Undergraduate Student Handbook - ODU - Old Dominion …€¦ · Undergraduate Student Handbook Department of Modeling, ... Financial Aid 19 ... Vonda Norman Fiscal Technician

Undergraduate Student Handbook

Department of Modeling, Simulation and Visualization Engineering

Batten College of Engineering and Technology

Old Dominion University

TableofContentsMSVE Undergraduate Handbook 1 Department Welcome 2 Department Administration 3 Department Directory 4 Undergraduate Degree Program Overview 7 Outcomes and Objectives 8 The Curriculum 9 Content of the Modeling and Simulation Engineering Curriculum 10 Course Pre‐Requisite Structure 11

General Education Requirements 12 Compatible Minors and Option D Courses for M&SE Majors 13

Mathematical Requirements 14 Department Course Offerings 15 Approved Program Elective 15 Technical Electives 15 Capstone Design Courses 16 Accelerated Programs 16 Internship Requirements 17 Co‐Op Requirements 17 Getting Started 18

Freshmen 18 Returning Students 18 Transfer Students 18 Articulation Agreements 18 Advising 18 Registration 18 Honors College 19 Financial Aid 19 Office of Educational Accessibility 19 Office of Counseling Services 19 Other Student Resources 19

Continuance Policies (Good Academic Standing) 20 University Continuance Policy 20 Department Continuance Policy 20

Applying for Graduation 21 Graduation Clearance 21

Commencement 22 Completion of Requirements for Undergraduate Students (Catalog Year) 22 Graduation Checklist 24 Student Organizations 23 Transfer Student Checklist 25 Graduation Checklist 26

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MSVEDepartmentUndergraduateHandbookThis handbook has been designed to assist students in their pursuit of an undergraduate degree from the Department of

Modeling, Simulation and Visualization Engineering (MSVE). The contents of this handbook complement the ODU

Undergraduate Catalog by providing additional details about the undergraduate program in modeling and simulation.

This handbook is revised periodically as policies change at the departmental, college and university levels.

It is the responsibility of the individual student to be familiar with the information contained in the University

Undergraduate Catalog. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy with respect to official university policy

and regulations, the Undergraduate Catalog will take precedence over any information contained in this handbook. A

copy of the Undergraduate Catalog may be obtained by visiting http://catalog.odu.edu

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DepartmentWelcomeWelcome to the Modeling and Simulation Engineering Undergraduate Program at Old Dominion University and the

Department of Modeling, Simulation and Visualization Engineering (MSVE).

The Modeling and Simulation program of study is interdisciplinary as the nature of modeling and simulation has become

a multi‐disciplinary activity. The MSVE Department offers an undergraduate four‐year degree program leading to the

Bachelor of Science in Modeling and Simulation Engineering (BS‐M&SE). The department also offers programs of

graduate study leading to the degrees Master of Engineering, Master of Science, Doctor of Engineering, and Doctor of

Philosophy with a major in Modeling and Simulation.

The department's academic programs are coupled with a strong department research program conducted jointly with

researchers from the Virginia Modeling, Analysis and Simulation Center (VMASC). Research activities range from

investigation of fundamental modeling and simulation methods and technologies to applications of modeling and

simulation in the domains of medicine and health care, transportation, education and gaming, science and engineering,

homeland security and defense, and business enterprise decision support.

The MSVE Department is located on the first floor of the E. V. Williams Engineering and Computational Sciences Building

on the Old Dominion University Norfolk Campus. In addition to the department and faculty offices, this facility also

houses several instructional and research laboratories, a virtual reality theater, and a four‐walled C.A.V.E. (Cave

Automatic Virtual Environment). A significant resource to the department is the Virginia Modeling, Analysis and

Simulation Center located adjacent to the University's Tri‐Cities Higher Education Center in Suffolk, Virginia. VMASC

occupies a two‐story 60,000 square foot building designed to support state‐of‐the‐art research in modeling, simulation

and visualization. Some of the center's facilities are used in the department's educational programs; in addition, VMASC

researchers teach courses and mentor students in the department's academic programs.

This handbook is designed to assist students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science degree program in Modeling and

Simulation Engineering. The information in the handbook complements the ODU catalog by providing specific details

about the undergraduate program in modeling and simulation engineering.

Old Dominion University was the first to offer the Ph.D. in modeling and simulation in 2000. We now are the first to

establish an academic department and to offer an undergraduate engineering program in modeling and simulation. We

welcome you to our program and look forward to working with you in the exciting discipline of modeling and simulation.

Ultimately, your success in the undergraduate program rests with you. Your active participation in your courses and co‐

curricular activities will significantly affect your personal growth and development as well as add to the overall body of

knowledge in the discipline.

Sincerely,

Jim Leathrum, Ph.D. Rick McKenzie, Ph.D.

Chief Departmental Advisor Chair

MSVE Department MSVE Department

[email protected] [email protected]

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MSVEDepartmentAdministrationJim Leathrum, Ph.D.

Associate Professor and Chief Departmental Advisor

([email protected])

The chief departmental advisor serves as the overall coordinator of the undergraduate program. He helps with program

marketing and recruitment, establishes program capacity, manages enrollment, advise students, handle student requests

for exemptions and waivers, and certify students for graduation.

