The University welcomes out-of-state students as educational programs and resources permit. The University retains the right to limit the number of students and to establish requirements which will insure their high scholastic aptitude.
Admission to the School of Law is administered by the School of Law, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, Montana 59812 (406) 243-4311. Requirements for admission are detailed in the Law School Bulletin.
Admission to graduate degree programs is administered by the Graduate School, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, Montana 59812 (406) 243-2572. Requirements for admission are detailed in the Graduate School Catalog.
Admission to bachelor degree programs, associate of arts, undergraduate nondegree status and graduate nondegree status is administered by Admissions & New Student Services, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, Montana 59812 (406) 243-6266.
Admission to associate of applied science programs, certificate programs and nondegree status is administered by the College of Technology of The University of Montana-Missoula 909 South Avenue West, Missoula, Montana 59801 (406) 243-7882 (in Montana, 1-800-542-6882).
The requirements for admission to these statuses are described below. Please note that achievement of a U.S. high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum level of academic preparation required for admission to the University. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance or refusal as soon as possible after necessary credentials have been received.
Bachelor and Associate of Arts Admission
Some departments reserve the right to set admission standards for their undergraduate programs which differ from the general University requirements listed here. Applicants to these programs who meet general University requirements for admission to the undergraduate degree status will be admitted to the appropriate premajor program by Admissions & New Student Services. Application to the undergraduate major program is an additional, separate process administered by the department and arranged for by the student seeking acceptance.
Entering Freshmen
Academic Eligibility
Admission standards are as follows for both in-state and out-of-state high school graduates. Students who do not meet the admission standards may have several other admission options from which to choose. Please contact Admissions & New Student Services for information. These admission requirements are subject to change.
The following categories of students are exempt from 2 and 3 below:
a. Non-traditional freshmen (those students who do not enter college for a period of at least three years from the date of high school graduation or from the date they would have graduated from high school see GED under General Information). The admission requirements for non-traditional students are currently under review.
b. GED freshmen (those students who pass the GED and enter college within three years of the date they would have graduated from high school).
c. Part-time students (those taking 7 credits or fewer).
d. Summer only students.
All other categories of students must meet 1, 2 and 3 below:
1. Graduation from a state accredited high school.
2. 2.5 cumulative grade average (on a 0-4 scale) or 22 composite on the enhanced ACT or 920 (1030 for test dates beginning April 1995) combined verbal/math on SAT, or upper half of graduating class.
3.Successful completion of the College Preparatory Program (all courses are subject to Office of Public Instruction guidelines):
Four years of English.
Three years of math, including Algebra I, Geometry and Algebra II (or the sequential content equivalent of these courses). Students are encouraged to take a math course in their senior year.
Three years of social studies, including global studies (i.e., world history or world geography), American history and government or another third year course.
Two years of laboratory science. One year must be earth science, biology, chemistry, or physics; the other year can be one of those sciences or another approved college prep laboratory science.
Two years chosen from the following: foreign language (preferably two years), computer science, visual and performing arts, or vocational education units.
Questions concerning admission requirements may be directed to Admissions & New Student Services, (406) 243-6266.
How to Apply
Receipt in Admissions & New Student Services of the credentials described below constitutes a complete application for admission:
1. Application form. The application form may be obtained by contacting the Admissions & New Student Services, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, MT 59812 (406) 243-6266. It should be completed, signed and returned.
2. $30 application fee. This non-refundable fee is payable once at the undergraduate level provided payment is followed by enrollment. In all other cases, record of payment will remain on file for one year. An application cannot be considered prior to payment of this fee. The University of Montana-Missoula waives the application fee for students who have attended an affiliate campus: Montana Tech and the Division of Technology, Helena College of Technology, and Western Montana College.
3. Test scores. Official ACT or SAT results should be sent directly from the testing company.
4. High School Student Self Report form. This form is part of the standard application form and is the basis for the initial admission decision.
5. Final high school transcript with graduation date. Information provided on the self-report form will be verified from this transcript.
6. Medical History Record. All students are required to submit a completed Medical History Record to the Student Health Service prior to registration. It is important that the immunization information be complete and accurate and validated by a health official.
When to Apply
Applications are processed on a rolling space available basis. A student must be admitted to The University of Montana-Missoula prior to attending an orientation program. Details about new student orientation for any particular semester can be obtained from Admissions an New Student Services.
