
reinstated.
• Decisions on appeal are to be deferential to the original
decision, making changes to the finding only when there is
clear error and to the sanction(s)/responsive action(s) only if
there is a compelling justification to do so.
• Appeal decision-makers have the authority to apply any
administrative resolution necessary based on the merits of an
approved appeal, up to and including overturning a decision or
sanction, fully or in part.
• In cases where new evidence is presented which warrants
further review, the appeal timeframe may be extended. The
parties will be notified of any such delays.
• An appeal decision is the final determination of the University.
Failure to Comply with Sanctions
Failure to abide by the sanction(s)/action(s) imposed by the date
specified, whether by refusal, neglect, or any other reason, may
result in a referral to the University’s Code of Conduct for
students for additional sanction(s)/action(s), including expulsion.
Employees will be referred to Human Resources for further
corrective action up to and including termination.
Multicultural, Diversity, and
Inclusion Policy
Grand Canyon University is committed to policies that promote
inclusiveness, social justice, and respect for all. It is expected that
all students demonstrate mutual respect and courtesy to one
another, faculty, staff and administration. Grand Canyon
University also affirms that the racial and ethnocultural diversity
of its community is a source of excellence, enrichment and
strength. Further, Grand Canyon University acknowledges its on-
going responsibility to foster fairness and respect, to create and
maintain a positive working and learning environment and to
promote anti-racism. The Institutional Access and Compliance
Office is responsible for formally administering this policy which
does not cover conduct prohibited by the University’s Title IX
and Non-Discrimination Policy.
Definitions
Bias - Prejudice; an inclination or preference, especially one that
interferes with impartial judgment.
Cultural Appropriation - The adoption or misuse of icons, rituals,
aesthetic standards, and behavior from one culture or subculture
by another. It is generally applied when the subject culture is a
minority culture or somehow subordinate in social, political,
economic, or military status to appropriating culture. This
“appropriation” often occurs without any real understanding of
why the original culture took part in these activities, often
converting culturally significant artifacts, practices, and beliefs
into “meaningless” pop-culture or giving them a significance that
is entirely different/less nuanced than they would originally have
had.
Ethnic - Of or related to a particular race, nationality, language,
religion, or cultural heritage. “Ethnic” in the context of the U.S.
has also come to represent concepts, characteristics, or cultural
values and norms that are not typical of white/European ancestry
persons.
Intolerant conduct - lack of tolerance; unwillingness or refusal to
tolerate or respect opinions or beliefs contrary to oneself.
unwillingness or refusal to tolerate or respect persons of a
different social group, especially members of a minority group
Race - A grouping of human beings based on a shared geographic
dispersion, shared history, nationality, ethnicity, or genealogical
lineage. Race is also defined as a grouping of human beings
determined by distinct physical characteristics genetically
transmitted.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 174 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Racism - Racism can be understood as individual and
institutional practices and policies based on the belief that a
particular race is superior to others. This often deprives specific
individuals and groups of certain civil liberties, rights, and
resources, hindering social, educational, and political
advancement opportunities.
Violations
The University makes every effort to address statements, actions,
or behaviors reflecting bias, prejudice, or intolerance from
prospective and current students, faculty, and staff. Intolerant
conduct can be physical, verbal, visual, or communicated orally,
in writing, or electronically. Therefore, the Institutional Access
and Compliance Office will review and may act on reports of
behavior or communication based on bias, prejudice, or
intolerance that impacts the learning environment or causes a
disruption to the University community, which do not violate the
University’s Title IX and Non-Discrimination Policy. Examples
of conduct that may be considered intolerant include, but are not
limited to:
• Bullying or intimidating behavior or words.
• Degrading a person or group based on a racial or ethnic
characteristic.
• Communication that includes prejudicial words, graphics, or
slurs regarding a protected class.
• Suggested or actual violence by one’s self or encouraging
others to commit violence against a protected class.
• Cultural misappropriation by taking, using, or showing
disrespect toward another’s culture by using items in an
inappropriate manner or shows a lack of understanding of the
culture.
This policy includes online and cyber manifestations of any of
the prohibited behaviors. While the University may not control
websites, social media, and other venues in which this behavior
may occur, when such communications are reported to
University, it may engage in a variety of means to address and
mitigate the effects, including referral to an alternatively
appropriate process.
Procedure for Processing Alleged Violations of the
Multicultural, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy
Upon submission of a complaint alleging racial or ethnic
intolerance, the University’s Institutional Access and Compliance
Office reviews the report to determine if the conduct creates a
hostile environment based on race, color, or national origin that is
sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive so as to interfere with
or limit an individual’s ability to participate in or benefit from a
University program. Complaints that meet these criteria are
reviewed under the University’s Title IX and Non-Discrimination
Policy. If the complaint is not actionable under the Title IX and
Non-Discrimination Policy, the complaint will be further
reviewed under the Multicultural, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy.
Depending on the status of the person being reported, concerns
will be addressed differently.
1. Faculty and Staff
The Employee Handbook and applicable employment law
apply to issues regarding staff and faculty. Therefore, the
manager and Human Resources will be included in the
discussion regarding intolerant conduct by faculty or staff,
including the investigation and any determination of sanction.
The Institutional Access and Compliance Office will document
the actions taken, and keep its own records while Human
Resources and the manager also keeps the records for which
they are responsible.
2. Prospective Students
Reports concerning prospective students will be reviewed by
the Institutional Access and Compliance, in conjunction with
the Director of Admissions, to determine whether the behavior
precludes them from being a part of the GCU community.
Depending on the severity of the behavior, the prospective
student may be deemed ineligible for admission and notified
by the Office of Academic Records. Reports concerning
prospective students who are approved to continue with the
admission process will be reviewed by the Institutional Access
and Compliance Office to determine if further action is
warranted under the Multicultural Diversity and Inclusion
Policy.
3. Students
The Institutional Access and Compliance Office reviews each
complaint to determine the severity and implications of the
behavior demonstrated by the reported student, as well as any
history of prior offenses. If the Institutional Access and
Compliance Office intends to take further action, under the
Multicultural, Diversity and Inclusion Policy, as a result of the
report, students are notified of their opportunity to be heard,
present information, and speak on their own behalf to the
assigned Investigator. All investigations are thorough, reliable,
impartial, prompt, and fair. Investigations involve interviews
with all relevant parties and witnesses, and obtaining available,
relevant evidence, as necessary. All parties have a full and fair
opportunity to suggest witnesses and questions, to provide
evidence, and to review and respond to the allegations and
evidence. During the investigation, the Investigator will
typically engage in the following (this list is not exhaustive).
• In coordinator with campus partners, initiate or assist with
any necessary supportive measures.
• Conduct a thorough, reliable, and impartial investigation.
This includes interviews with all relevant parties and
witnesses, and the collection of evidence.
• Provide the parties the opportunity to present witnesses and
evidence for review.
• Provide notice to the parties regarding the status/outcome of
the investigation, as necessary
Students accused of violating the Policy are not required to
participate in the process, but the process will proceed to a
reasonable resolution absent their participation. Following the
conclusion of the investigation, a determination will be made
by the Institutional Access and Compliance Office, based on a
preponderance of the evidence standard of proof. If the
behavior is substantiated, the Institutional Access and
Compliance Office will apply appropriate sanction(s). The
resources and/or sanctions may be different dependent on the
modality of the involved student(s).
4. Alumni
The University has determined that it has no jurisdiction over
alumni’s behavior after completing their degree. Therefore,
this policy will not be applied to any complaint regarding a
graduated student. A hold will be placed on the alumni’s
education record to have any reported incidents reviewed by
the Multicultural, Diversity and Inclusion Office prior to
reenrollment, should the alumni attempt to return to pursue
another degree.
If either party wishes to initiate an Informal Resolution, they
may notify the Institutional Access and Compliance Office.
Informal Resolution can include three different approaches:
• When the parties agree to resolve the matter informally, in a
manner agreeable to all parties;
• When the Respondent accepts responsibility for violating
policy, and desires to accept a sanction and end the
resolution process; or
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 175 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• When the Institutional Access and Compliance Office can
resolve the matter informally by providing supportive
measures to remedy the situation
It is not necessary to pursue Informal Resolution first in order to
pursue a Formal Complaint, and any party participating in
Informal Resolution can stop the process at any time and begin or
resume the Formal Complaint process. The University will obtain
voluntary, written confirmation that all parties wish to resolve the
matter through Informal Resolution before proceeding and will
not pressure the parties to participate in Informal Resolution.
Students are not entitled to representation by any third party,
personal representative, or attorney in the process. However,
students may have an advisor or support person of their choice
present with them for all meetings and interviews within the
resolution process, if they so choose. Any Advisor who disrupts
or otherwise fails to respect the limits of the Advisor role, the
meeting will be ended, or other appropriate measures
implemented.
Sanctions
The University first believes in restorative justice. Sanction and
restorative outcomes preserve individual and institutional
integrity and whenever possible and appropriate, seek to help an
individual to learn from their mistakes, repair harms, and regain
their standing in the community. If the case is more severe,
higher level sanctions will be levied which may include
termination for faculty and staff, and referral to the University’s
Threat Assessment Team, or Code of Conduct Committee with a
recommendation for suspension or expulsion for students.
1. Faculty and Staff,
For validated reports the sanctions for faculty and staff will
follow the Grand Canyon University Employee Handbook and
applicable employment laws.
2. Students
When determining sanction(s) the institution will consider the
individual’s present demeanor; past conduct record(s); the
nature of the offense; the severity of any damage, disruption,
injury, or harm resulting there from; impact statement; and
other factors may be considered.
Possible sanctions include, but are not limited to:
• Deferred or Denied Admission
• Non-Disciplinary Behavioral Notice
• Disciplinary Behavioral Warning
• Apology
• Mentoring
• Mediation
• Educational Program
• Community Services
• Restitution (fines/fees)
• University Probation
• Campus Restriction
University Appeal Procedures
The process described herein relates only to the formal
University-level procedure for student appeals, including
academic and financial issues. In some cases, a student may
appeal a financially or academically related University policy or
decision, including tuition, fees, a Code of Conduct or an
Academic Dishonesty charge when extreme extenuating
circumstances merit, and where supporting documentation exists.
The appeal process is designed to offer the student multiple
opportunities to be heard, as illustrated in the table below.
Students should be aware that appeals in which policy or process
was not followed or in which extenuating circumstances are not
existent, are unlikely to be approved. Additionally, in order to
provide students with as many options as possible for resolving
issues, University departments may attempt to address student
concerns through an informal issue resolution process which is
separate from the formal University-level appeal procedure.
Students may request to escalate their appeal to the University
Appeal process at any time; any decision made at the University-
level will supersede all previous proposed resolutions.
Students must initiate the appeal by contacting their Counselor.
The appeal must be completed and submitted by the student, in
accordance with FERPA guidelines. The Counselor will gather
the information and route to the appropriate parties at the
university. All supporting documentation should clearly and
explicitly describe the appeal (including the actual policy being
appealed), demonstrating he or she attempted in good faith to
resolve the issues with the involved parties. Students are strongly
encouraged to discuss the intended appeal with a Counselor prior
to submission.
The student may escalate the appeal to the second level by
submitting another request via their Counselor. Not liking the
first level decision is not justification for filing a second appeal.
A second appeal decision requires additional documentation to
justify a re-submission of the issue. The second level of appeal
decision is the final decision of the University.
The following include the different appeal definitions:
• End-of-course grades: Faculty are responsible for issuing
earned grades. The University supports this assessment made
by the faculty based on student performance throughout the
course, and overturning a grade is unlikely and only if
miscalculation occurred. A student cannot appeal final grades
earned unless the student has ample evidence that the grade
earned was indeed miscalculated. GCU does not condone
rounding grades, and therefore that is not considered
miscalculation. To file a grade appeal, students must provide
ample documentation indicating where the grade was
miscalculated, as well as evidence the faculty and student
communicated about the alleged miscalculation of the overall
course grade, or the appeal will be rejected. A final grade for a
course may be disputed within five weeks of the last day of the
course. Students may not file a grade appeal with the
University for a grade/score on an individual assignment while
the course is in progress.
• Reinstatement Admission Appeals: Students who have been
dismissed from the University due to a lack of academic
progress or Code of Conduct violations have the option to
submit a Request for Reinstatement. Students may apply for
reinstatement by submitting a Request for Reinstatement,
describing the circumstances that led to the dismissal, and
what remediation has taken place to prevent future recurrence.
For both academic and disciplinary dismissal, reinstatement is
not guaranteed. Students may or may not be granted re-
admittance based on a variety of factors.
o For academic reinstatements, the University will review the
student’s academic record, including what progress was
previously made, to determine whether satisfactory
academic progress can be attained through completion of an
Academic Plan. Reinstated students are required to
complete the Academic Plan as specified. Failure to do so
will result in expulsion.
o For disciplinary reinstatements, the University will review
factors including, but not limited to, the student’s academic
record, history of offenses, the egregiousness of any conduct
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 176 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
violations, and compliance with any conditions imposed as
part of the sanction.
• Code of Conduct: Depending on the severity and origination of
a Code of Conduct violation, a student may be subject to
consequences of violating the Student Code of Conduct up to,
and including, expulsion. A Code of Conduct violation that is
also a violation of state or federal law will be turned over to
the appropriate authorities for action and is not under the
jurisdiction of the University.
Because students are afforded the opportunity to participate and
present documentation during the Code of Conduct process,
appeals for University-level sanctions will only be accepted on
the basis of the following:
o Procedural error or omission
o New evidence that was unkown or not available during the
original hearing.
To appeal a University-level sanction, students must provide
ample documentation indicating how the appeal meets the criteria
outlined above.
• A published policy: Students who have issues with a particular
policy may in some cases appeal the policy. However, the
following is a list of reasons, albeit a non-exhaustive list, for
which a dispute of a published policy is not acceptable, and for
which relief (tuition and fees) will not be granted:
o Disputes arising out of a student’s lack of knowledge or
understanding of a stated policy
o A student’s reliance upon verbal statements which conflict
with the University’s written policies, regardless of the
source of the verbal communication
o A student’s actions when the student failed to investigate,
understand, or consider the financial ramifications of that
action / decision
o A student’s failure to regularly review University
communications, whether via telephone, mail, or e-mail
o Illness or death of a person who is not a member of the
student’s immediate family
o Disputes arising because of technological issues that are not
in direct control of the University
For any appeal where documentation is required but not
submitted, the appeal will be returned to the Counselor as
incomplete, and will not be accepted for review. Documentation
includes, but is not limited to, email communication, evidence
showing attempts to resolve grade appeal issues with faculty, or
evidence which supports specific details relating to the claim.
Additional documentation may be requested by the University at
any time.
Below is a list of specific policies that are not appealable, and for
which appeals will be rejected:
• Admission denial through the Blind Review Process for
Previous Arrests or Criminal Records
• Appeals for University-level Code of Conduct sanctions where
the student has not provided evidence that it meets the terms of
the Code of Conduct appeal definition.
• Nontraditional students exceeding the maximum overload
policy of 3 courses at once (3 courses at once does require an
approved appeal and two courses at once must meet
requirements outlined in the “Overload Policy” section)
• Dismissal for not meeting the terms of Accepted with
Specifications or First Course Completion requirements.
• Evaluation of Transfer Credit Policies (all policies outlined
within this section, unless explicitly stated an appeal is
acceptable)
o Including, but not limited to:
▪ Minimum acceptable grade
▪ A maximum of 30 baccalaureate alternative credits
▪ Maximum allowable transfer credits
• Exceeding the maximum number of course repeat attempts
• Expulsions issued for possessing a firearm on campus
• Grade appeals where the student has not provided evidence
that it meets the terms of the end-of-course grades policy
• Graduation Requirements Policies (all policies outlined within
this section)
o Including but not limited to:
▪ Residency Credit Requirements (i.e., 30 minimum credits
taken with GCU for undergraduate programs)
▪ Upper division credit requirements
▪ Honors designation (i.e., Latin, University, etc.)
• Immediate administrative actions carried out by the University
President, Provost, Registrar, or designee
• Non-transferrable courses
• Statuses as a result of Progression Policies
o Including but not limited to:
▪ GPA Progression (On Notice, GPA Disqualification) and
related dismissal
▪ Satisfactory Academic Progress
(Warning/Probation/Suspension/Expulsion) and related
dismissal
Reason for
Appeal 1st Appeal Level 2nd Appeal Level
University Appeals
End-of-course
grades
Program chair or
equivalent in the
appropriate
college
Dean of the
appropriate
college or
designee
Policies Appeals Decision
Board or
appropriate
department head
Vice President of
Academic
Compliance
Admission
Appeals
Dean of the
appropriate
college or
designee
Assistant Vice
President of
Academic
Records or
designee
A doctoral
academic appeal
Associate Dean of
College of
Doctoral Studies
Dean of College
of Doctoral
Studies
A DNP doctoral
academic appeal
Dean of College
of Nursing and
Healthcare
Professions or
designee
Vice Provost
Athletics Deputy Athletic
Director
Vice President of
Athletics
Parking Parking
Committee
Director of
Campus
Development
Conduct Appeals
Conduct sanctions
up to and
including
suspension
Dean of the
appropriate
college or
designee
Vice President of
Academic
Compliance or
designee
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 177 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Reason for
Appeal 1st Appeal Level 2nd Appeal Level
Conduct sanction
of expulsion
Vice President of
Academic
Compliance or
designee
Vice Provost
Title IX admission
appeals
Deputy Title IX
Coordinator or
designee
Title IX
Coordinator
If the student complaint cannot be resolved after exhausting the
Institution’s grievance procedure, the student may file a
complaint with the Arizona State Board for Private Post-
Secondary Education. The student must Contact the State Board
for further details. The State Board address is:
1740 W. Adams Street, #3008
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: 602/542-5709
Website: https://ppse.az.gov
GCU encourages students to follow the appeals process outlined
in the University Policy Handbook. However, any student
enrolled at the proposed Missouri ABSN location may file a
complaint with the Missouri Department of Higher Education and
Workforce Development at: Missouri Department of Higher
Education & Workforce Development, 301 W High Street, PO
Box 1469, Jefferson City, MO 65101-1469, Phone: (573) 751-
2361, Fax: (573) 751-6635, Email: [email protected].
GCU encourages students to follow the appeals process outlined
in the University Policy Handbook. However, students enrolled at
the Florida locations may file a complaint with the Florida
Commission for Independent Education.
Commission for Independent Education
325 W. Gaines St, Suite 1414
Tallahassee, FL. 32399-0400
GCU encourages students to follow the appeals process outlined
in the University Policy Handbook. Any Utah resident student
enrolled at the location in Utah or enrolled in online programs
who has a complaint can file a complaint with the Utah Division
of Consumer protection at any time.
The Utah Division of Consumer Protection
160 East 300 South, 2nd Floor
P.O. Box 146704
Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-6704
dcp.utah.gov
OR by fax to: (801) 530-6001
Students can also file a complaint with our accrediting agency,
the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central
Association of Colleges and Schools, using their Complaint
Procedures.
https://www.hlcommission.org/Student-
Resources/complaints.html
SARA Grievance Process
Grand Canyon University is a SARA participating institution.
The Arizona SARA Council has jurisdiction over Arizona
SARA-approved institutions in relation to non-instructional
complaints. Instructional complaints, such as grade grievances,
are not reviewed by the Council and should not be submitted for
review. Distance education students who reside in SARA states
(see list of SARA states at www.nc-sara.org), may file an non-
instructional complaint with the Arizona SARA council.
However, non-instructional complaints may only be filed with
SARA after student’s have first utilized GCU's appeals process
and the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary
Education’s complaint process. Non-instructional complaints
may be submitted to AZ-SARA via
http://azsara.arizona.edu/complaint-process.
Appeal Timelines
Appeals for both academic and non-academic concerns must be
filed no later than five weeks after grades are posted for the
course involving the appealed issue. Appeals received after this
deadline will not be considered. If the student chooses to dispute
the first appeal decision, the second appeal must be filed with the
University within five weeks after the notification of the first
appeal decision is issued.
The University makes every effort to come to a decision and
notify the student within 15 business days of receipt of the
appeal. However, in some cases the investigative process may
lengthen this timeframe.
Appeal Communication
Appeal decisions are communicated to the student through postal
letter. Any questions regarding the appeal must be communicated
to the assigned Counselor.
Textbooks
Some courses are digitally enabled where students are charged
the Canyon Connect fee to access the eBook in their Learning
Management System. Other courses that may require a print
textbook will direct students to purchase the print copy at the
campus bookstore. For questions on print textbooks, contact 1-
877-866-8917.
Grading System
Grade points are assigned to specific grades according to the
grading system and are used to compute a grade point average
(GPA). Only those courses in which a letter grade (A through F)
is earned are included in the calculation of the GPA. The
semester credits of each course are multiplied by the grade points
for the grade earned in each course. The sum of these products is
divided by the number of semester credits in which a letter grade
(A through F) is earned. The GPA that appears on the GCU
transcript is based only upon coursework completed at Grand
Canyon University. Certain courses earn credit toward fulfilling
academic requirements but are not included in the computation of
the GPA. These courses are denoted by a grade of CR or S. A
grade of U earns no credit. A degree will never post prior to the
final course end date.
Please note that course assignments are thoughtfully planned and
allocated specific relative values to demonstrate the achievement
of student learning outcomes. Consequently, the University does
not permit the rounding of assignment or course grades or the
issuing of extra-credit points. For example, 92.99 is an A- on the
Undergraduate Grading Scale.
Undergraduate GPA
Undergraduate students must earn a minimum grade point
average of 2.0 to meet the minimum GPA graduation
requirement. Undergraduate students must earn a grade of C in
courses in their majors and minors. To review all graduation
requirements, please visit the Undergraduate Graduation
Requirements section.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 178 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Undergraduate Grading Scale
The 100-point grading scale is the standard for all GCU
undergraduate courses, although point scales may differ by
college or program. Previous grading scales are presented on the
University’s official transcript. The grade or symbol, point
equivalent (scale), the GPA value of the course letter grade, and
the interpretation of the level of performance are as follows:
Letter
Grade
GPA
Value
Point Scale
Interpretation
of Level of
Performance
COE,
COFAP,
CONHCP
(HIM, PH,
HCA),
COT,
CHSS,
CSET,
CCOB
CONHCP
(Nursing,
CSD)
A 4.0 93-100 95-100 Superior;
outstanding
scholarship A- 3.7 90-92 92-94
B+ 3.3 87-89 90-91 Above average;
good work
B 3.0 83-86 87-89 Average
standard
performance B- 2.7 80-82 84-86
C+ 2.3 77-79 80-83
C 2.0 70-76 76-79 Average
standard
performance
D 1.0 60-69 72-75 Below standard
F 0.0 <60 <72 Failure
I NA NA NA Course work is
Incomplete
W NA NA NA Authorized
withdrawal; No
Credit
MW NA NA NA Mandatory
Withdrawal
AW NA NA NA Academic
Withdrawal
DW NA NA NA Deployment
Withdrawal
CR NA NA NA Campus Only:
Credit given,
but No Grade or
GPA Value
S NA NA NA Campus Only:
Satisfactory
Completion of
Non-Credit
Course
Letter
Grade
GPA
Value
Point Scale
Interpretation
of Level of
Performance
COE,
COFAP,
CONHCP
(HIM, PH,
HCA),
COT,
CHSS,
CSET,
CCOB
CONHCP
(Nursing,
CSD)
U NA NA NA Campus Only:
Additional work
needed to meet
requirements in
non-credit or
non-grade
course
NR NA NA NA Grade status not
reported by
instructor
IP NA NA NA Course
currently in
progress
Graduate GPA
Graduate students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher to be
eligible for graduation. Graduate students must earn a grade of C
or better in all of their courses.
Graduate Grading Scale
The 100-point grading scale is the standard for all GCU graduate
courses, although point scales may differ by college or program.
In graduate courses, students will be evaluated by the grading
scale shown below. Previous grading scales are presented on the
University’s official transcript. If a graduate student earns a grade
of F, he or she will be required to repeat the course and bring up
the grade in order to continue in the program. The grade or
symbol, point equivalent (scale), the GPA value of the course
letter grade, and the interpretation of the level of performance are
as follows:
Letter
Grad
e
GPA
Value
Point Scale
Interpretation
of Level of
Performance
COE,
COFAP,
CONHCP
(MHA,
MHA-
HQS,
HIM, PH),
COT,
CHSS,
CSET,
CCOB
CDS,
CONHCP
(Nursing)
A 4.0 93-100 97-100 Superior;
outstanding
scholarship A- 3.7 90-92 93-96
B+ 3.3 87-89 89-92 Above average;
good work
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 179 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Letter
Grad
e
GPA
Value
Point Scale
Interpretation
of Level of
Performance
COE,
COFAP,
CONHCP
(MHA,
MHA-
HQS,
HIM, PH),
COT,
CHSS,
CSET,
CCOB
CDS,
CONHCP
(Nursing)
B 3.0 83-86 85-88 Average
standard
performance
B- 2.7 80-82 81-84
C+ 2.3 77-79 78-80 Below Standard
C 2.0 70-76 76-77
F 0.0 <70 <76 Failure
I NA NA NA Course work is
incomplete
W NA NA NA Authorized
withdrawal; no
credit
CR NA NA NA Campus Only:
Credit given, but
no grade or GPA
value
S NA NA NA Campus Only:
Satisfactory
completion of
non-credit
course
U NA NA NA Campus Only:
Additional work
needed to meet
requirements in
non-credit or
non-grade course
MW NA NA NA Mandatory
Withdrawal
AW NA NA NA Academic
Withdrawal
DW NA NA NA Deployment
Withdrawal
NR NA NA NA Grade status not
reported by
instructor
IP NA NA NA Course currently
in progress
Incomplete Grades
Students become eligible to request an incomplete grade if the
following requirements have been met during the last week of the
course:
• They are experiencing a physical and/or extreme circumstance
that prevent them from completing the assignments by the
scheduled end of the course;
• They are passing the course at the last week of the class;
• They have no outstanding Incompletes; and
• Their course fees and tuition are paid in full.
• Incompletes are not intended for students who have fallen
behind in their studies and request an extension past the last
day of class solely to submit materials.
• Even if the student is eligible for an Incomplete, the decision
to grant the Incomplete contract lies solely with the instructor.
If the instructor grants an incomplete, the following must
happen:
• By the end of the course, the instructor and the student must
complete the Incomplete Contract Form, which is created by
the instructor and lists all eligible assignments to be completed
by the student and the deadline date(s).
• When submitting final grades for the course, the instructor
must enter a grade of “I” and send a copy of the Incomplete
Contract Form to the Office of Academic Records.
• The student must submit all assignments within three weeks of
the last day of the course.
• Within four weeks of the last day of the course, the instructor
must submit a final grade for the student, or the grade of I will
be changed to a failing grade.
Neither the incomplete nor the failing grade may be changed to a
W grade. A student with more than one outstanding Incomplete
may not register for any additional courses until the requirements
for all outstanding Incompletes have been fulfilled.
Auditing Courses
Students are not permitted to audit Grand Canyon University
courses.
Repeat Policy
When a course has been repeated, the credit used in computing
the grade point average is the grade and credit hours earned the
last time the repeated course was taken. Students who maximize
the number of attempts for repeating a required course may not
be able to complete their program.
Repeating Non-Passing Courses
A grade of D or lower earned at Grand Canyon University may
be replaced in an undergraduate student’s GPA when the
identical course or course equivalent is retaken. Undergraduate
students must repeat any program-specific Prerequisite courses
completed in which a grade of less than C was earned. A grade of
C or lower earned at Grand Canyon University may be removed
from a graduate student’s GPA under the same conditions and
with the same results as stated above. Students may attempt the
same course up to three times. Attempts include any course with
an issued grade, including withdrawn courses. All attempted
courses will be documented on the official transcript, but the
repeat grade will be the grade of record regardless if it is higher
or lower on the grading scale.
A course in a Program of Study may not be repeated once the
degree has been awarded. The student should note that graduate
schools or other institutions may calculate grades in an alternate
fashion. This policy does not apply to special topics and
independent study courses, which may consist of varying content
depending on the timeframe it was offered.
For Nursing Pre-Licensure pre-requisite retake policy, please see
Baccalaureate Programmatic Progression Requirements for the
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 180 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure) section of the
University Policy Handbook.
Repeating Passing Courses
Undergraduate students have the option to repeat any
undergraduate general education course where a non-failing
grade was earned. The grade earned at Grand Canyon University
may be replaced in an undergraduate student’s GPA when the
identical general education course or equivalent course is retaken.
Students have one attempt to retake the same non-failing general
education course. This option can only be used for a total of two
non-failing general education courses throughout their academic
career at Grand Canyon University. All attempts will need
approval by submitting a formal University Appeal through a
Student Services Counselor. Students may be financially
responsible for the tuition of the course. All attempted courses
will be documented on the official transcript, but the repeat grade
will be the grade of record regardless if it is higher or lower on
the grading scale.
A course in a Program of Study may not be repeated once the
degree has been awarded. The student should note that graduate
schools or other institutions may calculate grades in an alternate
fashion. This policy does not apply to special topics and
independent study courses, which may consist of varying content
depending on the timeframe it was offered.
For Nursing Pre-Licensure pre-requisite retake policy, please see
Baccalaureate Programmatic Progression Requirements for the
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure) section of the
University Policy Handbook.
Grade Changes
A final grade may be changed by the instructor of the course
within five weeks of the last day of the course for the following
reasons:
• A miscalculation or error in grading has been detected by the
instructor/student after final grades have been submitted.
• A University investigation of a grade dispute appeal supports a
change of grade or an instructor fails to submit a final grade to
replace an Incomplete grade by the deadline.
To change a student’s final grade, an instructor must complete
and submit a Grade Change Form to the Office of Academic
Records.
Academic Honors
Dean’s and President’s List
GPAs for all undergraduate students’ completing 12 semester
credits are calculated to determine eligibility for these honors.
Students whose enrollment cumulative GPA is 3.5 or above
qualify for the Dean’s List. Students whose enrollment
cumulative GPA is 3.8 or above qualify for the President’s List.
Student's receiving the Dean's and President's honors will be
notified by letter, at each 12-credit review.
Special Study Courses
Certain course numbers have been reserved for special study
courses that departments of the University wish to approve. This
fall into four categories: independent study, practicum,
internship, and student teaching. To register for a special study
course, students must obtain and complete appropriate forms with
their Student Services Counselor. Once approved by the college,
these forms are submitted to the Office of Academic Records
where they are reviewed to determine student eligibility. A
Special Study Request Form must be submitted no later than the
last day of the regular registration period.
Independent Study
Independent Study courses may only be used when a student
exhausted alternative courses, especially in the case of degree
completion. Independent study courses are restricted to a case-
by-case need that must be approved by the instructor, College
Dean, and the Provost. A syllabus must be included.
Practicum
A practicum is a supervised practical experience in the student’s
major area of interest. Between 45 and 60 hours of practical
experience equates to one University credit. Arrangements must
be made between the agency, organization, or individual and the
College Dean/designee to design and evaluate the student’s
experience. Practicum is reserved for junior and senior students
with at least a cumulative 2.0 GPA and approval is required from
the College Dean and/or Department Chair or designee(s).
Practicum courses are restricted to the lock-step programs of
study in the online modality.
Guidelines for University Internship
Grand Canyon University offers two types of internship
opportunities: programmatic internships and non-clinical, elective
internships. • Programmatic internships are encompassed within
required courses in the students’ program of study and are
administered by the College that houses the specific
program.
• Elective internships are administered by the College of
Humanities and Social Sciences.
Some internships require a student to have a certain GPA and
meet additional agency-specific requirements (eg. fingerprinting
or background check, CPR certification, vaccinations, site-
specific training etc.). Students must meet with a SSC to review their eligibility to
participate in an elective internship and meet the following
requirements: • Undergraduate Students may earn up to 12 elective
credits and must have completed one semester at Grand
Canyon University.
• Graduate students can use internships to meet credit
deficiencies from transfer credit up to the total number of
credits required in their program.
• International students must obtain approval from the
Designated School Official.
• Elective internships cannot be clinical in nature, and
the University will not sign any document that indicates
such.
Students may request to have their current employer evaluated
for consideration as an internship assignment. If current
employer is selected, the internship opportunity must show
evidence of new skills outside of current position. All students,
once selected, need to complete the Internship Registration
packet in the student portal. Students must be registered in an Elective Internship Course (i.e.
UNV 401, UNV 410, UNV 430, UNV 601) within the add/drop
period. Students are required to complete a minimum of 45 hours
of documented site-based work for each academic credit earned
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 181 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
and participate in the online classroom. In no case will academic
credit be granted for work completed prior to the start date of the
internship course.
Student Teaching
Student teaching provides students with the opportunity to
demonstrate mastery of knowledge and skills in a live classroom
setting. College of Education requires full-time placement of
student teachers for 15-16 weeks, dependent upon student’s
program of study, in classrooms associated with their major
area(s) of interest under the direct supervision of a certified
educator. During this time, student teachers will assume all
teaching duties and responsibilities necessary for effective
teaching of students, including assessing students, planning and
teaching lessons, and evaluating students’ progress. Students
must complete all associated student teaching paperwork and
approvals, prior to commencing student teaching activities.
Students with missing approvals on forms needed may be
removed from student teaching. Student teaching may only be
repeated once.
Official Enrollment Status
Change and Withdrawal
The implications of discontinuing course registration differ
greatly during various points. The academic and financial
consequences of the specific types of enrollment status changes
are outlined below.
Change of Classification
Traditional Undergraduate students who want to become a
Nontraditional (Online) Undergraduate student, or vice versa,
need to contact their Student Services Counselor for approval.
The Student Services Counselor will assign a new Student
Services Counselor to the student.
Change of Start Date
Graduate and undergraduate students who have not begun their
initial start date at GCU may decide to change their start date by
contacting their University Counselor. Students should be aware
of the University Course Tuition Refund Policy, when
considering changing their start date after the commencement and
attendance in their first course.
Course Drop
When students seek to remain active in school, yet reduce the
number of credits for which they are registered, the option to
drop a course may be available. Students must contact their
Student Services Counselor to process a course drop.
Different course drop deadlines apply to courses of varying
lengths. Students who drop a course prior to the allowable
deadline will earn a grade of W for the course. If students
discontinue their course enrollment beyond the allowable
timelines, they will receive zeroes for all missing assignments,
and will earn a final course grade of A through F that is
commensurate with the accumulated total for all course work.
Course Length Course Drop, W – Grade Deadline
1-2 Weeks Not permissible after course start
3-13 Weeks Prior to the last 2 weeks of the course
14-16 Weeks Prior to the last 4 weeks of the course
Cohort and Residency Classrooms also have Class Presence
requirements that are separate from this policy. See Class
Presence: Cohort Classrooms and/or Class Presence Residency
Classrooms for more information.
Before dropping a course, students are strongly advised to speak
with their Student Services Counselor to understand the academic
and financial ramifications associated with dropping a course.
The Course Tuition Refund Policy in the Financial Services
section of the University Policy Handbook outlines the refund
schedule for dropped courses. Students who delay exercising the
course-drop option until after the deadline retain financial
responsibility. Students are responsible for all non-refundable
charges.
Add/Drop
If students drop and add courses there may be additional tuition
charges depending on the timing of the drop/add action, and the
length of the instructional period of the course that is being
dropped or added.
Traditional Campus Students
All students may add courses after the semester has begun, but
the scheduling may differ based on the length of the instructional
period.
• Students enrolled in 15-week courses may add additional 15-
week courses to their schedule through the second week of the
semester. Students are responsible for any additional tuition
charges that may be incurred as a result of adding credits based
on the change. A student who is enrolled in 15-week courses,
who desires to drop a 15-week course after the second week of
the semester (outside the refund period) and add another
course that has not yet started will be responsible for tuition
charges if the number of registered credits, including the
dropped course, exceeds 18.
• Students enrolled in 7-week and 8-week may add additional
courses in their current 15-week semester only if the course
has not yet begun, they have been actively enrolled from the
beginning of the semester, and are responsible for any
additional tuition charges based on the change.
• Students who unregister from a course may be eligible for a
portion of their refund based on total registered credits
remaining.
Before dropping a course, students are strongly advised to speak
with their Student Services Counselor to understand the academic
and financial ramifications associated with dropping a course.
The Course Tuition Refund Policy in the Financial Services
section of the University Policy Handbook outlines the refund
schedule for dropped courses.
Registration Discontinuance
Students who choose to drop from courses after they have already
begun participation in the courses must request to discontinue by
contacting their Student Services Counselor. Students will be
dropped from all current and future scheduled courses and will be
considered inactive for the period discussed with their Student
Services Counselor.
Although the discontinuation of registration places students in an
inactive status for the requested time, students retain their
admitted status within the University and should remain in
contact with a Student Services Counselor. If the student is out of
attendance for more than 180 days, the student will have to enroll
in a program in the current Academic Catalog. Students are still
subject to the Course Tuition Refund Policy and the Course Drop
Policy.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 182 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Students are strongly advised to speak with their Student Services
Counselor to understand the academic and financial ramifications
associated with dropping a course.
University Official Withdrawal
In the event that students choose to discontinue their enrollment
at GCU, they must officially withdraw from the University.
Students in this situation lose all of the rights and privileges
associated with being GCU students, including maintaining
enrollment in their Program of Study (POS). To officially
withdraw from the University, students must submit a University
Official Withdrawal Form to the Office of Academic Records via
the GCU Student Portal. When submitting the University Official
Withdrawal Form, students will be asked to identify the reason
for withdrawing from the University. If students notify their
Student Services Counselor of their intent to withdraw from the
University but do not complete the Official Withdrawal form,
Student Services Counselors will notify the Office of Academic
Records of the Official Withdrawal. Students may also be
withdrawn from the University through the Unofficial
Withdrawal policy.
Students are still subject to the Course Tuition Refund Policy and
the grading policy listed above in Course Drop Policy. Before
withdrawing from the University, students are strongly advised to
speak with a Student Services Counselor to understand the
academic and financial ramifications associated with dropping a
course.
All Financial Aid students are required to complete Exit
Counseling for any federal loans borrowed while in attendance at
Grand Canyon University. This is in accordance with the
Department of Education requirements and students should
contact their Student Services Counselor for further information
on how to complete the Exit Counseling.
Officially withdrawn students must reapply for admission to the
University if they decide to return, and enroll in the most current
POS.
Semester Official Withdrawal
Traditional Campus Students
Traditional campus students, who choose to discontinue their
enrollment at GCU for the current semester enrolled, must
complete a Semester Official Withdrawal Form, which can be
obtained through their Student Services Counselor. Students are
subject to the Course Tuition Refund Policy and the grading
policy listed above in Course Drop Policy.
Military Deployment
In support of U.S. military students, the University offers special
circumstance withdrawals for students who find themselves
deployed without computer access or experience other
circumstances that will make it impossible to complete
coursework within the prescribed time frame due to temporary
assignments when accompanied with official documentation.
Active Duty, Reservists, and National Guard students that are
currently enrolled in a degree program will be placed on a
deployed status for the duration of deployment. Students will
receive a tuition credit to their GCU account for the course(s)
from which the University withdraws the student. A DW grade
(Deployment Withdrawal) will appear on the student transcript
for each class the University approves for withdraw with the
expectation that students will re-take the affected courses upon
re-entrance.
Students seeking this option must submit a completed GCU
Deployment Form prior to deployment to be eligible, including
submission of official military deployment orders to their Student
Services Counselor. It is also the student’s responsibility to
inform the instructor of the situation. The student assumes
responsibility of a course if they post into the classroom after the
deployment date indicated on the soldier’s Orders.
Students out of attendance for greater than 14 days may have a
recalculation of financial aid completed, which may result in a
balance on the student’s account (if student is using Title IV).
Grand Canyon University will defer collections of tuition and
fees while in a deployed status.
Eligibility:
• The student must have been attending the course and
completing the assignments up to the point of
the deployment request.
• The student's circumstances must involve a military
commitment.
• Students who determine their need for a deployment
withdrawal must submit the GCU Deployment form prior to
any scheduled departure date.
• Students must submit official documentation to confirm
deployment and/or circumstance (official orders, letter from
Commander, etc.).
• Students using Financial Aid must also complete a Deferment
Form.
• Official documentation submitted by the student must confirm
that the dates of the deployment and/or special circumstance
coincide with the time frame of the course.
Students who are on Temporary Duty or No-Notice deployment
and wish to remain in the course, must provide their instructor
and their SSC with a letter from the Commander of the
servicemembers unit and/or Deployment Orders if they will be
absent from a scheduled course day in order to be considered for
an excused absence. In the event the student withdraws from the
course without presenting documentation demonstrating
deployment, the student will be withdrawn with a grade of W. If
the student later provides the University with the necessary
deployment paperwork, the W will be changed to DW, reflecting
a Deployment Withdrawal. If warranted, DW grades will be
honored at any time during the course and are exempt from all
other course drop deadlines.
Unofficial University Withdrawal
There are two types of unofficial university withdrawals. The
first is administrative withdrawal and the second is the 14-day
rule.
Administrative Withdrawal
The University reserves the right to administratively withdraw a
student for the following reasons:
• Students who do not attend any of their registered classes
within the first week of the course may be administratively
withdrawn from all classes, current and future.
• Students who have not returned to the University in 6 months
and have not provided any notification of their absence
Students withdrawn through the provisions below are processed
separately from the Code of Conduct Procedures.
• Students deemed ineligible for admission as a result of the
Internal Review process.
• Failing to comply with the Internal Review process
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 183 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
14-day Rule
An unofficial withdrawal occurs when a student has stopped
attending courses for a period of 14 consecutive days or more but
has not communicated a desire to officially withdraw from the
University.
Student Records
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
(FERPA)
Grand Canyon University annually informs students of the
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. The Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students
certain rights with respect to their education records. Questions
concerning the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act may
be referred to the Office of Academic Records.
These rights are as follows:
• The right to inspect and review educational records within 45
days of the day the University receives a request for access.
Students should submit written requests that identify the
record(s) they wish to inspect to the Office of Academic
Records. The University will make arrangements for access
and notify the student of the time and place where the records
may be inspected.
• The right to request an amendment of education records that
the student believes is inaccurate or misleading. Students may
ask the University to amend a record that they believe is
inaccurate or misleading. They should write the Office of
Academic Records and clearly identify the part of the record
they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or
misleading. If the University decides not to amend the record
as requested by the student, the University 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.
• The right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable
information contained in the student's education records,
except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without
consent. One exception that permits disclosure without consent
is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational
interests. A school official is a person employed by the
University in an administrative, supervisory, academic,
research, or support staff position (including law enforcement,
personnel, and health staff); a person or company with whom
the University has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or
collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or
a student serving on an official committee, such as a
disciplinary or appeal 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 University discloses
education records without consent to officials of another
school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
• The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of
Education concerning alleged failures by the University 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 Ave., SW
Washington, DC, 20202-5920
Grand Canyon University has designated certain information in
the education records as directory information for the purposes of
the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
Students are required to complete a Student Information Release
Form (SIRF), submitted to the Office of Academic Records, to
control release of such information with respect to student
records. The SIRF authorizes a 3rd party to receive designated
records as requested by the student, however, it does not
authorize GCU to have discussions about it, or any portion of the
student’s education record, or for the authorized person to take
action on the account. Designated 3rd parties are expected to
abide by University policy; the University reserves the right to
discontinue communication if the 3rd party fails to follow policy
guidelines or otherwise demonstrate an inability to communicate
properly with the University or its representatives. The SIRF
information is sent out to students annually. It is the
responsibility of students to notify the Office of Academic
Records if they would like to make any changes to their SIRF
information.
Although GCU recognizes some information as directory, GCU's
practice is not to release most directory components unless the
University determines a need to do so (for example, police
request). Some directory information will be released when it
comes to athletes, or other student activities, such as theatre
productions, regardless if a student opts out. Students wishing to
opt out of ALL directory information disclosure must send their
request to the following email address: [email protected].
Prior to opting out of directory information, graduating students’
decision to request non-disclosure should be considered critically
since it could affect the ability of GCU to complete employment
documentation on behalf of the student, such as Institutional
Recommendations.
If choosing to opt out students must provide their student ID, and
or, reply from their GCU email address.
• Student name
• Student number
• Address
• Personal email address
• Phone number
• Date and place of birth
• Hometown
• Degrees and awards received and dates
• Dates of attendance (current and past)
• Full or part-time enrollment status
• Participation in officially recognized activities or sports
• Weight and height of members of athletic teams
• Most recently attended educational institution
• Major field of study
• Academic levels
• Photographs
Retention of VA Records
VA students’ records must be kept for 3 years following the
ending date of the last period certified to VA. Records need to be
kept longer than 3 years only if a written request to keep the
records longer is received from the Department of Veterans
Affairs or the General Accounting Office 30 or more days before
the end of the 3-year period. This requirement is in the Code of
Federal Regulations (38 CFR 21.4209(f)).
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 184 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Although VA requires that records be kept for 3 years, record
retention regulations for individual states may require that VA
records be kept more than 3 years.
European Union – General Data Protection
Regulation (GDPR)
The GDPR is a privacy regulation that provides certain rights and
protections to EU natural persons surrounding their personal data
and how we as an organization process that personal data. These
rights apply to you only if you are an EU natural person. We
consider the processing of your EU Personal Data in connection
with your student application process to be necessary for us to
take steps with a view to creating a contractual relationship with
you. GCU may use your personal data to respond to your
questions, provide you specific courses, services, projects,
programs and/or services you select to satisfy our contractual
obligations to you. You have the right: to ask us for access to,
rectification or erasure of your information; to restrict processing
(pending correction or deletion); to object to communications or
direct marketing; and to ask for the transfer of your information
electronically to a third party (data portability). Some of these
rights are not automatic, and we reserve the right to discuss with
you why we might not comply with a request from you to
exercise them. If you wish to exercise any of your rights
regarding your EU Personal Data, please email [email protected].
You may also file a complaint concerning your EU Personal Data
Processing with the applicable EU Supervisory Authority
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability
Act (HIPAA)
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996
(HIPAA) provides federal protections for personal health
information and gives patients an array of rights with respect to
that information. At the same time, it permits the disclosure of
personal health information needed for patient care and other
important purposes. The rule specifies a series of administrative,
physical and technical safeguards for covered entities to use to
assure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of electronic
protected heath information.
Student Services Departments using health records to make
decisions in regard to a student’s education program will
safeguard these records according to FERPA provisions.
Student Access
Mobility
Individuals who reside upon and/or visit the GCU campus are
responsible for their own mobility. If assistance is needed, a golf
cart ride may be available based on a disability issue; however,
arrangements need to be made at least 48 hours prior to the visit
and are offered as a courtesy service only. Rides are based on
availability of campus resources.
For disability accommodations, please contact 602-639-6342.
Recreational Transportation
To maintain the integrity of the classroom and promote a safe
environment, items used for recreational transportation will not
be permitted indoors. Storage racks are available outside
classroom buildings for personal use, but individuals are
responsible for securing their items properly. The University is
not responsible for the loss, theft or damage of a device.
Recreational transportation items include, but are not limited to:
skateboards, inline skates, kickstand scooters, and bicycles.
Student Disability Services
Grand Canyon University (GCU) seeks to serve all of its students
equally. This plan is established in order to provide all students
with equal access to GCU’s programs, systems and facilities.
In order to receive accommodations through the University,
students are required to complete the Accommodation Request
Form and provide supporting documentation to Student
Disability Services. To allow the University sufficient time for
processing, requests should be submitted no later than two (2)
weeks (10 working days) prior to the start of the course. All
approved accommodation requests turned in after the course has
begun will be in place as of the date the form and documentation
was received by Student Disability Services. Accommodations
will not be retroactive. Processing of accommodations begins
after both the request form and the appropriate documentation
information is received. Only accommodations that do not
fundamentally alter, lower, or substantially modify essential
requirements of the course or program can be approved.
Documentation for permanent disabilities will remain on file with
Student Disability Services. Students that are approved for
Temporary services will be asked to provide additional
documentation to extend services. (Please see Temporary
Accommodations Policy for more information). Students are
required to notify Student Disability Services of any schedule
changes that may occur during their program of study, in order to
ensure that their accommodations are applied or adjusted
accordingly. Students that withdraw from the University or have
been dismissed will need to contact Student Disability Services
upon their return in order to re-establish their accommodations.
This also pertains to students who are out of attendance for any
reason for longer than 14 days. Please note that the University
cannot provide accommodations that are not requested. Only the
SDS Office can approve accommodations.
Steps to Accommodations:
1. Complete the Accommodation Request Form
2. Supporting documentation is required for all students
requesting accommodations through Student Disability
Services. The documentation must be from a medical provider
(such as a doctor, psychologist, psychiatrist, etc.) or from
testing services (such as Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale and
other tests). The documentation should be on letterhead from
the provider or service company. The documentation is kept on
file in Student Disability Services for verification purposes.
3. Turn in a copy of the above items via one of the options listed
below:
4. Fax - 602.589.2652 (All documents must contain the student's
name and be addressed: Attn: Disabilities Coordinator)
5. Email - [email protected] please put the students name
in the subject line of the email (last, first)
6. Hand Delivery – SDS Office on the GCU Main Campus
(Building 47)
The student is required to provide documentation that
demonstrates credible assurance of a disability issue. The
documentation should directly support the student’s request for
accommodations. The documentation must be from a medical
provider (such as a doctor, psychologist, psychiatrist, etc.) or
from testing services (such as Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale
and other tests). The documentation must state the specific
disability and show cause for why a student's disability
significantly limits their ability to complete their educational
goals at GCU. The documentation should include a summary of
the student's functional limitations in order for the University to
determine the appropriate accommodations. The documentation
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 185 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
is kept on file in Student Disability Services for verification
purposes.
The documentation should be typed with the appropriate official
signature and contact information for the associated facility for
verification purposes (on official letterhead is preferred). We do
NOT accept documentation that is handwritten or submitted on a
prescription note. These documents are scanned into a protected
part of your permanent record and therefore, must be legible and
clear. Documentation can be submitted to Student Disability
Services either by fax to 602-589-2652, by email to
[email protected] or they can be hand delivered to
Student Disability Services at the Main Campus in Phoenix,
Arizona.
Once documentation is received it will be reviewed. If the
documentation provided does not meet the University's
requirements it will not be accepted as the official
documentation. Students will receive notice and will be asked to
provide alternative supporting documentation. The
documentation is kept on file in Student Disability Services for
verification purposes. Students requesting additional
accommodations after their initial approval may be asked to
provide additional documentation.
Once approved for accommodations the student will receive a
confirmation of their approved accommodations via email.
Official notification to faculty of the approved accommodations
will be sent out by Student Disability Services. For non-academic
accommodations appropriate departments will be notified in
order to help facilitate the approved accommodations. If a student
finds that their approved accommodations are not effective, their
medical circumstances change, or they need additional supports,
it is the student’s responsibility to reengage the SDS Office in
order to enter into the interactive process.