Trey Mayo

Academic Advisor and Program Manager

([email protected])

The academic advisor and program manager assists the chief departmental advisor in his duties. He serves as the front‐

line advisor and student services coordinator for day‐to‐day interactions with the MSVE department by assisting with

program marketing and recruitment, monitors student progress and intervene when necessary, maintaining student files

and forms, advising and orientating new students, declaring students as majors or minors in the department, handling

course registration and scheduling matters, and assisting the student with conducting business with other offices

throughout the University.

Vonda Norman

Fiscal Technician

([email protected])

The fiscal technician is responsible for managing the day‐to‐day finances for the MSVE department. She oversees the

payroll process for students receiving graduate assistantships, and also coordinates purchases on behalf of the

department. The fiscal technician also helps with assisting students with conducting business with other offices

throughout the University.

Jayne Massey

Administrative Assistant

([email protected])

The administrative assistant is responsible for the front office operations of the MSVE department. She oversees the

general needs for day‐to‐day operations in the front office, and assisting students and guests with conducting business

with other offices throughout the University.

Rick McKenzie, Ph.D.

Professor and Department Chair

([email protected])

The chair is an administrative officer of the university, and the chief executive officer of a department. The chair has

primary responsibility for the development of quality programs in instruction, research, and professional service within

the department.

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MSVEDepartmentDirectory

MainContactInformationDepartment of Modeling, Simulation and Visualization Engineering Phone: (757) 683‐3720

1300 E.V. Williams Engineering and Computational Sciences Building Fax: (757) 683‐3200

4700 Elkhorn Avenue Web: http://odu.edu/msve

Norfolk, VA 23529

DepartmentDirectoryKey to Office Abbreviations

ECSB=Engineering and Computational Sciences Building KAUF=Kaufman Hall

PHEC=Peninsula Higher Education Center VMASC=Virginia Modeling, Analysis and Simulation Ctr.

Name E‐mail Office Location Phone Number

Rick McKenzie, PhD Professor and Chair

[email protected] ECSB 1307 (757) 683‐5590

Research Interests: Medical modeling and simulation, human behavior representation, and simulation architectures often focusing on aspects of scientific visualization and virtual reality.

Yuzhong Shen, PhD Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director


Research Interests: Game‐based learning; visualization and computer graphics; modeling and simulation; and, signal and image processing.

Jim Leathrum, PhD Chief Departmental Advisor


Research Interests: Parallel and distributed simulation, hardware and software simulation architectures, and applications of discrete event simulation to multi‐modal transportation systems.

Michel Audette, PhD Assistant Professor


Research Interests: Medical applications in M&S including imaging and surgery.

Bharat Madan, PhD Professor


Research Interests: Network and cyber security applications.

Roland R. Mielke, PhD University Professor


Research Interests: Systems theory, mathematical modeling, modeling and simulation education, application of continuous simulation in electrical engineering, and applications of discrete event simulation in transportation and enterprise decision support.

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John Sokolowski, PhD Associate Professor Executive Director of VMASC

[email protected] VMASC (757) 686‐6232

Research Interests: Human behavior modeling; decision system modeling; multiagent system simulation; and, modeling and simulation representation of social systems

Masha Sosonkina, PhD Professor


Research Interests: Physical based modeling and high performance computing and simulation.

Faculty with Joint Appointment


N. Rao Changaty, PhD Joint Appointed Professor with Mathematics


Research Interests: Large deviations, generalized linear models, estimating equations

Duc T. Nguyen, PhD Joint Appointed Professor with Civil and Environmental Engineering


Research Interests: Linear/Non‐linear constraint optimization numerical algorithms and software; Cluster Parallel MATLAB Computing for large‐scale, real time computer simulation; Finite Element Analysis/Solution for PDE general field problems; Efficient algorithms for large‐scale Shortest Paths in "transportation networks"; Computational (Engineering) Mechanics; Efficient algorithms/software for solving large‐scale "simultaneous linear/non‐linear equations", and "general eigen‐value" problems

Adjunct Faculty


Catherine M. Berry, PhD [email protected] VMASC (757) 686‐6224

Research Interests: International studies; modeling of social networks

Andrew J. Collins, PhD [email protected] VMASC (757) 638‐4437

Research Interests: Multi‐agent simulation, multivariate statistics, scheduling, Markov processes, and mathematical modeling

C. Donald Combs, PhD [email protected] EVMS (757) 446‐6090

Research Interests: Medical modeling and simulation, gaming applied to health professions education, geospatial health research and health professions education

Saikou Y. Diallo, PhD [email protected] VMASC (757) 638‐6320

Research Interests: Interoperability of simulations; composability of models.

Rafael Diaz, PhD [email protected] VMASC (757) 686‐6233

Research Interests: Operations research, operations management, production and healthcare and public health systems, dependence modeling for stochastic simulation, and simulation‐based optimization methods

Barry Ezell, PhD [email protected] VMASC (757) 638‐4439

Research Interests: All‐hazards Risk and Decision Analysis; Operations Research Systems Analysis; Probabilistic Risk Assessment; Capabilities‐Based Assessment; Group Facilitation; Insurgency and Terrorism M&S

Johnny Garcia, PhD [email protected] Off‐Campus N/A

Research Interests: Combat Modeling

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Jose Padilla, PhD [email protected] VMASC (757) 686‐6200

Research Interests: Human, social, cultural, and behavior modeling; epistemology of modeling and simulation; systems engineering and engineering management.

