Link to Boise State Home Page Link to Registrar Home Boise State University Directories Boise State University Index Boise State University Search Boise State University Campus Map

Obtaining a Degree at Boise State University

Types of Degrees
Academic and Career Advising
General Degree Requirements
Diversity Requirement
English Composition Requirement
Mathematics Requirement
University Core Requirements
Credit Requirements for Various Degrees
Additional Baccalaureate Degrees
Admission to Upper Division
Catalog Policy
Course Challenge
Course Prerequisite
Credit for Prerequisites Not Taken
Credit for Prior Learning
Credit Limitations
Double Majors
Graduation Honors
How to Apply for Graduation
Minor and Other Certificates
Transferring Credits to Boise State


Types of Degrees and Certificates

This table lists the types of degrees and certificates offered at Boise State University. For a complete list of degrees, majors, minors, certificates, and transfer programs, see Summary of Programs and Courses.

Degrees and Certificates Offered at
Boise State University
Code
Description
A.A.
Associate of Arts
A.S.
Associate of Science
B.A.
Bachelor of Arts
B.A.S.
Bachelor of Applied Science
B.B.A.
Bachelor of Business Administration
B.F.A.
Bachelor of Fine Arts
B.G.S.
Bachelor of General Studies
B.M.
Bachelor of Music
B.S.
Bachelor of Science
Ed.D.
Doctor of Education
G.C.
Graduate Certificate
M.A.
Master of Arts
M.A.A.
Master of Applied Anthropology
M.A.H.R.
Master of Applied Historical Research
M.B.A.
Master of Business Administration
M.Ed.
Master of Education
M.E.T.
Master of Educational Technology
M.Engr.
 Master of Engineering
M.ESci
Master of Earth Science
M.F.A.
Master of Fine Arts
M.H.S.
Master of Health Science
M.K.
Master of Kinesiology
M.M.
Master of Music
M.N.
Master of Nursing
M.P.A.
Master of Public Administration
M.P.E.
Master of Physical Education
M.S.
Master of Science
M.S.N.
Master of Science in Nursing
M.S.W.
Master of Social Work
Ph.D.
Doctor of Philosophy

Undergraduate degrees available at Boise State fall into one of two categories: associate degrees and baccalaureate degrees (also known as bachelor degrees). Both degrees are academic titles granted to students who have completed a specific course of study; that particular course of study constitutes a major (for example, accountancy, biology, or English). For instance, if you major in biology, you will receive a bachelor of science degree. If you major in English, you will receive a bachelor of arts degree.

Traditionally, obtaining a baccalaureate degree has required four years or more of full-time study, while obtaining an associate degree has usually required two or more years of full-time study.

This chapter defines the minimum credit requirements for each degree available at Boise State, as well as general policies applying to all degrees. Major requirements are specified by the department or interdisciplinary program responsible for the degree you wish to obtain. From time to time, as your academic work progresses, review this section and other relevant sections of the catalog to verify that you are making satisfactory progress toward your academic goals and that you are meeting all the requirements for the degree you seek.

In addition to the information contained in this catalog, you can receive information and assistance from your academic advisor. Use this opportunity to consult your advisor about your academic goals and your plans for achieving them. If you have selected a major, you will work with an advisor in the academic department responsible for your major. If you have not selected a major, you will work with an advisor from the Advising and Academic Enhancement, 1464 University Drive, (208) 426-4049.

Top of page

Academic and Career Advising

Academic and career advising is the process by which students receive help in forming their educational and career goals and planning ways to achieve them. Based on a student’s individual circumstances, personal development and skills, advisors provide information and support and foster a sense of responsibility in students to achieve their own goals. Academic and career advising at Boise State University are integrated because there is a strong relationship for most students between their educational and career goals. Boise State University is proactive about assisting students to explore this relationship for themselves and about raising awareness of the need for both academic and career planning throughout students’ programs of study. Academic and career advising include:

  • Ongoing contact with an informed and supportive representative of the campus community
  • Degree planning, including introduction to and explanation of academic requirements, policies and procedures
  • Exploration of necessary skills
  • Referral to campus resources
  • Career exploration, information and preparation

Most advisors are faculty members, although some departments also employ professional and peer advisors. In most cases, once you have selected a major, you will work with a faculty advisor from your department. Advisor assignments are handled differently in each department and to get accurate information, you must contact the department directly regarding advisor selection and appointment scheduling.

If you have not selected a major, you will work with an advisor in Advising and Academic Enhancement (see http://academicsupport.boisestate.edu/ for location). If you are a freshman, sophomore or new transfer student majoring in any business program, you will work with an advisor from the College of Business and Economics Student Services Center, located in the Business Building, Room 116.