Temporary Accommodation Policy
GCU understands that circumstances out of a student’s control
may occur while attending classes at the University. Temporary
accommodations may be granted to students who experience an
unexpected or unavoidable major medical issue such as major
surgery, hospitalization, or pregnancy. Temporary
accommodations may be put in place until the end of a student’s
current course. Depending on the supporting documentation
provided, an accommodation can be extended to six months.
For consideration, to receive temporary accommodations through
the University, students will utilize the Steps to Accommodations
process as outlined in the University Policy Handbook. The first
step is to submit an Accommodation Request Form, and the
second step is to provide supporting documentation. It is
important to review the documentation criteria for guidance
regarding what documentation to provide. Documentation is
required for all students requesting accommodations through the
University. It is important to note that the University cannot
provide accommodations that are not requested. Additionally, in
general, accommodations cannot be applied retroactively.
Accommodation Grievance Policy
Accommodations are determined on an individual basis, as such,
students are required to engage directly with the Student
Disability Services Office in the interactive process to determine
reasonable accommodations. The student of record/individual
seeking the accommodation must be directly involved in the
process; 3rd party requests cannot be reviewed. If the student
feels they need additional or alternate accommodations, other
than what was initially approved, the student should follow the
accommodation grievance procedure, as outlined below.
1. Accommodation Review- Students should discuss the request
with their assigned SDS Administrator and Student Disability
Services Manager. Students should be prepared to consider
alternative solutions. Other University policies and mitigating
circumstances may apply when reviewing any request for
accommodations.
2. Full SDS Case Review- If the student is not satisfied with the
proposed options from step 1, a student may submit their
accommodation request/request a meeting with the Director of
Student Disability Services. If a satisfactory resolution is not
reached, the student may then submit a formal accommodation
grievance.
3. Accommodation Grievance- A formal complaint regarding a
decision made by the Student Disability Services Office must
be made in writing and submitted to the Institutional Access
and Compliance Office, at [email protected] Steps 1 and
2 must be completed prior to submitting an accommodation
grievance. An accommodation grievance must be submitted
within 30 days of Full SDS Case Review Resolution. The
formal complaint must include the following:
1) Student name
2) Course information that relates to the grievance, if
applicable
3) The specific accommodation/outcome that is being
requested, including any additional supporting
documentation, as needed
Upon receipt of a written complaint, the Institutional Access and
Compliance Office will initiate a review, which may include an
interview with the complainant, a review of any relevant
materials submitted by the complainant, obtaining information
from relevant colleges/departments/individuals, etc. The
Accommodation Review Board will conduct a thorough review
and issue a determination regarding the student’s request. The
length of the review may vary. Pending the outcome of the
Accommodation Grievance review, the previously approved
accommodations will remain in place. The student will be
notified in writing of the decision of the Accommodation Review
Board. This will be considered the final determination of the
University on available accommodations at Grand Canyon
University.
Service Animals and Assistive Animals Policy
For the purpose of this policy, the term “accommodation animal”
refers to “service animals,” “emotional support animal”,
“assistive animals” and “necessary assistance animals” as defined
by the Americans with Disabilities Act, Fair Housing Act, and
other applicable laws.
Any resident student wanting an accommodation animal to live in
Grand Canyon University Housing must complete the Steps to
Accommodations process. Their request needs to include an
explanation of the disability-related need for the animal, the types
of tasks, if any; the animal is trained to perform, as well as a
description of the animal, including type and the animal’s name.
Students who obtain approval to have an accommodation animal
in University housing will be required to sign and abide by the
Resident Responsibilities.
Grand Canyon University will accept, consider and make best
efforts to fulfill the request for reasonable accommodations in
University housing at any time. However, if the accommodation
request is made after July 1st (for Fall semester) or after
December 1st (for Spring semester), GCU cannot guarantee that
they will be able to meet the individual’s housing
accommodation needs during the scheduled term of occupancy.
All housing is based on availability.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 186 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
The University limits this accommodation to one animal per
dwelling unit in order to ensure the safety of the animals that
reside on the GCU campus. With the exception of a trained
service dog, the animal should not be in residence unless/until the
request is approved. Please note that the approval of a request is
animal-specific and is not transferable to another or different
animal. Multiple students cannot “share” an emotional support
animal as the animal is part of an individual’s on-going care plan.
Service Animal:
Per the ADA 2010 Revised Requirements, service animals are
defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or
perform tasks for people with disabilities. If the animal is a
trained service dog trained to perform service tasks, then the
student’s Request for Accommodations must answer two
questions:
(1) Is this a service animal that is required because of a
disability?
(2) What work or tasks has the animal been trained to perform?
Therapy/Emotional Support Animals:
If the animal is not a dog, or the animal (even if a dog) is not
trained to perform service tasks but is an emotional support
animal, then the student needs to request a Housing
Accommodation for the assistive animal through the Student
Disability Services office. In this case, the student’s Request
must answer these two questions:
(1) Does the student (asking to live with the animal) have a
disability — i.e., a physical or mental impairment that
substantially limits one or more major life activities?
(2) Does the resident making the request have a disability-related
need for an assistance animal?
When the disability and/or disability-related need for the animal
are not readily apparent, the student will be required to also
provide supporting documentation in the form of a letter from
their qualified licensed provider documenting the disability
and/or disability-related need for the animal as part of their
ongoing care plan. Note: As outlined in the U.S. Department of
Housing and Urban Development’s 2020 guidance, “Some
websites sell certificates, registrations, and licensing documents
for assistance animals to anyone who answers certain questions
or participates in a short interview and pays a fee” and these
types of documents are not acceptable as supporting
documentation. This type of documentation may not provide
sufficient information for approval of the student’s request. The
appropriate medical provider should be familiar with the
individual’s disability and the necessity for the accommodation
as part of an individualized ongoing care plan and outlining the
following:
a. Verification of the disability the animal is supporting, and
b. How the animal serves as an accommodation for the verified
disability, and
c. How the need for the animal relates to the ability of the student
to use and enjoy the living arrangements available through the
University, and
d. The type of animal(s) for which the reasonable accommodation
is sought, and
e. The letter is subject to the Documentation Criteria as outlined
in the Steps to Accommodations.
Emotional Support Animals are prescribed for a specific
individual as part of their ongoing care plan. Just like any
prescription this is meant for the specific induvial and cannot be
shared by multiple people. Therefore, an Emotional Support
animal can only be approved for one (1) student and the approval
is not transferable to other individuals. Anyone seeking an
Emotional Support Animal must go through the Steps to
Accommodations process.
Please note that Therapy/Emotional Support animals are
restricted to the residence area where the student resides only.
They cannot go to class or to other communal areas of the
University including the Library, the Arena, sports fields, the Rec
Center, Canyon Activity Center (CAC), Campus Fitness Centers,
Thunder Alley, Classroom buildings, Pool area, etc Emotional
Support Animals can accompany their owner at eateries with
outdoor seating, but pursuant to FDA Food Code: 6-501.115,
they may not be seated inside, or go inside of eateries on campus.
It is strongly recommended that if a student needs short term care
for their animal, they make off campus arrangements. The
approved animal is restricted to the student’s specific dwelling
and assigned space. Due to building access rules and roommates’
rights to the space, having someone come in to care for your
animal not always feasible. GCU staff and fellow students
(including roommates) shall not be required to provide care or
feeding for any approved animal.
GCU Sponsored Travel
Individuals with approved Emotional Support Animals are not
allowed to bring the ESA’s with them on any GCU sponsored
travel. GCU sponsored travel is for University related
competition or business purposes. Since the ESA designation
limits the animal to an individual’s dwelling under HUD, the
animal would be restricted from accompanying the individual
while traveling and would have no access to the
business/competition related event.
Service Dogs are permitted to travel with their owner as they
provide a specific service as outlined in the Department of Justice
guidance.
If traveling without your animal is an issue, please connect with
Student Disability Services to explore other alternative
accommodations.
Guidelines for Approved Assistive Animals Living on the
Grand Canyon University Campus
The following guidelines apply to all approved disability-related
accommodation animals and their students who live in GCU
Housing.
Animal Behavior
1. An Exception to the Residential Pet Policy is granted for
accommodation animals provided that their behavior, noise,
odor and waste do not exceed reasonable standards and that
these factors do not create unreasonable disruptions for
students, faculty or staff.
2. Dangerous, venomous, poisonous, and/or illegal animals are
not permitted. Certain species are governed by additional laws
and outside entities, and may be prohibited from living on the
GCU campus.
3. The approved accommodation animal must be contained
within the private residential area (room, suite, apartment, or
enclosed balcony) at all times. If the Owner is going to be
absent from their assigned dwelling, it is the sole responsibility
of the Owner to ensure the animal is secured (crated, kenneled,
or confined) and safely contained in an appropriately sized
enclosure. When being transported outside the private
residential area, the animal must be in a carrier or controlled by
leash or harness at all times (City of Phoenix Code 8-14).
4. In accordance with behavior expectations, assistive animals
must remain on the ground (have 4 paws on the floor) or be
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 187 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
carried by their owner, unless completing specific tasks to aid
handler.
Animal Health and Well-Being
1. Accommodation animals must be fully and completely
vaccinated per Maricopa County standards for their species and
have a clean bill of health to maintain the animal’s health and
prevent contagious diseases. Documentation of appropriate
vaccinations are due at the time the Request. Grand Canyon
University reserves the right to request updated vaccination
verification during the animal’s residency.
All animals must have a clean bill of health from a qualified
veterinarian professional in order to live in GCU Housing.
2. Animals that live on GCU’s campus fall under the licensure
and health requirements for Maricopa County. Proof of
compliance with those rules and regulations is part of the
documentation required for approval of an assistive animal.
Please visit the following link for more information:
http://www.maricopa.gov/pets/
3. All accommodation animals that reside on the GCU campus
are required to have the appropriate GCU issued identification
cards. Service Dogs that accompany non-residential students to
class or other GCU events are welcomed to obtain a GCU issued
identification card as well, but are not required to do so.
Animal Cleanliness
Residents are responsible for properly containing and disposing
of all animal waste, including but not limited to:
1. Indoor animal waste, such as cat litter, must be placed in a
sturdy plastic bag and tied securely before being disposed of in
outside trash dumpsters. Litter boxes should be placed on mats
so that feces and urine are not tracked onto carpeted surfaces.
For example, litter boxes should be in an agreed upon spot
within the student’s assigned dwelling.
2. Outdoor animal waste, such as dog feces, must be immediately
retrieved by resident, placed in a plastic bag and securely tied
before being disposed of in outside trash dumpsters.
3. With respect to common areas, the University reserves the
right to designate specific sites indoors/outdoors for
elimination of animal waste and to prohibit (even if there is
immediate clean up afterwards) animal waste in any other
common area. Animals are not permitted to use the synthetic
turf (fake grass), including some living area courtyards. The
event lawn in front of the arena, NCAA facilities or practice
fields, or Club Sports fields are prohibited.
The University utilizes a third party vendor for identification of
improperly disposed of animal waste. (Please see DNA Registry
Disclosure for additional details.)
Animal Cruelty and Neglect
In accordance with AR13-2910 (Cruelty to Animals; Interference
with Working or Service Animals), the University outlines the
following. The Owner is required to ensure the animal is well
cared for at all times. Evidence of any individual (not limited to
the owner) inflicting mistreatment, neglect, abuse, or threating to
harm the animal may result in University disciplinary action for
the responsible individual and/or potential removal of the animal.
This statute includes the ability for the University’s Police to take
possession of any animal being mistreated, abused, neglected,
abandoned, or threatened with harm.
The University will report any animal abuse or neglect to the
appropriate authorities, in addition to applicable disciplinary
actions under the Student Code of Conduct or the appropriate
respective Human Resources process.
Removal of Assistance Animal
Grand Canyon University may require the individual to remove
the animal from University Housing if:
1. The animal or owner violates the standards for behavior and
cleanliness as outlined in this policy and in the Resident
Responsibilities.
2. The animal poses a direct threat to the health or safety of
others or causes substantial property damage to University
property or the property of others.
3. The animal or its presence creates an unmanageable
disturbance or interference with the University community.
4. The animal does not have official approval from the Student
Disability Services office to be in University Housing or on the
University campus.
Removal of an animal from University property will be reviewed
on a case by case basis.
Denied Requests
Requests for an assistive animal as a disability-related
accommodation may be denied if granting the request would
constitute an undue financial or administrative burden, or would
fundamentally alter the nature of the housing option. In addition,
animal accommodation requests may be denied if:
1. The specific assistance animal in question poses a direct threat
to the health or safety of others that cannot be reduced or
eliminated by another reasonable accommodation, or
2. The specific assistance animal in question would cause
substantial physical damage to the property of others that
cannot be reduced or eliminated by another reasonable
accommodation. Breed, size, and weight limitations are not
applicable to an assistance animal, or
3. If the individual is unwilling to accept an alternative housing
placement option offered based on availability or if there are
not available housing options to meet the accommodation
request.
Grand Canyon University will review each Emotional Support
Animal request on a case by case basis. The University may also
consider if the animal’s presence would force another individual
from individual housing (e.g. severe allergies, fear of the animal).
Grievance Process
Students may submit a request for their denial to be reviewed, as
outlined in the Accommodation Grievance Procedure outlined
under the Student Disability Services policies.
Unapproved Animals
Having any animal on the GCU Campus prior to official approval
may result in immediate removal of the animal from Campus
property, until official approval, and may be subject to:
1. Community Service Hours
2. Monetary fines
3. Code of Conduct referral
Resident Responsibilities
1. The student is responsible for assuring that the
accommodation animal does not interfere with the routine
activities of their fellow resident students or cause
unreasonable difficulties for student, faculty or staff.
Residential community living requires respect for the needs
of residents with allergies and those who may fear animals.
2. The student is financially responsible for all consequences
caused by the actions of the accommodation animal,
including bodily injury or property damage which may
necessitate replacement or repair of damaged furniture,
carpet, drapes, or wall covering, etc. If an accommodation
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 188 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
animal causes substantial physical damage to the property of
others that cannot be reduced or eliminated by reasonable
accommodation, the animal may be excluded from living in
the residence.
3. The University shall have the right to bill the student’s
account for unmet obligations arising for damage caused by
an accommodation animal.).
4. The student's place of residence may be inspected for fleas,
ticks or other pests once per semester or as needed. If fleas,
ticks or other pests are detected through inspection, the
residence will be treated using approved fumigation methods
by a university-approved pest control service.
5. The student must notify Student Disability Services in writing
if the accommodation animal is no longer needed as an
accommodation or is no longer in residence within 48 hours.
By removing the animal from residence, the student is in-turn
declining their previously approved accommodation to have
the animal on campus.
6. Even if the student previously obtained permission for an
accommodation animal, the student must file a new request
for accommodations if s/he wishes to bring in a new/different
accommodation animal in substitution of the previous
accommodation animal.
7. The University has the ability to relocate resident and
accommodation animal as necessary provided the new site is
consistent with the terms of the current contractual
agreement.
8. All roommates or suitemates of the student are provided a
copy of the Service Animal/Assistive Animal Policy. All
students assigned to any University housing unit have equal
right to the space. In the event that one or more roommates or
suitemates do not consent to be housed with the animal, either
the student and animal, or the non-approving roommates or
suitemates if they volunteer, may have housing reassigned to
a more suitable location as determined by the Student
Disability Services and Housing.
9. GCU staff, and fellow student including roommates or
suitemates are not required to provide care of feeding for any
animal. It is the responsibility of the approved student to
manage and care for their accommodation animal
10. Student agrees to continue to abide by all other residential
policies. An exception to a policy that otherwise prohibits
having an animal does not constitute an exception to any
other policy.
11. Any violation of the above rules will be reviewed through the
University’s Code of Conduct and the resident will be
afforded all rights of due process and appeal as outlined in
that process.
DNA Registry Disclosure
As part of the University’s efforts to ensure responsible animal
ownership and community standards for all students, the
University utilizes a third party vendor. The third party vendor is
a company that specializes in DNA registry for waste
management.
All dogs residing in University housing are required to complete
the DNA registration upon their approval. In order to provide a
DNA sample, the owner will be provided a DNA collection kit,
which will be used to cheek swab the dog’s mouth in the SDS
office with SDS staff present. The SDS Office will then provide
the materials collected to the dog registration company. The
registry will be kept by Student Disability Services and only used
for the purpose of identifying the perpetrator of animal waste on
GCU property that is not appropriately disposed of. Failure to
provide a swipe sample may result in a referral to Code of
Conduct for failure to comply with a reasonable University
directive.
The University pays for the registration, set up costs of the
animal in the vendor’s registration system, and testing of
collected animal waste. Waste matching to any approved animals
on campus will result in specific owners being subject to all
clean-up costs, a referral to Code of Conduct and a $200 fine for
failure to properly dispose of waste on campus. Owners will be
provided with the test result for any positive match.
The University reserves the right to request Service Dogs that
accompany commuter students or staff to campus to register their
dogs if a waste problem is identified in a nonresidential area of
campus
Student Driver Waiver
Students are required to acknowledge the statement below within
the Student Driver Waiver document in their Student Portal.
Students may participate in both mandatory and voluntary off-site
events (including classes, internships, externships, clinicals,
training, student teaching, volunteer work, school events, etc).
Students driving in a personal motor vehicle will be personally
responsible for their travel to and from off-site events. Students
waive, release, and discharge any and all claims against GCU for
damages for death, personal injury, or property damage to
students or others that may arise as a result of operating a motor
vehicle while traveling to and from any off-site events.
University Technology
Requirements
Students and faculty participating in Online and Traditional Web-
Enhanced courses must have access to the following minimum
hardware and software. Some programs of study at Grand
Canyon University require additional technology requirements,
which can be found under the Programmatic Technology
Requirements section.
*We are working on optimizing our online learning system for
mobile devices. Until this optimization is complete, some
functions may not be fully available and system navigation may
appear different on your mobile device than on your computer.
Some error messages may intermittently appear about your
mobile browser not being supported.
**Please note that most mobile devices, including tablets, smart
phones and PDA devices, as well as many eBook reader devices,
do not support eBook (PDF) files with embedded digital right
management (DRM) restrictions that require connecting to a live
server for authentication.
Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 8.1 or Windows 10
Processor Speed Intel i5 equivalent or better
CPU Memory 8 GB or more
Internet
Connection
Cable Broadband or DSL
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 189 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Internet
Browser
Current version:
• Internet Explorer
• Mozilla Firefox
• Google Chrome
• Microsoft Edge
Internet
Browser
Configuration
• Pop-Up Blocking Disabled
• JavaScript Enabled
• AJAX Enabled
Java Runtime
Environment
1.6.0 or higher
Hard Disk Space 256 GB Free
Audio Card 24-bit or better
A/V Built-in or external Webcam, Speakers,
microphone.
Software
• Office 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint,
and more)
• Adobe Acrobat Reader 11 or newer
• An up to date anti-virus software
Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
macOS: High Sierra, Mojave, or Catalina
Processor Speed Intel i5 equivalent or better
CPU Memory 8GB or more
Internet
Connection
Cable Broadband or DSL
Internet
Browser
Current version:
• Safari 9
• Mozilla Firefox
• Google Chrome
Internet
Browser
Configuration
• Pop-Up Blocking Disabled
• JavaScript Enabled
• AJAX Enabled
Java Runtime
Environment
1.6.0 or higher
Hard Disk Space 256 GB Free
Audio Card 24-bit or better
A/V Built-in or external Webcam, Speakers,
microphone.
Software
• Office 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint,
and more)
• Adobe Acrobat Reader 11 or newer
• An up to date anti-virus software
Computers and Software
The Department of Information Technology Services provides
computing services at GCU. Students have free access to
computers on the GCU campus. The GCU Library is outfitted
with new Chromeboxes offering Internet access. Each student has
an individual login that includes secured space on a server for the
storage of personal files. In addition to the library Chromeboxes,
wireless access is available for students with laptops.
Library Hours: https://library.gcu.edu/
Contact Information
1-800-800-9776
Location
GCU Library, Student Union
The Data Base (Computer Repair Bar) The Data Base offers free computer repair to current GCU
students and faculty. Services available: Computer clean-ups,
virus removal, software installation, limited hardware repair, and
password resets for student/faculty portal and email.
Hours of Operation
Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 8:00pm
Saturday: 8:00am – 5:00PM
Sunday: 12:00pm – 6:00pm
Contact Information
(602) 639-7700
Location
2nd floor of Student Union
GCU Accessibility Standards
Grand Canyon University is committed to providing accessible
website content and functionality. “Accessible” means that
regardless of any visual impairment, an individual is able to
independently access and utilize GCU’s websites to obtain
information and services offered by the University. It is GCU’s
goal that all students, faculty and staff are able to use the same
web services with equivalent ease of use.
In order to achieve this goal, GCU has adopted the following
standards for new web development:
1. GCU websites will be designed and developed to be
compatible with screen reader software.
2. All website functionality will be accessible through keyboard
commands.
3. Site navigation will be arranged so that a user can progress
logically from start to finish through the site content.
4. Web sites will be designed to permit screen readers to skip
repetitive navigation menus.
5. Frames will be titled with text to allow navigation and
identification.
6. Data tables will include identified row and column headers.
7. Multimedia elements will have text alternatives provided.
8. Descriptive text elements will be included for all non-text
elements of the page that relate to the page content and
functions.
9. Alt tags will be included for pages that contain images.
10. All videos will be closed-captioned and a descriptive text
transcript will be made available for blind users.
11. All audio content will include transcripts.
12. All form controls must be labeled.
13. Elements that expand / collapse must be labeled to announce
change to the screen reader.
14. If a timed response is required, the user must be alerted and
given a method to request more time.
15. All elements must be visible in high contrast mode
(Windows).
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 190 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
16. Any information conveyed by color will also be available
without the use of color.
17. All pages will be understandable without their associated
style sheet.
18. All elements will be designed to avoid causing a screen
flicker in the frequency range of 2Hz to 55Hz, inclusive. If a
video is unable to meet these standards due to content, a
warning label will be included.
19. GCU will use tools provided by W3C to scan new websites
and attempt to resolve accessibility suggestions before the
website is made available.
In addition to the above standards, GCU offers Technical Support
for individuals to work in a one-on-one basis to assist with
navigation of a GCU website. Individuals requiring assistance
can contact Technical Support or Student Disability Services for
assistance.
Programmatic Technology
Requirements
Students and faculty participating in the programs below must
have access to the following minimum computer hardware and
software.
Colangelo College of Business
Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics, Bachelor of
Science in Applied Business Analytics, Bachelor of Science in
Business Information Systems, Bachelor of Science in Applied
Business Information Systems, Master of Science in Business
Analytics
In addition to the University Technology Requirements for
general education course software requirements, students must
have access to the following computer hardware and software
minimum requirements:
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 8.1 or Windows 10
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 with 4 cores, min. 2.8GHz
RAM memory 16GB or greater, upgradable later to 32 GB (2
GHz speed)
Hard Drive
Storage
512GB HD, upgradable later to 1 TB
Screen 15” or larger
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Peripherals USB 3.0, HDMI
Software (Free)
• Microsoft Office Suite 365 for students
(Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Visual Studio via Microsoft Imagine
(Instructor will advise students the version
required)
• Don Ho Notepad++ editor
Service Plan
(optional)
3-4 years including accidental damage
(recommended)
Laptop Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
macOS: High Sierra, Mojave, or Catalina
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 with 4 cores, min 2.8 GHz
RAM memory 16GB or greater, upgradable later to 32 GB (2
GHz speed)
Hard Drive
Storage
512GB SSD, upgradable later to 1 TB
Screen 15” or larger
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Peripherals Adaptor cables for USB 3.0 and HDMI
Software (Free)
• Microsoft Windows 10 through Parallels
(via Microsoft Imagine) or Bootcamp
• Visual Studio via Microsoft Imagine
(Instructor will advise students the version
required)
• Microsoft Office Suite 365 for students
(Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Bare Bones TextWrangler editor
Service Plan
(optional)
3-4 years Apple Care+ (recommended)
College of Arts and Media
Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and Graphic Design
Advertising and Graphic Design majors must have access to the
following computer hardware and software:
All Students
Software
• Subscription to Adobe Creative cloud -
Paid monthly by student
• Microsoft Office (free to students)
Peripherals • Mouse
• Graphics Tablet (Wacom Intuos, size
choice is up to the student)(optional)
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 8.1
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 Extreme with 6 cores 2.6 GHz
RAM memory 16GB
Hard Drive
Storage
512GB SSD for back-ups
Screen 16” Ultra HD resolution WLED, contrast
600:1 (for games 1000:1 recommended)
Built-in AV Built-in AV
Service Plan
(optional)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 191 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Laptop Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
macOS: High Sierra, Mojave or Catalina
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 Quad-core 2.2 GHz
RAM memory 16GB
Hard Drive
Storage
512GB for back ups
Screen 15” Retina Display
Built-in AV Webcam, Speakers
Service Plan
(optional)
3-4 years Apple Care+
Bachelor of Arts in Digital Film (Nontraditional Only)
Digital Film majors must have access to the following computer
hardware and software:
All Students
Software –
Screenwriting
Students
• Final Draft
• Celtix
• Fade In
Software -
Production
• Subscription to the Adobe Creative Cloud,
paid monthly by the student, to include
Adobe Premier, After Effects, Audition.
• DaVinci Resolve 16 (free or paid version)
Camera &
Tripod
All Digital Film Majors are required to have a
camera and a tripod. The camera must be able
to manually adjust the aperture, shutter speed,
frame rate, white balance, and ISO/Gain. Two
models we recommend are listed here. Only
one 18-55 lens is required. DSLR cameras
that take video are recommended as well as
Prosumer level video camera like (Canon
C100, Sony FS100, or Blackmagic Cinema
Camera).
Lighting Lighting needs are practical lamps and foam
core bounce cards.
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 10 (64-bit) minimum: build:1803
recommended build:1809 or later
CPU Speed Intel 7th generation or newer or AMD
equivalent
RAM memory 16GB for HD Media; 32GB or more for 4k
media
Hard Drive
Storage
1TB SSD or 512GB SSD upgradable later to
1TB
Screen 16” Ultra HD resolution WLED, contrast
600:1 (for games 1000:1 recommended)
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Networking Firewire, USB3.0, HDMI
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Service Plan
(optional
insurance
available at
time of
purchase from
computer
manufacturer)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Laptop Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
macOS v10.13 or later
CPU Speed Intel 7th generation or newer – Or AMD
Equivalent
RAM memory 32GB or 16 GB with capability to expand
later to 32GB (2Ghz speed)
Hard Drive
Storage
1TB SSD or 512GB SSD upgradable later to
1TB
Screen 15” Retina Display
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Networking Thunderbolt, USB 3.0, HDMI
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years Apple Care+
Bachelor of Arts in Digital Film (Nontraditional Only)
Digital Film majors must have access to the following computer
hardware and software:
All Students
Software –
Screenwriting
Students
• Final Draft
• Celtix
• Fade In
Software -
Production
• Subscription to the Adobe Creative Cloud,
paid monthly by the student, to include
Adobe Premier, After Effects, Audition.
• DaVinci Resolve 16 (free or paid version)
Camera &
Tripod
All Digital Film Majors are required to have a
camera and a tripod. The camera must be able
to manually adjust the aperture, shutter speed,
frame rate, white balance, and ISO/Gain. Two
models we recommend are listed here. Only
one 18-55 lens is required. DSLR cameras
that take video are recommended as well as
Prosumer level video camera like (Canon
C100, Sony FS100, or Blackmagic Cinema
Camera).
Lighting Lighting needs are practical lamps and foam
core bounce cards.
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 10 (64-bit) minimum: build:1803
recommended build:1809 or later
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 192 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
CPU Speed Intel 7th generation or newer or AMD
equivalent
RAM memory 16GB for HD Media; 32GB or more for 4k
media
Hard Drive
Storage
1TB SSD or 512GB SSD upgradable later to
1TB
Screen 16” Ultra HD resolution WLED, contrast
600:1 (for games 1000:1 recommended)
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Networking Firewire, USB3.0, HDMI
Service Plan
(optional
insurance
available at
time of
purchase from
computer
manufacturer)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Laptop Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
macOS v10.13 or later
CPU Speed Intel 7th generation or newer – Or AMD
Equivalent
RAM memory 32GB or 16 GB with capability to expand
later to 32GB (2Ghz speed)
Hard Drive
Storage
1TB SSD or 512GB SSD upgradable later to
1TB
Screen 15” Retina Display
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Networking Thunderbolt, USB 3.0, HDMI
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years Apple Care+
Bachelor of Arts in Digital Design
Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and Graphic Design
Bachelor of Arts in Social Media
All Digital Design majors with an emphasis in Web Design or
Animation and Advertising and Graphic Design majors must
have access to the following computer hardware and software:
All Students
Software –
Web Emphases
Advertising
and Graphics
• Active subscription to Adobe Creative
cloud - Paid monthly by the student
• Basecamp – Free project management
software
• FIGMA – Free prototyping software
• Web Domain and Hosting service –
Identified in class
• After Effects plug-ins – Identified in class
All Students
Software –
Animation
Students
• Active subscription to Adobe Creative
cloud, paid monthly by the student
• Basecamp – Free project management
software
• Maya Student download – Free for
students for 3 years. Access in 3D class
(http://www.autodesk.com/education/free-
software/maya)
• Additional Maya plug-ins – Identified in
class
• AfterEffects plug-ins – Identified in class
Software &
Perpherals –
Social Media
• Active subscription to Adobe Creative
cloud - Paid monthly by the student
• Basecamp – Free project management
software
• Additional software, primarily phone apps,
will be identified in class
• Students must have a current smartphone
with a camera. If purchased within the past
3 years, it will be sufficient
• A cell-phone gimbal will be required, but
identified within the first DSM course.
• A variety of cell phone apps will be
required throughout the degree.
Additional cell-phone lenses and tools will
be introduced throughout the degree
program of study.
Peripherals
• 3 Button Mouse
• Back-up drive, either cloud or plug-in
• Graphics tablet such as Wacome or iPad
are optional
Camera &
Tripod
Design students should have a camera, They
are required if you take the photography
classes. The camera must be able to manually
adjust the aperture, shutter speed, frame rate,
white balance and ISO/Gain. DSLR cameras
that take video are recommended.
Cannon Nikon
EOS Rebel T3i or
equivalent
Nikon D3200,
D3300 or equivalent
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 10 (64-bit) minimum: build:1803
recommended build:1809 or later
CPU Speed Intel 7th generation or newer – Or AMD
equivalent
RAM memory 16GB minimum
64GB preferred
Hard Drive
Storage
1TB or more
Graphics Card NVIDIA GeForce GT or GTX
Screen 15” minimum 1920x1080 or greater
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Networking Firewire, USB3.0, HDMI
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 193 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
All Students
Built-in AV Webcam, Speakers
Service Plan
(optional
insurance
available at
time of
purchase from
computer
manufacturer)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Laptop Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
macOS v10.13 or later
CPU Speed
*Most recently available – Newer modesl
will have Apple M1 chips.
Minimum: Intel Core i7 2.3Ghz
RAM memory 16GB preferred
Hard Drive
Storage
1TB
Graphics Card Apple M1 integrated graphics
Screen 13.3” minimum 2560x1600
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Networking Thunderbolt, USB 3.0, HDMI
Built-in AV Webcam, Speakers
Service Plan
(optional
insurance
available at
time of
purchase from
computer
manufacturer)
3-4 years Apple Care+
Bachelor of Arts in Music
Bachelor of Arts in Music Education
Bachelor of Arts in Music and Bachelor of Arts in Music
Education majors, all emphases, must have access to the
following computer hardware and software. Please note, in order
to be successful in their coursework, access to these minimums is
essential. Additionally, a laptop is required, as the computer will
be utilized within the classroom for completion of curriculum:
All Students – Microsoft Windows PC
Operating
System
8.1 (64 bit), or Windows 10 (64 bit).
(Windows 10 is recommended).
Processor Intel i5 processor or equivalent/better.
CPU memory 4GB (8GB+ recommended) of RAM or more
Wireless Wi-Fi enabled
All Students – Microsoft Windows PC
Hard Drive
Storage
256 GB+ free
Screen • 1280x800 display
Graphics Card • Integrated, 24-bit or better
AV Built-in or external Webcam, speakers,
microphone
Connectivity USB 2.0+, VGA, and HDMI (adapters OK)
Software
• Finale
• Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel,
Powerpoint)
• Windows Media player 12 or newer
• Adobe Acrobat reader 11 or newer
• Up to date anti-virus software
• Focusrite Interface Drivers (free)
Auralia/Musition 6 (integrated into course
fee)
Service Plan
(optional)
3-4 years including accidental damage.
Available at time of purchase from computer
manufacturer.
All Students – Apple Macintosh
Operating
System
macOS: High Sierra, Mojave, or Catalina
Processor Intel i5 processor or better.
CPU memory 8 GB or more
Wireless Wi-Fi enabled
Hard Drive
Storage
256 GB+ free
Screen • 1280x800 display
Graphics Card • Integrated, 24-bit or better
AV Built-in or external Webcam, speakers,
microphone
Connectivity USB 2.0+, VGA, and HDMI (adapters OK)
Software
• Finale
• Ableton Live
• Focusrite interface Drivers (Free)
• Auralia/Musition 6 (integrated in course
fee)
• Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel,
PowerPoint)
• Adobe Acrobat Reader 11 or newer
• An updated anti-virus software
Service Plan
(optional)
3-4 years Apple Care +
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing for New Media
Bachelor of Arts in Communications with an Emphasis in
Broadcasting and New Media
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 194 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Professional Writing for New Media and Communications with
an Emphasis in Broadcasting and New Media majors must have
access to the following computer hardware and software:
All Students
Software
• Subscription to Adobe Creative cloud -
Paid monthly by student
• Microsoft Office (free to students)
Peripherals • Mouse
• Graphics Tablet (Wacom Intuos, size
choice is up to the student)(optional)
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 8.1
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 Extreme with 6 cores 2.6 GHz
RAM memory 16GB
Hard Drive
Storage
512GB SSD for back-ups
Screen 16” Ultra HD resolution WLED, contrast
600:1 (for games 1000:1 recommended)
Built-in AV Built-in AV
Service Plan
(optional)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Laptop Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
macOS: High Sierra, Mojave or Catalina
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 Quad-core 2.2 GHz
RAM memory 16GB
Hard Drive
Storage
512GB for back ups
Screen 15” Retina Display
Built-in AV Webcam, Speakers
Service Plan
(optional)
3-4 years Apple Care+
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
In addition to the University technology requirements, students
enrolled in the APRN programs must have access to a laptop.
GCU Pre-licensure BSN program requires all students in the
clinical portion of the program to own a laptop computer.
Chromebooks are not recommended. The minimum hard and
software requirements will follow the University Technology
Requirements policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Students will be required to perform all necessary updates to their
devices prior to any testing event.
APRN Students
Software
• ProctorU Auto
• ProctorU Live+
• Log Me In Rescue
Hardware
Laptop
• Microsoft Windows 8.1 or later.
Or
Apple macOS High Sierra, Mojave,
or Catalina
Audio Visual • Webcam, Speakers
College of Engineering and Technology
All Engineering Programs
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC 15” Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 11 Professional or Windows 11
Education (Home edition is not supported)
CPU/Processor
Speed
Intel Core i7, Intel Core i9, AMD Ryzen 5,
AMD Ryzen 7, or AMD Ryzen 9 (Note:
ARM Processors are not compatible)
RAM Memory Minimum of 16 Gb expandable to 32 Gb in
the future (Note: The more RAM the better)
Hard Disk Solid State Drive 512 GB or larger
Screen 15” or larger
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Graphics Card Discrete Graphics (Nvidia Quadro preferred
for CAD Software)
Peripherals
USB 3.0, HDMI Wireless mouse
USB-C to USB-A adaptor if no USB-A ports
are on the computer
Software (Free)
• Microsoft Office Suite 365 for students
(Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Visual Studio via Microsoft Imagine
(Instructor will advise students the version
required)
• Don Ho Notepad++ editor
• Jetbrains CLion
• Cygwin
• Larus QT-SPIM
• RStudio and FOAS RStudio Desktop Open
Source Edition
• Lexxmark WinFlex-Bison (required in last
semester
Software
(Additional
Charge)
None
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Notes
There has been major incompatibly found
with certain Dell Latitude and Dell XPS
computers leading to system crashes.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 195 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Laptop Macbook Pro 15” Minimum
Models MacBook Pro 14-inch, MacBook Pro 16-inch
Operating
System
macOS 10.14.6 Mojave or Latest macOS
CPU/Processor
Speed
Intel Core i7, Intel Core i9, Apple M1, or
Apple M2
RAM memory Minimum 32Gb (Note on Mac memory is not
upgradable)
Hard Disk Minimum 2Tb (Note on Mac Storage is not
upgradable)
Screen 15” or larger
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Peripherals
Adaptor cables for USB 3.0 and HDMI
Wireless mouse
USB-C to USB-A adapter
Software (Free)
• Microsoft Office Suite 365 for students
(Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Bare Bones TextWrangler editor
• GNU Bison-Unix (required in last semester)
• Jetbrains CLion
• GNU Flex-Unix (required in last semester)
• Larus QT-SPIM
• RStudio and FOAS RStudio Desktop Open
Source Edition
• Apple Xcode
Software
(Additional
Charge)
None
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years Apple Care +
Notes
You will be required to run Parallels Desktop
on your computer to support much of the
required programmatic software. This
requires both purchase of Parallels Desktop
and a copy of Windows 11 Professional or
Windows 11 Education.
Required Software
Biomedical Engineering | Mechanical Engineering |
Mechanical Engineering with an Emphasis in Aerospace |
Engineering with an Emphasis in Robotics | Computer
Engineering | Industrial Engineering | Engineering with an
Emphasis in Project Management | Mechanical Engineering
Technology | Mechanical Engineering with an Emphasis in
Mechatronics
- Matlab/Simulink, SolidWorks and Labview/Multisim.
Electrical Engineering | Electrical Engineering Technology
- Matlab/Simulink, Labview/Multisim, PSPICE, OrCad and
Visual Studio
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
All Computer Science majors must have access to the following
computer hardware and software:
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 10 or better
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 with 4 cores, 2.8 GHz
RAM memory 16GB or greater (2 GHz speed)
Hard Disk
Storage
512GB HD or SSD, upgradable later to 1 TB
Screen 15” or larger
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Peripherals USB 3.0, HDMI
Software (Free)
• Microsoft Office Suite 365 for students
(Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Visual Studio via Microsoft Imagine
(Instructor will advise students the version
required)
• Don Ho Notepad++ editor
• Jetbrains CLion
• Cygwin
• Larus QT-SPIM
• RStudio and FOAS RStudio Desktop Open
Source Edition
• Lexxmark WinFlex-Bison (required in last
semester)
Software
(Additional
Charge)
• None
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Laptop
(MacBook Pro
≥ 2013)
Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
Latest macOS
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 with 4 cores, min 2.8 GHz
RAM memory 16GB or greater (2 GHz speed)
Hard Disk
Storage
512GB GB SSD, upgradable later to 1 TB
Screen 15” or larger
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Peripherals Adaptor cables for USB 3.0 and HDMI
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 196 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Software (Free)
• Microsoft Office Suite 365 for students
(Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Bare Bones TextWrangler editor
• GNU Bison-Unix (required in last
semester)
• Jetbrains CLion
• GNU Flex-Unix (required in last semester)
• Larus QT-SPIM
• RStudio and FOAS RStudio Desktop Open
Source Edition
• Apple Xcode
Software
(Additional
Charge)
• None
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years Apple Care+
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
All Cybersecurity majors must have access to the following
computer hardware and software:
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 10 or better
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 with 4 cores, 2.8 GHz
RAM memory 16GB or greater, upgradable later to 32 GB (2
GHz speed)
Hard Disk
Storage
512GB HD or SSD, upgradable later to 1 TB
Screen 15” or larger
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Peripherals USB 3.0, HDMI
Software (Free)
• VMware Workstation
• Media Computation Jython Environment
for students
• Kali Linux
• NMAP Nmap and Zenmap
• Cisco Packet Tracer
• WIRESHARK Wireshark network
protocol analyzer
Software
(Additional
Charge)
• Amazon Web Service
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Laptop
(MacBook Pro
≥ 2013)
Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
Latest macOS
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 with 4 cores, min 2.8 GHz
RAM memory 16GB or greater, upgradable later to 32 GB
(2 GHz speed)
Hard Disk
Storage
512GB GB SSD, upgradable later to 1 TB
Screen 15” or larger
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Peripherals Adaptor cables for USB 3.0 and HDMI
Software (Free)
• VMware Fusion
• Media Computation Jython Environment
for students
• Kali Linux
• NMAP Nmap and Zenmap
• Cisco Packet Tracer
• WIRESHARK Wireshark network
protocol analyzer
Software
(Additional
Charge)
• Amazon Web Services
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Bachelor of Science in Applied Technology
All Information Technology majors must have access to the
following computer hardware and software:
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 10 or better
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 with 4 cores, 2.8 GHz
RAM memory 16GB or greater, upgradable later to 32 GB (2
GHz speed)
Hard Disk
Storage
512GB HD, upgradable later to 1 TB
Screen 15” or larger
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Peripherals USB 3.0, HDMI
Software (Free)
• VMware Workstation
• Media Computation Jython Environment
for Students
• Kali Linux
• NMAP Nmap and Zenmap
• Cisco Packet Tracer
• WIRESHARK Wireshark network
protocol analyzer
Software
(Additional
Charge)
• Amazon Web Services
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 197 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Laptop
(MacBook Pro
≥ 2013)
Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
Latest macOS
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 with 4 cores, min 2.8 GHz
RAM memory 16GB or greater, upgradable later to 32 GB
(2 GHz speed)
Hard Disk
Storage
512GB GB SSD, upgradable later to 1 TB
Screen 15” or larger
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Peripherals Adaptor cables for USB 3.0 and HDMI
Software (Free)
• VMware Fusion
• Media Computation Jython Environment
for Students
• Kali Linux
• NMAP Nmap and Zenmap
• Cisco Packet Tracer
• WIRESHARK Wireshark network
protocol analyzer
Software
(Additional
Charge)
• Amazon Web Services
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years Apple Care+
Bachelor of Science in Software Development
All majors in the Bachelor of Science in Software Development
program must have access to the following computer hardware
and software:
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 10 or later
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 with 4 cores, min. 2.8 GHz
RAM memory 16GB with capability to expand later to
32GB (2Ghz speed)
Hard Disk
Storage
512GB HD, upgradable later to 1 TB
Screen 15” or larger
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Peripherals USB3.0, HDMI
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Software (Free)
• Microsoft Office Suite 365 for students
(Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Visual Studio via Microsoft Imagine
(Instructor will advise students the version
required)
• Don Ho Notepad++ editor
Software
(Additional
Charge)
• Amazon Web Services
• Web Hosting (e.g. Bluehost, HostGator,
etc.)
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Laptop
(MacBook Pro
≥ 2013)
Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
Latest macOS
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 with 4 cores, min. 2.8 GHz
RAM memory 16GB or greater, upgradable later to 32 GB
(2 GHz speed)
Hard Disk
Storage
512GB SSD, upgradable later to 1 TB
Screen 15” or larger
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Peripherals Adaptor cables for USB 3.0 and HDMI
Software (Free)
• Microsoft Windows 10 through Parallels
(via Microsoft Imagine) or Bootcamp
• Visual Studio via Microsoft Imagine
(Instructor will advise students the version
required)
• Microsoft Office Suite 365 for students
(Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Bare Bones TextWrangler Editor
Software
(Additional
Charge)
• Amazon Web Services
• Web Hosting (e.g. Bluehost, Host Gator,
etc.)
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years Apple Care+
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 10 or better
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 with 4 cores, min. 2.8 GHz
RAM memory 16GB or greater (2 Ghz speed)
Hard Disk
Storage
512GB SSD or higher
Screen 15” or larger
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 198 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Webcam/Mic
Peripherals Adaptors/Cables for USB3.0, HDMI
Software (Free)
• Microsoft Office Suite 365 for students
(Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Visual Studio via Microsoft Imagine
(Instructor will advise students the version
required)
• Eclipse (Latest Version)
• Don Ho Notepad++ editor
• Intel Quartus Prime Software
Software
(Additional
Charge)
• Amazon Web Services
• Web Hosting (e.g. Bluehost, HostGator,
etc.)
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Laptop
(MacBook Pro
≥ 2013)
Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
macOS High Sierra, Mojave, Catalina
CPU Speed Intel Core i7 with 4 cores, min. 2.8 GHz
RAM memory 16GB or greater, upgradable later to 32 GB
(2 GHz speed)
Hard Disk
Storage
512GB SSD, upgradable later to 1 TB
Screen 15” or larger
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Peripherals Adaptor/Cables for USB 3.0 and HDMI
Software (Free)
• Visual Studio via Microsoft Imagine
(Instructor will advise students the version
required)
• Microsoft Office Suite 365 for students
(Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Bare Bones TextWrangler Editor
• Antivirus+ malware protection
• Single-Board Computer (details will be
provided in relevant courses)
Embedded
Systems
Hardware
(Additional
Charge)
• Terasic DE10-Standard Development Kit
with Cyclone V SoC FPGA
• Edimax N150 Wi-Fi Nano USB Adapter
• 16GB SD card
Master of Science in Data Science
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 10 Professional or Academic
Edition (not Home Edition), with an Ubuntu
Linux Partition (or dual boot or virtual
machine)
CPU/Processor
Speed
Intel Core i7 with 4 cores 3.3 GHz or higher
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
RAM memory 16GB with capability to expand later to
32GB
Hard Drive
Storage
1TB SSD (preferred) or 512GB SSD
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Built-in AV Webcam, Speakers, built-in microphone
Software
• Linux to make computer dual boot for
Windows and Linux
• Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Python 3.6 or Later
• NumPy
• PyCharm
• R, R. Studio
• Scikit-Learn, Matplotlib, Pandas
• NLTK, Tensorflow
• Dplyr, Data.table, DataTables
• Ggplot2, Ggvis, Gbm
• Ploty, RandomForest, Xgboost
• markdown, kintr, shiny
• Antivirus + malware protection
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Laptop
(MacBook Pro
≥ 2013)
Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
macOS High Sierra, Mojave, Catalina
CPU/Processor
Speed
Intel Core i7 Quad-core 3.3 GHz or higher
RAM memory 32GB (if available) or 16GB
Hard Drive
Storage
1TB SSD (preferred) or 512GB SSD
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Built-in AV Webcam, Speakers
Software
• Linux to make computer dual boot for
Windows and Linux
• Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Python 3.6 or Later
• NumPy
• PyCharm
• R, R. Studio
• Scikit-Learn, Matplotlib, Pandas
• NLTK, Tensorflow
• Dplyr, Data.table, DataTables
• Ggplot2, Ggvis, Gbm
• Ploty, RandomForest, Xgboost
• markdown, kintr, shiny
• Antivirus + malware protection
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 199 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Master of Science in Computer Science
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 10 Professional or Academic
Edition (not Home Edition), with an Ubuntu
Linux Partition (or dual boot or virtual
machine)
CPU/Processor
Speed
Intel Core i7 with 4 cores 3.3 GHz or higher
RAM memory 32GB or 16GB with capability to expand
later to 32GB
Hard Drive
Storage
512GB SSD or higher
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Built-in AV Webcam, Speakers, built-in microphone
Software
• Linux to make computer dual boot for
Windows and Linux
• Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Microsoft Visual Studio
• Eclipse Oxygen (or newer)
• C Compiler
• PyCharm
• R, R Studio
• Python 3.6 or higher
• Frame Works: Open MP, MPI
• Antivirus + malware protection
• Single-Board Computer (details will be
provided in relevant courses)
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Laptop
(MacBook Pro
≥ 2013)
Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
macOS High Sierra, Mojave, Catalina
CPU/Processor
Speed
Intel Core i7 Quad-core 3.3 GHz or higher
RAM memory 16GB or higher
Hard Drive
Storage
1TB SSD or 512GB SSD upgradable later to
1TB
Wireless Wi-Fi_33, Bluetooth
Built-in AV Webcam, Speakers
Laptop (No
Tablets) Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Software
• Choose 1 of 2 Options:
Install Windows to make computer dual-
boot MAC OS/Windows (FREE via
BootCAmp)
Install virtualization software (VMware,
Parallels, VirtualBox, etc.) and install
Windows 10 OS on top
• Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Microsoft Visual Studio (on Windows)
• Eclipse Oxygen (or newer)
• C Compiler
• PyCharm
• R, R Studio
• Python
• Frame Works: Open MP, MPI, CUDA
• Antivirus + malware protection
• Single-Board Computer (details will be
provided in relevant courses)
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years Apple Care+
College of Theology
Bachelor of Arts in Worship Arts with an Emphasis in Digital
Media
All majors in the Bachelor of Worship Arts with an emphasis in
Digital Design program are required to have a PC or Mac laptop
computer and the appropriate software. When selecting a laptop,
students may choose from a variety of makes and models
provided that the laptop meets the following technical
specifications:
All Students
Software –
Worship Arts
Production
• Finale or any DAW (Digital Audio
Workstation)
• Vectorworks
• Subscription to Adobe Creative cloud
• Will be required by instructor for purchase
in semester-long increments during
particular courses
Peripherals • Mouse
• External storage – 16 GB USB drive
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 10 or better
CPU Speed Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0GHz processor or better
RAM memory 4 GB minimum, 8 GB (or more)
recommended
Hard Drive
Storage
8 GB - 16 GB hard drive space
recommended
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 200 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Software
• Finale or any DAW (Digital Audio
Workstation)
• Vectorworks
• Adobe Creative Cloud
o Will be required by instructor for
purchase in semester-long increments
during particular courses
Ports 2 available USB port
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Laptop Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
Latest macOS
CPU Speed Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0 GHz processor or better
RAM memory 8 GB RAM Required
Hard Drive
Storage
8GB - 16 GB hard drive space
Software
• Finale, Garageband, or any DAW (Digital
Audio Workstation)
• Vectorworks
• Adobe Creative Cloud
o Will be required by instructor for
purchase in semester-long increments
during particular courses
Ports 2 available USB port
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years Apple Care+
Bachelor of Arts in Worship Arts with an Emphasis in
Worship Ministry
All majors in the Bachelor of Worship Arts with an emphasis in
Worship Ministry program are required to have PC or Mac laptop
computer and the appropriate software. Please note that in order
to be successful within this program, meeting these technological
requirements will be vital. When selecting a laptop, students may
choose from a variety of makes and models provided that the
laptop meets the following technical specifications:
All Students
Software –
Worship Arts
Worship
Ministry
• Finale
• Auralia and Musition Cloud Software –
(Paid Subscription – Specified courses
only)
• Noteflight Learn Software – (Paid
Subscription – Specified courses only)
• Focusrite Interface Drivers – (Free)
Peripherals • Mouse
• External storage – 16 GB USB drive
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 8.1 (64 bit), or Windows 10 (64
bit). (Windows 10 is recommended)
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Processor Intel i5 processor, or equivalent/better.
