California State University, Fresno
Department of Criminology Graduate Handbook
Welcome to the Criminology Graduate Program!
We are pleased that you have selected our program and that you take advantage of
everything California State University, Fresno, the discipline of Criminology, our faculty,
the College of Social Sciences, and the Division of Graduate Studies has to offer. This
is a teaching and learning environment that rewards dedication to those individuals who
work diligently to improve their critical thinking, writing, and research skills.
Our objective with this handbook is to state as clearly as possible what you may expect
from us and what we expect from you. This handbook contains policies that are
determined by California State University, Fresno and the Department of Criminology
that may not be negotiable. Therefore, it is important that you read through this
handbook and ask for clarification of its contents if necessary.
This handbook is just one source of information. The Division of Graduate Studies
(http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/) has numerous resources for you
and will provide you with information about expectations and deadlines. It is your
responsibility to visit their site on a regular basis to ensure that you are aware of all
expectations and deadlines as they relate to the completion of your degree. Ultimately,
it is the responsibility of students to meet deadlines, fulfill all degree requirements, and
complete their work.
Students appear to do well when they select a mentor who is available and willing to
work with them to advance the student’s study and research. It is important that the
student select a mentor with similar interests.
We look forward to meeting with all of you and wish you well in your graduate studies!
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Table of Contents
I. Master of Science in Criminology...............................................................................4
● Application process
● Admission requirements
● Program requirements
● Graduate writing requirements
● The culminating experience (general information)
II. Description of Criminology Graduate Courses…………………………………………..18
● Required courses
● Elective courses
● Culminating experience
III. Certifications………………………………………………………………………………..22
● Victim Services Certificate program
● Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Studies
● Certificate in Legal Studies
IV. Stages of Progression Through the Graduate Program……………………………….25
● Admission
● Standing (e.g., conditionally classified, classified, Advancement to Candidacy)
● Graduation procedure
V. Academic Procedures and
Policies……………………………………………………….29
● Incompletes
● Academic probation
● Academic disqualifications
● Appeals/petitions
VI. Student Code of Conduct and Student Research……………………………………...34
● Code of conduct
● Institutional review board (IRB)
2
VII. Professional Criminology and Criminal Justice Societies…………………………….39
VIII. Financial Assistance……………………………………………………………………..42
● Cost of attendance
● Student assistantships
IX. Graduate Studies Forms and Additional Graduate Resources……………………….44
X. Department of Criminology Faculty………………………………………………………47
● List of full-time faculty
○ Faculty research interests
○ Faculty contact information
XI. Frequently Asked Questions……………………………………………………………..51
● Reference and style manual
● List of previous graduate courses
● Grade or professor conflict
● Extending your time in the graduate program
● Background checks
● Guidelines/policies for student petitions/appeals
XII: Guidelines and Policies for Graduate and Post-Baccalaureate Student Petitions and
Appeals ………………………………………………………………………………………..54
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I. Master of Science in Criminology
This graduate degree program provides students with theoretical and applied
knowledge related to the field of criminology, while permitting students to pursue
specialized areas of interest within this field of study. The graduate program is designed
to prepare students for service and professional positions in agencies serving the
criminal justice system and related fields.
Completing this graduate program provides a foundation for a variety of
occupations, including in-service education, administrative education and management,
community college teaching, counseling, consultation, doctoral studies, and research.
Since offering our first graduate criminology course in 1957, the graduate program in
Criminology at California State University, Fresno has become the most comprehensive
graduate program in the discipline between Sacramento and Los Angeles. It is an
advanced program that draws students from a variety of different states in the U.S. and
countries around the world.
Application Process
In order to apply for admittance into the graduate program in Criminology at
California State University, Fresno, applicants must complete and/or submit the
following online through Cal State Apply (https://www2.calstate.edu/apply):
● An application to the university
● The Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
● Two official copies of transcripts (not required for Fresno State students)
● An application to the Department of Criminology
● Three (3) letters of recommendation; letter writers must also complete an
electronic recommendation form when they submit their letters to via Cal State
Apply
● A personal essay
○ This should be a typed statement explaining your reasons for wanting to
pursue a graduate degree in Criminology and what benefits you expect to
derive from your studies
How To Apply:
As of Fall 2020, all applicants will complete and submit the aforementioned application
requirements online through Cal State Apply. You can access this website here:
https://www2.calstate.edu/apply
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Application Deadline and Admission Timeline:
Our graduate program only admits students in the fall of each academic year. To
be considered for fall admission, applicants need to have all of their application
materials submitted via Cal State Apply by April 1st. This includes all letters of
recommendation, which will be submitted electronically by those who you designate as
letter writers.
After April 1st, the graduate admissions committee will review all applications and
work together to make admissions decisions. Applicants should be notified regarding
the status of their application (i.e., whether they have been accepted and admitted to
our graduate program) by early to mid-May.
Admission to the Department of Criminology:
In order to be admitted to the graduate program in the Department of
Criminology, you must meet the following requirements:
● A baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a grade point average
(GPA) of at least a 3.0 (on a four-point scale)
● It is strongly recommended that an applicant has completed an
undergraduate-level research methods course (equivalent to CRIM 170 in our
undergraduate program) prior to beginning our graduate program
○ If you are unsure whether an undergraduate course you have completed
meets this recommendation, please contact the graduate coordinator
● It is suggested that an applicant complete the courses below (or equivalent
courses from another institution) prior to beginning our graduate program
○ CRIM 100: Criminology
○ CRIM 102: Criminal Justice Organization & Management
○ CRIM 117: Criminal Legal Process
■ If you are unsure whether undergraduate courses you have
completed are comparable to the aforementioned suggested
courses, please contact the graduate coordinator
● An interview by the graduate admissions committee in the Department of
Criminology may be required
● NOTE: Admission to graduate standing is prerequisite to admission to the
5
graduate program in the Department of Criminology
Graduate Program Requirements:
Completing a Master of Science degree at California State University, Fresno
involves six major steps. These are listed below:
1. Admission to graduate studies at California State University, Fresno
2. Admission to the graduate program in the Department of Criminology
3. Successful completion of the Graduate Writing Requirement
4. Advancement to candidacy
5. Completion of 15 credits of core graduate-level Criminology courses, plus 12
elective graduate credits
6. Completion of a thesis (CRIM 299) or project (CRIM 298) OR successful
completion of the department’s comprehensive examination
Graduate Writing Requirement:
In keeping with the graduate writing requirement at California State University,
Fresno, all students in the Master of Science program in Criminology must demonstrate
competence in written English prior to applying for advancement to candidacy. Students
will have the opportunity to demonstrate writing proficiency in CRIM 200 (Research
Methods in Criminology), which is one of the required core courses in the program.
The Criminology faculty recognize the importance of having students
demonstrate writing competence early in the program. Accordingly, all Criminology
graduate students (including those accepted to the program under a “conditional
status”) will be advised to complete CRIM 200 during the first or second semester of
program enrollment. Students admitted to the Criminology graduate program under
“conditional status” must complete two core courses their first semester and
satisfactorily complete the writing exam.
6
Overview:
Candidates for the Master of Science degree in Criminology will meet the
university’s requirement for demonstrating graduate-level competence in written English
by satisfactorily preparing and completing a scholarly research paper related to the area
of criminology. This paper will be completed as part of the course requirements for
CRIM 200 (Research Methods in Criminology). Writing competency will be assessed
using a four-point (4.0) scoring scale. To demonstrate competency, the student must
score a three (3.0) or higher in each of three areas:
● Style and format
● Mechanics
● Content and organization
Students’ research papers will then be evaluated by graduate faculty. Inability to
demonstrate competence will necessitate remediation, which may require (but is not
limited to): additional coursework, experiences in the Writing Center, tutoring and/or
independent study. The student must demonstrate writing competence to be advanced
to candidacy.
Description of Writing Requirement:
As one of the requirements for CRIM 200, each student is assigned to prepare a
major research paper (a minimum of 2,000 words in length). In the paper, the
student will review current literature covering the theoretical foundations of the topic
they choose, present research findings, and applications related to a criminological
area. Students’ writing should demonstrate:
● Comprehensibility
● A clearly organized presentation of ideas
● An ability to arrange ideas logically in order to establish a sound, scholarly
argument
● Thoroughness and competence in documentation
● An ability to express in writing a critical analysis of existing scholarly/professional
literature in the study area of interest
● An ability to model the discipline’s overall writing style as reflected in
representative journals
7
The scoring scale (located on pg. 10) has been developed to provide guidance to
students and faculty alike. Students will receive a score on each of the three previously
mentioned subscales (style and format, mechanics, and content and organization).
Scores will range from 1 to 4 with the following designations:
4 – Exemplary
3 – Accomplished
2 – Developing
1 – Beginning
In order to demonstrate writing proficiency, the student must receive a
score of three (3) or higher in each of the three aforementioned areas. As
successful completion of this requirement will only be one component of the CRIM 200
course, it is possible for students to pass CRIM 200 while failing the graduate writing
requirement or vice versa.
Faculty Evaluation of Writing Proficiency:
The instructor of CRIM 200 will be the primary evaluator of each student’s
writing. When the instructor determines that the student has met the criteria (i.e.,
achieves a score of three (3) or higher in each area of the scoring scale), the process
will be considered completed. For each section of CRIM 200, the instructor will forward
to the program coordinator a list of the students enrolled in the course and the status of
their writing competence.
