• Architecture
• Business
• Education
• Engineering
• Honors
• Hotel & Restaurant
  Management
• Law
• Liberal Arts
  & Social Sciences
• Natural Sciences
  & Mathematics
• Optometry
• Pharmacy
• Social Work
• Technology
   
• Undergraduate Scholars at UH
  • Academic
    Advising Center
  • College Success Program

Fall 2007 - Summer 2008

General Catalog Information:
 
ADMISSION, ADVISING, ORIENTATION,
and REGISTRATION

Contents

- return to top -

To be reviewed for admission to the University of Houston, applicants must submit an application, application fee, official transcripts, and national test scores. Students must be admitted by the Office of Admissions before they can register for courses at the university.

Freshman applicants are considered for admission to an undergraduate major on the basis of graduation from an accredited high school or recognition from the appropriate governing board. Specific requirements are presented in the following text. Transfer applicants are considered for admission on the basis of their attempted course work at other regionally accredited colleges and universities.

Undergraduate applicants who are United States citizens, who are legal permanent/temporary residents or who have initiated the U.S. resident process through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services within the Department of Homeland Security may apply for admission online using the Texas Common Application, www.applytexas.org. To obtain a downloadable copy of the application, log on to
www.collegefortexans.com/applying.

International applicants may also apply online using the Texas Common Application at www.applytexas.org. For additional application instructions, including deadlines, international applicants should consult www.uh.edu/enroll/admis/OIA/pdffiles.htm.

- return to top -

Undergraduate Application Deadlines

The university strongly urges students to apply early since this enhances the likelihood that an applicant will have access to admission-related services in a timely manner.

- return to top -

Deadline Dates

Below are the deadline dates for receipt of applications and the final due date for receipt of all required transcripts/scores in order to be reviewed for admission:

International student applicants should check the deadlines at www.uh.edu/enroll/admis/OIA/.

- return to top -

Deadlines for Other University Services/Programs

Prospective students should check deadlines with offices that provide other university services. This includes financial aid, scholarships, housing, advising, orientation, registration, and fee payment.

- return to top -

Admission Applications

Applicants seeking admission to all undergraduate programs are encouraged to apply online using the Texas Common Application at www. applytexas.org.

To obtain a downloadable copy of the application, go to www.collegefortexans.com/applying.

Copies of the undergraduate application are also available at local Texas high schools or in the Office of Admissions, room 100 Welcome Center.

Mail official documents and test scores to:

University of Houston
Office of Admissions
Room 122 E. Cullen Building
Houston, Texas 77204-2023

Admission application forms for the:

• Law Center
• College of Optometry
• College of Pharmacy
• Graduate College of Social Work

may be found on the respective college's Web site or obtained by writing to the dean of the respective college or school.

Application forms for admission to graduate programs in the colleges of:

• Architecture
• Bauer College of Business
• Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management
• Cullen College of Engineering
• Education
• Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
• Natural Sciences and Mathematics
• Technology

may be found at www.uh.edu/admissions.

The completed application, application fee, and supporting documents constitute the basis upon which eligibility for admission is determined. All questions on the application must be completed fully. Admission is invalid if granted on the basis of incorrect information or omitted facts.

Undergraduate students who do not enroll for the semester for which they are approved must re-apply by submitting a Change of Initial Admission Semester Form (www.uh.edu/enroll/admis/undergraduate/Ugrad_Applications.htm), credentials, and application fee to the Office of Admissions by the established deadlines before attempting to enroll for another semester.

Students will be considered for admission based on the admission requirements in effect for the semester in which they first enroll.

- return to top -

Admission Steps

Prospective undergraduate/postbaccalaureate students may apply to the University of Houston online at www.applytexas.org. The Web site contains detailed information on the application process.

- return to top -

General Admission Statement

General/Additional Admission Requirements

For admission to most programs offered by the university, it is necessary to meet the general admission requirements. There are several programs or majors that have additional requirements for admission. If an applicant to one of those programs with different requirements does not meet the stated standards, but does meet the general admission requirements, then that applicant may be admitted to the university as an undeclared major into Undergraduate Scholars at UH.

For more information, see the section on Undergraduate Scholars at UH.

International Student Admission Policies/Procedures

The following policy statement is applicable to undergraduate and postbaccalaureate applicants who are either United States citizens or foreign nationals holding visas permitting permanent residence in the U.S. Although permanent residents who completed their education outside the U.S. must demonstrate sufficient English proficiency (TOEFL), they are not required to meet any higher academic requirements.

The requirements for students holding nonimmigrant visas can be located on the Office of International Admissions Web site: www.uh.edu/enroll/admis/OIA/I_undergraduate/undergraduate.htm. The requirements may also be located in the International Undergraduate Application and Information Brochure available from the Office of Admissions or at www.uh.edu/admissions.

- return to top -

Freshman Admission Requirements

Applicants will be considered if they satisfy all of the following criteria (1, 2, 3 below):

- return to top -

1. Rank in Class/Minimum SAT or ACT requirements

Standard Freshman Admission Requirements in Effect for Students Entering Fall 2005 and Spring and Summer 2006:

(applicants must satisfy either A or B below)

1. Automatic Admissions Criteria:

   Applicants from accredited public or private high schools in the state of Texas who rank among the top 10% of the student's high school graduating class
   and who apply by the published deadlines will be admitted.

   Note:  All applicants are required to submit official SAT or ACT scores even if they are in the top 10% of their graduating class

    

2. Regular Admissions Criteria:

   Applicants from accredited public or private high schools who meet one or more of the following will be considered for admission to the University of Houston. All applicants admitted under Section B must complete the high school academic core requirements with a GPA of 2.50 or higher and submit test scores from Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the American College Test (ACT). Applicants will be considered for admission if they:

   • ranked among the top 25% of the student's high school graduating class with a core GPA of 2.50 or above;
     or
   • earned a GPA of 3.20 or better in the high school academic core requirements;
     or
   • achieved a combined SAT Verbal and Math score of 1100 or higher or an ACT composite score of 24 or higher;
     or
   • earned a combination of grade point average and college test score based on the University of Houston Admissions Eligibility Index.

• Business
• Architecture
• Engineering
• Music

- return to colleges and programs with additional requirements -

- return to colleges and programs with additional requirements -

- return to colleges and programs with additional requirements -

- return to top -

2. High School Academic Core Requirements

The core course and units/credits required for admission are:

Applicants planning to seek a bachelor's degree in the arts and sciences are urged to earn at least two units/credits in one foreign language. Applicants who plan to enter scientific or technical majors are strongly advised to earn at least four high school units/credits in mathematics and at least three units/credits in science, including both chemistry and physics. Consult requirements for admission to specific colleges/majors for additional information.

Engineering majors are encouraged to take the advanced placement and/or achievement tests in American history, chemistry, English, calculus, and political science prior to admission. Course work in these areas will be waived with appropriate scores.

- return to top -

3. High School Graduation

Sixth/Seventh Semester Grades:
The university will evaluate and admit applicants based on their record through six semesters (end of junior year) of high school work. If, on the basis of six semesters' work, a student does not meet the admission criteria, a decision will be reserved until the middle of the senior year, when seventh semester grades are available.

Accredited High Schools:
Applicants who have graduated from a high school accredited by either the Texas Education Agency or the appropriate Regional Association of Schools and Colleges will be admitted if they meet the outlined requirements.