Yiannis Papelis, PhD [email protected] VMASC (757) 638‐6560

Research Interests: Robotics and autonomous systems; semi‐autonomous agents; virtual environments and immersive games; and, discrete event and continuous simulations.

Mike Robinson, PhD [email protected] VMASC (757) 638‐7010

Research Interests: Transportation modeling; evacuation modeling; and, decision making.

Andreas Tolk, PhD [email protected] Off‐Campus N/A

Research Interests: Model‐based systems engineering, which includes research on modeling and simulation interoperability challenges, in particular in the context of complex systems and system of systems.

Eric Weisel, PhD [email protected] KAUF 129A (757) 683‐6062

Research Interests: Operations research; applied statistics, including design of experiments; advanced mathematics; modeling and simulation; and, nuclear engineering.

Academic Advisor and Program Manager

Trey Mayo [email protected] ECSB 1300 (757) 683‐5946

Fiscal Technician

Vonda Norman [email protected] ECSB 1308 (757) 683‐3033

Administrative Assistant

Jayne Massey [email protected] ECSB 1300 (757) 683‐3720

Current as of 7/1/2016

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UndergraduateDegreeProgramOverviewThe Department of Modeling, Simulation and Visualization Engineering offers an undergraduate, four‐

year degree program leading to the Bachelor of Science Degree in Modeling and Simulation Engineering

(M&SE). The program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET,

http://www.abet.org. The program, thought to be the first undergraduate M&SE program in the United

States, was initiated during academic year 2009‐2010.

The M&SE curriculum is based upon a solid foundation in mathematics and basic sciences. Core

program content includes a thorough introduction to key concepts from engineering and computer

science, the major modeling and simulation paradigms, computer visualization, statistical analysis

methods, and simulation software design. Laboratory courses provide hands‐on experience in the

engineering of modeling and simulation systems. A capstone course sequence taken during the senior

year provides an opportunity to exercise this cumulative preparation to solve a real engineering problem

in a team setting. An important component of the program is the requirement that students complete

courses in another academic discipline where modeling and simulation is used as a support tool. In

addition, course work in General Education skills and ways of knowing is required to assure a well‐

rounded program of study.

Program graduates will be prepared to enter the workforce as entry‐level modeling and simulation

engineers. In addition, graduates will be prepared to enter graduate study in modeling and simulation

and, with appropriate choice of program electives, other disciplines where modeling and simulation has

application. M&SE graduates also will be prepared to seek certification as Certified Modeling and

Simulation Professionals (CMSP) and licensure as an Engineer in Training (EIT).

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OutcomesandObjectives

ProgramEducationalObjectivesThe M&SE program is required to have published program educational objectives that are consistent

with the mission of the institution, the needs of the programs various constituencies, and the ABET

criteria. Program educational objectives are broad statements that describe the career and professional

accomplishments that the program is preparing graduates to achieve.

The program outcomes and objectives are available on the department website at: http://www.odu.edu/msve/students/bs/objectives‐outcomes

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TheCurriculumThe following section outlines the curriculum for the Bachelor of Science degree in Modeling and

Simulation Engineering. The degree is a 127‐credit hour degree program.

For more information the BS‐MSE curriculum, please visit:

http://www.odu.edu/msve/students/bs/showcase

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ContentoftheM&SECurriculumFor more information on the content of the M&SE curriculum and for copies of curriculum sheets,

please visit: http://www.odu.edu/msve/students/bs/showcase

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Department of Modeling, Simulation and Visualization Engineering

Frank Batten College of Engineering and Technology

Old Dominion University

BS M&SE Core Course Pre-requisite Structure

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GeneralEducationRequirements

LowerDivisionRequirementsAll students receiving baccalaureate degrees from Old Dominion University shall complete the

University’s General Education Program. At the lower division (freshman and sophomore), the

program’s designed courses develop the Skills needed for later study and the Ways of Knowing needed

to understand the various approaches to knowledge at work in the University. At the upper division

(junior and senior), Options A, B, C and D provide a multidisciplinary experience to broaden the

student’s ability to apply the Skills and Ways of Knowing at a more advanced level.

The General Education program at Old Dominion University represents the common core of the

baccalaureate degree. It prepares students for pursuing a major, for broadening their views of life, and

for understanding an increasingly global and diverse world. It provides students with the basic skills and

intellectual perspectives to engage in the search for knowledge. The General Education program

develops analytical and critical thinking skills and the ability to make reasoned judgments. Students will

also discover that learning is a complex, multifaceted, and lifelong endeavor.

Students in modeling and simulation engineering are required to take 21 credit hours of lower division

general education requirements. Students who earn an AA or AS degree from a Virginia Community

College, or from a community college outside of Virginia where the degree is determined to be transfer

parallel, will have satisfied all lower‐division general education requirements with the exception of

college and departmental requirements (as outlined below). Those students who have earned an AS

degree in General Studies from the VCCS must have their transcripts evaluated by the Office of Transfer

Evaluation Services in the Office of Admissions to determine whether the program and courses are

parallel to those offered at ODU. Students who transfer to ODU without a transfer parallel associates

degree will have their courses individually evaluated and those evaluations will be applied to the BSMSE

program where appropriate.