If the instructor believes the student’s writing to be deficient in one or more areas,
it will be referred to the graduate review committee and evaluated by the committee as
a whole. This review process may take up to 10 working days. The review
committee will consist of two graduate faculty in addition to the instructor of CRIM 200.
A simple majority vote of the committee will be considered final. If the committee
determines that the student meets the criteria, the process will be considered completed
and the chair of the committee will notify the program coordinator that the student has
demonstrated writing proficiency.
8
If the review committee members determine that the student has not
demonstrated competence in written English, the student will have two options: 1) he or
she may choose to re-do the paper for resubmission on his or her own without engaging
in any remedial efforts. The resubmission will then be graded by the review committee
and if a simple majority decides the paper has met the writing skills requirement, the
requirement has been met; 2) the student may elect to take advantage of recommended
alternatives to improve their writing skills. Examples of remedial services available to
students are listed below. After working with qualified staff to improve his or her writing
competency, the student will re-do the paper for resubmission and the resubmission will
be graded by members of the review committee. The student’s decision as to which of
these two options he or she wants to choose must be communicated to the review
committee in writing within five working days of receiving notification from the graduate
coordinator that he or she did not pass the graduate writing requirement.
The student shall read all the alternatives available as noted in this handbook
and the Graduate Studies webpage
(http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/index.html). Remediation may
require but not be limited to:
● Additional coursework
● Experiences in the Writing Studio
● Tutoring
● Library research
● And/or independent study
The method(s) selected by the student shall be placed in writing and submitted to
the review committee, the graduate coordinator, and the graduate student’s mentor if so
designated by the student. Remediation will be determined in conjunction with the
review committee and monitored by the graduate coordinator and the student’s mentor
(if applicable).
A graduate student requiring writing remediation must meet and fulfill the
graduate writing requirement within 90 days and present the new paper to the
review committee for evaluation. It remains the student’s responsibility to complete
remediation in a timely manner. If the process carries over to the next semester, the
student may matriculate into graduate classes, but may not take any core courses that
might move the student towards candidacy. Under no circumstances should the student
consider the second semester as a sign that the writing requirement has or will be met.
9
If the appeal process for the writing skills assessment in the Department of
Criminology has been completed and the committee decision is unfavorable, the
student may request a further appeal through Student Affairs.
10
Scoring Scale –MS Writing Requirement, MS in Criminology
Scoring Level
Style & Format
Mechanics
Content &
Organization
4 - Exemplary
In addition to meeting
the requirement for a
“3,” the paper is
consistent re: correct
APA format throughout.
The student’s writing
models the language
and conventions used in
related
scholarly/professional
literature. The paper
would meet the
guidelines for an
APA-formatted
publication.
In addition to meeting
the requirements for a
“3,” the paper is
essentially error-free in
terms of mechanics. The
student’s writing flows
smoothly from one idea
to another. The student
uses transitions to help
establish a sound
scholarly argument,
which aids the reader in
following the writer’s
logic.
In addition to meeting
the requirements for a
“3,” the student excels in
the organization and
presentation of ideas
related to the topic being
discussed. The student
raises important issues or
ideas that may not have
been represented in the
literature cited. This
paper would serve as a
strong basis for further
research on the topic.
3 - Accomplished
While there may be
many minor errors,
APA conventions for
style and format are
used consistently
throughout the paper.
The student
demonstrates
thoroughness and
competence in
documenting sources;
the reader would have
little difficulty referring
back to cited sources.
Style and format
contribute to the
comprehensibility of the
paper. The student’s
writing models the
discipline’s overall
journalistic style.
While there may be
minor errors, the student
follows normal
conventions of spelling
and grammar throughout
the paper. Any errors
that are noted do not
significantly interfere
with the
comprehensibility of the
writing. Transitions and
organizational
structures, such as
subheadings, are used,
which help the reader
move easily from one
point to another.
The student follows all
requirements for the
paper. The topic is
timely and carefully
focused. The student
clearly outlines the
major points related to
the topic; ideas are
logically arranged to
present a sound scholarly
argument. The paper is
interesting and holds the
reader’s attention. The
student does a credible
job summarizing related
literature.
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Scoring Level
Style & Format
Mechanics
Content &
Organization
2 - Developing
While some APA
conventions are
followed, others are not.
The paper lacks
consistency in style
and/or format. It may be
unclear which
references are direct
quotes and which are
paraphrased from the
cited source; the reader
would have some
difficulty referring back
to cited sources.
Significant revisions
would contribute to the
comprehensibility of the
paper.
Frequent errors in
spelling, grammar (such
as subject/verb
agreement and tense),
sentence structure,
and/or other writing
conventions make
reading difficult and
interfere with
comprehensibility. The
student’s writing does
not flow smoothly from
point to point and lacks
the appropriate
transitions.
While the written
response represents the
major requirements for
the assignment, it is
lacking in substantial
ways. The content may
be poorly focused and/or
the scholarly argument
weak or poorly
conceived. Major ideas
related to the content
may be ignored or
inadequately explored by
the student. Overally, the
content and organization
needs significant
revisions in order to
represent a critical
analysis of the topic.
1 - Beginning
APA conventions are
not followed. The
student fails to
demonstrate
thoroughness and
competence in
documentation. The
lack of appropriate style
and format make the
reading and
comprehensibility of the
paper problematic.
Paper contains numerous
errors in spelling,
grammar, and/or
sentence structure that
make following the logic
of the paper extremely
difficult.
Analysis of existing
scholarly/professional
literature on the topic is
inadequate. The content
is poorly focused and
lacks organization. The
reader is left with little
information about or
understanding of the
topic of the paper.
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Completion of Required Coursework:
Under the direction of a graduate advisor, each student prepares and submits a
coherent program individually designed within the following framework:
● Required core Criminology Graduate Courses (15 credits)
○ CRIM 200: Research Methods in Criminology (3 credits)
○ CRIM 201: Advanced Criminological Theory (3 credits)
○ CRIM 202: Law and the Criminal Justice System (3 credits)
○ CRIM 203: Criminal Justice Systems (3 credits)
○ CRIM 204: Quantitative Methods and Analysis (3 credits)
● Graduate elective courses in Criminology or related fields (12 credits
1
minimum)
○ 200-level elective courses offered by the Department of Criminology or
another related field of study
○ Please note that CRIM 295 serves as an elective course for students who
choose to complete the thesis or project as their culminating experience. It
does not count as an elective for those who choose to complete the
comprehensive exam. In this case, CRIM 295 satisfies the three-credit
culminating experience requirement below.
● Comprehensive examination OR Project OR Thesis (3 credits)
○ CRIM 295 for comprehensive exam option (3 credits)
○ CRIM 298 for the project option (3 credits)
○ CRIM 299 for the thesis option (3 credits)
TOTAL: 30 credits (minimum)
1
Under special circumstances and with written permission of the graduate coordinator, a maximum of six
undergraduate upper division units may be allowed. In the past, such requests have only been approved
when an insufficient number of graduate-level elective courses are offered during students’ tenure in the
graduate program.
13
The Culminating Experience
Please note that it is university policy that once a student officially
registers for one of the three culminating experiences, the culminating
experience chosen CANNOT be changed.
You can find more information here about the culminating experience
requirement as explained by the Division of Graduate Studies:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/requirements/culminatingexperience.
html
The Comprehensive Examination (CRIM 295):
The comprehensive examination is one culminating experience students in the
graduate program in Criminology may select in completion of their degree. Students
choosing the comprehensive exam option must be advanced to candidacy before
registering for the exam. As noted above, it is university policy that once a student
officially registers for one of the three culminating experiences, the culminating
experience chosen cannot be changed. In other words, a student cannot move to
another culminating experience option if he or she fails the comprehensive examination.
Criminology students should complete the graduate core courses before taking
the comprehensive examination. The comprehensive examination may only be
taken twice. The examination takes place over a two-day period and is proctored in
one of the university’s computer labs.
Preparing for the Comprehensive Examination:
Students should expect to study for a minimum of six months prior to the exam in
order to pass the exam. CRIM 295 is offered to students for preparation. Students
should understand that it is ultimately up to them to meet with faculty to determine
possible areas of review. Subjects on the examination are as follows: Foundations,
Administration, Law, Methods, and Theory. Students are highly encouraged to share
notes and collaborate/study with their colleagues in preparation for the exam.
The exam questions that students will be asked to follow are drawn from the following
categories:
● Foundations
: Students must answer two of the three or four question options
provided to them
14
● Theory
: Students must answer one of the two question options provided to them
● Law
: Students must answer one of the two question options provided to them
● Administration
: Students must answer one of the two question options provided
to them
● Research Methods
: Students must answer one of the two question options
provided to them
In total, students will answer six exam questions (two from the Foundations
category, one from each of the following categories: Theory, law, administration,
and research methods).
Students’ written work must meet university writing standards. Poorly
written answers will lose points. Students must be careful to cite work that is not
theirs and if they cannot recall dates or names, note that information in
parenthesis.
Examination Scheduling:
The exam is offered in the fall and spring semesters. The date will change each
semester, but students can expect that it will be toward the end of the semester but well
before finals. The examination requires a day and a half to complete. If a student is
taking the exam or a portion of the exam for a second time, they may leave after they
have completed their questions.
