Petition for Modification or Waiver of Academic Requirements

The purpose of academic requirements  and policies is to preserve the integrity of the Lewis & Clark College degree. Requirements may be waived or modified only upon approval of the student’s advisor, department chair, and dean. Exceptions to requirements are granted only after careful consideration of all the facts and are made with consistency and fairness.

To request an exception to a particular requirement, students must complete the Petition for Modification or Waiver of Academic Requirements and submit it to their advisor. Students should clearly identify the requirement(s) they are seeking to modify or waive and provide a rationale for the request along with any supporting documentation. Students will be notified via LC email of the decision regarding the petition.

Procedure for Submission of Student Petitions for Modification or Waiver of Academic Requirements

1. Students must meet with their advisor to discuss the reasons for seeking a modification or waiver of academic requirements. If appropriate, the student and advisor will collaborate to complete Petition for Modification or Waiver of Academic Requirements, providing sufficient rationale and supporting documentation. Once completed, the form is submitted to the Graduate Registrar’s Office.

2. An ad-hoc committee will be convened, consisting of the advisor, department chair, and other members, as appropriate to consider the request. If the petition is denied, the Graduate Registrar will notify the student, providing rationale for the denial.

3. Should the committee recommend approval, the department chair will sign the petition and forward to the dean for final review. 

5. The dean reviews the petition and returns to the registrar. The registrar will notify the student regarding the dean’s decision to approve or deny the petition.

For questions please contact the Graduate Registrar’s Office at 503-768-6030 or gradreg@lclark.edu.

Form

Petition for Modification or Waiver of Degree Requirements [PDF]