Transfer Students
Academic Eligibility
Any undergraduate degree transfer applicant who has attempted fewer than twelve college level credits must meet the academic eligibility requirements for freshmen mentioned above. Other undergraduate degree applicants who have attempted twelve or more college level credits must meet the academic eligibility requirements described here.
Applicants must present a 2.00 (C) cumulative grade average (on a 0-4 scale) for all college level work attempted to be eligible for admission.
Admissions & New Student Services determines whether or not transfer courses are college level, the appropriate grading and credit conversions on transfer work, and the applicability of transfer credit toward general education, upper division, and other university requirements. See Transfer Evaluations under General Information in this section for details.
How to Apply
Receipt of the following credentials in Admissions & New Student Services constitutes a complete application for admission:
1. Application form. The application form may be obtained by contacting Admissions & New Student Services, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, Montana 59812 (406) 243-6266. It should be completed, signed and returned.
2. $30.00 application fee. This non-refundable fee is payable once at the undergraduate level provided payment is followed by enrollment. In all other cases, record of payment will remain on file for one year. An application cannot be considered prior to payment of this fee. The University of Montana-Missoula waives the application fee for students who have attended an affiliate campus: Montana Tech and the Division of Technology, Helena College of Technology, and Western Montana College.
3. Official college/university transcripts. The student must supply a complete official transcript from each regionally accredited college or university attended, and from each college or university attended holding candidate status for regional accreditation. Applications from students who are enrolled at the transfer school while applying to UM will be considered for admission based on incomplete official transcripts showing all academic work completed and posted to date. The complete official transcript must be on file before the second registration at UM. Academic eligibility will be reviewed upon receipt of the complete transcript.
4. Medical History Record. All students are required to submit a completed Medical History Record to the Student Health Service prior to registration. It is especially important that the immunization record be complete and accurate and validated by a health official.
When to Apply
March 1 is the application priority deadline for autumn semester. The application priority deadline for spring semester is November 15. Undergraduate applications and required credentials must be postmarked by these dates. Applications postmarked or completed after priority deadline dates will be processed on a space available basis. A student must be admitted to The University of Montana-Missoula prior to attending an orientation program. Details about new student orientation for any particular semester can be obtained from Admissions & New Student Services.
Associate of Applied Science and Certificate Admission
The associate of applied science and certificate programs in the College of Technology are designed to lead an individual directly to employment in a specific career. In some instances, particularly in allied health, the degree is a prerequisite for taking a licensing examination. The A.A.S. is not typically considered a transfer degree, although such arrangements do exist in some baccalaureate degree granting institutions.
Academic Eligibility
To be eligible for admission, students must have graduated from an accredited high school or passed the GED. Students who have been offered admission to the College of Technology must confirm the intent to enroll by taking the placement test within a prescribed period. Students admitted to the College of Technology who wish to enroll in courses at the University of Montana-Missoula which are outside the College of Technology must meet the associate of arts and bachelor admission requirements.
How to Apply
Receipt at the College of Technology of the credentials described below constitutes a complete application for admission:
1. Application form. The uniform application for admission may be obtained by contacting the College of Technology (406-243-7882 or in Montana 1-800-542-6882) The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, MT 59801. It should be completed, signed and returned.
2. $30 application fee. This non-refundable application fee is payable once at the undergraduate level provided payment is followed by enrollment. In all other cases, record of payment will remain on file for one year. The University of Montana-Missoula waives the application fee for students who have attended an affiliate campus: Montana Tech and the Division of Technology, Helena College of Technology, and Western Montana College.
3. Test scores. Scores from the placement test must be provided before registration.
4. Proof of high school graduation/GED. An official high school transcript with graduation date, high school diploma or GED score report must be sent to the College of Technology.
5. Medical History Record. All students are sent and required to return a completed Medical History Record to the Student Health Service prior to registration. It is important that the immunization information be complete, accurate and validated by a health official. Some health-related programs have additional requirements. Refer to the College of Technology section of this catalog. See index.
When to Apply
Applications are accepted on a first come, first served basis until programs are filled. Applications are accepted up to one year in advance of the beginning of the first semester of enrollment. In programs with limited enrollment, full-time students are given preference for admission. A new student orientation program schedule is sent to all accepted applicants.