Grading:
Students may take the comprehensive exam twice. Two members of the
faculty will grade each question separately. Faculty will assign a score to each answer
as follows:
High Pass: This score reflects an exceptional answer that is well written. This
answer may include refereed research articles, related current events, and/or
laws.
Pass: This score reflects a sound understanding of the material and is well
written.
No Pass: This core reflects unsatisfactory or lack of comprehension of the
material as well as poor writing.
15
Passing the Comprehensive Exam:
It is determined that a student has passed the comprehensive examination if he
or she has received one of the following combinations of scores from the two faculty
readers: “High-Pass” and “High-Pass,” “High-Pass” and “Pass,” and “Pass” and “Pass.”
A student who receives a mixed score including a “No-Pass” will have their
response reviewed by a third faculty reader. If the third faculty reader assigns a grade of
“High-Pass” or “Pass,” the student will “Pass” the answer in that particular area. If the
student earns a “No-Pass” score by the third reader, the student will have to retake the
exam in that area.
Re-taking the Comprehensive Exam:
If a student receives a “No-Pass” in one or more sections of the comprehensive
exam, the student will need to retake that section(s) at the next time the comprehensive
exam is offered. Students can only take the comprehensive exam twice.
If a student fails the comprehensive exam in one or more sections after two
attempts, the student will have failed the entire comprehensive exam and will be
given no additional attempts to pass the culminating experience.
The Project (CRIM 298):
A project is a significant undertaking of a pursuit appropriate to the fine and
applied arts or to professional fields. A project reflects applied field research or creative
effort, often suited to the student’s individual and/or professional goals. A project also
allows for the application of technical skills and knowledge with a practical emphasis. It
must display originality and independent thinking, appropriate form and organization,
and a rationale. It must be described and summarized in a written abstract that includes
the project’s significance, objectives, methodology, and a conclusion or
recommendation. An oral defense of the project may be required.
You can find a proposed project outline provided by Graduate Studies here:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/documents/forms/PROJECT%20GU
IDELINES.pdf
16
The Thesis (CRIM 299)
The thesis is a comprehensive, structured document resulting from original
student research. The thesis relates to an existing body of theoretical or empirical
knowledge in the field and investigates specific, well-defined questions or issues, and
tests hypotheses. In their thesis, students will clearly identify the problem, state the
major assumptions, explain the significance of their empirical study, set forth the
sources for and methods of gathering information, analyze the data, and offer
conclusions or recommendations for academics and practitioners in criminology,
criminal justice, or related fields.
The finished product must display originality, critical and independent thinking,
appropriate organization and format, clarity of purpose, and accurate and thorough
documentation. Critical and independent thinking should characterize every project.
Mere description, cataloging, compilation, and other superficial procedures are not
adequate. Normally, an oral defense of the thesis will be required.
The graduate thesis is a published academic document that will be bound and
shelved in the Henry Madden Library and made available electronically through
University Microfilms International. As such, it must be reviewed at the university level
(the thesis office in the Division of Graduate Studies) before clearance.
For more information about the thesis option, including the requirements of a
thesis set forth by the university and relevant deadlines for submission, please visit the
thesis information section of the Graduate Studies website:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/thesis
This document from The Division of Graduate Studies is also a good resource for
students considering and/or completing the thesis option:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/documents/thesis/thesiscomm.pdf
17
II. DESCRIPTION OF CRIMINOLOGY GRADUATE COURSES
Core Courses (15 credits):
● CRIM 200: Research Methods in Criminology (3 credits)
○ Prerequisite: CRIM 170
○ Course description: Methods and techniques of research in criminology;
research designs and models; preparation and critique of a research
paper.
● CRIM 201: Advanced Criminological Theory (3 credits)
○ Prerequisite: CRIM 100
○ Course description: A historical approach to the study of criminological
theory. Special treatment of the theoretical underpinnings of contemporary
theoretical thought. Detailed analysis of major 18th, 19th, and early 21st
century criminological thought.
● CRIM 202: Law and the Criminal Justice System (3 credits)
○ Prerequisite: CRIM 117
○ Course description: The nature and philosophy of law; the common law
tradition and our judicial system; the role of legislation and rules of
statutory interpretation; Constitutional Law concepts and their applications
in the Criminal Justice System and our society.
● CRIM 203: Criminal Justice Systems (3 credits)
○ Prerequisite: CRIM 102
○ Course description: A comprehensive assessment of the historical
evolution of the criminal justice system, including current status and future
growth, theory and rationale for the various systems, and common
practices relating to each system.
● CRIM 204: Quantitative Methods and Analysis (3 credits)
○ Prerequisite: CRIM 170
○ Course description: Methods for analysis of multivariate data, including
multiple regression, logistic regression, and factor analysis. Computer
statistical packages, applications, and analysis of data.
18
Elective Courses (minimum of 12 credits):
It should be noted that elective courses will vary each academic year. Some of
the courses listed below are offered each year (i.e., CRIM 290, CRIM 295) and others
are graduate electives that have recently been taught by faculty and may be offered
again in the future.
● CRIM 217: Radical Ideologies (3 credits)
○ Prerequisites: None
○ Course description: Students will acquire an understanding of how
ordinary individuals can acquire extraordinary philosophies that disrupt
governance, derail the status quo, and often erupt into violent conflict.
● CRIM 218: Intelligence Theory (3 credits)
○ Prerequisites: None
○ Course description: Intelligence Theory is a course intended so that
students can acquire an understanding of how the acquisition, analysis,
and dissemination of information to generate criminal intelligence can be
facilitated in a free society.
● CRIM 270T: Special Topics (3 credits)
○ Prerequisites: None
○ Course description: Topics include those areas of advanced theoretical
and empirical studies that will orient the student to contemporary
Criminological issues and challenges.
■ Recent CRIM 270T courses have included:
● Psychology and the Criminal Justice System (Fall 2019)
● Courts & Corrections (Fall 2020)
● CRIM 275: Victimology and Social Change (3 credits)
○ Prerequisites: None
○ Course description: Theories and scientific research on the effects of
crime on victims. An analysis of victim rights and services with specific
review agencies and programs of community change. Models and
strategies of understanding and assisting crime victims will be analyzed.
● CRIM 290: Independent Study (3 credits)
○ Prerequisites: None
○ Course description: A graduate-level independent study course 1) has a
specific objective related to the student’s educational goals and to the
graduate program; 2) is precisely defined as a result of joint planning by
19
the professor and the student; 3) require perioding and final demonstration
of competence in scholarly presentation of the result of the independent
study
■ In order to enroll in CRIM 290, a student would need to seek out a
faculty member in the Department of Criminology who is willing to
oversee their performance in this course
● CRIM 295: Controversial Issues in Crime, Criminology, and Law (3 credits)
2
○ Prerequisites: CRIM 200, CRIM 201, CRIM 202, CRIM 203
○ Course description: An inclusive overview of controversial issues in
criminology and law with an emphasis upon critical thinking, organization,
decision-making and writing skills. An apogean experience involving the
integration of graduate-level scholarly knowledge related to the study of
criminology.
Culminating Experience (3 credits):
Students are required to complete a culminating experience in order to earn a
graduate degree from our program. Therefore, students can choose to complete either
the comprehensive examination, a project, or a thesis. The courses that correspond
with each option are below:
● CRIM 295: Controversial Issues in Crime, Criminology, and Law (3 credits)
○ Prerequisites: CRIM 200, CRIM 201, CRIM 202, CRIM 203
○ Course description: An inclusive overview of controversial issues in
criminology and law with an emphasis upon critical thinking, organization,
decision-making and writing skills. An apogean experience involving the
integration of graduate-level scholarly knowledge related to the study of
criminology.
● CRIM 298: Project (3 credits)
○ Prerequisites: CRIM 200, CRIM 201, CRIM 202, and CRIM 203
○ Course description: Preparation and completion of a project demonstrating
a significant undertaking such as implementing a program, evaluating an
ongoing program, developing pilot studies of innovative ideas or
2
If a student is choosing the comprehensive examination as their culminating experience, they are
required to take CRIM 295, as it is the course designated for this culminating experience option. Students
who choose to complete the project or the thesis, however, can take CRIM 295 as an elective course.
CRIM 295 cannot be double-counted as meeting the culminating experience credit requirement (3
credits) and as an elective.
20
implementing organizational change in the field of criminology, and
submission of a written abstract.
● CRIM 299: Thesis (3 credits)
○ Prerequisites: CRIM 200, CRIM 201, CRIM 202, and CRIM 203
○ Course description: Preparation, completion, and submission of an
acceptable thesis for the master’s degree.
21
III. SPECIALIZED CERTIFICATIONS
The Department of Criminology offers three different certificates that
undergraduate and graduate students can earn while completing their studies at
California State University, Fresno. Below is a description of each certificate. Please
note that all courses listed for each certificate are not offered every semester and, as
such, opting to complete a certificate may require additional time and study. For further
information about course offerings, please search the courses that correspond with the
certificate you would like to complete on My Fresno State.
Victim Services Certificate:
The Department of Criminology and the School of Education and Human
Development jointly offer the Victim Services Certificate. The purpose of this program is
to provide appropriate educational experiences for matriculating students and
practitioners. The certificate provides the opportunity for developing knowledge and
skills necessary for individuals working with crime victims.