Boise State encourages you to seek academic advising whenever you have questions about academic planning.

Top of page

General Degree Requirements

To obtain an associate degree:

To obtain a baccalaureate degree:

  • complete the number of credits specified for that degree
    • of those credits, at least 40 must be in upper-division courses (numbered 300 or higher)
  • complete 30 of your last 36 credits at Boise State (residency requirement)
  • meet the Diversity Requirement
  • meet the English Composition Requirement
  • meet the Mathematics Requirement
  • complete a specified number of core courses, receiving a grade of C- or higher in each course
  • attain a cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 2.0 or higher and meet any other grade requirements stipulated for your major
  • attain a grade of C- or higher in all upper-division courses required by your major
  • complete all major requirements specified by the program or department offering the degree
  • apply for graduation

Top of page

Diversity Requirement

Diversity course list

Three credits from diversity-designated courses will fulfill Boise State’s Diversity Requirement. For most majors this requirement does not alter the number of credits needed for the baccalaureate degree. All diversity approved courses are designated as “Diversity” in their course description.

Philosophy of the Diversity Requirement

Boise State University values cultural diversity in its faculty, its students, and its curriculum. Because we live in a multicultural world, we seek to educate students to recognize and appreciate the many ways in which each of us is shaped by gender, sexual orientation, class, race, culture, ability, nationality, religion, and ethnicity. This requires more than just exposure to cultural differences; it requires that we critically examine such differences being attentive to the special challenges that each of us faces in understanding those whose lives are shaped by cultures other than our own. It is hoped that such reflection will afford each of us a critical perspective of the cultures with which we are most familiar and help us appreciate the elements common to human beings across cultures.

The Diversity Requirement will serve as a foundation for ongoing exploration of difference. Accordingly, such courses will 1) be concerned with issues and/or theories of gender, sexual orientation, class, race, culture, nationality, ability, religion, or ethnicity as these may be found anywhere in the world; and 2) require reflection on the challenges and benefits of dialogue across differences.

Learning Outcomes of the Diversity Requirement
  1. Knowledge Content—The course will increase the student’s knowledge and awareness of the unique contributions of diverse groups and their beliefs, values, knowledge, and experiences of people of diverse groups.
  2. Self-reflection—The course will require students to gain self-awareness of and insight into their cultural perspectives.
  3. Diversity Skills—The course will develop the student’s ability to sensitively work with diverse individuals and groups while building diverse relationships.
  4. Social Analysis—The course will critically examine social institutions and their policies and structures, either in the United States or abroad, that affect or are affected by the beliefs, values, and experiences of people or diverse groups.
  5. Scope—The course will contain multidisciplinary examinations of difference, power, and oppression.

Top of page

English Composition Requirement

Because the ability to read, write, and think critically are characteristics of an educated person, (and because English is the language required for success in Boise State University courses), Boise State University requires students to demonstrate proficiency in written English. All students seeking a baccalaureate degree—and, with a few exceptions, those seeking an associate degree—must either complete six credits in English composition or demonstrate writing proficiency in English in one of several other ways.

The English Composition Requirement is administered by the First-Year Writing Program Office within the English Department. Call the First-Year Writing Program Office at (208) 426-4209 if you have questions about this requirement.

How to Meet the English Composition Course Requirement

In order to satisfy the English Composition Requirement, you must successfully complete with a grade of C- or higher one of the following sequences:

  • ENGL 101 and ENGL 102 Introduction to College Writing and Research
  • ENGL 101 and ENGL 112 Introduction to College Writing and Honors Composition

Course Placement or Sequence for Meeting the English Composition Course Requirement

In the summer of 2011, we will be expanding our use of a new pilot placement process that enables you to have more input into your course selection. The course sequence you take depends on following “The Write Class” placement information, which will be made available to you via e-mail before your Broncoventure Orientation session. If you have any questions about this process, please contact the First-Year Writing Program Office (number below).

The current placement options continue to be available for all students, as well (below). The course sequence you take depends on your score on the English portion of the ACT, or SAT, or the writing portion of COMPASS as indicated in the table.

Course Placement or Sequence for
Meeting the English Composition Course Requirement
ACT* English
SAT* Critical Reading
COMPASS*
SEQUENCE INDICATED
0-17
200-440
0-67
 Take ENGL 90, then ENGL 101 and ENGL 102
18-24
450-560
68-94
 Take ENGL 101, then ENGL 102
25-30
570-690
95-99
 3 credits (P) for ENGL 101 and placement in ENGL 102
31-36
700-800
Credit (P) for both ENGL 101 and ENGL 102 (6 total credits)
NOTE: The COMPASS does NOT give credit for ENGL 102.

