Understanding the MTSU Grading System
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) employs a standardized grading scale to evaluate student academic performance. This scale provides a clear and consistent method for instructors to assess assignments and examinations and for students to gauge their progress.
Grading Scale
| Letter Grade | Percentage Range | Grade Points | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | 90-100% | 4.0 | Excellent |
| B | 80-89% | 3.0 | Good |
| C | 70-79% | 2.0 | Average |
| D | 60-69% | 1.0 | Passing |
| F | 0-59% | 0.0 | Failing |
Quality Point System
MTSU uses a quality point system to measure academic achievement. Each letter grade corresponds to a specific number of quality points. These quality points are used to calculate a cumulative grade point average (GPA), which is a measure of a student’s overall academic performance.
GPA Calculation
To calculate your GPA, follow these steps:
- Multiply the quality points for each course by the number of credit hours for that course.
- Add up the total quality points earned.
- Divide the total quality points by the total number of credit hours attempted.
Example:
A student takes the following courses and earns the following grades:
- Course A: A (3 quality points) – 3 credit hours
- Course B: B (2 quality points) – 3 credit hours
- Course C: C (1 quality point) – 3 credit hours
GPA Calculation:
GPA = (3 x 4) + (3 x 3) + (3 x 2) / (3 + 3 + 3) = 3.0
Grading Exceptions
There are a few exceptions to the standard grading scale. These exceptions include:
- Incomplete (I): Given when a student has not completed all assignments or coursework by the end of the semester. The student must complete the missing work by the following semester’s deadline to receive a grade.
- Withdraw (W): Given when a student drops a course after the add/drop period. A “W” grade does not affect the GPA.
- Pass/Fail (P/F): Given when a student opts to take a course for a pass or fail grade rather than a letter grade. The “P” grade does not affect the GPA, while the “F” grade is calculated as a 0.0.
Impact of the Grading Scale
The MTSU grading scale plays a significant role in students’ academic and professional lives. It provides a framework for assessing academic performance, and it can impact students’ eligibility for scholarships, financial aid, and graduate school admissions.
Additional Considerations
In addition to the standard grading scale, MTSU also uses the following terms to indicate academic standing:
- Academic Probation: Students who fall below a 2.0 GPA may be placed on academic probation.
- Academic Suspension: Students who fall below a 1.5 GPA may be suspended from the university.
- Dean’s List: Students who earn a 3.5 GPA or higher may be placed on the Dean’s List.
Understanding the Grading Scale
The MTSU grading scale provides a standardized method for evaluating student performance. By understanding the scale and its implications, students can make informed decisions about their coursework, study habits, and academic goals.
