PACS Student Handbooks

Upon entrance, each student is assigned a faculty advisor. The primary responsibility of the advisor is to act as the departmental representative. The advisor’s responsibilities include:

• participating in the registration process
• discussing the academic classes to be taken, and
• being available to discuss other issues of interest or concern with the student.

Students are registered in classes on a semester basis. Before each semester, each student is required to meet with his/her advisor, complete the registration form, and submit the form to the PACS Office. The completed registration form will then be forwarded to the School of Medicine’s Registrar’s Office to complete the registration process. Advising and registration materials will be distributed to students and advisors prior to each semester’s advising and registration period. Students should not register themselves via WebSTAC, but can use the on-line system to verify registration.  

Admission Standards

Admission is limited and on a competitive basis. Academic performance, as evidenced by transcripts and scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test are important factors in admission decisions. A grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 or higher, along with GRE scores in the 30th percentile or higher (all sections), are considered minimum criteria. For international applicants whose native language is not English, the score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) should be at least 600 (paper), 250 (computer), or 100 (Internet). Other important components of the application package include strong letters of recommendation, a well-written personal statement, excellent written and interpersonal communication skills and a positive campus visit or interview (a visit or interview is recommended, but not required).

Prerequisites
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) or higher from an accredited university to be considered for admission. Classes listed below are required for professional certification. Although completion is recommended prior to enrollment, these classes can generally be completed during graduate studies without an extension of the program. Classes in each subject, unless otherwise noted, must be equivalent to three semester hours or more of academic credit.

AuD Program:

• sign language (2)
• typical language development
• speech and language disorders

MSDE Program:

• general classes in the arts, history and government, English composition, mathematics, oral communication, science, behavioral sciences and multicultural issues (1)
• child and adolescent psychology
• education and psychology of exceptional children
• typical language development
• sign language (2)

Application Procedures
Individuals interested in applying must do so online using the link provided on the PACS website (http://pacs.wustl.edu). The following items are required and must be received by the stated application deadline:

• Completed application, including personal statement;
• Application fee (non-refundable);
• Official transcripts from all college/university classes;
• Three letters of recommendation;
• Official scores from the GRE, submitted to Institution Code 6929 (Washington University College of Arts & Sciences), Department Code 0602 (Audiology);
• A campus visit or phone interview is strongly encouraged prior to the application deadline and can be arranged by contacting the PACS Office;
• Official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for all international applicants whose native language is not English.

Applicants for Readmission (AuD and MSDE)
If a student leaves the program for reasons other than an approved leave of absence after the successful completion of at least one semester and later wishes to resume his/her studies, the following items must be submitted by the published application deadlines:

• Completed application, including personal statement;
• Application fee of $25;
• Official transcripts from all college/university classes since leaving the program.

SNCD Applicants
Applicants who would like to be considered for admission as a Student Not Candidate for Degree (SNCD) in PACS must submit all of the above except for the GRE, and just one letter of recommendation will be required. The published application deadlines apply.

Application Deadlines
All application materials for the AuD and MSDE programs must be received by February 15th. Applications completed after this deadline will only be considered for placement on a wait list and/or if there is a space in the program. All application materials for the PhD program must be received by January 15th. Applicants to the MSDE program may also elect to submit application materials by the early consideration deadline of December 15th. A limited number of admission offers will be made following this deadline.

Admission Decisions
All application materials are formally reviewed before the Admissions and Scholarship Committee meeting(s) by at least two members of the faculty who do not serve on the Committee. These two members of the faculty will make formal recommendations to the Admissions and Scholarship Committee regarding admission. Final decisions regarding admission and initial scholarship offers are made by the Admissions and Scholarship Committee, which is typically comprised of five members of the faculty, and approved by the Chairman of the Department of Otolaryngology. All applicants will be notified in writing via mail of admissions decisions and scholarship offers.

Students accepted for admission by PACS into the Speech and Hearing Sciences Program must also be approved for admission by the Dean of the The Graduate School. If approved for admission by the Dean, the student will receive a separate admission letter and documentation from The Graduate School.

Wait List
A very small number of individuals may qualify for our wait list. Individuals on the wait list will be offered a position if additional space becomes available. A deadline will be set for our initial offers to accept admission and wait-listed students will be notified immediately after this date as to the status of his/her application, and/or next steps. Wait-listed students may submit additional information or documents and/or request a campus visit or interview to assist the Admissions and Scholarship Committee with final decisions.

Reconsideration
If admission is not granted, the applicant may make a request to the PACS Program Director for reconsideration. This request must be made in writing and may, if the applicant so chooses, include his/her reasons why the request is being made. No additional information or documents will be accepted for the application file. If the applicant’s request for reconsideration is approved by the Program Director, at least two additional faculty members will review the application file. Based on the feedback from these additional reviews and the original application review, the Program Director will determine the appropriate steps for the final decision. The Admissions Committee is generally consulted only in the event that the Program Director would like to recommend the reversal of the original decision and offer the applicant admission or placement on the wait list. The applicant will be notified in writing of the final decision. All faculty comments are considered confidential and therefore, no specific reasons for denial of admission will be given.

Deferment
An offer of admission is made only for the upcoming academic year. Acceptance of the offer generally may not be deferred, though the Program Director may consider requests on a case-by-case basis, generally only for academic-related reasons. If granted, the deferral is for one year only. Accordingly, a student who requests and is approved to defer admission is considered under an obligation to enroll and attend the graduate program the following year. Under special circumstances, if the deferred student fails to satisfy the conditions or reason for the deferral, the deferral may be withdrawn and the offer of admission may be rescinded. Under exceptional circumstances, where the deferred student fails to satisfy the reason for or conditions of the deferral, the deferral may be withdrawn and the offer of admission may be rescinded. Requests for deferral should be made according to normal admission response deadlines. Deferral requests made after a student has already accepted the offer of admission are not ordinarily granted. In addition, scholarship or other financial support included with the original offer is not subject to deferral and the student will be reconsidered the following year. The enrollment deposit is non-refundable and will be forfeited if the student fails to enroll.

Post-Admission Requirements
Following admission, the applicant is required to submit a non-refundable deposit of $200 to reserve his/her place in the class. In addition, the following items must also be received before registration and enrollment can be finalized:

• Final official transcript documenting degree and date received from undergraduate educational institution, if not included with application;
• Official scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), if not included with application;
• Any other items missing from the original application file;
• Completed forms required by Student Health Services;
• Other paperwork required for federal/other funding (if applicable);
• Consent to background check and drug screenings, necessary information to complete these checks and screenings, and successful completion of these (see “Background Check and Drug Screening Policy” for more information);
• Local contact information, including address and phone number;
• Request for Class Waiver/Audit (if applicable);
• Completion of the mandated HIPAA training;
• Completion of the mandated bloodborne pathogens training;
• Title IX training;
• Photo release form (requested); and
• Other requirements that are established by the University or School.

Most faculty members post office hours on the class syllabus and/or on the outside of their offices each semester. Appointments can also be scheduled by contacting the instructor, preferably by phone or e-mail. Please be aware that faculty members have meetings, activities within the community, activities within the University, and/or other job responsibilities that take them away from their offices. The faculty will always be available on an appointment basis. You may also communicate with faculty via e-mail.

As stated in the Guiding Principles of Professionalism, attendance is expected for all classes, practicum experiences (including observation, practicum, and externships), research activities, labs, exams, and other activities required by PACS and/or the degree program.  Attendance is defined as the physical presence of the student in the classroom or other learning environment for the entirety of the scheduled time.  Arriving late or departing early is considered equivalent to an absence.

