Undergraduate Academic Recovery Program
Sacred Heart advisors work individually with students who are not making satisfactory academic progress, creating a holistic, customized plan for a successful return to good standing.
Students on academic probation or suspension and others who are not making satisfactory academic progress are encouraged to access SHU’s Academic Recovery Program. Each student is paired with a University advisor to form a customized student success plan that includes frequent academic check-ins, peer support and referrals to the many resources the University provides to ensure students reach their goals.
Academic Standing
Satisfactory academic standing at SHU is determined by two criteria outlined in the Student Handbook: good academic standing and normal progress. Students are expected to maintain a satisfactory grade point average (GPA) and complete a minimum number of credits by the end of each academic year.
Students’ records are reviewed for academic probation at the end of the fall and spring terms. To fulfill the satisfactory completion provision of this requirement, a student must achieve the following cumulative minimum GPA:
- Under 31 completed credits: 1.800
- 31-60 completed credits: 1.900
- 61 or more completed credits: 2.000
- Graduation: 2.000
Any student falling below the relevant minimums will automatically be placed on academic probation.
Failure to stay in satisfactory academic standing can affect a student’s eligibility for financial aid and membership and participation in University clubs, organizations and events. Students can find more information about academic standing, warning notification and the appeals process in the Student Handbook.
A Three-Step Plan for Academic Recovery
The Academic Recovery Program is a proactive way to address unsatisfactory academic progress, regain good standing and opportunities on and off campus and graduate in good standing.
Students reflect on their experience during the semester and share with their advisor relevant information to create a holistic plan offering proper supports and assistance based on the student’s individual needs.
After the student completes the self-assessment, their recovery plan advisor facilitates development of an improvement plan. The student and advisor will review resources available at SHU and set goals based on the student’s academic standing, progress toward a degree, GPA and requirements needed for success in the student’s chosen program.
Students will also be matched with a peer mentor and participate in workshops and attend follow-up meetings to stay on track.
At the end of the semester, the student and advisor review final grades and the new GPA and evaluate the student’s performance and success. They will determine if the student has reached good academic standing and whether another plan is needed going forward. If the student has not reached good academic standing, the pair will consider next steps.