Program Requirements: A minimum of 12 units are required; three units must be taken
in each of the four areas:
1. Theory (3 units)
○ CRIM 175: Victimology (3 units)
2. Victim Issues (3 units); select a minimum of three units
○ CRIM 140: Family Violence (3 units)
○ WS 108: Rape (1 unit), WS 109: Incest (1 unit), WS 116: Domestic
Violence (1 unit)
○ WS 115: Women, Children and Alcohol (1 unit)
3. Service Delivery (3 units); select a minimum of three units
○ CRIM 176: Victim Services (3 units)
○ SWRK 128: Child Welfare (3 units)
4. Legal/Social Policy (3 units); select a minimum of three units
○ CRIM 177: Legal Policy in Victim Services (3 units)
○ CRIM/WS 126: Women and Violence (3 units)
○ WS 149: Gender, Law, and Social Policy (3 units)
For additional information about the Victim Services Certificate or advising, contact Dr.
Tinneke Van Camp in the Department of Criminology ([email protected])
22
NOTE: All courses in the Victim Services Certificate Program must be taken for letter
grade only. The entire certificate is offered online once a year in the summer through
Continuing and Global Education.
Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Studies:
Through a certificate in alcohol and drug studies, a student may gain perspective
into the lives of those affected by drugs and alcohol, as well as understand the basic
principles and implications of addiction. A total of 12 credits are required to earn this
certificate.
● Required Courses (9 units):
○ HS 110: Drug, Society, and Health (3 units)
○ HS 111: Alcohol and Alcoholism (3 units)
○ SWRK 129: Treatment of Chemical Dependency (3 units)
● Elective Courses (3 units):
○ CRIM 141: Alcohol, Drugs, and Criminality (3 units)
○ WS 115: Women, Children, and Alcohol (1 unit)
○ WS 150T: Women and Alcohol (1 unit)
○ CRIM 190, PH 190, SWRK 190, or WS 190: Independent study (1 unit)
Certificate in Legal Studies:
The Certificate of Legal Studies is co-sponsored by the Department of Political
Science and the Department of Criminology. Students must complete twelve (12) units
of upper division classes from the Department of Political Science and the Department
of Criminology.
● Required Courses:
○ Section One: Students must complete one of the two courses listed below
(3 units total)
■ PLSI 170: Constitutional Law: The Federal Structure (3 units)
■ PLSI 171: Constitutional Law: Civil Liberties and Civil Rights (3
units)
○ Section Two: Students must also complete one of the courses listed below
(3 units total)
■ PLSI 154: Congressional Politics (3 units)
23
■ PLSI 160: State and Local Government (3 units)
■ PLSI 170 or 171 (whichever course is not taken in Section One) (3
units)
■ PLSI 174: Politics and the Court (3 units)
○ Section Three: Students must complete two courses listed below (6 units
total)
■ CRIM 117: Criminal Legal Process (3 units)
■ CRIM 118: Courts and Legal Procedure (3 units)
■ CRIM 119: Legal Aspects of Corrections (3 units)
■ CRIM 127: Evidence (3 units)
■ CRIM 142, 143, 144, or 145: Mock Trial courses (3 units)
■ CRIM 177: Legal Policy in Victims Services (3 units)
■ CRIM/WS 126: Women & Violence: Public Policy and the Law (3
units)
For more information about the aforementioned certificates, please visit the following
website:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/socialsciences/criminology/undergraduate/certifications.html
24
IV. STAGES OF PROGRESSION THROUGH THE GRADUATE CRIMINOLOGY
PROGRAM
Admissions:
A student must first be admitted to California State University, Fresno in order to
attain graduate standing with the university . Graduate standing
is a prerequisite to
3
being admitted into the Department of Criminology Graduate Program.
Classified Graduate Standing (full admission):
It may be that your program has recommended your admission with “classified
graduate standing”
before you even begin your graduate studies. This means that you
have been admitted to the university and that you have fulfilled all of the program’s
requirements for admission. If this is the case, your next big step is to meet with the
graduate coordinator and/or your graduate program advisor concerning your
advancement to candidacy.
Ideally, you will achieve “classified graduate standing” within your first semester
of the graduate degree program, but this could be dependent upon other factors, such
as the number of prerequisite courses you must take. The published policy states that
you must achieve “classified graduate standing” by the semester in which you complete
10 units to be used toward your graduate degree.
Conditionally Classified Standing:
If a student has not achieved classified graduate standing,
they are considered
“conditionally classified,”
which means that full admission is only achieved once all
admission requirements, including prerequisite courses, are satisfactorily completed.
Examples of such conditions include the completion of a prerequisite course or various
department exams, submission of official transcripts, submission of a writing sample, or
a personal interview.
The department believes a student may be admitted with additional preparation
and/or requirements under a “conditional status.” Students under this status must earn
an B in the first semester of their graduate work in the two core courses of CRIM 200
and CRIM 201 and pass the writing skills requirement.
3
See the first section of this handbook for detailed program admission requirements.
25
If you are admitted as “conditionally classified,” it is your responsibility to:
● Contact the Criminology Graduate Coordinator to discuss any conditions
to your full admission, then plan your program of study
● Satisfy the noted conditions
● Have the department submit verification that you have met all conditions
to the Division of Graduate Studies for approval as a student in classified
graduate standing.
Advancement to Candidacy:
Soon after students attain “classified graduate standing,” they should plan to
achieve advancement to candidacy.
This is a critical step in the graduate degree
process, as it establishes an official list of coursework to be used toward the completion
of the degree. The program of study will be reviewed and approved by both the
Department of Criminology and the dean of the Division of Graduate Studies. Once a
student has been advanced to candidacy, he or she has official permission to proceed
toward qualifying for his or her Master’s degree.
To be eligible to apply for advancement to candidacy, you must have:
● Achieved classified graduate standing
● Completed at least 9 units at Fresno State toward the Master’s program in
Criminology and be in good standing
● A minimum grade point average of 3.0 in all coursework on your
advancement to candidacy petition
● Fulfilled the graduate writing skills requirement for the Criminology
program
● Passed the departmental qualifying exam or GRE Subject Test, if required
by the program
● Completed the foreign language requirement, if required by the program
● Met any other program requirements
Procedure for Advancement to Candidacy:
● Schedule a time to meet with the graduate program coordinator and
complete the “Petition of Advancement to Candidacy”
○ The petition specific to our Master’s degree program can be
downloaded and printed from the Division of Graduate Studies
26
website:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/forms/atc.html
● Once the petition has been filled out, it must be signed by the graduate
coordinator and/or your graduate program advisor with the Department of
Criminology. Additionally, you may need to secure the signature of the
department chair and the dean of the College of Social Sciences, if
required by the program.
● Return the advancement to candidacy petition to the Division of Graduate
Studies for final approval.
The Division of Graduate Studies recommends that students achieve
advancement to candidacy
as soon as possible after they have earned classified
graduate standing. Advancement to candidacy must be achieved no later than one
semester prior to the term in which you wish to register for the culminating
experience and/or apply for your Master’s degree to be granted. Approximate
deadlines are October 1 (for spring graduation) or March 1 (for summer or fall
graduation). NOTE:
The Criminology Department may have an earlier deadline.
Time to Degree:
A time limit of five years from the earliest course listed on your approved “Petition
of Advancement to Candidacy” form is allowed for completion of the Master’s degree.
This five-year time limit is imposed to ensure that students’ knowledge of the subject
matter is current. If you exceed the five-year time limit, a limited number of outdated
courses (older than five years) may be validated.
Awarding of the Master’s Degree:
When students are eligible to graduate and during their final semester, they must
apply to the Division of Graduate Studies to have their degree granted to them.
Students need to follow the steps outlined below to ensure this process is completed:
In order to be eligible to file for the completion of your degree, you need to meet the
following requirements:
● Have an approved “Petition of Advancement of Candidacy” on file in the
Division of Graduate Studies
● Maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on program coursework
● Permission from the graduate coordinator to apply for graduation (you get
27
this permission by securing the graduate coordinator’s signature on your
“Master’s Degree Application”)
Below is the procedure for ensuring your degree is awarded to you upon completion:
1. First, file the “Master’s Degree Application,” which can be found in your Student
Center in My Fresno State. Login in to My Fresno State > Student Center > My
Academic Records & Registration > Master/Ed.S. Degree Pre-Approval. Once
you complete this online, it will be sent to the graduate coordinator so he or she
can issue virtual approval of your application. This process needs to be
completed during the first two weeks of the semester in which you plan to
graduate. Check the Division of Graduate Studies website for the exact dates for
each application filing period (see link below). Additionally, you must pay a
non-refundable graduation application fee to the Cashier’s Window in the Joyal
Administration Building.
○ Link to graduation information from the Division of Graduate Studies:
https://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/requirements/graduati
on.html
2. Meet with your graduate coordinator to determine how your final Master’s degree
requirements (i.e., clearance of any incomplete coursework, appropriate
paperwork) are to be met.
3. Finally, submit the “Master’s Degree Clearance” form to the Division of Graduate
Studies by the published deadline (typically the last day of the semester).
Students can access this form here:
https://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/documents/forms/Clearance
%20form.website.3-20.pdf
28
V. ACADEMIC PROCEDURES AND POLICIES
Incompletes:
If students receive an incomplete grade in a graduate course that will count
toward his or her fulfillment of the degree requirements, the student must complete all
courses prior to the final day of the semester when he or she expects to graduate. The
following are types of grades that are considered to be incomplete grades: an “I”
(Incomplete Authorized), an “RP” (Report in Progress), and an “RD” (Report Delayed).