If English is not your native language, you should take the ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) placement test to determine which course you should take instead of the COMPASS exam; see the Boise State University Registration Guide details.

Transfer Students If you have transferred English composition courses from another institution to Boise State, the Registrar’s Office will determine whether your courses satisfy all or part of the English Composition Course Requirement. If your courses do not transfer as equivalent to ENGL 101 (and/or ENGL 102), call the First-Year Writing Program Office at (208) 426-4209.

The First-Year Writing Program reviews placement and transfer credit issues throughout the year. However, if you have questions about placement or transfer courses that will impact the upcoming semester, please plan accordingly. To ensure appropriate service, all placement and transfer credit issues must be received in the First-Year Writing Program Office at least ten business days prior to the start-up of the upcoming semester.

Priority deadline for Fall Semester 2011 is August 4, 2011; priority deadline for Spring Semester 2012 is January 3, 2012.

For further information on this process contact the First-Year Writing Program Office, Liberal Arts Building, Room 256, (208) 426-4209.

Top of page

Mathematics Requirement

Because the ability to think quantitatively is a characteristic of an educated person, Boise State University requires students to demonstrate proficiency in mathematics. All students seeking a baccalaureate degree—and, with a few exceptions, those seeking an associate degree—must complete 3-5 credits in mathematics.

Mathematics and Computer Science Placement Exam Policy

NOTE: ACT/SAT/COMPASS are for placement only. All students must take a mathematics course; the placement tests do not waive the mathematics requirement.

Placement Exams Boise State uses an “adaptive” computerized exam that covers up to four areas of mathematics (pre-algebra, algebra, college algebra, and trigonometry). The areas covered will depend on your background and your performance as the exam proceeds.

The exam is untimed and the number of questions you will be given will vary due to the adaptive nature of the exam, but you should generally allow about an hour. Your exam will be scored immediately and you will be given a printout of your results telling you which classes you are permitted to take.

An exam fee is payable to University Testing Services, Academic and Career Services Building, Room 111, at the time you take the exam. Photo ID is required. Personal checks are not accepted. You may take the exam at most twice during a given semester, and results are valid for placement only for the designated semester.

Prerequisite Courses You may be exempt from the placement exam if you have taken an appropriate prerequisite course. The following table groups the courses for which placement exams are given into four categories. You may take a course in a given category if you have received a C- or higher in either the prerequisite course listed for that category, or another course in the same or higher numbered category.

Math Placement Exam/Prerequisite Categories
Category
Courses in Category
 Prerequisite
1
 COMPSCI 115, MATH 108, MATH 124, MATH 130 MATH 25
2
 COMPSCI 119, MATH 143, MATH 147, MATH 157, MATH 254 MATH 108
3
 MATH 144, MATH 160, MATH 187 MATH 143
4
 COMPSCI 117, COMPSCI 125, MATH 170 MATH 147

Transfer students will need to contact the mathematics department to determine whether transfer courses not equivalent to a Boise State course will count as prerequisites for placement purposes.

Scores on the Mathematics portion of the ACT or SAT may be used for placement, but if in doubt, you should take the placement exam. The table below gives placement cutoffs for both standard and percentile scores. You may take the indicated course if either your standard score or your percentile is high enough.

Exam Scores/Placement Cutoffs
Category
ACT Std.
SAT Std.
Percentile
COMPASS
MATH 108
18
430
41
40 (ALGP)
1 (except MATH 108)
19
460
48
45 (ALGP)
2
23
540
70
61 (ALGP)
3
27
620
88
51 (CALGP)
4
29
650
93
51 (TRIG)

To retake a course in which you received a D, F, or W, you must requalify via either a placement exam for the current semester or a prerequisite course (with a C- or better). Neither old placement exams nor ACT/SAT scores may be used to requalify for repeat courses.

The developmental mathematics courses MATH 15, Pre-Algebra and MATH 25, Elementary Algebra, do not require a placement exam.

Top of page

University Core Requirements for Baccalaureate Degrees

Area I course list
Area II course list
Area III course list

Requirements for baccalaureate degrees are fulfilled by taking a combination of core courses, courses in the student’s major (a primary field of study, such as history or philosophy), and electives (additional courses falling outside the major that count toward the total number of credit hours required for the degree). Core courses provide students with a broad educational experience that provides a foundation and wider context for more advanced study in the major field.

Philosophy of the Core

It is the University’s responsibility to help students learn to think critically, to communicate clearly and concisely in oral, written, and visual form, to appreciate themselves as part of a larger world, and to cultivate the imagination and intellectual curiosity required for lifelong learning. The Core curriculum is designed to help students develop skills, knowledge and understanding that can be applied toward these ends. The curriculum provides a variety of foundational courses in each of three broad areas that approach learning and problem solving in different ways and contribute to the preparation of students as both local and global citizens.