Nonaccredited High Schools:
Applicants who have graduated from a high school not accredited by either the Texas Education Agency or the appropriate Regional Association of Schools and Colleges may be admitted by scoring a minimum of 1180 on the SAT or minimum of 26 on the ACT and meeting high school academic core requirements. Cullen College of Engineering majors must also satisfy the engineering required high school courses and credits.

Applicants in this category will not be admitted to the Bauer College of Business, the undergraduate Computer Science major, but may enroll as undeclared majors in Undergraduate Scholars at UH. Admission to those programs will be dependent on the student's academic work at the university. Additional information may be obtained from the office of the college dean representing these areas.

General Education Development

The University recognizes GED tests as the equivalent of high school graduation. An applicant who has passed the GED tests and submits satisfactory SAT or ACT scores may be considered for general admission to the University of Houston.

Home School Applicants

Documentation of non-accredited high school/home schooled students is required for admission in addition to official SAT/ACT scores. Home school applicants may be admitted by scoring a minimum of 1180 on the SAT or 26 on the ACT. Cullen College of Engineering majors must also satisfy the engineering required high school courses and credits.

Appeal

Applicants who have been denied admission to the University of Houston have the right to appeal by completing an appeal and submitting a personal statement and two letters of recommendation. The Admission Review Committee (ARC), a faculty committee appointed by the Provost of the University, will determine the academic readiness of the applicant by carefully reviewing the additional information submitted.

Admission Option for Academically Talented High School Students

Special freshman admission options are available to academically talented students based on test scores, grade point average, and other criteria. The university offers dual (concurrent) enrollment and summer courses for students who wish to take college courses while still in high school. Early enrollment is available to a select group of students who have superior high school academic records and who wish to begin university level work after the completion of their junior year of high school. Please contact the Office of Admissions for details regarding these admission options.

The Honors College

The Honors College welcomes applications from academically serious students who are entering the university as freshmen, have been enrolled for a semester or two, or are transferring from other colleges or universities.

To apply for admission to the program, students must complete a short but separate application form, provide copies of standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), transcripts, and submit a typed essay of at least 300 words describing academic interests and preparation for honors work. Students may apply online at www.uh.edu/honors.

Generally, continuing UH students and transfer students should have at least a 3.25 cumulative GPA, and first-time in college students should be in the top 10% of their secondary-school class and have scored 1180 or better on the SAT (or 26 or better on the ACT). These scores are neither requirements nor guarantees for admission to the Honors College.

For more information, please write or call:

University of Houston The Honors College 212 M.D. Anderson Library Houston, TX 77204-2001 713-743-9010

Texas Success Initiative

About the TSI

Section 51.3062 of the Texas Education Code establishes the Success Initiative (SI) program as a requirement at all Texas institutions of higher education. The effective date of the program was September 1, 2003. The purpose of the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) program is to ensure that students enrolled in public colleges and universities possess the academic skills needed to perform effectively in college level course work. TSI includes an examination designed to provide diagnostic information about the reading, mathematics, and writing skills of each student. The results of the test do not affect a student's admission to the University of Houston, but may affect course enrollment eligibility.

The following are the basic provisions of the Success Initiative legislation.

Testing

All entering undergraduate students (unless exempt) are required to take an assessment test prior to enrolling in classes. The approved assessment tests are:

• THEA (formerly named TASP)
• ASSET
• COMPASS
  and
• ACCUPLACER.

The minimum passing scores for each of these tests are set by the state; each institution may establish its own score requirement at or above these minimums.

The minimum passing scores are:

(The minimum passing standard for the written essay portion of these tests is a score of 6. However, an essay with a score of 5 will pass if the student meets the objective writing test standard.)

Developmental Education

Students who score below the minimum passing level on one or more sections of the initial assessment test are required to enroll in the appropriate developmental education course(s) as assigned by an advisor with the Academic Advising Center of Undergraduate Scholars at UH unless other placement criteria apply.

Placement Requirements

Students who pass the assessment test may still be required to enroll in a developmental education course if their test scores do not meet the placement requirements established by the University of Houston academic departments. See your academic advisor for detailed information about UH placement requirements.

TSI Exemptions

Students who claim one of the following exemptions are not required to take the Success Initiative assessment test. (Students must still meet specific course placement requirements as established by UH academic departments.)

• SAT exemption: a combined verbal and mathematics score of 1070 with at least 500 on both the verbal and the mathematics sections (single test date). Scores may not be more than 5 years old at the time of exemption.
  
• ACT exemption: a composite score of 23 with at least 19 on both the English and the mathematics sections (single test date). Scores may not be more than 5 years old at the time of exemption.
  
• TAKS exemption: math = 2200; English Language Arts = 2200; writing subscore of at least 3 in the Exit Level Exam.
  
• Degree exemption: students who have graduated with an associate or baccalaureate degree from an accredited Texas public institution of higher education. This exemption does not include Associate of Applied Science degrees.
  
• Course work exemption (out of state/private school transfer students): transfer students who have satisfactorily completed college level course work as determined by the University of Houston. Contact the Academic Advising Center of Undergraduate Scholars at UH for details.
  
• Nondegree seeking exemption: students who wish to take courses for personal enrichment but are not pursuing an undergraduate degree.
  
• Military Service exemption: students serving on active duty as a member of the U.S. armed forces, the Texas National Guard, or as a member of a reserve component of the U.S. armed forces and have been serving for at least 3 years preceding enrollment.
  
• Prior military service exemption: students who on or after August 1, 1990, were honorably discharged, retired, or released from active duty as a member of the U.S. armed forces, the Texas National Guard, or service as a member of a reserve component of the U.S. armed forces.
  

Documentation of exemption is required; students may be asked to provide test scores, transcripts, military documents, etc., in order to claim an exemption. Contact the Academic Advising Center of Undergraduate Scholars at UH for more information. The Academic Advising Center of Undergraduate Scholars at UH is located in room 56  University Libraries, via the back entrance to M.D. Anderson Library, across from the University Center; telephone 832-842-2100; fax 713-743-8998.

Teacher Certification Students and TSI

TSI scores for admission to teacher education are higher than admission to the university. Check in room 112 Farish Hall for scores required to be admitted to the professional development sequence of the teacher education program.

Test Dates

For information on how to schedule a TSI assessment, contact the University Testing Services at 713-743-5444 or see their Web site at www.las.uh.edu/UTS/.

Students with disabilities who need testing assistance should contact the Center for Students with DisABILITIES, 713-743-5400 or 713-749-1527 (TDD), Justin Dart Center for Students with DisABILITIES.

Additional Information

For information about other TSI policies and the TSI program, contact the Academic Advising Center of Undergraduate Scholars at UH, 56 University Libraries, via the back entrance to M.D. Anderson Library, across from the University Center, 832-842-2100.

- return to top -

Transfer Student Admission Requirements

General Admission Requirements

Students who have earned fewer than 15 semester hours of college credit must meet the requirements for high school graduates. An applicant who has earned 15 or more transferable semester hours of credit from a college accredited by one of the six regional accrediting associations will be considered a transfer student. Transfer students must be eligible to return to the last college attended and must meet the following minimum grade point average requirements:

Applicants who have earned between 15 and 29 semester hours of college credit must have a 2.50 cumulative grade point average.