CPU memory
(RAM)
4GB (8GB+ recommended)
Hard Drive
Storage 256GB+
Screen 1280x800 display
Graphics Card Integrated
Sound Card Integrated
Wireless Wi-Fi enabled
Connectivity USB 2.0+, VGA, and HDMI (adapters OK)
Service Plan
(optional)
3-4 years including accidental damage.
Available at time of purchase from
computer manufacturer
Laptop Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
Latest macOS
Processor Intel i5 processor, or equivalent/better
CPU memory
(RAM)
4GB (8GB+ recommended)
Hard Drive
Storage
256GB+
Screen • 1280x800 display
Graphics Card Integrated
Sound Card Integrated
Wireless Wi-Fi enabled
Connectivity USB 2.0+, VGA, and HDMI (adapters OK)
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years Apple Care+
Bachelor of Arts in Worship Arts with an Emphasis in Media
and Production
All majors in the Bachelor of Worship Arts with an emphasis in
Media and Production program are required to have a PC or Mac
laptop computer and the appropriate software. Please note that in
order to be successful within this program, meeting these
technological requirements will be vital. When selecting a laptop,
students may choose from a variety of makes and models
provided that the laptop meets the following technical
specifications:
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 201 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
All Students
Software –
Worship Arts
Media
Production
• Finale
• SketchUp – (Free)
• iLok Smart Key
• DaVinci Resolve – (Free)
• Planning Center Online – (Free)
• SongSelect – (Free)
• Focusrite Interface Drivers – (Free)
Peripherals • Mouse
• External storage – 16 GB USB drive
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 8.1 (64 bit), or Windows 10 (64
bit). (Windows 10 is recommended)
Processor Intel i5 processor, or equivalent/better.
CPU memory
(RAM)
8GB (16GB+ recommended)
Hard Drive
Storage 500GB+
Screen 1280x800 display (1920x1080 or larger
recommended)
Graphics Card
NVIDIA GeForce® GTX 970 / AMD
Radeon™ R9 290 / Intel® HD Graphics
5000 equivalent or greater; Current public
GPU driver—a recent driver is required
Sound Card Sound card compatible with ASIO protocol
or Microsoft Windows Driver Model
Wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Connectivity Firewire, USB3.0, VGA, and HDMI
(adapters OK)
Service Plan
(optional)
3-4 years including accidental damage.
Available at time of purchase from
computer manufacturer
Bachelor of Arts in Worship Arts with an Emphasis in
Worship Production
All majors in the Bachelor of Worship Arts with an emphasis in
Worship Production program are required to have a PC or Mac
laptop computer and the appropriate software. When selecting a
laptop, students may choose from a variety of makes and models
provided that the laptop meets the following technical
specifications:
All Students
Software –
Worship Arts
Production
• Subscription to Adobe Creative cloud
• Finale
Peripherals • Mouse
• External storage – 16 GB USB drive
Laptop Microsoft Windows PC Minimum
Operating
System
Windows 8.1 or Windows 10
(recommended)
CPU Speed Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0GHz processor or better
RAM memory 4 GB minimum, 8 GB (or more)
recommended
Hard Drive
Storage
8 GB - 16 GB hard drive space
recommended
Software
• Finale or any DAW (Digital Audio
Workstation)
• Vectorworks
• Adobe Creative Cloud
o Will be required by instructor for
purchase in semester long increments
during particular courses
Ports 2 available USB port
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years including accidental damage
Laptop Apple Macintosh Minimum
Operating
System
Latest macOS
CPU Speed Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0 GHz processor or better
RAM memory 8 GB RAM Required
Hard Drive
Storage
8GB - 16 GB hard drive space
Software
• Finale, Garageband or any DAW (Digital
Audio Workstation)
• Vectorworks
• Adobe Creative Cloud
o Will be required by instructor for
purchase in semester long increments
during particular courses
Ports 2 available USB port
Service Plan
(recommended)
3-4 years Apple Care+
All Graduate Programs
All Undergraduate Christian Studies Programs
All graduate and undergraduate Christian Studies students in the
College of Theology are required to have a PC or Mac computer,
a viable internet connection, and the appropriate hardware and
software for required use of BONGO at various points within
each program of study. When selecting a computer, students may
choose from a variety of makes, models, and accessories
provided that the computer meets the following technical
specifications:
All Students
BONGO
https://bongolearn.zendesk.com/hc/en-
us/articles/360003760493-Basic-System-
Requirements-
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 202 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
All Students
Software
Computers must have a current version of
Adobe Flash. Students should visit
http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/ to check
their Flash version and update if needed.
If a student is using a Mac, check Flash
settings to ensure Flash is allowed to work.
All new Mac computers are defaulted to
restrict Flash so one must change the settings
before BONGO will work. Follow the steps
on the Flash Tutorial for Mac article for help
with Mac settings.
If video editing is necessary to reduce the size
or trim the starting or ending point, students
may elect to use a standard program like
Microsoft Movie Maker or iMovie. These
programs should be on most computers or
can be added easily.
Other
Hardware
Students must have a webcam and
microphone available with their computers.
Most computers have ‘built in’ webcams and
mics, and if not they can be purchased at
minimal cost and added to a computer.
Review current computer documentation to
find the system settings for mic level and
control of the webcam.
Students may also use an external video
camera or smart phone to record video for
some assignment types. If using an external
video camera, students need to be familiar
with its record function and process for
moving the video files from the camera to the
computer for upload. Recording in medium to
low quality settings is preferred. High
definition video is not required and will only
increase the size of the file and require further
editing.
Intellectual Property Rights
The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) amends federal
copyright law to provide certain liability protections for online
service providers, when their computer systems or networks carry
materials that violate (infringe) copyright law. To qualify for
liability protection, the University is required to have a policy
under which the computer accounts of users will be terminated if
they repeatedly infringe the copyrighted works of others.
The objectives of this policy are to minimize liability while also
providing support for the activities of students, faculty, and staff.
In the context of copyright and other intellectual property, this
means that the Chief Information Officer should be advised as
soon as possible of any suspected infringement. The Chief
Information Officer will work with the University content
provider to establish any defenses. However, if there is
inadequate information to provide a defense, or it appears that no
defense exists, the best route to minimize University damages
will be prompt removal of the allegedly infringing material.
Policy Statement
Compliance with federal copyright law is expected of all
students, faculty, and staff at Grand Canyon University.
"Copyright" is legal protection for creative intellectual works,
which is broadly interpreted to cover just about any expression of
an idea. Text (including e-mail and Web information), graphics,
art, photographs, music, and software are examples of types of
works protected by copyright. The creator of the work, or
sometimes the person who hired the creator, is the initial
copyright owner.
Students may "use" all or part of a copyrighted work only if (a)
they have the copyright owner's permission (in writing—either e-
mail or letter), or (b) they qualify for a legal defense (the most
common defense is called "fair use"). "Use" of a work is defined
for copyright purposes as copying, distributing, making
derivative works, publicly displaying, or publicly performing the
work.
Copying, distributing, downloading, and uploading information
on the Internet may infringe the copyright for that information.
Even an innocent, unintentional infringement violates the law.
Violations of copyright law that occur on or over the University's
networks or other computer resources may create liability for the
University as well as the computer user. Accordingly, repeat
infringers are subject to the appropriate disciplinary review
procedures as set forth in the disciplinary policies for students,
faculty or staff. Violations of law may also be referred for
criminal or civil prosecution.
The University has a legal duty to ensure that official Web sites,
official e-mail, and other official communications and
expressions do not violate the intellectual property rights of third
parties. The most common intellectual property rights found on
the Internet involve copyright and trademark/service marks.
"Official" Web sites and communications include those that are
funded or otherwise sponsored by the University for a University
purpose, or which are created by an employee or agent of the
University who is acting within the authorized scope of
employment or agency on behalf of the University (e.g., posting
Canyon Connect on the web for educational use of enrolled
students).
Removal of official University content, especially Canyon
Connect, can be harmful to academic freedom, to teaching
effectiveness, and to the University's educational mission.
Therefore, faculty and staff are encouraged to secure copyright
permission, a license, or a legal basis for use of someone else's
intellectual property, before using the material.
Procedures
A Notice and Counter Notice for material that may infringe on
Intellectual Property Rights:
Notice: A copyright owner, or person acting for the owner, must
provide the University's designated agent, the Chief General
Council, with written notice that information residing on the
University's computer systems or networks is an infringement of
the copyright. The notice requirement also applies to information
in system cache and to information location tools (e.g., hypertext
links) that infringe copyright.
If a person working for the University has independent
knowledge of a copyright violation on a University computer
system or network, the University may have a duty to remove the
infringing material. This is true even if there is no "notice" from
the copyright owner and this person should report the violation to
the General Council as soon as possible.
The University has "notice" of possible infringement when a third
party advises a University official that there is an infringement,
or when it appears to a University official that material is likely
to be infringing based on the circumstances (e.g., copies of
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 203 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
nationally syndicated cartoons appear on a University Web site
without any statement of copyright permission).
When the University has notice of a possible intellectual property
infringement in official University-provided content, it will in
good faith:
• Attempt to establish who truly owns the copyright (or other
intellectual property) through consultation with the author of
the University content and the party claiming ownership.
• Attempt to determine if any legal defense (e.g., "fair use")
exists to allow the material to be used by the University.
• Attempt to negotiate a permission or settlement if it appears
that the content is infringing or if it appears that settlement is
preferable to litigating an unclear claim. If permission or
settlement is not feasible and it appears that the material is
infringing, the University will promptly remove the material
and the designated agent will notify the computer user and the
person who complained of infringement.
• When copyright ownership is clear and sharing of the
copyrighted material on the University’s network appears to
violate the law, the University will take appropriate, interim
actions to discontinue sharing of the copyrighted materials on
the University’s network.
• Determine if any disciplinary action is appropriate against the
person who posted infringing content. In the case of repeated
infringement or bad faith infringement, disciplinary action may
include suspension or termination of computing privileges,
disciplinary review, termination of employment, and/or legal
action.
Network Use
To assure reliable operation of the Grand Canyon University
computer network in a manner compliant with all applicable
federal, state, and local laws and regulations, the Information
Technology Services department enforces each of the policies
listed below. All network users must agree to abide by these
policies. Use of the network or any portion thereof for any
purpose implies such consent.
Network Goals and Priorities
The Grand Canyon University Information Technology Services
department operates and maintains the computer network for the
purpose of facilitating the timely transfer of digital information
relevant to and essential for the research and educational
activities of Grand Canyon University. In particular, the network
is intended to enable information transfer among students,
faculty, staff and administrators as necessary to observe the
following goals:
• To facilitate student and faculty research;
• To enable access to published literature relevant to teaching
and research efforts at Grand Canyon University;
• To allow the receipt and transmission of electronic mail both
within the campus and between the campus and off-campus
institutions and individuals; and
• To provide access to Internet-based information resources of
value to teaching and research efforts at Grand Canyon
University.
For all students, faculty, and administrators of Grand Canyon
University Information Technology Services, all networking
activities not directly related to one of the above goals are
considered to be of secondary importance and should not impede
or interfere with activities which serve the stated goals of the
network.
Media Licensing and Compliance with Copyright
Protection Legislation
It is strictly forbidden for any student of Grand Canyon
University to engage in any illegal activity while on Grand
Canyon University property or during performance of
coursework or any other duties related to their involvement with
the University. Because unauthorized copying of software is a
form of theft and theft is illegal, the illegal copying or “pirating”
of software, music, videos, or other media is forbidden by Grand
Canyon University policy.
Software Purchase and Installation
To fully comply with Grand Canyon University policy governing
software copyright protection, each registered network user must
agree that (s)he will not install or use any software that is not
legally purchased and registered.
Copyrighted Materials and Usage of Peer-to-Peer
and Other File Sharing Systems
Grand Canyon University strictly forbids the sharing and
distribution of copyrighted digital materials, including music,
movies, photos, etc. Peer-to-Peer File-sharing software including,
but not limited to LimeWire, BitTorrent, and Kazaa shall not be
activated on any computer that is attached to any GCU network
without express written permission from the Information
Security. The University shall monitor its networks for
indications of such file sharing systems and refer all violations
for disciplinary action.
Discipline and Consequences of Policy Violation
If there is discovery of illegally installed software or
inappropriate possession, use, or sharing of copyrighted
materials, the user may be subject to disciplinary action which
may include but is not limited to the loss of network access
privileges, suspension, dismissal, and/or criminal prosecution.
The individual involved shall be held responsible to fully
reimburse the Grand Canyon University for all losses resulting
from such discovery.
Installation and Detachment of Network Devices
No device may be connected to the network without
authorization of the network manager for the Information
Technology Services department. This includes hardware or
software, routers, printers, modems, servers, wireless access
points and new computers. Violation of this policy that results in
network crashes, or other downtime, may result in loss of
network privileges.
Computer Virus Protection
All computers connected to the Grand Canyon University
Network will be required to have anti-virus software installed and
providing active protection. The software must be configured to
check for updates on a daily basis. Upon request, the Information
Technology Services department will provide students legal
sources for free and/or low cost anti-virus software that meets
these requirements.
User-Caused Network Service Interruptions
Any user who repeatedly causes service interruptions in any
network segment, either through knowingly or unknowingly
performing disruptive procedures, introducing viruses, or by
attempting procedures for which the user is unqualified, can lose
the privilege of access to the network. It is incumbent upon the
individual user to use reasonable care to make sure that his/her
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 204 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
computer is free of computer viruses that may infect other
network computers before each attachment to the network. In
cases of malicious vandalism of the network and/or tampering
with other user files, the perpetrator may be financially liable for
all damages, subject to disciplinary action, and can be subject to
criminal prosecution.
Hacking
It is expressly forbidden to make any attempt to defeat any
security system in operation on the network. It is also forbidden
to reconfigure any common use machine without the express
authorization of the network manager responsible for supporting
that machine. No computer attached to the network may be used
for any illegal activities, including attempts to penetrate the
security of other networks. Any user who knowingly or
negligently attempts to defeat security may be subject to
disciplinary action including but not limited to loss of network
access.
Desktop Support
Desktop support is defined as the support required to keep a
desktop personal computer up and running. This includes the
installation, set-up and trouble-shooting of desktop hardware
including hard drives, computer cards, monitors, modems,
printers, memory upgrades, etc.
University Information Technology Services does not provide
desktop support to students.
Software Support
Students will not receive software support from the Grand
Canyon University Information Technology Services department.
Network Access and Support
The Grand Canyon University Information Technology Services
department will provide support for student computers to connect
to the University network and access the Internet.
The Grand Canyon University Information Technology Services
department assumes no responsibility for the loss of any data that
resides on student owned computers.
Student computers must have a network interface card (NIC) or
wireless network adapter in order to connect to the GCU
network.
Students are required to be present when a representative from
the Information Technology Services department is working on a
student owned computer.
Warranties
It is a recommendation that students maintain manufacturer
warranties for the computer and any software installed.
Intellectual Property Policy and
Student Works
As a creative community of teachers, artists, scientists, and
scholars, Grand Canyon University (“Grand Canyon University”
or “GCU” or “Institution”) is committed to encouraging the
creation of new works, new ideas, and new forms of creative and
scholarly expression. This Intellectual Property Policy (“Policy”)
is provided to protect the interests of those who create as well as
the interests of Grand Canyon University itself, which supports
this creative and scholarly work.
The objective of Grand Canyon University’s Intellectual Property
Policy is to promote creative enterprise and to commercialize
innovations that contribute to social prosperity. GCU recognizes
that fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship –
building collaborations with industry – will provide greater
opportunities for our students and faculty. These policies are
designed to make GCU a preferred partner for collaborative
research and development. They also recognize that clear
ownership and protection of Intellectual Property is imperative
for its optimal utilization. GCU will endeavor to lower the
barrier to agreements with industry through commercialization-
friendly Intellectual Property terms.
Aligning with GCU’s overall mission to provide an academically
challenging, values-based curriculum for its students as future
leaders, GCU’s policy on Sponsored Work is aimed at
encouraging collaboration with industry experts to afford the
greatest educational opportunities for our students while mutually
benefitting the Sponsor. GCU’s top priority is our students and
their success and not deriving a revenue stream from Intellectual
Property generated at the University or as a result of Sponsored
Work. In short, GCU’s principle is to create mutually beneficial
collaborations for the development of an improved workforce.
Accordingly, GCU’s policy on ownership of Intellectual Property
developed as a result of Sponsored Research is not only
progressive but also distinct from that of other universities.
This Policy expresses Grand Canyon University’s policy
regarding ownership and usage rights with respect to Intellectual
Property (as hereinafter defined). It covers all those who are a
part of Grand Canyon University – faculty, staff, students,
visiting artists, visiting scholars, industry partners or other
participants enrolled, employed, or affiliated with Grand Canyon
University. This Policy governs the ownership and usage of and
rights in Intellectual Property in all circumstances, unless Grand
Canyon University has modified it through a separate written
agreement. Should there be any conflict between the provisions
of this Policy and the terms of a separate written agreement
between Grand Canyon University and any party, the terms of
that separate written agreement will govern. This Policy is not
intended to limit “fair use” as defined by U.S. laws.
Definitions (if applicable)
The following terms are used throughout the Policy and are
defined as follows:
a. Copyright - Copyright means the intangible property rights
granted for a limited period of time for an original work of
authorship fixed in any tangible form of expression or
medium. Copyright provides the owner with a bundle of
exclusive rights, including the exclusive right to reproduce
the work, to prepare derivative works based on the work, to
distribute copies of the work to the public by sale or other
transfer of ownership (or by rental, lease, license or
lending), to display the work publicly, and to perform the
work publicly (if relevant).
b. Commissioned Work - Commissioned Work means any
Work (as defined in paragraph II.L.) that is produced or
created pursuant to a written agreement with the Institution
and for Institution purposes by (a) individuals not under the
employ of the Institution or (b) Institutional Employees (as
defined in paragraph II.D.) acting outside the scope of their
regular Institution employment, as determined by their
existing Institution employment arrangement or contract, in
Institutional Employees’ free time and without the use of
Institutional Resources (as defined in paragraph II. E.).
c. Independent Academic Effort or Creative Activity -
Independent Academic Effort or Creative Activity means
the inquiry, investigation, research, or creative activity that
is carried out by faculty, staff, Institutional Employees, and
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 205 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Students (as defined in paragraph II.J.) working without any
use of Institutional Resources (as defined in paragraph
II.E.), that advances knowledge or the development of the
arts, sciences, humanities, or technology where the specific
direction, methodology, and content of the pursuit is
determined by the faculty, staff, Institutional Employees, or
Students without the direct assignment, supervision, or
involvement of the Institution or any person acting in their
capacity as an Institutional Employee.
d. Institutional Employee - Institutional Employee means any
full-time or part-time faculty member, visiting faculty,
adjunct faculty, artist, scholar, fellow, full-time or part-time
staff member, or Student who is employed by the Institution
or who is working under an Institution contract, either
express or implied.
e. Institutional Resources – Institutional Resources means any
use of Institution equipment, facilities, property, working
time, personnel, materials, funding, or other financial
support including, without limitation, resources commonly
provided to Institutional Employees, such as offices, library
facilities, artistic facilities, laboratory facilities, and
everyday telephone, computer, computer network support,
and monetary expenditures.
f. Intellectual Property – Intellectual Property means any
intellectual and industrial property and other similar
proprietary rights arising anywhere in the world, including
all of the following and similar intangible property and
related proprietary rights, interests and protections, however
arising, pursuant to the laws of any jurisdiction: (i)
trademarks, service marks, trade names, brand names, logos,
trade dress, and other proprietary indicia of goods and
services, whether registered or unregistered, and all
registrations and applications for registration of such
trademarks, including intent-to-use applications, all
issuances, extensions and renewals of such registrations and
applications, and the goodwill connected with the use of,
and symbolized by, any of the foregoing; (ii) internet
domain names, whether or not trademarks, registered in any
top-level domain by any authorized private registrar or
Governmental Authority, and any brand names, user names
or other identifiers for social media or networking websites;
(iii) original works of authorship fixed in any tangible form
of expression or medium, whether or not published,
including all educational training materials, books, musical
and other recordings, compositions, lyrics, software,
audio/video content, illustrations and photographs,
advertising and promotional content, website content, and
all other copyrights (whether registered or unregistered), all
registrations and applications for registration of such
copyrights, and all issuances, extensions, and renewals of
such registrations and applications for any of the foregoing;
(iv) any rights of publicity including rights in a name,
image, and/or likeness; (v) confidential information,
designs, devices, technology, know-how, source code,
research and development, inventions, methods, processes,
compositions, and other trade secrets, whether or not
copyrightable or patentable; (vi) patented and patentable
designs and inventions, all design, plant, and utility patents,
letters patent, utility models, pending patent applications and
provisional applications, and all issuances, divisions,
continuations, continuations-in-part, reissues, extensions,
reexaminations, and renewals of such patents and
applications; and (vii) all rights to sue, recover, and retain
damages, costs, and attorneys' fees for past, present, and
future infringement and any other rights relating to any of
the foregoing.
g. Patent - Patent means the grant which gives the owner of the
Patent a right to exclude others from making, using, or
selling the claimed invention for a set period of time.
h. Sponsored Work - Sponsored Work means any Work (as
defined in paragraph II.L.) that is produced or created under
an agreement between the Institution and a sponsor which
provides the sponsor (or in certain instances, the Institution)
with ownership and/or usage rights, whether wholly or
jointly, to the Work and Intellectual Property produced
under the agreement. Sponsored Works do not include
Works created through Independent Academic Effort or
Creative Activity, even when based on the findings of the
sponsored project, so long as an agreement does not state
otherwise.
i. Sponsor – Sponsor means those industry partners that have
entered into an agreement with the Institution to collaborate,
oversee, and/or develop a Sponsored Work.
j. Student - Student means any regularly registered, full- or
part-time, undergraduate or graduate student at the
Institution, including students attending the Institution in
exchange programs or through special grants, fellowships,
or programs.
k. Trademark and Service Mark - Trademark and Service Mark
means any word, phrase, name, symbol, logo, slogan,
device, or any combination thereof that is used in trade to
identify and distinguish one party’s goods or services from
those of others.
l. Work - Work means any of the items identified in Sections
(i), (iii), (v) and (vi) of the definition of Intellectual Property
in paragraph II.F.
m. Work Made for Hire - Work Made for Hire means any
Work prepared by an Institutional Employee within the
scope of his or her employment or any Work specially
ordered or commissioned by Grand Canyon University for
use as a contribution to a collective work, as a part of a
motion picture or other audiovisual work, as a translation, as
a supplementary work, as a compilation, as an instructional
text, as a test, as answer material for a test, or as an atlas, if
the parties expressly agree in a written instrument signed by
them that the Work shall be considered a work made for
hire.
Student Works
As a general rule, all Intellectual Property created or developed
by a Student whether through Independent Academic Effort or
Creative Activity or by use of Institutional Resources, will be
owned by the Student (“Student Intellectual Property”).
1. This general rule is subject to the following exceptions, and
the following shall not constitute Student Intellectual
Property:
a. Intellectual Property developed as a Sponsored Work.
b. Intellectual Property developed under a grant which
imposes rules or restrictions requiring that Grand Canyon
University, the government, and/or a third party hold
ownership rights, in whole or in part, to the Intellectual
Property.
c. Intellectual Property developed by Students who are hired
by GCU to carry out specific tasks from which such
Intellectual Property results; such Intellectual Property
constitutes Work Made for Hire, and therefore, Students
retain no rights of ownership in whole or in part to such
Intellectual Property or to the Student’s contribution to
such Work Made for Hire.
2. All Students grant to GCU a royalty-free, worldwide,
perpetual, irrevocable, sublicensable and transferable license
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 206 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
to use, record, reproduce, distribute, modify, create
derivative works of, publish, display, broadcast, perform,
and otherwise duplicate Student Intellectual Property
(excluding any such Student Intellectual Property created or
developed by a Student through Independent Academic
Effort or Creative Act) for use by GCU in connection with
educational, research, clinical, promotional, commercial,
noncommercial, public relations, and marketing campaigns,
and any other use that GCU deems necessary. Students will
receive no compensation at any time for use by GCU of the
Intellectual Property.
3. All Students agree to participate in any promotional,
commercial, public relations or other marketing campaigns
of any nature related to Student’s Intellectual Property when
requested by GCU.
Sponsored Works
As a general rule, Intellectual Property developed as a Sponsored
Work shall be owned by the Sponsor; provided, however that the
Sponsor will be responsible for the patent process, and GCU shall
be afforded reasonable windfall and license rights as set forth
herein.
1. Patent Filing. The Sponsor shall be responsible for filing
patent applications for such Intellectual Property at
Sponsor’s expense. Patent expenses include the cost of
patent filing, prosecution, and maintenance in the United
States and any foreign country in which the patent
application is filed, or any patent is issued. If Sponsor
decides to abandon the patent application or any issued
patent, it shall inform GCU at least thirty (30) days prior to
any office action deadline such that GCU might complete
the patent process or maintain the patent at its own expense,
if it so desires. If GCU elects to complete the patent process
or maintain the patent, GCU shall receive, and Sponsor shall
take all steps necessary to transfer to GCU, full ownership
of such patent application, issued patent and any resulting
Intellectual Property.
2. Windfall Rights. Any separate written agreement between
the Institution and a Sponsor for the development or
commercialization of a Sponsored Work shall include a
reasonable windfall provision whereby, in the event of
commercialization of the Intellectual Property by a Sponsor,
GCU may receive a royalty. The terms of such a provision,
such as the windfall threshold, royalty amount, and payment
terms, will be determined on a case-by-case basis. All
royalties received by GCU will be divided equally between
GCU and GCU’s Scholarship Foundation. GCU reserves
the right to revoke or otherwise withdraw such allocated
royalties from GCU’s Scholarship Foundation at any time at
its discretion.
3. License Rights. Any separate written agreement between
the Institution and a Sponsor for the development or
commercialization of a Sponsored Work shall include a
license or licenses granting to GCU the royalty-free,
worldwide, perpetual, irrevocable, and transferrable rights
to: (i) publish such Intellectual Property, its role in the
development of such Intellectual Property, and the
relationship between GCU and the Sponsor for educational,
promotional, commercial, noncommercial, public relations,
and marketing campaigns; (ii) use such Intellectual Property
for research, clinical and education purposes; and (iii) use
such Intellectual Property in subsequent sponsored research
projects at GCU.
4. For Sponsored Work of Students only, any separate written
agreement between GCU and a Sponsor shall include a
provision whereby Sponsor agrees to make a reasonable
effort in conjunction with GCU to employ Student(s) upon
graduation at Sponsor’s institution whenever feasible.
5. Grant-Funded Work. As an exception to this general rule,
Intellectual Property developed as a Sponsored Work under
a grant is subject to the rules or restrictions imposed by the
granting organization which may require Grand Canyon
University, the government and/or a third party to hold
ownership rights, in whole or in part, to the Intellectual
Property.
Grants
Intellectual Property developed under a grant may impose rules
or restrictions requiring that Grand Canyon University, the
government and/or a third party hold ownership rights, in whole
or in part, to the Intellectual Property. Sponsor and/or Student
will retain ownership rights in the Intellectual Property to the
extent permitted under the applicable grant rules and the terms of
this Policy. The distribution of grant funding shall be subject to
grant requirements and will be disbursed accordingly.
Revenue Sharing
As a general rule, absent a written agreement, GCU does not
share revenue derived from GCU owned Intellectual Property
with the creator of such Intellectual Property. GCU is, however,
committed to recognizing the special efforts of GCU students
and/or employees participating in certain research and design
activities and in those circumstances, GCU will share revenue
with the creator(s) (and all other contributing individual(s), if
applicable) per the terms of a separate, written agreement.
Additional Policy Provisions
1. The rights of Grand Canyon University to a royalty-free,
perpetual, irrevocable, sublicensable, transferable,
worldwide license (exclusive or non-exclusive, as Grand
Canyon University deems necessary), to use and reproduce
copyrighted materials for educational, research, clinical,
non-commercial and promotional purposes shall be included
in any agreement with a non-Institution sponsor.
2. If any Intellectual Property is developed jointly by Grand
Canyon University and a non-Institution party, the parties’
respective ownership and usage rights in the resulting
Intellectual Property shall be set forth in a separate written
agreement.
3. Students working on a project governed by an existing
written agreement to which Grand Canyon University is a
party are bound by all terms of that agreement.
Institution’s Marks
Intellectual Property comprised of, or associated with, Grand
Canyon University’s Trademarks and Service Marks, including
but not limited to its name, logos, slogans, insignia, and other
symbols of identity (collectively the “GCU Marks”) belongs
exclusively to Grand Canyon University and/or its affiliates. This
Policy is designed to protect the reputation of Grand Canyon
University and its affiliates, and to prevent the illegal or
unapproved use of the GCU Marks.
The GCU Marks shall not be used without the prior, written
authorization of the appropriate authorities of Grand Canyon
University. No products or services may be marked, offered,
sold, promoted, or distributed with or under the GCU Marks
without Grand Canyon University’s prior written permission and
compliance with the licensing policies of Grand Canyon
University. All requests for use of the GCU Marks must be
submitted in writing to an officer designated by the Institution.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 207 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, faculty, staff, Institutional
Employees, and Students may identify their status or professional
affiliation with Grand Canyon University as appropriate.
However, any use of the GCU Marks in this regard must avoid
any confusing, misleading, or false impression of affiliation with,
or sponsorship or endorsement by, Grand Canyon University.
Reservation of Rights
Grand Canyon University reserves the right at any time in its sole
discretion to modify and/or make changes to this Policy. Grand
Canyon University agrees, however, that it will endeavor to
notify the Grand Canyon University community of its intention to
make modifications and/or changes to the Policy prior to their
enactment.
Effective Date
This Policy supersedes any preexisting Institution policy on
intellectual property and will remain in effect until modified or
revoked by Grand Canyon University. This Policy will be
binding on all parties who create Intellectual Property before or
after the effective date, and this Policy and other agreements that
represent modifications to this Policy shall remain binding on
such creators even after their relationship with Grand Canyon
University changes or terminates. By continuing one’s
relationship with Grand Canyon University, one agrees to these
changes.
To review GCU’s Intellectual Property Policy in its entirety,
students may contact their Student Services Counselor.
Responsible Conduct of Research
for Sponsored Research
Overview
Grand Canyon University (University) is committed to providing
its faculty, staff, and students with the training needed to ensure a
safe and productive research environment. This Responsible
Conduct of Research (RCR) Policy (the “Policy”) is intended to
comply with the requirements of the National Science
Foundation’s (NSF) implementation of the requirements of
Section 7009 of the American Creating Opportunities to
Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and
Science Act (42 U.S.C. 1862o-1), the National Institutes of
Health (NIH) requirements found in NOT-OD-10-019, and the
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of
Food and Agriculture (NIFA) program’s RCR training
requirements. This training must be completed prior to receiving
the research funding. This Policy may be applicable to others
conducting research at the University.
Scope
This Policy applies to all investigators, staff, and students
(undergraduates and graduates) involved in projects funded by
the NSF, the NIH, and the USDA. While this Policy applies
specifically to individuals involved in projects funded by the
agencies named above, all University individuals (faculty,
research staff, students, and research administrators) conducting
or proposing to conduct research, scholarly, or creative activities
through the University are expected to complete training relevant
to the research activity. When conducting research involving
Humans or Animals, guidelines for submitting protocols to the
Institutional Review Board (IRB) or Institutional Animal Care
and Use Committee (IACUC), respectively, must be followed.
Definitions
a. Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) is a web-
based online training program used by the University to
provide basic training in the responsible conduct of research.
b. Investigator includes the principal investigator (PI), project
director (PD), co-principal investigators (co-PIs), and any
other person who is responsible for the design, conduct, or
reporting of research or educational activities funded or
proposed for funding by an external agency.
c. Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee oversees the
University’s animal care and use program and is responsible
for reviewing and approving all activities utilizing vertebrate
animals for research, teaching, and testing, ensuring
compliance with federal animal welfare regulations, inspecting
animal facilities and investigator laboratories, investigating
animal concerns, and overseeing training and educational
programs.
d. Institutional Review Board is responsible for the protection the
rights and welfare of human research subjects recruited to
participate in research activities conducted under the auspices
of the University. The IRB is charged with the responsibility of
reviewing, prior to its initiation, all research (whether funded
or not) involving human participants.
e. Research is the careful study of a given subject, field, or
problem, undertaken to discover facts or principles.
f. Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR), as defined by the
NIH, is “the practice of scientific investigation with integrity.
It involves the awareness and application of established
professional norms and ethical principles in the performance of
all activities related to scientific research”.
g. Sponsored Project/Sponsored Research is an activity that is
sponsored, or funded, by an external organization, such as a
federal, state, or private organization or agency.
Policy
All members of the University research community are expected
to adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards as they
pursue scholarship and research activities. It is the policy of the
University that all investigators, staff, graduate, and
undergraduate students who receive support from the NSF, NIH,
or USDA, whether through wages or a stipend, are required to
complete training in the Responsible Conduct of Research
(RCR). External consultants and subcontractors participating on
a sponsored project funded by these agencies are also required to
complete the training.
Investigators involved in the University’s research enterprise
must complete RCR training for all grant-funded research,
regardless of how their research is funded. RCR training is
required for staff with pre-and post-award functions of sponsored
projects in the Office for Research and Innovation. The training
must be completed prior to receipt of the research funding.
The University encourages all students, faculty, and research-
related staff that are involved in research projects to complete
RCR training.
Students and trainees engaged in sponsored research at the
undergraduate or graduate level will receive instruction in ethical
considerations and decision making in the responsible conduct of
research that is appropriate for their disciplines and stage of
research education and curricula. It is the responsibility of the
Investigator to ensure that all students and trainees are informed
of this requirement and that it has been met.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 208 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Basic RCR training is offered by the University through the
Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative CITI. To meet
NIH, NSF, and USDA requirements, Investigators are required to
include substantial face-to-face instruction in the responsible
conduct of research to their students/trainees.
The Office for Research and Innovation (ORI) is responsible for
ensuring the implementation of RCR training for principal
investigators, co-investigators, research and assistants involved in
sponsored projects. ORI will maintain records of completed
RCR training for investigators with funded projects.
Procedure
Office for Research and Innovation
The ORI is responsible for overseeing the University’s overall
compliance to this Policy. ORI will maintain documentation of
completion of RCR by University Investigators, to include
faculty, research staff, and undergraduate/graduate students
involved in sponsored projects. ORI will provide information
about RCR training to faculty, staff, and students who are
involved in scientific and empirical research, and guidance with
regard to RCR requirements/issues.
The Office for Contracts and Grants (OCG) will ensure that an
up-to-date record of RCR training for each Investigator (PI) or
co-PI of a research grant application is on file before a grant
application is submitted to the NSF, NIH, or USDA, or other
sponsor, as required.
Investigator
All University investigators involved in sponsored research must
complete required online training modules provided by the CITI
program prior to the distribution of the research funds. When
conducting research involving Humans or Animals, guidelines
for submitting protocols to the Institutional Review Board (IRB)
or Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) must
be followed.
Investigators funded by an NSF project in which undergraduate
or graduate receive support are responsible to the sponsor and the
University for ensuring that students/trainees are aware of and
fulfill the NSF RCR training requirement.
Staff
University staff who are involved in the administration and/or
conduct must complete the online training modules defined by
their job responsibilities or research role, required by the ORI
provided by the CITI program. This includes training related to
the acquisition and/or reporting of data. This online training
should be completed within six (6) weeks of beginning the
research or research-related activities.
Students
1. All students/trainees receiving NSF, NIH, or USDA support at
the University shall complete RCR training as follows:
a. Completion of University approved CITI RCR Modules.
Contact the ORI for modules that meet the appropriate
agency requirements.
b. Formal and/or informal instruction guided by the
Investigator, as documented in a submitted training plan.
The training plan must include the activities to be
completed, the dates of expected completion, and be signed
by the Investigator and the student.
c. For research involving human or animal subjects, any
training activities required by the University IRB or IACUC,
respectively.
2. When the required training activities are complete, the required
documentation should be submitted to ORI by the Investigator.
3. The completed RCR Modules and Training Plan should be
submitted to the ORI prior to any payment/stipend support
being provided to the student
Forms
Agreement to Provide and Monitor Responsible Conduct of
Research (RCR) Training for NIH
Agreement to Provide and Monitor Responsible Conduct of
Research (RCR) Training for NSF
Student/Trainee Responsible Conduct of Research Training Plan
References
US Department of Health and Human Services, Office of
Research Integrity (https://ori.hhs.gov/ori-introduction-
responsible-conduct-research)
Update on the Requirement for Instruction in the Responsible
Conduct of Research (https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-
files/NOT-OD-10-019.html)
US Department of Agriculture, National Institute of Food and
Agriculture, Responsible and Ethical Conduct of Research
(https://nifa.usda.gov/responsible-and-ethical-conduct-research)
National Science Foundation America COMPETES Act RECR
Training Requirements
(https://www.nsf.gov/bfa/dias/policy/rcr.jsp)
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 209 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Financial Services The financial information presented in this Handbook was current when published. Many of the policies, interest rates, limitations, etc., are
set by organizations (private or governmental), which may change after this Handbook is published. We strongly urge students to confirm all
such information with the student’s Student Services Counselor before making financial decisions or commitments.
Payment Policy
Method of Payment
The University offers students the option of one or more of the
following methods of payment:
• Cash Payment Options
• Direct Bill
• Financial Aid
Students choose primary and secondary methods of payment
upon completing the application for admission. Students are
expected to clear their account balances using the specified
methods of payment, unless other arrangements are approved.
Upon clearing their account, students may contact their Student
Services Counselor to arrange different methods of payment for
future courses.
Cash Payment Options
Cash
For the protection of Grand Canyon University students and
employees, cash payments are only accepted in the Advisement
Center with a Student Services Counselor. Students should not
send cash through the mail.
Check
The University accepts personal checks, traveler's checks, bank
money orders, and cashier's checks. When paying by check,
students must include their full name and GCU Student ID on the
face of the check. Remit payments to the Accounting Department
at P.O. Box 11590, Phoenix, AZ 85061-1590. A service fee of
$25.00 is charged for each check returned by a bank for any
reason. The University may refuse future payments by check for
individuals whose payment is returned by a bank.
Charge
The University accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover and
American Express. All credit card payments are subject to
authorization by the issuing bank. If authorization is denied,
payments cannot be processed. Credit card payments can be
made online via the Student Portal at http://gcuportal.gcu.edu/
The Portal displays student balances by payment period. Enter
payment information and submit. An e-mail will be sent to the
GCU e-mail address with confirmation of payment received.
Monthly Installment Plan
The Tuition Payment Plan enables students to spread tuition
payments across an agreed upon timeframe. Participation requires
a non-refundable $25.00 enrollment fee and advanced approval
by their Student Services Counselor. Students who fail to meet
the requirements of the payment plan may be prohibited from
participating in future payment plans. For additional information,
students may contact their Student Services Counselor.
Direct Bill Payment Options
Corporate
Students may have employers that pay school tuition directly to
GCU which is different from Deferred Payment. In this situation,
the Employer will create an account with GCU, and the GCU
Accounting Office will send a billing statement directly to the
Employer. This payment relationship bypasses the students;
however, students must have their employer complete a Direct
Bill Voucher, and submit with their application. Students should
contact their assigned Student Services Counselor with questions.
In addition, students must pay any balance that Employers do not
cover or on which Employers default by selecting an alternative
payment option before the end of each payment period.
Military and Veteran
In order to support those who are currently serving and their
spouses or those who have served in the United States military,
Grand Canyon University offers a special military and veteran
scholarships for some programs and modalities. Consideration is
given to students who can provide the following supporting
documentation which must be presented in advance of the term to
receive the scholarship:
• Military Transcripts;
• Copy of DD-214 (Release or Discharge from Active Duty);
• Letter from Commanding Officer;
• VA Letter Certifying Military Service;
• Benefit Documentation (TA form, COE, VA form 1905);
• Copy of Military Orders;
• Leave and Earnings Statement (LES); and
• Copy of Military Personal Record.
There are numerous education benefits from the Veterans
Administration and the Department of Defense based upon
military status at the time of separation from the service, as well
as, for active duty military personnel. Students may utilize
Veterans’ Administration educational benefits at GCU such as
Post-911 GI Bill® (Chapter 33) Montgomery GI Bill® (Chapter
30), Montgomery GI Bill® Select Reserve (Chapter 1606),
Survivors and Dependents’ Educational Assistance DEA
(Chapter 35), Tuition Assistance (Top-Up), and Vocational
Readiness and Employment (Chapter 31). In addition, Active
Duty Military may qualify for Military Tuition Assistance.
GCU is approved for the education and training of Veterans
under the provisions of title 10 and 38, United States Code
including the Post 9/11 GI Bill®. Due to the delay in processing
of VA benefit applications and claims for benefits, upon
Registration, any person who is eligible for and has provided
proof of application for Veterans Administration education
benefits (Chapter 33) or VRE benefits (Chapter 31) will receive a
deferment of payment of covered tuition and fees, with no
interest charge or other penalties until the claim has been
processed by the Veterans Administration and payment has been
received by the University. Online and Cohort students must
enter into a signed Tuition Deferral Agreement. Traditional
students must provide a current Certificate of Eligibility (COE) in
order to be considered for Tuition Deferral.
Grand Canyon University will continue to seek payment for
noncovered expenses which include but are not limited to::
• Housing and Meal Plans
• Application Fees
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 210 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Parking Fees
• Schedule Change Fees
• Other Fees not eligible under VA Benefits
In addition, if the VA determines the student is not eligible for
federal VA education or employment benefits or it is determined
that the student's Certificate of Eligibility is for less than 100%,
the student is responsible for paying any difference between the
eligibility determination and the tuition and fees charged by the
University. GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about
education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S.
government Web site at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
A student using VA Chapter 33 or Chapter 31, simultaneously
with other forms of financial aid, can either request the excess
financial aid less the difference between the cost of the course
and the expected VA payment. While GCU awaits the payment
from the VA, the student’s account will appear as a balance
owed. GCU will credit the student’s account with the VA funds
upon arrival. Any difference will either be refunded to the student
or become due. Students have the option to utilize their financial
aid to pay the balance and receive a stipend once the VA funds
are received, if they so choose to do so. In order to request a
stipend, students must submit a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
dated within 90 days. All stipend requests should be made
through Student Services Counselors in order to start processing.
Grand Canyon University Yellow Ribbon Program
Grand Canyon University proudly participates in the Veteran’s
Affairs (VA) Yellow Ribbon Program. The Yellow Ribbon GI
Education Enhancement Program is a provision of the Post-9/11
Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008. This program can
help with private school tuition and fees which exceed the VA’s
annual cap for private schools. More information on the program
can be found at Yellow Ribbon Program | Veterans Affairs
(va.gov). For additional information on the annual private school
cap, you may visit Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) Rates |
Veterans Affairs (va.gov).
Grand Canyon University determines Yellow Ribbon amounts by
calculating Tuition and Fees which have been reported to the VA
and the payments received from August 1st to July 31st in any
given academic year. If the amount exceeds the yearly tuition
cap, we take the amount that is over the tuition cap, and divide it
by two. We certify half the amount (up to $1000) as Yellow
Ribbon. Once payment has been received by the VA, Grand
Canyon University will place a matching contribution (up to
$1000) from university general funds. The Yellow Ribbon
contribution from Grand Canyon University will be listed on the
ledger in the form of a scholarship. This scholarship can be
combined with other institutional scholarships. All VA Yellow
Ribbon students are tracked to confirm payments are received
and applied as outlined in the VA Yellow Ribbon Program.
Regardless of Grand Canyon University Certifications for Yellow
Ribbon, the VA retains all authority in determining eligibility and
payment.
International Student Payment
Students attending GCU as F-1 visa holders are required to make
payment of school tuition, fees and housing in full 30 days prior
to the start date of each semester. Delays in satisfying payment
may prevent students from attending classes and jeopardize their
F-1 status. If international students anticipate payment issues for
the following semester, they must consult with the International
Students Office immediately.
As noted under the admission policy, Grand Canyon University
reserves the right to require a $6,000 refundable deposit from
applicants before an I-20 will be issued. A refund will be granted
only if the visa is denied and evidence of denial is provided to the
International Students Office.
Financial Payment Options
Students may use financial aid to fund their education. Refer to
the Financial Aid section for information on applying for aid and
the types of aid available.
Payment Deadlines
Tuition and fees are assessed to students as follows: Online
(Nontraditional) students are assessed at the time of attendance
and Ground (Traditional Campus) students are assessed on the
start date of the term. All cash payment options must be paid in
full by the start date of the course or term, unless other payment
arrangements have been agreed to. Students are able to view their
outstanding balance and account activity as well as initiate a
credit card payment by logging on to their student portal. Any
financial related questions should be directed to the student’s
assigned Student Services Counselor.
All direct-bill payment options must be paid in full within 30
days of invoicing unless other terms are agreed to with the
vendor. Balance notices will be generated and sent to the
responsible third party on Day 10 of the course after all rosters
have been confirmed.
Accounts that remain delinquent past 30 days are subject to
collection efforts that may include credit reporting and placement
of the account with a third party collection agency. Accounts that
are placed with a third party collection agency will be assessed
the associated collection fees. It is the sole responsibility of the
students to adhere to payment deadlines of their tuition and fees,
regardless of the method of payment or contract with their
employer.
Late Payment Fee
Traditional Campus Students
Traditional campus students are required to establish payment
arrangements prior to the first day of the semester and to fulfill
those payment arrangements, as scheduled, on a monthly basis.
Students who do not fulfill the established terms of payment, by
failing to submit required financial documents or making full
payment as scheduled, will be assessed a monthly fee of $25.00
until the account is current.
Additionally, students who do not pay their balance in full prior
to the term’s completion may be removed from future university
classes, residential housing, and/or have their Meal Plan access
restricted, depending on the reason for the balance.
Schedule Change Fee
Traditional Campus Students
Traditional campus students are permitted to change their
schedule up to 14 calendar days prior to the semester’s start date
without financial penalty. Students who make schedule changes
within two weeks of the course start are subject to a $25 Schedule
Change Fee. Once the term has started the Schedule Change Fee
increases to $50. Schedule changes include exchanging courses,
adding or dropping courses, or transferring to another section of
the same course.
The schedule change fee will be waived for students adjusting
schedules based on institutional initiated changes. Schedule
changes stemming from participating in a GCU club or activity
will be evaluated and verified with the Club/Activity Owner.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 211 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Failure to Pay
Failure to pay the balance does not cancel registration or
responsibility for tuition and fee charges or related taxes. Non-
attendance does not cancel registration or responsibility for
tuition and fee charges or related taxes. All cash and direct-bill
payment options must be received in full by their due date or a
Finance hold will be placed on the student’s account on day 30 of
the payment period.
** The only exception to this rule includes CASH-paying
students who are making regular and consistent payments
through Tuition Payment Plans or students with a Deferred
Payment Voucher. These students will not incur holds on their
accounts.
A Finance Hold will prohibit any future class registration as well
as prohibit the purchase and distribution of any official Grand
Canyon University transcripts or diploma. Missouri students are
granted an exception with regards to the release of their diploma,
per Regulations [1]§173.604.2(8), RSMo;[2]Title 6 CSR 10-
5.010(6)(B)1.C.;[3]§173.604.2(9), RSMo; and [4]Title 6 CSR 10-
5.010(6)(F)4.
Any students who have a hold placed on their account will be
subject to Grand Canyon University’s Collection Policy.
Failure to comply with the stated policies of the University may
result in an administrative withdrawal from classes and/or
submission to an outside collection agency, with the student
assuming all additional costs.
Student Bankruptcies
Upon notification that a student has filed a bankruptcy petition,
the University will immediately cease any collection efforts on
the student’s account, including removing any Collection Hold
that had been issued.
In addition, the University will immediately place a Bankruptcy
Hold on the student’s account. The purpose of a Bankruptcy Hold
is to identify a student with a pending bankruptcy petition. A
Bankruptcy Hold allows the University to:
• Release the student’s transcript upon receipt of an Official
Transcript Request Form and Fee, if applicable.
• Allow the student continued enrollment and attendance in
current course(s).
Students that file a bankruptcy petition will have their files
referred to the University's legal department for processing.
Students in this situation may continue to attend their current
classes without interruption, but must prepay for future
enrollment.
Course Tuition Refund
The University will refund tuition according to the following
policy. Refer to the Official Enrollment Status Change section of
the University Policy Handbook for a complete explanation of
the University’s Withdrawal Policy.
Nontraditional Students
Nontraditional students include students who are enrolled in a
degree seeking program of study, taking single course(s) and/or
students enrolled in Continuing Education (CTE) coursework.
Students who drop/withdraw from a course/all courses are
eligible for the following refund:
Before Week 1................................................ 100% tuition refund
During Week 1 ................................................. 75% tuition refund
During or after Week 2 ................................................... No refund
Traditional Campus Students
Students who drop/withdraw from a course/all courses within the
15-week semester at the ground campus in Phoenix, Arizona, are
eligible for the following refund. The refund policy is based on
the start date of the semester regardless of where the course falls
within the semester.
Before Week 1................................................ 100% tuition refund
During Week 1 ................................................. 90% tuition refund
During Week 2 ................................................. 75% tuition refund
During Week 3 ................................................. 50% tuition refund
During or after Week 4 .................................................. No refund
Course Fee Refunds
Nontraditional Students
All fees, including materials fees, are non-refundable after the
start of a course.
Traditional Campus Students
With the exception of course-related fees and student insurance,
which are non-refundable after the start of class, all instructional
and ground campus-related fees are refundable during Week 1.
After Week 1, all fees are non-refundable.
Military Refund Policy
The Department of Defense has specific regulations that require
the University to apply a proportional refund policy on tuition for
students that receive Tuition Assistance (TA) benefits. Benefits
are earned proportionally during an enrollment period up to 60
percent complete. Upon earning 60 percent of the benefit, no
refund will be applied. Unearned TA benefits will be returned to
the military department not to the student. If the returned portion
creates a balance the student will be required to remit payment.
Proportional amounts will be determined by days up to the
following amounts. See Appendix B
State Refund Policies
Many states have regulations that require the University to apply
a specific refund policy to students taking courses in these states.
State refunds will be processed in two steps. The General Refund
Policy will be recorded first on the account, and then the state’s
policy will be recorded second as a separate credit. Note that each
transaction may be recorded on a separate day. The specific state
refund policies are listed below.
3-Day Cancellation Notice
An applicant who provides notice of cancellation within three
days (excluding Saturday, Sunday and federal and state holidays)
of signing an enrollment agreement is entitled to a refund of all
monies paid no later than 15 days of the notification. Students
may contact the Office of Academic Records in writing to Grand
Canyon University, Office of Academic Records, P.O. Box
11097, Phoenix, AZ 85061-1097 within three (3) business days
after the date of original signature. Students may also contact
their University Counselor (UC) or Student Services Counselor
(SSC) via email, or in writing. The UC or SSC will then notify
the Office of Academic Records to expunge the record and the
school shall provide the 100% refund.
