All academic policies reflect and adhere to sound educational practice, accurately represent the programs and services of Nicholls State University, and are published and disseminated to interested parties. All publications referred to in this narrative are available on the Nicholls Web site, in various offices throughout campus, and/or the internal Administrative Network (M Drive). In addition to the electronic copies, The Code of Student Conduct and Paddle: Student Handbook are disseminated to students in University Studies classes. New faculty members receive a copy of each of these in addition to the University's Policy and Procedure Manual and Bulletin at new faculty orientation. Faculty members are provided with a copy of the current Bulletin each academic year and are provided with updates of the Policy and Procedure Manual during Faculty Development Institutes. These Manual updates are also communicated throughout the year via email.

The core academic policies that directly affect students are contained in the University's Bulletin [1] and in the Code of Student Conduct [2]. Degrees awarded, degree requirements, general education requirements, grading policies, attendance policies, and probation and suspension policies are covered in detail in the Bulletin. Transfer policies, methods of obtaining credit, and the honors program are also described in the Bulletin. The Code of Student Conduct provides policies and procedures for academic grievances and student complaints. It also contains policies regarding academic dishonesty.

The Paddle [3] is the student handbook which provides the following information:

Introduction

This handbook was developed to help you. It contains information concerning the location of departments, services provided, schedules, student organizations, a special section on where to go to get your problems solved, and other helpful suggestions.

As members of the University community, students have an obligation to that community and to the preservation of the academic process. As citizens, students have the responsibility to know and obey the laws of the United States, the State of Louisiana, and of local governments. Student status in no way exempts them from the requirements of obeying such laws. Use this handbook faithfully to have an easier time in beginning your college career at Nicholls State University.

The University's Policy and Procedure Manual [4] describes the role of the faculty in curricular development, course syllabi requirements, grading, and other academic policies.