All college credit course grades, including those in repeated courses, are used in computing the grade point average.

Note: An official transcript from each college or university attended must be submitted to the Office of Admissions.

Associate of Arts and Science Degrees

Applicants who have graduated with the Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree from a two-year college accredited by the appropriate Regional Association of Schools and Colleges will be assured general admission to the university. Admission will be granted if the applicant's last college is the two-year institution at which the associate degree was earned; otherwise, regular transfer admission requirements must be met.

Applicants to the programs, schools, and colleges with additional admission requirements must meet the requirements of the particular program.

Applicants whose native language is other than English who have not graduated from a U.S. high school but have completed an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree from a U.S. accredited institute are exempt from the TOEFL requirement.

College of Architecture Transfer Students With No Previous Architecture Courses

These students follow the same process as for freshmen students. See Freshman Admission Requirements in this section.

Transfer Students Seeking Credit for Previous Architecture Courses

Admission to the College of Architecture occurs only for study beginning in the Fall semester. The application deadline in March 1. Enrollment in studio courses is restricted to students admitted to the college. Applicants must first meet general university admission requirements (listed in this catalog) in order to be considered by the College of Architecture.

Applicants must submit a portfolio of academic design work which should contain examples of course work accomplished for credit and must be presented in an 8.5 x 11 inch format and contained in a binder, clearly marked with the applicant's name and contact information. Do not send original work, only reproductions. The portfolio must be received by the March 1 deadline and sent directly to the college at:

The College of Architecture Transfer Admissions Committee will review applications and will mail notification of the admission decision and placement on or before April 15.

Bauer College of Business

Transfer applicants who have earned fewer than 15 semester hours of college credit must meet the Bauer College of Business requirements for high school graduates.

Applicants to the Bauer College of Business who have earned between 15 and 59 semester hours must have a 2.75 cumulative grade point average. Students who have earned 60 or more semester hours must have a 2.75 cumulative grade point average over the last 60 hours of college level work attempted.

Postbaccalaureate students are not eligible to take undergraduate business courses except at the 5000-level, and may not pursue an undergraduate degree in the Bauer College of Business.

See the Bauer College of Business Web site at www.bauer.uh.edu for more information.

Computer Science Major

Transfer applicants who have earned fewer than 15 semester hours of college credit must meet the computer science requirements for high school graduates.

Applicants who have earned 15 or more semester hours of college credit cannot be directly admitted to the Computer Science Department. Such applicants should enter the university as Undergraduate Scholars at UH (no major - 60 semester hours or less) or any other major of the applicant's choice. The student should then take the courses necessary to satisfy the criteria for change of major to Computer Science for UH students. The student should obtain advising from the Computer Science Department concerning these courses and other matters related to the student's intended major even though the student is not yet a Computer Science major.

See the Web site at http://cs.uh.edu/ for more information.

Cullen College of Engineering

Transfer applicants who have earned fewer than 15 semester hours of college credit must meet the engineering requirements for high school graduates.

Applicants who have earned between 15 or more semester hours of college credit must have all of the following:

1. A grade point average of 2.50 or higher for all college level work attempted
   
2. A grade point average of 2.50 or higher for all college level calculus math courses attempted
   
3. A grade point average of 2.50 or higher for all college level chemistry and physics courses attempted
   
4. A grade point average of 2.50 or higher for all college level English courses attempted; international students must have a TOEFL score of 550 on the written examination, 213 on the computerized test, or 79-80 on the internet based test
   
5. A grade point average of 2.50 or higher for all college level engineering courses attempted
   
6. Must have attempted at least one college level calculus^* mathematics course and at least one college level calculus-based physics course or college level chemistry course
   

See the Cullen College of Engineering Web site at www.egr.uh.edu for more information.

*Equivalent to University of Houston's MATH 1431; MATH 1432; MATH 2433; CHEM 1331/1111; CHEM 1332/1112; CHEM 1372/1117; PHYS 1321; PHYS 1322.

Information Systems Technology

Transfer applicants for a major in Information Technology in the College of Technology who earned fewer than 15 semesters hours of college credit must meet the University of Houston requirements for high school graduates.

Applicants for a major in Information Systems Technology who have earned between 15-59 semester hours of college credit must have a grade point average of 2.50 or higher for all college level work attempted.

Applicants for a major in Information Systems Technology who have earned 59 or more semester hours of college credit must have a grade point average of 2.50 or higher for the last 60 hours of college level work attempted.

Pharmacy

Transfer applicants who have earned between 15 and 45 semester hours of credit must have all of the following in order to enter the pre-pharmacy program:

• a 2.75 grade point average AND
  
• a 2.75 grade point average in all required pre-pharmacy math and science coursework attempted.
  

Required pre-pharmacy math/science courses include:

• Calculus
• Statistics
• General Biology I and II with Labs
• General Chemistry I and II with Labs
• Microbiology with Lab
• Organic Chemistry I and II with Labs
• and Physics.

See the Pharmacy Web site at http://www.uh.edu/pharmacy/ for more information.

Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management

In effect for students entering Fall 2005 and Spring and Summer 2006

Transfer students who have earned fewer than 15 semester hours of college credit must meet the admission requirements for high school graduates.

Transfer applicants who have earned 15 or more semester credit hours must have a 2.50 or higher cumulative grade point average for regular admission. Students with grade point averages between 2.00 and 2.50 may request a review of their application through the college's Individual Admission process.

In effect for Students entering Fall 2006 and beyond:

Transfer students who have earned fewer than 20 semester hours of college credit must meet the admission requirements for high school graduates.

Transfer applicants who have earned 21 to 60 semester credit hours must have a 2.75 or higher cumulative grade point average.

Transfer applicants who have completed over 60 semester credit hours must have a 2.75 or higher cumulative grade point average in their last 60 semester hours. (All grades for which credit was received and grades received for repeated courses are used in computing the grade point average.)

Moores School of Music

Music majors must have a 2.50 grade point average over all music courses attempted at any other college or university and audition for the School of Music faculty.

- return to top -

Admissions Review Committee

Applicants who do not qualify under the other admission options may request a further review of their application through the Individual Admission process. The review will be based on an overall assessment of each applicant's circumstances in respect to her or his potential for academic success at the university. Such consideration may be based upon one or more of the following:

1. Extenuating circumstances, including educational disadvantage, which adversely affected the applicant's academic record and/or test scores
   
2. Evidence of exceptional achievement or aptitude not reflected in the applicant's record or national preadmissions test
   
3. Evidence of exceptional talent or ability in artistic, scholarly, or athletic performance
   

Information that may be considered includes, but is not limited to, a statement by the applicant, recommendations from high school or college personnel, and personal references. For information pertaining to the Individual Admission Option, including deadlines, contact the Office of Admissions at 713-743-1010.

- return to top -

Postbaccalaureate Students

Postbaccalaureate students are students who have earned a bachelor's degree or higher at a regionally accredited institution. Some course work taken in the postbaccalaureate status may be applied toward a graduate degree, but there are limitations that particularly affect those students whose goal it is to earn a graduate degree at the University of Houston. These restrictions include the following:

1. Postbaccalaureate students are not eligible to take undergraduate business courses except at the 5000-level, and may not pursue an undergraduate degree in the Bauer College of Business.
2. Enrollment in graduate level courses in some colleges is either prohibited (e.g., the Bauer College of Business) or severely limited (e.g., the Cullen College of Engineering).
3. Application of course work completed as a postbaccalaureate student toward a graduate degree is restricted and is subject to the approval of the individual department after enrollment as a graduate student.