1. Any absence, anticipated or unanticipated, may negatively impact a student’s grade and/or cause referral to the CAPES for professionalism concerns.  Instructors will detail any applicable attendance policies on the course syllabus, to include how absences to class may impact a student’s grade; required PACS events will be listed on the academic calendar.
2. In the case of an anticipated absence, students must request permission from the activity coordinator well in advance.  If permission is granted, the student is responsible for making arrangements to make up the time missed.  These arrangements must be made prior to the absence.  Note that advance permission and/or making up missed class time do not excuse a student from a reported absence or from the instructor’s attendance policy and/or impact on grading, if applicable.
3. In the case of unanticipated absences, such as sudden illness, students must contact the activity coordinator as soon as possible.  The student is responsible for making arrangements to make up the time missed, if such opportunity is available. Note that making up missed class time does not excuse a student from a reported absence or from the instructor’s attendance policy and/or impact on grading, if applicable.
4. The student is expected provide documentation to confirm he/she was seen for a medical issue on the date/time indicated if the issue resulted in an absence.  Information on the nature or details of the medical issue is not required.
5. In the event of illness or injury requiring hospitalization or extended absence, with proper authorization, the director of Student Health Services should be asked to contact the PACS Program Director, who will determine on a need-to-know basis when to share such information and with whom.
6. Habitual absenteeism, defined as five (5) or more total absences from any required PACS course or activity in any given semester, is grounds for automatic placement on probation by the CAPES.  Five (5) or more reported absences in any given semester while on probation will result in referral to the CAPES and is grounds for dismissal.

Reported attendance data will be tracked longitudinally by the PACS office and students demonstrating habitual absenteeism will be referred to the CAPES.

The academic calendar and examination periods will be consistent with the Washington University School of Arts & Sciences academic calendar. The PACS Office will develop and distribute the official PACS Academic Calendar and examination schedules, and also make these available on the PACS website. Students should note the important dates on their calendars, especially those for which attendance is required.

Canvas is the course management system used by PACS. Please visit https://hellocanvas.wustl.edu/ to access the system and for additional information.

The successful completion of the Capstone Project is a degree requirement for the Doctor of Audiology (AuD). All Capstone Projects must be submitted electronically so that they can be placed in the Bernard Becker Medical Library’s digital repository (“Digital Commons@Becker”). By submitting the Capstone Project to the PACS office, the student authorizes Bernard Becker Medical Library to post a copy of their work in Digital Commons@Becker or its successor technology. Please review the Digital Commons@Becker section of this handbook for important information on the digital repository, including the website link, permissions, copyright, and prior publication. At the sole discretion of PACS, projects may be subject to review and approval prior to submission to Digital Commons@Becker. For detailed information on the Capstone Project and its requirements, please refer to the separate publication “Guidelines for the Development and Submission of the Capstone Project and Independent Study”.

Audiology

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)

Students who successfully complete the AuD degree requirements will be eligible for recommendation for certification by ASHA.  Certification requirements also include the successful completion of the PRAXIS examination (http://www.ets.org).  For current information, please visit the ASHA website at http://www.asha.org.

Missouri State Board of Examiners for Hearing Instrument Specialists

Training for practice and/or licensure is not part of the formal training provided by the AuD program, although interested and qualified students are allowed to independently apply for licensure as a Hearing Instrument Specialist (HIS) immediately before or after graduation.  Please note that current AuD students may not use the practicum hours completed and/or supervision received, in whole or in part, during a practicum rotation completed in PACS toward HIS licensure.  Furthermore, PACS does not support either the obtaining of licensure prior to the student’s graduation or the earning of a master’s degree for the sole purpose of licensure and/or billing.

Missouri State Board of Registration for the Healing Arts – Audiology

Students who successfully complete the AuD degree requirements and meet the other requirements of the State of Missouri will be eligible for permanent and/or provisional license in Audiology in the State of Missouri.  State regulations allow professionals with this licensure to dispense hearing aids, alleviating the need for Hearing Instrument Specialist (HIS) licensure described above.

Other States

Each state has its own specific licensure requirements for the practice of audiology.  Students are encouraged to check these state requirements, which are generally available on the web, as soon as possible if they will not be practicing in Missouri.

Deaf Education

State of Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (Deaf and Hearing Impaired, Birth-12^th Grade)

Students who successfully complete the two-year MSDE degree requirements will be eligible for recommendation for certification by the State of Missouri (Deaf and Hearing Impaired, Birth-12^th Grade).  Certification requirements also include the successful completion of relevant Missouri Educator Gateway Assessments, a background check, and fingerprinting.

Council on Education of the Deaf (CED)

Students who successfully complete the two-year MSDE degree requirements will be recommended for certification by the Council on Education of the Deaf (CED).

Other States

Each state has its own specific licensure requirements for the teaching students who are deaf or hard of hearing.  Students are encouraged to check these state requirements, which are generally available on the web, as soon as possible if they will not be teaching in Missouri.  Generally, students are first licensed to teach in the state where they received their training (Missouri) and then may apply for licensure in other states.

Course descriptions for the current academic year can be found on the PACS website at http://pacs.wustl.edu/programs/course-descriptions/.

Students are expected, and often required, to perform evaluations of classes and practicum experiences at the end of each semester. This system permits the instructors to identify areas of concentration, promotes discussion of new teaching methodologies, allows curriculum inventory, recommends changes in class offerings, and provides better integration of the curriculum. Class evaluations are completed on-line and are kept confidential. Although instructors do have the ability to view whether or not individual students have completed the evaluations, they do not have the ability to view individual student comments or ratings.

PACS is committed to maintaining a safe, healthy environment that complies with federal, state, and local laws; University policies and procedures; and professional ethical standards. In keeping with this goal, PACS students may not participate in unethical or illegal acts, violate any professional standard, or violate any University policies or procedures. Reports of such activity will be referred to the appropriate authorities and may impact a student’s enrollment in PACS.

By submitting the Capstone Project or Independent Study to the PACS Office, the student authorizes Bernard Becker Medical Library to post a copy of their work in Digital Commons@Becker (http://digitalcommons.wustl.edu/ ) or its successor technology.

PACS envisions itself as a community that welcomes, encourages, and supports all of its members – faculty, staff, students and professional colleagues – toward our educational, clinical, research, and community service endeavors. Our members are diverse, representing different racial, ethnic, and gender groups, as well as geographic areas, religious beliefs, values, and physical and intellectual abilities, to name a few. If fact, we welcome such diversity within PACS, and the entire University, understanding that the future professionals we train will likely work in similarly diverse environments during their own professional careers. Please see the Non-Discrimination Statement for additional information.

Students may accept employment, but should not work more than 20 hours per week. Students will not be excused from classes, class activities, observation, practicum, or other activities required by the graduate program for such employment.

Following are general guidelines for exams administered in PACS. Additional requirements may be posed by the individual instructor.

Expectations for Students

• Take the exam during the originally scheduled time, excepting extenuating circumstances. Students are required to take all examinations at the specified time. A student may be excused from this rule for extenuating circumstances at the sole discretion of the PACS Program Director. Extenuating circumstances are typically defined as sudden personal illness or family emergency. Doctor appointments of a routine nature or vacation time are not considered to be extenuating circumstances for which students can be exempted from the regularly scheduled exam date. Such occasions will be promptly reported to the CAPES. In the event of inability to attend a scheduled examination due to sudden illness the student is required to inform the instructor prior to the examination and to be evaluated by the Student Health Service. In the event that the student cannot reach the relevant instructor, the student should contact the PACS Program Director.
• Students are expected to be punctual and should be assembled in the designated exam area before the official start time of the exam. Tardiness will not be excused except in extenuating circumstances. For purposes of the exam, “tardiness” will be defined by the instructor or exam proctor.
• Not share study materials, exchange information, collaborate or communicate with others during the exam.
• Turn off and leave cell phones and other electronic devices in their bags.
• Hand their exam to the instructor or proctor prior to leaving the room.