International
The University of Montana-Missoula Admissions & New Student Services Office or the College of Technology will issue the Immigration Form I-20 AB or I-20M-N (necessary for obtaining an F-1 or M-1 student visa) to international applicants who are academically eligible for the undergraduate degree status (see above) and who supply complete credentials as described below. In certain situations an international applicant may not need an I-20; in these cases, Admissions & New Student Services should be contacted for individual advice regarding admission status, academic eligibility, and admission requirements. International students are not required to submit ACT or SAT scores.
How to Apply/International
Receipt of the following credentials in Admissions & New Student Services or the College of Technology constitutes a complete international application for admission:
1. International application form. This form can be obtained by contacting Admissions & New Student Services, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, Montana 59812 (406) 243-6266. It should be completed, signed and returned.
2. $30.00 application fee. This non-refundable fee is payable once at the undergraduate level when payment is followed by enrollment. In all other cases record of payment will remain on file for one year. Payment of this fee is expected prior to consideration of the application. If this is not possible, alternative arrangements must be made. The University of Montana-Missoula waives the application fee for students who have attended an affiliate campus: Montana Tech and the Division of Technology, Helena College of Technology, and Western Montana College.
3. Academic Credentials
A. Non-U.S.
(1) Certified copies of non-U.S. academic credentials beginning with secondary school and continuing through the highest level of achievement. (College of Technology applicants submit secondary school credential only.)
(2) A detailed course by course evaluation of non-U.S. academic credentials from an approved independent evaluations service (except College of Technology applicants). Contact Admissions & New Student Services for information about making these arrangements (allow 4-8 weeks). Please Note: this evaluation is used as a recommendation in determining academic eligibility and transfer credit where appropriate. Transfer credit granted by The University of Montana-Missoula is not necessarily transferable to other colleges and universities. The reasonable fee for this evaluation will be reimbursed to the enrolled student upon request.
B. U.S.
Complete official transcripts showing all U.S. high school and college/university attendance. (College of Technology applicants submit secondary school credentials only.)
4. Statement of Financial Support
The applicant must submit a certified statement from his/her bank or sponsor verifying that adequate financial resources are available to pay for the student's estimated expenses for the first year (tuition, fees, room, board, miscellaneous expenses, student health insurance, expenses of dependents, etc.). This amount is adjusted annually and is available by contacting Admission & New Student Services.
5. English Report
Students from countries other than Australia, New Zealand, Canada or the United Kingdom must give evidence of proficiency in English. Students should arrange to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A passing score on that examination is 500. However, students who score less than 580 will be required to take English as a second language courses according to the following schedule (except College of Technology students):
500-525 one-half the normal academic load plus ENSL/LING 250: English for Foreign Students: Intermediate. Students in mathematics, computer science, and science fields that depend heavily on laboratory work may enroll up to a three-fourths academic load.
525-580 three-fourths normal academic load plus ENSL/LING 450: English for Foreign Students: Advanced.
A student may petition the Supervisor of the English as a Second Language Program to waive this requirement, if the student has the support of his or her department or program chair.
Any questions concerning the evidence of proficiency in English should be directed to Admissions & New Student Services. Requests for information on TOEFL test procedures and registration should be directed to:
Test of English as a Foreign Language, P.O. Box 899, Princeton, New Jersey 08540
When the student arranges to take the TOEFL test, he or she should request that examination results be sent directly to Admissions & New Student Services or the College of Technology, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, Montana 59812. (Code N. 4489-00)
Students whose TOEFL score is below 500 and is above 400 may apply to the English Language Institute where they will study English 18 hours a week. For application forms, write: English Language Institute, c/o The Linguistics Program, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, MT 59812. Admission to the English Language Institute does not constitute admission to the University programs or courses.
6. Medical History Record-International. All students are required to submit a completed Medical History Record for international students to the Student Health Service prior to registration. It is required that the immunization record (for measles, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, polio, and skin testing for tuberculosis) be complete, accurate, and validated by a physician.
7. Visa Clearance and Advisor's Recommendation Form. F-1 and M-1 students transferring from another college or university in the U.S. must have this form completed by the foreign student advisor of that school and returned to the UM Admissions & New Student Services Office or the College of Technology.