Students who wish to obtain postbaccalaureate status at the University of Houston should submit an application for undergraduate admission and an official transcript from their previous institution showing the bachelor's degree posted.

Postbaccalaureate applicants who are seeking a second undergraduate degree and all applicants to the Computer Science major must submit an official transcript from each college or university attended.

Students with degrees from the University of Houston need not submit official UH transcripts.

The Bauer College of Business requires postbaccalaureate applicants to have a 2.75 cumulative grade point average over the last 60 hours of college level work attempted. Postbaccalaureate applicants to the undergraduate College of Engineering majors and computer science major must meet the admission standards that apply to transfer applicants who have earned 15 or more semester hours of college credit.

The deadlines stated previously for undergraduate students are applicable to those seeking admission as postbaccalaureate students.

- return to top -

Academic Fresh Start for Undergraduate Transfer Students

Students applying for admission to the University of Houston may elect to have all academic course work completed at other institutions ten or more years prior to the time of application ignored for admission purposes. Once ignored, this course work cannot be used to satisfy any prerequisite or degree requirements at the University of Houston. The Academic Fresh Start Program is open to new as well as to former and current students.

Transfer students applying for Academic Fresh Start must have submitted all the necessary credentials to the Office of Admissions by the appropriate deadline. Official transcripts from all colleges attended, including transcripts which include course work completed ten or more years old, must be sent to UH. However, students choosing Academic Fresh Start must meet current admission requirements with course work taken within the past ten years.

Students admitted through Academic Fresh Start will be under the University of Houston Undergraduate Studies catalog in effect at the time of their Fresh Start matriculation at UH and will be assigned to Undergraduate Scholars at UH until they are admitted into a major field of study or until they have accumulated sixty semester hours of credit, whichever comes first.

There may be implications for financial aid and veterans benefits for students admitted under Academic Fresh Start. Students should contact these offices for more information.

Students may elect to use the provisions of this Academic Fresh Start Program only once at the University of Houston.

More information on the Academic Fresh Start Program for undergraduate transfer students may be obtained by contacting:

Former and current UH students seeking information on the Academic Fresh Start Program should refer to Academic Fresh Start For Current and Former Undergraduate Students in the Academic Regulations and Degree Requirements section of this catalog.

- return to top -

Adult Admission Option

The Adult Admission Option facilitates the admission of adult students. Adult students may enroll in a nondegree status without submitting transcripts or test scores. The conditions of the program are as follows:

1. A special Adult Admission Option application must be completed (available from the Office of Admissions).
   
2. A non-refundable $50 application fee is required.
   
3. Applicants must, at a minimum, hold a high school diploma or the equivalent.
   
4. Applicants may not have been enrolled in a high school or regionally accredited college level program for the past five years.
   
5. Applicants must be at least 25 years of age by the last day of late registration for the semester for which they are applying.
   
6. Applicants will be classified as freshmen students.
   
7. This program does not apply to UH former students or to postbaccalaureate students.
   
8. Students admitted in this category must attain a 2.0 cumulative grade point average in order to register for subsequent semesters.
   
9. Students who complete 18 semester hours and wish to change their admission status to degree-seeking should contact the Office of Admissions Transfer Credit Unit, room 100 Welcome Center, 713-743-9630.

   To continue beyond 18 semester hours of letter-grade, non-remedial work, students must present transcripts from all regionally accredited colleges and universities previously attended. For applicants who have attended any institution outside the U.S. official credentials and translations, along with required processing fee, must be submitted with the petition. Regular admission to Undergraduate Scholars at UH will normally be granted to those applicants with a 2.00 minimum cumulative grade point average in their work at UH, excluding courses not taken with a letter grade, remedial courses, and special problems/independent study work. To change from Undergraduate Scholars to an undergraduate major, students must petition to the appropriate college/department.

   Note: Students may remain in Undergraduate Scholars at UH for only one semester once they have exceeded 60 cumulative semester hours.
   

10. Students who wish to petition for degree status prior to the completion of 18 semester hours of letter grade, non-remedial work at UH may do so by submitting a request through the Individual Admissions Option. As part of the petition process, students must present transcripts from all regionally accredited colleges and universities previously attended.
    
11. The hours earned will count toward a degree so long as students are fully admitted to a major and the courses are applicable to that degree program.
    
12. Applicants who have completed any education outside the U.S. must submit evidence of satisfactory English proficiency. A score of 550 or higher (213 on the computerized examination or 79-80 on the internet based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required. Applicants are expected to complete the essay section of the TOEFL whenever it is included as part of the exam. Those exempt from this requirement are students from Australia, the British Isles, the Bahamas, English-speaking Canadian provinces, Jamaica, New Zealand, Belize, Fiji Islands, Liberia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Trinidad, the Virgin Islands, the West Indies, Zimbabwe, and those who speak English as their native language.
    

Note: Students enrolled in the Adult Option Program are not eligible for financial assistance. Financial aid will be processed during the semester following the completion of 18 semester hours; therefore, aid may not be available during that semester. Eligible veterans may use veterans' benefits under this program. Please contact the Veterans Services office for more information, 268 University Center or the Office of the Registrar, room 128 Welcome Center.

- return to top -

Summer Visiting Students

Admission is granted as a summer visiting student to undergraduate students who have earned college credit at another regionally accredited U.S. college or university.

In order to be considered for admission as a summer visiting student, the applicant must provide a transcript from the last regionally accredited U.S. college or university attended in order to document that he or she is currently in good academic standing.

Some colleges and departments may have different requirements.

Note: Financial aid is not available for summer visiting students.

Once admitted as a summer visiting student, no application is necessary for enrollment in future summer sessions. However, enrollment in a fall or spring semester requires a change in status from that of a summer visiting student to that of a regular student. This means that the student must meet the general admission requirements of the University of Houston and submit all transcripts from previous colleges or universities.

Grades earned as a summer visiting student will be included in determining the cumulative grade point average for admission as a regular student. Appropriate credits earned as a summer visiting student may be applied toward a degree at UH when admission as a regular student has been granted.

Contact the Office of Admissions to obtain deadline dates for receipt of the application for summer visiting students (713-743-1010).

• Apply online to the University of Houston through the Transfer Texas Common Application, no later than the indicated deadline date. www.applytexas.org
• Provide an official transcript from the most recent college or university attended.

- return to top -

Former Students

All former students must first meet with an academic advisor prior to registration. Former students of the University of Houston who are not on academic suspension do not need to reapply for admission. However, official transcripts must be submitted to the Office of Admissions from all colleges attended since the last enrollment at the University of Houston. Transfer work will be evaluated and credited as each transcript is received.

Students who are not eligible to return immediately to the most recent institution they have attended will not be permitted to enroll. If students have earned less than a 2.00 (C) cumulative grade point average over work completed since attending UH, or if they left the last institution on probation, they may re-enroll at UH on probation.

Students seeking readmission from academic suspension should follow the process outlined below.