Any student needing accommodation for exams should review the Policy for Students with Disabilities in advance of exams.

Expectations for Faculty

• Exams should be proctored by the instructor or a designee appointed by the instructor comfortable with proctoring and all exam administration guidelines.
• Administration should be fair to all students.
• If the instructor or proctor answers a substantive question or clarifies an issue, the same should be communicated to ALL students, including those in separate rooms or at different times.
• Reasonable adjustments should be offered to students who require special accommodations, including a separate testing room or additional time. Instructors are notified of these accommodations through the PACS Program Director.
• If a student behaves inappropriately, notification should be made to the PACS Program Director immediately (see below for examples of inappropriate behaviors).
• All requirements of students should be communicated to all students PRIOR to the start of the exam.

*Not applicable to take-home exams

Cheating

The following examples are intended to be representative of behaviors that constitute cheating in the context of an exam. This is not intended to be an all-inclusive list.

• Looking at or copying from another student’s test paper.
• Collaborating with another student during the test without authorization.
• Using lecture notes or textbooks during an exam without authorization.
• Possessing crib notes during an exam.
• Using signals/signs to obtain answers from others.
• Utilizing a calculator, cell/smart phone, computer, or any other device or learning aid without authorization. This includes storing, receiving, and/or accessing course matter stored on such devices.
• Obtaining assistance in answering questions on a take-home exam without authorization.
• Obtaining advance copies of exams or quizzes by any means.
• Having someone else take an exam in your place.
• Feigning illness or submitting misleading statements to avoid taking an exam at the scheduled time.
• Changing an answer on a graded test and claiming the question response was incorrectly marked wrong.

Class and Final Examination Schedules

Class and final examination schedules are developed by the PACS Office on a semester basis (fall, spring, and summer) and are finalized approximately eight months before the first day of classes for that semester. If a final examination is given for a course, it must be administered on the date and at the time specified on the final exam schedule.

The Final Exam Study Period is set aside for students to study and review in preparation for final exams and papers. All final (or last) exams and papers should follow the published exam schedule and should not occur or be due during the Final Exam Study Period or on a regularly-scheduled class day. This includes written, oral, and take-home exams. Please visit http://facultyinformationhandbook.wustl.edu/reading-days-and-final-examination-period/ for additional information on policies and procedures related to reading days and final examinations.

Cancelled Classes and Make-Up Classes

In the event that an instructor must cancel class for any reason, he/she should notify the students as soon as possible via e-mail using WebFAC and notify the PACS Office. If an announcement is made in class, it should be followed up with an email using WebFAC. Instructors must make up all class time missed, including for reasons of inclement weather, instructor conflicts, the late arrival or early departure of the instructor, or any similar circumstance that reduces the total instructional time for the semester for that class. Instructor payment may be pro-rated if all instructional time is not completed.

Any exceptions to these policies and procedures must be approved by the Program Director.

A current list of faculty and staff can be found on the PACS website at http://pacs.wustl.edu/our-faculty/.

The following are non-tuition fees charged to students by PACS.

*Pre-payment required.

Additional fees imposed upon students for services or resources by other departments outside of PACS and charged to PACS on the student’s behalf may also be passed on to students. Non-payment of fees that do not require pre-payment may result in late fees, loss of privileges, and/or posting of charges to the student’s tuition account.

A variety of formative and summative assessments are required during the AuD and MSDE programs to ensure each student’s acquisition of knowledge and mastery of skills. In addition, the MSDE program requires an Oral Examination (see the section “Oral Examinations” for more information).

Home School Rules for PACS Students Taking Classes Outside the School of Medicine
Full-time students enrolled in a degree program offered by PACS may enroll for eligible classes outside the School of Medicine without additional tuition charges. The following guidelines apply:

Student Eligibility
Students must be full time and in good standing in a degree-seeking program offered by PACS at the School of Medicine.

Class Eligibility

• Classes from University College, Sever Institute of Continuing Studies, Summer School, Executive or Evening programs, applied music classes and other types of one-on-one instruction are not a part of this agreement and students may be required to pay additional tuition in order to take these classes.
• Undergraduate classes that are not eliminated by previously listed exclusions are eligible.
• Special/independent studies are included in the agreement if the faculty member accepts the project. However, the project may be declined due to limited time and/or resources of faculty or program.
• Class meeting times cannot conflict with a required class within the PACS curriculum for the student’s degree program.
• The class must meet at least one of the following requirements:
  • The class is required for professional certification and/or licensure, as determined in advance by the PACS Office.
  • The class is required as part of a CAPES-approved ISP.
  • The class is an elective that has been approved in advance by the advisor and PACS Office.

Required Permissions/Procedures
If all of the student and class eligibility criteria are met and a student would like to take an approved class outside the School of Medicine, they should first consult with the PACS Office for information and instructions on obtaining permissions and registering. If a student elects to enroll in a non-approved class or does not complete appropriate paperwork or follow registration procedures, the student will be responsible for any tuition and fees associated with the class.

Academic Credit

• No academic credit toward the degree will be given for elective classes, unless as allowed by the CAPES as part of an ISP.
• Classes taken under this agreement may not count toward a second degree if taken when not enrolled in that degree program. Students should consult with the appropriate degree program office regarding this issue.

Grade Options
School of Medicine students may take classes outside the School of Medicine for a grade, pass/fail or audit. This must be specified at the time of enrollment on the Form. Grades earned will become a part of the student’s permanent academic record at Washington University.

Host School Rules for non-PACS Students Taking School of Medicine Classes
These guidelines apply only to classes in the PACS curriculum. Please see program specific guidelines for classes in other School of Medicine degree programs (e.g., Clinical Investigation, Genetic Epidemiology, Medicine, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Psychiatric Epidemiology).

Washington University in St. Louis graduate or professional students enrolled in full-time masters or doctoral degree programs may enroll in a limited number of classes at the School of Medicine in the PACS curriculum without additional tuition charges. Classes and students from University College, Sever Institute of Continuing Studies, Summer School, Executive or Evening programs are not a part of this agreement and may require the student to pay additional tuition. Applied music classes are also an exception to this policy and other types of one on one instruction may also be excluded. Graduate and professional students who qualify may take eligible undergraduate classes. Independent/special studies are a part of the agreement although a faculty/school may decline due to limitations of time and resources. It is the student’s responsibility to discuss specifics with his/her home program and host school officials. The following guidelines apply:

Student Eligibility

• Students must be full time, in good standing and enrolled in a graduate or professional degree program at Washington University.
• Students from University College, Sever Institute of Continuing Studies, Summer School, Executive or Evening programs are not a part of this agreement. It is the student’s responsibility to determine eligibility with his/her home program.

Class Eligibility
Classes determined to be open to non-PACS students have been cross listed or have parallel listings in another department. PACS classes open outside the PACS program are as follows:

M89 (PACS) 401 Anatomy and Physiology of Speech and Hearing
M89 (PACS) 421 Introduction to Electroacoustics
M89 (PACS) 424 Speech and Hearing Sciences
M89 (PACS) 4301 Sign Language I
M89 (PACS) 4302 Sign Language II
M89 (PACS) 434 Typical Language Development
M89 (PACS) 543 Survey of Speech and Language Disorders
M89 (PACS) 544 Clinical Observation and Methods in Speech-Language Pathology
M89 (PACS) 5601 Clinical Audiology I

All other classes in the PACS curriculum are restricted to PACS students, unless special permission has been granted to a student in advance.  Class enrollment limits may apply.

Required Permissions/Procedures

• Students should register using the above class numbers according to the procedures of their home school.
• Completing prerequisites is the responsibility of the student.
• A class application form from the student’s home school must be complete (if applicable).
• Instructor permission is required for all eligible PACS classes prior to enrollment. Obtaining such permission is the responsibility of the student.
• Students should be cautioned that the PACS calendar may differ from his/her home program.

