13.99.99.R0.20 Academic Distinction for Undergraduate Students

Effective: September 1, 2001

1. Students completing the requirements for baccalaureate degrees with exceptional scholastic averages may be graduated with academic distinction. The levels of recognition will be recorded on the students’ diplomas and permanent academic records.

2. Candidates for graduation with distinction must achieve the specified grade point average in two ways: (1) on all hours attempted at all institutions attended and (2) on all hours attempted at Texas A&M University-Commerce. The level of attainment will be determined by either the overall average or the A&M-Commerce average, whichever is lower. The grade point values currently in use at A&M-Commerce will be used to calculate the quality point average on all transfer credits.

3. Academic Distinction recognition in the commencement program will be made based on a student’s grade point average at the end of the previous term. However, notations of Academic Distinction recorded on diplomas and permanent academic records will be determined after final semester grades are processed.

4. The levels of recognition and the grade point average required for each are:
Summa Cum Laude – 3.90-4.0
Magna Cum Laude – 3.70-3.89
Cum Laude – 3.50-3.69.

References: New Procedure; Procedure A13.27

Contact for Interpretation: University Registrar