- return to top -

Readmission from Academic Suspension

1. Only the dean of the college may readmit students on academic suspension from the University of Houston. Only the Director of Undergraduate Scholars at UH may readmit students who have not declared a major.
2. Readmission from academic suspension is neither automatic nor guaranteed. Students seeking readmission must submit to the dean of the college in which they wish to earn their degrees:
   1. A written petition justifying their readiness to resume their studies at the university.
   2. Transcripts showing at least a 2.00 grade point average on all college work completed elsewhere while on academic suspension from the University of Houston.
   3. Transcripts of all other completed college work.
   4. Former Undergraduate Scholars (undeclared majors) must submit their petition and transcripts to the Director of Undergraduate Scholars at UH.
      
      
3. Students seeking to change their majors from the college from which they were suspended to another college must submit a "change of major" request along with a petition for readmission from academic suspension to the college of the intended major.
4. Colleges may have additional policies and procedures pertaining to readmission from academic suspension; therefore, students seeking readmission should consult the appropriate college section in this catalog or request information from the office of the academic dean for specific college requirements.

- return to top -

International Students

In addition to the general admission requirements, the following regulations may apply to those applicants with any foreign credentials.

General Requirements

1. A nonrefundable admission/evaluation fee of $75 (U.S. currency) must be submitted, along with the application, by all applicants who hold or will be holding nonimmigrant visas while in the U.S. Applications will not be considered unless the necessary fee is paid.
   
2. A copy of all official transcripts from secondary schools and university entrance examinations when appropriate.
   
3. Applicants completing at least one full year of college or university academic course work must submit their complete college or university academic record.
   
4. All official documents must be on file with the Office of International Admissions before an evaluation of academic qualifications can be made. An official English translation of the transcripts must be included if the academic transcripts are in a foreign language. Where university level studies are to be considered for possible undergraduate transfer credit, a syllabus, catalog, or similar bulletin must be submitted, which describes the courses in sufficient detail for proper evaluation.
   
5. Applicants on nonimmigrant student visas must have signed financial backing guaranteeing their ability to pay expenses while studying at the university. The financial backing must be signed by a parent, guardian, bank, or other reliable financial institution, or by a U.S. citizen who will be responsible for financial needs. The financial backing form can be found on our Web site at www.uh.edu/enroll/admis/OIA.
   
6. Applicants on nonimmigrant visas must submit two passport-sized photographs before enrollment.
   
7. Scores earned on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) must be submitted before admission will be granted. Minimum scores for admission consideration are 550 on the written examination, 213 on the computer version or 79-80 on the internet version for undergraduate students. Some colleges and departments require scores above the minimum.
   

The following applicants are exempt from the TOEFL requirements:

1. Native speakers of English, usually from Australia, the British Isles, the Bahamas, English-speaking Canadian Provinces, Jamaica, New Zealand, Belize, Fiji Islands, Liberia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Trinidad, the Virgin Islands, the West Indies, Zimbabwe, and those who speak English as their native language
   
2. Students who qualify for admission on the same basis as U.S. high school graduates
   
3. Students who have earned bachelor's degrees or higher at an accredited U.S. college or university
   
8. Students who have been admitted and are seeking a degree, regardless of classification, must take a second English test upon arrival at UH. On the basis of these scores, students are placed in the appropriate English courses for international students. Students whose scores are low will be advised to carry a reduced load.
   
9. Applicants are to provide UH with a valid overseas address.
   
10. A photocopy of the applicant's current passport showing name, date of birth, and visa type.
    
11. The application and all credentials must be on file by April 1 for the summer and fall semester and by October 1 for the spring semester.
    
12. International students on nonimmigrant visas must carry medical and hospitalization insurance.
    
13. Only the Director of Admissions may issue an official notification of acceptance for admission.
    
14. Visas issued for the purpose of study do not normally carry employment privileges. Government regulations require international students to certify that they have finances deemed sufficient by UH to pursue a full course of study without employment.
    
15. Holders of student (F-1 and J-1) visas must enroll for a full load of courses. For undergraduate students, the minimum full course load is 12 semester hours.
    
16. New students on nonimmigrant visas are required to enroll for the orientation program which takes place at the beginning of the semester. For more information see International Student and Scholar Services Web site at www.issso.uh.edu.
    

Undergraduate Students

International students who have attended U.S., regionally accredited, high schools are required to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their credentials for admission. SAT or ACT scores may be required of students studying in countries where English is the native language. The Office of International Admissions may request these scores from students who have not attended a U.S. high school. Students who have graduated from a U.S. high school must meet the admission requirements for U.S. high school graduates. See the section on freshman admission requirements.

Applicants must have earned a minimum grade point average of 3.00 (B) on all secondary school work attempted. Graduation from a secondary school generally implies completion of at least 12 years of education. Graduation from a college or university implies completion of 16 years of education. Students who transfer from a U.S. university must meet the specific transfer requirements. See the section on Transfer Student Admission Requirements. Students who transfer from a foreign university must also have a 3.00 minimum cumulative grade point average. Some departments and colleges may have higher admission requirements.

Applicants who are permanent residents of the U.S. will be considered under the same academic criteria as U.S. citizens, although if they have not graduated from a U.S. high school, they will also need to meet the 550 (213 on computerized test; 79-80 on internet based test) minimum TOEFL score requirements for international students. See the section on general requirements for international students. All inquiries and documents should be addressed to:

Graduate Students

Information about graduate studies and admission requirements may be found in the Admission Information for International Graduate Students brochure, the Graduate and Professional Studies catalog, or at www.uh.edu/admin/enroll/OIA. All inquiries and documents should be addressed to:

- return to top -

Transfer of College Credits

Evaluations of transfer work are made in the Office of Admissions, usually after students are enrolled and complete transfer records are on file. The application of transfer credit toward a degree at the university cannot be determined until the transcript has been evaluated and a degree plan made. (International students must provide the International Admissions Office a copy of a syllabus/catalog for any academic work completed overseas. The credit evaluation will be completed during the first semester of enrollment).

Former students must notify the Office of Admissions of any schools attended since the last enrollment at the University of Houston and submit all official transcripts. Degree plans are made in the college of the student's major. The following regulations apply generally to the undergraduate programs. Certain exceptions exist in the Law Center. Refer to the Graduate and Professional Studies catalog.

General Regulations

1. The college from which credit is to be transferred must be accredited by one of the six regional accrediting associations or the appropriate Ministry or board for overseas studies.
   
2. Courses transfer to the university on the same level and with the corresponding number of hours as earned at the other institution. Grades are not transferred, and a new grade point average is established only on work done at the university. Courses taken at other institutions in which grades below C- were earned are not transferable or applicable toward degree requirements at the University of Houston. Some colleges and departments may use the cumulative grade point average from other institutions as an admission criterion.

   A student cannot satisfy any baccalaureate degree requirement at the university with course work taken at another institution unless the course itself is both accepted by the university in transfer and applied toward the student's baccalaureate degree.

   As of Fall 1999, the following clarifications apply to the transfer of core curriculum credit.

   1. Students who transfer to the University of Houston from another Texas public institution of higher education where they have successfully completed all of that institution's Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board-approved core curriculum shall be considered by UH to be "core complete" and shall not be required to take additional courses to complete the UH core curriculum. However, no courses completed with a grade below C- shall transfer, and therefore they shall not count toward degree requirements, including total hours, other than "core completion."
   2. If a transfer student has not successfully completed all Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board-approved core curriculum requirements at another Texas public institution of higher education, then UH will not accept, for any purpose, the core curriculum courses in which the student earned a grade below C-.