Academic Credit
Classes will count toward requirements of the PACS degree should the student subsequently enroll in the AuD and MSDE program if all of the following requirements are met:

• The student enrolls in the PACS degree program within three calendar years of the start date of the class.
• The student received a grade of “B” or better in the class.
• The same class is required in the curriculum at the time of the student’s enrollment.
• Students should consult with their own advisor/administrator for advanced approval if academic credit toward their degree is desired.

Grade Options
Grade options for non-PACS students are determined by the student’s home school rules, and within the offerings of that class.

Doctor of Audiology (AuD)
Students pursuing for the Doctor of Audiology (AuD) must complete the prescribed curriculum, including classes and concurrent practicum experiences. This curriculum satisfies the degree requirement of a minimum of 72 semester units of graduate credit. As part of this curriculum, students must complete a Capstone Project (three semester hours minimum), culminating in a publication to be permanently stored in the digital holdings of the Bernard Becker Medical Library, and the findings of the project must be defended orally at the annual PACS Student Research Colloquium.

The PRAXIS examination is the culminating examination required for the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) in Audiology by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), and by most U.S. states for licensure purposes. Official score reports showing a passing score must be submitted directly to PACS by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), which administers the PRAXIS, before AuD students can be recommended for their CCC (see Certification and Licensure for more information). Submission of score reports is also required so that PACS can provide the required data as part of its accreditation. A copy of the score report will be kept in the student’s academic file.

Master of Science in Deaf Education (MSDE)
Students pursuing the Master of Science in Deaf Education must complete the prescribed curriculum, including classes and concurrent practicum experiences. This curriculum satisfies the Washington University requirements of a minimum of 33 semester units of graduate credit and at least six (6) semester units of credit selected from classes in the 500-series or higher. As part of this curriculum, students must complete an independent study (two semester hours minimum), culminating in a publication to be permanently stored in the digital holdings of the Bernard Becker Medical Library. The findings of the project must be presented orally at the annual PACS Student Research Colloquium.

A comprehensive examination, usually taken in the final semester as an oral examination, is also required of all MSDE degree students. In addition, students who are pursuing initial teacher certification in Deaf/Hearing Impaired (Birth-12th Grade) are required to take the relevant Missouri Educator Gateway Assessments. Documentation of receipt of a passing score on those assessments must be received before two-year MSDE students can be recommended for teacher certification. Submission of score reports is also required so that PACS can provide the required data as part of its accreditation. A copy of the score report will be kept in the student’s academic file.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Speech and Hearing Sciences
To earn a PhD at in Speech and Hearing Sciences, a student must complete 72 semes¬ter hours, maintain satisfactory academic progress, pass certain examinations, fulfill residence and Mentored Teaching Experience (MTE) requirements, and write, defend, and submit a dissertation. Full-time enrollment is required. Complete information on the requirements, policies, and procedures for the PhD can be found in the The Graduate School Bulletin at http://graduateschool.wustl.edu. Information contained in the Bulletin related to admissions, financial information and academic information takes precedence for PhDunless otherwise specified here.

Classes for the PhD are drawn from departmental offerings, including statistics and research methods. Classes may also be drawn from related departments in affiliated areas of study. There is no prescribed curriculum; development of a curriculum that is appropriate for the individual student’s background and interests is developed with the advisor. Forty-eight hours are typically completed in the first two years of study, followed by completion of the written and oral qualifying examinations. Students then submit the title, scope and procedure of the dissertation for approval, which then allows admission to candidacy for the PhD Completion and defense of the dissertation is the focus of the final year(s) of study.

Mentored Teaching Experience (MTE)

The Speech and Hearing (PhD) program prepares students for academic and research careers in speech and hearing sciences. Teaching experiences are designed to prepare PhD students to become effective teachers and communicators of their discipline and their intellectual research endeavors. Objectives of these teaching experiences include: providing students with adequate breadth and depth of teaching experiences, providing faculty mentoring, and enhancing the overall training for PhD students.

Requirements:

• The graduate-student teaching orientation presented by the Teacher Center must be completed before students will be allowed to begin fulfilling the formal teaching requirements.
• Participation in additional learning opportunities offered through The Teaching Center will be optional.
• A faculty mentor will work closely with PhD students throughout each Mentored Teaching Experience.
• Students will be required to complete one semester of Mentored Teaching Experience (MTE) at the introductory level. Students will work closely with a faculty mentor to develop plan that will broaden teaching experiences, develop teaching skills and meet the MTE requirement, with regular feedback and assessment over the course of the semester. Typically, these experiences are completed via SHS 234: Introduction to Speech and Hearing Sciences, but opportunities will be discussed and decided upon by the mentor and student.
• Students will be required to complete one semester of Mentored Teaching Experience (MTE) at the advanced level. Students will work closely with a faculty mentor to develop plan that will broaden teaching experiences, develop teaching skills and meet the MTE requirement, with regular feedback and assessment over the course of the semester. Typically, these experiences are completed via coursework offered in the Doctor of Audiology (AuD) and/or Master of Science in Deaf Education (MSDE) program, depending on the student’s background and interests, but opportunities will be discussed and decided upon by the mentor and student.
• During their enrollment, students will be expected to regularly attend and participate in other teaching/learning experiences, including brown bags, grand rounds, and research colloquia. These will not “count” toward the MTE requirement.
• A minimum of 2 MTEs will be required; a maximum of 6 MTEs will be allowed.
• For each semester of MTE, the student will be enrolled for LGS 600: Mentored Teaching Experience. This is a 0-credit course, with grade options of Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.
• If credits are needed to maintain the student’s full-time status for the semester, the student will also register for LGS 900, Section 47: Full-Time Graduate Research/Study.
• The student will provide a written summary of the teaching experiences at the end of each semester of enrollment.

From time to time, individuals may feel they have legitimate complaints regarding some aspect of their involvement with PACS. It is the objective of PACS that such individuals have prompt and formal resolution of their grievance and that this will be accomplished through orderly procedures.

Prior to submitting a formal complaint, individuals should attempt to resolve the grievance with the individual involved. For example, if a student has a concern about a class, he/she should first discuss the matter with the instructor(s) involved, or if an instructor has a concern about a student’s behavior or performance, he/she should first discuss it with the student. In the case of practicum issues, the practicum coordinator should be included in these discussions. If such discussions do not resolve the concern, or if the individual is not comfortable with this class of action, the student’s advisor, director of the degree program in which the student is enrolled, and/or the Program Director should be notified. Oftentimes, the concern can be resolved satisfactorily during this informal process.

For formal complaints, a written grievance should be filed with the PACS Office. This will be presented to the Program Director. A written response will be provided within 10 business days. If a resolution has not been reached, an anticipated timeline or next steps will be included in this written response.

Complaints that are serious in nature and/or are not resolved at the departmental level may be taken to the School and/or University levels for action. Other School and/or University policies and procedures may take precedent in cases of serious concerns or complaints. The following members of the School of Medicine administration may be contacted with such grievances:

Eva Aagaard, M.D.
Senior Associate Dean for Education
(314) 362-7800
aagaarde@wustl.edu

Legail Chandler
Vice Chancellor for Human Resources
(314) 362-4900
legail_chandler@wustl.edu

The PACS Office will keep a record of formal, written grievances for a period of at least three (3) calendar years. Such records will be separate from student academic files, but maintained in a secure manner similar to that of student records. Relevant details of complaints may be shared with the appropriate committee of the faculty, University personnel, and/or accrediting agencies for purposes of reporting or to use lessons from the incident, process, procedures, and/or outcomes to improve teaching, learning, the student experience, or other aspects of the department’s operations.

