Time Limits

All coursework and degree requirements must be met within seven years of enrolling in the first course at Hood College that applies towards the degree and/or certificate program. If a student enrolls in a different certificate or master’s program, and one or more of the courses from the first program will satisfy a requirement of the second program, the program director will evaluate the transcript to determine whether previously completed courses may count in the new program and how the seven-year time limit will be applied.

For students beginning their program of study during a summer term, their time limit will begin that Fall semester. For students beginning their program of study during a winter term, their time limit will begin that Spring semester.

In extenuating circumstances, a student who is in good academic and financial standing at the College and who has completed most of their degree coursework, may request a time extension by completing the Time Extension Request form (www.hood.edu/gradforms). The request must include the rationale for more time and a timeline to complete remaining requirements. A statement of support from the student's academic adviser, project adviser and/or program director is also required. Program directors may approve extension requests of up to one year beyond their seven-year time limit. Time extension requests beyond one year must be reviewed by the Graduate Council Committee on Student Petitions  (please refer to the section titled Exceptions to Academic Policies). The student may appeal the outcome of the extension request to the Dean of the Graduate School.