Program Time Limits Policy
Purpose
To define the maximum time limit by which a student must complete their program of study as specified by accreditation requirements for time to completion.
Scope
All students enrolled in programs with accreditation requirements for time limits.
Policy
Some accreditation bodies specify a maximum timeframe for successful completion of degrees in programs covered by that accreditation. Failure to obtain the degree within the stated maximum timeframe will result in the withdrawal of the student from that program.
Effective: May 7, 2025
Procedure
Definitions
College of Chiropractic program time limits
Chiropractic students are required to obtain their degree no later than five calendar years from the date of their first term of studies in that program.
College of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine program time limits
Students are required to obtain their degree within no more than 200% of the stated program length. Doctoral students are required to complete their degree within 20 terms or 6-2/3 years and Masters students are required to complete their degree within 16 terms or 5-1/3 years from the first term of studies in that program.
Failure to obtain the degree within this time frame will require that the student be withdrawn from that program. Students do have the option to request an extension to the program time limit. The student will be notified once it is apparent that they will not be able to complete the program within the specified time limit. The student will then have the opportunity to appeal to the Dean of the College. The appeal form may be submitted no earlier than 2 terms before the maximum time for degree completion and must explain the circumstances that contributed to the extended timeframe; relevant supporting documentation; evidence of academic progress, which should include successful completion of a significant portion of the program coursework and relevant achievements such as passing national board exams; a detailed plan for completion that outlines how the student intends to complete the remaining requirements; and demonstration of readiness to continue the program, complete the remaining requirements, and shows that the issues causing the delay have been resolved or managed effectively. There is no guarantee that the request will be approved, and all other academic policies such as academic standing and financial aid satisfactory academic progress requirements apply.