7-Day Cancellation Notice for Alaska Residents
The following information replaces the 3-Day Cancellation
Policy exclusively for Alaska residents. An Alaska resident who
provides notice of cancellation within seven (7) days of signing
an enrollment agreement is entitled to a refund of all monies paid
no later than 30 days of the notification. Students may contact in
writing Grand Canyon University, Office of Academic Records,
P.O. Box 11097, Phoenix, AZ 85061-1097 within seven (7) days
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 212 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
after the date of original signature. Students may also contact
their enrollment representative or student services counselor via
email or in writing. The enrollment representative or student
services counselor will then notify the Office of Academic
Records to expunge the record and the school shall provide the
100% refund.
7-Day Cancellation Notice for Ohio Residents
The following information replaces the 3-Day Cancellation
Policy exclusively for Ohio residents. An Ohio resident who
provides notice of cancellation within seven (7) days of signing
an enrollment agreement is entitled to a refund of all monies paid
no later than 30 days of the notification. Students are advised to
contact their University Counselor or Student Services Counselor
to facilitate a complete withdrawal.
Non-Traditional Course Tuition Refund
The University will refund tuition according to the following
policy unless a student attending courses online is a resident of a
state that requires the University to follow different guidelines.
These state policies are listed in the State Refund Policies section
of the University Policy Handbook. Refer to the Official
Enrollment Status Change section of the University Policy
Handbook for a complete explanation of the University’s
Withdrawal Policy.
Nontraditional Students who drop/withdraw from a course/all
courses are eligible for the following refund:
Before Week 1…………...…………100% tuition refund
During Week 1……………………… 75% tuition refund
During or after Week 2..………………………No refund
Traditional Course Tuition Refund
The University will refund tuition according to the following
policy unless a student attending courses online is a resident of a
state that requires the University to follow different guidelines.
These state policies are listed in the State Refund Policies section
of The University Policy Handbook. Refer to the Enrollment
Status Change section of the University Policy Handbook for a
complete explanation of the University’s Withdrawal Policy.
Traditional Students who drop/withdraw from 16-week courses at
the ground campus in Phoenix, Arizona, are eligible for the
following refund:
Before Week 1.....................100% tuition refund
During Week 1.......................90% tuition refund
During Week 2.......................75% tuition refund
During Week 3.......................50% tuition refund
During or after Week 4 .......................No refund
With the exception of materials fees, which are non-refundable
after the start of class, all instructional and ground campus-
related fees (such as insurance and facilities fees) are refundable
during Week 1. After Week 1, all fees are non-refundable.
Missouri Refund Policy
ABSN Missouri Students
Students who drop/withdraw from a course/all courses within the
15-week semester applies to students attending the St. Louis
campus are eligible for the following refund. The refund policy is
based on the start date of the semester regardless of where the
course falls within the semester
Before Week 1.....................100% tuition refund
During Week 1.......................90% tuition refund
During Week 4.......................50% tuition refund
During Week 8.......................25% tuition refund
After Week 8 .......................No refund
Online Missouri Students
6-week courses
Before Week........................ 100% tuition refund
During Week 1....................... 75% tuition refund
Week 2 Through Week 3 ...... 25% tuition refund
After Week 3...................................... No refund
7 and 8-week courses
Before Week 1...................... 100% tuition refund
During Week .......................... 75% tuition refund
Weeks 2 Through Week ........ 25% tuition refund
After Week 4...................................... No refund
Course Tuition Refund for Students Enrolled in the Nevada
aBSN Program
Students in the Nevada-based ABSN program who cancel their
enrollment any time before the start of the first class session will
receive a full refund of all monies paid, less 10% of the tuition
agreed upon in the enrollment agreement or $150, whichever is
less. A student who withdraws, who doesn’t return from a leave
of absence, or is suspended/expelled by the University after the
start of the course and before the completion of more than 60% of
the course will be refunded a pro rate amount of the tuition
agreed upon in the enrollment agreement, minus 10% of the
tuition agreed upon in the enrollment agreement of $150,
whichever is less. The completion percentage is based on the
total number of calendar days in a course and the total number of
calendar days completed. All refunds are made in full to the
student within 15 days of the date of official withdrawal.
If the University must change a program, the University will
attempt to find the most favorable resolution for the student
including transferring to a comparable alternative program for the
same tuition, or teaching out the program. Please refer to
Program of Study, Course Availability, and Cancellation policy
in the University Policy Handbook. If the University fails to
substantially furnish the training program as agreed to in the
Enrollment Agreement, in situations according to Nevada law
NRS 394.449, the University shall refund to a student all the
money the student has paid.
Sales/Use/Excise/Gross Receipts Taxes
It is the policy of the University to collect and remit sales, use,
excise, and/or gross receipts taxes in compliance with state and
local taxing jurisdiction regulations which require the University
to remit tax where applicable. These regulations vary by student
location. Please note: It is also the policy of the University to
require payment of sales, use excise, and/or gross receipts tax.
Payment of tax is ultimately the student’s financial responsibility
to the University regardless of the financing arrangements.
Per Hawaii requirements: It is hereby stated that students residing
in the State of Hawaii will be charged Hawaii General Excise
Tax on all transactions. Students living in the District of Oahu
will be charged 4.712%. Students residing in other Hawaii
districts will be charged 4.1666%.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 213 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Institutional Aid (GCU
Scholarships and GCU Grants)
Traditional Campus Students
Grand Canyon University institutional aid reduces the cost of
tuition, fees, and room and food (meal plan). Institutional aid is
always applied to tuition and fees before room and food charges
unless the institutional aid is to be used solely for room and food
charges.
Institutional aid is not available for the summer semester except
in certain circumstances.
Eligibility
Applicants may be required to:
1. Complete and submit a GCU Admissions Application.
2. Secondary (high school) transcript, documenting no less than
75% of the coursework needed for degree completion, with an
unweighted grade point average (GPA) of 2.8 or above.
Degree-bearing transcript must be submitted when conferred.
If final transcript negatively impacts admissibility, acceptance
status may be rescinded or modified to include specifications,
however institutional aid is secured at the time an initial high
school transcript is received and will not be rescinded.
3. Submit final transcripts noting high school graduation date and
unweighted GPA to allow final institutional aid to be awarded
by the University due date. Scholarships are locked in on the
due date and cannot be increased for any transcripts or test
scores received after the University due date. The due date is
the end of the third week of the term for each term start.
4. Submit post-secondary (college) transcripts, if applicable by
the University due date.
5. Submit math and reading SAT and ACT scores (writing does
not need to be included) by the University due date. If using
test scores for scholarship eligibility, a minimum 2.5 un-
weighted HS GPA is required.
6. Students must be fully accepted into the University for most
institutional aid programs. Students who are Accepted with
Specifications (“AS”) may not be eligible for institutional
scholarships and will remain ineligible even if they meet full
acceptance criteria after their first semester. Students who are
approved for AS and have a weighted GPA that is eligible for
an academic scholarship may receive the academic scholarship
only and all other scholarships requiring admissibility are not
eligible for this exception.
a. Students already receiving an employer tuition discount are
not eligible for institutional aid including scholarships
offered for RA positions or for participation in spiritual life
groups. If an employee or dependent chooses to rescind their
employee tuition discount, their scholarship(s) may then be
applied. Requests to rescind employee discount must be in
writing.
b. If an employee or dependent becomes ineligible for the
employee tuition discount and they still have remaining
eligibility for a previously forfeited scholarship, the
employee or dependent may have their scholarships
reinstated. Requests to reinstate scholarship aid must be
submitted to the students Student Services Counselor (SSC).
7. Students attending the traditional campus and eligible for
scholarship aid are required to sign their scholarship
memorandum of understanding (MOU) to secure their
scholarship award. Students who have not signed their MOU
by the University due date will have their scholarship award
cancelled. The University due date for MOU’s to be signed is
the end of the third week of the term for each term start.
Institutional Aid Limits
Institutional aid can be combined up to an annual limit
(commonly referred to as caps). Institutional aid limits vary by
enrollment period and set as a maximum amount a student can
receive in institutional scholarships per academic year.
Institutional aid limits vary based on academic scholarship award
type and vary based on housing selection per semester.
Institutional aid programs, not including those designated for
housing, are applied towards tuition and fees only. The
institutional cap is determined each semester by the students
housing status and academic scholarship award level.
Institutional caps are not an appealable policy.
• Students that are recipients of the Chancellor or President
Direct Academic awards cannot exceed $15,000 per year /
$7,500 per semester in institutional aid if living on-campus.
• All other students cannot exceed $12,500 per year / $6,250 per
semester in institutional aid if living on-campus.
• All students living off-campus cannot exceed $10,000 per year
/ $5,000 per semester in institutional aid.
Institutional Aid Renewal Eligibility
The following University institutional aid renewal criteria do not
supersede requirements that may be specifically outlined within
other GCU scholarship programs. . Students should always refer
to their scholarship MOU for specific renewability requirements.
1. Students must maintain full-time continuous enrollment which
is defined by program (typically 12 credits per semester) and
meet minimum GPA requirements. have their scholarship(s)
automatically pro-rated based on the number of credits
attempted. Semesters that result in scholarship proration will
still count towards the maximum number of semesters a
scholarship can be applied.
• Students are typically re-evaluated at the end of the
University’s academic year.
2. If students become ineligible to participate in the institutional
aid program, they may lose eligibility for any future
institutional aid.
3. GPA for the Fall semester will be evaluated using either the
previous Spring or Summer semester, whichever is later.
Therefore, students may use the Summer semester to increase
their GPA, if needed.
4. Unless otherwise noted in the scholarship MOU, scholarships
cannot exceed a total of eight semesters of coursework
completed.
a. Students who double-major, add on a minor, or are in a
program of study that exceeds 120-credits to complete will
be given an extension to the eight-semester limit for the
number of semesters it would take them to complete the
additional credit. This is determined at a full-time
courseload.
5. Many forms of institutional aid vary based on housing
selection and are adjusted on a semester basis. Students who
receive a scholarship that requires them to live on-campus will
forfeit their scholarship for all future semesters if they move
off-campus.
6. As of Fall 2020, when students are accepted into the clinical
portion of the BS in Nursing program will no longer be eligible
for institutional aid. Institutional Aid that is considered
performance-based aid may be allowed but is subject to GCU
approval.
Scholarship Revocation
Students who are unable to fulfill the requirements of their
institutional aid will have their award immediately revoked in the
full amount for the current semester, regardless of the calendar
date or amount of time spent in their program of study.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 214 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Students transitioning from Online, Evening-Satellite or Evening-
Campus to the Traditional Campus may qualify for an Indirect
Academic Scholarship if they have completed a minimum of 12
GCU credits and have a GCU GPA that meets the academic
scholarship eligibility.
GCU reserves the right to decline institutional aid at any time.
Typically, students will be re-evaluated at the end of the
University’s academic year.
Performance and Participation Aid
Scholarships awarded to students by departments, Colleges,
Athletics, or in return for students participating in a GCU extra-
curricular program may have their own scholarship policies
established by the department/team head and may not be subject
to the institutional aid policies enforced in this handbook.
Scholarship Lock-In
Students may lock-in their academic direct or indirect award with
an unofficial high school transcript. For direct students, an
unofficial high school transcript with six-semesters or more of
coursework may be used. If a direct student’s final high school
transcript comes in with a lower GPA than what was initially
received, their scholarship will not change unless it is to increase
the scholarship amount. For indirect students who submit a high
school transcript, their scholarship will not change if their
cumulative transfer GPA results in a lower scholarship offer.
Transcripts must be submitted by the University deadline, which
is the end of the third week of study in the semester the student
begins coursework.
Scholarship Refund
A student that withdraws from GCU during the first three weeks
of the semester will be subject to a scholarship refund.
Scholarships are refunded at the following rate:
• Before Week 1: 100% of Scholarship(s) are refunded
• During Week 2: 90% of Scholarships(s) are refunded
• During Week 3: 75% of Scholarship(s) are refunded
• During or after Week 4: No refund
Students who have online course(s) scheduled to begin after the
first three weeks of the term and either drop or do not attend the
course(s) may be subject to a scholarship reduction even if it is
after the scholarship refund policy timeframes. If the student
drops a course that begins after the first three weeks of the
semester and it results in the student falling below full-time
status, the scholarship(s) will be prorated
Common Institutional Aid Awards
Following is a list of commonly awarded forms of Institutional
Aid for new students who enrolled for the first time during the
2025-2026 Academic Year*. This is not a comprehensive list and
excludes the Institutional Aid program requirements for prior
years. For more information about the specific requirements for
any Institutional Aid program not listed, please contact your
Student Services Counselor.
Direct Academic Scholarships (0-23 credits)
This program is only available for freshman students attending
GCU and coming directly from High School:
• Students who have fewer than 24 transfer credits.
• Students who completed college coursework while enrolled in
high school are exempt from the 24-transfer credit limit. These
students may choose to use their transfer GPA, if preferred. If
the student chooses to use their transfer GPA, the transfer GPA
will be used for In-Direct Academic Scholarship eligibility.
Transfer GPA’s cannot be used to determine Direct Academic
Scholarship eligibility.
• This award is evaluated annually and can be renewed by
maintaining satisfactory academic progress.
• Once enrolled, Maintain continuous and full-time enrollment
at GCU.
• The Chancellor award requires an un-weighted high school
GPA and cannot be awarded off SAT, ACT, or weighted GPA.
• The Antelope award is awarded off high school GPA
(weighted or un-weighted) only and cannot be awarded off
SAT or ACT.
• Students attending on an International F-1 Visa are not eligible
for Direct Academic scholarships but may qualify for an
Indirect Academic scholarship.
Scholarship
Options
Early Decision Award Amount for new
Freshman students prior to 04/01/2024
Chancellor's
Scholarship
• $9,050 per year ($4,525 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 4.0 GPA (un-weighted)
President’s
Scholarship
• $7,050 per year ($3,525 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming >3.9 GPA or SAT:
1410 / ACT: 31
Provost’s
Scholarship
• $6,050 per year ($3,025 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 3.7-3.89 GPA or SAT:
1295 / ACT: 27
Dean’s
Scholarship
• $5,050 per year ($2,525 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 3.3-3.69 GPA or SAT:
1130 / ACT: 22
Faculty
Scholarship
• $4,050 per year ($2,025 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 3.0-3.29 GPA or SAT:
1000/ ACT: 19
Antelope's
Scholarship
• $2,550 per year ($1,275 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 2.8-2.99 GPA
Scholarship
Options
Award for new Freshman students effective
04/01/2024
Chancellor's
Scholarship
• $8,500 per year ($4,250 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 4.0 GPA (un-weighted)
President’s
Scholarship
• $6,500 per year ($3,250 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming >3.9 GPA or SAT:
1410 / ACT: 31
Provost’s
Scholarship
• $5,500 per year ($2,750 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 3.7-3.89 GPA or SAT:
1295 / ACT: 27
Dean’s
Scholarship
• $4,500 per year ($2,250 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 3.3-3.69 GPA or SAT:
1130 / ACT: 22
Faculty
Scholarship
• $3,500 per year ($1,750 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 3.0-3.29 GPA or SAT:
1000/ ACT: 19
Antelope's
Scholarship
• $2,000 per year ($1,000 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 2.8-2.99 GPA
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 215 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Scholarship
Options
Early Decision Award Amount for new
Freshman Students registered from
01/01/2025-03/31/2025
Chancellor's
Scholarship
• $8,300 per year ($4,150 per semester)
• Minimum incoming 4.0 GPA (un-weighted)
President’s
Scholarship
• $6,300 per year ($3,150 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming >3.9 GPA or SAT:
1410 / ACT: 31
Provost’s
Scholarship
• $5,300 per year ($2,650 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 3.7-3.89 GPA or SAT:
1295-1409/ACT: 27-30
Dean’s
Scholarship
• $4,300 per year ($2,150 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 3.3-3.69 GPA or SAT:
1130-1294/ACT: 22-26
Faculty
Scholarship
• $3,300 per year ($1,650 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 3.0-3.29 GPA or SAT:
1000-1129/ACT: 19-21
Antelope's
Scholarship
• $1,800 per year ($900 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 2.8-2.99 GPA
Scholarship
Options
Early Decision Award Amount for new
Freshman Students registered on or after
04/01/2025
Chancellor's
Scholarship
• $8,100 per year ($4,050 per semester)
• Minimum incoming 4.0 GPA (un-weighted)
President’s
Scholarship
• $6,100 per year ($3,050 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming >3.9 GPA or SAT:
1410 / ACT: 31
Provost’s
Scholarship
• $5,100 per year ($2,550 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 3.7-3.89 GPA or SAT:
1295-1409/ACT: 27-30
Dean’s
Scholarship
• $4,100 per year ($2,050 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 3.3-3.69 GPA or SAT:
1130-1294/ACT: 22-26
Faculty
Scholarship
• $3,100 per year ($1,550 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 3.0-3.29 GPA or SAT:
1000-1129/ACT: 19-21
Antelope's
Scholarship
• $1,600 per year ($800 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming 2.8-2.99 GPA
*Freshman students who started prior to Fall 2022 need to
contact their Student Services Counselor for award amounts and
requirements.
In-Direct Academic Scholarships (24 or more transfer
credits) – Non- Nursing
This program is only available for transfer students, students who
took a gap year(s), and all students attending GCU on an
International F-1 Visa who must:
1. Submit transcripts showing cumulative GPA for 6 or more
college credits.
2. Submit official transcripts for all previously completed
coursework by day 21 of the semester coursework begins.
3. Coursework submitted that was not previously included at the
time a scholarship award was given and was completed prior to
attending GCU may alter the scholarship amount.
4. Students who have less than six transferrable credits to GCU
must use their un-weighted High School GPA for scholarship
determination. Students with six or more transferrable credits
may use their cumulative transfer GPA, or their un-weighted
high school GPA whichever grants the greater scholarship
award.
5. Maintain continuous and full-time enrollment at GCU once
enrolled.
6. This award is evaluated annually and can be renewed by
maintaining satisfactory academic progress.
Scholarship
Options
Early Decision Award amount for
Indirect Students that register on or
before 04/30/2025
Transfer
President’s
Scholarship
• $6,250 per year ($3,125 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming cumulative
transfer GPA with 6+ transfer credits:
>3.75
• Minimum incoming un-weighted high
school GPA: >3.9
Transfer Provost’s
Scholarship
• $5,250 per year ($2,625 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming cumulative
transfer GPA with 6+ transfer credits:
3.5-3.74
• Minimum incoming un-weighted high
school GPA: 3.7-3.89
Transfer Dean’s
Scholarship
• $3,250 per year ($1,625 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming cumulative
transfer GPA with 6+ transfer credits:
3.25-3.74
• Minimum incoming un-weighted high
school GPA: 3.5-3.69
Transfer Faculty
Scholarship
• $2,250 per year ($1,125 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming cumulative
transfer GPA with 6+ transfer credits:
2.75-3.24.
• Minimum incoming un-weighted high
school GPA: 3.0-3.49.
Scholarship
Options
Early Decision Award amount for
Indirect Students that register on or
before 04/30/2025
Transfer
President’s
Scholarship
• $6,000 per year ($3,000 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming cumulative
transfer GPA with 6+ transfer credits:
>3.75
• Minimum incoming un-weighted high
school GPA: >3.9
Transfer Provost’s
Scholarship
• $5,000 per year ($2,500 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming cumulative
transfer GPA with 6+ transfer credits:
3.5-3.74
• Minimum incoming un-weighted high
school GPA: 3.7-3.89
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 216 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Scholarship
Options
Early Decision Award amount for
Indirect Students that register on or
before 04/30/2025
Transfer Dean’s
Scholarship
• $3,000 per year ($1,500 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming cumulative
transfer GPA with 6+ transfer credits:
3.25-3.74
• Minimum incoming un-weighted high
school GPA: 3.5-3.69
Scholarship
Options
Early Decision Award amount for
Indirect Students that register on or
before 04/30/2025
Transfer Faculty
Scholarship
• $2,000 per year ($1,000 per Semester)
• Minimum incoming cumulative
transfer GPA with 6+ transfer credits:
2.75-3.24.
• Minimum incoming un-weighted high
school GPA: 3.0-3.49.
*Transfer students who started prior to Fall 2025, need to contact
their Student Services Counselor for award amounts and
requirements.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 217 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Tuition and Fees
Effective Fall 2024 for
Traditional Campus and 5/1/24
for Non-Traditional Campus
Traditional Campus Programs
Undergraduate Tuition
Credits 1-11 $687.50/credit
Block Tuition (12-18 credits) $8,250.00
Credits 19+ (Block +) $8,250.00+$687.50/ per
credit above 18 credits
Summer Traditional
Undergraduate rate (except pre-
licensure nursing cohorts)
(Effective 8/29/16)
$310/credit
Accelerated BSN Program (All
Locations)
$850/credit
Traditional Campus Programs
Graduate Tuition
Credits 1-11 $687.50/credit
Block Tuition (12-18 credits) $8,250.00
Credits 19+ (Block +) $8,250.00+$687.50/ per
credit above 18 credits
*No In-State/Out-State rates
*Traditional campus undergraduate students are required to take
a minimum of 9 credits in the Traditional Campus format during
the Fall and Spring semester
*Traditional campus students taking courses in the online format
will be charged the regular traditional tuition rates.
Non-Traditional Campus
Undergraduate Tuition
Education and Science Programs $455/credit
Theology Programs $410/credit
RN-BSN Program $340/credit
Online and Professional Studies (all
programs other than those listed
above)
$485/credit
Active Duty, Active Reserve,
National Guard and Military Spouses
(effective rate after scholarship)
(Online and Professional Studies)
$250/credit
Pre-Requisites for Accelerated BSN
Program
$425/credit
Graduate Tuition
Education Programs $605/credit
MDIV Program $410/credit
Business Programs $655/credit
Advanced Practice Nursing Programs $740/credit
Non-Traditional Campus
Online and Professional Studies (all
programs other than those listed
above)
$590/credit
Active Duty, Active Reserve,
National Guard and Military Spouses
(effective rate after scholarship)
(Online and Professional Studies)
$400/credit
Doctoral Programs – (includes
Dissertation and Research
Continuation Courses)
*See below for important cost
information for doctoral programs
with dissertations.
$740/credit
Doctoral Programs: Active Duty,
Active Reserve, National Guard and
Military Spouses
(effective rate after scholarship)
(Online and Professional Studies)
$617.50/credit
Continuing Education (CTE) Tuition
Online $165/credit
Fees
Canyon Connect-Undergraduate $115
Canyon Connect-Graduate $125
Canyon Connect-Doctoral $135
Canyon Connect for RN to BSN
Program, courses with an NRS-prefix
and HLT-362V
$120/course
Canyon Connect for Advanced
Practice Nursing Programs
$450-$500/Course
Learning Management Service Fee
(New Online & Professional Studies
students)
$550
Technology Fee $30/course
Doctoral Residencies $1,315/Residency
Additional Doctoral Residency
(Optional)
$1,450/Residency
MDiv Residencies $1100/Residency
Doctoral Programs –Dissertation
Continuation (Optional zero credit
course)
$500
Accordance Bible Software (MDiv &
Biblical Language Certificate students
only)
$285 (one-time)
Gleim Accounting Software (Master
of Science in Accounting)
$1,150 (one-time)
Teacher Preparation Exam Testing
Fee (College of Humanities)
$50 (one-time)
Teacher Preparation Exam Testing
Fee (College of Education)
$120 (one-time)
Credential Evaluation (International)
Basic Evaluation
$175
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 218 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Non-Traditional Campus
Credential Evaluation (International)
Course-by-Course Evaluation
$250
Returned Check Fee-All returned
checks
$25
Transcript Fee $8
Transcript Fee effective 1/1/25 $15
Graduation Fee $150
Expedited Fee $35
Diploma Replacement Fee $50
Active Duty, Active Reserve, National Guard and
Military Spouses Scholarships
Students who are Active Duty, Active Reserve, National Guard
and Military Spouses (Online and Professional Studies) and sign
a Memorandum of Understanding after providing supporting
documentation demonstrating required qualifications, will have a
scholarship applied to decrease the overall tuition to a specific
tuition amount per credit. The amount of scholarship applied will
vary based on the standard tuition cost per credit for each degree
program per the Tuition and Fees table reduced to the applicable
per credit cost depending on the degree level as follows:
• Undergraduate: $250.00
• Graduate: $400.00
• Doctoral: $617.50
The following programs are exempt from this scholarship:
• Master of Divinity
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
*Important Cost Information for Doctoral Programs with
Dissertations
*Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision
This program requires completion of a minimum of 65 credits,
which will take a minimum of 45 months. Students who have not
received final approval of a dissertation at the completion of
those credits must enroll in Research Continuation courses until
they have completed an approved dissertation. Research
Continuation courses are three-credit courses, charged at the
same per-credit tuition rate as all other doctoral courses. Research
Continuation courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and time
to complete this program. This program had fewer than 10
graduates over the last five years. Therefore, GCU is providing
data for all students who completed any GCU dissertation-based
doctoral program between January 1, 2019, to December 31,
2023. Over that time, 2,143 doctoral graduates took an average of
6.1 years to complete all program requirements and required on
average 11.3 Research Continuation courses to complete their
dissertation. These program graduates paid an average of $51,747
in tuition and fees, including continuation courses, over the
duration of their program. The maximum number of credits
eligible for Title IV funding that a student can take in their
initially enrolled program version, assuming they earn passing
grades and otherwise remain eligible to receive Title IV funding,
is 95. As of December 31, 2023, this program had fewer than 10
students who did not finish within that number of credits.
Therefore, the following data is for all students who enrolled in
any GCU dissertation-based doctoral program before December
31, 2023. The number of students who did not finish within the
maximum number of attempted credits for all GCU doctoral
programs is 133, or 0.5% of all students who started in any GCU
dissertation-based doctoral program since the college’s inception.
*Doctor of Education in Teaching and Learning
This program requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits,
which will take a minimum of 39 months. Students who have not
received final approval of a dissertation at the completion of
those credits must enroll in Research Continuation courses until
they have completed an approved dissertation. Research
Continuation courses are three-credit courses, charged at the
same per-credit tuition rate as all other doctoral courses. Research
Continuation courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and time
to complete this program. Between January 1, 2019, to December
31, 2023, 39 students graduated from this program. Those
students took an average of 4.4 years to complete all program
requirements and required on average 4.4 Research Continuation
courses to complete their dissertation. These program graduates
paid an average of $47,883 in tuition and fees, including
continuation courses, over the duration of their program. The
maximum number of credits eligible for Title IV funding that a
student can take in their initially enrolled program version,
assuming they earn passing grades and otherwise remain eligible
to receive Title IV funding, is 90. As of December 31, 2023, this
program had fewer than 10 students who did not finish within
that number of credits. Therefore, the following data is for all
students who enrolled in any GCU dissertation-based doctoral
program before December 31, 2023. The number of students who
did not finish within the maximum number of attempted credits
for all GCU doctoral programs is 133, or 0.5% of all students
who started in any GCU dissertation-based doctoral program
since the college’s inception.
*Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership
This program requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits,
which will take a minimum of 39 months. Students who have not
received final approval of a dissertation at the completion of
those credits must enroll in Research Continuation courses until
they have completed an approved dissertation. Research
Continuation courses are three-credit courses, charged at the
same per-credit tuition rate as all other doctoral courses. Research
Continuation courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and time
to complete this program. Between January 1, 2019, to December
31, 2023, 1,167 students graduated from this program. Those
students took an average of 6.3 years to complete all program
requirements and required on average 12.4 Research
Continuation courses to complete their dissertation. These
program graduates paid an average of $52,887 in tuition and fees,
including continuation courses, over the duration of their
program. The maximum number of credits eligible for Title IV
funding that a student can take in their initially enrolled program
version, assuming they earn passing grades and otherwise remain
eligible to receive Title IV funding, is 90. As of December 31,
2023, the number of students who did not finish within the
maximum number of attempted credits is 85, or 0.5% of all
students who started the EdD in Organizational Leadership
program since the program’s inception.
*Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology
This program requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits,
which will take a minimum of 39 months. Students who have not
received final approval of a dissertation at the completion of
those credits must enroll in Research Continuation courses until
they have completed an approved dissertation. Research
Continuation courses are three-credit courses, charged at the
same per-credit tuition rate as all other doctoral courses. Research
Continuation courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and time
to complete this program. Between January 1, 2019, to December
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 219 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
31, 2023, 803 students graduated from this program. Those
students took average of 5.9 years to complete all program
requirements and required on average 10.3 Research
Continuation courses to complete their dissertation. These
program graduates paid an average of $50,264 in tuition and fees,
including continuation courses, over the duration of their
program. The maximum number of credits eligible for Title IV
funding that a student can take in their initially enrolled program
version, assuming they earn passing grades and otherwise remain
eligible to receive Title IV funding, is 90. As of December 31,
2023, the number of students who did not finish within the
maximum number of attempted credits is 41, or 0.5% of all
students who started the PhD in General Psychology program
since the program’s inception.
*Doctor of Business Administration
This program requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits,
which will take a minimum of 39 months. Students who have not
received final approval of a dissertation at the completion of
those credits must enroll in Research Continuation courses until
they have completed an approved dissertation. Research
Continuation courses are three-credit courses, charged at the
same per-credit tuition rate as all other doctoral courses. Research
Continuation courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and time
to complete this program. Between January 1, 2019, to December
31, 2023, 132 students graduated from this program. Those
students took an average of 5.9 years to complete all program
requirements and required on average 10.4 Research
Continuation courses to complete their dissertation. These
program graduates paid an average of $52,247 in tuition and fees,
including continuation courses, over the duration of their
program. The maximum number of credits eligible for Title IV
funding that a student can take in their initially enrolled program
version, assuming they earn passing grades and otherwise remain
eligible to receive Title IV funding, is 90. As of December 31,
2023, this program had fewer than 10 students who did not finish
within that number of credits. Therefore, the following data is for
all students who enrolled in any GCU dissertation-based doctoral
program before December 31, 2023. The number of students who
did not finish within the maximum number of attempted credits
for all GCU doctoral programs is 133, or 0.5% of all students
who started in any GCU dissertation-based doctoral program
since the college’s inception.
*Doctor of Health Administration
This program requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits,
which will take a minimum of 39 months. Students who have not
received final approval of a dissertation at the completion of
those credits must enroll in Research Continuation courses until
they have completed an approved dissertation. Research
Continuation courses are three-credit courses, charged at the
same per-credit tuition rate as all other doctoral courses. Research
Continuation courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and time
to complete this program. This program had fewer than 10
graduates over the last five years. Therefore, GCU is providing
data for all students who completed any GCU dissertation-based
doctoral program between January 1, 2019, to December 31,
2023. Over that time, 2,143 doctoral graduates took an average of
6.1 years to complete all program requirements and required on
average 11.3 Research Continuation courses to complete their
dissertation. These program graduates paid an average of $51,747
in tuition and fees, including continuation courses, over the
duration of their program. The maximum number of credits
eligible for Title IV funding that a student can take in their
initially enrolled program version, assuming they earn passing
grades and otherwise remain eligible to receive Title IV funding,
is 90. As of December 31, 2023, this program had fewer than 10
students who did not finish within that number of credits.
Therefore, the following data is for all students who enrolled in
any GCU dissertation-based doctoral program before December
31, 2023. The number of students who did not finish within the
maximum number of attempted credits for all GCU doctoral
programs is 133, or 0.5% of all students who started in any GCU
dissertation-based doctoral program since the college’s inception.
*Bridge to Doctor of Business Administration (20 Credits in Data
Analytics)
The Bridge courses consist of a minimum of 20 credits
preparatory coursework for a doctoral program. After satisfactory
completion of the pre-requisite courses, students will then be
eligible for enrollment in the Doctor of Business Administration
(“DBA”) Program. The DBA program, without Bridge courses,
requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits, which will take
a minimum of 39 months. Students who haven’t received final
approval of a dissertation at the completion of those credits must
enroll in Research Continuation courses until they have
completed an approved dissertation. Research Continuation
courses are 3-credit courses, charged at the doctoral per-credit
tuition rate. These courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and
time to complete this program. Between January 1, 2019, to
December 31, 2023, 132 students graduated from the DBA
program. Those students took an average of 5.9 years to complete
all program requirements (without Bridge courses) and required
on average 10.4 Research Continuation courses. These graduates
paid an average of $52,247 in tuition and fees, including
continuation courses, over the duration of their program. This
average doesn’t include the cost of the Bridge courses. In
addition to the Bridge courses, the maximum number of credits
eligible for Title IV funding that a student can take in their
initially enrolled program version, assuming they earn passing
grades and otherwise remain eligible to receive Title IV funding,
is 90. As of December 31, 2023, this program had fewer than 10
students who didn’t finish within that number of credits. The
following data is for all students who enrolled in any GCU
dissertation-based doctoral program before December 31, 2023.
The number of students who didn’t finish within the maximum
number of attempted credits for all GCU doctoral programs is
133, or 0.5% of all students who started in GCU dissertation-
based doctoral program since the college’s inception.
*Bridge to Doctor of Business Administration (16 Credits in
Marketing, Management, and Innovation and Corporate
Entrepreneurship)
The Bridge courses consist of a minimum of 16 credits
preparatory coursework for a doctoral program. After satisfactory
completion of the pre-requisite courses, students will then be
eligible for enrollment in the Doctor of Business Administration
(“DBA”) Program. The DBA program, without Bridge courses,
requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits, which will take
a minimum of 39 months. Students who haven’t received final
approval of a dissertation at the completion of those credits must
enroll in Research Continuation courses until they have
completed an approved dissertation. Research Continuation
courses are 3-credit courses, charged at the doctoral per-credit
tuition rate. These courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and
time to complete this program. Between January 1, 2019, to
December 31, 2023, 132 students graduated from the DBA
program. Those students took an average of 5.9 years to complete
all program requirements (without Bridge courses) and required
on average 10.4 Research Continuation courses. These graduates
paid an average of $52,247 in tuition and fees, including
continuation courses, over the duration of their program. This
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 220 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
average doesn’t include the cost of the Bridge courses. In
addition to the Bridge courses, the maximum number of credits
eligible for Title IV funding that a student can take in their
initially enrolled program version, assuming they earn passing
grades and otherwise remain eligible to receive Title IV funding,
is 90. As of December 31, 2023, this program had fewer than 10
students who didn’t finish within that number of credits. The
following data is for all students who enrolled in any GCU
dissertation-based doctoral program before December 31, 2023.
The number of students who didn’t finish within the maximum
number of attempted credits for all GCU doctoral programs is
133, or 0.5% of all students who started in GCU dissertation-
based doctoral program since the college’s inception.
*Bridge to Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and
Supervision (26 credits)
The Bridge courses consist of a minimum of 26 credits
preparatory coursework for a doctoral program. After satisfactory
completion of the pre-requisite courses, students are eligible for
enrollment in the Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education
and Supervision (PhD). The PhD, without Bridge courses,
requires completion of a minimum of 65 credits, which takes a
minimum of 45 months. Students who haven’t received final
dissertation approval at the completion of 65 credits must enroll
in Research Continuation courses until they complete an
approved dissertation. Research Continuation courses are 3-credit
courses, charged at the doctoral per-credit tuition rate, adding to
the cost and time to completion. The PhD had fewer than 10
graduates over the last 5 years. Therefore, GCU is providing data
for all students who completed any GCU dissertation-based
doctoral program between January 1, 2019, to December 31,
2023. Over that time, 2,143 doctoral graduates took an average of
6.1 years to complete all requirements (without Bridge courses)
and required on average 11.3 Research Continuation courses.
These graduates paid an average of $51,747 in tuition and fees,
including continuation courses but not Bridge courses, over the
duration of their program. In addition to the Bridge courses, the
maximum number of credits eligible for Title IV grants and loans
a student can take in their initially enrolled program version,
assuming they earn passing grades, is 95. As of December 31,
2023, this program had fewer than 10 students who did not finish
within that number of credits. Therefore, the following data is for
all students who enrolled in any GCU dissertation-based doctoral
program before December 31, 2023. The number of students who
didn’t finish within the maximum number of attempted credits
for all GCU doctoral programs is 133, or 0.5% of all students
who started in any GCU dissertation-based doctoral program
since the college’s inception.
Traditional Campus Programs
Fees
Canyon Connect-Undergraduate $115/course
Canyon Connect for Pre-licensure Nursing
Program
$160/course
Student Activity Fee (Traditional campus
students excluding students accepted into
Pre-Licensure nursing program)
$350/ semester
Technology Fee $100/semester
Facility Fee $100/semester
Computer Science, Computer
Programming, Cybersecurity, Engineering,
and Information Technology, & Software
Engineering Program Premiums
$1,000/
semester
Traditional Campus Programs
Athletic Training Premium $500/semester
Nursing Program Premium (Pre-Licensure
nursing program)
$2,500/semester
Worship Arts Premium (includes minors) $250/ semester
Teacher Preparation Exam Testing Fee
(College of Humanities)
$50 (one-time)
Teacher Preparation Exam Testing Fee
(College of Education)
$120 (one-time)
Student Parking Fee $350
Health Insurance $2,865 per
Academic Year
Housing Application Fee $250
Registration Deposit (non-refundable) $50
Housing Pre-Payment (Returning residents
only, non-refundable)
$200
Health and WellnessFee $125/semester
Health Center Visit Fee (With Insurance) $25
Health Center Visit Fee (Without
Insurance)
$50
Graduation Fee $150
Global Studies Portfolio Fee $90
Schedule Change Fee (2 Weeks Prior to
Semester Start)
$25
Schedule Change Fee (After Semester
Start-all students)
$50
Expedited Fee $35
Diploma Replacement Fee $50
Study Abroad Application Fee $50
Residence Hall Rates: (Students are required to carry at
least Canyon 1700 Meal Plan)
Triple Occupancy: Acacia / Camelback
Hall / Ironwood / Sedona Hall / Saguaro
Hall / Chaparral Hall / Prescott Hall /
Juniper / Ocotillo Hall / Willow
$2,100
Double Occupancy: Canyon Hall, Cypress
Hall
$2,750
Double Occupancy: Acacia, Prescott,
Camelback, Sedona, Chaparral, Ironwood,
Juniper, Saguaro, Ocotillo, Willow
$3,150
Apartments Rates (Students are required to carry at least
Canyon 950 Meal Plan)
Double Occupancy: North Rim $3,300
Single Occupancy: North Rim $3,800
Single Occupancy: Papago Studio $3,600
Single Occupancy: Agave, Agua Fria,
Antelope, Cactus, Copper, Diamondback,
Encanto, Jerome, Palo Verde, Ponderosa,
Roadrunner, Salt River, Santa Cruz,
Sonora, Verde River
$4,150
Summer Housing Rates
Apartment $2,000/
semester
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 221 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Housing Property Damage Charges
Bathroom
Cleaning $50
Towel Bar Replacement $30
Towel Ring Replacement (Applies to
Canyon Hall and Cypress Hall only)
$30
Shower Head Replacement $30
Light Cover Replacement $25
Vanity Counter $175
Cabinet Replacement $250
Vanity Medicine Cabinet Mirror or Glass
Shelf Replacement
$120
Vanity Medicine Cabinet Door
Replacement
$50
Bedroom
Bed Repair $25 ea.
Bed Replacement $125 ea.
Bed Pegs Replacement $25 per set
Cabinet Part Repair (Applies to Canyon
Hall and Cypress Hall only)
$50
Cabinet Replacement (Applies to Canyon
Hall and Cypress Hall only)
$150
Mattress Replacement $175
Mattress Cover Replacement $30
Blind Slat Replacement $10
Faux 2” Blind Unit Replacement (Applies
to NRA only)
$100
Complete Vertical Blind Replacement $90
General Cleaning This includes trash removal, personal
belongings removal and a detail clean up
Carpet Replacement $600 per room
Excessive Carpet Cleaning (Should carpet
replacement be required after cleaning,
replacement fine may be applied)
$50 per room
Excessive Turnover Cleaning $150
Housing Property Damage Charges
Furniture
Dresser Drawers Repair $30 ea.
Dresser Replacement $250
Desk Chair Replacement $50
Loveseat Replacement $100-$300
Sofa Chair Replacement $100-$200
Stain Removal $75
Keys
Lost Key $50
Lost Passpoint $50
Lost Key and Passpoint Replacement $75
Miscellaneous
Missing or Damaged Front Door $1,000
Missing or Damaged Interior Door $200
Missing or Damaged Light Bulbs $10-$25 ea.
Missing or Damaged Screen Door $75
Missing or Damaged Outlet Covers $5 ea.
Missing or Damaged Smoke Detector $250
Missing or Damaged Thermostat $75
Missing or Damaged Window $150-$250 ea.
Missing or Damaged Window Screen $75
Walls
Dents, Holes and Drywall Repair $50-$100
Repainting $125 per room
To view specific costs related to a program please review the
associated enrollment agreement for the desired program.
Additional cost of attendance estimates are available at Cost of
Attendance | Tuition & Finance | GCU.
Current and former students are able to request official transcripts
in a variety of ways. Students can request in their student portal
(even if they are no longer attending), over the phone with an
available SSC, via email, fax, or mail. Barring any financial hold,
the official transcript will be sent via USPS mail to the
address(es) requested. In the event a student wants to have the
transcript expedited, an additional $35 fee is charged per address.
Students are responsible for ensuring all expected actions are
complete prior to requesting their official transcript (i.e. grades
posted, degree awarded, etc.). While ordering in the student
portal is the fastest way to order, the Request for Official
Transcript form is available here. Students also have access to
their grade report in their student portal for up to date listing of
grades earned that they can share with other parties at their
discretion. The grade report is available to students even if they
are not currently attending and even if they have a financial hold
on their record.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 222 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Effective Fall 2025 for
Traditional Campus and 5/1/25
for Non-Traditional Campus
Traditional Campus Programs
Undergraduate Tuition
Credits 1-11 $687.50/credit
Block Tuition (12-18 credits) $8,250.00
Credits 19+ (Block +) $8,250.00+$687.50/ per
credit above 18 credits
Summer Traditional
Undergraduate rate (except
hybrid programs and pre-
licensure nursing cohorts)
$310/credit
Accelerated BSN Program (All
Locations)
$850/credit
Medical Lab Science and
Communication Sciences and
Disorders Hybrid Programs
$450/credit
Electrical and Manufacturing Pre-
Apprenticeship Programs
$200/credit
Graduate Tuition
Credits 1-11 $687.50/credit
Block Tuition (12-18 credits) $8,250.00
Credits 19+ (Block +) $8,250.00+$687.50/ per
credit above 18 credits
*No In-State/Out-State rates
*Traditional campus undergraduate students are required to take
a minimum of 9 credits in the Traditional Campus format during
the Fall and Spring semester
*Traditional campus students taking courses in the online format
will be charged the regular traditional tuition rates.
Non-Traditional Campus
Undergraduate Tuition
Education and Science Programs $460/credit
Theology Programs $410/credit
RN-BSN Program $340/credit
Online and Professional Studies (all
programs other than those listed
above)
$485/credit
Active Duty, Active Reserve,
National Guard and Military Spouses
(effective rate after scholarship)
(Online and Professional Studies)
$250/credit
Pre-Requisites for Accelerated BSN
Program
$425/credit
Graduate Tuition
Education Programs $615/credit
MDIV Program $410/credit
Business Programs $665/credit
Advanced Practice Nursing Programs $750/credit
Non-Traditional Campus
Online and Professional Studies (all
programs other than those listed
above)
$600/credit
Active Duty, Active Reserve,
National Guard and Military Spouses
(effective rate after scholarship)
(Online and Professional Studies)
$400/credit
Doctoral Programs – (includes
Dissertation and Research
Continuation Courses)
*See below for important cost
information for doctoral programs
with dissertations.
$750/credit
Doctoral Programs: Active Duty,
Active Reserve, National Guard and
Military Spouses
(effective rate after scholarship)
(Online and Professional Studies)
$617.50/credit
Continuing Education (CTE) Tuition
Online $165/credit
Fees
Canyon Connect-Undergraduate $120
Canyon Connect-Graduate $130
Canyon Connect-Doctoral $140
Canyon Connect for RN to BSN
Program, courses with an NRS-prefix
and HLT-362V
$120/course
Canyon Connect for Communication
Science & Disorder Program
$170/course
Canyon Connect for Advanced
Practice Nursing Programs
$450-$500/Course
Learning Management Service Fee
(New Online & Professional Studies
students)
$550
Technology Fee $30/course
Doctoral Residencies $1,315/Residency
Additional Doctoral Residency
(Optional)
$1,450/Residency
MDiv Residencies $1100/Residency
Doctoral Programs –Dissertation
Continuation (Optional zero credit
course)
$500
Accordance Bible Software (MDiv &
Biblical Language Certificate students
only)
$285 (one-time)
Gleim Accounting Software (Master
of Science in Accounting)
$1,150 (one-time)
Teacher Preparation Exam Testing
Fee (College of Humanities)
$50 (one-time)
Teacher Preparation Exam Testing
Fee (College of Education)
$120 (one-time)
Credential Evaluation (International)
Basic Evaluation
$175
Credential Evaluation (International)
Course-by-Course Evaluation
$250
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 223 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Non-Traditional Campus
Returned Check Fee-All returned
checks
$25
Transcript Fee $15
Graduation Fee $150
Expedited Fee $35
Diploma Replacement Fee $50
Active Duty, Active Reserve, National Guard and
Military Spouses Scholarships
Students who are Active Duty, Active Reserve, National Guard
and Military Spouses (Online and Professional Studies) and sign
a Memorandum of Understanding after providing supporting
documentation demonstrating required qualifications, will have a
scholarship applied to decrease the overall tuition to a specific
tuition amount per credit. The amount of scholarship applied will
vary based on the standard tuition cost per credit for each degree
program per the Tuition and Fees table reduced to the applicable
per credit cost depending on the degree level as follows:
• Undergraduate: $250.00
• Graduate: $400.00
• Doctoral: $617.50
The following programs are exempt from this scholarship:
• Master of Divinity
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
*Important Cost Information for Doctoral Programs with
Dissertations
*Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision
This program requires completion of a minimum of 65 credits,
which will take a minimum of 45 months. Students who have not
received final approval of a dissertation at the completion of
those credits must enroll in Research Continuation courses until
they have completed an approved dissertation. Research
Continuation courses are three-credit courses, charged at the
same per-credit tuition rate as all other doctoral courses. Research
Continuation courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and time
to complete this program. This program had fewer than 10
graduates over the last five years. Therefore, GCU is providing
data for all students who completed any GCU dissertation-based
doctoral program between January 1, 2019, to December 31,
2023. Over that time, 2,143 doctoral graduates took an average of
6.1 years to complete all program requirements and required on
average 11.3 Research Continuation courses to complete their
dissertation. These program graduates paid an average of $51,747
in tuition and fees, including continuation courses, over the
duration of their program. The maximum number of credits
eligible for Title IV funding that a student can take in their
initially enrolled program version, assuming they earn passing
grades and otherwise remain eligible to receive Title IV funding,
is 95. As of December 31, 2023, this program had fewer than 10
students who did not finish within that number of credits.
Therefore, the following data is for all students who enrolled in
any GCU dissertation-based doctoral program before December
31, 2023. The number of students who did not finish within the
maximum number of attempted credits for all GCU doctoral
programs is 133, or 0.5% of all students who started in any GCU
dissertation-based doctoral program since the college’s inception.
*Doctor of Education in Teaching and Learning
This program requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits,
which will take a minimum of 39 months. Students who have not
received final approval of a dissertation at the completion of
those credits must enroll in Research Continuation courses until
they have completed an approved dissertation. Research
Continuation courses are three-credit courses, charged at the
same per-credit tuition rate as all other doctoral courses. Research
Continuation courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and time
to complete this program. Between January 1, 2019, to December
31, 2023, 39 students graduated from this program. Those
students took an average of 4.4 years to complete all program
requirements and required on average 4.4 Research Continuation
courses to complete their dissertation. These program graduates
paid an average of $47,883 in tuition and fees, including
continuation courses, over the duration of their program. The
maximum number of credits eligible for Title IV funding that a
student can take in their initially enrolled program version,
assuming they earn passing grades and otherwise remain eligible
to receive Title IV funding, is 90. As of December 31, 2023, this
program had fewer than 10 students who did not finish within
that number of credits. Therefore, the following data is for all
students who enrolled in any GCU dissertation-based doctoral
program before December 31, 2023. The number of students who
did not finish within the maximum number of attempted credits
for all GCU doctoral programs is 133, or 0.5% of all students
who started in any GCU dissertation-based doctoral program
since the college’s inception.
*Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership
This program requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits,
which will take a minimum of 39 months. Students who have not
received final approval of a dissertation at the completion of
those credits must enroll in Research Continuation courses until
they have completed an approved dissertation. Research
Continuation courses are three-credit courses, charged at the
same per-credit tuition rate as all other doctoral courses. Research
Continuation courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and time
to complete this program. Between January 1, 2019, to December
31, 2023, 1,167 students graduated from this program. Those
students took an average of 6.3 years to complete all program
requirements and required on average 12.4 Research
Continuation courses to complete their dissertation. These
program graduates paid an average of $52,887 in tuition and fees,
including continuation courses, over the duration of their
program. The maximum number of credits eligible for Title IV
funding that a student can take in their initially enrolled program
version, assuming they earn passing grades and otherwise remain
eligible to receive Title IV funding, is 90. As of December 31,
2023, the number of students who did not finish within the
maximum number of attempted credits is 85, or 0.5% of all
students who started the EdD in Organizational Leadership
program since the program’s inception.
*Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology
This program requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits,
which will take a minimum of 39 months. Students who have not
received final approval of a dissertation at the completion of
those credits must enroll in Research Continuation courses until
they have completed an approved dissertation. Research
Continuation courses are three-credit courses, charged at the
same per-credit tuition rate as all other doctoral courses. Research
Continuation courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and time
to complete this program. Between January 1, 2019, to December
31, 2023, 803 students graduated from this program. Those
students took average of 5.9 years to complete all program
requirements and required on average 10.3 Research
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 224 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Continuation courses to complete their dissertation. These
program graduates paid an average of $50,264 in tuition and fees,
including continuation courses, over the duration of their
program. The maximum number of credits eligible for Title IV
funding that a student can take in their initially enrolled program
version, assuming they earn passing grades and otherwise remain
eligible to receive Title IV funding, is 90. As of December 31,
2023, the number of students who did not finish within the
maximum number of attempted credits is 41, or 0.5% of all
students who started the PhD in General Psychology program
since the program’s inception.