Students in the AuD program may also file a complaint with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) if (a) the complaint relates to the standards for accreditation of the graduate program and (b) includes verification that the complainant exhausted all other complaint procedures. Complaints should be made in writing and be signed by the complainant. Documentation should include a clear description of the specific nature of the complaint and the relationship of the complaint to the accreditation standards, and provide supporting data for the charge. Complaints should be submitted by mail to:

Chair, Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
2200 Research Blvd.
Rockville, MD 20850

Formal complaints will not be accepted by the CAA via e-mail or fax.

Professional responsibility

1. Students have a responsibility to actively participate in their education and to work to improve the educational environment for future students.
2. Students should have a willingness to pursue lifelong, self-directed learning, which is an essential attribute of any professional.
3. Students should act responsibly in their personal and academic lives with regard to meeting deadlines, financial obligations and other comparable responsibilities.
4. Preparation for class and during practicum rotations sets a good example for peers, maximizes every student’s learning opportunity, and demonstrates respect for the teachers and peers.
   1. Respecting one’s peers in a classroom or in a practicum setting includes behaviors such as arriving on time, exhibiting respectful body language, listening attentively, turning off cell phones and allowing all present to engage in discussion.
5. Students should report to the appropriate supervisor potentially serious errors that others have committed.
6. Students should contribute to their community.
7. Attendance is expected for all classes, practicum experiences (including observation, practicum, and externships), research activities, labs, exams, and other activities required by PACS and/or the degree program.  See the Attendance and Absences section for more information.

 Competence and self-improvement

1. In order to function at the expected level, students should attend to their own physical and emotional health.
   1. The experience of being a graduate student can be physically and emotionally challenging. Students need to be able to identify when they are overwhelmed to the point where they may not be able to function appropriately. Students are encouraged to seek educational assistance and/or the emotional support of others in these instances.
2. Recognizing and admitting errors in any setting is key to being a competent professional.
   1. Students should view mistakes as part of learning. Assuming responsibility for mistakes is critical for professional development.
   2. Developing productive strategies for dealing with mistakes and non-confrontational ways of correcting them is essential.
3. Feedback, advice, and constructive criticism foster personal and professional development, and should be taken in the context of mentoring.
   1. Students should assume that opinions of faculty/supervisors that may seem unclear are usually solidly founded, and accept feedback regarding their performance openly and maturely from individuals more experienced than they.
   2. Students should provide suggestions and examples for improving the mentoring environment by forthrightly evaluating their instructors.
4. Students should identify and correct errors in practicum settings as soon as possible or notify those who can correct it.
5. Students should balance personal and professional interests.
   1. Students should not over-commit.

Respect for others and professional relationships

1. Students should conduct themselves with manners and consideration of all others, and be respectful of others’ time.
2. While individual effort is important in developing a knowledge base, much of what students learn will depend on a collaborative effort with their peers.
   1. From the first day of graduate school, students should encourage each other and collaborate with their peers when appropriate in the learning environments of lectures, small group discussions, and lab sessions. In doing so, they are laying the foundation for the truly collaborative nature of their profession.
   2. In all cases, students should respect the work and learning opportunities of their classmates and they should share educational opportunities with their peers. Professional behaviors include listening to other’s presentations, and encouraging others’ opportunities to present, ask/answer questions, and participate in hands-on learning opportunities.
3. Respect for the ethnic and cultural diversity of classmates provides for a more nurturing environment for all.
   1. Students should be aware that their classmates come from a wide variety of religious and ethnic backgrounds and that they will have differing lifestyles and viewpoints. This diversity is an important resource in our community, contributing to the personal and professional growth of all.
   2. Students should be sensitive to the importance of these issues and should seek opportunities to enhance appreciation of multiple cultures through dialog, educational opportunities, etc.
4. Students should be supportive of peers during difficult times in their personal and professional lives.
   1. Students must appreciate that their peers may have issues in their personal or professional lives (e.g., family, medical, academic, or administrative problems) that may affect their interactions with others. In these circumstances, students should make every attempt to be sympathetic and to offer their support to those students.
5. Participation and teamwork enhances the educational experience.
   1. The learning process is a partnership between students and faculty. Students should actively participate in this partnership by providing feedback to professors by way of evaluations and surveys.
6. Understanding the appropriate venues for feedback is critical to successfully resolving conflicts. Students should be aware of the hierarchy of the team, and appropriate mechanisms for handling disagreement with faculty, staff, and supervisors. Conflicts can be translated into productive outcomes if handled appropriately. For additional helpful information, reference the university Code of Conduct.
7. Maintaining a professional relationship with instructors (including faculty, staff, and supervisors) is important, especially during times when these individuals are in a position to grade or evaluate the student.
   1. Students should avoid behaviors that could potentially be construed as attempting to influence the faculty, for example running personal errands.
   2. The university has specific codes and regulations regarding romantic relationships between a student and a teacher, including faculty/resident/fellows outlined in the Consensual Relationships Policy. Students engaged in such relationships should review these codes and avoid any situation that can cause potential conflict of interest in the academic setting.
   3. The patients and students we serve should be treated as individuals in the context of their family, culture, and community.

 Honesty and integrity

1. Student work should be original.
   1. Only authorized resources should be used during examinations, quizzes or graded course work. WUSM has a zero tolerance policy for plagiarism or any form of cheating.
   2. When students are aware that a classmate has submitted work that is not their own (cheated), they should discuss this situation with the course instructor and/or PACS Program Director.
   3. All work should be appropriately cited using the American Psychological Association (APA) format.
2. Students must respect patients’ and students’ rights and maintain confidentiality, in accordance with HIPAA and FERPA guidelines.
3. Students should not participate in any practicum experience if under the influence of a substance that may compromise the student’s judgment or otherwise cause harm. Likewise, students should report any individual in a practicum setting who may be under the influence of a judgment-impairing substance.
4. Although students are often tired or under stress, they should attempt to maintain an appropriate level of composure at all times.
5. Students should be appropriately attired for all student-related activities.
6. Students should carefully consider their participation in benefits provided by pharmaceutical companies or other medically-related businesses. See Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Industry Policy for more information; these policies apply to students, as well as faculty and staff.
7. Students should clearly communicate their level of training and abilities in professional settings, including to colleagues, patients, students and their parents, and in public forums.
8. Students should be familiar with the code(s) of ethics for their profession and respect these.
9. Students should respect the laws of federal, state and local governments in both professional and private life.

All students have a responsibility to report violations, or suspected violations, of these guiding principles of professionalism to a member of the PACS faculty or staff.

The successful completion of the Independent Study is a degree requirement for the Master of Science in Deaf Education (MSDE). All Independent Study projects must be submitted electronically so that they can be placed in the Bernard Becker Medical Library’s digital repository (“Digital Commons@Becker”). By submitting the Independent Study to the PACS Office, the student authorizes Bernard Becker Medical Library to post a copy of their work in Digital Commons@Becker or its successor technology. Please review the Digital Commons@Becker section of this handbook for important information on the digital repository, including the website link, permissions, copyright, and prior publication. At the sole discretion of PACS, projects may be subject to review and approval prior to submission to Digital Commons@Becker. For detailed information on the Independent Study and its requirements, please refer to the separate publication “Guidelines for the Development and Submission of the Capstone Project and Independent Study”.