Area I courses are typically offered by disciplines in the humanities, arts, languages, and philosophy. They provide opportunities to engage in the study of intellectual and aesthetic products from a variety of cultures. Knowledge of expressions of culture promotes understanding of the diverse ways in which human thought, experience, and communication are historically and ideologically shaped and culturally preserved.

Area II courses are typically offered by disciplines in the social and behavioral sciences, history, education, and economics. They engage students in the study of how people, cultures, societies, and institutions function and have evolved both in specific situations and over time. They examine the forces that shape human and social activity. Appreciation of methods of inquiry provides insight into human cultures and societies.

Area III courses are typically offered by disciplines in the natural and physical sciences, engineering, and mathematics. They promote understanding of the observable physical world. They engage students in the exploration of the relationships among variables. The skills of scientific inquiry expand each student’s ability to understand the world and the ways in which applications of science, engineering, and mathematics transform our lives in substantial ways.

Learning Outcomes of the Core Curriculum

The faculty of Boise State University have identified learning outcomes for the core curriculum. Specific learning outcomes for each course are listed in course syllabi for core courses, while general learning outcomes for the overall core experience are defined below.


Critical Thinking/Problem Solving Skills

The development of Critical Thinking and Problem Solving skills are essential to lifelong learning and for professional growth/success. Graduating students are expected to be able to do at least the following effectively, in a variety of subject matters and contexts:

  • Evaluate the information and processes essential to the solution of a problem
  • Understand that a variety of strategies for solving a problem may exist
  • Apply and evaluate a variety of strategies for solving a problem
  • Analyze quantitative information (e.g., numerical data, charts, graphs, or tables) to understand a problem or its solution
  • Analyze qualitative data (e.g., symbols, texts, artifacts or behaviors) to understand a problem or its solution
  • Distinguish fact from opinion
  • Assess the extent to which an argument is supported by facts
  • Identify assumptions or hypotheses embedded in arguments
  • Construct a logically defensible argument

Communication Skills

Effective communication skills are essential for sharing ideas between individuals and organizations and enhancing both personal and professional success. As a result, graduating students are expected to be able to do at least the following effectively, in a variety of subject matters and contexts:

  • Interpret written materials
  • Write clearly for specific purposes and audiences
  • Make effective formal oral presentations appropriate to specific purposes and audiences
  • Employ speaking and listening skills effectively in interactions with others
  • Use information sources appropriately in oral or written communication

Cultural Perspective

The ability to appreciate perspectives and experiences different from one’s own is important for both individual growth and for society. Such cultural perspectives can be defined by history and geographical location as well as by race/ethnicity, gender/gender identity, age, sexual orientation, disability, faith, national origin, political affiliation, as well as other identities within our society. Graduating students are expected to be able to do at least the following:

  • Compare the distinguishing characteristics of your own culture to those of another
  • Use an understanding of another culture as a lens to understand your own cultural perspectives
  • Compare the creative accomplishments valued by another culture to those of your own culture
  • Recognize the rights and responsibilities of active citizenship

Breadth of Knowledge and Intellectual Perspective

Study in a wide variety of fields is important preparation for both lifelong learning and for local and global citizenship. Graduating students are expected be able to do at least the following, at the introductory level, in a sampling of fields of study in the arts and humanities, the social sciences, mathematics and the natural sciences:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the essential concepts underlying theories in the field
  • Apply theories to typical problems in the field
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the basic methods of inquiry used in this field
  • Use appropriate methods of inquiry to answer basic questions in the field
  • Identify important issues for which a diversity of interpretation between experts in the field exists

Because core courses serve as a foundation for specialized work and can enhance your understanding of your chosen major, you should work carefully with your advisor to select appropriate core courses. Specific educational objectives for each degree and certificate program are available on the Boise State websites of individual programs.

NOTE: Core courses deemed crucial to a particular discipline are often incorporated into the major requirements within the discipline. For example, the mathematics department requires that its majors take MATH 170 Calculus I, and MATH 175 Calculus II — courses that also satisfy Area III core requirements. If you carefully compare the core requirements with the requirements for your major, you may find that certain core courses will count toward both requirements.

The University Core Courses listing shows the approved courses offered at Boise State in Area I,
Area II, and Area III. Each area is further divided into courses offered in various fields of study. For example, Area I includes art, music, and philosophy among its fields of study. Each degree requires that you complete a certain number of core courses; in addition, each degree specifies the distribution of those core courses among Area I, Area II, and Area III. The following section, Credit Requirements for Various Degrees, defines the core requirements for various types of degrees, including the core requirements associated with each degree.

