Policies - Atkinson Graduate School of Management
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MBA STUDENT HANDBOOK
The Atkinson Graduate School of Management’s MBA Student Handbook is your guide to the expectations of academic and professional behavior, curricular requirements, regulations, policies, and procedures for MBA students enrolled at Willamette University’s Atkinson Graduate School of Management.
The MBA Student Handbook includes policies and procedures of the Atkinson School as well as policies of Willamette University regarding Academic Integrity and Student Conduct governing all Willamette University students.
The content of the 2025-26 MBA Student Handbook applies to all students enrolled in an MBA course during fall semester 2025, spring semester 2026, or summer semester 2026.
The content of the Willamette University MBA Student Handbook is updated in mid-August each year. The handbook is subject to change based on administrative decisions and faculty governance.
Section I: Mission, Motto and Values
Atkinson School Mission and Values
Mission: The Atkinson Graduate School of Management is committed to providing world class management education to U.S. and international students in all stages of their careers. We help our graduates acquire life-long learning skills and become outstanding leaders and managers in business, government, and nonprofit organizations worldwide by offering an intimate learning and practice environment, an integrated, cross-sectoral approach to management education, and dedication to quality teaching, instructional development, basic and applied research, and exceptional, customized career services.
Values: The Atkinson Graduate School of Management maintains that the purpose of all managerial activity is to create value. "Value" is worth as judged by someone other than the manager. It necessarily entails respecting human dignity, improving the welfare of the community through integration, and acting with integrity and competence. We expect our curriculum, pedagogy, internal governance, service, teaching, research and modeling will lead our graduates to pursue these values.
Human Dignity: Treat people as ends and not means. Respect individuals, encourage participation, explore and resolve differences collaboratively.
Integration: Seek and synthesize diverse interests, backgrounds, and knowledge. Act in accord with the common good. Foster trust. Pursue social responsibility and sustainability on the part of the enterprise.
Integrity: Accept responsibility for our actions. Be transparent and act in accord with principles of substantive and procedural justice.
Excellence: Promote excellence, competence, and continuous improvement.
Section II: Resources and Tips for a Successful MBA Experience
As a member of Willamette University and Atkinson School community, it is important to understand the resources and services available to help you when you need assistance.
The Willamette MBA is a rewarding and demanding professional and academic experience. It will require you to: learn new concepts; apply what you learn to organizations; effectively manage yourself, others and clients; develop new interpersonal, professional and leadership behaviors; adapt to change; and successfully manage your time, energy and stress. Each of these skills is critical to your personal and professional success.
The MBA experience is incredibly rewarding and also mirrors real life. There will be many times when you and your classmates will experience the difficulties of having multiple demands and roles in your life. When this happens, be sure to utilize your Atkinson School/Willamette network of people and support resources. We have people and services available to help you thrive during your educational, professional, and life-changing journey as an MBA student.
Personal Support Resources
Atkinson School Faculty and Staff: The Atkinson School faculty and staff are happy to listen to you and talk with you. Faculty and staff are also able to refer you to other School and University resources.
Additional support resources:
Sexual Misconduct Resources for Students
Academic Support Resources
Atkinson School Faculty and Staff: The Atkinson School faculty and staff are happy to listen to you and talk with you. Faculty and staff are also able to refer you to other School and University resources.
Academic Advising: All students are always welcome to talk with any member of the faculty, staff or administration. The formal academic advising program for MBA students is as follows:
Each first-year student enrolled in the full-time Early Career/Career Change MBA program is assigned a faculty advisor to assist them with questions.
The designated advisors for MBA-P students are the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and the Assistant Dean for Graduate Programs.
The Career Development staff advises all MBA and MBA-P students about career development and management.
The Atkinson School Recorder/Records Analyst assists all MBA and MBA-P students with registration and graduation audits.
Tutors: Students are encouraged to utilize the free tutor program and to talk with the instructor of any course in which they are experiencing difficulty. Tutors are second year students who specialize in tutoring specific subject areas. The tutor program is available for core courses.
Students are expected to utilize tutors in a manner that falls well within school and course policies in regard to collaboration, academic honesty and ethical behavior. The tutor's job is to help the student understand the concepts and processes involved in the course so the student can successfully complete their own work.
Management and Economics Librarian: John Repplinger, Science Librarian, works with Atkinson students and faculty. John is an experienced librarian in these specialties and is always willing to help locate articles, statistics, and resources. Contact John by email at jrepplin@willamette.edu, phone (503-370- 6525) or at the library. See the special library guide for Atkinson students: https://libguides.willamette.edu/agsm.
Course Difficulties: Students are expected to be professional and proactive in discussing difficulties with course concepts, completing course work as assigned, grades, and other issues with the faculty member. The accepted process for discussion of course issues at the Atkinson School is to, first, talk to the instructor of the course. If talking with the instructor does not solve the concern, then talk with the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.
Accessible Education Services: Willamette University is committed to the full access and inclusion of all qualified students in its programs. The Willamette Accessible Education Services office facilitates reasonable accommodation for students with a qualifying disability or temporary medical condition while maintaining institutional standards. Students seeking information about accessibility services should contact the Willamette University Accessible Education Services Office.
Communicate Your Concerns and Provide Feedback
Communicate Your Concerns: Students are always invited to communicate their concerns. Students are also expected to be professional and proactive in discussing their concerns. The accepted process for communicating your concerns at the Atkinson School is to, first, talk to the student, faculty or staff member involved in the concern. If talking to the student, faculty or staff member involved does not solve the concern, then talk with the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.
Course Evaluations: Every Atkinson School course is evaluated every year to stimulate improvement in the quality of teaching and learning in the MBA program. The information provided by students helps pinpoint specific strengths, weaknesses, and potential improvements. The school takes course evaluations seriously. Students are always encouraged to discuss a course with the professor at any time and do not have to wait until the conclusion of the semester to provide input about a course.
Getting the Most from Your MBA Education
Recent graduates offer the following tips for academic success at the Atkinson School:
Study in groups of two to six students to benefit from the support and expertise of your student colleagues.
Seek assistance from faculty, staff, fellow students and University resources.
Plan your time. Atkinson courses require a consistent effort and pace as opposed to concentrated study for short periods of time. Understanding today's lecture, formula, or case usually depends on mastering the previous assignment
Avoid getting bogged down in one class and letting others slip. Understand the benefits and limitations of dropping or withdrawing from a course. Seek advice from the professor, your faculty advisor or the other members of the Atkinson faculty or staff. If you decide to drop or withdraw from a course, email the Recorder/Records Analyst.
The Willamette MBA is a professional degree and requires a different approach than an undergraduate degree. Your success requires professional development and growth in three important areas: knowledge, experience and career development.
Knowledge is important ...but it's not enough by itself. Experience is important ...but it's not enough by itself. Career development is important ... but it's not enough by itself. It takes all three to achieve a great return on investment and meet your professional goals.
Section III. Expectations of Academic and Professional Behavior
Willamette MBA students are expected to conduct themselves with academic integrity, ethical conduct, and professionalism in all aspects of their MBA education and in all interactions with students, faculty, staff, clients, and guests of the Atkinson School and Willamette University.
The information in this section of the handbook is your guide to the Atkinson School’s expectations of student behavior.
Academic and professional behavior is governed by the Atkinson Honor Code, Willamette University Student Code of Conduct, Willamette University Academic Integrity Policy applicable laws and regulations, and the Atkinson School expectations of academic honesty and professional behavior.
In the absence of a specific notation of expectations and policy, the Atkinson School Honor Code standards of professionalism and excellence are the default Atkinson School policy.
Expectations of Academic Honesty
Learning, honesty, and integrity matter. If a person can't trust your choices or the decisions you make, your grades and your degree won't matter.
The university and Atkinson School policies governing academic behavior outline basic actions of academic integrity. The below tip supplements this guidance for maintaining your academic honesty and integrity.
Understand the Allowable Degree of Collaboration for Each Assignment: Be sure you understand the level of collaboration allowed for each deliverable, exam and project. The allowable level of collaboration will vary with each faculty member, course and assignment. If you have a question or do not understand the level of collaboration allowed on a given assignment, check the syllabus or ask the professor for clarification.
In general (unless otherwise presented by the faculty member, syllabus or assignment), you may discuss ideas with each other as a means of maximizing learning opportunities and understanding the issues involved before you prepare your individual work product for submission. However, you should complete your assignment on your own, as an individual with your own analysis, recommendations, solutions, information etc. Your written or presentation work product must be your own work and not that of others.