Students who are admitted as a second degree student will have all of their lower division and upper

division general education requirements, with the exception of college and departmental requirements,

satisfied by their first baccalaureate degree provided that it is from a regionally accredited institution as

determined by the Office of Admissions.

Details on the University’s lower division general education requirements are available in the

Undergraduate Catalog online at:

http://catalog.odu.edu/undergraduate/requirementsforundergraduatedegrees/

UpperDivisionRequirementsThe model curriculum for the BSMSE degree is designed to guide students towards pursuing Option D to

meet the Upper Division requirements for general education. However, a student may pursue any of

the available options below to satisfy their Upper Division requirements.

Option A: Any University approved minor, second major or second degree

A minor is generally 15‐18 credit hours of course work in another discipline.

A second major (also referred to as a “double major”) is when a student pursues an additional

major in their bachelor’s degree program.

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A second degree is when a student pursues another curriculum concurrently with the BSMSE

program and is awarded a second diploma in addition to the diploma in BSMSE. The minimum

amount of credit hours required for a second degree is 150 hours.

Students interested in pursuing a minor should consult the Undergraduate Catalog

(http://catalog.odu.edu) and meet with the chief departmental advisor for that department to

declare their minor.

Students interested in double majoring or pursuing a second degree should first meet with their

advisor in MSVE for initial guidance on the steps to take in pursuing either of these options.

Option B: A University approved interdisciplinary minor

Students may pursue an approved interdisciplinary minor that they feel compliments their

studies. Students should meet with the coordinator for the interdisciplinary minor as outlined in

the Undergraduate Catalog (http://catalog.odu.edu).

Examples of interdisciplinary minors may include: Administrative Ethics and Leadership for

Professional Roles, Biomedical Engineering, Children’s Rights, and The Designed World.

Option C: International Business and Regional Courses or an approved Certification Program such as

Teaching Licensure

Students may pursue this option by completing ECON 450 and completing additional

coursework from the focus areas in Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Students should consult

the Undergraduate Catalog (http://catalog.odu.edu) for further information on Option C

requirements.

Option D: Upper‐Division Coursework from Another College Outside of and Not Required by the

Major (at least 6 credit hours required)

Students may meet this option by taking at least six credit hours of elective upper‐division

course work from outside of and not required by the student’s major and college. Transfer

courses and study abroad courses may be used for this requirement. Upper‐division courses

elected to meet this Philosophy and Ethics (with the exception of ENMA 480), and the Impact of

Technology Ways of Knowing areas may also meet the requirement but they must be outside

the college and not required by the major. The MSVE advisor will assist students in pursuing

this option and helping them choose courses to satisfy the requirement. Students do not have

to choose two upper division courses from the same discipline in order to satisfy Option D.

CompatibleMinorsandOptionDCoursesforM&SEMajorsThe MSVE Department recommends coursework from the following disciplines for certain research

areas. However, students are encouraged to select a minor in any discipline of their interest.

o Physics

o Computer Science

o Math

o Psychology

o Engineering Management (not applicable for Option D)

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MathematicalRequirementsSuccess in any engineering program will depend on the student’s performance in mathematical sciences

coursework. Upon initial admission to the University, a student is placed into a math course depending

on his/her SAT or ACT scores. The student may elect to challenge this placement by taking the

COMPASS Math Placement Test through the Office of Experiential Learning and Testing. Additionally,

AP, IB or even dual enrollment or transfer credit (as reviewed by the Office of Admissions) may also

place the student in a higher level math course. If a student starts off in a lower‐level math course (e.g.,

MATH 102M), it may take the student up to two years to complete his/her degree program.

Math courses at ODU follow a strict pre‐requisite structure. Each course must be successfully

completed with a grade of “C” or better in order to advance to the next level.

Math placement scores for an undergraduate student are based either on SAT/ACT performance or the

student’s performance on the COMPASS Math Placement Test. Details are available at:

https://www.odu.edu/academics/academic‐records/score‐analysis/sat‐act

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DepartmentalCourseOfferingsThe Department of Modeling, Simulation and Visualization Engineering offers sophomore, junior, and

senior courses on a strict semester by semester basis. Students should follow the pre‐requisite/co‐

requisite structure outlined in this handbook to ensure they are meeting the requirements to take the

course during the proper term.

RequiredCoreCoursesCourse Semester Pre‐/Co‐Requisite

MSIM 201 Intro to Modeling and Simulation

Fall only P/C – MATH 163 and CS 150

MSIM 205 Discrete Event Simulation

Spring only P – MSIM 201; P/C – STAT 330

MSIM 281 Discrete Event Simulation Lab

Spring only C – MSIM 205

MSIM 320 Continuous Simulation

Fall only P/C – MATH 307 and PHYS 227N/232N; P – MSIM 201

MSIM 382 Continuous Simulation Lab

Fall only C – MSIM 320

MSIM 331 Simulation Software Design

Spring only P – CS 330 & CS 381 & MSIM 205 C – MSIM 383

MSIM 383 Simulation Software Design Lab

Spring only C – MSIM 331

MSIM 410 System Modeling

Spring only P – CS 330 and MSIM 205; C – MSIM 320

MSIM 441 Computer Graphics & Visualization

Fall only P – CS 250 and PHYS 227N/232N

MSIM 451 Analysis for M&S

Spring only P – MSIM 205 and STAT 330

MSIM 487W Capstone Design I

Fall only P – MSIM 320, 331, and 451 and a grade of “C” or better (or transfer credit) in lower division English Composition courses.

