Stephen F. Austin State University

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Small-Size Classes (A-46)

1. This policy applies to courses whose primary mode of instruction is lecture, laboratory, or seminar.

2. Small-size classes are undergraduate classes with less than 10 registered students and graduate classes with less than 5 registered students. Minimum enrollment requirements for off-campus, face to face courses are addressed in Policy A-34: Off-Campus Courses.

3. No small-size classes shall be offered in any term except as authorized by the Board of Regents of Stephen F. Austin State University.

4. Only small-size classes that meet one or more of the following requirements may be authorized to be taught:

   1. A course required for graduation. (The course is not offered each semester or term, and if cancelled may affect the date of graduation of those enrolled.)

   2. A course required of majors in this field that should be completed in a given semester (term) to keep proper sequence in courses.

   3. A course in a newly established degree program, concentration, or support area.

   4. Interdepartmental (cross-listed) courses taught as a single class by the same faculty at the same station, provided that the combined courses do not constitute a small class.

   5. The first time offering of a course.

   6. A course the class size of which is limited by accreditation or state licensing standards.

   7. A course the class size of which is limited by availability of laboratory or clinical facilities.

   8. A class voluntarily offered by a faculty member in excess of the institutional teaching load requirement and for which the faculty member receives no additional compensation.

5. A small-size class of the same course may not be offered in consecutive semesters or summer terms.

6. The University shall file with the Coordinating Board through its uniform reporting system a small class report as required by state law or agency regulations.

1. Department Chair submits form to Dean requesting approval to offer small-size class(es).

2. Dean approves/disapproves request and forwards form to the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs.

3. Provost/Vice President approves/disapproves and sends copies to the Dean and the Registrar.

4. Provost/Vice President submits report of small-size classes to the Board of Regents for final approval.