In the absence of information about the allowable degree of collaboration, always assume the assignment or work product is to be done individually and on your own.
Expectations of Professional Behavior
Professional behavior contributes to academic and personal development, as well as the good of the entire Atkinson community.
The Atkinson School values integrity, ethical conduct, teamwork, and professional behavior as essential elements of personal and professional growth. All members of the Atkinson School community are expected to conduct themselves according to these tenets in all aspects of the Atkinson School experience and all interactions with peers, faculty, clients, staff, and guests of the Atkinson School.
See the subpage, Expectations of Professional Behavior, for the basic actions of professional behavior and tips for your MBA experience.
Section IV. Atkinson School Honor Code
The Atkinson School Honor Code applies to issues of academic honesty and professional behavior of students enrolled in Atkinson School courses. The Honor Code is intended to create and sustain an environment of honor and trust, encourage each person to develop to their full potential, and promote a positive set of values and behaviors that distinguish members of the Atkinson School community in their personal and professional lives. The Honor Code also gives students an important role in resolving issues of academic honesty and professional behavior.
It is the desire of the Atkinson School community to have a culture of honesty that prevents violations of the Honor Code before they occur, rather than to impose sanctions after a violation. This calls for all members of the community to encourage compliance with the Honor Code, whether it be in regard to their own actions or the actions of others. To encourage awareness, compliance and the positive effects of the Honor Code system, every student enrolled in an MBA course, every faculty member and every staff member is asked to acknowledge the Atkinson School Honor Code.
See the subpage for the Atkinson Honor Code and details regarding potential violations.
Section V. Violations of Academic Integrity or Professional Behavior
As a member of the Willamette University community, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities, University protocol and procedures, and University services available to help you when you need assistance. Willamette University policies govern all graduate and undergraduate students of Willamette University except where specifically noted within the description of a policy or procedure.
The Atkinson School follows the Willamette University Academic Integrity Policy the Willamette University Student Code of Conduct, and the Atkinson Honor Code.
Violations of Academic Integrity
Academic integrity violations pertain to actions that occur within the realm of class deliverables, tests, team projects, presentations, papers, grading and attendance records, communication with the professor, and communication with other students.
In the absence of a specific policy or regulation within the area of academic honesty, the Atkinson Honor Code standards of excellence will be the default Atkinson School policy.
Any behavior found to be a violation of the Honor Code, is a violation of the Honor Code regardless of the severity of the violation or the severity of the consequence.
Historically, academic honesty violations at the Atkinson School involve one or more students making a poor decision. Some violations have been deliberate and some have been unintentional. It is important to know that all violations, whether deliberate or unintended, will trigger a review and consequence process consistent with the policies and procedures detailed in this handbook.
Violations of Professional Behavior
A discussion of expected professional behavior of Atkinson School students is available at Expectations of Professional Behavior.
Honor Code violations of professional behavior pertain to a student’s conduct within the educational process, learning environment, use of university facilities and resources, group process and team responsibilities, student activities, school guests, client interactions, on-campus and off-campus events, internship supervisors, places of employment, career development activities, and communication with others, etc.
Atkinson School students, faculty and staff are encouraged to be proactive in discussing and resolving their general concerns, differences, and misunderstandings with individuals informally. The accepted informal process for people concerned about the professional behavior of a student is to communicate with the student involved in the concern. If this step is not possible or if it does not resolve the issue, communicate with the Atkinson professor or staff member connected with the course or activity in which the issues are occurring. If the informal process does not resolve the concern, or if the concern is deemed to be of a serious nature, the concerned person should talk to the Honor Code Officer.
In the absence of a specific policy or regulation within the area of academic honesty the Honor Code standards of excellence will be the default Atkinson School policy.
Any behavior found to be a violation of the Honor Code, is a violation of the Honor Code regardless of the severity of the violation or the severity of the consequence.
Read more about the investigation of potential violations at Investigating Violations of Academic Integrity or Professional Behavior.
Section VI. Graduation Requirements
Please see the following program pages for degree requirements for Atkinson graduate programs.
Section VII. Academic Regulations
The relevant Atkinson administrator for academic regulations is the Recorder/Records Analyst.
Regulations specific to: MBA, BA/MBA, One Year MBA, JD/MBA and MBA/MSDS Programs
Full-time and Part-time Enrollment Status: Students who are enrolled in nine or more credits of graduate level course work in each semester are considered full-time students. Students enrolled in one to eight credits of graduate level course work in any semester are considered part-time students. All academic and conduct regulations of Willamette University and the Atkinson School govern full-time and part-time students.
Regulations Regarding “F” Grades: "F" grades are calculated in the grade point average and result in zero credits earned toward graduation. A student who receives an "F" in a required course must repeat the course and earn a grade of "C" or higher in the repeated course. A student who receives an "F" grade in an elective course may repeat the course. When a course is repeated, both the "F" grade and the grade received in the repeated course appear on the transcript, and both grades are calculated in the grade point average. "F" grades have very serious consequences. A student anticipating an "F" in a course is advised to withdraw from the course prior to the last scheduled class meeting of the course.
Repeating a Course: Students may not repeat a course previously completed unless the grade earned in that course was an "F." In the case of a core or required course, a course completed with a grade of "F" must be repeated. When a course is repeated, both the "F" grade and the grade received in the repeated course appear on the transcript, and both grades are calculated in the grade point average.
Core Course Waivers: There are two types of core course waivers - the "Credit Waiver" and the "Substitution Waiver." Both waiver options are designed to help students work at advanced levels of study and get the most from their Willamette MBA education. Students on academic notice are not eligible for course waivers.
A "Credit Waiver" automatically applies credits from a waived core course toward graduation requirements and does not require a substitute course. A "Substitution Waiver" requires a specific elective course to replace the waived core course, and credits from the waived core course do not apply toward graduation. Eligible MBA students are limited to a maximum of six (6) credits from a combination of approved Credit Waivers and approved transferred course work for credit. There is no limit to the number of core courses which can be waived via a Substitution Waiver.
Waiver criteria: The criteria for granting a waiver for a core course are determined by the faculty member responsible for the course and based on an assessment of whether the student meets the academic requirements for waiving the course. Students who waive a core course are responsible for the content of the waived course as it is applied in other MBA core and elective courses.
Contact the relevant Atkinson administrator for assistance with a core-course waiver. NOTE: GSM-5108 PACE I and GSM-5109 PACE II cannot be waived.
Transfer Credits: The Atkinson administrator for transfer credits is the Recorder/Records Analyst. MBA students may be eligible to apply a maximum of six (6) semester credits of graduate course work earned from another university or college toward the Willamette MBA degree. The six- semester credit maximum includes any credits transferred at the time of entry to the program and any credits received (School of Law or other) while enrolled in the Atkinson School.
Grades earned in courses transferred to the MBA program are not used in calculating the student's grade point average. Students should also be aware that quarter credits and semester credits are not equal; six semester credits are equal to nine quarter credits.
Students are limited to a maximum of six (6) semester credits from a combination of approved transfer courses and courses waived for credit.
Students on academic notice (with a cumulative GPA less than 3.00) are not eligible for transfer credits.
Graduate School Credits Earned Prior To Enrolling in the Atkinson School: Students may be eligible to transfer MBA graduate credits earned prior to enrollment at the Atkinson School, as part of the maximum allowable six credits of transfer or waived credits. Transfer credits earned prior to enrollment are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and require the approval of the Dean. To be eligible for transfer consideration courses must meet all the following requirements:
Credits earned could not have been used to complete a previous degree
The course must have been completed within three (3) years of entry to the Atkinson School
The grade received in the course must be a B or better
The course must have been earned at an AACSB accredited MBA program or an NASPAA accredited MPA program.
The course must meet the criteria set by the faculty member of the selected course.
Students requesting evaluation of transfer credits earned prior to enrollment at the Atkinson School must submit a written request to the relevant Atkinson administrator. The written request must include a copy of the course syllabus. If approved, credits may be applied toward elective credits or toward completion of selected core courses.
Graduate Course Work Completed at Willamette University School of Law during Enrollment at the Atkinson School: MBA candidates who are not candidates for the MBA/JD joint degree may be eligible to receive elective credits for courses completed at the Willamette University School of Law as part of the maximum six (6) semester credits eligible for transfer. MBA students who take courses at the law school should consult the Law Office of Student Services for details on grading and attendance policies.
