Procedures for Handling Academic Concerns

The administration and faculty of The Robert H. Smith School of Business recognize the importance of constructive feedback. Students are in a partnership with the Smith School’s administration and faculty. It is only an active partnership between a school and its students that leads to success for both. Through this partnership, students must assume a reasonable level of responsibility for their own education. While the Smith School does not anticipate any problems with this partnership, students should be aware that there is a process available to address academic concerns.

Grade Appeals

Students should first attempt to resolve grade disputes with the appropriate professor(s). If the matter remains unresolved, the student should send a letter to the Director of Student Academic Affairs MBA/MS program, detailing the situation with all pertinent information. All information provided to the Director will be shared with the faculty member and the department chair or academic coordinator in the department. The Director may also advise the student to contact the department chair or academic coordinator directly.

Concerns about course scheduling, graduation, quality of instruction and academic progress should be handled initially by your campus administrator in the MBA Programs office. If the problem remains unresolved, students should send a letter or e-mail to the Director of Student Academic Affairs outlining the relevant facts and dates.

When students attempt to address academic concerns, it is important that they present accurate data and information in a professional and courteous manner. In addition, it is important for these letters or e-mail communications to contain recommended solutions to the problem..