All PACS students are required to have a personal laptop so that they can fully utilize supported teaching and learning systems, both on and off campus. PACS recommends the following hardware, software, and services for PACS students:

• Laptop with speakers and webcam (or separate speaker/webcam components)
  • Processor: Intel i5 (7th generation or newer)
  • Memory (RAM): 16 GB or more
  • OS: Windows 10 or OS X Sierra 10.11 or newer
  • Hard Drive: 250 GB or larger (SSD recommended)
  • Access to reliable, high-speed internet service at home
  • Recommended: headphones with microphone

Other notes:

• Encryption capabilities required for access to some resources (PC: TPM [Trusted Platform Module]; BitLocker hard drive encryption enabled; Mac: AVG or Avast)
• Anti-Virus/Malware Software recommended
• Off-campus access to University systems will require 2FA (2-factor authentication) enrollment (information will be provided)
• You do not need to buy Microsoft Office with laptop – O365 is free for students
• Students will have access to computers, printers, personal network files, and similar resources while on campus (CID-R, Room 2029)
• Secure WiFi is free on campus
• Students eligible for federal aid may request a one-time increase (at any point during the program) to their cost of attendance to purchase a laptop and add those expenses to their federal loans. Contact Student Financial Planning prior to purchase to discuss eligibility and processes. (*Receipts required, so be sure to hold onto those.)
• Tablets are not recommended. For more information, contact the PACS Office.

All students will be provided with a WU e-mail address. Email is the main method of communication between students, faculty, and staff. Students are responsible for checking WU e-mail daily.

Training on computer, network, and email systems will be available to students during orientation.

1. Voluntary LOA: A student may request a leave of absence for academic or personal reasons by submitting a statement in writing to the PACS Program Director. Such a statement should include indication of the beginning and anticipated ending dates and a brief statement of the reason (academic or personal). Requests for leaves of absence must be approved by the PACS Program Director. Leaves of absence shall be granted for no more than one year, but in unusual cases may be renewed by the Committee on the Academic and Professional Evaluation of Students (CAPES) for additional time after discussion with appropriate University personnel. Students requiring a personal leave of absence for medical reasons must submit a supporting letter from the director of Student Health Services. A written request from the student to the Program Director and a statement of medical clearance will be required before the student may return from such a leave.  Deadlines for receiving such requests and documentation are generally: July 1 for the fall semester, December 1 for the spring semester, April 1 for the summer terms
2. Involuntary LOA: If there is a reasonable basis for believing that the continued presence of the student on campus or in clinical rotations poses a substantial threat to the student, to patients, or to the rights of others to engage in their normal university functions and activities, the following procedures apply:
   • The chancellor or his designate may impose an involuntary leave of absence when there is evidence that a student has committed an offense under these rules or the University’s Judicial Code, and when there is evidence that the continued presence of the student on the university campus or as a participant in a clinical rotation poses a substantial threat to themselves, to patients, or to the rights of others to continue their normal university function and activities.
   • Imposition of the involuntary leave of absence may result in denial of access to the campus, prohibition of class attendance and/or prohibition of participation in clinical rotations.
   • If an involuntary leave of absence is imposed, the suspending authority shall prepare a written notice of the imposition and shall have the notice mailed certified or personally presented to the student. The written notice shall include a brief statement of the reasons therefore and a brief statement of the procedures provided for resolving cases of involuntary leave of absence under these rules.
   • The student shall be given an opportunity to appear personally before the suspending authority within five (5) business days from the date of service of the notice of imposition of the involuntary leave of absence. If the student asks to appear personally before the suspending authority, only the following issues shall be considered:
     1. Whether the suspending authority’s information concerning the student’s conduct is reliable; and
     2. Whether under all the circumstances, there is a reasonable basis for believing that the continued presence of the student on campus or in clinical rotations poses a substantial threat to the student, to patients, or to the rights of others to engage in their normal university functions and activities.
   • Within one week of the date of imposition of the involuntary leave of absence, the suspending authority shall either file a statement of charges against the student with the University Judicial Board, and shall have the statement or charges served, by mail or personal service, upon the student and the dean of the school or college or director of the program in which the student is enrolled, or initiate proceedings under these rules to convene a Disciplinary Committee.
   • A temporary suspension shall end
     1. when rescinded by the suspending authority, or
     2. upon the failure of the suspending authority to promptly file a statement of charges with the University Judicial Board or a Disciplinary Committee, or

• when the case is heard and decided by the University Judicial Board or the Disciplinary Committee.

Return of students from involuntary leave of absence requires clearance of both the director of Student Health Services and the PACS Program Director.

3. LOA Impact on Financial Aid: Students receiving financial aid should be advised that at the end of sixty (60) days or more leave of absence, the grace period for loan repayment during a leave of absence may be exhausted. In such cases there will be an obligation for the student to start payments. According to the federal rules under which loans are made, the use of a grace period during a leave of absence will generally mean that the schedule for loan repayment may be changed. Students who are receiving financial assistance should consult with the Financial Aid Office to determine the implications of a leave of absence for their financial aid.
4. LOA Impact on Tuition: A student returning from a leave of absence of one year duration or less will maintain the same tuition rate. Students returning after more than one year leave of absence will assume the tuition rate of the class they are rejoining. Appeals of this policy should be submitted in writing to the PACS Director of Finance and Student/Academic Affairs.
5. LOA Impact on Coursework and Curriculum: Students taking a LOA cannot be guaranteed that the original course offerings and/or curriculum will be available upon return, which may result in an extension of the typical length of study or other changes to the original curriculum.
6. LOA Impact on Student Health/Student Health Insurance: Student health coverage is not provided during a LOA; exceptions may be made only if a LOA is approved mid-semester. Students may elect to continue student health coverage with the School of Medicine at a pro-rated cost.  Please inform the PACS Office if you’d like to start or stop this elective coverage.  Please contact the Student Health Office for coverage information at 314-362-3523.

The use of PACS letterhead in any form is restricted to official departmental business purposes and may not be used by students without advance permission of the Program Director.

PACS offers the Minor in Speech and Hearing Sciences through the College of Arts & Sciences to qualified undergraduate students. Information and requirements can be found at http://bulletin.wustl.edu/undergrad/artsci/speechhearing/#minors.

If a class or scheduled event conflicts with religious observance and cannot be changed, it is the responsibility of the student to talk to the instructor and arrange coverage of the material in another manner.

The AuD and MSDE programs each have separate, specific observation, practicum, and/or externship requirements for the degree. These requirements are detailed in separate publications.

The Oral Examination is a degree requirement for all MSDE students. The Oral Examination is intended to sample the student’s ability to respond to questions that require a synthesis of knowledge obtained through classes, observation and practicum, and research; it is not intended as a defense or review of the Independent Study, though questions about the student’s Independent Study may be asked. Oral Examinations for MSDE students are typically scheduled during the final semester of study, with students examined by a three-member committee of the PACS faculty.

Admission to candidacy for the PhD degree is contingent upon passing examinations called preliminary, qualifying, general or comprehensive. The qualifying process varies according to the department or program. In some departments and programs it includes a series of incremental, sequential, and cumulative examinations spaced at intervals of time. In other departments or programs the examinations are telescoped into a relatively short period. The department or program that conducts the qualifying examinations assumes responsibility for notifying The Graduate School of the admission of a student to candidacy. While the timetable for admission to candidacy varies from subject to subject, it is not the policy of The Graduate School to encourage, by financial awards or other means, the continuation of students who have met the residence requirements for the PhD degree without passing the qualifying examinations.

