Frequently Asked Questions
Graduation
Applying for Graduation
Once you earn 80 credits, PAWS will prompt you to apply for graduation. Apply at least one year in advance. If you need to apply late or update your information, complete the Undergraduate Change in Graduation Information form.
- Planning to graduate this semester but haven't applied
- Need to update your graduation information
Checking Graduation Progress
View your Academic Requirement Report in PAWS to track if you are on track for graduation.
Navigate: Student Center > Degree Progress > My Academic Requirements
Technology Fluency Requirement
Students must demonstrate technology fluency by passing the BITS test or completing an approved course with a grade of "C" or higher. Courses include: ART 207, CHEM 304, COSC 100/110/101/220, EDUC 325, ENES 100, ENGL 438, GEOG 275, HPED 310, MCOM 205, MUSC 103, NURS 404. Departmental exams are also available for COSC 100, 101, and GEOG 275.
Contact the Computer Science Department at 301-687-4364 to schedule the BITS test.
Credits & Minors
- Credits from DVMT 095/099 do not count toward the 120-hour graduation requirement.
- Minors must be completed before or at the same time as graduation.
Commencement Exceptions
Students completing remaining coursework (e.g., internships, field experience, capstones, or practicums) in summer or January may request an exception to participate in commencement. Submit a written request to the Registrar at least four weeks prior to the ceremony. Eligibility requires a 2.0 cumulative GPA and completion enrollment for remaining coursework.
Honors Recognition
Complete at least 50 credits at Frostburg State University with the following GPA ranges:
- Cum Laude: 3.400–3.649
- Magna Cum Laude: 3.650–3.899
- Summa Cum Laude: 3.900–4.000
Honors are based on GPA at the beginning of your last semester.
Authorization for Attendance at Another Institution
Complete the Authorization Form before taking any course off campus. Transfer limits: 70 credits from two-year institutions or 90 total credits. Submit official transcripts to receive credit.
Transfer credits taken before FSU: contact Admissions. Credits taken during FSU: contact the Registrar and submit the authorization form and official transcripts.
General Education Program (GEP)
A grade of "C" or better is required for Core Skills. A "D" is acceptable for Modes of Inquiry courses. Core Skills completed elsewhere with CS, D, F, FX, or WF grades do not need to be repeated at FSU.
Miscellaneous Policies
- Course Registration: Meet with your advisor and ensure registration activation. Holds may prevent registration; check PAWS under "Holds."
- Residency: Determined by Admissions for new students and Registrar for enrolled students. Petition forms are available here.
- Releasing Student Information: Use PAWS: Student Center > Academic Records > Release of Information.
- Restricting Directory Information: Use PAWS: Student Center > Personal Information > FERPA Restrictions > Edit FERPA/Directory Restrictions.
