GPA Calculation at TU
At TU, your Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of credit hours attempted. Each course’s grade points are determined by multiplying the credit hours by the grade point value associated with the letter grade received.
Example:
- If you earn an ‘A’ (4.0) in a 3-credit course: 3 credits × 4.0 = 12 grade points.
- If you earn a ‘B’ (3.0) in a 3-credit course: 3 credits × 3.0 = 9 grade points.
- If you earn a ‘C’ (2.0) in a 3-credit course: 3 credits × 2.0 = 6 grade points.
- If you earn a ‘D’ (1.0) in a 3-credit course: 3 credits × 1.0 = 3 grade points.
- If you earn an ‘F’ (0.0) in a 3-credit course: 3 credits × 0.0 = 0 grade points.
Total Grade Points: 12 + 9 + 6 + 3 + 0 = 30
Total Credit Hours Attempted: 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 = 15
GPA: 30 ÷ 15 = 2.0
Your semester GPA includes all courses taken in that term, while your cumulative GPA encompasses all courses taken during your time at TU.
TU Grading Scale
The University of Tulsa uses a traditional 4.0 grading scale. However, the College of Law employs a more detailed scale with plus and minus grades.
Standard Undergraduate and Graduate Grading Scale:
| Letter Grade | Grade Points per Credit Hour |
|---|---|
| A | 4.0 |
| B | 3.0 |
| C | 2.0 |
| D | 1.0 |
| F | 0.0 |
College of Law Grading Scale:
| Letter Grade | Grade Points per Credit Hour |
|---|---|
| A | 4.0 |
| A- | 3.75 |
| B+ | 3.5 |
| B | 3.0 |
| B- | 2.75 |
| C+ | 2.5 |
| C | 2.0 |
| C- | 1.75 |
| D+ | 1.5 |
| D | 1.0 |
| D- | 0.5 |
| F | 0.0 |
Grades such as ‘P’ (Pass), ‘W’ (Withdrawal), and ‘I’ (Incomplete) do not affect your GPA.
Faculty and Departmental GPA Policies
Different colleges within TU may have specific GPA requirements:
- Henry Kendall College of Arts and Sciences: Requires a minimum GPA of 2.0 in each declared major, minor, and certificate program for graduation.
- College of Law: Students must maintain a cumulative GPA above 2.0 to enroll in summer sessions.
It’s important to consult your academic advisor for detailed information on GPA requirements specific to your program.
Course Repetition and GPA
If you retake a course to improve your grade, TU calculates your GPA using the second grade, even if it’s lower than the first. Both grades will appear on your transcript, but only the second grade counts toward your GPA.
Summary
- GPA Calculation: Divide total grade points by total credit hours attempted.
- Grading Scale: Standard 4.0 scale, with the College of Law using a more detailed scale.
- Faculty Policies: Specific GPA requirements may vary by college; consult your advisor.
- Course Repetition: Second attempt grade replaces the first in GPA calculation.