When to Apply
March 1 is the application priority deadline for autumn semester. Undergraduate applications and required credentials must be postmarked by March 1. The application priority deadline for spring semester is November 15. Undergraduate applications and required credentials must be postmarked by these dates. Applications postmarked or completed after these deadline dates will be processed on a space available basis. Applications submitted to the College of Technology are considered on a first-coe, first-served basis. In cases of enrollment limitations in the College programs, preference is given to full-time students.
Undergraduate Nondegree Status
An applicant who wishes to pursue studies for his or her personal growth and who does not wish to work toward a formal degree at The University of Montana-Missoula may apply as an undergraduate nondegree student. Each applicant should understand that acceptance to this category does not constitute acceptance into a degree granting program. Applicants admitted as undergraduate nondegree students usually are not eligible for financial aid.
Academic Eligibility
Each applicant must certify on the application form that he or she has graduated from a high school that is fully accredited by its state department of education, or has passed the General Educational Development test with a standard score of 35 or above on each test and an average standard score of 45 or above on all five tests.
Except in the College of Technology, a maximum of 30 semester credits earned as a nondegree student will be applied to an undergraduate degree at The University of Montana-Missoula if the applicant applies and is accepted to a degree program. Whether credits taken in the College of Technology as a nondegree student may apply to a particular degree program is dependent on the courses taken and the degree program to which the student may be admitted. This category is not open to students currently on academic suspension from The University of Montana-Missoula. Freshman (non-transfer) applicants may not enter in this status unless they are accepted for College of Technology courses only.
If a person is admitted as an undergraduate nondegree student and later wishes to change to a degree program, he or she will be required to file an application for readmission available from Admissions & New Student Services, the College of Technology, or the Registrar's Office, furnish the required supporting credentials and meet the regular admissions requirements for the intended program.
How to Apply
Receipt of the following credentials in Admissions & New Student Services or the College of Technology constitutes a complete application for admission to the undergraduate nondegree status:
1. Application form. The application form may be obtained from the Office of New Student Services, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, Montana 59812 (406) 243-6266 or the College of Technology (406) 243-7882. It should be completed, signed, and returned.
2. $30.00 application fee. This non-refundable fee is payable once at the undergraduate level provided payment is followed by enrollment. In all other cases, record of payment will remain on file for one year. An application cannot be considered prior to payment of this fee. The University of Montana-Missoula waives the application fee for students who have attended an affiliate campus: Montana Tech and the Division of Technology, Helena College of Technology, and Western Montana College.
3. Medical History Record. All applicants are required to submit a completed Medical History Record to the Student Health Service prior to registration. This form will be sent to students upon receipt of their application for admission. It is especially iportant that the immunization record be complete and accurate and validated by a health official.
When to Apply
March 1 is the application priority deadline for autumn semester. The application priority deadline for spring semester is November 15. Applications and application fee must be postmarked by these dates. Applications postmarked or completed after these deadline dates will be processed on a space available basis. In the College of Technology, all nondegree applications are processed on a space available basis.
Graduate Nondegree Status
Applicants having a baccalaureate degree who do not desire a graduate degree or who have not yet been accepted by the Graduate School into a graduate degree program may enroll as graduate nondegree students. (Students wishing to be admitted to a graduate degree program must apply for admission through the Graduate School, furnish the required supporting credentials and meet all regular admission requirements of the Graduate School.)
Graduate nondegree students may take courses for either graduate or undergraduate credit, as defined in the catalog. Graduate credit will be assigned automatically unless a request for undergraduate credit is submitted to the Graduate School by the fifth week of the semester. Graduate credits earned will not necessarily be applied toward graduate degree requirements if and when an individual is admitted to a graduate degree program.
There is a limit of nine graduate credits (or the credits earned during a single semester, whichever is more) for courses taken while in the graduate nondegree status which might later be applied toward an advanced degree at the University. These credits must be requested by petition to the graduate dean and require the approval of the program chair to which the individual is seeking graduate degree admission.
Graduate nondegree students are urged to seek advice from the Graduate School if they have any intention of pursuing a graduate degree program. Applicants admitted as graduate nondegree students will not be eligible for financial aid. Graduate nondegree students are assessed the graduate level surcharge of allcredits taken.
Academic Eligibility
Applicants must have earned a baccalaureate degree (or higher degree) from a regionally accredited college or university prior to enrollment in the graduate nondegree status at UM.
