Academic Policies
The MSDS program follows the academic policies set by the University’s standard. Additional provisions relevant to our program’s structure and expectations are listed here.
1 Registration and Course Enrollment
Students are required to register for courses through the university’s my.UChicago portal each quarter. Note that failure to register for any courses before the first day of class will result in a late registration fee. Changes to registration must be made during the official add/drop period. Some general notes regarding class registrations and add/drops:
- Pass/Fail Classes not earning letter grades do not fulfill the MSDS course requirements.
- Withdrawal/Refund Students must request a withdrawal at least one day before the final exam has been given or before the final project due date. See the PSD’s withdrawal policy for details.
- After the third week, a ‘W’ grade will remain on the transcript, tuition is not refunded, and there will be a late change registration fee.
- International students must maintain full-time enrollment (300 units) each quarter. International student questions about course withdrawals can be directed to the Dean of Students Office.
- After the third week, a ‘W’ grade will remain on the transcript, tuition is not refunded, and there will be a late change registration fee.
- Add/drop After the first full-week of class, all add/drops typically require the instructor and our administrative approval. This cannot be done via my.UChicago portal.
- After the third full week of class, there will be a late change registration fee.
2 Residency Requirements
Students are expected to follow the Division’s residency requirements for graduate students.
3 Divisional Policies
The Physical Sciences Division’s student policies are applicable to all students in the Data Science MSDS program. Students with questions about PSD policies can reach out to their Student Affairs Administrator or the Dean of Students Office.
4 Time to Complete the MSDS Program
Students can take from one to two (consecutive) years to complete all program requirements. When all course requirements have been fulfilled, students may elect to continue part-time to complete their research requirements. International students should consult with OIA regarding the up-to-date visa restrictions.
5 Academic Honesty Code
All students are expected to uphold the highest standards of academic honesty. Plagiarism, cheating, and other forms of academic dishonesty are strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.
Refer to the University’s Academic Integrity Policy for detailed guidance.
6 GPA, Academic Progression and Probation
Students should maintain their (cumulative) GPA at or above 3.0, and make satisfactory academic progression. The following conditions may cause the student to be placed on Academic Probation:
- Cumulative University GPA, all courses, below 3.0
- Cumulative GPA below 3.3 across MSDS core and elective courses (also requirement for graduation)
- Receives one or more letter grades below ‘C-’ in a quarter
- Receives two or more Withdrawals ‘W’, Incompletes ‘I’, or blank grades in a single quarter
- Violate the academic honesty code
Students on probation cannot take more than 300 units of credits in the quarter. A second time the student is placed under probation will result in dismissal from the program.
7 Student Concerns, Grievances, and Appeals
Students are encouraged to address concerns, grievances, or appeals at the lowest appropriate level whenever possible. The official guidance for handling these matters is provided in the Division’s grievance policy. Issues related to coursework, research, academic policies, or other aspects of the program should generally follow the escalation path below:
- Instructor for matters related to a course, including assignments, grading, and classroom concerns.
- MSDS Director
- PSD Dean of Students
Most concerns can be resolved through direct communication. Students should proceed to the next level only if the issue remains unresolved or if circumstances warrant a higher level of review.
8 Leave of Absence and Withdrawal Policies
Students seeking a leave of absence or withdrawal must submit a formal request and consult with the program director. Leaves are granted for medical, personal, or professional reasons.
9 Disciplinary Procedures
Violations of academic or behavioral policies are subject to the university’s disciplinary procedures. These may include warnings, probation, suspension, or dismissal depending on the severity of the infraction.