If you are a transfer student, you may be exempt from some specific requirements identified here. For more information, see Transferring Credits to Boise State.

Top of page

Credit Requirements for Various Degrees

The minimum credit requirements for each degree offered at Boise State University are defined in the following tables.

Top of page

Additional Baccalaureate Degrees

If you have earned a baccalaureate degree, either at Boise State or elsewhere, you must complete at least 30 additional credits for each additional degree you wish to earn. Those 30 credits must be earned at Boise State. In addition, you must meet all of the course requirements in your major and meet any other requirements of the university.

In order to determine what requirements you need to complete, you will need to take a copy of your transcript(s) to the department chair of your major. The chair will review your transcript(s) and compile a list of courses you must complete at Boise State in order to earn the additional degree. Your major may require that the dean of the college also approve this list. A copy of the approved list must be sent to the Graduation Evaluators in the Registrar’s Office. You do not have to meet the core requirements, though you may have to take core courses required for your major.

NOTE: If you already have a baccalaureate degree and you are pursuing graduate studies, you must apply for admission to Boise State through the Graduate Admissions and Degree Services Office, Business Building, Rooms 304 and 305, (208) 426-3647. If you already have a baccalaureate degree and will be taking undergraduate courses, you need to apply through Undergraduate Admissions, located on the first floor of the Student Union Building, (208) 426-1156.

Top of page

Admission to Upper Division

To enroll in upper-division courses (those numbered 300 to 499), you must have completed all course prerequisites and have met all other requirements of your department or college. In most instances, you must also have attained junior standing. If you are a sophomore, you may enroll in upper-division courses with the permission of the department, provided that you have completed all course prerequisites. Some academic programs require students to be formally admitted to the major before they may enroll in upper-division courses. To determine if this policy applies to your major, consult the requirements specified for your major in Academic Programs and Courses.

Top of page

Catalog Policy

In determining if you are eligible to graduate, the Registrar’s Office follows the requirements defined in a single edition of the university catalog. You may select any edition of the catalog, provided that the catalog was published and was in force while you were enrolled at Boise State and provided that the catalog is no older than six academic years at the time of your graduation.

If you need to change your catalog, contact the BroncoWeb Help Center at (208) 426-BWEB or bweb@boisestate.edu. If you have already applied for graduation and need to change your catalog, email DegreeProgress@boisestate.edu.

Top of page

Course Challenge

If you feel that your background, education, and experience have given you sufficient knowledge in a subject area, you may challenge certain courses. That is, you may be able to receive credit for the course by passing a challenge exam. Each department selects which courses are available for challenge and may develop screening procedures to determine if you are eligible to take the challenge exam. You may not challenge a course to improve a previous grade earned in that course.

After you have completed 12 semester credits at Boise State University, and you have received permission from the appropriate academic department to register for a challenge exam, you must complete the form Credit for Prior Learning —Challenge and submit it to the BroncoWeb Help Center, Administration Building, Room 110. A $50 per course fee will be charged to challenge a test prepared by an academic department. For externally prepared challenge exams, a $20 per course fee is paid to the University. Any fees for tests are paid directly by the student. Any proctoring/testing center fees are paid by the academic department out of the university fee. Fees charged are the same regardless of whether a student is full-time or part-time. For departmentally prepared exams, the department determines the grading system. Grades may be recorded as either Pass or as a letter grade (A+ through C-). Grades of D+ or lower will not be transcribed. Before you take the exam, the department will tell you what type of grading is available.

Top of page

Course Prerequisite

A prerequisite is a course (or courses) that you must have successfully completed before you can enroll in another course. For instance, before you can enroll in SPANISH 102 Elementary Spanish II, you must first have completed SPANISH 101 Elementary Spanish I. If a course has a prerequisite, the prerequisite is listed in Academic Programs and Courses or in the online Boise State University Schedule of Classes.

Students must complete prerequisites listed in the catalog descriptions or Boise State University Schedule of Classes with a grade of C- or better prior to enrolling in the course unless otherwise specified by the department. Requests to waive certain course prerequisites may be approved by the department offering the course. Requests must be justified on the basis of background, education, or experience.

Top of page

Credit for Prerequisites Not Taken

A prerequisite is a course (or courses) that you must have successfully completed before you can enroll in another course. For instance, before you can enroll in SPANISH 102 Elementary Spanish, you must first have completed SPANISH 101 Elementary Spanish with a grade of C- or higher. If a course has a prerequisite, the prerequisite is listed in Academic Programs and Courses or in the online Boise State University Schedule of Classes.

