Santa Clara University

Students, including those applying for a credential or MFT license, may challenge
certain courses that satisfy specific degree requirements. Challenged courses count toward
a student’s total units passed but do not count toward a student’s graduation requirements.
In order to maintain the integrity of a Santa Clara University degree,
students are not allowed to challenge more than three courses. A successfully challenged
course is appropriately acknowledged on the student’s transcript.

To challenge a course, students must (1) have completed at least 15 units at Santa
Clara (unless an exception is granted by the department chairperson in writing); (2)
have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.2; and (3) have permission from
the instructor, chairperson, and dean to proceed with the challenge. The instructor
must complete a written description of the proposed challenge process, to be approved
by the department chairperson.

Challenge examinations may be either oral or written, as determined by the instructor.
Challenged courses may not be taken on a pass/no pass basis. There will be
a $100 fee for challenging a course. Challenge forms are available from the Graduate
Services Office, Bannan Hall 243.

Certain classes within the school normally cannot be challenged, including any
counseling psychology practicum/internship courses and any field lab courses. Classes
that include a high experiential component are unavailable for challenge.