PRINT DISCLAIMER: Official version of this document is accessible in the online policy library at https://policyoffice.ku.edu/. Printed copies may not reflect the most recent updates.
DOCUMENT TYPE:
Policy
PURPOSE:
To provide students and faculty the procedure and timeline for grade appeals.
APPLIES TO:
All Design students.
CAMPUS:
Lawrence
POLICY STATEMENT:
The Department of Design follows the University Senate Rules and Regulations (U.S.R.R. 2.3.5), which limit appeals to the improper application of the grading procedure announced for the course by the instructor. A grade may not be appealed simply because the student disagrees with the evaluation.
Timeline for Appeal and Materials
A student must submit an appeal within 30 calendar days of the posting of the final grade. It is the student’s responsibility to provide:
a) A brief statement explaining the request for a grade review.
b) All pertinent course materials – syllabus, handouts, project assignments/project briefs, and all work produced during the semester.
c) Materials submitted in blind form (name and identifiers removed).
d) Optional supporting documentation of extenuating circumstances —such as serious illness, injury, family emergency, or other personal or mental health issues—if the student believes these were a factor in the grade.
Departmental Review Process
1. The student should first meet with the Instructor of Record.
2. If unsatisfied, the student may appeal to the Chair of Design, who will appoint a Faculty Review Committee from the program area (excluding the Instructor of Record).
3. The Committee will conduct a blind review of all course materials and any documented extenuating circumstances and submit its evaluation to the Chair.
4. The Chair will discuss the evaluation with the Instructor of Record.
5. If the instructor does not believe an error occurred, the student may appeal to the Dean of the School of Architecture & Design for further review.
6. If still dissatisfied, the student may consult the University Ombuds Office and, if necessary, submit a formal grade appeal to the University Judicial Board (U.S.R.R. 6.7.3).
CONTACT:
Chairperson
School of Architecture & Design
Marvin Hall
1465 Jayhawk Blvd.
Lawrence, KS 66045
arcd@ku.edu
785-864-4281
RESPONSIBLE UNIT:
School of Architecture & Design
APPROVED BY:
Chairperson, Department of Design
APPROVAL DATE:
2025-09-25
EFFECTIVE DATE:
2025-09-25
REVIEW CYCLE:
1 year
CHANGE HISTORY:
10/10/2025: New policy added to the Policy Library.
TITLE:
School of Architecture and Design Studio Grade Appeal, Department of Design