    

3. Students who transfer to the University of Houston before they have completed all of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board-approved core curriculum requirements at another Texas public institution of higher education shall receive credit toward the UH core for each of the core courses they have completed with a grade of C- or higher up to the maximum specified in each core component area by the institution from which they are transferring. Hours that exceed the UH requirement in any core component area shall be applied elsewhere in the UH core according to the established core articulation tables. It should be noted that these students may be required to take additional courses to complete the UH core curriculum.

   Students who transfer to UH from institutions that do not have a Coordinating Board-approved core curriculum may use transfer credits to satisfy UH core curriculum requirements only if the courses are equivalent to UH core courses and the grades earned in them were C- or higher.

4. Courses taken at other colleges that do not correspond to courses offered at the university may transfer as elective credit. Such courses may fulfill degree requirements at the discretion of the major department and dean.
   
5. The following courses are not accepted by the university in transfer:
   • Vocational courses.
   • Orientation, remedial course work including remedial English, remedial reading courses, and high school level and remedial mathematics.
   • Courses in bookkeeping.
   • General Education Development tests on high school or college level.
   • Courses from unaccredited seminaries or Bible colleges.
      
6. Courses in technology from accredited schools will be considered for transfer credit on an individual basis, depending on the student's major and the type of course to be transferred.
7. Credit may be granted for courses taken at military service training schools based on recommendations made in the Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experience in the Armed Services.
   
8. Credit may be granted for courses taken through various noncollegiate organizations based on the recommendation made by the Commission on Educational Credit when such training is considered by the university to be at the baccalaureate level and consistent with the student's educational objective.
   
9. A maximum of 12 semester hours in religion from an accredited college is accepted toward a degree.
   
10. A maximum of two semester hours in physical education activity courses is transferable.
    
11. A maximum of 66 semester hours of lower division (freshman and sophomore) transfer work will be allowed to apply toward a baccalaureate degree at the University of Houston. If a student transfers more than 66 semester hours of lower division work, the dean or his/her designated representative of the college of the student's major will decide which of the total lower division hours, not to exceed 66, will apply to the UH degree. The classification of a course as lower division is based on the classification at UH.
    
12. To earn a degree at the university, the last 30 semester hours must be completed in residence on this campus. Only grade points earned at the University of Houston are averaged for the degree.
    
13. Unless prohibited by one or more of the general regulations above, the dean of the college in which the student majors will make the final decision concerning the application of transfer credit to the degree program.
    

- return to top -

Community College Common Course Numbering

The University of Houston and Texas community colleges have agreed that certain courses offered by the community colleges meet UH Core Curriculum standards; the community colleges have adopted common course numbers among themselves. Students transferring those courses to the university from a Texas community college will receive credit for the corresponding UH core course, provided all general requirements for transfer credit are met. The course numbers listed in the following table are currently approved as equivalents to the corresponding UH core course numbers. All courses are reviewed annually, to ensure that they meet core standards; therefore, the list is subject to change without notice. The university's Office of Admissions maintains the most up-to-date listings of these approved courses.

Not all community colleges use the common course numbering system. It is the student's responsibility to check with each community college attended for course equivalency.

For a complete listing of Texas Common Course Numbers and UH equivalents, see the Texas Common Course Numbering System section of this catalog.

- return to top -

Correspondence and Extension Credit

The university does not offer correspondence courses, but such credit may be accepted in transfer when taken from an accredited college. Students may apply a maximum of 18 semester hours of correspondence credit, 30 semester hours of extension (classroom) credit, or 30 semester hours of correspondence and extension credit combined toward a bachelor's degree. Only six semester hours in the student's major may be correspondence credit.

Postbaccalaureate Students

Students who have earned a degree equivalent to a bachelor's degree or higher in the United States from a college or university overseas may be eligible for postbaccalaureate admission. Refer to the Postbaccalaureate Student section of this catalog.

Professional Course Credit

Graduates of certain accredited professional schools are allowed a total of 30 semester hours of unspecified credit for two or three years of professional training. A maximum of 12 semester credit hours will be allowed to those students who are not graduates. Students who satisfactorily complete a program in medical technology that is approved by the Board of Registry of Clinical Pathologists will be allowed 30 semester hours of unspecified credit.

Graduate Credit

Graduate credit completed with a grade of A or B (A=4.00) may be transferred for advanced courses only. The amount of transferable credit, however, is subject to approval by the individual department. Only in exceptional circumstances can more than nine semester hours of transfer credit be applied to a master's degree. The Bauer College of Business and Cullen College of Engineering will not accept more than nine semester hours of transfer credit under any circumstances.

Transfer credit is subject to evaluation and must be consistent with the degree plan approved by the student's advisor. The student bears the final responsibility for securing the department's acceptance of transferred credit.

- return to top -

International Baccalaureate

The University of Houston recognizes the comprehensive and rigorous curriculum of the International Baccalaureate (IB) and offers possible credit for scores of 4, 5, 6 or 7 on higher-level examinations. An entering freshman who holds an IB diploma will be granted at least 24 college credit hours if he or she has scored 4 or better on the IB exams. IB (HL) scores sent to the University of Houston will be reviewed for credit. See charts below for more information.

- return to top -

Credit by Examination

Many academic departments at the university offer students an opportunity to earn credit without a grade in specific courses through a credit by examination program. The following tests are utilized for placement with credit:

1. Advanced Placement (AP)
   
2. College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
   
3. Scholastic Aptitude Test-II (SAT-II)
   
4. DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST)
   
5. International Baccalaureate (IB)
   
6. Departmental tests

The departments participating in this program and the tests that each department uses are in the chart below.

The AP examinations are administered annually in the late spring at high schools that offer College Board Advanced Placement courses. Interested students should consult a high school counselor for information on test centers and test registration procedures.

For information about eligibility for any of the tests or the test dates and registration procedures for CLEP, AP, SAT II, CB, DANTES, and departmental tests, visit:

University Testing Services
University of Houston
204 Student Service Center 1
Houston, TX 77204-3025
713-743-5444
www.las.uh.edu/uts

- return to top -

- return to top -

- return to top -

Special Examinations

Some academic departments at the University offer students an opportunity through special examinations to earn credit for unusual experience related directly to a course or for completion of a course equivalent at a nonaccredited institution. Students who qualify should go to the office of the dean of the college in which the course is taught for additional information and for petition forms to use in applying. No grades are assigned to credit earned by special examinations. No residence credit is given.

- return to top -

Placement Without Credit

Language Placement

Students who have completed two or more years of French, German, Latin, or Spanish in high school or one or more semesters of German at another college or whose native tongue is one of these languages are required to take a language examination for placement without credit before enrolling in a course in that language. For additional information write:

University of Houston
Learning and Assessment Services
210 Student Service Center 1
Houston, Texas 77204-3025

First-Time-in-College Freshmen

1. All first-time-in-college freshmen must take a Texas Success Initiative examination or qualify for exemption from the test. Students must take the test before enrolling for courses.

   Students who fail one or more sections of the TSI examination will be required to meet with an advisor at the Academic Advising Center of Undergraduate Scholars at UH before enrolling for courses.

