 Table of Contents
Submitting Lessons
How many lessons may I submit each week?
For a two-hour course, submit no more than one-fourth the total number of lessons and tests in one week; for a three-hour course, no more than one-sixth the total number of lessons and tests in one week; for a four-hour course, no more than one-eighth the total number of lessons and tests in one week.
For example, if you wish to complete a three-hour course in the minimum time (six weeks) and your course has 12 lessons, you may never submit more than two lessons per week. You may not skip one week and then double up your submissions at a later time.
This minimum time to complete your course is counted from the day your first lesson is received.
How are my lessons graded?
Lessons are usually graded S (satisfactory), S- (less than satisfactory, but acceptable), and U (unsatisfactory); however, some instructors may assign numerical grades. If your course is instructor-graded, you may resubmit U lessons (lessons with a numerical score of less than 70) for re-grading by paying a re-grading fee of $8 per lesson.
If you choose not to make up the U lessons, you must understand that U grades indicate that you do not know the material. This may cause you to do poorly on the supervised exams, thus lowering your final course grade.
Do I have to do the lessons?
Yes. You cannot take examinations or receive a final grade for the course until you have completed the required lessons.
Scheduling Examinations
Where can I take my examinations?
You must take your examinations either here at the Independent Study Department on the Norman campus or under the supervision of a proctor. You will find some suggestions for acceptable proctors included on the Exam Request Forms.
If you plan to take exams at the Independent Study Department, you must schedule an appointment seven working days in advance (working days are Monday through Friday) by calling 325-1921.
Completing Your Course
How long must I be enrolled in a course?
Regulations require that you remain in the course for a minimum of two weeks for every credit hour you wish to earn. Thus, a two-credit-hour course takes at least four weeks, a three-credit-hour course takes at least six weeks, and a four-credit-hour course takes at least eight weeks.
What is the maximum time I have to finish?
You have your original one-year enrollment plus one six-month extension, granted upon application for extension and payment of an extension fee of $60 per course. If you need even more time, an additional three-month extension can be granted for $45.
To apply for an extension, send a letter containing the course name and number, your Social Security number, and a check or money order for $60. Credit card payments can also be accepted for extensions; please contact the Independent Study Department.
What if I am planning to graduate soon?
If you are working on a deadline, have your lessons and exams finished at least three weeks before you need your final grade.
How do I learn my final grade and obtain a transcript?
If you are an OU student, your final grade will be transferred to the Admissions and Records Office in Buchanan Hall on the Norman campus. If you are not an OU student and need this credit sent to another college or university, send your written, signed request to Continuing Education Admissions and Records, 1700 Asp Avenue, Room B-1, Norman, OK 73072-6400.
Withdrawals and Transfers
What if I fail to complete the course?
If you withdraw or fail to complete the course, no entry at all will be made on your transcript. If you decide at some later time to re-enroll, you may do so by starting the process over--fill out the application form, pay the tuition, etc.
What do I do if I want to withdraw?
If you wish to withdraw from your course or transfer to another course, you must submit a written application to the Independent Study Department either by mail or in person.
Will I receive a refund?
If you withdraw or transfer within 30 days of enrollment, you will receive 80 percent of the enrollment fee, less the amount we have already paid to have your lessons graded.
If you withdraw or transfer within 60 days, the refund will be 50 percent, less the amount we have paid to have your lessons graded.
After 60 days, no refund or transfer will be made.
Transfers may be made from one course to another within the first 60 days, but never from one student to another. You may transfer only one time.
Is it possible to obtain a refund for my textbook(s)?
Refunds will be given on textbooks only if you withdraw or transfer to another course. If you withdraw or transfer within 30 days of enrollment, you will receive 80 percent of the book price. If you withdraw or transfer within 60 days, the refund will be 50 percent. After 60 days, no refund will be made.
No refunds can be given on paperback books we no longer use or on books returned soiled, marked, or damaged.
Please allow at least four weeks for the university to process your refund.
Note : There is no refund on audio or video tapes. Where kits are used with a course, special conditions are explained.
What if I need to replace a video cassette, or audio cassette?
If you lose a video cassette or it is destroyed, it can be replaced for the full original cost of the video cassette. If you need to replace an audio cassette there will be a duplicating fee of $5. If the cassette is part of a prepackaged set, however, please contact the Independent Study Department for information.
For Information About Enrollment
How can I contact the Independent Study Department in case I need to talk to someone about my course?
Office hours: 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. weekdays Saturdays by appointment only (Note: These hours may vary during holidays.)
If you are within the Oklahoma City metropolitan area, call 325-1921.
If you are outside the Oklahoma City area, use our toll-free number, 1-800-942-5702.
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