Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around determining the deadline for degree completion based on a program policy stating that the approved program of study must be completed within six consecutive calendar years. Participants are trying to clarify whether the initial semester counts towards this timeframe and how to interpret the term "calendar years."
Discussion Character
Main Points Raised
- One participant calculates that starting in Fall 2003 means the degree must be completed by Fall 2009, interpreting the last few months of 2003 as part of the six-year total.
- Another participant suggests that the six calendar years could be interpreted as needing to graduate by the end of the Spring semester of 2009, implying a different understanding of the timeline.
- A third participant emphasizes that the question should be directed to the university's graduation or registrar's office for an authoritative answer, indicating that interpretations may vary.
- Another participant references the definition of a calendar year from Merriam Webster, arguing that they should have 72 months to complete the degree based on the second definition provided.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing interpretations of the degree completion timeline, with no consensus reached on the exact deadline or the implications of the program's wording.
Contextual Notes
There are unresolved assumptions regarding the interpretation of "calendar years" and how the initial semester is counted towards the total timeframe for degree completion.