Can a College keep you from graduating by not offereing classes?

Question

I have 2 400 level classes that I need to graduate. They were not offered in Spring of 07, and will not be offered in Fall of 07. I know most people suggest that you petition the dean, but is there actually any laws that restrict schools from doing this? I live in PA if that info is needed.

Details : There are no other 400 level classes. Also the closest college is over an hour away.

No, it is not offered in the summer, but it is offered at our main campus, about 5 hours away.

-Chris

Answer 1

Welcome to public institutions of higher learning...
maybe you can petition to take the courses at another university and have the units transferred. It's been done.

Sometimes a Dean will allow a student to do independent study. Find a professor willing to sponsor you. Explain your situation and complete the course on your own.
Another option is to take the course on-line.
Please make an appointment with your adviser, if that does not work, make an appt. with the Dean. Don't stop until you get what you want. There is always a way.

Answer 2

I can't think of too many reasons where a college is preventing you to graduate. In fact a college wants to keep graduation rates up. You should really take it up with your department since I assume this is a major class. Perhaps you can talk to your department advisor and substitute a class(es). But don't take it up to the dean. He or she doesn't have anything to do with course offerings.

Answer 3

I'm not sure about laws.
But are they offered in the summer?
If not, petition to the dean or see if they will allow you to take 2 other similar classes to substitute for the 2 classes you need.

Answer 4

talk to your academic adviser before you talk to the dean- sometimes they can waive a class or let you take a replacement class.
There are no laws whatsoever that can restrict schools from doing that- in fact, most schools do something like that