*Doctor of Business Administration
This program requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits,
which will take a minimum of 39 months. Students who have not
received final approval of a dissertation at the completion of
those credits must enroll in Research Continuation courses until
they have completed an approved dissertation. Research
Continuation courses are three-credit courses, charged at the
same per-credit tuition rate as all other doctoral courses. Research
Continuation courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and time
to complete this program. Between January 1, 2019, to December
31, 2023, 132 students graduated from this program. Those
students took an average of 5.9 years to complete all program
requirements and required on average 10.4 Research
Continuation courses to complete their dissertation. These
program graduates paid an average of $52,247 in tuition and fees,
including continuation courses, over the duration of their
program. The maximum number of credits eligible for Title IV
funding that a student can take in their initially enrolled program
version, assuming they earn passing grades and otherwise remain
eligible to receive Title IV funding, is 90. As of December 31,
2023, this program had fewer than 10 students who did not finish
within that number of credits. Therefore, the following data is for
all students who enrolled in any GCU dissertation-based doctoral
program before December 31, 2023. The number of students who
did not finish within the maximum number of attempted credits
for all GCU doctoral programs is 133, or 0.5% of all students
who started in any GCU dissertation-based doctoral program
since the college’s inception.
*Doctor of Health Administration
This program requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits,
which will take a minimum of 39 months. Students who have not
received final approval of a dissertation at the completion of
those credits must enroll in Research Continuation courses until
they have completed an approved dissertation. Research
Continuation courses are three-credit courses, charged at the
same per-credit tuition rate as all other doctoral courses. Research
Continuation courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and time
to complete this program. This program had fewer than 10
graduates over the last five years. Therefore, GCU is providing
data for all students who completed any GCU dissertation-based
doctoral program between January 1, 2019, to December 31,
2023. Over that time, 2,143 doctoral graduates took an average of
6.1 years to complete all program requirements and required on
average 11.3 Research Continuation courses to complete their
dissertation. These program graduates paid an average of $51,747
in tuition and fees, including continuation courses, over the
duration of their program. The maximum number of credits
eligible for Title IV funding that a student can take in their
initially enrolled program version, assuming they earn passing
grades and otherwise remain eligible to receive Title IV funding,
is 90. As of December 31, 2023, this program had fewer than 10
students who did not finish within that number of credits.
Therefore, the following data is for all students who enrolled in
any GCU dissertation-based doctoral program before December
31, 2023. The number of students who did not finish within the
maximum number of attempted credits for all GCU doctoral
programs is 133, or 0.5% of all students who started in any GCU
dissertation-based doctoral program since the college’s inception.
*Bridge to Doctor of Business Administration (20 Credits in Data
Analytics)
The Bridge courses consist of a minimum of 20 credits
preparatory coursework for a doctoral program. After satisfactory
completion of the pre-requisite courses, students will then be
eligible for enrollment in the Doctor of Business Administration
(“DBA”) Program. The DBA program, without Bridge courses,
requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits, which will take
a minimum of 39 months. Students who haven’t received final
approval of a dissertation at the completion of those credits must
enroll in Research Continuation courses until they have
completed an approved dissertation. Research Continuation
courses are 3-credit courses, charged at the doctoral per-credit
tuition rate. These courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and
time to complete this program. Between January 1, 2019, to
December 31, 2023, 132 students graduated from the DBA
program. Those students took an average of 5.9 years to complete
all program requirements (without Bridge courses) and required
on average 10.4 Research Continuation courses. These graduates
paid an average of $52,247 in tuition and fees, including
continuation courses, over the duration of their program. This
average doesn’t include the cost of the Bridge courses. In
addition to the Bridge courses, the maximum number of credits
eligible for Title IV funding that a student can take in their
initially enrolled program version, assuming they earn passing
grades and otherwise remain eligible to receive Title IV funding,
is 90. As of December 31, 2023, this program had fewer than 10
students who didn’t finish within that number of credits. The
following data is for all students who enrolled in any GCU
dissertation-based doctoral program before December 31, 2023.
The number of students who didn’t finish within the maximum
number of attempted credits for all GCU doctoral programs is
133, or 0.5% of all students who started in GCU dissertation-
based doctoral program since the college’s inception.
*Bridge to Doctor of Business Administration (16 Credits in
Marketing, Management, and Innovation and Corporate
Entrepreneurship)
The Bridge courses consist of a minimum of 16 credits
preparatory coursework for a doctoral program. After satisfactory
completion of the pre-requisite courses, students will then be
eligible for enrollment in the Doctor of Business Administration
(“DBA”) Program. The DBA program, without Bridge courses,
requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits, which will take
a minimum of 39 months. Students who haven’t received final
approval of a dissertation at the completion of those credits must
enroll in Research Continuation courses until they have
completed an approved dissertation. Research Continuation
courses are 3-credit courses, charged at the doctoral per-credit
tuition rate. These courses, if necessary, will add to the cost and
time to complete this program. Between January 1, 2019, to
December 31, 2023, 132 students graduated from the DBA
program. Those students took an average of 5.9 years to complete
all program requirements (without Bridge courses) and required
on average 10.4 Research Continuation courses. These graduates
paid an average of $52,247 in tuition and fees, including
continuation courses, over the duration of their program. This
average doesn’t include the cost of the Bridge courses. In
addition to the Bridge courses, the maximum number of credits
eligible for Title IV funding that a student can take in their
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 225 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
initially enrolled program version, assuming they earn passing
grades and otherwise remain eligible to receive Title IV funding,
is 90. As of December 31, 2023, this program had fewer than 10
students who didn’t finish within that number of credits. The
following data is for all students who enrolled in any GCU
dissertation-based doctoral program before December 31, 2023.
The number of students who didn’t finish within the maximum
number of attempted credits for all GCU doctoral programs is
133, or 0.5% of all students who started in GCU dissertation-
based doctoral program since the college’s inception.
*Bridge to Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and
Supervision (26 credits)
The Bridge courses consist of a minimum of 26 credits
preparatory coursework for a doctoral program. After satisfactory
completion of the pre-requisite courses, students are eligible for
enrollment in the Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education
and Supervision (PhD). The PhD, without Bridge courses,
requires completion of a minimum of 65 credits, which takes a
minimum of 45 months. Students who haven’t received final
dissertation approval at the completion of 65 credits must enroll
in Research Continuation courses until they complete an
approved dissertation. Research Continuation courses are 3-credit
courses, charged at the doctoral per-credit tuition rate, adding to
the cost and time to completion. The PhD had fewer than 10
graduates over the last 5 years. Therefore, GCU is providing data
for all students who completed any GCU dissertation-based
doctoral program between January 1, 2019, to December 31,
2023. Over that time, 2,143 doctoral graduates took an average of
6.1 years to complete all requirements (without Bridge courses)
and required on average 11.3 Research Continuation courses.
These graduates paid an average of $51,747 in tuition and fees,
including continuation courses but not Bridge courses, over the
duration of their program. In addition to the Bridge courses, the
maximum number of credits eligible for Title IV grants and loans
a student can take in their initially enrolled program version,
assuming they earn passing grades, is 95. As of December 31,
2023, this program had fewer than 10 students who did not finish
within that number of credits. Therefore, the following data is for
all students who enrolled in any GCU dissertation-based doctoral
program before December 31, 2023. The number of students who
didn’t finish within the maximum number of attempted credits
for all GCU doctoral programs is 133, or 0.5% of all students
who started in any GCU dissertation-based doctoral program
since the college’s inception.
Traditional Campus Programs
Fees
Canyon Connect-Undergraduate $115/course
Canyon Connect for Pre-licensure Nursing
Program
$160/course
Student Activity Fee (Traditional campus
students excluding students accepted into
Pre-Licensure nursing program)
$350/ semester
Technology Fee $100/semester
Facility Fee $100/semester
Computer Science, Computer
Programming, Cybersecurity, Engineering,
and Information Technology, & Software
Engineering Program Premiums
$1,000/
semester
Athletic Training Premium $500/semester
Worship Arts Premium (includes minors) $250/ semester
Traditional Campus Programs
Teacher Preparation Exam Testing Fee
(College of Humanities)
$50 (one-time)
Teacher Preparation Exam Testing Fee
(College of Education)
$120 (one-time)
Student Parking Fee $400
Health Insurance $2,865 per
Academic Year
Housing Application Fee $250
Registration Deposit (non-refundable) $50
Housing Pre-Payment (Returning residents
only, non-refundable)
$200
Health and WellnessFee $125/semester
Health Center Visit Fee (With Insurance) $25
Health Center Visit Fee (Without
Insurance)
$50
Graduation Fee $150
Global Studies Portfolio Fee $90
Schedule Change Fee (2 Weeks Prior to
Semester Start)
$25
Schedule Change Fee (After Semester
Start-all students)
$50
Expedited Fee $35
Diploma Replacement Fee $50
Study Abroad Application Fee $50
Residence Hall Rates: (Students are required to carry at
least Canyon 1700 Meal Plan)
Single Occupancy: Canyon Hall $3,600
Triple Occupancy: Acacia / Camelback
Hall / Ironwood / Sedona Hall / Saguaro
Hall / Chaparral Hall / Prescott Hall /
Juniper / Ocotillo Hall / Willow
$2,100
Double Occupancy: Canyon Hall, Cypress
Hall
$2,800
Double Occupancy: Acacia, Prescott,
Camelback, Sedona, Chaparral, Ironwood,
Juniper, Saguaro, Ocotillo, Willow
$3,200
Apartments Rates (Students are required to carry at least
Canyon 950 Meal Plan)
Double Occupancy: North Rim $3,400
Single Occupancy: North Rim $3,900
Single Occupancy: Papago Studio $3,600
Single Occupancy: Agave, Agua Fria,
Antelope, Cactus, Copper, Diamondback,
Encanto, Jerome, Palo Verde, Ponderosa,
Roadrunner, Salt River, Santa Cruz,
Sonora, Verde River
$4,250
Summer Housing Rates
Apartment $2,000/
semester
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 226 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Housing Property Damage Charges
Bathroom
Cleaning $50
Towel Bar Replacement $30
Towel Ring Replacement (Applies to
Canyon Hall and Cypress Hall only)
$30
Shower Head Replacement $30
Light Cover Replacement $25
Vanity Counter $175
Cabinet Replacement $250
Vanity Medicine Cabinet Mirror or Glass
Shelf Replacement
$120
Vanity Medicine Cabinet Door
Replacement
$50
Bedroom
Bed Repair $25 ea.
Bed Replacement $125 ea.
Bed Pegs Replacement $25 per set
Cabinet Part Repair (Applies to Canyon
Hall and Cypress Hall only)
$50
Cabinet Replacement (Applies to Canyon
Hall and Cypress Hall only)
$150
Mattress Replacement $175
Mattress Cover Replacement $30
Blind Slat Replacement $10
Faux 2” Blind Unit Replacement (Applies
to NRA only)
$100
Complete Vertical Blind Replacement $90
General Cleaning This includes trash removal, personal
belongings removal and a detail clean up
Carpet Replacement $600 per room
Excessive Carpet Cleaning (Should carpet
replacement be required after cleaning,
replacement fine may be applied)
$50 per room
Excessive Turnover Cleaning $150
Housing Property Damage Charges
Furniture
Dresser Drawers Repair $30 ea.
Dresser Replacement $250
Desk Chair Replacement $50
Loveseat Replacement $100-$300
Sofa Chair Replacement $100-$200
Stain Removal $75
Keys
Lost Key $50
Lost Passpoint $50
Lost Key and Passpoint Replacement $75
Miscellaneous
Missing or Damaged Front Door $1,000
Missing or Damaged Interior Door $200
Missing or Damaged Light Bulbs $10-$25 ea.
Missing or Damaged Screen Door $75
Missing or Damaged Outlet Covers $5 ea.
Missing or Damaged Smoke Detector $250
Missing or Damaged Thermostat $75
Missing or Damaged Window $150-$250 ea.
Missing or Damaged Window Screen $75
Walls
Dents, Holes and Drywall Repair $50-$100
Repainting $125 per room
To view specific costs related to a program please review the
associated enrollment agreement for the desired program.
Additional cost of attendance estimates are available at Cost of
Attendance | Tuition & Finance | GCU.
Current and former students are able to request official transcripts
in a variety of ways. Students can request in their student portal
(even if they are no longer attending), over the phone with an
available SSC, via email, fax, or mail. Barring any financial hold,
the official transcript will be sent via USPS mail to the
address(es) requested. In the event a student wants to have the
transcript expedited, an additional $35 fee is charged per address.
Students are responsible for ensuring all expected actions are
complete prior to requesting their official transcript (i.e. grades
posted, degree awarded, etc.). While ordering in the student
portal is the fastest way to order, the Request for Official
Transcript form is available here. Students also have access to
their grade report in their student portal for up to date listing of
grades earned that they can share with other parties at their
discretion. The grade report is available to students even if they
are not currently attending and even if they have a financial hold
on their record.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 227 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Cost of Attendance
The cost of attendance (COA) budget is an estimate of
educational expenses for a full-time student attending an
academic year. These estimates include direct costs (charged
directly to the student) of tuition, fees, books and room and board
(if using campus housing), and indirect costs (potential costs
incurred by the student) for off-campus housing, books, supplies
and personal expenses (travel, loan fees, personal items).
Costs are estimated expenses and are used in the Financial Aid
Office to determine the maximum amount of aid that can be
awarded for the academic year.
Cost of Attendance | Tuition & Finance | GCU
Dining Dollars
All resident students are required to purchase a meal plan.
Commuter students may purchase any of the available meal
plans.
Meal Plan (Dining Dollars) changes may be made through Week
2 of the semester. Dining Dollars may not be transferred from the
purchasing student to any other individual. Dining Dollar refunds
will be calculated less the actual usage and based on the
applicable refund percentage at the time of the dining option
cancellation. (Week 1 – 90%, Week 2 - 75%, Week 3 – 50%).
After the first three weeks of the term, there will be no Dining
Dollar refunds.
Starting in Fall 2018, unused dining dollars will not expire as
long as the student remains enrolled at the university. These
unused dining dollars will be classified as Rollover Dining
Dollars. Students continuing from spring, must be registered for
the upcoming summer or fall semester no later than May 31st in
order for the unused Dining Dollars to remain eligible for use.
Rollover Dining Dollars are not eligible for a refund and are
forfeited at the time of graduation or when the student is no
longer attending the university. Rollover dining dollars that were
forfeited are not available to be reinstated at any time.
Effective 2024
Dining Options Details Price
Canyon 250 Commuter students
only $250/semester
Canyon 950 Minimum requirement
for returning students
in apartments.
$950/semester
Canyon 1300 Minimum requirement
for new, incoming
students in apartments
$1,300/semester
Canyon 1700 Minimum requirement
for students in
residence halls
$1,700/semester
Canyon 2100 $2,050/semester
Canyon 2450 $2,350/semester
Canyon 3150 $3,000/semester
Effective 2025
Dining Options Details Price
Canyon 250 Commuter students
only $250/semester
Dining Options Details Price
Canyon 500 Summer only –
Minimum for summer
residents.
$500/semester
Canyon 950 Minimum requirement
for returning students
in apartments.
$950/semester
Canyon 1300 Minimum requirement
for new students living
in apartments
$1,300/semester
Canyon 1700 Minimum requirement
for students in
residence halls
$1,700/semester
Canyon 2100 $2,050/semester
Canyon 2450 $2,350/semester
Canyon 3150 $3,000/semester
Students who have special dietary needs should contact Dining
Services in person or at (602) 639-6924.
Lopes Cash
Lopes Cash is a form of payment separate from Dining Dollars.
Funds can be loaded to a student’s campus ID card by their
Student Services Counselor. Lopes Cash can be used at all dining
locations, to check out resources and books from the GCU
Library, and to print from computers.
At the end of the academic year, a student no longer attending the
University has 30 days to request a refund of any unused Lopes
Cash with their Student Services Counselor. If a request is not
made by the student to the University, the Lopes Cash will be
forfeited. For both attending and non-attending students, unused
Lopes Cash may be used to cover any other outstanding balance
the student has with University prior to a refund being issued.
Campus ID Cards
Campus ID cards are issued for accessing GCU services as well
as for security on campus. Campus ID cards can be used for
Dining Dollars access, to check out resources and books from the
GCU Library, or discounts on, certain GCU-sponsored events
(sporting events, etc.). Students may obtain a campus ID card by
visiting the Enrollment Office during normal business hours. Do
not give your card to another student or person to use for building
access, event admission or for meals. If a student allows another
to use his or her card to access food services, both students may
receive disciplinary sanctions. Students are issued one card for
use during the entire time at GCU at no charge.
It is the responsibility of the student to ensure the security of their
student ID card. Any ID cards that are lost or stolen will not
receive a refund on any Dining Dollars or Lopes Cash that had
been used during the time the card was stolen. If a card is lost or
stolen, please notify your Student Services Counselor to put a
hold on it for protection. There is a $10.00 fee to replace a lost or
stolen card.
Special Course Fees
Certain University classes require payment of fees or deposits for
materials, breakage, and/or rental. Contact the Program Director
in the pertinent College for specific information.
• Any course where digital materials are provided will be
charged the course materials fee. Digital course materials
include but are not limited to, simulations, multimedia content,
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 228 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
eBooks and/or custom created content. Some courses will
include electronic textbooks for which students will be charged
a Canyon Connect fee.
Special Course Fees
Course Fee
(EXS-415)
$30
Course Fee
(DAN-100, DAN-101, DAN-120, DAN-130A,
DAN-130B, DAN-180A, DAN-180B, DAN-200,
DAN-210, DAN-215, DAN-250, DAN-260,
DAN-270, DAN-280A, DAN-280B, DAN-300,
DAN-301, DAN-305, DAN-312, DAN-313,
DAN-320, DAN-350, DAN-353, DAN-360,
DAN-363, DAN-370, DAN-373, DAN-375,
DAN-380A, DAN-380B, DAN-385, DAN-390,
DAN-395, DAN-405, DAN-412, DAN-413,
DAN-430, DAN-435, DAN-450, DAN-453,
DAN-455, DAN-463, DAN-465A, DAN-465B,
DAN-470, DAN-473, DAN-480, HLT-665, NUR-
665E, PCN-662B, PCN-662D, UNV-300, DNP-
801A)
$50
Course Technology Fee
(CST-150, CST-201, CST-221, CST-321, CYB-
320, CYB-350, CYB-610, ITT-111, ITT-116,
ITT-121, ITT-210, ITT-221, ITT-305, ITT-306,
ITT-307, ITT-310, ITT-316, ITT-321, ITT-340,
ITT-370, ITT-375, ITT-425, ITT-430, ITT-610,
MIS-605, MIS-610, SWE-450, SYM-400, SYM-
408)
$50
Lab Fee
(DSM-101, DSM-215, DSM-300, DSM-320,
DSM-340, DSM-400, DSM-420, DSM-475)
$50
Course Fee
(BUS-372, MKT-373, BUS-635, BUS-655, SPT-
230, SPT-460)
$60
Course Fee (Online only)
(PCN-490, PCN-622, PCE-905)
$80
Course Fee
(INT-101, INT-102, INT-201, INT-202)
$80
Laboratory Fee
(ATP-214L, ATP-301L, ATP-302L, ATP-315L,
ATP-322L, ATP-360L, ATP-401L, BIO-155L,
BIO-181L, BIO-182L, BIO-201L, BIO-202L,
BIO-205L, BIO-210L, BIO-211L, BIO-215L,
BIO-320L, BIO-328L, BIO-360L, BIO-415L,
BIO-475L, BME-356L, BME-460, CHM-101L,
CHM-110L, CHM-111L, CHM-113L, CHM-
115L, CHM-231L, CHM-232L, CHM-235L,
CHM-315L, CHM-350L, CHM-360L, CHM-
365L, CHM-441L, CHM-444L, CHM-448L,
CHM-460L, CHM-470, CST-210, CST-211,
CST-215, CST-217, CST-217HN, CST-305,
CST-307, CST-310, CST-315, CST-320, CST-
405, CST-410, CST-415, CST-416, CST-425,
CST-435, CST-440, DDN-215, DDN-315, DFP-
111, DFP-223, DFP-225, DFP-226, DFP-311,
$100
Special Course Fees
DFP-323, DFP-326, DFP-331, DFP-346, DFP-
351, DFP-361, DFP-371, DFP-381, DFP-451,
DFP-455, DFP-480, EEE-213L, ENV-402L,
ESG-250, ESG-360, ESG-435, ESG-455, EXS-
200L, EXS-202L, EXS-210L, EXS-250L, EXS-
335L, EXS-340L, EXS-455L, HIM-200, HIM-
310, HIM-350, HIM-355, HIM-370, HIM-410,
HIM-412, HIM-415, HIM-450, HIM-452, HIM-
490, HIM-484, ITT-450, JUS-255L, JUS-265L,
JUS-275L, MED-320, MPC-109, MPC-259,
MPC-359, MPC-459, MUS-130, MUS-130L,
MUS-160L, MUS-262, MUS-262L, MUS-326,
MUS-357, MUS-393, NSG-300C, NSG-316,
NSG-320C, NSG-322C, MEE-340L, MEE-352,
MEE-460, NSC-350L, PHY-105L, PHY-111L,
PHY-112L, PHY-121L, PHY-122L, SCI-255L,
SCI-300L, SCI-330L, STG-110L, STG-242L,
STG-330, STG-350L, STG-430, SWE-310, SWE-
350, SWE-451, SWE-452, TRE-101, TRE-130,
TRE-245, SCI-300L, TRE-301, TRE-372, TRE-
377, TRE-401, WSA-300, WSA-302, WSA-205,
WSA-215)
Technology Fee
(CST-105, CST-111, CST-135, CST-235, CST-
236, CST-256, CST-323, CST-326, CST-341,
CST-361)
$100
Course Fee
(ATP-310, ATP-320, ATP-330, ATP-440, ATP-
450, ATP-460, BIO-440, EEE-302, EEE-320,
EEE-431, ESG-451, ESG-452, ITT-455)
$100
Course Fee
(NSC-510)
$125
Course Fee
(CNL-624, FOR-515, FOR-530, FOR-540, FOR-
560, FOR-575, INT-494, PCN-662A, PCN-662C,
SCN-600)
$150
Course Fee (Traditional Only)
(HOS-200, HOS-440, HOS-455, HOS-460)
$150
Course Fee
(ACC-482, CNL-664A, CNL-664B, CNL-664C,
HCI-655, PCE-910, PCE-911, SCN-605, SCN-
615, SCN-625, SWK-480, SWK-550, SWK-620,
SWK-635, SWK-636)
$200
Course Fee
(SWK-470, SWK-535, SWK-621)
$280
Course Fee (Traditional Only)
(MIN-500)
$285
Course Fee
(ATP-485)
$300
Course Fee
(NRC-634)
$350
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 229 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Special Course Fees
Music & Worship Arts-Private Applied
Instruction Fee
(MAP-112, MAP-118, MAP-122, MAP-128,
MAP-201, MAP-202, MAP-212, MAP-218,
MAP-222, MAP-250, MAP-312, MAP-318,
MAP-322, MAP-328, MAP-350, MAP-395,
MAP-401, MAP-412, MAP-422, MAP-450,
MAP-451, MAP-490, MAP-495, MBE-113,
MBE-123, MBE-213, MBE-223, MBE-313,
MBE-323, MBE-390, MBE-413, MBE-423,
MBE-490, MIE-113, MIE-123, MIE-213, MIE-
223, MIE-313, MIE-323, MIE-390, MIE-413,
MIE-423, MSE-113, MSE-123, MSE-213, MSE-
223, MSE-313, MSE-323, MSE-390, MSE-413,
MSE-423, MSE-490, MVA-119, MVA-129,
MVA-219, MVA-229, MVA-319, MVA-329,
MVA-390, MVA-419, MVA-429, MVA-
490MWE-113, MWE-123, MWE-213, MWE-
223, MWE-313, MWE-323, MWE-390, MWE-
413, MWE-423, MWE-490, WDA-111, WDA-
112, WDA-211, WDA-212, WGA-111, WGA-
112, WGA-211, WGA-212, WGA-310, WGA-
311, WGA-312, WKA-111, WKA-112, WKA-
211, WKA-212, WPA-211, WPA-212, WPA-310,
WPA-311, WPA-312, WPA-411, WVA-111,
WVA-112, WVA-211, WVA-212, WVA-310,
WVA-311, WVA-312)
$400
Music & Worship Arts-Private Applied
Instruction Fee
(MAP-120, MAP-130, MAP-220, MAP-230,
MAP-301, MAP-320, MAP-330, MAP-390,
MAP-420, MAP-430, MBE-115, MBE-125,
MBE-215, MBE-225, MBE-315, MBE-325,
MBE-415, MBE-425, MIE-115, MIE-125, MIE-
215, MIE-225, MIE-315, MIE-325, MIE-415,
MIE-425, MIE-490, MSE-115, MSE-125, MSE-
215, MSE-225, MSE-315, MSE-325, MSE-415,
MSE-425, MVA-120, MVA-130, MVA-220,
MVA-230, MVA-320, MVA-330, MVA-420,
MVA-430, MWE-115, MWE-125, MWE-215,
MWE-225, MWE-315, MWE-325, MWE-415,
MWE-425)
$800
Student Health Insurance
All GCU students must ensure they follow the federal guidelines
for insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act. Insurance
coverage must be demonstrated or secured by the first of the
month prior to the semester.
Deadline Semester
August 1 Fall
January 1 Spring
May 1 Summer
The student populations below are required to secure suitable
insurance coverage while attending GCU
• All traditional campus undergraduate students taking 12 credits
or more, regardless of registered credits, are required to carry
health and accident insurance.
o The University-sponsored plan is provided by Aetna Life
Insurance Company. The plan provides in-and-out patient
coverage up to the required limit (see current brochure for
limit) of reasonable and customary charges. Insurance
brochures are available in the Cooke Health and Wellness
Center.
o Annual Period: Coverage for all insured students enrolled
for the Fall semester, will become effective at the start of
the fall semester.
o Fall Semester Period: Coverage for all insured students
will become effective at the start of the semester and
conclude at the duration of the fall semester.
o Spring Semester (Newly Enrolled) Period: Coverage for
all students first entering Grand Canyon University in the
Spring semester will become effective at the start of the
spring semester, and will terminate at the end of the
summer semester.
o New Enrolled Summer Semester Period: Coverage will
be determined prior to the start of the Summer semester.
o NOTE: The health insurance rate for the full academic
year is $2,480. It is $931 for Fall semester and $1,549 for
the combined Spring and Summer semesters. The rate for
students who enroll for the first time during the Spring
semester is $1,549. Insurance charges may be subject to
change in Fall 2017.
• All international students with an F-1 visa (all programs of
study) will be automatically enrolled into the University-
sponsored plan and do not have the option of waiving.
• All student athletes (all programs of study) are required to
provide proof of suitable coverage by semester deadline, or
they will be automatically enrolled into the University-
sponsored plan and are required to pay the premium.
• Students in the following programs, are required to provide
proof of suitable coverage by semester deadline, or they will
be automatically enrolled into University-sponsored plan and
are required to pay the premium. International students cannot
opt out of the coverage.
o Pre-licensure Nursing - upon entry/acceptance of Level 1
into the program
o Athletic Training- upon entry/acceptance as a Level 1 into
the program
o Theatre Education- upon entry/acceptance as a Freshman
into the program
o Theatre and Drama- upon entry/acceptance as a Freshman
into the program
o Dance Education- upon entry/acceptance as a Freshman into
the program
Waiving Insurance
Clinical nursing students, student athletes, athletic training
students, club sports program students, theater education
students, traditional theater students, dance education students,
and counseling students are automatically enrolled into the
student health insurance plan each year unless proof of
comparable coverage is furnished. Those intending to waive out
of coverage are required to complete an insurance waiver. To
submit a waiver, students should login to their Student Portal,
visit the Portal E-Documents section, and complete the Health
Insurance Waiver document. Students must complete the
insurance waiver process by the posted semester deadlines. No
other means of acceptance will be acknowledged. A new waiver
must be completed each academic year. All waivers are subject to
verification and approval. The University cannot waive student
health insurance later than the deadline dates and any applicable
fees cannot be appealed.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 230 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Federal Financial Aid
The purpose of financial aid is to provide funding resources to
students who otherwise would be unable to pursue a
postsecondary education. The primary responsibility for meeting
University costs lies with students and their families.
General Eligibility Requirements
To receive federal Title IV financial assistance, all students must
be admitted to the University, be enrolled in a degree Program of
Study, be in good academic standing, and be making satisfactory
academic progress. Students who are Accepted with
Specifications are eligible for financial assistance according to
the University’s admission policy. According to federal
regulations, financial aid recipients must be U.S. citizens or
eligible non-citizens, not owe money back on a federal student
grant, and cannot be in default on any federal student loans.
Financial Aid Application Process
Annually students must complete the Free Application for
Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which is the first step in
determining financial need. The application can be accessed at
https://studentaid.gov/. If a student does not have Internet access,
a paper FAFSA may be obtained directly from the Department of
Education. The University does not require any of the
supplemental forms processed by the College Scholarship
Service (CSS) or American College Testing (ACT), for which
there is a fee charged.
The results of the FAFSA will be sent electronically to the
financial aid department. Eligibility will be determined and
funds will be awarded after receipt of all required documentation.
Before any federal loans can be awarded, both a Master
Promissory Note (MPN) and Entrance Counseling must be
completed on the Department of Education’s website,
https://studentaid.gov/
Verification
Based on information reported on the FAFSA, the Department of
Education will require certain applicants to complete the
verification process before becoming eligible for TIV aid. If a
student is selected for verification, the University will request
that the student provide all required documentation which may
include, but is not limited to:
• IRS Tax Return Transcript
• Verification of household size and number in college
• Documentation of high school completion
• Government Issued Photo Identification
• Statement of Educational Purpose
Additional documentation may be required to complete the
verification process. All paperwork must be submitted as soon as
possible but no later than the earlier of 120 days after the
student’s last day of enrollment or the end of the award year
which runs through the month of September. Federal awards will
not be processed until the verification process is completed.
Conflicting Information
GCU must rectify inconsistencies in student records, even after
the academic year or financial aid award year has ended. This
provision is separate and in addition to Verification requirements.
Conflicts may be found in many ways, in addition to through the
Verification process. When conflicting information is detected
during or following an academic year, the student will be
required to resolve the issue, correct the FAFSA (if necessary and
if the correction deadline has not passed), and undergo aid
recalculation based on the revised FAFSA data, including
updates to dependency status. For discrepancies in closed
financial aid award years, manual aid recalculation using the
corrected data will be performed without updating the FAFSA
application, including dependency status adjustments. This
process may result in reduced aid, returned funds, or notifications
of overpayments to ED. If inconsistencies are found in ED-
archived financial aid award years, the student may be reported to
the Department of Education (ED) for overpayment, if required.
Preference/Deadline Dates
Both new and returning students are strongly encouraged to
submit initial or renewal FAFSA applications as soon as possible
each year as some types of financial aid have limited funding and
those students whose FAFSA applications are delayed run an
increased risk of receiving reduced awards. Effective with the
17/18 award year, students will able to complete the FAFSA as
early as the preceding October of the award year. Only students
who have applied for admission to Grand Canyon University will
be issued a financial aid award notice through the Student Portal.
Financial Need and Expected Family Contribution
(EFC)
Aid for most federal funding is awarded based on financial need.
The EFC is a measure a family’s financial strength and indicates
how much of students’ and students’ families (for dependent
students) financial resources should be available to help pay
educational costs.
The EFC is calculated from information reported on the FAFSA
using a formula established by law. Family income and assets are
considered in determining the EFC along with household size and
number of family members attending a postsecondary school.
The EFC can be found on the Student Aid Report (SAR) which is
the document produced from the information supplied on the
FAFSA.
To determine financial need for federal student aid programs the
EFC is subtracted from the Cost of Attendance (COA) which is
an estimated amount it will cost to attend school for an academic
year. Estimated costs include tuition and fees, room and board,
allowances for books, supplies, transportation, and personal
expenses. Federal grants and other financial aid are used to meet
financial need.
Upon completion of all required paperwork, Title IV funds will
be awarded. A financial aid award letter will then be available on
the student’s portal.
Any changes made to original reported information on the
FAFSA may result in a change in financial aid award amounts. If
the FAFSA is selected for verification, any changes made during
the verification process may also change financial aid award
amounts.
Professional Judgment/Special Circumstances
Grand Canyon University may use judgment on a case-by-case
basis to review the student’s extenuating circumstances that are
now affecting the student’s cost of attendance, data used to
calculate his/her EFC (Estimated Financial Contribution) and/or
dependency status. The following are a list of types of petitions
and some examples of extenuating circumstances:
• Petition for Special Circumstances for Cost of Attendance –
This may include elementary or secondary school tuition,
childcare costs, unusual expenses such as medical/dental or
nursing home costs not covered by insurance, inability to work
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 231 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
while participating in student teaching, or other extenuating
circumstances.
• Petition for Special Circumstances for Income Adjustment –
This may include substantial loss of income or assets or recent
unemployment of a household member.
• Unusual Circumstances – This includes a dependency override
or a parent refusal status based on the student’s situation and
determination is made based on the documentation submitted.
These forms are available online at
https://www.gcu.edu/financial-aid/fafsa under Financial Aid
Forms.
A student can download, complete, and upload the form with
other required documentations to his/her GCU Student Portal.
GCU will review requests within 30 days and communicate
results to students as soon as practicable
Traditional Academic Calendar
The majority of aid for the Traditional campus is processed using
the Scheduled Academic Year calendar which consists of a Fall
and Spring term (semester) with aid for a Summer term optional.
To receive maximum financial aid benefits, undergraduate
students must be enrolled full-time (minimum 12 credits per
term). Undergraduate students enrolled less than full-time may be
eligible for prorated amounts of federal aid depending on the
funding source. Undergraduate programs require enrollment of at
least six credits per term for federal loan eligibility. Students who
receive any institutional scholarships (i.e., academic,
departmental, endowed, and/or merit) must maintain a continuous
full-time enrollment status. Courses taken at other colleges do not
count towards determining enrollment status at Grand Canyon
University for financial aid/scholarship purposes.
Nontraditional Academic Calendar (Online and
Cohort)
Nontraditional campus aid is processed using the Borrower-
Based, Non-term academic calendar. An academic year for
undergraduate programs is defined as a minimum of 24 earned
credits and 30 instructional weeks. The academic year for masters
programs starting July 2012 and after is defined as a minimum of
16 earned credits and 32 instructional weeks. Doctoral programs
utilize an academic year definition of 12 earned credits and 32
instructional weeks.
An academic year begins with participation in the first eligible
course of a degree program and ends when a student successfully
completes both the credits and instructional weeks requirements.
An academic year has no calendar time constraints and continues
through periods of non-attendance that are less than 180 days
until both the credit and weeks requirements are met.
The academic year is divided into two payment periods. The first
payment period consists of half of the credits and instructional
weeks as defined in the academic year. The second payment
period begins when a student has successfully completed the first
payment period requirements and has continued on into the next
scheduled course. Aid is packaged and disbursed using these
definitions. Payments of financial aid awards are made in two
equal disbursements following the appropriate payment period
rules.
Inform the Office of Financial Aid
Students who receive additional outside assistance must report
this fact to the Office of Financial Aid through their assigned
Student Services Counselor. Students who have received any
Title IV aid from a prior school or are currently receiving Title
IV aid at another institution while attending Grand Canyon
University must also notify the Office of Financial Aid through
their assigned Student Services Counselor as this other source of
funding may affect students’ eligibility to receive maximum Title
IV aid with GCU.
Student Responsibilities
All students should do the following:
• Accurately complete and return all applications, required
documentation, verification forms, and any additional
information that is requested by any GCU department or any
other agency providing financial assistance. Errors or
omissions may delay the awarding and disbursement of
eligible funds.
• Read and understand all documentation and agreements that
are signed and submitted to any department or agency.
• Review the award letter and all other notices issued regarding
the responsibilities and conditions that must be adhered to by
students receiving financial aid.
• Understand what portion of the financial aid package is need
based aid (grant and scholarships that does not have to be
repaid) and what portion is non-need based aid (funding that
must be repaid such as student loans). If any portion of the aid
is in the form of a student loan, understand the total amount of
the loan, the interest rate assessed to the amount borrowed, the
repayment schedule, the timeframe of the repayment schedule,
and the start date of the repayment schedule.
• Notify the servicer of any changes to personal name, address,
and enrollment status.
• Review and understand the amounts pertaining to the cost of
attendance and the Course Tuition Refund Policy for Grand
Canyon University as stated in the Financial Services section.
• Review and understand the amounts pertaining to the cost of
attendance and the Course Tuition Refund Policy for Grand
Canyon University as stated in the Financial Services section.
• Review and comply with all rules and regulations pertaining to
academic, financial, and University conduct policies
• Understand that any intentional misrepresentation of
information provided on applications or documents submitted
for federal financial aid is a violation of law and is considered
a criminal offense subject to penalties under the U.S. Criminal
Code and will be reported to the Office of Inspector General
(OIG)
Disbursement of Title IV Funds for Books and
Supplies
If a Pell grant eligible student meets all requirements to receive
Title IV funds at least 10 days before the start of a payment
period, any Title IV funds in excess of the amount owed to the
school at the that time (Title IV credit balance funds) are to be
made available to the student up to the amount needed to obtain
books and supplies.
The school must make the Title IV credit balance funds for books
and supplies available to the student by the 7th day of the
payment period.
If a student has not yet established eligibility to receive Title IV
funds at least 10 days before the beginning of a payment period
due to outstanding verification requirements, unresolved “C”
codes on the Student Aid Report (SAR), or conflicting
information, this requirement does not apply.
In determining whether a Title IV credit balance exists, the
school considers all Title IV funds that could be disbursed at least
10 days before the term/payment period, regardless if funds have
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 232 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
been received by the institution. It is the student’s eligibility to
receive Title IV funds at that time, rather than the school’s
schedule for receiving or disbursing those funds, that determines
the existence and amount of a Title IV credit balance for this
purpose.
If a student requires monetary assistance with purchasing books
and supplies, he should contact his Student Services Counselor to
determine if he meets the qualifications listed above. If the
Student Services Counselor determines that the student is eligible
to receive assistance in purchasing books/supplies, the student
will have a maximum of $300 available to purchase the required
books/supplies.
The student is under no obligation to take advantage of this
provision.
Excess Funds - Stipend Checks
Many times students request aid in excess of the total account
charges. Once funds post to the student’s account, any funds in
excess of the posted charges create a credit balance on the
account. In compliance with federal regulations, the University
will mail an excess funds (stipend) check within 14 calendar days
from the date the Title IV credit balance was created on the
account.
It is University policy to mail all stipend checks to the current
address on file. Students who wish to change their address must
go through the Office of Academic Records, update their address
on the Student Portal, or contact their SSC to make this change.
Students may be subject to a $25 charge for stop payments made
after 21 business days of mailing date. Any credit balance created
that is a result of a credit card payment will be returned to the
credit card that was initially used or can be used to pay for
charges in the next payment period. Any unrequested credit
balances that are less than $1 will be donated to the Institutions
scholarship fund.
Stipend checks are processed according to federal regulations and
University policies. For further details, please contact your
Student Services Counselor.
Leave of Absence – Nontraditional
Leave of Absence (LOA) refers to a specific period during a
program when a student is not in attendance. A student who
requires a temporary break of enrollment in his program of study
has the option of requesting a Leave of Absence. Breaks of up to
14 days do not require an LOA. An LOA must meet certain
conditions to be counted as a temporary interruption in a
student’s education rather than being counted as a withdrawal
from the University. There must also be a reasonable expectation
that the student will return from the LOA for the leave to be
approved.
Leave of Absence Request Process
• A student wishing to request an LOA will need to initiate the
process with his Student Services Counselor (SSC). The
student must specify the requested start and end date of the
LOA. LOAs generally start on the date following the end of a
course, or the day after the Last Date of Attendance (LDA) if
the LOA is taken during a course. LOAs end on the date before
the next scheduled/rescheduled course.
• The SSC will explain the impact of taking the LOA on the
student’s Federal Title IV awards and on the terms of the
student’s loan repayment obligation.
• The final approval/ denial is generally completed within one
week of the student’s LDA.
• No additional charges can be assessed to a student who returns
from an approved LOA.
• An LOA request generally must be signed, dated and
submitted on or before the last scheduled date of class in a
course and must include the reason for the student’s request.
The request must be completed on the GCU Leave of Absence
form. Any request submitted after the last scheduled date of
class in a course may be denied unless unforeseen
circumstances prevented the student from making the request
timely. An explanation of the reason for the delay must be
provided.
• GCU policy allows for multiple LOAs of up to a maximum of
180 combined calendar days in any 12-month rolling period.
• Students who do not return from an approved LOA will be
withdrawn from the University effective the last date of
documented attendance.
• Students may return early from an LOA by contacting their
SSC to reschedule their next course.
• Title IV loans cannot be disbursed to a student while on an
LOA; Title IV grants already in process prior to the LOA can
be disbursed to a student while on an LOA.
• If the LOA request is not approved or the student does not
return as scheduled from the approved LOA, this time of
nonattendance will be counted against any grace period for
Title IV student loan repayment purposes.
Because of various federal requirements, a Leave of Absence at
GCU is available only to the Nontraditional student population.
Federal Return of Title IV Funds Policy - Official
and Unofficial Withdrawal
Any federal financial aid recipient who fails all courses in a
semester (traditional campus), is terminated by the university for
any policy violation (traditional and nontraditional) or withdraws
from the University (traditional and nontraditional) is subject to a
federal Return of Title IV Aid calculation. This calculation
determines both the amount of federal aid that the school is
allowed to retain as well as the amount that must be returned to
the Department of Education. The R2T4 policy determines the
amount of TIV funds the student has earned based on
withdrawing before the completion of the period funded and is
separate from the Institutional Refund Policy.
An official withdrawal occurs when a student has formally
requested to be withdrawn from the University. The student must
submit a Complete Withdrawal Form, available on the student
portal. If a student notifies his Student Services Counselor of his
intent to withdraw from the University but did not complete the
Official Withdrawal form, the Student Services Counselor will
notify the Office of Academic Records of the official withdrawal
request.
An unofficial withdrawal for a non-traditional student occurs
when the student has stopped attending any coursework for a
period of 14 consecutive days or more but has not communicated
a desire to officially withdraw from the University and is not on
an approved Leave of Absence.
The federal refund calculation is as follows:
1. Withdrawal:
a. Withdrawal from the University before the first day of
classes, 100% of Title IV aid must be returned.
b. Withdrawal from the University through 60% of the
payment period will result in a prorated percentage of aid
being earned. Any unearned aid due from the school will be
returned to the appropriate funding source. In some
instances, a portion of unearned aid may be the student’s
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 233 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
responsibility. Refunds due to any TIV loan program may be
repaid based on the terms of the student’s Master
Promissory Note. Refunds to grants must be paid, the
student should follow the directions on the R2T4 form to
make arrangements for repayment. Failure to do so may
impact future TIV eligibility
c. Withdrawal from the University after attending more than
60% of the payment period will result in 100% of the
student’s Title IV aid being earned. The institution will
retain 100% of funding that covers institutional costs;
students may retain the remainder of funding.
2. Failing All Courses in a Semester (Traditional Campus):
Traditional campus students receiving failing grades in all
coursework for the semester will earn 50% of Title IV aid
disbursed. If validation can be obtained of a later Last
Academic Activity date (LAA), that date will be used in the
calculation. The student will continue to owe tuition and fees
for the entire semester and will be responsible to the University
for any remaining balance on account.
3. Unofficial Withdrawal within a Term Containing Modules
(Traditional Campus): Coursework taken within a term where
no courses taken span the entire length of the term will be
subject to modular refund rules. If the withdrawal from future
courses within the term occurs after the student is no longer
attending a course, Title IV aid will be earned at a 50% rate
and the student will be responsible to the University for any
remaining balance on account. If validation can be obtained of
a later Last Academic Activity date (LAA), that date will be
used in the refund calculation.
4. Students dismissed from the institution will have the refund
made based on the earlier of the date the determination was
made that the student was to be dismissed due to not meeting
an institutional policy or the date the triggering incident
occurred.
Order of Return of Title IV Funds Required to be Returned
by the Institution
• Unsubsidized Direct Loans (other than Direct PLUS Loans)
• Subsidized Direct Loans
• Direct PLUS Loans (parent or graduate)
• Federal Pell Grants for which a return of Title IV funds is
required
• FSEOG for which a return of Title IV funds is required
• TEACH Grants for which a return of Title IV funds is required
• Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant, for which a return of Title
IV funds is required.
Note: returns of less than $1.00 are not required to be made.
Timeframe for the Return of Title IV Funds
GCU will complete the R2T4 calculations within 30 days of the
date of determination that the student has withdrawn. Any
refunds that are the responsibility of the institution will be made
as soon as possible and no later than 45 days from the date of
determination that the student has withdrawn.
Timeframe and Requirements for Payment of Post
Withdrawal Disbursements
As part of the R2T4 calculation, a determination will be made
regarding any additional Title IV funds the student may be
eligible to receive. These funds are considered post withdrawal
disbursements (PWD). The student must have submitted a valid
FAFSA for the period from which the withdrawal occurred and
met all eligibility requirements, including the submission of any
required supporting documentation.
The PWD determination must be made within 30 days of the date
of determination that the student withdrew. In addition to meeting
the PWD requirements, students must also meet the terms of late
disbursement regulations (34 CFR 668.164(j)(2), which require
GCU to receive a valid SAR/ISIR for the student from the
Department of Education by the deadline dates established by the
Department. Additionally, for a PWD to be made from an award
of Direct Loan or TEACH Grant funds, GCU must have
originated the loan or grant prior to the date the student became
ineligible. For PWD’s made from SEOG funds , GCU must have
made the award to the student prior to the date the student
became ineligible . If the student is eligible for a PWD, the
notification will be included with the results of the R2T4
notification.
If the eligible PWD is from Federal Pell Grant or Federal SEOG
funds, the funds will be posted to the student’s account. If there is
a credit balance on the account, a check will be sent to the student
and a disbursement notification will be sent via email. If the
PWD is from Federal Loan funds, the student will be notified of
the availability of the PWD and the student must authorize the
disbursement.
Maximum Timeframe
Federal regulations require a student to complete his Program of
Study within a measured maximum time frame that cannot
exceed 150% of the published length of the program. The sum of
the total required credits multiplied by 150% will be the
maximum number of attempted credits for which a student is
eligible to receive aid. If a student reaches the 150% timeframe
and has not completed his program of study, he is no longer
eligible for Title IV aid. The student may continue taking
required coursework, but must make other payment
arrangements.
Federal Funding Sources
Federal Pell Grant Awarding
A Federal Pell Grant, unlike a loan, does not have to be repaid. It
is available to eligible undergraduate students who have not
earned a bachelor's degree. Student and family income
information that is provided when completing the Free
Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines Pell
eligibility.
Effective July 2012, the Department of Education limited the
number of semesters/terms to 12 in which a student may receive
a Pell grant. A student’s remaining Pell eligibility will be
reported on the student’s Institutional Student Aid Report or
students may contact their Student Services Counselor for this
information.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity
Grant
FSEOG is available to undergraduate students with exceptional
financial need. Students with the lowest EFCs who also receive a
Pell grant for that award year have primary consideration for
FSEOG funding. FSEOG is an award that does not require
repayment. This award is dependent on financial need and
availability of limited funds.
Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant (IASG)
A student whose parent or guardian was a member of the U. S.
Armed Forces and died as a result of service performed in Iraq or
Afghanistan after September 11, 2001, may be eligible to receive
this grant. For more information on this grant students should
contact their Student Services Counselor.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 234 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Children of Fallen Heroes
Beginning with the 2018-19 award year, a Pell-eligible student
whose parent or guardian died in the line of duty while
performing as a public safety officer is eligible to receive a
maximum Pell Grant for the award year for which the
determination of eligibility is made. For more information,
students should contact their Student Services Counselor.
Teacher Education Assistance for College and
Higher Education Grant (TEACH)
The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher
Education (TEACH) Grant Program was established under the
College Cost Reduction and Access Act (CCRAA), to benefit
current and prospective teachers. This program currently provides
up to $3728 a year in grant assistance to students who plan on
becoming a teacher and meet certain specific requirements.
Based on the Budget Control Act of 2011, this amount will be
reduced to $3724 in October. If a student who receives a TEACH
Grant does not complete the required teaching obligation, the
grant must be repaid as a Direct Unsubsidized Loan under the
William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program.
To be eligible to receive a TEACH Grant, students must:
• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen
• Complete a FAFSA, although you do not have to demonstrate
financial need to be eligible.
• Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25 throughout your
academic program or demonstrate a score above the 75th
percentile on a national standardized college admissions test
(ACT, SAT, GRE or GMAT) or be employed as a full-time
teacher as a graduate student
• Be accepted into an eligible degree program
You also must:
• Major in education and pursue a certification in a high-need
subject area, or major in a high-need subject area without
obtaining certification if you are already certified. You are
only eligible if you are pursuing your first undergraduate
degree. You are NOT eligible for the TEACH Grant if you are
pursuing a second undergraduate degree
• Sign an Agreement to Serve and complete entrance counseling
each year that you receive a grant
• Complete these forms at the Department of Education’s
website: studentaid.gov
The Agreement To Serve requirements:
• Full-time teacher for 4 years within eight years of completing
degree
• Teach in high need subject areas such as Math, Science,
Foreign Language, Bilingual Education, Special Education,
Reading Specialist, or a field as defined by the federal
government as high need
• Comply with the requirements for being a highly qualified
teacher
The amount of the grant will be treated as an unsubsidized
Stafford loan and interest will accrue from the date of grant
award if the student fails to complete the Agreement to Serve
requirements.
For more information about this grant, students can refer to the
Financial Services website.
Federal Work Study
Federal work-study provides part-time jobs for students with
financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay
educational expenses. Contact Student Employment for more
information.
Federal Loan Programs
Loans are often part of a financial award package as they provide
students with an opportunity to defer part of their educational
costs by borrowing now and paying later. Each year a student’s
loan eligibility is determined by completing the FAFSA.
Likewise, eligibility for certain loans and loan amounts may
change according to the information reported on all required
documentation.
Federal Direct Loan Program
In order to receive a Federal Direct loan, a completed Master
Promissory Note (MPN) is required. The MPN is a legal
document in which you promise to repay your loan(s) and any
accrued interest and fees to the U.S. Department of Education. It
explains the terms and conditions of your loan(s), and items such
as how interest is calculated, what deferment and cancellation
provisions are available to you, and estimated repayment plans.
A second requirement of receiving a student loan is to complete
Entrance Counseling. This is a mandatory information session
which takes place before you receive your first federal student
loan that explains your responsibilities and rights as a student
borrower.
Upon graduation/withdrawal, Exit Counseling is also required
which will reiterate your rights and responsibilities as a student
loan borrower and provide useful tips and information to help
manage your student loans.
All required information can be found at both Federal Student
Aid and Student Loans.Gov sites.
Direct Subsidized Loans
Subsidized loans are available to undergraduate students who
meet certain financial need criteria. The federal government will
pay the interest on the loan while the student is attending classes
on at least a half time basis and during periods when the loan is
deferred.
Effective July 1, 2012, graduate and professional students are no
longer eligible for this loan.