MSIM 488 Capstone Design II

Spring only P – MSIM 487W

ApprovedProgramElectiveAn approved program elective is a 300‐/400‐level course that enhances or complements your major

area of interest. It is generally a course outside of modeling and simulation engineering. Please see

your advisor for more information on possible approved program electives.

TechnicalElectives–sixcredithoursTechnical electives are required in the BSMSE degree program. Students are to choose from courses

that focus on their interests in modeling and simulation engineering. A list of courses is currently being

developed and is available from the departmental advisor upon request. Approved technical electives

will only be offered with the MSIM prefix.

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CapstoneDesignCourses–sevencredithoursThe M&SE Capstone Design courses (MSIM 487W and MSIM 488) are courses involving projects with

real world applications in modeling and simulation. They are required courses for all students in

modeling and simulation engineering. An example of previous capstone project research involved

collaborating with researchers at Eastern Virginia Medical School [EVMS] on a medical simulation

project.

AcceleratedProgramsThese are designed to allow qualified students to secure a space in a master's program available in the

Frank Batten College of Engineering and Technology while they are still pursuing their undergraduate

degrees. An eligible student can choose a master's program in the same discipline as his/her bachelor's

program or in a complementary discipline. Subject to the approval of the undergraduate and graduate

program directors, a student enrolled in an accelerated program can count up to six credit hours of

course work towards both the undergraduate and the graduate degrees. Full‐time students can

complete the requirements for the bachelor's degree in four years and the master's degree in one

additional year.

Additional details are available in the Undergraduate Catalog at:

http://catalog.odu.edu/undergraduate/frankbattencollegeofengineeringandtechnology

For additional information on this option, please see the department advisor for MSVE.

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InternshipRequirementsM&SE students are encouraged to pursue internships (and other relevant practical experiences) during

their academic career. Students may earn credit (MSIM 368) for approved internship programs. To earn

credit, a student must provide information to the MSVE Department as to who will provide the

internship opportunity, the duties and objectives of the internship, and file the necessary paperwork

with the BCET Liaison with the Career Management Center. The department will review the information

concerning the internship and determine if it is worthy of awarding credit or not. Credit awarded may

be counted towards a technical elective in the M&SE degree program.

Co‐OpRequirementsM&SE students may also pursue co‐op opportunities during their academic career. Students may earn

credit (MSIM 367) for approved co‐op programs. A student may earn 1 credit hour per term for up to

three terms (3 credit hours total). A student earning co‐op credit may count the experience towards an

approved program elective in the degree program. Students wishing to pursue a co‐op opportunity

should work with the MSVE Department and the Career Management Center.

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GettingStarted

FreshmenAll freshmen students intending to major in modeling and simulation engineering will attend an

orientation program called PREVIEW. This program orients the student to the University and also

provides him/her with the opportunity to register for classes in the afternoon. Freshmen students who

are at the MATH 162M level or higher and intend to major in modeling and simulation engineering will

be advised by the MSVE department. Other students will be advised by the Engineering Fundamentals

Division.

ReturningStudentsStudents returning to ODU and have not been enrolled for two consecutive semesters and/or have

attended college elsewhere during that separation from the University, will need to submit a

readmission application to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

TransferStudentsStudents seeking admission to the modeling and simulation engineering program will have to apply

through the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Transcripts from all previous institutions must be sent

to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions for evaluation and awarding of proper credit. Students who

are not earning a transfer parallel associate’s degree (e.g., an Associate of Science in Engineering or

equivalent) from the community college should have their high school transcripts submitted to fulfill the

University’s Foreign Language requirement as outlined in the Undergraduate Catalog.

Students transferring to the University should review the Transfer Student Checklist on p. 25 of this

handbook.

ArticulationAgreementsThe MSVE Department has articulation agreements on file for students attending Longwood University

and Virginia Wesleyan College. Please consult the MSVE Department of the Office of Advising and

Transfer Programs for more information on these agreements.

AdvisingThe MSVE Department offers advising to students on a continuous basis. Students who join the

department (either from the Engineering Fundamentals Division or as a transfer student) will meet with

the department’s academic advisor and program manager who is located in ECSB 1300. Students must

meet with the academic advisor and program manager every semester prior to pre‐registration for a

future term in order to remove the advisor registration block. The academic advisor and program

manager works in conjunction with the chief departmental advisor and the department chair to

maintain student records, assist with transfer credit evaluations, inform and educate students on

University and departmental policies and procedures, referring to other departments/offices for

assistance and services where appropriate, developing degree plans, removing the registration block,

and help with applying for graduation.

The MSVE department believes that faculty play a key role in advising students. Each student in the

program will be assigned a faculty advisor in his/her sophomore year. The faculty advisor will help with

career advising and selection of appropriate courses and a minor (where appropriate). Students should

have a degree plan built in DegreeWorks prior to seeing their faculty advisor. After meeting with their

faculty advisor, students will meet with the academic advisor and program manager for follow up

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advising and be prepared to discuss any questions or concerns about that degree plan during their meeting. NOTE:

Students joining the department and who need to take MSIM 201 – Introduction to Modeling and Simulation will

build a comprehensive degree plan as an assignment in that course. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure

that he/she is on the right track for graduation.