Transfer of credits from the W.U. School of Law to the MBA program is governed by all of the following regulations:
Up to six (6) semester credits of elective course work required for the MBA degree may be transferred from the Willamette University School of Law for School of Law course work completed with a grade of "Honors," "C", "Credit," or better.
Willamette School of Law courses completed with grades below "C" or grades of "No Credit" are not eligible for transfer to the MBA program.
Grades earned in law courses will not be used in calculating the MBA grade point average.
Courses in the School of Law may not be taken by Atkinson students prior to the semester in which the student will have completed at least 24 hours of first year courses. If during that semester any MBA course is dropped, the law course must also be dropped at that time.
MBA students who have waived six credits of core course work are eligible to transfer credits from the School of Law.
Students on academic notice (with a cumulative GPA less than 3.00) are not eligible for transfer credits from the School of Law.
MBA students registering for a law course must register at the School of Law. School of Law students are given priority for enrollment in Law courses. School of Law credits will be recorded on the Atkinson School transcript. Students should inform the relevant Atkinson administrator of their enrollment in a law course.
Students enrolling in elective course work at the School of Law should be aware of the attendance policy governing all School of Law courses that requires minimum attendance at 75% of regularly scheduled class hours. A student who does not satisfy this minimum, regardless of reason, at any point during the semester will be dismissed from the School of Law course.
Dismissal will be noted on the student’s School of Law transcript. School of Law instructors may also impose a stricter attendance policy and additional sanctions for non-attendance if students are informed at the start of the course of the instructor’s attendance rules.
Graduate Course Work Completed at Other Colleges or Universities during Enrollment in the Atkinson School: MBA students may be eligible to transfer pre-approved elective credits earned from another university as part of the maximum allowable six semester credits eligible for transfer. Students on academic notice (with a cumulative GPA less than 3.00) are not eligible for transfer credits.
Credit for approved transfer course work will be entered on the transcript as credit toward graduation but will not be calculated into the GPA. Only credits completed with a grade of "B" or higher will apply toward the MBA degree. The combination of transferred credits from other universities and waived credits cannot exceed six (6) semester credits.
A student desiring to take graduate course work at a college or university other than Willamette University must submit a written request for transfer credits to the relevant Atkinson administrator at least six (6) weeks prior to beginning the outside course (s). The written request must include a copy of the course syllabus. Four general guidelines for evaluating requests for transfer are:
The student must provide evidence that the course is not available through the Atkinson School curriculum, including independent study.
The student must provide evidence the requested course enhances their educational program and career plans.
The course must be a graduate level elective course.
The quality of the offering institution, program, and instruction is to be considered as well as the course content and level.
Upon completion of approved transfer credits, the student must provide an official transcript from the transfer institution to the relevant Atkinson administrator, who will evaluate and convert the credits to Atkinson School semester credits. (Note: quarter credits and semester credits are not equal: 3 quarter credits equal 2 semester credits; 6 quarter credits equal 4 semester credits; 9 quarter credits equal 6 semester credits.)
Regulations specific to: MBA for Professionals program
Full-time and Part-time Enrollment Status. MBA for Professionals students are considered full- time when enrolled in eight credits of Willamette MBA course work during a semester. Students who are enrolled in one to seven credits of Willamette MBA course work in any semester are considered part-time students. Part-time students must meet all academic and conduct regulations governing full-time students in the Willamette University MBA for Professionals program.
Regulations Regarding “F” Grades: "F" grades are calculated in the grade point average and result in zero credits earned toward graduation. A student who receives an "F" in a required course must repeat the course and earn a grade of "C" or higher in the repeated course. A student who receives an "F" grade in an elective course may repeat the course. When a course for which an “F” was received is repeated, only the grade received in the repeated course appears on the transcript and is used in calculating a student’s grade point average.
"F" grades have very serious consequences. A student anticipating an "F" in a course is advised to withdraw from the course prior to the last scheduled class meeting of the course.
MBA-P Course Waivers: The Atkinson administrator for course waivers is the Recorder/Records Analyst. MBA for Professionals courses are not easily waived and most courses are not eligible for a waiver. However, students who have attained a professional credential that matches the content of the relevant GSMPR course may submit a written request for a waiver review to the relevant Atkinson administrator. A written request must be submitted at least six weeks before the beginning of the relevant course and must include: a written rationale for the waiver, and supporting information that includes a copy of the relevant credential attained and a complete discussion of the educational process required for completion of the credential. The submitted request will be reviewed by the faculty member of the related course and then reviewed by the Dean. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis. The decision of the Dean is final.
A maximum of four (4) MBA for Professionals course credits may be waived for eligible students. Students who are granted a waiver for a course are responsible for the content of the waived course as it is applied in other GSMPR courses.
The combination of waived credits and transferred credits from other universities (see policy below) cannot exceed (8) semester credits. In addition, MBAP students on academic notice are not eligible for waivers
Transfer Credits: The Atkinson administrator for transfer credits is the Recorder/Records Analyst. MBA course work completed at a program accredited by AACSB International prior to enrollment in the MBA for Professionals may be considered for transfer. Requests for transfer credit are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and require the approval of the Dean.
A maximum of 8 semester credits of course work may be approved for transfer to the MBA for Professionals program. In addition, the combination of transferred credits from other universities and waived credits cannot exceed (8) semester credits.
Approved transfer credits are applied toward credits required for graduation. Grades earned in courses transferred to the MBA program are not used in calculating the student's grade point average. Students who are granted transfer credits for a course are responsible for the content of the Willamette course as it is applied in other GSMPR courses. Students on academic notice in the MBA for Professionals program are not eligible for transfer credits.
To be eligible for transfer consideration, previous course work must meet all the following requirements:
Be a graduate level MBA course from an AACSB International accredited program;
Completed within three (3) years of entry to the Atkinson School;
Show a grade of B (3.00) or higher;
Credits earned cannot have been used to complete a previous degree;
Credits earned must equal a minimum of 4 semester credits of related course work (4 semester credits are equal to 6 quarter credits); and
Meet the criteria set by the faculty member of the selected coursework.
Students requesting evaluation of transfer credits earned prior to enrollment at the Atkinson School must submit a written request to the relevant Atkinson administrator, who will take the request to the Dean. The written request must include a rationale for the transfer credits, a copy of the course syllabus for the MBA course previously completed, and an official copy of transcript showing completion of the course and the grade received. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis. The decision of the Dean is final.
Section VIII – Academic Notice and Dismissal
Academic Notice
The Atkinson administrator responsible for overseeing academic notice is the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.
All students must maintain a cumulative Atkinson School grade point average of 3.00 (B) or better and make satisfactory progress toward degree completion to be in "Good Academic Standing."
MBA students who, after completion of a minimum of twelve (12) MBA credits, have a cumulative GPA below 3.00 (but greater than 2.40), will be placed on notice and receive written notification from the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.
Students on academic notice are generally not eligible for the following while on academic notice:
school sponsored internships
transfer of credits
waivers
new scholarship awards
After being placed on academic notice the student has two (2) regular semesters (Fall/Spring or Spring/Fall for all ECCC programs; Fall/Spring, Spring/Summer, Summer/Fall for MBAP) to attain good academic standing with an overall cumulative GPA of 3.00 or better.
Students who do not achieve a GPA of 3.00 or better after the second consecutive semester on notice will be ineligible for further course work. Appeals must be submitted in writing to the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, who will confer with the Dean for a decision. The Dean's decision is final, and no further appeal is available. The appeal will be judged by four criteria:
Quality of student's performance and experience while at Atkinson
Evidence of academic and professional growth
Assessment of ability to successfully complete the program
Evidence of commitment to complete the program within six year requirement.
Students will be placed on academic notice or removed from academic notice based on the review of their most recent semester's cumulative grade point average. The review of fall semester grades occurs after the completion of fall semester and before the beginning spring semester. The review of spring semester grades occurs after completion of spring semester and before the beginning of summer semester. The review of summer semester grades occurs after completion of summer semester and before the beginning of fall semester.
Students who have questions about academic notice should contact the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.
Academic Dismissal
The Atkinson administrator responsible for overseeing academic dismissal is the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.
Academic dismissal will occur when a student on notice for three consecutive semesters does not receive approval of their appeal for continued enrollment.
Students will be dismissed based on the review of their most recent semester's cumulative grade point average by the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. The review of fall semester grades occurs after the completion of fall semester and before the beginning spring semester. The review of spring semester grades occurs after completion of spring semester and before the beginning of summer semester. The review of summer semester grades occurs after completion of summer semester and before the beginning of fall semester.