Academic Probation:
Students enrolled in a graduate degree program may be placed on academic
probation for the following reasons:
● Failure to maintain the minimum GPA of 3.0 required by the California
State Education Code, Title 5
● Repeated failure to make progress toward the Master’s degree; or
● Failure to comply with an academic requirement or regulation that is
routine for all students or for a defined group of students
Academic Disqualification:
Students enrolled in a Master’s degree program are required to maintain a
minimum of 3.0 post baccalaureate cumulative GPA prior to advancement to candidacy.
Once students have advanced to candidacy, they must maintain a minimum 3.0
program GPA, which includes only coursework listed on the “Petition for Advancement
to Candidacy” form.
Students who do not meet the above criteria will be placed on administrative
academic probation. Effective Fall 2007, students who are on administrative academic
probation will be disqualified if they do not raise their respective GPA to 3.0 by the
completion of the second regular semester following the semester that their GPA fell
below the 3.0 minimum. In addition, students will be disqualified if their semester GPA
falls below 3.0 in any two terms.
29
Appeals/Petitions:
A. Academic Overload
The maximum allowable overload is 16 units for full-time Master’s degree
students, when one or more courses in the 200 series are included. Requests for
exceptions to this policy must be addressed to the Graduate Division on a
“Graduate Student Petition for Academic Overload”
form
during the first two
weeks of the semester. Students employed full time may take a maximum of 6
units. The Class Schedule
defines the maximum allowable units during the
summer semester.
Students can find a copy of the “Graduate Student Petition for Academic
Overload” form here: http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/forms/
B. Planned Educational Leave Request
A planned educational leave of absence is defined as a planned
interruption or pause in your regular education during which you temporarily
cease formal studies at California State University, Fresno, while pursuing other
activities that may assist you in clarifying your educational goals or due to a
verified medical condition. The intent of the policy is to make it possible for you to
suspend your academic work and later resume studies with a minimum of
procedural difficulty. If approved for a planned leave, you will be considered a
continuing California State University, Fresno student.
Planned educational leaves may be granted for a variety of reasons or
projects, but at least one of the characteristics below must be contained in any
request for a leave:
1. You must have a definite objective, which in the judgment of the
appropriate university official, that contributes to your educational goals
and objectives.
2. You must have a verified medical condition that warrants absence from
the university. Medical documentation must be submitted with request.
3. The request must be for a specific period of time that does not exceed
30
four consecutive semesters.
4. You must plan to return to California State University, Fresno at the
conclusion of your leave.
Consult the “Academic Regulations” section of the General Catalog
for
regulations applicable to planned educational leaves. Students can find a copy of
this here: https://www.fresnostate.edu/catalog/academic-regulations/index.html
Students wishing to apply for a planned educational leave should obtain a
request form from the Registrar’s Office (Joyal Building, Room 106) or the
Division of Graduate Studies (Thomas Building, Room 132) and submit this form
for approval. Planned educational leaves of absence do not change the
existing five-year time limit for completion of the degree.
Graduate Appeals Process:
The following appeal policy relates to students who are matriculated into the
Criminology Graduate Program at California State University, Fresno. Graduate
students who wish to appeal any issue related to their status in the Criminology
Graduate Program shall follow the appeal process outlined in this policy. An appeal
must be entered within one month of the act that forms the basis for the appeal.
Compelling reasons may be considered to change any of the following with the
permission of the Department Chair, the student, and the ad hoc
Appeals Committee
members if convened. Any appeal filed near academic breaks will be addressed
according to the availability of faculty.
The student shall engage in the following tasks to initiate and complete the
appeal process:
1. Notify the department chair of Criminology in writing of their intent to appeal,
which shall include a full explanation for the basis of his or her appeal. The initial
document shall include the desired outcome of the appeal, and, if appropriate,
steps to address the issue at hand.
2. Develop a concise and articulated two page statement outlining the basis for
the appeal. During this process the student should gather all supporting
31
documents that may be required within the process for review. The student
should be prepared to leave said documents with the ad hoc
Appeals Committee
for review.
3. Meet all deadlines as noted in this process. Any missed deadline shall nullify
the appeal process.
4. Meet with the ad hoc
Appeals Committee at a time requested and agreed
upon by the student and the committee. Failing to appear for the meeting shall
nullify the appeal process.
5. Provide additional documentation as requested by the committee within two
working days. Failure to comply within a timely manner shall nullify the process.
The Department of Criminology at California State University, Fresno shall
complete the following tasks.
1. The department chair shall appoint an ad hoc
Appeals Committee upon receipt
of the written student’s statement of appeal within ten working days of receiving
the document.
2. The ad hoc
Appeals Committee will be given a name, a file will be opened,
and
members of the committee will be appointed. The department chair shall appoint
three faculty members who represent diverse academic postings, interests, and
experiences to the committee. At no time will a faculty member be appointed to
the committee who is named in the appeal. Each committee member will have
one vote and the outcome of the appeal will be determined by a simple majority.
The ad hoc
Appeals Committee and the student must set up a meeting within ten
working days after the Department Chair appoints the ad hoc
Appeals Committee
and informs the student of said formation.
3. The ad hoc
Appeals Committee shall have five working days to read the
student’s
appeal document.
4. The ad hoc Appeals Committee shall come to the appeal having read the
student’s statement and prepared to ask questions. Any member of the
committee may ask questions as well as ask for supporting documents.
5. The ad hoc
Appeals Committee shall have five working days to determine a
32
finding and inform the student of their findings in writing. A copy of the decision
will be sent to the Graduate Dean, the Dean of the College of Social Sciences,
and the faculty named in the appeal.
6. All supporting documents and written communications from the ad hoc
Appeals
Committee shall be filed and remain active for two years. The file will be
destroyed upon graduation of the student or the student’s separation from the
university.
If, for any reason, the student wishes to withdraw his or her appeal, he or she
may do so. If, however, the student should decide to resubmit his or her appeal, the
entire process shall return to the beginning.
33
VI. STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT AND RESEARCH RESPONSIBILITY
Code of Conduct:
California Code of Regulations TITLE 5 Education Division 5. Board of Trustees of the
California State Universities Subchapter 4. Student Affairs Article 2. Student Conduct
§ 41301. Standards for Student Conduct: The university is committed to maintaining
a safe and healthy living and learning environment for students, faculty, and staff. Each
member of the campus community must choose behaviors that contribute toward this
end. Student behavior that is not consistent with the student conduct code is addressed
through an educational process that is designed to promote safety and good citizenship
and, when necessary, impose appropriate consequences.
A. Student responsibilities: Students are expected to be good citizens and to
engage in responsible behaviors that reflect well upon their university, to be civil
to one another and to others in the campus community, and contribute positively
to student and university life.
B. Unacceptable student behaviors: The following behavior is subject to
disciplinary sanctions:
1. Dishonesty, including:
● Cheating, plagiarism, or other forms of academic dishonesty that
are intended to gain unfair academic advantage
● Furnishing false information to a university official, faculty member,
or campus office
● Forgery, alteration, or misuse of a university document, key, or
identification instrument
● Misrepresenting oneself to be an authorized agent of the university
or one of its auxiliaries
2. Unauthorized entry into, presence in, use of, or misuse of university
property.
3. Willful, material and substantial disruption or obstruction of a university-
related activity, or any on-campus activity.
4. Participating in an activity that substantially and materially disrupts the
34
normal operations of the university, or infringes on the rights of members
of the University community.
5. Willful, material and substantial obstruction of the free flow of pedestrian
or other traffic, on or leading to campus property or an off-campus
university-related activity.
6. Disorderly, lewd, indecent, or obscene behavior at a university-related
activity, or directed toward a member of the university community.
7. Conduct that threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person
within or related to the University community, including physical abuse,
threats, intimidation, harassment, or sexual misconduct.
8. Hazing, or conspiracy to haze, as defined in Education Code Sections
32050 and 32051: "Hazing" includes any method of initiation or pre-
initiation into a student organization, or any pastime or amusement
engaged in with respect to such an organization which causes, or is likely
to cause, bodily danger, physical harm, or personal degradation or
disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm, to any student or other
person attending any school, community college, college, university or
other educational institution in this state; but the term "hazing" does not
include customary athletic events or other similar contests or competitions.
A group of students acting together may be considered a 'student
organization' for purposes of this section whether or not they are officially
recognized. Neither the express or implied consent of a victim of hazing,
nor the lack of active participation while hazing is going on is a defense.
Apathy or acquiescence in the presence of hazing is not a neutral act, and
is also a violation of this section.
9. Use, possession, manufacture, or distribution of illegal drugs or drug-
related paraphernalia, (except as expressly permitted by law and
University regulations) or the misuse of legal pharmaceutical drugs.
10. Use, possession, manufacture, or distribution of alcoholic beverages
(except as expressly permitted by law and university regulations), or public
intoxication while on campus or at a university-related activity.
11. Theft of property or services from the university community, or
misappropriation of university resources.
12. Unauthorized destruction, or damage to university property or other
35
property in the University community.
13. Possession or misuse of firearms or guns, replicas, ammunition,
explosives, fireworks, knives, other weapons, or dangerous chemicals
(without the prior authorization of the campus president) on campus or at
a university related activity.
14. Unauthorized recording, dissemination, or publication of academic
presentations (including handwritten notes) for a commercial purpose.
