What is an Academic Variance?

• An Academic Variance allows a student to request the substitution of a degree requirement (major, minor, concentration or general education) with a course outside of their catalog requirements.

Where should the Academic Variance be submitted?  

• The form should be initiated by the student with a course description or syllabus here: https://laserfiche.cbuonline.edu/Forms/Academic-Variance
• The form will automatically be forwarded to the appropriate Dean, Department Chair, or University Registrar for recommendation. For questions, please see the below chart for the appropriate individual and office.

What additional information should I know before submitting an Academic Variance?  

• Courses listed on an articulation agreement do not require the submission of an academic variance.
• Approval of an Academic Variance Request may alter graduation requirements. It is the student's responsibility to seek clarification from Academic Advising.
• The variance will expire within one year of approval if coursework is not completed. Students who have not completed coursework for which an academic variance was approved before its expiration, should submit a new variance for review and consideration.

An Academic Variance is required for any student wanting to use a course at another institution to meet an upper division requirement within their major/minor/concentration.