The chief departmental advisor (CDA) is a faculty member in the MSVE department and oversees the development

and implementation of the undergraduate curriculum. He/she works with the academic advisor and program

manager to assist with technical content questions and also address career related advising questions.

RegistrationRegistration is handled through the University’s Online Student Information System called LEO Online (available

directly at http://www.leoonline.odu.edu/ and via myODU at http://my.odu.edu). Information concerning

registration time tables, deadlines, and processes are available at the Office of the University Registrar’s website:

http://www.odu.edu/registrar. The MSVE academic services coordinator can also assist and answer questions

concerning the registration process and challenges encountered during this process. The schedule of classes for

previous, current, and upcoming terms is available online through LEO Online. Should a student need to take more

than 18 undergraduate credit hours, he/she will need to secure the signature of the academic services coordinator

and the associate dean of the Batten College of Engineering and Technology.

HonorsCollegeStudents interested in pursuing opportunities through the Honors College should consult the Undergraduate

Catalog and visit their website at: http://www.odu.edu/ao/honors .

FinancialAidThe Office of Financial Aid is located on the first floor of Rollins Hall and can assist students with any matters

concerning financial aid. For more information on the Office of Financial Aid, please visit:

http://www.odu.edu/finaidoffice.

OfficeofEducationalAccessibilityThe Office of Educational Accessibility aims to assist all students with disabilities in the pursuit of their educational

objectives. Office staff work with faculty, administrators and students toward the goal of complying with legal

mandates and integrating the student into a responsive campus community. The Office of Educational Accessibility

strives to coordinate services that will enable students with disabilities to act as independently as possible in a

supportive atmosphere that promotes self‐reliance. For more information on accommodations (either temporary

or ongoing) please visit the Office of Educational Accessibility’s website at:

http://www.odu.edu/educationalaccessibility

OfficeofCounselingServicesThe Office of Counseling Services is available to provide individual and couples counseling to help students with

personal, academic, and other concerns, as well as offer developmental programming. All services are confidential

with the exception of emergency life‐and‐death situations and as legally required by law. The office houses

professional counselors and psychologists. Students are eligible for 10 free sessions of counseling for a 12 months

period. For more information on Counseling Services, please visit their website at:

http://www.odu.edu/counselingservices

Additional resources are also available to students. Students should speak with the MSVE Department for a

referral to other services on campus.

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ContinuancePolicies(GoodAcademicStanding)

UniversityContinuancePolicyODU has a policy on academic continuance with regards to a student’s performance. In short, a student

is in academic difficulty (i.e., academic warning or academic probation) when his/her cumulative GPA

falls below a 2.00. Details on the complete Undergraduate Continuance Policy, including academic

suspension and academic expulsion, is available in the Undergraduate Catalog (http://catalog.odu.edu)

and at the Office of Academic Continuance’s website: http://www.odu.edu/continuance Additionally,

students can also learn about the Adjusted Resident Credit (ARC) option and the Grade Forgiveness

Policy (GFP) available. This policy is subject to change at any time at the discretion of the University

Administration.

DepartmentalContinuancePolicyIt is the policy of the Department of Modeling, Simulation and Visualization Engineering to deny a

student eligibility to enroll in program courses after it becomes evident that the student is unable to

maintain reasonable standards of academic achievement. This department continuance regulation is in

addition to any University continuance regulations.

At the end of each semester, including summer sessions, the department reviews the records of all

students. Depending on the number of credits attempted and the major grade point average earned,

the following actions are taken prior to the beginning of the next term.

1. After six or more credits in the major have been attempted, if the major grade point

average falls below 2.00 the student is placed on departmental academic probation.

2. A student who is on academic probation is subject to termination from the program

under the following conditions: (a) if fewer than 35 credits in the major have been

attempted and a deficiency of more than nine grade points below that required to

maintain a 2.00 cumulative grade point average in the major exists; or (b) if 35 or more

credits in the major have been attempted and a deficiency of more than six grade points

below that required to maintain a 2.00 cumulative grade point average in the major

exists.

Appeals of termination from the program are in order if extenuating circumstances warrant. Appeals are

to be made in writing to the chair of the department. When submitted, an appeal is reviewed by the

chair and a departmental faculty committee.

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ApplyingforGraduationUndergraduate students who have earned at least 102 credits and met other minimal requirements will

be reminded via email to the ODU email address to begin the review process and to apply for graduation

if eligible.

All students must apply for graduation during the semester prior to the expected completion of degree

requirements. The deadline to file the intent to graduate is generally the last day of November, February

and June for the following semester. Complete instructions and specific deadlines are published on the

Registrar’s Office website, www.odu.edu/registrar. Students can apply online at LEO online or use the

electronic form available on the Registrar’s Office website.

Qualified students should access and download a current copy of the DegreeWorks degree evaluation

from my.odu.edu and consult with the academic advisor or site director prior to submission of the

application for graduation to ensure that degree requirements are being met. After meeting with the

academic advisor and verifying eligibility for graduation, students should submit the application for

graduation.

