Policy Effective Date: March 2025 

 

Eldermont University utilizes a hybrid grading model to evaluate academic performance across its degree programs. This model includes Pass/Fail (P/F) credit recognition for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) and letter grading (A–F) for Research and Capstone courses, allowing students to earn a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) on their transcript. This system upholds academic excellence while honoring the flexibility and student-focused mission of the university.

 

• PLA is a structured evaluation of a student’s prior education, professional training, certifications, and life experience.

• Students submit a comprehensive PLA portfolio as part of their admissions application.

• PLA is evaluated holistically and applied at the course level where learning outcomes have been demonstrated.

• PLA Credit is awarded as “P” (Pass) for applicable courses and does not affect GPA.

• PLA credit does count toward degree completion and is recorded on the student’s official transcript.

 

Each degree program includes five core academic courses:

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral Research I

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral Research II

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral Research III

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral Research IV

• Final Bachelor’s Thesis, Master’s Thesis, or Doctoral Dissertation

 

These courses are self-paced and require students to conduct original research, demonstrate subject mastery, and submit scholarly written work for evaluation.

• Students may revise and resubmit their work until it meets academic standards for approval.

• Once approved, submissions are evaluated using a rubric and assigned a final letter grade (A–F).

 

• A = 4.0 (Excellent)

• B = 3.0 (Good)

• C = 2.0 (Satisfactory)

• F = 0.0 (Failure – Plagiarism or Academic Misconduct Only)

 

∗ Grades of “D” are not assigned. Students must earn a minimum grade of C to pass.

 

• Eldermont University encourages academic mastery over rigid timelines.

• Students are given every opportunity to revise and improve their work prior to final grading.

• The only condition under which a failing grade (“F”) is issued is in cases of academic dishonesty or plagiarism.

• All graded coursework must be the student’s original work and properly cited.

 

• Official transcripts display:

○ PLA-awarded courses with a grade of P (Pass)

○ Research and Capstone courses with letter grades (A–F)

○ A Cumulative GPA based solely on the five graded Research/Capstone courses

 

This structure allows for rigorous academic evaluation while maintaining a mission-aligned, accessible, and supportive model for non-traditional learners and working professionals.