2. Students without any college credit must have documented placement before registration for certain classes.
   1. English Placement

      Incoming freshmen should enroll in ENGL 1303 if they are exempt from the TSI program or if they have a minimum of 240 on the THEA Writing Test or a passing score on the writing section of ACCUPLACER, ASSET or COMPASS. Students with scores below the minimum should enroll in ENGL 1300. After completing this course successfully, students may enroll in ENGL 1303 and proceed through the regular sequence of required courses.

      The normal sequence of English courses for international students and nonnative speakers of English who have completed fewer than four years of schooling in an American secondary school is ENGL 1309 and 1310. All nonnative speakers of English must take the Placement Examination for Nonnative Speakers of English (PENNSE) to determine their proper placement in English courses. Based on this examination students may be permitted to enroll in ENGL 1309 or may be required to complete ENGL 1300 or equivalent in preparation for ENGL 1309. Students who do not qualify for placement in 1300 must seek compensatory remedial work. They will be retested prior to admission to the regular sequence of English courses at the University of Houston.

      For information about compensatory work below the level of 1300, students may contact the Language and Culture Center, 713-743-3030, or the Department of English, 713-743-3004. For information about the PENNSE and the reentry test, call the Department of English, 713-743-3004.

   2. Mathematics Placement

      All freshmen entering from high school and freshmen transferring into UH with less than 15 hours of college credits are required to take the mathematics placement test.

      Mathematics placement examinations are offered every Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. throughout the year. For information on the testing schedule or to register online, please visit the University Testing Services Web site at www.las.uh.edu/uts or call 713-743-5444.

      Those who register for a course for which they lack the proper placement score may be dropped from the course and will be required to reregister at the appropriate level.

   3. Reading Placement

      Students who fail the reading section of the TSI exam must enroll in READ 1300 and must not enroll in PSYC 1300, HIST 1377, HIST 1378, POLS 1336, POLS 1337, ENGL 2301, 2302, 2303, or 2304 until they have passed the READ 1300.

International Students

All international students who are non-native speakers of English and are new to the University of Houston are required to satisfy English proficiency requirements for admission by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). For placement into English courses, the Placement Examination for Nonnative Speakers of English (PENNSE) is required. Placement of all students into courses in English as a second language (ESL) is made by the ESL Committee. The normal sequence of courses for entering freshman international students is ENGL 1309, 1310. The fee for the PENNSE is $8.00. For information on the testing schedule, please call the University Testing Services at 713-743-5444 or visit their Web site, www.las.uh.edu/uts.

Students who do not show satisfactory performance on the PENNSE are required to take ENGL 1300 or equivalent, regardless of previous credit in English courses. Students whose scores reveal the need for work in English below the level of ENGL 1300 must seek compensatory remedial work. They will be retested before being permitted to enroll in the normal sequence of English courses at the University of Houston. For information about compensatory work below the level of ENGL 1300, students may consult with the Language and Culture Center, 713-743-3030, or the Department of English, 713-743-3000.

- return to top -

Undergraduate Scholars at UH

Undergraduate Scholars at UH offers a wide range of services and programs including academic advising, college success program, and support services designed to assist undergraduate students during the critically important first year university experience.

Students who have not declared a major at the point of admission to UH will be offered assistance through Undergraduate Scholars at UH that will help them later make an informed decision about a major field of study. All students will declare a major by the beginning of their junior year (60 credit hours), if they have not already done so.

Newly admitted undergraduate students with 60 or more hours may enter Undergraduate Scholars at UH without a major, but may remain in that status only for the first two semesters of enrollment. During these first two semesters, junior or senior level students may seek vocational and career counseling to identify appropriate fields of interest, meet with advisors at Undergraduate Scholars at UH to discuss potential majors, and consult with college and departmental advisors concerning major requirements. During this timeframe these students will establish a University of Houston grade point average and will declare a major field of study. This process must be finalized before enrollment for a third semester can be completed.

Undergraduate Scholars at UH is also the source for TSI screening and information. For information about Undergraduate Scholars at UH call 832-842-2100, visit room 56 University Libraries, (via the back entrance to M.D. Anderson Library, across from the University Center) during regular office hours, or access the Web site at http://uscholars.uh.edu/.

- return to top -

Academic Advising

Academic advising is every student's best source of information about academic programs and procedures at the University of Houston. Academic advising services are a vital aspect of the university's active commitment to students' academic success. Thus, the university expects all students to participate in the academic advising process throughout their careers here.

Academic advising is necessary to ensure that all newly admitted students are in compliance with university policies and are making appropriate decisions about their academic programs. The Academic Advising Center of Undergraduate Scholars at UH shares advising responsibilities with colleges and departments. All new students wishing to make a successful adjustment to the University of Houston should take full advantage of academic advising services offered through Undergraduate Scholars at UH or the college or department of their majors.

Continuing and former UH students benefit from regular, routine academic advising as well. Advising is designed to help students make decisions about their educational and career goals. It is an ongoing process that includes but is not limited to assistance in planning each semester's schedule of courses. Students should meet with their academic advisors at least once every semester to review their academic progress and to make plans for the future.

Students who have been admitted to a particular college or department should seek advising from that area. Other undeclared undergraduate students should contact the Academic Advising Center of Undergraduate Scholars at UH, 832-842-2100, 56 University Libraries, via the back entrance to M.D. Anderson Library, across from the University Center.

- return to top -

Orientation

New Students

All new freshmen and transfer students are expected to attend orientation. The program is designed to acquaint new students with the campus and the many resources that can enhance both academic success and personal development. The orientation program focuses on several important areas, including the curriculum, academic advising, placement testing, campus activities, student organizations, and campus facilities. Registration also takes place at orientation. During orientation, new students have an opportunity to interact with upperclassmen, faculty, and university staff members. By attending orientation, new students will be best prepared for the start of the first semester.

Information about orientation is mailed directly to new students who have been admitted to the university. Questions about orientation should be directed to:

University of Houston
Dean of Students Office
252 University Center
Houston, Texas 77204-3035
713-743-5475
www.uh.edu/dos or
www.uh.edu/orientation

International Students

Required check-in and orientation sessions for new and transfer international students are organized by the Office of International Student and Scholar Services. For additional information contact:

University of Houston
Office of International Student and Scholar Services
303 Student Service Center 1
Houston, TX 77204-3024
713-743-5065
www.issso.uh.edu/

- return to top -

Registration

The university's Web-based online enrollment services system provides a convenient option to simplify the enrollment process. Access online is at http://www.uh.edu. Click on Current Students or Prospective Students, then click on My PeopleSoft . For students' convenience, several opportunities to enroll by Web are offered each semester and summer session. Specific dates and detailed instructions, as well as a listing of courses offered for the semester, are included in the class schedule, online at the above Web site.

To quality for financial aid, students must have an approved change of degree objective posted in their registration system by the day before the semester begins.

Cancellation

Students may cancel their registration after payment through the Registrar's Office, 128 Welcome Center, if they cancel before the first day of class. Students who do so are entitled to a full refund minus a small matriculation fee and are regarded as never having officially enrolled in that semester. In the event you are placed on academic suspension, courses for which you have registered in any future semester will be automatically cancelled - regardless of whether you have paid tuition and fees. Should you be given approval from the dean of your college to enroll, you will need to re-register.