15. Misuse of computer facilities or resources, including:
● Unauthorized entry into a file, for any purpose
● Unauthorized transfer of a file
● Use of another's identification or password
● Use of computing facilities, campus network, or other resources to
interfere with the work of another member of the university
community
● Use of computing facilities and resources to send obscene or
intimidating and abusive messages
● Use of computing facilities and resources to interfere with normal
university operations
● Use of computing facilities and resources in violation of copyright
laws
● Violation of a campus computer use policy
16. Violation of any published university policy, rule, regulation or
presidential order.
17. Failure to comply with directions of, or interference with, any university
official or any public safety officer while acting in the performance of
his/her duties.
18. Any act chargeable as a violation of a federal, state, or local law that
poses a substantial threat to the safety or well-being of members of the
university community, to property within the university community or poses
a significant threat of disruption or interference with university operations.
19. Violation of the student conduct procedures, including:
● Falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information related
to a student discipline matter
36
● Disruption or interference with the orderly progress of a student
discipline proceeding
● Initiation of a student discipline proceeding in bad faith
● Initiation of a student discipline proceeding in bad faith
● Attempting to discourage another from participating in the student
discipline matter
● Attempting to influence the impartiality of any participant in a
student discipline matter
● Verbal or physical harassment or intimidation of any participant in a
student discipline matter
● Failure to comply with the sanction(s) imposed under a student
discipline proceeding
20. Encouraging, permitting, or assisting another to do any act that could
subject him or her to discipline.
C. Procedures for enforcing this code: The Chancellor shall adopt procedures to
ensure students are afforded appropriate notice and an opportunity to be heard
before the university imposes any sanction for a violation of the student conduct
code.
D. Application of this Code: Sanctions for the conduct listed above can be
imposed on applicants, enrolled students, students between academic terms,
graduates awaiting degrees, and students who withdraw from school while a
disciplinary matter is pending. Conduct that threatens the safety or security of the
campus community, or substantially disrupts the functions or operation of the
university is within the jurisdiction of this article regardless of whether it occurs on
or off campus. Nothing in this code may conflict with Education Code section
66301 that prohibits disciplinary action against students based on behavior
protected by the First Amendment.
Student Research Responsibility:
The Institutional Review Board (IRB), for the purpose of institutional review of
research with human subjects, was first formed in 1971 at California State University,
Fresno. The policy promulgated at that time was enforced until the adoption of the
present policy and procedures. The purpose of the current policy and procedures at
California State University, Fresno is to protect the rights and health of human subjects
used in research investigations while promoting free inquiry and research at this
university and to assure compliance with governmental regulations as specified by the
37
Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) — U.S. Department of Health & Human
Services and the Committee for the Protection of Human Subjects (CPHS) of the Office
of Statewide Health Planning and Development.
California State University, Fresno has obtained a federal wide assurance, which
is an assurance of compliance approved by the OHRP. For further information on the
policy and procedures for human subject research, you may refer to the California State
University, Fresno website regarding human research here:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/grants/proposal/policies/irb.html
38
VII. PROFESSIONAL REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL CRIMINOLOGY AND
CRIMINAL JUSTICE ORGANIZATIONS
Several criminology, criminal justice, victimology, and psychology organizations
provide students with an opportunity to join the organization at a reduced annual
membership fee. Students are highly encouraged to discuss these opportunities with
their professors, advisors, or the graduate program coordinator. Additionally, these
organizations offer students numerous opportunities to attend annual conferences,
present academic papers, participate in round table discussions, network with academic
and professional experts, and learn about scholarships and advanced studies (e.g.,
doctoral programs). Travel may be paid by some organizations, interest groups, or
programs of study.
Below is a list of academic/professional organizations for criminologists and other
related fields. This list is not exhaustive, but rather representative of organizations of
which many faculty from the Department of Criminology are members:
● The Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS): “The Academy of Criminal
Justice Sciences (ACJS) is an international association established in 1963 to
foster professional and scholarly activities in the field of criminal justice. ACJS
promotes criminal justice education, research, and policy analysis within the
discipline of criminal justice for both educators and practitioners. Providing a
forum for disseminating ideas related to issues in research, policy, education,
and practice within the field, ACJS attributes its success in creating this dynamic
professional association to the composition of its membership. As change
expands the existing boundaries of the criminal justice field, ACJS is comprised
of members from a variety of diversified backgrounds including: scholars who are
international in scope and multidisciplinary in orientation, professionals from all
sectors of the criminal justice system, and students seeking to explore the
criminal justice field as future scholars or practitioners” (Academy of Criminal
Justice Sciences, 2020, p. 1).
Website: https://www.acjs.org/
● The American-Psychology Law Society (APLS): “The American-Psychology Law
Society outlines three goals that reflect the many activities, specialties, and
contributions made by our members: 1) Advancing the contributions of
psychology to the understanding of law and legal institutions through basic and
applied research; 2) Promoting the education of psychologists in matters of law
and the education of legal personnel in matters of psychology; 3) Informing the
39
psychological and legal communities and the general public of current research,
educational, and service activities in the field of psychology and law”
(American-Psychology Law Society, 2020, p. 1).
Website: https://ap-ls.org/
● The American Correctional Association (ACA): The American Correctional
Association is the oldest and largest international correctional association in the
world. ACA serves all disciplines within the corrections profession and is
dedicated to excellence in every aspect of the field. From professional
development and certification standards and accreditation, from networking and
consulting to research and publications, and from conferences and exhibits to
technology and testing—ACA is your resource and the world-wide authority in
corrections.
Website: http://www.aca.org/aca_prod_imis/aca_member
● The American Society of Criminology (ASC): “The American Society of
Criminology is an international organization whose members pursue scholarly,
scientific, and professional knowledge concerning the measurement, etiology,
consequences, prevention, control, and treatment of crime and delinquency. The
Society's objectives are to encourage the exchange, in a multidisciplinary setting,
of those engaged in research, teaching, and practice so as to foster
criminological scholarship, and to serve as a forum for the dissemination of
criminological knowledge. Our membership includes students, practitioners, and
academicians from the many fields of criminal justice and criminology” (American
Society of Criminology, 2006, p. 1).
Website: https://www.asc41.com/
● The Western Society of Criminology (WSC): “The Western Society of
Criminology is a regional professional society devoted to the scientific study of
crime. The society attracts scholars, students, government officials, and
practitioners from both the public and private sectors around the world” (Western
Society of Criminology, 2020, p.1).
Website: https://westerncriminology.org/
40
● The World Society of Victimology (WSV): “The WSV is a member-driven
organization, drawing its members from diverse fields, including: science, the
social sciences, victim assistance, academia, policy making, governance, and
other specialized areas of expertise. The members of the Society elect the
Executive Committee, which governs the Society and acts on behalf of the
membership. The WSV works with intergovernmental organizations, as an active
promoter of research and program development on victims, assistance to victims,
and victims rights. It pioneered a special United Nations’ charter of victims’ rights,
which resulted in the General Assembly Resolution (A/RES/40/34) named the
Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime and Abuse of
Power. The WSV’s members represent many organizations in the International
Scientific and Professional Advisory Council (ISPAC) to the Crime Program at
the United Nations, and serve on its Board of Directors. These activities are
achieved mainly through the networking of persons concerned with the theory of
victimology and the practice of victim support” (World Society of Victimology,
2020, p.1).
Website: http://www.worldsocietyofvictimology.org/
41
VIII. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Tuition and Registration Fees:
Tuition and registration fees at California State University, Fresno are provided to
students online each semester for both domestic and international students. Students
can use this link to be directed to the website with current tuition and registration fees:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/adminserv/accountingservices/money/tuitionfees.html
Fees are subject to change. You may check your “Student Center” in My Fresno
State to see if you have an outstanding balance. If your fees are not paid by the stated
deadlines each semester, you will be disenrolled from your classes.
Student Assistantships:
A number of student assistantships are available to graduate students who are
enrolled in a graduate degree program and whose previous records show outstanding
achievement in academic work, outstanding subject matter competence in their major
fields, and the special qualities necessary to fulfill the assigned duties.
Eligibility for assistantship appointment requires possession of a baccalaureate
degree and admission to the graduate degree program by which they have been
nominated. The assistantship will continue for two semesters. Students may seek
additional funding by working with faculty who have grants or special projects. All
students retain the opportunity to seek funding for conference presentations as long as
they are in good academic standing and funds are available.
To access additional information about available graduate student assistantships
at California State University, Fresno, please visit the “Teaching Associateships &
Graduate Assistantships” page maintained by the Division of Graduate Studies:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/financial/graduateassistantshipsta.ht
ml
Financial Assistance:
The Division of Graduate Studies offers a comprehensive guide to financing your
graduate education. They have devoted a section of their website to funding
opportunities for graduate students, where they identify and detail various types of
financial support available to graduate students at California State University, Fresno.
