Policy 6310C

POSTHUMOUS DEGREE AWARDS

Effective Date
March 2018
Last Revision Date
June 2026
Policy Owner
Chief Academic Officer 

1. Policy & Purpose 

The College may award degrees posthumously under the following conditions: 

  • A written request must be received on behalf of the deceased student;
  • The student must have been in good academic standing with the institution at the time of death;
  • The student must have had a final GPA consistent with graduation requirements;
  • The student must have satisfied the institution’s requirements for earned credits in residence;
  • The student must have substantially completed the degree requirements (defined as at least 75% of degree requirements completed at time of death). Ideally, the student must have been enrolled in coursework at the time of death; however, exceptions may be considered in consultation with the Vice President of Academic Affairs and the President.
  • This policy applies to certificate programs, associate and Bachelor of Applied Science degrees. 

Last Review Date: June 2026

History
Adopted March 8, 2018
Revised: June 11, 2026

Procedure 6310C

POSTHUMOUS DEGREE AWARDS

Effective Date
March 2018
Last Revision Date
June 2026
Policy Owner
Chief Academic Officer 

1. Procedure

    • Receive a written request on behalf of the deceased student (sources may
    • Review the student’s record and make the following evaluations: 
    • Overall GPA 
    • Percentage of degree requirements completed 
    • Grades earned and in-progress at time of death. 
    • Contact the School Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs to review the above information and determine whether the degree should be awarded. If necessary, work with the School Dean and the student’s faculty members to determine appropriate grades for in-progress courses based on completed work and demonstrated learning outcomes. 
    • If, after consultation with the School Dean and Faculty members, the Vice President of Academic Affairs determines the degree should be awarded, they will make that recommendation to the President. If approved, the Registrar will complete the appropriate actions to record and award the degree. 
    • Presentation of the diploma may be made to the next of kin by mail or at the next Western Wyoming Community College commencement ceremony at the direction of the President in consultation with the next of kin. 

    The College will ensure this process is carried out with dignity and sensitivity, honoring the student and their family. 

Last Review Date: June 2026

History
Adopted March 8, 2018
Revised: June 11, 2026