A dismissal may be appealed to the Dean by the student within the time limit stated in the email and letter of notification. Appeals to the Dean must be submitted in writing to the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, who will confer with the Dean for a decision. Appeals will be judged by the four criteria shown below. The Dean's decision is final, and no further appeal is available.
Quality of student's performance and experience while at Atkinson
Evidence of academic and professional growth
Assessment of ability to successfully complete the program
Evidence of commitment to complete the program within six-year requirement.
Students who have questions about academic dismissal should contact the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs.
Section IX. Registration and Enrollment Policies and Procedures
Auditing Courses is Not Allowed
Only students who are officially registered for a course may attend a course. Auditing a course (sitting in on a class without full participation, grades, and/or registration) is not an available option.
Course Waitlist Procedures
Waitlists are established when a course has reached its enrollment capacity. Once the semester begins, students who are on a waitlist for a course are expected to attend the first session of the course to receive waitlist priority for enrollment if space becomes available.
If space becomes available in the course during the add/drop period, students will be prompted to add the course based on their position on the waitlist.
Course Prerequisites
Students are required to meet the stated prerequisite for an Atkinson course prior to enrollment in the course. Students who have successfully completed or waived the course(s) listed as a prerequisite are considered to have met the prerequisite.
Students who have not completed the stated prerequisite may request permission from the faculty member to enroll in the course. The student should discuss their qualifications for taking the course and present evidence as requested by the faculty member. If the faculty member approves the student's enrollment in the course, the faculty member will grant approval for the student to add the course via SAGE.
Approval to take a course without the required prerequisite does not constitute the waiver of any course or curricular requirement of the Atkinson School.
Class Attendance
Active class participation and in-class discussions enhance the learning environment for all students. As such, students are expected to attend all classes and participate in all learning activities.
The professor of the course sets the attendance policy for the course and students are expected to adhere to the attendance policy. Attendance, preparation and participation in classroom discussions may be used by faculty in determining course grades. Students who are aware of the need to miss an upcoming class should discuss their upcoming absence with the professor in advance of the absence and make alternative arrangements for completing any related class requirements.
When a student is unable to attend class due to an unpredictable illness or an immediate personal/professional commitment, they should email or telephone the professor in advance. Whenever a student misses a class, the student is responsible for all material covered in the missed class and may be asked by the professor to complete additional work to make up for the missed class session. It is the student's responsibility to initiate, follow through, and complete all material and assignments related to a missed class.
Students who must miss more classes than the professor has outlined as acceptable to meet the requirements of the course, should withdraw from the course for the given semester and re-enroll in the course at a later date.
Discontinuing a Course
The Atkinson School reserves the right to discontinue any course for which the enrollment is insufficient.
Accommodations for Students with Disabilities
Willamette University is committed to the full access and inclusion of all qualified students in its programs. The Willamette University Accessible Education Services office facilitates reasonable accommodations for students with a qualifying disability or temporary medical condition while maintaining institutional standards. Students with a disability should contact the Willamette University Accessible Education Services Office.
Immunizations Required to Attend Class
Willamette University Immunization Policy. For more information call the Bishop Health Center at 503-370-6062 or visit https://my.willamette.edu/site/health
Leave of Absence
Officially admitted students who have completed at least one semester of course work at the Atkinson School and intend to enroll in less than one (1) Atkinson course for two (2) or more consecutive semesters, should apply for a Leave of Absence.
Students applying for a Leave of Absence must complete the "Departure Form" and an exit interview with the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. See the University's Student Leave of Absence and Exiting the University Policy.
Readmission Process for Students Who Leave the Program
The Atkinson administrator responsible for readmission is the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.
Officially admitted students who enroll for less than one (1) Atkinson School course (three credits) for two (2) consecutive semesters must apply for readmission to the MBA program through the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. Students who apply for readmission to the MBA program will be automatically readmitted by the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs if they meet all of the following six (6) criteria:
The student applied for and received a Leave of Absence; and
The student has submitted a letter to the Director of Admission requesting readmission to the program; and
The student has a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher; and
the six (6) year completion date for the degree is feasible at the time of readmission; and
There were no pending disputes, disciplinary actions, or appeals at the time of withdrawal; and
The student has not previously applied for readmission.
Readmission status of students who do not qualify for automatic readmission may submit their request for readmission to the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, who will confer with the Dean. The Dean will consider the standards listed below in the evaluation of whether to grant the readmission request.
The six (6) criteria listed for automatic readmission; and
Quality of student's experience while absent from the program; and
Performance in alternate classes attended while absent from the program; and
Evidence of professional growth; and
Assessment of ability to successfully complete the program; and
Evidence of commitment to complete the program within the six (6) year completion requirement period.
Readmission requests involving an actual or predicted program completion date beyond the six
(6) year completion period must include an appeal to the Dean for reinstatement of all course credit hours. The Dean's decision is final, and no further appeal is available.
Policies specific to MBA, BA/MBA, One-year MBA, JD/MBA & MBA/MSDS Programs
The AGSM administrator responsible for overseeing registration is the Recorder/Records Analyst.
Full-Time and Part-Time Course Loads
Full-time: Students enrolled for at least 9 credits per semester are classified as full-time students. The nine (9) credit minimum applies to any semester of enrollment, whether it be fall semester, spring semester or the optional summer semester. Although nine credits is the minimum requirement for full-time status in any given semester of the program, students generally complete 15-16 credits per semester (fall semester of the first year, spring semester of the first year, fall semester of the second year and spring semester of the second year) to complete the program in 21 months. Students enrolling for more than 19 credits will be charged additional tuition beyond the flat rate charge for 9 to 19 credits.
Part-time: MBA students who are enrolled for less than nine (9) credits per semester are enrolled part-time. MBA students who are enrolled for 4.5 to 8 credits per semester meet the half-time enrollment requirement for federal loans.
Registration
Registration Timeline for Current Students: Registration for currently enrolled students for spring semester occurs during November. Registration for returning students for fall semester occurs in April. Registration for a course reserves a place in the class and helps the Atkinson School order an adequate supply of textbooks. All students will register online via SAGE.
New First-Year Students: New Early Career/Career Change MBA, BA/MBA, One Year MBA, MBA/JD, MBA/MSDS, exchange and non-degree students will be registered by the Atkinson School Recorder/Records Analyst for their first fall semester courses. Most students will be registered for 15 credits. First-year students may register for a maximum of 19 credits via the online registration system for spring semester of the first year.
Returning Students: Second-year students and other returning students may register for a maximum of 19 credits via the online registration system for fall and spring semester of the second year of study. Registration for Fall Semester takes place during April. Registration for Spring Semester takes place in November.
EC/CC MBA, BA/MBA, One Year MBA, JD/MBA and MBA/MSDS, exchange and non-degree students may not register for certain GSMPR courses in the MBA for Professionals program without prior approval.
Although changes in registration may be made during the add/drop period, students are encouraged to carefully consider their registration choices.
A student is considered officially registered only after fees have been paid or arrangements have been made with the Business Office.
Repeating a Course
Students may not repeat a course previously completed unless the grade earned in that course was an "F." In the case of a core or required course, a course completed with a grade of "F" must be repeated. When a course is repeated, both the "F" grade and the grade received in the repeated course appear on the transcript, and both grades are calculated in the grade point average.
Adding, Dropping and Withdrawing from a Course or Courses
See the Add, Drop, and Withdrawal Policy.
Adding a Course: Students may add a course during the add/drop period of the semester online via SAGE. Students are responsible for initiating and completing the add process in a timely manner. Students on the waitlist receive priority for registration in the waitlisted course. If you need assistance contact the Atkinson School Recorder/Records Analyst. Students who are trying to decide between two courses that meet at the same time should talk to the professor of each course for advice. Instructions for using SAGE are available online.
Dropping a Course: Students may drop a course during the add/drop period of the semester via SAGE. Students considering dropping a course are encouraged to talk to the professor, faculty advisor or the Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs prior to the decision. Students are responsible for initiating and completing the action of dropping a course in a timely manner. If you need assistance, contact the relevant Atkinson administrator. Instructions for using SAGE are available online.
Withdrawing from a Course: The deadline to withdraw from an AGSM course is prior to the last scheduled class session of the course. Withdrawal from a course is shown on the permanent transcript as a "W." A grade of "W" does not affect the grade point average, and no credit is granted.