Depending on your background or experience, you may be allowed to take some courses without first taking a prerequisite course. In some cases, you may also be able to receive credit for the prerequisite course. To take a course without first taking the prerequisite, you must obtain the approval of the head of the appropriate academic department. Complete the form Credit for Prior Learning—Credit for Prerequisites Not Taken and submit it to the BroncoWeb Help Center, Administration Building, Room 110. A $20 per course fee will be charged to apply for credit for prerequisites not taken and to take the appropriate test. Any fees for externally prepared tests are paid by the student. Any proctoring/testing center fees are paid by the academic department out of the University fee. Fees charged are the same regardless of whether a student is full-time or part-time. Grading will be done on a Pass/Fail system. Only Pass grades will be transcribed. Grades will be transcribed if/when you complete the advanced course and earn a grade of C- or higher. Academic departments determine which courses can qualify for this credit.

Top of page

Credit for Prior Learning

Many colleges and universities, including Boise State, accept satisfactory performance on national standardized examinations, satisfactory performance on locally written examinations, or satisfactory evaluation of other training and experience as alternatives by which a student may satisfy certain general education, specific course, or major requirements.

You may earn up to one-third of your total credits required for graduation (40 credits for a baccalaureate degree and 21 for an associate degree) in a combination of all forms of experiential learning (portfolio, challenge, CLEP credits, AP credit, DSST credits, Credit for Prerequisites Not Taken, ACE Guide credits, military credit, etc.). No more than one-quarter may be earned in portfolio credit (30 credits for a baccalaureate degree and 16 for an associate degree). Credits earned through any form of experiential learning/prior learning shall not count toward the 30-credit graduation residency requirement or as a repeat of another course.

Students must be currently enrolled at Boise State to apply for prior learning credits. The Registrar’s Office will transcript credits awarded through prior learning after a student has successfully completed 12 credit hours at Boise State University.

You can earn credits required for graduation by receiving credit for prior learning in the following ways:

Specific course equivalencies and credits awarded are determined by academic departments. Credit may be awarded for specific courses or as general elective credit. In granting credit for prior learning, Boise State University generally will follow the guidelines provided by The American Council on Education (ACE) Guide to Educational Credit by Examination and The ACE Guide to Military and Other Training Programs. Credits awarded through The ACE Guide recommendations and national standardized tests (CLEP, AP, PEP, etc.) are recorded with a grade of P (Pass) after you have enrolled in course work at Boise State University. Credits earned through any form of experiential learning may not be used to repeat a class already completed.

A detailed list of all the types of prior learning for which you may receive credit is available at http://registrar.boisestate.edu/priorlearning.shtml. More information about prior learning credit is available through the Registrar’s Office, Administration Building, Room 110, (208) 426-4249.

The following is a brief review of the prior learning credit that is available:

  • The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) consists of general and subject exams in a variety of subject areas. The general exams measure college-level achievement in five areas: English composition, natural sciences, social sciences and history, mathematics, and humanities. The subject exams test achievement in more specific college-level subjects.
  • DSST Exams allow you to receive college credits for learning acquired outside the traditional classroom. Exams cover the areas of Social Science, Business, Mathematics, Humanities, and Physical Science.
  • PEP Exams are similar to CLEP subject exams in that they test achievement in college-level subjects.
  • USAFI/DANTES Exams are primarily available to personnel on active duty in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, and to the cadets and midshipmen of the military academies. These are also similar to CLEP subject exams in that they test achievement in college-level subjects.
  • Advanced Placement Exams (AP) are administered nationally each year in May, primarily at participating high schools. The exams are the culminating exercise for high school students taking honors or advanced courses that parallel standard college-level courses.
  • IBO International Baccalaureate Diploma Program Examinations. The IBO’s Diploma Program (DP) is a demanding course of study that leads to culminating exams for highly motivated high school students. Only High Level (HL) exams will receive college-level credit at Boise State University. A minimum score of 4 is required to receive credit.
Experiential Learning

You may earn up to one-third of your total credits required for graduation (40 credits for a baccalaureate degree and 21 for an associate degree) in a combination of all forms of experiential learning (portfolio, challenge, CLEP credits, AP credit, DANTES credits, Credit for Prerequisites Not Taken, ACE Guide credits, etc.). No more than one-quarter may be earned in portfolio credit (30 credits for a baccalaureate degree and 16 for an associate degree). Credits earned through any form of experiential learning/prior learning shall not count toward the 30-credit graduation residency requirement or as a repeat of another course.

Military Training Credit

You may receive credit for selected military training or experience. To do so, you must furnish the Registrar’s Office with a copy of your S.M.A.R.T. or A.A.R.T.S. transcript or similar official documents. If you have completed two or more years of active military service, you may also request that the Boise State Military Science department evaluate your military service for possible credit toward the ROTC Basic Course. Credit for the ROTC Basic Course is only awarded to those who have committed to pursuing the ROTC Advanced Course.