1. Students are generally required to complete the required curriculum and/or the curriculum agreed upon with his/her advisor before Qualifying Examinations can be scheduled. This coursework must satisfy the degree requirement of a minimum of 72 semester units of graduate credit. Please note that only classes with grading options of ‘Credit’ will be accepted toward this 72-hour requirement; classes with grading options of ‘Audit’ or ‘Pass/Fail’ will not count. Exceptions can only be granted by the Program Director, with the advisor’s recommendation.
2. Students should work with his/her advisor and other faculty members to begin preparations for the qualifying exam one to two semesters prior to the scheduled date of the exam. At this time, the student should also notify the Program Director, his/her advisor and the PACS Office in writing of his/her intent to complete the qualifying exam and the preferred month for the exam.
3. Several months beforehand, the qualifying examination committee will be formed, with members chosen based on the student’s area(s) of interest. Three faculty members are the minimum, with the typical committee consisting of four to five faculty members, at least two of whom should hold the rank of professor.
4. The qualifying examination is intended to demonstrate the student’s level of knowledge in the field for which he/she is pursuing the doctoral degree. Students will be expected to present knowledge in both oral and written form, and to respond to questions posed by his/her committee.
5. For the written section, students may choose to complete the exam in one eight-hour day or two four-hour days. In advance, areas for study should be discussed with the advisor. Students will be presented with four sets of questions, with two questions in each set. Students must choose one question from each set to answer, for a total of four questions answered.
6. For the oral section, the student will be presented questions by the committee.
7. After completion of both sections, the student will be notified of his/her performance. There are typically three possibilities:
   • Pass—The student has qualified as a candidate for the PhD degree.
   • Conditional Pass—The student must fulfill additional requirements, as determined by the committee, to pass the examination.
   • Fail—The student must withdraw from the program or retake the examination.
8. Washington University will be notified upon passing of the qualifying examination and upon Dean’s approval, the student will be considered a candidate for the PhD degree.

Several elective research training programs are periodically available to qualified AuD students. Such programs are generally offered either as summer (two-month or three-month) or as full-year programs of study (to be completed between the first and second years or the second and third years). Students should not accept the offer of admission without taking the following steps:

1. Request the approval of the Director of Audiology Studies to participate in the program of study. Such requests are generally allowed for a single summer program of study, in lieu of a summer practicum experience, and/or for a single one-year program of study. Those applying for the full-year program should work with the Director of Audiology Studies prior to applying for the purposes of curriculum planning.
2. If the request is approved by the Director of Audiology Studies, students admitted to a one-year program of study should request a leave of absence from the CAPES; this step is not required for students admitted to a summer program of study.
3. The student should provide notification to the PACS Office.
4. The student may then accept the admission offer.

Master of Science in Deaf Education (MSDE)
The minimum residence requirement is the satisfactory completion of one full year of graduate study (24 semester units) in academic residence.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Doctor of Audiology (AuD)
The minimum residence requirement for the PhD and AuD degrees is the satisfactory completion of three full years of graduate study (72 semester units), of which at least two years (48 semester units) ordinarily will be spent at Washington University. Please note that only classes with grading options of ‘Credit’ will be accepted toward this 72-hour requirement; classes with grading options of ‘Audit’ or ‘Pass/Fail’ will not count.

The University maintains a central website for communicating emergency information to all faculty, staff, students, and others at http://emergency.wustl.edu/.

The full text of the WUSM Severe Weather and Emergency Conditions Policy for Students in the WUSM Education Programs is included below. To summarize, in the event of severe weather or an emergency condition, the Dean will determine whether there is a need to establish an “alternate work status.” Such status would mean that:

• Classes are cancelled
• Check with your practicum site to see if you need to report
• Other educational activities will be delayed or cancelled

If an “alternate work status” is declared, you should receive email notification from the School of Medicine. PACS will also try to duplicate these email communications to be sure everyone receives the message. Local media outlets may also be notified. It is important to note that the School of Medicine will make its own determination, separate from the Danforth Campus, so even if you see “Washington University” has cancelled classes, please follow only the communication you receive from the School of Medicine.

Individual instructors may still make independent decisions about holding classes, and as always, everyone should make their own determination about whether they can safely travel.

Individuals assigned as emergency contacts in PACS are:

WUSM Severe Weather and Emergency Conditions Policy for Students in the WUSM Education Programs
The School of Medicine must maintain essential services and operations during any severe weather or emergency situation and provide for the safety and care of its patients, students, staff, and faculty. In response to severe weather or other emergency situations, the Dean of the School of Medicine will determine the need for departments or education programs within the School of Medicine to temporarily establish an alternate work status.

For students, “alternate work status” means that the WUSM education program (DBBS/MSTP, Audiology, Masters Programs, Medical Student Education, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy) may cancel or delay classes as necessary for as long as the WUSM dean determines to help ensure the safety of students, staff, and faculty.
If the dean designates an “alternate work status” for WUSM, the respective education program directors will communicate to their students, either via website or emergency broadcast, information regarding the status of classes, non‐clinical education activities (exams, labs, etc.), and clinical rotations as follows:

• Classes and all non‐clinical educational activities (i.e., exams, labs, standardized patient sessions, etc.) are cancelled: Students are not expected to report to classes or non‐clinical educational activities during the time that the dean has declared an “alternate work status,” and student absences will be noted as ”excused” during this timeframe only. Program directors will determine what, if any, make‐up schedule is needed. Students are also strongly encouraged to cancel any non‐official student activities or functions that are scheduled during this timeframe to eliminate unnecessary travel in severe weather conditions.
• Clinical rotations: Clinical rotations for students include both educational and clinical care components and the relative balance varies by rotation. Therefore, the decision of which clinical rotations include sufficient essential clinical care to warrant student participation during an “alternate work status” event will be made by the respective education program directors. For all rotations in which students are deemed essential, they will be expected to attend during “alternate work status” times, and the program will be expected to provide appropriate overnight accommodations as needed.
• On occasion, classes, non‐clinical educational activities, and or clinical rotations may be delayed – students are expected to report to classes, non‐clinical educational activities, or clinical rotations on a delayed schedule; program directors will communicate the exact time to report via the website or broadcast message; not reporting shall result in an unexcused absence according to the policies of individual programs.

We should presume that the School of Medicine is operating normally unless there is an official communication to the contrary from the Dean’s Office via your respective education program.

The ultimate decision regarding whether the commute to classes or to clinical rotations can be safely made remains with the individual. If a student does not feel she/he can safely commute, and the School of Medicine is operating normally, the standard absence policy for the students’ respective education program shall be in effect.

All transfers of credit must be approved by the student’s home department/program and a recommendation will be made to the Dean. Generally, classes completed over seven years prior to commencement of studies will not be considered for transfer. Academic credit applied to complete requirements for an advanced degree may not be transferred to fulfill requirements for an equivalent or lower degree, and academic credit applied to complete an undergraduate degree may not be transferred to complete a higher degree.

All graduate academic credit approved for transfer will be transferred as electives unless the classes are judged to be equivalent to core classes offered by PACS. Students will be required to submit a syllabus and/or official class description as evidence of class content with the transfer request.

Generally, classes completed over seven years prior to commencement of studies will not be considered for transfer. Academic credit applied to complete requirements for an advanced degree may not be transferred to fulfill requirements for an equivalent or lower degree.

Master of Science in Deaf Education (MSDE)
A maximum of six (6) semester units may be transferred from an institution of recognized graduate standing toward fulfillment of requirements for the master’s degree from Washington University. Applications for the transfer of credit for the master’s degree are not approved, however, until one full semester of study (12 semester units) has been completed successfully. All transfers of credit must be approved by the student’s home department/program and a recommendation will be made to the Dean. Transfer hours are generally not needed for students completing the MSDE since the curriculum is prescribed and meets the minimum University requirements for the master’s degree.

Doctor of Audiology (AuD)
A maximum of 24 semester units (one full year of study) may be transferred from an institution of recognized graduate standing toward fulfillment of requirements for the doctoral degree from Washington University. Applications for the transfer of credit for the doctoral degree are not approved, however, until one full year of study (24 semester units) has been completed successfully. Transfer hours are generally not needed for students completing the AuD since the curriculum is prescribed and meets the minimum University requirements for the doctoral degree.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
A maximum of 24 semester units (one full year of study) may be transferred from an institution of recognized graduate standing toward fulfillment of requirements for the doctoral degree from Washington University. Applications for the transfer of credit for the doctoral degree are not approved, however, until one full year of study (24 semester units) has been completed successfully. Students who completed the Master of Science in Speech and Hearing (M.S.S.H.) at Washington University may apply to transfer up to 33 semester units of credit toward fulfillments of the PhD. degree. Students who completed the MSDE at Washington University may apply to transfer up to 36 semester units of credit toward fulfillments of the PhD degree. Students who completed the AuD at Washington University may apply to transfer up to 48 semester units of credit toward fulfillments of the PhD degree.