Students considering withdrawing from a course are encouraged to talk to the professor, faculty advisor, the Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs prior to the decision. Students are responsible for initiating and completing the course withdrawal and should email the Atkinson School Recorder/Records Analyst. For a complete list of add/drop dates by semester, see the Academic Calendar.
Complete Withdrawal From all Courses During a Semester: Students choosing to withdraw from all courses must complete the Departure Form and an exit interview with the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. See the Student Leave of Absence and Exiting the University policy.
Medical Withdrawal: A medical withdrawal may be requested when a student has a documented medical or psychological condition preventing completion of the semester or requiring a reduced course load. See Willamette's Medical Withdrawal Policy for more information.
Policies specific to the MBA for Professionals Program
The AGSM administrator responsible for overseeing registration is the Recorder/Records Analyst.
Full-time and Half-time Course Loads. The MBA for Professionals program can be completed as a full-time or part-time program.
MBA for Professionals students who are enrolled for at least eight (8) MBA for Professionals credits (2 courses) per semester are classified as full-time MBA for Professionals students, and can complete the program in six consecutive semesters. The 8 credit per semester requirement for full-time status applies to any semester of enrollment, whether it be fall semester, spring semester or summer semester.
MBA for Professionals students who complete at least four (4) MBA for Professionals credits (1 course) per semester are classified as part-time students and meet the half-time enrollment requirement for federal loans.
Registration for MBAP Students. MBAP students are automatically registered for all non-elective courses (GSMPR 621 through 627, GSMPR 631 and GSMPR 632) prior to each semester.
MBAP students have the option to choose elective courses during certain semesters. Students will receive a list of their elective options during the prior semester and work with the Atkinson Recorder/Records Analyst to choose and register for their electives. Specific process details are shared each semester.
A student is considered officially registered only after fees have been paid or arrangements for payment have been made with the Student Accounts Office.
The Atkinson School and various offices within Willamette University (i.e. Student Accounts, Bishop Health Center, etc.) may place a hold on a student’s registration for failing to comply with university policy.
Repeating a Course. MBAP students may not repeat a previously completed course unless the grade earned in that course was an “F” or a "C." To receive credit for the repeated course, the student must complete all requirements of the course as designated for the semester of repeat, and a significant additional deliverable assigned by the instructor of the repeated course.
When a course with a “C” is repeated, the credits from the repeated course cannot be applied to the minimum number of credits required for graduation.
An MBAP student who wishes to repeat more than one course needs to obtain a written approval from the relevant Atkinson administrator.
Adding, Dropping and Withdrawing from a Course or Courses
See the Add, Drop, and Withdrawal Policy.
Adding a Course: MBA for Professionals students may not add courses during the add/drop period. MBAP students wishing o add a course during the add/drop period should contact the relevant Atkinson administrator.
Dropping a Course: Students considering dropping a course are encouraged to talk to the professor and the Atkinson School Recorder/Records Analyst prior to the decision. Email the Atkinson School Recorder/Records Analyst to drop a course. Students are responsible for initiating and completing the drop process in a timely manner.
Withdrawing from a Course: The deadline to withdraw from an MBAP course is prior to the last scheduled class session of the course. Withdrawal from a course is shown on the permanent transcript as a "W." A grade if "W" does not affect the grade point average, and no credit is granted. To drop or withdraw from a course in the MBA for Professionals program, email the Atkinson School Recorder/Records Analyst.
Complete Withdrawal From all Courses During a Semester: MBA for Professionals students choosing to withdraw from all courses during a semester should contact the Atkinson School Recorder/Records Analyst. Students are responsible for initiating and completing the withdrawal process in a timely manner. Students completely withdrawing from the Atkinson School should consult the Student Accounts Office for information about possible refunds and refund policy. See the Student Leave of Absence and Exiting the University policy.
Medical Withdrawal: A medical withdrawal may be requested when a student has a documented medical or psychological condition preventing completion of the semester or requiring a reduced course load. See Willamette's Medical Withdrawal Policy for more information.
Section X. Regulations Governing Specific GSM Courses
Final Exam Policy for First-Year Core Courses
Final exams for first-year core courses are scheduled by the Atkinson School Recorder/Records Analyst and will occur during Core Finals Week. No more than one core course exam will be scheduled each day. Final exam dates for first-year core courses are shown on the university’s academic calendar.
Regulations for Specific Courses
Foreign Language: GSM 6290: Willamette University foreign language courses numbered 331, 332 or higher may be completed for Atkinson School credit through GSM 6290. Successfully completing a 331 foreign language course would allow you to say you are competent to conduct standard management activities in that language; 332 would allow you to say you are proficient.
The language instructor has the right to assess and confirm the capacity of the student to take the course and may require MBA students to complete additional course work not required of undergraduates.
GSM 6290 students should be aware of all of the following regulations regarding Foreign Language Study:
A maximum of 6 credits from GSM 6290 may be applied toward graduation requirements of the MBA degree.
GSM 6290 is graded Pass/Fail. An Atkinson grade of "Pass" requires a grade of "B" or better in the language class.
The maximum number of P/F and P/N credits that can be applied toward graduation requirements of the MBA degree is limited. See the Pass/Fail and/or Pass/No-Pass Credits note at the bottom of this page.
Philanthropic Investment for Community Impact: GSM 6208A (fall semester) and GSM 6208B (spring semester) is a year-long course. Students are required to take both semesters of the course to receive credit for either semester. Students who successfully complete both the fall and spring semester will receive 4 credits for each semester (8 credits for the year). Students who do not successfully complete both fall and spring semester will receive zero credits.
O’Neill Student Investment Fund: GSM 6292A and GSM 6292B: GSM 6292A (fall semester) and GSM 6292B (spring semester) are two separate two (2) credit courses. Students may complete GSM 6292A fall semester and choose to enroll or not enroll in GSM 6292B for spring semester. However, students cannot enroll in the spring semester course GSM 6292B without having successfully completed the fall semester course GSM 6292A.
Internships for Management: GSM 7251, 7252, 7253: The internship program is available for eligible students enrolled in the Early Career/Career Change MBA, BA/MBA, One Year MBA, MBA/JD and MBA/MSDS formats. All AGSM Internship for Management courses are graded as "Pass/No Pass" only.
An internship is an on-the-job learning experience that combines classroom knowledge and theory with real-world application, helping students develop professional transferable skills. Internships for Management (7251, 7252, 7253) is designed to complement the MBA curriculum and provide valuable educational and career-building opportunities. Internships provide opportunities to strengthen interpersonal skills, use research design and methodology, organize and implement projects, and gain greater understanding of organizational realities. Employers benefit from the new problem-solving techniques and approaches brought by students. Students have the opportunity to test their interest in prospective employers, industries and professional roles.
The majority of students secure a paid work experience during the summer between their first and second year of study. However, eligible students may also participate in an internship during fall semester of the second year of MBA study, and during spring semester of the second year of MBA study.
The school markets the internship program to employers and provides advising and job search assistance to students. However, securing an internship remains the ultimate responsibility of the student.
GSM 7251: Internships for Management I (3 credits): Internship I is for students participating in their first semester of internship with an employer. This course provides students the opportunity to undertake professional level employment that applies and leverages their first year MBA studies and supports their career objectives while earning credits toward their degree.
Internship I requires students to complete a significant work experience of at least 160 hours over a minimum 8-week period. Internship students will interact closely with their Faculty Internship Advisor (FIA). Coursework is designed to help students focus critical thinking and reflection on their own personal professional development as it relates to their summer internship experience. All AGSM Internship for Management courses are graded as "Pass/No Pass" only.
Prerequisite: Registration for GSM 7251 Internship I requires official approval from the Assistant Director of Career Management , completion of at least 24 credits of the first-year curriculum, good standing, and a cumulative Atkinson grade point average of 3.00 or higher.
Course registration: The Assistant Director of Career Management approves registration for GSM 7251. To prepare for registration, the student’s internship proposal must be submitted via an online portal. To receive credit, an internship must demonstrate the application of MBA-level skills and knowledge. Students must be individually responsible for work products (i.e. completing projects instead of watching others do so). Approval to register conveys that the student’s internship is credit eligible. Actual credit is awarded based on fulfillment of all course requirements and receipt of a grade of P for the course.
