Queens College, part of the City University of New York (CUNY), utilizes a specific grading scale to evaluate student performance. Understanding this scale is crucial for students to gauge their academic progress and for faculty to assess student learning outcomes effectively. The Queens College grading scale, like many other institutions, is designed to provide a standardized method of evaluating student work and progress toward degree completion.
Queens College Grading Scale Overview
The grading scale at Queens College is based on a letter-grade system, with each letter grade corresponding to a specific range of numerical grades. This system allows for a nuanced assessment of student performance, from excellent to failing. The college’s grading policy is outlined in its official catalog and is subject to periodic review and revision by the faculty and administration.
Letter Grades and Grade Points
Queens College assigns letter grades based on the following scale:
| Letter Grade | Grade Points | Numerical Range |
|---|---|---|
| A+ | 4.0 | 97-100% |
| A | 4.0 | 93-96% |
| A- | 3.7 | 90-92% |
| B+ | 3.3 | 87-89% |
| B | 3.0 | 83-86% |
| B- | 2.7 | 80-82% |
| C+ | 2.3 | 77-79% |
| C | 2.0 | 73-76% |
| C- | 1.7 | 70-72% |
| D+ | 1.3 | 67-69% |
| D | 1.0 | 63-66% |
| D- | 0.7 | 60-62% |
| F | 0.0 | Below 60% |
This grading scale is standard across most departments and programs at Queens College, ensuring consistency in grading practices. However, it’s worth noting that some courses, especially those in graduate programs or certain professional schools, might have slightly different grading scales or additional grading criteria.
Calculating GPA
To calculate a student’s Grade Point Average (GPA), each letter grade earned is converted into its corresponding grade points, then multiplied by the number of credits for the course. The sum of these products is divided by the total number of credits attempted. For example:
Let’s say a student takes 4 courses in a semester, with the following grades and credits:
- Course 1: A (4 credits) = 4.0 * 4 = 16 grade points
- Course 2: B+ (3 credits) = 3.3 * 3 = 9.9 grade points
- Course 3: C (4 credits) = 2.0 * 4 = 8 grade points
- Course 4: A- (3 credits) = 3.7 * 3 = 11.1 grade points
Total grade points = 16 + 9.9 + 8 + 11.1 = 45
Total credits = 4 + 3 + 4 + 3 = 14
GPA = Total grade points / Total credits = 45 / 14 ≈ 3.21
Grading Policies and Exceptions
Queens College also has policies regarding incomplete grades, withdrawals, and grade appeals. An incomplete grade (INC) may be given at the discretion of the instructor if a student, due to circumstances beyond their control, is unable to complete the course requirements. Students have a limited time to complete the outstanding work, after which the INC may automatically convert to a failing grade if not resolved.
Furthermore, Queens College offers a Credit/No Credit option for certain courses, which allows students to take a course without receiving a letter grade, provided they meet the minimum requirements for passing the course. This option is useful for exploratory courses or those not directly related to a student’s major.
How does Queens College calculate semester GPA and cumulative GPA?
+Semester GPA is calculated by dividing the total grade points earned in a semester by the total number of credits attempted in that semester. Cumulative GPA is calculated by dividing the total grade points earned throughout a student's academic career by the total number of credits attempted.
Can I appeal a grade I received in a course?
+Yes, Queens College has a formal grade appeal process. Students who believe their grade is inaccurate or unfair should first speak with their instructor. If the issue is not resolved, students can submit a written appeal to the department chair, and then to the college's academic appeals committee if necessary.
In conclusion, understanding the Queens College grading scale and its implications on GPA is vital for academic success. By being informed about the college’s grading policies and procedures, students can better navigate their academic journey, make informed decisions about their course load and academic pursuits, and ultimately achieve their educational goals.