How to Apply
Receipt of the following credentials in Admissions & New Student Services constitutes a complete application to the graduate nondegree status:
1. Application form. A completed application form may be obtained by contacting Admissions & New Student Services, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, Montana 59812 (406) 243-6266. It should be completed, signed and returned.
2. $30.00 application fee. This non-refundable fee is payable once at the graduate levl provided payment is followed by enrollment. In all other cases, record of payment will remain on file for one year. An application cannot be considered prior to payment of this fee. The University of Montana-Missoula waives the application fee for students who have attended an affiliate campus: Montana Tech and the Division of Technology, Helena College of Technology, and Western Montana College.
3. Medical History Record. All applicants are required to submit a completed Medical History Record to the Student Health Service prior to registration. It is especially important that the immunization record be complete and accurate and validated by a health official.
When to Apply
March 1 is the application priority deadline for autumn semester. The application priority deadline for spring semester is November 15. Graduate nondegree applications and required credentials must be postmarked by these dates. Applications postmarked or completed after these deadline dates will be processed on a space available basis.
Former University of Montana-Missoula Students - Readmission
Students wishing to reenroll at the College of Technology must apply for readmission if they have interrupted their attendance by a semester or more (except summer). Other students previously enrolled at The University of Montana-Missoula who have interrupted their enrollment for one year or more must submit an application for readmission. Applications for readmission may be obtained from the Registrar's office. Former students applying for a change in their admission status (undergraduate degree, undergraduate nondegree, graduate nondegree) via the readmission process are subject to the admission requirements described above. Former undergraduate degree students who do not plan to change their status and who have attended another college/university since attending The University of Montana-Missoula, even if their absence from UM has been less than one year in duration, also must apply for readmission.
Former students who have not been enrolled for more than twelve months preceding their return to the University must submit a new Medical History Report to the Student Health Service. This form will be sent to former students upon receipt of their application.
There is a $30.00 non-refundable application fee. Former students are not required to submit this fee unless they are changing from an undergraduate status to a graduate status or vice versa. This fee is payable once at the graduate level and once at the undergraduate level provided payment is followed by enrollment.
General Information
Achievement Tests (ACT/SAT)
The results of the American College Test (ACT) or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) must be requested directly from the testing company. They are used for admission and academic advising, for helping to select students with high academic potential who may be seeking scholarships and for placement into classes. All new undergraduate degree students, both freshmen and transfers, who have attempted or earned fewer than 12 college level credits must take the ACT or the SAT unless entering the College of Technology. Arrangements should be made to take the test in October or December of the year preceding entrance to the University. Complete information and registration forms are sent to all high school counselors well in advance of each test date. Information may also be obtained from the American College Testing Program, P.O. Box 168, Iowa City, Iowa 52240 or the College Board ATP, Box 592, Princeton, New Jersey 08540.
The examination must be completed no later than December of the year before entrance if the student wishes to be considered for scholarships. Students must have taken the test in order to be considered for admission. Students who have a handicap which would hamper them in taking the ACT or SAT test will need to make special arrangements to take the test.
If the high school graduation date is more than three years prior to the term in which the student intends to enroll, an ACT or SAT score is not required but is strongly encouraged.
Advanced Placement (AP) Program/College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
College credit may be granted based on achievement in college-level high school courses, provided the University has received satisfactory scores from the College Entrance Examination Board on the Advanced Placement Examinations. Credit for specific examinations is granted subject to approval of the academic department which offers similar courses at the University. Therefore, it should not be assumed that credit granted by other colleges/universities will be allowed by UM. Specific questions regarding the Advanced Placement Program should be directed to Admissions & New Student Services. (See University policy following.)
The University of Montana-Missoula recognizes there are great individual differences in the academic preparation and background of students because of the variety of learning opportunities afforded by books, television, travel and work experience. In an effort to give credit for learning that takes place outside of the university classroom The University of Montana-Missoula grants credit for some of the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests. The purpose of this program is to allow students to take examinations to test their achievement and determine if their proficiency is equivalent to a college-level course in various academic fields. Credit for specific examinations is granted subject to approval of the appropriate academic department at the University. Therefore, it should not be assumed that credit granted by other colleges/universities will be allowed by UM. Details about CLEP can be obtained from the Clinical Psychology Center.