Tuition and Fees
PACS tuition and fees are published annually in the PACS Bulletin. Rates include all classes and practicum required for the degree, as well as any additional classes required for professional certification, assuming these additional classes have been approved by PACS, students receive appropriate PACS and/or advisor approvals, and that the classes are completed at Washington University. Rates are frozen at the time of enrollment and are guaranteed for all years of study for students who remain in good standing and maintain continuous enrollment in the admitted program. Students are responsible for any additional tuition charges and/or fees for other unapproved classes taken through Washington University and/or classes required for professional certification that is completed at another institution.

Tuition Bills
Tuition bills are delivered to students electronically through WebSTAC. The system allows students to view tuition bills, make electronic payments, print bills, review account history for up to 12 months, and create unique logon access for parents or “other payers” that only students can authorize. This information can be viewed through WebSTAC by selecting Billing Records, then Pay/View My Bill.

Tuition Payment
Tuition and related fees are due by the last business day of the first full week of classes each semester. Tuition due dates will be listed on the PACS Academic Calendar. Tuition can be paid in the Office of the Registrar, located in the McDonnell Science Building, Room 100, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Accepted forms of payment are check and money order. Cash or credit cards cannot be accepted. Students and/or other authorized payers can also pay tuition through WebSTAC.

If a student has not satisfied past financial obligations to Washington University (tuition, fees, Olin Residence Hall fees, bookstore charges, library charges, copy fees, etc.) by one month before the end of the academic year, the student’s academic record/transcript will not be released until the account is paid in full. In addition, the student will not be promoted, graduated, or allowed to enter practicum placements.

Students who rely on loans should be certain their loan applications and other paperwork are submitted and processed in time to meet registration deadlines. The WUSM Office of Student Financial Planning will assist students with loan applications and financial planning upon request. Please note that students receiving scholarships from PACS must meet the requirements of the scholarship in order for the funding to continue.

Late Fees – Tuition
All payments of tuition and other University charges are due and payable on the dates specified on the PACS Academic Calendar, which is published annually. Any payment due from the student and not paid by the specified date will accrue interest at the usury rate in effect on the first business day of the month in which payment is due. The fee will be imposed on any accounts not paid within 30 days of the due date. Any amount not paid when due plus accrued interest thereon must be paid in full within three months of the original due date will result in the suspension from classes.

If a student fails to settle such unpaid amounts within three months of the original due date, the School will not release the student’s grade reports or transcript pending settlement of the unpaid account. A student who has not satisfied all of his/her delinquent financial obligations to Washington University (tuition, fees, Olin Residence hall rental, etc.) by the end of the academic year will not be allowed to progress to the next academic year, or graduate.

Students who rely on financial aid funds to meet their obligations should submit their applications for processing according to application deadlines published by the Office of Student Financial Planning. Deadlines allow for receipt of financial aid funds if applications are filed by the deadline. The Office of Student Financial Planning will assist students with loan applications and financial planning upon request.

Visitors may attend classes offered by PACS and/or utilize the PACS facilities (including the student lounge) only with advance permission. Guests of students must be accompanied by the student at all times.

The Doctor of Audiology (AuD) and two-year Master of Science in Deaf Education (MSDE) programs each have prescribed curricula that meet current requirements of the University, PACS, and certification/licensing agencies. These curricula have been designed to provide comprehensive preparation for future professionals in the fields of audiology and deaf education. Selected classes may be waived through successful completion of an equivalent class, or classes, at another college/university prior to enrollment in PACS. These classes, and the academic requirements to waive them, are listed below. Any student who has completed one of the required PACS classes through PACS within two years of enrollment and received a grade of “B-“ or better will not be required to retake that class.

Doctor of Audiology (AuD)

• PACS 4301 – Sign Language I: Requirement: A two-credit course in sign language systems, or the equivalent content in multiple classes.
• PACS 434—Typical Language Development: Requirement: A three-credit class that dealt primarily (>50%) with typical language development, or the equivalent content in multiple classes.
• PACS 543—Survey of Speech and Language Disorders: Requirement: A two-credit class that covered speech and language disorders, or the equivalent content in multiple classes.

Master of Science in Deaf Education (MSDE) – Two Year

• PACS 4301 – Sign Language I: Requirement: A two-credit course in sign language systems, or the equivalent content in multiple classes.
• PACS 434—Typical Language Development: Requirement: A three-credit class that dealt primarily (>50%) with typical language development, or the equivalent content in multiple classes.
• EDUC 408—Education and Psychology of the Exceptional Child: Requirement: A three-credit class on psychology and/or education of the exceptional child (including gifted).
• PSYC 304—Educational Psychology; PSYC 321—Developmental Psychology I; or EDUC 4052—Educational Psychology: Requirement: A three-credit class on psychology/development of children and adolescents.

Students interested in waiving or auditing one or more of these classes should complete the “Request for Class Waiver/Audit” form and submit it with the required documentation. The request will be reviewed and the student will be notified of waiver/audit eligibility. Please note that you may not use one previously-taken class to waive more than one class. In some cases, such as classes outside PACS, approval of the instructor may also be required and additional tuition charges may apply. Students who audit a class are required to attend class and participate regularly in class activities. However, completion of assignments, exams, tests, etc. is not generally required. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with the instructor before the beginning of the semester to discuss expectations and to ensure that the audited class will not interfere with practicum or other requirements of the degree program, which take priority. Students who participate successfully will receive a grade of ‘L’; students who fail to participate successfully will receive a grade of ‘Z’. The audited class and the grade received will appear on the transcripts, but the class is not creditable toward the fulfillment of advanced degree requirements and will not count toward the GPA.

During the first two weeks of academic classes, withdrawals from a class will not show on the transcript and all records of the class will be deleted. Between the third and twelfth weeks of classes (or third and tenth for the summer term), a withdrawal will appear as a “W” on the transcript. After the twelfth week (or tenth week for the summer term), no withdrawals will be permitted, even if the instructor consents to the withdrawal. In addition, students in the Doctor of Audiology (AuD) Program and the Master of Science in Deaf Education (MSDE) Program may not withdraw from required classes unless one or more of the following conditions has been met:

• such withdrawal is part of a CAPES-approved ISP;
• the student has received approval to waive/audit that class;
• the class is an elective;
• the student is withdrawing from the program or taking an approved leave of absence; or
• the student has suffered an illness or injury requiring hospitalization or extended absence and proper authorization from the director of Student Health Services has been received by the Program Director.

Any student who, for any reason whatsoever, wishes to withdraw from PACS should consult first with the Program Director. No such withdrawal will be official until students file a written notification of withdrawal to the Program Director. Subsequent readmission is neither implied nor guaranteed for students who elect to withdraw. If one or more of these conditions has been met, the student should complete an Add-Drop Form, have it signed by his/her advisor, and submit it to the PACS Office. At that time, other items that must be completed to withdraw in good standing will be provided to the student.

The following withdrawal and refund schedule applies to AuD, MSDE and SNCDstudents in PACS, with the exception of short courses (two weeks or less), which are non-refundable if withdrawal date is after the first day of classes.

PhD students should consult with The Graduate School for policies and procedures related to withdrawals and refunds. For more information, please visit http://graduateschool.wustl.edu/.