Class Listings

A listing of courses and approved core curriculum courses for the semester may be accessed well in advance of the beginning of each semester and summer session. Information is provided on the Web site at http://www.uh.edu.

Class Membership

Students may not attend a class after the first week of classes unless properly registered for that course and section. Failure to follow proper registration procedures may jeopardize a student's good standing at the university and result in a loss of credit. Class rolls are made up solely from the official enrollment records of the Registrar's Office. Students whose names are not on the class roll in each of their classes should immediately contact the Registrar's Office, 128 Welcome Center, to verify registration.

Discontinued Classes

The university reserves the right, whenever necessary, to discontinue classes or to alter the schedule otherwise. If a class is discontinued, students will be notified at the first scheduled class meeting, whenever possible, so that they may register for alternate courses. Students who are enrolled in a discontinued class will be dropped automatically from the course. If they wish to enroll in another section, they must go through official drop and add procedures.

Section Changes

Students may make section changes, such as dropping and adding a course or section of a course during the dates indicated in the Academic and Enrollment calendars using the My PeopleSoft site at www.uh.edu (see above for directions). Changes must be made only during the periods prescribed in the class listings and academic calendar. After the last day to drop without a grade, instructor approval for drops is required.

- return to top -

Residency Status

The following information is from the Rules and Regulations for Determining Residency Status, published by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Definition of Terms

"Dependent" " means an individual who is claimed as a dependent for federal income tax purposes by the individual's parent or guardian at the time of registration and for the tax year preceding the year in which the individual registers.

Nonresidents

An individual who is under 18 years of age or is a dependent and who is living away from his family and whose family resides in another state or has not resided in Texas for the 12-month period immediately preceding the date of registration shall be classified as a nonresident student.

An individual who is 18 years of age or under or is a dependent and whose family has not resided in Texas for the 12-month period immediately preceding the date of registration shall be classified as a nonresident student regardless of whether he has become the legal ward of residents of Texas or has been adopted by residents of Texas while he is attending an educational institution in Texas, or within a 12-month period before his attendance, or under circumstances indicating that the guardianship or adoption was for the purpose of obtaining status as a resident student.

An individual who is 18 years of age or over who resides out of the state or who has come from outside Texas and who registers in an educational institution before having resided in Texas for a 12-month period shall be classified as a nonresident student.

Residents

An individual who is 18 years of age or under or is a dependent and who, along with the individual's parents, was formerly a resident of this state is entitled to pay tuition at the rate provided for Texas residents if:

1. the individual and the parent who is the individual's managing conservator or who is the individual's joint managing conservator with whom the individual primarily resides change their legal residence from this state to another state; and
2. the other parent who is the individual's possessory conservator or who is the individual's joint managing conservator with whom the individual does not primarily reside continues to reside in this state and is not delinquent on the payment of any child support.

An individual who is 18 years of age or over who has come from outside Texas and who is gainfully employed in Texas for a 12-month period immediately preceding registration in an educational institution shall be classified as a resident student as long as he continues to maintain a legal residence in Texas.

An individual who would have been classified as a resident for the first five of the six years immediately preceding registration, but who resided in another state for all or part of the year immediately preceding registration, shall be classified as a resident student.

An individual who is a resident of Texas who marries a nonresident is entitled to pay the resident tuition fee as long as the individual does not adopt the legal residence of the spouse in another state.

An alien who is living in this country under a visa permitting permanent residence or who has filed with the proper federal immigration authorities a declaration of intention to become a citizen has the same privilege of qualifying for resident status for tuition and fee purposes under the law as a citizen of the U.S.

Nonresident Notification

Individuals who are classified as residents but who become nonresidents by changing legal residence through their own action or by the action of the individuals controlling their domicile are required to notify the Registrar's Office, 128 Welcome Center. Failure to notify the institution constitutes a violation of the oath of residency and shall result in disciplinary action by the institution.

Proper Classification

Students are responsible for registering under the proper residency classification and for providing documentation as required by the public institution. If there is a question regarding classification, individuals are responsible for raising the issue with the appropriate administrative officials prior to registration. If you are a new student or making a new application to the University of Houston, contact the Office of Admissions. Former students should contact the Registrar's Office, 128 Welcome Center, prior to registration.

Oath of Residency

When completing the oath of residency portion of an application for admission process, the student is responsible for registering under the proper residence classification and for providing documentation as required by the public institution of higher education. If there is any question as to the right to classification as a resident of Texas, it is the student's obligation, prior to or at the time of enrollment, to raise the question with the administrative officials of the institution in which enrolling for official determination. Students classified as Texas residents must affirm the correctness of that classification as a part of the admissions procedure. If the student's classification as a resident becomes inappropriate for any reason, it is the responsibility of the student to notify the proper administrative officials at the institution. Failure to notify the institution constitutes a violation of the oath of residency and will result in disciplinary action.

Residency Status Appeal

Students who believe they have been misclassified may, upon written request, have the case reviewed by a residency official in the Office of Admissions (if they are newly admitted) or the Registrar's Office if they are a former student seeking reclassification.

Application for Reclassification

New students (applicants or students in their first semester at the university) classified as nonresidents will retain that status until they make written application for reclassification by completing the proper form and are officially reclassified in writing as residents of Texas by the Office of Admissions, 100 Welcome Center. (Former students should contact the Registrar's Office, 128 Welcome Center.) An application for reclassification must be submitted prior to the official census date of the relevant term.

Reclassification as a Nonresident

Individuals who have been classified as residents of Texas shall be reclassified as nonresident students whenever they shall report, or there is found to exist, circumstances indicating a change in legal residence to another state. If individuals who have been classified as residents of Texas are found to have been erroneously classified, those individuals shall be classified as nonresidents and will be required to pay the difference between the resident and nonresident fees for those semesters in which they were so erroneously classified. In addition, the individuals shall be required to pay back all monies borrowed from the Hinson-Hazelwood College Student Loan Program.

Reclassification as a Resident

Students who have been erroneously classified as nonresidents and subsequently prove to the satisfaction of the appropriate campus officials that they should have been classified as resident students will be reclassified as residents and will be entitled to a refund of the difference between the resident and nonresident fees for the semesters in which they were erroneously classified as nonresidents. Normally the refunds must be requested and substantiated during the semester in which the tuition and fees were paid.

Penalties

Statute: Section 54.053. The governing board of each institution required by this act to charge a nonresident tuition or registration fee is subject to the rules, regulations, and interpretations issued by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for the administration of the nonresident tuition provisions of this act. The rules, regulations, and interpretations promulgated by the Coordinating Board shall be furnished to the presidents or administrative heads of all Texas public senior and junior colleges and universities.

Section 54.061. The governing board of an institution of higher education may assess and collect from each nonresident student who fails to comply with the rules and regulations of the boards concerning nonresident fees a penalty not to exceed $10 a semester.

If students have obtained residence classification by virtue of deliberate concealment of facts, or misrepresentation of facts, they may be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, in accordance with the rules and regulations that may be adopted by the governing boards of the respective institution of higher learning.

- return to top -

Last updated:
Thursday, May 1, 2008 - 03:40 PM

For applications and admissions information:
Office of Admissions

Comments to UH Academics

The University of Houston Undergraduate Studies Catalog Online
© Copyright 2008, University of Houston
Produced by the Office of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
Undergraduate Catalog Online Disclaimer