University policy for awarding credit on the basis of AP/CLEP is as follows:
1. Students must be enrolled in or applying to the undergraduate degree status.
2. Grades of Pass will be recorded for all credits granted.
3. There is no limit to the number of credits that may be awarded.
4. Credits may be used toward general education requirements. Appropriate designations will be made by Admissions & New Student Services.
5. The applicability of credits granted toward major requirements will be determined by the student's academic department.
Credit for Military Service and Schooling
The University may grant elective credit for courses completed in military service schools and training provided such credit is baccalaureate level as recommended by the American Council on Education in "A Guide to Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services". Credit may be granted toward College of Technology programs if appropriate to the program requirements. Specific questions regarding credit for military service schools should be directed to Admissions & New Student Services. Refer to the credit maximums section of this catalog.
Credit for Training Programs
The University may grant elective credit for courses completed in training programs, provided such credit is baccalaureate level as recommended by the American Council on Education in "The National Guide to Educational Credits for Training Programs". Credit may be granted toward College of Technology programs if appropriate to the program requirements. Specific questions regarding credit for training programs should be directed to Admissions & New Student Services. Refer to the credit maximums sections of this catalog.
Foreign Language Placement
See the Academic Policies and Procedures section of this catalog for information on placement testing for foreign languages. Transfer credit is not granted for high school foreign languages.
General Education Requirement
Accepted transfer courses apply toward The University of Montana-Missoula General Education requirements as assigned by Admissions & New Student Services.
Transfer students who submit all credentials on time and who re admitted to an undergraduate degree program will receive an evaluation of their work showing the distribution of courses toward he general education requirements; this evaluation will be sent with the acceptance letter. It is important that a student monitor his/her program with the help of an academic advisor. Refer to the General Education Requirements section of this catalog for details.
Students who have earned a baccalaureate or higher degree are considered to have met the general education requirement.
A related studies requirement is included in College of Technology programs.
GED Admissions
A person who is not a graduate from an accredited high school may be eligible for admission by earning passing scores on the General Educational Development (GED) tests. Passing scores are a minimum score of 35 on each test and an average score of 45. These minimums are under review. For additional information and test center locations in Montana, contact the Office of Public Instruction, Helena, MT 59601.
Except in the College of Technology, students whose high school graduation would have been within three years of application will be admitted as "Conditional Freshmen". Conditional freshmen must complete a prescribed program of study during the first term of enrollment. Conditional freshmen who complete the prescribed courses without being placed on probation are to be removed from conditional status the subsequent term.
Health and Immunization Requirements
Health Record: Each student admitted to the University is required to submit a completed Medical History Record. This self-reported medical history is designed to help te Student Health Services provide the best possible care to students. The form should be completed as soon as possible and must be received prior to registration.
Immunization Requirements:Montana state law requires all post secondary students provide proof of immunization which must be validated (signed) by a health care provider or a copy of an official immunization record. The requirements are explained and need to be recorded on the Medical History Record.
Registration cannot be completed without this documentation. This form is sent with the admission acceptance letter.
High School Pilot Program
High school students can enroll in University classes under this program. High school students earn college credit, receive an early introduction to University opportunities and are able to develop skills and knowledge beyond the high school level. For more information, contact the Coordinator of the High School Pilot Program, Admissions & New Student Services Office, Lodge 222, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, MT 59812 or phone (406)-243-4255. For opportunities in the College of Technology, phone (406) 542-6882.
International Student Exchange Program (ISEP)
For information on the International Student Exchange Program, contact the International Programs Office, University Hall 022, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, MT 59812 or phone (406) 243-2288.
National Student Exchange (NSE)
The University of Montana-Missoula participates in the National Student Exchange (NSE) program with 80 other state colleges and universities. This program offers students the opportunity to become better acquainted with different social and educational patterns in other areas of the United States. NSE encourages students to experience new life and learning styles, appreciate differing cultural perspectives, learn more about themselves and others and broaden their educational backgrounds through specialized courses or unique programs which may not be available on the home campus. The qualified sophomore or junior year student may travel to another state and participate in the exchange program for up to one academic year while continuing to pay in-state (resident) fees. For more information, contact the Coordinator of the National Student Exchange Program, Admissions & New Student Services, Lodge 101, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, MT 59812 or phone (406) 243-6266.
Special Admission Committee
A special admission committee reviews applications from students who do not meet the regular admission standards.