Students may take additional semesters of GSM 7251 provided the internship is with a different employer than any previous internships. However, students may only count a total of 7 credits from internship courses toward the total number of credits required for graduation. Students planning to take more than one semester of GSM 7251 should speak with the Assistant Director of Career Management, to learn about the requirements, processes and procedures for taking more than one semester of GSM 7251.
Important note for international students: U.S. law applies to students on an F1 or J1 visa. Please see the GSM-7251 course syllabus for a summary of considerations and contact the Office of International Education staff for complete details.GSM 7252: Internships for Management II (2 credits): Internship II is for students participating in the second semester of internship with the same employer. Enrollment in Internship II is limited to students who successfully completed the requirements of Internship I who will be continuing a significant project or assignment started in Internship I, adding a new project or additional responsibilities to their Internship I experience, or working with a new supervisor or department. Internship II provides students the opportunity to undertake professional level employment that applies and leverages AGSM studies and supports career objectives while earning credit toward the MBA degree.
Internship II requires students to complete significant work experience of at least 115 hours over a minimum 8-week period. Internship II students will interact closely with their Faculty Internship Advisor (FIA). Coursework is designed to help students focus critical thinking and reflection on their personal professional development as it relates to their internship experience. All AGSM Internship for Management courses are graded as "Pass/No Pass" only.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of GSM 7251 with the same employer is a requirement for registration on this course. Registration for GSM 7252 requires official approval from the Assistant Director of Career Management, a passing grade of GSM-7251, AGSM good standing, and a cumulative Atkinson grade point average of 3.00 or higher.
Course registration: The Assistant Director of Career Management approves registration for GSM 7252. To prepare for registration, the student’s internship proposal must be submitted via the online portal. To receive credit, an internship must demonstrate the application of MBA-level skills and knowledge. Students must be individually responsible for work products (i.e. completing projects instead of watching others do so). Approval to register conveys that the student’s internship is credit eligible. Actual credit is awarded based on fulfillment of all course requirements and receipt of a grade of P for the course.
Important note for international students: U.S law applies to students on an F1 or J1 visa. Please see the GSM-7252 course syllabus for a summary of considerations and contact the Office of International Education staff, for complete details.GSM 7253: Internships for Management III (2 credits): Internship III is for students participating in their third semester of internship with an employer. Internship III is limited to students who successfully completed the requirements of Internship I and Internship II. In general, students in Internship III will be continuing a significant project or assignment from Internship II, adding a new project or additional responsibilities to their Internship II experience, or working with a new supervisor or department.
Internship III requires students to complete a work experience of at least 115 hours over an 8-week minimum period. Internship III students will interact closely with their Faculty Internship Advisor (FIA). Coursework is designed to help students focus critical thinking and reflection on their personal professional development as it relates to their internship experience. All AGSM Internship for Management courses are graded as "Pass/No Pass" only.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of GSM 7252 with the same employer is a requirement for registration in this course. Registration for GSM 7253 requires official approval from the Director of Career Management, a passing grade of GSM-7252, AGSM good standing, and a cumulative Atkinson grade point average of 3.00 or higher.
Course registration: The Assistant Director of Career Management approves registration for GSM 7253. To prepare for registration, the student’s internship proposal must be submitted via the online portal. To receive credit, an internship must demonstrate the application of MBA-level skills and knowledge. Students must be individually responsible for work products (i.e. completing projects instead of watching others do so). Approval to register conveys that the student’s internship is credit eligible. Actual credit is awarded based on fulfillment of all course requirements and receipt of a grade of P for the course.
Important note for international students: U.S law applies to students on an F1 or J1 visa. Please see the GSM-7253 course syllabus for a summary of considerations and contact the Office of International Education staff, for complete details.
Academic Regulations Related to Internship for Management Courses. Students should be aware of all the following regulations regarding the "Internships for Management" courses:
BA/MBA students are required to satisfactorily complete "GSM 7251 - Internships for Management I" for three credits.
Internships for Management courses are graded as "Pass/No Pass" only. The maximum number of P/F and/or P/N credits that can be applied toward graduation requirements of the MBA degree is limited.
A maximum of seven (7) credits from Internships for Management courses can be applied toward the graduation requirements of the MBA degree.
A student may enroll in and complete only one internship course per semester (7251 or 7252 or 7253). Exceptions to this policy require a formal appeal to the Director of Career Management.
Students on academic notice are not eligible for Internships for Management courses. Students may appeal eligibility through submitting a formal written appeal to the Dean for a decision.
Independent Study and Research Courses - GSM 7261 AND GSM 7262: The elective curriculum includes opportunities for students to do individualized in-depth study with a professor about a management topic of interest. These courses include:
Independent Study - GSM 7261 (1 to 4 credits)
Research - GSM 7262 (1 to 3 credits)
Enrolling in an Independent Study or Research course requires permission from the supervising professor. The supervising professor must be a member of the Atkinson School full-time faculty who is either tenured or on a tenure track.
Students seeking to register for an Independent Study or Research course must obtain a registration form from the Atkinson Recorder/Records Analyst, discuss the project with the full- time tenured or tenure track faculty member who will supervise the project, complete the form, obtain the signature of the faculty supervisor on the registration form, and return the form to the Atkinson Recorder/Records Analyst.
Academic Regulations Related to Independent Study and Research Courses: Students should be aware of all the following regulations regarding Research and Independent Study courses.
Students participating in an Independent Study or Research course must have completed at least 24 credits of core/required first-year courses, must be in good standing, must have a cumulative Atkinson grade point average of 3.00 or higher, and must have the consent of the supervising professor.
Independent Study and Research courses are graded on a P/F basis. The maximum number of P/F and/or P/NP credits that can be applied toward graduation requirements of the MBA degree is limited. See Pass/Fail Credits note at the bottom of this section.
A maximum of six credits from the combination of Independent Study and Research courses can be applied toward the graduation requirements of the MBA degree.
The supervising professor for an Independent Study or Research course must be a member of the Atkinson School full-time faculty who is either tenured or in a tenure track position
Global Study and International Experience - Independent Study - GSM 6099G: The Global Study course involves global study and group site visits in a specific country. GSM 6099G courses will include required pre-trip class meetings and meetings during or after the trip, and visits to numerous companies and other organizations in the country of travel. Students will study fundamentals of international business, the environments and challenges of emerging markets, strategies and operations for succeeding in emerging markets, and specific aspects of business in the country to be visited. Participants in the course will pay charges as specified for the international trip (includes airfare, etc.). GSM 7261G is available as a one (1) credit course or a four (4) credit. Tuition is not charged for the one-credit course. Tuition is charged for the four (4) credit course.
International MBA Exchange Programs - GSM 7240,7241,7242,7243,7244: The Willamette Early Career/Career Change MBA program has graduate study exchange agreements with Copenhagen Business School in Denmark; KEDGE Business School in Bordeaux, France (previously named Bordeaux School of Management); Strasbourg School of Business in France; and Peking HSBC School of Business in Shenzhen, China. Students enrolled in the MBA, BA/MBA, Accelerated and MBA/JD program are eligible to participate. Depending on the exchange program chosen, Willamette MBA students who are selected to participate in an exchange program will study abroad during either:
the summer semester between the first and second year of study, or
the fall semester of the second year of study.
Questions about our exchange programs should be directed to the relevant Atkinson administrator.
Academic Regulations Related to International MBA Exchange Program Courses: Students should be aware of all the following regulations regarding International MBA Exchange courses.
Atkinson exchange students will be enrolled at Willamette University while on exchange. Exchange students will register for the GSM MBA International Exchange course appropriate for their exchange program (GSM 7240, 7241, 7242, 7243 or 7244).
Atkinson School International MBA Exchange courses are graded Pass/No-Pass. Passing grades received from the exchange university will be recorded as "Pass" by the Atkinson School. Non-passing grades received from the exchange university will be recorded as a "No Pass." The Atkinson School transcript will list the name of the exchange institution, courses completed, and the P/N grade assigned.
Students participating in a fall semester exchange program at Copenhagen Business School, Strasbourg Business School or Peking HSBC University must successfully complete and pass a minimum of 30 ECTS credits or 15 semester credits at the exchange institution to complete the 15 credit GSM MBA International Exchange course. Students must complete at least one MBA level course in Ethics, Social Responsibility or Sustainability during their semester of study at their exchange school.
Students participating in a fall semester exchange program at KEDGE Business School must successfully complete and pass a minimum of 30 ECTS credits at the exchange institution to complete the 15 credit MBA International Exchange course for fall semester. Students must complete at least one MBA level course in Ethics, Social Responsibility or Sustainability as part of their 30 ECTS credits while at KEDGE.