Other Training Programs

You may earn credit for training programs listed in the National Guide to Education Credit for Training Programs, published by the American Council on Education. You may also earn credit for training programs listed in A Guide to Educational Programs in Noncollegiate Organizations, published by the University of the State of New York.

Prior Learning Portfolio

Credit for prior learning experience is also possible in some departments through development of a formal, professional, written portfolio. The portfolio outlines, in-depth, the knowledge you have gained outside the college classroom and shows the relationship to college-level learning. Assessment of portfolios and credit recommendations are determined by the academic department in which the credit is being requested. To apply for credit through this method, you will be required to pay a $75.00 per course fee to have your portfolio reviewed. For further information on this process, contact the BroncoWeb Help Center, Administration Building, Room 110, (208) 426-4249. For further information on specific applications, contact the appropriate academic department.

Top of page

Credit Limitations
Extension and Correspondence Courses

You may count toward graduation as many as 30 credits of extension or correspondence courses. However, your department may further limit the type and number of these credits that you can count toward your major. If you wish to count an extension or correspondence course toward degree requirements, you must complete the course and have an official transcript sent to the Registrar’s Office by mid-term of the semester in which you begin the last 30 of your last 36 credit hours.

Kinesiology Activity Courses

Kinesiology activity courses are offered by the Kinesiology department in general-interest sports and recreation activities, such as bowling, kayaking, tennis, and aerobics. You may count toward graduation as many as 8 credits of kinesiology activity courses. Other restrictions apply to kinesiology activity courses if you are seeking a Bachelor of Business Administration degree; for further information, see Table 10.11, above, in Credit Requirements for Various Degrees.

Independent Study

Any department offering a baccalaureate degree may offer independent study, which allows you to pursue a special interest in an area not covered by a regularly offered course. Independent study is designed to complement your major and is not intended to be used to complete requirements for a regularly offered course. You may not use independent study to improve a grade you received in a class. To participate in independent study, you must have attained junior standing and have a GPA of 2.0 or higher. If you are a junior or senior, you may take up to 4 credits of independent study in a semester, though you may take no more than 6 credits in a given academic year. You may apply no more than 9 credits of independent study toward your degree. If you are a freshman or sophomore in the Honors Program, you may take up to 4 credits of independent study in a semester, up to a total of 6 lower-division credits.

Internships

Most departments provide internships or cooperative-education programs that provide academic credit for on-the-job experience in an area of interest or in your major. You may apply up to 12 credits of internship toward your graduation requirements. Departments that offer internship and cooperative-education programs have faculty coordinators for these programs. More information about internships is available from your department.

Religion Courses

You may count toward graduation as many as 8 credits of nonsectarian religion courses (e.g., Old or New Testament or The Bible as Literature). However, the courses must be taken at regionally accredited colleges or universities, and you may count the credits only as general elective credits.

Service-Learning

Service-learning provides you with a way to link community service to your course work. You can become involved by enrolling in a designated service-learning course which is linked to a specific section of an already established course. In the online Boise State University Schedule of Classes, the service-learning lab will be designated by the base course prefix and number followed by the suffix SL (e.g., MKTG 307 base course, MKTG 307SL service-learning component). Through service-learning, you will receive course credit for participating in service opportunities that are intentionally designed to promote learning while helping meet human and community needs. You may take up to 3 service-learning credits in a semester. You may apply no more than 9 service-learning credits toward your degree. For more information, contact the Service-Learning Program office at (208) 426-1004.

Many classes integrate service-learning as a teaching method. In these courses, service-learning is an integral part of the course work. These “fully integrated” service-learning classes are searchable on BroncoWeb, select integrated service-learning in the designation drop-down menu. Classes using this model include a related service experience (sometimes required, sometimes optional) that is used as the basis for papers, class presentations, discussion, and other assignments. Instructors deliberately link the course content with the service experience. Service ranges from 10 to 30 hours, and is at the discretion of the faculty member. For more information, contact the Service-Learning Program office at (208) 426-1004. There is no limit to the number of fully integrated service-learning courses you can take.

Undergraduate Enrollment in 500-Level Courses

If you are a senior, you may apply up to two 500-level (graduate) courses toward the credit requirements for an undergraduate degree. You may also count these courses toward the 40-credit requirement for upper-division courses. To count 500-level courses toward graduation, complete the form Permit for Seniors to Take Graduate Courses.

Top of page

Double Majors

You may earn a single baccalaureate degree with more than one major if you satisfy all requirements for each major.

If you are earning two degrees at the same time, i.e., B.A. and B.S., you must complete an additional 30 credit hours.