Enrollment Limitation
The University of Montana-Missoula may deny or condition admission, readmission, or continuing enrollment of any individual who, in the judgment of the University, presents an unreasonable risk to the safety and welfare of the campus and persons thereon. In making such judgment, the University may, among other things, take into account the individual's history and experience relative to (a) violence and destructive tendencies, (b) behavior on other college campuses, and (c) any rehabilitative therapy the individual may have undergone.
Transfer Credentials
The kinds of credentials evaluated by Admissions & New Student Services for possible transfer credits fall into two categories, required and optional.
Required Credentials - UM requires that these credentials be submitted for evaluation at the time of application to associate of arts or bachelor programs. They consist of official transcripts from regionally accredited colleges and universities, from colleges and universities that are candidates for regional accreditation, and foreign colleges and universities. Coursework from other schools is not evaluated unless an individual exception is requested by a student and approved by a committee composed of the Academic Vice President, Admissions & New Student Services Director and Registrar.
Optional Credentials - Although students are not required to submit these records, Admissions & New Student Services or the College of Technology will evaluate them any time during enrollment in the undergraduate degree status. They consist of official records from nontraditional sources including the Advance Placement Program, the College Level Examination Program, military service records and records from certain training programs (see below). In the College of Technology, credentials from regionally accredited colleges and universities or colleges and universities that are candidates for regional accreditation are optional.
Transfer Evaluations
Evaluations of transfer records are done by Admissions & New Student Services for students who are applying to or enrolled in a bachelor or associate of arts program. An Evaluation of Transfer Records is included in the acceptance letter packet and in the advising materials distributed during orientation. It is recommended that students provide their advisors with transfer course descriptions.
As part of an evaluation, Admissions & New Student Services reviews all academic work for possible repeated courses and assigns courses to the appropriate UM General Education areas. Credit for courses judged by Admissions & New Student Services to be of college level will be applied toward the free elective requirements of the associate and baccalaureate degrees. The evaluation also designates courses applicable toward the 39 credit Upper Division requirement. Accepted credits are subject to restrictions noted in the Credit Maximums presented later in the section under Degree Requirements. These and other limitations are explained in that section. The academic department is authorized to determine the applicability of accepted credit toward major department requirements. Students are required to seek the advice of their departmental advisors prior to registration each term.
Students in the College of Technology may submit official transcripts for evaluation if they feel a course or courses taken at another institution may substitute for specific College of Technology courses. The evaluation will be done by the associate dean and the chair of the department of the equivalent course. Courses in which a grade lower than "C" was earned, internship, clinical experience, and some laboratory courses will not be considered for transfer credit.
Transfer Guides
The UM Admissions & New Student Services Office publishes guides to the evaluation of transfer courses from various two and four year colleges in Montana, Idaho and Wyoming. These guides are available at the transfer schools and from Admissions & New Student Services, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, MT 59812.
Validation Required Credit
The Montana University System Board of Regents has stipulated that college level credit from colleges and universities having candidacy status in a regional accrediting association can be accepted only after the student has successfully completed twenty (20) semester credits at the receiving institution. At UM, these credits are termed "validation required" (VR) credits. As students successfully complete twenty credits at UM, the VR credit is released by the UM Registrar and added to the undergraduate credits.
Vocational-Technical Credit
Courses from regionally accredited colleges which are intended for use exclusively in terminal, non-transfer programs (associate of applied science or certificate programs) are termed vocational-technical. Transfer credit toward an A.A. or baccalaureate program is not accepted for vocational-technical courses, and vocational- technical courses are not used to determine academic eligibility for admission to these programs at UM. Vocational-technical courses will appear on the UM permanent record designated by "VT". Although credits for vocational-technical courses are not accepted in transfer, except in the College of Technology the vocational-technical petition process enables a student's UM major department to grant up to 10 semester credits based on vocational-technical experiences which enhance the major program.
To receive a vocational-technical credit grant, a student may petition her or his major department by securing the petition form from the Registrar's Office. This form, together with a copy of The University of Montana-Missoula permanent record and a copy of the transfer institution's catalog, should be presented to the department chair of the student's major. The department chair will return the form to the Registrar's Office indicating how many, if any, credits may be applied toward the degree. This completed form is an agreement between the institution and the student that the credits apply toward graduation requirements provided the student retains his or her major in the same field. Should the student elect to change majors, the same procedure must be followed with the new department chair.