The required course "GSM 6121 - Politics and Public Policy for Managers" will be waived for students who successfully complete an AGSM Fall Semester Exchange program.
Students participating in a summer semester exchange program must successfully complete and pass a minimum of 12 ECTS credits at the exchange institution to complete the 6 credits International Exchange course for summer semester.
At the completion of the exchange semester, exchange students must order an official copy of their transcript from the exchange school to be sent to the Associate Dean at the Atkinson School.
Pass/Fail and Pass/No-Pass Courses and Credits: The maximum number of Pass/Fail and/or Pass/No-Pass credits that can be applied toward graduation requirements varies with the program option. Academic Regulations Related to Pass/Fail and Pass/No-Pass Credits for MBA and BA/MBA Students are:
A maximum of twenty-one (21) credits from a combination of Pass/Fail and/or Pass/No- Pass course work, waived credits or transfer credits may be applied toward graduation requirements. Credits may be applied from a combination of courses/credits within the limits listed below and may not exceed a total of twenty-one (21) credits.
A maximum of fifteen (15) credits may be applied from International Exchange courses.
A maximum of seven (7) credits may be applied from Internships for Management.
A maximum of six (6) credits can be applied from a combination of Research, Independent Study courses.
A maximum of six (6) credits may be applied from the GSM course Foreign Language Study.
A maximum of six (6) credits may be applied from a combination of approved transfer course work and Atkinson School waived credits.
XI. Commencement Ceremony Policies and Procedures
Application for Graduation
Candidates for graduation must submit an "application for graduation" no later than the beginning of their final semester in the program.
It is the student's responsibility to be certain they have completed all graduation requirements and they are in good standing within the policies of the Atkinson School and Willamette University. Graduation requirements are listed in the Academic Regulations section of this handbook. Each student has online access to their official graduation audit and is expected to communicate in a timely manner with the Atkinson School Recorder/Records Analyst, about any questions pertaining to their graduation audit.
Degree Awarded
The Willamette University Master of Business Administration for Business, Government and Not-for-Profit Management (MBA) degree will be conferred on MBA, BA/MBA, MBA/JD, and MBA/MSDS students who have satisfactorily completed all requirements of their Early Career/Career Change MBA program, and all requirements of any concurrent degree (BA/MBA , MBA/JD, MBA/MSDS) as determined by the registrar's office.
The Willamette University Master of Business Administration (MBA) will be conferred on One Year MBA and MBAP students who have satisfactorily completed all requirements of their designated degree program, and all requirements of any concurrent degree as determined by the registrar’s office.
Participation in the Commencement Ceremony - Graduating Students
Students who meet all of the following requirements may fully participate in The Atkinson School Commencement Ceremony:
Are in good standing within the policies of the Atkinson School and Willamette University;
Have satisfactorily completed all the requirements of the MBA degree program in which they enrolled (and all requirements of any concurrent degree) as determined by the registrar, and
Have no outstanding grades of "Incomplete."
Full participation means the student:
Will have their name called and may walk across the stage;
Will receive their diploma cover and diploma at the Commencement Ceremony;
Will be considered and selected for academic honors; and
Will be listed in the official Willamette University Commencement publication distributed at the Willamette University Commencement Ceremonies in May.
Participation in the Commencement Ceremony: Walking Students
MBA students who have not completed all the requirements for the MBA degree, but are in good standing within the policies of the Atkinson School and Willamette University and for whom one of the following circumstances has been verified and approved by the Dean, may "walk" with their class at the Commencement Ceremony.
The student is within two courses of completing the total course work required for graduation and will complete the remaining two courses during the summer or fall semester following the Commencement Ceremony.
The student's cumulative grade point average is below the 3.0 minimum required for graduation as a result of a grade received in the final semester
The student received a failing grade in a required course taken during the final semester.
Students eligible to "walk" with their class who participate in the Commencement Ceremony:
Will have their name called and may walk across the stage.
Will not receive their diploma at the Commencement Ceremony.
Will temporarily receive a diploma cover when they walk across the stage. The diploma cover must be returned to Atkinson School personnel at the end of the Commencement Ceremony. Students will receive their diploma and diploma cover in the mail, at a later date, after they officially graduate.
Will not have an opportunity to be selected for academic honors for the ceremony in which they walk. Will have the opportunity for consideration for academic honors as a member of their actual graduating class.
Will be listed in the official Willamette University Commencement publication distributed at the Willamette University Commencement Ceremonies in May with the notation "on completion."
Students who have questions about participating in the Commencement Ceremony should contact the Atkinson School Recorder/Records Analyst.
Academic Honors at Graduation
Only students who are "graduating students" may be considered for academic honors at graduation. Awards include:
Graduating Student with the Highest GPA: The graduating student with the highest Atkinson School cumulative grade point average will receive a Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Stole to be worn during the Commencement Ceremony.
Atkinson Honors: Atkinson Honors is bestowed upon graduating students who have achieved a cumulative grade point average of 3.8 or higher in all Atkinson course work. Students who receive Atkinson Honors will receive white honor cords to be worn during the Commencement Ceremony and "Honors" will be noted on their diploma.
Beta Gamma Sigma: Beta Gamma Sigma is an international honor society that recognizes outstanding academic achievement of students enrolled in business and management programs. Willamette's chapter of Beta Gamma Sigma is limited to full-time MBA students whose Atkinson cumulative grade point average ranks in the top 20% of the graduating class. The grade point average utilized for eligibility for membership is the cumulative grade point average at the end of the third semester (fall semester-2nd year) of coursework at the Atkinson School for Early
Career/Career Change and BA/MBA students. The grade point for JD/MBA students is the cumulative grade point average at the end of fall semester of the 4th year of JD/MBA study). Members of Beta Gamma Sigma will receive blue & gold honor cords to be worn during the Commencement Ceremony.
Pi Alpha Alpha (awarded to EC/CC students only):A national honorary society that recognizes and promotes excellence in the study and practice of public affairs and administration. Willamette's chapter of Pi Alpha Alpha is limited to full-time MBA students with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.7 who rank in the top 20% of the graduating class. The cumulative grade point average utilized for eligibility for membership is the cumulative grade point average at the end of the third semester (fall semester-2nd year) of coursework at the Atkinson School for Early Career, Career Change and BA/MBA students. The grade point for JD/MBA students is the cumulative grade point average at the end of fall semester of the 4th year of JD/MBA study). Members of Pi Alpha Alpha will receive light blue & gold honor cords to be worn during the Commencement Ceremony.
Dean’s Awards (awarded to EC/CC students): Dean’s Awards are given in honor of two students who have contributed greatly to the development of the Atkinson community. The award is symbolic of their efforts to foster citizenship and fellowship among the members of the Atkinson community. These are based on consistent efforts to enrich the Atkinson student experience.
XII. University Financial Policies and Procedures
Tuition - MBA, BA/MBA, One Year MBA, JD/MBA, MBA/MSDS
Atkinson School tuition and fees for the full-time Early Career and Career Change MBA program for the current academic year are detailed on the Graduate Tuition page of the Catalog.
Variations to Standard Tuition Amounts
BA/MBA students pay the tuition rate of the College of Arts and Sciences during their first year (senior year) of the MBA program.
All students enrolled in more than 19 credits of course work for fall or spring semester are charged an additional per credit tuition rate for every credit greater than 19. Per credit costs are detailed on the Graduate Tuition page.
Summer school tuition is charged on a per credit basis. Per credit costs are detailed on the Graduate Tuition page.
Students enrolled for less than 9 credits in a semester pay tuition on a per credit basis.
No tuition is charged for the course "GSM 7251 - Internships for Management I" (3 credits) when taken during the summer semester by a student who is completing their first AGSM three credit internship experience. The maximum number of free credits from summer internship experiences through the course GSM 7251 is three.
No tuition is charged for the one credit course ""GSM-6099-G1 - Global Study and International Experience." The course includes other expenses paid by the student (such as travel, airfare etc.), but tuition is not charged for the course.
MBA/JD students pay the Atkinson School tuition rate for their one year of full-time enrollment in the MBA program. MBA/JD students pay the tuition rate of the College of Law for the other three years of the four-year program.
MBA/MSDS students pay the Atkinson School tuition rate for their first-year and second- year of full-time study in the MBA program. They pay MSDS tuition rate for their final summer semester of the MBA/MSDS program.