The Department of Education implemented a cap on the amount
of time a student can attend an institution and continue to receive
a subsidized loan. Any student who had no loan debt effective
July 1, 2013 will need to complete his program of study within
150% of the published time to completion. If the student does not
complete his program of study within that timeframe, he will no
longer be eligible to receive additional subsidized funding. Under
certain conditions, the provision also causes first-time borrowers
who have exceeded the 150% limit to lose the interest subsidy on
their Direct Subsidized loans
Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Unsubsidized loans are available to students regardless of
financial need. Students are responsible for the interest that
accrues on this loan from the date the funds are disbursed until
the funds are paid back in full. The student borrower also has the
option to pay the interest that is accruing while attending school
or postpone payment. If payment is postponed, the interest will
accrue and be capitalized (added to the principal amount of the
loan).
Plus Loans
PLUS loans are available for graduate/professional students as
well as parents of dependent undergraduate students. The PLUS
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 235 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Loan enables parents/graduate students to borrow up to the full
cost of attendance less any other financial assistance awarded to
the student. PLUS Loan borrowers are subject to a credit check
before loan approval.
The interest rate for new loans is determined each year and is
announced during the month of July. Contact your Student
Services Counselor for the current interest rates.
Repayment on the principal loan balance begins six (6) months
after the borrower drops below half-time enrollment status or
graduates. Normally, monthly loan payments will not be less than
fifty dollars ($50) and must be repaid within the time-period
specified by the terms of the borrower’s repayment contract.
Annual and Aggregate Loan
Limits
There are limits on the amount of subsidized and unsubsidized
loans that a student is eligible to receive each academic year
(annual loan limits) and the total amounts that may be borrowed
for undergraduate and graduate study (aggregate loan limits).
Annual Loan Limits
Base Loan
Dependent/
Independent
Sub/Unsub
Additional
Loan
Independent
Unsub
Total
Loan
Amount
Freshman $3,500/$2,000 $ 4,000 $ 9,500
Sophomore $4,500/$2,000 $ 4,000 $10,500
Junior $5,500/$2,000 $ 5,000 $12,500
Senior $5,500/$2,000 $ 5,000 $12,500
Graduate $20,500 $20,500
Aggregate Stafford Loan Limits
Undergraduate Subsidized Limit $ 23,000
Undergraduate Combined Limit $ 57,500
Graduate Subsidized Limit (including all
undergraduate loans)
$ 65,500
Graduate Combined Limit (including all
undergraduate loans)
$138,500
State Grants for Arizona
Residents
Arizona Leveraging Educational Assistance
Partnership Program (AzLEAP)
The AZ LEAP program is a state and institutional partnership
which provides student financial assistance in the form of need-
based grants to low-income, undergraduate, Arizona resident
students who have demonstrated substantial financial need.
Minimum Qualifications:
• Must be U.S. Citizen or an eligible non-citizen
• Must be a resident of Arizona
• Must be enrolled at least half-time as an undergraduate student
• Must have substantial financial need (be Pell eligible) as
determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid
(FAFSA)
• Must meet GCU Satisfactory Academic requirements
• Must not have concurrent enrollment in undergraduate and
graduate courses
Arizona Teacher Student Loan Program
The Arizona Teacher Student Loan Program is a forgivable loan
designed to financially support and encourage private college
students who are Arizona residents to enter into the teaching
profession and teach in Arizona.
Students must enter into an agreement with the Arizona Board of
Regents to teach in an Arizona public school for one full school
year for each year that ATSLP Loan funding was received. The
agreement will provide the conditions of the forgivable loan and
information on promising to repay the loan if the teaching
obligation is not met. GCU must certify that the student meets the
minimum qualifications for the program. Loans are awarded to
eligible students on a first-come, first-served basis.
Loan Program
The forgivable loan can be applied toward tuition, instructional
materials and mandatory fees as documented in the student’s
Cost of Attendance (COA) at GCU excluding all grants,
scholarships, and other tuition benefits (e.g., tribal and military).
The forgivable loan can be awarded each academic year to:
• Undergraduate students for a total of eight (8)
semesters/payment periods (e.g., fall and/or spring)
• Post baccalaureate student to a total of four (4)
semesters/payment periods (e.g., fall and/or, spring)
• Graduate students who do not have an undergraduate teaching
degree to a total of four (4) semesters/payment periods (e.g.,
fall and/or spring)
Minimum Qualifications for loan:
• Must be U.S. Citizen or legal resident of the U.S. or otherwise
lawfully present in the U.S.
• Must be a resident of Arizona
• Must be admitted and enrolled as an undergraduate, graduate
or postbaccalaureate student at a qualifying private,
postsecondary educational institution in Arizona
• Must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
each year enrolled in the Arizona Teacher Student Loan
program
• Must sign the GCU ATSLP student agreement that requires the
student to meet eligibility requirements for the program and
specifies continuing eligibility terms, post-graduation or post-
certification service obligations and repayment obligations if a
student fails to meet eligibility requirements or service
obligations.
Loan recipients have a grace period of 12 months after graduation
or earning their teaching credential to begin teaching. (Deferment
is possible if the recipient of the loan is temporarily unable to
work; is called to active military duty; is enrolled in a graduate
degree program that requires delaying the teaching requirement;
or is unable to fulfill the teaching requirement due to
circumstances beyond their control.)
Additional information can be viewed by going to
https://www.gcu.edu/financial-aid/scholarships-grants/state-
grants
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 236 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Student Employment
Federal and Non-Federal Work Study
On campus Federal Work Study and Non-Federal Work Study
employees will not be able to work without completed hiring
documents. Federal and Non-Federal Work Study positions are
paid bi-monthly. A student employed by GCU must be registered
for at least six credit hours in order to maintain his/her exemption
from Social Security taxes. Students are unable to receive state
unemployment upon termination of their position.
Students are expected to do the following:
• Report to work promptly.
• Notify supervisors in advance if they will be late or absent
from work.
• Refrain from conducting personal business and schoolwork on
during scheduled work hours.
• Accurately report the hours worked (sign time sheet).
• Dress appropriately according to position.
• Monitor earnings in relation to their Federal Work Study
award.
• Give two weeks’ notice before resigning.
International Student Employment
International students who wish to work while in the U.S. must
be aware of and comply with F-1 visa employment regulations.
Working illegally while in the U.S. is a serious offense that must
be reported to the Department of Homeland Security (SEVIS)
and can result in loss of F-1 status and benefits, and possible
deportation. All international students must confer with the staff
at the International Students Office before accepting or beginning
any employment.
For Canadian Students: Grand Canyon University is dedicated to
providing high quality service for our Canadian students. Please
be advised that students are responsible for determining their
eligibility for Canadian Tax Credits. Certain Grand Canyon
University courses and programs may not meet certain
requirements for tax credits, including but not limited to the
minimum week and continuous enrollment requirements. For
more information on Canadian Tax Credits, please contact The
Revenue Canada Agency or visit www.cra.gc.ca.
On-Campus Employment
International students with F-1 status may be employed on
campus without obtaining special permission from the U.S.
Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provided they are
maintaining legal immigration status. Nonetheless, international
students should check with the International Students Office to be
sure the prospective job is permissible.
Off-Campus Employment
After being enrolled full-time for one academic year (two
semesters), international students may be eligible for employment
off-campus; however, opportunities are limited. Consult with the
International Students Office for more information.
Below is a listing of the three primary types of off-campus
employment that are available to international students.
• Practical Training (PT) - PT is a benefit that allows F-1
students to gain practical experience working in the US in their
field of study. There are two types of PT, Optional Practical
Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT). OPT
may be taken either during or following completion of the
degree program, but is most feasible following completion
because of the amount of time it takes to apply. Students are
allowed a total of 12 months of OPT. The International Student
Coordinator in the International Students Office will determine
eligibility for OPT and may recommend to USCIS that work
authorization for OPT be given. Prior to submitting an
application for OPT, students must have completed full-time
enrollment in two semesters of the degree program, and the
application must be submitted to USCIS prior to completion.
USCIS will review the application and upon approval will
issue an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card as
legal permission to work. Students must have the EAD in their
possession before they begin to work. Students are not
required to have a job offer to apply for OPT.
• CPT may be authorized for those F-1 students who have
enrolled in an internship course and have an internship job
(firm offer) that has been certified through the college and the
International Students Office. Any time up to 12 months on
full-time CPT does not detract from a student’s OPT. Students
who complete 12 or more months of full-time CPT, however,
are not eligible for OPT.
• Employment with an International Organization: This type of
employment is very limited and must fit within the guidelines
of the International Organization Immunities Act. It may
require a change of status that could be detrimental to the
student’s status.
Social Security Number
A Social Security Number (SSN) is required in order to be
employed in the U.S. For F-1 students to obtain an SSN, they
must have employment on-campus or have other work
authorization like Curricular Practical Training or Optional
Practical Training. To apply for a SSN on the basis of an on-
campus job, students must provide a letter from the campus
department and the International Students Office, verifying the
job and eligibility.
The following documentation will be necessary to present when
applying:
• Unexpired passport containing F-1 visa
• Form I-94 Arrival/Departure record
• I-20 form
• One other piece of identification – a student ID card, driver’s
license, etc.
• Letter of eligibility from the Center of International Education
• Letter from campus department where the student will be
working
To apply on the basis of Curricular Practical Training (CPT),
after approval for the internship and registration for an internship
course, the staff in International Students Office will generate a
new I-20 that lists the student’s work permission for that specific
employment. In the case of Optional Practical Training (OPT),
the student will apply for it in the last semester of study. Upon
approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service
(USCIS), the student will receive a card showing work
authorization. Please see staff in the International Students Office
for these types of employment.
After obtaining one of the above types of authorization and
documentation, an international student may apply for a Social
Security Number by going in person to the local Social Security
Administration office. The International Students Office can
direct students to the nearest Social Security Administration
office.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 237 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
International Student Tax-Reporting
Responsibilities
International students have some responsibilities for reporting to
the Internal Revenue Service each year. Students may be subject
to U.S. taxation based on the source and type of income and the
number of years they have been present in the U.S. Each tax year,
all international students must file Form 8843. Those who earned
income from a U.S. source must file Form 1040NR or 1040NR-
EZ. Grants and scholarships may be subject to taxation.
Generally, tax forms must be filed by April 15 for the previous
tax year (January 1 – December 31).
It is students’ responsibility to determine tax liabilities and file
the appropriate forms in a timely manner.
The International Students Office is not trained as professional
tax consultants and cannot complete and/or file any tax forms.
GCU Policy for the Disclosure of
FTI, FASFA Data, and Derived
FAFSA Data
GCU ensures disclosure of FTI, FASFA data, and derived
FAFSA data meet the requirements of applicable agencies such
as the Department of Education (ED) and the Internal Revenue
Service (IRS). This policy explains the data that is protected, the
GCU and GCE positions entitled to access the data without
additional consent by the student, and the approved methods to
obtain authorization to disclose the information when needed.
The policy applies beginning with the 2024-25 FAFSA cycle. It
applies to Federal Tax Information (FTI), FAFSA data, and
derived FAFSA data. (See definitions below.) All GCU and GCE
staff will abide by this policy.
The data access, use, and disclosure of FTI, FAFSA data, and
derived FAFSA data are covered by the following. See the
definitions/references section for the applicable citations. The
strictest rule applies.
• Internal Revenue Code (IRC) (6103(1)(13))
• Higher Education Act (HEA) of 1965, as amended (483, 485B,
and 494)
• Privacy Act of 1974, as amended
• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974,
as amended
• School Policy
Beginning with the 2024-25 FAFSA cycle, Federal Tax
information (FTI), received via the ISIR, is not considered
FAFSA data. This has resulted in the expansion of disclosure
requirements for FTI data included in the FAFSA application and
in the resulting ISIR record provided to GCU. As referenced in
this policy, FAFSA data is all information included on the ISIR,
other than the FTI. Derived FAFSA data is the calculated Student
Aid Index (SAI) provided on the ISIR, as well as whether the
student is eligible for Pell Grant.
FTI, FAFSA data, and derived FAFSA data shall be used by
GCU/GCE staff only for the application, award, and
administration of Federal Student Aid and/or institutional aid.
Subject to the restrictions stated below, additional access may be
provided with written consent from the student/applicant/inquiry.
Evaluation of the need for access and confirmation of student
consent to disclose (where required) must precede disclosure
before providing information to anyone other than the
student/applicant or GCU/GCE staff confirmed to require access
to the data. The strictest limitations apply to the use, distribution,
and storing of FTI data; FTI cannot be shared with any external
entities, unless those entities are scholarship organizations
expressly designated to receive FTI by ED
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 238 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Evaluation of Transfer Credit The following section outlines how Grand Canyon University evaluates transfer credit from other institutions, alternative transfer credit
options, and discusses general policies.
General Policies
The University generally accepts courses from accredited, GCU-
approved colleges, universities, or programs provided the work is
not of a highly specialized nature and a grade of C or better is
earned for undergraduate work and B or better for Graduate.
Transfer Credit Practices of Designated Educational Institutions,
published by the American Association of Collegiate Academic
Registrars and Admissions Officers, is used as a general guide in
determining acceptability.
Transfer credit decisions are at the discretion of the University.
GCU’s process for evaluating institutions for transfer include
components of quality, accreditation, and regulatory compliance.
The decisions are subject to change.
If the Office of Academic Records is unable to determine specific
applicability for an acceptable course, general elective credit will
be granted.
Foreign Evaluation of Transfer
Credits
The following policies apply to credits students have earned at
foreign institutions and wish to transfer to GCU.
In order to accurately and consistently evaluate foreign
credentials, Grand Canyon University requires all international
college or university transcripts to be evaluated by a University-
approved evaluation service. Obtaining an evaluation is an
additional step to awarding college or university credit from
foreign transcripts. The fee for evaluation is the responsibility of
the student.
Transferring from GCU to
another Institution
Students transferring from GCU to another educational institution
are subject to that institution’s transfer credit policy. All
institutions reserve the right to refuse credits for transfer;
therefore, students are encouraged to consult that institution’s
policy. Grand Canyon University cannot control how, or if, other
institutions accept credits earned at GCU.
Transferability of Credits Earned
to Institutions of the Nevada
System of Higher Education Students transferring from GCU to another educational institution
within the state of Nevada are subject to that institution’s transfer
credit policy. All institutions reserve the right to refuse credits for
transfer; therefore, students are encouraged to consult that
institution’s policy. Grand Canyon University cannot control
how, or if, other institutions within the state of Nevada accept
credits earned at GCU.
Baccalaureate Transfer Policies
The Office of Academic Records evaluates all prior college or
university course credit through an official transfer credit
evaluation. The Office of Academic Records determines how
each course completed at each previous school will transfer into
the University in the program of study. Based on that evaluation,
some credit not applicable to the program may not transfer.
Evaluations occur course-by-course and are applied toward
University graduation requirements to maximize transfer credit.
Courses may be accepted as upper or lower division general
electives, upper or lower division major or minor electives, or as
directly equivalent University courses.
GCU uses the following policies to determine acceptability of
courses in an undergraduate program:
• For undergraduate programs, a maximum of 90 credits, no
more than 84 credits of which can be lower-division.
• Lower division credits can meet the content of upper division
GCU classes, but will not fulfill the upper division
requirement.
• A maximum of 30 credits, combined from the list below, can
come from alternative credit options:
o College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
o Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)
o Excelsior Colleges Exams
o Berlitz Language Evaluation
o Advanced Placement (AP)
o International Baccalaureate (HL)
o American Credit Evaluation (ACE) approved credits
o National College Credit Recommendation Service (NCCRS)
approved credits
o Lifelong Learning Assessments (8 credit maximum)
o GCU Approved Certificates
o Global Studies Portfolios (GSP)
• Another 30 credits maximum can come from military schools
and training.
• All other transfer credits must come from accredited, GCU-
approved college(s) transcripts.
• The University will not accept transfer credits from a third-
party transcript. Each transfer course must be presented on the
college transcript from which the course was completed.
• Courses with a grade of Pass (P) will be considered if “P” is
equivalent to a C or better. This is determined by reviewing the
grade scale of the institution where the course was completed.
• The University will not accept any course for credit that is
described as having remedial or developmental content.
• The University will not accept any course for credit that
duplicates credit already applied to a program.
• If a student disagrees with the way credit has been awarded, he
or she may appeal through the appeals process as outlined in
this University Policy Handbook.
• When coursework is equivalent, transfer credit from a quarter-
system institution is evaluated and converted to semester
credits on a 1:0.666 ratio.
Quarter Credits Equivalency in
Semester Credits
5 3.33
4 2.67
3 2.00
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 239 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Quarter Credits Equivalency in
Semester Credits
2 1.33
1 0.67
Below are examples of the evaluation and conversion of quarter
system courses:
• Example A: If a student completed 4 quarter credits of ENG
101, the credits would be converted to 2.67 semester credits of
English Composition at GCU. It would fulfill credits in the
Communications requirement of the General Education;
however, the student would earn only 2.67 credits toward the
overall requirement of 120.
• Example B: If a student completed 3-quarter credits of ENG
101, the credits would be converted to 2.00 semester credits of
English Composition at GCU. The 2 credits would count
toward the overall requirement of 120 hours by fulfilling 2
credits in the Effective Communications requirement of the
General Education; however, it does not fulfill the English
composition requirement. The student would earn only 2.00
semester credits toward the overall requirement of 120.
Transfer Credit Application
Associate Transfer Plan
Students who complete a transfer-oriented associate degree at an
accredited or GCU-approved college or university fulfill the
University’s General Education requirements, with the exception
of the University Success, Christian Worldview, and required
general education course, as defined in the Academic Catalog.
Transfer-oriented associate degrees include the following:
• Associate of Arts
• Associate of Science
• Arizona General Education Curriculum (AGEC)
• California Intersegmental General Education Transfer
Curriculum (IGETC).
Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to
BSN) program need to refer to the Baccalaureate Programmatic
Admission Requirements section for more information on general
education requirements.
Alternative Transfer Credit
Options
Students may transfer a total of 30 credits from all alternative
transfer credit options combined. All alternative methods
accepted are listed in this section. Many students who come to
Grand Canyon University have achieved college-level mastery of
certain subjects through advanced high school programs or by
other means not generally recognized for college credit.
For this reason, the University actively participates in the
following:
• High School Programs
o Advanced Placement (AP)
o International Baccalaureate Credit (HL)
• Alternative Testing Programs
• American Council on Education (ACE);
• Berlitz Language Evaluation
• College Level Examination Program (CLEP) of the College
Entrance Examination Board;
• Excelsior College Exams
• GCU Approved Certificates
• Global Studies Portfolios (GSA)
• IT Competency Assessment
• Lifelong Learning Assessment (LLA)
• National College Credit Recommendation Service (NCCRS)
• Prometric DSST Exams (Formerly DANTES)
• Sophia Learning
Certain restrictions apply to these programs. Credit will be given
only when it does not duplicate credit previously earned and is
not for a course more elementary than one for which the student
has earned college credit. CLEP credit will be given only for
examinations completed after July 1965.
High School Programs
Student may have earned credits through two alternative credit
options during high school. These include Advanced Placement
Requirements (AP) and International Baccalaureate Credit (HL).
Official transcripts from AP or HL will need to be sent to the
University, credit is not awarded from the high school transcript.
Upon receipt of official transcripts, credit will be awarded as
indicated on the official transcript received.
Alternative Testing Programs
National testing exams offer students another choice to
demonstrate mastery of course content. Credit awarded is based
on official transcripts.
The number of credits and grade level (lower or upper division)
varies based on the recommendation listed on the official
transcript. Students can verify this through the other agency. If
the student needs the coursework to be upper division credits, this
should also be verified through the other agency before
completing the exam. The University will apply the credit as
recommended on the official transcript received.
For a current list of acceptable exams, students can visit
transfersearch.gcu.edu. Please be advised, course mappings will
be updated as other agencies recommendations change so
students are always encouraged to verify with the other agency
before completing the exam.
Berlitz Language Evaluation
For assessment of languages, an evaluation of language
proficiency from the Berlitz Institute may be accepted for credit.
Credit will satisfy the foreign language requirements. Students
can take exams for any language assessed by Berlitz. A
maximum of 16 lower-division credits will be awarded using the
following scale:
A minimum cumulative score rating of 70 (out of 100) must be
obtained in the following areas to receive 16 credits of lower
division for the following skill areas:
• Writing Proficiency (WPE)
• Speaking Proficiency (SOPI)
• Listening and Reading Proficiency (BTLR)
American Council on Education (ACE)
ACE provides credit recommendations for formal courses and
examinations completed outside of a traditional classroom. GCU
will apply ACE evaluated credit according to the ACE transcript,
first for matching course content or general education, then to
electives, up to the transfer credit limits of the degree. Content
must be equivalent and equal in credit to GCU courses at the
masters and doctoral levels to be applied. Certificates or an ACE
transcript should be submitted to the Office of Academic
Records. A transcript can be requested on the ACE website at
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 240 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
http://www.acenet.edu/ Students may submit certificates issued
by the National Fire Academy (NFA) and Emergency
Management Institute (EMI) as approved by the American
Council on Education (ACE). All other certificates issued by
NFA and EMI, as well as FEMA Independent Study and Gannett,
will not be considered for alternative transfer credits.
National College Credit Recommendation Service
(NCCRS)
NCCRS (formerly National PONSI) evaluates training and
education programs offered outside the traditional college
classroom setting and translating them into college credit
equivalencies. NCCRS-evaluated courses can be applied towards
undergraduate lower-division general education requirements or
toward undergraduate lower-division elective requirements.
Official transcripts from the organization that sponsored the
course or learning experience must be submitted to the Office of
Academic Records. NCCRS does not issue transcripts. More
information can be found on the NCCRS website.
GCU Approved Certificates
GCU has identified a list of international and national
professional certificates that students can submit for alternative
transfer credits, which are listed on the GCU Transfer Center.
These certificates have been approved by the Colleges and can
apply towards one of the following:
• Lower or upper division undergraduate general education,
program major/core or elective requirements
• Limited graduate level coursework
Grand Canyon University will award alternative transfer credits
based on the equivalencies listed below:
• 10 contact hours = 1 Continuing Education Units (CEU) credit
• 10 CEUs = 1 semester credit
• 100 CEU contact hours = 1 semester credit
Grand Canyon University will consider an academic appeal for
certificate(s) not listed on the ACE website or GCU Transfer
Center if the certificate meets the following criteria:
• Issued by an international or national organization (cannot be
issued by an approved provider of a national or international
organization)
• Name of attendee
• Name of Certification earned
• Documents number of CEU or contact hours completed
• Date certification was awarded
Lifelong Learning Assessment (LLA)
GCU defines 'Lifelong Learning Experiences' within the context
of the LLA, and for the purposes of choosing an LLA topic and
writing an LLA paper, as: "A real-life event that was experienced
first-hand, has generated an extensive amount of personal and
professional learning that is equivalent to college-level academic
rigor and quality, and has created a significant life change in the
learner (i.e., an increased capacity to live and apply the learning
in new contexts). These learning experiences are most valued
when they are job-based (or volunteerism), but they should
involve engaging in activities for significant amounts of time
(e.g., several years or more), are non-episodic (i.e., not one-time
events), and are context-embedded within naturally occurring life
events during the adult years of life."
In order to take advantage of this alternative credit method,
students must first be approved to take the course ENG 135:
Lifelong Learning Assessment, which teaches students the skills
needed to submit up to 8 credits of Lifelong Learning
Assessments with an additional 4 credits being earned from the
course itself. Students create and submit an LLA paper by
documenting adult life experience in the form of an expository
essay focused on experiential learning as described in the
paragraph above. Papers submitted for consideration of credit
should follow the following guidelines to earn:
• 2 credits, complete 10 pages and a minimum of two academic
references; 3 subtopics;
• 4 credits, complete 20 pages and a minimum of four academic
references; 6 subtopics.
Students are given the opportunity to submit up to two LLA
topics for approval. If approved for a second topic, an additional
paper must be submitted for review that meets either the 2 credit
or 4 credit requirements; ultimately, allowing the student to earn
up to 12 credits. Papers should be written and documented
following APA guidelines, including title and reference pages.
These pages are not included in the page requirement.
Grand Canyon University will award credit to students for life
experiences when the evaluator is convinced that such
experiences meet the requirements as outlined in the grading
rubric and LLA definition. Sample topic areas are as follows:
• Business Ownership
• Human Communications
• Introduction to Project Management
• Military Career (with deployment)
• Roles in Healthcare
Credit earned through the LLA process can only be used to fulfill
undergraduate effective communication or elective requirements
and these credits may not be transferable to another institution in
the way credit for actual courses completed at GCU would be
transferable.
The first LLA submissions must be received no later than 60
calendar days after the completion of the ENG-135 course.
Students are allowed to submit a second LLA paper after proper
approval within one year of the completion of ENG-135. Late
submissions will not be considered. Students should note that
incomplete LLAs or LLAs with incomplete coversheets will not
be reviewed and will be returned to the student. Students will be
notified of the outcome of the review within 2 weeks of receipt of
the LLA. Students will only have 2 attempts to receive a passing
score on their LLA paper. Completed LLA papers are submitted
through the GCU LLA site.
IT Competency Assessment
Students who have experience in a course that cannot be awarded
credit through a course transfer from another educational
institution or approved certification may be eligible to complete a
competency assessment to be awarded transfer credit. Not all
courses are available for competency assessments and students
can obtain a list of available competency assessments through
their SSC or UC. Students must pass the competency assessment
with a grade of 70% or better and scores will not be rounded.
Students must take the competency assessment prior to becoming
active in the course for which transfer credit may be granted.
There is no cost to the student to attempt the assessment. Students
may attempt the competency assessment two times.
Global Studies Portfolio (GSP)
Traditional Campus Students
The Global Studies Portfolio program will provide international
opportunities for students to integrate experiential learning,
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 241 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
personal development, disciplinary knowledge, and spiritual
growth through active involvement in mission trip experiences
through the Department of Spiritual Life. This program strives to
prepare students to be responsible leaders and global citizens who
participate in a values-based curriculum from the context of our
Christian heritage.
GSPs submitted for consideration of credit should follow the
following guidelines to earn:
• 2 credits, submit 10 of the pre-determined artifacts and a
minimum of two academic references. Mandatory artifact
assignments include G1.9 and G3.3.
• 4 credits, submit 20 of the pre-determined artifacts and a
minimum of four academic references.
• Each artifact has a detailed assignment description.
Papers should be written and documented following APA
guidelines, including title and reference pages. These pages are
not included in the page requirement.
Grand Canyon University will award credit to students for a
Global Studies Portfolio (GSP) when the student demonstrates
that such experiences meet the requirements as outlined in the
grading rubric and GSP definition.
Credit earned through the GSP process can only be used to fulfill
lower division elective credit requirements. These credits may
not be transferable to another institution in the way credit for
actual courses completed at GCU would be transferable. Credits
are repeatable up to 8 total elective credits.
Students should note that incomplete GSPs with incomplete
coversheets will not be reviewed and will be returned to the
student. Learning will be evaluated based on content,
presentation and mechanics of the portfolio. Students will be
notified of the outcome of the review within 2 weeks of receipt of
the GSP. Students are notified through their GCU e-mail account.
Students will only have 2 attempts to receive a passing score on
their GSP.
Completed GSPs are submitted to [email protected] within
90 days of the conclusion of the GCU Mission Trip. A $90
processing fee must be submitted prior to evaluation of the GSP.
Payment should be delivered to the Study Abroad Office.
Credit for Military Training and Experience
In addition to the alternative transfer credit option policy, Grand
Canyon University will award additional credits for military
training and experience as included on the Army/ACE Registry
Transcript System (AARTS), Sailor/Marine/ACE Registry
Transcript (SMART), Air University/Community College of the
Air Force (CCAF), Coast Guard Institute (CGI) or Joint Services
Transcript (JST). If used in conjunction with the alternative
transfer credit option, a military student can transfer in 60 credits
using these two options. The student can transfer up to 30
alternative credits maximum and no more than 60 credits total
between military and alternative credit. Credits earned above 60
credits must come from transfer coursework up to 90 credits, of
which a maximum of 84 lower-division credits would be
accepted. AARTS, SMART, JST, CCAF, and CGI transcripts
track all of a service member’s or veteran’s military training and
coursework. Created by the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps in
partnership with ACE and similar in format to college transfer
transcripts, the documents list personal student data, courses, and
occupations evaluated by ACE, including descriptions, learning
outcomes, and equivalent college credit recommendations, as
well as national college-level exam results. In lieu of the AARTS,
SMART or JST documentation, GCU also will accept the DD
Form 295, Application for the Evaluation of Learning
Experiences during Military Service and DD Form 214,
Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. Air
University/Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) are not
included in this total and are treated as standard transfer
coursework.
More information is available regarding these transcripts at
http://www.acenet.edu/higher-education/topics/Pages/Transcript-
Services.aspx.
Credit Evaluation Policy for VA Funded Students
This institution will inquire about each veteran or veteran
benefits eligible person’s previous education and training, and
request transcripts from all prior institutions, including military
training, traditional college coursework and vocational training.
Previous transcripts will be evaluated and credit will be granted,
as appropriate. Students will be made aware of the final decision.
Master Degree Transfer Policies
The University generally accepts courses from accredited, GCU-
approved colleges, universities, and programs, provided the work
is equivalent to a Grand Canyon University graduate-level
course, has been earned in conjunction with the completion of a
graduate level course, and a grade of B or better was earned. The
University will accept up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program
requirements in transfer (whichever is less).
The institution’s policy and practice assure that at least 50% of
courses applied to a graduate program are courses designed for
graduate work, rather than undergraduate courses credited toward
a graduate degree. (Cf. Criterion 3.A.1 and 2.) (An institution
may allow well-prepared advanced students to substitute its
graduate courses for required or elective courses in an
undergraduate degree program and then subsequently count those
same courses as fulfilling graduate requirements in a related
graduate program that the institution offers. In “4+1” or “2+3”
programs, at least 50% of the credits allocated for the master’s
degree – usually 15 of 30 – must be for courses designed for
graduate work).
College Transfer Restriction
The first course of the graduate program of study cannot be
satisfied by transferred credits.
Notarization of Official Documents
GCU can provide students with a notarized copy of their diploma
and/or official transcript. In the event a student needs the
notarized document for the purposes of obtaining an apostille,
GCU will supply the notarized copy for the student to submit to
the Arizona Secretary of State’s Office. However, before
submitting a request for notarization, please check with the
requesting agency to verify what level of verification is required.
Master Degree Programmatic
Transfer Policies
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Master of Social Work
While transfer credit may be considered for specific coursework
within the Master of Social Work and Master of Social Work
Advanced Standing, the credits must have been awarded from a
CSWE accredited institution. Transferable coursework must
have been completed within 5 years of the student’s start date of
their program of study.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 242 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
with an Emphasis in Adult-Gerontology (ACNP)
Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
(FNP)
Master of Science in Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health
Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
Advanced pharmacology, advanced pathophysiology and
advanced health assessment are non-transferrable courses. If,
however, these courses are taken within five years of the program
start date, an appeal can be submitted for review which will
include a GAP Analysis of the APRN core courses (3P) to ensure
they are graduate level, post-licensure, and that the content has
addressed the lifespan.
All APRN applicants who have graduated or are transferring
from an institution that only provides pass/fail grades (no GPA)
on transcripts, may only be admitted and fully accepted from
those institutions who provide disclosures indicating that a
passing grade is equivalent to a B or better.
Post-Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse
Practitioner with an Emphasis in Adult-Gerontology
Certificate
Post-Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
Certificate
Post- Master of Science in Nursing: Psychiatric Mental
Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Advanced pharmacology, advanced pathophysiology and
advanced health assessment are non-transferrable courses. If,
however, these courses are taken within five years of the program
start date, an appeal can be submitted for review which will
include a GAP Analysis of the APRN core courses (3P) to ensure
they are graduate level, post-licensure, and that the content has
addressed the lifespan.
All APRN applicants who have graduated or are transferring
from an institution that only provides pass/fail grades (no GPA)
on transcripts, may only be admitted and fully accepted from
those institutions who provide disclosures indicating that a
passing grade is equivalent to a B or better.
• A Post-Master applicant who holds a current, active,
unencumbered license as a nurse practitioner (NP) who have
been approved for transfer credit will be required to take the
3P exam at the time they apply for the APRN program.
Exception: GCU Alumni who have graduated from an APRN
program and passed the 3P exam within the last 5 years from
the date of degree conference.
• A score of 67% or greater,results in progression to clinical
with no other requirements.
• A score of less than 67%, will require enrollment in the NRC-
634 remediation course, re-take of the 3P exam, and a passing
score of 67% or greater before proceeding to the first clinical
course.
• If the 2nd attempt in NRC-634 is a successful pass of 67% or
higher, progression to clinical will occur with no other
requirements.
• If the student fails the 2nd attempt, they will take a 16-week
survey course as a non-degree student of NUR-631 (Advanced
Pathophysiology) NUR-635 (Advanced Pharmacology), and
NUR-634 (Advanced Physical Assessment) content.
• The 3rd attempt of the 3P exam will occur at the end of the
survey course.
• Students who do not successfully pass the required 3P exam
after three attempts will no longer be allowed to progress into
any of the APRN programs. Students can transfer to a non-
APRN program.
Undergraduate Certificate of
Completion Transfer Policies
The University generally accepts courses from accredited, GCU
approved colleges, universities, or programs provided the work is
equivalent to the required course within the undergraduate
certificate and a grade of C or better is earned. Transfer Credit
Practices of Designated Educational Institutions, published by the
American Association of Collegiate Academic Registrars and
Admissions Officers, is used as a general guide in determining
acceptability. The University will accept up to ½ (half) of the
total program requirements in transfer
Graduate Certificate of
Completion Transfer Policies
The University generally accepts courses from accredited, GCU-
approved colleges, universities, and programs, provided the work
is equivalent to a Grand Canyon University graduate-level
course, has been earned in conjunction with the completion of a
graduate level course, and a grade of B or better was earned. The
University will accept one course of the total certificate
requirements in transfer. This includes credits completed from a
master’s degree previously earned through Grand Canyon
University.
Post-Master Certificates requiring 30 or more credits for
completion fall under the Master Degree Transfer Policies
section.
Doctoral Degree Transfer
Policies
The University generally accepts doctoral-level courses from
regionally accredited colleges and universities, provided the
content is equivalent to a Grand Canyon University doctoral-level
course, and a grade of B or better was earned. For programs that
do not match current College of Doctoral Studies Degrees, the
University will accept up to nine credits into the program.
Coursework transferred into GCU’s doctoral program must have
been completed within ten years prior to transfer.
Due to the dissertation or practice improvement components
integrated throughout courses in GCU’s doctoral programs, the
following courses are not eligible for transfer and must be
completed at GCU:
• All research courses: RES, PSY-801, PSY-815, PSY-825,
PSY-850
• All residency (RSD) courses
• All assessment and statistics courses: PSY-843, PSY-845,
PSY-870
• All dissertation courses RES-871, PSY-885, and all 900 level
courses
• All DNP and DNP-Ed courses, with the possible exception of
DNP-805A (Health Care Informatics). Learners must submit
their transcripts and course syllabi for a course evaluation
review. If approved, the credits for 805A will be awarded,
however, no practice immersion hours will be awarded.
For the transfer of doctoral credits from the same type of degree
(EdD, PhD etc.) and content (Organizational Leadership,
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 243 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Business Administration, etc.), the University will employ a bulk
transfer process. Up to 27 credits may be transferred (30 for the
PhD CES) WITHOUT course by course evaluation, so long as
these credits:
• Are from an accredited institution
• Are from courses where the student has earned a B or better
• Are not more than 10 years old.
Students using this process will enter a cut-down version of the
program with a specific course sequence that matches the number
of credits they have remaining. The Doctor of Nursing Practice
and the Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and
Supervision do not fall under this transfer policy.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 244 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Graduation Requirements The completion of the required minimum of 120 semester credits for a baccalaureate degree usually requires four years of 30 semester hours
each. The freshman and sophomore years are usually spent in general or introductory courses in diversified liberal arts areas. During the
remaining two years, the student may concentrate in the field of major interest. The work for the entire program consists of General
Education (GE) requirements, major and minor subjects, and elective courses. Students completing a graduate program must meet the
curricular requirements per the Program of Study.
A Student Services Counselor will help each student select a combination of major, minor, and elective studies appropriate for that
individual. However, it is the ultimate responsibility of the student to plan their course of study appropriately.
Designation of Academic Catalog
University and college programmatic requirements may change.
A degree candidate is required to meet the requirements for
graduation as outlined in the Academic Catalog in effect at the
time he/she begins classes or those of any subsequent changes in
the University Policy Handbook, provided the student has
remained in continuous enrollment at Grand Canyon University.
These requirements are also contained in the student’s signed
Enrollment Agreement.
Nontraditional Student
Continuous enrollment is defined as being in attendance
continuously, with no break in attendance longer than 14 days.
Traditional Campus Student
Continuous enrollment is defined as consecutive semesters;
enrollment in the Summer session is not relevant for the
traditional campus student.
A student who has been readmitted after a period of non-
attendance or after attending an institution other than Grand
Canyon University (including an Arizona community college)
will graduate under the requirements for graduation as stated in
the Academic Catalog at the time of readmission. This provision
applies whether the period of non-attendance at Grand Canyon
University was voluntary or due to Academic Suspension or
Academic Expulsion.
Students who complete one degree program and then wish to
pursue a second degree do not do so under the same Academic
Catalog as their first degree. These students must meet the
Academic Catalog requirements in effect at the time they begin
work toward the second degree, unless they remained in
continuous enrollment for both degrees and both degrees will be
posted at the same time.
Baccalaureate Graduation
Requirements
Students are considered complete once all degree requirements
are fulfilled and grades have been posted. Students are eligible
for graduation upon submission of the Graduation Application,
graduation fee, and clearance of financial responsibilities. All
degrees will be posted (formally placed on the student’s
transcript) approximately 30 days after degree requirements are
fulfilled and grades are posted. Students wishing to participate in
Commencement will have additional requirements to complete.
Please refer to the Commencement section for further details.
Program Credit Requirement
The minimum number of semester credits required for a
baccalaureate degree is 120. Students lacking the required
minimum 120 credits to graduate from their program, usually due
to transfer credit may take one of the University’s Service
Learning courses to complete the difference in credits either in
the major or elective category. Service Learning courses cannot
be used to fulfill credits in the general education category.
Students are required to meet the program graduation
requirements of their degree including meeting the required
coursework and any capstone requirements.
Traditional Campus Student
Traditional campus students who have transferred in a minimum
of 24 college level credits and have a 3.0 GPA or higher can
waive the University Foundations course (i.e. UNV-103, UNV-
303,etc.).
Minimum GPA Requirements
Undergraduate students must have at least an enrollment
cumulative 2.0 GPA for their program of study.
• Major Grade Point Average: Undergraduate students must also
have at least a cumulative 2.0 GPA in their majors and are not
permitted to count any course with a grade below C toward
their majors. Higher GPAs are required by specific
departments and colleges.
• Minor Grade Point Average: Undergraduate students must
have at least a cumulative 2.0 GPA in their minors and are not
permitted to count any course with a grade below C toward
their minors.
Residency Requirement
Undergraduate students must complete at least 30 semester
credits of course work in a Grand Canyon University program to
satisfy residency requirements.
Upper Division Credit Requirement
For a baccalaureate degree, a student must earn a minimum of 36
semester credits in upper division (300 or above) courses.
Writing Intensive Course Credit
As a graduation requirement for all baccalaureate programs of
study, students must successfully complete a minimum of three
courses that have been designated as Writing Intensive. These
courses must include ENG-105 (or its equivalent) and two
courses in the major, one of which must be upper-division.
Writing-Intensive courses are designed to provide students with a
structured format, within which to learn and to demonstrate
mastery of content through effective, discipline-appropriate
written assignments. A designated writing-intensive assignment
involves multiple submissions that include the following essential
elements:
• Research (appropriate source selection, integration,
acknowledgment, and citation)
• Pre-writing and Review (may include brainstorming, outlining,
annotated bibliographies, peer-review, faculty feedback)
• Revision and Final submission
To ensure a shared focus on content, as well as style, a minimum
of 30% of the final writing-assignment grade is based upon
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 245 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
mechanics and organization. In all cases, revision is required, and
the culminating writing-intensive assignment(s) comprise a
minimum of 30% of the course grade.
The University has always accepted comparable courses from
other accredited, GCU-approved institutions that, in the judgment
of the faculty, meet the intent of the requirements as specified.
The faculty teaching a specific discipline will be consulted when
the Office of Academic Records cannot establish whether or not a
particular transferred course is substantially similar to the GE
requirement.
Major/Core
Undergraduate students are required to select one subject area, a
major, in which they must earn at least 36 semester hours of
acceptable credit. At least 36 credits of the major must be upper
division. Courses with a grade of D or below (2.0 GPA) are not
permitted to count toward the major.
Double Major
Traditional campus student
Students wishing to pursue two majors under a single degree
(e.g., Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Bachelor of Arts
in History or Master of Science in Leadership and Master of
Science in Psychology):
• Must meet the admission criteria for that degree.
• Must submit request form to their Student Services Counselor
of the primary major and the desire to seek a secondary major.
• Must fulfill the General Education requirements (for
undergraduate programs) and all degree requirements for each
major sought.
• Will have a single GPA for the purpose of determining
graduation honors (undergraduate programs only).
• 24 semester credits must be unduplicated within each major for
the completion of both majors if pursuing a second major.
• Will use the catalog year of the primary major to determine the
secondary major requirements.
• Must file a Graduation Application with the Office of
Academic Records that notes each major sought.
• Will receive a single diploma with the degree, primary major
and secondary major. The secondary major will also be
indicated upon the transcript.
Dual Major
Traditional campus student
• Dual major programs are specifically designed sets of
University curriculum and clearly outlined in the Academic
Catalog as predetermined by the University (e.g., Bachelor of
Science in Elementary Education and Special Education).
• Fulfill the General Education requirements, degree
prerequisites and requirements, and all other University
requirements for the dual-major program.
• Will have a single GPA for the purpose of determining
graduation honors.
• Will receive a single diploma with the degree, primary major
and secondary major. This will also be indicated upon the
transcript.
Minors (Undergraduate Programs)
Traditional campus student
Students wishing to pursue an additional minor under a single
degree:
• Minors are a minimum of 16 semester credits, with a minimum
of 12 semester credits being unduplicated.
• Must submit request form to their Student Services Counselor
of their desire to seek a minor.
• Must fulfill the prerequisites and requirements for the minor
sought.
• Will use the catalog year of the primary major to determine
requirements.
• Will have the additional minors indicated upon their
transcripts. Minors will not be listed on the diploma.
Double Degree
Traditional campus student
An undergraduate student wishing to pursue two degrees
simultaneously from Grand Canyon University must meet the
following requirements: (e.g.: Bachelor of Science in Psychology
and Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies)
• Must meet the admission criteria for each degree.
• Must submit request form to their Student Services Counselor
of the primary degree and the desire to seek a second degree.
• Complete a minimum of 30 credit hours at Grand Canyon
University beyond the requirements for the first degree (e.g., a
minimum of 150 credit hours if the requirements, for the first
degree were completed after 120 hours).
• Must fulfill the General Education requirements, all degree
prerequisites and requirements, and all other University
requirements for each degree sought.
• 24 semester credits must be unduplicated within each degree
for the completion of both degrees if pursuing a second degree.
• Will use the catalog year of the primary degree to determine
the secondary degree requirements.
• Must file a Graduation Application with the Office of
Academic Records that notes each degree sought.
• Will receive a single diploma for each degree earned. The
secondary degree will also be indicated upon the transcript.
• The student will have a single GPA for the purpose of
determining graduation honors.
Second Degree
• A student who has earned a baccalaureate degree from an
accredited, GCU-approved college, university, or program may
be granted an additional baccalaureate degree from Grand
Canyon University upon completion of the following:
• Meet the admission criteria for that degree.
• Select a major field not used as a major for the previous degree
(see specific major for number of hours required).
• Complete a minimum of 30 additional credit hours in the
major area at Grand Canyon University after the conferral of
the previous baccalaureate degree(s). (Note: Second Degree
students do not qualify for honors at graduation.)
• File a Graduation Application with the Office of Academic
Records for the degree sought.
Internal Transfer between GCU Degrees and/or
Graduate Certificates of Completion
• Students who have completed a Grand Canyon University
master’s degree or post-master certificate that required 30 or
more credits can apply the lesser of 12 credits, or 1/3 of the
total program-credit requirements, to a second master’s degree
at GCU. All credits earned in graduate certificates of
completion that require fewer than 30 credits can be applied
towards a master’s degree at Grand Canyon University.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 246 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• If students are found to have taken a course equivalent to a
GCU course of differing credit, the student will still need to
meet the total program credit requirements in order to
graduate.
Baccalaureate Programmatic
Graduation Requirements
Colangelo College of Business
Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management
Students are required to accumulate 600 hours of paid or unpaid
experience in the hospitality industry throughout their program of
study. Experience may be in any aspect of the hospitality
industry, subject to the Colangelo College of Business approval.
Bachelor of Science in Sports and Entertainment
Management
Students are required to accumulate 300 hours of paid or unpaid
experience in the sports or entertainment industry throughout
their program of study. Experience may be in any aspect of the
sports and entertainment industry, subject to the Colangelo
College of Business approval.
Master Graduation Requirements
Students are considered complete once all degree requirements
are fulfilled and grades have been posted. Students are eligible
for graduation upon submission of the Graduation Application,
graduation fee, and clearance of financial responsibilities. All
degrees will be posted (formally placed on the student’s
transcript) approximately 30 days after degree requirements are
fulfilled and grades are posted. Students wishing to participate in
Commencement will have additional requirements to complete.
Please refer to the Commencement section for further details.
• Graduate students must meet the degree requirements of the
degree in which they graduate.
• Requirements include earning the total number of credits
required by the program, meeting content requirements, and
submitting any capstone activities. If students fail to meet any
of the program requirements, a degree will not be conferred
until the requirements are met.
• Graduate students must also have at least a cumulative 3.0
GPA, with no grade lower than a C.
• Students lacking the required minimum credits to graduate
from their program, usually due to transfer credit may take one
of the University’s Service Learning courses. Students are
required to meet the program graduation requirements of their
degree including meeting the required coursework and any
capstone requirements.
Dual-Degree Programs
Dual-degree programs are specifically designed sets of
University curriculum that will convey two separate degrees
(e.g., M.B.A. and M.S.) upon completion of a set of unified
curriculum. Dual-degree programs are clearly outlined in the
Academic Catalog and predetermined by the University.
A student wishing to pursue a dual degree:
• Must meet the admission criteria for that dual-degree program
• Must complete the requirements for both degrees before being
granted either degree.
• Must file a Graduation Application with the Office of
Academic Records that notes each degree sought.
• Will receive two separate diplomas, one for each degree in the
dual-degree program.
Additional Emphases
Students wishing to pursue an additional emphasis under a single
degree:
• An Additional Emphasis is a minimum of 8 semester credits,
with a minimum of 8 semester credits being unduplicated.
Graduate students have the option of completing up to two
emphasis areas as part of their degree.
• Must submit request form to their Student Services Counselor
of their desire to seek an additional emphasis.
• Must fulfill the prerequisites and requirements for the
emphasis sought.
• Will use the catalog year of the primary major to determine
requirements.
• Will have the additional emphasis indicated upon their
transcripts.
• Will receive a single diploma with the degree, primary
emphasis and secondary emphasis.
Doctoral Graduation
Requirements
Students are considered complete once all degree requirements
are fulfilled and grades have been posted. Students are eligible
for graduation upon submission of the Graduation Application,
graduation fee, and clearance of financial responsibilities. All
degrees will be posted (formally placed on the student’s
transcript) approximately 30 days after degree requirements are
fulfilled and grades are posted. Students wishing to participate in
Commencement will have additional requirements to complete.
Please refer to the Commencement section for further details.
• Doctoral learners must meet the degree requirements of the
degree in which they graduate.
• Requirements include earning the total number of credits
required by the program, meeting content requirements, and
• For CDS: Approval of a dissertation by the committee and the
Dean as demonstrated by a signed D-80 document (See
Appendix A)
• Graduation requirements for the DNP program include
completion of the Quality Improvement (QI) or Internal
Review Board (IRB) process, Academic Quality Review
(AQR) 1 and 2 completion, chair and content expert approval
and have met the minimum of 1000 Practice Immersion Hours
prior to meeting eligibility. DNP Learners that are deficient
hours or have a final manuscript deemed “not ready” for Dean
review at the end of the program may require additional
extension courses to meet programmatic requirements prior to
Dean approval.
• If learners fail to meet any of the program requirements, a
degree will not be conferred until the requirements are met.
• Doctoral learners must also have at least a cumulative 3.0
GPA.
Posthumous Degrees
In the unfortunate event that a student passes away prior to
earning his or her degree, GCU may, if the student qualifies,
grant the student’s degree posthumously. The qualifications
include:
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 247 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Baccalaureate Students
• Student was in good academic standing (as measured by GPA)
at the time of his or her death.
• The student completed at least 90 credits toward a 120 credit
degree; including completion of at least half the credits in the
student’s major
• A deceased student’s cause of death was not due to any
unlawful activity on the part of the student.
Master’s/Post Master’s Students
• Student was in good academic standing (as measured by GPA)
at the time of his or her death.
• The student completed more than 75% of the program
• A deceased student’s cause of death was not due to any
unlawful activity on the part of the student.
Doctoral Students
• Student was in good academic standing (as measured by GPA)
at the time of his or her death.
• The student completed more than 75% of the program
• Student’s Dissertation or DPI Project Proposal had been
approved by the University.
• A deceased student’s cause of death was not due to any
unlawful activity on the part of the student.
Commencement
Eligibility to Participate in Commencement
A candidate for graduation must meet the criteria listed below for
one of the two commencement exercises.
Fall
Non Traditional Ceremonies
• Students expected to complete their degree by between 7/1 -
12/31
o Degree posted or registered through completion with end
date of final course ending on or before 12/31
*Note: The College of Doctoral Studies requires the Dean’s
signature on the completed committee-approved Dissertation
with a signed GCU D-80 form by close of business 60 days prior
to the date of the graduation ceremonies.
The College of Nursing and Health Care Professions requires the
Dean’s signature on the completed committee-approved Direct
Practice Improvement Project with a signed project sheet by
close of business 60 days prior to the date of the graduation
ceremonies and have documented in Typhon a minimum of 1000
Practice Immersion Hours. DNP Learners that are deficient hours
or have a final manuscript deemed “not ready” for Dean review
at the end of the program may require additional extension
courses to meet programmatic requirements prior to Dean
approval
Winter
Traditional Ceremony
• Expected Fall graduates
o Degree posted or registered through completion with end
date of final course being on or before end of Fall Semester
Spring
Traditional Ceremony
• Expected Spring & Summer graduates
o Degree posted or registered through completion with end
date of final course being on or before end of Summer
Semester
Non Traditional Ceremony
• Students expected to complete their degree between 1/1 - 6/30
o Degree posted or registered through completion with end
date of final course ending on or before 6/30
*Note: The College of Doctoral Studies requires a successful
dissertation defense with a signed D-65 form by close of business
60 days prior to the date of the graduation ceremonies.
