Graduation

Students may graduate in winter, spring or summer. The University holds its commencement exercises in winter and spring. Students completing graduation requirements in August receive certification from the Registrar’s office that they have completed all requirements and receive their diplomas by mail. August graduates are eligible to participate in the winter commencement exercises.

All graduation requirements must be completed to graduate and participate in the commencement exercises. This includes coursework, labs, practicums, internships, and independent study courses.

Students who need no more than three (3) credits to earn their degree may participate in commencement exercises if they present a documented case of extreme hardship for participation which is approved by the Provost. For students to be eligible for the exception policy, they must have made satisfactory degree progress each and every semester of their attendance at Lewis, and they must have made an application for graduation in a timely manner. Such a petition must be filed with the Provost no later than two weeks prior to the scheduled commencement.

For this policy, the term “extreme hardship” is defined as circumstances beyond the control of the student. These circumstances would involve major illnesses or impending death of the student, a sponsor or loved one, significant financial or political crisis making future semester participation nearly impossible, or a circumstance of similar magnitude. The desire to participate with one’s peers is an inadequate circumstance. Being three (3) credits from graduation is only a requisite to appealing to participate; it is not a request by itself which is deemed acceptable.