Exchange students from Copenhagen Business School, Strasbourg Business School, Peking University or KEDGE School of Management pay tuition to their home school and not to Willamette University.
Willamette MBA alumni may take selected Atkinson School MBA elective courses through the Willamette MBA for Life program.
Tuition – MBAP for Professionals
Atkinson School tuition and fees the MBA for Professionals program for the current academic year are detailed on the Graduate Tuition page..
MBA for Professionals students pay a set tuition rate determined by their semester of entry. Tuition covers the cost of all course offerings and required books. Personal supplies are not included. Laptop computer and software purchases are the responsibility of the student.
The tuition rate of the semester of entry remains consistent for MBA Professionals students throughout the six (6) consecutive semesters of the program. MBA for Professionals students, who remain enrolled in the program after the six consecutive semesters of enrollment, will pay the tuition rate of the current academic year. Once a student’s tuition increases, it will remain consistent for an additional six (6) consecutive semesters.
Tuition rates change each year and are based on the guidelines of the Willamette University Board of Trustees.
Willamette MBA alumni may take select Atkinson School MBA elective courses through the Willamette MBA for Life Program.
Health Insurance Requirements for All WU MBA Programs
Because good health and access to health care are essential to student learning and academic success, Willamette University requires all domestic students enrolled half time or more to have health insurance coverage. All international students must also carry health insurance to study at Willamette University. Please refer to the Student Insurance Requirements section of the Student Insurance webpage for additional information regarding credit requirements and excluded programs.
Billing Process for Tuition and Fees
While attending Willamette University, you will be billed each semester for tuition, fees and other incurred charges. You will receive your billing electronically through Willamette University’s electronic billing and payment system. When the billing is posted, you will receive an e-mail notification at your university e-mail address. If you have any questions please call the Office of Student Accounts (studentaccounts@willamette.edu) or visit them online.
Willamette University Withdrawal Refund Policy
Information about Willamette University Refund Policy refund policies for students who have withdrawn from school are posted in compliance with the Higher Education Amendments of 1998 (Section 668.22). For more information visit the Student Accounts Refund Policy page of the web site.
Section XIII: Scholarship Awards, Renewals and Policies
Scholarship Policies
Students should contact Leah Straley, Dean of Graduate Admission, with any questions they have about scholarships or scholarship awards.
MBA Students (Early Career/Career Change): Atkinson School scholarships are awarded to qualified MBA students during the initial admission and enrollment process on the basis of merit. Fifty percent (50%) of the scholarship award for the academic year is dispersed for fall semester and 50% is dispersed for spring semester. Scholarship awards are not available for summer semester.
MBA for Professionals: Atkinson School scholarships are awarded to qualified MBAP students during the initial admission and enrollment process on the basis of merit. One-third of the scholarship award is dispersed for fall semester, one-third spring semester and one-third for summer semester.
BA/MBA: Students enrolled in the BA/MBA program receive scholarship assistance from the College of Arts and Sciences for their first year of MBA study, and from the Atkinson School for their second year of study. Fifty percent (50%) of the scholarship award for the academic year is dispersed for fall semester and 50% is dispersed for spring semester. Scholarship awards are not available for summer semester. If a BA/MBA student completes their bachelor’s degree after the first semester of MBA study (first year, fall semester) and becomes ineligible for scholarship assistance from the College of Arts and Sciences for their second semester (first year, spring semester), and if the student is eligible for Atkinson School scholarship assistance, then the student will receive Atkinson School scholarship assistance in their first year, spring semester.
One Year MBA Students: Atkinson School scholarships are awarded to students in the One Year MBA program during the initial admission and enrollment process on the basis of merit. Students receive one-third of their scholarship for each of the three semesters of the One Year MBA program (fall/spring/summer or summer/fall/spring).
JD/MBA Students: Atkinson School scholarships are awarded to JD/MBA students during the initial admission and enrollment process on the basis of merit and are in effect for the year of full-time enrollment in the MBA program. Fifty percent (50%) of the scholarship award for the academic year is dispersed for fall semester and 50% is dispersed for spring semester. Scholarship awards are not available for summer semester. Scholarships assistance for the three (3) years of full-time enrollment in the College of Law will be determined and awarded based on the policies of the College of Law.
MBA/MSD Students: Atkinson School scholarships are awarded to MBA/MSDS students during the initial admission and enrollment process on the basis of merit. Fifty percent (50%) of the scholarship award for the academic year is dispersed for fall semester and 50% is dispersed for spring semester for the first two years of full-time study (fall/spring and fall/spring). Scholarship assistance for the final summer semester (summer of the 2nd year) will be determined and awarded based on the policies of MSDS program.
Renewal of Scholarships
Scholarships awarded by the Atkinson School are automatically reviewed for renewal following the first year of study. Atkinson scholarships are generally renewable for MBA, MBAP and MBA/MSDS students returning for a second year of full-time enrollment at the Atkinson School if:
The student is in good standing within the academic policies and expectations of conduct of the Atkinson School and Willamette University, and
The student maintains full-time enrollment status in the Atkinson School, completing a minimum of nine (9) Atkinson School approved credits per semester for MBA and MBA/MSDS students, or a minimum of eight (8) Atkinson School approved credits per semester for MBAP students.
Students who do not meet the requirements for renewal of their scholarship may appeal the renewal of their scholarship to Leah Straley, Dean of Graduate Admission, who will confer with the Dean in making all appeal decisions.
Renewal for a second year of study does not apply to students enrolled in the JD/MBA or One Year MBA program, or to BA/MBA students who receive no Atkinson scholarship assistance in their first year of MBA study.
JD/MBA students are awarded scholarship assistance from the Atkinson School only in the one year in which they are enrolled full-time in the MBA program.
One Year MBA students are awarded scholarship assistance from the Atkinson School only during the one year (three semester) length of the program.
BA/MBA students receive Atkinson School scholarships only in their second year of full- time study in the MBA program. (first year scholarships for BA/MBA students are awarded by CAS). A BA/MBA student who completes their bachelor’s degree fall semester of the first-year of MBA study and receives Atkinson School scholarship assistance in the second semester of the first-year of MBA study, is eligible for renewal of Atkinson School scholarship assistance if qualified in accordance with AGSM scholarship renewal policies.
Scholarship Award Maximums
The annual dollar amount of scholarship assistance a qualified MBA student may receive from the Atkinson School cannot exceed the general Atkinson School tuition amount announced for the given academic year. In addition, the dollar amount of scholarship assistance for a given semester may not exceed the tuition charged to the individual student recipient for that semester. The maximum number of semesters for which a student may receive scholarship assistance from the Atkinson School are as follows:
MBA students who qualify for an Atkinson School scholarship may receive Atkinson scholarship assistance for a maximum of four (4) semesters. (first year fall/spring and second year fall/spring)
BA/MBA students who qualify for an Atkinson School Scholarship may receive Atkinson scholarship assistance for a maximum of two (2) regular semesters. (second year fall/spring) if they received two (2) regular semesters of scholarship assistance from the College of Arts and Sciences in their first year of MBA study. The maximum is three
(3) regular semesters of assistance (first year spring, second year fall/spring) for students who receive only one semester of scholarship assistance from the College of Arts and Sciences (first year, fall semester).
One Year MBA students who qualify for an Atkinson School scholarship may receive Atkinson scholarship assistance for a maximum of three 3 semesters. (summer/fall/spring or fall/spring/summer)
JD/MBA students who qualify for an Atkinson School scholarship may receive scholarship assistance for a maximum of two (2) semesters during the year of full-time enrollment in the Atkinson School (fall/spring). MBA/JD students may receive named scholarship awards for a year of concurrent MBA and JD enrollment if selected.
MBA/MSDS students who qualify for an Atkinson School scholarship may receive scholarship assistance for a maximum of four (4) semesters (first year fall/spring and second year fall/spring).
MBAP students who qualify for an Atkinson School scholarship may receive scholarship assistance for a maximum of 6 MBAP semesters. (first year fall/spring/summer, second year fall/spring/summer)
Cancellation of Scholarships
Scholarship recipients may lose their scholarship as a consequence of being found responsible for violating the Atkinson School Honor Code and for issues related to academic notice.
XIV: Willamette University Policies
As a citizen of the Willamette University community, it is necessary that you understand your responsibilities to the whole and your rights as an individual. Willamette University policies govern all graduate and undergraduate students of Willamette University except where specifically noted within the description of a specific policy or procedure. University-wide policies and procedures are available on the University Policies page.