The College of Nursing and Health Care Professions requires the
Dean’s signature on the completed committee-approved Direct
Practice Improvement Project with a signed project sheet by
close of business 60 days prior to the date of the graduation
ceremonies and have documented in Typhon a minimum of 1000
Practice Immersion Hours.
Attendance at Commencement
A candidate for graduation is invited to attend public
commencement exercises that are held in the Fall (Non-
traditional/Cohort students only), Winter (Traditional students
only) and Spring (Non-traditional /Cohort and Traditional
students). Information regarding the commencement exercise is
available at GCU Commencement Resource Page.
Academic Regalia for Commencement
Candidates for graduation participating in the commencement
exercises are required to wear the prescribed academic regalia,
which consist of a black gown and hood. The gown has
distinguished sleeves to indicate the level of academic
achievement earned.
• Undergraduate students: pointed sleeves
• Graduate students: oblong sleeves
• Doctoral students: bell-shaped sleeves
The academic colleges are represented by the color of the tassels
which hang from the cap. While not an exhaustive list, the
following are some of the colors that may be seen on the
graduates’ hoods:
• Arts, Letters, Humanities - white
• Business - drab
• Education - light blue
• Math and Sciences - gold
• Music - pink
• Nursing - apricot
• Physical Education - sage green
• Public Health – salmon pink
• Religion – scarlet
• Science – golden yellow
Those who hold the Ph.D. degree may choose either the color of
their discipline or Ph.D. blue, a royal blue. American Council on
Education (2012). Academic Regalia. Retrieved from:
http://www.acenet.edu/news-room/Pages/Academic-Costume-
Code.aspx
Graduation with a Leadership
Distinction
The Graduation with a Leadership Distinction (GLD) is reserved
for traditional undergraduate students actively engaged in a
student leadership position while enrolled at Grand Canyon
University. This distinction requires a minimum of 350
documented hours inclusive of professional and leadership
development programming, applied leadership experience,
community engagement, and service project hours.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 248 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Graduation with Academic
Recognition
Ray-Maben Scholars
This recognition represents the highest scholarship honor
awarded by Grand Canyon University each year at graduation.
Established by the faculty, the criteria consist of a cumulative and
Grand Canyon University GPA of at least 3.9, with no more than
12 transferable semester credits.
Latin Honors
Undergraduate students who have earned at least 60 credits at
Grand Canyon University may qualify for honors at graduation
by maintaining one of the following GPAs:
• 3.40 to 3.59 may qualify for graduation cum laude;
• 3.60 to 3.79 may qualify for graduation magna cum laude;
• 3.80 to 4.00 may qualify for graduation summa cum laude.
Second bachelor degree and graduate students are not eligible for
honors. In academe, being admitted and completing a graduate
degree is considered an honor.
For walking purposes for commencement ceremonies or
exercises, honor candidates will be decided by using the GPA at
the time commencement registration closes for each scheduled
commencement ceremonies or exercises. Walking honors does
not guarantee actual honors will be granted and displayed on the
student’s transcript or diploma. True honors will be determined at
the time of the posting of the degree and will be displayed on the
student’s transcript and diploma.
University Honors
Undergraduate students who have completed less than 60
semester credits at Grand Canyon University may be eligible for
University Honors. Students, who complete their degree with a
cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or higher for credits earned
at Grand Canyon University, will be awarded University Honors
at Graduation. Honors will be displayed on the student’s
transcript.
Honors College
Students who complete the Honors program will be given special
recognition, which will be determined at the time of the degree
posting and will be displayed on the students’ transcript.
University Approved Honors Societies and
Professional Organizations
Grand Canyon University recognizes the following national
honors societies and professional organizations, and support
chapters established at the university:
Colangelo College of Business | [email protected]
• Delta Mu Delta International Academic Honors Society in
Business| deltamudelta.org
• Sigma Beta Delta Honors Society | sigmabetadelta.org
College of Arts and Media | [email protected]
• Alpha Psi Omega National Theatre Honor Society |
alphapsiomega.org
• National Association of Teachers of Singing | nats.org
• National Honors Society for Dance Arts | ndeo.org
College of Education | [email protected]
• Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society | kdp.org
College of Humanities and Social Sciences | [email protected]
• Psi Chi, The International Honors Society in Psychology |
psichi.org
College of Nursing and Health Care Professions |
• Sigma Theta Tau International Honors Society of Nursing |
signmanursing.org
Honors College | [email protected]
• Alpha Chi National College Honors Society |
alphachihonor.org
• National Society of Collegiate Scholars | nscs.org
Eligibility requirements vary by organization, and membership is
optional. A membership fee may be required upon invitation to
join. Graduation regalia to recognize membership within the
above organization(s) is available for purchase, and an expense
assumed by the student member.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 249 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Academic Services and Resources The following section highlights some of the academic services and resources available to students, both traditional and nontraditional. The
University strives to provide and introduce additional support for students to achieve their educational goals. As new services are introduced,
they will be included in this section of the University Policy Handbook.
Career Services
GCU provides students with the educational requirements to
complete their chosen degree or program. Without completing
the educational requirements, students are likely not eligible for
the profession. GCU cannot and will not promise job placement,
a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program
credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary
increase. A student’s achievement of their desired postgraduation
outcomes require more than education preparation, but also
professionalism, a variety of individual character attributes, and
the student’s choice of an appropriate career pathway, such as
employment, graduate and/or trade school, military service,
business ownership, or services program. A successful outcome
is often the result of decisions made by third parties outside of the
control of the student or university.
Students have different goals when pursuing their degree. Some
students are seeking an internship, first job, progression in their
current profession, to enter a specific field, or to change fields.
Career Services is available when students are most able to
benefit. Priority in services is based upon the student’s program
progression when they initiate contact, with graduating students
receiving priority. However, Career Services will attempt to
assist students with employment opportunities or internships
while enrolled. Promotion of jobs, internships, or service-learning
opportunities by GCU is not an endorsement of any organization
and students are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to
the Career Services department or a university representative.
Career Services is available by phone, email, or walk-in. Students
should review resources available in the Student Success Center.
GCU Library
The Grand Canyon University Library supports the University’s
mission, vision, and values by providing quality resources and
innovative services to support and enrich academic success,
scholarship, and lifelong learning. RESEARCH YOUR
PURPOSE! The GCU Library connects people with resources by
providing personalized, on-demand research assistance that
enriches the learning experience and supports intellectual inquiry
and discovery.
• Ask A Librarian: Ask the GCU Library staff directly for
research assistance. Contact us via phone, email or chat. We
can help with personalized assistance with creating effective
search strategies for research topics, basic database navigation,
using the resource tools, including RefWorks & EndNote Web,
personalized database accounts, RSS feeds, search alerts, APA
formatting, persistent links, and more!
• GCU Library Databases & Resources: Search for journal
articles, eBooks and physical books, dissertations, streaming
video and streaming music, using our extensive collection of
databases and resources. Organize and manage your citations
with bibliographic management software tools RefWorks or
EndNote Web.
• Help & Tutorials: Find general library, database, and technical
support tutorials on the GCU Library’s web site:
http://library.gcu.edu. Sign-up for the GCU Library:
Introduction webinar, where you will receive a guided tour of
how to access and use the GCU Library’s resources:
• Interlibrary Loan (ILL): Need materials the GCU Library does
not own? Request an ILL on the GCU Library’s web site:
http://library.gcu.edu.
Library Contact Information & Hours:
https://library.gcu.edu
Campus Computer Center
There are two computer labs on campus (GCU Library and the
College of Theology building). All labs are equipped with up-to-
date computers and monitors. The computer labs offer Internet
access and a host of applications for use outside of the classroom.
In addition to the lab computer resources, wireless Internet access
is available for students at various points on campus.
Faculty Information
A current list of GCU’s full-time faculty is available at
https://www.gcu.edu/faculty-list.
GCU Institutional Review Board
Grand Canyon University (GCU) is committed to quality
research, scholarship, and service. All systematic research
undertaken by GCU personnel or learners in which human
subjects participate is subject to review under the Institutional
Review Board (IRB) policy and procedures for protection of
human subjects in research. The federal definition for research is
“a systematic investigation, including research development,
testing and evaluation, designed to develop and contribute to
generalizable knowledge (Federal Regulations 45 CFR 46).” This
definition includes any surveys, tests, observations of people, or
experiments which involve systematic data collection that could
result in knowledge reported in dissertations, publications and
professional meetings.
The GCU Institutional Review Board operates under federal
policies and procedures mandated by the U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services and the Office for Human Research
Protections www.hhs.gov/ohrp/. Policies governing academic
scholarship and research activities conducted at GCU are
available on the DC Research Center (http://dc.gcu.edu/irb) and
the GCU website (http://www.gcu.edu/College-of-Doctoral-
Studies/Institutional-Review-Board.php) apply to all research
conducted at or sponsored by Grand Canyon University.
• All research projects directed by GCU faculty, staff, or
learners must receive IRB approval prior to collecting data.
• GCU researchers must complete required training in research
ethics CITI Training (http://www.citiprogram.org) and adhere
to the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, and
justice embodied in the Belmont Report.
• Individuals from external institutions who wish to conduct
research using GCU data, learners or personnel as participants
must submit an application for site authorization to the Office
of Academic Research, provide proof of IRB approval from
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 250 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
their home institution, and receive approval from the GCU
IRB and the Provost.
• Classroom curriculum projects, workshop evaluations, and
administrative projects do not need IRB approval if they are
not research. If the results will not be distributed outside the
classroom, institutional setting, or if they are used solely for
program review or evaluation, IRB review is not required.
However, if such projects lead to generalizable information,
through publication or dissemination of results external to
GCU, they must undergo review. Regardless of whether the
project is subject to review, all GCU faculty, staff and learners
must adhere to ethical guidelines when conducting class or
institutional projects with human participants.
Research activities or exercises conducted as part of curriculum
for coursework are considered exempt from IRB review when the
following criteria are met:
• There is minimal risk, and
• The planned classroom exercise does not involve members of
vulnerable populations, and
• Information obtained is recorded in such a manner that human
subjects cannot be identified, directly or through identifiers
linked to subjects, and
• The information will not be made public in the form of
presentation or publication outside of the classroom or
education setting.
International Students Office
The International Students Office, or ISO, is housed on campus
in Building 18, Room 104 and houses the International Student
Coordinator’s office. The ISO contains an international students’
lounge, which students may use as a meeting place, study space,
or area to relax between classes.
The ISO is the storehouse and archive of F-1 student documents.
The International Student Coordinator manages F-1 student
documents and SEVIS records, issues I-20s, and is the advisor on
matters related to maintaining F-1 status.
Maintaining F-1 Status
International F-1 students are responsible for knowing the rules
to maintain their F-1 status. In order to learn the obligations and
privileges of being an F-1 student, they may consult with the
International Student Coordinator or acquire information from
the Homeland Security’s website “Study in the States”.
Change of Address
Students are required to report a change of residence within 10
days of your move. Contact the staff of the International Students
Office, so the University can officially update the SEVIS record.
Authorization to Work
See the International Student Employment section of the
University Policy Handbook.
Maintain Full Course of Study
Per federal regulations, International (F-1) students are required
to pursue a full course of study; the minimum for an
undergraduate is 12 credits per semester and one online class may
be taken to satisfy the 12 credit minimum. The minimum for a
graduate student’s full course of study follows general campus
policy noted above and is verified by the International Student
Coordinator.
Securing a Validating Signature
Students, who need a validating signature for an I-20, should take
it to the International Students Office for processing several days
before the planned departure.
Immigration Documents
Students must keep immigration documents valid at all times.
Passport
Students must know passport expiration date. Do not allow the
passport to expire. Students are required to have a valid passport
with an expiration date that is no less than six months hence,
except in those cases where the student’s home country has an
agreement with the U.S. To find out how to extend the validity of
your passport, contact your country’s consulate in the U.S. A list
of foreign consular offices in the U.S. may be found at
https://www.state.gov/s/cpr/fco/
F-1 Visa
The visa is a permit which allows individuals to apply for entry to
the U.S. at the port of entry. It shows immigration status (should
be F-1), the number of times an individual may enter the U.S.
(shown as single, double, or multiple entry), and the last day on
which he or she can enter the country. It does not show how long
the student may stay in the U.S. While it is not illegal to be in the
U.S. with an expired visa, a new visa will be required to leave
and re-enter the US. (Exception: If a student travels to Canada,
Mexico, or any of the islands in the Caribbean except Cuba and
return within 30 days, and he or she has a valid passport, an
unexpired I-20 and an I-94 card, the student may enter with an
expired visa.) It is not possible to obtain a visa in the U S. If a
student will be traveling outside the US and wishes to re-enter
after the visa has expired, he or she should plan to visit a U.S.
consulate to apply for a new visa.
Form I-20
The I-20 authorizes individuals to attend Grand Canyon
University (GCU). International students are required to read the
I-20 and indicate acceptance of its terms by endorsing the
document.
Form I-94 Arrival and Departure Record
The I-94 demonstrates that the students have been lawfully
admitted to the US. The I-94 is distributed on the airplane prior to
landing. When the student passes through the immigration check
station at the port of entry, the border agent will make a notation
of the date of entry and visa status, and will usually staple the
form into your passport. In most cases a notation of “D/S”
(duration of status) will be marked on the card, indicating that the
student may stay in the U.S. until the student has finished the
academic program, as long as the student maintains an acceptable
status. If a specific date is noted on this form instead of D/S,
notify the staff of the International Students Office because the
student must either exit the country by that time or file an
extension. Do not lose the I-94. Only one will be issued and
replacements are expensive and take a long time to receive.
When the student travels overseas, the student must surrender the
card at the airport. Few exceptions exist to this requirement,
including travel to Mexico, Canada, or the Caribbean Islands
(verify this information with the International Students Office).
When the student re-enters the U.S., the student will be issued a
new I-94.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 251 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Safeguarding Immigration Documents
Do not lose or destroy any documents received from the U.S.
government or school officials. Keep all issued documents in a
safe and accessible place in the event it is necessary to show them
to the authorities.
Travel in F-1 Status
Always consult with the Principal Designated School Official
(PDSO) in the Center of International Education before planning
travel abroad. Since the circumstances of each student will differ,
the information in this section is meant to provide general
guidelines for students. It may not be all inclusive of the things
that the student needs to determine whether or not it is
appropriate to travel or whether or not the student will be
readmitted to the United States. Please remember that the U.S.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the Port of Entry
(POE) decides whether or not a person is admissible to the
United States. This decision is based upon the facts and
circumstances presented at the time that the student applies to
enter, therefore it important to know the situation and carry the
proper documentation.
Inside the U.S.
On and near campus
While students are on-campus or in the surrounding area, they do
not need to have their passport or I-20 with them. Keep the
documents safely stored, however, and know where to get them
quickly, if necessary.
Away from the campus in the Phoenix area
Students should carry their passport, I-94 card and I-20 with them
in case authorities ask for proof of identity.
Outside the U.S.
Students who travel abroad must show proper documentation to
re-enter the U.S. They must not have been gone from the U.S.
more than 5 months for the following guidelines. At the port of
entry, present:
• Valid passport with expiration date at least six months from
the date of entry. For exceptions, see the Passport agreement
list below for countries with agreements with the US for
shorter expiration dates.
• Valid F-1 visa stamp in passport
• I-20 that has been endorsed by the PDSO in the International
Students Office within the last 6 months. (Technically, the
signature is valid for one year, but many agents at the port of
entry prefer to see the endorsement from the school more
frequently.)
• Other recommended documents: Financial guarantee
documents showing the student have funds to pay for your
educational and living expenses while here, copy of recent
transcripts, letter from CIE verifying student status at GCU.
• Exceptions to the travel documentation above apply to travel to
Canada, Mexico or adjacent islands with the exception of
Cuba. If the student plans to travel to one of these locations for
fewer than 30 days, retain your I-94 card. Even if the visa is
expired, a student may be readmitted based on an automatic
revalidation of the visa.
Study Abroad and International Programs
Traditional Study Abroad programs may involve established
partnerships with other colleges, universities, organizations, or
countries. Students pursuing a traditional study abroad program
must complete the University Home Approval Application, must
be in good academic standing with a minimum 2.5 cumulative
college GPA, and must have a minimum of 12 credits completed
from GCU (excluding credits earned through GCU’s dual
enrollment program). Applicants are responsible for a one-time
$50 application fee associated with the University Home
Approval Application. Students should contact the Global Studies
Office for more information by emailing
[email protected]. Weekly group information sessions as
well as individual appointments are available.
Prior to enrollment in a study abroad program, students are
required to affirm with their Student Services Counselor how pre-
selected study abroad courses will apply to their program of study
requirements at GCU. Study abroad students enroll at Grand
Canyon University in UNV-300 as a holding course to retain
their GCU enrollment and eligibility for financial aid. Upon
successful completion of the traditional study abroad term, the
transferable course credit for the experience replaces the holding
course. GCU Institutional Aid is not applicable to traditional
study abroad programs. Students are required to affirm with their
Student Services Counselor how study abroad courses will apply
to Grand Canyon University’s requirements.
Due to the attendance taking requirements of financial aid
processed for cohort and online students at Grand Canyon
University, the University is unable to process financial aid if
students were to choose to participate in a study abroad option.
Students using financial aid would take a leave of absence,
processed through a student’s Student Services Advisor, for the
duration they are studying abroad, and their financial aid status
would be reinstated upon return.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 252 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Drug-Free Campus and Workplace Policy Grand Canyon University is committed to providing a drug-free campus and workplace environment. As an institution of higher education,
the University recognizes the need to establish a drug and alcohol awareness program to educate faculty, staff and students about the dangers
of drug and alcohol abuse. This policy is established as required by the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug-Free Schools and
Communities Act of 1989.
The sale, offer to sell, purchase, use, transfer, possession and/or manufacture of illegal drugs, including marijuana (medical or otherwise) and
alcohol, are strictly prohibited on University premises including parking lots, cafeterias, and other non-work related areas. Employees may
not unlawfully possess, consume or be under the influence of alcohol while working, participating in Grand Canyon University events, or
present on University Premises (including parking lots, cafeterias, and other non- work related areas), unless pre-authorized by senior
management.
Description of Health Risks
Drugs and/or alcohol use contribute to:
• 65% of all suicides
• 70% of all drowning deaths
• 83% of all fire deaths
• 50% of all motor vehicle accidents
• 70% of all homicides
The following are descriptions of dangerous drugs:
• Alcohol is a potentially addictive drug of significant physical
and psychological consequence. Alcohol is a central nervous
system depressant that affects all neurological functions. At
relatively low levels it affects ones judgment and decision-
making, and at higher levels it impairs the functioning of one’s
vital organs and can result in a coma or death. Alcohol is an
irritant to the gastrointestinal tract and moderate over-
indulgence ordinarily results in nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
In addition to these significant physical consequences, there
are a number of less obvious consequences to alcohol use. For
example, the effects of alcohol on sleep have been well
documented. Consuming several drinks before bedtime has
been found to decrease the amount of REM (rapid eye
movement) or dreaming sleep. The consequences of being
deprived of REM sleep are impaired concentration and
memory, as well as anxiety, tiredness, and irritability.
Additionally, research has demonstrated that alcohol tends to
decrease fear and increase the likelihood that an individual will
accept risks. This lack of inhibition and judgment is a major
contributor to the extraordinarily high percentage of serious
accidents and accidental deaths related to alcohol use.
Prolonged and excessive use of alcohol usually causes
progressively more serious erosion of the gastrointestinal tract
lining ranging from gastritis to ulcers and hemorrhage.
Damage to the pancreas is frequent among those who have
used alcohol. Interestingly, while 10% of the adult population
is estimated to be addicted to beverage alcohol, (i.e., they are
alcoholics), this 10% of the population comprises 35% of those
hospital in-patients who receive major surgery in any given
year. Alcoholism is the third major killer in the United States,
second to heart disease and cancer, and acute alcohol
intoxication is the second leading cause of death by poisoning.
• Marijuana (cannabis) (nicotina glauca) is an illegal drug that
impairs memory, perception, judgment, and hand-eye
coordination skills. The tar content in cannabis smoke is at
least 50% higher than that of tobacco and thus smokers run the
added risk of lung cancer, chronic bronchitis, and other lung
diseases. Recently, the medical community has diagnosed the
existence of an AA motivational syndrome that affects
moderate to chronic users and includes symptoms of loss of
energy, motivation, effectiveness, concentration, ability to
carry out long-term plans, and performance in school and
work.
• LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide) is a semi-synthetic drug
regarded as a hallucinogenic. Short-term effects of this drug
are generally felt within an hour of consumption and may last
from two to 12 hours. Physiologically the user experiences
increased blood pressure, rise in body temperature, dilated
pupils, rapid heartbeat, muscular weakness, trembling, nausea,
chills, numbness, loss of interest in food, and hyperventilation.
Fine motor skills and coordination are usually impaired, as are
perception, thought, mood, and psychological processes. Long-
term effects may include flashbacks, weeks and even months
after taking the drug, mental illness, prolonged depression,
anxiety, psychological dependence, and suicidal thoughts.
• PCP (Phencyclidine Hydrochloride) is a white crystalline
powder that was originally used as a local anesthetic, but due
to extreme side effects, was discontinued in 1967. In humans,
PCP is a difficult drug to classify in that reactions may vary
from stupor to euphoria and resemble the effects of a
stimulant, depressant, anesthetic, or hallucinogen. Short-term
effects include hyperventilation, increase in blood pressure and
pulse rate, flushing and profuse sweating, general numbness of
the extremities, and muscular in coordination. At higher doses
it causes nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, loss of balance, and
disorientation. It produces profound alteration of sensation,
mood and consciousness, and can cause psychotic states in
many ways indistinguishable from schizophrenia. Large doses
have been known to cause convulsions, permanent brain
damage, and coma.
• Psilocybin is a hallucinogenic drug occurring naturally in
about 20 species of Mexican mushrooms and is also produced
synthetically. It is a white powder made of fine crystals and
distributed in tablet, capsule, or liquid form. Shortly after
taking psilocybin, a user may experience increased blood
pressure, rapid heartbeat, a rise in body temperature, dry
mouth, dilated pupils, and some degree of agitation or
excitement. This is followed by a decrease in the ability to
concentrate or stay in touch with reality. (Hallucinations, as
well as altered perceptions of time and space, may occur.) The
effects are usually shorter lasting than those of LSD, yet the
dangers are very similar.
• Cocaine is a naturally occurring stimulant drug which is
extracted from the leaves of the cocoa plant. Cocaine is sold as
a white translucent crystalline powder frequently cut to about
half its strength by a variety of other ingredients including
sugars and cleaning powders. It is one of the most powerfully
addictive drugs in use today. Short-term effects of cocaine
include constricted peripheral blood vessels, dilated pupils,
increased heart rate and blood pressure. It also causes appetite
suppression, pain indifference, possible vomiting, visual,
auditory, and tactile hallucinations, and occasionally paranoia.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 253 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Long-term effects include nasal congestion, collapse of nasal
septum, restlessness, irritability, anxiety, and depression.
Overdoses or chronic use may result in toxicity which includes
symptoms of seizures followed by respiratory arrest, coma,
cardiac arrest, and/or death.
• Cocaine Free-Base or Crack is the result of converting street
cocaine to a pure base by removing the hydrochloric salt in
many of the “cutting” agents. The end result is not water
soluble, and therefore, must be smoked. It is much more
dangerous than cocaine because it reaches the brain in seconds,
and the intensified dose results in a sudden and intense
physical reaction. This response lasts a few minutes and is
followed by deep depression, loss of appetite, difficulty in
sleeping, feeling revulsion for self, and worries and obsessions
about getting more crack. Consequently, users often increase
the dose and frequency of use resulting in severe addiction that
includes physical debilitation and financial ruin.
Physiologically, seizures followed by respiratory arrest and
coma or cardiac arrest and death may accompany long-term
use.
• Amphetamines are central nervous system stimulants that were
once used medically to treat a variety of symptoms including
depression and obesity. They may be taken orally, sniffed, or
injected into the veins. Short-term effects disappear within a
few hours and include reduction of appetite, increased
breathing and heart rate, raised blood pressure, dilation of
pupils, dry mouth, fever, sweating, headache, blurred vision
and dizziness. Higher doses may cause flushing, rapid and
irregular heartbeat, tremor, loss of coordination, and collapse.
Death has occurred from ruptured blood vessels in the brain,
heart failure, and very high fever. Psychological effects
include increased alertness, postponement of fatigue, a false
feeling of well-being, restlessness, excitability, and a feeling of
power. Long-term effects include drug dependence and the risk
of drug induced psychosis. Withdrawal includes extreme
fatigue, irritability, strong hunger, and deep depression that
may lead to suicide.
Drug and Alcohol Counseling
More information about alcohol and drugs and the risks they pose
to health is available in the GCU Cooke Health & Wellness
Center. Outside counseling services and support groups are
available. The following is a partial list of these sources:
• Alcoholics Anonymous: 602-264-1341
• Al-Anon and Ala-teen Information: 602-249-1251
• Alcohol and Drug Abuse Hotline: 800-444-9999
• Alcohol and Drug Abuse: 602-258-7714
• Alcohol and Drug Recovery Center: 800-247-2322
• Drug and Alcohol Treatment Institute: 602-275-3233
• Crossroads (Drug and Alcohol Recovery): 602-279-2585
• Teen Challenge: 602-271-4081
• Terros, Inc.: 602-249-1749
Institutional Sanctions
The University will impose sanctions (consistent with local,
State, and Federal law) upon all faculty, staff and students who
violate the standards of conduct set forth in this policy. Such
sanctions may include required completion (at the faculty, staff
members, or students own expense) of an appropriate
rehabilitation program chosen by the University, referral for
prosecution, probation, suspension or expulsion of students and
suspension or termination of faculty and staff members.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 254 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Campus Policies & Other Information This section is designed to help students settle into their new home at Grand Canyon University. It contains information regarding many
aspects of Residence Life, Housing Operations, and other campus policies related to both residents and commuters. The Academic
Catalog, Housing Operations, Residence Life and Housing Operations, and Housing Contract provide a more complete understanding of
GCU policies and guidelines.
Campus Hours
Given that non-resident students do not live on campus, it is expected that they will return to their residence at night when they are done
utilizing the campus for their daily activities. Campus hours vary by day, but it is generally expected that non-resident students will
depart campus when normal campus activities have ended, such as the closing of the library or commuter lounge or the completion of
club sports or public events. Anyone present in a non-residential area of campus after these time periods should understand that, for the
safety of our campus community, Public Safety officials may stop them and ask for identification and the nature of their activities on
campus at that time. Absent unique circumstances, if it is after hours, residential students will be allowed to remain on campus and non-
residential students will be asked to depart campus and may be subject to being trespassed and submitted to Code of Conduct. Anyone
who is not a student and is not associated with a resident may be trespassed and precluded from visiting campus in the future if they are
present on campus after hours.
Housing and Residence Life Policies
Policies
See the Housing and Residence Life websites at https://students.gcu.edu/student-affairs for polices including but not limited to:
• Abandonment – Personal Property
• Alterations
• Appliances and Furniture
• Bed Bug Protocol
• Charges and Fines
• Fire Safety
• Health and Safety Inspections
• Housing Eligibility
• Housing Eviction
• Housing Appeals
• Housing Application Fee and Prepayment
• Accommodation Requests
• Maintenance, Preservations, and Repairs
• Mercury
• Moisture and Mold
• Movies – Group Rental
• Personal Property
• Pets
• Roommate Privacy
• Room Switches
• Smoking
• Waitlists
• Housing Cancellation and Reimbursement
• Meal Plan Cancellation and Refund
• Early Move-in and Extended Stay
• Break Housing Closures
• Sales/Solicitation
Eligibility – Traditional Housing
Student Housing Eligibility
Student housing eligibility is as follows:
• Admitted ground traditional undergraduate student at GCU
• Be in good standing with the university
• Must be at least 17 years old and younger than 26 years old at the start of the term
• Meets residential course load requirement (see below)
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 255 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• To ensure the health of the student population living on campus, Grand Canyon University requires students to submit documentation
that they have received the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine or proof of immunity, and Meningococcal A vaccine prior to
registering for student housing. Students can obtain additional information regarding this requirement on the Canyon Health and
Wellness Center website
Individuals who pose a clear and present danger to other residents including, but not limited to, registered sex offenders are not eligible to
live in university housing. Individuals with felonies on their record are required to disclose details of the felony. GCU retains the right to
not offer housing to a student on a case-by-case basis at the sole discretion of GCU’s Housing Background Check Committee.
GCU employees, other than student workers, are not eligible to reside in student housing.
Graduate students, including traditional, non-traditional, cohort students and graduate assistants, are not eligible for traditional housing.
The exceptions, based on availability, are as follows:
• International students with F1 visas
• Student-athletes (not including club sports)
• Master of Divinity (as confirmed by the University; maximum age for Master of Divinity students is extended to younger than 31 by
the start of the term)
• Master of Science in Athletic Training (as confirmed by the University)
Housing Application – Academic Standing
Students will be restricted during the returner housing application process for the following academic year until the student meets the
Satisfactory Academic Progress criteria as determined by the Office of Academic Records (OAR). Students identified by OAR as in
jeopardy of academic dismissal after
Spring mid-term grades will be removed from their roommate group, have their express renewed booking cancelled, and will be blocked
from selecting a bed until they have met the Satisfactory Academic Progress criteria.
Residential Course Load Requirement
For up-to-date course load requirements, students should refer to the Housing Policies document.
Eligibility – Graduate Housing
Graduate Student Housing Eligibility
Graduate student housing eligibility is as follows:
• Admitted graduate student at GCU, granted permission to live in the specified graduate housing location.
• In good standing with the university.
• At least 17 years old and younger than 26 years old at the start of the contract term.
• Meets residential course load requirement (see below).
• To ensure the health of the student population living on campus, Grand Canyon University requires students to submit documentation
that they have received the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine or proof of immunity, and Meningococcal A vaccine prior to
registering for student housing. Students can obtain additional information regarding this requirement on the Canyon Health and
Wellness Center website
Individuals who pose a clear and present danger to other residents including but not limited to registered sex offenders, are not eligible to
live in university housing. Individuals with felonies on their record are required to disclose details of the felony. GCU retains the right to
not offer housing to a student on a case-by-case basis at the sole discretion of GCU’s Housing Background Check Committee.
GCU employees, other than student workers, are not eligible to reside in student housing.
Exceptions to housing eligibility may be granted for specific populations or upon Housing Exception approval. Students should refer to
the Housing Policies document for Housing procedures and expectations.
Housing Extensions and Community Standards
Students who are provided the privilege of Early Move-in, Spring Extension, or Christmas Break housing are not permitted to have
overnight guests during the housing extension period. For any violations to the Community Standards during the extension period, the
student may be removed from housing for the remainder of the privilege. This decision is at the sole discretion of the Department of
Community Standards.
Entering Students’ Rooms and Room Searches
Students can expect reasonable privacy of their rooms and personal property. However, under specific guidelines, rooms may be entered
and inspected by university staff members without permission. These guidelines include, but are not limited to, emergency cases, need or
request for repairs, health/safety inspections, and reasonable suspicion to believe that a violation of University regulations or federal,
state or local laws may be taking place, or has taken place, in the room. Prohibited items will be collected and disposed of by University
staff.
Entrance policy for staff members includes knocking on the door, stating who they are and why they are entering the room, and allowing
approximately 20 seconds for a response before keying into the room or apartment. In case of an extreme or emergency situation, it is the
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 256 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
discretion of Residence Life or Public Safety staff to use a “no knock” entrance policy. Students who submit a work request
automatically give staff permission to enter their room without notice. For unplanned service or work that has not been requested, staff
will attempt to notify students 24 hours in advance. Depending on the severity of the issue and the staff’s ability to reach the student,
advance notice cannot be guaranteed.
Personal Property Searches
In cases of reasonable suspicion, the University reserves the right to search a student’s personal belongings that are on University
property. Such belongings include, but are not limited to, articles of clothing, purses, briefcases, bags and backpacks. Prohibited items
will be collected and disposed of by University staff.
Vehicle Searches
Students can expect reasonable privacy of their vehicles and personal property contained therein when they park on campus. However,
Public Safety officers may access and inspect student vehicles without permission when reasonable suspicion exists that a violation of
University regulations or federal, state or local laws may be taking place, or has taken place, in the vehicle, or during emergency
situations. Prohibited items will be collected and disposed of by University staff.
Background Checks for Student Leaders
To ensure that student leaders are qualified to perform the tasks they are assigned, student leaders may be required to successfully
complete a background check through a third-party vendor at the University’s expense. Screening may take place on a pre-scholarship
basis as well as after selection. Students undergoing a background check will be given a copy of the background disclosure and
authorization form. Failure to complete the form will preclude a student from consideration. Based on results obtained, the respective
Student Affairs Department will utilize a Background Check Review Committee to make determinations about scholarships being
withdrawn.
Club Sports
Grand Canyon University Club Sports provides approved programs for participation by active, enrolled GCU traditional students. Club
Sports athletes engage in competitive intercollegiate competition, semi-rigorous practice schedules, and travel regionally. Students must
be currently enrolled in on-ground programs and able to attend practice and events held by the club.
Certain Club Sports programs may have requirements for participation, including eligibility criteria, health evaluations or try-outs.
Additionally, clubs may have specific conference eligibility criteria for maintaining membership such as GPA, age, and full time status
etc. While the aforementioned examples are non-exhaustive and actual eligibility and maintenance requirements may differ, Club Sports
follow the University’s non-discrimination policy.
A list of student clubs is available at https://clubsports.gcu.edu. For more information on clubs please see Student Engagement.
Department of Student Care
The Department of Student Care provides services to all traditional students. Additionally, master’s students participating in University-
sponsored activities, such as musical and theatrical performances, athletic competitions may also utilize the Office of Student Care.
Student status, such as a traditional student, or as a student participating in authorized University-sponsored activities, will be verified
prior to a student’s first appointment.
Student Clubs
Grand Canyon University provides and approves clubs for participation by active, enrolled GCU students or GCU alumni. Club missions
vary, but many clubs provide opportunities for residential, commuter, cohort, and online students to participate. Students must be
currently enrolled and active in a program and able to attend meetings and events held by the club.
Certain clubs may have requirements for participation, including program of study or criteria that require academic honors or try-outs.
Additionally, clubs may have eligibility criteria for maintaining membership such as GPA, club attendance, etc. While the
aforementioned examples are non-exhaustive and actual eligibility and maintenance requirements may differ, clubs follow the
University’s non-discrimination policy.
A list of student clubs is available at https://students.gcu.edu/student-life/student-engagement.php. For more information on clubs please
see Student Engagement.
Immunization Requirement
Immunization Requirement for GCU Residents
To ensure the health of the student population living on campus, Grand Canyon University requires students to submit documentation
that they have received the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine or proof of immunity, and Meningococcal A vaccine prior to
registering for student housing. Students can obtain additional information regarding this requirement on the Canyon Health and
Wellness Center website
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 257 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Immunization Requirement for Programs
Immunization requirements for the University may differ from the immunization requirements for certain programs of study and their
associated placement and/or employment opportunities, (e.g., externships, internships, student teaching, clinical, practica, lab
opportunities, school district positions). Students may be required to submit immunization documentation to various third-party agencies
and are, therefore, responsible for ensuring they meet their respective requirements.
GCU requires students in the following programs to provide immunization records. Students can waive this requirement by following
the guidelines published in the Undergraduate/Graduate Field Experience Manuals; however, students who live on campus are not
eligible to waive this requirement unless a medical waiver is provided and signed by a medical provider.
• Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure)
• Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
• Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Leadership in Health Care Systems
• Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Nursing Education
• Bridge to Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Public Health
• Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
• Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Nursing Education
• Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Leadership in Health Care Systems
• Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Public Health
• Master of Public Health
• Post-Master of Science in Nursing: Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate
• Post-Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
• Post-Master of Science in Nursing: Nursing Education Certificate
• Doctor of Nursing Practice
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 258 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Community Standards for Ground Campus Grand Canyon University is first and foremost a Christian University and as such upholds a commitment to maintaining an atmosphere
on campus that honors God. While students do not have to sign a Statement of Faith or be a Christian to attend GCU, they are expected to
abide by the Community Standards. The Community Standards uphold certain University values that are believed to enhance the overall
moral fabric of the community.
The Community Standards identify essential values that GCU
students are expected to show mutual respect and courtesy to one
another, faculty and staff. Our expectation is that students would
reflect what is known as the “fruit of the Spirit” in their behavior.
This includes demonstrating: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Our vision is
that students would strive to treat others as they would want to be
treated.
Our goal is to develop a community based on the Biblical
principles of respect and honor. We as community members will
strive to encourage one another, respect one another’s
differences, speak truthfully, and create lasting relationships. We
understand that these actions are most possible as a result of
choosing to put others above ourselves and to look out for the
interests of others. To help accomplish this, campus residents will
be required to complete a Roommate Agreement, which is
designed to proactively facilitate a conversation between
roommates at the beginning of each semester. Students may
contact their RA for more information.
Applicability of the University
Policy Handbook as it applies to
the Community Standards
• The University Policy Handbook as outlined in the
Community Standards applies principally to conduct outside
the classroom that occurs on University property or at
University-related activities or facilities (in-class conduct is
addressed above in the University Policy Handbook).
• Likewise, conduct engaged through electronic
communication systems, including but not limited to, social
media, e-mail and text messaging, is subject to the
University Policy Handbook as outlined in the Community
Standards section.
• Off-campus behavior may also cause a student to go through
the Community Standards Process or other appropriate
administrative action when it is reasonably perceived to pose
an imminent threat of harm to the safety of the student or
others, adversely affects the University Community and/or
the pursuits of its objectives. The Dean of Students or
his/her designee will decide whether the Community
Standards will be applied to conduct occurring off campus,
on a case by case scenario, in his/her sole discretion. This
includes, but is not limited to, remote University Housing.
• Each student will be responsible for his/her conduct from
the time of application for admission through the actual
awarding of a degree and/or the end of the student’s housing
contract (including any time needed for building
closedown), whichever comes last. Each student is
responsible for their conduct even though conduct may
occur before classes begin or after the classes end, as well as
during the academic year and during periods between terms
of actual enrollment (e.g., taking a semester off).
• The University Policy Handbook as outlined in the
Community Standards will apply to a student’s conduct even
if the student withdraws from school while a conduct matter
is pending.
• The University Policy Handbook as outlined in the
Community Standards applies to commuter students as well.
It is expected that they are aware of the University policies.
• Any violation of the University Policy Handbook as outlined
in the Community Standards will remain on the student’s
conduct record for the duration of his/her GCU academic
career and will provide context for any future violations.
• While the University seeks to address violations in a timely
manner, it is not precluded from following up on incidents
where more time than typical may have elapsed.
Community Standards
Students are held responsible to the following standards and if
found in violation will go through the Community Standards
Process. See Sanctions for Conduct Violations for possible
sanctions:
Alcohol
GCU maintains a dry campus and as such alcohol and/or alcohol
paraphernalia are not permitted on GCU property, unless in
University-designated areas permitted by state law and for
patrons 21 years and older. GCU Dining Dollars/Lopes Cash may
not be used to purchase alcohol. In any circumstance, students are
not permitted to have alcohol outside these areas regardless of
age.
Violations of the alcohol policy will be taken seriously and
consequences include University-approved sanctions up to and
including police involvement, suspension or expulsion from the
University. Any alcohol-related offense could be grounds for
expedited sanctions that could result in suspension or expulsion
from the University. Being under the influence of alcohol does
not diminish or excuse a violation to the Community Standards.
Violations of the alcohol policy include, but are not limited to:
• Consuming and/or possessing alcohol on campus. Alcohol
bottles or containers (including boxes that contained
alcohol) will be treated as alcohol, opened or sealed, even if
empty.
• Engaging in underage drinking.
• Hosting parties on campus where alcohol is being
consumed.
• Providing alcohol to others underage.
• Driving while under the influence of alcohol.
• Public intoxication is the use of alcohol (even off-campus)
that leads to public or obvious intoxication on campus. This
includes, but is not limited to, slurred speech, difficulty
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 259 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
walking, needing medical assistance, violent behavior, any
other behavior that is a disruption to the campus community
and/or any behavior that requires a University response.
• Refusal to take or successfully complete a breathalyzer test.
When University personnel reasonably suspect a student of
consuming or possessing alcohol on campus and/or when a
student is believed to be intoxicated on campus, the student
may be required to take a breathalyzer test. Positive readings
will only be attributed to alcohol consumption.
• Students present where alcohol is actively being consumed
will be in violation of the alcohol policy for not instantly
leaving the immediate area or reporting the violation to a
University official.
• Students with knowledge of the presence of alcohol on
campus may be considered in violation of the alcohol policy
for not reporting the violation to a University official.
Arizona Revised Statutes make it unlawful:
1. For a person under the age of twenty-one years, to buy,
receive, have in possession or consume spirituous liquor.
A.R.S. 4-241.
2. For a person to buy for resale, sell or deal in spirituous
liquors in this state without first having procured a license
duly issued by the Arizona State Liquor Board. A.R.S. 4-
244(1).
3. To consume spirituous liquor in a public place, thoroughfare
or gathering as set forth in A.R.S. 4-244(20).
4. For any person to serve or to furnish spirituous liquor to an
intoxicated or disorderly person, or for any person to allow
or to permit an intoxicated or disorderly person to come into
or to remain at an event where spirituous liquor is being
served or consumed. A.R.S. 4-244(14).
5. For a person to operate a motor vehicle on any highway
while consuming spirituous liquor. A.R.S. 4-244(21).
6. To conduct drinking contests, or to sell or provide to a
person an unlimited number of spirituous liquor beverages
during any set period of time for a fixed price or to provide
more than two spirituous liquor beverages to one person at
one time for that person's consumption as set forth in A.R.S.
4-244(23).
7. To sell or give liquor to underage person; illegally obtaining
liquor by underage person; violation; classification;
definitions A.R.S. 4-241
Alcohol Paraphernalia
Possession of alcohol paraphernalia is not permitted on campus.
Alcohol paraphernalia is defined as any product whose primary
function is for containing alcohol, drinking alcohol, or
advertising or promoting alcohol (paraphernalia is not actual
alcohol bottles or containers). This includes, but is not limited to,
beer bongs, funnels, flasks, shot glasses, and decorative alcohol
displays.
Businesses and Organizations on Campus
No student or person, individually or on behalf of such
individual, business, or organization of any kind, whether for
profit or not-for profit, is permitted to solicit, market, offer goods
or services, or operate on behalf of such organization in any way
on the University’s campus without the prior written consent of
the University’s President, Provost, or Dean of Students.
Civility and Respect
It is expected that all students demonstrate mutual respect and
courtesy to one another, faculty, staff, administration, and the
general public. Behavior including, but not limited to, physical
altercations, verbal abuse, bullying, threats, intimidation,
harassment, coercion, retaliation, and/or other conduct which
threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person and/or
causes a disruption to the campus community will not be
tolerated. For physical altercations, all participants are generally
held equally responsible.
“Harassment" means conduct that is directed at a specific
person(s) and that would cause a reasonable person to be
seriously alarmed, annoyed or pressured and the conduct does in
fact seriously alarm, annoy, or harass the person.
Arizona Revised Statutes states that a person commits harassment
if, with intent to harass or with knowledge that the person is
harassing another person, the person:
1. Anonymously or otherwise contacts, communicates or causes a
communication with another person by verbal, electronic,
mechanical, telegraphic, telephonic or written means in a manner
that harasses.
2. Continues to follow another person in or about a public place
for no legitimate purpose after being asked to desist.
3. Repeatedly commits an act or acts that harass another person.
4. Surveils or causes another person to surveil a person for no
legitimate purpose.
5. On more than one occasion makes a false report to a law
enforcement, credit or social service agency.
6. Interferes with the delivery of any public or regulated utility to
a person.
For more information:
https://www.azleg.gov/ars/13/02921.htm
Title IX
Title IX regulations require non-discrimination on the basis of
sex or gender. Prohibited sex discrimination includes sexual
harassment, sexual misconduct, including sexual assault,
domestic/dating violence, stalking, and other misconduct offenses
when sex or gender is the foundation. All reports of sex or
gender-based discrimination are reviewed and resolved using the
process outlined in the Title IX and Non-Discrimination Policy.
Student Involved Engagements
GCU recognizes the rights of current students to dissent as long
as it does not limit the freedom of others, damage University
property, or delay the opportunity of the student body, faculty or
staff to proceed regularly with their work, schooling or scheduled
activities. When a rally or other such gathering requires building
space or public areas, clearance must be obtained 48 hours in
advanced from the Dean of Students.
GCU reserves the right to make reasonable restrictions of
location, time or format of such events, using the following
guidelines in order to:
1. Alleviate potential problems with safety or potential disruption
of University activities.
2. Facilitate a free exchange of ideas consistent with the
academic environment and the University mission.
3. Comply with federal, state, university, or local laws or
ordinances.
Grand Canyon University reserves the right to review, cancel,
alter or restrict events, demonstrations, speakers or groups whose
nature or presentation is contrary to or inconsistent with the
University mission or Christ-centered character. Off campus
groups, guests, individuals, churches, ministries, former students,
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 260 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
or individuals not connected to the University as a current
employee or student will not be permitted to use University
owned or operated property for demonstrations and may not, at
the University’s discretion, participate in them.
Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly Conduct is the unreasonable or irresponsible behavior
by an individual or group that includes, but is not limited to:
• Creating a potentially unsafe situation for members of the
community or damages property.
• Physical threats, aggression, provocation, or assault towards
University staff.
• Behavior that is unruly, lewd, or indecent, regardless of intent,
which breaches or threatens the peace and/or safety of the
community.
• The unauthorized use of electronic or other devices to make an
audio or video record of any person where the audio or video
recordings is likely to cause injury or distress. This includes,
but is not limited to, secretly taking pictures of another person
in a gym, locker room, living area, or restroom.
• Words or action that are unbecoming of a GCU student, as
determined by the University.
Disruption
Disruption is behavior that results in a disturbance or interruption
to the GCU community by an individual or group that includes,
but is not limited to:
• Disrupting the peace (including quiet hours) or interfering with
the normal operation of the University or University-sponsored
events, regardless of intent.
• Infringing on the rights of others, including when other
students are prevented from taking advantage of their academic
and residential experience.
• Behavior that may be part of more severe roommate conflict.
Drugs
GCU is committed to maintaining a drug-free community. Illegal
drugs, including marijuana, are not permitted on campus or at
University-sanctioned events. Violations of the drug policy will
be taken seriously. Any drug-related violation may be referred to
law enforcement and be grounds for expedited sanctions that
result in immediate suspension or expulsion from campus
housing and the University. Being under the influence of drugs or
substances does not diminish or excuse a violation to the
Community Standards.
Illegal drugs are defined as a drug or substance whose use,
possession, or distribution is controlled under state or federal law
and/or GCU policy. The drug policy applies to students primarily
when, but not exclusively, on-campus and those attending
University-sanctioned events.
Violations to the drug policy include, but are not limited to:
• Possessing drugs.
• Using drugs.
• Being under the influence of drugs. This can be evidenced by
the use of drugs (even off-campus) that leads to obvious drug
intoxication on campus, or being involved in the incident. This
includes, but is not limited to, needing medical assistance,
violent behavior, any other behavior that is a disruption to the
campus community, and/or any behavior that requires a
University response.
• Possessing drug paraphernalia. Drug paraphernalia is defined
as any equipment, product, or accessory that is intended or
modified for making, using, storing, or concealing drugs. This
includes, but is not limited to, the use or possession of glass
smoking pipes or items altered to assist in making, using, or
concealing drugs, including the scent of drugs.
• Manufacturing drugs.
• Distribution of drugs including, but not limited to, the intent or
ability to distribute. Distribution also applies to the delivery,
transfer, or gift of drugs.
• Students present where drugs are actively being used will be in
violation of the drug policy for not instantly leaving the
immediate area or reporting the violation to a University
official.
• Students with knowledge of the presence of drugs and/or
paraphernalia on campus may be considered in violation of the
drug policy for not reporting the violation to a University
official.
Marijuana
Although the State of Arizona has statutes in place allowing
possession and use of marijuana, medical marijuana, and THC-
infused products, the United States Government does not
currently recognize those statutes. The “Drug Free Schools and
Communities Act of 1986 (20 U.S.C. 1145g)” prohibits
possession of controlled substances on the campus of institutions
of higher education that receive Title IV funding. As GCU is one
such institution, the drug policy fully applies to marijuana,
medical marijuana, THC-infused products, synthetic marijuana,
and related paraphernalia. Cannabidiol (CBD) is allowed on
campus provided that the product’s THC level meets federal
guidelines.
Prescribed, Un-Prescribed, and Over-the-Counter
Medications
Violations of the drug policy also include, but are not limited to:
• Possessing prescription medication not prescribed to the
student.
• Abusing one’s own prescription medication in a manner not
consistent with medication instructions.
• Distributing one’s own prescription medication.
• Being in the presence of unprescribed medication and not
reporting the violation to a University official.
• Using over-the-counter medication in a manner not consistent
with medication instructions.
Failure to Comply
Failure to comply is the non-compliance and/or inappropriate
response to reasonable directives given by University staff
(including resident assistants) in the performance of their duties.
Failure to comply also applies to reasonable conclusions that can
be made about a location being closed (e.g. construction sites).
Failure to Identify and Misuse of Identification
Students are expected to immediately and correctly identify
themselves and/or present their University ID when asked the
first time by University staff, including resident assistants.
Examples of a student failing to identify themselves includes, but
is not limited to, not immediately presenting their University ID,
giving a fake name, claiming to not be a student or resident, and
having to be asked more than once for a University ID and/or
name.
Misuse of identification prohibits students from lending any
version or portion of their University ID or student number to
anyone (violations may subject both the owner and holder to the
Community Standards Process).
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 261 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Falsification of Information
Students will be held to a standard of honesty and are not
permitted to falsify (verbal or written) information.
Fire and Fire Alarms
Violations to this policy may include, but are not limited to:
• Starting a fire on campus without University authorization.
• Tampering with, disabling, or misusing the fire system or
equipment. This includes, but is not limited to, fire alarms,
smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, exit lights, fire hoses, and
fire doors.
• Failure to immediately evacuate a building once a fire alarm
has sounded. This applies to guests too.
• Having a non-approved item in the dorm suite or apartment
when a fire alarm is triggered in the suite or apartment. The
Department of Residence Life maintains the list of non-
approved items. Non-approved items include, but are not
limited to, appliances, candles, humidifiers, fireworks,
electronic smoking devices/vapes and related paraphernalia,
and tobacco smoking products. The presence of an non-
approved item at time of a fire alarm is the violation, not
whether it caused the alarm.
General Safety
Violations to this policy may include, but are not limited to:
• Accessing or exiting campus through unauthorized entry/exit
points.
