Common Data Set 2010-11
Differs by program (calendar system): A calendar system classification that is used by institutions that have
occupational/vocational programs of varying length. These schools may enroll students at specific times
depending on the program desired. For example, a school might offer a two-month program in January,
March, May, September, and November; and a three-month program in January, April, and October.
Di
loma: See Postsecondar
award, certificate, or di
loma.
Distance learning: An option for earning course credit at off-campus locations via cable television, internet,
satellite classes, videota
es, corres
ondence courses, or other means.
Doctor’s degree-research/scholarship: A Ph.D. or other doctor's degree that requires advanced work
beyond the master’s level, including the preparation and defense of a dissertation based on original research,
or the planning and execution of an original project demonstrating substantial artistic or scholarly achievement.
Some examples of this type of degree may include Ed.D., D.M.A., D.B.A., D.Sc., D.A., or D.M, and others, as
designated by the awarding institution.
Doctor’s degree-professional practice: A doctor’s degree that is conferred upon completion of a program
providing the knowledge and skills for the recognition, credential, or license required for professional practice.
The degree is awarded after a period of study such that the total time to the degree, including both pre-
professional and professional preparation, equals at least six full-time equivalent academic years. Some of
these degrees were formerly classified as “first-professional” and may include: Chiropractic (D.C. or D.C.M.);
Dentistry (D.D.S. or D.M.D.); Law (L.L.B. or J.D.); Medicine (M.D.); Optometry (O.D.); Osteopathic Medicine
(D.O); Pharmacy (Pharm.D.); Podiatry (D.P.M., Pod.D., D.P.); or, Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.), and others, as
designated by the awarding institution.
Doctor’s degree-other: A doctor’s degree that does not meet the definition of a doctor’s degree -
research/scholarship or a doctor’s degree - professional practice.
Double major: Program in which students may complete two undergraduate programs of study
simultaneousl
.
Dual enrollment: A program through which high school students may enroll in college courses while still
enrolled in high school. Students are not required to apply for admission to the college in order to participate.
Early action plan: An admission plan that allows students to apply and be notified of an admission decision
well in advance of the regular notification dates. If admitted, the candidate is not committed to enroll; the
student ma
re
l
to the offer under the colle
e’s re
ular re
l
olic
Early admission: A policy under which students who have not completed high school are admitted and enroll
full time in colle
e, usuall
after com
letion of their
unior
ear.
Early decision plan: A plan that permits students to apply and be notified of an admission decision (and
financial aid offer if applicable) well in advance of the regular notification date. Applicants agree to accept an
offer of admission and, if admitted, to withdraw their applications from other colleges. There are three possible
decisions for early decision applicants: admitted, denied, or not admitted but forwarded for consideration with
the re
ular a
licant
ool, without
re
udice.
English as a Second Language (ESL): A course of study designed specifically for students whose native
lan
ua
e is not En
lish.
Exchange student program-domestic:
ny arrangement between a student and a college that permits study
for a semester or more at another college in the United States without extending the amount of time required
for a de
ree. See also Stud
abroad.
External degree program: A program of study in which students earn credits toward a degree through
independent study, college courses, proficiency examinations, and personal experience. External degree
ro
rams re
uire minimal or no classroom attendance.
Extracurricular activities (as admission factor): Special consideration in the admissions process given for
participation in both school and nonschool-related activities of interest to the college, such as clubs, hobbies,
student
overnment, athletics,
erformin
arts, etc.
CDS Definitions Page 31