There are a number of assistantships, fellowships, grants, loans, and employment
options that are open to qualified students each year. Please use the link below to be
directed to this website: http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/financial/
42
Financial Advising Tips:
1. Save time and expense by electronically filing federal application forms, like the
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Be aware of the FAFSA
deadline, which typically falls around March 1
st
for the following year; check the
university calendar for current academic year deadlines. The FAFSA website
(and the deadline for application submission can be found here:
https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
2. Check the Division of Graduate Studies website and the Criminology Department
bulletin board/web page announcements for possible financial assistance for
graduate students
3. Apply early and fill out forms completely
4. Request any faculty letters of reference well before the application deadline, and
provide all necessary background information
5. Read carefully and follow the information provided about financial aid for
graduate students published by the Division of Graduate Studies:
https://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/financial/
6. Remember, if your receipt of financial aid (e.g., loans, scholarships, etc.) hinges
on whether you are a full-time student (versus a part-time student), full-time
status for graduate students is equivalent to 8 units of 200 level courses or 12
equivalent units from combined 200 and 100 level courses. The university has
outlined these enrollment standards here:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/requirements/enrollment.html
43
IX. GRADUATE STUDIES FORMS AND ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
The Division of Graduate Studies website will be students’ main source of
information as they continue the process of obtaining a graduate degree at California
State University, Fresno. In order to complete this process, there are deadlines for
submitting various forms throughout your time in the Department of Criminology’s
graduate program.
All of the forms referenced in this handbook, as well as the submission deadlines
associated with these forms, can be found on the Division of Graduate Studies website.
Also, refer to this site for information on form submission deadlines. This website can be
found here: http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/forms/. You can also find
links to some of the frequently used graduate forms below:
Advancement to Candidacy form:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/forms/atc.html
Request for Classified Standing form:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/documents/forms/Classified%
20Standing%20Request%20form.11-19.pdf
Request for Program Adjustment form:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/documents/forms/PAR%20for
m.10-18.pdf
Graduate Degree Clearance form:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/documents/forms/Clearance
%20form.website.3-20.pdf
**Required forms for the thesis option (e.g., thesis committee assignment) can
be found on the Division of Graduate Studies website under the “Forms and
Policies” tab.
44
Additional Resources:
Below are links to various university resources that graduate students may find helpful
as they complete their graduate studies at California State University, Fresno:
● The Department of Criminology: This site contains important information about
the Department of Criminology, as well as links to important documents, forms,
and general information about the graduate program:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/socialsciences/criminology/graduate/index.html
● The Division of Graduate Studies (DGS): This site will have all of the forms
students will need to complete in compliance with deadlines for degree
completion and graduation:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/index.html
● My Fresno State: Students will need to log in to their student portal through My
Fresno State to register for courses, see their class schedule, etc.:
https://my.fresnostate.edu/
● Henry Madden Library: This is the website for our library on campus. Studies will
need to visit this site frequently to locate, print, and read scholarly publications
during their time in the graduate program: https://library.fresnostate.edu/
● Graduate Writing Studio: Graduate students at California State University,
Fresno have access to the Graduate Writing Studio, which provides students with
assistance regarding academic writing:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/gradstudies/graduatewritingstudio.html
● Graduate Statistics Studio: This is another resource available to Fresno State
graduate students. The Graduate Statistics Studio provides graduates students
with training and/or tutoring in various statistics programs, which can be helpful
as students complete CRIM 204 and/or the project or thesis option:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/academics/graduatenet/students/statspage.html
● Financial Aid: This website provides students with financial aid resources
available to them at California State University, Fresno:
http://www.fresnostate.edu/socialsciences/criminology/graduate/index.html
● Career Development Center: This website provides students with information
45
X. DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINOLOGY FACULTY
Below you will find a list of current full time tenured and tenure-track faculty in the
Department of Criminology, along with their research interests and contact information.
Students are strongly encouraged to use this as reference if they are seeking out a
faculty mentor/advisor, research experience, and/or a project supervisor or thesis
advisor and committee members.
Name
Research Interests
Contact Information
Dr. Andrea Arndorfer
Legal decision-making,
criminal interrogation and
confessions, eyewitness
memory, and the social and
cognitive factors influencing
lineup identification decisions
and post-decision judgments
Dr. Allen Azizian
Sex offender laws, prevention
of sexual abuse, reintegration
and community supervision of
sex offenders
Dr. Keith Clement
Criminology, emergency
management, Homeland
Security, cybersecurity
Dr. Peter English
Psychology, public policy,
and law; the adjudication of
mentally ill offenders,
comprehension of legal
language, and the use of
behavioral forensic science in
legal decision-making;
attention, visual search and
information processing
47
Name
Research Interests
Contact Information
Dr. Emma Hughes
Jails and prisons, with a
particular emphasis on
rehabilitation programs
Dr. Chadley James
The intersection of culture
and victimization, developing
and evaluating victim
assistance programs for
marginalized populations,
along with developing better
training programs for victim
assistance personal working
with victims of violent crime
Dr. Jenna Kieckhaefer
The application of psychology
to the criminal justice system,
particularly related to issues
surrounding eyewitnesses,
including interviewing,
influences on memory
accuracy and suggestibility,
and lineup decision-making
Dr. Jason Kissner
Quantitative research
methodology, self-control
theory, gangs, deterrence,
and criminal careers
Dr. Hollianne Marshall
Organized crime, urban
violent crime, and community
policing
48
Name
Research Interests
Contact Information
Dr. Jordan Pickering
Police use of deadly force,
police-community relations,
law enforcement training, and
qualitative methods
Dr. James Pitts
Prisons and jails with an
emphasis in inmates’ rights;
judicial decision-making;
executive corruption; African
American prison gangs;
solitary confinement; prison
reform
Dr. Kenneth Ryan
Comparative politics of
international / transnational
intelligence, particularly in
counter-organized crime and
counter-terror; Intelligence
theory; Game theory;
Principles of police
management
Dr. Harald Otto Schweizer
International criminal justice
and policing; international
criminal laws and minimum
hiring and training standards
for police officers
Dr. Marcus Shaw
Parental incarceration and
the intergenerational
consequences of mass
incarceration and mass
deportation
Dr. Monica Summers
Corrections, primarily
regarding inmate experiences
and community reentry;
gender, victimization, and
violence
49
Name
Research Interests
Contact Information
Dr. Yoshiko Takahashi
Domestic violence and
gender inequality issues
among the Hmong
community in the United
States; the impact of aging in
respective countries on one’s
lifestyle and crime
victimization
Dr. Tinneke Van Camp
Consequences of
victimization, restorative
justice and procedural justice
Email:
vancamptinneke@csufresno.
edu
Phone: (559) 278-7027
Office: Science II, Room 133
Dr. Yu Zhang
Comparative criminology,
policing, race & gender, law &
society, and quantitative
research methodology
50
XI. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
How do I reference research in scholarly papers and where do I go for help?
The style manual that is recommended is the Publication Manual of the American
Psychological Association (
most recent edition). It may be purchased at the bookstore,
ordered on-line, or found at any of the chain bookstores in town. The library will also be
able to assist you and it is highly recommended that you seek their assistance rather
than get charged with plagiarism.
You may also wish to consult a refereed journal article in your discipline as
another guide. The guide can usually be found at the end of the journal with examples.
Can a graduate course I took at another school count toward my graduate degree
at California State University, Fresno?
This depends on the course, the instructor, the school, and the rigor of the
professor’s expectations. Courses, if accepted, may be transferred in as electives.
Should I take graduate courses in other programs?
Yes, as it adds to the breadth of your graduate education. All courses should be
discussed prior to registration with your mentor and the graduate coordinator. Be sure to
get the permission in writing and have it placed in your file.
I disagree with a grade I received and I wish to appeal. What do I do?
First, read the comments on your paper or on your exam very carefully. If it is a
simple misunderstanding, approach the professor and ask for an appointment. Bring
any supporting documents to the meeting if appropriate and be prepared to act
professionally. If the resolution is not satisfactory, re-read the appeals process, follow
the policy, and inform your mentor and the graduate coordinator. Most often, a
resolution is reached without further issue.
Please do not approach the professor with hostility or insult them. You should not
have to endure such behavior from the professor either. Addressing this conflict in this
environment is the first test of your future professionalism.
My work with my mentor or a professor is taking a toll on my grades. What do I
do?
This professor understands that your first priority must be your grades. Limit your
time completing his/her tasks or terminate your work with him/her until your first priority
51
is satisfied. We are in an academic environment. Do not over extend your time and you
should be fine. If you have a graduate assistantship, consider decreasing your hours in
consultation with the graduate coordinator.
Will you pass a criminal background investigation?
4
There are many occupations within the criminal justice system and other
behavior-related fields that require candidates to pass a rigorous criminal background
investigation. Background investigations help establish whether a candidate has the
personal integrity and honesty to be a credible expert witness in a court of law.
Background investigations present difficulties for many students interested in
pursuing careers in forensic science. No matter how intelligent, experienced, or
otherwise qualified you may be, you will find your ability to obtain work in this field to be
seriously impeded if you cannot pass a background investigation. While the details and
criteria for background investigations vary from agency to agency, the following general
areas are of common concern to many agencies:
1. Criminal History: Engaging in any behavior that constitutes a felony or many
misdemeanors is likely to disqualify you. It does not matter if you were convicted
or even charged with the crime for it to be a problem.
2. Drug Use: Any drug use or experimentation is likely to disqualify you for
employment. Some, but not all, agencies make exceptions for a few (~3 or less)
isolated uses (not sale or distribution) of marijuana in the past (more than ~5
years).
3. Credit Record: Your financial history is fair game as evidence of your honesty,
integrity, and responsibility in dealing with contractual agreements. Though it is
not necessarily a disqualifier today, bankruptcy has historically been a problem.
In some agencies large credit card debt can also be a problem.
