Sewanee: The University of the South

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Sewanee: The University of the South

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Academic Matters

Who oversees the academic programs of the college?

  • John J. Gatta Jr., Dean of the College
  • Larry H. Jones, Associate Dean of the College
  • Richard Summers, Associate Dean (for curriculum and faculty)

The Dean of the College has administrative responsibility for the curriculum, the faculty, and many of the services and programs for students and is the one to whom any problems with the system should be referred. The Associate Dean of the College has charge of administering the academic requirements of the faculty. Accordingly, students should consult with that Associate Dean about the following matters:

  • Graduation requirements and academic standing
  • Problem with schedule changes
  • Course overloads
  • Transfer credits
  • Grade appeals
  • Examination schedule changes
  • Summer study
  • Leaves of absence
  • Eligibility for foreign study
  • Study abroad advising
  • Exchange programs
  • Senior fellowship and scholarship programs
  • Withdrawal from the college

What is the educational environment like at Sewanee?

Sewanee is a teaching institution in which much of the intellectual excitement associated with learning is centered in the classroom. Classes are usually small, making dialogue possible between teacher and student. Faculty members are genuinely interested in communicating their knowledge and insights. They want students to share their enthusiasm for their subject. Professors at Sewanee expect a great deal from their students in the way of consistent preparation for class and regular attendance in class. In turn, they offer the challenge and stimulation of an active exchange of ideas.

The college is also a place in which professors and students are engaged in advanced study and research. Students experience the intellectual stimulation of such activities, especially in seminars, tutorials, and supervised independent study. Through these means and others, every student can know the joy of discovery and the satisfaction of developing a convincing interpretation of an important topic.

Sewanee is also characterized by a remarkable richness of cultural and intellectual opportunities outside the classroom. Lectures by scholars and public leaders, plays, films, recitals and concerts, poetry readings, exhibitions, and discussions are frequent. Colloquia and symposia bring distinguished visitors here from this country and abroad. Sewanee students enjoy attending such events. The breadth of a student’s education often reflects the degree of his or her participation in the cultural opportunities available.

Professors at Sewanee are accessible to students during office hours and often on other occasions. They generally welcome opportunities to get to know students on an informal basis. This has long been one of the distinguishing marks of Sewanee and helps to make the entire experience of living and studying here intellectually rewarding. Students can help to preserve the vitality of this educational environment by taking seriously their role as learners and by seeking opportunities to develop their intellectual and spiritual gifts wherever possible.

How can I know how my son and daughter is doing academically?

In most cases, talking with your son or daughter and asking directly tells you what you want and need to know, and this communication can often provide encouragement and reassurance that you care.

Mid-semester and final grades are available on-line to students. Students may have a copy of their grades mailed to a parent by completing the “Student Authorization to mail Grades” form available from the Registrar. Parents should keep in mind that FERPA regulations may limit what a faculty member may be able to tell a parent about a student's academic performance.

What if my son or daughter needs to leave Sewanee for a while?

The college has a very generous “leave of absence” policy for students who, for any of a variety of reasons, need to be away from the college for a semester or two. Information about leaves is in the College Catalog and on the web at www2.sewanee.edu/academic_life/withdrawals_and_readmission.

“Leave of absence” is available only for students who complete a term but are not enrolled for the next term. If a student must leave while a semester is in session, they “withdraw” from the college. Both “leave of absence” and “withdrawal” are handled by the Dean of Students, who is also charged with reinstatement processes. The withdrawal categories and associated policies are explained in the College Catalog. Questions should be directed to the Associate Dean of the College.

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Sewanee: The University of the South735 University Ave, Sewanee, TN 37383931.598.100035.204826-85.921674