This petition process may be used by students wishing to count up to 10 semester credits in technical courses taken from the College of Technology to an associate of arts or baccalaureate degree program. Technical courses are designated by a course number suffix of "T".
Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education
The Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education's Professional Student Exchange Program enables students in thirteen western states to enroll in out-of-state professional programs when those fields of study are not available in their home states. Exchange students receive preference in admission. They pay reduced level of tuition for most students, resident tuition in public institutions and approximately one-third the standard tuition at private schools. The home state pays a support fee to the admitting schools, to help cover the cost of students' education for the "normal" length of the program. Years shown in the parentheses following the available fields are the normal maximum for WICHE support. Available fields are architecture (three academic years), dentistry (four academic years), law (three academic years), library studies (graduate; varies), maritime technology (four academic years), nursing (graduate; two academic years), occupational therapy (two years), optometry (four academic years), osteopathic medicine (four academic years), pharmacy (varies), physical therapy (two years), podiatry (four academic years), public health (two academic years), ad veterinary medicine (four academic years). For more information about the Professional Student Exchange Program, contact Admissions & New Student Services, Lodge 101.
Western Montana College/The University of Montana
Because some students would benefit from the special advantages offered by both Western Montana College and The University of Montana-Missoula, the two schools are cooperating in a unique effort "Integrated Programs". Under these programs a student may take his or her first year or two of courses at Western and transfer to the University.
Western Undergraduate Exchange
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program at The University of Montana-Missoula is administered as a scholarship through The University of Montana-Missoula Scholarship Program. Requirements of The University of Montana-Missoula Scholarship program apply to WUE Scholarship applicants, with the following exceptions or restrictions:
1. To apply for the WUE Scholarship, applicants must submit a signed WUE Scholarship Supplemental Application form along with a complete University of Montana-Missoula General Scholarship Application and credentials to the Scholarship Coordinator, Financial Aid Office, The University of Montana-Missoula, Missoula, MT 59812. Complete materials must be received by February 1.
2. Amount of the WUE Scholarship is the difference between out-of-state fees and 150% of in-state fees.
3. New University of Montana-Missoula students only are eligible to apply for the WUE Scholarship.
4. State of legal residence for the applicant must be one of the WUE participating states. The states are Alaska, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah and Wyoming.
5. Declared major field of study for the applicant must be one of those approved for WUE by the Montana University System Board of Regents. The approved majors are Anthropology, Art (BFA), Classics, Economics, Forestry, Geography, Geology, Journalism (including Radio-TV), Latin, Music, (BM), Philosophy or Theatre (BFA).
6. Duration of the WUE scholarship, once awarded, extends through four full calendar years or completion of the bachelor's degree, whichever is first, provided:
a) major field of study does not change,
b) state of legal residence does not change and
c) all other criteria of the UM Scholarship program are met, including maintenance of a cumulative UM gpa of 3.40 or above.
d) WUE students who interrupt their UM attendance by 12 months or more lose their WUE status.
7. Notice: Time as a WUE Scholarship recipient cannot be used toward fulfilling in-state residency requirements for fee purposes at any unit of the Montana University System. Once declined, the WUE scholarship will not be offered again.
8. Spring Semester WUE Scholarship applications may be considered by the Scholarship Coordinator on a space available basis.
9. Alternative measures of exceptional ability may be presented. In order to encompass creative talent, recognize special circumstances and promote cultural diversity, applicants who do not meet the stated requirements are encouraged to provide other measures of exceptional ability along with the regular application materials.
Student Conduct Code
The Student Conduct Code, embodying the ideals of academic honesty, integrity, human rights and responsible citizenship, governs all student conduct at the University. Student enrollment presupposes a commitment to the principles and policies embodied in this Code.
The Student Conduct Code sets forth University jurisdiction, student rights, standards of academic and general student conduct, disciplinary sanctions for breach of the standards of student conduct and procedures to be followed in adjudicating charges of both academic and general misconduct.
The Dean of Students is responsible for procedural administration of the Student Conduct Code for all general conduct. The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs is responsible for all academic conduct.
The Student Conduct Code is set forth in a separately printed handbook, copies of which may
be
obtained from the Office of the Dean of Students, the Provost and Vice President for Academic
Affairs, or ASUM (The Associated Students of The University of Montana-Missoula).