• Driving a vehicle on campus in a manner that is reckless or in
violation of University policies.
• Throwing items from a campus structure.
• Putting yourself at risk of serious injury.
Good Samaritan Policy
The overall health and safety of our students is of paramount
concern to all members of Grand Canyon University. All
community members are expected to act out of concern for
themselves and others. Recognizing that there are times when
students of the community find themselves in positions where
medical assistance is needed to ensure the proper care of a
person, the University has established this Good Samaritan
Policy.
Grand Canyon University wishes to ensure that students at
medical risk as a result of alcohol or drug use will receive prompt
and appropriate medical attention. Members of the Grand Canyon
University community, specifically students, have an ethical
responsibility to contact the University when they believe that
assistance for an intoxicated student is needed.
Students who seek assistance from these sources and the
individual(s) assisted, should not fear disciplinary action should
they seek help for a friend or themselves who has had too much
to drink or is impaired. Instead, under the guidelines of this
policy, these violations will be dealt with through health and
safety education initiatives instead of disciplinary action with
respect to the alcohol and drug policies. Students will be
considered for a one-time acceptance under the guidelines of the
policy through a review of the sequence of events that occurred
during their incident. This policy would only apply to a student
with no prior alcohol or drug violations.
The University will record the name(s) of intoxicated or impaired
student(s) and any other information that may enable any follow-
up deemed necessary to ensure students’ overall well-being. In
order for this policy to apply, the intoxicated or impaired
student(s) must agree to meet with a Community Standards Staff
to discuss the incident and understand the guidelines, process,
and expectations. The student(s) will also agree to a timely
completion of all the educational sanctions.
Students who fail to complete any of the requirements assigned
will be subject to action under the Community Standards for
failure to complete those initiatives. Furthermore, community
members who demonstrate a consistent and repeated pattern of
behavior after appropriate intervention and education from the
University will not be considered under this policy.
This policy does not preclude the University from taking
disciplinary action regarding other violations of the Community
Standards. Students should also be aware that this University
policy does not prevent action by local, state and federal
authorities.
The spirit of the Good Samaritan Policy is that there is an ethical
responsibility to help people in need. This policy is designed to
save lives. It is an expectation that our students will take active
steps to protect the health and safety and well-being of the
community and one another.
Guest Privileges
GCU strives to cultivate a living and learning community of
respect and courtesy for all students. The following policies are
intended to serve the community and are applicable once a
student checks into their room regardless of familial relationship.
Visitation Policy
Residents are allowed to have other resident students of the
opposite sex and/or significant others visit them within the
specified hours and parameters listed. Refer to the Guest Policy
section for guidelines related to off-campus guests and GCU-
commuter student guests.
• In all living areas, visitation hours are 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
(midnight), seven days a week.
• In both apartments and residence halls, guests of the opposite
sex and/or significant others are required to stay in the
common living area of the apartment or dorm suite – they may
not enter the bedroom (except for Studio Single Occupancy
units in Papago 47).
• The door to the dorm suite as well as the freshmen and transfer
apartments must be propped open at 90 degrees for the entirety
of the visit. Students are responsible to know any building-
specific policies they are living in/visiting.
• Students may continue their visitation with the opposite sex in
the main lobby on the first floor of the living area, but not in
the lobby, hall, stairwell, or study room of each floor.
• Intent to spend the night, sexual activity, or any visitation
significantly past hall hours, as determined by the University,
will escalate the sanction process.
• Residence Life reserves the right to alter the visitation policy
and hours as needed.
Examples of visitation violations include, but are not limited to:
• Suite door is closed
• Visitation hours are over which includes the study rooms or
floor lobbies
• Being in the bedroom (suite door open or closed)
• Past hours as determined by the Residence Life Staff
• The intent to spend the night
• Spending the night
• Sexual activity as determined by the University
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 262 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Guest Policy
The Guest Policy applies to students hosting off-campus and/or
GCU commuter students in the apartment/dorm during guest
hours. For policy related to having GCU residential students as
guests, please see the Visitation Policy.
Students in campus housing are allowed to have guests in their
apartment or dorm. Students are expected to observe the
following standards:
• Guests are the responsibility of the student who is hosting
them, whether the guest is a GCU commuter student or an off-
campus guest. The actions of the guests are the actions of the
student hosting them. For example, if a student’s guest brings
drugs into the apartment or dorm suite, the student host will
assume all responsibility and sanctions for the violation.
Commuter students are also responsible for the actions of their
non-student guests.
• Guests are required to abide by all the policies and rules of the
University.
• Residents are required to meet their guests at a University gate.
Guests will not be permitted on campus without their student
host present. Guests must be with their student host at all
times.
• Guests, whether off-campus guests or GCU commuter
students, must sign in and out of the Guest Log found at the
RA Desk in the lobby of the halls/apartments and the Hub of
the North Rim Apartments.
• Guests must be at least 15-years old or accompanied by their
parent or legal guardian.
• In all living areas, guests of the opposite sex and/or significant
others are required to stay in the common living area of the
apartment or residence hall suite – they may not enter the
bedroom (except for the Studio Single Occupancy units in
Papago 47). The door to the residence hall suite must be
propped open at 90 degrees for the entirety of the visit.
• Guests must depart all living areas when guest/visitation hours
end.
Overnight Guests in Campus Housing
Students living in campus housing are permitted to have guests
(on or off-campus guests including GCU commuter students)
spend the night with them on campus. Overnight guests must be
of the same sex and not significant others. Overnight guests are
not permitted during these periods: early move-in, Christmas
Break, and spring extension. The same standards for Guest
Privileges (see above) apply to the overnight guest plus these
additional guidelines:
• All overnight guests are required to complete a Guest
Registration Form found at the RA Desk in the lobby of the
living areas and the Hub of the North Rim apartments.
• Overnight guests are only permitted to stay no more than six
(6) nights per semester in campus housing, regardless of which
student they stay with.
• Students are only permitted to have overnight guests no more
than six (6) nights per semester in campus housing.
Hazing
Any and all forms of hazing and initiation are illegal whether
voluntary or involuntary. The University takes very seriously any
alleged forms of hazing and strictly prohibits this behavior.
Hazing includes, but is not limited to:
• All forms of physical activity deemed dangerous or harmful.
• The application of foreign substances to the body.
• Scavenger hunts involving illegal activities, kidnapping, or
ditching a member of the community.
• Depriving students of sleep.
• Not providing decent and edible foods.
• Depriving student’s means of maintaining personal hygiene.
• Forcing, coercing, pressuring, or requiring a student to
consume alcohol, or foreign or unusual amounts of substances.
• Nudity or forcing a student to dress in a degrading manner.
• Psychological hazing: any act which is likely to compromise
the dignity of a student; cause embarrassment or shame to a
student; cause a student to be the object of ridicule or
malicious amusement; or inflict psychological or emotional
harm.
Housing Guidelines
• Any person found using or staying in a room other than the
person expressly designated by the University will be
considered a squatter. Both the host and the student squatting,
if applicable, are subject to pro-rated housing charges and
sanctions.
• Students are not permitted to loan out their keys, fob, or
parking permit to another individual, even if it is a fellow GCU
student.
• Students and/or their guests may not enter/exit a dorm room or
apartment through a window.
• Students may not prop and/or use emergency exits during a
non-emergency as defined by GCU.
• Students are expected to treat others with respect when
discussing future housing assignments, regardless of the form
of communication. This applies to future or potential future
roommate(s), students wanting to move into a specific room,
or students attempting to “save” a bed for a student not
scheduled to be in the room. Violations include, but are not
limited to:
o Repeatedly asking for a move/switch when the initial
request has been declined or ignored.
o Multiple students asking the same student to move.
o Asking for or offering compensation in exchange for a room
move/switch.
o “Bios” listed in housing portal attempting to “save” a bed.
Modesty
Modesty is showing the maturity to act and dress in a manner that
reflects a person’s maturity and faith, does not inhibit an
atmosphere of learning and shows respect and
professionalism. The University chooses not to define what
constitutes modest dress but expects all student to dress
appropriately for a learning and living community.
Inappropriate Language
Students are expected to avoid the use of inappropriate language
(profanity and vulgarity).
Pets
Pets, other than fish or turtles in a small aquarium, are not
allowed in residential facilities or on adjacent grounds.
Aquariums may not be larger than 10 gallons and can be used
only for fish or turtles.
Residents having pets, regardless of ownership, for any length of
time on campus will be subject to disciplinary action.
Pets of visitors are not permitted on campus. The same rules
apply regardless of pet ownership. It is the resident’s
responsibility to make sure guests are aware of the rules and
policies of the University.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 263 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Students who need a service animal should contact the Student
Disability Services Office to arrange for accommodations.
Violating the pet policy may result in prolonging the approval of
an emotional support animal on campus.
Pranks
Participating in any activity on or off campus that threatens and
intimidates and/or endangers the health, physical, or emotional
well-being of a community member; results in damage; malicious
or non-malicious vandalism, or general disregard for University
or private property; or involves a violation of University policy is
strictly prohibited.
Public Displays
Students residing in University housing may not publicly display
signs, banners, flags, posters, or other similar items. Placement of
any displays on the windows is prohibited. Such items may be
placed inside University housing rooms so long as the displays
contain no offensive, demeaning, prohibited, or sexual content.
This includes, but is not limited to, items containing vulgar
language, symbols, obscenities, alcohol, and/or drug related
items. This policy shall be enforced at the discretion of
University staff. Refusal to comply with a staff removal request
and/or multiple violations of this policy may result in being
referred to the Community Standards Process.
Quiet Hours
In all living areas, quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 10:00 AM,
seven days a week.
Roommate Conflict Resolution
GCU has a specific, educationally-minded conflict resolution
process. Students can refer to the website for the most updated
conflict resolution process here:
https://pages.gcu.edu/res/roommate-conflict-resolution.php.
Conflict between suitemates/roommates must be addressed in a
healthy manner and a timely fashion within a 24-48 hour time
period. If an agreement cannot be made without assistance, the
residents should contact their RA. It is expected that all residents
follow the process to address conflict with suitemates.
Complying with the conflict resolution process includes but is not
limited to:
• Full participation in any mediation, which includes:
o Completing the roommate agreement.
o Coming prepared to briefly discuss (in 5 minutes or less)
what has brought them to the conflict resolution meeting and
what their needs and interests are in the conflict
o Coming prepared with solutions for the conflicts being
discussed and displaying flexibility/willingness to
compromise
o Complying with action items created at any step in the
mediation process while living in assigned room
o Willingness to practice action items for allotted time as
determined by Resident Director
• Communicate honestly and promptly (within 24 hours) about
roommate conflict with all parties involved
(roommates/suitemates, Resident Assistant, and/or Resident
Director)
• Respond within 24-48 hours to a Resident Assistant or
Resident Director communication regarding roommate conflict
(via face-to-face communication, phone, and/or GCU email)
At any time, Residence Life reserves the right to relocate a
student as deemed necessary. If a student is found to be a
participant in repeated roommate conflict or causes disruption to
the community due to conflict(s), the student may be asked, at the
sole discretion of Residence Life, to move off-campus without
reimbursement of housing expenses.
Smoking and Smoking Devices
While smoking (e.g., cigarettes) and using e-cigerattes/vapes are
permitted in designated areas on campus, tobacco smoking
products and e-cigarettes/vapes are not permitted inside campus
living areas. Also not permitted are e-cigarette/vape accessories,
including but not limited to, juices, chargers, and cartridges.
Theft and Vandalism
Attempted or actual theft of and/or damage to University
property or other personal or public property will be considered a
violation of the Community Standards. While taken on a case-by-
case basis, students will be held regardless of intent (e.g., golf
cart joyrides). Found items are expected to be immediately turned
over to the University.
Weapons
Weapons as defined by GCU’s Weapons-Free Campus Policy
and hazardous materials are not allowed on campus. Banned
weapons include, but are not limited to, firearms, live
ammunition, BB guns, water-balloon launchers, paintball guns,
airsoft guns, bows and arrows, blowguns and hunting or pocket
knives longer than four inches when open. Personal tasers that do
not shoot probes and reasonable amounts of pepper spray are
permitted.
Wheeled Devices
GCU students using “Wheeled Devices” on campus are expected
to do so in a safe and responsible manner, consistent with good
judgment and common sense. Every person operating a
“Motorized Wheeled Device” shall be granted the rights and be
subject to the duties of applicable state regulations and city traffic
codes (including Phoenix City Code § 36-64), except regarding
specific requirements or GCU-specific policy identified herein.
“Non-Motorized Wheeled Devices” shall follow pedestrian rules
for traffic flow and safety in accordance with applicable state and
local regulations.
Non-Motorized Wheeled Devices are single-rider, recreational
transportation devices such as bicycles, skateboards, inline
skates, scooters, and other self-propelled or human powered
devices, designed and used for personal transportation purposes
on campus. Motorized Wheeled Devices are electric-powered,
single-rider, recreational transportation devices that includes e-
bicycles, e-scooters, e-skateboards, hoverboards, OneWheel™,
Segways™ or similar motorized wheeled conveyances. Wheeled
Devices include Non-Motorized and Motorized Devices and
excludes motor vehicles intended for public roadways that
require a license to operate or registration under local law (e.g.,
cars/trucks, motorcycles, mopeds, golf carts, etc.). Wheeled
Pedestrians is defined as any person riding a Wheeled Device
designed and intended to carry a single passenger. Devices not
prescribed by a provider are subject to the outlined rules herein
and supporting documentation of disability need may be required
to be provided to the Student Disability Services Office.
The expectation for safe and responsible use of Wheeled Devices
on campus requires the exercise of due care under the
circumstances and adjusting or refraining from use in light of
circumstances and surroundings (e.g., at night, during inclement
weather, where pedestrian traffic is narrowed or elevated, etc.);
refraining from use of Wheeled Devices when impaired/under the
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 264 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
influence; and ensuring appropriate parking/storing of Wheeled
Devices in a manner that does not obstruct or impede pedestrian
traffic, building access or otherwise create a safety hazard.
Wheeled Devices: Operating on Campus
1. Motor vehicles, or any self-propelled vehicle intended for use
on public roadways that requires a State-issued license plate, is
prohibited on pedestrian walkways and campus pathways not
intended for motor vehicles (e.g., cars/trucks, SUVs,
motorcycles, mopeds, etc.). Only University owned or
authorized golf carts are permitted on GCU properties.
2. Wheeled Devices, which have the capability of utilizing fossil
fuels to function, are prohibited.
3. Pedestrian only (No Wheeled Devices) pathways include
Lopes Way, Colter Circle (behind Papago Apartments), the
Little Canyon Bridge (located near the Mail Center), the
pathway in front (north side) of the Global Credit Union Arena
and Havoc House, and any other areas in which funneling of
the roadway or elevated foot traffic increases the risk of
collision.
4. Wheeled Pedestrians in a roadway are subject to the same
traffic rules and are to move in the same direction on the same
side of the street as the flow of traffic, exercising due care
when passing stationary or moving objects.
5. Wheeled Pedestrians must always yield to pedestrians. When
in a roadway, they must yield to vehicles.
6. Wheeled Pedestrians shall not ride in GCU parking structures,
including the ground floor.
7. Wheeled Pedestrians shall not ride in a configuration of more
than two persons, side-by-side, moving in the same direction.
8. Wheeled Pedestrians shall not attach themselves to any other
moving vehicle or device, including other Wheeled
Pedestrians.
9. Passengers on Wheeled Devices are prohibited.
10. Wheeled Devices shall be operated based on manufacturers
recommendations for safe operation (e.g., no person shall
carry packages, bundles, or articles which prevent the rider
from keeping at least one free hand on the e-scooter or e-
bicycle handlebars or the e-skateboard remote).
11. Every Motorized Wheeled Device, if used on campus from
dusk until dawn, shall be equipped with white lamps visible
at least 200 feet in the direction they are traveling and red
lights in the rear at least 100 feet behind it.
12. Every Motorized Wheeled Device shall be equipped with a
brake which will enable the operator to make a braked wheel-
skid on dry, level, clean pavement.
13. Persons under the age of 18, operating a Motorized Wheeled
Device, shall wear a protective helmet on their head in an
appropriate and safe manner, while in motion.
14. No person shall operate a Wheeled Device faster than the
posted speed limit (if less than 15 miles per hour), at a speed
faster than 15 miles per hour, or at a speed faster than that
which is reasonable and prudent under the existing
circumstances.
15. A person riding a Motorized Wheeled Device on a roadway
shall obey the instruction of traffic control signals, signs,
barricades, and other control devices applicable to vehicles,
unless otherwise directed by GCU’s Public Safety personnel
or City of Phoenix Fire or Police.
16. Students are solely responsible for injury to themselves or
others and any property damage, incurred by, or resulting
from, students’ use of Wheeled Devices on campus.
Wheels: Parking and Storage on Campus
1. Riders shall only park their Wheeled Devices in the designated
parking/storage locations, a roadway, in a green way, or
against a structure, in a manner which provides the least
obstruction to pedestrians. There are storage racks located
throughout campus which should be used prior to considering
other parking/storage locations.
2. No person shall attach their Wheeled Devices to a tree.
3. Wheeled Devices which have not been tested and approved by
Underwriters Laboratory (UL) may not be stored or charged in
residence halls.
4. No person shall park their Wheeled Devices in an ADA
accessible route or pathway which includes railing, slope, or
surface designed to accommodate the disabled.
5. If Wheeled Devices are parked in an unauthorized area, locks
may be removed, at no cost to GCU.
Grand Canyon University assumes no legal responsibility or
liability for any theft, loss of property, vandalism, accidents or
damages while the Wheeled Devices is on any university-
controlled property. Anyone who operates a Wheeled Device on
Grand Canyon University campus or properties under its control
for educational or residential purposes agrees to:
• Protect and hold harmless the university, its students, officers
and employees, from all claims of injuries to persons or
damages to property resulting from operation of Wheeled
Device.
• The University is not responsible for the loss, theft, or damage
of Wheeled Devices.
• It is a violation of GCU policy for any Wheeled Pedestrian’s
refusal to answer or fail to state the person’s true full name and
date of birth at the request of Public Safety personnel.
Failure to abide by the requirements of this policy may result in
revocation of the privilege of using Wheeled Devices on campus,
temporary confiscation/impoundment of Wheeled Devices will
be referred to the University’s Code of Conduct process, in
addition to sanctions that may be imposed by law enforcement or
other governmental agencies.
Community Standards Process
As a Christian University, GCU strives to offer loving
accountability and to be redemptive in its approach to students
who have violated the Community Standards. Every situation is
handled on a case-by-case basis. The Dean of Students or
designee may expedite and refer serious violations to the Code of
Conduct Committee for suspension or expulsion from the
University.
Community Standards Process Overview
The Community Standards Process abides by the following:
• Students going through the Community Standards Process can
be referred to one of a number of different processes. The
Director of Community Standards or designee will determine
which process is appropriate for the student. Depending on the
situation, the Department of Community Standards reserves
the right to refer the incident to a Hearing Board, even in the
middle of using a different process.
• The Director of Community Standards or designee will
develop policies for the administration of various conduct
processes that are consistent with the provisions of the
Community Standards Process.
• Students will be notified of the date, time, and place of their
meeting through email least 24 hours prior to the meeting. The
Department reserves the right to expedite the process as
needed.
• The Community Standards Process will not be delayed by
breaks in the academic calendar (e.g., Christmas Break, Spring
Break). Students are expected to participate.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 265 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Email communication to students will only be to their GCU
student email address. Emails sent to such email address will
be presumed to have been received and read by the student.
Any courtesy text notification will be sent to the phone number
provided to GCU.
• Meetings are generally scheduled based on the student’s class
schedule and during regular business hours.
• The Director of Community Standards or designee will
determine the composition of any Student-led Community
Conferences and Hearing Boards. Any student serving on these
is bound by a strict confidentiality agreement.
• Students are not permitted to be accompanied by third parties
(e.g., parents, legal guardians, attorneys) and may not
document the meeting or hearing by the use of a recording
device. This applies to virtual meetings as well.
• If a student fails to appear for their scheduled meeting, the
absent student will be given the same sanctions as other
students who were involved in the same or similar incident.
• The decision to hold a student responsible for violating a
Community Standard is made on the basis of whether it is
more likely than not that the student committed the violation.
• The technical rules of evidence, process, and procedure used in
a civil or criminal court will not apply.
• Decisions made during the Community Standards Process will
be final, pending the normal appeal process.
• Any question of interpretation or application of the
Community Standards and the Community Standards Process
will be referred to the Dean of Students or designee for final
determination.
The University does not discriminate based on disability in the
course of administering discipline. A student with a disability
who is subject to disciplinary proceedings may request an
accommodation for their disability and the University will engage
in the interactive process upon such a request.
• To receive accommodations through the University, students
are required to self-identify by completing the Accommodation
Request Form and provide supporting documentation to
Student Disability Services. Only the SDS Office can approve
accommodations.
o Students can submit the accommodation request form at
https://sds.gcu.edu or in person in the SDS office.
o Supporting documentation can be submitted via email to
[email protected] or submitted through the link
while completing the Accommodation Request Form.
• All requests for disability accommodations in student
disciplinary proceedings are subject to an individualized
determination. Whether such a request is reasonable and/or
would be a fundamental alteration of the University’s
disciplinary policies is determined on a case-by-case basis after
evaluation of appropriate documentation.
• Students should refer to the Steps to Accommodations policy
for the appropriate steps and documentation requirements.
To allow the SDS Office sufficient time for processing, requests
for disability accommodations in any disciplinary process should
be submitted immediately upon receipt of notification from the
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Community Standards Decision Process
Students who may have violated a Community Standard will be
referred to one of the following processes:
• Meet with a Resident Director (RD).
• Go through the visitation violation process for first, second,
and as needed, third visitation violations.
• The student will generally be emailed their sanctions for
these violations. This is due to their minor nature.
• The student may make an appointment with the Department
of Community Standards to discuss the incident and
sanctions. This must be done within 72 hours after the
sanction letter is emailed.
• If necessary, due to multiple and/or escalated violations, the
student will be required to meet with Community Standards
staff.
• Meet with a student-led Community Conference.
• Participate in a group meeting.
• For incidents involving multiple individuals, students could
be required to meet with a group of other students.
• An example of this includes, but is not limited to, student
failing to evacuate during a fire drill.
• Meet with Community Standards staff.
• Prior to the first scheduled meeting, students may request a
reschedule. Reschedules are not guaranteed and are at the
sole discretion of the Department.
• Meet with the Hearing Board.
• Hearings are not scheduled around a student’s class
schedule. No shows will not be rescheduled.
• Students who choose to not attend may submit a written
statement prior to their scheduled hearing.
• The University will record the hearing and the recording
will be University property.
• Students are introduced to the Board members and informed
of the hearing’s agenda. The students will then have a
chance to speak about the incident, give their account for the
incident, and accept or deny responsibility for the incident.
• Students then will be asked any pertinent questions that the
Board may have.
• Before the student is dismissed, the student is informed of a
timeline when they can expect to hear the Board’s decision
and to meet with staff for a follow-up meeting to receive
their sanction letter, if applicable.
• Students who fail to attend their Hearing will be emailed
their sanction letter, if applicable.
• Meet with the Code of Conduct Committee.
• If the Department of Community Standards deems it
appropriate based on the circumstances, a student can be
referred to the Code of Conduct Committee for suspension
or expulsion from the University.
• The referral may or may not result from meeting with the
Hearing Board.
Third Party Involvement
The Department of Community Standards will only communicate
with the student of record involved in an incident. Third parties
(e.g. parents, friends, roommates, significant others, reporting
parties) will not be communicated with, with the exception of
what is required by law and/or allowed University policy. The
student involved is solely responsible for their own
communication throughout the Community Standards Process.
• Parents will only receive notification of a violation if their
student is under 21 and held responsible for violating the
alcohol or drug policy. Any further questions will be directed
to the student involved.
• If a third party reports a violation, there will be no follow up
with the third party regarding the investigation, findings,
decisions, or sanctions another student is or is not held to.
• The University will comply with any and all legal
requirements such as a subpoena of information.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 266 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Interim Actions
Under the University Policy Handbook, the Department of
Community Standards or designee may impose non-academic
restrictions on students pending a meeting with the Department
and/or Code of Conduct. Interim actions will be taken based on
the information available at the time. Reasons for the University
taking interim action against a student include, but are not limited
to, when a student represents a threat to health, safety, or
property; is facing allegations of serious criminal activity; to
preserve the integrity of an investigation; and/or to prevent
disruption of, or interference with, the normal operations of the
University. At any point in the process, interim action may be
taken and will remain in place until it is determined it is no
longer necessary. A final decision, which may reinstate the
student or result in more on-going separation statuses, will be
made when the student goes through the relevant process. Every
effort will be made to have the process proceed with the shortest
amount of time possible.
Possible interim actions include, but are not limited to,
• Limitation of privileges. Students with limited privileges are
still permitted to live on campus and attend class.
• Housing reassignment. Students temporarily re-assigned to
another room on campus must surrender their original key or
be subject to a rekey fine.
• Housing removal. Students removed from University housing
as an interim action will be given a specified amount of time to
pack items from their room (for typically one to two weeks)
and be required to find an off-campus option to reside in
during the interim period.
• Interim restriction. In addition to a housing removal, students
on an interim restriction are only permitted to attend their
registered class and be on University property 15 minutes
before and 15 minutes after their registered class. Access to
University events or being on University property is otherwise
restricted.
Violations of interim actions may result in a referral to the Code
of Conduct for suspension or expulsion from the University.
Appeals of Sanctions
Appeals of sanctions assigned during the Community Standards
Process are only accepted within 72 hours of when the student is
informed of the decision in writing. Appeals are not accepted
after this time. There are only two levels of appeals, with the
second being the final level.
Appeals will only be accepted for the following reasons:
• There was a procedural error in the Community Standards
Process that unfairly and materially affected the outcome of
the decision.
• Evidence has been discovered that was not reasonably
available at the time of the meeting.
• The sanctions that were assigned were substantially
disproportionate to similar violations.
If a student wishes to appeal sanctions, the link is found in the
sanction letter.
Reason for
Appeal
Time to
Appeal
1st Appeal
Level
2nd
Appeal
Level
Visitation
Violation
Process
72 hours Community
Standards
Staff or
designee
Director of
Community
Standards
or designee
Community
Standards
staff/ RD
decision
72 hours Res. Life
Mgr. or
designee
Dean of
Students or
designee
Group Meeting
72 hours Res. Life
Mgr. or
designee
Dean of
Students or
designee
Hearing Board
72 hours Res. Life
Mgr. or
designee
Dean of
Students or
designee
Fine/charge
given by Dept.
of Residence
Life
30 days Residence
Life Appeals
Committee
Residence
Life
Manager or
designee
Falsifying Sanctions
Falsifying, manipulating, or plagiarizing any sanction assigned
by the Department of Community Standards may result in
additional sanctions including, but not limited to, resubmitting
corrected sanctions, automatic escalation to “Level 2” sanctions,
removal from Campus Housing, and/or referral to Code of
Conduct.
Students who Fail to Complete Sanctions
Students generally have up to four (4) weeks to complete their
assigned sanctions. Based on the type of violation and sanction,
dates for completion may be expedited and assigned to be due
earlier than the standard four (4) weeks (e.g., housing removal).
If a student fails to complete an assigned sanction by the given
deadline as outlined in the sanction letter, additional (Level 2)
sanctions will be assigned and holds will be placed on the
student’s academic and housing accounts. These additional
sanctions may include: a fine, and sanctions that are focused on
the student’s knowledge, wellbeing, reflection, and restoration.
The academic and housing holds will remain on the student’s
account until all sanctions (initial and any additional) are
satisfactorily completed and received by the Department of
Community Standards. Making changes to a student’s schedule
or their ability to choose housing will not be permitted until the
sanctions have been completed.
Students Who Seek Retaliation
Students who seek retaliation as a result of going through the
Community Standards Process may be considered in violation
and receive additional consequences.
Abuse of the Community Standards Process
Abuse of the Community Standards Process is strictly prohibited
and includes, but is not limited to:
• Failure to obey the notice to attend a meeting as part of the
Community Standards Process.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 267 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information
before a Community Standards staff/Board or Residence Life
staff member.
• Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of the
Student Conduct Process.
• Attempting to discourage an individual’s proper participating
in, or use of, the Community STandards Process.
• Harassment (verbal, physical, social media) and/or
intimidation of a member of a Community Standards prior to,
during, and/or after a Community Standards meeting.
Sanctions for Violations
Every situation is handled on a case-by-case basis. The sanctions
assigned are generally focused on the student’s knowledge,
wellbeing, reflection, and restoration. Sanctions can be enhanced
all the way up through being relocated to a different housing
assignment, banned from housing and/or, if the Department of
Community Standards deems it appropriate based on the
circumstances, being referred to the Code of Conduct Committee
for suspension or expulsion from the University. If a student is
held to multiple violations in a short timeframe as determined by
the Department, sanctions can be escalated to possible removal of
housing or referral to Code of Conduct for possible suspension or
expulsion.
In situations resulting in a removal or ban from campus housing,
students will be given 72 hours to move out of their room with
their belongings. Extensions are not given for the move-out
deadline, even for a pending appeal. In serious situations, the
deadline for moving out will be the same day. Students who lose
housing are still financially responsible for the fees associated
with the housing cancellation deadlines.Re-entry to campus
housing following a housing removal is possible with pre-
conditions that may include, but are not limited to, meeting with
the Department and completing sanctions that are focused on the
student’s knowledge, wellbeing, reflection, and restoration.
Housing bans are permanent.
The following are examples of sample sanctions that may be
given to the student found to have violated the Community
Standards.
Alcohol
Being under the influence of alcohol does not diminish or excuse
a violation to the Community Standards. Every situation
involving a violation to the alcohol policy is handled on a case-
by-case basis. Sanctions can be expedited and escalated based on
the severity of the incident (e.g., number of people involved,
amount of alcohol present) and any prior drug violations to
include removal from housing and referral to Code of Conduct
for suspension or expulsion from the University. Unclaimed
alcohol in a room can lead to all who live in the room being held
responsible. Students who are held to two alcohol and two
marijuana violations will be removed from housing.
First Violation
In addition to legal consequences, sanctions may include, but are
not limited to:
• Sanctions that are focused on the student’s knowledge,
wellbeing, reflection, and restoration.
• Parental notification if student is under the age of 21
Second Violation
In addition to legal consequences, sanctions may include, but are
not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine
• Parental notification if student is under the age of 21.
Third Violation
In addition to legal consequences, sanctions may include, but are
not limited to:
• The student will lose campus housing privileges and will be
prohibited from all residential areas on campus.
• Parental notification if student is under the age of 21.
• Any additional violations may result in being referred to the
Code of Conduct Committee for suspension or expulsion from
the University.
Driving Under the Influence
In addition to legal consequences, any student found to be driving
under the influence will result in an alcohol violation and may
result in increased and accelerated sanctions, which may include
loss of housing and/or referral to Code of Conduct for suspension
or expulsion from the University.
Providing Alcohol to those Underage
In addition to being held to an alcohol violation, any student
providing alcohol to underage students may receive increased
sanctions up to, and including, loss of housing and/or referral to
Code of Conduct.
Businesses and Organizations on Campus
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine.
• Removal from housing.
• Referral to Code of Conduct for suspension or expulsion from
the University.
Civility and Respect
In addition to legal consequences, sanctions may include, but are
not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine.
• Written warning.
• Relocation to a different room.
• Loss of campus housing.
• Potential referral to Code of Conduct Committee for
suspension or expulsion from the University.
Physical Violence/One-on-One Fight
In addition to legal and/or criminal consequences, sanctions may
include, but are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine.
• Relocation
• Removal from Housing
• Possible recommendation to the Code of Conduct Committee
for suspension or expulsion from the University.
Extreme Physical Fight
This applies to students involved in an extreme physical fight
which includes, but is not limited to, multiple people vs. one
person fight and hate crimes. In addition to legal consequences,
sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 268 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• Sanctions focused on student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine
• Removal or ban from campus housing.
• Referral to the Code of Conduct Committee for suspension for
expulsion from the University.
Disorderly Conduct
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine.
• Relocation to a different room.
• Removal from campus housing
• Possible referral to the Code of Conduct for suspension or
expulsion from the University.
Disruption
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine.
• Relocation to a different room.
• Removal from campus housing
• Possible referral to the Code of Conduct for suspension or
expulsion from the University.
Drugs
Being under the influence of drugs does not diminish or excuse a
violation to the Community Standards. Every situation involving
a violation to the drug policy is handled on a case-by-case basis.
Sanctions can be expedited and escalated based on the severity of
the incident (e.g. number of people involved, amount of drugs
present) and any prior alcohol violations to include removal from
housing and referral to Code of Conduct for suspension or
expulsion from the University. Unclaimed drugs in a room can
lead to all who live in the room being held responsible. Students
who are held to two alcohol and two marijuana violations will be
removed from housing.
Selling/Distribution of Illegal and Un-prescribed Drugs
In addition to legal consequences, sanctions include, but are not
limited to:
• Student will be immediately removed from campus housing.
• Student will be referred to Code of Conduct for suspension or
expulsion from the University.
Marijuana: First Violation
In addition to legal consequences, sanctions may include, but are
not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Parental notification if student is under the age of 21.
Marijuana: Second Violation
In addition to legal consequences, sanctions may include, but are
not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine.
• Parental notification if student is under the age of 21.
Marijuana: Third Violation
In addition to legal consequences, sanctions may include, but are
not limited to:
• The student will lose campus housing privileges and will be
prohibited from all residential areas on campus.
• Parental notification if student is under the age of 21.
• Possible referral to the Code of Conduct Committee for
suspension from the University.
• Any additional violations may result in being referred to the
Code of Conduct Committee for suspension or expulsion from
the University.
Non-Marijuana Drug Violation
Due to the wide variety of possible violations to the Drug Policy,
the Department of Community Standards will take these
violations on a case-by-case basis. In addition to legal
consequences, sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Parental notification if student is under the age of 21.
• Removal or ban from campus housing and being prohibited
from all residential areas on campus.
• Referral to the Code of Conduct Committee for suspension or
expulsion from the University.
Failure to Comply
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine
• Loss of privileges.
• Relocation to a different room.
• Removal from campus housing
• Possible referral to the Code of Conduct Committee for
suspension or expulsion from the University
Failure to Identify and Misuse of Identification
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine
• Removal from campus housing.
• Referral to the Code of Conduct Committee for suspension or
expulsion from the University.
Falsification of Information
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• For sanctions that are falsified, additional sanctions may be
assigned up to and including referral to Code of Conduct for
suspension or expulsion from the University.
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine.
• Removal from campus housing.
• Possible referral to the Code of Conduct Committee for
suspension or expulsion from the University.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 269 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Fire and Fire Alarms
For the following violations, sanctions may include, but are not
limited to:
• Starting a fire: fine, cost of damages, and/or removal from
housing and referral to Code of Conduct for suspenson or
expulsion from the University.
• Tampering with fire system: $250 fine; sanctions focused on
the student’s knowledge, wellbeing, reflection, and restoration;
and/or removal from campus housing.
• Failure to evacuate: sanctions focused on the student’s
knowledge, wellbeing, reflection, and restoration; $250-400
fine; and/or removal from campus housing.
• Prohibited items found in room where alarm was triggered:
$250-500 fine; sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge,
wellbeing, reflection, and restoration; and/or removal from
campus housing.
General Safety
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine
• Removal from campus housing.
• Referral to the Code of Conduct Committee for suspension or
expulsion from the University.
Guest Privileges
Visitation Policy
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• 1st violation: Recorded incident.
• 2nd violation: Community Standards Class.
• 3rd violation: Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge,
wellbeing, reflection, and restoration.
• 4th violation: Meet with Community Standards staff and
receive sanctions that may include but not limited to:
o Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
o Loss of visitation privileges.
• 5th violation: Loss of visitation privileges and possible removal
from campus housing.
• 6th violation: Removal from housing.
Intent to spend the night, sexual activity, or any visitation
significantly past hall hours will result in an escalation of
violations. If student has not previously been held responsible for
a visitation violation, this will escalate to a third violation. If
student has previously been held responsible for a visitation
violation, student will be escalated two levels. For example, a
student who has one visitation violation and spends the night will
be held to a third violation.
Guest Policy
Violations of the Guest Policy may result in sanctions focused on
the student’s knowledge, wellbeing, reflection, and restoration,
and a fine to the student’s account.
Guest-Overnight in Campus Housing
Violations of the Overnight-Guest Policy may result in sanctions
focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing, reflection, and
restoration, and a fine to the student’s account.
Hazing
Sanctions for hazing include, but are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine
• Possible removal from campus housing.
• Possible referral to Code of Conduct Committee for suspension
or expulsion from the University.
Housing Guidelines
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Cancellation of housing booking.
• Possible removal from campus housing.
• Possible referral to the Code of Conduct Committee for
suspension or expulsion from the University.
• Fine up to the pro-rated charge for semester housing.
Pets
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine plus damages.
• Referral to Code of Conduct.
Pranks
Sanctions may include but are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine and/or damages.
• Possible removal from campus housing
• Possible referral to Code of Conduct Committee for suspension
or expulsion from the University.
Public Displays
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• Public display will need to be removed.
• See “Failure to Comply” section in sanctions for conduct
violations.
Roommate Conflict Resolution
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Written warning.
• Fine.
• Relocation to a different room.
• Removal from campus housing.
Smoking and Smoking Devices
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• Confiscation and destruction of prohibited item and related
paraphernalia by Public Safety.
• Warning.
• Fine.
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• At the sole discretion of the Community Standards staff these
items may be viewed as drug paraphernalia and treated as
such. (See Drug Policy).
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 270 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Theft and Vandalism
In addition to legal consequences the sanctions may include, but
are not limited to:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Fine.
• Repayment of stolen and/or damaged goods.
• Possible removal from campus housing.
• The student may be referred to Code of Conduct Committee
for suspension or expulsion from the University.
• Any additional offenses may result in being referred to Code of
Conduct for suspension or expulsion from the University.
Weapons
Students possessing weapons on campus in violation of GCU’s
Weapons-Free Campus Policy may face sanctions up to and
including referral to Code of Conduct and/or the Threat
Assessment Team for possible suspension or expulsion from the
University. Students possessing a firearm on campus are subject
to immediate expulsion from the University.
Violation of the Weapons Policy (non-firearm) may result in:
• Sanctions focused on the student’s knowledge, wellbeing,
reflection, and restoration.
• Warning.
• Fine.
• Confiscation of weapon or ammunition.
Behavioral Intervention and
Threat Assessment
The University’s Behavioral Intervention and Threat Assessment
Teams are dedicated to a proactive and coordinated approach to
the identification, prevention, assessment, management, and
reduction of interpersonal and behavioral threats, in order to
support student success and to assist in protecting the health,
safety, and welfare of the GCU community. The teams are
comprised of University personnel with expertise in law
enforcement, threat assessment, University policy and
compliance, mental health knowledge, disability laws, and
student affairs.
Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT)
BIT utilizes various reporting methods to gather information
regarding concerning or disruptive behaviors, including but not
limited to Wellness Checks, staff and faculty reporting, and
incidents that are reported through the GCU Residence Life or
Public Safety offices. The reports are reviewed in conjunction
with the student’s academic and conduct history to determine an
appropriate response and intervention. Based on the reports, BIT
may:
• Perform initial assessment of risk and develop a support plan,
within existing University policies, to promote student well-
being and success.
• Coordinate follow-up with the student to ensure compliance
with recommended or required support and resources.
• Monitor for ongoing concerning or disruptive behaviors to
gauge whether additional follow-up is needed.
• Refer the student to the University Community Standards
Process if the student’s behavior has violated any rules,
policies or procedures.
The team may utilize a crisis line or mobile unit to efficiently
determine the student’s current risk to self or others, which may
include a clinical recommendation for the appropriate level of
treatment or working with the student to develop a safety plan.
Threat Assessment Team (TAT)
Reports of harmful, escalating, or threatening behavior are
reviewed by the Threat Assessment Team, including, but not
limited to:
• Individuals in the enrollment process: Disciplinary or
behavioral concerns in misalignment with the University
mission and standards of conduct may be reviewed in order to
assess suitability for admission.
• Student behavior that may pose an apparent danger to the
health or safety of members of the University community or
the public or involves serious disruption of normal University
operations.
• Weapons or firearms on campus: Students possessing a firearm
on campus are subject to immediate expulsion from the
University, and the expulsion is not subject to appeal. Law
Enforcement Officers, on or off duty, are exempt from this
provision.
• Other situations as deemed appropriate by University officials.
Emergency Mental Health Policy
There are limits to the University’s ability to care for students
with serious psychological conditions and the University reserves
the right to decide, in certain circumstances, when it cannot
provide educational and/or other services to a particular student
who creates an emergency situation. In emergency situations, the
University reserves the right to do any or all of the following:
• Consult with the student and refer her/him to a GCU-Approved
mental healthcare facility or provider (GCU Counseling
Services, an area hospital, licensed mental health or healthcare
professional, or Urgent Psychiatric Care Center) for a mental
health evaluation. The cost for any off-campus referral will be
at the expense of the student.
• In a non-emergency situation, if a student experiences serious
psychological difficulties that become chronic, dangerous, or
excessively disruptive the student may require to be assessed
by a GCU-Approved Mental Health Provider.
If the Threat Assessment Team determines a student is ineligible
to return to campus housing, upon request, GCU will refund
prorated housing costs for the time the student is not permitted to
live in the residential facilities. On a case-by-case basis, Student
Disability Services will work with the student and faculty to offer
the student the ability to continue in his or her Traditional
campus classes online, where available, at no additional cost. If
the student is enrolled in classes which are not available online,
the student will be dropped from the course(s) and the student
may submit an appeal to receive a refund for the portion of the
class(es) not completed.
Emergency Contact
GCU will attempt to notify the student’s Emergency Contact if
required.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 271 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Glossary The following is a glossary of commonly used terms:
Borrower-based Academic Year: A financial aid year based on each student’s enrollment. The year for undergraduate programs is defined
as a minimum of 24 earned credits and 30 instructional weeks. The academic year for graduate programs is defined as a minimum of 16
earned credits and 32 instructional weeks. The academic year for doctoral programs is defined as a minimum of 12 earned credits and 32
instructional weeks. All nontraditional students use this type of financial aid year.
Doctoral student: A learner who is currently taking courses that has not yet earned a doctoral degree, but already holds a master’s degree.
Enrollment: A student’s program of study
Enrollment Cumulative GPA: GPA earned on a program of study or enrollment
Masters student: A student who is currently taking courses that has not yet earned a master’s degree, but already holds a baccalaureate
degree.
Nontraditional Student: Any student who is not attending campus courses. This includes online and professional studies students.
Satisfactory Academic Progress: Students are required to maintain two measurements of satisfactory academic program, GPA and %
progression as measured by attempted versus completed courses. If either of these are not maintained, a student is said to not be making
satisfactory academic progress.
Semester-based Academic Year: A financial aid year based on terms, specifically the semester. All traditional campus students use this type
of financial aid year.
Traditional Campus Student: Any student who is taking courses on GCU’s traditional campus.
Undergraduate Student: A student who is currently taking courses that has not yet earned a baccalaureate degree.
Unencumbered license: A license that is in good standing. The formal rule definition is that " 'good standing' " means that the license or
certificate is not presently subject to any disciplinary action, consent order, or settlement agreement". This means that the nurse is not under
current discipline (does not include Decree of Censure as once the nurse signs, the decree is in the past). Would not include "under
investigation" because there is no PRESENT disciplinary action--may be one in the future but not in the present.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 272 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Appendix A
Dissertation Milestone Table
Review Levels
and Final
Approval
Learner Submitted
Document(s) for Review
GCU
Dissertation
Form Required
Reviewing
and/or
Approval
Authority
Optimal
Progression
Point
Minimum
Progression
Point
Level 1 Review:
Prospectus
Review and
Recommendation
• 10 Strategic Points
• Research Prospectus
No Form
Required, just
consensus with
committee.
Chair and
Methodologist
RES-885
PSY-825
RES-871
DIS-955
PSY-955
DBA-955
TLC-955
PCE-955
DHA-955
Level 2: Proposal
Review and
Recommendation
by Academic
Quality Review
(AQR) Reviewer
for Proposal
Defense
Conference Call
• Committee Reviewed
Dissertation Proposal
(Chapters 1-3) with
Scored Criteria
Tables
No Form: Email
sent with AQR
Reviewer’s
approval for
Defense Call
Chair loads
required
documents to
initiate this
review.
Dissertation
Committee
AQR Reviewer
DIS-955
PSY-955
DBA-955
TLC-955
PCE-955
DHA-955
DIS-969E
PSY-969E
DBA-969E
TLC-969
PCE-969
DHA-969
Level 3 Review:
Proposal Defense
and Dissertation
Committee
Approval of
Proposal
• Level 2 AQR
Approved
Dissertation Proposal
(Chapters 1-3)
• Updated 10 Strategic
Points document
• Dissertation Proposal
PowerPoint
Presentation for
Defense Call
D-35 - AQR
Dissertation
Proposal
Approval
Dissertation
Committee
DIS-960
PSY-960
DBA-960
TLC-960
PCE-960
DHA-960
DIS-969E
PSY-969E
DBA-969E
TLC-969
PCE-969
DHA-969
Level 4 Review:
Institutional
Review Board
(IRB) Review
and Approval
• Completed GCU D-
35 Form
• Approved Research
Prospectus
• Updated 10 Strategic
Points document
• Committee Approved
Dissertation Proposal
(Chapters 1-3) Clean
Copy
• Data Collection
Instruments
• Site Approvals
• Final IRB documents
(updated from Level
2/3 reviews by the
Learner/approved by
Chair if applicable)
D-50 – Approval
to Conduct
Research
IRB Director
Learner loads
required
documents into
IRB system.
Chair approves
and submits
documents from
IRB system to
initiate this
review.
DIS-960
PSY-960
DBA-960
TLC-960
PCE-960
DHA-960
DIS-970E
PSY-970E
DBA-970E
TLC-970
PCE-970
DHA-970
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 273 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Review Levels
and Final
Approval
Learner Submitted
Document(s) for Review
GCU
Dissertation
Form Required
Reviewing
and/or
Approval
Authority
Optimal
Progression
Point
Minimum
Progression
Point
Level 5 Review:
AQR Review of
Dissertation
Manuscript
• Committee Reviewed
Dissertation
Manuscript (Chapters
1-5) with Scored
Criteria Tables
No Form Chair loads
required
documents to
initiate this
review.
Dissertation
Committee
AQR Reviewer
DIS-960
PSY-960
DBA-960
TLC-960
PCE-960
DHA-90
DIS-973E
PSY-973E
DBA-973E
TLC-973
PCE-973
DHA-973
Level 6 Review:
Dissertation
Review and
Recommendation
by Full
Committee for
Level 7 Review
• Level 5 AQR
Approved
Dissertation
Manuscript (Chapters
1-5)
• Dissertation
PowerPoint
Presentation
D-65 – AQR
Dissertation
Defense
Approval
Dissertation
Committee
DIS-965
PSY-965
DBA-965
TLC-965
PCE-965
DHA-965
DIS-974E
PSY-974E
DBA-974E
TLC-974
PCE-974
DHA-974
Level 7 Review:
Form/ Format
Review &
Approval
Recommendation
of Dissertation
for Level 8
Review
• Committee and AQR
Approved)
Dissertation with all
final editing and
revisions from
Dissertation Defense
completed and
approved by Chair
• Form and Format
Checklist Completed
by Learner and
Reviewed/Signed by
Chair
• IRB Closeout Form
D-75 – Form and
Format Approval
of Dissertation
Chair loads
required
documents to
initiate this
review.
Form & Format
Reviewer
DIS-965
PSY-965
DBA-965
TLC-965
PCE-965
DHA-965
DIS-974E
PSY-974E
DBA-974E
TLC-974
PCE-974
DHA-974
Level 8 Review:
Dean’s and Final
Approval of
Dissertation
• Final Dissertation
Manuscript for
Dean’s Approval and
Signature
D-80 – Final
Approval and
Dean’s Signature
on Manuscript
Chair submits
required
documents for
Dean’s Review
to initiate this
review
Dean, College of
Doctoral Studies
Director, Office
of Academic
Research
DIS-965
PSY-965
DBA-965
TLC-965
PCE-965
DHA-965
Or After courses
completed.
DIS-974E
PSY-974E
DBA-974E
TLC-974
PCE-974
DHA-974
Or After courses
completed.
ProQuest
Publication &
Library Archive
• PDF of Dean Signed
Dissertation
Manuscript with
Signature Page
Inserted
CDS
administrative
staff
After courses
completed.
After courses
completed.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 274 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Appendix B
Military Refund Table
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 275 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Appendix C
DNP Direct and Indirect Hours and Activities
No Transfer Hours
For DNP learners who transfer in 500 hours (APRN’s-please ensure you verify these hours and they are in LopesTracker by DNP-805A)-
You will need to meet the minimum hours required in order to ensure you have achieved the additional 500 hours required to graduate with
1,000 hours.
For DNP learners who transfer in 500 hours (APRN’s-please ensure you verify these hours and they are in LopesTracker by DNP-805A)-
You will need to meet the minimum hours required in order to ensure you have achieved the additional 500 hours required to graduate with
1,000 hours
DNP Course
No Transfer Hours
Indirect Immersion Hours
Course Assignment
No Transfer Hours
Direct Immersion Hours
At the project site with mentor developing,
implementing, and evaluating the project
815A
Maximum 50
Minimum Hours Required
25 Indirect
Maximum 50
Minimum Hours Required
25 Direct
840A
Maximum 50
Minimum Hours Required
25 Indirect
Maximum 50
Minimum Hours Required
25 Direct
830A
Maximum 50
Minimum Hours Required
25 Indirect
Maximum 75
Minimum Hours Required
25 Direct
955A
Maximum 100
Minimum Hours Required
50 Indirect
Maximum 125
Minimum Hours Required
75 Direct
960A
Maximum 100
Minimum Hours Required
50 Indirect
Maximum 125
Minimum Hours Required
75 Direct
965A
Maximum 100
Minimum Hours Required
50 Indirect
Maximum 125
Minimum Hours Required
50 Direct
• All learners will be required to log their direct and indirect hours in LopesTracker.
Spring 2025 University Policy Handbook 276 © 2025 Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
• The minimum required hours must be substantively logged, the mentor has signed off in Lopes Activity Tracker, and the course faculty
have validated the entry for course grading.
• *Learners who do not meet the minimum required hours, logged, signed off, and approved will not pass the course.
• While there may be up to 50 hours in “indirect hours,” not all assignments will take 10 hours
• Indirect hours cannot be more than 10 hours in a day and be substantively posted and not duplicated in other courses
• Direct hours cannot be more than 12 hours in a day and be substantively posted and not repeated in other courses
• All learners are responsible for ensuring the proper planning of the required immersion hours towards graduation. Failure to do so may
result in extension courses and additional work to acquire those hours needed to meet the 1,000 required.
