Higher Education Vocabulary

Determined by the Grade Point Average earned each semester. Students who do not meet the minimum GPA requires will see a decline in this

Official recognition that a college or university meets the standards of a regional or national association.

Examinations offered by the College Board to high school students who have completed the designated curricula in order to demonstrate college-level knowledge in subject areas. Students must receive a minimum score, determined by the institution of their choice, in order to receive college-level credit

plan between higher education institutions, especially community colleges, that outlines which credits are transferable and how credits will transfer

To take a class to gain knowledge about a subject, but without receiving credit toward a degree.

The policy making and governing body of a college.

The person or office who manages the finances at a college. Students pay the bursar for room, board, tuition and fees.

refers to an undergraduate student’s rank based on the number of earned credit hours. One example: freshman (0 – 29.99 credits).

Allow students to demonstrate competencies in required coursework instead of taking classes. Students receive a grade of “S” for the equivalent course which they are no longer required to enroll in.

an area of emphasis within a major; does not appear on diplomas, but are printed on the academic transcripts.