4. Driving Record: Nearly every agency will evaluate your driving record, not just
for letting you drive their vehicles, but also as a way to evaluate your respect for
and compliance with laws and regulations. Single citations may not disqualify a
candidate, but repeated or severe citations are likely to.
5. Past Work Performance: Like most employers, forensic laboratories will be
interested in your past work performance.
6. Personal Associations: Almost all agencies will look into or interview people
4
The following is taken from The National Criminal Justice Reference Service (2016)l. If you have any
concerns, consult the agency you are interested in or speak to your mentor or the graduate coordinator.
52
you work with, neighbors, friends, family, and other personal associations to
learn more about you and your character. In most cases you won’t be penalized
for having a relative who has any of the above problems, but close association
and participation with questionable communities (e.g. gangs) is almost always a
problem.
The most important thing is to be honest and forthright – investigators don’t like
surprises. Your candor in answering questions about these areas is critical, and is often
checked with a polygraph examination. For instance, taking a few pencils home from
work (theft) may not disqualify you, but lying about it or omitting it from questionnaires is
likely to. If you have questions regarding your background investigation, ask your
contact at the agency conducting the investigation.
Consider future background requirements seriously. Think carefully about your
past before beginning your study, and take care to ensure that you avoid problem
activities. Many agencies report losing between 20% and 50% of their qualified
applicant pool in the criminal background investigation process.
If you have more questions about background investigations and qualifications
for working as a forensic scientist, you may find the NIJ Forensic Education report
(pages 7- 10) helpful. You can also contact a forensic advisor or an employer in your
area with your questions. Those in Criminology should seek assistance from the
professional standards organization or the agency.
53
XII. GUIDELINES AND POLICIES FOR GRADUATE AND POST
BACCALAUREATE STUDENT PETITIONS/APPEALS
Overview:
The following section lays out the principles, policies, and procedures, and
clarifies the jurisdictional accommodation of graduate and post baccalaureate appeals
and petitions.
Petitions to waive campus regulations or procedures regarding acceptable
standards of performance, such as requirements for timelines, curricula, program
coursework, grading, or progress toward degree, may be made by graduate or
postbaccalaureate students for justifiable and appropriate reasons. Similarly, students
may wish to challenge decisions made by campus authorities, including decisions on
matters of student conduct or interpretation of university-wide established policies and
regulations. Individual cases shall be adjudicated according to the appropriate
jurisdiction and sequence, in accordance with the following policy and procedural
guidelines.
I. Governing Standards and Jurisdictional Responsibilities
In offering post baccalaureate and graduate programs, California State
University, Fresno is subject to the policies and regulations of the CSU Board of
Trustees, the statutes of the California State Education Code appearing in Title 5, as
well as the regulations and policies established through the University Graduate
Committee. Supplemental policies and standards at the departmental or program level
complete the governing requirements. Jurisdictional authority and standards governing
graduate student petitions and appeals may be summarized as:
A. University Level:
Policies and regulations that apply to all university students and any
appeals or decisions based on those policies are handled through established
university- wide procedures. Petitions and student appeals of university-wide
policies and regulations will be subject to established campus guidelines for
review levels and procedures, including review by university-wide committees
with graduate representation as appropriate (e.g., the Student Academic
Petitions Committee, or as provided through the procedures administered by the
vice-president and dean of academic affairs; see Division of Student Affairs
procedural guidelines).
54
B. Division of Graduate Studies Level:
Policies and regulations that apply to acceptable standards of
performance for post baccalaureate and graduate students are handled through
established Division of Graduate Studies procedures. The dean of the Division of
Graduate Studies is responsible for the interpretation, implementation, and
review of such policies. Petitions and student appeals related to waivers of
requirements or deviations from established university graduate policies or
procedures are subject to review levels and procedures as established by the
University Graduate Committee of the Academic Senate (refer to attached
document, Policies and Procedures for Graduate Student Petitions Committee).
C. Graduate Program/Department Level:
In addition, the graduate faculty group for each program is responsible for
establishing program-specific scholastic, academic, ethical, and professional
standards and/or requirements. Most programs will adopt and adhere to the
ethical principles and professional practice guidelines of appropriate professional
organizations. These standards are to be used to determine an individual
student's graduate standing with regard to program admission and continuation.
The standards also serve as the basis for faculty recommendations regarding
both academic probation and program dismissal. Each department or program
shall compile in writing a list of the academic, ethical, and professional standards
to be met and the procedures governing both the evaluation of student
compliance with these standards and the process for appealing and reviewing
appeals of decisions rendered based on these standards. The procedures shall
afford a fair and expeditious review, and are to be approved by the college or
school dean and the graduate dean. The resulting documents shall be on file in
the form of departmental or graduate program guidelines in each departmental
office, the office of the graduate program coordinator, and the Division of
Graduate Studies office. Copies are to be made available to students, and the
department shall make reasonable efforts to inform all students about these
program regulations. Petitions and student appeals arising from program or
departmental policies and regulations are subject to procedures and review
levels within the department or graduate program established as outlined in the
preceding paragraphs and Section II, following.
55
II. Graduate Students’ Right to Appeal or File a Complaint - Principles and
Procedures
The university encourages informal resolution of problems, and students are
urged to discuss their concerns with the involved faculty member, the graduate program
coordinator, department chair, dean of the college, or graduate dean. Informal
resolution of problems by mutual consent of all parties is highly desired and is
appropriate at any time. In cases where a formal resolution of problems is needed,
separate administrative procedures and timelines have been established that govern a
formal appeals process (see Division of Student Affairs documentation). Whether
informal or formal, all participants shall take reasonable steps to protect the rights and,
to the extent appropriate, the confidentiality of all parties involved in any proceedings to
resolve problems. Additional details on appeals of academic decisions can be obtained
from the Division of Graduate Studies office.
A. Appealing Academic Decisions
I. Graduate students have the right to appeal academic decisions that may have
been made at different levels: instructor, program committee, department,
college or school, or the university. Students should first go t-o the individual or
unit responsible for the decision (e.g., disputed grades should first be taken to
the faculty member who assigned the grade; graduate program requirements
should be taken to the department; college or school requirements to the college
or school; and university requirements to the Division of Graduate Studies).
2. An unfavorable ruling at one level may be appealed to the next successive
level(s). A faculty decision can be appealed to the department's graduate
program coordinator or the department chair; a department decision can be
appealed to the college or school dean in which the graduate program is located;
a college-level ruling can be appealed to the Division of Graduate Studies; a
Division of Graduate Studies decision can be appealed to the provost and then to
the President of the university.
B. Appeal of Other University Decisions
If an appeal of an action or complaint arises from issues not identified above
(e.g., sponsored research misconduct, employment issues, or patent and intellectual
property claims), the graduate dean, the provost and vice president for academic affairs,
56
and the university administrator involved shall determine the appropriate procedure(s)
for processing a complaint or an appeal.
C. Appeal of Decisions Regarding Graduate Student Probation, Suspension, and
Dismissal Process
University students in the Division of Graduate Studies are considered to be
members of an academic scholarly community committed to shared ethical and
professional principles. Integrity, justice, honesty, respect and responsibility represent
the basis for establishing the rights accorded to each member of this community. On
rare occasions students may fail to meet these expectations. When the student's
behavior does not conform to prevailing standards of conduct, the university may
impose appropriate sanctions.
Student misconduct that includes instances of academic dishonesty and
violations of the California State University Code Governing Student Conduct (Title 5)
and university-wide policies established in accordance with state and federal statutes
and requirements for compliance may lead to expulsion, suspension, or probation.
Examples of failure to meet such expected codes include cheating or plagiarism,
misrepresentation of one's self or work, inappropriate collaboration, abusive behavior or
hazing, and forgery (for complete listing, see Title 5, Sections 41301 to 41204).
Further, a student who violates the academic, professional and ethical standards
in the discipline for which the student is preparing may be subject to academic
sanctions, including but not limited to grade reduction, failing grade, suspension, or
dismissal from the graduate program, as well as additional sanctions as determined by
university procedures. The following program and departmental regulations apply:
I. If a student is failing to meet departmental standards, the department shall first
warn the student of this fact in writing. The notification shall specify in what
way(s) the student is failing to meet the standards. When conditions such as
probation or suspension are imposed, the department shall give at the time of its
imposition a written explanation of this status, what is needed to correct
deficiencies, and time limits for readmission or regaining graduate standing.
2. Program suspension or dismissal may follow failure to meet conditions of
admission or probation; established written grade point or program requirements
or other academic and professional program standards; or failure to meet a
regularly scheduled examination or formal evaluation. The student has the right
to appeal such decisions and to seek further departmental review, according to
57
established departmental and/or program standards (see above, Section I C).
3. Appeals of probation, suspension, or dismissal decisions by faculty that
involve judgment of performance normally will not be reviewed beyond the
college or school level. If, however, the student feels there has been
discrimination, unfairness, or procedural irregularity, the student may appeal to
the college or school dean and then to the graduate dean. The student may
pursue a grievance according to the Dispute Resolution Procedures established
by the university (see Division of Student Affairs documentation).
4. Students who are suspended or dismissed from a graduate program may be
eligible to retain their post baccalaureate standing in the university. However,
these students are not permitted to enroll in graduate coursework unless they are
admitted to a new graduate degree program.
References: Title 5 California Code of Regulations Graduate Student Academic Petitions
Committee Policies and Procedures (APM), Section 247
Recommended by the Academic Senate April 2003
Approved by the President May 9, 2003
58