Students who have elected a minor must consult a representative in the minor department to ensure

that minor requirements are being met.

Students pursuing two degrees simultaneously should submit a single graduation application listing both

degrees. The student’s advisors will submit separate degree certifications for each program directly to

the Office of the University Registrar.

Students can view their application and degree status in LEO Online, www.leoonline.odu.edu. Once the

application has been processed, the student’s graduation status appears as “pending.” The status

changes to “awarded” once the degree is conferred. At peak times, coding can take up to four weeks

following submission of the application.

Students who do not complete degree requirements as expected must reapply for the next graduation

date.

GraduationClearanceAll degree requirements must be completed no later than the last day of exams for the term in which

graduation is anticipated. Students who are attending classes at other institutions should ensure that

the course(s) and examination(s) taken at the other institution will be completed no later than the day

prior to the date of expected commencement at Old Dominion University.

In addition to departmental academic requirements specific to the major, minor, concentration or

degree program, prior to conferral of the degree, undergraduate students must complete the

University’s Writing Requirements and complete the senior assessment (survey). Students should also

refer to the sections of the Undergraduate Catalog on Overall Requirements for Baccalaureate Degrees

and Additional Requirements for Baccalaureate Degrees. Students are responsible for monitoring their

own progress toward degree completion and for meeting all graduation requirements. Students are

encouraged to monitor the following specific University requirements: General education, foreign

language, transfer work evaluation, and upper‐level requirements. Students are also reminded that

academic advising in the major department is extremely important to the successful completion of the

degree being sought.

22

CommencementCommencement exercises are intended for students who are eligible and reasonably expect to complete

degree requirements, graduating from the University within the current or next graduation period.

Commencement ceremonies are managed through the Office of University Events. Information about

requirements for participation in commencement ceremonies, the on‐line application process for

tickets, academic regalia, schedule of events, etc., will be posted to www.odu.edu/commencement. To

be eligible to participate in ceremonies, candidates must register for commencement ceremonies

according to deadlines posted by the Office of University Events.

Participation in May commencement ceremonies is limited to candidates for May graduation and

students who expect to complete studies in the upcoming August. Participation in December

commencement ceremonies is limited to candidates for December graduation and graduates from the

preceding August.

Students who expect to attend commencement ceremonies must be coded by the Registrar’s Office as

“pending” for graduation; otherwise, tickets will not be provided by the Commencement Office. With

the exception of doctoral candidates, all students participating in commencement ceremonies remain

pending for graduation until the record is evaluated and the degree is conferred, up to four weeks,

excluding University holidays, following the date of the commencement ceremony.

Participation in commencement ceremonies does not confirm that a degree has been (or will be)

conferred.

CompletionofRequirementsforUndergraduateStudents(CatalogYear)Undergraduate students may choose to graduate under the Catalog in effect at the time of their first

enrollment (part‐time or full‐time) or any subsequent Catalog provided that the students graduate

within six years from the date of the first enrollment. For example, students beginning in the fall 2011

semester may use any Catalog in effect from fall 2011 through the end of the 2017 summer session,

students beginning in spring 2012 may use any Catalog in effect from spring 2012 through the end of the

fall 2017 semester, and students beginning in summer 2012 may use any Catalog in effect from summer

2012 through the spring 2018 semester. If students do not graduate within this six‐year period, they

may choose to graduate under any Catalog in effect within the six‐year period preceding the date of

graduation. For example, students graduating in spring 2012 may use any Catalog in effect from summer

2006 through spring 2012, students graduating in summer 2012 may use any Catalog in effect from fall

2006 through summer 2012, and students graduating in fall 2012 may use any Catalog in effect from

spring 2007 through fall 2012.

In all cases, students must have been duly admitted to the University and an academic program of study

and meet all of the requirements for graduation in one catalog. Students may not “tailor make” their

own degree requirements by selecting partial requirements from more than one catalog.

23

StudentOrganizations

Society for Modeling and Simulation International (SCS)

The ODU student chapter of SCS is established to disseminate the knowledge of the theory and practice

of all aspects of simulation, its applications, modeling, allied branches of engineering or the related arts

and sciences, as well as the academic and professional development of members. Students can get

involved with the organization to develop their leadership skills, meet other students who have an

interest in modeling and simulation, and also network with area business leaders in the M&S field.

National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)

The National Society of Black Engineers is a student‐run, non‐profit organization whose mission is to

recruit, retain and successfully graduate its members. The organization acts as a vehicle promoting

unity through programs that encourage academic excellence, personal growth and professional

development, thereby increasing the number of minority professionals who are committed to the

development of the minority community.

Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

The Society of Women Engineers consists of nearly 100 professional sections, 300 student sections, and

members‐at‐large in all engineering and technology disciplines, making SWE a preeminent not‐for‐profit

organization respected among the engineering community and technical societies. The specific

objectives of the society are: to inform women, their parents, counselors, and the general public of the

qualifications and achievement of women engineers and the opportunities open to them; to assist

women engineers in readying themselves for a return as an active work professional; to serve as a

center of information on women in engineering and to encourage women engineers to attain high levels

of education and professional achievement.

Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers

The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) was founded in Los Angeles, California, in 1974 by

a group of engineers employed by the city of Los Angeles. Their objective was to form a national

organization of professional engineers to serve as role models in the Hispanic community. Today, SHPE

enjoys a strong independent network of over 200 student chapters throughout the nation. The student

chapter at ODU was founded in 2004, and it is open to student enrolled in any academic program at

ODU, specifically, Hispanic students pursuing science and engineering degrees.

Tau Beta Pi

Tau Beta Pi, the second oldest honor society, was founded in 1885 to recognize distinguished

scholarship and exemplary character in engineering students, and to “foster a spirit of liberal culture.”

To be invited to join Tau Beta Pi, a student must display exemplary character and be in the top either of

the junior class or the top fifth of the senior class of the Batten College of Engineering and Technology.

The Virginia Gamma chapter at Old Dominion University meets twice a month and performs several

service projects such as offering a scholarship for juniors in engineering, and providing proctors for the

high school “JETS” and “TEAMS” test.

24

Theta Tau

Theta Tau is a professional engineering fraternity. The purpose of Theta Tau is to develop and maintain

a high standard of professional interest among its members and to unite them in a strong bond of

fraternal fellowship. It blends desirable features of general fraternities, technical societies, and honor

societies to prepare its student members for the engineering profession.

25

TransferStudentChecklist Preview (orientation) is recommended

Call 757‐683‐3428 for more information or visit: http://www.odu.edu/preview

Activate your MIDAS ID by visiting: http://midas.odu.edu

Have all final transcripts, including high school transcripts if needed, sent to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at 1004 Rollins Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529

ODU’s Writing Sample Placement Test [WSPT] must be taken BEFORE enrolling in MSIM 487W. If taking the WSPT on Blackboard, students must first complete the online orientation at www.odu.edu/preview. Students who have credit for ENGL 110C must still complete the WSPT.

If you are full‐time (12 hours or more) student taking at least 1 credit hour on main campus you must supply a copy of your Health Immunization Record to the ODU Health Center, 1007 Webb Center before your next registration or visit: http://studentaffairs.odu.edu/healthservices for more information.

PLEASE NOTE FAILURE TO TURN IN YOUR HEALTH IMMUNIZATION RECORD WILL RESULT IN A HOLD!

Campus Students: Get your Student Identification Card at the University Card Center which is located in Webb University Center, 757‐683‐3508. If you are NOT attending Orientation/PREVIEW, then you must submit a copy of your course registrations. For more information, please visit: http://www.odu.edu/cardcenter

Campus Students: Get your ODU vehicle decal from Parking Services, 43rd St. and Elkhorn Ave, 757‐683‐4004 or visit: http://www.odu.edu/parkingservices for more information

Become familiar with your ODU catalog by visiting http://catalog.odu.edu. You may also want to familiarize yourself with the Academic Calendars which are located on the University Registrar’s website at: http://www.odu.edu/registrar The calendars contain important dates, deadlines, and information.

26

GraduationChecklist Meet with MSVE Department to ensure all degree requirements are on track for being met

by the anticipated semester of graduation.

Apply for graduation with the Office of the University Registrar. This can be done online through LEO Online or in person at the Registrar’s Office. If you received an e‐mail from the Registrar’s Office on this matter, please follow the directions in that e‐mail. The general deadlines for applying for graduation are as follows: Intended Semester of Graduation: Application Deadline: May graduation November 30th August graduation February 28th December graduation June 30th

Complete the University’s Writing Requirement.

Students in a catalog prior to Fall 2012: o Complete either the Exit Exam of Writing Proficiency OR o Earn a grade of “C” or better (or transfer credit) in ENGL 110C, ENGL 231C,

and MSIM 487W.

Students in the Fall 2012 catalog and forward: o Earn a grade of “C” or better (or transfer credit) in ENGL 110C, ENGL 231C,

and MSIM 487W.

Complete the Senior Assessment. The invitation to complete this assessment will come to your ODU e‐mail account from the Office of Institutional Research and Assessment. The assessment will be completed online and must be completed prior to the awarding of your degree.

Apply to participate in Commencement. Applying for graduation does not automatically qualify you to participate in the semi‐annual commencement ceremonies. Students who wish to participate in the University’s Commencement Ceremony will also need to fill out a Commencement Participation Form. This form is found at the Commencement Central website at: http://www.odu.edu/commencement. The Commencement Participation Form must be filled out by the appropriate deadline listed on the Commencement website. Attention to this form is important as it will secure guest tickets and allow a student to participate in the University’s May or December Commencement Ceremonies. There is no August ceremony, however, August candidates may participate in either the May or December ceremony depending on their timeline to degree completion. NOTE: Participation in the University’s Commencement Ceremony does not confirm that a degree has been conferred.

Attend the Senior Exit Interview session with the MSVE Department. Information concerning participating in this Exit Interview will be provided during the student’s final semester of study.

Ensure that you have a 2.0 GPA in your major, your minor (if applicable), and overall GPA. NOTE: Some programs may require higher GPAs in order to graduate. Please consult the appropriate department if you are participating in a program that requires a specific GPA for completion.

Documents

Undergraduate Student Handbook - ODU - Old Dominion …€¦ · Undergraduate Student Handbook Department of Modeling, ... Financial Aid 19 ... Vonda Norman Fiscal Technician