Graduation Honors

Graduation honors are awarded to students receiving their first baccalaureate degree, according to the scale shown in table below. Honors are awarded on the basis of all semesters completed, and the student’s final transcript remains the official record of any honors granted. However, in honoring a student at commencement, Boise State uses the student’s cumulative grade point average (GPA) at the end of either spring or summer semester for the December ceremony and fall semester for the May ceremony.

Graduation Honors
Cumulative Grade-Point Average
Honor
3.500 - 3.749
Cum Laude
3.750 - 3.949
Magna Cum Laude
3.950 - 4.000
Summa Cum Laude
All grades, including those that have been excluded from GPA calculation in accordance with the grade exclusion policy, will be used to calculate graduation honors.

Top of page

How to Apply for Graduation

You may apply for graduation by logging on to your BroncoWeb student account. A nonrefundable graduation application fee must be paid when applying.

A graduation evaluator will review your application after the 10th day of classes of the semester in which you intend to graduate. Upon review of your application, you will receive an e-mail notifying you if you are a valid candidate for graduation. To ensure your candidacy, please review your degree information on BroncoWeb with your academic advisor. You must apply for graduation no later than the end of the first week of the semester you intend to graduate (see the Academic Calendar for the exact date).

NOTE: All graduating students must pay the graduation application fee, regardless of whether they intend to participate in commencement and regardless of whether they wish to receive a diploma.

Top of page

Minors and Certificates

Summary of Programs and Courses, lists the certificates and minors available at Boise State, along with the degrees offered by Boise State. Certificates and minors are available in selected fields, as are minor certification endorsements in secondary education programs. Requirements for all certificates, endorsements, and minors are listed in Academic Programs and Courses.

NOTE: For a minor to be officially recorded on your transcript, you must complete all required course work in that minor before you receive your degree. You may not earn a minor in the same field as your major. Certificates are recorded on your transcript once your department or program notifies the Registrar’s Office that you have completed all required course work. Minor certification endorsements are awarded by the State Department of Education and are not recorded on Boise State transcripts.

Top of page

Transferring Credits to Boise State

Transferring credits is a process by which some or all of the credits you have earned at another institution of higher learning are applied toward your degree at Boise State. The Registrar’s Office evaluates your transcript to determine if the courses you have taken elsewhere are equivalent to courses offered at Boise State. If a course you have taken is equivalent, you can count toward graduation the credits earned in that course, just as if you had earned those credits at Boise State. If the course is not equivalent, those credits count as general elective credits. You may transfer all credits from a junior or community college, but only 70 credits may be used toward graduation.

Boise State accepts college-level credit for both academic and applied technology programs, if those credits were granted by institutions accredited by regional accrediting associations, as reported in Accredited Institutions of Post-Secondary Education (published by the Council on Post-Secondary Accreditation). If you earn credits from an institution not listed in Accredited Institutions of Post Secondary Education, you may still be able to transfer those credits to Boise State. In such cases, the department offering similar courses will review the credits you wish to transfer and will decide which credits, if any, to accept. You may request this department approval after you have completed 15 credits at Boise State, with a cumulative GPA in those courses of 2.0 or higher.

As a transfer student, you are exempt from meeting the core requirements at Boise State if you:

  • Transfer from a U.S. regionally-accredited academic institution and have earned an academic A.A. or A.S. degree
  • Transfer from a U.S. regionally-accredited academic institution and have completed the equivalent of Idaho’s State Board of Education general-education core (but have not completed an A.A. or A.S. degree)

If you earned an academic associate degree from a regionally accredited institution and your credits were evaluated by Boise State University prior to June 2004, we recommend resubmitting official transcripts for core certification review.

In those cases where a core class is also required as a particular major requirement, students must still complete the course in the major to earn the degree.

For purposes of counting lower- or upper-division credit required for graduation, the university uses the course number of the transferring institution, i.e., if the course is numbered at the 100 or 200 level by the transfer institution, it will be counted as lower-division at Boise State. If the course is numbered at the 300 or 400 level at the transfer institution then the course will be counted toward meeting the upper-division requirement for graduation purposes. See general degree requirements for details on minimum upper-division credits needed for obtaining a degree.

NOTE: If your major requires completion of a specific general education course that was not completed as a transfer course, you would need to complete the additional course to earn a degree.

In all other cases, your transcript is evaluated on a course-by-course basis to determine which Boise State core requirements you must meet. For more information about core requirements, see the section titled “Core Requirements,” above.

If you wish to transfer applied technology credits to academic programs at Boise State, you must count them as major-requirement credits. You may apply such credits only to the degree requirements stipulated by the department or program originally approving the transfer. If you switch from that department or program to another, the new department or program will evaluate the appropriateness of the transfer credits and decide whether to allow you to apply them toward the department or program requirements.

Top of page