Grading Guidelines for Average Grades and Grade Distribution
Effective: Fall 2023*
Grading Curve
The mandatory grading curve range is:
- 1L courses: 2.90–3.10
- Upper-level courses: 3.00–3.20
*Grading Curve Change Letter, Fall 2023 (104KB, PDF)
Grade Points
First Year Courses
Upper Level Courses
Grade points are awarded to each student on the following basis for each credit hour of work:
- A = 4.00 points;
- A- = 3.67 points
- B+ = 3.33 points;
- B = 3.00 points;
- B- = 2.67 points
- C+ = 2.33 points;
- C = 2.00 points;
- C- = 1.67
- D+ = 1.33 points;
- D = 1.00 point;
- F = 0 points.
It is presumed that grades in each class will meet both the distributions and the average grade. At the time a faculty member turns in final grades in a class, he or she shall also submit to the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs the average grade for the class and the distribution of grades by number and percentage, highlighting any divergence from the guidelines.
Grades that diverge from the guidelines, in the opinion of the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, may call for consultation between the Associate Dean and the Professor submitting them, before the grades are posted. The purpose of this consultation will be to attempt to reach a mutually agreeable resolution. Paper classes and classes with enrollments of 20 or below will often justify divergence from the guidelines.
See also the Grades section in Academic Policies. NOTE: Washburn Law students must complete a minimum of 74 hours in courses in which a letter grade is received. Learn more...
Grade of 'A with distinction'
A grade of 'A with distinction' may be awarded to students demonstrating a level of achievement clearly superior to a grade of A in the course. This designation, which carries no additional grade point value, appears on the student's transcript. The designation is awarded infrequently and is not granted automatically to the top paper in the course. Although the designation is awarded infrequently, more than one student in a course may receive the designation if their achievements far exceed the historical 'A' performance level. (Adapted from Faculty Meeting Minutes, April 18, 2001)